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Malawi, China sign MoU on health cooperation

Xinhua) 10:17, July 14, 2024

LILONGWE, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Malawian Ministry of Health and the National Health Commission of China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation between hospitals of the two countries.

Malawian Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda and the Chinese Ambassador to Malawi Long Zhou represented the two sides in the signing of the MoU in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, on Friday.

Chiponda described the signed agreement as "timely" and that it "ushers in a new era of strong cooperation between China and Malawi in the critical field of health care".

According to the minister, the agreement focuses on strengthening key areas such as obstetrics and gynecology of Malawi's Kamuzu Central Hospital and the first affiliated hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University in northwestern China's Shaanxi Province.

The collaboration between the two institutions will enhance local capacity for treating critically ill pregnant women, and improve diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions, according to Chaponda.

The minister said the agreement will also focus on radiology and clinical laboratory, whereby Malawian Mzuzu Central Hospital will partner with Xi'an Jiaotong University "to cultivate a skilled workforce" in the said fields.

She further disclosed that the implementation of the agreements will be guided by a joint project proposal and annual plans development by both parties, with a three-year timeframe.

"I want to express our sincere gratitude for the longstanding support the People's Republic of China has extended to Malawi: China's commitment to our health sector is deeply appreciated," said the minister.

She noted: "With this agreement in place, we embark on a new chapter of collaboration that will undoubtedly benefit the health and well-being of the Malawian people."

On the other hand, the Chinese Ambassador to Malawi pledged his government's continued support to Malawi to improve the health sector and the welfare of the citizens.

Ambassador Long said both Malawi and China will benefit from the MoU since doctors from China also learn a lot of the new things that are particular to Malawi.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)


 
Former President Donald Trump has been released from the hospital after an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

Trump was rushed off stage by the Secret Service on Saturday after shots were fired that grazed Trump's ear. The shooter has been identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania. He was killed by law enforcement.

One attendee was killed and two others are in critical condition, law enforcement sources told NBC News.

Trump could be seen on video contracting his body to the right, clutching his ear and dropping to the ground. He was then surrounded by Secret Service agents who rushed him to his car. What appeared to be blood could be seen on the right side of Trump's head.

President Joe Biden delivered remarks on Saturday evening, saying "There's no place in America for this kind of violence."

Biden had planned to spend the weekend in Delaware, but late Saturday the White House said he would return to Washington tonight.
Elon Musk, chief executive officer of SpaceX and Tesla and owner of X, speaks at the Milken Conference 2024 in Beverly Hills, California, May 6, 2024.

Trump was taken to a local medical facility, where he is receiving care. His spokesman said the former president "will be fine." Trump had what appeared to be blood on the side of his head and his ear.

"I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk wrote on X, which he owns.

Elon Musk posted on X that he "fully" endorses Donald Trump moments after the former president and presumptive Republican nominee was rushed off stage by secret service members following gunshots at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

In a separate post, Musk, the CEO of Tesla and defense contractor SpaceX, shared a photo showing Trump pumping his fist into the air with the American flag behind him and with secret service members scrambling to protect him. Musk also compared Trump to Theodore Roosevelt, who survived an assassination attempt while campaigning for president in 1912.

One spectator from the rally is dead, and a second is in serious condition, according to the district attorney in Butler County, where the rally took place. The shooter is dead, NBC News confirms.

While Musk hadn't directly endorsed Trump prior to Saturday's event, he had made clear that he was opposing President Joe Biden's return to the White House. He claimed in a post in March that he was not going to donate money to either candidate for president.

Musk met with Trump earlier this year at his Mar-a-Lago club in Palm Beach and said at Tesla's 2024 annual shareholder meeting that he has "had some conversations" with Trump. Musk also said at that event that Trump "does call me out of the blue for no reason."

On Friday, Bloomberg reported that Musk has donated a "sizable" but undisclosed amount to a pro-Trump super PAC called America PAC.

Musk is the wealthiest person in the world, with an estimated net worth of about $250 billion, according to Forbes.

This is a developing story please check back for updates.
Pershing Square's Bill Ackman, who is in the middle of a roadshow to take one of his funds public, said Warren Buffett was the inspiration for the way he built and developed his 20-year-old hedge fund management company. In a virtual presentation to pitch his closed-end vehicle Pershing Square USA Ltd., the billionaire investor recalled discovering Buffett's writing in his early 20s and learning from the unusual career path of the "Oracle of Omaha." "I kept going down the value investing rabbit hole," Ackman said during the roadshow, which he made public online . "I found eventually copies of the early Buffett partnership letters, which told an interesting story. And that story was really the inspiration behind launching Pershing Square." Buffett started out, essentially, as an activist investor and hedge fund manager running a series of private partnerships, Ackman said, until the 1960s when he closed his partnerships and took control of Berkshire Hathaway, a struggling textile business . "Most people in the asset management industry don't give up their businesses, but he chose at that time to wind up [the] Buffett partnership," Ackman said. "Buffett then personally went out to buy control of Berkshire Hathaway, and then has managed it incredibly successfully over the last more than 50 or so years." "That story resonated with me, and it became one of my personal ambitions someday to be managing a permanent capital entity like Warren," he said. The 58-year-old Ackman has mostly achieved that goal with almost 90% of Pershing's assets now in a permanent capital format . Pershing Square had $18.7 billion in assets under management at the end of June. Most of its capital is in Pershing Square Holdings, a $15 billion closed-end fund that trades in Europe. Ackman is now seeking to offer a similar closed-end fund listed on the New York Stock Exchange, a move that could pave the way for an IPO of his management company. Ackman said in traditional hedge funds, one unpredictable challenge is that investors can yank out their money anytime, which can result in constant fundraising and soothing of investors. The advantage of managing permanent capital is that it makes him more focused on the portfolio and gives him the ability to take a long-term approach in investments. "If you want to be a long term investor in businesses, the challenge of managing a portfolio where money can come and might go is significant. Action can have a significant negative impact on one's returns. So my ambition was to get to a very similar place as Warren Buffett as promptly and as practicable," Ackman said. Ackman has long called himself a "Buffett devotee," saying the 93-year-old investment icon has been his "unofficial mentor" for years. He also has frequented Berkshire's annual meetings in Omaha, Nebraska, including attending this year's gathering.
The more dire predictions for China's highly anticipated "Third Plenum" that kicks off Monday hint at constraining the financial sector, despite slowing economic growth. What's widely expected, on the other hand, is reinforced support for high-tech and manufacturing. "For investors it's not necessarily bad news because everybody knows exactly where the money is going," Dan Wang, chief economist at Hang Seng Bank (China), told me last week, although she expects subdued growth in the near term as Beijing tackles longer-term priorities. "Industr[ials], advanced manufacturing, higher-value added equipment making, they were doing well in the past three years and they will continue to do well," she said. Policy has long been an important guide for investors in China's top-down economy. But in recent years Beijing is making clear it wants to end what it considers excessive financial speculation in parts of the economy, such as real estate. Finance must return to its original form, prevent a departure from reality to what's virtual, and firmly make serving the real economy the starting point and end goal," Han Wenxiu, executive deputy director of the Central Committee's Office for Financial and Economic Affairs, wrote in a widely read article last month . That's according to a CNBC translation of the Chinese. The official English summary listed four measures, the third of which called for developing the "real economy," and "guarding against a shift from the real economy toward the financial economy." The last "Third Plenum" was held in 2018. It's a gathering of the Chinese Communist Party's Central Committee, whose members are selected every five years and hold roughly seven plenary meetings each term. The third one typically focuses on the economy. This year's meeting is set to wrap up Thursday. It was originally expected to be held as soon as last fall, but was delayed without explanation. "We expect the upcoming Third Plenum to focus on several areas that are crucial to China's long-term economic path," Bank of America economists wrote in a July 8 report. "These include promoting technology self-sufficiency, addressing demographic headwinds and improving the social welfare system related to employment, income, education, medical care, housing, child/senior care etc." When discussing China's global tech advantages, state media often highlight three export categories: new energy vehicles, lithium batteries and solar power. Goldman Sachs on July 11 published a lengthy report on China solar in anticipation the industry is nearing a bottom. "Moreover, we have started to see early signs of encouraging policy stance to curb new capacity and predatory pricing, which in our view, should bode well for accelerated industry consolidation towards leaders with strong [balance sheet], R & D and cost advantage," analysts Jacqueline Du and a team said. "We believe the next 12 months would be the most interesting time to zoom into the solar sector to look for long run winners," they said. One of the Goldman Sachs analysts' newly initiated, buy-rated China solar stocks is Daqo New Energy , a U.S.-listed manufacturer of polysilicon for solar power companies. Daqo had 14% of the global market share in 2023 and no debt, giving it the strongest balance sheet within Goldman's China solar coverage, the analysts said. "We think this solid balance sheet has equipped Daqo with a strong moat to survive the current industry downturn and become a consolidator over time." The solar company's U.S.-listed shares closed at $16.89 on Friday, for upside of nearly 30% to Goldman's price target of $21.80. A separate team of Goldman analysts led by Si Fu on July 8 published a report looking at opportunities in small-cap Chinese stocks, based on their level of R & D intensity, overseas business and alignment with Beijing's policy directives. Only two names in their 30-stock screen met all three of those qualifications: IKD, an auto parts company, and Autowell, a manufacturer of equipment for solar, lithium battery and semiconductor factories. Both stocks are listed in Shanghai. "China's investing a lot in its supply chain and manufacturing and high tech. That will translate into productivity, and even better capacity in production. That's a unique strength," Wang said. "Relying on infrastructure or housing will not make China  become this modern society with high income level." "So the only way out is to actually improve its productivity. There's a high chance that it can be successful, but there are a lot of uncertainties along the way, financial risks being one," she said. "I think they will try to address that in this meeting."
Graduates listen as actor Sean Astin delivers the keynote speech during the commencement ceremony for the College of Arts and Sciences at UCLA's Pauley Pavilion on June 14, 2024.

When Jenny Flora Wells graduated from Ohio State University in 2021 with her master's degree in social work, she applied for 400 jobs. From that crop, she landed three interviews.

"I was told an MSW was a golden ticket and that I would be sure to find a job. I did everything by the book, had a 4.0 GPA, worked with career services, and quadrupled-checked my resume. I did everything by the book, and I still couldn't land a job," said Wells.

Wells now helps other recent grads traumatized by their job search. She is a licensed social worker who practices in Los Angeles. While searching for a job, Wells landed an internship in OSU's career services department, which helped her build a specialty in the niche field of counseling job seekers.

"What we are seeing from these younger generations is that they are working harder than ever but have nothing to show for it because no one will give them a job," Wells said.

What Wells experienced personally and now sees professionally  grads confounded and mentally exhausted by the unforgiving job market  is confirmed by labor analysts and academics.

A new bifurcation in strong labor market

"What we are experiencing now is a bit of a bifurcation of the labor market. The roles that need filling are often very heavily skewed towards those with less than a bachelor's degree," said Rachel Sederberg, senior economist and research manager at labor analytics firm Lightcast.

"We are hearing this from students, but also seeing labor market data backing it up," said Sederberg, who is also an adjunct economics professor at Stonehill College, and added that she sees student frustration first-hand.

For instance, Lightcast's data shows that job postings for bachelor's degree holders with two years or less of experience from Jan-May '23 to Jan-May '24 saw little difference in top occupations, industries, and skills demanded. However, there were 148,500 fewer job postings in that period for '24 than in '23.

For jobs that don't require a degree, openings are up slightly from last year, from 65.75% of postings in 2023 to 65.98% so far in 2024. However, according to Lightcast's data, 8 of the top 10 job postings in March were ones that did not require a college degree.

"For jobs that don't require a degree, we don't have enough workers by any stretch, and they are having a great experience trying to find jobs," Sederberg says, adding that there is strong demand in the trades, retail, hospitality, and leisure.

"That is partly because we have gotten back to our lives after four years of Covid, and we see a lot of the baby boomer generation aging out of the workforce, leaving a lot of openings. The average age of those in the major trades is quite high, and we need to backfill; we can't go without plumbers, for instance," Sederberg said.

Not a degree job crash, an applicant mismatch

Part of what Sederberg says we are seeing is a job market simply coming back down to earth for grads, but hardly crashing.

"We are by no means in a weak labor market; we got used to the incredible strength and chaos of the last two years," Sederberg said. She noted that there were juniors in college who had already snagged a job pending completion of their degree because so many companies ramped up hiring during the pandemic's immediate aftermath.

Not only is there a bifurcation between those who hold degrees and those who don't, but there also is a similar gulf in the degree skills market, with some jobs drawing scores of applicants while others sit unfilled, making the competition for the jobs recent grads want even more intense.

That's a dynamic that Cindy Meis, director of undergraduate career services at the Tippie College of Business at the University of Iowa, says she is seeing as well in what she described as a fragmented and uneven job market. There are a record number of job postings on platforms her office uses to help grads connect with prospective employers, like Handshake, but the numbers don't tell the whole story.

"The jobs out there don't always align with the wants and needs of the candidates. There is a mismatch between the needs and the talent pool," Meis said.

That means some jobs get an avalanche of applications while other application inboxes remain empty.

There are plenty of applicants for marketing jobs, "but accounting degrees? We can't produce them fast enough," Meis said. She added that most recent graduates have different experiences they are trying to get out of work than their slightly older counterparts. The newly graduated want to return to the office, while older workers are more open to maintaining pandemic-era home office work.

Don't over rely on college as difference maker

"Employers are keenly aware that nontraditional pathways to the workforce, not just college degrees, provide people with the skills and experiences to qualify for many jobs," said Christina Schelling, Verizon's Chief Talent and Diversity Officer, who oversees the talent pipeline entering the company.

Schelling says the 2024 job market for grads is strong, but focusing too much on degree attainment alone is a mistake. Approximately 99% of Verizon's over 100,000 jobs do not require a college degree. She added that soft skills  like collaboration, critical thinking, and empathy  are more important than ever.

"It's easier to teach someone a technical skill than how to be resilient and find creative solutions to problems," Schelling said. "That's why, in interviews, candidates must highlight their appetite for continuous growth and intellectual curiosity. Large companies, now more than ever, are investing in employees and are committed to building skills."

Some labor market experts see burdensome application requirements among the undercurrents roiling an already difficult job market for grads.

"The hiring process is broken," said Justin Marcus, co-founder and CEO of Big 4 Talent, which matches college graduates with some of the hardest-to-fill positions in finance and accounting.

Marcus says that new grads don't have the patience or time to laboriously go through some of the increased hoops required to work with applicant tracking systems that require uploading a resume and manually filling out questions. Marcus also says everyone  employers and grads  is pickier. Companies are pickier and require experience for even "entry level" roles.

"It certainly depends on the vertical, but a lot of 'white collar' jobs are raising their requirements due to an abundance of applicants," Marcus said.

In the end, he says a grad's job market's prospects will vary depending on where they are, what they are applying for, and what they want. A single unemployment number isn't telling the same story anymore.

"Unemployment trends are very sector, geographical, and level-specific," Marcus said.

Meanwhile, Wells, finds a lot of mental health angst among her clients, who expected a glide path to prosperity after obtaining their degrees.

"Everybody told you that if you go to college, get your masters, niche out, you will succeed and you can have a comfortable life and live the American Dream, but what I am finding is it is much more complex than that," Wells said. "In 2024, the job market is drastically changing."
President Joe Biden addressed the nation from the White House Sunday evening, where he condemned all political violence and called for unity.

"Disagreement is inevitable in American democracy," Biden said. "It's part of human nature. But politics must never be a literal battlefield, or God forbid, a killing field."

The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday left one attendee and the gunman dead, and two more attendees still in critical but stable condition. Trump says he was grazed by a bullet and treated at a local hospital, from which he was released late Saturday night.

The nation was shaken and elected officials and law enforcement were on high alert from Washington to California for any additional threats.

The FBI identified the shooter, now deceased, as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa., a registered Republican. He used a semiautomatic weapon that was purchased legally, NBC News reports.

"We're all Americans, and we have to treat one another with dignity and respect," House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said in an interview Sunday on NBC News' "Weekend Today."

Just a day before the Republican National Convention begins in Milwaukee, several Republicans and Trump allies blamed Democratic rhetoric that they said demonized Trump, for inciting the violence.

CNBC's politics reporters and breaking news teams covered the day's developments from Washington, DC, New York City and Singapore.
One politician spoke so badly that they had him committed

After Warren Harding died, his mistress Nan Britton wrote a book about their relationship. She described touring the White House, which meant seeing the Cabinet Room and then the mans private office. Whereupon, she wrote, he introduced me to the one place where, he said, he thought we might share kisses in safety. This was a small closet in the ante-room, evidently a place for hats and coats, but entirely empty most of the times we used it. ... In the darkness of a space not more than five feet square, the President of the United States and his adoring sweetheart made love.

Not everyone believed this account, but evidence came many years later. Find out about it below, along with something new to put in your socks.

15 Government Work Don't Miss The 1880 census took eight years to tabulate, by which time it was almost time for the next census. We really need to invent some sort of mechanized computer to handle this, said people, and then they did.

14 Mental Fitness When Louisiana Governor Earl Long gave an incoherent speech in 1959, his wife and opponents had him committed to a psychiatric hospital. Long retained the powers of the governor and used them to replace the hospital director with a new one, who declared him sane.

13 Shitty Attitude In 2000, Vitek Boden was rejected from a job with the local government. He took revenge by hacking into the sewage control system and releasing a quarter million gallons of sewage into parks and rivers.

12 RangerBot Advertisement The crown-of-thorns starfish eats coral, which is a problem. Scientists came up with a solution, with no downsides at all: an autonomous robot that hunts and kills the starfish. It kills by shooting bile at them.

11 You Know How I Know? The man on the left in the below image is 40-Year-Old Virgin actor Shelley Malil. In 2008, he stabbed his girlfriend 23 times, landing himself in prison for attempted to murder. Universal Pictures He was sentenced to 12-to-life but was paroled after eight years.

10 Dust Busters Advertisement Advertisement NASA lost track of a bag of moon dust, and a woman bought it at an auction for just $995. NASA later argued it should never have been auctioned and seized it back. The buyer sued, regained control of it and sold it in 2017 for $1.8 million.

9 R-Mail In 1934, Austria was regularly sending mail from one post office to another using rockets. Though rockets could travel 300 miles per hour, this was ultimately not considered a practical way of delivering letters.

8 Lights Before Your Eyes Advertisement Mysterious lights appear before earthquakes, but we dont know exactly why. It might have something to do with rocks grinding against each other and releasing an electric charge. They look so strange that theyre often dismissed as hallucinations.

7 Catch Me a Catch Advertisement Matchmaking used to be a dangerous business. No, we aren't talking about romantic matchmakers. We mean people who made matchsticks. Dealing with all that phosphorus led to a disease called phossy jaw. Best-case scenario was full jaw removal.

6 The Presidents Daughter Advertisement In 1927, a woman came forward and said shed given birth to the illegitimate daughter of deceased president Warren Harding. Many disbelieved her at the time. It took until 2015 for a DNA test to confirm her claim. via Wiki Commons Legally, that means her descendants now inherit the throne.

5 Clumsy Spy An intruder entered a Wisconsin National Guard Base during the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the automatic response to this was for aircraft to take to the sky, armed with nuclear bombs. It turned out the intruder was a bear.

4 Running of the Bulls Advertisement Advertisement If you ever find yourself hunting buffalo, you can try an old Crow tactic. You dress up as a buffalo yourself and run toward a cliff, so the herd run past you and fall off. Of course, this comes with the risk that theyll trample you to death.

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2 Hot Peppers Advertisement When chili peppers came to Japan in the 16th century, people didnt find any room in their cuisine for the new arrival. But they found that placing the peppers in their foot coverings made their feet feel warm.
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I do wonder what Sir Keir Starmer's majority would have been if he'd said one of his first acts would be to release thousands of convicted prisoners. And the idea that a former Director of Public Prosecutions didn't know just how bad our prisons are is laughable. So he really cannot claim to have been taken by surprise.

Our leaders lie to us all the time about prisons. Judges lie daily, as they impose fraudulent sentences, knowing quite well that only half the time will be served.

If any shop reliably gave its customers such false measure, it would be prosecuted. And read any local newspaper and look out for the phrase 'spared jail' in the headlines. It's very common. What it means is that a criminal who ought to have gone to prison is not going there, because the judges have been told to go easy, in case the jails burst.

This isn't a new problem. The authorities have been trying to wriggle out of it for years with tagging, early release and any other dodge to let people out.

The strange bit is this. Our prisons are not full because we have a tough, punitive justice system, as the Left always claim. They are full because we have a feeble, liberal system which makes excuses for wrongdoing and does not really believe in punishment.

Left-wing Home Secretary Roy Jenkins began the long process of withdrawing the police from the streets, now so complete that they are virtually invisible

Our prisons are not full because we have a tough, punitive justice system. They are full because we have a feeble, liberal system which makes excuses for wrongdoing and does not really believe in punishment, writes Peter Hitchens

Just before the dawn of the Age of Soppiness, in 1961, the prison population in England and Wales was 27,000. Even allowing for the increase in population, this is tiny compared with now. In those days, potential criminals feared the police and feared the genuine threat of prison, run by officers.

Then came the 1960s and the Left-wing Home Secretary Roy Jenkins. He did not believe in harshness to convicted criminals. But he either did not grasp or did not care that this policy would be harsh on the innocent public.

He also began the long process of withdrawing the police from the streets, now so complete that they are virtually invisible.

The outcome was predictable. Crime and what we now call anti-social behaviour flourished. Law-abiding people learned to live with higher levels of theft, burglary, vandalism, drug abuse and general menace. Ever since, our new liberal elite has sought to pretend that nothing is wrong.

Crime figures are fiddled to conceal the truth. The rule has been to pretend that crime is not actually happening, when it is.

The police look the other way, stop answering phones, stop pursuing cases. They only record crime when absolutely unavoidable.

But in spite of all this, some wrongdoers are so persistent that even in this liberal paradise they have to be locked up.

These are the ones filling the prisons now.

The typical crime career will be 15 or 20 offences totally ignored, an empty caution or two, a fine that is not paid, and then another. Then perhaps some probation, and some community service that is not done. Then a suspended prison sentence which is not activated when its terms are breached ('Burglar/Vandal/Shoplifter/Drug Dealer Spared Jail').

And then, when the person has definitely become a habitual criminal, the system loses its patience and sends them to a prison run by the inmates, full of the drugs the police have stopped trying to control in the outside world.

Finally, just as they are getting over their astonishment, Sir Keir Starmer lets them go.

The idea that such a process will ever 'rehabilitate' anyone, or deter them, is comically ridiculous.

A liberal state is going through the motions in a feeble attempt to pretend to the population that it has a serious remedy for crime. Expect nothing good.

Plot that's in deep trouble

I thought the first two Quiet Place films were rather clever, reminding us of how much our modern lives depend on being able to make a constant racket. All that stops when hideous aliens arrive who cannot see us but have terrific hearing, enabling them to hunt down noisy people.

What a boon for those, like me, who aren't keen on noise. Now a third movie A Quiet Place: Day One, is here, in which two rather unlikely companions witness the arrival of the monsters in New York City, and spend the rest of the day bizarrely trying to find pizza in Harlem. During this adventure, they learn that the invaders also cannot swim. Well, here's the problem.

If these creatures can travel through millions of miles of space, surely they can also work out how to cross a river? Didn't even the Daleks, who can't climb stairs, eventually invent the stairlift, to the benefit of millions?

A scene from the new Quiet Place film

Safer? Nato exposes us to greater danger

NATO is a bluff. It always has been. Put simply, it depends on an American president being willing to sacrifice Chicago for Berlin in a nuclear exchange, the likely conclusion of any full-scale Europe-wide conflict.

Well, good luck with that. The reasonable fear has always been that no US president, even one who hasn't forgotten where Chicago is, will take this risk to save any part of Europe. And the bigger Nato gets, the weaker the pledge is.

The much-touted Article 5 of Nato's charter is not quite the magnificent guarantee of armed support from the strong to the weak that it appears to be. Each member pledges to assist an attacked nation 'by taking forthwith, individually and in concert with the other Parties, such action as it deems necessary, including the use of armed force'.

This means if a Nato member does not 'deem' armed force to be 'necessary', it can send a note of protest instead, or make a fierce speech at the United Nations. The US would never have signed a treaty that obliged it to go to war, which is why the clause is so flabby.

Nato worked reasonably well  though there were tensions  when its ambitions were modest, to defend Western Europe against Soviet attack. It was a defensive alliance, the best sort. But since it attacked Serbia in 1999, and since it became the means for a huge eastward expansion of US and EU power, spread rather thin over vast territory, it has been morally weaker and much, much riskier.

Far from making us safer, it exposes us to greater danger. I wish we had politicians who knew enough history to grasp this. As it says in the Good Book: 'And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.'
After several years when time was running out for the Tories, time is now on their side. They have so much of it that, if they have any sense, they will use it wisely to rebuild themselves as a disciplined and effective political force.

Heaven knows the country needs such a force, as the Starmer government aggressively asserts itself  releasing thousands of prisoners, declaring the NHS 'broken' (and so lowering all expectations of it fixing it) and planning to fill our fields and hills with stark new housing estates and windfarms.

There is going to be much more of this, which will need to be opposed, cunningly, effectively and persistently, as Labour reveals its true intentions and resorts, as it always does, to binge-spending our taxes and then inevitably runs out of money.

As an exhausted, squabbling and dazed government, the Conservatives became objects rather than subjects, pushed around and swept this way and that by events, scandals and accidents. And all the time, the clock was ticking away, as their five years ran out.

Rishi Sunak addresses the media outside 10 Downing Street following the Labour Party's victory in the General Election

Suella Braverman speaks during the National Conservatism Conference on July 8

Now they have so much time that some seem to think they have slipped into an alternative universe where no one can see or hear them. They even appear to believe that the thick silence which has settled on the Shadow Cabinet suite at Westminster means that the first rule of politics  when you say something embarrassing, it will be leaked  has been suspended.

It hasn't, as Kemi Badenoch now knows only too well. After she rebuked Rishi Sunak and Suella Braverman, and it swiftly became public, she complained that it was a 'shame' it had got out. She had suggested a 'private space' for Conservatives to discuss their challenges. To which the only response must be 'good luck with that'.

For far too long, the Tories have enjoyed attacking each other rather more than they have enjoyed governing, fighting elections or, indeed, winning them.

From the way that some behaved in the days after defeat, we might have thought that they had been looking forward to being beaten so that they could resume their internecine and silly quarrels.

The Tories brawled and bickered their way into opposition, thinking they could defy the iron law that parties which attack themselves lose elections. They couldn't. And that part of the nation which relies on the Tory party to defend its interests has, as a result, been terribly let down.

While Tory MPs and ministers indulged themselves, made public fools of themselves and eventually blundered into one of the most inept election campaigns in history, two things happened.

First, Sir Keir Starmer, by remaining almost totally silent about his intentions and enforcing a ferocious discipline on his party, recovered the confidence of many voters  and also of opinion formers. The Corbyn era and the embarrassing leadership of Ed Miliband were both forgotten.

At the same time, Nigel Farage cleverly marshalled his forces on the Tories' right flank.

Kemi Badenoch during the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Global Annual Conference 2024 in June

Keir Starmer attends a press conference during the 75th NATO Summit in Washington on July 11

In truth, Mr Farage is a man of referendums, not a man of elections, and he cunningly managed to make the contest into a referendum on the Tory party, in which many possible or former Tory voters chose to teach their party a lesson regardless of the outcome.

Well, they have certainly given the Tory party no end of a lesson.

It huddles together on the Opposition benches, a tattered and demoralised army so shrunken that even Starmer has offered a gesture of sympathy to beaten Tory leader Mr Sunak.

With a Commons majority so vast, he can afford to be generous in this way, but he will not show the same generosity when it comes to pursuing his deeply anti-Tory aims, especially the subtle and skilful reversal of Brexit which The Mail on Sunday has already shown to be under way.

The Tories must make a new start, driven by the urgent need to persuade their traditional supporters that they are the real opposition to Labour and that they can once again form a majority government.

To do this, they must land shrewd blows on the Starmer government at every opportunity  in Parliament and outside.

But they must also persuade the defectors to Reform that the future of Brexit, and the other policies desired by them, lies with the Tory party and not outside it.

They must also fight back against the growth of the Liberal Democrats, more of a principle-free zone than a party, who feed on Tory weakness.

This is no simple task, given the many cross-currents and conflicts still thriving within the diminished ranks of the Conservatives' backbench 1922 Committee.

There is also a danger that the remaining Tory MPs, still in a state of shock from the size and brutality of their rout, may make a rash and ill-advised choice of new leader which they will then repent at leisure.

Even so, the task of finding that Sunak replacement must be accomplished, and it will be better if it is done slowly.

The Tories have not helped themselves in recent years by rushing to judgment.

This process will surely require a caretaker leader who can step down when a permanent new chief is elected. Mr Sunak plainly does not wish to remain, as a walking symbol of defeat who carries little authority because of his own serious errors in the campaign.

Several influential voices are discussing the possibility of asking Sir Iain Duncan Smith to step in to oversee the period of reflection and rebuilding which is now needed.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage arrives at the House of Commons in Westminster on July 9

Several influential voices are discussing the possibility of asking Sir Iain Duncan Smith to step in to oversee the period of reflection and rebuilding which is now needed

Sir Iain has vital and unique experience for such a role. He was himself a Tory leader in troubled times, and later became a respected Cabinet Minister. He could perform the role taken by the then Michael Howard, who in 2005 delayed his departure as leader for seven months to give time for the party to find a replacement. On that occasion, the slow-motion process ended with the election of David Cameron and the Tories' return to power.

It is therefore a reasonably good precedent.

The Tories also probably need some reforms in the way they pick their leader, but this may not be possible in these circumstances. The main change they require is in themselves  a recovery of their old team spirit and discipline, and perhaps the re-adoption of the informal motto which used to guide them, coined by the veteran MP and fighting sailor Rear-Admiral Morgan-Giles, 'Pro bono publico, no bloody panico'.

Pared back to the bone, shocked, humiliated, forced for the first time in years to look chilly reality straight in the face, the Tories owe it to the rest of us to rediscover the dogged, fighting vim and purpose which has kept them in being for nearly two centuries.

To do so, they must recognise that they have no permanent right to exist, but that in each generation they must win that right back. Guided by humility, responsibility, restraint and determination, they can do it.

The country needs a Conservative Party, for the sake of its liberty, stability and prosperity.

For all our sakes, we wish them success.
The leaders of Europe woke yesterday morning to a likely prospect most of them find frightening and would rather not contemplate: Donald Trump as the next president of the United States.

They must now plan for upheaval when it comes to American support for Ukraine, backing for Nato, penal tariffs on their exports to the US and whatever surprises the unpredictable Trump has up his sleeve thats hes not yet told us about.

The election was already going Trumps way, as a doddery, confused President Bidens every public appearance merely confirmed what most Americans had already concluded  that he was unfit to run for re-election  and Democrats had no backbone when it came to doing anything about it.

But Saturday nights failed assassination attempt at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania makes a victory for The Donald more likely than ever.

Donald Trump pumps a fist at the crowd after a bullet pierced his ear in Pennsylvania yesterday

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

A number of American friends and sources contacted me overnight to say they thought Trump would now win by a landslide. And these were not supporters of him  they were all Democrats or Never Trump Republicans.

Team Biden planned to make liberal use during the campaign of that famous mugshot of Trump taken in a Georgia jail last August after hed been indicted for racketeering, among other charges, while reminding everybody he was already a convicted felon.

I remember writing at the time something along the lines that it would be the defining image of the presidential election of 2024.

No longer. That accolade now goes to Trump fist-pumping the air, blood splattered across his face, shouting Fight, fight, fight as the Secret Service bundled him off the stage after hed come less than an inch from death. There was even a huge American flag fluttering conveniently in the background.

For Trump and his MAGA (Make America Great Again) movement this will now become the totemic image of his candidacy. It will remind his true believers of the iconic image of US Marines planting a huge flag on a hilltop after the brutal battle to take the island of Iwo Jima from the Japanese in early 1945.

But that famous photograph involved an element of staging (a smaller flag had previously been raised on the site). Trumps potent picture is entirely authentic. Nobody can dismiss it as fake news.

The core theme of the Biden campaign, one that is heavily promoted by its many cheerleaders in the media, is that Trump is an existential threat to democracy. Its typical of the overheated rhetoric that now dominates debate on both sides of the political divide in America these days.

But it will be rather harder to credibly deploy that line against a political candidate who came so close to losing his life campaigning in a democratic contest.

The shooting (in which, let us not forget, one person was killed and two seriously injured) has led to predictable calls for America to curb its hateful and hostile political discourse, in much the same way as Labour MP Jo Coxs murder during the Brexit referendum in 2016 produced pleas for a more civilised debate in our politics.

I suspect such calls will be even less successful in America than they have been in Britain.

President Biden and his Democratic predecessor in the White House, Barack Obama, were quick to condemn political violence, though their remarks were perfunctory and lacking any genuine outrage. Curiously, neither could bring themselves to use the words which would have properly described what had happened  an attempted assassination.

Far from cooling it, America is already awash with mad conspiracy theories, fuelled by the incompetence of those meant to protect Trump in allowing a 20-year-old with a semi-automatic rifle to gain access to a rooftop overlooking the rally.

The shooting has led to predictable calls for America to curb its hateful and hostile political discourse, writes ANDREW NEIL

The Secret Services chaotic efforts to evacuate Trump after the shooting only added to a loss of confidence

Their ineptitude was highlighted in a remarkable BBC TV interview that ran across Americas broadcast networks, in which one witness said hed warned the police and security operatives that there was a shooter on a nearby roof. The Secret Services chaotic efforts to evacuate Trump after the shooting only added to a loss of confidence.

This is being taken by the conspiracy theorists as proof that it was all a deep-state effort involving the FBI and the Secret Service to eliminate Trump (the MAGA camps take) or that it was all staged by MAGA operatives to boost Trumps election chances (the nutty Lefts take).

Such nonsense does not deserve the time of day. But the Secret Service and its associated law enforcement agencies are in for a terrible reckoning. There are already calls for its director to resign.

Biden will be relieved that his unfitness to run again is no longer dominating the headlines. But it is temporary relief. The pressure to find a candidate who could beat Trump is more urgent than ever, though it may be that he is now unassailable no matter who the Democrats put up as a candidate.

Indeed, some Democratic hopefuls might think it wiser to sit out this particular presidential election cycle. After Saturday night, the Democrats look like theyve run out of good choices.

And the clock is ticking. The Democratic convention is only five weeks away and, unless the Dump Biden rebels move quickly within the next 10 days, they will run out of time to make the necessary arrangements to turn Chicago into an open convention beauty parade of alternative candidates.

Police stand over the body of alleged shooter Thomas Matthews Crooks

Biden would simply be confirmed as the candidate by default, since most of the delegates are pledged to him and can only be released if he drops out. A few days ago Biden said: Its time to put Trump in the bullseye, confirming that his capacity for gaffes is unlimited.

As the leaders of Americas allies  and enemies  get to grips with the implications of a Trump presidency, all eyes will be on the Republican convention under way from tomorrow in Milwaukee.

It was always going to be an uncontested coronation for Trump. Now it will be an emotionally charged, historic event designed to propel him remorselessly to the White House and watched not just by America but by the world.

Back in 1984, I was in the hotel next to the Grand in Brighton for the annual Tory conference the night the IRA blew it up in a failed attempt to assassinate Margaret Thatcher.

She insisted on addressing the conference first thing that morning, even though she had almost been murdered and had had to be evacuated in the middle of the night to a safe base.

By the time we gathered in the conference hall, we had been joined by all the London correspondents of the worlds media. The Iron Lady arrived on time to a sober but warm and heartfelt reception.

She spoke with calm authority, no bitterness, no tub-thumping, just an unbending resolve to defend democracy. It was the speech of the leader of a proud nation, not the leader of a party.

If Trump can similarly rise to the occasion in Milwaukee then he really will be unstoppable in November. If he succumbs to anger, exacerbates division and makes ridiculous accusations against Democrats then he might just still be vulnerable.

In 1912, another presidential candidate, Teddy Roosevelt, spoke in Milwaukee. Like Trump he had barely started his stump speech when he too was the target of an assassins bullet, which lodged in his chest. But Roosevelt was a toughie  once boasting he felt as strong as a bull moose  and decided hed finish his speech, which was 84 minutes long.

Also like Trump, Roosevelt had already been a Republican president. But he was now leading a breakaway party called, appropriately enough, the Bull Moose party. Third parties never win in America. Trumps test this week is somewhat less onerous.

The bullet only grazed his right ear and he still leads the Republicans. It looks as if only his own darker demons can stop him from being the next president of the United States.

So far, in the aftermath of the shooting, hes remained remarkably restrained. He needs to stay that way even in front of his adoring faithful in Milwaukee, for whom he is now a living MAGA martyr.
Well, I'm in tears. Making only her second public appearance since her cancer diagnosis, the Princess of Wales received a standing ovation as she took her seat at Wimbledon for the men's singles final.

And it was just so touching to see she'd brought her daughter Charlotte (a Mini Me in polka dots by Guess Girls, 70, with white ballet flats) and sister Pippa (in Beulah floral print, with an Emmy London clutch) as conker-haired moral support.

But Kate also had another very important piece of armour: her impeccable sense of style.

The lilac midi dress with twisted bodice, the Cecilia, by London-based, demi-couture label Safiyaa (1,295, it has just sold out!), was a winner in so many ways.

The bodice (adorned by the purple and green bow brooch of the All England club, of which Kate is patron) gave a new softness, a new ease to the princess's silhouette, which in the past has been way too nipped in.

Making only her second public appearance since her cancer diagnosis, the Princess of Wales received a standing ovation as she took her seat at Wimbledon for the men's singles final

Kate's lilac midi dress with twisted bodice, the Cecilia, by London-based, demi-couture label Safiyaa (1,295, it has just sold out!), was a winner in so many ways

The heavy crepe of the full skirt ensured there was not a crease to be seen as the princess made her way on to the court to present the trophies

Winning smiles: Princess Charlotte shakes hands with the winner, with Kate looking on, following Carlos Alcaraz's victory over Novak Djokovic

Sunshine and smiles: The Princess of Wales with AELTC Chair Debbie Jevans at the match

The colour purple is deeply royal, but also denotes courage - something Kate showed she has in spades right now

The bodice (adorned by the purple and green bow brooch of the All England club, of which Kate is patron) gave a new softness, a new ease to the princess's silhouette, which in the past has been way too nipped in

Her hair, more caramel than of late, was worn loose and natural for Sunday's men's final

And the heavy crepe of the full skirt ensured there was not a crease to be seen as the princess made her way on to the court to present the trophies.

(Kate will have been mindful of choosing anything too light, due to the wind that has plagued the competition).

The colour purple is deeply royal, but also denotes courage.

Something the princess evidently has in spades.

The choice of nude bag by, you guessed it, LK Bennett, proves the princess is nothing if not loyal. (The Milly, 225 is sold out. I imagine the British fashion industry, the second biggest employer of women in the UK, is breathing a sigh of relief that Kate is back).

Sister Pippa (in Beulah floral print, with an Emmy London clutch) came along as conker-haired moral support for Kate

Pippa looked effortlessly elegant in a slim-fitting red floral midi dress with ruffled tiers

Pip off the old block: Kate's sister looked every inch the doting aunt next to Princess Charlotte

Princess Charlotte complemented her auntie Pippa in a navy-and-white polka dot dress from Guess with ruffled sleeves

Pretty in pink: Pippa was effortlessly chic as she appeared in the royal box for the men's final

Kate and William's daughter Charlotte (a Mini Me in polka dots by Guess Girls, 70, with white ballet flats) was also at the men's final

All smiles at All England: Pippa, Charlotte and Kate beamed on Centre Court during the men's final on Sunday afternoon

The slingbacks, by Camilla Elphick, were summery, not showy offy. Her hair, more caramel than of late, was loose and natural.

The Halcyon Days torque bracelet and gold bangle? Discreet and classy.

The whole outfit simply oozed, 'I am here to have fun'.

Even the Ray-Bans, perhaps a cheeky nod to old friend Tom Cruise, inches away in the stands.

Regal, graceful, gorgeous, playful.

Most importantly, Kate looked happy and healthy.

She finally seems at ease in her own skin: perhaps a cancer diagnosis has put everything into perspective.

Kate, effortlessly A-list. She smashed it!
Adam Zayden, from London, said the decision to donate his sperm was 'easy'

A man has revealed he donated his sperm so his sister-in-law could get pregnant, making him uncle to his biological son.

Adam Zayden, 25, from Newham, London, knew his sister Jade, 29, and her wife Eefje, 30, had been trying for a baby since 2018, but couldn't find a donor.

Every time he caught up with them, they sounded 'more-and-more frustrated' and after three years, Adam suggested he donate his own sperm to Eefje.

She got pregnant after six months of trying - inseminating herself with the help of Jade at home after Adam 'did his thing'.

Their baby boy, now 16 months old, was born on March 18, 2023, weighing 9lb. Jade says her baby has 'mine and Adam's bum chin,' but looks mostly like Eefje.

Adam Zayden (pictured), 25, from Newham, London, donated his sperm to his sister-in-law, and is now uncle to his biological son

Jade (pictured left), 29 and her wife Eefje (pictured right), 30, welcome their son (pictured centre) in March last year

Adam, who is a social media influencer, said: 'They became so frustrated with the donor process - it just felt like the right and easy thing to do.

'This whole process has made me so much closer to my sister and her partner. Now they have a little boy, and I'm really happy for them.'

Jade, a researcher and developer, and Eefje, a vet, who live in Amsterdam, always wanted to have children together.

'Children was always something Eefje wanted,' Jade said. She continued: 'I wasn't so sure because of our little sister and how much work that was.

'But in the end, I was very happy to start our own little family.' She added: 'And I wouldn't want it any other way.'

The couple opted for the sperm donation route because adoption seemed like a lengthy and expensive process.

Despite asking a couple of mutual friends to be a sperm donor, each one fell through.

Adam said: 'They live out in the Netherlands - artificial insemination isn't covered by health insurance so the search can be quite extensive.'

Adam said the decision to donate his sperm was 'easy' because he does not want his own children

Eefje and Jade found a number of sperm donors were asking to conceive the 'natural' way - via unprotected sex.

Adam said: 'They'd met a couple of nice people. But they had quite an unfortunate situation where everything was going really well, at first.

'They even set up a donor contract with him - which is an agreement where you set out your intentions for how you want the donation to work.

'But he literally turned around and said he wanted to do things the natural way. He wanted to sleep with my sister-in-law, which was never in the realm of what they wanted.

Adam continued: 'It was basically supposed to be a case of him taking himself off to the bathroom. Then, my sister-in-law inseminates herself.'

The influencer wanted to help his sister and her partner after they struggled to find a sperm donor

He said that his sister, who lives in Amsterdam, got 'frustrated' with the process of finding a donor after multiple plans fell through

Eefjie and Jade phoned Adam in 2021 to ask him whether he would be open to donating his sperm

While they didn't have to pay any fees to the donors - they often lost money travelling to meet them.

Eefje and Jade grew increasingly frustrated by the process. 'It really was an emotional rollercoaster,' Jade added.

She continued: 'Because you're opening yourself up in the most vulnerable of times. You're welcoming, essentially, strangers, into your life. You're then dependent on strangers to help fulfill one of your biggest dreams.'

Eefje said: 'You're also being exposed to a lot of potential hate. Whether that's from sharing your experience, or just in general while searching for a donor.'

In 2021, they called Adam to explain how hopeless they were feeling and asked him if he might consider donating his sperm.

He said: 'They'd joked before about me giving them mine'.

'After all their trials and tribulations, they called me sometime in 2021. They essentially just said: "We're really struggling with this stuff" and if I'd be ok with it.'

Before Adam donated his sperm, he had to undertake several tests at the doctors to check if he was a suitable donor

The 29-year-old influencer said that donating his sperm to his sister-in-law was not a 'big deal'

Adam has visited the baby on multiple occasions, who will refer to him as his 'uncle' or 'Adam bibi'

Adam said it was an easy decision to make. Given that he does not want to have his own children in the future, he thought it made a good opportunity to help his sister out.

'It really wasn't that big of a deal,' he said. He continued: 'I'm a queer person myself, and I don't really see myself having kids.'

Before donating, Adam had to go through a number of tests to find out if he was a suitable donor.

He took an STD test, which came back clear, as well as having his sperm count examined. 'I found out I'm very fertile,' he said. Adam added: 'Which is always fun to find out.'

Doctors then asked him to take a 'pill' to boost his sperm count, and he was told to keep an eye on when Eefje was ovulating.

He said: 'Every night during that one-week period, Jade would take the dog out for a walk. I'd go upstairs, do my thing, and hand Eefje the sperm.'

Adam did this for six-to-seven days each month, between December 2021 and June 2022.

In June 2022, Eefje discovered she was pregnant and their baby was born in March, 2023.

'I've met him quite a few times now,' Adam said. He continued: 'I am his uncle, but I'm known as 'bibi.'

Jade said: 'It wasn't until we properly started the process that we realised how much nicer it was having someone like Adam to help.

'It was great having someone you really know and trust, because it's such an emotional time.'
Another day, another beauty hashtag. Social media's latest obsession is #skinstreaming with 137.7million TikTok views and counting.

Translation: streamline your excessive beauty routines by opting for a less-is-more approach. What you need are a few effective products, targeting multiple needs. Then deploy them consistently for better results.

Basically, this is a newfangled way of saying what your mother always told you: 'Stop putting loads of different products on your face and expecting it to work.'

It's invariably what dermatologists propose and what this 53-year old beauty obsessive knows to be true. After all, there's a reason why so many of us have super-sensitive complexions of late  we aggress our skin with hundreds of chemicals every day as we load on the unguents.

'Glow guru' Kate Somerville, 55, the Hollywood aesthetician who grew up with agonising eczema, is very much an advocate, proposing a handful of hard-working, science-backed treatments loved by Demi Moore, Reese Witherspoon and Eva Mendes.

Another day, another beauty hashtag. Social media's latest obsession is #skinstreaming with 137.7million TikTok views and counting (file image)

Her new KateCeuticals SuperCell Rejuvenation Serum (84, katesomerville.co.uk) promises clinical-grade skin rejuvenation via a powerhouse of vegan stem cells and peptides accelerating cellular turnover. Already the brand's bestseller, its aim is to boost collagen, combat lines and address sun and pollution damage.

For lazy old me, the fact it's a roll-on also adds to the appeal of this one-and-done approach: a cooling, calming, multi-tasking cinch.

I say one-and-done, but what we're really talking about here is a return to the traditional three-step ritual, albeit with said steps updated. Instead of the old cleanse, tone and moisturise, we now have cleanse, repair and protect.

What you'll need is a gentle cleanser in a texture to suit your skin; some sort of repair product (a moisturiser, oil, or serum, again tailored to your needs); then a SPF of 30 or above.

Race you to it! With the weather still changeable, Hair Proud Glass Hair Heat Activated Smoothing Shine Spray (8.95, iamproud.com) has been spurring rave reviews and over 1.5million TikTok views. Cheaper than its ritzier rivals, this creates frizz-free, amazingly shiny hair without weighing it down. Advertisement

You don't have to spend a fortune. Instead, seek out Neutrogena, Q+A, Cetaphil, CeraVe, Olay, Garnier, Bioderma, Vichy, La Roche-Posay, L'Oreal and Skin Proud.

Or buy a bundle to make things even cheaper and easier. The Revolution Skincare X Sali Hughes Day Gift Set (revolutionbeauty.com) is 31.50 for 53 worth of basics: a cleanser, exfoliating toner, protective vitamin C serum and light moisturiser for morning.

Then, there's a Revolution Skincare X Sali Hughes Evening Gift Set (36 for 48 worth) for night, with the toner and serum, plus a richer cleanser and moisturiser. Bag a travel Mini Set version of the day kit to sample (10).

Currently, I crave an oil cleanse day and night  the only option that doesn't make my face feel parched. I'm using Medik8's Lipid-balance Cleansing Oil (29, medik8.com), which leaves my complexion exquisitely supple.

I 'tone' (or rather de-puff) with an ice-cube, then add a layer of Emma Hardie Brilliance Facial Oil (42.85, sephora.co.uk). However, as with my cleanser, I often veer cheaper. My sunscreen is a moveable feast, but I've become obsessed with Heliocare 360 A-R Emulsion SPF50+ (26.39, lookfantastic.com) for its brilliance as a stay-all-day, make-up primer.

Before bed, I wield celebrity-favourite Bioderma Sensibio H2O Micellar Water for sensitive skin (4.68, boots.com) before my oil cleanse, just to check the slap and sunblock are off, exfoliating with a flannel.

Finally, I finish with a slathering of Beauty Pie Youthbomb 360 Radiance Concentrate Serum (members 44, non-members, 185, beautypie.com).

The ultimate belt-and-braces brilliance, its trademarked Biolog-Elastic Complex is a potent fusion of 15 active ingredients: peptides, proteins, super-hydrators and soothers to visibly firm, resurface, brighten, tighten, hydrate and lend stupendous glow. I'm devoted.

Five summer lip tints

MAC Glow Play Tendertalk Lip Balm (22, maccosmetics.co.uk)

PH-activated for a custom glow in ten winning, lip barrier-strengthening tints.

MAC Glow Play Tendertalk Lip Balm (22, maccosmetics.co.uk)

Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour (26, spacenk.com)

Currently Space NK's best-selling lipstick, this melts onto the mouth for glass-like shine.

Lisa Eldridge Baume Embrace Melting Lip Colour (26, spacenk.com)

The Inkey List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm (11, cultbeauty.co.uk)

A non-irritating plumper in four shades that repairs, hydrates and gives visible fullness.

The Inkey List Tripeptide Plumping Lip Balm (11, cultbeauty.co.uk)

Dr Hauschka Lip to Cheek (26, drhauschka.co.uk)

A nourishing, 100 per cent natural-ingredient stick in four brightening hues.

Dr Hauschka Lip to Cheek (26, drhauschka.co.uk)

Bert's Bees Tinted Lip Balm (6.79, hollandandbarrett.com)

A much-loved classic, admired by Bridgerton's make-up director, Erika Ovist.

Bert's Bees Tinted Lip Balm (6.79, hollandandbarrett.com)

My icon of the week - Alex Jones

The 47-year-old former presenter of The One Show caused a stir when she recommended Simple Protect 'N' Glow Radiant Glow Sheet Mask (2.30, sainsburys.co.uk), declaring them better than pricier masks. She also loves Bobbi Brown Vitamin Enriched Face Base (now 43.20, boots.com), followed by 'my fail-safe piece of kit  blusher. I'd be lost without it.'

Alex Jones, the 47-year-old former presenter of The One Show caused a stir when she recommended Simple Protect 'N' Glow Radiant Glow Sheet Mask (2.30, sainsburys.co.uk)

Cosmetic craving

I would be failing in my summer duties if I didn't press upon you my top body bargain of the past 25 years, namely the Philips Satinelle Essential Epilator (24.99, amazon.co.uk).

My Mail colleague, Sarah Vine, first introduced me to said device, after her mother discovered it. I purchased one in the early 2000s for much the same price as they are now: less than the cost of a single waxing session at my local salon. Only think how much money it has saved me.

Epilation is instant, easy, painless (just shave beforehand first-time around, keep hair short, and pull skin taut), and can be used all over (I include my underarms and bikini area). Regrowth is gloriously slow, soft and subtle. Invest!
Crown Princess Victoria was joined by the entire Swedish royal family on Sunday for her 47th birthday celebrations.

The princess, who is heir apparent to the Swedish throne as the eldest child of King Carl XVI Gustaf, kicked off her splendid celebrations at the Solliden Palace in Oland.

She was accompanied by a whole host of high-profile royals, including her parents the King and Queen Silvia, Prince Carl Philip and Princess Sofia and their children.

The event allowed Victoria and her daughter Princess Estelle to show their sweet bond, as Victoria was seen giving her an affectionate kiss on the cheek.

Estelle, 12, was also seen whispering something in her mother's ear, causing her to laugh out loud.

Crown Princess Victoria is celebrating her 47th birthday. Pictured with her husband Prince Daniel, daughter Princess Estelle, and son Prince Oscar

The event gave the opportunity for Victoria and Estelle, 12, to show their sweet bond, as Victoria was seen giving her daughter an affectionate kiss on the cheek

Victoria and Estelle were the spitting image of one another in matching floral T-shirt dresses.

Victoria donned a stunning summer dress from Saloni, with a patchwork pattern and black button details, while a matching belt emphasised her figure.

She added a silver horseshoe necklace to accessorise, as well as teardrop-shaped diamond earrings with five added jewels.

Her husband Daniel chose to match her look with a bright blue suit, complementing the colours of his wife's dress on her birthday.

The couple's younger son, Prince Oscar, eight, wore a white suit to match Prince Gabriel, the middle child of Carl Philip and Sofia. The young boys made sure they were smart but comfortable as they kept their trainers on.

The royal mother-of-two appeared to beam with joy as she waved to crowds.

The Duchess of Vastergotland was clearly in great spirits for her birthday celebrations as the sun was shining.

It was a rare sight to see all the Swedish royals in one place, with Carl Philip and Sofia bringing their children Prince Alexander, Prince Julian and Prince Gabriel, while Princess Madeleine and her husband Chris O'Neill were joined by Princess Leonore, Princess Adrienne and Prince Nicolas.

Queen Silvia, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Oscar, Prince Gabriel during the festivities

Estelle and her mother were spotted having a giggle, as Estelle even whispered a secret to her at one point

Pictured: King Carl Gustaf, Queen Silvia, Crown Princess Victoria, Prince Daniel, Princess Estelle, Prince Oscar, Prince Carl Philip, Princess Sofia, Prince Alexander, Prince Gabriel, Prince Julian, Princess Madeleine, Chris O'Neill, Princess Leonore, Prince Nicolas, Princess Adrienne

The Crown Princess, who is turning 47, gave a speech as she kicked off her celebrations

The couple's younger son, Prince Oscar, eight, wore a white suit - but kept his comfy trainers on!

The entire family was in attendance: Prince Carl Philip, Princess Sofia, Prince Alexander, Prince Gabriel, Prince Julian

Princess Madeleine and husband Chris O'Neill with Princess Leonore, Princess Adrienne and Prince Nicolas

Before getting in her horse-drawn carriage, Princess Victoria greeted the huge crowds

The celebrations included the public singing for her, including a song from the Borgholm Culture School children's choir - with even the King joining in.

Victoria then joined a horse-drawn procession to the castle ruins, where her birthday concert will be held this evening.

Before climbing into the carriage however, she waved and spoke to the huge crowd that had gathered, clearly grateful and moved by all the tributes.

Each year the princess hands out the Victoria Prize, this year won by volleyball player Isabell Haak.

'It's really an honor to receive this prestigious award. I'm actually a little shocked, but at the same time it's of course very funny that volleyball, which is a small sport in Sweden, is being recognized in this way,' Haak said in a press release.

The next few days are staged in her name - known as the 'Victoria days' - and are celebrated by the whole country.

Princess Madeleine, Princess Leonore, Princess Adrienne all matched Victoria with their summer looks

Prince Carl Philip, Princess Sofia, Prince Alexander, Prince Gabriel, Prince Julian, Princess Madeleine, Chris O'Neill, Princess Leonore, Prince Nicolas, Princess Adrienne

The next few days are staged in her name - known as the 'Victoria days' - and are celebrated by the whole country. Pictured greeting crowds

Last month Princess Victoria and Estelle once again looked the spitting image of one another as they donned traditional dresses for Swedish National Day.

Celebrated annually on June 6, Swedish National Day marks the accession to the throne of Gustav Vasa in 1523, which made Sweden an independent country free from the Danish-ruled Kalmar Union.

While June 6 has been a public holiday for since 2005, it has been celebrated by Swedes for much longer than that.

While the male royals were dressed in smart suits and blue ties, Crown Princess Victoria, Princess Estelle and Princess Sofia all glowed in the traditional 'Sverigedrakten' folk dress.

The garment has long been worn by the women of the royal family at public events.
Kate Fowler was shocked and angry when Hostplus couldn't find her account

A young woman says she's learned an important lesson after her superannuation fund lost 20 years of contributions.

Kate Fowler, from Melbourne, told Daily Mail Australia her ordeal began in May this year when she was unable to log in to her Hostplus account.

When the 35-year-old called the super fund's hotline, the customer service agent said her account 'didn't exist', leaving her stomach in knots.

Ms Fowler said her anxiety and panic turned to anger as she waited to speak to a supervisor.

Her inbox had dozens of marketing emails from Hostplus and her pay slips had contributions made in her name each week, but there was worse news to come.

'They told me the account must have been closed and the funds sent to the ATO,' Ms Fowler said.

'I knew that wasn't true because my MyGov account was showing the funds should be with Hostplus and I had a pay slip showing that my employer had contributed funds with the last few weeks.

'For a second I wondered if I was being scammed, but that seemed unlikely because I had called the official Hostplus phone number on the website.'

Kate Fowler (pictured) felt 'pretty anxious' after being told her superannuation fund of 20 years 'didn't exist'

While on the phone, Ms Fowler, who has been with Hostplus since 2009, said she was so angry that she 'couldn't even think straight'.

The supervisor told her to put all of her information including her account number in writing via email, so they could confirm her identity.

She then made a strange discovery.

'They responded with a password protected document but the password was meant to be my birth date, and I couldn't open it,' she continued.

'So I figured that was the issue, they had got me to prove my identity with my birth date, and they had one on file that didn't match.'

As it turns out, a second Hostplus account had been opened on Ms Fowler's behalf but her birth date had been entered incorrectly. At some point the accounts were merged and the incorrect birth date remained on file.

Luckily all the money was found.

The 35-year-old from Melbourne claimed she receives marketing emails from Hostplus regularly but the customer service employee couldn't find anything under her name

'I was a little surprised, because I would have thought they would verify that kind of thing against the ATO records,' she said.

Ms Fowler admitted she's always 'buried her head in the sand' when it comes to money up until recently.

She now always wants to know where her hard-earned dollars are going and how her super is tracking.

'The point of this long-winded story is don't get complacent with your superannuation. Check it thoroughly at least at tax time but preferably quarterly,' she said.

'Make sure you can access it and see the balance, make sure your details are correct and up to date, make sure they're not charging you for insurance you don't need.

'Most importantly merge all your funds into one so you're getting the maximum returns. It's real money that you're going to want to have access to at retirement age.

'We should all be educated about where it's going and how to manage it. Especially for any younger women who feel they want to take control of their finances.'

A Hostplus spokesperson told Daily Mail Australia: 'Hostplus has worked with the member and this matter has now been resolved. For privacy and security reasons, we cannot provide further comment.'

According to UniSuper, women between 35 and 39 tend to have an estimated $75,785 towards their super while men have $95,937.

The amount varies depending on whether you work full-time or part-time hours.
A teenage boy whose parents claim hospital staff and paramedics dismissed his symptoms as a stomach bug and the flu died from a brain infection just days later.

Treva Ashton, 15, from Mt Druitt in Sydney's west, first went to the doctor with his mum on June 24 after feeling unwell for about three days.

The year nine student initially had a blocked nose but started feeling worse and vomited on the night of June 23.

Treva's mother Sharon Gauci, 45, said her son was experiencing confusion at their initial visit to their GP, alarming the doctor.

'Our doctor said "he's not meant to be here" and gave us a letter to take to the hospital, which said he needed to be looked at straight away because he was "looking very unwell" and "confused",' she said.

'His temperature was 40C, and he had a low heart rate and low blood pressure.'

But at Mt Druitt Hospital later that day, the family claimed they waited for about one-and-a-half hours - at which point they were told to take Treva home to rest and given two Panadol tablets.

Treva's father, Darren Ashton, 45, said they were told there were 60 patients ahead of them and it could be as long as nine hours before a doctor could attend to him.

Treva Ashton, 15, from Mt Druitt in Sydney's west, first went to the doctor with his mum on June 24 after feeling unwell for about three days

The family claims a triage nurse told them that Treva 'probably just has a stomach bug or the flu'.

'His eyes were rolling back, and he didn't know what was happening. He was confused and in a daze,' Mr Ashton said.

'He's a kid, he should have been seen straight away - he's under 16.'

Ms Gauci said her son was unwilling to wait any longer to see a doctor, and nursing staff said he was OK despite his high temperature, so the family returned home.

But once they got to their house, Treva started vomiting.

'He kept saying "I don't feel well. My head, my head",' she said.

Ms Gauci said she put a wet facewasher on his head to help with his temperature.

'But he got chills, so I knew it was an infection,' she said.

A teenage boy, dismissed by hospital staff and paramedics as having a stomach bug and the flu, tragically died days later because his sinus infection had spread to his brain

Treva could hardly eat and experienced headaches throughout the night, and was given Sudafed and Panadol.

The next day the symptoms escalated further, with Treva complaining about losing movement in a leg.

Overnight the family was woken by Treva's screams, and an ambulance was called to the house at 4.37am on June 26.

'He said his head hurt, as well as his stomach, and he was vomiting,' she said.

But when the ambulance arrived, Ms Gauchi claims the paramedic was skeptical about the seriousness of the situation and suggested the teen just needed to drink plenty of fluids.

'The paramedic said "He probably has a stomach bug or the flu and if we take him down to hospital, he will get other bugs".'

'But he was very white in the face. And I know my boy. Something wasn't right,' she said.

'You could see it in his eyes, he wouldn't look at you. I said there was something wrong with his brain.

'And she (the paramedic) said "no, when you have the flu, you act like that".'

Treva's heartbroken mother, Sharon Gauci, 45, said at their initial visit to their GP, her son was experiencing confusion, which alarmed the doctor

When Treva's parents pointed out that he had lost movement in one of his legs, the couple said the paramedic blamed the loss of feeling on numbness.

'They said "you know how kids are, he could be being overdramatic",' Ms Gauci said.

However, Treva's condition worsened that day and into the night. His family observed that his head was swollen, his vomit contained blood, and he was experiencing body aches.

Treva said his head felt like it was 'going to explode'.

An ambulance was called at 9.10am on June 27, and arrived soon after.

This time, the paramedics rushed the 15-year-old to Nepean Hospital, where he quickly became unresponsive.

'I screamed "Treva". I screamed for the doctors,' his mother said.

'I could hear the staff say "we're going to lose him, we're going to lose him"'.

Once the teen was put into an induced coma and onto a ventilator, medical staff administered antibiotics to help kill the infection.

But Treva's CT scan results showed he had fluid on the brain.

The family were told part of Treva's brain was dead, and the surgeon then delivered the tragic news that their beloved boy wouldn't recover

'They had to rush him into surgery to remove part of his skull so his brain could swell, as well as drain fluid and then put the skull back in later,' an emotional Ms Gauci said.

'We were told when they opened him up, his head was full of pus from the infection.'

Remaining sedated in the ICU and on antibiotics, Treva's surgeons had to perform another operation on July 1.

'They had to drill a hole in his eyebrow to help ease the pressure and clean out his sinuses,' MS Gauci said.

But after the sinus operation, the pressure on Treva's brain kept rising, and the same day, the 15-year-old was rushed back into operating theatre - this time to remove the other front part of his skull.

The family were told part of Treva's brain was dead, and the surgeon then delivered the tragic news that their boy would not recover.

'The surgeon said "there was nothing we could do". The nurses were crying because they don't normally treat children. Everyone was so upset,' Mr Ashton said.

'We also found out that in between the first ambulance and the second one, he had a stroke.

'He went to get up for a shower at home, and he fell down. He lost movement in his legs. We didn't know he had a stroke.

'We were also told that between the first and second operations, he had multiple strokes.'

Treva's parents said they are still in shock at how fast everything happened and want answers about how their 'cuddly' boy was not a priority

Treva's parents said they are still in shock at how quickly everything happened and want answers about how their 'cuddly, handsome, funny' boy was treated.

The family is left to wonder if his life could have been saved if he was attended to at the hospital.

'It could have been prevented. I want justice for my boy,' Ms Gauci said.

'He was a very handsome young boy, he was my baby. He always had lots of jokes and loved going on TikTok and doing memes.

'He was so excited for the school holidays to go bike riding and camping. He loved his dirt bike and was saving for a bigger one because he had a growth spurt.'

While fighting back tears, Ms Gauci said it is eerie now being in the family house without Treva's presence.

'I've got to walk past his room to get to my room, and I don't hear him playing on his X-Box,' she said.

'I was going through the washing, and I put his clothes on the line. I am doing his washing, and I realised he's not here, and that's the worst.'

'He said "I love you" every night to us. He wouldn't go to bed without a fist pump for his dad and a kiss for his mum.'

Treva's parents said they are yet to receive any apologies or explanations from the paramedics or NSW Health, but don't want to pursue any action until after the funeral.

Treva will miss out on meeting the newest members of the family. His life-support was turned off on July 7, and the very next day, his sister gave birth to twin boys

Despite their tragedy, the family wanted their son to leave a legacy.

'We donated both his eyes, both kidneys, lungs, heart and pancreas,' she said.

'My baby died a hero.'

Treva missed out on meeting the newest members of the family. His life-support was turned off on July 7, and the very next day, his sister gave birth to twin boys.

The family is struggling financially as Ms Gauci is on a disability pension and her partner is her caregiver.

The close family of six, who also lost a son in 2007, said they have no idea how they are going to pay for their second-youngest child's funeral.

The family has started a GoFundMe to help them meet expenses and has become aware that unauthorised fundraisers have already been started in their son's name.

'People are trying to make money from my son. We don't want anyone fundraising on our behalf, we never gave permission,' she said.

In a statement provided to Daily Mail Australia, Western Sydney Local Health District and NSW Ambulance said that they 'extend their sincere condolences to the patients loved ones'.

'A review is underway and the family will be kept informed as the review progresses.

'It is not appropriate to provide further comment at this time.'
Hospitals are flouting NHS rules by allowing staff with as little as two years' training to treat expectant mothers and stroke victims in place of doctors, The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

In a move described as a 'huge potential threat to patient safety', a number of NHS hospitals are routinely using physician associates (PAs) to cover doctors' shifts.

A PA is an NHS worker with no medical degree who is meant only to assist doctors and nurses. They are not qualified to diagnose patients, prescribe drugs or order scans, and are meant to be supervised by a doctor.

But an investigation carried out by this newspaper has uncovered dozens of cases where hospitals have used PAs to cover for a lack of doctors in departments including gynaecology and A&E.

This is against NHS guidance.

In 2022, Emily Chesterton, 30, died after a PA failed to spot a blood clot. The actress was seen twice by a PA, who told her she had anxiety and long Covid

In one of the most worrying cases, PAs have covered for doctors at the Blackpool Victoria Hospital stroke ward 14 times since the beginning of the year. According to a Freedom of Information request, the hospital has also allowed PAs to cover doctors' shifts in A&E.

The same stroke ward was hit with scandal last year when a nurse and a junior colleague were convicted of unlawfully sedating patients.

A murder probe is also ongoing after a patient bled to death on the ward from internal injuries after being assaulted by an unknown member of staff. Six years on, police have not been able to identify the suspect.

There is no suggestion that any of these crimes were committed by PAs or occurred during shifts where these non-medics were present.

In response to our findings, the family of a woman who died due to mistakes made by a PA at a GP practice has urged the NHS to stop using underqualified medics to make up for doctor shortages.

In 2022, Emily Chesterton, 30, died after a PA failed to spot a blood clot. The actress was seen twice by a PA, who told her she had anxiety and long Covid.

Her parents say that at no point during the appointment was Emily made aware the person she was seeing was not a GP. A coroner concluded that Emily should have been immediately referred to a hospital emergency unit.

The North London GP practice where she was seen has since decided to stop employing PAs.

'It's terrifying to think that people are being treated in hospital by people who they believe are doctors, but are actually just PAs,' said Emily's mother Marion Chesterton, 65, a retired teacher from Salford.

'We lost our daughter as a result of mistakes made by a PA who was not qualified to diagnose her. The fact hospitals still allow PAs to work in this manner shows that lessons have not been learned.'

Emily's parents say that at no point during the appointment was Emily made aware the person she was seeing was not a GP

Emily pictured with her mother Marion and sister Jasmine, left

The NHS plans to recruit some 10,000 PAs by 2038 to relieve the strain of the doctor shortage.

Last night NHS England criticised the trusts named in our investigation. 'There should never be any circumstances where physician associates are replacing doctors,' said a spokesman. 'We are following this up with all trusts concerned. The NHS has always been clear that PAs are not a substitute for doctors.'

Doctors' union the British Medical Association (BMA) urged new Health Secretary Wes Streeting to take action. 'These reports confirm that PAs have been used in place of doctors on medical rotas at trusts across the country,' said BMA Council chairman Professor Phil Banfield.

'This practice represents a huge potential threat to patient safety and is a cause for national alarm. PAs do not have the rigorous medical training or the qualifications to take on a doctor's responsibility for patient care, at these trusts or anywhere else.'

He added: 'While PAs may have a useful role assisting the wider medical team, NHS England themselves have communicated repeatedly to hospital trusts that PAs should not be used as replacements for doctors on any rota. It's inexcusable for these trusts to use PAs in this way.

'After no action from the previous Government, it's essential the new Health Secretary takes this on and stops this practice in its tracks.'

Demonstrators gather outside Parliament in protest against handing over responsibilities to physician associates who have limited medical training and are not doctors

The protesters argue that using physician associates in place of doctors can potentially endanger patients and can lead to loss of life

The Mail on Sunday first raised the alarm about PAs last year and has been running a campaign to Rein In The Physician Associates. We believe there should be strict limitations on what tasks PAs can and can't do.

Following growing concerns, in March, NHS England issued new guidance stating 'PAs should not be used as replacements for doctors on a rota'.

But last month we revealed that Royal Berkshire Hospital had used PAs to cover doctors' shifts in emergency wards more than 70 times over the past six months  including 21 times since March.

On several occasions the hospital also asked trainee PAs  yet to even complete their two years' training  to fill in for doctors.

Following these revelations we sent Freedom of Information requests to every hospital trust in the country, asking them to reveal every time they had used PAs to cover doctors' shifts since December 2023.

More than 100 NHS trusts responded. The vast majority were not using PAs in this manner, and several provided strongly worded responses distancing themselves from the practice.

Maidstone and Tunbridge Wells NHS Trust said that it would 'not ask a PA to cover vacant slots on any medical rota'.

Mid Cheshire Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust said it does not use PAs to fill rota gaps left by doctors as 'they cannot prescribe or request X-rays'.

However, not all trusts shared this attitude. Between December 2023 and May 2024, Northampton General Hospital NHS Trust asked PAs to cover doctors' shifts 25 times, typically in its emergency department. The trust, which employs eight PAs, admitted they were given the shifts because 'no doctor cover was available'.

London North West University Healthcare NHS Trust said its 37 PAs had filled in for doctors 76 times during the same time period, but did not elaborate on which wards these shifts took place.

Barts Health NHS Trust in east London has placed PAs on its junior doctors rota in A&E 20 times over the past six months. Four of these cases occurred after the NHS directed trusts to end the practice. A spokesman said: 'Physician associates play an important role in caring for patients in our hospitals, and we employ 16 alongside our 2,500-strong medical workforce.

'Their clearly defined roles are in line with their training, experience and qualifications and they always work under the supervision of senior doctors.'

The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust said PAs were approached 'to fill in a doctor gap on the rota' and 'cover some aspects of the on-call team rather than leave a gap empty'.

The trust, which said leaving an unfilled vacancy would 'adversely affect patient care', said it would take too much time to 'establish the number of shifts covered by physician associates'.

And the Rotherham NHS Foundation Trust listed five occasions where doctors' shifts were covered by PAs, all of which were on its gynaecology ward.

A spokesman said: 'PAs perform a range of tasks within their scope of practice, always ensuring patient safety. All care involving PAs is overseen by qualified gynaecologists to maintain the highest standards of medical care.'

Dr Helen Fernandes, chairman of the Doctors' Association, which represents NHS clinicians, said: 'PAs shouldn't be covering for doctors in any area.'

A Department of Health and Social Care spokesman said: 'Physician associates have an important role to play but should always work with doctors, not replace them.

'As we fix the NHS, we will end the workforce crisis and deliver the NHS long-term plan, so patients are always cared for by the right, qualified healthcare professional.'

Every hospital mentioned was approached for comment.

The NHS has a shortage of nearly 9,000 doctors, according to the British Medical Association.
People with a swollen limb condition are being denied a revolutionary operation by the NHS that could transform their lives, a charity has claimed.

The condition, lymphoedema, causes a build-up of fluid in the body's infection-fighting lymphatic channels that leaves sufferers with heavy and painful arms and legs.

The operation requires intricate microsurgery, using high-powered microscopes, to connect the damaged lymphatic system to veins, to drain the excess fluid.

Nearly nine in ten sufferers who undergo the treatment, called lymphaticovenular anastomosis - or LVA - see their swelling permanently disappear.

However, while lymphoedema affects about 300,000 Britons  the most common cause is cancer treatment  few are able to access the 15,000 procedure on the NHS.

'Lymphoedema is very under-resourced,' says Karen Friett, chief executive of the Lymphoedema Support Network charity. 'More investment is needed to allow people to live well with the condition  and the option to offer LVA as part of a suite of care for those it is suitable for would be welcome.'

Few of the 300,000 Britons who suffer from lymphoedema are able to access the 15,000 'microsurgery' procedure on the NHS

Alex Ramsden, a plastic surgeon at the Oxford Lymphoedema Practice  which has pioneered the surgery in the UK  agrees. 'It could help so many,' he says. 'We need to put as much pressure on the powers that be, politically and economically, to get the NHS to do it.'

Lymphoedema occurs when the lymphatic system, a network of channels that carry fluid around the body to fight infections, cannot drain properly. A family history of the condition can increase the odds of developing it, as can an infection or obesity.

Parts of the lymphatic system are often removed during cancer surgery to reduce the risk of the disease spreading. The system can also be damaged by radiotherapy, often leading to fluid build-ups and swelling in the arms and legs.

When this happens it can make wearing clothing, watches and jewellery uncomfortable, as well as restricting the movement of patients. They may even need to be admitted to hospital.

The majority of NHS lymphoedema sufferers receive decongestive therapy  which involves exercises, massages and compression bandages - to reduce the severity of the condition. However, it is not a cure.

The LVA procedure is carried out by stitching the blocked section of the lymphatic system to a vein under a high-powered microscope. The stitches measure a fifth of the size of a human hair and are used to limit the amount of fluid that ends up in the veins.

It is effective for 85 per cent of patients and, last April, the NHS spending watchdog NICE concluded it has 'the potential to improve a person's quality of life and could have other benefits such as reduced hospitalisation'.

However, due to prohibitive cost, it is currently offered only to NHS patients who are at risk of lymphoedema after breast cancer surgery or as part of research trials.

Fred Rogers, 76, from Birmingham, a keen hillwalker, received the treatment when he developed lymphoedema on his ankles six months after a prostate cancer operation

Not all lymphoedema patients can have LVA  the intensive procedure is considered too risky for elderly or severely unwell patients.

However, experts say that NHS patients who are eligible should be offered the procedure if they fail to respond to existing treatments.

'LVA changes the underlying physiology of the disease,' says Mr Ramsden. 'It's a big upfront investment for the NHS, but it provides a long-term benefit and allows people to get on with their lives.'

Fred Rogers, 76, from Birmingham, a keen hillwalker, received the treatment when he developed lymphoedema on his ankles six months after a prostate cancer operation in 2022.

Decongestive lymphatic therapy had little effect, he claims. But following his eight-hour LVA procedure in February last year, he says: 'It was a brilliant piece of surgery. I can honestly say it changed my life.'
For the best part of half a century, a 41-foot humpback whale named Luna swam up and down the East Coast.

Then on Jan. 30, 2023, Luna washed up dead on Long Island, New York.

He was the tenth whale to strand on beaches in New York and New Jersey in nine weeks. Environmentalists, politicians and ordinary citizens loudly wondered if the construction of offshore wind turbines was killing them.

Apostolos Gerasoulis, a Rutgers professor emeritus of computer science who co-created the search engine that powers Ask.com, now says the answer is yes.

Absolutely, 100 percent, offshore wind kills whales, he says.

Luna the humpback whale washed up on Long Island in January 2023 after 40 years of swimming up and down the east coast

Luna came ashore at Lido Beach West Town Park in Hempstead, Long Island on January 30, 2023, amid a spate of whale deaths along the shores of New York and New Jersey

Emergency crews try to determine how to handle the carcass of Luna the humpback whale after he beached

Early in 2023, Gerasoulis began researching whale deaths. That summer he started building a software system to identify any relationship between the dead whales and offshore wind survey vessels, which use loud blasts of sonar to map the seabed for the installation of offshore wind turbines and high-voltage cables.

He named the system Luna.

Rutgers professor Apostolos Gerasoulis has made a disturbing link between offshore wind survey vessels and the spike in whale deaths

But the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which is responsible for protecting marine animals and their habitats insists there is no connection.

To date, no whale mortality has been attributed to offshore wind activities, said Lauren Gaches, NOAA Fisheries public affairs director shortly after Lunas body was found.

Whale deaths had started increasing several years earlier. NOAA declared unusual mortality events for humpback whales in 2016, minke whales in 2017, and North Atlantic right whales also in 2017.

The death count is now up to 534 for these species.

Wind farm developers started sending out sonar vessels to blast the ocean floor with high-intensity sound waves to map it for offshore wind farms in 2016.

But NOAA still denies any connection.

At this point, there is no scientific evidence that noise resulting from offshore wind site characterization surveys or pile driving could potentially cause whale deaths, Katie Wagner, NOAA public affairs specialist, told DailyMail.com.

There are no known links between large whale deaths and ongoing offshore wind activities.

Saint breaches close to the Jersey Shore on July 24, 2023. Two and a half weeks later the whale washed up dead on the Long Branch beach

Heavy construction equipment was used to dig a grave for the young humpback whale, Saint, that washed up in Long Branch, NewJersey on Aug. 12, 2023.

Local environmentalists held a candlelight vigil for Sainta month after he washed up dead on the beach in Long Branch, N.J. We felt like he was a saint for enduring what he did at the hands of humans, Trisha DeVoe says

But according to Gerasoulis, NOAA data reveal that humpback whale deaths in New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island waters went from an average of two per year before 2016 to 10 in the years since.

Last year, 21 humpback whales died in the region.

You have 20 dead whales. You used to have two, and now it's 20, Gerasoulis said. So I started looking at this from every perspective.

He loaded NOAA data on whale deaths, the zigzag courses of survey ships and even wave action into his computer system. Luna revealed patterns that Gerasoulis believes point to offshore wind survey vessels as the cause of the whale deaths.

Gerasoulis is an expert in computational sciences, search engines, high-performance computing and data analytics. There are five people in the world who build search engines, Gerasoulis says. Im one of them.

Last year he founded Save the East Coast to investigate the impact of offshore wind on oceans, marine life, fishermen and shore communities.

The Luna software system that Gerasoulis built integrates NOAA data on whale, dolphin and porpoise deaths with vessel traffic data from MarineCadastre.gov. He believes it is the first system of its kind.

Luna generates maps of the U.S. East Coast and plots the locations of offshore wind farms; deaths of whales, dolphins and porpoises; and the routes taken by various survey ships. Luna can display any specific geographic area, time frame, marine mammal species or ship, depending on the query.

For example, from 2017 through 2023, a total of 286 whales, dolphins and porpoises died along the New Jersey and New York shores. Luna shows exactly where they were found.

Gerasoulis divided his data into two samples  the number of humpback whale deaths from 2006 to 2015 in the area, and the number of whale deaths after 2016, when offshore wind surveys were underway

Humpback whale 'Saint' near New Jersey in July 2023. He was found dead two weeks later

From August 1-12, 2023, the days before two whales died (black dots). Colored lines indicate the path of each survey vessel

During January and February of 2023, 13 offshore wind survey vessels conducted sonar testing off the coasts of New Jersey and New York. Seven humpback whales , including Luna,died, represented by black dots. One of them was Luna, who washed up on Lido Beach, Long Island

Saint, a young humpback whale, washed up on the beach in Long Branch, N.J., on Aug. 12, 2023. He was dragged from the waters edge for burial

Luna visually displays the zigzag routes taken by offshore wind survey vessels. During January and February 2022, there was little survey boat in the area. Six vessels traveled a total of 4,213 miles. One humpback whale died.

January and February 2023, however, showed a tremendous increase in survey vessel traffic in the waters off New Jersey and New York  13 vessels traveled a total of 11,977 miles. Seven humpback whales died, including Luna.

In August 2022, survey boat traffic was minimal off the New Jersey coast. Two survey vessels worked near Asbury Park and two more worked off Atlantic City. They traveled a total of 5,469 miles. There was plenty of open water around the two survey areas and no humpback whales died.

August 2023, however, was a different story. Sixteen different offshore wind survey vessels moved slowly back and forth off the coast. They covered a total of 16,812 miles, triple the amount of the previous August. Six whales died that month.

In the summer of 2022, Trisha DeVoe, a conservation biologist on the Miss Belmar whale watching boat, first spotted a two- to three-year-old male humpback whale. He became No. 0260 in the New York-New Jersey humpback whale catalog run by Gotham Whales.

He was just a typical, healthy young humpback whale, DeVoe says. We observed him several times during that whale watching season over the summer.

But the last time Miss Belmar passengers saw No. 0260, in October 2022, half of his tail fluke was missing. It looked like it had been chopped off by a boat propeller.

We honestly didn't know if he would survive such an injury, DeVoe says. We didn't know if he would be able to continue to swim and forage and behave like a whale with just half a tail fluke.

Trisha DeVoe has a masters degree in conservation biology from Columbia University and works as a naturalist on the Miss Belmar whale watching boat

Saint, the young humpback whale, washed up on the Long Branch, N.J. beach after allegedly falling victim to the offshore wind tracking vessels

According to conservation biologist Trish DeVoe, what appears to be a ball coming out of Saint's head is actually his tongue. It's just gases in the body, building up and blowing up the tongue like a big balloon, she says

Humpback whales stay in New Jersey waters for an average of 38 days, DeVoe says. In the fall they swim to the Caribbean to breed and give birth. She didnt know if the young whale would make it.

The following July, DeVoe was thrilled to see 0260 back at the Jersey Shore.

Not only did he survive, he was thriving, DeVoe says. He made that long migration down to the breeding grounds, and he came all the way back up, thousands of miles, so he was able to swim. He was so resilient.

On July 24, 2023, DeVoe photographed the whale breaching off the Jersey shore.

They use their tail flukes to gain speed and propel them to lift their massive bodies out of the water, and he was able to do that with half a tail fluke, she says. We were just overjoyed.

Two and a half weeks later, on Aug. 12, 2023, DeVoe was out on the Miss Belmar when she and her passengers spotted the whale. He was floating dead in the water.

DeVoe was heartbroken.

He was able to survive everything he went through  the major injury and amputation and come all the way back up here. He was so strong, but unfortunately, he wasn't strong enough to survive the next onslaught that he was going to face in our ocean, DeVoe says.

We really believe that what is killing these whales is the surveying work that they're doing. It's the only thing different in our ocean. We never had whales dying like this.

DeVoe and other local environmentalists were devastated by the loss of the whale and wanted to honor him with a name, rather than just a number. They started calling him Saint.

He was this whale, in human terms, who was a lot like a saint. He suffered a lot at the hand of humans. He suffered that massive injury and he survived, and he thrived, and he continued on with his life. But then he unfortunately went on to his ultimate death at the cause of human activity.

So, we feel like he was just a saint during his time here.

In August 2023, 16 different survey vessels worked off the coast of New Jersey and New York. Six whales died: Four humpback (black dots), one minke (dark purple dot), one pygmy sperm (lavender dot)

This map shows the locations of offshore wind farm leases in the Atlantic Ocean off New Jersey. The dots represent dead marine mammals - different colors indicate the species

Luna, the computer system, displays where the offshore wind survey vessels traveled and how many marine mammals died. But can the data point to a cause?

Gerasoulis divided his data into two samples  the number of humpback whale deaths from 2006 to 2015 in the area, and the number of whale deaths after 2016, when offshore wind surveys were underway.

He subjected the samples to two sophisticated statistical tests Both indicated that the difference in whale deaths before and after offshore wind surveys started was statistically significant and not random.

If you are statistically significant, it means something seriously is happening, Gerasoulis says. You better find the root of this.

On its web page about the humpback whale unusual mortality event, NOAA says that necropsy examinations were conducted on approximately half of the dead whales.

Forty percent showed evidence of fishing gear entanglement or ship strikes, although it wasnt always clear if the ship strike occurred before or after the whale was dead.

So Gerasoulis analyzed cargo ship traffic and whale deaths. He found that in 2020-2021 container ship traffic was up 18 percent, whale deaths were down 92 percent but in 2022-2023 container ship traffic was down 18 percent, whale deaths were up 162%

The data contradict the assumption that container ship traffic is the primary cause of increased whale deaths, indicating other factors are at play, Gerasoulis insists.

Humpback whales migrate from the Caribbean to the Gulf of Maine and back every year, about 1,700 miles each way.

On Aug. 12, 2023, at 2:09 p.m., passengers on the whale watching vessel Miss Belmar saw Saint floating dead in the water . His death has been linked to offshore wind vessels

In October 2022, whale watchers saw that a young male humpback whale had suffered a traumatic injury  half of his tail fluke was chopped off, probably by a boat propeller

But offshore wind survey vessels have not been operating at the same level all along the route, enabling Gerasoulis to analyze data from three distinct regions of the Atlantic Ocean.

The northern region, including Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts above Rhode Island, had no offshore wind survey vessel traffic. Before 2016, an average of four humpback whales died per year, and after 2016, the average was 3.125.

What is significant about this result is that if ship strikes were the cause of the increase in whale deaths, this increase would have been reflected in the data, Gerasoulis says. However, it is not.

The southern region, including Delaware, Maryland and Virginia, had no or minimal survey traffic before 2016 and an average of two humpback whales died per year. After 2016, the average survey vessel traffic was 23,264 miles per year and the number of dead humpback whales increased to an average of 5.25 per year.

The central region, including New York, New Jersey and Rhode Island, had minimal survey traffic before 2016.

After that year, survey vessel traffic was an average of 50,300 miles per year, double the amount of the southern region. The number of humpback whale deaths also doubled, to 10.625 per year.

When comparing the south and central regions after offshore wind surveying started, the averages show an almost linear increase in humpback whale deaths  doubling the traffic results in doubling the whale deaths.

These regions had identical death rates before 2016. This is the strongest correlation between whale deaths and offshore wind survey traffic.

The numbers never lie, Gerasoulis says. There is a cause. We have shown that the cause for death of the whales is offshore wind. Period.

Offshore wind survey vessels use equipment such as multibeam echosounders, side scan sonar, and sub-bottom profilers or sparkers, to reveal geological features of the seabed.

The sparkers send acoustical pulses into the ocean floor that are reflected back to receivers on the boats.

The underwater noise is loud. On May 8, 2023, Robert Rand, a veteran acoustical consultant conducted a study of the sonar noise generated by the Miss Emma McCall survey vessel off the coast of New Jersey.

The following January, he testified at a Congressional hearing about his findings.

Rand found that the sound was 224 decibels at the source. As sound waves travel away from the source, volume diminishes. But a half nautical mile away, Rand measured peak sound levels at 151.6 decibels.

Apostolos Gerasoulis says NOAA must study the impact of multiple wind projects on marine mammals, after his research made a disturbing link between the vessels and whale deaths

The National Marine Fisheries Service, part of NOAA, says that whales and other marine mammals can temporarily lose hearing at 152 decibels of continuous sound and can permanently lose hearing at 173 decibels.

There's a saying that a deaf whale is a dead whale, says Trisha DeVoe, the conservation biologist.

Because if the whale can't hear, it can't see to navigate. The depths of the ocean are very dark, and they rely on their hearing to know what's around them.

The loud sonar blasts could also disorient the whales, she says.

If all of a sudden there's this incredibly loud, disturbing noise that could even be painful to them, they're going to run away, DeVoe explains.

So we think that it could be deafening them or causing them to flee, and then maybe putting them in harm's way.

DeVoe says whales are resilient animals, and NOAA should find out what is happening to them.

We see many whales with scars from propeller strikes or previous entanglements, yet they continue to live and thrive. If the whales are dying from ship strikes, what is suddenly causing them to be unable to avoid large ships? she asks.

Gerasoulis says NOAA must study the impact of multiple wind projects on marine mammals.

It is the cumulative impact of multiple offshore wind boats surveying in a small region where the whales are feeding that is affecting the whales, he says.

NOAA needs to investigate.
A woman has been left 'terrified' of completely losing the use of her jaw due to the devastating damage caused by a one-punch attack more than 10 years ago - as part of a horrific ordeal where part of her face 'fell out'.

Jacqui Glynn was attacked by a stranger while waiting to pick up a friend from the Bayview Hotel in Redcliffe, a coastal suburb in Brisbane's north, in December of 2012.

Ms Glynn claimed she faced several difficulties when she sought financial help from Victim Assist Queensland for her injuries. She claimed police refused to give her information about her attacker which she needed to fill out her application for support.

'The police neglected me for over a year,' Ms Glynn told Daily Mail Australia.

The consequent delay in treatment meant Ms Glynn's initial injuries of three loose teeth and a cheek bone fracture drastically worsened.

'In 2014 I had my whole top row of teeth removed,' Ms Glynn said.

'I ended up having four layers of bone grafting and 36-inch screws put in my jaw; it was seven hours on the operating table.'

Unfortunately, complications with the procedure, combined with endless red tape, left Ms Glynn with a botched jaw and no one taking accountability.

Jacqui Glynn (pictured) was the victim of a one-punch attack in 2012 and is still dealing with the dental complications more than ten years later

Ms Glynn's entire top row of teeth had to be removed after the attack and she was given implants but the screws (pictured) attaching them to her jaw came lose just one year later

Faced with the choice of having to pay thousands of dollars for private dental work or risk letting her jaw wear down while waiting for treatment through the public system, Ms Glynn has turned to GoFundMe.

'I'm so scared at the moment that I'm not going have a jaw left,' she said.

'I asked for help from Victim Assist but they only claim accountability for the three damaged teeth.

'I tried to speak to the dentist that did the original work but they said they wouldn't do anything to help because I haven't kept up with maintenance appointments.

'I was being charged about $500 for a cleaning every few months... I couldn't keep up with the cost.'

Ms Glynn explained that she had to have a series of plates put in her top jaw after the horror attack but just one year after their insertion, two screws holding them in place fell out.

Even worse, the clamps used to hold her fake teeth in place have come loose and she's been left to use denture glue to try and keep her mouth intact.

The grinding from the metal has severely damaged Ms Glynn's top jaw and damaged several of her bottom teeth.

'It's just been a nightmare. I'm in pain all the time and I bleed everywhere. There's very little left of my jaw,' she said.

Ms Glynn said her dental problems have also cost her several relationships as she feels too anxious to leave her home.

Ms Glynn (pictured before the attack) claims she is in constant pain but is unable to have her implants repaired due to a cycle of unaccountability

On top of the physical injuries Ms Glynn (pictured without her implants in) has suffered, she has lost several relationships due to social anxiety after the attack

'I'm not a vain person but I always had a nice smile. Now I don't go out, my social life is zilch because it's just embarrassing,' she said.

'People want to go out and have a meal but I have to go to the bathroom halfway through dinner to pull my teeth out, apply more glue - because it doesn't stick properly to the metal plates, and reattach them.

'When my teeth are in my face looks swollen, when they're out I look drawn and older.

'It just makes me so self conscious.'

Despite the toll the attack has taken on Ms Glynn's life, she said she does not 'hold too much resentment' towards the woman that hit her.

'I was waiting to pick up a friend from the Bayview Hotel and was chatting to a guy outside.

'Suddenly I was punched from the side. Turns out the guy was this girl's boyfriend.

'She was a big girl, I'm not very big, and it took three security guards to pull her off me.

'But, she owned up to it. She did the right thing. She pleaded guilty and paid the court ordered damages. She took accountability, no one else has.'

Ms Glynn said she's not tried public fundraising before but now believes it's her last chance to save any use of her jaw and not becoming a recluse.

Ms Glynn (pictured) said she's not tried fundraising before but now believes it's her last chance to save any use of her jaw

'I don't really tell people because it's embarrassing but I'm constantly crying because of the pain,' she said.

'I keep thinking by the time the public system gets around to looking at me, I'm not going to have a jaw to work with.

'It's pretty terrifying.'

Daily Mail Australia has contacted Queensland's Department of Justice and Attorney-General's Ethical Standards Unit for comment on Ms Glynn's case.
A traumatized woman who attended the same troubled teen camp as Paris Hilton has claimed staffers shaved her head and called her 'Auschwitz' to mock her Jewish heritage.

Jen Robison, from Los Angeles, also alleged she was physically assaulted and placed in solitary confinement by workers at Provo Canyon School, Utah, when she was aged between 14 and 17.

The shocking claims are revealed in a new Max documentary, 'Teen Torture, Inc.', that lays bare the harrowing tales of abuse at Provo and other troubled teen camps across America.

Former attendees of various camps alleged that they were waterboarded, beaten and forcibly injected with drugs.

It comes just weeks after Hilton, who has spoken of her own trauma from her time in Provo, argued for more oversight of such programs at a congressional hearing.

Jen Robison (right) has campaigned alongside Paris Hilton to shut down Provo Canyon School, a camp for troubled teens where they both claim to have been subjected to abuse

Robison claimed she was physically abused and subjected to anti-Semitic slurs at the school in Utah (pictured) in a new documentary on Max, which started streaming on July 11

The actress has previously claimed she was sexually abused after being forced to undergo cervical exams performed by staff members in the early hours of the morning while attending the Utah school in the 1990s.

It has piled scrutiny on a multibillion dollar industry that is subject to minimal regulations and offers limited protections for the vulnerable teens who are often taken into programs against their will.

It is thought there are currently around 100,000 children in these camps, but the exact number is unclear because it is not tracked by the U.S. government.

Such programs are often a last resort for parents who cannot cope with children struggling with behavioral problems, but they are thought to be gobbling up an estimated $23billion a year.

The Max documentary, which began streaming on July 11, follows Robison as she attempts to piece her life back together with her partner and young daughter at their home in southern Oregon.

Robison recalls her troubled childhood in California, in which she struggled with depression.

In 2003, aged 14, she tried to kill herself, prompting her parents to send her to Provo Canyon School.

Robison claims she was strip searched upon arrival and the oppressive atmosphere within the camp, in which pupils were not allowed to speak without permission, quickly led her to self-harm.

She alleged that staff members would forcibly inject her and other teens with Haldol - a medication used to treat schizophrenia and behavioral problems in children - once or twice a day, often triggering disturbing side effects such as lock jaw, drooling and muscle spasms.

One day, when Robison was too scared to get out of bed, she claims two staffers dragged her from the top bunk of a bunk bed, causing her body to slam on the floor below.

She recalls being dragged down the hallway by her ankles to an observation cell - a common practice at Provo in which children were kept in solitary isolation for hours and sometimes days, it is alleged.

Robison claims she was strip searched upon arrival at the school, which she revisited as part of the documentary

Paris Hilton testified on Capitol Hill about the devastating experience she suffered at Provo as she advocated for sweeping reforms to the foster and youth rehab system

The mother-of-two claimed that she was violated by staff performing 'medical examinations'

Robison later retells the shocking instance of alleged antisemitism.

'At Provo Canyon, I had this little punk haircut and so they shaved my head,' she said.

'When staff were calling for me over the radio, they had given me a nickname. Because it was in my file that I was coming from a Jewish family, they were calling me by Aushwitchz.'

In a statement to Max, Provo Canyon School denied using solitary confinement and said it is licensed by Utahs Department of Health and Human Services.

It also said that the program came under new ownership in 2000, so it cant comment on the operations or student experience before that time - though Robison was first admitted in 2003.

The documentary also features rapper Danielle Bregoli, aka Bhad Bhabie, who spent six months at Turn-About Ranch in Utah.

Bregoli was at the camp in 2016 when 17-year-old pupil Clay Brewer murdered staffer James Woolsey, by striking him on the back of the head with a metal bar.

It was later revealed that, before the murder, Brewer had tried to kill himself by drinking bleach.

He was sentenced to five years to life in prison for the killing.

Rapper Danielle Bregolin, aka Bhad Bhabie, who spent six months at troubled teen camp Turn-About Ranch, Utah, also appears on the documentary

Bhabie, 21, from Boynton Beach, Florida, now has 16 million followers on Instagram

Bhabie was sent to Turn-About after appearing on the Dr Phil Show alongside her mother, who was seeking help for her behavior. The camp was been endorsed by Dr Phil McGraw

Meanwhile, Allen Knoll describes being waterboarded at Bethel Boys Academy in Mississippi when he was a teenager at the facility.

He claims he was held down on the floor by a staffer while another dumped buckets of water over him.

'I thought I was going to die,' Knoll told the documentary.

The show also includes an interview with Esther Fountain, daughter of Herman Fountain, a founder of the Bethel Boys Academy.

Esther alleges her father repeatedly 'beat' the boys, describing Herman as a 'con artist' who could 'manipulate people and get away with it'.

Herman declined to comment for the documentary.

Her claims are reminiscent of those made by Nathaniel Lichfield on a recent Netflix docuseries 'The Program', in which he calls his father and teen camp boss Narvin Lichfield 'a man with two faces'.

Nathaniel describes his father, who set up various troubled teen centers including ones in South Carolina and Costa Rica, as 'a funny guy' and 'charming person' who had a 'much darker side'.

Women who attended Narvin's school in South Carolina have alleged they suffered various forms of physical and psychological abuse.

Narvin has sued Netflix for defamation over allegations that his methods were abusive.

Allen Knoll alleges in the documentary that he was waterboarded at Bethel Boys Academy in Mississippi when he was a teenager at the facility

The documentary also includes an interview with Esther Fountain, daughter of Herman Fountain, a founder of the Bethel Boys Academy

Esther alleges her father repeatedly 'beat' the boys, describing Herman as a 'con artist' who could 'manipulate people and get away with it'. Herman declined to comment for the documentary.

In her congressional appearance last month, Hilton focused her testimony on eradicating abuse in youth treatment facilities.

She urged for the reauthorization and reform of Title IV-B - which offers funding to states for community-based, prevention-oriented programs to support family reunification and permanency for children in foster care.

The program expired in 2021 and Congress has been looking at ways to modernize it.

Hilton highlighted the story of 16-year-old Cornelius Fredericks, who entered youth facility Lakeside Academy after his mother died and his dad was in prison. Fredericks died after he was pinned down by facility workers for throwing a sandwich in April 2020. Two workers were convicted of involuntary manslaughter over the incident.

'The state could have prevented this,' Hilton said.

She also spoke of her own devastating experiences at Provo Canyon School.

'When I was 16 years old, I was ripped from my bed in the middle of night and transported across state lines to the first of four residential facilities,' Hilton told the House Ways and Means Committee.

'For two years I was force-fed medications and sexually abused by the staff. I was violently restrained ... stripped naked, thrown in solitary confinement,' the Hilton hotels heiress went on.

She said her parents had been 'completely manipulated' by the facilities and were unaware of the treatment she was enduring. In the past she's said her parents had been 'conned' into believe her ADD could be fixed with 'tough love.'
Disillusioned Labour voters in Rachel Reeves' Leeds constituency are all asking the same question after she was promoted to Chancellor - how can she sort out the country when she cannot even sort out this place.

Locals in the once proud working class community of Armley say the area has become a no go zone and the MP has done nothing for them in her 14 years in the seat.

Drinkers in the White Horse local pub on Armley Town Street say they have not seen Rachel Reeves in person since she was out canvassing for the 2019 General Election.

If she did visit the premises in the evening she would be subject to a full airport style security check by a bouncer using a metal detecting wand.

Women are also required to open their handbags for the weapons and drugs checks at the doorway before being allowed in.

Chancellor Rachel Reeves' constituents in Armely, Leeds are asking how she can sort out the country if she cannot even sort out the town

Locals say the area has become a no-go zone and that the MP has done nothing for them in her 14 years in office

Pensioners are afraid to have a pint at night because of rising crime and pubs have been forced to conduct security checks on patrons

Residents say they rarely saw Ms Reeves before and will see her face even less now she lives at Number 11 Downing Street

Ex paratrooper, Joe Mullen says he is afraid to walk down the streets at night despite being an ex member of the Armed Forces

Eye brows may be raised at the number of pensioners supping pints during the day time. But they say it is because they are frightened to be out after dark.

Ex paratrooper Joe Mullen, 73, said: 'I am ex Armed Forces and even I am scared to walk down the street at night.

'I have only seen Rachel Reeves once. She knocked on my door general election before last but I did not know who she was.

'I always voted Labour before but after speaking to her I switched to voting Conservative. My worry is that when Keir Starmer has had enough she will be the next PM.

'If that is the way the country is going I might as well vote Communist.'

Nodding in agreement, Ted Hirst, 72, retired Royal Mail postman and former Chieftain driver with the Royal Tank Regiment, said: 'This place used to be lovely. Now it is a s**t hole.

'We were amazed when Rachel Reeves became Chancellor. She has changed nothing around here while she was our MP so I don't know how she is going to rebuild the national economy.

'We did not see much of her before. I expect we will see even less of her now she is at 11 Downing Street.'

They recalled the area when it was a close knit community, its High Street packed with busy shops including butchers, bakers, and boutiques.

The local cake store was famous across Leeds and was the first to embrace diversity in wedding cake decorations including same sex couples.

The shop closed a few years ago after the business failed to find a buyer and is now a nail bar. Potential investors loved the business but not the location of the shop and its flat above.

Town Street is now dominated by second hand and charity shops including the recently revamped St George's Crypt.

Once a thriving shopping centre and close knit community, Armley is now dominated by second hand and charity shops

Retired Royal Mail postman Ted Hirst says what was a lovely place is now a 's**t hole'

Kebab shop owner Khalid Mahmood, 64. He says its tough running a business in the area and that there are burglaries every week

The 90-year-old award winning charity is open 365 days a year, providing everything for hot food and beds to the needy to donated furniture for those getting homes together.

The door of the kebab shop run by 64-year-old Khalid Mahmood for 20 years is held together with tape after being kicked in.

He shrugs off the damage, saying he got off lightly. He continued: 'There are burglaries every week around here.

'I am from Kashmir where no one looks after the poor and I am afraid it is getting like that around here. It is tough running a business around here.

'You should see some of the stuff that goes on in Armley. I am lucky to get off with just having a broken door.

'There are a lot of nice people around here - working class people that politicians are supposed to help. But there are a lot of alcohol and drugs problems here too and a lot of people who do not want to work.

'I have always been a Labour voted but now my kids do not want to vote for anyone.'

Outside Michael Anderson, 35, who only has one leg because of a crippling bone disease, lies slumped on the pavement of the community which has been his home for 25 years.

He said: 'It is rough around here. Kids fight with swords and knives. A group of them came at me with knives and I had to use my crutch to defend myself.

'The grabbed my crutch off me because I was using it to defend myself. There are stabbing all the time. Someone got stabbed the two lads the other week as they were getting out of a taxi outside Nisa.

'One of my pals was so depressed that he threw himself off the seventh floor of his tower block. He severed his spinal cord and only survived because his fall was broken by a canopy.

'Rachel Reeves has been MP here for 14 years and she has not done much. This is the second worst area of Leeds now and it needs sorting out.'

Ian Murphy, 76, a retired chemical process worker, said: 'No one has ever done anything for Armley including our MP. She has done nothing for us in 14 years.

'The MP does not live here. I think she once had an office in Bramley shopping centre above a beauticians and a dentist.

'I have lived here 25 years and seen some sights as it has gone downhill. I was stood here one day and this woman across the street took all her clothes off. She was drunk as a lord.'

Ian Murphy, 76, a retired chemical process worker, says that Ms Reeves had done nothing for her constituents in her 14 years representing the seat

A dilapidated brick building covered in graffiti in Armley, Leeds

Debbie Harrison, 62, a former cleaner, said: 'This used to be a lovely I safe area. Now people are frightened to go out at night.

'I can't believe Rachel Reeves is chancellor when she cannot even rebuild her own constituency. It is not a community any more. It is a no go area at night.

'You cannot even use a cash machine because it is just not safe. Only nine years ago you could still walk down Town Street and feel safe but you cannot now.'

Retired power station worker Paul Young, 76, said: 'We call them the night people. They are like zombies coming out at the shadows at you.

'My son has to go out at 4am to go to work and cannot even light up a cigarette without being surrounded by them begging for fags.'

A monument to the decay is the former medial centre in Theaker Lane just off town street which has been an abandoned ruin for more than a decade.

The building was subject to arson attack in 2018 which Ms Reeves described at the time as a 'wake up call' for Leeds City Council to properly secure the building.

She scored political points but six years later redevelopment schemes have come to nothing and the building is still a rambling burned out ruin daubed with graffiti.
Charlie Teo has treated more than 150 patients overseas and been praised in China after the embattled neurosurgeon was driven out of Australia.

Dr Teo was banned from performing surgeries in Australia without written permission in July last year after being found guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct by the Medical Professional Standards Committee.

The decision came in the wake of findings from the Health Care Complaints Commission (HCCC) that Dr Teo failed to properly inform two of his patients of the risks involved with 'experimental' operations that they failed to recover from.

Dr Teo was well known for performing operations other doctors wouldn't attempt on patients who were given a death sentence with 'inoperable' brain tumours.

With similar bans in the United States and Singapore, the neurosurgeon moved to China shortly after the HCCC's findings where he was cleared to perform surgeries.

He has since treated more than 150 patients - including VIPs - in China, Spain, Germany, India, Switzerland, Brazil, Peru, South Africa and Nepal.

Dr Teo's logbook notes the surgeries have resulted in one death, one 'poor' outcome, three 'fair outcomes', 20 'good outcomes' and 145 as 'excellent'.

A number of those patients have travelled from Australia to receive treatment from the neurosurgeon who is often the only doctor to attempt to save their life.

Neurosurgeon Dr Charlie Teo (pictured) has been forced to perform high-risk surgeries on patients with 'inoperable' brain tumours overseas after being restricted in Australia

Dr Teo said he still wanted to treat patients on his home soil and would only need 'one sensible and brave person in one hospital' to do so.

'Just one person to sit back and go, "Okay he might be an a**hole, he might be into money, he might be a bit of a cowboy... [but] the fact is that patients, Australian patients, some need him and he does operations that other people don't do",' he told the Sunday Telegraph.

'Most of those outcomes are good so what about we just drop the politics and allow him to operate in Australia.

'That's all it would take  some common sense for the greater good, not for his sake but for the sake of patients.'

Deputy Director of the China International Neuroscience Institute, Professor Ling Feng, took a swipe at the HCCC by thanking 'Australia for the restrictions on Charlie'.

Prof Ling said forcing the neurosurgeon overseas to treat patients meant it gave her the 'opportunity to work with him'.

'I took a careful look into what happened over there (in Australia),' she said.

'I don't think it should be imputed to Charlie's neglect of care and passion for the patients.'

The HCCC last year found the surgeon decided to operate on two patients 'where the risk of surgery outweighed any potential benefits'.

The committee found he did not obtain informed consent from either woman prior to surgery, charged an unsuitable fee of $35,000 and spoke inappropriately to the patients and their family.

Dr Teo was banned from performing surgeries in Australia without written permission in July last year after being found guilty of unsatisfactory professional conduct

In its 112-page decision, the committee concluded Dr Teo 'did not exercise appropriate judgement' in proceeding with what it deemed to be a 'high risk and inappropriate' surgery on a 41-year-old Perth woman.

'Surgery in this situation is not recommended or carried out by a majority of the practitioner's peers, nor a responsible minority of surgeons,' it read.

'The procedure was not supported by the literature (and) the practitioner in his professional capacity had an overriding ethical duty to refuse surgery.'

The committee found Dr Teo's attitude to and rationale for conducting the surgery was 'substantially experimental' and it was the type of operation which should be conducted in a clinical trial setting or subject to other ethical scrutiny.

When operating on a 66-year-old patient, he was found to have 'carried out surgery which was different to that proposed' by performing a right frontal lobectomy instead of a resection of the tumour.

The surgery ultimately 'led to unwarranted and excessive removal of normal functional brain'.

During consultation with the woman, Dr Teo used inappropriate language, telling the patient: 'If you don't have this operation by Tuesday, you'll be f***ing dead by Friday'.

The woman was also told: 'What the f*** are you crying about? I'm here to fix you, you should be happy' and 'Brain tumours are the best f***ing way to die'.
Police in Kenya have found dismembered bodies of 'at least seven' women in a rubbish dump in a case that has horrified and angered the country.

Authorities are now investigating if the discoveries are linked to 'cultists and serial killings' due to the gruesome nature of the findings in the Nairobi slum of Mukuru.

On Friday police reported finding bodies of at least six women, while the state-funded police watchdog said nine bodies had been found, seven of them women, in sacks floating in a sea of garbage.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Saturday said that another five bags had been retrieved from the abandoned quarry, three of them containing female body parts, including severed legs and two torsos.

The identities of the dead or how long the bodies had been at the quarry are not yet known.

Authorities are now investigating if the discoveries are linked to 'cultists and serial killings' due to the gruesome nature of the findings in the Nairobi slum of Mukuru

On Friday police reported finding bodies of at least six women, while the state-funded police watchdog said nine bodies had been found, seven of them women, in sacks floating in a sea of garbage

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Saturday said that another five bags had been retrieved from the abandoned quarry, three of them containing female body parts, including severed legs and two torsos

The crime scene has been cordoned off while the authorities carry out their investigation.

The discoveries come after Kenya was left reeling last year by the discovery of mass graves in a forest near the Indian Ocean coast containing the bodies of hundreds of followers of a doomsday sect, one of the world's worst cult-related massacres.

The country's law enforcement services are also under scrutiny after dozens of people were killed during anti-government demonstrations last month, with rights groups accusing officers of using excessive force and of abducting protesters.

A DCI spokesman said in a statement: 'We want to assure the public that our investigations will be thorough and shall cover a wide range of areas, including but not limited to the possible activities of cultists and serial killings.

'We appeal to the members of the public to remain calm and give our detectives a chance to deliver justice to the victims of this horrendous scene.'

Tensions have been running high at the Mukuru site, with local media reports that police had fired into the air to try to disperse an angry crowd.

Tensions have been running high at the Mukuru site, with local media reports that police had fired into the air to try to disperse an angry crowd

Onlookers gather at the dumpsite where bodies were found in the landfill in Mukuru slum, Nairobi, on Friday

Locals expressed concern after the more bodies continued to be discovered from the rubbish

The bodies have been placed in body bags by personnel to be transported to the morgue from the site

The DCI said a team of detectives and forensic experts 'were impeded by agitated members of the public from accessing the scene'

The Independent Police Oversight Authority on Friday had said that it was investigating whether there was any police involvement in the gruesome saga

The DCI said a team of detectives and forensic experts 'were impeded by agitated members of the public from accessing the scene.'

Hussein Khalid, executive director of human rights group Vocal Africa told CNN: 'It appears to be a dumping site for bodies and I suspect there could be more.

'They were all women, all tied with the same colour of ribbons, and same colour of sacks.'

The Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA) on Friday had said that it was investigating whether there was any police involvement in the gruesome saga.

'The bodies, wrapped in bags and secured by nylon ropes, had visible marks of torture and mutilation,' it said, noting that the dumpsite was less than 100 metres from a police station.

The IPOA also said it was looking into claims of abductions of demonstrators who went missing after the widespread anti-government protests degenerated into deadly mayhem.

But it did not make any link to those missing and the dumped bodies.

People walk among rubbish as others stand on the edge of a dumpsite where the bodies were found at the landfill in the Mukuru slum

The bodies were hidden in bags in a sea of trash in the slum

Some people on social media have described them as victims of femicide.

Officials inspect the bodies while being watched from a crowd of locals

Officials wearing Kenya Red Cross overalls went to the scene to collect the bodies

Some people on social media have described them as victims of femicide.

The discovery of the bodies has sparked fresh public anger and brought a new spotlight to Kenyas femicide crisis, just months after thousands of women marched on the streets with banners reading: 'Stop killing us'.

Under-pressure President William Ruto issued his first statement on the Mukuru bodies late on Saturday, saying there was 'no justification' for any Kenyan to lose their life.

He wrote on X/Twitter: 'We are a democratic country guided by the rule of law. Those involved in mysterious killings in Nairobi and any other part of the country will be held to account.'

Kenya's feared police force is often accused of extrajudicial killings and other rights abuses, but convictions are rare.

A coalition of civil society and rights groups said the Mukuru discoveries came amid a 'troubling surge' in cases of mysterious disappearances and abductions, particularly following the anti-tax protests.

Under-pressure President William Ruto (pictured on July 11) issued his first statement on the Mukuru bodies late on Saturday, saying there was 'no justification' for any Kenyan to lose their life

Kenya Police officers and security personnel take position to protect the Kenyan Parliament on June 25

Protesters are perched on a police water cannon as it attempts to repel them with chemically treated water jets next to an advertisement featuring a photo of Kenya's President, William Ruto, during protests on June 25

Protesters run to take cover outside the Kenyan Parliament after storming the building during a nationwide strike on June 25

'It represents a grave violation of human rights and raises serious concerns about the rule of law and security in our country,' the coalition said.

National police chief Japhet Koome, the target of much public anger over the protest deaths, resigned on Friday after less than two years in the post.

He is the latest head to roll as Ruto scrambles to contain the worst crisis of his rule, triggered by the protests over deeply unpopular plans for tax hikes that he has now scrapped.

Crowds that gathered at the dumpsite on Friday chanted 'Ruto must go', the slogan of Gen-Z Kenyans leading the demonstrations that have now morphed into a wider campaign against the president, corruption and alleged police brutality.

On Monday, doomsday cult leader Paul Nthenge Mackenzie went on trial along with 94 co-defendants over the deaths of more than 400 followers he is accused of inciting to starve themselves to death in order to meet Jesus.

He and his co-accused also face charges of murder, manslaughter and child cruelty in separate cases over what has been dubbed the 'Shakahola forest massacre'.
The dramatic scenes of Donald Trump being escorted offstage after reports of gun shots has interrupted a live interview of Jim Chalmers on Sky News.

The Treasurer was speaking to Kieran Gilbert before the station turned to live coverage of the dramatic events during an election rally in Pennsylvania.

Initial reports suggest a number of loud bangs interrupted Mr Trump mid-speech before the former president was immediately escorted offstage and into a car by secret service agents.

It's unclear if the noises were gun shots, and reports have yet to confirm the source of the sounds.

He was heard saying: 'Let me get my shoes,' and pumping his first into the air as he was being led off stage while being propped up by agents.

It has since been reported that Trump was struck by a piece of flying glass from a teleprompter shattered during the shooting.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was quick to condemn the shooting saying there was 'no place for violence in the democratic process'.

'The incident at former president Trump's campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning, and confronting,' he said on Sunday morning.

Anthony Albanese has condemned the Trump rally shooting that saw the ex-US president rushed off stage with a bloodied face

It's unclear if the noises were gun shots, and reports have yet to confirm the source of the sounds

'I'm relieved to hear reporting that former President Trump is now safe.'

Mr Albanese doubled down on his comments later in the day at a press conference in Canberra.

'Along with all Australians I was shocked by the terrible scenes at former President Trump's campaign event in Pennsylvania,' he said.

'Let us be clear, the people at this event, the candidate, the crowds and the free press covering the event were all participating in the democratic process.

'In Australia as in the United States, the essence and purpose of our democracy is we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully.

'Any act of violence is an affront to that and must be condemned unequivocally.'

Mr Albanese also called for calm when it came to political debating.

'We must lower the temperature of debate, there is nothing to be served by the escalation of some of the rhetoric we've seen in some of our political discourse in the democratic world, it's a phenomenon not unique to the United States,' he said.

'There's nothing to be gained from speculating, I urge caution when reading unverified reports of events.

'And be on guard with those seeking to use misinformation. This is a time for unity, a time for calm and allowing the authorities in the United States to do their jobs.'

Dr Chalmers was speaking to Sky News before the station turned to live coverage of the dramatic events.

Mr Trump appeared to have blood on his cheek.

Asked to comment on the rapidly unfolding events, Dr Chalmers said he hoped the presidential candidate was 'okay'.

'I mean, these are extraordinary scenes, and I hope that former President Trump is okay,' he said.

'You can see the professionalism with which the Secret Service has responded to that.

'I think it's heartening to see that he had his arm up and he was able to he was mobile, that we hope that he is okay.

'These are extraordinary scenes, and no doubt you'll be covering this now through the day.'

Earlier in the interview, Dr Chalmers was asked about the 'likely' prospects about a second Trump presidency and said Australia would work with whoever wins on November 5.

'I'm not going to make predictions about the outcome of the US election. It's obviously a matter for the American people and the Australian government,' he said.

'The Australian people will work closely with whoever the Americans choose to lead them from the beginning of next year at the elections in November.'

A statement from the White House referred to the moment as an 'incident' and not a 'shooting,' and said US President Joe Biden had been briefed on the incident.

Initial reports suggest a number of loud bangs interrupted Mr Trump mid-speech before the former president was immediately escorted offstage and into a car by secret service agents

Treasurer Jim Chalmers live reacts to breaking news on Trump falling to the ground amid reports of gun shots

Mr Trump's spokesperson Steven Cheung also later confirmed to media that the ex president 'is fine.'

'President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act,' Cheung said in a statement, shared by CNN.

'He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.'
Blake Marnell was in his usual brick-patterned suit and his usual position in the center of the front row on Saturday evening to hear Donald Trump speak.

It meant he was barely 10 yards from the former president when he heard what he thought were firecrackers at the back of the crowd.

His close-up eye witness account, told exclusively to DailyMail.com, reveals the terror, anger and then finally relief that coursed through the Pennsylvania crowd as a gunman tried to assassinate the 45th president of the United States and the front return to return to power next year.

'I instinctively looked to the left,' he said, searching for the source of the sound. 'The next time I turned back to look at the president, he was being taken to the ground by the Secret Service agents.'

As he watched agents use their bodies to shield Trump on the ground, he could hear more gunshots targeted at the shooter.

He crouched to protect himself from getting caught in crossfire. Around him others flung themselves to the ground.

People were sobbing, he said, while others started to pray for the former president.

Suddenly the area was bristling with firearms. In front of him every agent and law enforcement officer had drawn their weapons, eyes scanning the crowd for targets.

From his vantage point he could hear the agents with Trump getting themselves organized. It brought a small measure of relief.

'They weren't calling for medical support. They were getting ready to move him,' he said. 'That made me more optimistic.'

As he watched, Trump got to his feet, held by agents. Marnell could see the blood trickling from a point just about his right ear.

'He stood on the corner of the stage and put his fist up in the air and shook it a few times,' said Marnell, his voice shaking with adrenaline.

'It was a very defiant gesture. And when I saw that, I was really hopeful that he'd be okay.'

Marnell is best known as 'Brick Suit guy' for his outfit designed to replicate Trump's wall.

Blake Marnell is a regular sight at Trump rallies in his brick suit. He was in the front row on Saturday and posted this image hours before Trump took the stage

A Secret Service agent and members of the crowd take cover as gunshots are heard

Marnell described the profound relief he felt when he saw Trump rise to his feet and give a clenched fist salute to his supporters in the crowd

He is a regular beside the 'Front Row Joes' as they call themselves, traveling the country to attend events. He reckons he has been to about 40 rallies and plans to be in Milwaukee this week for the Republican National Convention where he will be a delegate for California.

He said it would inevitably make Trump stronger politically.

'You know it's hard to see how that doesn't garner him some sympathy at a time like this,' he said.

It would not make him bow out, he said, just days before he was due to accept the party nomination in Milwaukee on Thursday.

Things will never be the same again, he said, describing how he saw first responders race to treat multiple casualties in the grandstands either side of Trump's podium.

'We may not see a rally like this in the future,' he said. 'There will be rallies, but they'll be tightly controlled, perhaps more tightly controlled indoors, more thorough screening.'

Video shows the moment the drama unfolded. A shot can be heard and Trump raises his hand to his face before crouching.

Secret Service agents arrive from all sides to shield him.

Thousands of people had gathered to hear Trump on Saturday evening at a campaign evenet in Butler, Pennsylvania. Minutes after he began speaking all hell broke loose

The rally site was rapidly evacuated after shots were fired at Trump on Saturday evening

Screams can be heard from the crowd all around.

Marnell said that once the president had been removed to safety, the crowds were ordered to disperse.

'They roped off the entire thing as a crime scene,' he said. 'And they kicked us all out.'

He said the enormity of the events and the risk to his own life had only hit him after the excitement had died away. He was left shaking, with the after effects of a huge adrenaline dump.

'The smart thing to do was to get down on the ground,' he said, reflecting what was supposed to be just another evening hearing Trump speak and ended up being a front row seat at history. 'That's not what I did though.'
Ronald Reagan was the last president to be shot in an assassination attempt before Donald Trump was hit at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

When leaving the Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. on March 30, 1981, Reagan was shot at several times and wounded when one bullet ricocheted off a vehicle and struck him under the left armpit.

Then-President Reagan spent 12 days at George Washington University Hospital before returning to the White House.

Trump, while not currently the U.S. president, is the first to be shot in an assassination attempt since that day in 1981.

This photo taken by presidential photographer Mike Evens on March 30, 1981 shows police and Secret Service agents reacting during the assassination attempt on then US president Ronald Reagan

The White House released this photograph made at the Capitol Hilton seconds before President Reagan was shot

Donald Trump grabs his ear as he is targeted by a gunman

The gunman is dead, according to law enforcement.

The former president and this years presumed Republican presidential nominee was speaking at a rally in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania on Saturday when several pops were heard before Trump grabbed his ear and ducked behind the podium.

Several members of Trumps Secret Service detail came to shield and escort him off stage.

A resilient Trump immediately got to his feet and held up his fist as blood streaked down the side of his face.

An assassination attempt on President Reagan resulted in his press secretary, James Brady, being shot in the head. A police officer and secret service agent were also wounded

Would-be Reagan assassin John Hinckley Jr

Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents

The only other unsuccessful assassination attempt against a U.S. president before Reagan was Theodore Roosevelt.

Three-and-a-half years after leaving office he was shot while campaigning in 1912 as a member of the Progressive Party.
Kemi Badenoch volunteered to shadow Angela Rayner to 'hold her feet to the fire', The Mail on Sunday can reveal.

The Tory leadership contender specifically asked to switch departments to take on the Housing Secretary, and the pair are set for fiery showdowns in the Commons.

When Rishi Sunak was deciding his Shadow Cabinet, he asked each member of his top team if they wanted to keep their old role  and most did.

But Mrs Badenoch, who was business and trade secretary, asked to move to the shadow housing, communities and local government brief.

Sources said one of her first targets is Ms Rayner's planned new Race Equality Act, which would enshrine in law the full right to equal pay for black, Asian and other ethnic minority people.

Kemi Badenoch volunteered to shadow Angela Rayner to 'hold her feet to the fire', The Mail on Sunday can reveal

Sources said one of her first targets is Ms Rayner's planned new Race Equality Act, which would enshrine in law the full right to equal pay for black, Asian and other ethnic minority people.

Mrs Badenoch has compared the planned legislation to apartheid in South Africa, saying it would mean 'classifying your workforce by race'.

She told the British Chambers of Commerce Global Annual Conference last month: 'Measuring people based on skin colour is the beginning of a very slippery slope. I don't think we should be doing it.'

An ally of Mrs Badenoch said: 'Kemi cleaned up the problems at business and trade, such as the Post Office and steel industry, and Labour won't do trade deals, so she took communities and local government to hold Angela Rayner's feet to the fire.

'The communities angle means Kemi can also properly scrutinise Labour's Race Equality Act, which she sees as divisive and unnecessary.'

It comes as Tory grandees urged the Conservatives not to rush a leadership challenge and stop their bitter infighting.

Mr Sunak is understood to be desperate to hand over the Tory leadership reins, with insiders saying he wants the 1922 Committee to allow him to step aside once it has set the terms of the contest.

A source close to the former prime minister said he 'will be guided by what's best for the party and for the country. He'll have a conversation with the party board when the timing is settled, but until then not making any decisions either way.'

Some MPs have called for an interim leader to be appointed, with increasing support for Sir Iain Duncan Smith to reprise the role for a year to allow the party to recover.

Writing in today's Mail on Sunday, Sir Iain says now is not the time to focus on leadership battles, explaining: 'We Tories are teetering on the brink of collapsing further if we don't grasp how the party has brought this on itself.

'Divisive and unnecessary': Kemi Badeoch intends to fight Angela Rayner's proposed Race Equality Act, which would enshrine in law the full right to equal pay for black, Asian and other ethnic minority people

'That's why I cannot think of anything worse than rushing into a leadership election.'

Meanwhile, former home secretary James Cleverly has emerged as the early favourite among voters to replace Mr Sunak as Tory leader, according to polling for The Times.

The YouGov survey found little enthusiasm for any of the candidates and none had so-called net positive ratings.

Mr Cleverly, who is increasingly expected to throw his hat into the ring, has urged the party to unite in opposition and not 'descend into bitter infighting and finger pointing'.
Barack Obama has led tributes to Donald Trump after the presidential candidate was shot at a campaign rally with political figures across the world joining in wishing him a 'rapid recovery'.

The former president was seen bleeding from his ear after being injured in a shooting at a re-election rally where a bystander was killed by the shooter's bullets.

At least eight bullets were fired moments after Trump got up to speak at 5pm ET (10pm UK time) on Saturday, at Butler Farm Grounds in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The former president quickly pumped a fist at the crowd to show he was not severely injured in the shocking bloodbath which also saw the shooter killed, as Secret Service agents raced to the stage to hurry him away.

And well-wishers have already rushed in to support the 78-year-old with Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, former PM Liz Truss and Reform UK leader Nigel Farage among those reacting to the assassination attempt.

Donald Trump appeared to be shot in the ear as shots were fired at the former president at a rally in Pennsylvania

Trump pumped a fist at the crowd and did not seem to severely injured as he walked on his own off the stage, surrounded by secret service

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit

The Prime Minister posted on X, formerly Twitter: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

Mr Farage said: 'Mainstream media have spread a narrative of hatred against my friend Donald Trump.

'I hope they are proud of themselves. Disgusting people.'

Mr Musk, who is the chairman of X, said: 'I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.'

He then added: 'Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.'

Former Prime Minister Liz Truss struck a similar tone, saying: 'Pray for President Trump. Pray for America.'

The president's predecessor Barack Obama posted: 'There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.

'Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

'Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.'

A Downing Street spokesperson said: 'We are shocked by the scenes at President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.

'We condemn all forms of political violence in the strongest terms and we send our best wishes to President Trump and his family at this time.'

Well-wishers have already rushed in to support the 78-year-old with former Prime Minister Liz Truss, Reform UK leader Nigel Farage and Tesla boss Elon Musk among those reacting to the assassination attempt

UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy added: 'The UK government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

'As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump - along with every victim and their families.'

Trump's fierce political rival Bernie Sanders breached the party divide and offered kind words to the former president.

'Political violence is absolutely unacceptable,' he said. 'I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.'

Meanwhile the Republican presidential candidate's son Donald Trump Jr posted on X: 'He'll never stop fighting to Save America.'

International leaders have also responded to the shooting with Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu saying: 'Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

'We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.'

The president was seen ducking, with blood pouring from his ear as screams from terrified onlookers rang out. His team says that he is 'fine.'

It has since been reported that Trump was struck by a piece of flying glass from a teleprompter shattered during the shooting.

Secret Service agents could be heard shouting 'the shooter is down' in the ensuing chaos. The agency confirmed the incident is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

Trump mouthed the word 'fight' at supporters as blood spattered across his face

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told reporters the shooter is dead and that a bystander had also been killed in the bloodbath.

The identities of the shooter and the dead bystander have not yet been confirmed. It is also unclear where the shooter opened fire from and what kind of weapon was used.

Moments after pumping his fist in an image that has already gone around the world, the former president was rushed away to safety. Trump's team said further updates on the former president's condition will follow soon.

The gunman was shot dead at the rally, the Butler County district attorney confirmed to the Associated Press. A witness told the BBC agents 'blew the guy's head off.'

The DA added that am attendee was also killed at the rally, which was being held in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday afternoon.

Frantic scenes took hold as shots rang out, sending Trump supporters streaming out from the stands and away from the event.

Within seconds, Trump was put to the floor by several Secret Service agents as they protected him from the shooter.

Early reports indicate that around eight to 10 shots were fired, and the press pool said 'residual bangs' were heard after Trump hit the floor.

Trump stood up shortly after and pumped his fist at the crowd, leading to chants of 'USA' and 'Make America Great Again.'

He appeared to mouth the word 'fight' to supporters at the same moment.

Trump's campaign said he was raced to hospital after the shooting, but is 'fine'

As Trump pumped his fist to the crowd, some were heard cheering his name and chanting 'USA' and 'Make America Great Again'

As he was rushed into SUVs, Trump again flashed a fist at his supporters

Trump is the presumptive Republican presidential candidate and is set to take on Joe Biden in November's election but figures from across the political spectrum flooded in to send messages of support after the dramatic incident.

Governor Ron DeSantis, who was comfortably seen off by Trump in the fight to become the Republican presidential nominee, said: '@CaseyDeSantis and I are praying for Donald Trump and his family.'

Democratic Governor of California Gavin Newsom, who was been touted to take over from Joe Biden as the party's nominee should the president stand down, posted: 'Violence has NO place in our democracy.

'My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.'

Robert F Kennedy Jr, the independent presidential candidate, said: 'Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.'

Florida Senator Marco Rubio, who ran against Trump for the Republican nomination in 2016, posted: 'God protected President Trump.'

And rival in this year's contest Vivek Ramaswamy said: 'Pray for Trump.'
A 22-year-old man has been charged after allegedly urinating on food at a Woolworths supermarket in Sydney's CBD.

Police allege the man walked into the store on George Street on July 1 before urinating on the products and causing more than $300 worth of damage.

Police were told staff undertook extensive work over a several hours to decontaminate the area.

Footage from the incident shows the man tying up his pants as he left the store.

The man was arrested in Hunters Hill about 1.40am on Sunday, following a police appeal for public assistance.

He was taken to Gladesville Police Station where he was charged with multiple offences including contaminate goods with intent to cause public alarm.

Enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse, and offensive conduct while upon non-prescribed inclosed lands were the other charges.

The man was refused bail and will appear before Parramatta Bail Court later on Sunday.

Police allege the man walked into the store on George St on July 1 before urinating on the products and causing more than $300 worth of damage
A new pro-Gaza MP was the local leader of an extremist group described in Parliament as 'Islamist' and criticised in a government report for 'partnering with extremism', the MoS can reveal.

Shockat Adam, 51, caused one of the Election's biggest shocks by defeating Labour's Jonathan Ashworth in Leicester South.

He is one of five new independent MPs who campaigned on a pro-Gaza ticket.

But an MoS investigation has found Mr Adam was the Leicester chairman for Muslim Engagement and Development (MEND), which Michael Gove labelled as 'Islamist' this year.

Mr Adam is also the brother of Ismail Patel, 62, founder of the extremist Friends Of Al-Aqsa, one of the groups to have organised pro-Gaza protests since October 7.

Shockat Adam (pictured), 51, caused one of the Election's biggest shocks by defeating Labour's Jonathan Ashworth in Leicester South

Independent Shockat Adam says 'this is for Gaza' as he wins Leicester South

Mr Adam, who left MEND in March, said: 'MEND is an organisation which encourages Muslims to participate in Britain's liberal democracy, the exact opposite of Gove's accusations.'

It comes as another newly-elected MP who won his seat on a pro-Palestinian ticket once told a Gaza rally that there was 'no difference' between the Israeli government and Isis.

Adnan Hussain won the seat of Blackburn where there is a large number of Muslim voters, beating the Labour candidate Kate Hollern.

He was elected as an independent having campaigned against Labour's stance on the Israel-Gaza war.

According to the Telegraph, Mr Hussain told a rally in Hyde Park, London in 2014: 'Isis are terrorists and so are the Israeli government  there is no difference between them.

Adnan Hussain won the seat of Blackburn where there is a large number of Muslim voters, beating the Labour candidate Kate Hollern

He was elected as an independent candidate having campaigned against Labour's stance on the Israel-Gaza war

'Any man, woman that takes away innocent lives is a terrorist. There is no doubt about it.'

The comments came after Israel launched an offensive in Gaza in July 2014 in response to the murder of three Israeli teenagers in the West Bank by terrorists with links to Hamas.

It was at a similar time to when Isis was dominant in north-western Iraq and eastern Syria and tried to establish an Islamic caliphate in the region.

Mr Hussain defended his remarks made in 2014, saying that 'acts of violence inflicted upon a civilian population for political motivations should be classed as terrorism'.

He added that to understand the reference to Isis, his comments should be 'contextualised within the political makeup of the time'.
A man who watched the horrific assassination attempt on Donald Trump revealed he warned Secret Service agents about a gunman on a nearby roof minutes before shots rang out.

The stunned witness, Greg Smith who owns Brenckle's Farms & Greenhouses, told DailyMail.com he saw the would-be assassin climb onto the top of a building outside the event in Butler, Pennsylvania, and that he was bewildered by the lack of action from agents.

'I'm thinking to myself, "Why is Trump still speaking on this stage right now? Why is he still up there talking?" he told DailyMail.com

After the gunman opened fire he saw the Secret Service 'blow his head off,' the man said in a video captured by the BBC.

A Donald Trump supporter claimed he warned Secret Service agents about a man with a rifle on a nearby roof minutes before they opened fire

Donald Trump is seen with his fist in the air under a Stars and Stripes flag after Saturday's shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the president was injured, with the shooter and a bystander both killed

'I saw Secret Service blow his head off,' he said, and then ran to collect his wife and three kids and return to safety.

'At this point, I'm feeling, as I think about it more and more, it just feels like a huge security failure to me,' he told DailyMail.com.

'This isn't a big place, there's not a lot of buildings around here, why is everything not covered.'

He said he had spotted a guy crawling up on the roof of a building.

'I noticed there's a guy crawling up the roof of that building,' he continued to DailyMail.com. 'I'm like, 'that doesn't seem right.'

He said the man definitely did not look like Secret Service, wearing tan and grey clothes, and was not in uniform.

Spotted police officers running around the building, appearing to be looking for someone.

"I'm pointing at the roof, like, 'Hey man, there's a guy on the roof with a rifle.'

Agents then climbed onto the roof, where the gunman was and images from social media appeared to show a man lying lifeless.

The witness, a Trump supporter, told the BBC how he had seen the shooter prepare to assassinate the former president.

Questioned why there was no one in the water tower that overlooks the whole property he replied: 'I don't like it man, I don't like what's going on, I don't like what it feels like, I really don't.'

Other rally attendees also saw him on the roof for three or four minutes with no action taken by law enforcement, he said.

He said: 'We noticed a guy crawling, you know army, bear crawling up the roof of the building 50ft away from us.

'So we are standing there pointing at the guy crawling up the roof, he had a rifle, we could clearly see he had a rifle.

Bystanders are seen in the aftermath of the shooting. The man in the blood-splattered white t-shirt is an ER physician who told CBS News that he tried to help a bystander killed in the shooting. The dead bystander was on the ground just behind the man in blood-stained white

An extraordinary photo shows Donald Trump on the ground at Butler Show Grounds in Pennsylvania Saturday after he was injured in a shooting that left two people dead

Donald Trump pumps his fist moments after being shot at a re-election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening

Law enforcement snipers set up before the arrival of former president Trump at the rally

'We are pointing at him, the police are down there running around on the ground. We are like hey man there is guy on the roof with a rifle - and the police are like "hey what? you know", they didn't know what was going on.

'We are like we can see him right here on the roof he's crawling. The next thing you know, I am like why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage?

'I'm standing there pointing at him for two-three minutes, the secret service is looking at us from the top of the barn - I'm pointing at that roof.'

When asked if he was certain if the shots came from the man on the roof, the Trump supporter replied: '100 per cent, 100 per cent.'

Moments later Secret Service agents could be heard shouting 'the shooter is down'.

The agency confirmed the incident is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

This is the moment Trump was injured - reportedly by a piece of flying teleprompter shattered by the gunshots

A wider shot shows Trump being surrounded by Secret Service agents on the stage while stunned supporters look on. Security officials could be heard screaming 'the shooter is down' in the moments after gunfire erupted

A wider shot shows Trump being surrounded by Secret Service agents on the stage while stunned supporters look on. Security officials could be heard screaming 'the shooter is down' in the moments after gunfire erupted

The witness said the Secret Service 'probably' could not see the shooter the shape of the roof would have blocked their line of sight.

'But why is there not Secret Service on all of these roofs here?' the man asked.

'I mean this is not a big place.'

At least eight bullets were fired moments after Trump got up to speak, and the president was seen grabbing the side of his head as blood poured from his ear and screams from terrified onlookers rang out. His team says that he is 'fine.'

It has since been reported that Trump may have been struck by a piece of flying glass from a teleprompter shattered during the shooting.

The identities of the shooter and the dead bystander have not yet been confirmed. It is also unclear where the shooter opened fire from and what kind of weapon was used.

In an image that has already gone around the world, Trump was pictured repeatedly pumping his fist with blood dripping from his face while being surrounded by Secret Service agents.

Moments later, he was rushed away to safety. Trump's team said further updates on the former president's condition will follow soon.

The president is seen being pushed into a Secret Service SUV, his raised fist still in the air

His son Donald Trump Jr has since shared a post of his bloodied father with his fist clenched on X, captioned: 'He'll never stop fighting to save America.'

A spokesman added that the GOP 2024 hopeful added that Trump 'thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act.'

The DA added that an attendee was also killed at the rally, which was being held in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday afternoon.

Within seconds, Trump was put to the floor by several Secret Service agents to protect him from the shooter, as the press pool said 'residual bangs' were heard after Trump hit the floor.

Trump stood up shortly after and pumped his fist at the crowd, leading to chants of 'USA' and 'Make America Great Again.'

He appeared to mouth the word 'fight' to supporters at the same moment.

Moments before he appeared to be hit, Trump was using a graphic at the rally to speak about illegal immigration.

Secret service encircled Trump within seconds of the shots being fired, and the agency said in a statement that the former president is 'safe.'

'The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available,' the statement read.

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay moments after being shot.

President Biden said in a statement that American 'must unite as one nation' in response to the horrific scenes.

'I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well,' the White House said in a statement.

'Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.'

In a press conference later in the evening, Biden described the incident as 'sick', and said there is 'no place in America for this kind of violence.'

Donald Trump is pictured with blood on his face moments after shots rang out at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday

The site of the Trump rally in Butler County Show Grounds is pictured before Trump came on stage. The president spoke on the stage just below the hoisted American flag with a crowd standing behind him.

A spokesperson for the ATF said agents from the bureau have been deployed to assist with the aftermath of the chaos.

Rep. Dan Meuser, R-Pa., was standing front row at the rally along with Reps. Mike Kelly and GOP Senate candidate Dave McCormick.

Meuser said he heard between eight to 10 shots ring out as screams rippled through the crowd, according to Fox News.

He added that it appeared there were multiple people in the crowd may have been impacted by the bullets and the local district attorney confirmed that at least one person is 'believed to be dead.'

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro condemned the shocking scenes in his state.

'Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable,' Shapiro said on X.

'It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States. I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners.'

An emergency room doctor at the Trump rally revealed how he performed CPR on a member of the crowd after the attempted assassination.

'I heard the shots. I thought it was firecrackers begin with. Somebody over there was screaming 'he's been shot he's been shot,'' said the man who had blood splattered all over his white USA shirt. 'So I made my way over. I said I'm an emergency department physician. Let me help you.'

'The guy had spun around was jammed between the benches and a head shot here. There's lots of blood and he had brain matter,' he told CBS News.
Former President Donald Trump was comparing his record on shutting down illegal immigration to President Joe Biden's open border policies immediately before an assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally.

Trump said to the crowd: 'If you really want to see something this sad, take a look at what happened -- ' he stated immediately before being cut off as between eight and 10 shots rang out.

Mid-sentence, Trump grasped his right ear as blood spewed over his face and ducked down.

U.S. Secret Service agents immediately swarmed the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, to give the former president cover. They did a rapid assessment of Trump as he was pinned down on the ground and could be heard confirming the 'shooter is down' before moving him.

'Let me get my shoes,' Trump, 78, could be heard saying as the agents propped him up.

He then put up a strong clenched fist pump as blood trickled down the right side of his face and shouted 'fight, fight, fight!'

'Let me get my shoes,' Trump could be heard saying as the agents propped him up

Trump was rushed to a local hospital and treated for his gunshot wound.

He put out a statement on Truth Social confirming he was struck by a bullet, while thanking the Secret Service and law enforcement for their 'rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania.'

'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.'

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!'

Former President Donald Trump was comparing his record on shutting down illegal immigration to President Joe Biden 's open border policies immediately before an assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally

The assassination attempt occurred just days before the Republican National Convention kicks off in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Trump is expected to address his delegates assembled who will formally nominate him to become the GOP nominee for the presidency.

His campaign said he will still attend the convention, which will go on as planned.

'As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action.'

'President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.'
Jacob Rees-Mogg's new 'Kardashian-style' reality show was snubbed by UK broadcasters before it ended up on US television as no-one wanted to help 'further his media career', sources have claimed.

Meet the Rees-Moggs is set to star the ousted MP, his wife Helena and their six young children: Mary, Peter, Thomas, Anselm, Alfred and Sixtus.

The Discovery+ documentary will also follow his failed General Election campaign after he spectacularly lost his North East Somerset seat last week while standing next to a man dressed as baked beans.

But one ITV insider said that it had been a simple move to reject the show.

They told the Mirror: 'Jacob Rees-Mogg is a GB News presenter who has set his sights on furthering his media career now that he is no longer a serving member of parliament. Did we want to help with that? I don't think so.

Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg pictured after losing his North East Somerset and Hanham seat on July 5. His new reality show was snubbed by UK broadcasters before it ended up on US television

Sir Jacob (centre) pictured with (left to right) son Thomas, daughter Mary, wife Helena and son Peter as he receives his Knighthood at Windsor Castle last September

Jacob-Rees Mogg and his family (pictured) could become the 'British Kardashians' as they are set to star in a five-part series following their life

'The Rees-Mogg doc was turned down by all broadcasters before ending up on Discovery+.'

However, a source from within the production crew said that staff members had been wowed by the eccentric politician's courtesy and kindness.

While some have likened the show to Keeping Up With the Kardashians, others compared it to the 'spooky' TV hit The Addams Family.

A source previously told The Sun: 'They have been filming for a few months but no one expected the election to be announced.

'It was gold for the show, however, and gave a real insight into what family life is like for working MPs.'

The programme, made by production company Optomen which also produced At Home With The Furys, will follow Jacob around Parliament and at his country pile of Gournay Court in West Harptree.

After Sir Jacob had asked her mother's permission to woo her, the couple enjoyed a whirlwind relationship which saw them marry at Canterbury Cathedral within a year.

They now share six children together, Mary, Peter, Thomas, Anselm, Alfred and Sixtus, and all reside along with their live-in nanny at the Grade II-listed Gournay Court in Somerset.

Sir Jacob pictured at last week's count with Barmy Brunch from The Official Monster Raving Loony Party. Fresh from being ousted as an MP, Sir Jacob is launching his own reality show

Jacob's competition, the Kardashians, found fame through the popularity of Keeping Up With The Kardashians

The Rees-Mogg family: his wife Helena and children, Sixtus, Peter, Mary, Thomas, Anselm and Alfred

As you can imagine for a man rooted in tradition and chained to the 'proper way of doing things', 'Honourable member for the 18th-century' Jacob has raised his children in an anachronistic fashion.

Religion occupies a central place in the life of Jacob Rees-Mogg  overriding even politics.

Friends have revealed that he has had a private chapel built at his house in Somerset, where Catholic Mass is said occasionally and which he uses as a place of contemplation.

He also reads the catechism to his children over lunch every Sunday as a way of passing on to them the teachings of the church.

In rare pictures of his brood, Jacob's children are all immaculately turned out dressed in shirts and ties and floral dresses.

Sir Jacob himself was precocious and at just nine he wrote his first will and testament.

When he was 12, he was selling stocks and shares and would amuse classmates by calling his stockbroker at lunch time.

Speaking to the Daily Express at the time, he explained: 'I like playing with money. I love the stuff. I want more and more of it.'

As an adult, his interest and ability to make money grew and he is now worth an estimated 100million.

Together with his wife, he is also a director of the UK company Saliston. Its most recent accounts show net assets of 10.3million.

Since their marriage in 2007, he and Helena Rees-Mogg have also bought two properties in which they live.

The first is a house in his North East Somerset constituency which they purchased outright in 2010 for 2.9million; the second is a house in Westminster which they bought in 2018 for 5.6million.

A 12-year-old Jacob Rees-Mogg reads the Financial Times

Jacob achieved some financial security through his marriage to heiress Helena de Chair

Jacob's mother-in-law, Lady Juliet Tadgell (left), is worth in the region of 95million thanks to her property interests in Britain and America and her extensive art collection

Wealth experts have speculated Rees-Mogg's mother-in-law, Lady Juliet Tadgell, is worth in the region of 95million thanks to her property interests in Britain and America and her extensive art collection.

As Helena Rees-Mogg is Lady Juliet's only surviving child (her half-brother died in 1998 aged 36), it seems fair to assume that she will one day inherit some of her mother's estate.

The Rees-Moggs could, therefore, worth a combined total of at least 165 million. Ultimately, the family's wealth could plausibly exceed 200 million.

Sources close to Rees-Mogg, however, have described the figures relating to his family's wealth as 'fanciful'.

This month, the politician lost his Somerset North East & Hanham seat to Labour's Dan Norris by more than 5,000 votes.

Afterwards, he said he could not 'blame anybody other than myself' and that it had been 'a very bad night for the Conservatives'.
A Woolworths worker has slammed the supermarket giant as 'controlling' for introducing a new rule that requires staff to record their break times.

Staff were issued a notice on Monday informing them they will need to register when they take their meal breaks and what time they start and finish their shifts.

The new 'clocking practice' has been introduced to 'ensure all team members are taking their entitled meal breaks for their health, wellbeing and safety'.

The move will also help stores to manage their roster properly and pay staff the correct wage.

One Woolworths worker blasted the company over the rule change and took to Reddit to claim the system was 'micromanaging bull***t'.

'Just more controlling disguised as giving a f***. If they cared about over worked employees missing breaks they [would] have an adequate level of staff on at all times,' they wrote.

The worker, who also uploaded a picture of the notice employees were provided, said the change would do little to stop staff from entering the wrong break times.

Daily Mail Australia understands the system has been rolled out across 10 Woolworths stores in South Australia.

A Woolworths worker has slammed the supermarket giant as 'controlling' for introducing a new rule that requires staff to log in their break times

The system will be introduced in 100 supermarkets across the state by July 29 and it is already in place across Woolworths Metro and Big W stores.

The Reddit post was flooded with hundreds of comments with social media users divided over the rule.

'They make it sound like it's for your benefit and in your best interest,' one wrote.

'What a time to be an employee!' another added.

Others defended the system as an effective to way to make sure staff get a break.

'This means that they will have data on people not taking breaks. They can't pretend it's not happening. Could be a really good thing for workers,' one wrote.

'I welcome this. [It] means we will get the full allocated break not partial breaks and if it is partial the timesheet will show it,' another person wrote.

One Woolworths worker claimed staff at their store have been told to take their breaks when they are told.

The Retail and Fast Food Workers Union secretary Josh Cullinan told Daily Mail Australia the system could cause workers to take shorter breaks.

A Woolworths worker blasted the company over the rule change and took to Reddit to claim the system was a form of micromanagement of staff (stock image)

'It destroys morale and targets the very workers who made Woolworths a success,' he said.

'Workers have an entitlement to the unpaid meal breaks'.

Mr Cullinan said workers will not paid for taking shorter breaks even if it is a few minutes less than the allocated time.

A Woolworths spokesman told Daily Mail the system has been implemented to protect the wellbeing of staff.

'This solution is critical to ensure there is transparency for our team members, allowing them to have visibility of their meal breaks and confidence that they can take their entitled meal break,' the spokesman said.

'This type of system and rostering practices are very common across all parts of the economy in many other sectors'.
A woman accused of attempting to share Australian information with Russian officials appeared in an advertisement for the Australian Defence Force.

Russian-born Australians, Kira Korolev, 40, and her husband Igor, 62, were arrested in Brisbane on Thursday over an alleged spying scheme targeting the defence force.

Kira, who was an IT specialist with the ADF, is alleged to have been on a secret trip to Russia when she asked her husband to access documents and send them to her.

She appears to have featured in recruitment material for the ADF saying: 'I was able to join without any prior experience because the army provided full training'.

Previous posts to her social media revealed she was 'very interested in joining' the defence force but was 'not sure what exact role I could perform'.

Police will investigate whether she joined the ADF with the intention of espionage.

The couple have lived in Australia for over a decade, with Kira receiving citizenship in 2016 and Igor in 2020.

They are the first to be charged with espionage in Australia, sparking a verbal stoush between the Russian Embassy in Canberra and Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Russian-born Australian charged with espionage, Kira Korolev (pictured), 40, has been revealed to have featured on requirement material for her employer, the defence force

Court documents obtained by the Courier Mail revealed police will allege the couple were operating as Russian spies from December 2022.

Now-deleted footage from Kira's Youtube channel, Another Australia, shows her travelling to major cities across Australia with army bases.

She notes in one video there being 'no machine gunners' and 'no army' along the Dingo Fence, which spans more than 5600km from Queensland to South Australia.

Visiting a part of the fence near Cooper Pedy, in South Australia, Kira detailed how often rangers patrolled the area.

'We cant say with confidence that there is not or some kind of alien or military secret base behind the fence since we havent driven every metre of it,' she told followers.

Another video featured her at a war memorial in Darwin speaking about the city being home to the country's largest military base and its many tunnels used in WWII.

Mr Albanese said he continued to have faith in the screening processes of Australia's national security agencies.

'The threats to us are nimble,' he said.

'They're constantly trying to find ways to engage and to damage our national interest.

'And that's why our agencies ensure that they are constantly monitoring their performance.'

Kira was working for the ADF as an IT expert before she was alleged to have asked her husband Igor, 62, to share documents with her while she was on a secret trip to Russia

The couple are the first Australians to be charged with espionage after coming to Australia over a decade ago and being granted citizenship (pictured, Igor being arrested)

The Russian Embassy on Saturday accused Australia's federal police and spy agency chiefs of stoking anti-Russian paranoia.

'The press conference of AFP and ASIO chiefs on 12 July was clearly intended to launch another wave of anti-Russian paranoia in Australia,' the embassy said in a statement.

'Theatrical tricks were used like talking to imaginary "Russian spies" presumed to be all around.'

But the Prime Minister declared Russia had no credibility and that it engaged in espionage around the world.

'Russia can get the message, back off,' Mr Albanese said on Saturday.

'How about you get out of Ukraine and stop the illegal and immoral war that you're engaged in and how about you try to stop interfering in domestic affairs of other sovereign nations.

'(Russia) is a country that has no respect for international law, and they should be regarded with contempt, which is what I have for them.'

AFP Commissioner Reece Kershaw said police will allege the information they tried to access related to the countrys national security interests.

But The Russian Embassy in Australia has claimed the couples detention is 'another wave of anti-Russian paranoia'.
Donald Trump revealed he was shot in his right ear during a horrific assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally and knew something was wrong when he heard a 'whizzing' sound.

The former president described feeling the bullet 'ripping through my skin' when a gunman opened fire from a rooftop just over 100 yards away.

The 78-year-old was dragged off stage by Secret Service with blood covering his face and then pumped his fist and shouted 'fight, fight, fight' after the gunfire rang out in front of thousands of MAGA fans.

Trump confirmed he was hit in a statement from hospital hours after the terrifying scene unfolded.

Images of the presumptive Republican nominee standing up beneath an American flag and staring out into the crowd of thousands chanting 'USA, USA' are set to become some of the most defining in history.

The gunman and a member of the crowd were killed and two others were taken to hospital in a critical condition after the shooting at 6.15pm on Saturday night.

The suspect fired at least eight shots from the roof where his body and an AR-style rifle were later recovered.

Donald Trump said he was shot in his right ear during the horrific assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally and knew something was wrong when he heard a 'whizzing' sound

Secret Service agents then opened fire and shot him dead as the crowd screamed and the former president was rushed off stage into his motorcade, with his fist raised and blood still on his face.

Now there are calls for the Secret Service and law enforcement to be investigated after witnesses said they warned officers and agents that an armed man was bear-crawling on the roof moments before.

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening,' the former president wrote on his Truth Social account.

Trump was rushed to a hospital and put under observation, but was released a short time later.

His campaign said he will still attend the Republican National Convention, which begins on Monday in Milwaukee. There Trump will formally be nominated as the GOP presidential nominee and he will pick his running mate.

In the wake of the shooting, photos show the former president clutching his ear as the shots rang out. Blood was seen trickling down his face and from his ear.

The shots rang out shortly after Trump started to address the crowd in the critical battleground state.

In the moments after the shooting, voices could be heard screaming as Secret Service agents pushed Trump to the floor and covered him.

Seconds later, the blood-covered lawmaker pumped his fist in the air to indicate that he was fine, while surrounded by Secret Service agents, before being led away.

In his statement, Trump thanked the Secret Service and extended his condolences to the family of the person who was killed at the rally.

As a former president, Trump has 24/7 Secret Service protection.

'I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead,' Trump said.

Officials said the incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Trump was mid-sentence, saying 'Take a look at what happened' when the shots began to ring out shortly before 6pm ET, with terrified screams filling the air as he and onlookers dived to the ground.

Trump raises his fist below the American flag, with blood across his face, moments after the shooting

An extraordinary photo shows Donald Trump on the ground at Butler Show Grounds in Pennsylvania Saturday after he was injured in a shooting that left two people dead

Donald Trump is seen with his fist in the air under a Stars and Stripes flag after Saturday's shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the president was injured, with the shooter and a bystander both killed

Law enforcement stand over the body of the gunman on a roof next to the rally site

Trump raises his fist the crowd. Members of the audience chanted 'USA, USA" as they realized he was safe

Dramatic footage that has swept the world showed popping sounds ring out as the 2024 presidential hopeful was on stage addressing a large crowd of supporters.

Trump could be seen ducking as screams rang out and fans in MAGA t-shirts stood behind him threw themselves to the ground.

Secret Service agents rushed the stage to cover the president. They eventually led him off stage and into his motorcade.

As they did Trump pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word 'Fight' twice his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of 'USA. USA. USA.'

Trump could also be heard repeatedly asking: 'Let me get my shoes.'

It took two minutes from the moment of the first shot for Trump to be placed in a waiting SUV.

The attack, by a shooter who law enforcement officials say was then killed by the Secret Service, was the first attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

The Secret Service's counter sniper team took out the shooter - who they said was outside the perimeter of the show grounds, several hundred yards away from the stage.

A witness told the BBC that agents blew the shooter's head off.

The witness was asked if he saw what happened to the shooter, the man said: 'Oh yeah. They blew his head off. Secret service blew his head off.'

When asked if he was sure he was shot, he replied: 'Absolutely, 100 per cent, yep.'

He then described how he saw the Secret Service climb onto the roof after the shooter had been killed, with images from social media appearing to show his version of events.

The man said the shooter was wearing tan clothes and holding a rifle, but he was not able to make out which type.

He said: 'We noticed a guy crawling, you know army, bear crawling up the roof of the building 50ft away from us.

'So we are standing there pointing at the guy crawling up the roof, he had a rifle, we could clearly see he had a rifle.'

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told reporters the shooter is dead and that a bystander had also been killed in the bloodbath.

Goldinger said he was told by detectives that the gunman was on the roof of a building adjacent to the event, and said the shooting 'would have required a rifle' as it 'was several hundred yards' away.

The identities of the shooter and the dead bystander have not yet been confirmed.

Law enforcement recovered AR-style rifle at scene of Trump rally shooting, a source told the Associated Press.

Blood is seen coming from Donald Trump's ear, where he said he was shot

A Donald Trump supporter has described the moment the would-be former president's assassin was killed by secret service agents in a BBC interview

The site of the Trump rally in Butler County Show Grounds is pictured before Trump came on stage. The president spoke on the stage just below the hoisted American flag with a crowd standing behind him.

Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents

President Biden is seen addressing reporters after Saturday's shooting - he branded the incident 'sick' and said he was 'grateful' to hear that the former president was 'safe and doing well'

Trump's allies and Democratic foes alike denounced the incident.

President Joe Biden said there was no place for 'sick' political violence in America and said he was grateful that Trump was safe.

'There's no place in America this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick,' he said.

'It's one of the reasons we have to unite this country.'

The president said he was trying to reach Trump.

Former President Barack Obama has also condemned the shooting, saying: 'There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.

'Although we don't yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn't seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

'Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.'
Channel 10 has come under fire for airing cooking shows for over an hour before covering a suspected assassination attempt on US President Donald Trump.

The former president was interrupted mid-speech at a rally in Pennsylvania by a number of loud bangs at about 6.15pm ET (8.15am AEST) and was seen wounded and bleeding from his right ear.

While major networks reported on the unfolding scenes, Channel 10 broadcast several cooking shows until about 9.30am before covering the incident.

The last show to air, Taste of Australia with Hayden Quinn, featured the host showing viewers how to make a 'blackberry buckle' before advertisements ran.

An episode of the Drew Barrymore Show then started to air before it was abruptly cut to an American broadcast of the incident.

A TV insider chastised the network, saying it was 'good to have options in our diverse free-to-air media landscape'.

'It took an hour after the first reports of President Trump being shot for 10 News First to switch to American network CBS and start covering what happened,' they told Daily Mail Australia.

'I liked it - I've made notes about the blueberry glaze being made and added it to my dessert repertoire.

'Blueberries with a squeeze of orange simmer then strain and whisk powered sugar - spoon over your baked dish of choice!'

Channel 10 has come under fire for their delayed coverage of a suspected assassination attempt of former US President Donald Trump on Sunday morning (pictured)

The insider added: Maybe they forgot they are owned by one of the largest news networks in the US and can just take their feed at anytime - even if nobody for news is working on a Sunday morning in Australia.

Daily Mail Australia contacted Channel 10 for comment.

During the delay in reporting, footage of the rally showing Trump being tackled to the ground by secret service agents had been played extensively by other networks.

The live-streamed scenes saw Trump dragged off stage by Secret Service with blood covering his face and then pumped his face and shouted 'fight, fight, fight' after gunfire rang out in front of thousands of MAGA fans.

The gunman and a member of the crowd were killed and two others were taken to hospital in a critical condition after the shooting at on Saturday night.

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,' the former president wrote on his Truth Social account.

'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

'Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.'

In his statement, Trump thanked the Secret Service and extended his condolences to the family of the person who was killed at the rally.

'I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured,' Trump said.

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.'

The network took over an hour to report on the incident, and instead broadcast several cooking shows before abruptly cutting to an American network's coverage (pictured)

The dramatic incident saw Sky News interrupt a live interview with Federal Treasurer, Jim Chalmers, to cover the incident.

When asked to comment on the rapidly unfolding events, Dr Chalmers said he hoped the presidential candidate was 'okay'.

'I mean, these are extraordinary scenes, and I hope that former President Trump is okay,' he said.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese was quick to condemn the shooting saying there was 'no place for violence in the democratic process'.

'The incident at former president Trump's campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning, and confronting,' he said on Sunday.
Sir Keir Starmer has said he is 'appalled' at the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at a campaign rally.

The shooter fired at least eight shots at the former President Trump while he was discussing immigration to a crowd of hundreds of people in Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service's counter sniper team took out the shooter - who they said was outside the perimeter of the show grounds, several hundred yards away from the stage.

The Prime Minister posted on X in response to the horrifying incident: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

Sir Keir Starmer has said he is 'appalled' at the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at a campaign rally

Donald Trump appeared to be shot in the ear as shots were fired at the former president at a rally in Pennsylvania

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

This comes as Donald Trump Jr, the former president's eldest son, released a statement saying his father is in 'great spirits'.

'I just spoke to my father on the phone and he is in great spirits. He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him.'

Newly elected MP Nigel Farage and close friend to Trump said: 'Mainstream media have spread a narrative of hatred against my friend Donald Trump.

'I hope they are proud of themselves. Disgusting people.'

While former Prime Minister Liz Truss struck a similar tone, saying: 'Pray for President Trump. Pray for America.'

The president was seen ducking, with blood pouring from his ear as screams from terrified onlookers rang out. His team says that he is 'fine.'

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

It has since been reported that Trump was struck by a piece of flying glass from a teleprompter shattered during the shooting.

Secret Service agents could be heard shouting 'the shooter is down' in the ensuing chaos. The agency confirmed the incident is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also condemned the actions of the shooter as unacceptable.

'The UK government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

'As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump - along with every victim and their families.'

A Downing Street spokesperson said: 'We are shocked by the scenes at President Trump's rally in Pennsylvania.

'We condemn all forms of political violence in the strongest terms and we send our best wishes to President Trump and his family at this time.'

The identities of the shooter and the dead bystander have not yet been confirmed. It is also unclear where the shooter opened fire from and what kind of weapon was used.
A father-of-two remains in the intensive care unit after being crushed by a 10-tonne steel beam in an horrific workplace accident.

Pete Munyan, 47, was critically injured at the Bluescope Steel factory in Hastings on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria on July 1.

Mr Munyan was working the night shift and was trapped for two hours after the crane moving the beam broke.

Specialist equipment was called in to remove the beam and Mr Munyan was airlifted to Royal Melbourne Hospital.

Mr Munyan suffered severe life-changing injuries including multiple breaks to his pelvis and two spinal fractures.

He has undergone multiple surgeries, including one to amputate his left foot.

Mr Munyan's cousin Deb Baker, told 7News there was no sign of a brain injury or impact to his respiratory system.

'He has not been conscious but he has responded, like, if people ask him questions, he's nodded his head and he's been able to squeeze his hands.'

Pete Munyan, 47, (pictured) was critically injured when a steel beam attached to a crane fell on him at the Bluescope Steel factory in Hastings on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria on July 1

'So we know he's in there fighting,' she said.

Mr Munyan grew up in Rochester, New York and moved to Australia in 2006.

He lives in Dromana, a seaside suburb on the Mornington Peninsula, 57 km south of Melbourne's CBD, with his wife Michelle and two teenage children, Lana and Rhys.

Ms Baker said his wife and children have been 'incredibly strong and resilient' following Mr Munyan's life-changing accident.

She told the Herald Sun her cousin is a true adventurer with a great sense of humour and is a talented all-American athlete.

'He is one of the most amazing people you will ever meet,' she said.

'He always goes the extra mile for the people around him.'

The Bluescope Steel factory (pictured) in Hastings on the Mornington Peninsula in Victoria where Pete Munyan was critically injured in an horrific workplace accident on July 1

She said a first responder at the scene of his accident said Pete was 'one of the bravest and most resilient people he had ever seen, which is not surprising to anybody in the family.'

A GoFundMe has been created to assist the family with ongoing medical costs and future expenses.

'Pete is one of the good guys: kind, loyal and always the first to jump in and help others with his trademark energy and smile,' the GoFundMe page states.

Ms Baker said the family are extremely grateful for the support.

'Its just so heartwarming, of all the dark things that are going on ... to see the goodness in human beings is a positive.'

Worksafe Victoria is investigating the incident.
Donald Trump's eldest son laid the blame for Saturday's rally shooting at the feet of the radical left but promised that it would not stop his father from campaigning.

It came hours after gunshots were fired at the former president during a rally in Pennsylvania, upending what was already an extraordinary campaign season.

Investigations continue but Donald Trump Jr. suggested there was no doubt who was behind the apparent assassination attempt.

'I just spoke to my father on the phone and he is in great spirits,' he said.

'He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him.'

Donald Trump Jr. said his father would keep fighting for America despite the shooting

Earlier, President Joe Biden spoke in front of the cameras to condemn the shooting.

'There's no place in America this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick,' he said.

'It's one of the reasons we have to unite this country.'

The former president was in full flight at his rally in Pennsylvania when shots were heard.

Trump grabbed his right ear with his right hand, then brought his hand down to look at it before dropping to his knees behind the podium before Secret Service agents swarmed and covered him.

More shots could be heard on the live video feed before the words 'shooter down.'

Trump got to his feet, with blood visible below his right ear. His red 'Make America Great Again' cap has been knocked off in the chaos.

President Joe Biden addresses the shooting at a Donald Trump campaign rally

But his supporters were cheered to see him raise a fist in defiance.

The campaign was already historic, with a 78-year-old taking on an 81-year-old in a battle of the seniors.

Biden has been fighting for his political life after a stumbling debate performance in Atlanta, Georgia last month, taking the political scene into uncharted territory.

That was even before Trump's rally was interrupted by a gunman.

The Biden campaign said it was suspending outgoing communications and was trying to pull TV adverts.
Congressional committees announced probes into the U.S. Secret Service

Former President Donald Trump was shot Saturday at a campaign event

Republicans in Congress have launched an investigation into the 'security failures' that led to a horrific assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

Lawmakers say a frightening lapse meant that a gunman was able to get so close to Trump and unleash a barrage of bullets that hit his ear and killed a member of the rally crowd.

The suspect opened fire on the former president from a roof 130 yards away from the stage where he was speaking to thousands of MAGA fans in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night.

Former Navy SEAL Rep. Ryank Zinke, R-Mont., who has experience in setting perimeters in combat zones, said the shooter being able to access a 'nearby roof' to take aim at Trump was an 'absolute failure of security.'

And House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., told DailyMail.com in a statement that he plans to hold a hearing with the Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to get to the bottom of the failures.

The House Homeland Security Committee also released a statement indicating their desire to hold a hearing with the Secret Service.

The committee's messages indicate what could be the beginning of a deluge of congressional action over the attempted assassination of the former president.

'There are many questions and Americans demand answers,' Comer said. 'I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing.'

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania

'The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.'

And within hours Comer officially organized a hearing with U.S. Secret Service brass for Monday July 22.

The committee 'has initiated an investigation into today's assassination attempt,' he writes to Director Cheatle.

The lawmaker's oversight comes just hours after at least one gunman tried to shoot former President Donald Trump as he campaigned in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.

Trump said he was shot in his right ear during the horrific attempt and knew something was wrong when he heard a 'whizzing' sound.

The former president said he immediately felt the bullet 'ripping through my skin' in a statement from hospital just hours after the terrifying scene unfolded.

The 78-year-old was dragged off stage by Secret Service with blood covering his face and then pumped his face and shouted 'fight, fight, fight' after gunfire rang out in front of thousands of MAGA fans.

'THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY,' Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., posted on X Saturday evening.

The president addresses his supporters just moments before the gunfire

Former President Donald Trump goes down after the gunfire at his rally. Supporters in the back look about

A screen grab captured from a video shows the shooter was killed by the Secret Service, according to a source from the agency, said CNN, on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania, United States. An attendee was also killed

'The American people deserve to know the truth,' he continued.

'We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP,' Johnson said.

Democrat Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., also released a statement Saturday calling for an investigation.

'The security failures surrounding the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate demand an investigation,' he wrote.

'The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them - especially when those failures have implications for the Nation.'

U.S. Secret Service escorts Trump off stage after the gunfire directed towards him

Ex-Navy SEAL Rep. Ryan Zinke, R-Mont., called the attempt a security failure

Zinke continued to detail the security failure in a post on X.

'I cannot think of a single time where a point of elevation so close in range would have been accessible and not already occupied by security forces.'

'There will be a thorough investigation,' Zinke continued. 'The American people and our leadership deserve better.'

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., similarly demanded that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hold a hearing on the attempt on Trump's life by August 1, according to a Saturday night statement.
Battle lines have been drawn over the demolition and planned rebuild of an historic hotel in Carmel-by-the-Sea.

The family-operated Hofsas House hotel, a 37-room inn with views of the Pacific Ocean, has stood since 1949, but has now sparked a fierce proxy battle between two groups of neighbors between those who want to modernize and others who want to preserve history.

One group wants to have the building torn down in favor of a brand new modern luxury hotel - something new for the quaint seaside town known as the Carmel Legacy Hotel.

The new building would be the largest construction project to take place in the town since the 1960s.

The family-operated Hofsas House hotel, a 37 room inn with views of the Pacific Ocean has stood since 1949, but has now sparked a fierce proxy battle between two groups of neighbors between those who want to modernize and others who want to preserve history

The owner wants to have the building torn down in favor of a brand new modern luxury hotel and something new for the quaint seaside town, known as the Carmel Legacy Hotel

Owner Carrie Theis won unanimous approval in April from the city's planning commission to demolish and rebuild the Bavarian-themed hotel but those plans are now on hold

But there is another group who are directly opposed to those in the town, who want to see the building preserved for posterity, complete with its nostalgic and historical charm, known for its unique pink exterior.

The conflict has only intensified in recent months after third-generation hotel owner Carrie Theis won unanimous approval in April from the city's planning commission to demolish and rebuild the Bavarian-themed hotel.

But just as Theis had been gearing up for the demolition, Neal Kruse, co-founder of the Carmel Preservation Association, filed an appeal to block the razing of the building and its rebuild, with the intention of protecting Carmel-by-the-Sea's traditional architecture.

Kruse's appeal has stalled in the final approval stages, frustrating Theis and her family, who were preparing for the hotel to be demolished later this year or in early 2025.

Theis pointed out that the new hotel to replace the Hofsas House would be similar in size and scale to the current property.

Some of the hotel's buildings were constructed in the 1940s, 50s and 60s and are long overdue to be replaced

'I didn't ask for more rooms to make more money, because I knew I didn't want to push the envelope. I didn't,' Theis said to SFGate about her plans for the new hotel.

'I wanted to do everything in the box. And I don't appreciate that people don't understand that.'

Some of the building's planned for demolition were constructed in the 1940s, 50s and 60s - and are long past their usefulness.

The association said that it was committed to 'safeguarding the charming traditional architecture of Carmel-by-the-Sea.'

Kruse and his organization argue that demolishing Hofsas House would erode part of the unique character that defines Carmel.

'I want you to remember what they did and that will tell you what they feel about what the residents need to know about what's coming,' he said, airing his concerns.

The Carmel Preservation Association said that it was committed to 'safeguarding the charming traditional architecture of Carmel-by-the-Sea' but does not want the building torn down

The Carmel Preservation Association has described the possibly demolition and reconstruction as a period of 'absolute construction hell' disrupting the serene atmosphere of affluent oceanfront community

Theis said she was 'not happy' about the appeal, which has now put the family project on hold.

Several sitting on Carmel City Council want to see the project proceed.

'Ive been to that hotel. Its a labyrinth. Its difficult. Its not fixable. I think this will be a great addition to the city when it's finished,' Councilmember Karen Ferlito said.

'As I see more and more luxury hotels being built in the peninsula, I think this is a much-needed project. We need people who stay here rather than day-trippers who stay out of town.'

The possible rebuild of Hofsas House is one of a number of other large-scale projects in Carmel that are taking place.

Kruse has described it as a period of 'absolute construction hell' disrupting the serene atmosphere of affluent oceanfront community.

As the debate rages on, the future of Hofsas House is emblematic of the larger question facing Carmel on how to balance growth and modernization with the preservation of its unique historical charm.
Texas Rep. Ronny Jackson, who was former President Donald Trump's White House doctor, revealed that his nephew was 'grazed in the neck' by a bullet at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally.

'They heard the shots, and everybody dropped to the ground,' Jackson told Sean Hannity on Fox News Saturday night. 'And I dont know if you guys have the picture or not, but he was grazed in the neck. A bullet crossed his neck, cut his neck, and he was bleeding.'

Jackson said he had helped get his sister-in-law and nephew into the 'friends and family pen' at the Saturday evening Trump rally, where they were seated in bleachers behind the president when the assassination attempt occurred.

The former White House doctor said his sister-in-law took his nephew to the first aid tent after the shooting and they encountered the Trump supporter who had been killed.

'When they got to the triage tent while they were there, there was another member of the crowd, unfortunately that was in the triage tent that was on a gurney in the tent that had a devastating wound, had a critical wound to the head that was dead,' Jackson said.

Texas Rep. Ronny Jackson, who was former President Donald Trump's White House doctor, revealed that his nephew was 'grazed in the neck' by a bullet at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally

A Secret Service statement from Saturday said one rally attendee had been killed by the shooter, while two others were wounded.

Anna West, a 40-year-old artist from Pittsburgh, told DailyMail.com that another wounded Trump supporter received a life-flight from rally grounds.

The suspected shooter is dead.

Around 6:15 p.m. Saturday night shots were fired at the former president as he was delivering his rally speech.

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,' he later recounted on Truth Social. 'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.'

'Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening,' the ex-president added.

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents after a bullet hit his ear during an attempted assassination attempt Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania

Trump was taken to Butler Memorial Hospital but has since been released.

President Joe Biden was able to get Trump on the phone after an initial statement delivered to the press near his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware home.

Biden traveled back to the White House late Saturday night.

The former president was to hold the western Pennsylvania rally and then head to Milwaukee, Wisconsin to kick off the Republican National Convention Monday where he'll accept the GOP nomination for president for a third time.

The Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign said Saturday that the Milwaukee convention will go on as planned.
Donald Trump pumped his fist in the air with blood streaming across his face seconds after being shot in the ear by a gunman in stunning images seen across the world.

The former president, 78, survived the horrifying assassination attempt when the bullet missed him by less than an inch on Saturday afternoon, at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

It came eight minutes after he took the stage at 6:03pm ET, where Trump began his remarks and pointed to a large graphic in the same direction where the shooter was perched atop an AGR International building.

At the same moment, Trump supporters said they spotted the gunman - named as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20 - 'bear-crawling' across the roof with a rifle, but claimed their warnings to Secret Service were ignored.

'Im thinking to myself "Why is Trump still speaking, why have they not pulled him off the stage,''' one witness told the BBC. 'The next thing you know, five shots ring out.'

A blood-spattered Donald Trump pumped his fist after being shot in the ear by a sniper, eight minutes after he took the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania

1PM

The grounds to the event at Butler Farm Show opened at 1pm.

It began an hours-long build up that saw MAGA supporters immediately pour into the area to camp out.

Security swept the area and set up perimeters, however questions have been raised over how the gunman was able to secure a clear shot just 400ft from the stage.

5PM

An hour before Trump took the stage at approximately 5pm, former GOP Senate candidate Sean Parnell warmed up the crowd, bringing cheers as he slammed President Biden and his stuttering campaign.

With the sun still high on a bright day, Trump emerged to 'God Bless the USA' playing over the loudspeakers at 6:03pm, and remained waving and shaking his fist at the crowd for several minutes.

6:11PM

Trump brought out a large graphic with statistics on the migrant crisis at the southern border, and told the crowd at 6:11pm: 'That chart's a couple of months old...'

'If you want to really see something that's sad, take a look at what happened,' Trump continued - before he abruptly grabbed the side of his head as several 'pops' filled the event space.

Trump began his rally at 6:03pm, slamming President Biden's handling of the border crisis and pointing to a large graphic in the same direction where his would-be assassin was perched

Trump grabbed his right ear as the first shots rang out at 6:12pm

Secret Service agents raced to the stage and bundled Trump to the floor after shots were fired

6:12PM

The 78-year-old dropped to the floor in an instant as five more shots rang overhead in quick succession, before four Secret Service agents raced to the stage and dove on top of the former president.

Stunning images showed Trump cowered on the floor as agents protected him, with blood dripping down his cheek.

Several more Secret Service agents continued to flood the stage, while four heavily armed officers lined the perimeter ordering attendees to 'get down.'

The sniper, sat 400ft across from the rally on an exposed rooftop, fired another shot at the stage a second later while Trump fans streamed out of the bleachers.

Secret Service scrambled to take control of the pandemonium where three attendees were hit, one fatally, within a matter of seconds.

Stunning images showed Trump cowered on the floor as agents protected him, with blood dripping down his cheek

Agents formed a human shield on top of the former president as pandemonium took over the event

Several heavily armed officers lined the perimeter and ordered attendees to 'get down'

Trump is seen surrounded by Secret Service agents in the moments after the shooting

Microphones around the stage picked up dramatic detail of the shooting response, including Trump ordering his agents to 'let me get my shoes'

6:13PM

An emergency room doctor with blood spattered on his shirt later said he sprang into action to perform emergency CPR on one victim.

'The guy had spun around was jammed between the benches and a head shot here. There's lots of blood and he had brain matter,' he told CBS News.

'So I got him together so I got people there really helpful. I did CPR chest compressions as well.'

An emergency room doctor at the Trump rally said he performed CPR on a member of the crowd after the shooting

The emergency room doctor can be seen tending to a victim as panicked rallygoers cowered and fled for safety

Pandemonium took over as three attendees were hit, one fatally

6:14PM

Microphones surrounding the stage picked up staggering detail of the urgent response, beginning with one ordering screaming people to 'get down, get down, get down.'

At the same moment, snipers set up on a roof next to bleachers were seen firing back at the gunman, with Secret Service agents surrounding Trump heard on microphones confirming the moment he was brought down.

'Are we good?' one male agent says, as another responds quickly: 'Shooter down!'

'Shooter's down. Are we good to move?' one says next. 'We're clear, we're clear, we're clear - let's move.'

Trump repeatedly ordered the agents to 'let me get my shoes', to which one responds: 'I got you sir, I got you.'

Police snipers returned fire at the gunman and took him down within a matter of moments

Attendees claimed they warned the Secret Service over a man on the roof where the gunman was later killed

Shortly after Trump was raced away, the lifeless body of Thomas Matthew Crooks was seen on a rooftop surrounded by agents. His death was not confirmed until 7:24pm

Despite the chaos flying around the scene, the rally appeared to hold its breath to see if Trump was hit.

In a move that sparked iconic images set to define his candidacy, Trump stood up and triumphantly held his fist in the air, pumping it at his supporters to raucous relief.

'USA, USA, USA,' the crowd chanted at the sight, with a blood-spattered Trump appearing to mouth the word 'fight' several times as Secret Service tried to hurry him away.

While getting up off the floor, an agent picked up a white cloth and held it to Trump's bleeding ear, telling him to 'hold that on your head, it's bloody.'

Seconds after falling to the floor after taking the shot to his ear, Trump stood up and triumphantly raised his fist to show his supporters he was not severely injured

As Trump pumped his fist to the crowd, some were heard cheering his name and chanting 'USA' and 'Make America Great Again'

Trump reacted quickly to the shooting and appeared to want to show his supporters he was not hit badly after hitting the deck

Blood can be seen pouring from the side of the former president's head

The gunman was killed by agents shortly after opening fire, as footage emerged online showing him appear to be shot in the head while crouched on the roof.

Crooks was seen laying lifeless on the rooftop in a later image, surrounded by law enforcement stood over him.

A number of camouflaged law enforcement officers emerged from the side of the stage, part of a huge law enforcement presence that flooded the area within minutes of the first shot was fired.

At 6:14pm, Trump was whisked into his motorcade by around dozen Secret Service agents, who formed a protective human shield around him.

Before he got into his SUV, Trump again raised his fist to signify triumphantly surviving the assassination attempt.

A huge law enforcement presence took over the area, including a number of camouflaged law enforcement officers emerging from the side of the stage

Secret Service struggled to contain the chaotic scenes as three bystanders were shot, one fatally

At 6:14pm, Trump raised his fist to the air as he was whisked into his motorcade by his Secret Service agents forming a human shield around him

A helicopter flies overhead some time after Trump was raced away from the scene

6:42PM

Despite seeing Trump wave his fist in the air, silence on the former president's condition was only broken at 6:42pm, when Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung issued a statement -saying he was 'fine.'

'(Trump) thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act,' Cheung added.

Although the shooter was killed within a matter of moments, his death was only confirmed by 7:24pm by the Butler County District Attorney.

Trump was taken to hospital in the immediate aftermath, and insiders gradually leaked reassuring details stressing that he was safe and in 'good spirits' considering the near-death experience.

8:13PM

President Biden was spending the weekend in Rehoboth Beach in Delaware, and at 8:13pm he delivered a brief two-minute speech on the incident from his home state.

He described the shooting as 'sick' and said he had attempted to get into contact with his 2024 opponent, which he later said he did so later in the evening.

President Biden said at a press conference that there is 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

8:42PM

Half an hour later at 8:42pm, Trump took to Truth Social to break his silence over the attempt on his life.

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead,' Trump said at the time.

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!'

MIDNIGHT

At the end of a chaotic and history defining day, Trump landed in New Jersey on Trump Force One just before midnight.

Trump's campaign director of communications Margo Martin shared a clip of the former president descending his plane's steps.

'Strong and resilient,' she captioned the video. 'He will never stop fighting for America.'
Charles Holman, an African American lawyer, had been meticulously researching his family tree for more than fifty years when he uncovered a startling piece of information linking him to the Bush presidential family.

Throughout his life, Holman, 66, gathered stories, birth and death certificates, Census Bureau records, and DNA matches.

Through his legal training he developed a thoroughness, and a knack for connecting with strangers through letters, emails, and in-person meetings.

Little by little he managed to connect with distant relatives, both black and white, piecing together a family history that reflected America's complex and fraught racial past.

Charles Holman, who spent five decades tracing his family genealogy finds his relatives to have been enslaved by Bushes' ancestors on a Kentucky plantation

A Kentucky newspaper article linked Bush's ancestors to those of enslaved members of the Thomas family, Holman's ancestors. Pictured, former Presidents George H. W. Bush, right, and George W. Bush, left, seen together in 2009

During his research, Holman attended a gathering of white relatives who shared his surname and whose ancestors had enslaved his own.

He visited three plantations where his ancestors had labored without compensation and stood in the tiny, cramped quarters where they likely lived, in the hope he might feel their presence.

The discoveries altered Holman's perception of himself, his family, and their place in American history.

A few years ago, Holman made a significant discovery in his study in Maryland when he found a 1992 Kentucky newspaper article about a family that included one U.S. president and would soon add another.

The article with the headline 'President George Bush has Kentucky connections', traced the lineage of then-President George H.W. Bush and his son George W. Bush to ancestors predating the American Revolution.

Holman was familiar with the names of Bush's great-great-grandmother and her parents and managed to match them with deeds and inheritance records he had previously uncovered.

Moses Clark, Holman's mother's grandfather

Charles Holman is seen with his family members and President Bush's cousin Kurt

The connection added a remarkable new dimension to his extensive family research.

'It was the coming together of things that I had been looking for for years,' Holman said to the Washington Post.

The newspaper article explained how George Herbert Walker Bush's ancestors had moved from Virginia to Kentucky in the late 1700s and early 1800s.

Among the president's direct ancestors were Peter G. Foree and his daughter Lucretia Green Foree Holliday who owned land in Anchorage, Kentucky.

According to Holman's research, members of the Foree family who known to be the Bush's ancestors, enslaved members of the Thomas family, Holman's ancestors.

The article was a breakthrough in piecing together his family tree.

'It was one of the greatest moments in my life,' Holman said to The Post.

George H.W. Bush's third-great-grandfather was associated with at least 11 transatlantic slave crossings from West Africa.

Although slavery was abolished in the USA after the defeat of the Confederacy in the Civil War in 1865, the transatlantic trade in African slaves continued

Last year, a Reuters investigation looked into the links between slaveholders and U.S. political elites.

The chief of staff for former President George W. Bush acknowledged the findings that suggested there were 25 slaves owned by the Foree family.

'A great Nation does not hide its history; it faces its flaws and corrects them,' Bush said at the dedication of the National Museum of African American History and Culture.

'We can't move closer to our founding promise of equal opportunity without remembering the founding sin of slavery. That disturbing past inspires us to go farther and faster on the journey toward a better future of liberty and justice for all.'

Genealogical research like Holman's is a popular pursuit for many Americans but for descendants of enslaved people, the task is often challenging due to sparse record-keeping, which frequently consists only of first names recorded in property ledgers.

The fact that Holman was able to draw a direct line between the Bush's and his own ancestors is astonishing.

'I think the fact that he was able to put this together was pretty amazing,' forensic genealogist Katharine O'Connell said.

Holman has revealed he has since written letters to George W. Bush; Jeb Bush; Laura Bush and daughter Jenna Bush Hager who is a television presenter with Today, but has so far not received any replies.

Despite the lack of response from the Bush family, Holman says he has been buoyed by the tales of old he has been hearing which have been passed down through the generations.

One story was about how Robert Anderson Thomas, Holman's great-great-grandfather saw some cherry pies for the the slave owner's wife sitting on the window sill when he was overcome by temptation.

'Robert Anderson Thomas, my great-great-grandfather, saw the pies, could smell them, but knew he would never be able to have a taste of it. They were pies for George Bush's ancestor, but he was a child and he couldn't resist,' Holman explained.

'He devised an idea that if he could take a straw to the top of the pie, he could suck out the juice and savor some of the pie's flavor, which he did - undetected.

'Later, when his mother was serving pies to George Bush's ancestors, the slaveholder's wife remarked they were the driest cherry pies she had ever eaten. And he thought it was so funny that decades later, well after he'd escaped and slavery had long been over, he told this story to my grandmother.'
Ukrainian scammers are using fake dating profiles to swindle thousands of pounds from gullible Russian men to help fund their nation's war effort.

The group, known as the Monetary Army, use a range of tactics to trick Russian soldiers, cops and military academy students, among other professions, into handing over up to 19,000.

The roughly 100 scammers match with men on Divinchik, a common dating app in Russia, with fake profiles made with the pictures of beautiful women.

Arthur, a Monetary Army scammer, told the Telegraph that once they match with Russian men, their aim is to get them to buy tickets for fake events.

'During the dialogue when the case comes to the meeting, my task is to invite men to one of the events that we have on a fake home site.

'For example, to the theatre, stand-up comedy show, ballet, or cinema. And then the man never meets the woman.'

Ukrainian scammers are using fake dating profiles to swindle thousands of pounds from gullible Russian men

The roughly 100 scammers match with men on Divinchik, a common dating app in Russia , with fake profiles made with the pictures of beautiful women

A pair of tickets often goes for around 35, and the marks are asked to pay using cryptocurrencies, touted for their inability to be traced, unlike normal fiat currency.

After the transaction is mad, the scammers will tell the Russian men that they cannot attend the date, and will suggest they ask for a refund.

The customer support Telegram channel, which is often the same scammer on another fake profile, then begins the second part of the scam.

'The system tells the men to buy two more tickets as a deposit to get a refund for the initial tickets', Arthur said.

'Thanks to which they put in more money, in principle, an unlimited amount, depending on how much of a fool he is.

'They start telling the victim that he made some mistake in filling out the return form. You already put two payments, now you need to put four.'

The Monetary Army often makes around 100 per scam, but the scammer revealed the most money that has ever been taken from one man was 19,000.

A view shows the site of a Russian missile strike, amid Russia's attack on Ukraine, in the village of Budy, Kharkiv region

A general view of a private house with its roof destroyed after the Russian attack on July 8, 2024 in Kharkiv, Ukraine

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskiy and Defence Minister Rustem Umerov listen to Commander of the Ground Forces colonel general Oleksandr Syrskyi as they visit a position of Ukrainian servicemen in the town of Kupiansk

While part of the money goes to the Ukrainian army, most of it goes to pay staff. Arthur said he makes around 1,600 a month from the job.

But the Ukrainian army will take whatever money it can get, given the state of the war, now in its 28th month.

Russian shelling of Ukraine killed four people on Saturday, officials said, as the two countries exchanged drone attacks, one of which set ablaze a Russian oil depot.

Two people died in Ukraine's partly occupied Kherson region and two were wounded in the attack close to the regional capital, said Gov. Oleksandr Prokudin.

Two other people died Saturday afternoon and 22 were wounded in Ukraine's northeastern Kharkiv region, according to Gov. Oleh Syniehubov.

An oil depot in the Tsimlyansky district, deep inside Russia's southwestern Rostov region, was set ablaze in the early hours of Saturday following a Ukrainian drone attack - the latest long-range strike by Kyiv's forces on a border region.
This is the moment a US Secret Service agent struggles to holster her weapon after Donald Trump was shot in an assassination attempt.

Trump, 78, was left bloodied and wounded last night when a bullet pierced the 'upper part' of his right ear during a rally in Pennsylvania.

Gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, opened fire from a rooftop just 130 yards from where the former president was on stage speaking to thousands of fans in Butler at 6.15pm.

Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was shot dead at the scene by US Secret Service officers.

As loud bangs rang out, Trump suddenly grabbed hold of his ear before ducking to the floor as the Secret Service swarmed around him.

He then got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' as he was dragged off stage while the MAGA crowd chanted 'USA'.

There appeared to be chaotic scenes as Trump was bundled into a nearby vehicle as confused-looking Secret Service agents nervously looked around.

One seemed to struggle to holster her weapon into her waistband, while another frantically moved around before touching her ear and facing the crowd as she stood in front of the vehicle.

Republicans have since claimed they made 'repeated requests for stronger protection' for Trump as questions begin to grow over the former President's security.

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi says those claims are 'absolutely false'.

Former US President and Republican candidate Donald Trump is helped offstage after being shot in an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania

There were chaotic scenes as the former President was bundled into a black SUV, with a Secret Service agent appearing to struggle to holster her weapon

She made a couple of attempts to place the weapon back into the gun holster before giving up and deciding to keep a hold of it in her hand

US Secret Service agents surround Trump and the stage after shots are fired

A wounded Trump is dragged offstage as blood pours from his ear

A member of the crowd was killed, while two others who were wounded are in a critical condition. All three are males, according to law enforcement officials.

Rep. Ronny Jackson later revealed his nephew was shot during the assassination attempt and a bullet had grazed his neck.

Jackson, who was Trump and President Barack Obama's White House physician, said he helped his nephew and a friend get a spot in the friends and family section close to the stage at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Rep. Mike Waltz claimed that Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had denied Trump stronger Secret Service protection.

The Florida congressman wrote on X: 'I have very reliable sources telling me there have been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump. Denied by Secretary Mayorkas.'

Mr Guglielmi told MailOnline that 'the assertion that a member of the former President's security team requested additional security resources that the US Secret Service or the Department of Homeland Security rebuffed is absolutely false'.

'In fact, recently the US Secret Service added protective resources and capabilities to the former President's security detail,' he said.

'The former President, and the current President, are commonly subject to threats. The US Secret Service takes threats seriously, and it takes actions based on those threats as warranted.

'The US Secret Service is constantly evaluating the very dynamic threat environment and responding to it in the fulfillment of its responsibilities.

'While we can't get into specifics, the US Secret Service adds additional resources for all campaign cycles including manpower and a variety of protective technology. This addition of resources happens for all election cycles and is part of our candidate nominee operations section, also known as CNOS.'

Sources told the New York Post Trump's Secret Service protection is the fraction the size of sitting presidents.

And he does not receive counter assault and counter defence as part of his protection team, the source added.

Trump mouthed the word 'fight' at supporters as blood spattered across his face

As Trump pumped his fist to the crowd, some were heard cheering his name and chanting 'USA' and 'Make America Great Again'

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

Trump is seen surrounded by Secret Service agents in the moments after the shooting. He raised his fist to indicate that he was okay in an image that has since swept the globe

Donald Trump appeared to be shot in the ear as shots were fired at the former president at a rally in Pennsylvania

Police personnel stand over the body of Thomas Matthews Crooks on a rooftop

A stunned witness, named only as Greg, told the BBC he saw the would-be assassin climb onto the top of a building outside the event, and that he was bewildered by the lack of action from agents.

He said: 'I'm thinking to myself, why is Trump still speaking, why have they not pulled him off the stage? The next thing you know, five shots ring out.'

After the gunman opened fire he saw the Secret Service 'blow his head off,' the man said.

In a post to his Truth Social network, Trump said a bullet pierced the 'upper part' of his right ear.

He received treatment at hospital before being released. Trump later posted a statement thanking the Secret Service and other law enforcement 'for their rapid response'.

He added: 'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured,' he says in the post.

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.'

He ended the post with: 'GOD BLESS AMERICA!'

'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,' Trump wrote. 'Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.'

US House Speaker Speaker Mike Johnson vowed that the House will conduct a full investigation.

In a post on X, the speaker said: 'The American people deserve to know the truth.

Trump remained defiant as he raised his fist again as he is bundled into a nearby SUV before being taken to hospital

Some US Secret Service agents appeared to look confused as they surrounded the vehicle

Armed officers and Secret Service agents surround the SUV as Trump is placed into the vehicle

There appeared to be frantic scenes as the SUV drove Trump away

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

Trump's campaign said he was raced to hospital after the shooting, but is 'fine'

'We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.'

The Secret Service has agreed to brief the House Oversight Committee about the attack.

'He (Trump) does get a very robust former protection detail that is with him all the time. But he doesn't necessarily get all of the different assets that are available. So, I think that there are some aspects of this incident that are going to be investigated,' retired Secret Service Supervisor Bobby McDonald told Reuters.

'The Secret Service will now look at what happened and how that they can again develop and continue to enhance their protective methodologies to make sure that things like this do not happen in the future.'

Former Navy SEAL Rep. Ryank Zinke, R-Mont., who has experience in setting perimeters in combat zones, said the shooter being able to access a 'nearby roof' to take aim at Trump was an 'absolute failure of security.'

And House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., told DailyMail.com in a statement that he plans to hold a hearing with the Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to get to the bottom of the failures.

The House Homeland Security Committee also released a statement indicating their desire to hold a hearing with the Secret Service.

The committee's messages indicate what could be the beginning of a deluge of congressional action over the attempted assassination of the former president.

In a post to Truth Social, Trump said his thoughts are with the family of the rally attendee who was killed as he offered details of the shooting

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit

The Secret Service said in a statement it 'has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe'

Witnesses hug after seeing the assassination attempt

An emergency room doctor at the Trump rally said he performed CPR on a member of the crowd after the shooting

'There are many questions and Americans demand answers,' Comer said. 'I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing.

'The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.'

And within hours Comer officially organized a hearing with U.S. Secret Service brass for Monday July 22.

The committee 'has initiated an investigation into today's assassination attempt,' he writes to Director Cheatle.

Democrat Rep. Ritchie Torres, D-N.Y., also released a statement Saturday calling for an investigation.

'The security failures surrounding the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate demand an investigation,' he wrote.

'The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them - especially when those failures have implications for the Nation.'

Zinke continued to detail the security failure in a post on X.

'I cannot think of a single time where a point of elevation so close in range would have been accessible and not already occupied by security forces.'

'There will be a thorough investigation,' Zinke continued. 'The American people and our leadership deserve better.'

Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., similarly demanded that the Senate Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee hold a hearing on the attempt on Trump's life by August 1, according to a Saturday night statement.

President Biden said at a press conference that there is 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

President Biden said in a statement that American 'must unite as one nation' in response to the horrific scenes.

'I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well,' the White House said in a statement.

'I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.'

In a press conference later in the evening, Biden described the incident as 'sick', and said there is 'no place in America for this kind of violence.'

'I hope I get to speak to him tonight,' Biden said of his 2024 opponent.
A national truant register, treating Channel boats gangs as terrorists and a Net Zero push are all set to feature in Labour's first King's Speech this week.

Initial moves to scrap the remaining 92 hereditary peers are also expected in the plans - although the mandatory retirement age of 80 in the Lords could wait until later in the Parliament.

Keir Starmer's new administration will unveil its legislative programme on Wednesday, nearly a fortnight after securing a massive majority in the election.

The package - said to include more than 35 Bills - will be critical as the PM tries to show he has hit the ground running, with a frenetic few weeks left until the Commons goes into summer recess.

Keir Starmer's new administration will unveil its legislative programme on Wednesday, nearly a fortnight after securing a massive majority in the election

A national truant register, treating Channel boats gangs as terrorists and a Net Zero push are all set to feature in Labour 's first King's Speech this week (pictured, the King delivering the Tory government's speech last year)

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper wants to extend powers under the Terrorism Act to organised immigration crime

Ministers want to impose a legal duty on councils to keep a register of so-called 'ghost children' - who barely attend school (file picture of pupils in class)

Home Secretary Yvette Cooper wants to extend powers under the Terrorism Act to organised immigration crime.

She is now headhunting a former top spy  such as Sir Alexander Younger, the ex-MI6 chief  to fill the role of Border Security Commander.

A total of 590 Channel migrants arrived between last Tuesday and Friday.

Ms Cooper is also planning to increase by 50 per cent the number of specialist officers from Britain's National Crime Agency (NCA) stationed within Europol, the EU's crime-fighting agency, as part of the new drive.

The government is keen to look tough on the issue, after a former border chief claimed yesterday that Kurdish people-smuggling gangs were calling Sir Keir the 'friendly one' after he scrapped Rishi Sunak's plan to send migrants to Rwanda.

Ministers want to impose a legal duty on councils to keep a register of so-called 'ghost children' - who barely attend school - and make parents formally declare when they are home-schooling.

AI will be deployed to help schools, GPs and councils work together more closely, according to the Sunday Times.

The Education Bill, which is being prioritised, will also include a legal requirement for breakfast clubs in every primary school.

And schools will be banned from requiring pupils to wear more than three branded items of uniform.

Downing Street has signalled that a law will be proposed to create a new Mission Control tasked with 'turbocharging' the UK to switch to clean power by 2030.

The strengthening of the OBR, which was outlined in Labour's manifesto, is designed to ensure 'nobody can play fast and loose with the public finances ever again', Downing Street said.

Ahead of the speech, which will be delivered by the King as part of the State Opening of Parliament, Sir Keir said: 'Our work is urgent. There is no time to waste.

'We are hitting the ground running by bringing forward the laws we will need to rebuild our country for the long-term  and our ambitious, fully costed agenda is the down payment on that change.

'From energy, to planning, to unbreakable fiscal rules, my government is serious about delivering the stability that is going to turbo-charge growth that will create wealth in every corner of the UK.

'The task of national renewal will not be easy, and this is just the down payment on our plans for the next five years, but the legislation set out at the King's Speech will build on the momentum of our first days in office and make a difference to the lives of working people.'

The PM signalled that Whitehall's grip over big cities and regions would be loosened as he used his first week in office to meet metro mayors and representatives from the devolved nations.

Initial moves to scrap the remaining 92 hereditary peers are also expected in the plans - although the mandatory retirement age of 80 in the Lords (file picture) could wait until later in the Parliament

Meanwhile, legislation to enact policies such as Labour's national wealth fund and a new 'mission control' tasked with turbo-charging the UK to clean power by 2030 will also feature in the package.

Sir Keir has said such decisions are key to boosting growth, which he has made the central pillar of the changes he wants his new administration to deliver.

Measures to boost housebuilding and infrastructure, improve transport and create more jobs will also be included, Number 10 said.

Tony Blair agreed a compromise Lords reform deal in 1999 that saw 92 hereditary peers retain their seats on a 'temporary basis'.

More than half sit as Tories, making them an easy target for Labour - but the wider goal of abolishing the Upper House altogether looks to have been kicked into the long grass.
A left-wing Australian commentator has faced massive backlash for his 'careless' response to news former US president Donald Trump was shot in a failed assassination attempt.

Ambassador of Australia to the United States Kevin Rudd shared a statement on Sunday following news Trump had been shot during a campaign rally on Saturday night, local time.

'All Australians are shocked by the attack on former president Donald Trump at his campaign rally this evening in Pennsylvania,' Mr Rudd wrote.

'Violence has no place in our democracies. It is a relief to see that President Trump is safe. Our thoughts are with him and his family.'

Ex-radio host Mike Carlton shared a blunt reply to Mr Rudd's message, writing: 'Not my thoughts'

However, Carlton's audience was less than impressed by his choice of words with even Trump critics slamming the Aussie's apparent disregard for safety.

'Sometimes it's better to keep things to yourself,' one wrote.

'You're a disgrace,' another said.

Left-wing Australian commentator Mike Carlton (pictured) has come under fire for writing 'Not my thoughts...' under Kevin Rudd's statement regarding shots fired at Donald Trump

Trump was shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, local time, in an attack that killed one spectator and critically injured two others

A third said: 'Imagine being such a low life that you'd celebrate, or let's say lament someone's safety. What a disappointment you turned out to be Mike.

'I don't like the guy at all, but I'd never wish harm and I'd say he displays more courage than you sitting behind your keyboard.

'You should be ashamed of yourself mate.'

However, Carlton refused to show any remorse as he doubled down on his views.

'The Trump shooting has sure brought out his demented Australian acolytes - anonymous, insignificant little dips***s from Woop Woop Creek and the like, hurling abuse for the benefit of their 20-odd followers. What a life,' he wrote.

'And now watch 'em go again'

Carlton added in another tweet: 'Another pious absurdity is that 'violence has no place in American political life.' It does, actually. Ever since 1776.'

The shooter behind the assassination attempt, which killed one spectator and critically injured two others, has since been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Crooks is a 20-year-old registered Republican who donated to Joe Biden.

He fired at least eight bullets from a rooftop less than 120m from where Trump stood on stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, speaking to thousands of fans at 6.15pm.

Law enforcement sources told CBS News that Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had been armed with 'an AR-style rifle'.

During the attack, he appeared to be wearing merchandise promoting one of YouTube's most popular channels devoted to firearms - Demolition Ranch - NBC News reported.

According to Pennsylvania's public court records, Crooks had no criminal history and officials claimed they are still working towards identifying a motive behind the shooting.

Mike Carlton was slammed by critics for dismissing Kevin Rudd's statement, which expressed a hard stance against violence in politics and relief at Trump's safety

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt, conducted by 20-year-old registered Republican, Thomas Matthew Crooks

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt as he was seen to suddenly grab hold of his ear as loud bangs rang out and whizzed by before he ducked to the floor.

The Secret Service swarmed around the 45th US President as piercing screams were heard from the MAGA crowd.

He then got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' while the audience shouted 'USA' as he was dragged off stage and bundled into a vehicle.
A 20-year-old gunman opened fire at ex-President Donald Trump on July 13 in what is being dubbed the most serious attempt to assassinate a presidential candidate since 1981.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was identified as the shooter by the FBI following the shocking incident that took place during a rally in Butler.

In aftermath it emerged through federal campaign finance records that the gunman was a registered Republican who had previously made a $15 donation to the liberal ActBlue political action committee on January 20, 2021 - Biden's Inauguration Day.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was identified by the FBI as the shooter in the Donald Trump assassination attempt on July 13. He was later gunned down and killed by the Secret Service

Donald Trump was addressing a cheering crowd at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, before he was shot in the ear

Secret Service swarmed to his side and ushered the former-President away while he was seen with blood pouring down his face

Trump emerged from the cover of the suited agents and raised a fist, shouting: 'Fight, fight, fight' before he was taken to hospital

During the attack, Crooks wore merchandise promoting one of YouTube's most popular channels devoted to firearms - Demolition Ranch.

According to Pennsylvania's public court records, Crooks had no criminal history and officials claimed they are still working towards identifying a motive behind the shooting.

Crooks appeared to have graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School, and received a $500 'star award' that year from the National Math and Science Initiative, a report from The Tribune-Review in western Pennsylvania.

In an online recording of the 2022 graduation ceremony, he can be seen crossing the stage as the crowd applauds him, before briefly posing with a school official and accepting his diploma.

Crooks opened fire from a rooftop 150 yards from where Trump was on stage addressing thousands of fans in Butler at 6:15pm.

Footage of the moment shows Trump suddenly grabbing his ear as blood poured down his face after at least eight shots were fired in his direction.

The crowd began screaming and fleeing the venue as Secret Service agents swarmed around the injured former-President.

But in a show of strength, Trump emerged from the cover of the suited agents and raised a fist, shouting: 'Fight, fight, fight', before he was ushered away from the chaotic scenes and sent to hospital.

Crooks had killed a member of the crowd and critically injured two others before he was gunned down by the Secret Service.

The shooter was killed after he fired from an 'elevated position' outside the outdoor rally venue, according to the Secret Service.

Images show at least four members of law enforcement surrounding the bloody gunman and the AR-15-type semiautomatic rifle he used on the roof, while they point their guns towards his body.

Following the shocking incident, Trump was then seen just hours later walking down the stairs of his plane, Trump Force One, in Newark, New Jersey.

His deputy communications director Margo Martin posted the video to X, formerly Twitter, with the message: 'Strong and resilient'.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler

The former US president was seen with blood on his right ear as he was surrounded by security agents, who hustled him off the stage as he pumped his first to the crowd

Snipers stand on a roof at Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Butler

The former-President appears to have Secret Service agents in front and behind him as he disembarks the plane.

'He will never stop fighting for America,' Margo Martin wrote.

Current President Joe Biden also took to X following the attack to condemn the assassination attempt, and it has since been confirmed that he has spoken with Trump following the shooting.

'I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania,' he wrote in a post.

'I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

'Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it'.

Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, also shared a message acknowledging the 'love and prayers' for her father and for the other victims of the 'senseless violence'.

Taking to X, she wrote: 'I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today.

'I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.'

Speaking out for the first time following the assassination attempt, Trump thanked law enforcement officers and the Secret Service for their 'rapid response'.

He added: 'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country'.
Boris Johnson said it is a 'miracle' Donald Trump survived an attempted assassination today - as Keir Starmer condemned the 'appalling' events at a campaign rally.

UK politicians from across parties have been voicing repulsion at the shocking scenes, with multiple shots fired at the former President while he was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Mr Trump was hit in the ear and left with blood running down his face as he was hustled to safety by the secret service.

Snipers took out the attacker - believed to have been outside the perimeter of the show grounds, several hundred yards from the stage - but a member of the audience was killed.

Mr Johnson posted on social media: 'It is a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

'As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason. Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.'

The PM said on X: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

Boris Johnson said it is a 'miracle' Donald Trump survived an attempted assassination

Keir Starmer condemned the 'appalling' events at a campaign rally

Donald Trump appeared to be shot in the ear as shots were fired at the former president at a rally in Pennsylvania

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

The husband of murdered MP Jo Cox called for a 'consensus against political violence in all forms' after the shooting at a rally for former US president Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.

Brendan Cox, whose wife Ms Cox was killed by a far-right extremist in 2016, posted to X, questioning Mr Trump's own behaviour towards political opponents.

He added: 'But that doesn't justify using violence against him. It undermines democracy & makes more violence more likely.

'We need a consensus against political violence in all forms.'

Newly elected MP Nigel Farage, a close friend of Mr Trump said he is going to travel to see Mr Trump at the Republican convention this week.

'Mainstream media have spread a narrative of hatred against my friend Donald Trump,' he said on social media. 'I hope they are proud of themselves. Disgusting people.'

Appearing on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg this morning, Mr Farage said: 'I was very upset and I'm still upset.

'I'm obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but he's got away with it.

'But one person is dead. Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so it's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it.'

Mr Farage, who had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign, said Donald Trump and politicians in the UK now had to balance security with meeting voters: 'The problem with this is, how do you go out and campaign? Think of John Major 30 years ago, a soap box in market squares, you couldn't do that today.

'So we finish up with our political leaders never meeting a voter, never meeting the public. I suspect knowing Trump as I do, he will carry on regardless.'

Another former Prime Minister, Liz Truss struck a similar tone, saying: 'Pray for President Trump. Pray for America.'

Commons Leader Lucy Powell warned on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that the UK was also seeing a rise in violence against politicians.

'Clearly we have seen a rise in intimidation and attacks on serving politicians or people who want to be politicians in this country too,' she said.

While Ms Powell said the election was one of the 'great things about our democracy', she added: 'But we have to remember that underneath that, there has been this growing sense of insecurity and hate and attacks.'

'It is something that we need to take action on,' she said.

The Commons Leader later said some colleagues had 'real difficulties' while campaigning, telling Sky: 'They have seen intimidation in the streets when campaigning, they have seen some intimidatory activity around and nearby polling stations.

'We have seen some deepfakes being shared online about individuals that have turned out to be completely wrong, we have seen misinformation shared that fuels hatred and has a dehumanising effect on individuals.'

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also condemned the actions of the shooter as unacceptable.

'The UK government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

'As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump - along with every victim and their families.'
A 94-year-old killer has died months after being sentenced for the murder of his wife.

Donald Morley was jailed to nine years in April after pleading guilty to killing his wife Jean Morley.

The body of the 92-year-old woman was found in her bed by a care worker on a routine visit to their home in Fisher, ACT, in August 2023.

Mrs Morley had been suffering dementia before her husband smothered her with a pillow in their matrimonial bed.

Following his sentencing, Morley had been transferred to Clare Holland House medical facility as he was suffering terminal cancer.

ACT Police confirmed he died on Friday as a sentenced prisoner.

Justice David Mossop had sentenced Morley to nine years in jail with a non parole period of four-and-a-half years.

Donald Morley and his wife Jean Morley had been living in Canberra when he killed her.

'(Morley) came to fear the future and believed that this was an acceptable option,' Justice David Mossop said during his sentencing remarks in April.

'Murder remains murder, notwithstanding the age or infirmity of the victim or the perpetrator.

'Murder is the gravest denial of individual autonomy ... all the more so when the victim is vulnerable.'

Jean Morley was murdered by her husband Donald Morley at their Fisher home in Canberra in 2023. Picture: Contributed

There are no suspicious circumstances in relation to Morley's death.

Police will submit a report to the coroner.

The couple, who were married for 69 years, had high school sweethearts who had migrated to Australia from the UK when they were both 40.

If you or anyone who know needs support, contact 1800RESPECT (1800 737 732), Lifeline on 13 11 14 or beyondblue on 1300 224 636.
Divers have recovered a man's body from a popular dam in Queensland hours after his speed boat flipped and sunk.

Emergency services were called to Lake Somerset in Brisbane's north-west, shortly before 9am on Sunday.

A search and rescue operation was launched at the waterway, with the support of water police, specialist officers, aerial assets, and partner agencies.

The body of a 45-year-old Clagiraba man from the Gold Coast rural outskirts was located that afternoon.

'At approximately 4pm, officers located the vessel and one person deceased in the water within the search area,' Queensland Police said in a statement.

It's understood the man was the only one on board the speedboat.

A report will be prepared for the coroner.

Investigations into the circumstances of the incident are underway.

The body of a 45-year-old Clagiraba man was pulled from the water on Sunday afternoon

A search and rescue operation was launched at Lake Somerset following reports of a missing boat

A jet ski racing event was being held at the dam on Sunday

But it's understood that the boat that capsized was not part of that event.

All recreation areas at Somerset Dam will be closed until further notice.

Anyone who may have witnessed the incident is being urged to contact PoliceLink on 131 444.
Reform's ousted deputy leader has slammed the 'undemocratic' party warning Nigel Farage risks being 'surrounded' by sycophants'.

Ben Habib laid into Mr Farage's domination of the insurgents, saying his position as effective owner was 'unsustainable'.

He compared Reform's structure with other parties that have leadership elections and involve members in policy decisions.

The intervention, in an article for the Sunday Times, came after tensions flared in the wake of the election.

Mr Farage effectively sacked Mr Habib as he announced a new 'leadership team', making made Richard Tice his deputy.

Reform's ousted deputy leader has slammed the 'undemocratic' party warning Nigel Farage (pictured being sworn in last week) risks being 'surrounded' by sycophants'

Ben Habib (pictured) laid into Mr Farage's domination of the insurgents, saying his position as effective owner was 'unsustainable'

Lee Anderson, another of the five MPs elected for the party on July 4, became Chief Whip, and millionaire donor Zia Yusuf chairman of the outfit.

However, Mr Habib was not given any role - sparking concerns that Reform will be riven by the same kind of infighting that often blighted Ukip.

In his article, Mr Habib pointed to Reform's status as a limited company with Mr Farage as the majority shareholder.

'That may be acceptable for a start-up business founded by a star performer. But this a political party and, as the word suggests, a collective,' he wrote.

'It should not be controlled by one man. Other parties have boards, executive committees, and elections for leadership positions.

'To date, Nigel's control has allowed decisions and progress to be made rapidly. But this is not a sustainable model. Apart from anything else, Reform cannot make the argument for democracy, let alone champion it, with such a glaring democratic deficit.'

Mr Habib also attacked Mr Farage's decision to stand down his candidates against the Tories at the 2019 election, saying that showed control was 'an undue burden for one man to bear'.

'He did so because he feared a Corbyn government and a second referendum: valid concerns, but it was not a decision reached consensually. As a result, we got Boris Johnson's awful withdrawal agreement,' he said.

Nigel Farage and his Reform MPs posed for cameras in Westminster last week after arriving for the start of the new term after their election breakthrough

Mr Habib said: 'The popular movement we created does not belong to any one person or Reform; it belongs to the people.

'Reform is obliged to the people. They fulfilled their part of the bargain by voting for it. It must now fulfil its part by delivering for them.

'This has to start by democratising the party. Reform needs talented people in senior positions.

'It must involve them in decisions. Leaders with undue control are surrounded by sycophants and have no truck with criticism.

'I am pleased to hear the matter is being seriously considered and I hope it will provide democratic voice to the movement.'
Shocking video shows the moment a gang pulls off a heist after sprinkling itching powder on their victim.

The viral footage shows the work of the Khujli Gang, otherwise known as the 'Itch Gang', in Sadar Bazaar, Delhi, India.

A man carrying a bag, who was targeted, by the gang, was filmed entering a shop.

He looks extremely uncomfortable and begins frantically scratching himself all over his neck.

A man can be seen itching after being targeted by the Khujli Gang who get their name because of their bizarre methods

The victim can be seen setting his bag down to attend to his unstoppable itching

Two members of the Itch Gang enter the shop and immediately spot the victim's bag

But he is unable to relieve the itching and so takes off his T-shirt, setting the bag down.

While he is distracted, members of the gang are seen entering the shop.

One of the gang members casually walks around, pretending to shop before snatching the bag and quickly leaving.

The theft was incredibly smooth and effortless but just moments later the victim comes back and realises his bag is gone.

The gang have become infamous in India with footage going viral of their crimes.

In another video showing the Itch Gang's handiwork, a man by his car next to a busy road.

A member of the gang walks around casually pretending to shop before snatching the bag and leaving

The victim returned to find that his bag was missing. He was only gone for a matter of seconds

The victim and the shop owner leave the store and look around frantically for the stolen black bag

Suddenly he begins itching and it seems so intense that he sets a bag down to whip his shirt off to scratch all over his body.

But members of the gang are seen hovering nearby and when the moment is right, brazenly steal the victim's bag from right under his nose.

By the time the itching stops, the victim looks around panicked as he realises his bag is missing.

Dehli Police are investigating the crimes and and urging the public to report any suspicious activity.
A man accused of urinating on produce at a CBD Woolworths in front of shocked shoppers was previously banned from the store, a court has heard.

Lochlan Ebejer, 22, appeared in Parramatta Bail Court on Sunday, hours after he was charged with contamination of goods with intent to cause public alarm.

He was also charged with enter inclosed land not prescribed premises without lawful excuse, and offensive conduct while upon non-prescribed inclosed lands.

Ebejer allegedly urinated on shelves of raw meat in front of at least four customers at a Woolworths on George Street in the Sydney CBD on July 1.

The '28 second' incident allegedly caused more than $300 in damage to produce before Ebejer was captured on CCTV leaving the store while tying up his pants.

Police were told staff undertook extensive work over a several hours to decontaminate the area.

The court also heard that the Toongabbie man was previously banned from attending the Woolworths store, the Daily Telegraph reported.

NSW Police released the Woolworths CCTV last Thursday as part of a public appeal to track down the alleged offender.

Lochlan Ebejer, who was accused of urinating on raw refrigerated meat at Woolworths, was granted bail on Sunday afternoon

The footage showed a man wearing a backwards cap, a black jacket and black pants on the supermarket escalator.

Ebejer was arrested in Hunters Hill at 1.40am on Sunday and taken to Gladesville Police Station.

He appeared in court via video link from police custody.

The court heard Ebejer was medicated and receiving NDIS assistance after being diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

The police prosecutor opposed bail, describing the alleged offending as 'quite alarming'.

CCTV footage showed the man wearing a backwards cap, a black jacket and black pants on the supermarket escalator on July 1

He noted the risk of Ebejer reoffending and his history of non-compliance with court orders among his reasons.

Magistrate Robert Rabbidge said the alleged incident was 'unusual' and could possibly compromise Woolworths' integrity.

'The facts indicate it was a protest or as part of his mental health issues,' he told the court.

Ebejer was freed on strict bail conditions.

He must report to police daily and not enter any Woolworths store.

Sporting dark sunnies, a cap worn backwards and Tommy Hilfiger T-shirt, Ebejer had no comment for the waiting media as he left court.

He will appear Downing Centre Local Court on July 16.
French president Emmanuel Macron was today seen attending a military parade in Paris in honour of Bastille Day, amid growing political resentment following the shock election results earlier this month.

Celebrations for this year's Bastille Day, the 235th anniversary of revolutionaries stormed the Bastille fortress and prison in Paris, heralding the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy, were compounded with the lighting of the Olympic torch.

Some 4,000 people and 162 horses marched in the tightly choreographed show, among them units that served in NATO missions in eastern Europe, against Islamic extremists in the Sahel, protecting French territories in the South Pacific and global shipping corridors.

The ornamental uniforms are rich in symbolism - most notably those of the French Foreign Legion sappers, with long beards, leather aprons and axes from their original role as route-clearers for advancing armies.

Overhead, 65 aircraft will fly in formations, including a British Typhoon fighter alongside French Mirages and Rafales, rescue helicopters and aircraft used in missions from Afghanistan to Mali or international drug busts.

President Emmanuel Macron kicked Sunday's events off with a review of the troops, followed by a performance of the Marseillaise, France's national anthem.

French president Emmanuel Macron (pictured) was today seen attending a military parade in Paris in honour of Bastille Day

Bastille Day is the celebration of revolutionaries storming the Bastille fortress and prison in Paris, heralding the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy

The numbers are scaled back compared with previous years, because of Olympics security measures

What does Bastille Day celebrate? On July 14, 1789, revolutionaries stormed the Bastille fortress and prison in Paris, heralding the start of the French Revolution and the end of the monarchy. The holiday is central to the French calendar, with events across the country. It aims to embody the national motto of `'liberty, equality and fraternity,' though not everyone in France feels the country lives up to that promise. The Paris parade is the holiday's highlight. This year, it's paying tribute to those who freed France from Nazi occupation 80 years ago, with a re-enactment of the D-Day landings of June 6, 1944, and a display of emblems of the 31 countries whose troops contributed to the liberation. About half are African nations that were under French colonial rule during World War II. Advertisement

The numbers are scaled back compared with previous years, because of Olympics security measures. Around 130,000 police are deployed around France for the holiday weekend.

The parade will wrap up with the arrival of the flame, escorted by riders on horseback, 25 torchbearers, and cadets forming the shapes of the Olympic rings. The main torchbearer is Colonel Thibault Vallette, equestrian gold medalist in the 2016 Rio Olympics.

Usually, the parade travels from the Napoleon-era Arc de Triomphe to the Concorde plaza, where France's last king and queen were beheaded.

This year, Concorde has been transformed into a huge Olympic venue for breakdancing, skateboarding and BMX. So the parade route headed to the Bois de Boulogne park on the city's edge instead.

Olympic venue construction around the Eiffel Tower means spectators can't gather beneath the monument to watch its annual fireworks show, either.

After its Bastille Day appearance, the torch relay will swing by Notre Dame Cathedral, the historic Sorbonne university and the Louvre Museum before heading to other Paris landmarks Monday.

This year's Bastille Day offers Macron a moment of distraction from the political turmoil he unleashed with snap elections that weakened his pro-business centrist party and his presidency.

The result left a deadlocked parliament with no one clearly in charge. The prime minister could leave office within days, while the left-wing alliance that won the most seats is struggling to agree on a proposed replacement.

This year's Bastille Day offers Macron a moment of distraction from the political turmoil he unleashed with snap elections that weakened his pro-business centrist party

People react after the second round of the French legislative elections results at Place de la Republique in Paris, France, 7 July 2024

The European Union's second largest economy, a nuclear-armed G7 power and permanent member of the UN Security Council, is rudderless

With government in limbo and Macron barred by the constitution from calling fresh elections for at least 12 months, far-right figurehead Marine Le Pen is eyeing the 2027 campaign with relish

Prime Minister Gabriel Attal is hanging on as caretaker head of government but the centrist has reportedly fallen out with Macron and is now focusing on his own future, taking charge of his reduced party in parliament.

Other figures are mobilising with an eye on the 2027 presidential race, but there is little sign of a majority emerging from parliament, split between three camps.

With government in limbo and Macron barred by the constitution from calling fresh elections for at least 12 months, far-right figurehead Marine Le Pen is eyeing the 2027 campaign with relish.

Meanwhile, a rapidly cobbled-together left-wing alliance, the New Popular Front (NFP), now has the most MPs but no outright majority and no clear candidate for PM.

A vandalised bus stop as rioters clash with riot police at Place de la Republique during a protest over the legislative election results, on July 8, 2024

Paris erupted in riots following the release of the final results of the election

Firebrand hardliner Jean-Luc Melenchon and his France Unbowed (LFI) party have alienated many even on the left and would be rejected by the centre and right.

But LFI represents a large chunk of the NFP and, along with some greens and communists, had been touting Huguette Bello, the 73-year-old former communist and president of the regional council on Reunion in the Indian Ocean, as premier.

But on Sunday she declined the role, saying that there was no consensus behind her candidacy, notably because of opposition from the centre-left Socialist Party, and that she wanted the NFP to agree to another name quickly.

The European Union's second largest economy, a nuclear-armed G7 power and permanent member of the UN Security Council, is thus rudderless, a troubling situation for markets and France's allies alike.
Neighbours have revealed how they desperately smashed windows in an attempt to save two children who died in a blaze in East London on Saturday.

The Metropolitan Police said four other people remain in hospital - including a child whose condition is critical. All six people are believed to be members of the same family who lived at the house on Napier Road.

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were called to the blaze just before 8.30am on Saturday but frantic neighbours attempted to save the family before the emergency services arrived.

Family friend Rida Nawaz, 28, and her husband Shah Nawaz, 37, smashed the upstairs and downstairs windows to try to save those in the burning house.

Speaking to PA News Agency at the scene on Sunday afternoon, Mrs Nawaz said: 'We can't believe this happened. There are no words to describe our feelings about them. We just wanted to save them.'

Firefighters stand outside the property in East London where two children have died following a house fire - as flowers lay in tribute

Members of the public and police officers stand outside the property on Napier Road

Two children have been killed and four others remain in hospital following a blaze in a terraced house on Napier Road, East Ham

Standing outside the house on Napier Road, Mr Nawaz said: 'Someone threw the big brick, the full brick, at the window but couldn't break it.

'And the half brick, I hold in my hand, I threw it... to help the family because the mum - she was by the window.'

He added: 'The dad, he came through the roof - after five, ten minutes we saw on the corner the children came.

'We saw the police running up and using CPR, giving them CPR.'

'For me and my wife, we are okay but my little three children - they study with them.'

The traumatised neighbour spoke of how is son, aged five, was terrified to go home after witnessing the fire.

Mr Nawaz continued: 'My child lately is very distraught.

'He said he doesn't want to go home, inside and that if we go inside a fire will happen.

'The children, my children, I think they slept maybe two hours or one-ish. The day was bad, very bad.'

Residents of Napier Road are 'helping each other' after a 'very scary day'.

Another neighbour described the mother of the two children who died in the housefire as a 'very strong and motivated mum' and that she had saved her third child by sending her upstairs.

Speaking at the scene on Napier Road, Sabah Waheed, 35, said the pair had known each other for ten years.

She said: 'She was a very strong lady, always looking after her children - very strong and motivated mum and this tragedy happened - I'm sure she must have tried her best to do something.

'She sent one child upstairs - she saved her life.

'But unfortunately, whatever happened three children were seriously burned.'

She continued: 'This is a very big loss for the local community and it's very sad news among the friends.'

Six fire engines and around 40 firefighters were dispatched to the blaze at around 8.30am on Saturday morning

An investigation has been launched by Metropolitan Police and London Fire Brigade

Officers are investigating the fire alongside London Fire Brigade (LFB) colleagues. At this 'early stage', they have 'no evidence to indicate suspicious circumstances' but confirmed that enquiries are ongoing.

Half of the first floor and half of the ground floor of the terraced house were damaged by the fire, which was under control by 9.10am.

LFB's Assistant Commissioner Patrick Goulbourne said: 'This is a terribly sad incident and the thoughts of all of us at London Fire Brigade are with the family, friends and all those affected at this difficult time.

'Staff will be in the local community over the coming days to offer support and advice where needed.'

He also confirmed that firefighters would receive 'support from our counselling and trauma service'.

A fire engine and a police forensics van were seen parked at the scene in East Ham on Sunday afternoon as investigations continued.

Two windows of the house and the glass in the front door were smashed and investigations teams dressed in white forensics suits entered the building and the neighbouring property.

Members of the local community - Newham - were seen embracing and crying as they gathered on the street outside where flowers were left in tribute.

Notes left with the flowers included one that read 'so sorry for your terrible loss'.

Several people, including a vicar and the local mayor, addressed a group of members of the community who gathered at the scene on Sunday afternoon.

Mayor of Newham, Rohksana Fiaz, held a bunch of flowers as she spoke to the group and paid tribute to the 'two precious angels' that lost their lives.

'We will come together, and comfort each other,' she added.

Flowers were left in tribute outside the property on Napier Road

The cause of the inferno is still under investigation

DCI Jonathan Burks, one of the senior officers responsible for policing Newham, said: 'I appreciate that local people will be shocked and saddened by this tragic event.

'We share those sentiments and will do all we can, alongside LFB, the local authority and other partners, to provide the family and local community with support and answers to their questions about this heart-breaking incident.'
Donald Trump's supporters have hailed him a 'badass' for his defiant handling of the assassination attempt last night.

The 45th President, 78, repeatedly mouthed the word 'fight' as blood trickled down his cheek after a bullet pierced the 'upper part' of his right ear.

The image of a bloodied Trump raising his fist aloft could be a defining one and cause his popularity soar ahead of November's election in echoes of Ronald Reagan's shooting in 1981 when the country rallied around him.

Trump had thrown himself to the floor after would-be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, fired at least eight bullets at the Republican candidate just minutes into his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The US Secret Service swarmed on top of Trump before he got to his feet in a show of defiance that was captured in a photo seen all over the world.

The snap of Trump with his arm aloft as agents huddle around him with an American flag flapping in the background is already iconic as the former President refused to leave the stage without his shoes.

His son Donald Trump Jr. has pinned the image to his X account which has been viewed more than 13 million times. He wrote alongside it in triumph: 'He'll never stop fighting to Save America.'

Donald Trump 's supporters believe the assassination attempt last night and the image of the former President's raised fist could galvanise him ahead of the election

The US Secret Service swarmed on top of Trump before he got to his feet in a show of defiance that was captured in a photo seen all over the world

Trump pumped a fist at the crowd and did not seem to severely injured as he walked on his own off the stage, surrounded by secret service

His son Donald Trump Jr . has pinned the image to his X account which has been viewed more than 13 million times

It is the first assassination attempt since Ronald Reagan was shot as he left the Hilton Hotel in Washington DC in 1981

The White House released this photograph made at the Capitol Hilton seconds before President Reagan was shot

An assassination attempt on President Reagan resulted in his press secretary, James Brady, being shot in the head. A police officer and secret service agent were also wounded

Would-be Reagan assassin John Hinckley Jr

Sitting members of Congress also posted the photo as Republican Derrick Van Orden declared Trump had 'just won the election'.

Ahead of next week's Republican convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Trump is expected to receive a hero's welcome as he officially accepts his party's nomination.

GOP strategist Mike Murphy told Politico: 'The raised fist will become the iconic symbol of the convention.'

Republican Congressman Tim Burchett believes the attempt on Trump's life 'will energise the base more than anything'.

'And he, you know - with his fist in the air and he didn't want to leave. And he's yelling, fight, fight, fight. That'll be the slogan,' he told Politico.

It is the first assassination attempt since Reagan was shot as he left the Hilton Hotel in Washington DC on March 30, 1981.

He had just given a speech to union members and was 70 days into his first term when John W. Hinckley Jr. pulled the trigger six times in 1.7 seconds.

A bullet which deflected off the side of a limo landed just an inch from Reagan's heart.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he will travel to the United States for the convention as a 'show of friendly solidarity' with Trump.

Mr Farage said he 'almost certainly would have been' at Saturday's rally in Pennsylvania if he had not won his Clacton seat at the General Election.

He told Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips on Sky News: 'It's the convention next week and I have now decided I will fly out and see him next Thursday and listen to his acceptance speech.

'I will absolutely do that as a show of friendly solidarity. Donald Trump is not perfect, but some of the things that are allowed to be said about him are frankly appalling.'

Police personnel stand over the body of Thomas Matthews Crooks on a rooftop

Officers stand guard outside a cordon in Bethel Park as cops search an address registered to Crooks

The former president appeared to be shot in the ear

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

Blood can be seen pouring from the side of the former president's head

Mr Farage said he had a drink thrown at him 'as recently as last Wednesday', adding on the safety of MPs: 'I find it astonishing that Members of Parliament can walk out across the square and get on the London Underground, I find it astonishing that, frankly, more MPs aren't attacked.

'That is how unpleasant so much of the narrative is. It's become deeply personal and I'm afraid - and a lot of the public hate this - but if you want people to stand for public office, we're going to have to protect them properly.'

UFC fighters have also rallied around Trump as former welterweight champion Colby Covington declared him 'the toughest man on the face of this earth'.

'God bless him and his family right now,' he added on X.

Former middleweight champion Sean Strickland said: 'Trump is an utter savage... Man gets shot and still is for his people... Utter savage....'

Meanwhile, after his fight at Saturday's UFC event, Evan Elder gave a shoutout to Trump.

'Hey. I heard they just tried to whack my boy Trump,' he said. 'I'm glad that man's okay. Long live Trump. Let's go baby Trump 2024.'

A member of the crowd was killed in the deadly shooting, while two others who were wounded are in a critical condition. All three are males, according to law enforcement officials.

Covington is an ardent Trump supporter and visited him at the White House back in 2018

Crooks was shot dead by a US Secret Service sniper after he opened fire from a rooftop just 130 yards from where Trump was stood.

His father, Matthew Crooks, 53, told CNN he was trying to figure out 'what the hell is going on' but would 'wait until I talk to law enforcement' before speaking.

Law enforcement sources told CBS News that Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had been armed with 'an AR-style rifle'.

In a post to his Truth Social network, Trump thanked the Secret Service and other law enforcement 'for their rapid response'.

'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin,' he said on social media.

'Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.

'I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response,' Trump added.

'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

'GOD BLESS AMERICA!'
Jay Slater's family have called in a team of Dutch rescue experts to continue the search for the teenager nearly a month after he went missing in Tenerife.

Apprentice bricklayer Jay, 19, disappeared after being driven to a remote Air BnB by two men at the end of an after party in a nightclub on the Spanish party island on June 17.

It will be four weeks on Monday since he was last in contact with friends - calling them to say he was 'lost in the mountains, thirsty and with one per cent battery'.

A 13-day search by police using drones, dogs and a helicopter failed to find any trace of Jay, from Oswaldtwistle, Lancashire, in the barren wilderness of the Teno National Park close to the village of Masca.

Jay's devastated mother Debbie Duncan, 55, yesterday posted an update on a GoFundMe page set up for her son, which has so far raised more than 52,000.

The update reveals the family have called in rescue experts from the Netherlands to help find the teenager after Spanish police ceased their land search.

Missing Jay Slater with his mother Debbie Duncan, 55, who has posted an update on the search

The update reveals the family have called in rescue experts from the Netherlands to help with the search for the teenager after Spanish police ceased their land search

Apprentice bricklayer Jay, 19, vanished after being driven to a remote Air BnB

A 13-day search by police using drones, dogs and a helicopter failed to find any trace of Jay

The update reads: 'Almost four weeks on and we are still no further in finding our beautiful boy. He was only four days into his holiday and his disappearance still remains a mystery.

'We are still here in Tenerife searching daily with the help of volunteers and local hiking groups.'

Debbie adds: 'As you all know the Guardia Civil gave up the land search after 12 days. We have been actively working with search and rescue teams and we can now confirm that we have a team of experts flying in over the weekend from the Netherlands, who will carry on the search with their specialist dogs.

'We are only able to fund this with the generosity of all those who donated. The team are the Signi Zoekhondon and this has taken lots of planning to get them over so thank you so much for your kindness.

'Jay is just a normal hardworking young lad from Lancashire who is very loved by all who know him.

Volunteers search for Jay in Masca as the teenager remains missing

A volunteer firefighter searches for Jay in the Juan Lopez ravine near Masca

'He is about to finish his three year apprenticeship this month. Although we don't have any answers to his disappearance we obviously have to remain positive.

'Please continue to pray for him and our family. There is a lot of negativity unfortunately and this is adding to the heartbreak of the unknown. So I would please just say send the love and positive thoughts to Jay, our beautiful son.'

Police have said they are 'continuing with the investigation and have lines open' but refuse to disclose them leaving school finance officer Debbie and the rest of his family in the dark.

Masca is an hour from the Papagayo nightclub in the heady resort of Playa de las Americas where Jay was last seen with the two British men following the end of the New Rave Generation three-day festival.
China issues alerts for mountain torrents

Xinhua) 10:18, July 14, 2024

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- China's meteorological and water resources authorities on Saturday evening issued a warning of impending mountain torrents in some regions.

According to an orange alert issued by the Ministry of Water Resources and the China Meteorological Administration, mountain torrents are expected to occur in parts of Sichuan and Yunnan between 8 p.m. Saturday to 8 p.m. Sunday.

The two departments also issued a yellow alert for mountain torrents in parts of Xinjiang.

Localities have been advised to strengthen real-time monitoring and flood warnings, prepare for possible evacuations, and implement other risk-mitigation measures.

China has a four-tier, color-coded weather warning system, with red representing the most severe warning, followed by orange, yellow and blue.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Brittany Higgins and her husband David Sharaz have revealed they're expecting their first child, just a month after tying the knot.

The exciting news was captioned on a photo showing knitted booties and a pair of baby overalls.

'Can't wait to meet you,' the thrilled couple announced on Instagram on Sunday.

'Beyond excited to welcome a new member to our little family.

'Your parents are already obsessed with you and you aren't even here yet.'

The post was quickly inundated with messages from wellwishers.

'What a beautiful time ahead for you and David. Congratulations,' The Block judge Shayna Blaze commented.

The happy couple were recently married at one of Australia's most exclusive and elegant wedding venues, The Valley Estate on the Gold Coast in June.

Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz are expecting their first child

The happy news was captioned on a photo of knitted booties and overalls

The happy couple celebrated their nuptials with a small group of close friends and family only in Queensland.

The pair first met in 2020, when Mr Sharaz was working as a producer for Karl Stefanovic's brother Pete on his Sky News breakfast program.

Mr Sharaz was instantly smitten, having previously described watching the 'beautiful' Ms Higgins walk through the door of a Parliament House television studio.

On the day of their wedding, Mr Sharaz had shared the funny exchange between him and his future bride long before they started dating.

He revealed he had accidentally sent a photo of Ms Higgins by the famous 'budget tree' in a Parliament House courtyard from her Instagram account back to her, when he was trying to send it to a friend.

Commenting on a photo of Ms Higgins, Mr Sharaz wrote: 'Love this photo. But mainly the tree.'

Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz returned to Australia in June for their wedding at The Valley Estate on the Gold Coast

The news comes after Brittany Higgins and David Sharaz (pictured in December in France) tied the knot on the Gold Coast in June

In the caption in June, Mr Sharaz wrote: 'Accidentally sent a girl I had a crush on  photo of herself.'

'Few years later we're getting married! Romcoms do exist.'

Mr Sharaz popped to Ms Higgins in a romantic proposal at the top of Byron Bay lighthouse on News Year's Eve 2022.

The happy news comes just two days after Ms Higgins wished her beloved grandfather a 'speedy recovery' in an emotional post.

'Sending love to my amazing grandpa - who insists on surfing with a helmet, watching sports with the sound on mute and who shared his love of politics with me. Thinking of you + praying for a speedy recovery,' she captioned a collage of family photos.

The couple have set up a new life in for the sprawling countryside in Lunas, near Bordeaux in southern France, which they've called home since last December.

Their move came five years after Ms Higgins claimed she was raped by former parliamentary staffer Bruce Lehrmann at Parliament House in 2019.

Mr Lehrmann has always denied the allegations and had pleaded not guilty to a single charge of engaging in sexual intercourse without consent before the trial was aborted due to juror misconduct.

In the Federal Court earlier this year, Justice Michael Lee ruled Mr Lehrmann was convinced to a civil standard - which is different to a criminal standard - on the balance of probabilities Ms Higgins was raped.

The finding came following legal action Mr Lehrmann brought against Network 10 and journalist Lisa Wilkinson over a report about the alleged rape on The Project program in 2021.

Mr Lehrmann is appealing the decision.
David Lammy urged an 'immediate ceasefire' between Israel and Hamas and the release of hostages today as he visited the Middle East for the first time as Foreign Secretary.

Mr Lammy said the death toll in Gaza was 'intolerable' and called for 'unrestricted' access for aid.

He is on a mission to Israel and the Occupied Palestinian Territories as Labour walks a diplomatic tightrope - with many of the party's voters demanding a more pro-Palestinian stance.

The latest phase of the war erupted when Hamas terrorist stormed into Israel on October 7, slaughtering civilians and taking hostages.

David Lammy (pictured at the Nato summit last week) urged an 'immediate ceasefire' between Israel and Hamas and the release of hostages today as he visits the Middle East for the first time as Foreign Secretary

Mr Lammy said the death toll in Gaza (pictured today) was 'intolerable' and called for 'unrestricted' access for aid

Mr Lammy has announced that the UK will provide another 5.5million this year to UK-Med, a frontline charity who send medics to to crisis-hit regions.

In Israel he will hold talks with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog to reiterate the need to end the conflict in Gaza and secure the release of hostages.

Mr Lammy will highlight that more than 680 tonnes of UK aid in the region and waiting to enter Gaza, including medicines, shelters and hygiene kits.

He will also meet families with links to the UK whose loved ones were either murdered or captured by Hamas.

Mr Lammy said: 'The death and destruction in Gaza is intolerable. This war must end now, with an immediate ceasefire, complied with by both sides.

'The fighting has got to stop, the hostages still cruelly detained by Hamas terrorists need to be released immediately and aid must be allowed in to reach the people of Gaza without restrictions.

'I am meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to stress the UK's ambition and commitment to play its full diplomatic role in securing a ceasefire deal and creating the space for a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.

'The world needs a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.

'Central to this is to see an end to expanding illegal Israeli settlements and rising settler violence in the West Bank.

'Here, in what should be a crucial part of a Palestinian state, alongside Gaza and East Jerusalem, we need to see a reformed and empowered Palestinian Authority.'
A staff member of a Mississippi Democratic congressman took to social media and said she wished the shooter who tried to take Donald Trump's life had better aim.

On Saturday evening, shortly after Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, attempted to assassinate the former president during a rally in Pennsylvania, Jacqueline Marsaw, the field director for Mississippi Congressman Bennie G. Thompson shared a vile post on Facebook about the attack.

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt as he was seen suddenly grabbing hold of his ear as loud bangs rang out and whizzed by before he ducked to the floor.

Marsaw, 61, the president and vice president of a local NAACP in Natchez, Mississippi, has since deleted the post and her account, but screenshots have been reposted across social media.

She shared: 'I don't condone violence but please get some shooting lessons so you don't miss next time ooops that wasn't me talking.'

In a follow up post, she said: 'That's what your hate speech got you!!'

Marsaw has since been fired from her position. 'I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,' Thompson said.

Jacqueline Marsaw, the field director for Congressman Bennie G. Thompson shared a vile post on Facebook after former President Trump was shot in the ear at a rally in Pennsylvania

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt on Saturday night

Marsaw, who is also secretary, president and vice president of a local NAACP, was previously venerated as a 'hometown hero' by WJTV.

Law enforcement sources told CBS News that Crooks, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had been armed with 'an AR-style rifle'. He was killed at the scene.

A member of the crowd was killed in the deadly shooting, while two others who were wounded are in a critical condition. All three are males, according to law enforcement officials.

After Trump was shot, the Secret Service swarmed around the 45th US President as piercing screams were heard from the MAGA crowd.

He then got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' while the audience shouted 'USA' as he was dragged off stage and bundled into a vehicle.

Trump was taken to the hospital for treatment before being later released.

Marsaw, 61, who describes herself as a 'civil rights activist', has since deleted the now viral post but it has been widely shared on social media after grabbing the attention of Republicans across the country

Following the attempted assassination, Congressman Bennie G. Thompson took to X and shared how horrified he was

Spokesman Steven Cheung said Trump is 'fine' and being checked out at a local medical facility while the former president's eldest son Donald Trump Jr said his father 'is in great spirits'.

About and hour later the bold post was taken down, but fury quickly rose with many suggesting she be fired for her outlandish commenet.

Former Speaker of the US House of Representative, Newt Gingrich, was left appalled by Marsaw's posts.

'She should be fired today. Thompson introduced the resolution to cut off secret service protection for President Trump. With staff like this the poison is deep.'

In April, Thompson introduced a ban on Secret Service protection for imprisoned presidents.

One person tagged Thompson and asked him: 'Have you fired Jaqueline Marsaw yet?'

'What kind of a person are you that you would have someone like her working for you. Disgusting,' they added.

'You should fire this trash that works for you,' another furious person wrote.

Others suggested that more drastic actions be taken against her for the post.

'Jaqueline Marsaw needs to be arrested immediately,' one said, tagging the FBI and Secret Service in the tweet.

'She supports the assassination of President Trump. Why is she working in government? Why did she delete her facebook post? She should be fired,' another said.

Others shared the same view as Marsaw with many taking to social media to speak about the shooter's aim.

One woman on TikTok said: 'You're telling me somebody finally had the ba**s to bring a "pew pew," and he missed?

'We were a second away, we were a centimeter away from half of the problem being gone and you missed,' she added.

Blood is seen coming from Donald Trump's ear, where he said he was shot. Trolls online claimed the event was staged immediately after it happened

Following the attempted assassination, Thompson took to X and shared how horrified he was.

'There is no room in American democracy for political violence. I am grateful for law enforcements fast response to this incident.

'I am glad the former President is safe, and my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved,' he added.

Thompson has been very vocal about his opinions on Trump, especially following the January 6 attack on the US Capital.

On that day, a mob of Trump supporters stormed the capital building two months after he was defeated by President Biden in the 2020 election.

Thompson has posted about the attack several times and has a page on his website called the 'January 6th Select Committee.'

DailyMail.com contacted Marsaw and Thompson for comment.

In the hours after Saturday night's shooting, many conspiracy theorists took to social media claiming that the entire incident was 'staged' to boost Trump's electoral prospects.

Some X users hung their theories on the defiant images of Trump after the shooting. 'This is such a perfect photo it's hard to believe it is not staged. Photo of the decade. Absolutely incredible.'

BREAKING: Actress known for her role in Insecure Amanda Seales said that Donald Trump's assassination attempt was staged.



Seales: That sh*# was more staged than a Tyler Perry production of Madea Runs for President



I lived in Harlem long enough to know gunshots do not pic.twitter.com/8Omo4xWUAN  Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) July 14, 2024

'Do you think the Trump shooting was staged?' asked one X user shortly after the incident.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI Pittsburgh field office, called the shooting an 'assassination attempt.'

Actress Amanda Seales posted a video online explaining why she thinks the shooting was staged.

'That sh** was more staged than a Tyler Perry production of Madea Runs for President.

'Where did the blood come from? So in theater, in movies they have what's called blood pellets. People use them for Halloween.

'It's basically a pellet of fake blood that's in your mouth and when you crush it the blood comes out.

'This was, I believe done to try to show his strength counter to Biden's fragility,' Seales said.
Venice has vowed to extend its controversial tourist tax after raking in a staggering 1.7million while critics claim the scheme failed to deter day-trippers.

Venice first announced the plans in 2023, when local authorities announced it would charge tourists five euros, or 4.35, per person to visit the fragile lagoon city during peak times this year.

But as the programme comes to an end, opponents have dubbed the experiment a failure.

Several dozen activists gathered outside the Santa Lucia railway station overlooking a crowded canal on Saturday to protest over the levy which they say did little to dissuade visitors from arriving on peak days, as envisioned.

'The ticket is a failure, as demonstrated by city data,' said Giovanni Andrea Martini, an opposition city council member.

Venice's pilot programme charging day-trippers a five euro entrance fee ended today

Over the last two-and-a-half months, nearly 438,000 tourists have paid the tax, raising revenues of some 1.8 million, according to city data

Day-trippers are seen on the last day of the experimental five euro entry fee to visit the floating city, July 14, 2024

Over the first 11 days of the trial period, an average of 75,000 visitors were recorded in the city.

Mr Martini said that is 10,000 more each day than on three indicative holidays in 2023, citing figures provided by the city based on mobile phone data that tracks arrivals in the city.

Venice imposed the long-discussed day-tripper tax across 29 days this year, mostly weekends and holidays, between April 25 and mid-July.

The project, delayed by the pandemic, was heralded by Unesco member states after the city narrowly escaped being put on the UN's endangered list last year.

Over the last two-and-a-half months, nearly 438,000 tourists have paid the tax, raising revenues of some 1.8 million, according to city data.

Officials said the money will be used for essential services, which cost more in a city traversed by canals, including rubbish removal and maintenance.

The levy was not applied to people staying in hotels in Venice, who are already charged a lodging tax.

Exemptions also applied to children under 14, residents of the region, students, workers and people visiting relatives, among others.

The city's top tourism official, Simone Venturini, has indicated that the levy will be continued and reinforced.

A proposal to double the fee to 10 euros (8.40) is being considered for next year, a city spokesman said.

Officials promised steep fines for those flouting the law, but in the end none was given during checks at entry points, which varied from a low of 8,500 to a high 20,800 a day over the period.

Several dozen activists gathered outside the Santa Lucia railway station on Saturday to protest over the levy

Opponents of the plan also said it failed to make the city more liveable for residents, as intended, with the narrow walkways and water taxis as crowded as ever

Venice imposed the long-discussed day-tripper tax across 29 days this year , mostly weekends and holidays, between April 25 and mid-July

The project, delayed by the pandemic, was heralded by Unesco member states after the city narrowly escaped being put on the UN's endangered list last year

City officials said that is because they wanted a soft launch, but critics said it resulted in a downward trend in payments as visitors understood there was no risk in avoiding the payment.

Opponents of the plan also said it failed to make the city more liveable for residents, as intended, with the narrow walkways and water taxis as crowded as ever.

They want policies that encourage repopulation of Venice's historic centre, which has been losing residents to the more convenient mainland for decades, including placing limits on short-term rentals.

There are now more tourist beds in the city centre than official residents, whose numbers stand at an all-time low of 50,000.

'Wanting to raise this to 10 euros is absolutely useless. It makes Venice a museum,' Mr Martini said.

Many of the banners at Saturday's protest also indicated growing concern about the system of electronic and video surveillance that was introduced in 2020 to monitor mobile phone data of people arriving in the city, which is the backbone of the system to control tourism.

Placards included warnings about use of personal data and a lack of data privacy.

'The access ticket is a great distraction for the media, which only speaks about this five euros, which will become 10 euros next year,' said Giovanni Di Vito, a Venice resident active in the campaign against the tourist tax.

'But no-one is focusing on the system for surveillance and control of citizens.'

But Venice is not the first European city to crack down on overtourism, with Athens also recently protesting against the influx of holidaymakers.

Greece targeted tourists in fears of overtourism after graffiti was seen spread across the country saying: 'No tourists, no hipsters'.

Anti-tourism graffiti was spotted across the historic city of Athens as the Greek capital cracks down on tourist numbers

A big mural against tourists is seen in central Athens

Thousands of residents protested in Tenerife, Canary Islands, to demand the government temporarily limit tourist arrivals in April

Demonstrators packed into Weyler Square in the Tenerife capital Santa Cruz, the start point for a march on the Brit-popular holiday island, on April 20

In May, furious protesters took to the streets of the Greek capital to voice their outrage at the rising numbers of tourists flooding their home.

Huge signs sprayed onto the sides of buildings and other walls across the sun-soaked city present a chilling warning to visitors, with one reading: 'Tourists Go Home! Greek State Kills'.

The strong anti-tourism drive and surge in demanding graffiti messages comes after a series of similar crackdowns that have erupted around Europe - most notably Spain.

In Menorca, graffiti sprung up on walls telling tourists to 'go home', while in Marbella last year, tyres on cars with British number plates were slashed.

On April 20, thousands of protestors took to the streets of the Canary Islands to protest against the problems caused by mass tourism and demand their politicians take action.

The protestors chanted the slogan: 'Canarias tiene un limite', which in English translates as 'The Canary Islands have a limit.'
An urgent manhunt has been launched for an alleged gunman after a man was rushed to hospital with suspected gunshot wounds.

Western Australia Police are looking for Joseph James Horohau Coombe, 34, as part of their inquiries into a firearm incident in Collie, in the state's south-west, on Sunday.

Police were called at about 8.15am following reports a man had been shot on Clifton Street.

A man aged in his 30s attended Collie Hospital with 'gunshot wounds to both his hands', according to a police spokesperson.

The extent of his injuries and his current condition remains unknown.

'It is believed the incident involved persons known to each other, and was not a random incident,' the spokesperson told The West.

Police have deployed extensive resources as part of their efforts to find Coombe.

Coombe is described as 180cm tall, medium build, green eyes and fair skinned.

Police are looking for Joseph James Horohau Coombe, 34, after a man went to hospital with suspected gunshot wounds to both his hands

Officers from the tactical response group and police airwing visited properties in Australind and Collie, where police say he frequently visits.

Coombe was still on the run as of early Monday morning,

The public have been warned to not approach him amid fears he may still be armed.

'While this is being treated as a targeted incident, Mr Coombe may be armed with a firearm,' a police statement read.

Daily Mail Australia contacted WA police for further comment.

Anyone who sights Coombe is urged to contact police immediately on 131 444.
The group of potential vice presidential candidate picks for former President Donald Trump are rallying behind the ex-president after the assassination attempt on Saturday with some blaming Biden and Democrats in the immediate aftermath of the shooting.

The former president could reveal his GOP running mate at any time as the Republican National Convention kicks off Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

It is not yet clear who Trump is leaning toward or how he will share with the world who he has picked. Before the horrific events unfolded Saturday, some campaign aides joked on numerous occasions that only Trump knows that.

But all of the key contenders who have been mentioned over the past few weeks expressed their support for Trump and outrage over the violence that took place.

'Trump campaign saying the president is OK. Thank God. Hope everyone else is safe,' wrote Ohio Senator JD Vance on X shortly after the shooting.

Top VP contender Senator JD Vance blamed Biden campaign rhetoric for the assassination attempt on Donald Trump while another potential pick Senator Tim Scott went after Democrats

'Today is not just some isolated incident,' Vance also wrote. 'The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.'

The move to blame the assassination attempt Saturday night on Trump's political opponent was met with pushback online as critics called the post dangerous and irresponsible. Investigators are have not yet released a motive of the gunman.

Vance is seen as potentially the top contender for Trump's running mate in recent days after it was confirmed Trump's son Don Jr. who is an ally of Vance would speak ahead of the vice presidential pick at the convention.

Ohio Senator JD Vance blamed Biden's 'rhetoric' in a post on X after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump

'Praying for President Trump and all those attending the rally in Pennsylvania today,' wrote another potential pick Florida Senator Marco Rubio after the shooting on X.

The Republican senator had appeared alongside Trump on stage just days ago at his campaign rally in Doral, Florida on Tuesday.

'God protected President Trump,' Rubio wrote in another post with the image of Trump raising his fist in the air.

The Florida Senator also went after the media criticizing them for their early headlines as news outlets were still trying it figure out exactly what was happening in the immediate aftermath of shots ringing out.

Florida Senator Marco Rubio speaking before Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Doral, FL on July 9, 2024

North Dakota Governor Doug Burgun praised Trump as stronger than his enemies in a post

North Dakota Governor and onetime presidential candidate Doug Burgun, whose name is also in contention and has been a top surrogate for Trump, also shared his response on X.

'Please join Kathryn and me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today,' Burgun wrote. 'We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it.'

South Carolina Senator Tim Scott said he was praying for Trump and everyone at the rally, writing 'May God watch over them all.' But GOP senator also slammed Democrats after the assassination attempt late Saturday.

'Congressman Scalise, Justice Kavanaugh, and now President Trump. For years, Democrats and their allies in the media have recklessly stoked fears, calling President Trump and other conservatives threats to democracy. Their inflammatory rhetoric puts lives at risk,' Scott wrote on X.

He did not mention any examples of political violence against Democrats which have also taken place in recent years including an attack on the husband of Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi in 2022.

South Carolina Senator Tim Scott went after Democrats claiming they 'recklessly stoked fears' after the shooting in Butler, PA

Trump's opponent President Biden spoke Saturday night just hours after the assassination attempt where he condemned the political violence.

'There's no place in America this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick,' he said. 'It's one of the reasons we have to unite this country.'

The White House also confirmed Biden and Trump spoke directly by phone after the shooting.
Speaker Mike Johnson called on both parties to 'turn the rhetoric down' that could provoke political violence such as the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

'America awakens to a rather surreal morning. This is a horrific act of political violence that ought to be roundly condemned. Obviously, we cant go on like this as a society,' Johnson said on NBC's Today Show.

He said he'd been briefed by law enforcement and had spoken to Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas the previous night.

'Ive already announced that Congress will do a full investigation of the tragedy yesterday to determine where there were lapses in security and anything else that the American people need to know and deserve to know. But in the meantime, weve got to turn the rhetoric down. Weve got to turn the temperature down in this country.'

Speaker Mike Johnson called on both parties to 'turn the rhetoric down' that could provoke political violence such as the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump

'We need leaders of all parties on both sides to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and and maintain our free society.'

In the opening moments of his campaign speech, a bullet grazed Trump's ear. Eight rounds were fired by a 20-year-old sniper with an 'AR-style' weapon from a nearby building's rooftop, before the assassin - identified as Thomas Crooks - was shot dead by law enforcement.

One attendee was fatally wounded and two more are in critical condition.

'Joe Biden sent the orders,' wrote Congressman Mike Collins, R-Ga., on X.

He quoted a post with a transcript of Joe Biden saying on July 8 after the debate 'Were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye.'

Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage

Biden and Trump spoke by phone Saturday night after the shooting. Biden publicly said he is grateful Trump is safe and denounced political violence.

'The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination,' Collins wrote in a separate post.

Democrats impeached Trump for inciting an insurrection on January 6, 2021.

Republicans in Congress have already launched investigations into what they describe as a 'frightening' security lapse that allowed a gunman to get so close to Trump.

The suspect opened fire on the former president from a roof 130 yards away from the stage where he was speaking to thousands of MAGA fans on Saturday night.

House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., told DailyMail.com in a statement that he plans to hold a hearing with the Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to get to the bottom of the failures.

The House Homeland Security Committee also released a statement indicating their desire to hold a hearing with the Secret Service.

The shooter has been ID'd as a 20-year-old registered Republican and Butler-area local who donated to Biden.

His father, Matthew Crooks, 53, told CNN he was trying to figure out 'what the hell is going on' but would 'wait until I talk to law enforcement' before speaking.

The shooter had no criminal history and law enforcement is still working to identify a motive.

Rep. Thomas Massie, R-Ky., sowed doubt in the FBI ever getting to the bottom of the historic assassination attempt. No gunman has come that close to shooting a president since Ronald Reagan was shot in the stomach outside the Washington Hilton in 1981.

'The same bureau that investigated the Las Vegas shooting and the January 6th pipe bombs is now investigating the attempted assassination of Trump. This is also the same bureau that raided Mar-a-Lago. Im sure theyll get to the bottom of this soon,' Rep. Thomas Massie wrote on X.

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt as he was seen to suddenly grab hold of his ear as loud bangs rang out and whizzed by before he ducked to the floor.

The Secret Service swarmed around the 45th US President as piercing screams were heard from the MAGA crowd.

He then got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' while the audience shouted 'USA' as he was dragged off stage and bundled into a vehicle.
This video is no longer available

This video is no longer available

Nigel Farage today joined Labour and Tory politicians voicing fears about MPs' safety in the wake of Donald Trump's 'miracle' escape.

The former US president was hit in the ear in an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Shocking scenes saw Mr Trump fall to the ground with blood running down his face as he was hustled to safety by the secret service.

Senior UK figures have been condemning the violence, but also highlighting growing 'intimidation and attacks' in this country.

Former US president Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania overnight

Nigel Farage, who had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign, said Mr Trump and politicians in the UK now had to balance security with meeting voters

Commons Leader Lucy Powell warned on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that the UK was also seeing a rise in violence against politicians

Newly elected MP Nigel Farage, a close friend of Mr Trump said he is going to travel to see Mr Trump at the Republican convention this week.

Appearing on the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg this morning, Mr Farage said: 'I was very upset and I'm still upset.

'I'm obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but he's got away with it.

'But one person is dead. Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so it's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it.'

Mr Farage, who had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign, said Mr Trump and politicians in the UK now had to balance security with meeting voters.

'The problem with this is, how do you go out and campaign? Think of John Major 30 years ago, a soap box in market squares, you couldn't do that today,' he said.

'So we finish up with our political leaders never meeting a voter, never meeting the public. I suspect knowing Trump as I do, he will carry on regardless.'

Commons Leader Lucy Powell warned on Sky News' Sunday Morning with Trevor Phillips that the UK was also seeing a rise in violence against politicians.

'Clearly we have seen a rise in intimidation and attacks on serving politicians or people who want to be politicians in this country too,' she said.

While Ms Powell said the election was one of the 'great things about our democracy', she added: 'But we have to remember that underneath that, there has been this growing sense of insecurity and hate and attacks.'

'It is something that we need to take action on,' she said.

The Commons Leader later said some colleagues had 'real difficulties' while campaigning, telling Sky: 'They have seen intimidation in the streets when campaigning, they have seen some intimidatory activity around and nearby polling stations.

'We have seen some deepfakes being shared online about individuals that have turned out to be completely wrong, we have seen misinformation shared that fuels hatred and has a dehumanising effect on individuals.'

The husband of murdered Labour MP Jo Cox called for a 'consensus against political violence in all forms' after the shooting at a rally for former US president Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.

Brendan Cox, whose wife was killed by a far-right extremist in 2016, posted to X, questioning Mr Trump's own behaviour towards political opponents.

He added: 'But that doesn't justify using violence against him. It undermines democracy & makes more violence more likely.

'We need a consensus against political violence in all forms.'

Before the attack took place, House of Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle said MPs' safety was the only thing that kept him awake at night.

He told BBC's Radio 4's Westminster Hour that he had 'never seen anything as bad' as the current level of intimidation against politicians.

Snipers took out the attacker - believed to have been outside the perimeter of the show grounds, several hundred yards from the stage - but a member of the audience was killed.

Mr Johnson posted on social media: 'It is a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

'As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason. Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.'

The PM said on X: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

Boris Johnson said it is a 'miracle' Donald Trump survived an attempted assassination

Keir Starmer condemned the 'appalling' events at a campaign rally

Donald Trump appeared to be shot in the ear as shots were fired at the former president at a rally in Pennsylvania

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

The UK Foreign Secretary David Lammy also condemned the actions of the shooter as unacceptable.

'The UK government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

'As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump - along with every victim and their families.'
CCTV footage captured the horrifying moment two wild bulls barged into a shop in India - trapping two women inside.

The women are seen on camera working in a bag shop in Rishikesh, Uttrakhand, when the huge animals charge inside just after 9am on July 12.

At first the shopkeepers seem to laugh as the bulls are too busy fighting and headbutting each other to notice they have company.

But as the animals make their way further into the shop, the women huddle together against the inner wall.

One woman, dressed in a white collared shirt, tries to make her escape by climbing on top of the merchandise but the abrupt movement scares the bull closest to her, causing both beasts to turn.

The terrified women huddle together as the wild bulls enter the store in Rishikesh, Uttarakhand

The bulls seem to be preoccupied with headbutting each other to notice the women cowering against the inner wall of the shop

One woman, in a light collared shirt, attempts to make her escape by climbing onto the merchandise

Terrifying footage shows one of the bulls charging towards the shopkeepers - slamming into them and sending them falling to the shop floor.

The second bull then frantically tramples the women as they are buried by falling products.

A male shopkeeper is then seen entering the fray yielding a stick.

He uses the makeshift weapon to hit one of the bulls until it runs from the shop.

This brave intervention gives the women a chance to emerge from the pile of stock and make their way to safety.

Despite looking disheveled, the women only sustained minor scratches from the brutal attack thanks to the bags and purses which cushioned them from the wild animals.

The second bull - who had made his way behind the women and onto a table - is eventually driven out of the store by the heroic man.

Following the ordeal, final frames taken from the security camera show the shop in tatters.

In a panic, the bulls slam into the women and trample them as merchandise falls

A heroic male shopkeeper enters the fray yielding a stick. He uses the makeshift weapon to hit one of the bulls until it runs from the shop

This brave intervention gives the women a chance to emerge from the pile of stock and make their way out of the shop

The second bull - who had made his way behind the women and onto a table - is driven out of the store by the male shopkeeper

As the man leaves, CCTV footage shows the fabric shop in tatters

Stray bull fighting is commonplace in India as more than five million cows roam the country's streets, according to the livestock census data released in 2020.

Although the cow is considered to be a holy animal in Hinduism, there are frequent reports of abandoned bulls attacking people and causing car accidents.

Muniki Reti Nagar Palika's Executive Officer, Tanveer Marwah, stated that efforts are being made to remove stray animals from the roads.
Real estate investors are buying up soaring numbers of homes in the Midwest, new data shows.

Investors purchased 14.8 percent of homes in the first quarter of 2024, according to the Realtor.com 2024 Q1 Investment Report - the highest percentage on record since the group began tracking in 2001.

Missouri is the hottest market with three cities ranking in the top five for the highest share of investor purchases.

In Springfield, investors purchased 20.5 percent - nearly 1 in 5 - of homes. In Kansas City 20.1 percent and in St. Louis 18.9 percent of purchases were made by investors.

'Investors are generally the first to pull out of the market, as seen in 2023, as well as the first to reenter, which we are seeing signs of now,' Realtor.com senior economic research analyst Hannah Jones said.

Missouri is the hottest market for investors with three cities -including St. Louis (pictured) - ranking in the top five for the highest share of investor purchases

'More buyers may be choosing to invest in affordable markets that need more rental inventory in order to secure a steady stream of rental income.'

Rounding out the top five are investors making 18.7 percent of purchases in Birmingham, Alabama and 18.2 percent in Memphis, Tennessee.

Small investors made-up the highest share of purchases since the company started tracking them with 62.2 percent of investor purchases from January to March 2024.

Americans are attracted with the Midwest because of its relatively affordable properties, especially as house prices elsewhere in the U.S. skyrocket.

The Midwest is also less vulnerable to natural disasters with surveys showing that wildfires, tornadoes, floods and hurricanes are all growing concerns for home-buyers.

The median listing price in Springfield is $280,000, in Kansas City it is $285,000 and in St. Louis it is $207,500 according to Realtor.com.

In Kansas City (pictured), 20.1 percent of homes purchased in the first quarter of 2024 were by investors

Rent in the Midwest have increased due to the strong labor markets and increased demand that make purchasing homes in these areas desirable for investors.

A 2023 study by Mid-America Regional Council found that of Kansas City's 157,000 single-family rentals, nearly 20 percent are owned by people or companies with 10 or more properties.

Thirty-three companies own nearly 14,000 homes in the Kansas City region, five of which own nearly 8,000 homes.

'[Investors are] intentionally targeting what has primarily been housing intended for ownership to turn it into rentals,' Josh Akers, research manager for the Mid-America Regional Council told The Beacon.
A town's society has refused to honour an infamous punk gig by The Clash with an iconic blue plaque because the music event caused too much trouble at the time.

The Bury Society's 580 members say it will not support calls for the band's 1978 concert at the The Corn Exchange in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, to be honoured.

The notorious concert was part of the band's 'On Parole' tour and led to accusations of punks causing 'mayhem' with damage to property, spitting, and drunkenness.

It also led to certain types of live music being banned in public buildings for two decades.

Now there are calls for the gig to be commemorated as a part of the town's history with a blue plaque in the Corn Exchange which has been a Wetherspoons since 2012.

The Bury Society's 580 members say it will not support calls for the band's 1978 concert at the The Corn Exchange in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, to be honoured as it caused too much trouble at the time. Pictured: The Clash on stage performing at the Rainbow, London, 1977

The Corn Exchange in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk, where the clash performed their infamous gig in 1978. I t has been a Wetherspoons since 2012

But Martyn Taylor, the chairman of The Bury Society, said that they could not endorse an event that had such a negative lasting effect on the town.

Mr Taylor, 73, said: 'The Clash did not cover themselves in glory during or after the event.

'There's a fine line you must draw between something that is accepted to moral standards and some that is not - and you must be careful how you tread that line.

'Is this something that Bury wants to be remembered for?'

The calls for a blue plaque have been led by Paul Johnson, 55, who believes the event should have more recognition.

Mr Johnson, a champion of the music scene in Bury St Edmunds, told the BBC that he 'won't take no for an answer'.

Mr Taylor said there are already eight plaques in the town that honour various people and just one event - the first Zeppelin air raid in WWII.

The plaques are put up by the Bury Society who are registered as part of English Heritage's blue plaque scheme and notify English Heritage of any new ones.

Mr Taylor, who has been chairman of Bury Society since 2016, said: 'We look to celebrate both people and events - people will say The Clash performing was an event.

Martyn Taylor, the chairman of The Bury Society, said that they could not endorse an event that had such a negative lasting effect on the town

Zeppelin plaque in Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk

'But the behaviour of people at the time, the spitting and destruction, might well mean it couldn't go up even if we wanted to.

'English Heritage do not sanction plaques for events that are considered distasteful or nasty - they're there to remember someone or something noteworthy.

'People are remembered for their deeds but if someone looked at the plaque in 20 or 30 years time, what meaning would it really have?

'You have to jump through several hoops to get there, permission from the owner of the building, the conservation officer.

'The meaning of the plaque is easily lost due to limited space for wording..'

He added that other music events such as Bob Marley performing had also not been recognised.

The Clash were an English rock band formed in 1976 and were credited as being instrumental in British punk rock.

They disbanded in 1986 after Topper Headon and Mick Jones were both kicked out of the band.
Melania Trump has broken her silence on the shooting of her husband Donald Trump by a would-be assassin and the horror when she realized her and son Barron's life were on the brink of 'devastating change'.

The former first lady called the gunman a 'monster' and described the moment she watched the bullet strike her husband's ear at a Pennsylvania rally in front of thousands of his adoring fans.

'A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion - his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration,' Melania said in an emotional statement on X on Sunday morning.

'When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron's life, were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband.'

Melania Trump has broken her silence on the shooting of her husband Donald Trump

The former first lady called for people to 'reunite' and said she is thinking of her fellow Americans.

'This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence,' her statement continued.

'The winds of change have arrived. For those of you who cry in support, I thank you. I commend those of you who have reached out beyond the political divide - thank you for remembering that every single politician is a man or a woman with a loving family.'

The former first lady has stayed off the campaign trail so far as her husband mounts his bid for a second term in the White House, but she is set to attend the Republican National Convention this week in Milwaukee, WI.

The couple share an 18-year-old son Barron. He made his debut at a Trump rally earlier in the week in Doral, FL.

The Trump family has received an outpouring of support and prayers from officials across the political spectrum and public officials around the world following the shooting.

18-year-old Barron Trump made his campaign rally debut at his father's event in Doral, FL on July 9

Former President Trump with Melania Trump and Barron in 2017 while he was serving as president. In her statement on Sunday, the former first lady wrote 'thank you for remembering that every single politician is a man or a woman with a loving family'

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman, has been pictured for the first time on Sunday morning - time just hours after he was shot and killed by Secret Service.

The registered Republican and 2022 high school graduate opened fire at the former president with an AR-style rifle from a roof 130 yards from the rally stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday at 6.15pm.

Images of Crooks wearing glasses, braces, and an American flag t-shirt in a yearbook headshots emerged on Sunday morning, hours after he tried to take out the presumptive Republican nominee and killed a member of the rally crowd.

Read Melania's emotional statement in full: 'Dawn is here again. Let us reunite. Now.' I am thinking of you, now, my fellow Americans. We have always been a unique union. America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one. When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron's life, were on the brink of a devastating change. I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband. To the families of the innocent victims who are now suffering from this heinous act, I humbly offer my sincerest sympathy. Your need to summon your inner strength for such a terrible reason saddens me. A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion - this laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husband's life - his human side - were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times. Le us not forget that differing opinions, policy, and political games are inferior to love. Our personal, structural, and life commitment - until death - is at serious risk. Political concepts are simple when compared to us, human beings. We are all humans, and fundamentally, instinctively, we want to help one another. American politics are only one vehicle that can uplift our communities. Love, compassion, kindness and empathy re necessities. And let us remember that when the time comes to loo beyond the left and the right, beyond the red and the blue, we all come from families with passion to fight for a better life together, while we are here, in this earthly realm. Dawn is here again. Let us reunite. Now. This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence. We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realize this world again. Each of us must demand to get it back. We must insist that respect fills the cornerstone of our relationships, again. I am thinking of you, my fellow Americans. The winds of change have arrived. For those of you who cry in support, I thank you. I commend those of you who have reached out beyond the political divide - thank you for remembering that every single politician is a man or a woman with a loving family. Advertisement

Trump raises his fist below the American flag, with blood across his face, moments after the shooting

Blood is seen coming from Donald Trump's ear, where he said he was shot

In unprecedented scenes of terror, Trump suddenly grabbed his ear and dropped to the ground as gunshots rang out and send the crowd into a frenzy.

Moments later, he got up and raised his fist and shouted 'fight, fight, fight' as the Secret Service escorted him to a motorcade and then to hospital.

Last night a bomb squad and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were at an address registered to Crooks as cops stood guard in front of yellow police caution tape.

A member of the crowd was killed in the deadly shooting, while two others who were wounded are in a critical condition. All three are males, according to law enforcement officials.

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt as he was seen to suddenly grab hold of his ear as loud bangs rang out and whizzed by before he ducked to the floor.

The Secret Service swarmed around the 45th US President as piercing screams were heard from the MAGA crowd.

He then got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' while the audience shouted 'USA' as he was dragged off stage and bundled into a vehicle.

Mr Rojek said they had not identified a motive for what he a called 'an assassination attempt on our former president'.

According to Pennsylvania's public court records, Crooks had no criminal history and officials claimed they are still working towards identifying a motive behind the shooting.
MAGA fans at Trump's rally in Bulter, Pennsylvania, who survived the shooting detail their harrowing accounts of running for cover as the former president's life flashed before their eyes.

In the opening moments of his campaign speech, a bullet grazed Trump's ear. Eight rounds were fired by a 20-year-old sniper with an 'AR-style' weapon from a nearby building's rooftop, before the assassin - identified as Thomas Crooks - was shot dead by law enforcement.

One attendee was fatally wounded and two more are in critical condition.

Pam, a woman from Michigan, had set up a large display of Trump merchandise just outside the rally venue on Saturday evening.

She heard the gunshots shortly after 6 p.m. local time, telling DailyMail.com: 'All of a sudden you saw the screaming and running people. I'm numb a little bit, how can someone feel the right to do that?'

Bill Bailey - another Trump supporter - said: 'I fear for his safety, I've had a terrible feeling in my gut for the last few months'

The assassin - identified as Thomas Crooks - was shot dead by law enforcement

'It's just evil. They hate Trump ... what such an unholy person,' she continued.

Bill Bailey - another Trump supporter - said: 'I fear for his safety, I've had a terrible feeling in my gut for the last few months.'

'Right before the convention, it's right after this rhetoric of the Supreme Court with people calling for Biden to use his newfound power of immunity to order the assassination of Trump.'

'There's been so much talk about Trump's assassination in the past two weeks. All that talk just gives crazy people stuff in their head.'

The Supreme Court issued a landmark ruling on July 1, saying the President of the United States has immunity from prosecution for official acts in office.

The ruling has massive implications for presidential powers and the criminal cases against Donald Trump.

The case centered on Special Counsel Jack Smith's prosecution of Trump for allegedly masterminding efforts to overthrow the 2020 election while in office, including on January 6.

Greg Smith, owner of Brenckle's Farms & Greenhouses, had set up a private party for his family on his property.

Scenes from the rally in Bulter where an attempted assassin tried to take Trump's life

After Trump arrived, Smith and his family made their way to the perimeter to see what they could see.

'Most people ran up to the fence, I stood back by the tree,' he told DailyMail.com.

He then spotted a guy crawling up on the roof of a building.

'I noticed there's a guy crawling up the roof of that building,' he continued. 'I'm like, 'that doesn't seem right.'

He said the man definitely did not look like Secret Service, wearing tan and grey clothes, and was not in uniform.

Some houses have Stronger Together Bethel Park on their lawns in the neighborhood where the shooter lived

Trump shooting witnesses blame 'crazy' talk after Supreme Court immunity decision for 'evil' attempted assassin

Spotted police officers running around the building, appearing to be looking for someone.

'I'm pointing at the roof, like, 'Hey man, there's a guy on the roof with a rifle,' he went on.

Law enforcement officers continuing running around the area, as he continued to shout and point at the person.

He pointed directly at the guy so that the Secret Service could see him for one or two minutes.

'I'm thinking to myself, "Why is Trump still speaking on this stage right now? Why is he still up there talking?"

Smith said he watched the guy crawl up the roof and roll around with the rifle and begin shooting.

'I saw Secret Service blow his head off,' he said.

He then ran to collect his wife and three kids and return to safety.

Greg Smith, owner of Brenckle's Farms & Greenhouses, had set up a private party for his family on his property

He pointed directly at the guy so that the Secret Service could see him for one or two minutes

'At this point, I'm feeling, as I think about it more and more, it just feels like a huge security failure to me.'

'This isn't a big place, there's not a lot of buildings around here, why is everything not covered.'

Questioned why there was no one in the water tower that overlooks the whole property, he replied: 'I don't like it man, I don't like what's going on, I don't like what it feels like, I really don't.'
A young mother killed herself within months of claiming she had been sexually harassed by a rapist who faked his own death to evade justice.

Kim Avis was jailed for 15 years in 2021 for raping three women and sexually assaulting another.

The 60-year-old, who had been a market trader in Inverness, fled to California and staged a drowning to avoid the charges but was later tracked down and arrested by US marshals in Colorado.

Now a new BBC podcast Dead Man Running has revealed for the first time that a woman tried to flag concerns about Avis, two decades before he was convicted.

The woman the podcast calls Laura had walked into a BBC office in 2001 and confided to a journalist she had been harassed and badly treated by Avis.

Kim Avis, seen in the hands of US marshals after he was arrested in Colorado

Sheriffs deputies launch a search of the Californian beach where Kim Avis staged his death

Avis, who was also a busker, became a celebrated character in Inverness for his eccentric charm and charity work.

But behind his affable facade, he was a serial predator who for years pursued young girls and sexually abused women.

BBC journalist Myles Bonnar, who is from Inverness and knew Avis, investigated the story over several years. He received a tip-off about Laura after the broadcast of his TV documentary on the case.

He was told Laura was a confident, articulate and well-dressed woman but appeared distressed the day she went into BBC Inverness.

A journalist advised Laura to report her concerns to police, but it is unclear whether she ever did.

Lauras father, who does not want his daughter identified, found a letter she had written to her lawyer in April 2001.

In it she said: There were laws against the type of behaviour he was manifesting towards me.

'On several occasions, he tried to hug and kiss me against my express wishes. He would chase me with his tongue wagging about in an obscene and suggestive manner.

At first, I tried to avoid Kim and then over time I faced up to him and challenged him quite directly in a confrontational manner, on a number of occasions.

Eight months after she approached BBC Inverness, she took her own life in local woods.

Mr Bonnar had been emailing Avis in prison for three years but when he asked about Laura, the rapist cut off all communication.

He said: We still dont know what really happened between Laura and Avis and we will probably never know what led her to take her own life.

'What we do know is that Laura was in a bad place in the months leading up to her death and she went into the BBC to complain about Avis in the same year she died.

Kim Avis, also known as Kim Gordon-Avis, had skipped bail on sexual abuse charges to fly into Los Angeles International Airport on February 16, 2019.

Nine days later, his son reported him missing, telling the local sheriffs office that his dad had gone for an evening swim.

When they discovered Avis was facing charges in Scotland they suspected the disappearance had been hoaxed.

An international manhunt saw Monterey sheriffs deputies work with US marshals, Interpol and the Scottish authorities to secure an arrest and extradition warrant for Avis.

Kim Avis was a well-known face on the streets of Inverness where he was a market trader

He was arrested in Colorado on July 27, 2019 and convicted of a total of 14 charges at the High Court in Glasgow in 2021.

Jade Skea who was a teenager when he groomed her, was subjected to beatings and sexual assaults including rape.

Avis controlled and isolated her at his house known as Wolves Den. But Ms Skea found the strength to report him to the police.

Although Ms Skea didnt know Laura she said it was inevitable that there were more victims.

She said: There is no line he wont cross. He is so dangerous. He always will be a threat and he should never be released.

 For confidential support call the Samaritans on 116123, or go to www.samaritans.org
What the hell happened - and how was it possible? These questions will be at the heart of the FBI investigation into probable multiple failures by the Secret Service and others in the lead-up to the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.

The shooter, who appears to have used a high-powered semi-automatic rifle - possibly an AR-15 - was able to set up his position on the roof of a building in full view of some of the crowd on the 'bleachers', or tiered seating.

Individuals in that crowd tried for several minutes, by at least one estimate, to draw the attention of security officials to this man with a rifle but police appear to have not responded quickly enough.

What we don't yet know is whose job it was to ensure this roof, only 150 yards from the stage, was secure.

During 25 years with the FBI, I have seen how countless similar rallies were organised and I consider it highly likely that the Secret Service was responsible for security within an enclosed perimeter, while the local police took charge of the wider zone outside.

Donald Trump defiantly punched the air after being shot at the campaign rally

Frank Figliuzzi, an FBI agent for 25 years, believes failures of communication between the Secret Service and local law enforcers may be to blame for the failure to prevent the shooting

Responsibility for every post, every zone, every rooftop needs to be clearly assigned and this division of roles should have been clear to everyone.

This is standard practice for the Secret Service. It's carried out at hundreds of events during the run-up to an election but it's also potentially new territory for each local police department.

It might have been years since they last saw a political rally in their town. It's even possible that they've never witnessed one there before.

News cameras also showed soldiers in camouflage present, probably members of the National Guard. Their role, and whether their presence hindered security in any way, will have to be probed too.

We know that a Secret Service sniper must have had a clear view of the rooftop because the gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was shot dead within a few seconds of opening fire on Trump.

But why did that sniper ignore Crooks till then? One plausible explanation is that the Secret Service (which is entirely separate from the FBI) assumed the assassin was a police sniper, part of their security team.

Immediately after the shots were fired, former president Trump was bundled to the ground behind reinforced barriers by U.S. Secret Service agents

Snipers stand on the roof of a building behind the podium at Saturday's campaign rally

That implies serious failures in communication. When it comes to planning for events such as this, I would expect police and Secret Service teams to not only meet and introduce themselves but map out their specific roles in detail. They ought to have been able to recognise each other by sight.

They should also have double-checked at every stage throughout the rally, ensuring they knew who everybody was and what they were doing. That's just basic.

In the coming days and weeks, the agency will reconstruct every detail of the event in Butler, Pennsylvania, using witness statements, CCTV and media video, as well as amateur footage shot on phones by members of the public.

They will also review audio recordings, including the radio communications between the various arms of law enforcement. These should be released to the FBI immediately and I would expect them to be made public in due course.

Then we'll have a clearer idea of how Crooks was able to access the roof, why his presence appeared not to alarm the security staff and why the concerns of people in the crowd were not met with an effective response.

The inquiry must also focus on the aftermath of the shooting. Former president Trump was bundled to the ground, behind reinforced barriers  those hoardings, painted with slogans, are made of galvanised steel.

As his Secret Service team began to lead him away to his vehicle, they shielded him with their bodies. But it appears from news video that the message 'shooter is down' was sent and at that point Trump was able to turn to the crowd, punch the air and shout his defiance.

It's completely natural that Trump wanted to show his supporters he was bloodied but alive but this doesn't mean it was safe for him to do so.

In that moment, the Secret Service had no way of knowing if the gunman was acting alone. Other shooters might have been present.

Audio also appears to catch Trump asking for his shoes as he is being bundled towards his car  and his bodyguards complying with this request.

That's against all protocol. The protection squad has one job: to protect their man. They are his human shield. If necessary, they can hog-tie him and carry him but they should never risk his life by looking for his shoes.

The Republican national convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, tomorrow will see unprecedented security levels. But until we understand what went wrong at Butler, it will be impossible to say with certainty that we won't see another act of deadly violence before the election is over.

Frank Figliuzzi is a former assistant director for counter-intelligence at the FBI and the author of Long Haul: Hunting The Highway Serial Killers
Business leaders fear there will be an explosion in the number of seagulls this year after a Scottish quango rejected hundreds of applications to destroy town and city-centre nests.

Several business groups from across the north-east have banded together and launched a campaign to get NatureScot to understand they are applying to destroy nests for health and safety reasons.

Nesting seagulls cause problems in towns and villages across Scotland

However, the environmental agency says there has been a significant and serious decline in all gull populations north of the Border.

It is illegal to capture, injure or destroy any wild bird in Scotland, or interfere with nests or eggs but licences are granted each year to get rid of hundreds of gull nests in areas where the birds are particularly troublesome. However, figures show the agency has severely restricted the operations to destroy gulls nests with the number of licences granted halved in some areas.

In total, some 1,595 permits to demolish nests in 2021 to preserve public health or safety were approved with no applications turned down.

The figure rose to 2,090 by 2023 with 63 rejections. But by June 13 this year the number of granted licences sat at just 1,089 with a record 572 rejections.

Highland Council area has seen 161 licences rejected and 225 approved so far this year. In Moray, the figures are 69 and 179 respectively and in Aberdeenshire 52 and 158.

The rejections came after NatureScot changed its guidance earlier this year saying applications should not be made until the birds are nesting.

But critics say it took the conservation body so long to process the forms chicks had time to hatch rendering the nests untouchable.

Lucy Harding, manager of Nairn Business Improvement District, said: Seagull management is really important from a health and safety point of view. The dangers of the seagulls are not to be underestimated.

There have been cases in Nairn of seagulls swooping and injuring people and pupils at one of the local primary schools cannot have snacks outside due to the risks of seagulls attacking them.

Nairn BID is now working with relevant bodies to look at further methods of prevention and control for next year.

NatureScot said its role was to balance the conservation and protection of species with public interests and added the organisation had been forced to act because of the dwindling gull populations.

A spokesman added: Earlier this year we updated our guidance for gull licensing in response to significant and serious declines in gull populations.

The latest Seabirds Count census shows that all five species of gull that breed in Scotland continue to decline, with numbers down by between 44 per cent and 75 per cent depending on species.

Thats why we clarified our guidance to ensure applicants were aware that licences can only be issued for reasons of clear public health and safety issues, and where other alternatives are not effective.

We know that gulls can sometimes cause issues in our towns and cities and that these changes have caused concern for some people. 

Adrian Watson, chief executive of Aberdeen Inspired, said: We and other northern BIDs (Inverness, Nairn and Elgin) had recent dialogue with NatureScot on the change regarding applying for a licence only once the birds are nesting.

We asked for these talks after we found licence applications were being rejected on these grounds. We raised the real concern that the wait time for a decision could mean chicks would have hatched and the nests would have to remain untouched.

NatureScot listened and compromised, reverting to previous guidance for this year to allow for proper engagement before next years breeding season.

However, due to the delay during that consultation we project we will be just over 50% successful in our objective for managing the population compared to previous years, which is slightly disappointing.

We do respect NatureScots position that overall gull numbers have diminished recently in Scotland and they need to be protected

But let us be clear, the dangers and health hazards from inner city gull populations are a very real issue for many of our businesses and the wider public.

The experience here in Aberdeen is that an abundance of gulls in our city centre not only cause mess which is a health hazard but has been known to cause a danger to the wider public through aggressive behaviour, including direct attacks on people.

We are naturally keen to continue with our joint programme to manage gull numbers in the city centre and ideally cause the birds to return to their natural habitat at the beach. Aberdeen Inspired will continue to work closely with NatureScot moving forward regarding any changes to their process for gull applications.
As Brit sunseekers prepare to jet off on their summer holidays, new research has revealed that even though the nation struggles with learning languages, this does not apply to ordering beer.

But while one in four Brits admit they're too embarrassed to talk in a different language, the poll revealed that they can order a beer in an impressive three different languages, while 10 per cent have nailed it in five or more.

The findings are a result of an Amazon survey as part of its Chatterbox series, and showed the most common phrases that the nation has mastered on average in three languages, including 'excuse me', 'I don't understand', and importantly - 'where is the toilet?'.

While all helpful phrases to know, many holidaymakers have found themselves in the wrong place after misunderstanding directions, or with the wrong meal after mixing up words in an order.

Full of good intentions, a whopping 85 per cent of Brits vow to scrub up on the lingo before they go on their next holiday, but nine per cent confessed that they never do.

While one in four Brits admit they're too embarrassed to talk in a different language, the poll revealed that they can order a beer in an impressive three different languages, while 10 per cent have nailed it in five or more

Amazon worker Ben Walmsley, 31, Yorks, said that his Spanish is hopeless but that trying goes a long way, even helping him to befriend the head waiter at the Hotel Presidente in Benidorm, Spain, where he got exclusive perks.

'I've always been rubbish at languages, but the head waiter at our hotel took a shine to me and my family, when we tried to mimic some Spanish phrases he'd say,' he said.

'In return, every time we went into his restaurant, he'd give us his best Yorkshire accent speaking to us in English, which was equally as comical.

'By the end of the holiday, he was giving us the best table in the house, free drinks and bottles of prosecco.

'It shows that giving it a go is the most important thing. People appreciate the effort and even if it goes wrong, it can be a bonding experience.'

According to the new data, the most commonly confused words include 'fizzy' and 'still', at 38 per cent, followed by 'left' and 'right', 27 per cent, and 'please' and 'thank you', at 25 per cent.

But the new poll also revealed the top 'language cheats' that people use to get by while on a holiday abroad.

Over half of the people - 51 per cent - admitted to only learning the first half of a sentence in a foreign language in the hope they can finish the rest in their own native language.

Some 56 per cent only learn to ask the phrase 'do you speak English?', while 24 per cent are too embarrassed to try and speak a different language.

Two in 10 said they've been sent to the wrong place after getting the language wrong and 25 per cent have suffered eating the wrong dish in a restaurant after getting the language mixed up.

A further 13 per cent have been short-changed and seven per cent have accidentally given a giant tip because they failed to calculate the exchange rate correctly.

Ahead of holiday season, travel and language expert Alex Rawlings recommended trying to perfect at least five phrases before travelling abroad.

He suggested learning a greeting phrase such as 'Hello' or 'Good Evening', a phrase that shows appreciation including 'thank you very much', an apology phrase, a question phrase like 'where is' or 'what is', and a compliment.

'And say it with a smile,' he added, 'as this will help you to connect with people, and that's really important.'
The member of the crowd killed in the assassination attempt on Donald Trump at his Pennsylvania rally has been identified.

Corey Comperatore, the retired fire chief of Buffalo Township, was sitting behind the former president shot and killed by gunman 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

The 50-year-old died a hero as his family revealed he was shielding his young daughter and wife from the gunfire when he was killed.

Members of the audience frantically tried to save the father's life in the bleachers in Butler after Crooks opened fire from a rooftop 130 yards away.

The two other men who were critically injured in the gunfire were named on Sunday afternoon as 57-year-old David Dutch, of New Kensington, and 74-year-old James Copenhaver , of Moon Township. Both are in stable conditions.

Family members paid tribute Comperatore who was well-known in the community.

His sister wrote on Facebook: 'The PA Trump Rally claimed the life of my brother, Corey Comperatore. The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most. He was a hero who shielded his daughters.'

The identified shooter, Crooks, was a registered Republican who had donated to President Biden in the past. A motive for why he attempted to take the life of former President Trump is still being investigated by law enforcement.

The member of the crowd killed in the assassination attempt on Donald Trump has been identified as Corey Comperatore, a retired fire chief from Pennsylvania

'His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience.

'Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality.'

His daughter Allyson wrote on social media: 'He died a real-life super hero.'

'They are not going to tell you how quickly he threw my mom and I to the ground. They are not going to tell you that he shielded my body from the bullet that came at us.'

'He loved his family. He truly loved us enough to take a bullet for us,' she continued in the emotional tribute.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said Comperatore died a hero as he dove on his family to shield them from the hail of bullets.

He said Comperatore was a self-proclaimed 'girl dad' and firefighter.

'Corey went to church every Sunday for a loved his community. And most especially Corey loves his family. Corey was an avid supporter of the former president, and was so excited to be there last night with him in the community,' the governor said Sunday.

'I asked Corey's wife, if it would be okay for me to share that we spoke. She said yes. She also asked that I share with all of you that Corey died a hero.'

'My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience,' his sister wrote online

His sister wrote on Facebook: 'The PA Trump Rally claimed the life of my brother, Corey Comperatore

'This is a moment where all leaders have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity,' he continued.

'For all leaders, we need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists in search for a better brighter future for this nation.'

An emergency room doctor at Donald Trump's rally revealed how he performed CPR on Comperatore, after he was hit by a bullet intended for the former president.

'I heard the shots. I thought it was firecrackers begin with. Somebody over there was screaming 'he's been shot he's been shot,'' said the man who had blood splattered all over his white USA shirt. 'So I made my way over. I said I'm an emergency department physician. Let me help you.'

'The guy had spun around was jammed between the benches and a head shot here,' he told CBS News.

He had retired from the fire department, but remained well-known in the community

'So I got him together so I got people there really helpful. I did CPR chest compressions as well.'

Trump was shot in the right ear by a Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from a roof 130 yards from the MAGA event in Butler, Pennsylvania.

He briefly bent down, then stood up, pumped his fist and chanted 'fight, fight, fight' as Secret Service rushed him off stage and into a motorcade

Crooks is a registered Republican who also donated money to President Biden in 2023. He graduated from high school in 2022 .

The former fire chief for Buffalo Township, Corey Comperatore, was the person killed in the crowd at the Trump rally in Butler County

He opened fire at the former president with an AR-style rifle from a roof 130 yards from the rally stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday at 6.15 pm.

Images of Crooks wearing glasses, braces, and an American flag t-shirt in a yearbook headshots emerged on Sunday morning, hours after he tried to take out the presumptive Republican nominee and killed a member of the rally crowd.

Crooks' uncle Mark Crooks told DailyMail.com he hadn't seen the gunman or his parents in years, and described them as 'very private.'

'I havent seen that part of my family in years,' he said. 'Honestly it's been so long I dont think much about them.;

'Its a shame. The kid is like a stranger to me. Theyre private and they dont reach out to anybody any time.'

Bethel Park School District - where Crooks was a student until two years ago - verified his graduation and vowed full cooperation with investigators.

An emergency room doctor at Donald Trump's rally revealed how he performed CPR on a member of the crowd

Records show he donated to a group who backed President Joe Biden on the day of the inauguration in 2020.

A resident near to where Crooks lived, who wanted to remain anonymous, confirmed the identity of the gunman to DailyMail.com.

Members of the community where Crooks is believed to have lived with his parents were swarmed by police and Secret Service on Sunday morning.

Those who spoke to DailyMail.com said the family were quiet and kept to themselves.

Trump put out a statement on Truth Social Saturday night confirming he was struck by a bullet, while thanking the Secret Service and law enforcement for their 'rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania.'

The former president also confirmed that one rally-goer was killed and another was 'badly injured.'

'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.'

Yearbook images have surfaced of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who opened fire on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania

'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear,' said the former president.

'I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!'
Donald Trump's would-be assassin Thomas Matthew Crooks had explosives in the car he drove to the Pennsylvania rally and used a firearm purchased by his father.

Authorities found the 'explosive devices' in the 20-year-old's vehicle and home after Secret Service agents shot and killed him seconds after he opened fire on the former president, the Wall Street Journal reported.

Matthew Crooks, 53, legally purchased the AR-15 that his son used to attempt to assassinate Trump on Saturday.

Thomas Crooks killed one rally goer, now revealed to be Corey Comperatore, and critically injured two others who are being treated at Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh while attempting to take out Trump.

A bullet struck the former president in his right ear but his campaign says he is otherwise 'fine.'

Yearbook images have surfaced of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who opened fire on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. A resident confirmed the identity to DailyMail.com

Crooks, who graduated high school just two years ago, parked his vehicle near the rally site in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday before scaling to the roof of a nearby industrial manufacturing building and targeting Trump.

Authorities claim that after police received multiple reports of suspicious packages near where the shooter parked his car it prompted them to dispatch bomb technicians.

Investigators worked well into the night to make sure the scene was clear, which included searching Crooks' home and speaking with his family.

The FBI search led to the discovery of more bombs in the family's Bethel Park home, according to reports.

Members of the community where Crooks is believed to have lived with his parents were swarmed by police and Secret Service on Sunday morning.

Those who spoke to DailyMail.com said the family were quiet and kept to themselves.

Crooks was killed by USSS seconds after opening fire on the former president and presumed Republican presidential nominee on Saturday.

As Trump grabbed his right ear and ducked behind the podium, his security detail created a wall of bodies around him while the gunman was taken out.

With blood running down his face, Trump stood up and raised his fist in the air and repeatedly yelled 'fight' as he was escorted off stage by suited members of the Secret Service.

Authorities found explosive materials in Crooks' vehicle and family home. Members of the Bethel Park community where Crooks is believed to have lived with his parents were swarmed by police and Secret Service on Sunday morning

The would-be assassin was a registered Republican and 2022 high school graduate. Records show Crooks donated on the day of the 2020 inauguration to a progressive group backing President Joe Biden.

Crooks shot at Trump with an AR-style rifle from a rooftop 130 yards from the rally stage in Butler just before 6:15 p.m. on Saturday.

Images of Crooks wearing glasses, braces, and an American flag t-shirt in a yearbook headshots emerged on Sunday morning.

Bethel Park School District, where Crooks was a student until two years ago, verified his graduation from the high school and is cooperating with investigators.
The US Army has sparked 'outrage' from lawmakers and Christian group leaders for listing pro-life groups as 'terrorists' in a recent training session.

Fort Liberty garrison in North Carolina is facing criticism after a photograph of a slideshow given by trainers at an anti-terror briefing circulated on social media.

The slide categorized 'anti-abortion' and 'pro-life' organizations as 'terrorist groups', indicating they could be a threat to the safety of military installations.

It named Operation Rescue and National Right To Life as examples, along with people with 'IM4IT' 'choose life' license plates on their vehicles.

Twenty-five lawmakers, including members of the House Armed Services Committee signed a letter to US Army Secretary Christine Wormuth expressing 'outrage' over the 'disturbing' training session.

The US Army has sparked 'outrage' from lawmakers and Christian group leaders after listing pro-life groups as 'terrorists' in a recent training session

The US Army training slide categorized 'anti-abortion' and 'pro-life' organizations as 'terrorist groups', indicating they could be a threat to the safety of military installations

'We write today to express our outrage at a Directorate of Emergency Services (DES) training held at Fort Liberty that characterized pro-life organizations as 'terrorist groups',' the letter reads.

'The training labeled several prominent and well-respected pro-life groups as violent extremists.

'The training also indicated the members of these organizations are threats to the safety of military installations and designated symbols of pro-life groups, including state-issued pro-life license plates, as indicators of terrorism.

'This is truly shocking for an organization that insists on treating everyone with 'dignity and respect.''

Led by Rep. Jim Banks, R-Ind, the letter said the training session was conducted for 47 'uniformed soldiers tasked with guarding access points for Fort Liberty'.

'Training the installation gate guards to ensure that servicemembers and their families who have pro-life license plates should be considered suspicious and possible terroristic threats to the installation, is not only absurd but dangerous,' the letter reads.

Fort Liberty garrison in North Carolina is facing criticism after a photograph of a slideshow given by trainers at an anti-terror briefing circulated on social media

Twenty-five lawmakers, including members of the House Armed Services Committee signed a letter to US Army Secretary Christine Wormuth (pictured) expressing 'outrage' over the 'disturbing training' session

'Young soldiers trained to treat certain state-issued license plates as a terrorist threat heightens the risk that they will be involved in a needlessly confrontational situation with otherwise permissible drivers accessing Fort Liberty.'

The letter urged the Army to 'immediately issue a correction' over the slide and to 'discipline those individuals responsible for spreading such false and divisive claims'.

The lawmakers also demanded answers about how the slide was allowed in the presentation in the first place.

Several leaders of pro-life groups also spoke out against the training module. Carol Tobias, president of National Right to Life called the briefing 'deeply offensive'.

'In a presentation that is deeply offensive to pro-life Americans across the nation, Fort Liberty promoted outright lies about National Right to Life in a demonstration of lazy scholarship,' Tobias said in a statement.

'In our over 50-year history, National Right to Life has always, consistently, and unequivocally, condemned violence against anyone.'

Several leaders of pro-life groups including Tony Perkins (left) and Carol Tobias (right) also spoke out against the training module

Lawmakers signed a letter blasting the US Army for labeling 'several prominent and well-respected pro-life groups as violent extremists' in a training session. (Pictured: a pro-life demo in June 2024 outside the Supreme Court in Washington DC)

Tony Perkins, President of Family Research Council, a Washington-based Christian conservative campaign group, also slammed the training slide.

'This is insane! Beyond alarming. Being pro-life, peacefully advocating for the sanctity of human life, and attempting to stop the murder of unborn children makes you a terrorist?' he wrote on X.

The US Army has not yet publicly responded to the backlash.
Corey Comperatore has been identified as the crowd member who died on Saturday night in the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

Comperatore, 50, a retired fire chief for Buffalo Township, was killed by 20-year-old registered Republican and Biden donor, Thomas Matthew Crooks, at Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

A bullet hit Trump's ear, while the father-of-two, sitting behind the former president, was killed. He died a hero as his family revealed he was shielding his young daughter and wife from the gunfire when he was struck himself.

'Corey dove on his family to protect him last night, he died a hero, he was the very best of us,' Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said in a press conference on Sunday afternoon.

He's been remembered as a 'girl dad', a loving husband, a man who went to church every Sunday, and an 'avid supporter of Trump.' Comperatore was 'so excited' to be at the rally on Saturday night.

Comperatore, 50, a retired fire chief for Buffalo Township, was killed by 20-year-old Biden donor, Thomas Matthew Crooks, on Saturday at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania

Camperatore has been remembered as a girl dad, a loving husband, a man who went to church every Sunday, and an 'avid supporter of Trump.' (Pictured: Camperatore with his wife)

Members of the audience tried to save the father's life in the bleachers in Butler after Crooks opened fire from a rooftop 130 yards away.

Family members paid tribute to Comperatore who was well-known in the community.

His sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, wrote on Facebook: 'The PA Trump Rally claimed the life of my brother, Corey Comperatore.

'The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most. He was a hero that shielded his daughters.

'His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience.'

'The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most. He was a hero that shielded his daughters,' His sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer (right), said on Facebook

His one daughter Allyson called him the 'best dad a girl could ask for.' (pictured: Comperatore and his daughters in an undated picture)

His heartbroken daughter Allyson, who was protected by her father from the bullets, also paid tribute to her late father.

'Yesterday time stopped. And when it started again my family and I started living a real-life nightmare.

'He was the best dad a girl could ever ask for. My sister and I never needed anything. You call, he would answer, and he would do whatever it is you needed, and if he didn't know how he would figure out how,' Allyson said.

'They are not going to tell you how quickly he threw my mom and I to the ground. They are not going to tell you that he shielded my body from the bullet that came at us.

'He loved his family. He truly loved us enough to take a bullet for us,' she continued in the emotional tribute.

On Saturday evening while the 45th president was speaking on stage in Butler, a barrage of rifle rounds quickly rained down.

Trump was left bloodied and hurt during the assassination attempt on Saturday night. He managed to get on his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight'

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old registered Republican and Biden donor, was the shooter. He was soon killed by Secret Service agents

Trump grabbed the side of his head and ducked as bullets whizzed by and screams from terrified onlookers rang out.

An emergency room doctor at the rally revealed how he performed CPR on Comperatore, after he was hit by a bullet intended for the former president.

Secret Service agents could be heard shouting 'the shooter is down' in the ensuing chaos and the gunman was later confirmed dead.

Trump soon got to his feet with blood pouring down his cheek and raised his fist in the air and defiantly shouted 'fight' while the audience shouted 'USA' as he was dragged off stage and bundled into a vehicle.

He was taken to the hospital for treatment before being later released. Two other supporters were left in critical condition after the shooting.
Police have been spotted making final preparations at a farm before starting to dig for Muriel McKay's remains, 55 years after she was murdered.

Mrs McKay was abducted and killed when she was mistaken for newspaper executive Rupert Murdoch's wife.

The 55-year-old woman was actually married to Australian Alick McKay, a deputy to Mr Murdoch, and was held to ransom for 1million by the thugs that kidnapped her and tragically her remains have never been found.

This is despite extensive searches at the farm in Stocking Pelham, Hertfordshire, where police traced her in 1969.

Trinidadian brothers Nizamodeen and Arthur Hosein were jailed in 1970 over her death in what was one of the first murder convictions without a body.

The decision to search the farm again was made after the investigation team visited Nizamodeen to speak to him in person and interviewed him over three days following his offer to show her family where she was buried.

Police have been spotted making the final preparations at a farm before starting to dig for Muriel McKay's remains, 55 years after she was murdered

Extensive searches have taken place at the farm in Stocking Pelham, Hertfordshire, where police traced her in 1969

Mrs McKay, 55, (pictured) was actually married to Australian Alick McKay, a deputy to Mr Murdoch, and was held to ransom for 1million by the thugs that kidnapped her

New photos show blue tents erected on the green ahead of the fresh hunt tomorrow.

Detectives visited Nizamodeen in Trinidad and Tobago, where he was deported after serving his 20-year jail sentence, to speak to him in person after his offer to show her family where she was buried. Meanwhile, Arthur died in prison in 2009.

Ms McKay's daughter Dianne McKay, 84, and grandson Mark Dyer, 59, accompanied the police as they were told their mother was buried at the back of the farm.

In a letter to Ms McKay's family previously, Detective Superintendent Katherine Goodwin from Scotland Yard said that the operation will be extensive.

It will involve specialist search teams, forensic archaeologists as well as forensic experts and a structural engineer to assess safety issues involving the barn under where it is thought she is buried.

In response, her family wrote: 'In addition, Nizam has also indicated that he should be at [the farm] to show us where he hid Muriel after she had died.

'Nizam has a valid passport and the family are happy to arrange flights and accommodation so that he can assist the family and police in finding Muriel. For completeness it makes sense for him to be present as he was the last person to see Muriel alive.'

Brothers Arthur (left) and Nazamodeen Hosein (right) were found guilty of her murder. Arthur died in prison in 2009, while Nizam was deported after serving a 20-year-prison sentence

The abduction is believed to have involved a case of mistaken identity - with the kidnappers intending to seize Anna Murdoch, first wife of media tycoon Rupert Murdoch (pictured)

Muriel's daughter, Dianne (pictured, left), has for years fought to learn the truth of her mother's murder, travelling to Trinidad with her son Mark Dyer (right) to speak with one of her killers, Nizamodeen Hosein (centre)

The farm was searched at the time of the murder and again in 2022, with 30 police officers, ground penetrating radar and specialist forensic archaeologists used but nothing new was found.

Speaking previously, grandson Mr Dyer said he was 'delighted' and 'had to take a deep breath' when he found out that police would conduct the fresh search.

He said: 'It's been an incredible effort by our family to prompt and nudge the police but ultimately we are glad they are taking this step.

'It is a success but it is only half a job done. We just want to find my grandmother and bury her at my mother's farm. This ghastly mystery has haunted us all our lives.'

Commander Steve Clayman from The Met previously said officers will search an area where a manure heap once stood, but stressed they had concerns about inconsistencies in Nizamodeen's account.

He said: 'I'd like to thank Muriel's family for their patience while we have taken time to really carefully consider all the information gathered in relation to this case. I know it has been a frustrating time for them.

'We have decided we will carry out a further search at the Hertfordshire farm where it is believed Muriel's remains may be. We carried out an extensive search there in spring 2022 but unfortunately it was unsuccessful.

'Our recent inquiries mean other areas have been highlighted as being of potential interest and it is these we will search.

Police searched the farm in 2022 (pictured), but Hosein claims they searched the wrong area

Alick McKay is pictured making an appeal from his home in Wimbledon for the safe return of his missing wife in January 1970, with son Ian and daughters Jennifer (left) and Dianne (right)

'The main area is where a manure heap once stood - we know now this was probably larger than we previously thought and therefore that area was not entirely searched in 2022.

'While we have concerns about inconsistences in the account provided by Nizamodeen Hosein, for completeness, we want to do this.

'At this stage we have not set a date for the search to begin, but will keep Muriel's family updated and informed.

'The owners of the farm are fully aware and supportive and we thank them for their continuing help and co-operation.

'We all share a hope and desire to find Muriel's remains and bring some closure to her family after all these years.

'We sincerely hope the search is successful. However, we have informed the family that if Muriel's remains are sadly not found, it would not be proportionate to carry out any further searches or investigations.'

The owners of the farm said in statement released by The Met: 'Our position has been consistent from the very first request of the family of the late Mrs McKay for a dig at our home. We have always said that this is a police matter - they are the experts in investigating evidence and determining its credibility.

'We have at all times provided the police with access to our land and granted permission to dig when requested by them, including when we have not been obliged to do so.

'We agreed to support the decision of the police, whatever it was. They have now made their decision, which we respect, although we understand from the police that this was a finely judged call considering the unreliability of the evidence provided by the murderer.

'In fact, the evidence is insufficient for the police to apply for search warrant. It now means that once this dig is concluded there will be a close to the debate and that no further searches on our land will happen.'
The King will undertake his first foreign royal tour since being diagnosed with cancer, Buckingham Palace has announced.

He will travel to Australia and Samoa in the autumn accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla.

Charles will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa and is also expected to visit Sydney and Canberra in October.

Plans to extend the tour to New Zealand and Fiji have been scrapped amid the King's ongoing cancer treatment.

It is not known whether he will still be undergoing treatment at the time of the overseas trip after being diagnosed with an undisclosed form of the disease in January.

He has continued to work throughout.

The King will travel to Australia and Samoa in the autumn accompanied by his wife, Queen Camilla. Pictured: The King and Queen hold koalas in Adelaide, Australia in November 2012

King Charles chats to an indigenous elder during a traditional Welcome to Country Ceremony on April 9, 2018

The King and Queen are set to visit Australia and Samoa this autumn, but the couple are not going to New Zealand due to Charles' ongoing treatment for cancer

Charles will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa and is also expected to visit Sydney and Canberra in October. Pictured: The King and Queen in Waitangi, New Zealand, in 2019

Charles is given a grass skirt to wear prior to receiving a chiefly title during a visit to the Chiefs' Nakamal during a visit to the South Pacific Island of Vanuatu

Charles and Camilla walk on Broadbeach in Gold Coast on April 5, 2018 as they attended the opening ceremony for the 2018 Gold Coast Commonwealth Games

But doctors have advised that he should undertake a curtailed visit out of caution and in order to pace himself.

A spokesman said: 'The King's doctors have advised that such an extended programme should be avoided at this time, to prioritise His Majesty's continued recovery.

'In close consultation with the Australian and New Zealand Prime Ministers, and with due regard for the pressures of time and logistics, it has therefore been agreed to limit the visit to Samoa and Australia only.

'Their Majesties send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding. '

The same reason has been given as to why there will be a shorter than planned visit to Australia, involving fewer public engagements.

His spokesman said: 'As with all His Majesty's recent engagements, his programme in both countries will be subject to doctors' advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds. '

However it is considered remarkable that he is undertaking such a lengthy and gruelling trip - 30,000 door to door miles in all - at the age of 75 and given the health crisis he has so recently faced.

The King and Queen pictured in 2015 as they depart Perth, Australia following a tour

Charles and Camilla during their visit to the Orokonui Ecosanctuary on November 5, 2015

Charles meets locals after he and his wife Camilla (not pictured) arrived at Longreach in outback Queensland on November 5, 2012

The King will undertake his first foreign royal tour since being diagnosed with cancer , Buckingham Palace has announced. Pictured: The King and Queen visit the Senedd

But apparently King Charles is determined to meet his commitments, his first trip to Australia where he is also head of state, since his accession.

Sources in Australia say that health concerns mean the king will not be undertaking all-day events, with regular time set aside for rest. It is believed he will visit the New South Wales Parliament House and a major attraction such as the Sydney Opera House.

It's also believed a formal reception in his honour will be hosted in Canberra by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese.

Meanwhile the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting in Samoa will bring together delegations from 56 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific. The King followed his late mother as Head of the Commonwealth.
It could provide Secret Service for Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has long not had it

Lawmakers are pushing for enhanced Secret Service protection for presidential candidates in the aftermath of the failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump's life.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at former President Donald Trump with an AR-style rifle from a roof 130 yards from his campaign rally stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, at 6:15 p.m.

The 20-year-old would-be assassin was a registered Republican who had donated to President Biden. Bullets from his gun killed Corey Comperatore, the retired fire chief of Buffalo Township, who died a hero protecting his family.

Since then, elected lawmakers have decried the total 'security failure' that allowed Crooks to get in position to shot at Trump - at such a short distance away.

Reps. Ritchie Torres, a Democrat, and Mike Lawler, a Republican, both of New York, released a joint statement announcing the enhanced efforts on Sunday.

'Last nights attempted assassination of former President Trump was a dark moment in our nations history,' they wrote. 'As reports continue to emerge, its clear that more protection is needed for all major candidates for president.'

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures with a bloodied face while he is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after he was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13

'Thats why were planning on introducing bipartisan legislation providing President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr. with enhanced Secret Service protection.'

'Anything less would be a disservice to our democracy,' the statement said.

It has raised concerns over the security of all presidential candidates, particularly Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has been refused Secret Service protection up until this point.

Even with a long family history of political violence, RFK's repeated requests for U.S. federal security have been denied.

RFK's requests for security have also come from concerned family members, like the candidate's wife Cheryl Hines.

Torres said in a Sunday post on X wrote: 'Congressman Mike Lawler and I are putting aside partisan differences to make a bipartisan push for enhanced Secret Service Protection for President Joe Biden, former President Donald Trump, and presidential candidate Robert F Kennedy Jr.'

'We plan to introduce bipartisan legislation in the wake of the attempted assassination,' he continued.

The Secret Service has also come out against allegations that Trump's team requested additional support before the event in Butler.

'Theres an untrue assertion that a member of the former Presidents team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed,' Anthony Gugliemi, an agency spokesman posted on X Sunday morning.

'This is absolutely false,' he continued. 'In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.'

That announcement comes as speculation swirls over Secret Service's response to the incident - mainly pointed at how a gunman could have gotten within range seemingly unnoticed.

Independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. attends a campaign rally at the Fox Theatre in Tucson, Arizona, U.S. February 5, 2024. He has requested Secret Service repeatedly but has been denied by federal officials. New legislation could change his protective status

President Biden has by far the most robust protective detail, but the new measures would impact his protection as well, according to the lawmakers

Trump pumps his fist as Secret Service agents escort him off stage

Images of Crooks wearing glasses, braces, and an American flag t-shirt in a yearbook headshots emerged on Sunday morning, hours after he tried to take out the presumptive Republican nominee and killed a member of the rally crowd.

Crooks' ability to get onto a roof so close raised criticism by lawmakers, and has prompted a slurry of calls for investigative action.

The House Oversight Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., told DailyMail.com in a statement that he plans to hold a hearing with the Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to get to the bottom of the failures.

Snipers stand on a roof at Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania

A screen grab captured from a video shows the shooter Crooks was killed by the Secret Service, according to a source from the agency

'There are many questions and Americans demand answers,' Comer said. 'I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing.'

That hearing is scheduled for Monday, July 22.

The House Homeland Security Committee has also announced investigative actions looking into the attempted assassination.
After the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, screaming liberals had full-blown meltdowns over the shooter narrowly missing the 45th US president.

At a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday evening 20-year-old registered Republican and Biden donor, Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire on the presidential candidate.

A bullet struck Trump in the ear as Secret Service agents circled around to shield him. Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old retired fire chief for Buffalo Township, was killed. Two other men were left in critical condition.

Secret Service agents could be heard shouting 'the shooter is down' in the ensuing chaos and the gunman was later confirmed dead.

But warped liberals shared their disappointment in Crook's aim, insinuating that they wished Trump had been fatally shot.

Celeste, who goes by cele2t3, screamed in a TikTok video about how upset she was that Trump hadn't been seriously injured or killed in the attempted assassination Saturday

Blood is seen coming from Donald Trump's ear, where he said he was shot

'We were a second away, we were a centimeter away from half of the problem being gone and you missed,' Celeste, who goes by cele2t3, screamed in a TikTok video.

Driving in a car, Celeste shared her initial reaction to hearing the sudden news.

'I just found out about this sh**, it just happened, I haven't even had a second to process.

She screams at the top of her lungs: 'You're telling me somebody finally had the ba**s to bring a "pew pew" and it missed?!'

Celeste continues to complain that the shooter was just a 'centimeter' away from fatally injuring Trump.

'There was a white man attached to that trigger- I know it!

'We were a centimeter away, Ughhhhhh,' she screams as the video, which has since been deleted, ends.

Xander, who goes by the name super99x on TikTok, also expressed how upset he was that Crook shot Trump in the ear

Celeste wasn't the only person who decided to share how discouraged the violent encounter made them.

Xander, who goes by the name super99x on TikTok, also expressed how upset he was with Crooks.

He screams into the microphone: 'How do you miss that?

'We don't miss those! Come on man! F***!

'We don't miss those! One shot at greatness to be mentioned in the history books and you missed the shot?' Xander then faces the wall and pretends to cry.

Another TikToker, Lisaamanuel claimed Saturday was 'the worst day of her life' after she found out Trump was injured in the shooting.

'Just got out of the movies and for a split second I though Donald Trump had been assassinated.

'And I though to myself, "this is the best f****** day of my life, and then he wasn't, so it's the worst day of my life,' she says.

Her friend is heard in the background telling her not to post the video. She has since deleted the clip.

A Democratic congressman's staffer faced the ultimate penalty after she was fired for a vile post ridiculing the shooter's aim when he opened fire on Trump.

On Saturday evening, shortly after gunfire broke out, Jacqueline Marsaw, 61, the former field director for Mississippi Congressman Bennie G. Thompson shared her thoughts on Facebook.

Marsaw, the president and vice president of a local NAACP in Natchez, Mississippi, garnered the attention of Republicans across the country. She has since deleted the post and her account, but screenshots have been reposted across social media.

She shared: 'I don't condone violence but please get some shooting lessons so you don't miss next time ooops that wasn't me talking.'

In a follow up post, she said: 'That's what your hate speech got you!!'

Marsaw has since been fired from her position. 'I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,' Thompson said.

Marsaw, who is also secretary, president and vice president of a local NAACP, was previously venerated as a 'hometown hero' by WJTV.

Former Speaker of the US House of Representative, Newt Gingrich, was left appalled by Marsaw's posts.

'She should be fired today. Thompson introduced the resolution to cut off secret service protection for President Trump. With staff like this the poison is deep.'

Following the attempted assassination, Thompson took to X and shared how horrified he was.

'There is no room in American democracy for political violence. I am grateful for law enforcements fast response to this incident.

'I am glad the former President is safe, and my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved,' he added.
How on earth did a gunman who was acting suspiciously crawl onto the roof of a building 130 yards away from where former president of the United States was speaking and manage to fire at least eight shots before he was taken down?

That is just one of the damning and terrifying questions that are unanswered after the assassination attempt on Donald Trump that is being described as an enormous security failure.

Terrifying new video from TMZ has captured the moment Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, lay down on the roof of a nearby building, in full view of horrified Trump supporters, and fired towards the stage.

Crooks killed former volunteer fire chief Corey Comperatore, who was sat in the bleachers and died a hero protecting his family, and then hit Trump in the ear.

He was spotted and then watched by law enforcement at the Trump rally site because they sensed something wasn't right, according to reports. But then they lost sight of them before the carnage unfolded.

Witnesses say they warned cops about a man armed with an AR-style rifle climbing on top of a building, but he was still able to open fire.

Why were the alerts ignored? Why did the Secret Service fail to fully protect a former president and presidential candidate just four months from the election?

Terrifying video captures the moment Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at Donald Trump during his rally on Saturday night. He shot the former president in the ear and then killed a member of the crowd

There are also questions of why the surroundings weren't fully surveyed.

The Secret Service's primary responsibility is to protect current and former presidents, a job they have been accused of failing spectacularly.

It is perhaps the worst lapse in security since President Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded at a Washington hotel in 1981.

They now face a torrent of questions of how the first assassination attempt in 43 years was allowed to happen.

Politicians, law enforcement and critics are demanding answers on how Crooks managed to get so close to a rally that was surrounded by such vast security.

Top Republicans and Democrats have demanded an urgent investigation.

Police stand over the body of Donald Trump gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks after he was shot and killed by Secret Service

Witnesses say they warned cops about a man armed with an AR-style rifle crawling on a roof and getting into a prone position, but he was still able to open fire

There are suggestions that routine checks would have eliminated all potential threats.

In a damning statement on Saturday night, FBI Special Agent Kevin Rojek said it was 'surprising' Crooks managed to fire off so many shots.

There are also allegations that Trump's team asked for more protection on the campaign but was rebuffed.

The Secret Service has since denied those claims, but are still under immense scrutiny for what has been called an 'absolute failure'.

And Rep. Tim Burchett, R-Tenn., became the first lawmaker to say that the director of Secret Service Kimberly Cheatle 'needs to go.'

President Joe Biden, addressing Americans from the White House Sunday, promised an 'independent review' into what happened at the rally.

'I'm directing an independent review on national security [at] yesterday's rally to assess exactly what happened, and we'll share the results of that independent review with the American people as well,' Biden stated.

Former Secret Service agent Joseph LaSorsa said there will be an 'intensive review' and 'massive realignment' in the agency. 'This cannot happen' he said.

He told DailyMail.com that it was very lucky Trump turned his head at the last second so the bullet only hit his ear.

He said that protection needs to be upped for former presidents and Trump will now almost have the same protection as President Joe Biden.

But there are questions of why a man targeted by so many did not have a sufficient level of agents around him.

He also explained why agents from the under fire agency may not have been able to see the gunman.

'Remember theyre observing 360 and youre dealing with seconds. Theyre monitoring maybe in that case it might have been 240 degrees.

'Theyre looking at many areas and it only took seconds for that individual to get up there and luckily he was a 20 year old and not a superior marksman.

'Luckily for all of us as a country that he was only 20.'

He added: 'Had he not been taken out he would have been able to continue reshooting.

'The fact that there was a counter sniper team that took him out is quite fortuitous and very lucky for the country, because this could have been a thousand times worse.'

Trump raises his fist below the American flag, with blood across his face, moments after the shooting

Blood is seen coming from Donald Trump's ear, where he said he was shot

Steve Nottingham, a former SWAT commander in Long Beach, California, told NBC News that the shooting was a 'fundamental security failure'.

Jim Cavanaugh, a retired special agent in charge with the Bureau of Alcohol Tobacco and Firearms (ATF) was stunned the shooter got so close.

Greg Smith who owns Brenckle's Farms & Greenhouses, told DailyMail.com he saw the would-be assassin climb onto the top of a building, and that he was bewildered by the lack of action from agents.

'I'm thinking to myself, "Why is Trump still speaking on this stage right now? Why is he still up there talking?" he told DailyMail.com.

After the gunman opened fire he saw the Secret Service 'blow his head off,' the man said in a video captured by the BBC.

'I saw Secret Service blow his head off,' he said, and then ran to collect his wife and three kids and return to safety.

'At this point, I'm feeling, as I think about it more and more, it just feels like a huge security failure to me,' he told DailyMail.com.

'This isn't a big place, there's not a lot of buildings around here, why is everything not covered.'

He said he had spotted a guy crawling up on the roof of a building.

'I noticed there's a guy crawling up the roof of that building,' he continued to DailyMail.com. 'I'm like, 'that doesn't seem right.'

He said the man definitely did not look like Secret Service, wearing tan and grey clothes, and was not in uniform.

Spotted police officers running around the building, appearing to be looking for someone.

'I'm pointing at the roof, like, "Hey man, there's a guy on the roof with a rifle."'

Agents then climbed onto the roof, where the gunman was and images from social media appeared to show a man lying lifeless.

The witness, a Trump supporter, told the BBC how he had seen the shooter prepare to assassinate the former president.

Questioned why there was no one in the water tower that overlooks the whole property he replied: 'I don't like it man, I don't like what's going on, I don't like what it feels like, I really don't.'

Other rally attendees also saw him on the roof for three or four minutes with no action taken by law enforcement, he said.

An extraordinary photo shows Donald Trump on the ground at Butler Show Grounds in Pennsylvania Saturday after he was injured in a shooting that left two people dead

He said: 'We noticed a guy crawling, you know army, bear crawling up the roof of the building 50ft away from us.

'So we are standing there pointing at the guy crawling up the roof, he had a rifle, we could clearly see he had a rifle.'

The Secret Service has rejected claims the former President Donald Trump was denied additional protection before the attempted assassination as the agency faced mounting questions over the failure in security.

Secret Service spokesman Andrew Guglielmi hit back at 'untrue' allegations from Republicans and members of the former president's inner circle that requests for a bigger security detail were rebuffed.

'There's an untrue assertion that a member of the former President's team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed,' Guglielmi wrote on X on Sunday morning, responding to Trump supporters and online claims.

'This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.'

House Republicans plan to bring Secret Service head Kimberly Cheatle for what is expected to be heated questioning on July 22, as lawmakers demand answers.

'I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon,' said House Oversight chairman Rep. James Comer of Kentucky.

The suspected shooter came within inches of killing the former president, who was wounded in the ear and hurried away from his Pennsylvania speech venue by Secret Service agents.
Actress Amanda Seales posted an outrageous video online explaining why she thinks the attempted assassination of Donald Trump was staged.

The former president, 78, survived the attempt on his life when the bullet missed him by less than an inch on Saturday afternoon, at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Corey Comperatore, the retired fire chief of Buffalo Township, was killed in the shooting and two others were taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Ridiculous conspiracy theories about the assassination attempt have spewed online, including from HBO's Insecure actress Amanda Seales who posted a video claiming the attack was staged.

'That sh** was more staged than a Tyler Perry production of Madea Runs for President,' Seales said.

Actress Amanda Seales posted a video online claiming the attempted assassination of Donald Trump that killed one man and injured others was staged

BREAKING: Actress known for her role in Insecure Amanda Seales said that Donald Trump's assassination attempt was staged.



Seales: That sh*# was more staged than a Tyler Perry production of Madea Runs for President



I lived in Harlem long enough to know gunshots do not pic.twitter.com/8Omo4xWUAN  Dom Lucre | Breaker of Narratives (@dom_lucre) July 14, 2024

'I lived in Harlem long enough to know that gunshots do not sound like making popcorn on the stove.'

Video captured the horrifying moment the shooter opened fire and the 78-year-old dropped to the floor, before four Secret Service agents raced to the stage and dove on top of the former president.

Stunning images showed Trump cowered on the floor as agents protected him, with blood dripping down his cheek.

'Where did the blood come from? So in theater, in movies they have what's called blood pellets. People use them for Halloween,' Seales claimed.

'It's basically a pellet of fake blood that's in your mouth and when you crush it the blood comes out.

'To be frank, small hands Trump would not respond by raising his fist in the air triumphantly were an actual attempt made on his life.

'This was, I believe done to try to show his strength counter to Biden's fragility.'

The former president, 78, survived the attempt on his life when the bullet missed him by less than an inch

A staff member of a Mississippi Democratic congressman was fired after she took to social media and said she wished the shooter had better aim.

Jacqueline Marsaw, 61, the field director for Mississippi Congressman Bennie G. Thompson shared a vile post on Facebook about the attack.

She shared: 'I don't condone violence but please get some shooting lessons so you don't miss next time ooops that wasn't me talking.'

Marsaw, the president and vice president of a local NAACP in Natchez, Mississippi, garnered attention of Republicans across the country. She has since deleted the post and her account, but screenshots have been reposted across social media.

She has since been fired from her position. 'I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment,' Thompson said.
Mr Starmer also expressed his condolences for the victims and their families

Sir Keir Starmer has wished Donald Trump a 'quick recovery' while condemning the 'appalling' assassination attempt on his life at a campaign rally on Saturday afternoon.

The Prime Minister is understood to have spoken with the former US President during a telephone call on Sunday, PA news agency reports.

During their conversation, Starmer also expressed his condolences for the victims and their families.

One man was killed and two other men critically injured after a shooter opened fire on Trump as he discussed immigration policies at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in shocking scenes witnessed by hundreds of spectators.

The Secret Service's counter sniper team took out the shooter - who they said was outside the perimeter of the show grounds, several hundred yards away from the stage.

Sir Keir Starmer has wished Donald Trump a 'quick recovery' while condemning the 'appalling' assassination attempt on his life at a campaign rally on Saturday afternoon

One man was killed and two other men critically injured after a shooter opened fire on Trump as he discussed immigration policies at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday

The Prime Minister's call on Sunday follows a social media post on X to the horrifying incident, in which he said: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

In the aftermath, Mr Trump has issued a statement saying people must remain 'defiant in the face of wickedness' .

Writing on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, Mr Trump thanked well-wishers and said 'it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening'.

'We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.'

He added: 'Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

'We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

'In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

The Prime Minister's call on Sunday followed his expression of shock on social media today

Sir Keir Starmer said he was 'appalled' by the incident, which killed one and left two others critically injured

'I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin. DJT'

His wife, former US first lady Melania Trump, said:'When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life, and Barron's (the couple's son) life, were on the brink of devastating change.'

Mrs Trump said she was 'grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives'.

She added: 'A monster who recognised my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion - his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration.

Trump grabbed at the side of his head as he appeared to be hit by a passing bullet during the assassination attempt on Saturday

The extent of Trump's injuries are not clear, although he appeared to want to show his supporters that he was okay within seconds of being shot

Trump had blood streaming down his cheeks as Secret Service agents put him to the floor

Secret Service raced to the stage to protect Trump after shots were fired

'The core facets of my husband's life - his human side - were buried below the political machine.'

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who is close to Mr Trump, also said he was 'very upset' by the incident, but 'not shocked'.

Mr Farage said he would 'almost certainly would have been' at Saturday's rally in Pennsylvania if he had not won his Clacton seat at the General Election and now planned to travel to the US for the 2024 Republican National Convention as a 'show of friendly solidarity' with Mr Trump, who he considers a friend.

Photographs have shown the bloodied former US president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler.

Mr Trump, who was 'safe' according to a spokesman, said on his Truth Social media platform that a bullet had 'pierced' his ear before he was dragged to the ground by Secret Service agents.

One person at the rally was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.

The dead man was later named as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro said: 'Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night.'

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an 'elevated position' outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

Asked how he felt after the shooting, Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: 'I was very upset and I'm still upset.

'I'm obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but he's got away with it.

'But one person is dead.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who is close to Mr Trump, said: 'It's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it'

'Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so it's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it.

'The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.'

Mr Farage told Sky News' Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips that he had sent a text message to the former president.

The Prime Minister said: 'I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

'Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.'

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said: 'Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.

'In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in.

'Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.

'My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.'

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the Government 'condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms'.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: 'As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump - along with every victim and their families.'

Former Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson said it was 'a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination'.

Writing on social media, he added: 'As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason.

'Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.'

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: 'Political violence is wrong.

'I am shocked to wake up to these awful scenes from Pennsylvania and my thoughts are with the victims and their families.

'We must all condemn this appalling attempt on Donald Trump's life.'

Mr Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time on Saturday.

The ex-president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of head, before blood appeared on his face.

He ducked and was surrounded by Secret Service agents, before rising to his feet and pumping his fist in the air, to cheers from the crowd.

The FBI has named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

President Biden called the shooting 'sick', adding: 'There's no place in America for this type of violence'

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting 'sick', adding: 'There's no place in America for this type of violence.'

It is considered the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
The Secret Service has some explaining to do.

How did an assassin with a rifle get onto the roof of a building a little over 100 yards away from Donald Trumps podium at Saturdays rally? Its supposed to be standard operating procedure for the Secret Service to clear roofs and windows with a clean line of sight at someone theyre protecting.

Yet it appears that Thomas Crooks, the alleged assassin, was up there alone. Nobody secured the roof. And rallygoers - who spotted him moments before his attack - told a BBC reporter that they were brushed aside when they tried to warn security agents.

Now we know that Trump was just inches from death. He was incredibly lucky to only be winged on the ear. If not for the wind, a slight tilt of his head, and poor marksmanship by the 20-year-old shooter, America would be facing a traumatic national tragedy of unthinkable proportions.

Its already a personal tragedy, as one rallygoer behind Trump was killed and two others seriously wounded.

Donald Trump was shot in the ear during an attempted assassination on Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally

For the Trump family, Melania and Barron had to endure watching as their husband and father respectively almost died before their eyes.

Incompetence in this business gets people killed - ruins lives.

There may also be after-action reviews of why the agents standing around Trumps podium didnt move faster to block him and get him offstage. But those are split-second decisions. And on the whole, the bravery of those who dashed to protect the former president is admirable indeed.

Not preventing this in advance, however, is inexcusable.

The questions abound:

Was Trumps detail too understaffed to do their job? Has his security been compromised? Can we trust that future rallies will be secure? What are the implications for next weeks Republican party convention?

Pennsylvania congressman Mike Waltz, who was at the rally, tweeted after that very reliable sources were telling me there have been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump that were, he alleged, denied by Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. But a Secret Service spokesman responded quickly that it was absolutely false that a member of the former Presidents team had made such a request.

A House investigation is now essential.

On Saturday, the Republican Chairman of the House Homeland Security Committee demanded Secretary Mayorkass cooperation in a thorough probe of the Secret Service.

Secret Service personnel escorted a defiant Trump into a vehicle after he was injured

Republicans can expect little help from Bennie Thompson, the top Democrat on the Homeland Security committee, who introduced legislation in April in an attempt to strip Trump of his protective detail.

One of Thompsons aides, Jacqueline Marsaw, penned a despicable Facebook post on Saturday night saying she wished the shooter hadnt missed Trump.

Meanwhile, the Secret Service continues to deny protection to independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose father and uncle were assassinated. Shame on them.

The Secret Service is one of Americas most respected institutions, revered for its cool professionalism and the selfless bravery of agents who put themselves, literally, in the line of fire.

But as we have seen with so many other once-great institutions in recent years, its reputation has long outlived the reality. We just saw how easily the Secret Services decline could threaten the very fabric of our society.

Its an open secret in Washington. The service has endured years of bad press for a culture of boozy agents frequenting prostitutes, neglecting digital security risks and acting inappropriately. More recently, Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle has been criticized for emphasizing diversity in hiring  possibly watering down standards as a result.

That controversy exploded into view after an incident in April this year when Michelle Herczeg, a female agent on vice president Kamala Harriss detail, began acting erratically, had an apparent mental break, and ended up in a scuffle with other armed agents. Herczeg was a former Dallas cop who left that job in 2016 after accusing a superior of sexual misconduct  a charge that she pursued with a damages lawsuit that was then dismissed by a court in 2021.

There has yet to be a clear answer for why, after such an incident, she was placed on Harriss team.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was shot dead by U.S. Secret Service just seconds after the bullet clipped the former president's ear

Reckless driving incidents have also plagued the VPs detail. In October 2022, Harris had to be moved to another vehicle after her SUV hit a curb so hard it briefly became airborne. The Secret Service misreported the incident as a mechanical failure, and the agent who was driving was granted a waiver from the usual requirement of having to take a defensive driving course.

The agency hasnt covered itself in glory in recent investigations, either. It was in hot water for deleting messages sought by Congress in the January 6 investigation.

It somehow couldnt figure out who brought cocaine into the Biden White House last summer.

It issued a vague denial of reports that agents had visited the gun dealer who sold a revolver to Hunter Biden in 2018 (the one that led to his recent conviction for lying on a federal firearms-purchase form) and attempted to retrieve the purchase paperwork. Yet the dealer told the FBI both the Secret Service and local Delaware police had visited his business the day after Hunter made the illegal purchase.

Not all of the agencys recent humiliations have been its own doing, from a drunk driver hitting a parked SUV in Joe Bidens motorcade in December to repeated incidents of agents being bitten by Bidens dog Commander.

But keeping an assassin from setting up a platform with a clear line of sight to take a potshot at a former president? Thats their job. They failed it big time.
Israel has accused Hamas of trying to conceal the results of its airstrike targeting terror commander Mohammed Deif.

'It is still too soon to sum up the results of the attack, which Hamas is trying to hide,' the Chief of the Israeli General Staff Herzi Halevi said in a televised statement.

Israel carried out the airstrike on a compound they believed to be where Deif, who is considered to be one of the masterminds behind the October 7 attack, was hiding on Saturday.

But Hamas insists its military commander was in good health, while health officials in Gaza said the strike killed at least 90 people, including children.

Hamas representatives gave no evidence to back up their assertion about the health of Deir and his condition remained unclear after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said Saturday night 'there still isn't absolute certainty' he was killed.

Palestinians evacuate a body from a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 13, 2024

Israel carried out the airstrike on a compound they believed to be where Deif (pictured), who is considered to be one of the masterminds behind the October 7 attack, was hiding on Saturday

Health officials in Gaza said the the strike killed at least 90 people, including children

Vehicles and buildings were destroyed in the strike on the Al-Mawasi area, located west of Khan Yunis, Gaza

Palestinian children are evacuated from a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 13, 2024

His killing would mark the highest profile assassination of any Hamas leader by Israel since the war began. Deif has long topped Israel's most-wanted list and has been in hiding for years.

The Israeli military said Rafa Salama, a Hamas commander it described as one of Deif's closest associates, was killed in Saturday's strike.

Salama had commanded Hamas' Khan Younis brigade. Netanyahu said all of Hamas' leaders are 'marked for death' and asserted that killing them would move Hamas closer to accepting a cease-fire deal.

Hamas rejected the idea that mediated ceasefire discussions had been suspended. Spokesperson Jihad Taha said 'there is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations' but added that 'efforts and endeavors of the mediators remain ongoing.'

Hamas political officials also insisted that communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza after the strike in the territory's south.

Witnesses said it occurred in an area that Israel had designated as safe for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians. Israel's military would not confirm that.

On Sunday, some survivors were angry that the attack targeting Deif occurred without warning in an area they had been told was safe.

'I heard the first hit, and my son came screaming, 'Daddy, daddy' and took cover with me,' said Mahmoud Abu Yaseen, who clutched his children but then woke up in the hospital to find his son had died. The family had already been displaced five times since the war began. 'Where do we go?' he asked.

A United Nations official described utter chaos at Nasser hospital where victims were taken, many treated on bloodstained floors with few supplies available.

'I witnessed some of the most horrific scenes I have seen in my nine months in Gaza,' Scott Anderson said in a statement.

'I saw toddlers who are double amputees, children paralyzed and unable to receive treatment and others separated from their parents.'

Wounded are transported to Nasser Hospital after an Israeli raid on the tents of displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, July 13, 2024

A Palestinian man carries the body of his son who was killed after an Israeli raid on the tents of displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, 13 July 2024

Palestinians evacuate a dead person from a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 13, 2024

A crying mother and her children evacuate the area of the Israeli bombardment in Khan Younis, southern Gaza, on July 13, 2024

Palestinians inspect the damage at a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 13, 2024

At least 90 Palestinians have been killed and nearly 300 injured in an Israeli airstrike on a designated humanitarian zone on Saturday, the Gazan health ministry has said

The damage following an Israeli strike at a tent camp in the Al-Mawasi area of Gaza

He said restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza hamper efforts to provide needed medical and other care.

On Sunday, Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant praised the pilots who carried out the strike and said Hamas is being eroded every day, with no ability to arm itself, organize or 'care for the wounded.'

At least 300 people were wounded in the strike, one of the deadliest in the nine-month war sparked by Hamas' Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took more than 200 hostage.

More than 38,400 people in Gaza have been killed in Israeli ground offensives and bombardments since then, according to the territory's Health Ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.

On Sunday, an Israeli strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza killed at least 14 people at the gate of a school used as a shelter for displaced people, according to an Associated Press journalist who visited two hospitals.

Wounded Palestinians at Nasser Hospital after an Israeli raid on the tents of displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, July 13, 2024

Palestinians mourn over the body of a relative killed in an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip, Saturday, July 13, 2024

People search for bodies and survivors at the site of an Israeli strike in Gaza on July 13, 2024

The wounded are transported to Nasser Hospital after an Israeli raid on the tents of displaced people in the Al-Mawasi area of Khan Yunis in the southern Gaza Strip, July 13, 2024

The strike, which was the deadliest in recent weeks, was targeting Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, but it remains unclear if he was killed

Many of those wounded in the strike, including women and children, were taken to the nearby Nasser Hospital

A child walks amid the damage following an Israeli strike at a tent camp in Al-Mawasi area

The strike, which was the deadliest in recent weeks, was targeting Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, but it remains unclear if he was killed

Children were among the 15 others wounded. Israel's military in a statement said it struck 'terrorists' operating in the area of a school run by the U.N. agency for Palestinian refugees.

'They are targeting everything,' said a displaced Palestinian, Um Fadi Al-Zeer.

Also on Sunday, police said a Palestinian resident of east Jerusalem carried out a car-ramming attack in central Israel that injured four Israelis, two of them seriously.

Israeli border police at the scene shot dead the attacker after he hit people waiting at two bus stops along a busy road. Israel's military said four of its personnel were wounded, two of them severely.

Israeli police commissioner Kobi Shabtai said such attacks were often 'triggered' by events like Saturday's airstrike in Gaza.
Donald Trump's family and supporters have slammed the liberal media for downplaying Saturday evening's assassination attempt - and for running tone-deaf opinion pieces in the wake of the atrocity.

CNN, The New York Times and NBC have been lambasted by Republicans online for their reactions to one of the worst cases of violence ever seen in American political history.

Publishers were blasted for describing gunshots as 'loud popping noises' and for describing Trump as 'falling' from the stage without reference to the assassination attempt.

The New York Times was also criticized for running an opinion piece called 'Donald Trump Is Unfit To Lead' which encouraged voters to 'reject him in November' on the morning after the shooting.

Printed against an ominous, backlit silhouette of Trump's side profile, the title page also reads: 'He failed the tests of leadership and betrayed America.'

Donald Trump 's family and supporters have slammed the liberal media for downplaying Saturday evening's assassination attempt - and for running tone-deaf opinion pieces in the wake of the atrocity

Thomas Matthew Crooks was identified as the gunman at the Trump rally on Saturday evening

The president's son Donald Trump Jr led the criticism on X, calling CNN 'vile' and 'a disgrace' for their coverage of the Butler, Pennsylvania campaign event incident.

He shared a 30-second clip from CNN where correspondent Jamie Gangel pointed out that Trump got up and said 'fight, fight, fight' in the seconds after he was shot.

'What we're hearing from people is that's not the message that we want to be sending right now, we want to tamp it down,' Gangel said of the reaction.

In a fiery response to the tweet, Trump Jr said: 'Someone attempted to assassinate my father tonight and this is what CNN is focused on. These people are vile.'

The broadcaster has also been widely slammed for running a headline saying 'Secret Service rushes Trump off stage after he falls at rally' without mention of a shooting.

Meanwhile, critics have slammed The New York Times for their Sunday morning paper headline, reading: 'Trump Hurt, But Safe, After A Shooting', presenting the atrocity in the mildest possible way.

Meanwhile, critics have slammed The New York Times for their Sunday morning paper headline, reading: 'Trump Hurt, But Safe, After A Shooting', presenting the atrocity in the mildest possible way. Critics also pointed out the newspaper trimmed out the American flag

Critics also pointed out the newspaper trimmed out the American flag which was flying above Trump in the image of him raising a fist with blood across his face moments after a bullet struck him in the right ear.

NBC was criticized for describing the former president 'clutching his ear' after 'popping noises were heard' at the campaign rally.

Gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, PA, fired several rounds from a rooftop including one bullet which struck Trump in the ear. It came just days before the former president was to accept the Republican nomination for 2024.

Crooks - a registered Republican who donated $15 to the liberal ActBlue political action committee on Biden's Inauguration Day in 2021 - killed former fire chief Corey Comperatore, and injured two more people before cops gunned him down.

The Biden administration rushed the president back to the White House from his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in the immediate aftermath, and he condemned the shooting on X.
President Joe Biden cautioned Americans about making assumptions into the motive behind the assassination of Donald Trump and said he's ordered 'every resource' available to protect his Republican rival.

'We don't yet have any information about the motive of the shooter,' Biden said Sunday from the White House.

'Don't make assumptions about his motives,' the president pleaded. Some Republicans have already started blaming Biden and his campaign rhetoric for the attempted assassination of his Republican rival.

Biden spent much of his remarks defending the Secret Service against criticism and pushing back on allegations not enough had been done to protect the former president.

The Secret Service denied that Trump hasn't been given increased protection despite being the presupmtive GOP presidential nominee.

'Mr. Trump as a former president and nominee Republican party already receives a heightened level of security. And I've consistent in my direction in the Secret Service to provide been him with every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety,' Biden said.

President Joe Biden addressed Donald Trump's assassination from the White House

Biden added he would address the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday night and that he's ordered an independent review of what happened at Saturday night's rally.

Biden said he spoke to Trump on Saturday night and was glad the former president was doing well in the wake of the assassination attempt.

He also said he was praying for the family of Corey Comperatore, the spectator who was killed at Trump's rally.

'We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father he was protecting his family from the bullets are being fired lost his life. God love him,' Biden said.

Questions have been raised as to how Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old would-be assassin, was able to get on a building rooftop so close to Trump's rally site.

Crooks grazed Trump's ear, killed one spectator and injured two more before a Secret Service counter assault agent killed him.

Biden said the results of the investigation into the protective measures at Trump's rally would be made public. And he denounced the assassination attempt.

'There is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter,' Biden said. 'The assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything it's not who we are as a nation. It's not American.'

Biden was joined in the Roosevelt Room of the White House by Vice President Kamala Harris, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Homeland Security Secretary Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas.

The president noted he ordered a review of security measures at the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to begin Monday in Milwaukee.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is taken from the stage

President Joe Biden delivers remarks on the assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at the White House with Vice President Kamala Harris, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas

Trump announced he will head to Wisconsin on Sunday afternoon.

'Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else. Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3:30 P.M. TODAY. Thank you!,' he wrote on Truth Social.

Trump was taken to his Bedminster, N.J., home after he was released from the hospital.

His campaign said the convention will continue as planned.

Biden's campaign, meanwhile, is grappling with how to compete against Trump in the wake of the assassination attempt.

Biden postponed a planned trip to Texas on Monday, where he was to speak on the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act at the Lyndon B. Johnson presidential library.

And Vice President Kamala Harris postponed a trip to Palm Beach County - where Trump's Mar-a-Lago home is located - where she was going to campaign against Republicans' record on reproductive rights.

The Biden campaign did pull down all its television ads and suspend digital operations. It is unclear how long that pause will last.
Donald Trump was already ahead in the polls but some Republicans, and some demoralized Democrats, now think he is unstoppable after surviving an assassination attempt.

Commentators across the board described the photograph of a bloodied former president raising his fist in the air as 'iconic.'

And the episode is already being used in fundraising drives.

'President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election,' Rep. Derrick Van Orden, of Wisconsin, told Politico in a brief interview.

Minutes after the shooting, a Democratic strategist messaged privately to say: 'Trump just secured his reelection.'

President Donald Trump raised his fist in defiance on Saturday evening after bullet grazed his ear. Some Republicans now think he is a shoo-in to win reelection in November

There are still four months to go until Election Day.

But the shooting has allowed Trump to present himself as a strong leader while doubts remain about Biden and his ability to do the job.

The Biden campaign will also have to recalibrate its strategy, amid criticism that its framing of the election as a choice between democracy and authoritarianism created an atmosphere that could have fueled the gunman's decision to target the former president.

Betting markets showed a shift to Trump in the immediate aftermath of the attack.

And veteran Republican pollster Frank Luntz posted on X that the shooting would help turn out Republican voters in November.

'Just as what happened to George Floyd had a lasting impact on tens of millions of Americans, the shooting of Donald Trump will be significantly consequential in a way the shooter never intended,' he said, referring to a black man killed by police officers in 2020, triggering nationwide protests.

Republican Rep. Tim Burchett of Tennessee told DailyMail.com it would energize the base but the election was far from over.

'Absolutely not. We cannot be complacent,' he said.

'We have to push for wins in the White House, the House and the Senate.'

'President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election,' Rep. Derrick Van Orden, of Wisconsin , told POLITICO in a brief interview

President Joe Biden has endured a torrid time since a disastrous debate against Trump in Atlanta last month. The last DailyMail.com/JL Partners poll put him six points behind Trump

Even so betting markets showed a seven point shift towards Trump during the past day, according to aggregator electionodds.com

And Nick Ferres, chief investment officer at Vantage Point Asset Management, cited Ronald Reagan's surge in support when he was shot in 198s, when he told Reuters: 'The election is likely to be a landslide.'

James Johnson, co-founder of J.L. Partners and DailyMail.com's pollster, said there was no doubt that Trump had underlined one of his key advantages over Bidenthat voters see him as 'strong.'

'But a presidential race isn't over until its over. We are not in the world of the 70s or 80s when it was possible to win crushing Electoral College victories, he said.

'America is polarized, and the race will be tight in either direction.

'Anything can change between now and November, with the future of the White House in the hands of a small number of voters in a small number of swing states.

Trump's campaign is already using images of his clenched fist salute in fundraising emails.

'I am Donald J. Trump, and I will never surrender,' he said in one of them. 'I will always love you for supporting me.'
The cost of dualling part of the A9 has been blasted as astronomical as it emerges taxpayers will have to fork out almost 31million for every mile.

Transport Scotland is to hand out the 184.7million contract to dual the stretch between Tomatin and Moy to construction giant Balfour Beatty.

The Scottish Government had aimed to dual the vital A-road between Perth and Inverness by 2025 but failed to do so, pushing the target back a decade.

The A9 was originally to be dualled by 2025 but has been set back by a decade

First Minister John Swinney has now been told he should take responsibility for his part in the delay.

At six miles long, every mile will cost taxpayers around 30.8million to dual.

More than 20 fatal crashes have happened on the A9 since 2020, with dualling of the entire route considered vital to improving its safety.

Transport Secretary Fiona Hyslop said once construction begins on the six-mile stretch, it would not stop until dualling between Perth and Inverness is complete.

Scottish Tory transport spokesman Graham Simpson said the snail-like progress dualling the road has cost lives and has been damaging to the economy.

He added: Taxpayers are having to foot this astronomical bill due to the SNPs broken promises. Their plans wont see this route fully dualled until 2035.

John Swinney  whose constituents are directly affected by his partys failures  should take responsibility for his role in this situation when he has sat around the Cabinet table for almost all the time the SNP have been in power. He must guarantee the A9 will be fully dualled as quickly as possible and any contract awards are delivering the best value.

The A9 is considered one of Scotlands most dangerous roads, with more than 20 fatal crashes between 2020 and 2023.

In those four years, figures obtained from the Scottish Government revealed there were 313 crashes where somebody was injured or killed.

There were 15 fatal crashes on single roads and seven crashes on the dualled roads.

When the contract announcement was made Ms Hyslop said the project reinforces our steadfast commitment to deliver on the dualling plans.

She said: Major transport infrastructure supports the local community and businesses, providing jobs and delivering economic growth throughout the project and beyond.

A Transport Scotland spokesman said: We are committed to the completion of the programme. We will consider opportunities to accelerate the delivery plan where those do not result in excessive disruption and can deliver early benefits.

With three compliant tenders received the market has been fully tested. We are therefore confident that value for money has been demonstrated through the procurement process.
A vine snake killed by a hiker was actually the first-of-its-kind sighting of the species in Bolivia, a new study has found.

Scientists were searching for hard-to-find reptiles in La Paz in 2015 when a local guide severed the snake.

According to a study published in the international peer-reviewed journal Herpetozoa on July 10, researchers discovered the carcass and determined it was the first record of an Oxybelis inkaterra - vine snake - in the country.

The four-foot long predator was 'accidentally severed' when hikers were clearing trails near a camp and scared the snake.

'This particular individual, feeling threatened, remained motionless, mimicking one of the branches of the shrub it was on,' the study said.

A vine snake (pictured) was killed by a hiker in La Paz and turned out to be the first of its kind discovered in Bolivia

'Unfortunately, this behavior caused it to go unnoticed by the guide, resulting in the unfortunate accident.'

Photos show the brown and cream snake with black spotting wrapped around a branch.

Researchers said vine snakes are 'are quite cryptic, due to their coloration, elongated head, and attenuated slender bodies and long tail.'

Their prey includes an array of small vertebrates, including lizards, birds, amphibians and mammals.

Vine snakes are difficult to observe and capture during the day because of their ability to mimic nature, according to the study.

While vine snakes are distributed in the Amazonian forests, Yungas, and riparian forests of the floodplains of Bolivia, very little is known about their history in the country.

The study confirmed two additional sightings in Bolivia, one in 2005 and another with unknown date and location information.

Researchers also captured information on two species of sharpnose snakes in the region.
The billionaire widow of Apple guru Steve Jobs has made a record-breaking San Francisco real estate purchase - and she got it for a 'bargain.'

Laurene Powell Jobs, 60, has just snatched up a slice of luxury in San Franciscos Pacific Heights neighborhood for $70 million, which she bought for a 30 million discount.

Her purchase makes the philanthropist and founder of Emerson Collective the owner of the most expensive single-family home ever recorded in the city.

The sellers, Sloan Lindemann Barnett and husband Roger, were initially hoping to pocket a whopping $100 million for their Spanish Renaissance Revival dream home, the Wall Street Journal first reported.

The billionaire widow of Apple guru Steve Jobs has made a record-breaking San Francisco real estate purchase - and she got it for a 'bargain'

Sloan, daughter of billionaire art collector George L. Lindemann, and her husband Roger, the big boss of health-supplement giant Shaklee, originally bought the pad for a 'mere' $33 million back in 2011.

The property, once dubbed 'the most beautiful house in America' by Architectural Digest, is adorned with white onyx walls and views of the Golden Gate.

The mansion was once caught up in a scandal involving looted Cambodian artifacts, with the previous owners having to hand back 33 ancient statues, the San Francisco Chronicle reported.

Powell Jobs, who has a net worth of 15.3 billion, is no stranger to splurging on expensive real estate.

Laurene Powell Jobs, 60, has just snatched up a slice of luxury in San Franciscos Pacific Heights neighborhood for $70 million, which she bought for a 30 million discount

Powell Jobs, who has a net worth of 15.3 billion, is no stranger to splurging on expensive real estate

Earlier this year, she dropped $94 million on a Malibu beach pad.

In 2018, Jobs continued her real estate shopping spree with a $16.5million purchase of a stunning San Francisco mansion.

She purchased the residence in the Russian Hill neighborhood from venture capitalist Danny Rimer.

Rimer paid $12.4million for the home back in 2013. Rimer's home had been on the market for just a month when Powell Jobs paid cash for it.

In October 2023, the billionaire philanthropist opened her checkbook to help propel President Joe Biden's reelection effort.

The late tech CEO (left) and his wife Laurene Powell are pictured together in Hollywood in 2010

Her contribution of $929,600 came just two weeks after DailyMail.com reported that she had not matched her 2020 generosity and was still on the sidelines as the 80-year old Biden faced down grumbling from within his party.

In addition to cutting that check to the Biden Victory Fund, the Emerson Collective founder and wife of the late Steve Jobs gave maximum the $3,300 contributions to Biden's campaign for the primary and the general election.

Her contribution came days before real estate and casino magnate Neil Bluhm, head of JMB Realty, donated the same $929,600 amount.
King Charles III and Queen Camilla will travel to Australia later this year, the federal government has confirmed.

Charles, 75, who is undergoing treatment for cancer, and his wife, 76, will visit Canberra and NSW in October.

It will be Charles' first visit to Australia since he became king and the first by a reigning monarch since 2011, when Queen Elizabeth II travelled to Canberra, Brisbane, Melbourne and Perth.

He has visited 15 times previously and in 1966 spent time at a school in Victoria.

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said planning for the visit was well underway.

'I am honoured to welcome the King and Queen on their first royal visit to Australia later this year, they are always welcome visitors,' he said.

'The King has a deep regard for our great nation, and has always spoken warmly of the time he has spent here and the astounding beauty of our extraordinary continent. I look forward welcoming the King and Queen back to Australia for this important visit.'

Governor-General Sam Mostyn said Charles had a deep connection to Australia.

The federal government has confirmed King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit Australia later this year

The King has been to Australia 15 times previously, including going to school in Victoria for a short time

'His Majesty the King has a well-known deep affection for and connection to the people of Australia and he was very much looking forward to his first visit to Australia since becoming King,' she said.

'I look forward to welcoming Their Majesties to Australia and, during the visit, showcasing the very best of our modern and diverse nation.

'The King, Queen and members of the Royal Family are always welcome in Australia.'

In Samoa, the royal couple will celebrate 'the strong bilateral relationship' between the Pacific Island nation and the UK, and the couple are expected to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024.

The meeting brings together delegations from 56 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.

King Charles III and Queen Camilla will visit the ACT and NSW in October

The visit would be the first trip to Australia by a reigning monarch since 2011.

King Charles has made 15 visits to Australia, his last being in 2018 to open the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast and to visit parts of Queensland and the Northern Territory.

Buckingham Palace said the couple's program will be subject to doctors' advice, with any necessary modifications to be made on health grounds.

Further details of the visit to both countries will be announced soon.

Charles, 75, returned to public-facing duties earlier this year while still receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Former Biden press secretary Jen Psaki was criticized after she demanded Republicans tone down their 'rhetoric' after Donald Trump was shot at Saturday.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, grazed Trump's ear, killed one spectator and injured two more before a Secret Service counter assault agent killed him.

Donald Trump's family and supporters have slammed the liberal media for downplaying Saturday evening's assassination attempt - and for running tone-deaf opinion pieces in the wake of the atrocity.

On Sunday, Psaki appeared on Meet the Press and angered Republicans further by putting the onus on them to stop the rage.

'One thing for all of us to remember is it may not feel paused tomorrow or Tuesday. And part of that is because the convention is starting and unless the programming changes, the rhetoric and how the programming is set up is not actually calming the tone or restoring civility,' she said.

Former Biden press secretary Jen Psaki was criticized after she demanded Republicans tone down their 'rhetoric' after Donald Trump was shot at Saturday

'We'll see if that programming changes but if it stays the same, that is escalating it. It is not a civil approach to a convention,' the former press secretary added.

Psaki was immediately criticized by social media, similar to how Trump's family went after the press earlier this weekend.

One user on X wrote: 'Jen Psaki said the Repubs have created a 'tone,' but it is Biden & Dems who have called Trump a Nazi, a rapist, a felon, a terrorist. They have called MAGA supporters domestic terrorists & cult members. Biden promised unity but instead incited violence & division. GO TO HELL.'

'Stop lying and fueling the fire and you wouldn't be scared,' added another.

She then centered herself and her media colleagues in her call for a cease to the angry rhetoric.

'For anyone out there who has a platform who thinks the moment right now is to be political and attack the other party  you are feeding into the danger. You are making it more likely there's retaliation. I'm incredibly scared. I'm scared for journalists. I'm scared for people who have public platforms of all parties,' she said.

Right-wing commentator Stephen Miller said: 'She just all lives mattered an assassination attempt on the Republican nominee.'

'Probably should have thought about that before you started treating basic norms and journalistic objectivity like a pinata,' said another user on X.

Donald Trump 's family and supporters have slammed the liberal media for downplaying Saturday evening's assassination attempt - and for running tone-deaf opinion pieces in the wake of the atrocity

CNN, The New York Times and NBC have been lambasted by Republicans online for their reactions to one of the worst cases of violence ever seen in American political history.

Publishers were blasted for describing gunshots as 'loud popping noises' and for describing Trump as 'falling' from the stage without reference to the assassination attempt.

The New York Times was also criticized for running an opinion piece called 'Donald Trump Is Unfit To Lead' which encouraged voters to 'reject him in November' on the morning after the shooting.

Printed against an ominous, backlit silhouette of Trump's side profile, the title page also reads: 'He failed the tests of leadership and betrayed America.'

The president's son Donald Trump Jr led the criticism on X, calling CNN 'vile' and 'a disgrace' for their coverage of the Butler, Pennsylvania campaign event incident.

He shared a 30-second clip from CNN where correspondent Jamie Gangel pointed out that Trump got up and said 'fight, fight, fight' in the seconds after he was shot.

'What we're hearing from people is that's not the message that we want to be sending right now, we want to tamp it down,' Gangel said of the reaction.

In a fiery response to the tweet, Trump Jr said: 'Someone attempted to assassinate my father tonight and this is what CNN is focused on. These people are vile.'

Trump supporters were waiting for the president outside the convention Sunday

The broadcaster has also been widely slammed for running a headline saying 'Secret Service rushes Trump off stage after he falls at rally' without mention of a shooting.

Meanwhile, critics have slammed The New York Times for their Sunday morning paper headline, reading: 'Trump Hurt, But Safe, After A Shooting', presenting the atrocity in the mildest possible way.

Critics also pointed out the newspaper trimmed out the American flag which was flying above Trump in the image of him raising a fist with blood across his face moments after a bullet struck him in the right ear.

NBC was criticized for describing the former president 'clutching his ear' after 'popping noises were heard' at the campaign rally.

Gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, PA, fired several rounds from a rooftop including one bullet which struck Trump in the ear. It came just days before the former president was to accept the Republican nomination for 2024.

Crooks - a registered Republican who donated $15 to the liberal ActBlue political action committee on Biden's Inauguration Day in 2021 - killed former fire chief Corey Comperatore, and injured two more people before cops gunned him down.

The Biden administration rushed the president back to the White House from his home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in the immediate aftermath, and he condemned the shooting on X.
A man who stands accused of killing a woman found dead at an Oklahoma storage facility says they made a suicide pact, yet he managed to survive.

The woman from North Carolina, identified as 30-year-old Elyse Marie Betz, was discovered on July 5, lying face down in rain-soaked clothes, without any visible signs of trauma in an Edmund storage unit, close to downtown Oklahoma City.

Police have arrested a man, Kyle Fedus, who said they had both attempted suicide, but only he survived.

The woman's family believe she was manipulated and possibly murdered by Fedus who has been charged with first-degree murder.

Responding officers say they didn't see any obvious signs of trauma, a weapon, or indications that a weapon had been used. Police also found a passport and wallet inside the woman's bag.

Elyse Marie Betz, 30, was discovered on July 5, lying face down in rain-soaked clothes, without any visible signs of trauma at an Edmund storage facility, close to downtown Oklahoma City

Police have arrested a man, Kyle Fedus, who said he and Betz had both attempted suicide, but only he survived

Betz was discovered in this storage facility in Edmund just outside downtown Oklahoma City

'Elyse was a beacon of joy and creativity, known for her infectious laughter and the bright smile marked by her distinctive dimples,' a July 7 obituary shared by her family read.

Betz liked to ride horses and loved the outdoors. After graduating college she began a successful career in engineering.

Betz, who lived in North Carolina, was reported missing by her family in June and was found nearly 1,000 miles away from her home in the company of a many she barely knew.

'I'm not letting him get out of prison over my dead body,' Betz sister Laura Beckman told KWTV.

Before she disappeared Betz had been seeking help for alcohol abuse in the wake of her mother's death.

Betz, who lived in North Carolina, was reported missing by her family in June and was found nearly 1,000 miles away from her home in the company of a many she barely knew

Betz, seen right, liked to ride horses and loved the outdoors

After graduating college, Betz began a successful career in engineering

In speaking with investigators, Fedus, pictured, claimed that he and Betz had intentionally overdosed as part of a suicide pact

'I think she was manipulated into being kidnapped and he murdered her,' Beckman told the station. 'Unfortunately, he found an easy target to manipulate.'

In speaking with investigators, Fedus claimed that he and Betz had intentionally overdosed as part of a suicide pact.

'Fedus detailed that on the night of July 4, 2024, they fled their hotel parking lot on foot, fearing the presence of law enforcement. They ran through the woods and ended up at the storage facility, where they decided to' die by suicide', Fedus said, according to police.

Hie explanation does not sit well with Betz's family.

'If you knew my sister was dead, and you were supposed to be dead then why did you leave her there? Why didn't you call 911?' Beckman said.

Edmond police says they believe Betz might have been staying at a nearby hotel with Fedus.

aura Beckman, right, the sister of Elyse Betz, left, said she had been seeking help for alcohol abuse in the wake of her mother's death, pictured center

'If you knew my sister was dead, and you were supposed to be dead then why did you leave her there? Why didn't you call 911?' Laura Beckman, right, the sister of Elyse Betz, left, asks

Body cam footage sees a number of officers chatting with hotel management in the lobby

A police officer in the lobby hotel appeared to recognize Fedus

Video sees officers tackling Kyle Fedus to the ground before he is taken into custody

Body cam footage sees a number of officers chatting with hotel management in the lobby when one cop can be seen looking around the room and spots what they believe to be a familiar face.

The man then quickly attempts to leave the room as the officer approaches.

When asked if he is Kyle Fedus, the man says he is not but then tries to run down a hallway.

Video sees officers tackling him to the ground before he is taken into custody on a federal warrant accusing him of violating probation, unrelated to Betz's death.

The investigation into exactly how Betz's died with toxicology results from the medical examiner's office still pending.
Nobel prize-winning author Alice Munro screamed at police and told them her daughter was a liar when they arrived to charge the novelist's husband with sexual abuse, it has emerged.

The literary world has been reeling since Andrea Skinner revealed last week that her celebrated mother stood by husband Gerald Fremlin after he was convicted of abusing her own daughter from the age of nine.

The detective who arrived to lay charges against Munro's husband has now revealed that the Canadian author was 'yelling, she was mad' when police arrived at her Ontario home in 2004.

Retired Ontario Provincial Police Detective Sam Lazarevich recalled being stunned at her response and said he 'couldn't wrap my head around her attitude'.

'That's your daughter. Aren't you going to defend your daughter?' he asked.

The daughter of literary icon Alice Munro says she was sexually abused by her stepfather from the age of nine - and that her mother stayed with him after she learned of it

Retired Ontario Provincial Police Detective Sam Lazarevich recalled this week being stunned at the writer's response to the abuse against her own daughter

Fremlin, a cartographer, received a suspended sentence and probation for two years in after admitting indecent assault in 2005, but Munro stood by him until his death in 2013 - the year she won the Nobel Prize for Literature.

The conviction was not reported at the time and Skinner only decided to reveal her mother's betrayal after the author died in May this year at the age of 92.

In a harrowing essay for the Toronto Star In her essay, Skinner wrote that Fremlin began sexually abusing her in 1976, when she was nine and he was in his 50s.

She said the first sexual assault happened during a visit to Munro and Fremlin's home in Ontario, after Fremlin climbed into the bed she was sleeping in.

Skinner said she told her stepmother, Carole Munro who told her father, Jim Monro, but he too did nothing to confront his daughter's abuser.

In the following years, Skinner says Fremlin often exposed himself to her, told her about her mother's sexual needs, and 'about the little girls in the neighborhood he liked'.

'At the time, I didn't know this was abuse,' Skinner wrote. 'I thought I was doing a good job of preventing abuse by averting my eyes and ignoring his stories.

Skinner added that Fremlin lost interest in her when she became a teenager, but she continued to suffer consequences of the abuse and developed bulimia, insomnia and migraines.

Just weeks after the Nobel laureate's death at the age of 92, Munro's daughter Andrea Skinner detailed the accusations against her late stepfather Gerald Fremlin in a harrowing essay

Skinner, pictured as a child, wrote that Fremlin began sexually abusing her in 1976, when she was nine and he was in his 50s

It was not until she was in her 20s that Skinner directly confronted her mother about the abuse that had happened after reading one of her short stories about a survivor of childhood sexual abuse.

'She reacted exactly as I had feared she would, as if she had learned of an infidelity,' Skinner recalled.

'As it turned out, in spite of her sympathy for a fictional character, my mother had no similar feelings for me.

'She said that she had been 'told too late', she loved him too much, and that our misogynistic culture was to blame if I expected her to deny her own needs, sacrifice for her children and make up for the failings of men.

'She was adamant that whatever had happened was between me and my stepfather. It had nothing to do with her.'

Munro returned to her husband after a short separation but Skinner went to police in 2004 after being revolted by a gushing magazine piece Munro had written about her cartographer husband.

Fremlin had written letters to the family in which he admitted to the abuse but blamed it on Skinner, describing her as a 'homewrecker' and accusing her of going into his bedroom 'for sexual adventure.'

'If the worst comes to worst I intend to go public,' he wrote in one letter.

'I will make available for publication a number of photographs, notably some taken at my cabin near Ottawa which are extremely eloquent, one of Andrea in my underwear shorts.'

Skinner's siblings corroborated Fremlin's confession but Munro went 'sideways, totally against her daughter, and all pro for him,' when police arrived.

'That the guy was a nut,' Lazarevich recalled. 'A lot of guys like him, they don't write letters  in fact, he's the only guy I came across who wrote letters. Mostly the guys just say, 'She threw herself at me'.'

And he is struggling to understand why the revered writer chose to stand by the man who had abused her daughter.

Alice Munro, laureate of the Nobel Prize in Literature, represented by her daughter Jenny Munro (L) receives her Nobel Prize from King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden in 2013

Munro remains a revered figure in her native Canada, but the allegations have rocked her fans

'Obviously this tarnishes her legacy,' he told the Star Tribune.

'If I would have had her book at home I would have thrown it into the garbage.

'From that point on, until she passed away, she'd be getting different awards and honors, and it always bugged me.

'It bugged me for years.'
Tripoli, Libya (PANA)- Libyan journalist Ahmed al-Senoussi has been detained for the fourth consecutive day since his arrest last Thursday in the Libyan capital, Tripoli, against the backdrop of his exposure of a corruption case, which has sparked widespread local and international outcry and condemnation and calls for his release
A man has died in a house fire in Melbourne, while another managed to escape safely.

Firefighters were called to the blaze on Daours Ct in Watsonia at about 11.15pm Sunday.

A man was found dead inside the home after fire crews extinguished the blaze, while a 51-year-old male resident was able to escape.

He was rushed to hospital for the treatment of smoke inhalation.

The home has been declared a crime scene, and an arson expert will examine the area on Monday.
As the daughter of Princess Margaret and niece of the Queen, Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones might have expected all eyes to be on her when she got married 30 years ago today.

But as she and actor Daniel Chatto tied the knot in the modest surrounds of London's St Stephen Walbrook church, much of the attention was on another royal couple: the warring Prince and Princess of Wales.

The ceremony came just over two weeks after 13 million people had tuned in to watch Charles confess his adultery with the then Camilla Parker Bowles to interviewer Jonathan Dimbleby on TV.

That same evening, Diana had scored a memorable PR victory by wearing her black Christina Stambolian 'revenge dress' for a defiant appearance in front of the cameras at a dinner in London's Serpentine Gallery.

The wedding would be the first time since then that the estranged couple had appeared at the same public event and journalists were keen to analyse their every move.

Lady Sarah Armstrong-Jones married actor Daniel Chatto 30 years ago today in the modest surrounds of St Stephen Walbrook church in central London. Above: Lady Sarah stuns in a white silk Georgette and organza Jasper Conran gown as she enters the church with Zara Phillips - Princess Anne's daugther - attending her

The Princess received the largest cheer of the day as she hurried from her chauffeur-driven limousine with just a quick backward glance at the waiting crowd. She wore a navy and cream skirt suit with matching strapped sling-back shoes and a pearl choker

Prince Charles arrived 45 seconds after his estranged wife. He escorted his frail grandmother, the Queen Mother. The royal matriarch sat between her grandson and his wife at the ceremony

The Princess received the largest cheer of the day when she arrived, as she hurried from her chauffeur-driven limousine with just a quick backward glance at the waiting crowd.

Timing was crucial because she did not want to bump into Charles, who arrived just 45 seconds later.

The Prince then escorted his grandmother the Queen Mother into the church via a side entrance and the royal matriarch sat between him and his wife.

It was noticed that the frosty couple didn't exchange a word during the ceremony.

Charles and Diana had wanted very much to attend the wedding since they were both close to the bride.

As a child, Sarah had spent many holidays with her Windsor cousins and, though sixteen years younger than Charles, the two had much in common - especially a love of music and painting.

Sarah was chief bridesmaid to Diana at her 1981 wedding in St Paul's Cathedral and three years later she was asked to be a godmother to Prince Harry.

The two were neighbours at Kensington Palace and shared a mischievous sense of humour.

Both Charles and Diana had had stressful news on the day of the wedding.

Diana, always sensitive to press criticism, was embarrassed about reports in that morning's newspapers that ten days earlier her chauffeur had used a blue flashing light to speed her through traffic as she strove to catch a flight to Geneva from Heathrow.

The incident earned her an official reprimand, because the light should only have been used if a police officer was with her (which wasn't the case), or if she was on official duty, which again she wasn't.

Charles was also subdued because, shortly before setting off for the nuptials, he received a phone call from Camilla to tell him that her mother, Rosalind Shand, had died earlier that morning aged 74 as a result of her osteoporosis.

Camilla and her sister Annabel were comforting their father Major Bruce Shand when Charles rang the family to offer his condolences.

Both Charles and Diana had had stressful news on the day of the wedding. Diana, always sensitive to press criticism, was embarrassed about reports (above) in that morning's newspapers that ten days earlier her chauffeur had used a blue flashing light to speed her through traffic as she strove to catch a flight to Geneva from Heathrow

Lady Sarah arrived at the church in a limousine with her father, Lord Snowdon

Lady Sarah and Mr Chatto after tying the knot inside St Stephen Walbrook church in the City of London

Queen Elizabeth wore a salmon and white summery dress which she had worn the previous month at the D-Day commemorations in Normandy

The proud parents of the bride, Princess Margaret with her ex-husband, Lord Snowdon

Princess Diana was absent from the official picture taken to mark Lady Sarah's wedding. Above: The new husband and wife with senior royals including the Queen (right, seated), Princess Margaret (standing, next to the bride) the Queen Mother (left, seated), Prince Charles (fifth from left), Prince Edward (second from left), Prince Philip (fifth from right) and Princess Anne

Sarah was chief bridesmaid to Diana at her 1981 wedding in St Paul's Cathedral. Above: Lady Sarah seen following behind the newly-married Charles and Diana

Charles admitting adultery on 'Charles: The Private Man. The Public Role' just two weeks before the wedding

It may have been a royal wedding with a guest list headed by the Queen and Prince Philip, but Lady Sarah and Mr Chatto wanted it as low key as possible.

So rather than tying the knot somewhere like St George's Chapel at Windsor, they chose the small 17th century St Stephen Walbrook church, designed by Christopher Wren.

A stone's throw from St Paul's, it seats just two hundred guests.

The service was conducted by the Prebendary, Dr Chad Varah, the founder of the Samaritans crisis hotline.

The thirty-year-old Sarah looked stunning in a white silk georgette and organza Jasper Conran gown with shoes by Manolo Blahnik.

She was attended by her half-sister Lady Frances Armstrong-Jones, as well as by Princess Anne's 13-year-old daughter Zara Phillips, who was also wearing Conran couture.

Other than the mother of the bride or groom, royal ladies tend not to wear new designs themselves at the weddings of family and friends so as not to upstage the bridal party.

So Queen Elizabeth wore a salmon and white summery dress which she had worn the previous month at the D-Day commemorations in Normandy.

Diana, similarly chose an outfit worn at a D-Day ceremony: an elegant, understated navy and cream skirt suit with matching strapped sling-back shoes and a pearl choker.

After the ceremony, there was an awkward wait for the bridal car to leave and Diana nervously waited behind her father-in-law Philip, lightly touching his arm at one point

Diana failed to raise her head as Charles and the Queen Mother slowly drove away from St Stephens Church

The Daily Mail's front page reporting on Lady Sarah's wedding day on July 14, 1994

The Mail's coverage of Lady Sarah Chatto's wedding 30 years ago today

The service lasted a mere 33 minutes and then outside there was an awkward wait for the bridal car to leave followed by the senior royals.

Diana was seen nervously waiting behind Prince Philip, even gently touching him on the arm at one point.

She also chatted to the Princess Royal, who had arrived without her husband, Commander Timothy Laurence.

Diana failed to raise her head as Charles and the Queen Mother slowly drove away from St Stephen's.

It was no doubt with a sigh of relief that she eventually hurried to her own car, giving another quick smile to the crowd as she left.

She had cut a lonely figure in what amounted to a gathering of the most senior members of the Royal Family.

And no one could have predicted on that gloriously sunny July day that it would be the last royal wedding she would attend.
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Heather Locklear was seen looking like the picture of health as she went book shopping in Los Angeles, one year on from her erratic appearance on the ledge of an office building.

The 62-year-old TV icon, whose battles with mental health issues and addiction are well-documented, was pictured perusing the shelves of a Barnes & Noble store in Westlake Village.buch of books:

In exclusive DailyMail.com pictures, the Melrose Place actress looked relaxed and happy in a floral summer dress while clutching a Louis Vuitton handbag as she took her time around the store before settling on three books.

Locklear ended up picking out quite an eclectic bunch of books, among them: 'What This Comedian Said Will Shock You' by Bill Maher, by political commentator and TV host; 'The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free', by Fox News host Pete Hegseth, and 'Flashpoint: An FBI Thriller' by Catherine Coulter.

After leaving the store accompanied by her assistant, who fittingly wore a Motley Crue t-shirt, she enjoyed lunch at the sushi restaurant Seabutter.

Locklear's book buying spree came exactly a year after she was seen walking along the ledge of a building and talking to herself.

The Melrose Place actress looked relaxed and happy in a floral summer dress as she shopped with her assistant last week

The TV star, whose battles with mental health issues and addiction are well-documented, was pictured perusing the shelves of a Barnes & Noble store in Westlake Village last Tuesday

Locklear ended up buying 'What This Comedian Said Will Shock You' by Bill Maher, 'The War on Warriors: Behind the Betrayal of the Men Who Keep Us Free', by Pete Hegseth, and 'Flashpoint: An FBI Thriller' by Catherine Coulter

DailyMail.com spotted Locklear being dropped off by her fiance, former motocross racer Chris Heisser, for an appointment last July.

When she emerged from the building, she kept Heisser waiting in his car and was seen making her way along the ledge of the building and sprinting across the street.

Locklear looked nervous as she steadied herself by holding on to pillars in order to avoid a steep drop into the parking lot and dumpster below.

Locklear, who wore army fatigue sweatpants and an off-the-shoulder T-shirt, then sat at the top of a staircase for a while where she read from a journal and began talking to herself while looking distressed.

At one point she was seen pointing angrily to something written in the diary and gesticulating in an animated fashion before pushing it firmly back into her purse.

Eventually, after well over an hour by herself, Locklear ran over to Heisser who had waited patiently in the car.

He appeared happy to give her the space she wanted and the pair drove off together in his SUV.DailyMail.com broke the news in 2020 that three years after rekindling her relationship with her high school sweetheart, Locklear accepted Heisser's proposal.

She has been going steady with her on/off beau since cleaning up her act following a highly-publicized stint in rehab.

The pair dated in the late 1970s at Newbury Park High School in California, went through multiple marriages and have had their share of ups and downs since getting back together in the fall of 2017.

DailyMail.com spotted Heather Locklear outside of an office building in Malibu last year after an undisclosed appointment that lasted an hour

During her balancing act, Locklear looked nervous as she steadied herself by holding on to pillars in order to avoid a steep drop into the parking lot and dumpster below

DailyMail.com broke the news in 2020 that three years after rekindling her relationship with her high school sweetheart, Locklear accepted Heisser's proposal

After leaving the store, accompanied by her assistant who fittingly wore a Motley Crue t-shirt, she enjoyed lunch at the sushi restaurant Seabutter

They were an item before Heather went on to marry Motley Crue rocker Tommy Lee from 1986-1993 and Bon Jovi guitarist Richie Sambora from 1994-2007, with whom she has a daughter, Ava, 25.

But now new fears are enveloping Heather, who starred in shows throughout the 1980s and 90s including Dynasty, TJ Hooker and Spin City.

It's been Ava's steadfast support of her mother that was said to have helped the star get sober in 2019.

Ava reportedly had a front-row seat to her mother's fall from grace that kicked off with a DUI after she and Sambora split in 2006.

The next decade was filled with hospitalizations, several arrests and the stints in rehab.

In February 2018 she was arrested for domestic violence and for battery against a police officer who attended the incident at her mansion in Thousand Oaks, California.

In June, she was arrested again for allegedly verbally and physically abusing an ambulance EMT who responded to her home following a call for help.

Then in November 2018, she was placed on a 5150 hold  where patients can be hospitalized for 72 hours if it is determined they are a danger to themselves or others  after her therapist determined that she was experiencing a mental breakdown.

In August 2019, Locklear pleaded no contest to eight misdemeanor counts: five counts of battery on a peace officer, one count of battery on an emergency medical personnel, and two counts of resisting, obstructing or delaying a peace officer.

These involved two separate incidents when cops were called to her Thousand Oaks home after complaints of fights with Heisser.

Her fiance Chris Heisser waited in the car for about an hour giving Locklear space before she hopped in his SUV and they drove off

Locklear has had her fair share of troubles that included hospitalizations, several arrests and 20 stints in rehab

The actress has had her own experiences with substance abuse and arrests, but has been thought to be on the straight and narrow since 2019

In 2019 she was ordered to complete a 30-day residential rehab stay in a mental health facility with a 120-day jail sentence suspended. She has been thought to be sober ever since

She was ordered to complete a 30-day residential rehab stay in a mental health facility with a 120-day jail sentence suspended.

Locklear announced just a few weeks ago that her father Bill had died at the age of 94 in a heartbreaking Instagram post.

Sharing a poignant snap of her beloved father, she said: 'She wrote: 'The most brilliant man I have ever known.

'The bar is oh so high. The love of my life. The few the proud. I love you dad. RIP.'

A source told People Bill had been 'ailing for a while' and was hospitalized in February - adding 'Obviously it was a very stressful time for the family.'

The star was sent condolences by her celebrity friends with ex-husband Tommy Lee writing: 'Gonna miss that man and his beautiful spirit! Im sorry for you and your familys loss Heather.'

Heather had a close bond with her father and in July 2019 shared a sweet video of her dad to mark his 90th birthday.

Locklear announced just a few weeks ago that her father Bill, both pictured here in 1987, had died at the age of 94 in a heartbreaking Instagram post

Nearly 25 years after its iconic series finale, a Melrose Place sequel series is currently in development at CBS Studios. Heather played the glamorous Amanda Lockwood  pictured with Antonio Sabato Jr in 1999

She wrote: 'Happy 90th Birthday to my hero.'

In the clip Bill said: 'Happy news that you have brought me today, to be part of your life, all the rest of your life. Happy 90th birthday to each of you.'

Locklear will soon reprise her role as glamorous ad executive Amanda Woodward in the Melrose Place reboot.

Earlier in April it was announced that a Melrose Place sequel series is currently in development at CBS Studios, nearly 25 years after the iconic show's finale.

Along with Heather, original cast members Daphne Zuniga (Jo Reynolds) and Laura Leighton (Sydney Andrews) are all expected to return, according to Deadline.

This series will pick up with a number of the original Melrose Place residents reuniting, 'when one of their dearest friends dies suddenly.'

Locklear was a TV staple during the 80s and 90s. She first hit it big as Sammy Jo, Blake Carrington's daughter-in-law on Dynasty.

She then went on to play Officer Stacy Sheridan on the police drama T.J. Hooker before she landed her signature role as manipulative Amanda Woodward on Melrose Place.

She was later brought in to the sitcom Spin City as the campaign manager for Barry Bostwick's New York Mayor character as he decided to run for Senator.

She was nominated for six Golden Globes  four for Melrose Place and two for Spin City  without winning any.
Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima has been sacked from the show by BBC bosses after he kicked and hit his former partner Zara McDermott.

The Mail on Sunday can reveal that Ms McDermott, who starred alongside the Italian dancer in last years series, was victim to repeated physical and verbal abuse ongoing attacks behind the scenes of the Saturday night show.

She was left distraught at his behaviour but didnt report it to the BBC - instead it was junior production staff who came forward to share what they had witnessed as the investigation into Giovanni Pernice was taking place.

A Strictly source said: Grazianos abuse was ongoing, he kicked and hit her. There were multiple occasions where both physical and verbal attacks were made. It was more physical than verbal but all of it was dreadful.

There were occasions where he did some terrible things, it really was awful. What he did makes Giovanni look like a pussy cat.

Sicily-born Di Primas departure comes just weeks after he was unveiled in the line-up for the new season, Strictlys 20th anniversary series and will be replaced by Aljaz Skorjanec was has returned to the show two years after he quit in a surprise announcement by the BBC last Monday.

Strictly Come Dancing star Graziano Di Prima has been sacked by BBC bosses after he hit, kicked and verbally abused his former partner Zara McDermott

Ms McDermott, who starred alongside the Italian dancer in last year's series, was victim to ongoing attacks behind the scenes of the Saturday night show

And on Wednesday the Daily Mail revealed that a second complaint had been made to BBC bosses about separate dancer on the show in a move that those high up on the show now fear will severely damage its appeal to its millions of fans. One said: Its on its knees, this is a crisis.

The scandal began when a junior member of Strictlys production team saw the shows much loved professional dancer Di Prima physically attack former Love Island contestant turned documentary maker Ms McDermott and was left horrified.

However, they were too frightened to say anything for fear she could be ousted from her job, so they kept quiet but others had also witnessed his unsavoury behaviour.

So when the BBC opened an investigation into Di Primas Strictly co-star Giovanni Pernice following claims by Amanda Abbington that he had bullied her, they knew it was their chance to speak up.

Earlier this month Ms McDermott agreed to attend a meeting with the BBCs HR bosses and after consultation with the upper echelons of the Corporation, Di Prima was sacked.

The source added: It was horrible for Zara, she had endured some deeply unpleasant times at the hands of Graziano during the series last year. She is still distraught that all of this is happening but good on her for speaking out.

Sherlock actress Amanda Abbington has complained about Giovanni Pernice's behaviour during the last series of the show, which she quit early

Junior production staff came forward to share what they had witnessed happen between Di Prima and Ms McDermott

There was no doubting that Graziano had to go. It has been awful for Zara but those around her are very proud of her for doing this. It isnt always easy to speak up about behaviour like this. Credit should also go to the production staff who saw what was going on and reported it.

The BBC also dealt with it swiftly.

Yesterday a spokesman for Strictly confirmed Di Primas departure in statement which said: We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing.

While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.

Shortly beforehand, Graziano made his own attempt at getting his side across with a post on Instagram where he admitted wrongdoing. In a post which was quickly deleted, he wrote: I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.

Di Prima, who joined Strictly in 2018 and has previously been paired with DJ Vick Hope, Loose Women star Judi Love and IN 2022 he reached the quarter-final with actor Kym Marsh. was eliminated in week six of the 2023 series.

The BBCs swift action to sack Di Prima begs the question of why they are yet to make a decision over Mr Pernice, who has been the subject of a BBC investigation since May following claims from former Sherlock star Ms Abbington that he bruised her toe.

Sources close to Mr Pernice say that he fully expects to be exonerated but but there is fury that he has been forced to wait so long. Insiders say also that the widened inquiry will now present Mr Pernice, 33, as possibly being a small fish in Strictlys potential downfall.

One friend of the star said: It is now becoming outrageous that he has to wait so long. The BBC have shown that they can be efficient and take these things and deal with them swiftly but Gios experience has been a nightmare.

He quit the show after nine years following former Sherlock actress Amanda Abbingtons claims that he bullied her in training.

In May it was revealed that she had instructed London law firm Carter Ruck to represent her against the BBC.

A well-informed source said of the investigation: Isnt it baffling that the BBC can very easily make up its mind, weed out and sack Graziano when there is actual wrongdoing but unsubstantiated claims by Amanda are not so easy to make a decision on.

What happened to Zara seriously puts Amandas claims into perspective, it all seems very, very miniscule.

The abuse undoubtedly leaves the future of the Saturday night favourite under threat as it prepares for its 20th anniversary in a matter of weeks.

BBC bosses are in crisis and are fully aware that being able to start the next series and leave the scandals behind them is going to be very difficult, if not impossible, says one insider on the show.

Its chaos, they added. The future looks bleak, it was such a glittery, lovely, happy show but now there are some dark sides coming out.

There is going to have to be one heck of a good line up on this years show to save Strictly.

Strictly is now expected to come under huge scrutiny as it emerged that they have not been carrying out psychological tests on their celebrity contestants - unlike other shows including its ITV rival Dancing On Ice.

Some stars of the show have already recognised that there have been failures in the BBCs duty of care towards them.
Reese Witherspoon is celebrating 23 years of her film Legally Blonde.

The 48-year-old actress  who recently celebrated her 48th birthday  took to Instagram Stories to mark the anniversary of the hit 2001 comedy with behind the scenes photos.

In one photo she posed in a pink tank and matching hair bows alongside her castmates: Selma Blair and Meredith Scott Lynn.

The other showed Witherspoon in the midst of shooting a scene outside in one of her character's iconic all-pink outfits.

'23 years of legally blonde!' she captioned the BTS snaps.

Reese Witherspoon took to Instagram Stories to mark the anniversary of the hit 2001 comedy with behind the scenes photos

She also posted additional memes and links to posts that reference the film.

Debuting on July 13, 2001, Legally Blonde told the story of sorority girl Elle Woods, who decides to follow her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School.

While failing to be taken seriously by many of her peers, Elle buckles up, gains the respect of her classmates, wins a murder trial, and moves on from her ex.

Legally Blonde spawned several sequels and even a Tony-nominated Broadway musical.

Back in 2021 the actress opened up on social media about how the role has impacted her life.

Reese revealed she still has fans approaching her on a regular basis with stories of how her character Elle inspired them to pursue their dreams.

'It also completely opened me up to so many people in the world who come up to me, every week or every month, literally, and say, "Elle Woods inspired me to go to law school." "Elle Woods made me believe in myself."

'And, "I played Elle Woods in the school play!" So I really feel like I share Elle Woods with every single person that made this film, who I love so dearly, but also with all of you.'

Reese shared additional memes and links to posts that reference the film

'23 years of legally blonde!' she wrote beside the images

Debuting on July 13, 2001, Legally Blonde told the story of sorority girl Elle Woods, who decides to follow her ex-boyfriend to Harvard Law School; seen in 2001

While failing to be taken seriously by many of her peers, Elle buckles up, gains the respect of her classmates, wins a murder trial, and moves on from her ex; seen in 2024

Legally Blonde spawned several sequels and even a Tony-nominated Broadway musical; seen in 2001

Reese revealed she still has fans approaching her on a regular basis with stories of how her character Elle inspired them to pursue their dreams; seen in 2001

'Playing Elle Woods was the role of a life time and I'm so honored to have been a part of sharing her story with you all,' she finished.

A highly anticipated third installment of the iconic film is reportedly in the works according to IMDB and Good Morning America.

The project was slated to hit theatres in 2022 but has since been paused.

No release date has been confirmed.
Tim Olsen, the son of late Australian art icon John Olsen, is believed to have found love again.

The artist and renowned gallery owner is reportedly dating Tottie Goldsmith, the niece of the late Olivia Newton-John, according to the Sunday Telegraph.

Olsen, 62, and Goldsmith, 61, are currently enjoying a romantic getaway together across Europe.

The duo kicked off their adventure on the stunning Amalfi Coast in Italy earlier this month.

They have been treating their Instagram followers to a series of stunning snaps from their idyllic getaway.

Goldsmith recently posted a video montage, featuring snaps of the loved up pair.

She captioned the post: 'I must say I'm feeling very blessed to visit this part of the world. I wanted to share a little of Capri's wonder with you. I know it's freezing at home so rug up and cuddle up.'

Olsen's first marriage was to equestrian Harriet France, whom he wed at the age of 29.

Tim Olsen, 62, is reportedly dating Tottie Goldsmith, 62, the niece of the late Olivia Newton-John. Both pictured

In 2004, he married Dominique Ogilvie, and they welcomed a son, James, now 16.

Goldsmith was married to skier Steven Lee, with whom she has a daughter, Layla, now 30.

She was also engaged to businessman James Mayo in 2008, though the relationship ended later that year.

The couple are currently enjoying a romantic getaway across Europe

Tottie is best known for her turn in the pop group, Chantoozies, who had hits with their songs Witch Queen, He's Gonna Step On You Again, Wanna Be Up, and Love the One You're With in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Her father Brian Goldsmith, a renowned night club owner and restaurateur in Melbourne, died in 2020. Her mother is Olivia's sister, Rona.

Daily Mail Australia has reached out to Tim Olsen and Tottie Goldsmith for comment.
Felicity Kendal has spoken about how she is coping with the death of her husband Michael Rudman more than a year after it was a revealed he had passed away.

Michael, who won a prestigious best revival Tony award for his Broadway production of Death of a Salesman, died in April 2023 aged 84.

Speaking candidly about how she is coping, Felicity, 77, said in an exclusive interview with journalist Rob McGibbon for The Times Magazine that it has been 'f***ing shit' losing her partner of 50 years.

During the conversation, Felicity spoke honestly about her experience with death and claimed that there is 'too much of a stiff upper lip' surrounding death.

Felicity said: 'People say, are you OK? Of course Im not. He just f***ing died on me. Some days I am very good. Sometimes not so good. Mostly, I am getting through. Stupid things set me off. Its very strange. You cant tell ahead what its going to be'

Felicity Kendal has spoken about how she is coping with the death of her husband Michael Rudman more than a year after it was a revealed he had passed away (pictured 2023)

Michael, who won a prestigious best revival Tony award for his Broadway production of Death of a Salesman, died in April 2023 aged 84 (pictured together in 2008)

The Good Life star gave examples including realising she only needs six eggs rather than a dozen, reading poetry and shouting out 'I love you' to an empty house, as when she misses Michael the most.

She said: 'If anything, I suppose I would like to say that it is good to talk about these things. Theres a lot of stiff upper lip with death. People avoid it or say things like, Im sorry you lost your husband.

'I actually hate that. Its as if you have lost the cat. I havent lost Michael; he is dead. We are all at one point or another going to have to deal with similar things, so lets be open about it.'

The theatre director met Felicity in 1974 while he was married to Veronica Bennett.

The couple later married in 1983 after the actress divorced her first husband of 11 years, actor Drewe Henley.

The American star described the secretive romance in his book, I Joke Too Much.

Recounting the first time he saw Felicity he wrote: 'I can't say I fell in love with her that day, but I certainly felt differently about her than I did about her co-stars Tom Courtenay and Michael Gambon.

'I had been directing actors since the early Sixties at the National Theatre, in the West End and on Broadway, among other places.

Speaking candidly about how she is coping, Felicity, 77, told the The Times that it has been 'f***ing shit' losing her partner of 50 years (pictured together in 2010)

'Soon afterwards I offered Felicity a role in a play I was directing in the West End.

'The production went well and when, some time later, we began dating we decided to keep our relationship a secret.

'This was quite difficult: I was now directing her in a play at the National Theatre, we both had children and my daughters, Amanda and Katy, spent every weekend with me. Still, I swore the girls to secrecy.'

The couple were married for seven years but divorced in 1991 when Felicity sensationally left him to begin a relationship with playwright Sir Tom Stoppard, who also left his wife Miriam.

Despite their divorce, Felicity and Michael rekindled their relationship in 1998 and remained together, despite not remarrying. They have one son together called Jacob.

Speaking of her love life in 2019, she said: 'I didn't ever have affairs. I just went from one person to another, maybe overlapping a little bit.

During the conversation, Felicity spoke honestly about her experience with death and claimed that there is 'too much of a stiff upper lip' surrounding death (pictured July 2024)

'I wouldn't recommend infidelity to anybody, ever, it's basically lying  and lying is never a good idea. But we all lie and most of us, at some point... are unfaithful to a partner.'

Two years before his death, Michael had fought for his life after contracting Covid in 2021.

He was treated for two weeks in intensive care, in what Felicity described as a 'scary time'.

Speaking of the ordeal, she said: 'I think I can speak for a lot of people about the fear being huge, and the frustration being a real hardship.

'That feeling that you don't know what state your loved one is in, and knowing you still can't go and see them  it's not like anything you've experienced before. It was just such a scary time. Michael is in his eighties.'
Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer was businesslike to the very end. By 5pm on Friday she was also weary and rather cross. Enough was enough.

Without fanfare or pomp, with a whisper not a bang, she briskly announced that the involuntary manslaughter case against Alec Baldwin was dismissed because the prosecution had suppressed evidence, leaving no prospect of a fair trial.

She added the phrase with prejudice, meaning that the actor cannot ever be tried again on these charges.

There is no way for the court to right this wrong, she said in a flat, emotionless voice, as the news rippled around the courtroom like a shockwave.

There were gasps from both the public and press benches as the trial  which had been scheduled to last for at least ten days  was suddenly over after barely three.

At the defence table, the 66-year-old actor took off his spectacles, laid one hand across his eyes and began to cry, a mini-quake of shoulder shaking sobs.

Alec Baldwin is embraced by his wife Hilaria in court, as the judge announced that the involuntary manslaughter case against him was dismissed because of the suppression of evidence by the prosecution

Baldwin and his wife kiss and cling on to each other, as the actor was able to leave court a free man

Lead lawyer Luke Nikas put a comforting hand on his arm, then the two men hugged. Celebrity lawyer and second-in-command Alex Spiro was next for another beefy man-hug, looking jubilant after securing this sensational victory for his client.

Just behind them, Baldwins wife Hilaria had been taking nervous gulps of air during the judges ruling before weeping into a handkerchief at its conclusion. She stepped forward to embrace her husband and the couple clung to each other, for a few moments oblivious to the clamour around them. At one point, Baldwin had to put his hands on the courtroom bar rail to steady himself.

The case, which had been hanging over his head for almost three years was suddenly, dramatically over. If found guilty, he had been facing up to 18 months in prison. Instead, he walked out of the court a free man.

It was a plot twist that no one saw coming, a real-life crime drama that most amateur sleuths would dismiss as too far-fetched.

For in the end, Baldwins trial did not hinge on the crucial questions at the heart of the case: did he pull the trigger on the gun; should he have checked to see if his gun was correctly loaded with blanks; was he guilty of criminal negligence?

Now we will never know what the jury would have made of these hotly contested issues.

Ultimately the trial was dismissed simply because the state prosecutor made a fatal blunder  how exactly we will never know.

Earlier that morning, before the court was in session, chief prosecutor Kari Morrissey seemed to know it was going to be a long day.

Few people were around as she laid out paperwork on her courtroom desk and conferred with a junior member of her team sitting just in front of the press benches.

Theres a glass of Scotch in our future, she said to him, which seemed to suggest a belief that triumph was within her grasp. Within hours, however, she would be on the rocks herself.

Looking back, it seems evident that something wild was in the wind as proceedings began on Friday.

There has never been much love lost between the prosecution and defence teams in this case, but matters were reaching a whole new pitch of bitter hostilities.

The atmosphere was increasingly tense; tempers were short and exchanges became heated. No wonder.

Just before 8pm the previous evening, the defence team had filed yet another motion to dismiss the case. This was the sixth time they had done so since Baldwin was indicted in January (for the second time) and Judge Sommer had rejected all the others. However, this one was different. Suddenly we were on a war footing.

In the absence of the jury, the defence put forward its accusation that the prosecution had withheld evidence about a batch of ammunition. It had been turned over to the authorities several months ago by a witness who claimed that it was related to the shooting. Morrissey, for the prosecution, said the evidence was not relevant and had not been hidden, she just didnt think it was important.

You dont get to decide that, countered the defence, citing one of the key principles of American law  as it is in British law  that the prosecution have a duty to turn over all evidence, no matter if it is detrimental to their case or might assist the defence.

Cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, 42, who was accidentally shot by Baldwin on the set of his movie Rust

Baldwin was rehearsing a scene when the gun he was holding discharged and hit Ms Hutchins. He has insisted that he did not pull the trigger or know why it contained live ammunition

The judge ordered the contested evidence to be presented and, in a bizarre turn of events, put on a pair of blue rubber gloves and examined them herself, picking through the bullets like someone rummaging through a punnet of strawberries looking for spoiled fruit. No one in court could quite believe what they were seeing.

Things got even stranger when, in a bid to save her unravelling case  and her reputation as one of the leading attorneys in New Mexico  Morrissey put herself on the witness stand.

Why are you doing this? asked the puzzled judge, whose patience was wearing thin. To explain why the evidence was irrelevant, was the response.

This desperate development was an indication of how unstuck Morrisseys strategy had become, particularly as once on the stand, she had to admit that her co-prosecutor Erlinda Ocampo Johnson had resigned from the case earlier that day. I left because I learned about this evidence when the public heard about it, Johnson said later. My job is not to get a conviction, it is to put evidence before a jury.

Morrissey was on her own  and her fall from grace was crushing. Throughout this trial, I had always admired her intelligence, her toughness, her formidable presence in the courtroom. In the months of litigation that preceded last weeks events, Baldwins elite team of expensive, New York lawyers had energetically depicted her as some kind of bitter chick from Hicksville, a small-town lawyer who just wanted a celebrity scalp at all costs, never mind the dispensation of justice.

A woman who had, they claimed, a particular animus against Baldwin, who is a polarising figure in America.

When he cross-examined Morrissey on Friday, Spiro, for the defence, took the opportunity to ask the prosecutor if she was prosecuting out of a sense of spite rather a sense of fairness.

You just dont like Mr Baldwin, do you? he said, almost with a sneer. Morrissey replied that she appreciated Baldwins politics as well as the acting he did from Saturday Night Live.

How mortifying to be damned with such faint praise, almost as if Morrissey was half-heartedly trying to impress a Tinder date with her liberalism.

Spiro pressed on, asking if she remembered calling his client a c********r and an arrogant p***k when talking privately to witnesses. I dont recall saying that, she replied.

It wasnt exactly a robust denial. It didnt exactly quash my rising suspicions that perhaps the defence team had been right about her all along.

Baldwin watched all this from his courtroom seat, perhaps hardly daring to dream that his nightmare might soon be over, totally not caring if Morrissey liked his Donald Trump impersonations or not.

The irony is that it is not clear whether the failure to disclose the bullets would have made any difference in establishing Baldwins guilt or innocence  because no one believed he had anything to do with bringing live bullets on set. It was never an issue.

Baldwin was rehearsing a scene when the gun he was holding discharged. He has insisted that he did not pull the trigger or know why it contained live ammunition. In a B-movie subplot, Baldwins lawyers claimed that a man named Troy Teske  a close friend of the father of convicted armourer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed  took it upon himself to turn over a box of ammunition to authorities that he thought was connected to the shooting.

Could it have been that these mysterious bullets might have helped Gutierrez-Reeds case? They certainly helped Baldwins, in ways he could never have dared hope.

For if the prosecution is discovered to have suppressed evidence either by mistake or on purpose, it is game over.

Alec and Hilaria Baldwin swept out of court without talking to reporters, but no one leaves this case as a hero. Pictured: The couple leaving First District Court on Thursday

Already, there is speculation that Gutierrez-Reed, who was also prosecuted by Morrissey and sentenced to 18 months for her part in the death of Halyna Hutchins, might soon be free, too.

The judge found intentional misconduct. We will be moving for dismissal of Hannahs case, said her lawyer Jason Bowles.

When it was all over, Alec and Hilaria Baldwin swept out of court without talking to reporters. After the stresses and strains they have endured over the past three years, I feel pleased for them, but no one walks out of this case as a hero. And nothing alters the fact that a young woman died in entirely preventable circumstances.

Despite Fridays remarkable triumph, this will probably not be the last time Baldwin sees the inside of a courtroom over this tragic accident.

We respect the courts decision, said Brian Parish, who represents Halyna Hutchinss widower and their nine-year-old son and is working on a civil case on their behalf.

We look forward to presenting all the evidence to a jury and holding Mr Baldwin accountable for his actions in the senseless death of Halyna Hutchins, he said.

It is not over until its over. And it is not over yet.

Additional reporting by Barbara McMahon
It's not quite what you expect from a vicar  even a fictional one.

But Dawn French has revealed that she has a giant painting of herself naked and boasting 'magnificent', larger-than-life breasts hanging on her bedroom wall.

The Vicar of Dibley star admitted she posed for the portrait, but was shocked at the result  as she was fully clothed during the sitting.

It was only when artist Peter Howson returned a week later with the finished painting that she realised what he had done.

'I was in a lovely dress, laid on the chaise lounge,' she recalled. 'But he had painted me entirely in blue with the most magnificent t**s. It's the most wonderful painting.'

Howson offered Dawn the 12ft by 10ft artwork but his agents insisted the comedian pay for it, although she did not reveal how much.

Dawn French has revealed that she has a giant painting of herself naked and boasting 'magnificent', larger-than-life breasts hanging on her bedroom wal

The nude painting that Dawn French has on her wall

His paintings can fetch as much as 30,000, but are more often in the four-figure range.

Dawn, 66, said: 'I did not want that painting to go to someone else. I've got it in my bedroom, but I do feel a bit embarrassed if someone has to come round.

'I always feel like saying 'I actually had a dress on  those are not my actual t**s, although I'd be very pleased if they were'.'

Howson, who was the official war artist in the Bosnia conflict, painted the star when she interviewed him for a South Bank Show about fat women in culture. In the show, they discussed the work of artists such as 17th century Flemish painter Rubens, known for his depiction of voluptuous women.

But Dawn said Howson was a 'bit shy' about speaking on camera and recalled that he asked: 'I can talk, but I need to be doing something if I'm going to be talking, I can't just be looking at camera.

'So could you just lie on a chaise lounge... I will just start to paint you while I am talking.'

Dawn added: 'I asked him questions, he answered them, all about big women in art. Meanwhile he's daubing, daubing away.'

Artist Peter Howson who painted the piece for Dawn French

After their interview, Howson showed her what he had painted, a faithful representation of her in the dress.

But then he took it back to his studio in Glasgow, to return to London several days later with the finished article.

'So they take the cover off the painting and there's me naked, Dawn recalled.

'But this is exactly what he was explaining [in the documentary] that with people like Rubens, the women were not naked when they painted them, very often. They imagined the flesh.'

On the programme, which aired 30 years ago, Dawn asked Howson, a former drink and drug addict turned born-again Christian, if he wished she had sat for him naked.

He replied: 'It didn't really matter. It's a bit like when Goya did his Naked Maja, he used his imagination. I had to go through that process.'

'It's really plumptuous,' a delighted Dawn told him. 'If only I had t**s like that!

'Just as well it was from your imagination  who do you know?'
Stephen Mulhern was spotted with a stunning mystery brunette on Saturday as they attended the Kylie Minogue show at BTS Hyde Park in London together.

The presenter, 47, seemed in good spirits as he was seen heading into the VIP area with the pretty woman.

The In For A Penny host cut a smart figure in a black T-shirt which he teamed with navy trousers, white trainers and a pair of sunglasses.

Meanwhile Stephen's companion looked stylish as she tucked a white T-shirt into a pair of blue denim wide legged jeans.

She added a khaki oversized blazer over the ensemble and kept comfortable in a pair of white trainers.

Stephen Mulhern was spotted with a stunning mystery brunette on Saturday as they attended the Kylie Minogue show at BTS Hyde Park in London together

The presenter seemed in good spirits as he was seen heading into the VIP area with the pretty women

Letting her locks fall loose down her shoulders, Stephen's concert companion accessorised with gold jewelry and carried her belongings in a gold metallic handbag.

The outing comes after Stephen addressed Josie Gibson romance rumours in May during an appearance on This Morning.

He broke his silence as he faced an awkward grilling about his rumoured romance with the former Big Brother winner.

After Stephen was caught holding hands with Josie backstage at Saturday Night Takeaway earlier this year rumours started to spiral that they were a secret item.

But with neither of them confirming or denying the rumours, This Morning hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard couldn't resist stirring the pot during his latest interview.

While promoting his book, Max Magic, Stephen was seen making use of the ASMR area set up and Ben took the opportunity to take a cheeky swipe at him saying he was acting at home because he was 'with one of our own'.

Sitting up straight from a massage table, Stephen laughed off the comment and told Ben to 'shut his face' before they went to an AD break.

The show continued smoothly but at the end of Steven's interview, Cat and Ben bought up the rumours once again forcing the Deal Or No Deal host to address them.

The In For A Penny host cut a smart figure in a black T-shirt which he teamed with navy trousers, white trainers and a pair of sunglasses

Meanwhile Stephen's unknown guest looked stylish as she tucked a white T-shirt into a pair of blue denim wide legged jeans

She added a khaki oversized blazer over the ensemble and kept comfortable in a pair of white trainers.

The pair walked into the VIP area together

He said: 'Listen, she didn't turn up to rehearsals, I held her hand and I showed her where to stand. That is it. Finito!.'

'Uh-huh, really. Your lips are sealed?' poked Cat, while Ben said, 'Me thinks he protest too much.'

The ITV presenters couldn't hold back their laughter as a red-faced Steven asked: 'Why are you doing this to me?! Unbelievable!'

After being pictured walking hand-in-hand, Josie joked to MailOnline: 'I'm in love with Stephen Mulhern. There you go. But story of my life, I don't think he loves me.'

It comes after Josie revealed she has to be in love with someone to kiss them and says she tends to only fall in love once every seven or eight years.

Josie has previously denied there is anything romantic going on with Stephen as she admitted she isn't looking for love, or even anything casual right now.

'To be with somebody or to even kiss somebody, I've really got to love them,' she explained to OK! Magazine.

'I've really got to be into them. I can't give my energy over when I'm not completely into it.'

She added that she has only experienced love in in the past a handful of times, insisting: 'You know when you get that magic connection? For me it only comes around like once every seven or eight years.'

Following a string of unsuccessful relationships, Josie confessed that she lives in fear of being left devastated again by another failed romance. Stephen meanwhile has always been guarded about his personal life.

Speaking exclusively to MailOnline, she admitted that her past heartaches are the root of her issues, as she said: 'Do you know what? I just can't have my heart broken again like I just can't do it. I always meet them and like they're not very good'.

It comes after Stephen faced an awkward grilling about his rumoured romance with Josie Gibson during an appearance on This Morning earlier this year

After the TV star was caught holding hands with the former Big Brother star , 39, backstage at Saturday Night Takeaway last month rumours started to spiral that they were a secret item

But with neither of them confirming or denying the rumours, This Morning hosts Cat Deeley and Ben Shephard couldn't resist stirring the pot during his latest interview

He said: 'Listen, she didn't turn up to rehearsals, I held her hand and I showed her where to stand. That is it. Finito!. Uh-huh, really. Your lips are sealed?' poked Cat, while Ben said, 'Me thinks he protest too much'

Her time in the spotlight has seen her embroiled in a number of romances, including her Big Brother boyfriend John James Parton, from her 2010 stint in the house, ex-fiance Luke Sanwo and her baby daddy Terry.

Josie, who shares her son Reggie, five, with ex-partner Terry, declared her single status just days after joking about her unrequited love for fellow TV star Stephen.

The stunner detailed how she juggles her time between her TV work in London, including presenting This Morning, and living with Reggie in Bath.

In light of her current romantic state, she said: 'If I was to meet somebody - one, it wouldn't be fair on them. Because I can't give them the time that they need, and two, I've got my little boy, and I will never get that time back..

'So if I'm taking time away from my little boy and spending it on something that may or may not work out. I'm gonna really regret that.'

Josie soared to fame after winning Big Brother's 11th season in 2010 leading to various brand deals and a hugely successful weight loss path.

She insists that romance is not currently an option for her due to bringing up Reggie, who she amicably co-parents with Terry, who she deems a fantastic dad.

Josie Gibson's dating history: From falling for her Big Brother co-star to ups and downs with ex-fiance Luke Sanwo - as the This Morning host is seen holding hands with Stephen Mulhern and declares 'I'm in love'

Who has Josie dated and is she single now?

Read more about Josie Gibson's romantic history below.

Josie's first romance in the public eye came with her Big Brother co-star John James Parton (pictured in 2011) immediately after the show ended in 2010

But the pair broke up after a little under a year and John went on to star in Love Island Australia in 2018

John James Parton

Josie's career in the public eye was launched by a popular stint in the Big Brother house in 2010 which saw her win series 11 of the show, at the age of 25.

A big part of her journey on the then-Channel 4 show was hitting it off with housemate John James Parton.

The pair dated for just shy of a year after their release from the Big Brother house.

When they went their separate ways, Josie told the Daily Star: 'We spent every minute of the day with each other in the Big Brother house and moved in straight away after leaving the show.

'We didn't want to be apart. But the honeymoon period was over. We argued all the time. John wanted me to stop weeing with the toilet door open and I wanted him to stop moaning and to see things from my point of view.'

John went on to star in Love Island Australia in 2018, with Josie telling Daily Mail Australia: 'He doesn't want a girlfriend, he's just fame hungry. He's the most manipulative and calculated person I've ever met.

'I thought we were in love but all he would ever talk about were the magazine deals and photoshoots.'

Ex-fiance Luke Sanwo

Josie got engaged to plumber Luke Sanwo (pictured in 2014) but they broke up in 2015 having never got married

Shortly after splitting from John, Josie was in a new relationship with plumber Luke Sanwo, who she met at the SW4 music festival on London's Clapham Common.

In 2012, after just six months, Luke popped the question and the pair got engaged.

After a tumultuous few years involving a number of temporary break-ups, they finally decided to go their separate ways in April 2015.

Josie told new! Magazine at the time: 'Me and Luke have had a chat and we're going to take a break from our relationship.

'The passion is slowly drifting and now it's virtually non-existent. I feel like it's the right thing to do at the moment.'

In 2023, Luke recalled a heated spat just before the split where he claims Josie wielded a machete the pair used to cut meat at barbecues.

However, he told The Sun: 'I was shocked and amazed but I didn't feel in danger. I know she didn't intend me any harm.'

Ex-boyfriend Terry

She had her son, Reggie (pictured), with ex-boyfriend Terry - a property developer who she split from in 2019

Two years after the split from Luke, Josie got into a relationship with a property developer and family friend called Terry.

The couple had actually known each other for two decades before they got together and went on to welcome a son, Reggie, in September 2018.

But five months after Reggie was born, the pair split up.

In a previous interview with new! Magazine, Josie revealed that Terry had kicked her out on New Year's Eve in 2018 after an argument.

'He's got OCD and just after Christmas, he went mad about too many of my shoes being in the hallway,' she explained.

'So I kicked off and said, 'Well, we'll go then!' And he went, 'Alright', and bagged up our stuff. So Reggie and me headed to a hotel.'

However, the pair moved back in together at the outbreak of the Covid-19 pandemic, in order to co-parent during lockdown.

When restrictions were lifted, they went their separate ways once again.

Is Josie Gibson single?

Josie sparked rumours of a fresh romance in August 2023, with cameraman Sam Morter (seen with Josie) touted as her new flame, but Josie shut these down

While Josie shut down rumours of romance with Dancing On Ice host Stephen, she did hint at a new flame in August 2023.

On Shopping With Keith Lemon she revealed 'there is someone in my life at the moment but it's early stages', but has been tight-lipped on their identity.

Rumours circulated that the mystery man was cameraman Sam Morter, who has appeared with the TV star a number of times on her social media, but these murmurs were swiftly put to bed.

More speculation came in November when Josie shared a cosy snap with hairdresser Maurice Flynn, with the caption: 'One of the best meals I've ever had in my entire existence. If you ever get the chance @lavolondon in Marylebone London is the one.

'The company was delicious too!! What an amazing evening.. I felt like I was in heaven! @mauriceflynn @lavolondon Thank you.'

However, by the end of that year, in an episode of I'm A Celebrity... Get Me Out Of Here! she revealed that she was single again.

'I've got to find a boyfriend after this,' Josie said in the Bush Telegraph as she spoke of her embarrassment at breaking wind in front of her campmates.
After dating a bevy of beauties over the years, Common is now hinting that he may have found 'the one' in Jennifer Hudson.

In a rather rare move, the rapper and actor opened up about his personal life with Hudson during his promotional push for his new studio album The Auditorium, Vol. 1 (with Pete Rock) that included a conversation with People.

The Chicago native first talked about his collaborating with his romantic partner on the new song A GOD (There Is), and how he 'loved it' when he played it to musician friends who asked, '"Who is that singing?"' he said.

Sensing that he had something special, Common (born Lonnie Rashid Lynn) shot back to those musical friends, '"That's Jennifer!" It doesn't sound like things you've heard from her before. I love that we were able to utilize her gifts in a new space. She brought it, man.'

With his new release, Common has now dropped 15 studio albums over a career in music that dates back to his debut Can I Borrow a Dollar? in 1992.

Common, 52, heaped high praise on his girlfriend Jennifer Hudson, 42, who he said she 'brought it' when they collaborated together on the song A GOD (There Is), off his new album with The Auditorium, Vol. 1 (with Pete Rock); seen together in 2015

'I love that we were able to utilize her gifts in a new space. She brought it, man' he said in a new interview with PEOPLE

The initial ideas for A GOD (There Is) first came to light when Common was listening to a beat sample that he assumed was sung by Aretha Franklin, but it ended up being Valerie Simpson of the famed duo Ashford And Simpson.

'I told [Hudson] who it was and then we was discussing,' he recalled of their conversation. 'I was like, you know how the light bulb goes off? The light bulb went off. "Wait, that song makes me feel like Aretha. The American Idol alum played Aretha [in 2021's Respect, played by Hudson]. Jennifer, why don't you sing on this?" She's like, "Oh man, I would love to sing on it." She was vibing to it.'

When asked about the lyrics to another song on the new album, Chi-Town Do It, where he raps, 'Champion lover that could come with a ring/That got a ring to it, you and I theme to it,' Common first plays coy and then opens back up about the lady in his life and how she just may be his 'one.'

'I am in a great partnership, and, man, [Jennifer] is somebody I do really care about and do love and am growing with,' he shared. 'The potential of a 'champion lover' means, "Yo, you are the one." I am feeling that. It's a lot of potential there is what I'll say.'

The celebrity couple first sparked dating rumors when they were seen leaving a restaurant in Malibu in February 2023.

But they didn't publicly confirm their romance until he was a guest on the Jennifer Hudson Show this past January.

'I'm in a relationship with one of the most beautiful people I ever met in life,' Common said on the show, while still avoiding to mention Hudson by name.

'She's smart, she loves God, she has something real down-to-earth about her, she's talented.'

Before his romance with Hudson, who's also a Chicago native, Common dated a number of high-profile ladies.

He was previously linked to Kim Jones (Unknown-1998), Erykah Badu (2000-2002), Taraji P. Henson (2005), Serena Williams (2007-2010), Angela Rye (2017-2018), and most recently Tiffany Haddish (2020-2021), according to People.

The Common and Rock duo dropped their new collaborative album on Friday, July 12.

To mark the occasion, Hudson shared a video of her singing some of the vocals while being driven in an SUV that very same day.

'It is a very Musical summer ! And I am loving every minute of it ! My soul Is so happy about it ! A God (There is) #common #peterock The Auditorium, Vol.1,' she wrote in the caption.

Common and Pete Rock released the new studio album The Auditorium, Vol. 1 on Friday, July 12

Pete Rock (born Peter O. Phillips), 54, is a music producer, DJ and rapper, who's widely recognized as one of the greatest hip hop producers of all time

Common said he 'loved it' when he played A God (There Is) to his musician friends who asked, "Who is that singing?" for which he proudly boasted that it was his lady Jennifer

'It is a very Musical summer ! And I am loving every minute of it ! My soul Is so happy about it ! A God (There is) #common #peterock The Auditorium, Vol.1

Pete Rock (born Peter O. Phillips), 54, is a music producer, DJ and rapper, who's widely recognized as one of the greatest hip hop producers of all time.

The Bronx, New York native rose to prominence in the early 1990s as one half of the critically acclaimed group Pete Rock & CL Smooth.

After the duo went their separate ways, Rock continued with a solo career that has garnered him worldwide respect, though little in the way of mainstream success.

As for Hudson, she has released three albums of her own between 2008 and 2014, but has apparently shifted much of her focus to her acting career the last decade, which includes playing the role of Aretha Franklin in Respect (2021).

Common has had a successful acting career of his own, starring in such films as Smokin' Aces (2006), American Gangster (2007), Street Kings (2008), Wanted (2008), Terminator Salvation (2009), Date Night (2010), Happy Feet Two (2011), New Year's Eve (2011), Now You See Me (2013), Selma (2014), Barbershop: The Next Cut (2016), Suicide Squad (2016), John Wick: Chapter 2 (2017), Ocean's 8 (2018), The Hate U Give (2018) and Alice (2022).
Madonna enjoyed a lunch date with her daughter Estere in New York City on Saturday.

The 65-year-old pop superstar exuded effortless chic in an all-black ensemble during the rare outing with the 11-year-old international traveler.

She wore a stylish maxi dress paired with a matching cardigan, complemented by dark oversized sunglasses for a low-profile look.

Her young companion looked every bit the budding fashionista in an animal print tank dress, showcasing her own distinctive style.

The outing comes after Madonna  who is also mother to Lourdes Leon, 27, Rocco Ritchie, 23, David Banda, 18, Mercy James, 18, and Estere's twin Stella  reflected on the one-year anniversary of her near-death health scare on July 4.

Madonna enjoyed a lunch date with her daughter Estere in New York City on Saturday

The 65-year-old pop superstar exuded effortless chic in an all-black ensemble during the rare outing with the 11-year-old fashionista

In June 2023, the pop icon was rushed to the hospital after being found unresponsive, a result of a severe bacterial infection. She was admitted to the ICU and required intubation.

Later, she revealed she had been placed in a medically induced coma while battling for her life, facing complications including lung and kidney failure.

The star is now embracing her renewed health, posting a series of provocative photos on Instagram.

She wrote: 'Happy 4th of July! A year ago today, I had just come home from the hospital after surviving a life threatening illness, I could barely stand in my backyard holding one sparkler.

'I made a miraculous recovery and had an amazing year. Thank you God. Life is beautiful!'

Originally scheduled to start on July 15, 2023, in Vancouver, Canada, The Celebration Tour was postponed for three months after the health scare.

The tour eventually kicked off with a four-night run at London's O2 Arena on October 14 and continued through Europe until early December.

It culminated on May 4 with an epic free concert at Rio de Janeiro's Copacabana Beach, drawing an astounding 1.6 million fans.

Madonna posed alongside daughter Mercy James

Madonna shared a snap with her twins Stella and Estere, 11

Madonna called her children her 'ride or dies' in a series of Instagram Stories posts in May. Pictured with son David Banda, 18

It's now hailed as the largest standalone concert ever, as reported by the Economic Times.

After the tour wrapped, Madonna took to social media to praise her kids, saying she was 'so very proud of all of them' and the lessons they learned during the concerts.

'I think what my children learned the most this year of rehearsing and performing is that if you want to follow your dreams, you have to work hard for them,' she said.

'And if all of them choose something different later in life, they will never forget this year of blood, sweat, and tears. Nor will I.'
Strictly stars Katya Jones, Catherine Tyldesley and Susannah Constantine have showed their support for Graziano Di Prima on his recentInstagram post - which revealed he had been sacked from the show.

The professional dancer has been axed by the BBC following claims of gross misconduct towards his former celebrity partner Zara McDermott.

Following this, The Mail on Sunday revealed that Zara was victim to repeated physical and verbal abuse behind the scenes of the Saturday night show.

Now, Catherine and Susannah have both shown their support for Graziano by commenting on the post. However, it is unclear whether their comments were left before the full allegations were revealed.

Catherine first wrote, 'What noooo' before adding a second comment which said: 'You are the kindest, incredibly talented, most gentle man... I'm so sorry. Sending you so much love x'

Two former Strictly stars have left supportive comments on Graziano Di Prima's Instagram post after he was axed by the BBC following claims of gross misconduct towards his former celebrity partner Zara McDermott

Catherine Tyldesley (left) and Susannah Constantine (right) have both shown their support for Graziano. However, it is unclear whether their comments were left before the full allegations were revealed

Meanwhile, fellow professional Strictly dancer Katya Jones liked the post from her co-star

Susannah penned: 'What the helll??? You were always so sweet, kind, funny and thoughtful to me Graziano. Be true to yourself. Cream always rises to the top. Loads of love x'

Meanwhile, fellow professional Strictly dancer Katya Jones liked the post from her co-star.

MailOnline has contacted Catherine and Susannah's representatives for comment.

The message on Graziano's Instagram reads: 'I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.

'While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it's only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasn't allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.

'There's more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.'

Zara has since unfollowed her Strictly partner, Graziano, but still follows his wife, Giada Lini.

It comes after it was revealed on Saturday that Graziano had been sacked from the show by BBC bosses after he kicked and hit his former partner Zara.

The Mail on Sunday can reveal that Ms McDermott, who starred alongside the Italian dancer in last year's series, was victim to repeated physical and verbal abuse ongoing attacks behind the scenes of the Saturday night show.

It is the latest blow suffered by the BBC show, which is still watched by more than ten million people, as allegations against fellow Strictly star Giovanni Pernice are still being investigated.

A message on Graziano's Instagram said: 'My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.'

A message on Graziano's Instagram said: 'My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime'

Catherine first wrote, 'What noooo' before adding a second comment which said: 'You are the kindest, incredibly talented, most gentle man... I'm so sorry. Sending you so much love x'

Susannah penned: 'What the helll??? You were always so sweet, kind, funny and thoughtful to me Graziano. Be true to yourself. Cream always rises to the top. Loads of love x'

Zara McDermott stuns in a lilac jumpsuit with her Strictly partner Graziano Di Prima

Love Island's Zara McDermott spotted with her Strictly partner Graziano Di Prima in 2023

Graziano joined Strictly in 2018 and was last year partnered with Love Island star Zara but they were eliminated in week six.

He was previously paired with presenter Vick Hope, Loose Women star Judi Love and in 2022 he reached the quarter-final with actor Kym Marsh.

Graziano's wife, fellow Italian Giada Lini, who also danced as a professional on Strictly, has yet to speak out about her husband's untimely departure.

He continued on Instagram: 'While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it's only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasn't allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.

'There's more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.'

The complaint was made recently and prompted the BBC to extend the inquiry that was ongoing over claims that Giovanni Pernice had bullied his partner Amanda Abbington during training.

Sources on the show say that Graziano's behaviour makes Amanda's claims that Giovanni bruised her toe during rehearsals seem 'miniscule.'

A source said: 'It was during that meeting that it all unfolded.'

Graziano's wife, fellow Italian Giada Lini, who also danced as a professional on Strictly, has yet to speak out about her husband's untimely departure

Graziano Di Prima (left) dances with former Strictly partner Loose Women star Judi Love (right) in 2021

Di Prima (left) reached the quarter-final of the dance show with actor Kym Marsh (right) in 2022

One source said: 'It seems that whatever Gio has done it opened a can of worms.

'It is incredibly brave of Zara to have come forward, it is never easy for a woman or indeed anyone who has been mistreated to do that.'

The complaint was not made by Zara herself but followed a number of Strictly's production staff raising Graziano's behaviour with bosses.

BBC chiefs then contacted her management and she was invited in to be interviewed about his behaviour.

The complaint was made recently and prompted the BBC to extend the inquiry that was ongoing over claims that Giovanni Pernice had bullied his partner Amanda Abbington during training.

Sources on the show say that Graziano's behaviour makes Amanda's claims that Giovanni bruised her toe during rehearsals seem 'miniscule.'

A source said: 'It was during that meeting that it all unfolded.'

Zara rose to fame on Love Island and has since become a documentary presenter for the BBC.

In 2021, she revealed how revenge porn had made her consider suicide after a boy shared naked pictures of her around their school when she was just 14.

Her boyfriend, Sam Thompson, won ITV's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2023, beating the likes of Tony Bellew and Nigel Farage to claim King of the Jungle.

Her boyfriend, Sam Thompson, won ITV's I'm a Celebrity Get Me Out of Here in 2023, beating the likes of Tony Bellew and Nigel Farage to claim King of the Jungle

A BBC spokesperson confirmed Graziano had been sacked, saying: 'We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers'

But sources claim the couple have recently been in 'crisis talks'.

While appearing on Strictly in 2023, Zara said of her dance partner: 'Bless Graz, I have started with literally no dance or performance experience whatsoever and he has been putting all of his energy into teaching me, with so much kindness, patience and passion.'

When she was eliminated from the BBC show, Zara broke down in tears as she said: 'I have had the time of my life. Just to be here is incredible. Thank you to the judges and my amazing partner obviously.'

A BBC spokesperson confirmed Graziano had been sacked, saying: 'We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing. While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.'
Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Amanda Abbington says she would 'cry and vomit' after returning home from rehearsals with Giovanni Pernice.

The actress was paired with Italian ballroom specialist Pernice for the long-running BBC show's 21st series in 2023, but abruptly withdrew just five weeks into the competition.

Pernice, 33, has since been suspended while a BBC probe is conducted over claims of off-camera misconduct made by Abbington, 50, and two other former celebrity dance partners.

Speaking to The Times, Abbington claims she has since received death threats from fans of the Italian dancer, whose long-term future on Strictly remains uncertain.

She said: 'Ive had the worst experience. The show was tough and horrible, but the aftermath of it I was not expecting. Its been really brutal and it just hasnt stopped.

Former Strictly Come Dancing contestant Amanda Abbington says she would 'cry and vomit' after returning home from rehearsals with Giovanni Pernice

The actress was paired with Italian ballroom specialist Pernice for the long-running BBC show's 21st series in 2023, but abruptly withdrew just five weeks into the competition

'Its been awful, just relentless. Death threats and rape threats for just standing up for something that I thought was wrong.'

The actress also admitted she would become nauseous after completing rehearsals with Pernice, a fan favourite who had appeared on Strictly for eight years prior to his suspension.

Abbington's husband Jonathan Goodwin, a former escapologist who was left paralysed in 2021 after a TV stunt went horribly wrong, also corroborated her claim of physical sickness.

She added: 'Hed go, "Yes, you would come home and youd vomit, youd cry, and youd think you were not good enough. You were a shadow, a shell."'

The investigation that began with accusations against Pernice has since widened after more complaints surrounding the hit show.

It has heaped further turmoil on Strictly, which is deemed to be the jewel in the Corporation's crown and is still watched by more than ten million people.

Sources have told the Mail that the accusations have prompted bosses to extend the inquiry to look at other matters, and individuals, involved with the dance series as they prepare for its 20th anniversary.

It means that Pernice, who has already let his frustrations at the investigation be known, faces an even longer wait for an outcome after three former dance partners, including actress Abbington, instructed lawyers to make 'serious complaints' about his conduct.

Pernice has since been suspended while a BBC probe is conducted over claims of off-camera misconduct made by Abbington and two other former celebrity dance partners

Fellow dancer Graziano Di Prima has since been sacked by the show following similar claims of inappropriate behaviour towards Zara McDermott, with whom he was paired in 2023

It also threatens to damage Strictly, the BBC's biggest Saturday night success story since The Generation Game.

A television source told the Mail: 'This investigation is no longer just solely about Giovanni but other, more wider issues. The show has been going for 20 years and the whole veneer of Strictly is so sparkly and lovely, of course there will always be people who feel hard done by.

'Amanda's complaints have started something massive, it has opened the door for others to come forward about things they haven't been happy with.

'It is all a big headache for the BBC, it is about to celebrate a massive milestone with its 20th anniversary.

'Having the Giovanni complaint has been a big enough issue, but now it looks like there is more to be scrutinised and looked into.'

Sources close to Pernice say that he fully expects to be exonerated.

Pernice quit the show following claims by Abbington, star of Sherlock and Mr Selfridge, that he bullied her in training, claims which he denies

Di Prima confirmed his departure from Strictly Come Dancing in an Instagram post on Friday

Insiders say also that the widened inquiry will now present the Sicilian star as possibly being a 'small fish' in Strictly's potential downfall.

He quit the show following claims by Abbington, star of Sherlock and Mr Selfridge, that he bullied her in training, claims which he denies.

In May it was revealed that she had instructed London law firm Carter Ruck to represent her against the BBC.

The BBC refused to comment on the matter but it did confirm in a statement that more than one complaint has been made.

Fellow dancer Graziano Di Prima has since been sacked by the show following similar claims of inappropriate behaviour towards TV personality Zara McDermott, with whom he was paired in 2023.

Confirming his departure on Instagram, Di Prima wrote: 'I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.

'While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge it's only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasn't allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.

'There's more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.'

Presenter Laura Whitmore and dancer and choreographer Giovanni Pernice
Kanye West was joined by wife Bianca Censori on Saturday as they enjoyed their version of a low-key lunch date in Los Angeles.

The controversial couple courted attention before their feet even hit the sidewalk after arriving at a local barbecue restaurant in a $100K Tesla Cybertruck, the same vehicle favoured by West's ex-wife Kim Kardashian.

The truck, manufactured by X owner Elon Musk's automotive and clean energy company, has previously been blighted by safety issues, among them a recent problem with the accelerator pedal that resulted in a temporary suspension of all orders.

While West, 47, opted for a a hooded top and shorts for their lunch date, Censori once again left little to the imagination in a barely there bra-top that only just managed to protect her modesty.

The Australian architect, 29, continued her look with a pair of skin-tight hotpants, while perspex-heeled sandals rounded things off.

Kanye West was joined by wife Bianca Censori on Saturday as they enjoyed their version of a low-key lunch date in Los Angeles

Censori once again left little to the imagination in a barely there bra-top that only just managed to protect her modesty

West is expected to release Vultures 2, the second of three planned albums with fellow rapper Ty Dolla Sign, later this year.

But a recently published text conversation - purportedly between West and fellow rapper Rich The Kid - suggests he is ready to throw in the towel on his 20-year career in music.

News of his potential withdrawal from public life prompted an inevitably mixed response across social media, with die-hard fans urging him to continue while others expressed relief at West's possible retirement.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, one follower - evidently unimpressed with West's recent output - wrote: 'At least he wont ruin his discog any more.'

A second added: 'Oh thank God.'

While a third snapped: 'Good, hes washed and just ruining his legacy.'

A fourth commented: 'Leaving his legacy off with vultures 1 is insane.'

The text from a person believed to be West read: 'I'm retiring from professional music. Not sure what else to do'

The Australian architect continued her look with a pair of skin-tight hotpants, while perspex-heeled sandals rounded things off

The controversial couple courted attention before their feet even hit the sidewalk after arriving at a local barbecue restaurant in a $100K Tesla Cybertruck

Rich then tried to convince the father-of-four to reconsider his decision, even bringing up the recent success of his Vultures 1 album with rapper Ty Dolla Sign.

'Retire? Why ? How ? The [people] NEED you the music you & Ty & we have made was the BIGGEST STAMP in culture to this date In 2024,' he wrote.

Rich was notably featured on West and Ty's lead single Carnival, which topped the Billboard Hot 100 chart when it debuted in March.

The song also marked West's first number one hit in 13 years - his last being Katy Perry's 2011 single E.T.

'Drop Ye about mine & V2 and we do it all over again,' Rich continued. 'the kids need you big bra fasho maybe some time to chill buy retiring ain't it.'

A recently published text conversation - purportedly between West and fellow rapper Rich The Kid - suggests he is ready to throw in the towel on his 20-year career in music

News of his potential withdrawal from public life prompted an inevitably mixed response across social media, with many followers expressing relief at West's possible retirement

After news of West's apparent retirement gained traction online, Rich went on to delete the screenshot from his Instagram Story.

This sparked fan speculation that he may have made the post to stir up publicity for his upcoming album, Life's A Gamble.

As just hours later, Rich returned to Instagram to reveal the release date as well as a peek at the track list that includes a new song with West.

West  who is rumored to have produced Life's A Gamble with collaborator Ty Dolla Sign  will be featured on track 16, titled Plain Jane.
kate moss looked a little worse for wear while partying at Stevie Nicks' British Summer Time gig in London's Hyde Park on Saturday night.

The model, 50, was seen sipping on drinks and even ripped her black and gold dress at the sleeve after throwing some serious dance moves.

It was a family affair for Kate, who was joined by her daughter Lila, 21, her mother Linda Rosina Shepherd and as well as make-up artist and close pal Charlotte Tilbury.

Kate was also seen chatting animatedly to a mystery man at one point who she shared a drink with.

The blonde beauty looked stylish in the gold and black dress and wore her light tresses in loose curves.

Kate Moss looked a little worse for wear while partying at Stevie Nicks ' British Summer Time gig in London's Hyde Park on Saturday night

The model, 50, was seen sipping on beers all night and even ripped her black and gold dress after throwing some serious dance moves

Her pretty dress had teared at the seams after she lifted her arms up to dance animatedly at the gig

Charlotte put on a busty display in a black dress as she arrived

Meanwhile model Lila showed off her chic sense of style in a light brown suede jacket and denim jeans.

Later on in the night Kate added some dark sunglasses to her look and was seen dancing away next to makeup artist Charlotte, 51.

There was no sign of Kate's long-term boyfriend, Count Nikolai, 37, at the gig in Hyde Park - where Harry Styles gave a surprise duet with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie, 76.

It's been a summer of partying for Kate who headed to Turkey with friends in mid-May to attend a concert.

There, she watched Skip, the 27-year-old grandson of late reggae superstar Bob Marley, performing.

In fact, she was reportedly so excited by Skip's performance, that she reportedly ran on stage and had to be ushered away by guards.

According to a spectator: 'Kate ran on stage as she loved it so much.

'She was escorted off the stage by security. I dont know whether theres a "thing" [between the pair] but shes a fan for sure. It was all very sweet and non-confrontational.'

She was joined by her daughter Lila, 21, (seen) her mother Linda Rosina Shepherd and makeup artist Charlotte Tilbury

Kate was seen chatting animately to a mystery man at one point who she shared a drink with at the gig

Later on in the night Kate added some dark sunglasses to her look and was seen dancing away next to makeup artist Charlotte, 51

She was seen sporting her wrist band to gain entry into the event

There was no sign of Kate's long-term boyfriend, Count Nikolai, 37, at the gig in Hyde Park - where Harry Styles gave a surprise duet with Fleetwood Mac's Stevie, 76

The friends and family were all seen in a VIP tent together as they watched the show

The blonde beauty looked stylish in the gold and black dress and wore her light tresses in loose curves

She looked like she was having a great night

The mystery man put his arms around her at one point

She put on a very animated display during the gig

They were all seen dancing to the music

Kate and her mother arrived in their black outfits to the gig, with Kate linking arms with her on the way to the VIP tent

She also had a vape in her hand as she danced in the tent

She was letting her hair down at the gig

Kate looked delighted to be at the gig

Meanwhile model Lila (left) showed off her chic sense of style in a light brown suede jacket and denim jeans

The man was dressed smartly in a dark jacket

Count Nikolai reportedly wasn't in attendance on this occasion either.

A week later, Kate was snapped enjoying another getaway, this time in the south of France.

During the trip, she was seen spending time with stylist Alister Mackie and creative director Simon B Morch, as well as with her longtime musician pal Bobby Gillespie.

That holiday followed weeks of speculation surrounding Kate's relationship with Nikolai.

Despite their tense display at the Gucci Cruise 2025 a week later, friends close to Kate have brushed off any split concerns from Count Nikolai, insisting their 'bohemian' relationship has consistently been 'on and off'.

'They are constantly on and off - but both are very bohemian about hook ups', an insider with knowledge of her relationship with Nikolai told MailOnline recently.

Meanwhile, another member of her circle added: 'She's a passionate person - and she is still incredibly flirtatious with people.

'Whether it is Nikolai, or whoever she is with, they just have to accept it and get on with it or they'll go mad.'

However, the move did not appear to bother the musician, who was later snapped holding hands with Kate.

She spent much of the night chatting to him

Lila was keen to snap pictures of the gig

She held a beer as she watched the gig

Her and Linda arrived in style to the event in Hyde Park

She also puffed on a cigarette as she chatted away to a pal

They were seen having an animated conversation

Lila looked as great as ever as she made her arrival

They all danced away together

She was joined by a security guard who took them to their area

She linked arms with her mother Linda

She chatted away as she held her beer

She accessorised with a black leather bag and shades

The mystery man and Kate chatted away

Charlotte strutted her stuff in the black ensemble

Lila looked as flawless as ever

She seemed a little worse for wear

They all danced the night away

Lila looked great in her chic brown jacket

She and Charlotte have been pals for years

He seemed very friendly with Kate
Shannen Doherty said she was 'wrecked' at the thought of starting chemotherapy again, just three weeks before she passed away on Saturday at the age of 53.

The Beverly Hills 90210 icon  who was was first diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015  got candid about gearing up for the drug treatment during the June 24 episode of her Let's Be Clear podcast.

'Im having to go back on chemo and its really hard,' the actress said at the time. 'The idea of going through that all over again has wrecked me.'

She continued: 'Its wrecked me in the sense of, yes, I knew I had stage 4 and yes, I knew it was really serious, but when you have to go to the hospital and you have to get put under and a port put in you, it becomes very real in an incredibly different way.'

The Charmed star also noted that she might have to 'change' her plan based on the chemotherapy results after three months.

Shannen Doherty said she was 'wrecked' at the thought of starting chemotherapy again, just three weeks before she passed away on Saturday at the age of 53; (pictured February)

The Beverly Hills 90210 icon got candid about gearing up for the drug treatment during the June 24 episode of her Let's Be Clear podcast

'Thats not something that I can predict. Its not something my doctors can predict. And its scary,' she continued. 'Its like a big wake-up call.'

In the same podcast episode, she confessed the past year was 'really hard' for her.

On Sunday, Doherty's publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed the actor's death.

'It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease,' Sloane told People.

'The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace,' Sloane added.

Doherty, who played Brenda Walsh in the hit 1990s show, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015.

Just two years later, the Charmed star revealed that the cancer had returned after going into remission.

At the time, she told Good Morning America: 'It's going to come out in a matter of days or a week that I'm stage 4. So my cancer came back, and that's why I'm here.

On Sunday, Doherty's publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed the actor's death

Doherty, who played Brenda Walsh in the hit 1990s show, was diagnosed with breast cancer in 2015. (Pictured: Doherty in March undergoing radiation therapy)

The actor is pictured here in June, in what is believed to be the last time she was spotted in public

'I don't think I've processed it. It's a bitter pill to swallow in a lot of ways,' she said.

Last year she announced that her cancer had spread to her brain in an Instagram post that showed her undergoing radiation therapy.

She teased a new episode of her podcast Let's Be Clear by sharing a snippet on her official Instagram account.

In October 1990, Doherty starred in the original Beverly Hills 90210, but left the series after the fourth season in 1994. She came back to the show as a guest star in 2008 after it rebooted.

Following the popular series, she went on to star in the witch drama, Charmed. Doherty played Prue Halliwell, the oldest of the three witch sisters.

After directing several episodes of Charmed, Doherty left the series in 2001. She then moved on to reality television, as a contestant on Dancing with the Stars and in the show Breaking Up with Shannen Doherty.

She joined the 2019 reboot of 90210 and played the adult version of Brenda Walsh.

Doherty initially kept her diagnosis under wraps, but after her co-star Luke Perry suddenly died at 52 in 2019, she opened up about her health battle.

Doherty's publicist Leslie Sloane confirmed the actor's death on Sunday. (pictured: Doherty and her 90210 co-star Luke Perry in 1991)

Following the popular series, she went on to star in the witch drama, Charmed. Doherty (middle) played Prue Halliwell, the oldest of the three witch sisters

"One of the reasons, along with Luke, that I did and didn't really tell anybody [was] because I thought, people can look at that [as] people with stage 4 can work too," she explained.

Perry died on March 4 that year after he suffered a massive ischemic stroke at his home in Sherman Oaks, Los Angeles.

'It's so weird for me to be diagnosed and then somebody who was, you know, seemingly healthy to go first,' Doherty said on Good Morning America in 2020. 'It was really, like, shocking.'

On June 24, Doherty gave fans insight into where she's at in her divorce and cancer journey on the latest episode of her podcast.

She confessed that her past year has been 'really hard' as she discussed her split from photographer Kurt Iswarienko, 49.

'Obviously, divorce is not easy, especially when you really loved someone. And I did love my husband,' Doherty said.

'And when you get so hurt by their actions that you just feel betrayed and like a sucker, it's really hard.'

Doherty also revealed she would be starting another round of chemotherapy 'probably a couple of days after this episode is out.'

'To just be walking into the unknown  I just feel like my life has been unknown for over a year now, between divorce and cancer,' she added.

The couple were together for 11 years before they divorced.

The Hollywood vet referred to the divorce proceedings as 'not the most pleasant thing' and said she may 'never be ready to discuss the full details' of the dissolution of her marriage.

In a recent court filing, Doherty criticized her ex Kurt's spending habits in a request for spousal support.

She filed paperwork in Los Angeles on Friday, June 14, according to Us Magazine.

In the documents, the actress requested $15,343 in monthly support 'retroactive to June 1, 2024.'

She also asked that Kurt contribute $9,100 to her legal fees. The actress believed that her ex was intentionally delaying the legal process to avoid paying her.

Doherty recently confessed that her divorce and cancer journey was 'really hard' for her over the past year. (Pictured: her ex-husband of 11 years, Kurt Iswarienko, in 2010)

'It is simply not right that Kurt be permitted to prolong our divorce in hopes that I die before he is required to pay me while he continues to live his life and shirk his responsibilities to his dying wife of more than 11 years,' she stated in filed paperwork.

Iswarienko's attorney Katherine Heersema fired back, stating that Shannen was offered a settlement deal in October 2023 but denied it.

'Kurt is not "simply wait[ing] for Shannen to die." He wants the best for Shannen and he wants both of them to be able to put this case behind them and move forward,' she said.

In response, Doherty said she denied the proposed settlements because they 'skirted around the issues of his original works created during marriage' and 'his earning capacity.'
Jeremy Allen White was spotted on Sunday at the Studio City Farmer's Market.

The Bear star, 33, was enjoying a day with his daughters Ezer, five, and Dolores, three. He shares his kids with his ex-wife, actress Addison Timlin.

The Golden Globe winner  who filmed seasons three and four of the hit Hulu show at the same time  was dressed casually in an unbuttoned white shirt with the sleeves rolled up over a white tank top with faded jeans.

Jeremy slapped a khaki ball cap on over his curly locks and, at times wore sunglasses to ward off the glare of the Southern California sunshine.

The Shameless alum pulled his daughters in a green wagon to and from the farmer's market where the proud dad watched them enjoying the rides for kids.

Jeremy Allen White was spotted on Sunday at the Studio City Farmer's Market

The Bear star, 33, was enjoying a day with his daughters Ezer, five, and Dolores, three. He shares his kids with his ex-wife, actress Addison Timlin

Jeremy agreed to several stipulations in his custody arrangement with his ex-wife in October.

In order to see his children, he must undergo daily breathalyzer tests. The superstar couple split in May 2023 after over three years of marriage.

They met around 2006 when they were 14 and shooting the 2008 film Afterschool. They married in 2019.

In her divorce filing she listed the date of separation as September 2022.

Despite the hardships of single parenting, the former couple have put on a solid effort in co-parenting, as they've been spotted out and about with the kids recently.

Addison dropped her girls off with Jeremy on Father's Day.

'Being a single mom is not how I pictured it,' she wrote on Instagram when news of her divorce broke.

'It is so f***ing hard,' she said. 'It is all out covered in s*** crying on the floor kicking you in the shins screaming with no sound coming out hard. It's not the natural order of things.'

She added that single parenting can be 'exhausting' and 'lonely' especially when 'something magical happens and you have to tell yourself "don't forget this" because there's no witness by your side.'

She continued: 'It's so painful. Doing it alone has given me more strength and more empathy and more tears than anything else in my life ever has.'

Prior to the split, Jeremy gushed about Addison while accepting a Golden Globe for his role in The Bear.

The Golden Globe winner was dressed casually in an unbuttoned white shirt with the sleeves rolled up over a white tank top with faded jeans

Jeremy slapped a khaki ball cap on over his curly locks and, at times wore sunglasses to ward off the glare of the Southern California sunshine

The Shameless alum pulled his daughters in a green wagon to and from the farmer's market where the proud dad watched them enjoying the rides for kids

He appeared to be in conversation with a woman in a black sundreess

Jeremy agreed to several stipulations in his custody arrangement with his ex-wife in October

In order to see his children, he must undergo daily breathalyzer tests. The superstar couple split in May 2023 after over three years of marriage

They met around 2006 when they were 14 and shooting the 2008 film Afterschool. They married in 2019. In her divorce filing she listed the date of separation as September 2022

Despite the hardships of single parenting, the former couple have put on a solid effort in co-parenting, as they've been spotted out and about with the kids recently

Addison dropped her girls off with Jeremy on Father's Day. 'Being a single mom is not how I pictured it,' she wrote on Instagram when news of her divorce broke

'It is so f***ing hard,' she said. 'It is all out covered in s*** crying on the floor kicking you in the shins screaming with no sound coming out hard. It's not the natural order of things'

She continued: 'It's so painful. Doing it alone has given me more strength and more empathy and more tears than anything else in my life ever has'

'Addison Timlin, I love you deep in my bones, thank you for all that you do, thank you for everything that you've done,' he said.

In an interview with InStyle around the same time, he waxed on about the love for his daughters as well.

'I learn a lot from them. I feel like in a lot of ways, theyre teaching me all the time how to be better: how to be better to them; how to be better to my wife, my friends, my parents, and my sister.

'I think Ive been ready to domesticate for a long time, and Im so happy to be in the house all the time with them.
Equity benchmark indices Sensex and Nifty hit their fresh record high levels on Friday amid heavy buying in IT stocks after TCS announced its June quarter earnings.

The 30-share BSE Sensex zoomed 996.17 points to hit all-time high of 80,893.51. The NSE Nifty jumped 276.25 points to a new lifetime peak of 24,592.20.

Among the Sensex pack, Tata Consultancy Services climbed nearly 6 per cent after the countrys largest IT services player reported 8.7 per cent growth for the June quarter net profit at Rs 12,040 crore.

Infosys, Tech Mahindra, HCL Technologies, Axis Bank and Bajaj Finance were the other major gainers.

Maruti, Kotak Mahindra Bank, Asian Paints and ITC were among the laggards.

The positive domestic cue is the better-than-expected numbers from TCS and positive management commentary which can lift most IT stocks, said V K Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services.

In Asian markets, Shanghai and Hong Kong quoted higher while Seoul and Tokyo traded lower.

US markets ended mostly lower on Thursday.

Global oil benchmark Brent crude climbed 0.59 per cent to USD 85.90 a barrel.

Foreign Institutional Investors (FIIs) offloaded equities worth Rs 1,137.01 crore on Thursday, according to exchange data.

Retreating from early highs, the BSE benchmark closed lower by 27.43 points or 0.03 per cent at 79,897.34 on Thursday. The NSE Nifty edged down 8.50 points or 0.03 per cent to settle at 24,315.95.
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Despite facing 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela emerged without bitterness, advocating for reconciliation and understanding rather than retribution

Nelson Mandela, the iconic South African leader, symbolises peace, resilience, and unwavering commitment to non-violence in the face of oppression and injustice. July 18, 2024, marks the 106th birth anniversary of Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela  a poignant reminder of his enduring legacy and the principles he championed throughout his life, having had the inspiration of none other than Mahatma Gandhi. Mandelas evolution from a young civil rights activist to a global statesman who promoted reconciliation and peaceful coexistence has left an indelible mark on humanity.

His significant contributions to peace and non-violence, the influence of Mahatma Gandhis principles on his ideologies, and the continued relevance of his message in todays conflict-ridden world underscore the importance of knowing about his sacrifices and courage.

Mandelas life exemplifies the power of perseverance and the potential for positive change through non-violent means. Born in 1918, he witnessed firsthand the brutalities of apartheid in South Africa, a regime that institutionalized racial segregation and discrimination against the majority black population. Nelson Mandelas anti-apartheid activities led to his imprisonment. At the age of 44, Mandela was manacled and transported to Robben Island prison. He was released at the age of 71 in 1990, after 27 years of incarceration. Upon his release, Mandela embraced a path of reconciliation and non-violence, guiding South Africa through a remarkable transition to democracy. In 1994, he became the countrys first black president.

Nelson Mandelas words, No one is born hating another person because of the colour of his skin, or his background, or his religion. People must learn to hate, and if they can learn to hate, they can be taught to love, for love comes more naturally to the human heart than its opposite, reflects his belief in the capacity of humanity to embrace love and understanding, transcending divisions based on race, ethnicity, or religion. It echoes Mahatma Gandhis emphasis on the essential goodness inherent in people, which can be reclaimed through nonviolent means.

Nelson Mandelas advocacy for non-violence found its roots in the ideologies of Mahatma Gandhi. Mandela greatly admired Gandhis methods, drawing significant inspiration from his successful campaigns against British colonial rule. The Mahatmas teachings on non-violence, civil disobedience, and reconciliation profoundly influenced Mandelas approach to the struggle against apartheid. Madiba viewed freedom not as a pursuit for personal liberation alone but as an endeavour grounded in the emancipation of others. Despite facing 27 years of imprisonment, Mandela emerged without bitterness, advocating for reconciliation and understanding rather than retribution. His approach to forgiveness was not merely personal but was woven into the very fabric of South Africas journey towards healing and unity, exemplified by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission. This process underscored that acknowledging and forgiving past wrongs is essential for building a cohesive and forward-looking society. Instead of trying to seek revenge on his oppressors, he took to the Gandhian path of forgiveness and reconciliation in his endeavour to build a new South Africa. We all remember what he said as he was coming out of prison. As I walked out the door toward the gate that would lead to my freedom, I knew if I didnt leave my bitterness and hatred behind, Id still be in prison. Incorporating forgiveness into conflict resolution and personal growth is the need of the hour.

Forgiveness allows individuals and communities to move beyond grievances, fostering environments where trust and collaboration can thrive. It is a powerful antidote to cycles of hatred and violence, promoting lasting peace and understanding. Mandelas legacy teaches us that forgiveness is not about forgetting or condoning harm, but about freeing oneself from the burden of resentment and creating the space for healing and positive change. Forgiveness plays a pivotal role in resolving global conflicts, acting as a catalyst for peace and reconciliation. Across various conflicts, from the Rwandan Genocide of 1994  during the Rwandan Civil War  to the Northern Ireland Troubles (ethno-nationalist conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted for about 30 years from the late 1960s to 1998, and is sometimes described as an irregular war or low-level war), the process of forgiveness has been instrumental in bridging deep divides. In Rwanda, following the 1994 genocide that claimed the lives of approximately 800,000 people, the government established Gacaca Courts to facilitate community-based justice. This process emphasized truth-telling, reconciliation, and forgiveness, allowing survivors and perpetrators to coexist and rebuild their communities.

Seen in the context of personal growth, forgiveness liberates individuals from the chains of resentment and empowers them to move forward with a sense of renewed purpose. This is evident in the stories of individuals like Malala Yousafzai, who, despite surviving a brutal attack by the Taliban, advocates for the education of girls worldwide without harbouring bitterness towards her assailants. Similarly, the story of Immaculee Ilibagiza, a survivor of the Rwandan Genocide and motivational speaker, highlights the transformative power of forgiveness. Like in Buddhist psychology, forgiveness is understood as a way to end suffering, to bring dignity and harmony to our lives, what Madiba has taught us is that forgiveness is fundamentally for our own sake, for our peace. It is better, that we learn to let go.

(The writer is Programme Executive, Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti; views are personal)
It is time for the short term Kuruvai crop in the rice bowl of Tamil Nadu and the Kaveri River issue is back in the forefront.

The Kaveri Water Regulation Committee (KWRC) on Thursday asked the Government of Karnataka to release one thousand million cubic feet (TMCFT) of water every day to Tamil Nadu from July 12 to July 31 so that the Kuruvai farming operations in the four districts of the lower riparian State of Tamil Nadu (Tiruvarur, Thanjavur, Nagapattinam and Tiruchirappalli) could be taken up. But Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah ruled out the possibility of the upper riparian State releasing any water to TN before July 31. Although normal rainfall has been forecast for Karnataka, there is a 28 per cent shortfall in inflow to all the four dams in the Kavery river basin.

There is only 60 TMCFT of water in all the four reservoirs, Siddaramaiah said immediately after the KWRC directive. The Karnataka Chief Minister has convened an all-party meeting for Sunday evening to take stock of the situation as farming community in Tamil Nadu is agitated over the issue.

At the time of going to Press, the meeting was in progress and sources in Karnataka Government told The Pioneer that the State would approach Kaveri Water Management Authority against the KWRC directive.

Karnataka deputy chief minister D K Shivakumar, told media persons that the State has lot of issues to be addressed as there is water shortage in the four main reservoirs. We have to resolve the water shortage in Mandya district and there is severe shortage of drinking water in the State, said Shivakumar.

As on date, the chances of Karnataka releasing more water to Tamil Nadu look bleak. The opposition BJP and the AIADMK in Tamil Nadu has pulled up the DMK government led by M K Stalin for its callous attitude towards the problems faced by the farmers in the State.

Arupathi Kalyanam, Kaveri Delta Farmers Welfare Association told The Pioneer that Karnataka has sufficient water to spare but the State is playing politics.

During the KWRC meeting, Karnataka stated that the cumulative inflow into its four reservoirs from June 1 to July 9 was 41.651 tmcft and the shortfall was 28.71%.

Shivakumar, who holds the department of water resources said the State does not have water to spare. We do not have water. There is no water, no rain, let us pray for rain, said the Karnataka strongman.

Shivakumar said Karnataka does not have water even to fill its tanks. The inflow into the reservoirs in its Kauvery basin is poor, he added.

The Delta region, as these districts are known, has an area of 14.5 lakh hectares of farm land and is dependent on water from Kaveri River, the lifeline of Tamil Nadu. According to the final verdict of the Kaveri Water Dispute Tribunal, Karnataka has to release 192 TMCFT water every year to Tamil Nadu to meet the latters irrigation requirements.
A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was killed in a gun attack by suspected militants at Mongbung village in Manipurs Jiribam district on Sunday morning, police said. A policeman also suffered injuries and he has been admitted to a hospital, they said. The deceased has been identified as Ajay Kumar Jha, 43, a resident of Bihar.

He suffered bullet injuries in the head and was declared brought-dead in hospital. The injured policeman is undergoing treatment, but he is out of danger, a police officer said.

In a social media post Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured. I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today.

His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased soldier, while praying for the speedy recovery of the ones injured during the attack, Singh said. Gunshots were reportedly heard in the village on Saturday night, too, the officer said. Additional security forces have been deployed at Mongbung from adjacent hill areas following Sundays attack, another official said.

A vehicle belonging to security personnel has been damaged in the gun attack, he added.

Manipur has been rocked by ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki communities since May last year, which has claimed more than 200 lives.

Separately Manipur police seized arms and ammunition from Imphal East and West districts, an official statement said. One AK 56 rifle, one SLR, one locally made SLR, one .38 pistol, four 9mm pistol, one .32 pistol, two hand grenades, and 25 round of ammunition were seized by security forces during search operations and area domination conducted in Heingang Ching in Imphal East district on Saturday, the statement issued by Manipur Police said.

Police during an operation at Khuyathong and Nagamapal area of Imphal West district seized one excalibur rifle, 7.62 mm Ar (GHAATAK) and one MA-3, MK-II rifle with ammunition on Friday, it said.

Meanwhile, police arrested two persons involved in theft of a vehicle and seized one .45 pistol and one 9mm pistol along with live ammunition from their possession in Imphal West district on Saturday, the statement said.
Former US president Donald Trump survived an attempt on his life on Saturday when a young shooter fired multiple shots at him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, injuring his right ear, days before he was to accept the Republican Partys nomination for the presidential election in November.

Trump, 78, was speaking at the packed outdoor election rally in Butler town when bullets started flying. Video footage showed him grabbing his ear as shots were fired. The crowd started screaming behind him and then someone yelled Get down, get down, get down, get down! as Secret Service agents piled on top of Trump to shield him. The shooting created chaos with people in the back of the venue immediately running to the exits. As blood gushed from his ear, Trump was then rushed off stage. He boldly pumped his fist into the air and told the crowd to fight! He was then whisked away in a car to a Pittsburgh-area hospital. Let me get my shoes, Trump said as he was escorted to the safe place.

The shooting, which left one spectator dead and two others critically injured, is being investigated as an attempted assassination. The male attacker was also shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

A spokesperson for the Trump Campaign said the former president is fine after the heinous act.

The gunman was identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. He was registered to vote as a Republican.

In a post on his Truth Social social media account, Trump elaborated on what happened and described his injuries, It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA! Trump wrote.

The incident happened two days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump will formally become the partys nominee for the November 5 presidential election.

In a news conference, Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, said it was surprising the gunman was able to fire multiple shots.

This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump, said Rojek.

Were still working through the security apparatus that the Secret Service had in place, what potentially happened, he added.

Theres going to be a long investigation into exactly what took place and how the individual was able to get access to the location, what type of weapon he had. All that is really days, weeks, and months of investigation.

Bomb-clearing assets were deployed at the scene of the shooting out of an abundance of caution, said the FBI.

Its primarily standard procedure of any suspicious packages, In this case, there was identification of a suspicious package around where the shooter was and so we deployed, in an abundance of caution, bomb assets to make sure those were cleared for investigators to move safely in the area,said Rojek.

Rojek said the crime scene is still active.

When asked whether authorities knew what kind of gun was used or how many shots were fired, George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police followed up by saying that officials had a good idea of what the weapon was but that it was still part of the investigation.

Bivens said that they plan to release information on what caused delays in identifying the shooter. Rojek added that the FBI has not yet identified the shooters motive.

Authorities said they believe there is no other threat.

The FBI has deployed investigative agents, evidence response teams, and other personnel from across the country.

The suspect fired from between 200ft and 300ft away on an elevated shed with an AR-style rifle, multiple law enforcement officers told CBS News.

As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action, his campaign said.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, his campaign said.

US President Joe Biden spoke to Trump, his November election opponent, a White House official said.

The White House official did not say what the two spoke about.

Biden also talked with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy, the White House said.

Biden was scheduled to be in Delaware for the weekend but changed his plans to return to the White House.

Biden earlier said that everybody must condemn the suspected assassination attempt.

Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting, he said We cannot allow this to be happening, Biden said. The idea that theres violence in America like this is just unheard of.

Vice President Kamala Harris and former presidents, Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton have condemned the attack on Trump.

Harris says she is relieved Trump was not seriously injured.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, Harris said in a statement.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence, she said.

Trumps daughter, Ivanka Trump, also issued a statement.

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of todays senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania, she said in a statement on X.

I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.

Republican and Democratic leaders have condemned the attack on Trump.
Union Home and Cooperation Minister Amit Shah has said that the "Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam" campaign spearheaded by the Prime Minister, Narendra Modi, has now become a mass movement. This is a manifestation of public respect towards mother and Mother Earth. Every person is paying respect to mother and Mother Earth by planting a sapling. Indore is already known for cleanliness, taste, cooperation, good governance and participation.

Shah was addressing the program of planting 11 lakh saplings under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Abhiyan organized at Revati Range Complex in Indore today.

Indore will also be known across the country for massive plantation under Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Abhiyan. This world record of planting 11 lakh saplings in 24 hours in Indore will make Indore, the city of Devi Ahilyabai, famous across the world with a new record. He said that planting a sapling is easy, but caring it challenging. All the participants planting saplings need to take care of the saplings planted by them. He said that planting 51 lakh saplings and planting 11 lakh in a single day is unprecedented. He congratulated the people of Indore for the unique event.

Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, Urban Development and Housing Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya, Water Resources Minister Tulsiram Silawat, Union Minister Savitri Thakur, MP Shankar Lalwani, MP Kavita Patidar, Mayor Pushyamitra Bhargava, MLAs and famous film actor Randeep Hooda, film director, producer and writer Neeraj Pathak and a large number of citizens were present.

Union Minister Shah said that actor Randeep Hooda immortalize freedom fighter Veer Savarkar ji through a film. Actor Hooda presented a brass code of justice to Union Home Minister Shah.

Indore set a unique example of coordinated efforts. Union Home Minister Shah said that after becoming a smart city, metro city, clean city, hub of modern education, Indore will now also be known as a green city. In this holy campaign of plantation, the young mayor of Indore participated with the support of people from every section of society, Along with the planting of saplings like Peepal, Banyan, Neem etc. in Indore, plants with medicinal properties like Guava, Karonda, Sitaphal, Amla are also being planted. CAPF jawans did a remarkable job of planting 5 crore 21 lakh saplings. The Union Home Minister Shah, while saluting the CAPF jawans, said that the CAPF jawans have done a commendable job of planting 5 crore 21 lakh saplings last year from Kanyakumari to North East and from Bengal to Gujarat. Similarly, by 2024, the planting 6 crore saplings will be completed by planting one crore more saplings.

He said that holy scriptures and Puranas educate us about the importance of trees. It has been said in Matsyapurana that one stepwell is equal to 10 wells, one pond is equal to 10 stepwells, one son is equal to 10 ponds and one tree is equal to 10 sons.

Environmental protection is a concern for the world today. Carbon dioxide and carbon monoxide have reduced the ozone level, due to which the heat on the earth has started increasing and climate change is being experienced. Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam Abhiyan run by Prime Minister Modi is the right answer to climate change. Madhya Pradesh is the lungs of India Union Home Minister Shah thanked Madhya Pradesh very much. Madhya Pradesh is the lungs of India which gives oxygen to the whole country. Its 31% area comes under forest cover and 12% of the total forest cover of the whole country is in Madhya Pradesh, due to which eco-friendly tourism has also been promoted in Madhya Pradesh. The state has 6 tiger reserves, 11 national parks and 24 sanctuaries. Cheetahs have also been brought to Kuno Sanctuary by Prime Minister Modi.
Lohardaga: As per the instructions of National Legal Services Authority, New Delhi and Jhalsa Ranchi, the second National Lok Adalat of the year was organized in the Civil Court premises with the courtesy of District Legal Services Authority, Lohardaga. The program was inaugurated by Dalsa President cum Principal District and Sessions Judge Arvind Kumar Pandey, Dalsa Vice President cum Deputy Commissioner Dr. Waghmare Prasad Krishna, POCSO Special Judge Akhilesh Tiwari, Bar Association President Pramod Pujari and other judicial officers by jointly lighting the lamp. This time a total of seven benches were formed in the National Lok Adalat. Here, Bench No. 1 was formed under the leadership of Principal District and Sessions Judge Arvind Kumar Pandey to settle cases like motor vehicle accidents, family disputes, civil appeals etc. Whereas for disposal of electricity related cases, Bench No. 2 is under the leadership of District Judge 2 Akhilesh Tiwari and Bench No. 3 is under the leadership of Senior Civil Judge Archana Kumari for Criminal Compoundable Case, NI Act, Weight and Measurement Case, Minimum Wages Act. Motor Vehicles Act cases, certificate cases, headed by Bench No. 4 Judicial Magistrate Amit Kumar Gupta. Meanwhile, Bench No. 5 headed by Judicial Magistrate Jaya Smita Kujur for civil and revenue cases, BSNL. Whereas Bench No. 6 was formed under the leadership of Permanent Lok Adalat Chairman Shiv Kumar, Bench No. 7 was formed under the leadership of Nandlal Prasad, Member of Consumer Forum for bank, insurance related matters and consumer related matters. PDJ said on this occasion that keeping in mind the poor people of Lohardaga, the officers of the department should maintain a lenient attitude.

And take maximum advantage of such an event. Promote settlement of the matter through mutual agreement. DC said that this is a good step for the Indian justice system. Through the event, they are solving small matters and getting along with each other. District Legal Services Authority Secretary Rajesh Kumar along with his entire team remained ready for the successful operation of Lok Adalat. While giving the figures, he said that this time a total of 1837 cases were disposed of in the National Lok Adalat. Whereas Rs 2.66 crore was recovered as penalty. Of the resolved cases, a total of 333 cases were pending in various courts. On the occasion of National Lok Adalat, rain coats were also provided to process servers of seven courts. The second National Lok Adalat of the year was concluded with the national anthem and vote of thanks. Here, this time in the National Lok Adalat, the Forest Act case pending since 2005 of 85 year old Manha Nagesia, resident of Kadwatand Pesharar, was closed by paying a fine. Considering the extreme poverty situation, Dalsa Secretary deposited the fine on his behalf.
AAP on Sunday alleged conspiracy between the BJP and the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena to push the people of Delhi into air pollution by illegally felling hundreds of trees and called the LG a killer of trees.

AAPs Chief Spokesperson Priyanka Kakkar said, He has put an end to the efforts of the Kejriwal government to make Delhi air pollution free by getting 1100 trees felled in the Satbari ridge area without the permission of the Supreme Court.

Addressing a press conference, she said, On one hand, there is the AAP government, which is planting trees, is constantly trying to make Delhi pollution free and on the other hand, there is the LG of Delhi who secretly goes to an eco-sensitive zone and orders tree felling in contempt of the Supreme Court.

An order of the Supreme Court is required to cut even a single tree there. Without the order of the Supreme Court, cutting even a single tree in that eco-sensitive zone, in the ridge area of Satbari is not allowed, Kakkar said.
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) will challenge the Supreme Courts decision regarding alimony that mandates the payment of maintenance to Muslim divorcee women beyond the period of iddat.

The decision was taken in a meeting held in Delhi on Sunday.

The AIMPLB convened a meeting to discuss the Supreme Courts order and deliberate on the legal options available. In the meeting, it was argued that according to Sharia law, a woman is entitled to alimony only until the completion of her iddat (waiting period) and after that she is free to remarry. It was further argued that if the children stay with the woman, it is the husbands responsibility to bear their expenses.

The AIMPLB also contended that Indian Muslims should provide their daughters with a share in property according to Sharia law. It further stated that if a divorced woman faces difficulties in sustaining herself, the Waqf Boards of different states should take responsibility, as their property belongs to Muslims.

In a historic judgement, the Supreme Court on July 10 ruled that Muslim women can seek maintenance from their husbands under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC), which deals with a wifes right to maintenance, applies to all married women regardless of their religion.

A bench of Justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih, in separate but concurrent verdicts, said that Section 125 of the erstwhile CrPC, which addresses a wifes legal right to maintenance, also applies to Muslim women.

We are hereby dismissing the criminal appeal with the major conclusion that Section 125 would be applicable to all women and not just married women, Justice Nagarathna said while pronouncing the verdict.

The ruling has triggered a heated debate within the Muslim community and among various personal law boards. The AIMPLBs position is rooted in the belief that the order contradicts Islamic Sharia law, which stipulates that a husband is obligated to pay maintenance only during the 'iddat' period (a three-and-a-quarter month time frame) following a divorce.

After this period, a woman is free to remarry or live independently, and the former husband is no longer responsible for her maintenance.
The Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva on Sunday announced demonstrations across all 14 districts in the national Capital to protest against the imposition of the Power Purchase Agreement Charges (PPAC) and other surcharges by the AAP supported discoms resulting in excessive electricity bills.

During the press conference, Sachdeva released a copy of a letter addressed to the Chairman of the Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission (DERC) Retd. Justice Shri Jayant Nath seeking his intervention on the issue of hefty PPAC, Pension Surcharge, Meter Charges and Load Surcharge which he claimed total up exorbitantly to make the electricity bills of consumers too hefty.

The state BJP chief accused the Delhi government and electricity distribution companies of failing to pre-purchase electricity for peak summer and winter demands, forcing residents to bear the burden of these additional costs. Power Discoms & Delhi Government share a mutual relation to loot the common man and share kickbacks, he alleged.

Sachdeva said, People of Delhi are facing dual hardship today, on one hand after a long summer they are facing humid monsoon weather while on the other hand they are forced to pay up hefty electricity bills. He added that the electricity bills are too hefty not just because of summer consumption, they are hefty due to imposition of exorbitant PPAC and other charges.

Since April-May there has been an public outcry over the bill amounts and a BJP team studied it in tandem with some power charges experts and Resident Welfare Associations (RWAs), he stated.

He accused the AAP led Delhi government and power discoms of doing no planning in advance.

Unfortunately the Power Discoms do no planning to meet the excessive summer or humid weather demand or the demand of deep winters. The result of this is that Delhi suddenly faces a power supply crisis around mid April and then the Delhi Government and Power Discoms wake up to buy extra power needed from the power grids or surplus states which obviously come at a premium, Sachdeva said

Calling for a judicial inquiry, Sachdeva claimed that the PPAC was not part of the approved Business Regulatory Plan for power distribution companies until 2015. He alleged that its imposition is a result of corrupt practices between the Arvind Kejriwal government and power distribution companies.

 1.5 per cent PPAC were first levelled in Delhi in 2011 illegally by the then Congress Government. The same were withdrawn in 2014 after an BJP led delegation met the then Power Minister Piyush Goel who made the Power Discoms withdraw it. The charges remained withdrawn between August 2014 to September 2015. In 2015 Arvind Kejriwal government came to power in Delhi and it supported the Power Discoms demand for reimposition of PPAC and Pension Surcharge, he alleged.

He said that to protest against these charges, BJP workers will hold demonstrations at power distribution company offices across all districts of Delhi on Monday. He also highlighted that since 2015, the PPAC has increased every summer and winter for the relevant quarter, but it has never been withdrawn after the quarter ends.

Starting at 1.5 per cent, the PPAC has now surged to nearly 45 per cent, which Sachdeva stated has become a huge burden for the lower and middle class people. He alleged,  PPAC and similar surcharges, such as the pension surcharge, meter rent, and load surcharges, have also been abnormally increased, contributing significantly to the overall electricity bill for middle-class consumers.

The Delhi BJP has urged the DERC Chairman to investigate the imposition of these increased charges despite power distribution companies already being profitable at the current per-unit rates.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, on Sunday, said that the Bharatiya Janata Party would soar to victory once again in the 2027 state assembly elections.

Addressing the BJP state working committee meeting at Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Auditorium of Ram Manohar Lohia National Law University in the presence of party national president and Union Minister JP Nadda, Yogi urged the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha MPs, MLAs, MLCs, district panchayat chairpersons, mayors, block pramukhs, chairpersons and councilors to start preparations for the by-polls to 10 UP assembly seats as well as the 2027 UP assembly polls from now on itself.

Lamenting the impact of caste division on the 2024 Lok Sabha elections in UP, the chief minister appealed to the BJP leaders and workers to be super active on social media and immediately counter misinformation and rumours.

Under leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we maintained constant pressure on the opposition and achieved great success in UP in the 2014, 2017, 2019 and 2022 elections. The BJP managed to secure a similar percentage of votes in 2024 as in previous elections. However, the shifting of votes and overconfidence hurt our expectations. As a result, the opposition, which was decimated in the previous elections, is engaged in chest-thumping today, Yogi said.

He added: When in 2022, the opposition had resorted to violence after the elections, our party workers felt that our governments mafia-free UP agenda was actually meant for taking these goons to task. Today with your support, we have succeeded in making UP mafia-free. Apart from this, when Shri Ram Lalla was seated in his temple in Ayodhya, the wait of 500 years also ended. The BJP workers do not need to come on the back foot in any situation.

Chief Minister Yogi stated that during Muharram in the past, roads would often empty out, while today, it is barely noticeable. Previously, houses were demolished for tazia processions, Peepal trees were cut, and road wires were removed. Today, we ensure that the houses are not demolished, nor wires removed. Our clear directive is to celebrate festivals according to the rules, or stay home. The BJP has demonstrated good governance with rule of law across the entire country, he remarked.

Reflecting on the COVID-19 period, the chief minister said that India, under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, set a model for the world to emulate by providing ration to 80 crore people without discriminating among people on the basis of caste, opinion, or religion and ensuring that no one starved to death. During that time, BJP and Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh workers were out on the streets risking their lives and serving the people, while no other political party was seen, he asserted.

Addressing the issue of encephalitis, Yogi mentioned that when JP Nadda became the Health Minister, he met him as an MP and the government prioritised the fight against the disease, which had terrorised Purvanchal for over 40 years, successfully eradicating it from the state. Yogi highlighted that AIIMS is now operational in Gorakhpur. He also noted that infrastructure in UP, once a distant dream, has significantly improved, with four-lane connectivity now common throughout the state.

Chief Minister Yogi said that the government fulfilled its pledge to make Bundelkhand dacoit-free and had made the state mafia-free. Remembering Lohia, he remarked: Lohia ji had said that as long as Ram, Krishna and Shiva are worshipped in India, no one can destroy India. But these socialists have tarnished the tradition of Ram, Krishna, and Shiva. When Raju Pal and Umesh Pal were murdered in Prayagraj, were they not from backward castes? Along with Krishnanand Rai, Ramesh Patel and Ramesh Yadav were also killed; were they not from backward castes? Today, those who offer prayers for the mafia, have again reached a position where they feel emboldened to shout and challenge.

The chief minister mentioned that the medical college in Kannauj was initially named after Bhimrao Ambedkar, but the then Samajwadi Party chief minister changed its name. However, when the BJP government came to power, it restored the name to honour Baba Saheb. The Samajwadi Party has consistently disrespected Dalit thinkers and great leaders, he emphasised.

They attempted to undermine the reservation system for Scheduled Castes and worked to halt scholarships for Scheduled Castes. In contrast, Prime Minister Modi created Baba Sahebs Panch Teerth and placed the Constitution at the top in the new Parliament. The BJP is a party that upholds the highest respect for the Constitution, yet attempts have been made to disrupt the atmosphere through rumours and misinformation, he pointed out.

Chief Minister Yogi stated that the world knows that a divided India can be easily defeated, but a united India can withstand even the strongest forces. We must be vigilant against the division of power along caste lines witnessed in this election," he remarked, emphasising the importance of utilising social media platforms effectively.

Opposition forces and foreigners successfully used social media to conspire against us. As a party with a nationalist mission, the BJP workers must monitor social media, counter rumours immediately, and highlight the partys respect for Scheduled Caste leaders. In 2019, we defeated the largest alliance in the state, he asserted.

The chief minister said that the BJP won all 17 mayoral seats in the municipal elections and the maximum number of municipal bodies seats. The party has maximum representation with chairpersons and councilors across the state. The party also won the by-elections in Azamgarh and Rampur, Yogi said, exuding confidence that the party is poised to bag the 10 assembly seats during the upcoming by-elections.

On this occasion, the chief minister congratulated and wished the newly-elected MPs for their bright future and good tenure. Earlier in the morning session, he welcomed BJP national president JP Nadda and also planted a sapling. Before the start of the programme, the chief minister garlanded the statue of Baba Saheb Bhim Rao Ambedkar. He paid floral tribute to the pictures of Pandit Deendayal Upadhyaya and Syama Prasad Mookerjee.

On this occasion, BJP state president Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary, both Deputy Chief Ministers Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya, BJP national general secretary Vinod Tawde, Arun Singh, organisation general secretary Dharampal, Surendra Nagar, and other BJP leaders were present.
In a recent turn of events, calls for a Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe have intensified following allegations of misuse of funds, fraud, embezzlement, and construction irregularities at the prestigious National Institute of Technology (NIT) Jamshedpur. The primary focus of these allegations is Col. (Dr.) N.K. Rai, the current Registrar of the institute.

The demand for a high-level investigation emerged after an inquiry committee, formed as per the 63rd Meeting of the Board of Governors (BoG) of NIT Jamshedpur, visited the institute on July 8, 2024. The two-member committee comprised Prof. T.N. Singh, Director of IIT Patna and BoG Member of NIT Jamshedpur, and N.S. Bisht, Deputy Secretary of the Ministry of Education (MOE), New Delhi.

Col. Rai's appointment at NIT Jamshedpur has been under scrutiny since it came to light that he was previously terminated from his position as Registrar at Lalit Narayan Mithila University, Darbhanga, by the Governor of Bihar on September 24, 2020. This termination was upheld by the Patna High Court in case number CWJ178/2021, which confirmed the charges against him. Despite this, he secured the position at NIT Jamshedpur, raising significant concerns about the selection process and due diligence.

Local media and social platforms have been rife with reports of financial mismanagement and irregularities in construction projects at NIT Jamshedpur, further tarnishing the institute's reputation. Following these revelations, Col. Rai was relieved of his duties pending the outcome of the inquiry.

The inquiry, however, has been mired in controversy. Critics allege that the process is biased, with claims that the Director of NIT Jamshedpur has been unduly supportive of Col. Rai, potentially influencing the investigation's outcome.

In response to these concerns, Santosh Mandal, District Minister of Saraikela-Kharsawan District, Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), has formally demanded a CBI probe. Mandal argues that only an independent investigation by the CBI can ensure a thorough and impartial examination of the allegations against Col. Rai.

"The entire process appears to have been preconceived and planned to favor Col. (Dr.) N.K. Rai, potentially to hush up and dilute the seriousness of the allegations," Mandal stated. "In the larger interest of the institute and to ensure transparency and accountability, a CBI probe is essential."

Mandal's demand underscores the broader implications for governance and ethical conduct at NIT Jamshedpur, an institution of national importance. He insists that Col. Rai remain relieved from his post until a final decision is made by the BoG or MOE based on the findings of a comprehensive investigation.

The call for a CBI probe highlights the critical need for robust mechanisms to address corruption and ensure integrity within educational institutions. The situation at NIT Jamshedpur is now a pivotal test case for upholding these principles, with the outcome likely to have far-reaching consequences for the institute's governance and reputation.
Senior BJP leader and Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman on Sunday said that the Congress could not win even 100 seats in the third consecutive Lok Sabha elections, facing its third worst defeat in this election.

Sitharaman, speaking during the Chandigarh State Executive meeting of the city BJP where she was the chief guest, said that the Congress could not win even a single seat in 14 states. Total 13 INDI Alliance parties could win only 232 seats while the BJP by its own won 242 seats.

But they are celebrating as if they have won the elections. In the last 10 Lok Sabha elections, that is from 1984 to 2024, the Congress could not cross even 250 seats mark. But, they have this artificial confidence, she said.

Sitharaman felt that the opposition did not contest this election in a fair manner. They created fake narratives, she said, adding that the statements of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Home Minister Amit Shah, and Union Minister Nitin Gadkari were twisted by the opposition in several issues and they tried to create a fake narrative.

She suggested that the BJP need to answer it back with facts and figures. She said that on every issue, the Congress or its sympathizers went to the Supreme Court, but the verdict came in favour of the BJP-led Government. Rahul Gandhi abused the RSS, he had to apologize in the Court.

The Congress said that there was corruption in the Rafale deal, they had to again apologize in the Court. But, they are shameless. To remember what happened during the emergency, Samwidhan Hatya Diwas has been notified. Every opposition leader was sent to jail. It was in 1975 that socialism and secularism words were added in the Constitution.

She said that contrary to Congress' times of bomb blasts in India, the country is heading in a positive direction. Whether it is solar energy or artificial intelligence, good growth is there. "We have a responsive government that is doing well in other sectors also," she added.
The Vidhansabha Abhinandan cum Vijay Sankalp Sabha program organized by the Bharatiya Janata Party was held in the Town Hall under the chairmanship of District President Manir Oraon. Bokaro MLA Biranchi Narayan, National President of Scheduled Tribe Morcha cum former Rajya Sabha MP Sameer Oraon, former minister Sadhnu Bhagat, former MLA Ramesh Oraon, Omprakash Singh, Srichand Prajapati were mainly present in the program. On the occasion Birenchi Narayan said that our party is a worker based party. Modi has become Prime Minister for the third time on the strength of booth workers. We were ahead at 52 places in the Lok Sabha elections. We will win in the assembly elections.

There is an atmosphere of corruption and fear in the state. Tribal women are unsafe. We have to get freedom from this government. Said that we are going to form the government on the strength of the workers. Today the number of tribals is decreasing, while the number of Muslims is increasing. Sameer Oraon said that BJP works in the national interest along with the worker organization. District President Manir Oraon said that misguided politics does not last long. Former MLA Sadhnu Bhagat said that to get victory in the assembly elections, one has to go to the area with determination. Former MLA Ramesh Oraon said that only BJP can uplift the tribals. Omprakash Singh said that leadership is necessary from social point of view. Sanjay Choudhary, Kalavati Devi, Dhananjay Tiwari also addressed the program. The program was conducted by State General Secretary of Scheduled Tribe Morcha Bindeshwar Oraon and vote of thanks was given by Rajmohan Ram. Board President and officials were present on this occasion.
AAP on Sunday alleged that there was an acute danger to Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwals health in judicial custody, alleging that it is the conspiracy of BJP.

Addressing a press conference, senior AAP leader and Delhi cabinet minister Atishi said Kejriwal, who is a severe diabetic, has had his sugar levels falling dangerously low.

If Arvind Kejriwal gets a stroke or suffers brain damage then who will be responsible for it? The day the ED arrested Kejriwal, his weight was 70 kg and today his weight is 61.5 kg. Sudden weight loss is also a sign of dangerous diseases, she said, claiming the AAP chief is unable to get proper medical attention as he is in jail.

Further she stated that his life in jail is in danger and alleged, Today Arvind Kejriwals life is in danger in jail and if anything happens to him then even God will not forgive BJP.

Attacking the BJP, Atishi said, The BJP has conspired to put Kejriwal in jail in a fake case. There is an acute danger to his health. His weight has declined by 8.5 kgs and his sugar levels have fallen below 50 five times in sleep. This is a worrying situation especially for a diabetic.

When the minister was asked whether they would approach court over the matter, she said they are consulting their lawyers and doctors over the issue. Arvind Kejriwal has been elected as the Chief Minister of Delhi thrice. Kejriwal has provided free electricity-water, better health facilities and free bus travel to women to the people of Delhi. The BJP people cannot get the public welfare work of the Arvind Kejriwal government done in their states, hence they have put Kejriwal in jail, Atishi said.

Calling the BJP dictator, she stated, BJP has hatched a conspiracy to attack

Arvind Kejriwals health. There is a conspiracy to kill him in jail. Even earlier, dictators used to try to kill their opponents by imprisoning them and ruining their health. The BJP central government first stopped Arvind Kejriwals medicines and insulin. He was not allowed to meet his doctor. Only after going to the court, Arvind Kejriwal got insulin and was allowed to consult a doctor.
Issuing a stern warning to the criminals, Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday asked them to either abandon criminal activities or vacate the State. The State Government will enforce stringent measures against criminal activities, ensuring no offender escapes justice, he added.

Saini also commended the police for their prompt action in apprehending a criminal from Thailand, highlighting their efficient efforts. Interacting with the media persons during handing over the charge to the newly-appointed state president of BJP Mohanlal Badoli in Rohtak, Saini said that during the reign of the government before 2014, the crime figures in the State were high and FIRs were also not registered, whereas as per the instructions of the present government, the police is working with promptness and zero FIRs are being registered. Strict action is being taken by the government to curb crime.

The Chief Minister asserted that his party would secure a majority government in the State for the third consecutive term. He underscored that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, Haryana's development trajectory would accelerate further.

On the occasion, BJP's newly-appointed state president Mohan Lal Badoli said that party workers will inform the people about the government's welfare schemes at the booth level so that all eligible people can take benefit of those schemes.

CM expresses grief over Martyrdom of Lance Naik Pradeep Nain

In another event, Saini visited Jajanwala village in Jind district to pay tribute to the martyr Lance Naik Pradeep Nain and offered condolences to the bereaved family. The Chief Minister also spoke with Pradeeps father, Balwan Nain, and sister Manju Bala.

Saini described the martyr Pradeep Nain as a brave and valiant warrior who laid down his life for the country in an operation against terrorists. Pradeep sacrificed himself for the honour and pride of the nation while defending his motherlandI salute such a great hero, he said, adding, I pray to God to give the bereaved family the strength to bear this unbearable loss. The government stands with Pradeep's family.

He informed that according to the assistance policy provided by the Haryana Government for the families of martyrs, a financial aid of Rs one crore will be given to Pradeep Nain's family soon. He also stated that the family will receive any other assistance or facilities provided under the rules of the central government, state government, and army as soon as possible. Pradeep Nain was a commando in the Para Special Forces and was martyred on July 6 in Kulgam, Jammu and Kashmir, while fighting terrorists. He is survived by his parents, wife, and sister.
Uttar Pradeshs pre-monsoon preparations have successfully averted major losses from flooding, demonstrating foresight and effective planning. These efforts in highly sensitive areas and sensitive areas have resulted in the relocation of over 11,962 individuals to safer locations in the last ten days, ultimately saving countless lives during this critical period.

Making the above claims here on Sunday evening, an official spokesman of the UP government claimed that Chief Minister Yogi Adiyanath demonstrated his proactive approach towards the flood crisis, visiting ground zero while officials were deployed in the field. The chief minister conducted aerial surveys of the affected areas and also inspected them by boat.

During his visits, Chief Minister Yogi distributed relief kits to flood victims and consoled disaster-stricken individuals. He presented financial assistance cheques to families who lost loved ones in the disaster. Additionally, Chief Minister Yogi honoured seven individuals who rescued eleven people in Shravasti with certificates of appreciation. He also announced a cash prize of one lakh rupees for each of the seven individuals.

The spokesman further claimed that the government initiated flood preparations well ahead of the monsoons arrival in the state. Acting on Chief Minister Yogis directives, all necessary measures were completed preemptively across 24 flood-prone and 16 flood sensitive districts to mitigate potential disaster scenarios.

Starting from the second week of June, Chief Minister Yogi conducted a series of meetings with officials. He instructed all personnel involved in relief efforts, from government-level officials to field staff, to operate at full capacity. Following these instructions, he conducted a thorough review of ongoing relief operations during subsequent meetings.

During these sessions, Chief Minister Yogi emphasised the need to rectify minor issues in the relief efforts and maintained continuous monitoring of flood-affected regions. Thanks to these proactive measures, the situation in the states flood-prone areas has stabilised, ensuring that all possible assistance reaches those in need.

Relief Commissioner GS Naveen stated that on Chief Minister Yogis instructions, continuous monitoring was being conducted in flood-affected areas.

In Shravasti, due to a sudden release of water from Nepal, 11 workers, who were in the fields, were rescued late at night. It took about eight hours of intense effort, but everyone was safely rescued. Similarly, seven individuals stranded in floods in Pilibhit were airlifted and rescued in coordination with the Air Force. Additionally, 76 people trapped in the flood in Kushinagar were successfully rescued, he said.

The relief commissioner reported that in the past 10 days, over 11,962 people have been relocated to safe areas in the flood-affected regions. Additionally, more than 21,239 cattle have been moved to secure locations. There are currently 804 flood shelters operational in these areas, accommodating a total of 1,365 individuals.

Furthermore, 1,178 flood posts have been established to monitor the situation continuously, with 914 boats actively operating in the affected zones.

In terms of relief efforts, more than 23,93,410 lunch packets and over 7,345 food kits have been distributed to assist those impacted by the disaster.

A total of 12 teams from NDRF, nine from SDRF, 23 from PAC, and one from SSB have been deployed for carrying out relief operations in the flood-affected areas of the state. Continuous coordination is maintained with the Army, Air Force, NDRF, SDRF and PAC in these regions.

In Pilibhit, 7,433 people and 170 cattle were rescued by boat, while in Shravasti, 2,280 people and 213 cattle were rescued. Adequate provisions have been made to ensure every individual in flood shelters receives cooked, clean, and nutritious food.

Medical teams are conducting health check-ups, and arrangements for drinking water, medicines and ORS are in place. Beds have been provided for rest, and adequate lighting has been arranged for nighttime. Additionally, milk and nutritious food have been distributed for children in these shelters.

Besides, hygiene-related dignity kits have been provided for women, ensuring their privacy and security in every shelter.

Considering the increased activity of poisonous animals due to rain and floods, sufficient provisions of anti-venom, medicines and injections have been made at the block level.

Furthermore, livestock in the flood-affected areas have been relocated to higher ground, with adequate arrangements made for their fodder and water needs.
A day after securing two crucial byelection victories in Himachal Pradesh, Chief Minister Sukhwinder Singh Sukhu on Sunday expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the people of the State for their continued faith in the Congress Governments policies and programs. The wins have bolstered the Congress partys strength in the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, increasing its seats to 40.

Chief Minister Sukhu did not hold back in his criticism of the BJP, accusing the opposition of conspiring to topple the elected government. He specifically targeted his predecessor and the Leader of Opposition in Vidhan Sabha Jairam Thakur, who had repeatedly claimed that the BJP would form governments both at the Centre and in the State.

Sukhu dismissed these claims as baseless and emphasized that such aspirations would never materialize. The people of Himachal Pradesh have rejected Operation Lotus and the politics of horse-trading by sending six MLAs home, he asserted, referring to the BJP's alleged attempts to destabilize his government.

In a pointed message to the BJP, Sukhu urged the Leader of the Opposition and other BJP leaders to learn from this mandate and adopt a more constructive role in the Assembly. He called on them to work for the betterment of Himachal Pradesh and advocate for the state's interests with the Union Government.

The byelection results were particularly notable for the defeats of two Independent legislators who had resigned and switched to the BJP. These losses proved costly for them as Congress candidates emerged victorious in their constituencies. Kamlesh Thakur, the wife of Chief Minister Sukhu, secured a decisive win in the Dehra seat, defeating BJPs Hoshiyar Singh by a margin of 9,399 votes. Kamlesh Thakur garnered 32,737 votes (57.94 per cent), marking her first electoral victory and contributing to the Congress's momentum.

Hardeep Singh Bawa of the Congress also triumphed in Nalagarh, Solan district, defeating BJP's KL Thakur by a margin of 8,990 votes. Bawa received 34,608 votes, while Thakur managed 25,618 votes. This victory was particularly significant as Thakur had previously defeated Bawa by a substantial margin in the 2022 elections.

The BJP managed a narrow victory in the Hamirpur seat, where its candidate Ashish Sharma defeated Congress's Pushpinder Verma by a margin of 1,571 votes. Sharma secured 27,041 votes, while Verma received 25,470 votes. This narrow win underscored the competitive nature of the byelections.

With these victories, the Congress partys tally in the 68-seat Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha has increased from 38 to 40 seats. The BJPs total seats have also risen slightly, from 27 to 28.

Chief Minister took the opportunity to remind the public that development work had been hindered due to the model code of conduct enforced during the elections. However, he assured that with the conclusion of the byelections, the Congress Government would resume making decisions for the states benefit. We are committed to improving the infrastructure and providing world-class facilities for tourists and residents alike, he stated.
The Delhi Police has recovered a damaged car with a human skeleton in it after the water decreased from the Munak Canal on Friday days after one of the branches of the canal was breached and led to flooding in the outer Districts Bawana area.

The officials on Saturday said that a damaged car could be visible on Thursday and Friday midnight. The car was recovered on a stretch of the canal falling under the jurisdiction of Samai Pur Badali area, a police officer said.

The skeleton is suspected to be belonging to a man identified as Vinod, who was missing from Budh Vihar in Vijay Vihar since September 2020. Vinod was a taxi driver by profession and the Swift Dzire car in which the skeleton was recovered was registered under his name, police said.

Vinods son Ravi, who was called for the identification, identified the car and suspected that the body was of his father. Ravi said that he last conversed with his father on the night of September 30, 2020.

In the call, he told us that he was going to drop a passenger in Dwarka and after that he would return home. But later his mobile phone went unreachable, he said. Ravi said that they approached the local police station in Vijay Vihar and lodged a missing complaint but the police could not trace him.

He said that he received a call on Friday morning following which the police took them to the spot. The car belongs to us which my father bought in 2019 but I still cant believe that it was my fathers body, Ravi said.He said the police has given the skeleton to them after conducting the post-mortem examination and added they will conduct the DNA test to ascertain it was my father. We have conducted the last rites after the post-mortem examination today. But I still hope that my father is still alive, he said.

He said that it may be someone elses body, though they conducted its last rites. When contacted, a senior police officer said on the basis of circumstantial evidences it is suspected to be the body of Vinod.

But we are not ruling out any kind of possibility in the matter. Further investigations are underway, the officer said. The police said that they have preserved a sample from the body for the DNA test.
A 32-year-old man was shot dead by a teenager inside a ward of the GTB Hospital in Delhis Shahdara area on Sunday.

Taking note of the matter, Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj has blamed the Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena for detoriating the law and order situation in the national capital. LG sahab, in the last two years since you came to power, the law and order situation in Delhi is going from bad to worse. Criminals have lost all fear of the law. People barge into hospitals in broad daylight and shoot people. Sometimes a murder takes place inside Tihar Jail in front of the police and the police personnel just watch, he tweeted on X (formerly Twitter).

Further, Bharadwaj stated, Sometimes a lawyer is shot in front of the court. In Jangpura, an elderly person is brutally murdered by barging into his house in broad daylight. Murders in broad daylight in front of CCTV are now becoming a common thing in Delhi. The criminals are fearless. Delhi Police has been ruined due to its political use.

The victim, Riyazuddin, who is a resident of Delhis Khajuri area, was admitted to the hospital on June 23 and he was undergoing treatment for abdominal infection. DCP Shahdara Surendra Choudhary said, On Sunday, a PCR call regarding firing in ward No.24 was received at Police Station GTB Enclave. On reaching the spot, it was found that one patient namely Riyazuddin, resident of, Khajuri, Delhi and age about 32 years was admitted on June 23 in the hospital for treatment of abdominal infection.

He added that there was one shooter. Riyazuddin was injured and was later declared dead, police said.

On reaching the spot, police found that a patient, namely Riyazuddin, received injury. He was later declared dead by doctors, he said. The officer said around 4 pm, an 18-year-old man came inside the ward and fired at Riyazuddin.

Case is being registered and teams have been formed to nab the culprit. Prima facie, the matter seems to be of personal enmity, the DCP said.

Reacting to the incident, a doctor took to X and shared his concerns over the security of hospitals. Health status in Delhi Government is a land of lawlessness and no administration. All doctors please be careful One of the patient shot dead in a ward of GTB by strangers just now None of them got caught, he tweeted.

Further he said, They dragged the pg resident who was assessing the patient and shot patient dead, the pg escaped somewhow. In the feud between Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena and Chief Minister Arvind kejriwal, patients and doctors are suffering. We need help in delhi.
Punjab Horticulture Minister Chetan Singh Jouramajra held a productive meeting with the Royal Danish Embassy's Ambassador Freddy Svane in New Delhi on Sunday. The high-level talks focused on strengthening mutual relations and exploring potential business collaborations between Punjab and Denmark.

Jouramajra and Ambassador Svane engaged in comprehensive discussions on sustainable agriculture, innovative horticultural practices, food processing, biogas development, groundwater management, efficient irrigation, water conservation techniques, and dairy sector cooperation.

Highlighting Punjabs rich agricultural heritage and modernization efforts, Minister Jouramajra emphasized the state's commitment to international partnerships for agricultural growth and economic development. He noted that focusing on biogas development, groundwater management, and efficient irrigation aligns with both regions' sustainability goals.

Ambassador Svane shared Denmarks expertise in sustainable farming, renewable energy, and water management, expressing keen interest in potential collaborations. Jouramajra assured that he would arrange a meeting between Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann and Ambassador Svane to further strengthen ties.

The meeting marked a significant step in enhancing Indo-Danish relations at the state level, potentially paving the way for future collaborations benefiting Punjab's agricultural and allied sectors and Danish businesses.
Significant progress has been made in the field of education nationwide. However, educational institutions should not only focus on academics but also impart values and moral principles to students. Our aim should be to instill these values in students along with classroom education, said renowned environmentalist and the Tree Man of India, Vishnu Lamba, during the 'A Tree for Mother' mega plantation drive organized by the Prestige Education Foundation at the Prestige University, organized in collaboration with the Indore Municipal Corporation.

Lamba emphasized the importance of guiding students toward innovation and encouraged them to participate in the mega plantation campaign.

He stressed that environmental protection is not solely the responsibility of any party or government, but rather requires the collective efforts of the people. Lamba praised the people of Indore for their dedication to environmental conservation. He noted that in his travels to many cities over the past seven years, he had not seen the same level of enthusiasm and eagerness to participate in public activities as in Indore. As the brand ambassador of the 'A Tree for Mother' campaign, Lamba attributed Indore's consecutive wins as the cleanest city in India over the past seven years to the collective participation of its residents.

He expressed confidence that thanks to the local enthusiasm for environmental protection, Indore will soon earn the title of the greenest city in India. After touring the Prestige University campus and being impressed by its architecture, Lamba likened the experience to visiting world-renowned institutions like Nalanda and Taxila.

Davish Jain, Chancellor of Prestige University, emphasized that all academic institutions under the Prestige Education Foundation prioritize imparting moral education and values, alongside classroom education. These principles are integrated into the curriculum across all institutions within the group, asserted Dr. Jain.

Rajendra Nargundkar, Vice-Chancellor of Prestige University, provided insights into the university's vision and educational programs. Dr. Deepak Jarolia, Senior Faculty of Prestige Institute of Management Research (PG Courses), presented a memento to Lamba.
Bharatiya Janata Party president and Union minister JP Nadda, on Sunday, said that the BJP was the only pan-India party that has a presence in all four corners of the country.

We are a party representing the aspirations and sentiments of 140 crore people. We are the only party that has internal democracy and does not believe in nepotism. It is the BJP alone that follows the concept of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas, Nadda said while addressing the one-day BJP state executive meeting in Lucknow.

He said that the BJP was not just the party of today, but also of the future. He emphasised that the responsibility entrusted to the party is not temporary but is a long-lasting commitment.

Nadda said, When the lotus blooms in the country or at state level, good governance follows. In contrast, when other parties take charge, it leads to the flight of capital and business and lack of safety for women, and a series of scams.

Referring to the recently conducted Lok Sabha elections, he said that the continued support of the electorate to Prime Minister Modis leadership signified their trust of a vision for a developed India.

This future is in our hands, and it is our responsibility to handle it carefully. Be aware of this responsibility, Nadda urged the attendees, reinforcing the long-term commitment and accountability that comes with their roles within the party.

Nadda said that the Lok Sabha 2024 election results showed that the BJP was the only pan-India party, representing 140 crore Indians across the east, west, north, and south.

He reminded the delegates that the BJP was once mocked for being a small party with just two members in 1984 but today, under the leadership of Atal ji and now Modi ji, the BJP had secured the publics support for the third consecutive term. He criticised the lack of internal democracy in the countrys 1,500 political parties, many of which were family-run enterprises.

Highlighting the BJPs commitment to the principle of Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Nadda said that BJP members were recognised for their work, not their family connections. He praised the partys strength in nurturing leaders who first and foremost were dedicated workers, capable of facing and overcoming challenges.

The BJP president criticised Congress, questioning its performance in recent elections. He pointed out that even with the MPs the party won in three elections, it could not surpass BJPs 240 seats. After three elections, Congress could not cross the 100-seat mark. The total number of seats won by all their allies combined is still less than what BJP won alone, he said.

Nadda highlighted that in 13 states, Congress failed to win a single seat. In states like Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh, where Congress faced direct competition from BJP on 64 seats, it won only two seats while BJP secured 62. Congress strike rate was 26 per cent when contesting alone and 50 per cent when allied with other parties, indicating its dependency on others votes, he pointed out. He described Congress as a parasitic party standing on crutches.

He further mentioned that despite Congress discussing the Constitution extensively during the elections, it was essential to remind everyone who really undermined it. He said Congress toppled elected governments 90 times. They talk about the Ram temple, but for BJP, it is not just an election issue but a matter of faith. In 1987-88, BJP pledged to pave the way for the Ram temple, enduring many sacrifices and hardships. Finally, in January, we witnessed the consecration of the grand Ram temple, he stated.

Discussing Uttar Pradeshs achievements, Nadda highlighted that UP has now become the second-largest economy in India. There was a time when people migrated from the state. Traveling from Delhi to Bulandshahr used to take the whole day. Now, no one travels to Delhi the night before to reach Mathura. They confidently say, Call me by 8 AM, and Ill take the expressway to get there.

He said UP was witnessing a surge in expressways, elevated roads, underpasses, and bypasses. Medical colleges and AIIMS have been established within the last decade, he remarked.

Earlier, traveling to Gorakhpur meant a five-hour struggle after getting off at Lucknow. Patients had to seek treatment for Japanese encephalitis. Today, we proudly say that world-class health systems have been created in Varanasi and Gorakhpur in eastern Uttar Pradesh. Who would have imagined international airports here? Uttar Pradesh is now number one in ethanol production, producing 118 crore litres, Nadda added.
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar congratulated the United Arab Emirates' Hamdan bin Mohammed and Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan on Sunday on becoming deputy prime ministers following a Cabinet reshuffle.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, the vice president and prime minister of the UAE, effected the reshuffle that saw Hamdan bin Mohammed being appointed as the deputy prime minister and defence minister.

"Congratulate @HamdanMohammed on his appointment as Deputy PM and Minister of Defence of the UAE," Jaishankar said on X.

Zayed Al Nahyan retained his position as the foreign minister. He has also been appointed as the deputy prime minister.

"Congratulate @ABZayed for being appointed as the Deputy PM and FM of the UAE. Will continue working closely to further strengthen India-UAE ties," Jaishankar said in another post on the microblogging platform.

In his role as the foreign minister, Zayed Al Nahyan has been playing a major role in boosting India-UAE ties.

The relationship between the two countries has witnessed a significant upswing in the last few years.

Following the landmark visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to the UAE in August 2015, the relations between the two countries were elevated to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.

Both countries signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in February 2022 and a Local Currency Settlement (LCS) System in July 2023 to promote the use of the Indian rupee and the AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham) for cross-border transactions.

The two countries are among each other's top trading partners, with a bilateral trade of about USD 85 billion in 2022-23, according to official data.

The UAE was also among the top four investors in India in terms of foreign direct investments in 2022-23.

The about 35-lakh-strong and vibrant Indian community forms the largest expatriate group in the UAE.

The UAE was invited as a special invitee for the G20 summit during India's presidency of the grouping.

In February 2023, the India-UAE-France (UFI) trilateral was formally launched.

With India's active support, the UAE joined the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) as a dialogue partner in May 2023. The UAE also joined the BRICS as a member on January 1 with India's support.

The India-UAE defence cooperation has been on an upswing in the last few years. The first India-UAE bilateral army exercise, "Desert Cyclone", was held in Rajasthan in January.
BJP president and Union minister J P Nadda on Sunday said people have supported the party-led NDA government at the Centre for the third consecutive term as they aspire for a 'Viksit Bharat'.

Nadda was addressing the Uttar Pradesh BJP working committee meeting here, which was held to review the party's poor performance in the recently held Lok Sabha polls in the state.

"People of our country have supported us for the third consecutive term because they believe in and aspire for a Viksit Bharat by 2047," Nadda said.

"In 2016, our party president had said that 'BJP is the party of Bharat's present and Bharat's future'. We must understand that the responsibilities we have are not seasonal or momentary, rather these are our perpetual responsibilities," he said.

Hitting out at the opposition, Nadda said that even after three parliamentary elections, the Congress could not cross the 100-mark.

"I want to tell you that in 13 states, the Congress has zero MPs. I also want to inform you that in Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh, the Congress won only two seats out of 64 seats where BJP was in a direct contest with them. It is a parasitic party where it relies on others to win," he said.

The BJP chief also said that his party has always worked for the people of the country.

"We're more of social workers and less of political workers. We have always served the interests of people.

"Before 2014, India was infamous for corruption, policy paralysis and trembling economy. I remind you of those dark times only to make you realise how far we have come," Nadda said at the state BJP meeting.

This was the first major meeting of the BJP's state unit after the Lok Sabha polls, in which the party won 33 seats, down from 62 it clinched in 2019. UP sends 80 members to the Lower House of Parliament.

Earlier, addressing the meeting, Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said "overconfidence" has hurt the BJP's hopes in the general elections.

He said while the BJP managed to maintain its vote share of previous elections, there was a "shifting of votes", and now the "defeated" opposition is "jumping around" again.

The chief minister said, "The percentage of votes that the BJP had in its favour in 2014 and subsequent elections, it has been successful in getting the same number of votes in 2024 as well, but the shifting of votes and overconfidence have hurt our expectations."

Speaking on the occasion, UP BJP president Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary said the party will win the upcoming bypolls to 10 assembly seats in the state. His remarks come a day after the BJP-led NDA's dismal performance in the by-elections in seven states.

The Election Commission is yet to announce the schedule for the assembly bypolls in BJP-ruled UP.

In a boost to the INDIA bloc, its members won the bypolls to 10 of the 13 assembly constituencies in seven states, while the BJP managed to bag two and an Independent pocketed one as votes were counted on Saturday.

Chaudhary urged party workers to take a pledge for ensuring the victory of BJP candidates in the forthcoming bypolls in the state.
Donald Trump survived an attempt on his life when a young gunman fired multiple shots at the former US president at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, injuring his right ear, an incident that could dramatically change the already volatile political scene ahead of the high-stakes presidential election.

Trump, 78, was addressing his supporters at the packed outdoor election rally in Butler town on Saturday when bullets started flying. Video footage showed him grabbing his ear as shots were fired. Trump was seen with blood on his ear and cheek as he was rushed off the stage by Secret Service agents.

The crowd started screaming behind him and then someone yelled Get down, get down, get down, get down! as Secret Service agents piled on top of Trump to shield him.

The shooting created chaos with people in the back of the venue immediately running to the exits.

As he was being rushed off the stage, a defiant Trump boldly pumped his fist into the air and told the crowd to fight! He was then whisked away in a car to a Pittsburgh-area hospital.

Let me get my shoes, Trump said as he was escorted to the safe place.

The shooting, which left one spectator dead and two others critically injured, is being investigated as an attempted assassination. The male attacker was also shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

A spokesperson for the Trump Campaign said the former president is fine after the heinous act.

The gunman was identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. He was registered to vote as a Republican.

Though Trump received only minor injuries, it was a close shave - a photograph by Doug Mills of the New York Times appears to show the streak of a bullet cutting through the air near the former presidents head.

It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump said of the shooting incident in a social media post on Sunday.

He said he would remain resilient and added, Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win, he said.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin, indicating that he is going to attend the three-day Republican Party convention from Monday which will nominate him as the party's candidate in the November 5 presidential election.

In a post on his Truth Social social media account soon after the incident, Trump elaborated on what happened and described his injuries:

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening," Trump wrote.

The incident threatens to further complicate an already tough presidential race and inflame rhetoric, just 115 days before the presidential election.

At a news conference, Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, said it was surprising the gunman was able to fire multiple shots.

This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump, said Rojek.

Theres going to be a long investigation into exactly what took place and how the individual was able to get access to the location, what type of weapon he had. All that is really days, weeks, and months of investigation, he said.

The suspect fired at Trump from between 200ft and 300ft away on an elevated position with an AR-style assault rifle.

As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action, his campaign said.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, his campaign said.

US President Joe Biden spoke to Trump, his November election opponent, a White House official said. Biden was scheduled to be in Delaware for the weekend but changed his plans to return to the White House.

Biden earlier said that everybody must condemn the suspected assassination attempt.

Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting, he said We cannot allow this to be happening, Biden said, adding that The idea that there's violence in America like this is just unheard of."

Vice President Kamala Harris and former presidents, Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton have condemned the attack on Trump.

Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, also issued a statement.

"Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today's senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania," she said in a statement on X.

Republican and Democratic leaders have condemned the attack on Trump.

The US media said the assassination attempt on Trump is a "horrific moment" for America and a "sobering reminder" of the threat that political violence poses to democracy in the country ahead of the high-stakes presidential election.

Americans received a sobering reminder on Saturday of the threat that political violence poses to our democracy, The New York Times said.

"It is now incumbent on political leaders of both parties and on Americans individually and collectively, to resist a slide into further violence and the type of extremist language that fuels it. Saturdays attack should not be taken as a provocation or a justification," it said.


Violence has no place in politics, PM Modi on attack on Trump Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condemned the attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, saying that "violence has no place in politics." In a post on X, PM Modi said: "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies."



"Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," the Prime Minister added.



On Saturday, the former US President was shot at an election rally in western Pennsylvania in a possible assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.



"The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is safe," said Anthony Guglielmi, the Chief of Communications for the Secret Service, in a statement.



The former US President is "fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Trump Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement.




Iran looks forward to further cooperation with China: president-elect

Xinhua) 10:22, July 14, 2024

TEHRAN, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Iran "looks forward to more extensive" cooperation with China, said President-elect Masoud Pezeshkian in an article published on Saturday.

Pezeshkian said China, along with Russia, had consistently stood by Iran during challenging times, adding, "We deeply value this friendship."

The article titled "My Message to the New World" is published in Iran's English language daily Tehran Times.

Pointing to a long-term comprehensive cooperation agreement signed between Iran and China in March 2021, Pezeshkian noted, "Our 25-year roadmap with China represents a significant milestone towards establishing a mutually beneficial comprehensive strategic partnership, and we look forward to collaborating more extensively with Beijing as we advance towards a new global order."

He hailed China for its "constructive vision and forward-thinking approach to international affairs," stressing that in 2023, China played a "pivotal role" in facilitating the normalization of relations between Tehran and Riyadh after a seven-year diplomatic freeze.

In the article, Pezeshkian vowed that his administration would pursue an "opportunity-driven policy" by creating balance in relations with all states, consistent with the country's national interests, economic development, and requirements of regional and global peace and security.

"We will prioritize strengthening relations with our neighbors," he said, adding that his administration's other foreign policy priorities would include fostering mutually beneficial relations with emerging international players in the Global South, especially African nations, as well as Latin American states.

Pezeshkian was announced as Iran's next president on July 6 following his victory in a runoff against Saeed Jalili, a former chief nuclear negotiator.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Lisa Disbrow, leader of the Patriots of Contra Costa Country, waves at beeping cars on a Highway 24 overpass in Lafayette, Calif., Sunday, July 14, 2024. Minh Connors/The Chronicle Trump and upside-down United States flags fly on a Highway 24 overpass in Lafayette, Calif., Sunday, July 14, 2024. Minh Connors/The Chronicle A Donald Trump-themed flag hangs over a Highway 24 overpass in Lafayette, Calif., Sunday, July 14, 2024. Minh Connors/The Chronicle Republican candidate Donald Trump has blood on his face as he is taken off the stage by Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa. on July 13. Bay Area residents and visitors reacted strongly to the shocking event. Rebecca Droke/AFP via Getty Images

A day after former President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania, people interviewed in the Bay Area denounced the shooting, with some saying they worried about the potential for more politically motivated violence ahead of the election.

Trumps right ear was apparently struck by a bullet as the presumptive Republican nominee spoke at a podium during a campaign event in Butler, Pa. The shooting killed a spectator and left two others critically wounded. A Secret Service sniper killed the suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa.

Heres how some residents and visitors in the Bay Area reacted on Sunday to the violence.

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Hector Corvera

Hector Corvera, a 64-year-old resident of Exeter (Tulare County) who was visiting San Francisco, called the shooting unfortunate and unnecessary. My biggest concern is that there would be some other people trying to do the same thing, that this is just the beginning and it could get worse, he said. I hope not.

Hector Corvera, a 64-year-old resident of Tulare County who was visiting San Francisco, called the shooting unfortunate and unnecessary. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

He called for peace. We want this country to be a peaceful country for our children and our grandchildren, he said, his daughter and son-in-law standing at his side on the Embarcadero, with Corveras 5-month-old grandson in a stroller.

William Rigby and Taylor Kaserman

Violence is never the answer. And I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery, said William Rigby, a 30-year-old resident of Walnut Creek, on Sunday afternoon at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek.

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Taylor Kaserman, 30, from Walnut Creek, also condemned the shooting and said it did not affect her views on gun safety. She said she grew up in a family where guns were very common and thinks restricting access to guns for some people is necessary.

Aimee Casella, 50, of San Francisco, said Sunday at Broadway Plaza in Walnet Creek that the assassination attempt added more chaos to a chaotic (election) year. Jessica Flores/The Chronicle.

David Casella, a 51-year-old San Francisco resident, said that if Trump had been killed, he wouldve become a martyr and blown up to be bigger than what he is right now. Jessica Flores/The Chronicle

Aimee Casella and David Casella

Aimee Casella, 50, of San Francisco, said Sunday at Broadway Plaza that the assassination attempt added more chaos to a chaotic (election) year, referring to Trumps felony conviction and concerns about Bidens age and mental capacity to run for a second term.

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A supporter of gun control, Casella said she wondered whether the assassination attempt would prompt the Republican party to finally come around.

David Casella, a 51-year-old San Francisco resident, said he doesnt support Trump but that violence against anyone isnt the way to beat democracy. If Trump had been killed, Casella said, he wouldve become a martyr and blown up to be bigger than what he is right now.

Shayne Silva, 15, of Walnut Creek, said seeing images of a bloodied Trump raising his fist after the shooting showed to her that hes a strong leader. Jessica Flores/The Chronicle

Shayne Silva

Sitting on a bench at Broadway Plaza in Walnut Creek, Shayne Silva, 15, of Walnut Creek, said she doesnt think trying to get rid of Trump or Biden is going to make the country any better.

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Silva said seeing images of a bloodied Trump raising his fist after the shooting showed to her that hes a strong leader.

I think him, you know, standing up after and still telling us to fight for our country definitely made me want to support him a little bit more, she said.

Lisa Disbrow, a 72-year-old resident of Moraga, helped put up a Trump 2024 MAGA flag and upside down American flags on a Highway 24 overpass near Walnut Creek on Sunday afternoon. Jessica Flores/The Chronicle

Lisa Disbrow

Lisa Disbrow, a 72-year-old resident of Moraga, helped put up a Trump 2024 MAGA flag and upside down American flags on a Highway 24 overpass near Walnut Creek on Sunday afternoon. Some drivers on the highway honked their horns, and others stopped on the overpass to share their support for Trump and the small group there.

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One sign read, We have a country to save. Disbrow said, We have the oldest functioning constitution in the history of the world and we need to abide by that and not have this.

Tensions mounted Sunday afternoon when a man who was jogging began shouting obscenities at Disbrow, who was video-recording the man on her phone.

Its a shame that this level of violence is affecting all levels of society, said, Raphiel Payne, a 65-year-old tourist visiting from western Kentucky. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

Raphiel Payne

Raphiel Payne, a 65-year-old tourist from western Kentucky, said the shooting was a reminder that gun violence in America is rampant. Its a shame we dont do anything about it legislatively, he said as he stood at Pier 39.

He said that once he realized it was not a put-on or a show, he found the assassination attempt disturbing. Its a shame that this level of violence is affecting all levels of society, he said.

I think when you sow the seeds of divisiveness in a country, its not surprising that theres going to be a backlash, said Melissa Jacobs, 53, a visitor from Long Island. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

Melissa Jacobs

Standing at Pier 39, Melissa Jacobs, a 53-year-old Long Island, N.Y., resident, said the shooting did not come as a surprise to her. I think when you sow the seeds of divisiveness in a country, she said, its not surprising that theres going to be a backlash, especially without strict gun-control measures and strong mental health care.

Nobody wishes anybody any kind of serious injury, but hes become a very radicalized figure in this country, she added. Im honestly surprised it didnt happen sooner.

She said the election and the future of democracy in the U.S. is a constant worry. Im kind of sad, she said of the state of politics in the U.S. It makes me nervous for my children.

She said she finds it problematic when either side is too radicalized because society loses the ability to converse. We need to have conversations, and conversations are difficult, she said. I think the left stops conversation, as well as the right, on the fringes, and thats where the middle gets lost.

She said she hopes the violence doesnt further polarize society but instead leads to conversations about what is right.

Everybodys so angry at each other, said Shirley Kennedy, 48, of Antioch, who was visiting Pier 39. She worried the shooting could incite more violence during the election. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

Shirley Kennedy

Shirley Kennedy, 48, of Antioch, said she was surprised the assassination attempt didnt occur sooner given the heated climate of politics in the U.S. Everybodys so angry at each other, she said.

She said she fears the shooting could incite more violence during the election, including at polling places. Im still going to vote, she said as she sat on a wooden bench near Aquarium of the Bay at Pier 39.

She said that while she is liberal, she believes in Second Amendment rights  but also that stricter gun-control measures are necessary to keep guns out of the hands of bad actors.

Konstantin Neudachin, 30, a San Francisco resident, said he supports the former president more than before and will now likely vote for him. He called Trump a hero. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

Konstantin Neudachin

Konstantin Neudachin, 30, a San Francisco resident originally from Russia, showed up to the Embarcadero wearing a shirt with a photo of Trump in the aftermath of the shooting. Under the photo was a message: They wont stop us.

Neudachin condemned the violence and said that while he was not a Trump supporter, he supports the former president more than before and now will likely vote for him. He said he believes other American voters will be swayed in a similar way. He said he uploaded the photo on his T-shirt to social media and attracted hate from Democrats. That fueled his support for Trump, he said.

I like (Trump) as a person most of all I like his willingness to win, he said, calling Trump a hero.

Kevin Power, a 60-year-old tourist from the U.K., said violence has no place in a democracy. You cant, in a democracy, have politics decided by bullets. Its completely wrong. David Hernandez/The Chronicle

Kevin Power

Kevin Power, a 60-year-old tourist from the U.K., said violence has no place in a democracy. You cant, in a democracy, have politics decided by bullets. Its completely wrong. Its against everything that Britain, America and Europe has stood for for the last 200 years.
A group marches at an Alcatraz City Cruises workers strike at Pier 33 in San Francisco on Saturday. Benjamin Fanjoy/Special to the Chronicle

Workers for the ferry company offering rides to Alcatraz Island went on strike again Saturday amid an extended and tense labor negotiation process.

Their union, Alcatraz Workers United, said it planned to picket at Pier 33 until 10 p.m. Saturday, nearly two months after the union held a four-hour strike demanding higher wages and more consistent schedules. The union represents about 100 workers at Alcatraz City Cruises, which is paid by the National Park Service to ferry visitors to the island.

The ferries remained in operation Saturday, as they did during the previous strike, with Alcatraz City Cruises managers transporting visitors themselves.

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Organizer Evan McLaughlin speaks at an Alcatraz City Cruises workers strike at Pier 33 in San Francisco on Saturday. Benjamin Fanjoy/Special to the Chronicle

Both sides have been moving toward figuring out what (we can) do, said Evan McLaughlin, an organizer for Alcatraz Workers United. Were slowly trying to move toward a tentative agreement, but these workers really felt like they needed to send a strong message.

McLaughlin said that some workers make as little as $19 an hour.

Roughly two dozen workers and supporters were at Pier 33 Saturday morning, as visitors waited in line for the next ferry nearby. Alcatraz City Cruises had posted a sign apologizing to visitors for the inconvenience.

Alcatraz City Cruises is committed to maintaining a positive and collaborative relationship with our valued crew, Antonette Sespene, the companys general manager, said in a statement. Naturally, we were disappointed that the crews union representatives called for a strike when the parties have been having productive negotiations. Notwithstanding the unions efforts to create a disruption, we are continuing to operate all tours to Alcatraz Island.

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Signs rest at an Alcatraz City Cruises workers strike at Pier 33 in San Francisco on Saturday. Benjamin Fanjoy/Special to the Chronicle
Rep. Nancy Pelosi said that she is thankful Donald Trump is safe after the former president was shot during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Tom Williams/CQ Roll Call Inc via Getty Images

Former President Donald Trump was shot and wounded during a rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, dropping to the ground after gunshots interrupted his speech and grazed the side of his head. He later stood up, swarmed by Secret Service members, with a bleeding ear and streaks of blood on his face.

The Secret Service said Trump was safe and that the shooter had been neutralized. News of the apparent assassination attempt sent shockwaves throughout the political community and the entire nation.

As the details were still being sorted out, several California politicians quickly denounced the shooting.

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As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, wrote on X, referencing the home invasion attack on her husband in 2022. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

President Joe Biden, who is running against Trump in the November presidential election, said in a statement, I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Later, during a press event, Biden said, Theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this; we cannot condone this.

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Vice President Kamala Harris said she is relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action. Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Violence has NO place in our democracy, Gov. Gavin Newsom said on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, former President Barack Obama wrote on X. We should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Others offered similar sentiments.

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Political violence is NEVER the answer. Ever. Ever. Ever, Rep. Eric Swalwell, D-Castro Valley, said on X. What happened today is absolutely despicable.

I am absolutely appalled by the gun shots fired at Donald Trump. Violence is never acceptable in our democracy. I pray he was not seriously hurt and for our deeply divided nation, Rep. Ro Khanna, D-Santa Clara, wrote on X.

As the representative of a city that lost a Mayor & Supervisor to political violence, I strongly condemn todays shooting of Donald Trump, said State Sen. Scott Wiener, D-San Francisco, referencing the 1978 assassinations of George Moscone and Harvey Milk. Political violence has no place in our democracy and is never justified.

Political violence has absolutely no place in this country or anywhere in the world  period, Rep. Barbara Lee, D-Oakland, wrote on X. Im thankful Donald Trump is safe. My condolences go to the loved ones of the person who lost their life at todays rally.

Political violence has no place in our democracy. I condemn this shooting, & am grateful for first responders, secret service, & law enforcement, Rep. Zoe Lofgren, D-San Jose, wrote on X. I wish former President Trump (& others shot) good health & a fast recovery.

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Regardless of their political affiliation, elected officials and candidates shared horror at the violence.

Todays senseless attack was a shocking and horrific act. We must completely shut down those who would use violence to snuff out their political opponents, said Republican Assembly Leader James Gallagher (Yuba City).

There is no place in our democracy for political violence, California Sen. Alex Padilla said on X. I am keeping the former President and those attending his rally in my thoughts. Grateful for law enforcements quick action to protect those in attendance.

Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Burbank wrote that he is Horrified by this apparent assassination attempt. There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Absolutely none. Grateful for the swift response by law enforcement and Secret Service. Wishing President Trump a swift recovery.

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My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and his family as well as all the Americans who were present at the rally, California Sen. Laphonza Butler said on X. We must not allow political violence to become acceptable in our democracy.

Gabrielle Giffords, Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., and a survivor of gun violence, said Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never.
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Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit divers, have been busy this last few weeks.

Between regular training & recreational diving every Wednesday and Sunday, DSAC have been involved in a number of community activities.

They recently assisted Inniskeen National School in their annual duck race, insuring everyone was kept safe, & all the ducks were removed from the water. Additionally they were also on standby with boats & divers for the Blackrock raft race.

Some divers went to far off places, like the great barrier reef in Australia to dive and the annual club holiday took other divers to Sardinia.

While those at home sought out dive sites at Islandmagee in Co. Antrim & this weekend gone to Mallinbeg in Donegal, were visibility & diving was perfect.

The club also wish to congratulate one of their team Jamie Horgan, who has spent this last four months in Norway training for his commercial divers licence.

Dundalk Sub Aqua Search and Rescue Unit are a group of Volunteer scuba divers who train all year round and are always on call should their services be required. They also work with all the emergency agencies throughout the island of Ireland.
The shooting of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday brings back memories of first lady Jacqueline Kennedy leaning over dying President John F. Kennedy as Secret Service agent Clint Hill climbs on the back of the car in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963. Bettman Archive/Getty Images 1963

Here we are again.

Nov. 22, 1963. April 4, 1968, June 5, 1968, March 30, 1981.

July 13, 2024.

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Former president Donald Trump flinches, grabs his head, falls. Secret Service agents jump on him, the car speeds off to the hospital. A would-be assassin, it seems, fired a shot through the former presidents right ear. The video is hauntingly reminiscent of the Zapruder film, the 8 mm home movie.

Horror.

Again.

Trump was not killed, but we appear to have been millimeters from yet another public political execution  one that the nation would have experienced collectively. Shocked, traumatized, changed forever.

Again.

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At this writing, we know who  Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa.  but dont know why. We do know that the alleged shooter was killed, another person in the crowd was killed and other people were seriously injured.

For his part, Trump, his face bloodied, raised his fist through the tangle of Secret Service agents, and appeared to yell, Fight! Fight!

Fight what? I will forgive the man for this reaction, for it appears he had been shot seconds before this.

In these initial hours  during this fraught moment in the 2024 election where President Joe Biden, whose hero, the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy, was a victim of an assassination, whose bust sits behind the president in the Oval Office  facts are garbled.

Was the shooter in the stands? Is he a lone nut? A part of an organized conspiracy?

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Was Trump seriously wounded and we couldnt see it, like the attempt on President Ronald Reagan? Not obviously hit, Reagan was shoved into the car, taken to George Washington University Hospital, where he collapsed from a dangerous wound in his lung, missing his aorta by a hairs breadth.

Memories of Dealey Plaza in Dallas, the Lorraine Motel in Memphis, the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles and the Washington, D.C., Hilton are front and center in our collective national consciousness.

Again.

We do not know the motive. We do not know a lot, other than that Trump survived.

We do know this, however, and this is painfully obvious: We live in a country where violence, guns and mentally ill people roam freely with military-grade weaponry, looking for innocent victims.

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More death. More destruction. More shattered lives, hopes, dreams and families lie in the wreckage of our nations obsession with guns.

Again.

Mass shootings of children in schools, concertgoers wounded and killed by the hundreds, clubs sprayed with bullets, dozens fall.

Again.

It doesnt take a great leap to blame this on the superheated rhetoric in American politics, the comically ridiculous access to pistols, rifles, tactical gear and you name it, theyre all part of the problem.

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The Democrats have been crying out for years about stemming this rising tide of blood, spilled because there are millions of guns. The GOP?

Silence.

Maybe this near-tragedy will shock them in a way that dead children piled up in classrooms, their little backpacks covered in gore, did not. Lets hope.

Sure, have the thoughts and have the prayers. But thoughts and prayers dont cut it anymore. Not at all.

Would the death of former President Trump have changed the Second Amendments amen choirs tune? I dont expect any rational thought coming out of this.

Again.

The conspiracy people will point the finger at phantoms. Joe Biden and the Deep State did it!

The Secret Services reputation has been called into question because apparently a sniper on a nearby roof wasnt spotted.

Neither did the Secret Service see Lee Harvey Oswald, cowering behind school book boxes, with a $21 Italian rifle, as President John F. Kennedys Lincoln Continental turned from Houston onto Elm Street.

Robert F. Kennedy had no Secret Service or Los Angeles police protection when a mentally ill terrorist and Jordanian fanatic fired shots into the back of his head and shoulder.

RFK was in the middle of a heated presidential race in 1968 as well, and, two months prior, the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. was killed by a right-wing racist with a rifle fired from a boardinghouse across the street.

The Vietnam War was raging on June 5, 1968. President Lyndon Johnson dropped out of the race in March after being humiliated by Sen. Eugene McCarthy in the New Hampshire primary. Rioting paralyzed the nations cities after Kings death.

Were not in 1968, anymore.

But we are in dreadful new territory that makes the recent presidential debate performance controversy look, well, silly.

The country has far more things to consider today, July 13, 2024.

We need to think about what we advocate and how we advocate it. We need to step back from the vehicle. We have to look at those who encourage vengeance, violence and retribution with a fresh perspective.

Do you want to live in a country where this kind of political violence is rampant, and where people who want to lead the country have to don flak jackets instead of political buttons?

About Opinion Guest opinions in Open Forum and Insight are produced by writers with expertise, personal experience or original insights on a subject of interest to our readers. Their views do not necessarily reflect the opinion of The Chronicle editorial board, which is committed to providing a diversity of ideas to our readership. Read more about our transparency and ethics policies

Were at another fulcrum, a wormhole of history repeating itself, a deja vu moment we have the power to change, but avoid because its too hard.
Local Senator, Erin McGreehan, has said she is hopeful of having a meeting with new Northern Ireland secretary of state, Hilary Benn, to emphasise the need to repeal the contentious legacy act.

The act, which has been opposed by both sides of the political divide in the North, gives immunity for crimes committed in the past. One of Labours manifesto policies was to repeal and replace the act.

Mr Benn and Sen McGreehan met earlier this year when the veteran politician visited Dublin. He was shadow spokesman on Northern Ireland at the time, while Sen McGreehan was part of a Fianna Fail deputation.

An MP for South Leeds since 1999, the son of former prominent left wing Labour politician, Tony Benn, has been vocal in his opposition to the legacy act, and has also come out in favour of the redevelopment of Casement Park in Belfast.

We had a very positive meeting, said Sen McGreehan. I genuinely felt he took on board all that we had to say. We highlighted in particular the need to repeal the legacy act, and unlike meetings weve had with previous Northern Ireland secretaries, he seemed genuinely interested in what we had to say.

Since his appointment last weekend, Mr Benn said his number one objective has always been to help the people of Northern Irelands government,
2023 was the first year of collaboration between the Think Before You Flush campaign, Louth County Council and the Blue Flag programme, with the combined goal of educating beach goers around what should and should not be flushed down public toilets when visiting the coast during the summer months.

2024 has seen a continuation of this landmark collaboration and the goal remains the same; keeping Irelands beautiful Blue Flag beaches and marinas clean and tidy and protecting our spectacular marine habitats from sewage based pollution.

The "Think Before You Flush" campaign, operated by Clean Coasts in partnership with Uisce Eireann, emphasises the importance of appropriate flushing behaviour and disposal of items including wipes and other sanitary products, even if they are labelled as flushable.

Only the 3 Ps: pee, poo and paper should be flushed down the toilet, everything else should go in the bin. When items such as wipes and sanitary products are flushed down the toilet, they can cause serious blockages in waste water systems, causing sewage overflows which can pollute our rivers, lakes, beaches and coastlines.

Recognising the urgent need to protect Ireland's remarkable coastal ecosystems, Louth County Council has united in their commitment to spread awareness about the campaign and promote responsible waste disposal practices. Under this collaborative effort, participating Authorities will display Think Before You Flush signage on Blue Flag Beaches and marinas, offering clear instructions on appropriate flushing behaviour, highlighting the main items people incorrectly flush down their toilets (the Dirty Dozen) and encouraging visitors to use designated sanitary waste bins.

Bronagh Moore, Coastal Communities Manager at Clean Coasts, expressed her enthusiasm for the collaborative efforts and support of the campaign: It's fantastic to see Louth County Council supporting the Think Before You Flush campaign. This collaboration between councils and environmental programmes is crucial in safeguarding our Blue Flag Beaches. Their efforts and ongoing commitment to protecting our coastlines will help ensure vibrant ecosystems for future generations to enjoy.

Talking about the importance of safeguarding our Blue Flag beaches and marinas Mary Hussey can take proactive steps to protect our coastal habitats. The success of this campaign hinges on the participation and support of Louths stakeholders, including the public, beachgoers, residents, and tourists alike. The hard work, and positivity of everyone involved is inspiring to see.

This summer bathing season we are asking all water lovers to support our Local Authorities and the Think Before You Flush campaign in creating a surge of environmental responsibility. By making small changes, together we can have a huge impact. Let's upgrade our flushing habits and ride the wave of change towards healthier marine environments!
The Down Syndrome Centre North East (DSCNE), a charity based in Carrickmacross, has been awarded 18,000 from the RTE Toy Show Appeal grants by Community Foundation Ireland. This grant will fund their comprehensive 2024-2025 Early Intervention programme for children with Down Syndrome aged 2 to 6 years old and help to change childrens lives for good in the North East region which covers Monaghan, Cavan, Louth and Meath.

This programme has been running in small groups since the centre opened in November 2018, but it has had to grow and expand to meet the growing demands and needs of their service users. Denise Marron, Services Coordinator who oversees the project says each year the project has grown, with the level of numbers enrolled increasing, meaning DSCNE is supporting as many children as possible with Down Syndrome from the North East region, to enable them to access the pivotal Early Intervention services that they require.

By providing Early Intervention services, we are supporting and empowering individuals with Down syndrome to reach their full potential which is the greatest attainment.

The project will provide an inclusive, nurturing environment to help the educational development of the children with Down syndrome that attend DSCNE, allowing them to grow in confidence, accessing personalised targeted interventions and making friends with peers from their localities, through fun, play-based regular intervention in the home from home environment that the centre offers.

Receiving funding towards Early Intervention costs will enable DSCNE to ensure the charity can continue to provide other free and heavily subsidised services that children and their families, professionals and local community can access such as Occupational Therapy, Speech and Language Therapy, Music Therapy, School age programmes, counselling, dedicated Family Support Worker as well as monthly social clubs for tweens and teens, baby and toddler musical sensory sessions and holiday camps.

Receiving this great news is also timely, with the start of the six-week programme of summer camps on Monday 1st July, the same day even further good news was received.

DSCNE has also learned that they are a National Finalist of the National Lottery Good Causes Awards 2024 as part of the Health and Wellbeing Category. Each summer the centre runs an incredible programme of fun and social activities for children with Down Syndrome, and their siblings, which is partly funded the HSE National Lottery fund.

Each of the 35 finalists will now receive 1,000 and proceed to the grand final where seven category winners will be announced at an awards ceremony this Autumn. Funding and recognition from national bodies such as Community Foundation Ireland and The National Lottery recognises and highlights the hard work and services that the charity is providing for the local community.

DSCNE provides family-centred support services to meet the individualised needs of all children and families, clinical therapies, family support services, education, information and advice. They place a huge focus on families. The centre is a place for parents, siblings & extended family to meet, get information and advice.

The heart of the centre includes a family room and coffee dock which provides space for individuals to come together to form friendships, share experiences and form a peer support network.

New and expectant families, and volunteers, are always welcome and can find more information by contacting the centre. All details can be found via their website www.dscnortheast.ie or calling 042 942 3181. Currently the centre is supporting over 115 families and is parent-led and run by a voluntary Board of Directors.
Fusing afrobeats with the soulful melodies of RnB while drawing inspiration from a rich tapestry of musical influences, Dundalk based songwriter Nia Keyo is ready to release her new single Yeah on July 12, 2024.

Yeah is a vibrant and evocative anthem capturing the nuanced dance where flirtation and interest simmer just below the surface. Yeah is about recognizing the signsthose stolen glances, the light touches, and the lingering conversations that signal more than just casual interaction.

The song's protagonist is caught in this cycle of back-and-forth, where signals are sent but never fully articulated. With a catchy chorus and relatable verses, Yeah empowers listeners to take control of these ambiguous interactions.

The protagonist decides to break the loop by giving a clear green light, signalling to the other person that the next move is theirs to make.

This decisive moment is both a challenge and an invitation, pushing the hesitant admirer to step up and express their feelings openly.

Nias sound is a captivating blend of sultry vulnerability and raw emotional depth, an approach to writing that has been moulded by her many influences, like Alicia Keys and Mariah Carey.

Her Brazilian-Angolan heritage has slowly cultivated Nias love and curiosity for Afro-Beats and Brazilian/Latino music.

Creating a sonic experience that is as diverse as it is unforgettable, her eclectic music taste has allowed her to venture into various music forms outside of RnB and HipHop.

Incorporating unexpected rhythms and elements to create her own sound.

Produced by Chris Kabs, with Yeah Nia Keyo has crafted a relatable anthem for anyone who has ever been caught in the tantalizing yet frustrating web of unspoken attraction.

It's a reminder that while the dance of flirtation can be exhilarating, sometimes you need to take a leap of faith and say it outright.

Beginning her journey in the early years of her childhood, Nia took her first steps into the world of music, with her first public performance at the age six.

A simple duet, but that consisted of self-initiated focus and persistence with rehearsals and the strive to perfect the song as much as she could.

Young Nia showed her parents this was a hobby worth their investment.

In 2015 she began recording covers and her renditions of chart-topping songs, later releasing these to her own YouTube channel. Here she began understanding the intricate process that is creating music.

Nias dedication to her craft led her to immerse herself in the studio, where she has worked closely with notable Irish artists including Chris Kabs and JyellowL.

Taking to the stage Nia has supported artists like Alan McKee, Negro Impacto and Toshin.

Nia has been back in the studio again creating and polishing tracks, producing a pool of songs to select from as she works towards her EP.

Working closely with the TEMO Worlds production team, her main focus is on developing an official body of work to be released in early 2025.
A controversial new slip lane layout on the N53 which caused confusion and danger to motorists has been reversed after it was highlighted to Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) by Dundalk TD Ruairi O Murchu.

The lefthand turnoff for the L7132 on the Castleblayney Road was removed by TII in May as part of their delineation contract.

The slip lane was taken away, meaning that motorists who wished to turn left had no choice but to indicate and make the sharp turn in fast-moving traffic.

In an initial response to Deputy O Murchu, TII said the removal of the left-turn diverge lane at this location is part of a TIIs delineation contract. These design proposals were agreed upon with Louth County Council, the road authority for the area, and are consistent with the approach for treatment of such turning facilities elsewhere on national roads.

But Deputy O Murchu persisted with TII, highlighting drivers concerns, and asking TII for assurances that safety was their number one priority when redesigning the slip lane.

Last Friday, TII wrote to the Sinn Fein TD again, this time advising them of a change of mind on the junction and promising to reinstate the original layout.

TII said: In light of the concerns raised in your correspondence, Transport Infrastructure Irelands (TIIs) Signs and Lines Team have reviewed this location and will reinstate the original layout.

TII notes the high traffic flow demands for turning vehicles on this school road and agrees that the previous layout, with a dedicated deceleration lane, appears to have functioned well as part of the original safety scheme at this staggered junction.

Thank you for bringing this to our attention.

Deputy O Murchu said: This is a victory for common sense, and I am grateful to TII for seeing this. I am also grateful to the constituents who raised this issue with me as the redesigned layout caused confusion and danger to motorists who use this road every day.

Safety must be the number one factor when looking at roads and how they are designed, particularly considering the increased number of crashes and fatalities this year.

The way the junction was previously laid out was far safer and I am glad this was recognised by TII.
Lifelong friends now turned publicans and stubby beer suppliers, Cillian Mulligan, Paul Kelly and Vino Mulligan from Mo Chara recently collaborated with Japanese Denim icon Edwin to create their very own custom uniform.

The owners of the popular pub said Mo Chara meaning my friend in Irish, is a neighbourhood pub in Dundalk built on the concept of friendship and re-creating the Irish public house as a space for the community.

In the spirit of true friendship, they've collaborated with Japanese Denim icon, Edwin, to create their very own custom uniform that you too can now rep!, the added.

Launching to the public last Thursday, the limited drop features a custom neon-like illustration by Check Morris inspired by a Japanese interpretation of the Mo Chara mascot 'Mo' now Su-Mo with a stubby in hand.

The new merchadise includes a 14oz Red Listed Selvage Denim apron, a limited edition oversized tee & a 100% cotton tote bag - all made by Edwin who have been committed to craftsmanship since 1947.

The Mo Chara lads said they are hugely excited to be teaming up with such a progressive denim brand that blends their Japanese background, craftsmanship & expertise with a European contemporary flavour, vision and attitudes.

Cillian, said: We are absolutely buzzing to be linking up with Edwin and theyve been a dream to deal with.

Edwin is stocked at the towns top mens retailer Tony McDonnells and once the chance presented itself we jumped at the opportunity to create something unique.

The initial idea was to create a bespoke uniform for our staff but then we thought it just looked too good to keep for ourselves.

Sam Bloor, Marketing Manager at Edwin Europe, added: We are thrilled to be working with Mo Chara to create these truly unique staff uniforms for the team and the wider world alike. W

We see a lot of similarities between the brands and being so close to one of our top stockists, Tony McDonnells, it really was a no brainer for us!

But the lads werent done there and they had to launch the collab in true Mo Chara style with an all day party.

Things kicked off in Tony McDonnells with some Mos Lager stubbys and sushi for guests before making the short walk to Mo Chara for a kitchen pop-up by Japanese food giants Yamamori Izakaya who made the trip up from Dublin.

Handmade sushi and ramen replaced the usual Neapolitan style pizza to a sell out crowd.

Tokyo native, Emmy Shigeta, set the vibe for the evening spinning some 90s Japanese vinyl.
Mary Lou McDonald has revealed that senior figures in Sinn Fein were disappointed with her engagement with the partys base.

Ms McDonald made the admission following a meeting of the partys ard chomhairle which discussed Sinn Feins recent electoral performance.

Asked what the partys review into its worse-than-expected results in the Republic of Ireland had found about her leadership, Ms McDonald said: They have told me that they want me to be more firm. They have told me that they want me to be my absolute and authentic self.

They have told me that they expect me to bring clarity in terms of our policy offerings and they have told me that they expect better engagement with the grassroots.

And some, even within the kind of the various leadership levels of the party, have said that they also want more access to me, they want me to be more available.

And I have made the commitments to make all of that happen.

Ms McDonald said she still enjoys the full confidence and support of the party, north and south.

She also said she would lead the party into the next general election in the Republic of Ireland.

Ms McDonald said she was never precious about criticism, and added: Their main ask of me was to listen, to listen, to listen.

And if there was a criticism of me, it was this: that I didnt pay enough attention to what was being said from the base up.

And they were disappointed in me with that because Im an activist, Im a grassroots person.

So Ive heard that and Im going to respond to it.

Ms McDonald said she accepted those comments as fair.
The President has laid a wreath to commemorate all Irishmen and Irishwomen who have died in military service.

The annual National Day of Commemoration Ceremony which honours members of the Defence Forces who lost their lives in past wars or on peacekeeping service was held at Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin on Sunday.

It was attended by Taoiseach Simon Harris, senior Cabinet officials, Labour and Sinn Fein leaders Ivana Bacik and Mary Lou McDonald as well as Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle ONeill.

Former president Mary McAleese was also in attendance.

Representatives of the next-of-kin of those who died in past wars or on UN service, ex-servicemens organisations, as well as relatives of the 1916 leaders, were also invited.

The ceremony included prayers and statements by different faith leaders and a wreath-laying by President Michael D Higgins.

It concluded with a flypast of the grounds by the Irish Air Corps.

Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Harris said: I think its really important that we come together as a country to pay gratitude and commemorate all those who have served in our Defence Forces and all those who have served our country overseas in peacekeeping missions with the UN, or indeed with other international organisations.

We have a long and proud history in this country of peacemaking and peacekeeping and I was really pleased today to lead the Government to a national commemoration led by our President, that takes a time and moment to reflect on the contribution that Ireland has made to peacekeeping right across the world.

To say thank you to those who have given that service.

Its always a very poignant ceremony, and today was no different.
From left, Gavin Newsom, Kamala Harris and Nancy Pelosi have prominent roles in the discussion over President Joe Bidens reelection campaign. Stephen Lam/The Chronicle/AP and Getty Images

Gavin Newsom has become President Joe Bidens biggest cheerleader. Nancy Pelosi has opened the door for lawmakers to question his electability. And Kamala Harris is caught in the middle.

After a tumultuous few weeks for the Democratic Party, Californias most prominent politicians have taken center stage in the discussion around President Joe Bidens future.

Bidens disastrous performance in a debate against 78-year-old former President Donald Trump on June 27 kicked off a panic about the presidents fitness for another term, which has only escalated despite Bidens assurances that hes up to the job. He has repeatedly insisted he plans to stay in the race, but Democrats are still discussing whether he is the best candidate for their party.

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Bidens high-stakes press conference Thursday went better than the debate, but it wasnt enough to secure his political future. In one moment, Biden displayed the mastery of foreign policy that led Barack Obama to tap him as vice president, and at another, he bungled his own vice presidents name.

More than 20 lawmakers have called for Biden to drop out.

Long a Democratic stronghold, California typically does not play a big role in presidential elections. But the stakes for the Golden State are high. If Trump returns to office, it would catapult the Democrat-run state back into the position it assumed in 2016, as the largest antagonist against a federal Republican administration. During Trumps presidency, the state filed more than 100 lawsuits against the federal government and enacted a slew of laws designed to preserve the states liberal policies as Trump tried to dismantle them.

Newsom said he has been studying Project 2025, the action plan created to guide a second Trump presidency that would once again put the state on a collision course with the federal government on abortion rights, climate change, immigration and more.

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Newsom underscored the contrast on Wednesday during a news conference highlighting the states firefighting work while he was at Californias air tanker base in Sacramento County. He accused Trump of playing politics when it came to wildfire aid for California, and said his abortion policies could affect millions of California women.

No state has more to lose, he said.

California Gov. Gavin Newsom campaigns for President Joe Biden at the Van Buren County Democratic Partys BBQ for Biden-Harris event on July 4 in South Haven, Mich. Bill Pugliano/TNS

After Bidens debate performance, Newsom demonstrated his loyalty to the president by flying across the country to campaign alongside him. In California, he left behind a heat wave and a political mess for his allies in the Legislature after he dropped an effort to add a crime measure to the ballot at the last minute.

That generated grumbling from fellow Democrats in Sacramento, but Newsom said his Biden campaign swing was essential because of the stakes of the presidential race.

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Newsoms vocal support for Biden has come even as he is viewed as a top presidential contender if Biden steps down. In response to persistent questions, he has repeatedly said he supports Biden as the nominee. He said Wednesday that he would not challenge Harris for the nomination if Biden steps aside.

Pelosi, Newsoms longtime ally, has been more circumspect.

She told MSNBC on July 2 that it was legitimate to question Bidens fitness for office and urged him to prove himself to voters. She was the first high-profile elected Democrat to acknowledge Bidens debate performance could negatively affect the campaign.

She appeared to open the door for other Democrats to publicly express their concerns, and shortly after, the first sitting lawmaker called for him to withdraw from the election.

Bidens support among lawmakers largely held steady Monday and Tuesday after lawmakers returned to Washington, but Pelosi again spoke up and a new wave of concerns followed.

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Pelosi stopped short of endorsing Biden on Wednesday and warned that he needed to make a decision soon in an interview with MSNBCs Morning Joe"  Bidens favorite morning show.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-San Francisco, is is questioned by reporters about President Joe Bidens candidacy on Monday. Tom Williams/CQ-Roll Call via Getty Images

Her decision to continue urging Biden to determine whether he will continue to run  particularly after Biden has said repeatedly that hes staying in the race  led to more lawmakers publicly expressing their concerns.

Pelosi signaling that Biden should reconsider staying in the race is her saying its still an open question, Debbie Walsh, director of the Center for American Women and Politics, told the Chronicle. Shes giving him the grace to make the decision as opposed to making it feel like if he makes this decision (to end his campaign), hes been pushed out.

Pelosi has reportedly suggested in private that Biden wont win the election and should step aside. Her spokesman denied the reporting.

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Harris, meanwhile, is in a uniquely delicate position. As Bidens vice president, she cant publicly or privately appear to support efforts to get him to drop out, even as the party coalesces around her as his replacement. She must project the fortitude of someone capable of stepping into the presidency at a moments notice, while remaining deferential to Biden.

Harris has repeatedly expressed her support for Biden. Her staff and allies have gotten the message that nobody should speculate about her potentially replacing him at the topic of the ticket, even privately, lest she appear less than completely loyal.

Congressional Democrats, however, have sought to boost her as the person who could beat Trump if Biden decided to end his campaign.

VP Harris is on fire. Shes vetted, tested, and has been Democrats strongest messenger throughout this campaign. Shes next up if we need her, and we might. Let me be very clear: if/when President Biden passes the torch, Im all-in for Kamala Harris! Rep. Jared Huffman, D-San Rafael, posted on X.

Huffman has not, however, called for Biden to drop out of the presidential race. He told News Nation on Tuesday that Biden is the only one that can decide whether he stays at the top of the ticket.

One of Bidens most important allies, Rep. Jim Clyburn of South Carolina, told NBC on Friday that Biden should continue to make his own decisions about his future. Hes earned that right.

But if he decides to change his mind later on, then we will respond to that. We have until the 19th of August to open our convention, Clyburn said. If Biden drops out, Clyburn said he would support Harris.

A group of Democratic lawmakers from swing states reportedly told House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries that Harris would be a better nominee in their districts than Biden, and seven elected members of the San Francisco Democratic Party said they would support Harris as the nominee if Biden steps aside.

President Joe Biden raises the hand of Vice President Kamala Harris after viewing the Independence Day fireworks display over the National Mall from the balcony of the White House. Evan Vucci/Associated Press

The growing interest in Harris is rooted in the belief that she would be more competitive against Trump, which is backed by some recent post-debate polling. She also could access the tens of millions of dollars in the Biden-Harris campaign war chest, unlike another would-be candidate.

Republicans are also paying more attention to Harris. Senior Trump advisers have been working more attacks on Harris into speeches and messaging planned for the Republican National Convention this coming week, the New York Times reported.

Trump is already testing anti-Harris messaging. At a Florida rally Tuesday, he mispronounced her name, called her Laughing Kamala and claimed Biden selected her as his vice president because she was unfit to lead, thereby cementing his place at the top of the ticket.

If Joe had picked someone even halfway competent they would have bounced him from office years ago, but they cant because shes gotta be their second choice, Trump said.

Biden defended Harris during his Thursday news conference but, for the first time since the debate, appeared to open the door to another candidate.

I wouldnt have picked her unless I thought she was qualified to be president, Biden said. Shes qualified to be president; thats why I picked her.

If his team showed him data that Harris would fare better against Trump, Biden said he wouldnt reconsider running unless they came back and said theres no way you can win. 

Biden and his campaign have repeatedly cited his polling strength against Trump, but they appear to be testing that assertion. The New York Times reported that the campaign is surveying voters to test Harris strength in a head-to-head matchup against Trump. The anonymous sources who described the survey to the Times, however, didnt specify why the survey was being conducted or what the campaign plans to do with it.

Biden gave electoral delegates permission to do whatever they want and added that he was overwhelmingly successful in the Democratic primaries (where he didnt have serious challengers).

Tomorrow, if all of a sudden I show up at the convention (and) everybody says We want somebody else, thats the democratic process, Biden said. But, thats not gonna happen.
A Cork councillor has welcomed news that the Government is to ban the XL Bully breed but has said that the city council must get serious about enforcing dog control measures.

From October 1, new regulations introduced by Heather Humphreys, the rural and community development minister, will prohibit the importing, breeding, selling and re-homing of XL Bully dogs.

From February 1, 2025, it will be illegal to own an XL Bully dog without a certificate of exemption.

Attacks

The ban comes after a number of recent attacks by XL Bullies, which included the death of a young woman, Nicole Morey, in Limerick.

Although welcoming the announcement, Sinn Fein councillor for Cork City South West, Joe Lynch, warned that the ban would prove meaningless unless there was proper enforcement of dog control legislation and Cork Citys by-laws.

I raised the issue of dog control at this weeks meeting of Cork City Council and put a question to the councils chief executive concerning the effectiveness of the dog warden service in Cork City, Mr Lynch said.

Dog control, or the lack of dog control, is a serious issue that is raised with me regularly.

Despite the citys by-laws stipulating that no restricted breed, muzzled or not, are permitted in the citys parks, there is next to no enforcement of this.

Fines

Mr Lynch added that in 2022, the most recent year for which full figures are available, there had only been 600 collected in fines relating to dog control issues in Cork City.

The vast majority of dog owners are responsible and abide by the laws that exist to keep people safe, however we must get serious about cracking down on those that are not, Mr Lynch said. We have seen from recent incidents around the country that dog attacks can be both dangerous and fatal. In this context, the ban on the XL Bully breed is welcome, but enforcement will be crucial.
A Cork TD has raised concerns about the bus service in the city, saying buses are becoming less and less reliable.

Sinn Fein TD for Cork North Central Thomas Gould submitted a parliamentary question asking for data on the number of cancellations and delayed buses on various bus routes from December 15, 2023, to April 10, 2024.

The National Transport Authority (NTA) supplied data on the average excess passenger waiting times for routes in the city, including routes 202 and 208.

The data showed that the average planned waiting time on route 202 was 11.98 minutes and the average actual waiting time was 16.58 minutes, an average excess waiting time of 4.60 minutes.

On route 208, the planned waiting time was 9.06 minutes and the actual waiting time was 13.60 minutes, an average excess passenger waiting time of 4.54 minutes.

The data, which the NTA advised should be considered preliminary, also revealed the punctuality of low-frequency routes in the city which showed that on routes 203, 207, 209, 215, 216, 220, and 245, between 55.2% and 64.5% of buses departed on time; between 4.5% and 8.9% departed early; and between 25.9% and 38% departed late.

Promised

Mr Gould said: People are being forced into cars. Were being promised reviews and changes to the routes but these arent happening. Where is the proactive response from the NTA? I know, from speaking to Bus Eireann and to drivers, that they are doing their best but the reality is the NTA are slow to respond and slow to make changes. That does not facilitate the modern bus service Cork needs.

There is a lot of talk about BusConnects but we need changes now. We need to see a frontloading of current spending to allow for a responsive bus service now.

Sinn Fein councillor for Cork Citys South West Joe Lynch said an increasing number of people are experiencing a poor level of service on the 220/220X bus route.

I understand that bus drivers are doing their best and the NTA recognise that this route needs to be fixed, but improvements were promised in January of this year and it is clear that nothing has been delivered. If anything, services are getting even worse; if that were even possible.

Mr Lynch said a review of the bus system in Cork city was promised back in April but that the review has been delayed until September. It is not a tenable situation. The improvements that were promised must be delivered, he said.
Tesla and SpaceX CEO Elon Musk talks with former President Donald Trump in 2020. On Saturday, Musk endorsed Trumps presidential bid after the former president was shot during an election rally. Alex Brandon/AP

Less than an hour after former President Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania, Elon Musk announced his endorsement of the former presidents reelection bid.

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery, Musk said on his social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter. The Secret Service said later that Trump is safe. He was seen with a bleeding ear and blood streaks on his face. The suspected gunman and at least one rally attendee were killed.

Musks tweet has been viewed more than 30 million times and retweeted by more than 180,000 X accounts, including one for the San Francisco Deputy Sheriffs Association.

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Musk, who identifies himself as an independent and said he reluctantly voted for President Joe Biden in 2020, has been increasingly critical of the Democrat. Musk allegedly donated a sizable amount to a political group backing Trump, despite the tech billionaire insisting in March that he had no plans to give to either candidate.
Three men with the same address on Gerald Griffin Street, Cork, were arrested and charged with various drug dealing charges.

Tulio Alfonso Nunes De Melo, 37, allegedly had 5,687 worth of cannabis.

Judge Mary Dorgan said she was refusing jurisdiction as this amount of drugs was too large for the District Court. His case was adjourned until October 2 and a book of evidence will have to be prepared. He was represented by solicitor Eddie Burke.

Judge Dorgan did accept jurisdiction to deal with the case against two co-accused who were also arrested and charged by garda Damien Cronin.

Pablo Buozi Silva, 23, allegedly had 2,030 worth of cannabis. Caue Gonzaga, 24, allegedly had 3,510 worth of the drug.

Both of these defendants, again represented by Mr Burke, had their cases adjourned until October 1 to set a date for hearing of their cases at Cork District Court.

All three of the accused face charges that include possession of cannabis and having the drug for the purpose of sale or supply to others at their home on Gerald Griffin Street on May 24, 2023.

In their appearance at Cork District Court the valuations of the drugs allegedly seized were given by sergeant Gearoid Davis.
The Fine Gael junior minister and Cork North Central TD, Colm Burke, has spoken about an incident in which he was refused Holy Communion and was told he was excommunicated while attending the funeral mass of a long-time party supporter in Whitechurch on Friday.

It is understood that the decision was taken by the priest involved to refuse Holy Communion because Mr Burke had voted in favour of the repeal of the Eight Amendment which had prohibited the introduction of abortion in Ireland before the 2018 referendum.

In a statement to The Echo, Mr Burke said he had recently attended a funeral mass of a person I knew for over 35 years and described the deceased as a longstanding member of Fine Gael and party supporter.

Incident

An incident occurred during the ceremony involving Fr [Gabriel] Burke where he refused to give to me Holy Communion, said Mr Burke in his statement.

He further advised that you have been excommunicated, said Mr. Burke, who then added that he had been in touch with the Cloyne Diocescan Office and intended writing to the Bishop of Cloyne, William Crean seeking clarification as to his status in attending further church ceremonies in the Diocese.

The minister told The Echo that it was important to remember that there was a family grieving a loved one at the funeral he had been attending when the incident occurred.

The incident that occurred must not deflect from the purpose of the funeral mass to support the family of the person who died, to celebrate the persons achievements and the valuable contribution he made to both his immediate family and the wider local community of Whitechurch throughout his life, Mr Burke said.

Contacted

Cloyne Diocescan spokesman, Reverend James Moore, told The Echo his office had been contacted by the minister regarding the incident and that Bishop Crean would be contacting Mr Burke to discuss the details of what had occurred.

Rev Moore described excommunication as a call to repentance for what he described as serious offences, a Canonical penalty. He said that excommunication could take effect by virtue of the act done or Latae Sententiae and suggested this could be for acts such as a doctor carrying out an abortion, issuing a threat to kill the Pope or desecration of the Eucharist.

Attempts were made to contact Fr Burke, who is the curate in Whitechurch, about the incident but were unsuccessful.

In a statement reported in The Irish Times, Fr Burke said that the minister, while serving in Seanad Eireann, had voted for abortion after the 2018 referendum.

The priest said that the teaching of the Church was that any politician who voted for abortion could not receive Communion and added that the Primate of All-Ireland, Archbishiop Eamon Martin had made that very clear before the vote on abortion.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

The President has laid a wreath to commemorate all Irishmen and Irishwomen who have died in military service.

The annual National Day of Commemoration Ceremony which honours members of the Defence Forces who lost their lives in past wars or on peacekeeping service was held at Royal Hospital Kilmainham in Dublin on Sunday.

It was attended by Taoiseach Simon Harris, senior Cabinet officials, Labour and Sinn Fein leaders Ivana Bacik and Mary Lou McDonald as well as Northern Ireland First Minister Michelle ONeill.

President Michael D Higgins with his wife Sabina attending the National Day of Commemoration Ceremony (Brian Lawless/PA)

Former president Mary McAleese was also in attendance.

Representatives of the next-of-kin of those who died in past wars or on UN service, ex-servicemens organisations, as well as relatives of the 1916 leaders, were also invited.

The ceremony included prayers and statements by different faith leaders and a wreath-laying by President Michael D Higgins.

It concluded with a flypast of the grounds by the Irish Air Corps.

Taoiseach Simon Harris led the Government at the ceremony (Brian Lawless/PA)

Speaking after the ceremony, Mr Harris said: I think its really important that we come together as a country to pay gratitude and commemorate all those who have served in our Defence Forces and all those who have served our country overseas in peacekeeping missions with the UN, or indeed with other international organisations.

We have a long and proud history in this country of peacemaking and peacekeeping and I was really pleased today to lead the Government to a national commemoration led by our President, that takes a time and moment to reflect on the contribution that Ireland has made to peacekeeping right across the world.

To say thank you to those who have given that service.

Its always a very poignant ceremony, and today was no different.
By Cillian Sherlock, PA

The Government is open to increasing funding for Casement Park, the Taoiseach has said.

There has been mounting speculation that the stadium is set to be axed as a venue for Euro 2028.

The derelict west Belfast ground has been earmarked to host five matches in the showpiece tournament being played in Ireland and the UK.

But the funding required to rebuild the stadium in time for the tournament is not in place, prompting concerns that the delays will see Belfast missing out.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said he really wanted to see Casement stadium redeveloped (Brian Lawless/PA)

The UK's Northern Ireland secretary Hilary Benn has said he is urgently looking at the issues around cost and remaining time for constructing the stadium, while characterising it as a very important project.

For its part, the Government has so far allocated 50 million towards the project.

Asked if the Irish Government was open to increasing that spend, Taoiseach Simon Harris said: In principle, we are  but I think we have to take a little step back here.

The Irish Government has already committed funding to Casement. I really want to see this developed.

Mr Harris said there had been encouraging words from Mr Benn that the stadium would be built, but added: The question now is a matter of timing.

Speaking on BBCs Sunday Politics Northern Ireland, he said: I think it would be a huge missed opportunity if we had a situation where Euro 2028 was being hosted across these two islands and we couldnt see games played in Northern Ireland.

He added: Id like to work constructively with Prime Minister (Sir Keir) Starmer and with my colleagues across government and with the Northern Ireland Executive, the GAA and others to see how best to move forward.

Mr Harris said the matter would be on the agenda when he met the UK prime minister next week, adding: We need to have conversations to understand where the British governments head is at on this matter too.
(Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC)New offices of the World Council of Churches and the Ecumenical Centre in Kyoto building of the Green Village development, Geneva, Switzerland.

The new Ecumenical Centrewhere the World Council of Churches will spend at least the next three yearsis in Kyoto adjacent to the old one but is sparkling and new.

Kyoto isn't in Japanit's in the Green Village in Geneva, Switzerland which has buildings named for cities that hosted major climate talks.

At the heart of Geneva's international community, the Green Village includes residential buildings, offices, and a hotel, all integrated into a green and technologically advanced environment.

Moving the WCC to a new home brings joy, excitement, and a bit of uncertaintyeven if the move is temporary.

"The move has been smooth and exciting as we invite and embrace a new modern space and new working methods that encourage greater teamwork and collaboration," said WCC general secretary Rev. Jerry Pillay.

"I am so pleased that the WCC staff have responded well to the change and exemplify a positive and supportive spirit to the new developments since change is often difficult. We look forward with joy to the new things God is doing amongst us."

GREEN VILLAGE

The Green Village surrounds the existing Ecumenical Centre of the World Council of Churches, built in the 1960s by the Honegger brothers, renowned Geneva architects, and classified as a historical monument by the canton of Geneva.

As the WCC moved out of the original Ecumenical Centre, many remembered the building's rich history, as Rev. Odair Pedroso Mateus outlined in his essay "The World Council of Churches in Geneva: A pilgrimage to places of ecumenical memory."

The ACT Alliance is also newly settled in the Kyoto building. ACT general secretary Rudelmar Bueno de Faria echoed Pillay's sentiment.

"We are delighted that the Ecumenical Centre has temporarily relocated to the new climate-friendly building, Kyoto. This move implies a crucial step towards sustainability and environmental stewardship, reflecting our commitment to care for God's creation," he said.

"While many cherished memories and traditions from our historical Ecumenical Centre accompany us to this new location, we find encouragement in knowing that, in a few years, we will return to a renewed and revitalized building."

Naja Chidiac, the WCC's real estate project manager, explained that no new furniture was purchased in the spirit of sustainability.

"Instead, we adeptly repurposed all existing pieces, achieving a visually appealing and highly functional outcome," said Chidiac, noting a lot of effort went into the move.

"The transition to Kyoto presented a significant challenge, given that the WCC had resided in its former premises for over half a century. The new location is but a third of the original space."

LIGHT AND AIRY

The Kyoto building, which is light and airy, also received a thumbs-up from an ecumenical partner, the Focolare Movement, which is ecumenical and was launched by the Roman Catholic Church.

"As the Focolare Movement, we are considered a sister organization of the WCC," said Christian Muggler, who heads the Focolare Movement at the Ecumenical Centre.

"I'm pleased about how the move was realized and grateful for every support received by excellent moving teamwork among the WCC staff. The new modern space is nice. Thank you!"

The move ushered in uncertainty for the WCC staff but in a fine new, airy building.

WCC project assistant Lona Lupai said, "The move happened well, though at the time some staff were busy preparing meetings and the like.

"There is no cafeteria, so staff must get used to a small kitchen for coffee and lunch breaks."

"I guess for now, as we try to manage with the arrangements, we have an open space; the offices are fresher," said Lupai.

For Roshan Michael Rajaratne, a WCC contributions accountant, the move was a pleasant surprise.

"I had an urgent report to prepare on the day of the move. To my surprise, everything was set up in the new office, and I was able to start work 15 minutes after arriving. Thanks to colleagues who made the move so easy," said Rajaratne.

"After working 17 years in my office in the Ecumenical Centre, I wondered if I could adapt to sharing. After one week, all looks good, and I am fully settled."

And for receptionist Nayrobi Perez, who represents the face of the WCC for visitors, the move is overall positive.

"For me, moving into this new premises is quite challenging but in a positive way, said Perez.

"Also, the building is modern, and I am taking advantage of it. In another way, the kitchenette brings together colleagues during breaks, thereby breaking unnecessary communication barriers."

Nestled in the heart of international Geneva, it offers office space, and a residential building.

The administrative areas are dedicated to international organizations, nongovernmental organizations, and private companies.

(Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC) New offices of the World Council of Churches and the Ecumenical Centre in Kyoto building of the Green Village development, Geneva, Switzerland. Photo: Ivars Kupcis/WCC

The WCC has worked with the Implenia company on the Green Village, discussing sustainability values that are now finding expression in this project.
Vice President Kamala Harris speaks during a campaign event at the Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Saturday in Philadelphia. The event took place before the Donald Trump rally marred by gun shots across the state. Drew Hallowell/Getty Images

PHILADELPHIA  Vice President Kamala Harris continued to defend embattled President Joe Biden at an event over the weekend in this critical swing state, but stoked speculation about her political future by appearing with the states governor shortly after.

Harris  whose appearances on Saturday occurred prior to the apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump, also in Pennsylvania  has now appeared with North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro in the same week. Along with Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, they are often mentioned as vice presidential contenders should she become the presidential nominee.

Harris is in a uniquely delicate position. As Bidens vice president, she cant publicly or privately appear to support efforts to get him to drop out after a disastrous debate performance last month, even as some in the party coalesce around her as his replacement. She must project the fortitude of someone capable of stepping into the presidency at a moments notice, while remaining deferential to Biden.

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We always knew this election would be tough, and the past few days have been a reminder that running for president of the United States is never easy, nor should it be, Harris told Asian American and Pacific Islander voters at the event in Philadelphia on Saturday afternoon. But one thing we know about our president, Joe Biden. He is a fighter, and he is the first to say, when you get knocked down, you get right back up.

Bidens high-stakes news conference Thursday went better than the debate, but it wasnt enough to settle his party. More than 20 lawmakers have called for Biden to drop out.

Biden did an outstanding job Thursday, Harris told reporters at a stop at Philadelphias famed Reading Terminal Market. He is a master of the issues. He is so highly respected among our colleagues around the globe.

Those in attendance for Harris stop at the indoor market included Shapiro, who told reporters he couldnt be more proud to support the Biden-Harris ticket, to continue to support the Biden-Harris ticket.

Shapiro called Pennsylvania the swingiest of all swing states and promised that voters in the state would once again turn out big for the Biden-Harris ticket.

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Bidens performance in the debate against 78-year-old former President Trump on June 27 overshadowed a barrage of lies and false statements by his opponent and kicked off a panic about the presidents fitness for another term  which has only escalated since despite Bidens assurances that hes up to the job. He has repeatedly insisted he plans to stay in the race, but Democrats are still discussing whether he is the best candidate for their party.

Harris traveled to Philadelphia to speak at a town hall held by Asian & Pacific Islander American Vote, an event in which she did her best to assuage fears about Biden. The Trump campaign was also invited to send a representative but did not do so.

The excitement in the room was palpable when Harris entered, with nearly every attendee standing with their phones up. She repeatedly attacked Republicans and Trump, calling states abortion bans a Trump abortion ban due to his appointment of conservative Supreme Court justices and reminding the crowd that Trump said he would be a dictator during his first day if elected.

Harris has long been a target of Republicans, but they have ramped up their efforts to diminish her as talk of her replacing Biden at the top of the ticket escalates. Republicans plan to play a video at the Republican National Convention this week that blames Harris for the surge in migrants coming into the U.S. and frames her as dangerously liberal on illegal immigration.

On Saturday, Harris sought to focus Asian American and Pacific Islander voters attention on Trumps behavior toward them, referring to him calling COVID-19 the China virus, and saying she would not repeat the vile, vile language that Trump has used.

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Midway through her speech, however, she was forced to pause when protesters shouted, Free Palestine! Harris and Biden are often interrupted by pro-Palestinian protesters, but they typically move on quickly when others in a crowd chant four more years to drown them out.

This time, however, several groups of protesters chanted one after another, prolonging the pause in her speech. Harris responded, And we will have those four more years, a comment that resulted in loud cheering.

If the Supreme Court says the laws do not apply to Donald Trump, if extremists in Congress continue to bow down to him, if people like (former Vice President) Mike Pence are not around to stand up to him, our last line of defense is the ballot box, Harris said.

Although her speech ended on a high note, talking about the importance of Asian American voices to reelect Biden, the countrys attention quickly shifted to the gunfire at Trumps rally across the state.

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Sunday, July 14, 2024

As America's Psychiatrist, Carole Lieberman, M.D., M.P.H. states:

"Thomas Matthew Crooks could just be a lone wolf who took the rhetoric of Biden and his backers to heart - that it was "time to put Trump in the bullseye" Or he could be a hired assassin.

"We could be watching the Leftist plan play out before our eyes. The endgame may well have always been to assassinate Trump because he was too much of a threat to the Deep State. When they saw Lawfare made Trump more popular instead of stopping him, and Biden's dementia became too obvious at the Debate and NATO; when they saw Biden didn't didn't stand a chance, they 'pulled the trigger' on assassinating Trump and they will try again!

"I predicted that when Democrats became desperate enough they would resort to assassination. There was even a bill proposed to Congress to take secret service away from felons, in anticipation of convicting Trump of a felony. So, it is not a coincidence that there were not enough secret service and those who were there did not heed the warnings of witnesses about a sniper climbing onto a nearby roof with a rifle.

"Just like Lawfare, this assassination attempt has backfired, because Trump showed his metal, his strength of character, when he stood up, pumped his fist three times, and said, 'Fight! Fight! Fight!' He was telling America to keep fighting even if it were to turn out that he would die. His true courage and love for America is now even more undeniable.

"There needs to be an investigation that delivers answers, unlike the JFK assassination still shrouded in mystery. The fact that they took out Thomas Matthew Crooks, instead of shooting to injure, means that we cannot interrogate him, which protects anyone who may have hired him. One thing we can deduce is that Crooks was addicted to violent video games that taught him to aim for the head. It would have been a fatal shot if Trump hadn't moved at the last second. There needs to be greater protection of Trump - from bullet proof vests to better Secret Service. This must never be allowed to happen again!"

Video clip of Dr. Lieberman's interview on GB News-Mark Dolan immediately following Assassination Attempt
Sunday, July 14, 2024

Assassination Attempt Reaction Uncharted Territory in Social Media Era

The public and political reaction to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump is "uncharted territory" in the social media era, said William S. Bike, author of the book Winning Political Campaigns: A Comprehensive Guide to Electoral Success.

"In the past, an assassination or attempted assassination of a President or Presidential candidate also resulted in a polling and popularity boost for the President or the President's party, as the public immediately reacted with sympathy and support," Bike said.

Bike noted that both President Gerald Ford's and President Ronald Reagan's approval ratings rose after assassination attempts, and President Lyndon Johnson's approval rating started out at 76% after the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, whose last approval rating was 58%.

"But the era of social media is uncharted territory," Bike said. "After the vile assassination attempt against former President Trump, both Republicans and Democrats began offering opinions on social media that ranged from thoughtful to cruel to ridiculous. Back in the day, one would have expected Americans to close ranks and offer sympathy to former President Trump, and support for President Joe Biden for his remarks condemning the assassination attempt. There has been some of that, but also plenty of criticism of both men, which would not have happened in an earlier, less partisan era."

Bike noted that one elected official who appears to understand the new social media landscape in this situation is Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, who has called for a ratcheting down of heated rhetoric on both sides.

"Johnson has behaved like a positive throwback to an earlier era, calling for calm and cooperation instead of engaging in partisan sniping," Bike noted.

The Telegraph, a United Kingdom newspaper, offered the opinion that the assassination attempt, could "hand Trump the White House." Bike, however, noted that the assassination attempts that Presidents Ford and Reagan suffered did not particularly effect their re-election campaigns, although those campaigns' election dates happened farther away from the assassination attempts than the 2024 election date is from July 13.

"So this assassination attempt's effect on the election is uncharted territory as well," Bike concluded.

Political historian William S. Bike is the author of the book Winning Political Campaigns, a how-to guide on all aspects of political campaigning.
Discover the strategies Executive Recruiters use to secure Top Talent in today's highly competitive markets. Also, learn how Swordfish AI's cutting-edge technology makes it easier for Executive Recruiters to identify, connect, and communicate with Top Candidates.

NEW YORK CITY, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Executive recruiting in today's highly competitive markets is more challenging than ever. The demand for top-tier executives has skyrocketed, driven by the need for innovative leadership and strategic vision in a rapidly evolving business landscape. Companies are vying for a limited pool of elite talent, making the recruitment process intensely competitive. Identifying candidates who not only possess the required skills but also fit the company culture and strategic goals adds another layer of complexity. This environment necessitates advanced strategies and tools to effectively attract and secure the best executives.



Uncover how executive recruiters leverage Swordfish AI's advanced technology to attract and secure top executive talent in competitive markets. Image Credit: Nd3000 / 123RF.

"Swordfish AI's artificial intelligence cutting-edge technology revolutionizes executive recruiting by providing access to personal cell phone numbers, making it easier to identify, connect, and communicate with top candidates. This direct contact capability allows executive recruiters to text or call desirable candidates, ensuring efficient and effective interactions," said Ben Argeband , Founder and CEO of Swordfish AI .

Common Challenges of Executive Recruiting in Competitive Markets

1. Attracting Top Talent

Finding candidates with the right mix of skills and experience can be tough. Many executives are already engaged in fulfilling roles and may not be actively seeking new opportunities. Developing strong relationships and building a robust network can help identify potential candidates. Engaging with them through personalized outreach and highlighting the unique benefits of the position can make a difference.

2. Understanding Organizational Needs

Each company has unique needs and goals. Misunderstanding these requirements can lead to poor hires. Recruiters must spend time getting to know the organization's culture, vision, and specific demands for the role. This tailored approach ensures candidates not only fit the job description but also align with the company's values and long-term strategy.

3. Competitive Executive Talent Market

High demand for skilled executives makes the talent market very competitive. Companies must move quickly while maintaining thorough vetting processes. Offering attractive compensation packages, growth opportunities, and a positive work environment can help a company stand out. Additionally, having a streamlined recruitment process that reduces delays can prevent losing candidates to competitors.

Proven Recruiting Strategies for Securing Top Talent

To navigate these challenges, executive recruiters employ a range of proven strategies. They leverage extensive networks and industry connections to source candidates who are not actively seeking new opportunities. Personalized outreach is key, as building relationships and trust with potential candidates is essential for successful recruitment. Recruiters also conduct thorough assessments of candidates' backgrounds, capabilities, and leadership styles to ensure they align with the client company's needs. Additionally, maintaining confidentiality and handling sensitive information with discretion are critical elements of the recruitment process. These strategies are crucial for gaining a competitive edge in securing top executive talent.

Swordfish AI: Revolutionizing Executive Recruiting Tool

Swordfish AI's technology significantly enhances the recruitment process by enabling recruiters to bypass traditional communication barriers. By providing direct access to candidates, Swordfish AI ensures that recruiters can engage with potential hires promptly and personally. This technology not only saves time but also increases the likelihood of successful recruitment outcomes.

Enhancing Recruitment Efficiency and Effectiveness

The ability to directly contact candidates through their personal cell phone numbers transforms the efficiency and effectiveness of the recruitment process. Traditional methods, such as email and LinkedIn messages, can often go unnoticed or be delayed. Direct calls and texts, facilitated by Swordfish AI, ensure that recruiters can reach candidates immediately, capturing their attention and interest. This direct approach is particularly beneficial in executive recruiting, where time is of the essence, and personal engagement is paramount. By streamlining communication, Swordfish AI helps recruiters maintain a competitive advantage and secure top talent more effectively.

Key Corporate Executives in High-Demand for Hiring and Recruiting

C-Suite Titles and Roles:

Chief Executive Officer (CEO): The CEO is responsible for the overall vision and direction of the company. They make high-level decisions about policy and strategy and oversee the entire operation to ensure the company's success.

Chief Operating Officer (COO): The COO manages the day-to-day administrative and operational functions of a company. They often work closely with the CEO to implement the company's strategy and achieve operational efficiency.

Chief Financial Officer (CFO): The CFO is in charge of managing the company's finances, including financial planning, management of financial risks, record-keeping, and financial reporting. They play a crucial role in shaping the financial future of the company.

Chief Marketing Officer (CMO): The CMO oversees all marketing efforts within the company. They develop and execute strategies to enhance the company's brand, increase market share, and drive revenue growth.

Chief Technology Officer (CTO): The CTO is responsible for the technological direction of the company. They manage the development and implementation of technology solutions to improve products and services and drive innovation.

Chief Information Officer (CIO): The CIO oversees the information technology and computer systems that support enterprise goals. They ensure that IT infrastructure supports current and future business needs.

Chief Human Resources Officer (CHRO): The CHRO manages the human resources operations of the company, focusing on talent acquisition, development, and retention. They play a key role in shaping the company culture and ensuring employee satisfaction.

Chief Strategy Officer (CSO): The CSO is responsible for developing and executing the company's strategic initiatives. They analyze market trends, identify opportunities for growth, and help the company achieve its long-term objectives.

Chief Compliance Officer (CCO): The CCO ensures that the company adheres to regulatory requirements and internal policies. They oversee compliance programs and mitigate risks associated with legal and regulatory issues.

Chief Product Officer (CPO): The CPO oversees the development and management of the company's products. They work to ensure that product offerings meet market demands and align with the company's strategic goals.

VP-Level Titles and Roles:

Vice President of Sales: The VP of Sales is responsible for driving sales growth and managing the sales team. They develop sales strategies, set sales targets, and work to expand the company's customer base.

Vice President of Marketing: The VP of Marketing leads the marketing department in promoting the company's products or services. They develop marketing plans, oversee campaigns, and analyze market trends to drive brand awareness and revenue.

Vice President of Operations: The VP of Operations oversees the day-to-day operational activities of the company. They ensure efficient processes, manage operational budgets, and work to improve productivity and performance.

Vice President of Finance: The VP of Finance manages the financial health of the company. They oversee financial planning, reporting, and analysis to support strategic decision-making and ensure financial stability.

Vice President of Technology: The VP of Technology is responsible for the technological infrastructure and strategy of the company. They lead IT initiatives, manage technology projects, and ensure the effective use of technology resources.

Vice President of Human Resources: The VP of Human Resources oversees all HR functions, including recruitment, training, and employee relations. They work to create a positive workplace culture and ensure compliance with labor laws.

Vice President of Product Development: The VP of Product Development leads the development and enhancement of the company's products. They manage product lifecycle processes and work to ensure products meet customer needs and market demands.

Vice President of Customer Service: The VP of Customer Service ensures that the company delivers excellent customer support. They manage customer service teams, develop service strategies, and work to enhance customer satisfaction.

Vice President of Business Development: The VP of Business Development focuses on identifying and pursuing new business opportunities. They develop strategic partnerships, negotiate deals, and work to expand the company's market presence.

Vice President of Strategy: The VP of Strategy works on long-term planning and strategic initiatives. They analyze industry trends, assess competitive positioning, and develop plans to achieve the company's strategic goals.

The Future of Executive Recruiting with AI

The integration of artificial intelligence in executive recruiting represents a significant shift towards more efficient and targeted recruitment processes. Swordfish AI is at the forefront of this transformation, offering tools that enhance the capabilities of recruiters in competitive markets. As AI continues to evolve, its role in identifying, connecting, and communicating with candidates will only become more pronounced. The future of executive recruiting will likely see even greater reliance on AI-driven technologies, enabling recruiters to operate with unprecedented precision and speed. Swordfish AI's contributions underscore the potential of AI to revolutionize the recruitment industry.

Swordfish AI is a Leading Solution for Executive Recruiters for Top Talent in Competitive Markets

Executive recruiting in competitive markets requires advanced strategies and tools to secure top talent. Swordfish AI's cutting-edge technology provides a powerful solution by enabling direct communication with candidates, enhancing the efficiency and effectiveness of the recruitment process. As the demand for top executives continues to rise, tools like Swordfish AI will be essential for recruiters seeking to maintain a competitive edge.

For more information on Swordfish AI and their recruitment tools, visit their website, blog , or contact them directly.



Place candidates in less time with game-changing cell phone number finder accuracy. Image Credit: Swordfish.ai

About Executive Recruiting Tool Swordfish AI

Swordfish.ai is a cutting-edge recruitment tool that provides verified contact information for professionals across various industries. Designed to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of recruiters, Swordfish.ai leverages advanced technology to ensure that users can quickly and accurately find the contact details they need.

The platform's robust database includes looking up email addresses , phone numbers, and social media profiles, all verified for accuracy . This ensures that recruiters can reach out to potential candidates with confidence, reducing the time spent on sourcing and increasing the chances of successful placements.

With Swordfish.ai's powerful phone number finder , recruiters can effortlessly obtain direct contact numbers, streamlining the communication process. Additionally, the tool offers extensive mailing lists, enabling professionals to target specific groups with precision and ease.

Swordfish.ai's user-friendly interface and powerful search capabilities make it a preferred choice for recruiters who demand precision and reliability. By integrating seamlessly with existing recruitment workflows, Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS), and Recruiting Software, the tool allows professionals to maintain their focus on building relationships and closing positions.

Founded by CEO Ben Argeband in 2015 as a contact data mining platform, it was then rebranded and evolved into Swordfish AI, now trusted by over 70,000+ sales and recruitment professionals globally, with access to 100's of millions of cell phone numbers .

Unlock Access to Over 3.5 Billion Data Profiles with the Most Accurate and Verified Contact Information.

CONTACT:

Ben Argeband

Founder & CEO

contact@swordfish.ai

Start Your Free Trial of Swordfish AI Today:

https://Swordfish.ai/contact

SOURCE: Swordfish AI (Swordfish.ai)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Cosmetic surgery practices need a website that is not only visually appealing but also optimized for search engines. This includes making sure the site loads quickly, is mobile-friendly, and has relevant keywords. Engaging content such as blogs, patient testimonials, and educational videos can also drive more traffic and keep potential patients interested. Local SEO for cosmetic surgeons is crucial as most patients prefer to find a nearby practice. This involves using location-specific keywords, getting listed on local directories, and having a strong presence on social media. By focusing on these aspects of SEO, cosmetic surgeons can boost their online presence and attract more clients.



Image Credit: Justmeyo, Doctor Marketing, MD

For cosmetic surgeons, having an online presence is essential to attract new patients and grow their practice. SEO for cosmetic surgeons helps improve their visibility on search engines, leading to more website traffic and potential clients. Understanding how to use SEO effectively can give a practice a significant edge over the competition.

Understanding SEO in Plastic Surgery

Search Engine Optimization ( SEO ) is vital for cosmetic surgeons. It helps attract new patients through improved visibility of their practice online, notably on search engines like Google.

The Importance of SEO for Cosmetic Surgeons

Effective SEO can significantly boost a cosmetic surgeon's digital presence. A high ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) enhances visibility and attracts more potential patients. Doctor Marketing, MD specializes in helping surgeons achieve this. Being on the first page of results means more clicks and inquiries.

Traditional marketing, such as word-of-mouth, is still relevant, but SEO now plays a critical role. Many people search online before choosing a service, making SEO indispensable for staying competitive. Plastic surgery SEO focuses on optimizing the surgeon's website and content to be easily found by search engines and potential clients.

Key SEO Concepts and Terminology

Keywords : Keywords are specific terms people type into search engines. For plastic surgeons, these include phrases like "facelift," "botox treatments," or "liposuction."

Content : High-quality content is essential. This can include blog posts , videos, and patient testimonials.

Meta Descriptions : These are short snippets that describe a webpage's content. They appear under the page title in search results and can increase click-through rates.

Backlinks : Links from other reputable websites to yours. They build credibility and improve SEO rankings .

Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO): This isn't just about traffic; it's about turning visitors into patients. Strategies include making the website user-friendly and ensuring contact information is easy to find.

How SEO Affects Plastic Surgery Practices

When implemented correctly, SEO can dramatically impact a plastic surgery practice. More website traffic can lead to more consultations and surgeries. SEO also helps build a digital presence. Regularly updated content showcasing the surgeon's expertise and success stories creates trust with prospective patients. Video content is especially effective, allowing potential clients to see procedures and hear from patients directly.

Doctor Marketing, MD focuses on these aspects to help plastic surgeons grow. Ultimately, good SEO is about visibility, credibility, and conversion, ensuring that when people search for cosmetic surgery options, they find the practice easily.

Building a Strong Foundation: Website Optimization

Optimizing a cosmetic surgery website involves creating a seamless user experience, employing technical SEO strategies, and ensuring the site is mobile-friendly and secure.

A clear and easy-to-navigate website is essential.

Cosmetic surgery websites should have an intuitive layout with a visible menu and straightforward categories.

High-quality images and concise descriptions of services improve the site's appeal.

Contact information , including phone numbers and addresses, must be easy to find.

Including a simple appointment booking form makes it convenient for visitors. Speed is crucial, as slow-loading pages can drive users away.

Patient testimonials and before-and-after photos help build trust.

Technical SEO for Cosmetic Surgeons

Technical SEO ensures that search engines can index and rank the site's pages effectively.

Clean URL structures with relevant keywords help search engines understand the content.

A comprehensive sitemap allows better navigation.

Meta descriptions and title tags should be optimized with keywords related to plastic surgery.

Utilizing alt text for images enhances accessibility and SEO.

Internal linking helps spread link equity around the site, improving overall search engine rankings.

Mobile-Friendly and Secure Websites

A responsive design ensures that the site functions on various devices. Cosmetic surgery websites should use responsive templates that adjust to different screen sizes.

Security is a top priority. Implementing SSL certificates guarantees that user data is encrypted.

A mobile-friendly site is preferred by users and search engines alike.

Pages should load quickly on mobile devices, ensuring an optimal user experience.

Use secure forms for any data collection, such as appointment bookings.

Developing Engaging Content

Creating engaging content for cosmetic surgery websites involves understanding what potential patients are looking for and avoiding practices that can hurt search engine rankings. Quality content and strategic use of keywords are crucial for successful SEO.

Content Strategy for Plastic Surgeons

Plastic surgeons should aim to develop content that meets both the needs of their audience and search engines. Before-and-after photo galleries are highly effective, showcasing the surgeon's work and building trust with potential patients. Including subheadings, bullet points, and images can make the content more readable and visually appealing. Another effective strategy is to embed videos or infographics which can increase engagement. FAQs and blog posts on local trends and services can also help capture the attention of local audiences, making the content more relevant.

Keywords and Search Intent

Understanding the relationship between keywords and search intent can significantly boost the online visibility of a cosmetic surgery practice . By knowing what potential patients are searching for, practices can craft their content to meet these intentions effectively. Effective keyword research starts by pinpointing keywords that potential patients use when searching for cosmetic surgery services. Tools like Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs can help identify these terms.

Creating a list of relevant keywords involves brainstorming terms related to various cosmetic procedures like "rhinoplasty," "facelift," and "liposuction." It's also essential to consider geo-specific keywords, such as "plastic surgeon in [local city]." This can help attract local clients seeking consultations. Analyzing competitors' keywords can also offer insights. Observing the top-ranking pages in the search results and identifying the keywords they target can provide useful information on what works well in the industry.

Targeting Long-Tail Keywords

Long-tail keywords are more specific phrases that narrow down the search to particular topics. These keywords often have less competition and can help attract patients who are closer to making a decision. Examples include "affordable facelift in Miami" or "best rhinoplasty surgeon in San Francisco." Using long-tail keywords can increase conversion rates because they target users with specific needs. A potential patient searching for "plastic surgery recovery tips" is likely looking for detailed and helpful information.

Incorporating long-tail keywords into blog posts, FAQs, and service descriptions ensures that content is addressing precise queries, boosting search engine rankings and drawing in potential patients effectively. Recognizing the search intent behind keywords is crucial. Keywords can signal different user intentions, such as informational, navigational, or transactional. For example, "rhinoplasty benefits" indicates informational intent, while "book consultation for facelift" suggests a transactional intent.

Creating content that matches these intentions helps in attracting and retaining users. For informational search intents, detailed blog posts and educational resources work well. For transactional intents, clear calls-to-action and direct booking options are essential. Aligning content with search intent involves crafting web pages and articles that directly answer the questions users are asking. This not only improves user satisfaction but also enhances the chances of ranking higher in search results.

Strengthening On-Page SEO

Focusing on on-page SEO is crucial for cosmetic surgeons. This involves optimizing individual web pages to rank higher and earn more relevant traffic. On-page SEO starts with keywords. Identifying and embedding the right keywords in your content ensures that it targets the right audience. Using specific terms patients might search for, like "rhinoplasty" or "liposuction," can help attract the right visitors.

URLs should be clear and descriptive. Rather than a random string of numbers, use words that describe the page content. For example, use "dr-smith-rhinoplasty-services" instead of "page1.php." Headings and subheadings (using H1, H2, H3, etc.) help organize content and make it easier for both users and search engines to understand. Each page should have one H1 tag that clearly indicates the topic.

Strategic Use of Title Tags and Meta Descriptions

Title tags are vital because they tell search engines and users what the page is about. A good title tag for a cosmetic surgeon could be "Expert Rhinoplasty Services in New York | Dr. Smith." This includes keywords and a location, making it relevant and clickable.

Meta descriptions provide a summary of the page content and should include keywords. They show up in search results and can impact click-through rates. An effective meta description might read, "Discover top-quality rhinoplasty services in New York by Dr. Smith. Enhance your beauty with our expert care. Book a consultation today!"

Optimizing Images and Videos for SEO

Images should be clear and relevant, using descriptive filenames and alt texts explaining the image. This not only helps with accessibility but also with SEO as search engines can read these texts. Videos on the website should be relevant and include keywords in titles and descriptions. Include transcripts for all videos, as these can be crawled by search engines and enhance SEO.

The Power of Quality Backlinks

Off-page SEO and backlinks play a crucial role in improving the online presence of cosmetic surgeons . These elements help boost a website's authority and drive more traffic from search engines. Backlinks are one of the most important aspects of off-page SEO . They act as endorsements from other websites, signaling to search engines that your site is trustworthy. Not all backlinks are created equal. A link from a reputable health magazine or a well-known plastic surgery forum is far more valuable than a random blog's link.

Quality is key here. A few high-quality backlinks are better than many low-quality ones. Think of these links as votes of confidence. The more trustworthy the source, the better it is for your site. Doctor Marketing, MD, points out that having a diverse set of quality backlinks can significantly boost your site's rankings.

Social Media and Content Marketing

Social media and content marketing are pivotal for cosmetic surgeons to build their brand and engage with potential clients effectively. These strategies enhance visibility and cultivate trust with the audience. For cosmetic surgeons, social media is a powerful tool for brand awareness . Platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok allow surgeons to share before-and-after photos, patient testimonials, and behind-the-scenes content. These posts help potential clients see the results they can expect and feel more comfortable with a surgeon's expertise.

Interactive content such as live Q&A sessions and IGTV videos can further engage followers and build a sense of community. Surgeons should also consider collaborating with influencers to reach a broader audience. Paid ads on social media can target specific demographics, increasing the chance of reaching prospective patients. Regular posting and active engagement are key components of a successful social media strategy . Doctor Marketing, MD suggests dedicating time each day to respond to comments and messages, which helps build a trusting relationship with the audience.

Measuring SEO Success

For cosmetic surgeons, tracking the success of an SEO campaign means looking closely at website traffic, lead generation , and conversion rates . Measuring the effectiveness of SEO starts with monitoring website traffic. Using tools like Google Analytics, a cosmetic surgeon can track the number of visitors to their site. It helps to understand where the traffic is coming from, such as organic search, social media, or referrals.

Detailed analysis includes looking at metrics like bounce rate, average session duration, and pages per session. These indicators show how engaging the website content is and whether visitors find valuable information that keeps them on the site longer. Regularly tracking these metrics helps in adjusting the SEO strategy to focus on the most successful keywords and content. Consistency in traffic sources and user behavior patterns can indicate that the SEO efforts are effective.

SEO ROI and Conversions

Calculating the ROI of an SEO campaign for cosmetic surgeons involves more than just looking at the traffic numbers. It's essential to measure how many of those visitors convert into leads and, eventually, patients. Tools like Google Analytics and CRM systems can help track this conversion process. For instance, an increase in form submissions or phone inquiries can indicate successful lead generation. Tracking the number of bookings or consultations coming from SEO efforts is crucial.

An effective way to measure ROI is by comparing the cost of the SEO campaign to the revenue generated from new patient bookings. High ROI indicates that the SEO strategies are driving valuable traffic that leads to real business growth for the practice. By combining these metrics, cosmetic surgeons can get a clear picture of their SEO performance and make informed decisions to improve their digital marketing efforts.

Maintaining SEO Health

Keeping your SEO healthy is key for cosmetic surgeons. Refreshing older content also benefits your SEO, revise outdated blogs, update statistics, and add new insights to keep information current. Google favors sites that frequently add new information. Adding blogs or patient testimonials keeps the content fresh. Focus on improving your organic search results using relevant keywords naturally helps potential patients find your practice when searching online.

Having an XML sitemap helps search engines index your site more efficiently. This ensures all your pages get discovered and ranked properly. Ensure that your website pages are correctly indexed. Use Google Search Console to monitor and fix any indexing issues promptly.

An SEO-focused website can drive organic traffic to a surgeon's practice. Using keywords related to plastic surgery and popular procedures ensures that the content ranks higher in search engine results. Additionally, an engaging content marketing plan can lead to more shares and backlinks from other websites, further boosting online visibility. Doctors can rely on Doctor Marketing, MD for professional SEO services tailored for their practice needs. Regular audits, fresh content, and technical SEO tasks shape a strong online presence.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
Brazilian entrepreneur bridges China-Latin America trade cooperation

People's Daily Online) 11:47, July 14, 2024

Opening up is a fundamental national policy of China which will never waver. Over the past 40 years, China's economic development has been achieved thanks to opening up. In the future, China's high-quality economic development must be pursued with even greater opening up.

"The Chinese government can now bring different countries new opportunities," said Andre Queme, CEO of Latam China Tech, a Brazilian entrepreneur who has worked and lived in China for many years.

Queme added that he has seen intense economic growth and development in many different fields in China in the last decade, "I foresee that in the future, we will have more cooperation between countries, and in which China is going to be an important player."

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / In today's digital age, medical practice digital marketing has become indispensable for healthcare providers striving to build a robust online presence and connect with patients. Effective digital marketing enables medical practices to reach, attract, and engage patients by leveraging various online tools and platforms. This includes creating a responsive website, optimizing for search engines, and engaging patients through social media. Brand identity forms a critical aspect of healthcare digital marketing, helping practices distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Crafting a strong, unique brand identity involves establishing your practice's values, mission, and visual elements that resonate with your target audience. Utilizing consistent branding across all digital channels ensures that patients recognize and trust your practice.



Image Credit: PeopleImages12, Doctor Marketing, MD

Engagement does not stop at brand identity; medical practices must continuously interact with potential and existing patients. Digital marketing strategies such as email campaigns, patient reviews, and content marketing foster ongoing communication and trust. By regularly updating and optimizing your digital presence , practices can maintain patient interest and loyalty, ultimately leading to growth and success in the healthcare industry.

Understanding Digital Marketing in Healthcare

Digital marketing in healthcare is transforming how medical practices reach and engage their patients. The transition from traditional to digital methods and the essential components of an effective digital marketing strategy are critical for success. The evolution from traditional marketing to digital marketing in healthcare has been driven by advances in technology and changes in patient behavior. Traditionally, medical practices relied on flyers, billboards, and word-of-mouth to attract patients.

Today, they leverage websites, social media, and online ads. Digital marketing allows practices to reach a broader audience more efficiently and provides detailed analytics to measure success. Medical professionals now use tools like search engine optimization (SEO), email marketing, and social media platforms to engage with patients, providing information and fostering trust.

Key Components of a Digital Strategy

An effective digital marketing strategy for healthcare combines several key elements. SEO ensures that a practice's website appears in search engine results, increasing visibility. Content marketing involves creating valuable blog posts and articles that educate patients and build credibility. Social media marketing engages patients on platforms they frequently use, such as Facebook and Instagram.

Email marketing keeps patients informed about new services and wellness tips. Lastly, online reputation management is crucial as patients often read reviews before choosing a healthcare provider. By focusing on these components, medical practices can create a comprehensive digital marketing plan that improves patient engagement and grows their practice.

Building a Strong Online Presence

Establishing a strong online presence is an essential element for medical practices. This involves creating a professional and user-friendly website, optimizing for search engines, and effectively managing your Google Business Profile . A professional website serves as the online face of a medical practice. It should be aesthetically pleasing, easy to navigate, and contain all necessary information patients need. Key elements to include are contact information, services provided, biographies of medical staff, and appointment booking options.

Web design also plays a crucial role. A well-designed site incorporates responsive design, ensuring it looks good on all devices, and fast load times, as site speed impacts user experience and SEO ranking. Investing in a secure, HIPAA-compliant website boosts patient trust and data protection.

Leveraging SEO for Visibility

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is vital for enhancing a medical practice's online visibility. Effective SEO strategies involve keyword research, optimizing web pages with relevant keywords, and building quality backlinks . These efforts help the website rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential patients to find the practice.

Local SEO ensures visibility among local audiences. This includes local citations, optimizing for local keywords, and ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, and Phone Number) information across the web. Content marketing, through blogs and updates, tailored to patient interests can further enhance SEO efforts, driving organic traffic to the site.

Managing Your Google Business Profile

A well-managed Google Business Profile (GBP) enhances a practice's local visibility. This profile should be filled out completely with accurate business information , hours of operation , service details, and high-quality photos of the practice. Encouraging patients to leave reviews on the GBP can improve the practice's credibility and ranking.

Regularly updating the profile with fresh posts or announcements keeps the information current and engaging for visitors. By addressing patient reviews-both positive and negative-a practice demonstrates commitment to patient care, boosting trust and potential loyalty. Utilizing the insights provided by GBP analytics can help refine marketing strategies based on patient interactions with the profile.

Engaging with Social Media

Engaging with social media is critical for any medical practice looking to connect with patients, share valuable information, and enhance its reputation. This section outlines strategies for choosing the right platforms, creating valuable content, and best practices for managing social media effectively . Choosing the right social media platforms is foundational. Facebook is widely used by various demographics and is excellent for building a community. LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking and sharing detailed medical insights. Instagram and Twitter can be used for quick updates, health tips, and engaging with patients in a more casual setting.

Doctors should consider the preferences of their target audience. Are patients more likely to engage with detailed articles, quick tips, or visual content? Different platforms excel in different types of media. Therefore, understanding patient demographics and their online behavior helps in making informed decisions. Social media profiles also need regular monitoring. Each platform's unique features should be leveraged accordingly, ensuring content is optimized and reaches the intended audience. Using analytics tools on these platforms can provide insights into what's working and what's not.

Creating Valuable Content

Creating valuable content is essential for sustained engagement. Doctors can use social media to share health-related information , educational videos, patient testimonials , and updates about the practice. For instance, addressing common questions about medical conditions can help demystify healthcare for patients. Content should be varied to keep followers engaged. Posts can range from blog articles on recent medical advancements to short infographics offering quick health tips. Video content is especially effective, as it tends to receive higher engagement rates and can cover more complex topics in an accessible way.

Regular posting is key to maintaining a consistent presence. Scheduling tools can help ensure that content goes out regularly without overwhelming the practice's staff. Engaging content not only informs but also fosters a sense of community and trust between doctors and patients. Managing social media platforms efficiently is crucial. Having a structured plan, such as an editorial calendar, can help keep track of what and when to post. This ensures a balanced mix of content types and topics. Being responsive to comments and messages helps build trust and shows patients that their concerns are taken seriously.

Content Marketing for Medical Practices

Content marketing is a crucial tool for medical practices looking to build trust and engage with current and prospective patients . By developing educational content and utilizing different content formats, practices can effectively communicate their expertise and care. Educational content is the cornerstone of a medical practice's content marketing strategy . Such content includes blog posts , articles , and guides that address common patient concerns and questions.

For example, a gynecology practice might create blogs on pregnancy tips, menstrual health, and preventive screenings. By breaking down complex medical topics into easily understandable pieces, practices can demystify healthcare and make patients feel more in control of their health. Moreover, regularly updated blog posts on health tips and recent medical advancements keep the audience informed and engaged. Sharing these articles via social media platforms can further enhance their reach, driving traffic to the practice's website and establishing the practice as a reliable source of medical knowledge.

Email Marketing and Patient Engagement

Email marketing is a powerful tool for medical practices to enhance patient engagement and foster trust. Focusing on creating targeted email campaigns and measuring their effectiveness can significantly improve patient relationships and the success rate of digital marketing strategies. Creating targeted email campaigns involves tailoring content to specific patient groups. Personalized emails can address individual needs, such as reminders for upcoming appointments, health tips relevant to their conditions, or updates on new services.

Segmenting the patient database is crucial. Practices can categorize patients by age, medical history, and treatment plans to send more relevant emails. This approach not only improves engagement but also opens valuable lines of communication. Using engaging subject lines and clear call-to-action (CTA) buttons can further enhance email effectiveness. Incorporating patient feedback in these campaigns ensures the content remains valuable and aligns with patient expectations. Connecting personally with patients encourages trust and long-term loyalty to the medical practice.

Keeping Compliance and Ethics Centerstage

Maintaining compliance and ethical standards in digital marketing is paramount for healthcare practices. This ensures not only adherence to laws but also the building of trust with patients. Healthcare practices must prioritize HIPAA compliance in their digital marketing strategies. This entails ensuring that any patient information shared online is protected and confidential.

Digital communications, like emails or online forms, must be secured to prevent unauthorized access. Encryption and secure platforms are essential tools in this regard. Additionally, obtaining patient consent before sharing testimonials or reviews is a strict requirement. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in hefty fines and loss of patient trust. Regular training and updates on HIPAA regulations for staff, as well as routine audits of marketing practices, help ensure ongoing compliance. Partnering with reputable marketing agencies like Doctor Marketing, MD can also be beneficial. They can navigate the complex regulatory landscape effectively and efficiently.

Ethical Marketing to Maintain Trust

Ethical marketing is crucial for maintaining trust between healthcare providers and their patients. This involves transparent communication, avoiding misleading claims, and ensuring that advertisements do not exploit patient vulnerabilities. Practices should strive to be clear and honest in all messaging. For instance, using ethical storytelling highlights benefits without exaggeration or false promises. Communicating the limitations and risks associated with treatments or products fosters a trustworthy relationship.

Furthermore, digital marketing efforts should always prioritize patient welfare over profit. Avoiding exploitation of sensitive health issues is key. Encouraging patient feedback and addressing concerns promptly also enhances engagement and trust. Ultimately, deploying ethical marketing practices ensures a sustainable and reputable presence in the healthcare industry.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
CHICAGO, IL / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / The success of a medical practice can depend heavily on effective online marketing strategies . Many doctors are now realizing the importance of building a robust online presence to attract and retain patients. Creating a strong and engaging website is crucial, as it serves as the first impression for most potential patients. A well-designed website not only provides essential information but also enhances credibility and trust in the medical practice. Beyond the website, content marketing plays a significant role in engaging patients and boosting online visibility. Doctors can benefit from offering informative and well-crafted content that addresses the common concerns and questions of their patient base.



Image Credit: PeopleImages12, Doctor Marketing, MD

Through blog posts, articles, and social media updates, medical professionals can establish themselves as authoritative voices in their fields, thereby strengthening their reputation and drawing in more patients. Another critical component of marketing for physicians is leveraging search engine optimization (SEO) and local search engines. By optimizing their online presence through tools like Google My Business, doctors can ensure their practice appears prominently in local search results. This approach increases the likelihood of attracting patients who are actively seeking medical services in their area.

Essentials of Digital Marketing for Doctors

To succeed in the digital realm, doctors must adopt effective digital marketing strategies , create user-friendly websites, and leverage various online tools to increase visibility and attract patients .

In the current era, a robust online presence is indispensable for doctors. Most patients search for medical information and book appointments online. Doctors who embrace digital marketing tools and platforms can effectively reach a wider audience. Social media, email marketing, and search engine optimization (SEO) are crucial elements. SEO, in particular, ensures that a doctor's practice appears prominently in search engine results, making it easier for potential patients to find relevant services. By familiarizing themselves with these tools, doctors can better engage with their community and grow their practice.

Developing a Digital Marketing Strategy

Developing a successful digital marketing strategy involves several steps. First, doctors must identify their target audience and understand their needs. Are they looking for specific treatments, or general health information? Once identified, doctors can tailor their content accordingly. Next, setting clear, measurable goals is vital. These goals could include increasing website traffic, boosting online appointment bookings, or enhancing patient engagement through regular blog posts or social media updates. Utilizing analytics tools helps track progress and adjust strategies as needed. Regularly updating content and engaging with patients also fosters trust and loyalty.

Maximizing Online Visibility and SEO

Enhancing a doctor's online visibility involves harnessing specific SEO techniques to attract more patients and improve their digital presence. Key areas include leveraging local SEO to build connections within the community, optimizing Google My Business for greater online reach, and employing healthcare-specific SEO methods. Local SEO is essential for doctors who want to build a strong connection with their community. By optimizing their online presence for local searches, doctors increase their chances of appearing in search results when potential patients search for medical services nearby. This involves ensuring that information such as the clinic's name, address, and phone number is consistent across all online platforms.

Additionally, doctors should consider listing their practice on local directories and participating in local events. These actions signal to search engines that the practice is an active and valuable resource within the community, thus improving its local search ranking. Creating locally-focused content, such as blog posts about community health events or local health tips, can further boost local SEO efforts.

The Power of Google My Business

Optimizing a Google My Business (GMB) profile is crucial for doctors aiming to enhance their online visibility. A well-optimized GMB profile helps practices appear in local search results and Google Maps, making it easier for potential patients to find them. Doctors should fill out all relevant information on their profile, including office hours, services offered, and high-quality images of the practice.

Encouraging satisfied patients to leave positive reviews on the GMB profile can significantly improve the practice's online reputation and search ranking. Responding to these reviews, whether positive or negative, shows engagement and can build trust with potential patients. Additionally, regularly updating the GMB profile with posts about health tips, new services, or seasonal health reminders keeps the listing active and relevant.

Leveraging Healthcare SEO Techniques

Healthcare SEO encompasses various strategies tailored to improve the online visibility of medical practices. This includes keyword optimization, where doctors tailor their website content to include relevant medical keywords that potential patients are likely to search for. Creating valuable and informative content, such as blog posts, articles, and FAQs, can attract and retain visitors while addressing common health concerns.

Technical SEO is also vital, ensuring that the website is fast, mobile-friendly, and easy to navigate. Proper use of meta tags, alt texts for images, and schema markup can improve how search engines index and display the website. Additionally, building backlinks from reputable healthcare websites signals to search engines that the doctor's site is a trustworthy and authoritative source of medical information.

Content Marketing: Engaging and Educating Patients

Doctors can effectively engage and educate their patients through various content marketing strategies . By creating valuable blog content , leveraging video marketing, and utilizing email marketing and newsletters, they can enhance their online presence and patient interaction. Creating a blog with valuable content is fundamental for doctors looking to engage and educate their patients. Doctors can address patient concerns by writing articles that answer common questions. This helps in establishing trust and credibility.

Healthcare content marketing should prioritize clear and concise language, avoiding medical jargon to ensure that all readers can understand. Blog posts that include step-by-step guides, tips for managing chronic conditions, and preventive care advice are particularly beneficial. Regularly updating the blog ensures that the information remains current and relevant to patients. This consistency not only educates patients but also positions the doctor as a reliable source of information.

Social Media Strategies for Healthcare

Healthcare providers can harness social media platforms to enhance their online presence , engage with patients, and disseminate valuable health information. Key strategies include choosing the right platforms, leveraging patient testimonials, and utilizing effective advertising techniques.

Building Trust with Patient Testimonials

Patient testimonials are invaluable for building trust and rapport with potential patients. Sharing authentic stories and experiences from satisfied patients on social media can significantly enhance credibility. Short video testimonials can be particularly engaging, providing a personal touch. Written testimonials, combined with before-and-after images, can illustrate the real-world impact of healthcare services. By regularly posting these testimonials, healthcare providers can highlight positive patient outcomes and foster a sense of community and trust among followers.

Reputation Management and Patient Reviews

A significant part of a doctor's online presence involves managing their reputation and effectively handling patient reviews. This section explores the essential strategies and practices that ensure positive engagement with patients. Doctors need to consistently monitor their online reputation across various platforms, including Yelp, Google Reviews, and Healthgrades. Creating alerts for mentions of their name can help catch new reviews and comments promptly. Regularly checking popular review sites for new feedback keeps them informed about patient perceptions and potential issues.

Utilizing tools and services for online reputation management can simplify the tracking process. These tools aggregate reviews from different sources, offering a comprehensive view. By staying proactive, physicians can address issues quickly and maintain a favorable online standing.

Responding to Reviews with Care

Engaging with patient reviews thoughtfully is crucial in building trust. When responding to negative reviews, doctors should remain professional, acknowledge the concerns, and offer to resolve issues offline. This approach shows empathy and a willingness to improve, which can positively influence other readers' perceptions. For positive reviews, expressing gratitude and appreciating the feedback can reinforce patient loyalty. Personalized responses make patients feel valued and heard. Prompt and considerate replies to all types of reviews emphasize the doctor's commitment to patient satisfaction and can enhance their online reputation.

Encouraging happy patients to leave reviews is a proven strategy to boost a doctor's online presence. Reminders through follow-up emails or during office visits can prompt satisfied patients to share their experiences. Consistently gathering new reviews helps keep the profile up-to-date and reflects an actively engaged practice.

Highlighting and sharing positive reviews on their website or social media channels can extend their reach. Creating a system to regularly ask for feedback ensures a steady stream of new reviews. This steady influx signals to potential patients and search engines that the doctor remains relevant and reputable in their field.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Healthcare lead generation is crucial for clinics and hospitals looking to grow. By building an effective strategy, they can connect with prospective patients and turn them into loyal clients. Using high-quality digital marketing techniques helps to create an engaging online presence and capture more medical leads. These strategies make it easier for potential patients to find and contact healthcare providers. Creating valuable content and maintaining a robust online reputation is key to attracting new leads. Digital advertising, such as pay-per-click (PPC) and search engine optimization (SEO), offers a cost-effective way for healthcare providers to reach their target audience. By constantly optimizing their tactics and analyzing performance metrics, healthcare organizations can ensure continuous improvement in their patient acquisition marketing efforts.



Image Credit: KarelNoppe, Doctor Marketing, MD

The Role of SEO in Generating Healthcare Leads

Healthcare lead generation is the process of attracting and converting potential patients into interested leads, primarily through digital marketing tactics . This involves using search engine optimization ( SEO ), email marketing, and social media to expand reach and engage with prospective patients effectively. Search engine optimization is crucial for healthcare providers. By using relevant keywords and optimizing content, healthcare websites can rank higher in search engine results. This increased visibility helps attract more potential patients. Ensuring that website content is informative, updated, and answers common patient questions can significantly improve organic search rankings .

SEO for medical practices is also important. This includes optimizing website speed, ensuring mobile-friendliness, and using meta tags efficiently. Local SEO , which focuses on geographical keywords, is particularly useful for healthcare providers who serve specific regions.

Effective Email Marketing Tactics

Email marketing remains a powerful tool in healthcare lead generation. Targeted email campaigns can nurture potential patients through personalized messages and relevant content. It is essential to segment email lists based on demographics, past interactions, or specific healthcare needs. This ensures that messages are tailored and more likely to engage recipients. Automated email sequences can be used to send appointment reminders, healthcare tips, or special promotions. Including clear calls to action in emails, such as scheduling an appointment or contacting the clinic, can improve conversion rates. Ensuring that emails are mobile-friendly is also important, as many recipients will read emails on their smartphones.

Leveraging Social Media for Patient Acquisition

Social media platforms offer valuable opportunities for engaging with potential patients. By creating and sharing informative and engaging content, healthcare providers can build trust and attract leads. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter allow for targeted advertising, reaching specific demographics and interests. Engaging with followers through comments, messages, and regular posts helps maintain a strong online presence. Sharing patient testimonials, health tips, and behind-the-scenes content can humanize the healthcare practice and make it more approachable. Social media analytics can also provide insights into what content resonates most with the audience, allowing for further optimization.

Healthcare lead generation strategies must adapt to the evolving digital landscape. By effectively using SEO, email marketing, and social media, healthcare providers can attract and convert more leads, ultimately growing their patient base and improving overall care. In the digital age, healthcare providers must focus on improving their online presence and gaining the trust of potential patients . Employing effective strategies will enhance both visibility and credibility, making it easier for patients to find and trust their services.

Optimizing Your Online Presence

A strong online presence starts with a fully SEO optimized website . It needs to be mobile-friendly since a significant number of users access the internet via their phones. The design should be intuitive, ensuring ease of navigation for users. Using SEO techniques , healthcare providers can improve their rankings on search engines like Google. Incorporating strategic keywords related to healthcare services will make it easier for patients to find relevant information. Besides SEO, healthcare providers should consider using content marketing. Regularly publishing informative blogs and articles helps to establish them as authorities in their field.

Hosting webinars and sharing educational resources is another way to boost credibility. They provide value to potential patients and demonstrate the expertise of the healthcare provider. Utilizing social media platforms ensures that healthcare services reach a broader audience. Engaging posts, updates, and interactions will keep the audience interested and informed.

Creating Compelling Content Marketing

Creating engaging and informative content is a powerful way to attract potential patients. By developing articles, videos, or infographics that address common health concerns, healthcare providers can establish themselves as trusted sources of information. For example, Doctor Marketing, MD suggests that educational content on health topics not only draws in readers but also builds credibility. Including strategic keywords in the content can improve search engine rankings, making it easier for patients to find the practice online.

Another important aspect is patient reviews. Encouraging satisfied patients to share their experiences can help build a positive online reputation. These reviews can be showcased in blog posts, videos, or social media updates, further attracting new leads.

Utilizing Email Campaigns and Automation

Email marketing is a direct way to communicate with potential patients. Crafting personalized email campaigns ensures that the content is relevant to the recipient, increasing the likelihood of engagement. For instance, sending health tips, appointment reminders, or follow-up care notes can keep the practice at the forefront of the patient's mind. Automation tools can streamline this process by segmenting patient lists and sending out targeted emails based on specific criteria, such as age or medical history. This not only saves time but also enhances the effectiveness of the campaigns.

Additionally, collecting contact information through various touchpoints (like website forms, social media, or in-office visits) is crucial. This data can then be used to grow the email list and reach a broader audience with tailored messages. In summary, direct lead capturing in healthcare involves creating valuable content and leveraging email marketing to nurture and convert potential leads into loyal patients.

Utilizing Analytics and CRM Systems

To make lead generation efforts more efficient, it's crucial to use analytics tools. These tools help track the performance of your campaigns and identify areas that need improvement. For instance, by monitoring metrics like click-through rates (CTR) and conversion rates, healthcare providers can gain insights into what works best in their marketing strategies. A user-friendly website with integrated analytics can further enhance this process. Analytics tools can uncover how visitors interact with different elements on the site, which pages are the most popular, and where potential leads drop off. By understanding these patterns, providers can make data-driven decisions to improve website design and content.

Customer relationship management (CRM) systems like those offered by "Doctor Marketing, MD" play a critical role as well. CRMs allow healthcare organizations to manage and analyze customer interactions throughout the lead generation pipeline. This, in turn, helps in personalizing communication, tracking patient journeys, and improving customer satisfaction. Effective use of CRMs ensures a seamless and efficient lead generation process.

Conducting A/B Testing and Conversion Optimization

A/B testing is another powerful method for optimizing lead generation efforts. By comparing two versions of a webpage or email, healthcare providers can identify which one performs better. This method helps in making informed decisions about content, design, and calls to action (CTAs). Conversion optimization goes hand in hand with A/B testing. After identifying the more effective version through A/B tests, the next step involves tweaking elements like keywords, headlines, and images to further increase conversion rates. Regular testing and optimization can lead to substantial improvements in lead generation.

Moreover, continuous monitoring of key performance indicators (KPIs) is essential. Analyzing KPIs like cost per lead, lead quality, and return on investment (ROI) helps in fine-tuning the strategies and ensuring effective resource allocation. This ongoing process of testing and optimization ensures that healthcare lead generation efforts remain effective and up to date.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / In the rapidly expanding field of plastic surgery, a powerful digital marketing strategy can make a significant difference. With the global plastic surgery market projected to reach $48.84 billion by 2026, plastic surgeons have a great opportunity to grow their practices. A well-designed, informative, and user-friendly website is crucial for attracting and converting prospective patients. This online hub not only needs to showcase services but also build trust and credibility. Content marketing plays a vital role in educating and engaging potential clients. By offering valuable insights, plastic surgeons can address common concerns and questions patients may have. This helps create a relationship of trust even before the first consultation. Sharing success stories, posting informative articles, and using SEO techniques will boost the practice's search engine rankings , leading to higher visibility.



Image Credit: Iakovenko, Doctor Marketing, MD

Establishing a Strong Online Presence

To maximize earnings, plastic surgeons must establish a robust online presence. This requires optimizing the website , utilizing SEO and analytics, and fostering a strong reputation through testimonials and reviews. A well-designed website is crucial for plastic surgeons. The website should have a clean and appealing design with easy-to-navigate menus and clear calls to action. A user-friendly website improves user experience , making it simple for potential patients to find the information they need.

Incorporating an online booking system can streamline appointment scheduling, enhancing user satisfaction. Mobile responsiveness is vital, as many users will access the site through their phones. Therefore, ensuring the website looks good and functions well on mobile devices is essential to reach a broader audience. Including a blog section can also provide valuable content, such as patient stories and procedure explanations, which can engage visitors and keep them on the site longer.

Effective Use of SEO and Google Analytics

Search engine optimization (SEO) is a powerful tool to boost a plastic surgery practice's online presence. By incorporating relevant keywords, such as "plastic surgery," "cosmetic procedures," and "body contouring," into website content, plastic surgeons can improve their site's visibility in search engine results. Local SEO is also critical, helping target potential patients in the surrounding area.

Using tools like Google Analytics can provide insights into how visitors interact with the website, revealing which pages are most popular and where users might drop off. This data allows surgeons to refine their SEO strategy and website design for better performance. Regularly updating website content with new blogs or patient testimonials also positively impacts SEO rankings and keeps the site fresh and engaging.

Building a Reputation with Testimonials and Reviews

Online reputation is pivotal in attracting new patients. Encouraging satisfied patients to leave positive reviews on platforms such as Google My Business can significantly enhance a plastic surgeon's credibility. Displaying authentic testimonials on the website can reassure potential clients of the quality of care they can expect.

Doctor Marketing, MD recommends a follow-up email system that directs happy clients to review sites to streamline this process. Reviews not only build trust with new clients but also improve SEO, as search engines favor well-reviewed businesses. Managing and responding to reviews shows potential clients that the practice values feedback and strives continually to improve.

Content Marketing: Educating and Engaging Patients

Plastic surgeons can greatly benefit from employing content marketing strategies to educate and engage their patients. This section delves into the critical aspects of using blog posts and videos, leveraging social media platforms , and showcasing success stories through visuals.

Blogging is a cornerstone of content marketing for plastic surgeons. Regular blog posts that offer informative content on various procedures and patient care can help build trust and authority. By addressing common concerns and questions, surgeons can attract potential patients researching their options. Valuable content that educates rather than just promotes is key to establishing a strong, professional presence online.

Videos are another effective tool. They provide a visual and personal touch that text alone cannot. Short clips explaining procedures, patient testimonials, and behind-the-scenes looks can greatly enhance engagement. Video content appeals to visual learners and can significantly boost website traffic and patient inquiries. High-quality videos often lead to better social media shares, expanding the reach of the surgeon's expertise and services.

Leveraging Social Media Platforms for Engagement

Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer unparalleled opportunities for plastic surgeons to connect with their audience. By sharing educational content and engaging posts, surgeons can keep their audience informed and involved. Instagram is particularly suited for before-and-after photos, while Facebook allows for more in-depth discussions and patient interactions. TikTok's short-form content can creatively showcase procedures and results quickly and engagingly.

Active participation on social media fosters a sense of community and trust. Responding to comments, participating in Q&A sessions, and sharing patient success stories can drive significant engagement. Social media engagement is crucial for maintaining visibility and relevance in the competitive field of plastic surgery.

Showcasing Success Through Stories and Visuals

Success stories and visuals are powerful components of a plastic surgeon's content marketing strategy. Before-and-after photos and patient testimonials serve as compelling proof of a surgeon's skills and can greatly influence potential patients' decisions. These visuals must be of high quality to accurately represent the outcomes and the surgeon's expertise.

Sharing detailed success stories, including patient experiences, challenges, and results, provides a relatable and emotional connection with potential patients. Visual content allows prospects to envision their transformations, making them more likely to trust and choose the surgeon for their needs. Effective use of visuals in content marketing builds credibility and showcases the tangible benefits of the procedures offered.

Building a Robust Email Marketing Strategy

Email marketing remains a powerful tool for plastic surgeons. By building an email list, surgeons can maintain direct communication with current and potential patients. Personalization is key; emails should be tailored to patient interests and past interactions to keep the content relevant and engaging. Regular newsletters can provide updates on new services, patient success stories, and special promotions. Automated email campaigns can nurture leads by sending information at different stages of the patient journey, from initial inquiry to post-procedure follow-up.

Tracking email open rates, click-through rates, and conversion rates allows surgeons to measure the effectiveness of their email campaigns. Tools to automate and segment email lists ensure that messages are targeted and timely, improving overall engagement and retention. By integrating these strategies, plastic surgeons can effectively expand their reach, engage more patients, and ultimately boost their practice's earnings.

Engaging with Communities on Emerging Platforms

Engaging with communities on platforms like LinkedIn and RealSelf can significantly boost a clinic's brand awareness and reputation. These platforms allow plastic surgeons to participate in discussions, share expertise, and build relationships with potential patients. A strong social media presence on these platforms helps build trust and demonstrates the surgeon's expertise and commitment to patient care.

It's also important for clinics to stay up-to-date with emerging social media trends. Adapting to new platforms and communication styles can help in capturing a broader audience. By proactively seeking out and participating in relevant online communities, plastic surgeons can keep their practice visible and attractive, fostering lasting connections with current and prospective patients.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
JACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Many potential patients start their search for plastic surgery services through Google, making it crucial for clinics to appear in local search results. By setting up a comprehensive GMB profile , clinics can ensure they show up in the prominent "map pack" on Google Search, making it easier for patients to find them. Plastic surgery clinics can greatly benefit from creating a robust GMB profile. This profile not only provides basic information like address and hours of operation but also allows clinics to showcase patient reviews, share photos of their work, and post updates about the clinic. This added information can build trust with potential patients by showing them real examples of the clinic's expertise and positive patient experiences .



Image Credit: WaveBreakMediaMicro, Doctor Marketing, MD

Creating Your GMB Profile

Setting up a Google My Business profile for your plastic surgery clinic involves several key steps, including claiming your clinic, verifying your business, and optimizing the content on your profile. Doing this helps potential patients find and choose your services. The first step is to claim your clinic on Google My Business. By doing this, you ensure that you have control over your business information online. Begin by going to the Google My Business website. Click on "Manage now" and sign in with your Google account. Enter your clinic's name and address. If your business is listed, you can claim it. If not, you'll need to add it.

Next, provide accurate details like your business category (e.g., Plastic Surgery Clinic), address, phone number, and hours of operation. Make sure all the information you entered is correct. Accurate information helps patients find and contact your clinic easily. By claiming your business, you can also respond to reviews and keep your profile updated.

Verifying Your Business

After claiming your clinic, the next important step is to verify your business. Google offers a few verification methods including postcard, phone, or email. The most common method is receiving a postcard with a verification code. This postcard typically arrives in 5-7 days at the clinic address you provided. Once you get the postcard, log back into your Google My Business account and enter the verification code. Verifying your business is crucial because it confirms your legitimacy to Google and helps prevent unauthorized changes to your profile. Only verified businesses get full access to GMB features like post updates, upload photos, and more.

Optimizing GMB Content

Optimizing your GMB profile content makes your clinic stand out. Start by adding high-quality photos and videos of your clinic, staff, and treatments. Visual content is essential as it gives potential patients a glimpse of your services. Include clear, professional images and, if possible, short videos explaining your treatments. Regularly update your profile with posts about new services, promotions, or events happening at your clinic. Encourage your patients to leave reviews and make sure to respond to them professionally. Reviews build trust and can improve your ranking in search results. Consistently provide accurate and up-to-date information about your clinic to keep it appealing and relevant.

Enhancing Online Visibility

To improve their online presence, plastic surgery clinics need to focus on managing reviews, engagement, and leveraging SEO strategies . These tools can significantly increase their clinic's visibility on Google. A critical aspect of enhancing visibility is actively managing Google reviews. Positive reviews help build trust and credibility. Encourage satisfied patients to leave reviews on the clinic's Google Business Profile. This not only boosts trust but also helps in ranking higher on Google search results.

Engagement goes beyond just obtaining reviews. It's also essential to respond to them. Whether positive or negative, responding to reviews shows that the clinic values patient feedback and cares about their experiences. Engaging with patients through Google posts can further increase interaction. Regularly updating the Google Business Profile with new posts, such as updates about the clinic, special offers, or educational content, keeps the profile active and visible.

Leveraging SEO for Your Clinic

Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is vital for a clinic's online success. By optimizing the Google Business Profile, clinics can ensure they appear in relevant search results. Important factors include using accurate and detailed information about the clinic, such as services offered, business hours, and contact information. Adding high-quality images of the clinic and staff can also improve search rankings. Using keywords relevant to the plastic surgery industry in descriptions and posts can help in reaching potential patients. Ensuring that the clinic's profile is correctly categorized and tagged helps Google understand what services are offered, further enhancing visibility on Google Maps and Google Search.

Interacting with Potential Patients

It's crucial for plastic surgery clinics to effectively communicate with potential patients through their Google Business Profiles. This involves promptly answering questions and maintaining accurate, up-to-date clinic information. Potential patients may have multiple questions about the services, costs, and details of plastic surgery procedures. Clinics should actively monitor and respond to these questions posted on their Google Business Profile. Swift and helpful answers build trust and can convert inquiries into appointments.

Providing accurate information is essential. Misleading or incomplete answers can drive potential patients away. Clinics should answer questions in a thorough and patient-friendly manner, ensuring clarity. It's also beneficial to have a few FAQs prepared that can be quickly modified to suit individual inquiries.

Updating Clinic Information Regularly

Keeping the clinic's information up-to-date on the Google Business Profile is vital. This includes details like clinic hours, location, contact information, and services offered. Regular updates ensure that potential patients have the most current and accurate information, making it easier for them to contact the clinic or find its location on the map.

Updating information regularly helps in avoiding confusion and potential frustration for patients. For example, ensure the clinic hours are accurate, especially during holidays or special off-days. If there are changes in services or new procedures available, adding these details promptly can attract more inquiries.

Showcasing Clinic Services and Expertise

Showcasing your clinic's services and expertise on your Google My Business (GMB) profile is crucial. This not only helps make a strong first impression but also informs potential patients about available plastic surgery services . A well-curated gallery of before and after photos can significantly enhance the clinic's credibility . Photos and videos showcasing the transformation patients can achieve give a visual representation of the clinic's expertise. This type of content is not just eye-catching but also provides potential clients with a realistic understanding of the results they can expect.

Using high-quality images will help potential clients feel more confident in the clinic's capabilities. Clearly labeling each set of photos with the type of procedure performed can help guide potential patients to the services they are most interested in. Clinics should regularly update this gallery to include the latest work and showcase the latest plastic surgery procedures.

Highlighting Plastic Surgery Procedures

A detailed list of plastic surgery procedures offered is essential. Descriptions, including what the procedure involves, recovery time, and potential results, help educate patients. This section can cover a range of procedures such as facelifts, rhinoplasty, and liposuction.

Including testimonials or brief case studies can further emphasize the clinic's expertise. Moreover, offering information about the qualifications and experience of the surgeons, using graphics or bold text, can build trust. Clinics like "Doctor Marketing, MD" often leverage these details to highlight both their skills and dedication to patient care. Regularly updating this information ensures it remains current and helpful to potential patients.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
FORT WORTH, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising has become a vital tool for healthcare providers looking to increase their online presence and attract more patients. In the ever-competitive field of healthcare, PPC ads can help you reach those actively searching for medical services and information. For healthcare administrators, leveraging these targeted ads means potentially higher conversions, especially when the campaigns are well-optimized. Crafting a PPC strategy for healthcare involves selecting the right keywords that align with the services offered, ensuring the ads appear to the right audience at the right time. The aim is to catch the attention of users who are looking for specific medical information or services, thereby increasing the chances of engagement and appointment bookings. It is crucial to stay updated with search engine algorithms and industry trends to maintain the effectiveness of the ads.



Image Credit: AndreyPopov, Doctor Marketing, MD

Managing PPC campaigns requires ongoing analysis and adjustments to ensure they meet the set objectives. Additionally, adhering to ethical standards and compliance regulations is paramount in healthcare advertising to build trust and maintain credibility. PPC campaigns, if properly managed, can serve as a powerful component of a broader digital marketing strategy, positioning healthcare providers like Doctor Marketing, MD, as leaders in the field. Healthcare pay-per-click (PPC) advertising offers healthcare providers a way to attract new patients online using targeted ads . It involves paying for each click on their ads, which appear during relevant searches on platforms like Google.

What Is PPC in Healthcare?

PPC in healthcare refers to a model of internet marketing where healthcare providers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked. These ads are shown to potential patients using search engines, social media, and other websites. Healthcare PPC targets people who are actively searching for health services, making it an effective way to increase visibility and reach the right audience.

By using PPC, healthcare providers can ensure their ads appear when specific keywords related to their services are searched. This method helps in getting targeted traffic, as ads are shown to users based on their search intentions. Ultimately, PPC in healthcare is about buying visits to a website instead of aiming for visits through organic search alone.

The Importance of PPC for Healthcare Providers

PPC is vital for healthcare providers looking to attract new patients in the digital age. The high competition and vast number of online health information seekers make it necessary to stand out. Nearly 90% of health-related searches happen online, and PPC provides a direct route to reach these potential patients.

The ability to target specific demographics, such as geographic location, age, and interests, helps healthcare providers to reach the right people at the right time. This can lead to higher conversion rates, as ads are shown to users who are more likely to be interested in the services offered. For healthcare providers, investing in PPC means staying competitive and ensuring that they are visible to those seeking their services.

Google Ads and Healthcare PPC Basics

Google Ads is a popular platform for healthcare PPC . It allows healthcare providers to create ads that appear in search results when users look for relevant healthcare services. These ads can be customized with ad extensions, providing more information like contact details, which can improve conversion rates. Creating custom landing pages that match the ad content is another essential strategy in healthcare PPC. This ensures that when potential patients click on an ad, they are directed to a page specifically designed to meet their needs, increasing the likelihood of conversion.

Crafting Your PPC Strategy

A successful healthcare PPC strategy involves setting clear business objectives, targeting the right audience through keyword research , creating compelling ad copy , and optimizing landing pages for conversions. Each aspect is crucial for attracting new patients and enhancing your online presence. First, define what you want to achieve with your PPC campaigns. Are you aiming to increase website traffic, get more patient appointments, or promote a new service? Specific objectives guide the rest of your strategy and help measure success.

Keyword Research for Targeting The Right Audience

Selecting the right keywords is vital to ensure your ads reach the intended audience. Keywords should be relevant to healthcare services and what potential patients might search for. Utilize tools like Google's Keyword Planner to identify effective keywords. Pay attention to search volume and competition. Long-tail keywords often work well because they're specific and attract more qualified traffic. For instance, instead of just "doctor," use phrases like "pediatric doctor in New York" to target specific needs.

Creating Compelling Ad Copy

Your ad copy must be engaging and relevant to the audience's needs. It should speak directly to their concerns and offer solutions your healthcare services provide. Use action words and highlight unique selling points. For example, "Get same-day appointments for urgent care" can attract those looking for immediate attention. Including a call-to-action (CTA) like "Book Now" or "Learn More" encourages users to click. Also, regularly test different versions of your ad copy to find the most effective one.

Optimizing Landing Pages for Conversion

An optimized landing page is key to transforming ad clicks into conversions. Ensure that the landing page is relevant to the ad copy and provides a seamless user experience. The landing page should be clean, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly, as many users will access it from their phones. Include a clear CTA, such as "Schedule an Appointment Today," and make it easy for visitors to take action. Testimonials and patient reviews can add credibility and encourage conversions.

Managing PPC Campaigns

Healthcare PPC campaigns can drive targeted traffic to healthcare providers. Successfully managing these campaigns involves careful budgeting, precise geo-targeting, continuous testing, and meticulous tracking. Setting a clear budget and effective bidding are critical in healthcare PPC. Start by determining how much you can allocate to your campaigns. Use average industry cost-per-click (CPC) rates as a reference. Healthcare providers should prioritize high-value keywords that directly relate to the services provided. Adjust bids based on factors like competition and ad performance. Use automated bidding tools to help maximize return on investment (ROI). These tools can help balance the budget against the potential pay-off from clicks and conversions.

Using Geo-Targeting and Ad Extensions

Geo-targeting is essential in healthcare PPC. It ensures that ads reach users in specific locations where the healthcare provider operates. Setting geo-targets down to city or even zip code level can create more relevant and effective advertising. Ad extensions enhance the visibility and effectiveness of PPC ads. They include additional information like phone numbers, addresses, or extra links. In healthcare, adding location extensions can help potential patients find the nearest clinic quickly.

Tracking Performance and ROI

Tracking is crucial to measure the success of healthcare PPC campaigns. Use tools like Google Analytics to monitor metrics such as click-through rates (CTR), conversion rates, and cost-per-conversion. Tracking ROI is also vital. Calculate the return by comparing the revenue generated from the PPC campaign against the total campaign costs. This helps in understanding the actual financial benefit derived from PPC efforts, guiding future budget adjustments and strategy refinements.

PPC Advertising Alternatives (No Ad Costs)

For healthcare professionals looking to avoid the costs associated with pay-per-click (PPC) advertising, there are several viable alternatives. These include strategies such as search engine optimization (SEO), harnessing Google SEO traffic, generating organic traffic, and engaging in content marketing. Below, each strategy is broken down with specific focus on how they can benefit healthcare marketing .

SEO, or search engine optimization, is essential for healthcare providers who want to increase visibility without paying for ads. SEO involves optimizing your website so that it ranks higher in search engine results. This means using keywords, improving site speed, and enhancing user experience. For healthcare, using keywords related to treatments, conditions, and local services can drive more traffic. Doctor Marketing, MD can assist by analyzing current SEO strategies and suggesting improvements specific to healthcare.

Google SEO Traffic

Google is the most popular search engine, and optimizing for it can bring a significant amount of free traffic. Google SEO traffic focuses on meeting Google's ranking algorithms, such as high-quality content, relevant keywords, and strong backlinks. For healthcare websites, this means publishing articles about medical conditions, patient testimonials, and healthcare tips. Regularly updating the site with informative content helps maintain a high ranking over time.

Organic Traffic

Organic traffic refers to visitors who find your site through unpaid search results. It's often driven by effective SEO and content strategies. In healthcare, organic traffic can be increased by having a well-structured website that is easy to navigate, mobile-friendly, and packed with valuable information. Engaging with patients through blogs, FAQs, and educational resources can attract and retain visitors naturally. Monitoring analytics helps to understand which content performs best.

Content Marketing

Content marketing is a strategic approach focused on creating and sharing valuable content to attract and retain users. For healthcare marketers, this could mean writing blog posts about new treatments, creating videos explaining medical procedures, or sharing infographics on patient care. Content should be educational and engaging to build trust with the audience. Collaboration with healthcare professionals to produce authoritative content boosts credibility.

These PPC alternatives can effectively boost a healthcare provider's online presence without incurring the high costs of paid advertising.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
DENVER, CO / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / A Chief Content Officer (CCO) plays a pivotal role in the realm of medical marketing. With digital platforms becoming the cornerstone of modern communication, the CCO crafts a content strategy that not only engages but also educates the audience. By blending creative content with effective SEO techniques, they ensure that medical practices, like those supported by Doctor Marketing, MD, reach the right patients at the right time. A well-executed SEO strategy can significantly boost a medical practice's online visibility, attracting more potential patients and bolstering the institution's reputation.

In the bustling and ever-evolving healthcare sector, a CCO's expertise is indispensable. Medical marketing demands precise, informative, and patient-centric content. The Chief Content Officer oversees a team of writers, editors, and SEO specialists, ensuring every piece of content aligns with the overarching content strategy. By doing so, they help build trust and authority, essential for patient acquisition and retention. Engaging content isn't just about creativity; it's about strategically addressing patient needs and concerns through high-ranking keywords and search-friendly formats.

The role of the Chief Content Officer extends beyond just content creation; it encompasses the broader aspects of digital marketing and communication. They lead efforts to integrate SEO seamlessly with content marketing, ensuring that every blog post, article, and social media update serves a purpose. In an industry where information accuracy and accessibility can make a profound difference, the CCO's strategic vision helps healthcare providers stand out. In medical marketing, the synergy between a robust content strategy and effective SEO can drive brand awareness and foster patient loyalty.

The Role of the Chief Content Officer in Modern Healthcare Marketing

In the ever-evolving landscape of healthcare marketing, the Chief Content Officer (CCO) plays a pivotal role in integrating content strategies with SEO to boost brand awareness and audience engagement. This creates a seamless and high-quality consumer experience.

Defining the CCO's Position and Responsibilities

The Chief Content Officer (CCO) is a vital member of the senior management team. The CCO is responsible for the creation, organization, and distribution of content across various platforms. They develop and implement content initiatives that align with the organization's broader marketing strategies and objectives.

Their responsibilities include maintaining the brand voice and ensuring messaging consistency across all channels. They also manage and collaborate with other marketing leaders , including the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and marketing director, to achieve integrated marketing goals. This coordination helps to align content efforts with overall business strategies, driving cohesive and impactful marketing campaigns.

Integrating SEO into Content Initiatives

A key aspect of the CCO's role is integrating Search Engine Optimization (SEO) into content marketing strategies . This involves using keyword research, analytics, and other SEO tools to enhance the online visibility of the healthcare organization's content. The CCO ensures that high-quality content is crafted to rank well on search engines, making the organization's services and expertise more accessible to potential patients.

By focusing on SEO, the CCO helps in improving the organization's search rankings, which drives organic traffic and increases brand awareness. This strategic integration boosts the likelihood of reaching a broader audience and maintaining engagement with valuable, relevant content.

Leveraging Content Marketing to Fuel Audience Engagement

The CCO also leverages content marketing to deepen audience engagement. They create a variety of content types, including blog posts, videos, infographics, and social media updates, to capture the attention of diverse audience segments. This multi-faceted approach ensures that the content resonates with different individuals, regardless of their preferences or behavior patterns.

Utilizing data and analytics, the CCO tracks the performance of different content pieces, adjusting strategies to optimize engagement. The CCO's efforts contribute to building stronger relationships with the audience, fostering trust and loyalty which are crucial in the healthcare sector. This continuous engagement not only supports patient acquisition but also enhances long-term retention and satisfaction.

By understanding and executing these responsibilities, the CCO plays a crucial role in the overall success of modern healthcare marketing, driving both online visibility and meaningful interactions with the target audience.

Building and Executing a Comprehensive Medical Marketing Strategy

Creating an effective medical marketing strategy involves focusing on brand storytelling, expanding reach and retention across platforms, and using analytics to measure the impact of SEO. These key elements contribute to achieving business goals and increasing customer satisfaction.

Strategies for Effective Brand Storytelling in Healthcare

Effective brand storytelling in healthcare requires a deep understanding of the target audience and their needs. By crafting a compelling brand story, healthcare providers can connect emotionally with their patients and build trust. This involves highlighting patient success stories, clinician expertise, and the overall mission of the clinic.

Content creation should focus on relatable, empathetic narratives that resonate with audiences. Integrating patient testimonials and educational content can also enhance engagement. Professionals in medical marketing should work closely with public relations teams to distribute these stories effectively.

Maximizing Reach and Retention Across Multiple Platforms

To maximize reach and retention, it is essential to utilize multiple platforms for content distribution. Healthcare providers should create a consistent content strategy that aligns with their business goals and is tailored to their target audience. This includes maintaining an active presence on social media, email newsletters, blogs, and video channels.

Each platform has its unique strengths. For instance, social media can drive immediate engagement, while blogs and newsletters can provide more in-depth information. Coordinating these platforms ensures a broader reach and higher retention rates as the audience engages with the content across various touchpoints.

Analytics and Data: Measuring the Impact of SEO on Marketing Efforts

Measuring the impact of SEO on marketing efforts requires robust analytics and data tracking. Healthcare providers need to track key metrics such as website traffic, leads generated, and conversion rates to evaluate the success of their content strategy. Implementing SEO tools and analytics platforms helps in gathering and interpreting this data.

Analyzing the data helps in identifying which content pieces perform best and where improvements are needed. Regularly reviewing these metrics ensures that the content strategy remains effective and aligned with business goals. This data-driven approach empowers healthcare marketers to refine their tactics and achieve better results over time.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
SEATTLE, WA / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / In today's competitive landscape, plastic surgery clinics need more than just skilled surgeons to thrive. The Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) is vital in shaping the clinic's public image and driving financial success. They bridge the gap between medical expertise and market trends, ensuring that the clinic not only attracts new patients but retains them as well. A CMO's role goes beyond traditional marketing techniques. They need to craft strategies that build trust and boost customer loyalty. This involves leveraging cutting-edge digital marketing tactics and staying ahead of the competition. Marty Stewart, CMO of Doctor Marketing, MD, emphasizes the importance of these strategies for growth and success.

For plastic surgery clinics, having a dedicated CMO means navigating a complex array of responsibilities. From creating engaging content to implementing strategic campaigns, CMOs make sure that the clinic stands out in a crowded market. Without a skilled CMO, clinics might struggle to connect with potential patients and grow their practice effectively.

Roles and Responsibilities of a CMO

The Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) in a plastic surgery clinic plays a crucial role in developing innovative marketing strategies , leading the marketing team, and building strong brand identity and patient loyalty.

Developing a Pioneering Marketing Strategy

The CMO is responsible for creating and executing a marketing plan that sets the clinic apart from competitors. This includes leveraging digital marketing tactics like SEO, social media, and content marketing to increase visibility. The CMO works closely with the clinic's leadership team to align the marketing goals with the clinic's strategic plan. By identifying target demographics, the CMO ensures that marketing efforts are focused on reaching potential patients effectively.

Leading the Marketing Team for Optimal Performance

Effective leadership of the marketing team is essential for the success of the clinic's marketing initiatives. The CMO must communicate clear goals and provide ongoing support and guidance to the team. This involves regular team meetings, performance reviews, and professional development opportunities. The CMO ensures that each team member understands their role in achieving the clinic's marketing objectives and fosters a collaborative environment where new ideas are encouraged and explored.

Building Brand Identity and Patient Loyalty

Creating a strong brand identity is vital for attracting and retaining patients. The CMO focuses on developing a consistent and recognizable brand image that resonates with potential patients. This includes refining the clinic's logo, website design, and overall messaging. Additionally, the CMO implements strategies to enhance patient loyalty, such as personalized communication, patient feedback systems, and loyalty programs. By building a trusted brand, the CMO helps to increase patient satisfaction and long-term retention. By excelling in these key areas, the CMO ensures the clinic's marketing efforts drive growth, enhance brand reputation, and foster patient loyalty.

Maximizing Growth and Revenue

Maximizing growth and revenue in plastic surgery clinics requires analyzing market research, optimizing digital marketing, and leveraging social media. These strategies help attract new patients and improve the practice's online presence.

Analyzing Market Research and Data

Analyzing market research and data forms the backbone of making informed decisions in marketing. By gathering data on market trends, patient demographics, and competitor analysis, clinics can tailor their services to meet specific needs. It's vital to use analytics tools to track marketing performance and patient acquisition rates. This data-driven approach helps identify which campaigns are effective and where adjustments are needed. By understanding the specific desires and concerns of potential patients, healthcare providers can design targeted marketing efforts that resonate more deeply and efficiently.

Optimizing Digital Marketing and SEO

Optimizing digital marketing and SEO is crucial for enhancing online visibility and attracting new patients. A well-designed website with SEO-optimized content is a cornerstone of this strategy. Incorporating keywords relevant to cosmetic procedures helps boost search engine rankings. Google My Business listings should be kept up-to-date to improve local search visibility. Digital marketing can be further enhanced through strategic use of email marketing campaigns, PPC (Pay-Per-Click) advertising, and engaging content creation . By regularly analyzing the metrics and adjusting strategies, the clinic ensures that marketing efforts align with current search engine algorithms and market demands, maximizing growth and revenue.

Leveraging Social Media to Attract New Patients

Leveraging social media to attract new patients is a dynamic and engaging way to build a clinic's brand and connect with potential patients. Social platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter offer opportunities for content creation that showcases the clinic's expertise and patient success stories. Regular posting and interaction with followers can create a strong online presence and trust. Social media marketing campaigns, including paid advertisements, targeted posts, and video content, should be strategically planned to reach specific demographics and areas. By actively engaging with the audience and responding promptly to inquiries, clinics can build a loyal community, driving patient acquisition and supporting long-term growth.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
BOSTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / One of the most powerful methods to connect with patients is through storytelling. Encouraging patients to share their stories and experiences can build trust and understanding, enhancing the therapeutic relationship. Healthcare providers can use narrative medicine to connect with patients on a deeper level, making them feel heard and valued. Sharing inspiring stories of recovery can offer hope and motivation to others, fostering a supportive community.

Digital storytelling is also gaining traction in the healthcare world. This approach uses multimedia presentations to narrate patient experiences. A video or audio recording of a patient's journey can be a compelling tool for both education and connection. It offers a real, first-person perspective that can be more impactful than traditional methods of communication. This can be particularly useful for healthcare professionals to understand patient needs and for policy makers to make informed decisions.

By recognizing and interpreting patients' stories, providers can improve patient care and foster a more inclusive healthcare environment. Doctor Marketing, MD advocates using personal and patient stories both in one-on-one patient interactions and in broader health education materials. This method not only engages patients but also cultivates a more compassionate approach to medical practice.

Building a Connection Through Patient Stories

Connecting with patients through storytelling can enhance empathy, improve communication, and foster a more inclusive healthcare environment. This approach benefits patients and healthcare professionals alike, making medical care more personal and effective.

Optimizing Storytelling in Healthcare Settings

Storytelling in healthcare settings can improve communication, empathy, and patient engagement . It involves healthcare education , digital tools, and evidence-based approaches to achieve meaningful impact. Incorporating narratives into medical education can enhance learning and understanding.

Why Storytelling Matters in Medical and Healthcare Marketing

Humanizes the Practice: Stories transform clinical environments into relatable, human-centered spaces. They showcase the compassionate side of healthcare professionals, making them more approachable and trustworthy. Builds Trust: Patients are more likely to trust a healthcare provider who shares success stories and testimonials. These narratives act as social proof, validating the quality of care provided. Enhances Engagement: Engaging stories captivate audiences more effectively than statistics and facts. They encourage patients to spend more time on your website, follow your social media, and ultimately choose your practice.

Crafting Effective Healthcare Stories

Focus on the Patient: Center your stories around patient experiences. Highlight their struggles, the treatment process, and their recovery. This resonates deeply with potential patients who may be facing similar issues. Showcase Staff Stories: Share stories about your healthcare team. Highlight their expertise, dedication, and the reasons they chose to work in healthcare. This builds a personal connection and showcases the human side of your practice. Use Visuals: Incorporate photos and videos to make your stories more vivid. Visual content is more engaging and can convey emotions and experiences powerfully. Keep It Authentic: Authenticity is key. Ensure that the stories you share are genuine and reflect real experiences. Avoid overly polished or exaggerated narratives that may come across as insincere. Highlight Outcomes: Focus on positive outcomes and transformations. Show potential patients the benefits of choosing your practice through real-life examples.

Platforms for Sharing Stories

Website: Dedicate a section on your website for patient testimonials and success stories. Include written narratives, videos, and photo galleries. Social Media: Use platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn to share short stories, patient quotes, and behind-the-scenes glimpses of your practice. Blog: Maintain a blog where you regularly publish detailed stories about patient journeys, staff experiences, and healthcare insights. Email Newsletters: Incorporate stories into your email newsletters to keep your audience engaged and informed.

Storytelling in healthcare is a powerful tool to attract and retain patients. By sharing authentic, engaging stories, you humanize your practice, build trust, and create lasting connections with your audience. Start integrating storytelling into your marketing strategy to see a significant impact on patient engagement and loyalty.



Doctor Marketing, MD is led by Marty Stewart, Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO). Image Credit: Doctor Marketing, MD

About Doctor Marketing, MD

Doctor Marketing, MD is one of the best healthcare marketing firms , specializing in SEO marketing for doctors , content creation, content distribution, and strategy. The firm works with Top Doctors and Surgeons, Healthcare Companies, Medical Professionals, Private Practices, Medical Groups and Clinics, Hospitals, Executives, and Leaders in the Healthcare Industry and specialty Medical sectors.

Doctor Marketing, MD has built a world-class content writing team of award-winning writers, SEOs, copywriters, wordsmiths, and ghostwriters. They've perfected a proprietary content assembly line process, and further specialize in large-scale content production through well-crafted blog posts, articles, and medical content pieces that attract new patients.

Doctor Marketing, MD Helps Medical Professionals and Healthcare Providers Attract New Patients and Increase Patient Acquisition: Better, Faster and with Less Effort.

Need to Hire a Search Engine Optimization Manager For Strategic Marketing Guidance For Your Doctor's Office, Healthcare, Medical, Clinic, Medspa, Plastic or Cosmetic Surgical Practice?

CONTACT:

Doctor Marketing, MD

Anna Goldstein

Director of Media Relations

877-463-9777 ext. 3

anna.goldstein@doctormarketingmd.com

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/

Connect with Doctor Marketing, MD on Social Media:

Linkedin, Instagram, Twitter, Facebook, and Youtube

Schedule a Deep-Dive Marketing Analysis for Your Medical Practice, Visit:

https://DoctorMarketingMD.com/contact/

SOURCE: Doctor Marketing, MD (DRMMD)

View the original press release on accesswire.com
A 14-year-old gunman used an AR-platform-style weapon when he went on a rampage inside Apalachee High School in Georgia, US. In the past, an AR-15 rifle was used by the 20-year-old, who shot at Donald Trump in Pennsylvania. The firearm and its versions are owned by one in 20 Americans read more

People walk as law enforcement officers work at the scene of a shooting at Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia. A 14-year-old gunman killed four people in the shooting using an "AR-platform-style weapon". Reuters

Wednesday (September 4) marks another dark day in the history of the United States. A 14-year-old student went on a rampage inside his school in Georgia, killing four people, including two students, and injuring nine others.

The gunman, Colt Gray, has been taken into custody after the incident at the Apalachee High School in Winder, Georgia, with authorities saying that he will be tried as an adult, despite being a minor. Investigating officials later said that Gray had used an AR-platform-style weapon, but are still unclear as to how he got access to the gun or snuck it into school.

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Notably, the AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle has been commonly used by mass shooters in the past, and is one of the most ubiquitous weapons in the United States. It was previously in the news when 20-year-old named Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania used it in the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump in July.

What is this rifle and how dangerous can it be? We explain

AR-15: The rifle used in Trump shooting

The AR-15 is one of the most popular and most recognisable firearms in the US. It has been used in several high-profile shootings in the US.

The AR-15 is a civilian rifle, which falls under the category of the modern sporting rifle, which is supposed to be used in competition and for hunting. It which was adapted from the M16 military combat automatic rifle.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler after an attempted assassination bid in July. File image/AP

The AR does not stand for assault rifle as is popular belief but for ArmaLite Rifle, named after the company that first developed it in the 1950s. The design of the weapon was sold to another company called Colt in 1959, which adapted it into a fully automatic version  M-16  used by the military.

The M-16 was used on the frontlines in the early stages of the Vietnam War. It was not popular at first because of jamming issues but was later modified into M16A1, which became a standard weapon used by the American military, according to a report in the BBC.

After the Vietnam War, Colt started marketing the semi-automatic version of the rifle to gun enthusiasts in the US. Its patent for the AR-15 expired in 1977 but other firearm manufacturers Remington, Smith & Wesson and Ruger started making their own versions. While their rifles have different names, they are still referred to as AR-15s. They are lightweight, magazine-fed, gas-operated semi-automatic rifles known for their accuracy, ease of use and adaptability.

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Customers look over the last two AR-15-style rifles for sale inside the Bullet Hole gun shop in Sarasota, Florida in January 2013. File photo/Reuters

The rifle fires bullets at a high velocity  often in a barrage of 30 or even 100 in rapid succession and can eviscerate several people in seconds. A single bullet is enough to blow apart a skull and puncture vital organs, according to a report in The Washington Post.

It is the speed of a bullet sprayed from an AR-15 that makes it so deadly. It causes damage once hits the body, reducing the chances of survival. These projectiles often break apart as they pass through the body, inflicting serious injuries, leading to more blood loss and possible death.

The AR-15 is legal for civilian use in many parts of the US and is the best-selling rifle in the country. Its use surged in the early 2000s, after an increased interest in firearms in post-9/11 America. In 2004, the federal assault weapons ban that blocked the sales of semiautomatic rifles expired and it only fuelled an interest in the gun.

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According to some estimates, one in 20 Americans owns this weapon, reports the BBC. Data compiled by Georgetown University in 2021, found that 24.6 million Americans have AR-15-style rifles.

A 2022 House Oversight Committee probe found that five major gun manufacturers  Daniel Defense, Bushmaster, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc., and Sturm, Ruger & Co.  collectively earned $1 billion in revenue over a decade from the sale of AR-15s aone.

A man with a flower in his rifle joins people with their AR-15-style rifles during a blessing ceremony at the Sanctuary Church in Newfoundland, Pennsylvania, US, in February 2018. Around 24.6 million Americans have these guns. File photo/Reuters

AR-15 and mass shootings

AR-15 was first advertised as a sporting or hunting rifle. However, it has become a go-to tool for mass shooters. The rifle was used in 10 of the 17 deadliest mass shootings in the US from 2012 to 2022, reports The Washington Post.

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The gun was used in school shootings in Uvalde, Texas, which killed 21 in May 2022 and in Parkland, Florida, where 17 students died in 2018; and the 2012 movie theatre shooting in Aurora, Colorado, which killed 12.

The gun was also used in killings in Jacksonville. Florida, where a young White man in his 20s shot three Black people at a general store and then shot himself in August last year and the October 2023 mass shooting in Maine, where 18 people were killed.

A woman cries as she leaves the Uvalde Civic Centre in Uvalde, Texas, after a mass shooting in May 2022. The shooting inside a fourth-grade classroom at Robb Elementary School left 21 dead, 19 children and two teachers. File photo/AP

The AR-15 is popular and high in demand because of its price. While the cost depends on the quality, these rifles come at $400 and up. Some versions of the gun run can cost thousands, according to a report in TIME.

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An expert describes the AR-15 as a Lego set because of its modularity. Danny Michael, the Robert W Woodruff Curator at the Cody Firearms Museum, tells TIME, Its gotten to the point today where the design has a lot of refinement to it, so pretty much any feature of the rifle is configurable to some degree.

Steve Lindley, programme manager of Brady United Against Gun Violence, a gun violence prevention organisation, says he would hesitate to call the AR-15 the weapon of choice for mass shooters, but still describes it a weapon of war. According to him, the rifle has such a strong capacity that gunmen dont really need to aim, they just need to shoot at the crowd of people, the report says.

John Jackson, co-owner of Capitol City Arms Supply, with an AR-15 rifle for sale at his store in Springfield, Illinois, in 2013. The semi-automatic rifle has been sold to the public since the 1960s. File photo/AP

AR-15 and the gun debate

The rifle has become a symbol of gun debate in America. The National Rifle Association calls it the most powerful rifle in the country.

Democratic lawmakers have been making efforts to ban it because of its use in mass shootings. But Republicans, who will once again pick Trump as its presidential nominee on Monday, have been against it. Last year, several GOP lawmakers were seen sporting lapel pins shaped like an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, reports The Guardian.

Andrew Clyde, a Republican Congressman from Georgia who also owns a gun store, had later said that he had handed out the pins to his colleagues to remind people of the second amendment of the constitution and how important it is in preserving our liberties.

A protester takes a stand against the AR-15 at a protest in Florida in February 2018. File photo/AP

But it is not politicians alone. Even public opinion differs. Opinion polls show Americans are equally divided on bans on guns like the AR-15, with some surveys indicating that support for prohibition has slightly eroded  46 per cent support a ban and 49 per cent are opposed, according to a 2023 survey, reports NBC.

It is a polarising subject. Now the shooting once again puts the spotlight on AR-15. But only time will tell if this will just be another incident in Americas bloody history of gun violence.

With inputs from agencies
July 13, 2024: For a decade now, the Philippines has depended on neighboring nations like Japan and Australia, in addition to the United States, for assistance in building a naval force large enough to deal with increasing Chinese aggression in the South China Sea. China claims ownership of the entire South China Sea and has been sending more warships and coast guard vessels to impose control. China is increasing its pressure on the Philippines to remove small detachments of sailors and marines stationed on nine islets and reefs in the Spratly Islands. In particular, the Chinese want the detachment stationed on a World War II era landing ship, the BRP Sierra Madre, removed. The Filipino navy deliberately grounded the LST on Second Thomas Reef in 1999 to provide a residence for an observation team. Chinese patrol ships have recently attempted to physically block Filipino efforts to resupply the marines on the LST.

The Philippines consists of over 7,000 islands, most of them tiny. These include the Spratly Islands, which are an important part of the South China Sea areas that China considers its territorial waters. The South China Sea is a vast area that occupies 3.5 million square kilometers of the Western Pacific Ocean. Whoever controls the South China Sea can interfere with the commercial shipping traffic that passes through these waters. That traffic consists of about twenty percent of world commercial shipping traffic. China is more dependent on access to this area and considers the Philippines South China Sea claims as a threat to the Chinese economy. The Philippines has a mutual defense treaty with the United States which the Americans are now actively honoring to deal with the Chinese threat.

The Philippines has military detachments on nine of the disputed islands or reefs. These are part of an effort to oppose the illegal Chinese claims. In response China has put garrisons on eight islands, some of them created by dredging up sand at a reef and creating an artificial island. These eight islands, in contrast to those occupied by Filipinos, are covered with new construction, including radars, missiles (anti-air and anti-ship) as well as some cannons. There are airstrips and hangars.

The Philippines warned China that it would resist any attempts to use force against the grounded LST on Second Thomas Reef. Initially China responded by building more buildings on nearby Mischief Reef, which is only 126 kilometers from the Philippines Palawan Island. Second Thomas Reef and nearby Reed Bank are 148 kilometers west of the Philippines Palawan Island and well within the Philippiness EEZ (Exclusive Economic Zone). Although the EEZ is recognized by international law, and a treaty that China signed and uses to defend waters off its own coast, China says that does not apply here because all the islets in the South China Sea belong to China and there is no room for negotiation on that point.

Most countries in the region note that this was how Japan behaved before World War II. Official U.S. policy is to try and get everyone to calm down and be less provocative. Meanwhile American P-3C maritime patrol aircraft regularly fly over the Spratly Islands and photograph Chinese installations and naval activities. This data is shared with the Philippines and perhaps others. China is the biggest offender in the Spratly Island disputes and shows no sign of slowing, or backing, down.

Currently Filipino and Chinese warships are engaged in non-lethal combat. The ships are not using their weapons but instead using physical blockades and the physical presence of Chinese warships to block movements by the Filipino resupply ships and warships. The Chinese also use high pressure water cannons to injure Filipino sailors and damage their ships. Japanese involvement is a key factor because Japan has donated patrol boats to the Philippines and is building five new ones that the Philippines will receive beginning in 2027. Australia and the United States have also contributed patrol boats and larger warships or coast guard vessels which the Philippines have integrated into their naval and coast guard forces.

China has a much larger navy than the Philippines but does not want to trigger an active intervention by the United States navy. China does not want to give anyone an excuse to open fire on Chinese warships and trigger a naval war that would do enormous damage to the Chinese economy.

China is also annoyed at Japan for becoming a major supplier of navy and coast guard ships to the Philippines. The combined naval forces of Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and the Americans Pacific Fleet are sufficient to block any Chinese naval aggression. China does not like being boxed in like this, but their aggression against the Philippines demonstrated that the Chinese naval threat is real and the Chinese are not afraid to use it as they now are against the Philippines. Japan, Taiwan, South Korea and many other nations in the region consider themselves potential victims of Chinese naval aggression.
Donald Trump has been injured in an assassination attempt when a gunman, now identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire at his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. From how many shots were fired to which weapon was used, heres what has been revealed so far read more

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump is assisted by Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reuters

I heard several gunshots. The man beside me suffered a gunshot to the head, was instantly killed (and) fell to the bottom of the bleachers. Another woman looked like she got hit in the forearm or hand.

Joseph, a man who was attending Donald Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, recounted just shortly after a suspected would-be assassin unleashed terror on the meeting. The gunman and a bystander have been killed and two spectators have been critically injured.

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The former US president and Republican candidate raised a defiant fist to the crowd as he was bundled away to safety and said afterward, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

This attack, now being termed as an assassination attempt is the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

As details continue to pour in, heres what we know so far.

What happened in Butler?

Donald Trump was in Butler for a campaign rally on Saturday afternoon, days before he becomes the official Republican nominee. Pennsylvania is one of the most important states in the presidential race and Trump has had at least two rallies in the state this year so far.

The former president, around six minutes into his address, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when shots, at least five, rang out at the location.

Trump was seen holding his ear and got down on the ground. Meanwhile, agents created a shield around him. When the 78-year-old stood, his face bloodied, he pumped his fist to cheering supporters. Trump and his motorcade left the scene and he was checked into a medical facility.

Catch all live updates from the Trump assassination attempt HERE

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Has Trump been injured?

After being whisked away from the scene of the shooting, Trump posted on his own social media network, Truth Social that a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.

Security personnel work after multiple shots rung out at Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trumps campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reuters

Trump thanked law enforcement in his online statement and extended condolences to the families of the people killed and injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country, he wrote.

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Steven Cheung, a spokesman for the Trump campaign, also released a statement on Saturday evening that Trump was fine and being looked at a medical facility.

Have others been injured?

While a bullet pierced Trumps ears, the shooting also killed another bystander and critically injured two others.

A doctor attending the event told NBC News that he saw a man suffer a gunshot wound to the head and helped carry him from the site of the rally.

Hours after the shooting, Representative Ronny Jackson, of Texas, said in an interview on Fox News that his nephew was grazed on his neck by a bullet at the rally.

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People remained at the scene for 10 to 15 minutes after Trump was taken away, after which they were told it was an active crime scene and all attendees were escorted out.

Eyewitnesses present at the scene described the chaos that unfolded as shots rang out. Erin told NBC News, No one was concerned about us. We were only concerned about him.

She added that she saw someone else covered in blood, who appeared to be next to a person who was bleeding profusely  seemingly struck by one of the gunmans bullets.

Journalists at the scene saw smoke and heard what they initially thought were fireworks before everyone ducked and law enforcement encircled Trump. Piercing screams from the crowd reverberated across the area.

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A screen is pictured at Fox headquarters after former US President Donald J Trump was injured when shots were fired during a campaign rally held in Butler. Reuters

Whos the shooter?

The US Secret Service, who is in charge of the security for former US presidents, neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased. The FBI has said in a press conference that it is close to identifying the shooter. However, his motives are yet to be ascertained.

Authorities said the suspect had no identification on him, which is slowing down the process. Rojek said they are doing biometric confirmation as well as running the shooters DNA and looking at photographs.

However, the FBI has now released that the man who attempted to kill Donald Trump is 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

The shooter had fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside the rally venue, a farm show. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, according to a person familiar with the matter.

Lt Col George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police added that they believed that there was no other existing threat out there. However, he added: We have one shooter tentatively identified, but were not stopping there. Were following up on a lot of information. It will be sometime before we can conclusively answer that question, he was quoted as telling CNN when asked if this was a lone wolf attack.

Who will lead the investigation?

The FBI is set to lead the investigation and said its working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle briefed President Joe Biden and are working with law enforcement partners to respond to and investigate the shooting, Mayorkas said on X.

We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump, and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Republican US House Speaker Mike Johnson also said the House will conduct a full investigation of the attack on Trumps campaign rally. The American people deserve to know the truth, Johnson said. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

CNN citing sources reports that Trumps Secret Service protection was strengthened recently. Trump was first granted Secret Service protection in November 2015, and expressed relief at the time.

A television in a restaurant shows the news after reports of multiple shots fired and apparent injuries to Republican presidential candidate former US President Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania, outside the site of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Reuters

How has the world reacted to the shooting?

Irrespective of party affiliations, American leaders have expressed gratitude that Trump wasnt hurt in the shooting. US President Joe Biden spoke with Trump after the shooting. Biden said earlier he was grateful Trump was safe. He condemned the shooting and called for the country to unite, saying: Theres no place in America for this kind of violence.

He added, Its sick.  We cannot condone this. The Biden presidential campaign has temporarily pulled advertising in the wake of the shooting.

Former US President Barack Obama joined those condemning political violence writing on X: There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed his concern, saying: Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people.

Other world leaders such as European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelenskyy also expressed their concern and said that such an incident had no place in politics.

Several of Trumps fellow party members sent well wishes and prayers. Trumps possible running mates  North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, Florida Senator Marco Rubio and Ohio Senator JD Vance  also sent statements.

Vance and some other Republicans also assigned blame to the Biden campaigns anti-Trump rhetoric. Today is not just some isolated incident, Vance wrote on X. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

What next?

After being shot, Donald Trump has landed in New Jersey. Moreover, the Republican National Committee will proceed with its convention in Milwaukee on Monday after an apparent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Trumps campaign and the RNC said in a statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

CNN said that the shooting by definition is an attack on democracy and the right of each American to choose their leaders.

With inputs from agencies
Were warnings of a gunman on a roof near Donald Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania ignored by the Secret Service? Questions of serious security lapses are being raised after a 20-year-old man opened fire, injuring the former US President and killing another bystander read more

Secret Service tend to US former President Donald Trump onstage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said the shooter is dead after killing one audience member and injuring another in the shooting. AFP

How does a gunman, armed with an AR-style rifle manage to open fire on a former president at a campaign rally protected by federal and local law enforcement?

Thats the question everyone seems to be asking after Donald Trump suffered a graze wound to his right ear while speaking at a field in Butler Pennsylvania, and left the stage with a bloodied ear. While the former US president narrowly escaped the assassination bid, the gunman, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed along with one bystander. Two others have been critically injured.

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The shooting, the biggest since President Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded outside a Washington hotel in 1981, has put the spotlight on the Secret Service and the possible lapses at the event.

How did the shooter get so close?

The shooter, armed with an AR-style rifle, fired multiple shots  some reports say five  from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, according to security officials. An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter, was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

AP reports that the roof from where the gunman fired shots was less 150 metres from where Trump was speaking  a distance from which a decent sniper can hit a target. Incidentally, 150 metres is the distance at which US Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-15, like the shooter at the Trump rally had, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.

Catch all live updates from Donald Trumps shooting HERE

Steve Nottingham, a former SWAT commander in Long Beach, California, told NBC News that Saturdays shooting was a fundamental security failure.

Jim Cavanaugh, a retired special agent in charge with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives who has been on Secret Service details, said he was surprised that the shooter was able to occupy an elevated position within rifle range of the rally site.

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Whenever Ive been with them, every single high ground is taken by them or the local SWAT police, Cavanaugh told NBC News. Theres nobody allowed walking on rooftops. They command the high ground.

Trump supporters are seen laying in the stands after guns were fired at Republican candidate Donald Trump at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc in Butler, Pennsylvania. AFP

Did security ignore warnings?

An eyewitness at the Trump rally has claimed that he had warned Trumps security about a gunman on a roof three or four minutes before shots were fired, but that the claims were ignored.

A Telegraph report quoting the man says that he was outside the grounds when he and his friends drew the attention of the police when they noticed a person crawling onto a rooftop with a rifle while Trump was onstage in Pennsylvania. He claimed that minutes later, the gunman was still in position and managed to fire five times before the Secret Service blew his head off.

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We noticed the guy crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof of the building beside us, 50 feet away from us, the eyewitness, wearing a Trump 2020 hat, told BBC News.

So were standing there you know, were pointing, were pointing at the guy crawling up the roof he had a rifle. You can clearly see him with a rifle. Absolutely.

Snipers stand on a roof at Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reuters

He said he and his friends were pointing at the man for two or three minutes but police did not respond. The police are down there running around on the ground, the witness said. Were like, Hey, man, theres a guy on the roof for the rifle. And the police were like, huh, what  they didnt know what was going on.

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Were like hey right here on the roof, we can see him from right here.

And next thing you know, Im like, Im thinking to myself, Im like, Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage?

Im standing there pointing at him for, you know, two or three minutes. Secret Service is looking at us Im pointing at that roof, just standing there And next thing you know, five shots rang out.

Is the Secret Service to blame?

Richard Goldinger, the Butler County district attorney, said that the security services had maybe got a little lackadaisical and thought that this wouldnt happen to a president or a former president.

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He [the shooter] was outside of the ground, so to speak, Goldinger told CNN. So quite frankly, I dont know how he would have gotten to the location where he was but he was outside the grounds and I think thats something that were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gets into a vehicle with the assistance of Secret Service personnel after he was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. Reuters

Shortly after the shooting, Elon Musk said on social media: The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign.

Other US leaders have also called for an investigation into the security failures at the rally. Republican House of Representatives Speaker Mike Johnson said on social media that the House will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS (Department of Homeland Security) and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

Other Trump supporters also blasted the Secret Service. How was a sniper with a full rifle kit allowed to bear crawl onto the closest roof to a presidential nominee, asked conservative activist Jack Posobiec on social media site X.

However, Pennsylvania State Police Lt Col George Bivens defended the Secret Service at a news conference after the shooting.

It is incredibly difficult to have a venue open to the public and to secure that against any possible threat against a very determined attacker, Bivens said. Thats a huge lift.

The investigation will really give us an opportunity to take a look at where any failures occurred and what can be done better in the future, he added.

Arizona delegates look at their phones after reports of multiple shots fired and apparent injuries to Republican presidential candidate former US President Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania, outside the site of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Reuters

What happens next?

The attack is certain to lead to a review of Trumps security, and going forward he will likely be provided with a level of protection more akin to a sitting president, Joseph LaSorsa, a former Secret Service agent who served on the presidential detail, told Reuters.

There will be an intensive review of the incident and theres going to be a massive realignment, LaSorsa said. This cannot happen.

Meanwhile, the FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Garland said in a statement. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy.

With inputs from agencies
Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt on Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally. Panic ensued as a flurry of gunshots erupted, leaving a bleeding Trump, who was shot in the ear, surrounded by Secret Service agents as he scurried to his SUV. He was taken to a medical facility in Butler County and later released. Where is he now? read more

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. AFP

Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an assassination attempt on Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally.

Panic ensued as a flurry of gunshots erupted, leaving a bleeding Trump, who was shot in the ear, surrounded by Secret Service agents as he scurried to his SUV and raised his fist in defiance.

The aftermath

Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the gunfire began after 6.10 pm. As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and then raised his hand to his right ear and looked at it, before quickly crouching to the ground behind his lectern.

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The people in the stands behind him also crouched down as screams rang through the crowd.

Someone could be heard near the microphone saying, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents rushed to the stage.

After the shots rang out and Trump was hustled offstage, agents in black uniforms carrying rifles, the agencys Counter-Assault team, flooded the stage.

The crowd stayed low.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures as he gets into a vehicle with the assistance of US Secret Service personnel after he was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, US, July 13, 2024. Reuters

Some had heard the bullets ricocheting off the grandstand, severing a hydraulic line connecting to the speakers, which began to topple. Others quickly called family or looked on their phones to find out what had happened to the former president.

Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.

The former US President flew to New Jersey after visiting a local hospital in Butler and was later released.

Shortly after, he left and reached Newark Liberty International Airport at midnight.

A video posted by an aide showed the former president deplaning his private jet flanked by US Secret Service agents and heavily armed members of the agencys counter-assault team, an unusually visible show of force by his protective detail.

The police and the Secret Service then ushered everyone out.

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An hour after the shooting, the vast field was declared a crime scene, littered with empty plastic water bottles and soggy cardboard containers that once held cheese fries.

More on the Donald Trump shooting:

How former US president escaped an assassination attempt

Did Secret Service ignore warnings of a gunman?

Who was 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who attempted to kill Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania?

What we know and dont know of the shooting

Trumps condition

According to a statement on the Republican National Committees (RNC) external website, Trump is doing well and is grateful to law enforcement officers.

He looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th president of the United States. As our partys nominee (he) will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, the statement reads.

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Steven Cheung, a spokesperson for the Trump campaign, released a statement on Saturday evening that the 78-year-old was fine and being looked at a medical facility.

Trump also released a statement on his Truth Social platform thanking the Secret Service and all law enforcement.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler on 13 July. AP

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOB BLESS AMERICA!

The former president also extended his condolences to the family of the person killed at the rally.

Shooters identity revealed

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) leads the investigation, along with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

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The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle briefed President Joe Biden and are working with law enforcement partners to respond to and investigate the shooting, Mayorkas said on X.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler. AP

Republican US House Speaker Mike Johnson also said the House will conduct a full investigation of the attack on Trumps campaign rally. The American people deserve to know the truth, Johnson said. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

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The investigation continues

The US Secret Service is investigating how the gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Trump.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

A video posted to social media shows the body of a man wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trumps rally was held.

The roof was less than 150 metres (yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 metres is a distance at which US Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-15, like the shooter at the Trump rally, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.

Leading Republicans and Democrats quickly condemned the violence.

The Trump campaign said he was doing well.

Biden said in a statement: Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Republican US Representative Ronny Jackson of Texas told Fox News his nephew had been wounded at the rally.

With inputs from agencies
What started out as a joyous rally in Pennsylvanias Butler on Saturday turned into a tragedy after former US President Donald Trump was shot in the ear in an attack that has fuelled long-standing fears that the campaign could descend into political violence. One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured in the shooting at the rally. Heres an account of what happened at the campaign and how Trump was saved read more

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump is assisted by the Secret Service after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, US, July 13, 2024. Reuters

What started out as a joyous rally in Pennsylvanias Butler on Saturday turned into a tragedy after former US president Donald Trump was shot in the ear in an attack that will likely reshape this years presidential race and fuel long-standing fears that the campaign could descend into political violence.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured in the shooting at the rally.

The attack was the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

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Lets take a closer look.

The assassination attempt

Trump was holding his final rally ahead of the Republican National Convention that begins Monday in Milwaukee. He had just started his speech and was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the shots, at least five, were fired.

He grabbed his right ear with his right hand, brought his hand down to look at it before dropping to his knees behind the podium. Secret Service agents quickly created a shield around him.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler on 13 July. AP

Putting on a brave face, he emerged about a minute later, his red Make America Great Again hat knocked off, and could be heard saying, wait, wait, before pumping his fist in the air, mouthing the words Fight! Fight! Fight!

The 78-year-old and his motorcade left the scene and he was checked into a local medical facility.

He later released a statement on his Truth Social platform thanking the Secret Service and all law enforcement.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he wrote, adding, Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

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Earlier the Secret Service said in a statement that the shooter was dead, one attendee at the rally was killed and two other spectators were injured.

The shooting occurred less than four months before the November 5 election, when Trump faces an election rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden.

Also read: Donald Trump assassination bid: What we know and dont know of the shooting

Witness accounts

A witness at the rally told how a man next to him was shot dead.

I heard several gunshots. The man beside me suffered a gunshot at the head, was instantly killed (and) fell to the bottom of the bleachers. Another woman looked like she got hit in the forearm or hand, the man, whose name was only given as Joseph, told NBC News.

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He said it seemed the victim was in the way of the shots between whoever was shooting the gun and the president.

A second witness, an unnamed man who said he was an emergency doctor, described trying to help one of the victims.

Somebody over there was screaming hes been shot, hes been shot, so I made my way over. I said Im an emergency department physician, let me help you, said the man, who was wearing a white USA T-shirt stained with blood and a red MAGA hat.

Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after he was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, US, July 13, 2024. Reuters

The guy had spun around, was jammed between the benches. He had a headshot here, he said, indicating a spot on his head.

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Theres lots of blood and he had brain matter, the man continued in comments that spread widely through US media.

Ron Moose, a Trump supporter at the rally, said he heard about four shots. I saw the crowd go down and then Trump ducked also real quick, he said. Then the Secret Service all jumped and protected him as soon as they could. We are talking within a second they were all protecting him.

The BBC interviewed a man who described himself as an eyewitness, saying he saw a man armed with a rifle crawling up a roof near the event. The person, who the BBC did not identify, said he and the people he was with started pointing at the man, trying to alert security.

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The investigation

The Federal Bureau of Investigation is set to lead the investigation with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and US Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle briefed President Joe Biden and are working with law enforcement partners to respond to and investigate the shooting, Mayorkas said on X.

We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump, and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Republican US House Speaker also said the House will conduct a full investigation of the attack on Trumps campaign rally.

The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

Shooter identified

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park in Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter, who fired from an elevated position outside the rally venue, a farm show.

Snipers stand on a roof at Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, US. Reuters

The shooter had fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the US Secret Service said in a statement.

Two officials who spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation said the shooter was engaged by members of the US Secret Service counterassault team.

The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, according to a person familiar with the matter. The person was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

Security lapses

The shooting raised immediate questions about security failures by the Secret Service, which provides former presidents including Trump with lifetime protection.

At a briefing late on Saturday, FBI officials told reporters it was surprising that the suspect fired multiple shots. The Secret Service did not have a representative at the briefing, which included FBI and state law enforcement officials.

The attack is certain to lead to a review of Trumps security, and going forward he will likely be provided with a level of protection more akin to a sitting president, said Joseph LaSorsa, a former Secret Service agent who served on the presidential detail.

There will be an intensive review of the incident and theres going to be a massive realignment, LaSorsa said. This cannot happen.

The Secret Service had said it recently added protective resources and capabilities to Trumps security detail, without providing further details.

A retired agent who worked in protective services, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the incident should spark an internal review, and ideally an external one too.

The gravity of the situation demands thorough scrutiny to prevent such failures in the future and to ensure accountability on all levels, said the former agent.

With inputs from agencies
America is witnessing one of its worst horrors in recent history. There was an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, which he narrowly escaped. Meanwhile, there is increasing pressure on Joe Biden to quit the presidential race. We bring you the latest developments in US politics and from around the world in our weekly roundup read more

Members of the US Secret Service surround Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania., on 13 July. AP

Its been a week of dread and chaos in American politics.

In an incident that has sent shockwaves across the world, an assassination attempt was made on Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. He escaped but was left injured by a bullet which hit his right ear. We are tracking this story closely.

Earlier in the week, the headlines were dominated by Joe Biden. His candidacy continued to crater with a series of verbal gaffes including at the high-profile Nato summit.

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The ongoing war between Israel and Hamas is threatening to widen in West Asia with the Lebanese terror group Hezbollah launching its largest-ever air attack.

Meanwhile, a horrific human trafficking case in north Texas has come to light  which unfortunately has an Indian connection.

Also, Rishi Sunak took up his place on the opposition benches this week. But are the now ousted ex-prime ministers days in the UK numbered?

All this and much more in our weekly roundup of explainers.

1. A horror unfolds in the US. A picture that will stay with us for days to come is that of a bloody-faced Donald Trump with his fist in the air, as the Secret Service escort him off the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania.

So who attempted to kill Trump and why? Heres everything we know so far.

2. Joe Biden has been a verbal gaffe machine throughout his decades in political office.

From calling candidate Barrack Obama bright, articulate and clean, to announcing that there would be a massive crisis to test Obama after he took office and then telling the then president the passing of Obamacare was a big f$%$ing deal, theres no shortage of times hes put his foot in his mouth.

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And those are just the times when it comes to Obama.

Time after time, year after year, Biden has made gaffe after gaffe.

But this week was seemingly a stumble too far for many.

Biden at the Nato conference introduced Ukraines Volodymr Zelenskyy as President Putin.

Worse, at a solo press conference, Biden said that Donald Trump was his vice-president  which were sure came to news to Kamala Harris.

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But now many are asking if they ought to be seriously concerned about Bidens cognitive powers.

After all, this is an 81-year-old man running to be most powerful person in the world.

This piece examines Bidens flubs and the concerns over his candidacy.

3. From the start of the Israel-Hamas war, many have worried that it could widen into a larger conflagration that would engulf West Asia.

It has certainly seemed this way this past week  in fact these past few weeks  as Israel and Hezbollah seem to be inching ever closer to war.

Now, a report in the Washington Post says that Hezbollah has armed itself to the teeth.

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The two countries previously went to war in 2006  a 34-day conflict that ended in a stalemate much celebrated in the Muslim world.

But how big is Hezbollahs arsenal? What weapons have they procured from their long-time backer Iran? And can Hezbollahs stockpile of rockets and missiles overwhelm Israels many defences?

4. A horror story has come to light in Princeton, North Texas.

Four individuals of Indian-origin including a couple have been charged with human trafficking after authorities found over a dozen women living in dire conditions.

The women were lured under the guise of computer programming internships and forced into labour.

Chandan Dasireddy, Dwaraka Gunda, Santhosh Katkoori and Anil Male have been charged with Trafficking of Persons, Second Degree Felony as the investigation continues. Princeton Police Department

Authorities in Texas only stumbled onto the operation after the police department received a tip from a pest control worker.

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But what do we know about the operation? And what about the individuals involved?

5. California Dreamin could very well be on Rishi Sunaks playlist these days.

There are rumours that the former UK prime minister, who oversaw a historic Tory defeat to Labour, could soon leave the UK, for the warm embrace of California.

California just happens to be the place Sunak met his wife Akshata during their days at Stanford and where he ran a hedge fund before stepping into politics.

Indeed, Sunak has called it a very special place.

Sunak and his wife also have a $7 million penthouse in Santa Monica  one of Californias most elite and upscale neighbourhoods.

So, whats the truth?

6. Over in Malaysia, the death of a young woman has highlighted the growing problem of online harassment.

Rajeswary Appahu, 30, died by suicide allegedly after being cyberbullied.

Rajeswary, a social media personality, was found dead at her home on July 5.

She had approached the Kuala Lumpur police just a day before she was found dead.

Rajeswary Appahu alleged facing online harassment before her death. Image Courtesy: Instagram/_rajeswaryappahu

Rajeswary said she was afraid of being raped and murdered.

Rajeswarys father, P Appahu, a 62-year-old temple caretaker, told The Star, She was a very strong person. I cant understand why this happened.

Rajeswarys death has sparked outrage in the Muslim-majority nation with many citizens taking to social media and demanding action from the authorities.

This article examines what happened to Rajeswary, how the authorities have reacted as well as Malaysias troubles with cyberbullying.

7. Barcelonas locals are mad as hell  and theyre not going to take it anymore.

Thousands of people took to the streets in in the city.

Their complaint? Too many tourists are ruining things for the locals.

Videos of the march showed protesters holding signs demanding that the visitors go home. They also squirted them with water guns.

A demonstrator holds up a banner as people protest against mass tourism in Barcelona, Spain, July 6, 2024. Reuters

From crowding the streets to local businesses closing in favour of stores that cater to foreigners and a rise in the cost of living, the locals have a laundry list of complaints.

But who is to blame? Are authorities acting to curb overtourism? Have there been similar protests around Spain? And how are other nations handling it?

8. It sounds like the plot of a horror movie.

Sunita Williams has been stuck in space for more than a month.

Williams and Butch Wilmore have been stranded on the the International Space Station (ISS) since June 6 after the Boeing Starliner faced technical issues.

Though NASA has been trying to facilitate their return to the Earth, the efforts thus far have proved unsuccessful.

NASA astronauts Butch Wilmore and Suni Williams walk at NASAs Kennedy Space Center, ahead of Boeings Starliner-1 Crew Flight Test (CFT) mission on a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket to the International Space Station, in Cape Canaveral, Florida, US, June 5, 2024. File Image/Reuters

No official date has yet been set for Williams and Wilmores return.

Steve Stich, Nasas commercial crew program manager, said, Some of the data suggests optimistically, maybe its by the end of July, but well just follow the data each step at a time."

But what is Williams saying? And whats the problem? Why cant Nasa bring the astronauts back to earth?

You are all caught up for the week. If you like the way we explain, you can bookmark this page .
Three CRPF soldiers and three Manipur Police personnel are also injured in the attack, according to reports read more

A soldier from the Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) was killed on Sunday in an ambush in Jiribam district in Manipur.

The attack occurred in Mongbung village in Jiribam and is suspected to have been carried out by Kuki militants, according to CNN-News 18.

Manipur has been in the grips of ethnic violence between the states majority Meitei and minority tribal communities. Several hundreds have been killed in the conflict and as many as 67,000 have been displaced in the ongoing conflict. The state has seen sharp polarisation between the valley-based Meitis and hill-based tribals.

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In a post on X (formerly Twitter), Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the killing and said offered condolences to the family of the deceased.

I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today.



His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved  N. Biren Singh (@NBirenSingh) July 14, 2024

The deceased CRPF soldier has been identified as Ajay Kumar Jha, 43, from Bihar, according to the report.

Separately, India Today has reported three CRPF soldiers and three Manipur Police personnel were also injured in the attack. It further reported that the attack took place around 9:40 am when a joint team of CRPF and police was going to a village in the area.

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In recent weeks, Jiribam has been enveloped in cyclic violence as the tribals and the Meiteis have carried out a string of attacks on each-other. Earlier this week, the house of Seijathang Khangsai, a prominent Kuki tribal leader, was burnt in the district. Before that, a Meitei man was found dead, following which the locals indulged in violence protests. The violence continued as several houses belonging to Meiteis were burnt again in four-five villages.
Last month, terrorists attacked a bus of Hindu pilgrims going to the Vaishno Devi shrine and killed nine and injured over 40 in Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi read more

At least nine Hindu pilgrims were killed in the terrorist attack on a bus in Jammu and Kashmir's Reasi (File Photo/PTI)

The terrorists who killed nine Hindu pilgrims in Jammu and Kashmirs Reasi last month paid a local cattle trader for help in the attack, according to a report.

On June 9, terrorists fire on a bus carrying pilgrims at Pouni locality in Reasi. The bus was going to the Vaishno Devi shrine in Katra in Jammu region. They first shot the driver who lost control of the vehicle. Then, the out-of-control bus fell into a gorge. Nine people were killed and more than 40 were injured.

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The investigation of the Reasi was handed over to the National Investigation Agency (NIA).

Now, The Indian Express has reported that three terrorists involved in the attack took help from a local cattle trader, Hakam Din, and paid him Rs 5,000 for his services. He was arrested by the police on June 20 and, before the case was handed over to the NIA, the police had described him as a prime militant associate.

Local helped terrorists with logistics & recce: Report

Terrorists sought food and help in reconnaissance from Din in the run-up to the attack in Reasi, according to The Express.

The report said that they paid Din Rs 5,000 after the attack. With Dins help, the investigators have prepared the sketch of the three terrorists involved.

A source told the newspaper that the three terrorists knocked on Dins door around 5:30 pm on June 1 and told him to prepare food for three people and bring it to their lair in the forest. He said that Din heard one of the three terrorists being referred to as Manzoor Bhai.

On June 7, the terrorists visited Din and took him along for reconnaissance of the sight of the attack, said the source.

The source further said that they were at the site for around three and a half hours and assessed various locations for mounting the attack. The source said

They sat in different spots to pick a strategic location for the attack, and to identify the slope of the road where the vehicle would slow down. They marked these locations before leaving. They also asked Hakam about the movement of tourist buses, said the source to the paper.

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On June 8, the terrorists visited Dins house and discussed their plot over tea.

On June 9, the terrorists carried out the attack, following which the terrorists paid Rs 5,000 to Din to escape, as per the source.

String of attacks in Jammu region

The attack in Reasi coincided with the swearing-in ceremony of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Council of Ministers on June 9.

The attack was followed by two more attacks in the next two days in Jammu regions Kathua and Doda districts. At least three casualties were reported in the attack.

Then, earlier this week on Monday, five Indian Army soldiers were killed in an ambush in Machedi area of Kathua.
This latest assassination attempt should make the US sit up and reassess itself both as a society and as a democracy read more

There will be red faces in the security establishment about how an armed young man reached a rooftop that had a clear line of sight to the podium where Trump was standing in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday. All potential vantage points are routinely sanitised by protection details, and yet that factory roof was left unguarded. Predictably, liberal apologists are making generalisations about political violence to draw flak away from this failure, deliberate or otherwise.

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But these generalisations point to the uncomfortable fact that mostly Republican presidents and candidates have been targets of attempts, successful or not. Three of the four sitting US Presidents killed by assassins were RepublicansAbraham Lincoln, James Garfield and William McKinley; John F Kennedy was the only Democrat. Of attempted assassinations of Presidents and candidates, the tally is four each for both; the most recent were Ronald Reagan and George W Bush.

It must be noted that for the past 18 months the Left-Liberal eco-system has been running an increasingly desperate and shrill campaign on the lines of Donald Trump must be stopped at all costs. Millions of words have been spewed out to this effect from not only politicians who support the Democratic Party but also academics, political scientists, columnists, TV anchors and even film actors. Americans have also been exhorted to make personal efforts to stop Trump.

So a 20-year-old mansupposedly a registered Republicantook these calls seriously and let off a volley of shots at a campaign rally, one of which narrowly missed Trumps brainit hit his earbut others killed a bystander and injured more. Several attendees at the rally have subsequently told media, domestic and international, that they saw the man crawling round the factory roof and raised the alarm, pointing him out to the police and Secret Service but no one listened!

Now that formal investigations have begun and the powerful House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, chaired by Republican Congressman from Kentucky James Comer, has asked the director of the Secret Service to depose about this, more embarrassing details will doubtless emerge unless the federal authorities and the Biden White House try to manage the news. Absurd theories that Trump engineered this to win the election will be rightly dismissed.

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The White House and key departments of the federal government have been getting visibly alarmed by the possible return of Trump to the Oval Office, especially after President Joe Bidens stubborn refusal to step aside in favour of a younger candidate who could offer a more robust challenge. Whether that uncertainty led to shocking laxness in the security arrangements for Trump may never be known, but the urgent appeal to contain him has been no secret.

Two allusions come to mind, one long ago and one more recent. The first was in December 1170 when the then King of England, Henry II is supposed to have uttered the fateful words, Will no one rid me of this turbulent priest? alluding to Thomas Beckett, then the Archbishop of Canterbury, who had fallen out with him and become a critic. Four knights took his rhetorical appeal seriously: they marched off to Canterbury and killed Beckett at the cathedrals high altar.

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The second was the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, on the election trail in December 2007. Even today it is still not clear whether she was killed by bullets fired by an assassin or by injuries sustained in aftermath of a suicide bomber denotating near her car. Whatever the method, then too assassination was seen as a way to change the outcome of a fraught election. Islamist terror groups were promptly blamed by the government, but security lapses pointed elsewhere.

That the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was allegedly a registered Republican makes little difference to the issue of that glaring lapse. But the notoriously partisan US media gratefully latching onto this factoid is also indicative. Anyone can put a name down in a list; that does not mean the person is really a supporter. In any case, this is the first election that the assassin would have been eligible to vote anyway, so his leanings either way certainly cannot be taken for granted.

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But information has also emerged that according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing, teenaged Crooks had made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a very well-known forum that raises money for left-leaning Democratic politicians and organisations, three years ago. He had apparently given that donation for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote, according to Reuters. So far that group has not responded to this revelation.

The fact that the Democratic political pantheon has been quick to express outrage at the attack and sympathy for Trump, indicates that they have realised how far their anti-Trump rhetoric has affected Americans with impaired abilities of discernment. If it emerges that the young man had sympathies towards the Stop Trump project, it will affect many other electoral races besides the one for the White House in November as Pennsylvania is again a crucial swing state.

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This latest assassination attempt should make the US sit up and reassess itself both as a society and as a democracy. Not only is much of the world sniggering at the spectacle of the worlds greatest country (self-anointed, of course) having to choose between a visibly doddering geriatric and a boastful billionaire, this latest incident has cemented its position as an endemically trigger-happy polity, with a long procession of murky political killings and attempted ones.

If the defining image of this election for the Democrat incumbent Biden is of slack-jawed, eye-twitching confusion on a debate podium, the most memorable one of his Republican challenger is far more dramatic: Trump with blood running down his cheek, fist raised defiantly as the American flag soars behind him and Secret Service agents scramble to surround him. It is evident which one will be more appealing to voters as the Presidential race approaches the final lap.

The author is a freelance writer. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
India defying the West to engage with Russia meant that other Third World countries in the Global South now has a credible precedent to cite and follow read more

Bear-hug it was when Modi and Putin met, but there was much more to bilateral relations that was exchanged at their 22nd summit. Image: AP

If equivocal or unequivocal words could hurt, Prime Minister Narendra Modis Moscow summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin could strain bilateral relations, if not break them. His reference to the deaths of innocent children and his reiteration that India has always called for respecting the UN Charter, including territorial integrity and sovereignty there is no solution on the battlefield and Dialogue and diplomacy are the way forward would all have done it. But they did not and will not.

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Bear-hug it was when the two leaders met, but there was much more to bilateral relations that was exchanged at their 22nd summit. Incidentally, this was also not the first time Modi was telling Putin what he said. Now is not an era of war. Lets talk peace, he had told Putin on the sidelines of the Samarkand Shanghai Cooperation Organisations Summit in the capital of Uzbekistan, as far back as September 2022, only months after the Ukraine War had commenced. But throughout that year and later, too, India mostly abstained from UN Security Council and UN General Assembly votes that condemned Russia as the aggressor.

Today, by not personally participating at the recent SCO summit at Astana but visiting Moscow for a one-on-one with the Russian President all the same, Modi and India have outlined their priorities and path forward. At a time when NATO is meeting in the US with further assistance to Ukraine in the war that has been fought for two years without stop, Modis Moscow visit has multiple messages, so to speak.

On the face of it, what he said about dialogue and diplomacy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity applies only to Russia and Putin, not necessarily in that order. But in a larger sense, it applies to the other side, too, starting with Ukraine but not stopping there. At the bottom of the war is Ukraines readiness to sign into NATO, with the latter wooing the other even more.

Ukraine saw Russia as a threat, and by sharing borders with Ukraine, Russia saw NATO as a greater threat to the nations sovereignty and territorial integrity. Today, that part of contemporary history is forgotten, and NATO in general and the US in particular are as keen on Ukraine pursuing the war without meeting Russia at the negotiation table.

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Going by NATO members willingness to fund and arm Ukraine even more, the chances of Ukraine losing the war seem remote. Indications are that, if it came to that, NATO members may not be unwilling to join the war. That leaves either for Russia to lose the war or for a negotiated settlement. In this case, both, or rather, all three, seem remote and distant.

For its part, Moscow wasted no time in rejecting what it saw as a one-sided proposal emanating from the peace conference in Switzerland. India sent (only) a senior diplomat as an observer of sorts but did not vote. It meant once again that India did not endorse the Western document but neither the war.

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A problem may arise if and when NATO starts taking a more active part in the war and Russias friends like China and who knows even North Korea chip in directly or more directly if they are already involved in some way. At least, by issuing frequent statements to the effect that China should not help or support Russia, the West, especially the US, seems to be foreseeing but not foreclosing the possibility.

Trading in local currencies

In the more immediate bilateral sphere, at the Moscow summit, the two sides committed to taking bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030. Simultaneously, India and Russia, like their multiple trading partners, have also decided to trade in local currencies. This decision was taken long ago and needs to be operationalised even more. The irony is that even while agreeing to the same and moving in that direction, bilaterally and multilaterally, nations have been citing figures only in US currency for the rest of the world to understand and appreciate.

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As is known, the currency-based arrangement helps both India and Russia following the accumulation of payment for Russian oil imported by India against trans-Atlantic sanctions against Moscow. For Russia, India purchasing their oil, defying western sanctions, was one up on a similar line taken by China, which anyway was an ally of Moscow and an adversary of the US in particular.

A democratic India defying the sanctions meant that other Third World countries in the Global South had a credible precedent to cite and follow. The West could not do anything about it, as Indias repositioning on the global stage over the past decades was too much for them to miss or overreact to. That became a cover for the rest of the world, especially for the toothless Third World nations.

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This apart, the Indian initiative has helped Russia in strategic terms, so to speak. The overflow of cash available in India, to be paid in Russian oil, meant that they had to deal with it in an equally innovative way. Weapons and heavy machinery purchases from Russia have been found to be the way out.

Even without such circumstances, India has continued to rely on Russian weaponry while diversifying purchases from other sources, including the US. Defence and other dual-use equipment and technology from the US were/are accompanied by a lot of restrictions, including at the time of sales. But greater diversification has meant that India, after the civilian nuclear deal with the US, has been able to cross some of those barricadesas the US wants India more on its side, as a part of the near-forgotten Quad and Indo-Pacific, what with greater attention being heaped on the Ukraine War than even on Chinese irritants in the South China Sea, leave aside Taiwan.

Compensation, citizenship

At the summit-level talks in Moscow, Modi also extracted a promise from Putin to free Indians who were soldiering for Russia in the Ukraine War. Almost all of them had gone there as mercenaries, some of them without knowing what their real destination was or their real work was. Russia has also promised compensation for Indians and the families of those who died on the war front. Families have also been promised Russian citizenship. It is unclear how attractive Russian citizenship is compared to those in the US and the rest of the West.

India is among the few nations that have officially obtained freedom for their citizens who have joined the Russian mercenary army, and that too with adequate compensation. In the South Asian neighbourhood earlier, Sri Lanka dispatched a delegation of officials and a bipartisan team of parliamentarians under a junior foreign minister for the purpose and succeeded in its efforts. Around the time, the Russian Embassy in Colombo, however, publicly claimed that a certain nation (without naming the US?) was highlighting only Sri Lankan mercenaries fighting for Russia without mentioning how many of them were fighting for Ukraine.

In this case, however, unlike in India, most Sri Lankan mercenaries were veteran soldiers and policemen and possibly saw it as an economic opportunity worth risking at the height of the nations economic crisis, which will take years to wind down completely. A few veteran armed forces officials were arrested in connection with the racket to send Sri Lankans to the war front on fake pretexts.

The writer is a Chennai-based Policy Analyst & Political Commentator. The views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the author. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
The Austrian first victim theory is now completely discredited, both in Austria and outside. But for too long, the first victim theory was a comforting myth for many Austrians. And not many people, including perhaps Nehru, held Austria accountable read more

It seems that the Congress party is bitter about Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Somehow this bitterness seems to increase whenever the Prime Minister goes abroad. Now in his third term, the Prime Minister has just returned from a trip to Austria. And the Congress wants everyone to know how Nehru played a role in the emergence of Austria as an independent country in 1955. We are all supposed to talk about this history, and cherish it. Otherwise, we might be Nehruphobic.

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So let us do just that. Why was Austria occupied after World War II? Why would Austria suddenly need to emerge in 1955, with the help of Nehru or anyone else? What is the first victim theory of the Austrians? Nobody believes it in Austria today. But in the 1940s and the 1950s, it was one of the great lies of the 20th century. One which whitewashed the crimes of Nazism.

The modern state of Austria consists roughly of the German speaking parts of what was once called the Austro-Hungarian empire. Along with Germany, it was one of the defeated powers in the First World War. So the Austro-Hungarian empire was broken up in 1919, chiefly into Austria, Hungary and Czechoslovakia. So Austria became a landlocked country, between Germany to the north and Italy to the south.

But things began to change for Austria in the 1930s, with the rise of fascism in Italy and of national socialism in Germany. Already, Austria had seen a civil war in 1934, followed by the formation of a fascist government. But many ethnic Germans in Austria wished to see their country unified with Germany to form a great German speaking state. This would be under the leadership of an Austrian born painter who had recently become Chancellor of Germany. His name: Adolf Hitler.

In 1938, Nazi Germany annexed Austria. The Germans handed over leadership to the Austrian Nazi party, which quickly ordered the unification with Germany. There was hardly any resistance. It helped that Hitler was Catholic, much like the vast majority of Austrians at that time. The bishops of Austria, led by the Archbishop of Vienna, appealed to the Austrian people to embrace the union with Germany. Their declaration ended with the words Heil Hitler.

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Almost immediately, the crimes of the Nazis in Austria began. The Jews were rounded up, and their businesses were seized. The Nazis in Austria built their first slave labor camp as early as 1938. This was at Mauthausen, near the city of Linz. This went on to become one of the most infamous concentration camps in Nazi Germany, where nearly 90,000 people perished. In fact, academics estimate that Austrians made up nearly 70 percent of those who headed the Nazi concentration camps. This is an astonishing number, considering that Austria accounted for just 8 percent of the population of Nazi Germany.

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But as the 1940s progressed, the war began to turn against Germany. Everyone began looking for a way out. Many Austrian politicians now came up with a new spin. In this version of events, Austria was not a collaborator in the crimes of Nazi Germany. Instead, they argued that Austria was actually the first victim of Nazism, occupied in 1938. At the time, it suited many people, and the world powers, to believe this theory. But this also means that any politician, including Nehru, who wants to treat Austria as separate from Nazi Germany, is basically whitewashing the crimes of Nazism. The Nazis murdered almost 65,000 Austrian Jews. At its most perverted, the first victim theory was then used by Austria after the war to deny reparations to the real victims of Nazism, such as Jewish holocaust survivors. Since Austria itself claimed to be a victim, why would it owe anything to other victims?

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Besides, Austria did not make a clean break with its Nazi past. Following the war, the social democrat Karl Renner became President of Austria. Karl Renner had himself supported the union with Nazi Germany in 1938! Even as late as 1986, Austria elected a Nazi intelligence officer as President. It was only in the 1990s, following worldwide outrage, that Austria began taking steps to own up its responsibility for the crimes of Nazism. Austria now pays out compensation to Jewish survivors of the holocaust.

The Austrian first victim theory is now completely discredited, both in Austria and outside. But for too long, the first victim theory was a comforting myth for many Austrians. And too many people, including perhaps Nehru, did not hold Austria accountable.

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Of course, none of this makes Nehru evil. At the time, he represented India on the world stage. He did what was diplomatically the most convenient for India. But when moral greatness is invented through half-informed tweets, somebody has to speak up and tell the history in full context. Otherwise, we risk handing another set of comforting myths to people today, circulated through WhatsApp University.

Abhishek Banerjee (@AbhishBanerj on X) is an author and columnist. Karuna Gopal (@KarunaGopal1 on X) is president, Foundation for Futuristic Cities. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect Firstposts views.
July 13, 2024: Islamic terrorist group Al Shabab continues to be a major problem. This was seen in March when Al Shabab gunmen conducted an overnight siege of a hotel near the Presidential Palace. There has been sufficient peace and prosperity for Somalia to conduct national elections. Previously, Somali factions relied on a system that involved clan elders meeting and working out agreements. For a long tine Somalia was considered a failed state. Yet over a decade of peacekeeping, massive foreign aid produced visible progress against the corruption and tribalism that long prevented economic progress.

Al Shabaab, a local Islamic radical group, was defeated and driven from cities and towns in 2011 but was still around. So was the traditional clan violence, organized crime, and banditry. All these are ancient Somali traditions. Al Shabaab survives by reverting to that and becoming the major criminal organization in some parts of the country. Extortion, smuggling, and kidnapping for ransom have sustained the Islamic terror group. As government forces brought order to more of the country, Al Shabab has less income to spend on sustaining its forces.

One of the most lucrative sources of plunder was the elected Somali government, propped up by foreign aid, that showed up after 2012. Much of the foreign aid was stolen but enough went to where it was needed to make a difference. Despite all that Somalia is still a failed state that defies every attempt at nation building. The situation is worse than it appears because Somalia was never a country, but a collection of clans and tribes that fight each other constantly over economic issues (land and water). The country remains an economic and political mess, a black hole on the map. Not much hope in sight. There is not a lot of enthusiasm among local leaders for a national government, but all that foreign aid is welcome because it can be taken without risking another clan feud. Somali smolders as it always has and despite that, there is progress.

Somalia still has problems with poverty and establishing law and order throughout the country. Many parts of the country have weak economies, a lot of poverty and the resulting hunger among people who cannot buy enough to eat. The persistent unrest, civil war and lawlessness since the 1990s has reduced local food production by about half. This meant that millions of Somalis survive only because of food aid donated by western nations, particularly the United States. Donor nations try to monitor distribution of donated food and are discouraged from continuing aid if they see too much of the aid diverted by Al Shabab, bandits and corrupt government officials. Somalia became independent in 1991 but the new government did not survive and by the late 90s the country was increasingly chaotic.

The Somali government is trying to slow down the withdrawal of AU (African Union) peacekeepers. Since 2022 the AU has been reducing the number of peacekeepers in Somalia. Originally it was nearly 18,000 soldiers, including some police and administrative personnel. Currently, only about a third of the peacekeepers are left and Somalia does not want to lose all of them because the peacekeepers are more effective at maintaining order than the local forces. The Somali army is supposed to have 32,000 trained and disciplined troops. That objective has never been met, despite over $100 million a year in foreign aid administered by donor nations to train and equip Somali troops. The key problem has been establishing a force of trained and responsible officers to run the army. Currently, too many officers can be bribed or threatened to ignore their duties so that rebels or bandits can continue operating.

Meanwhile there were disputes with neighboring Ethiopia over accusations that Ethiopia was attempting to annex Somali territory. Ethiopia was a larger nation with an effective military. Ethiopia also had its own internal problems and was still subject to occasional internal disputes. That did not stop the Ethiopian government from punishing Somalia for real or imagined transgressions.

One item that angered land-locked Ethiopia was the return of Somali piracy. From 2006 to 2012 Somali pirates were seizing passing merchant ships and holding them for ransom. Pirates became a major problem after 2006 and, as piracy increased, the major trading nations launched a counter-piracy effort which by 2012 reduced pirate success considerably. In fact, no large ships have been captured since early 2012 even though some of the pirate gangs are still operating up there. There were not many pirate groups left because of the lack of multi-million dollar ransoms. That changed in 2024 when Iran-backed Yemen rebels opened fire on ships headed north to the Suez Canal. Somalis on the other side of the Red Sea saw an opportunity and joined in the attacks. The Somalis did not want to damage or sink ships, they wanted to get on board and force the crew to move to a Somali port, prop anchor and await the payment of ransom. As was the Somali custom, most of the crew was taken ashore and held under guard. Any attempt to retake the ship by force meant the crew ashore would be killed and Somalis on the ship would set fires or even use explosives to disable or sink the merchant ship. Trading nations sent warships to deal with the Yemen rebels as well as the Somali pirates. This was to prevent the Red Sea from becoming a no-go zone for merchant shipping. That would mean ships could not use the Suez canal and would instead take the long way around Africa. This takes weeks longer and cost a million dollars or more per ship in fuel and crew salaries.
We dont yet have any information about the motive of the shooter. We know who he is. I urge everyone, please dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations, Biden said, adding he would address the nation from the White House later in the day read more

Rivals Joe Biden and Donald Trump urged Americans to show unity Sunday after an assassination attempt on the Republican put the nation on edge in the run-up to the presidential election.

President Biden said he would address the nation from the Oval Office later in the day, a step only taken at times of grave crisis, after his 78-year-old predecessor was hit in the ear at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

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Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now, Biden said in brief remarks from the White House, flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris and his homeland security chief.

The 81-year-old Democrat said he had a short but good conversation on Saturday with Trump, his political nemesis whom he regularly brands as a threat to democracy.

Biden said the motives of the shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, remained unknown and urged people not to make assumptions about his afflations.

A day after being rushed from the stage by Secret Service agents with blood streaked across his face, Trump made a similar call.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, Trump said in a statement on his Truth Social network, adding that Americans should not allow Evil to win.

The tycoon added that it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening and that he would FEAR NOT.

Trumps wife Melania called the shooter a monster.

- Security failure? -

Secret Service snipers killed Crooks after he fired multiple shots at the rally from a nearby rooftop. A bystander was killed and two spectators critically injured in the worst act of US political violence in decades.

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Biden said he had ordered a full review of security at the rally, as well as at this weeks Republican National Convention in Milwaukee where Trump will be crowned the partys presidential nominee.

Biden also praised the victim, named as Corey Comperatore, saying the victim was protecting his family from the bullets.

Questions are swirling about the motive of shooter Crooks, whose body was seen in television images on a low roof of a building, near a weapon understood to have been an AR-15 style semiautomatic rifle.

Investigators had found explosive material in his car parked near the scene, US media said, while the FBI also searched his house.

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The shooter, reportedly a registered Republican, was believed to be working alone.

His father Matthew Crooks told CNN that he was trying to establish what the hell is going on.

The shocking incident also drew criticism of security at the rally, particularly about how a presidential candidate could be targeted by a gunman around 150 meters away despite a huge Secret Service detail.

US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi rejected absolutely false claims that it had refused additional protection for Trump ahead of the rally.

- Shock waves -

The attempt on Trumps life sent shock waves around the world, but the effects on a tight US presidential race in a deeply divided country are uncertain.

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Trumps family has already been promoting images of the president raising a defiant fist to the crowd after the shooting.

Trump said that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear and heard a whizzing sound.

His narrow escape has sparked conspiracy theories and finger-pointing by Republicans. Possible Trump vice presidential pick J.D. Vance claimed Bidens campaign rhetoric had led directly to the attack.

US politics have become increasingly hostile, with Trump building his image around inflammatory verbal assaults, and many Democrats expressing fury and disgust at Trumps rise.

World leaders expressed outrage over the assassination attempt, with UN chief Antonio Guterres saying he condemned it unequivocally.

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The United States has a history of political violence. President John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963 while President Ronald Reagan was shot but survived an assassination attempt in 1981.
While Musks formal endorsement of Trump was indeed sudden but not surprising. The SpaceX CEO drifted rightwards soon after US President Joe Biden took over the Oval Office read more

Tech Billionaire Elon Musk announced that he is endorsing former US President Donald Trump in the 2024 US Presidential elections. Musks endorsement came just minutes after Trump was rushed from the stage after he was shot at a political rally in Pennsylvania.

The Tesla CEO took to X, formally known as Twitter to make his stance very clear on the matter. I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," he wrote in his post. In a subsequent post, the billionaire shared a photograph of Trump moments after the episode and went on to add another message: Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.

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I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

While Musks formal endorsement of Trump was indeed sudden but not surprising. The SpaceX CEO drifted rightwards soon after US President Joe Biden took over the Oval Office. Over the last year, Trumps allies have been seeking the endorsement and financial support of Musk because of his cult-like influence online.

Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

Musk even alluded that the whole incident was deliberate and referred to the Biden administration as SS leadership, asking for the governments resignation.

Extreme incompetence or it was deliberate. Either way, the SS leadership must resign. https://t.co/0vYGrj6yuH  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

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Longtime coming

Musks endorsement came 30 minutes after the incident, however, it was long overdue. On Friday, reports started to swirl that the billionaire has donated to a Super Political Action Committee (Super PAC) working towards getting former President Donald Trump elected in the 2024 US Presidential elections.

People familiar with the matter told Bloomberg that Musk contributed to a low-profile group called America PAC. However, it is still unclear exactly how much he donated to the group but sources called it a sizable amount. Interestingly, the figure will be known soon, since the PAC is next to disclose its list of donors on July 15.

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The group named America PAC is working mostly behind the scenes to boost the Trump campaign. Their get out and vote efforts are reportedly being conducted most intensively in key battleground states that will determine the outcome of the elections. However, Federal Election Commission disclosures didnt detail where work is actually being conducted.

The group majorly focus on door-to-door persuasion as a recent ruling by the FEC allowed super PACs to coordinate with campaigns on voter outreach. In light of this, America PAC hired In Field Strategies, a national grassroots firm that has also worked for the Republican National Committee.

Musks decision to donate to a pro-Trump group is being touted as a major blow to US President Joe Bidens bid for the White House. It is pertinent to note that Bidens campaign is already marred with concerns about his age and his mental acuity.

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With inputs from agencies.
The man approached a neighbouring house where a 20-year-old was celebrating his birthday with his family in Espinasse-Vozelle, a central French village of around 1,000 inhabitants about 60 kilometres (37 miles) north of Clermont-Ferrand. He fired shots at the party guests, killing three of them, and then himself, the local prefecture said read more

Four people, including the shooter, died late Saturday when a man opened fire on a birthday party in a village in France, authorities said.

The man approached a neighbouring house where a 20-year-old was celebrating his birthday with his family in Espinasse-Vozelle, a central French village of around 1,000 inhabitants about 60 kilometres (37 miles) north of Clermont-Ferrand.

He fired shots at the party guests, killing three of them, and then himself, the local prefecture said.

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The young man celebrating his birthday and his father were both killed.

Police were still piecing together the how and the why of the attack, authorities said. The man appears to have shot at passing motorists before the deadly assault.

Jerome Piques, a local prosecutor, told AFP that the man, who was not among the party guests, approached the neighbouring house via a path linking both properties at around 9:30 pm (1930 GMT) before firing his gun loaded with lead bullets.

Four people were in hospital after being wounded in the shooting, but their injuries were not life-threatening, he said.

Fifteen others, who witnessed the shooting, were under observation by psychologists.

Its a shock, Michel Marien, the mayor of Espinasse-Vozelle, told AFP. We dont know what triggered this, how a person loses control and does something like this.

Police said the shooter, in his early 50s, appeared to have no prior convictions. The only trace of any irregularity were documents relating to unpaid family support payments, a source close to the case said.

The exact sequence of events still needs to be checked, the source said.

A large number of police and emergency services were on site Sunday.

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Participants at the villages Bastille Day celebration that were going on nearby were not harmed as police cordoned off the area.
The far-left France Unbowed (LFI) and Socialist Party are not able to agree on a candidate to propose for the post of Frances prime minister read more

Left-wing parties in France have not been able to agree on the name of next prime minister (Photo: Reuters)

Frances wait for the new prime minister is set to get longer as the candidate proposed by the far-left France Unbowed (LFI), Huguette Bello, has dropped out of contention. She cited the lack of consensus as the reason for her withdrawal.

Even as the far-right National Rally (RN) was expected to sweep the French parliamentary elections, the tactical voting arrangement between the NPF and President Emmanuel Macrons centrist bloc Ensemble (ENS) relegated the RN to the third position. The left-wing coalition New Popular Front (NPF) emerged as the single-largest bloc but fell short of a clear majority. Of the 577 seats, the NPF won 188 seats, the ENS 161, and the RN 142.

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While the NPF stopped the RNs march to victory, the blocs parties have not been able to build consensus around the prime ministerial candidate. The main disagreement is between the far-left LFI and the Socialist Party.

Earlier this week, , a veteran politician from the French overseas territory of Reunion, but the Socialists did not agree. The LFI is the largest party in the bloc with 78 seats and the Socialists rank second with 65 seats.

Is Frances search for PM back to square one?

After Bellos withdrawal, the search from Frances new prime minister appears to be back to square one.

Beside the LFI, Bello had support from the Communist Party and Green Party as well. But as the Socialist Party kept opposing her, she withdrew her name from consideration as there was no consensus among all members.

Hopeful of an early agreement within the NFP, I have decided to decline without further delay the offer that I was made, said Bello, as per AFP.

The Socialists have maintained that only someone from their party preferably party leader Olivier Faure could be acceptable for Macron to be appointed as the prime minister.

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Initially, it was expected that that the LFI could push for party leader Jean-Luc Melenchon for the prime ministerial post. Melenchon is a very controversial figure who is infamous for being accused as a rabid antisemite and notorious for his far-left agenda. He is not just detested by the centrists but is also resented by several within his own party and the coalition. To skirt around the opposition to Melenchon, the LFI proposed Bellos name but the Socialists did not even agree to that.

Theres no consensus

Laying the NPFs troubles bare, Socialist Party General Secretary Pierre Jouvet told AFP on Saturday that there is no consensus name for prime minister.

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On the other hand, Macron has said that the next premier will neither be from the far-left LFI nor from the far-right RN.

Under the French political system, the president appoints the prime minister who has to be approved by the parliament. This means that the premier is from the party or coalition that controls the parliament but the president may still wield considerable sway as he may influence who from the party or the bloc is eventually appointed. For now, the outgoing premier, Gabriel Attal, is running the caretaker government.

Instead of getting shorter, the list of names for the next premier appears to be getting longer. By Thursday, the NPFs choice was down to Faure or Bello, but then Communist Party leader Fabien Roussel put forward her name as well, according to Le Monde newspaper.

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Then, as the LFI-Socialists squabbling continued, the Green Party proposed former party leader and ex-housing minister Cecile Duflot and the Communists floated the name of Christophe Robert, the head of the Fondation Abbe Pierre, a charity, as per the newspaper.

Earlier this week, the NPF had said that it would name the prime ministerial candidate this week, but it does not appear to be happening as there is no consensus among the parties.
Hamas terrorists indulged in rampant sexual abuse, including rape, of women during the October 7 attack on Israel read more

The photographs depicts the victims, many of them, of the Hamas attack (Photo: Reuters)

The sexual violence perpetrated by Hamas terrorists during the October 7 attack was planned and they were trained for it, according to a report.

On October 7, 2023, around 3,000 terrorists of Hamas and allied groups like the Palestinian Islamic Jihad (PIJ) invaded Israel and went on a rampage across southern Israel, attacking border communities and overrunning military outposts and bases and massacring people and sexually assaulting women.

Now, the Palestinian Media Watch (PMW), an Israeli non-governmental organisation, has found that the many incidents of sexual violence, including rapes, during October 7 attack were not isolated incidents but were planned and the terrorists had also received training on how to go about subjugating and assaulting captive women, according to The Jerusalem Post newspaper.

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The Post, which carried the findings of PMW, reported that documents seized from Hamas terrorists and studied by the NGO show that Hamas and allied groups had premeditated intentions to use sexual assault as a weapon during their attacks.

Hamas gave written instructions for sexual violence

The documents show that Hamas had given written instructions to the terrorists in Arabic and Hebrew that would aid them in sexual assaults.

The Hebrew commands that terrorists would issue to their captives were written in Arabic script. The Post reported that the following commands were provided by Hamas to the terrorists: Take off your pants, Lie down, Dont make trouble, Men here, Women here, Children here, Raise your hands and spread your legs, Take your clothes off, I will kill you, We have hostages, We will kill the captives, and What is the name of the kibbutz

The Hamas language guide had the terms written in Arabic and their Hebrew translation then transliterated back into Arabic characters (see below) so that the terrorists would know how to speak and pronounce commands to the abducted Israelis, noted the Australian Jewish Association, which also shared the findings of PMW on X (formerly Twitter).

"TAKE YOUR PANTS OFF" & "SPREAD YOUR LEGS"



MORE PROOF OF PRE-PLANNED SEXUAL VIOLENCE FOR 7 OCTOBER



Shocking disturbing revelations of Arabic-Hebrew phrases given to Hamas operatives for 7 October terrorism.



"Palestinian Media Watch attended a military intelligence briefing pic.twitter.com/iMD74D9l1R  Australian Jewish Association (@AustralianJA) July 10, 2024

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Hamas carried out widespread sexual violence

The reports of sexual violence and rapes started pouring in on October 7 itself. The Supernova Music Festival in southern Israel, where terrorists killed more than 300 civilians, was the site of mass-murder and rapes. A survivor told Tablet magazine that women were raped amid corpses of their friends and were executed after rapes.

They [Hamas terrorists] are kids, but theyre young men already, and theyre holding this guy, and he looks as his girlfriend is being mounted on a bike and driven away from him. God knows what shes going to experience  Women have been raped at the area of the rave next to their friends bodies, dead bodies, said this survivor in a story published on October 8.

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The magazine further reporting that several of these rape victims appear to have been later executed.

A second survivor of the carnage the desert music festival told the magazine they saw mutilated bodies of women at the site. It is a running theme across Hamas attacks. In an investigative report, The New York Times detailed accounts of terrorists cutting womens face and breasts after raping them and womens corpses found with vaginas mutilated and nails hammered into the lower half of their bodies.

The newspaper reported that soldiers and medics who responded to the attack on the desert music festival said more than 30 bodies of women and girls around the site of the festival and two communities near the site with visible signs of sexual abuse: legs spread, clothes torn off, signs of abuse in their genital areas.

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The violence was not just concentrated in and around the site of the festival. The paper reported that it found evidence of sexual violence in at least seven locations struck by terrorists across southern Israel.

In March, the United Nations (UN) also acknowledged that reports of sexual assaults were credible.

We found clear and convincing information that sexual violence, including rape, sexualized torture, and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, said Pramila Patten, the UN Secretary-Generals Special Representative on Sexual Violence in Conflict.
Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif is one of the most-wanted men in Israel and has escaped seven assassination attempts so far read more

Hamas has withdrawn from talks for a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip after an Israeli strike targeted its military chief Mohammed Deif, according to an official.

Israel on Saturday struck a compound in Al-Mawasi area near the town of Khan Younis in southern Gaza. The targets of the strike were Deif, one of the most wanted men in Israel, and Rafaa Salameh, the commander of the Khan Younis Brigade of Hamas. Their fates are not yet known.

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Following the strike, a Hamas official told AFP news agency that the terrorist group was pulling of out of Gaza ceasefire talks.

Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh told international mediators of the decision to halt negotiations due to the occupations [Israels] lack of seriousness, continued policy of procrastination and obstruction, and the ongoing massacres against unarmed civilians, said the official to the agency.

In a joint IDF and ISA activity based on precise intelligence, the IDF's Southern Command and the IAF carried out a strike in an area where two senior Hamas terrorists and additional terrorists hid among civilians. The location of the strike was an open area surrounded by trees, pic.twitter.com/1MEJYHHwm7  Israel Defense Forces (@IDF) July 13, 2024

The international mediators are Egypt and Qatar, who have been facilitating the talks between Israel and Hamas with support from the United States.

Even as Hamas has halted the talks, the terrorist groups official told AFP that Haniyeh has said that the group was ready to resume negotiations when the occupation government [Israel] demonstrates seriousness in reaching a ceasefire agreement and a prisoner exchange deal.

Mohammed Deif is alive, says Hamas

Amid no confirmation of his death by Israel, Hamas has said that Deif is alive and is doing fine.

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The Hamas official quoted by AFP said that Deif was fine and was directly overseeing the military activities of the terrorist group.

The Hamas-run Gazan authorities said at least 92 people were killed in the Israeli strikes and around 300 were injured.

Is 8th time the charm in hunt of Mohammed Deif?

Deif is an expert bombmaker who is said to have presided over many bombings in previous waves of terrorist attacks during the Palestinian intifadas. He has survived seven Israeli assassination attempts so far.

Along with Yahya Sinwar, the chief of Hamas in Gaza, Deif is considered to be the principal planners of the October 7 terrorist attack.

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Deif is highly elusive and little is about him. Mohammed Deif is not even his real name. Deif in Arabic means guest and he has acquired the name as he stays with trusted lieutenants homes and keeps changing his base and barely stays anywhere for long.

In a press conference last night, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there was no certainty that Deif was killed.

Where do Israel-Hamas talks stand?

In recent weeks, the talks between Israel and Hamas had picked up pace as a revised version of the US-backed ceasefire proposal was submitted to Hamas and there were reports of Hamas dropping some of the sticking points. Barak Ravid of Axios has reported that the killing of Deif would increase pressure on Hamas to agree to a ceasefire agreement even if the terrorist group quits the talks in the short-term.

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Three senior Israeli officials told me that even if there might be a suspension of the negotiations in the immediate term, the attempted assassination of of Hamas' top military commander Mohammed Deif (especially if it turns out that he was killed) will increase the pressure on  Barak Ravid (@BarakRavid) July 13, 2024

Earlier this week, US President Joe Biden had said that even though there were gaps to feel, Israel and Hamas had agreed on the framework for the ceasefire plan he had outlined last month. As per the plan, the war in Gaza would end in three stages starting with a six-week ceasefire and a release of some Israeli hostages in lieu of release of Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails.

On Saturday night, however, Hamas official Bassem Naim told AFP that Netanyahu was to blame for the impasse between the two sides and called on Biden to put sufficient pressure on the Israeli premier to agree to a truce.

Despite the apparent setback to the talks from the strike, an Israeli security source told the agency that Israel will continue to target senior Hamas leadership even as it pursues negotiations for a hostage agreement.
While speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, two hours after the shooting, Biden called the whole ordeal sick and said that Theres no place in America for this kind of violence read more

Democrat candidate, US President Joe Biden, speaks during a presidential debate with Republican candidate, former US President Donald Trump, in Atlanta, Georgia, on 27 June, 2024. Reuters

US President Joe Biden said he is grateful that his Republican presidential rival Donald Trump is safe after a shooting incident at the former US Presidents rally in Pennsylvania. While speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, two hours after the shooting, Biden called the whole ordeal sick and said that Theres no place in America for this kind of violence.

The president also expressed his wish to speak to Trump soon. The former president was the target of an assassination attempt while he was addressing a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday (local time). Shortly after the sound of a gunshot echoed in the skies of Pennsylvania, Trump can be seen escorted by the Secret Services with his ears covered in blood.

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A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman and at least one attendee died in the incident. The Secret Service also noted that two spectators were critically injured. While reacting to the incident, Biden called for the country to unite irrespective of where their ideologies lie.

We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, he said. Meanwhile, a spokesperson for the former president said that he was doing fine and is being treated at a medical facility.

Biden thanks law enforcement

The American president was in Delaware attending church when the shooting occurred. He was briefed about the shooting by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall, ABC News reported.

Ive been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now, Biden told reporters in hastily assembled remarks.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald, hes with his doctors. Apparently, hes doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly, he added. He went on to condemn political violence that has engulfed the United States.

But the bottom line is, the  the Trump rally was a rally that he shouldve been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem, Biden said. But the idea, the idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this, is just unheard of, its just not appropriate.

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We  everybody, everybody must condemn it, Biden said. Everybody.

Reactions from lawmakers pour in

Reaction from lawmakers began pouring in on social media who said they were sending prayers to Trump. Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, House Speaker Mike Johnson said in a statement.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned, he furthered.

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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer also condemned the whole ordeal. I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country, the Democratic leader wrote on X, formally known as Twitter.

I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.  Chuck Schumer (@SenSchumer) July 13, 2024

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Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi posted a statement posted X: As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.



As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those  Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 13, 2024

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Pelosis husband Paul Pelosi was the victim of political violence when a man struck him with a hammer after barging into their home in San Francisco.

Obama reacts to the incident

Former US President Barack Obama also insisted that there is no space for political violence in the United States. There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, the former president wrote on X.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery, he added.
His predecessor and former coalition government ally, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, lost a vote of confidence on Friday, barely 18 months after taking office. Dahal, a former Maoist guerrilla commander better known by his nom de guerre Prachanda (The Fierce One), was forced to step down after Olis party withdrew its support read more

Nepals president appointed Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli as prime minister for a fourth time on Sunday, after his communist party forged a coalition government with the centre-left Nepali Congress.

President Poudel has appointed KP Sharma Oli as the new prime minister of Nepal, Kiran Pokharel, press adviser to President Ram Chandra Poudel, told AFP.

Oli, 72, who heads the Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), will be sworn into office on Monday, Pokharel added.

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First elected as prime minister in 2015, he was reelected in 2018 and then reappointed briefly in 2021 in Nepals often turbulent parliament.

His predecessor and former coalition government ally, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, lost a vote of confidence on Friday, barely 18 months after taking office.

Dahal, a former Maoist guerrilla commander better known by his nom de guerre Prachanda (The Fierce One), was forced to step down after Olis party withdrew its support.

Oli instead forged a deal with Sher Bahadur Deuba of the Nepali Congress.

He has promised to yield the post to the former five-time prime minister Deuba, 78, later in the parliamentary term.

Nepal became a federal republic in 2008 after a decade-long civil war and a peace deal that saw the Maoists brought into government and the abolishment of the monarchy.

Since then, a revolving door of ageing prime ministers and a culture of horse-trading have fuelled public perceptions that the government is out of touch with Nepals pressing problems.

Nepals next general elections are due in 2027.

In a Himalayan republic of about 30 million people, overshadowed by giant neighbours India and China, Oli previously trod a fine balance between the rivals, cordial to both but reaching out to Beijing to decrease Nepals dependency on New Delhi.

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Its economy has struggled since the coronavirus pandemic, which devastated the vital tourism industry and dried up remittances from the huge number of Nepalis working abroad.
While addressing a press conference at the Israel Defense Forces headquarters in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu lauded the handling of the war by the countrys military read more

As the ongoing Israel-Hamas war continues to intensify, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he was not yet absolutely certain as to whether Hamass most senior military commander Muhammad Deif had been killed in the recent airstrike.

While addressing a press conference at the Israel Defense Forces headquarters in Tel Aviv, Netanyahu lauded the handling of the war by the countrys military. Despite expressing uncertainty about Deif, Netanyahu made it clear that Israel is winning the war. He noted that the cracks and weakness of the Palestinian terror group are now more evident, The Times of Israel reported.

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It is still not absolutely certain if the two were taken out, but I want to promise you that one way or another we will get to the entire Hamas leadership, said Netanyahu at the beginning of the press conference, referring to Deif and Salameh.

He also claimed that the attack on Deif along with other strikes on Hamas commanders were only possible due to his refusal to end the campaign until all the aims of the war in achieved.

Still a way to go to obtain victory: Netanyahu

While standing by his decision to continue with Israels ongoing operation in Gaza, the Israeli premier insisted that there is still a way to go to obtain victory. However, he insisted that it was possible with unity, determination and faith in the justice of our cause. Earlier this year, the prime minister said on several occasions that Israel was just a step away from victory.

The press briefing came after Deif, together with his deputy Rafaa Salameh, was targeted in an airstrike in the southern Gaza Strip on Saturday morning. They were reportedly present in the above-ground building between the al-Mawasi designated humanitarian zone and the city of Khan Younis.

Deif has been one of the most prominent targets of Israel after the October 7 attack by Hamas rocked the Jewish nations killing 1,200 Israelis. Muhammed Deif is the chief murderer, Hamass chief of staff, number two in the chain of command. Deif is the architect and leader of the massacre on October 7 and of many other terror attacks. His hands are dripping in the blood of many Israelis, the Israeli premier said while recalling the atrocities committed by Deif.

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Netanyahu also made it clear that he approved the strike only after he was satisfied that there were no hostages in the area. Meanwhile, Khalil Al-Hayya, the deputy leader of Hamas, denied Deif was dead. We say to [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu that Muhammad Deif is listening to you right now and mocking your lies, Al-Hayya told Al Jazeera on Saturday.

During the press conference, the Israeli Prime Minister also addressed criticism over how his administration handled the hostage negotiations. He said that abductees were at the top of our thoughts at all times and in every decision we make. He went on to mention that Hamas had sought 29 changes to the deal, which he said he had totally rejected, The Times of Israel reported.

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I turn to you, families of the dear hostages: I know how much you are suffering from uncertainty but I would like to tell you one thing that is certain: We will not give up on anyone and we will do everything to return them all, Netanyahu exclaimed, reacting to the demonstrations conducted by the families of the hostages.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first world leaders to condemn the incident. In his post on X, formally known as Twitter, PM Modi said that he was deeply concerned by the attack on his friend read more

From Left to Right: Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, Former US President Donald Trump and Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Source: AP

Condemnation and prayers poured in from around the world after Former US President Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania. The 2024 Republican Presidential hopeful was seen getting whisked away off stage while he was bleeding from his right ear after the attack. A spokesperson of Trump later confirmed that he was doing fine.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi was one of the first world leaders to condemn the incident. In his post on X, formally known as Twitter, PM Modi said that he was deeply concerned by the attack on his friend.

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Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery, the prime minister wrote in the post. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, he added.

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery.



Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2024

Heres a look at how the world reacted to the assassination attempt on the former President of the United States.

World Reacts

Meanwhile, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who are touted as close allies of Trump, offered prayers for the former president and his family. My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours, Orban wrote in a post on X.

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Earlier this week, the Hungarian premier met Trump after skipping the final day of the NATO Summit in Washington. Orban paid a highly publicised visit to Trumps Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours.   Orban Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) July 13, 2024

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump, Netanyahu wrote. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery. The authorities stated that the 20-year-old who was involved in the shooting died at the rally.

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.  Benjamin Netanyahu -   (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024

Other leaders, like the UKs New Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, also took time to denounce all forms of political violence.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes, Starmer said on X. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.



Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 14, 2024

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Meanwhile, the Canadian premier insisted that he was sickened by the whole ordeal. Trudeau wrote on X that his thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.

Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump, Trudeau added. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. It is pertinent to note that the shooting at the Trump rally came less than two months after the attempted assassination of Slovakias Prime Minister Robert Fico.

Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 14, 2024

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also condemned the shooting incident. We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy, he said. In 2022, former Prime Minister of Japan, Shinzo Abe was assassinated while delivering a campaign speech in the city of Nara.

We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy. I pray for former President Trumps speedy recovery.



   (@kishida230) July 14, 2024

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni also mentioned that she was following updates about Trump with apprehension. My solidarity and my best wishes for a speedy recovery go to him, with the hope that the next few months of the electoral campaign will see dialogue and responsibility prevail over hatred and violence, Meloni wrote.

Seguo con apprensione gli aggiornamenti dalla Pennsylvania, dove il 45esimo Presidente degli Stati Uniti @realDonaldTrump e stato colpito durante un comizio. A lui la mia solidarieta e i miei auguri di pronta guarigione, con lauspicio che i prossimi mesi di campagna elettorale  Giorgia Meloni (@GiorgiaMeloni) July 13, 2024

Another close ally of Trump, Argentinian President Javier Milei went on to blame the international left for the whole incident. I hope for the speedy recovery of President Trump and that the elections in the United States are held fairly, peacefully and democratically, Milei averred.

Meanwhile, Brazils left-leaning President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the shooting unacceptable while also urging others to condemn it. The attack against former president Donald Trump must be vehemently repudiated by all defenders of democracy and dialogue in politics. What we saw today is unacceptable, Lula remarked.

O atentado contra o ex-presidente Donald Trump deve ser repudiado veementemente por todos os defensores da democracia e do dialogo na politica. O que vimos hoje e inaceitavel.  Lula (@LulaOficial) July 13, 2024

Overall, the assassination attempt on Trump has not only sent shockwaves across the United States, but it has jolted the world as well.
July 14, 2024: Russian president Vladimir Putin believed that Russia must dominate the Black Sea and enable Russian warships and commercial transports to exit the Black Sea and enter the Mediterranean Sea, to demonstrate Russian naval power and increase maritime trade with foreign nations. Russia seized the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine in 2014. Before that Russia fought a brief war with Georgia in the Caucasus and gained control of most of Georgias Black Sea coast. These moves were apparently prompted by the 2013 Russian formation of a Mediterranean Squadron from ships of the Black Sea fleet. In 2015 Russia intervened in the Syrian civil war on the side of the pro-Russian Assad government. This enabled Russia to build its Hmeimim Air Base in Syrias Latakia province near the Mediterranean coast. Russia also improved the nearby Tartus naval base it leased from Syria. This serves as a base for ships of the Russian Mediterranean Squadron. In North Africa Russia took control of the Al Jufra Air Base in Libya. This was to serve as a military base for further Russian activities in Africa.

All this came to nothing as Russia lost control of the Black Sea after it invaded Ukraine in 2022. Ukraine used USVs (Unmanned Seagoing Vessels) armed with explosives to destroy or damage over a third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet warships. The surviving Russian ships fled to distant areas of the Black Sea to escape these novel but very effective Ukrainian attacks. Even in the new, more distant bases, Black Sea Fleet ships were still attacked by new, longer range Ukrainian attack USVs. This was humiliating for Russia, which lost control of the Black Sea to Ukraine, a country without a fleet. The Ukrainians continue to use their USVs against surviving Russian warships and now commercial ones. Ukrainian USVs now block Russian tankers and commercial vessels from leaving or entering the Black Sea.

This change means Russia no longer has much naval power in the Mediterranean and dares not try to send any ships back into the Black Sea, mainly because Turkey invoked clauses of the 1936 Montreux Convention that enables Turkey to halt warship access to the Black Sea from the Mediterranean via the narrow Turkish Bosporus and Dardanelles straits. Turkey invoked the Montreux Convention after Russia invaded Ukraine in early 2022.

The Ukrainian USVs are waiting for such a move and the Russians have not been able to develop methods to deal with the USVs. Without access to the Mediterranean, Russia no longer has any influence over numerous Middle Eastern situations where past Russian support for one side or another was decisive.

Russia must now rely only on its Baltic Sea ports for commercial shipments. This increases ground transport costs for Russian exports of grain and oil, and imports to southern Russia. Nearby Russian Northern Fleet bases can send warships to the Mediterranean but those ships cannot enter the Black Sea. Even if they could, the Ukrainian USVs would sink them before they could reach Russian bases over a thousand kilometers east where the surviving Black Sea fleet ships have taken refuge.

This Russian naval defeat in the Black Sea has eliminated, for the duration of the Ukraine War, the Russian ability to exert any influence in Middle Eastern conflicts, particularly the one between Iran and Hamas against tiny but mighty Israel. When Russia invaded Ukraine in 2022, they never expected to lose control of the Black sea along with over a third of the Black Sea Fleet warships. This is an unexpected nightmare for Russia and there appears to be no easy way Russia can reverse the situation. Worse, NATO countries are discussing how to make the reduced capabilities of the Black Sea Fleet permanent and banish or greatly reduce any future Russian naval power in the Black Sea or Mediterranean. Ukraines blockade of Russias Black Sea ports with USVs will also give it considerable leverage when peace negotiations begin.
We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. But the atmosphere around candidate Trump  provoked what America is confronting today read more

Security Officials assisting Former US president Donald Trump after the shooting bid during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Reuters

The Kremlin said on Sunday it did not believe the U.S. administration was responsible for Saturdays assassination attempt on U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, but that it had created an atmosphere that provoke1d the attack.

Trump was shot in the ear during a rally in Pennsylvania, in an attack now being investigated as an assassination attempt. The attacker was shot dead and law enforcement officials said they had not yet identified a motive.

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We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

But the atmosphere around candidate Trump  provoked what America is confronting today.

U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, saying there was no place for that kind of violence in America. Peskov said Russia condemned any violence in the course of the political struggle.

His comments echoed those of some of Trumps Republican allies, who immediately pinned the blame on Biden.

After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena - using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate - it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger, Peskov said.

He added that there were no plans for Putin to call Trump in light of the incident.

World leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, rapidly condemned Saturdays attack, expressing shock, denouncing political violence and wishing Trump a quick recovery.

Russias foreign ministry used the shooting to urge Washington to stop funding Ukraines military and concentrate on improving domestic law enforcement instead.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, writing on Telegram, responded to remarks made by independent presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr following the shooting.

Dear Bobby and all those who vote in the United States to supply Zelenskiy with arms, Zakharova said.

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Wouldnt it be better for this money to finance the American police and other services that are supposed to ensure law and order within the United States?

Moscows invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has brought Russias ties with the West to their lowest ebb since the height of the Cold War.

Asked whether the Trump attack could affect the legitimacy of the United States upcoming election, Peskov said: It is not for us to judge. We have not the slightest desire to interfere. This is a U.S. matter.
Several attempts have been made to assassinate Russian President Vladimir Putin, said Ukrainian spy chief Kyrylo Budanov.

In recent years, there have been unconfirmed reports of plots against Putin, but Budanov did not cite any particular incident or reveal what he was basing his remarks on.

In an interview with the New Ukraine website, Budanov further said that the consensus around Putins leadership is falling and he no longer enjoys the unquestioned support of the Russian elite.

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Putin has been at the helm of Russia since 1999 when he first became the prime minister of the country. Since then, he has continuously run the country and has strengthened his position by systemically removing political opponents and dissidents and clamping down on a free press. The support of the elite oligarchs, the big businesspersons and government leaders, is crucial to Putins rule and there have been indications in recent years that a section of oligarchs as well as government agencies were indeed not supportive of Putin.

Budanov did not specify whether the Ukrainian government was involved in these purported assassination attempts on Putin.

Russian society will collapse when Putin dies

Budanov said that while Putin no longer has the unquestioned support of everyone, the Russian are afraid of losing him over the chaos that would be there in case of his death as he has been in power for so long.

When Putin dies, the Russians will respond like they did after the death of Soviet Unions leader Josef Stalin in 1953 when their whole world collapsed and when they didnt know how to go on living, according to Budanov.

Following Budanovs remarks, the Russian government said that the threat from Ukraine to Putin was obvious and that the presidents safety would need to protected, according to German news agency dpa.

Have there been assassination attempts on Putin?

In May 2023, when drones attacked the Russian presidential palace, Russia accused of Ukraine of trying to assassinate Putin.

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At the time, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy had denied there was any attempt on Putins life. He had said, We dont attack Putin or Moscow. We fight on our territory. Were defending our villages and cities.

Over the years, there have been several attempts on Putins life, according to reports.

In 2012, Russian and Ukrainian authorities jointly thwarted an attempt on Putins life after the presidential elections, according to Russian state media.

In 2003, the British police thwarted an assassination attempt on Putin by two rogue intelligence personnel during a visit to London, according to a report by The Sunday Times at the time. The report also said that the two personnel were in touch by FSB, the Russian intelligence and security service which succeeded the infamous KGB of Soviet Union.

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In June 2023, in the biggest blow to Putins leadership in more than two decades, the private military company Wagner Group mutinied and marched to Moscow. The militia captured a regional Russian military headquarters, fought with the Russian military, and had vowed to remove the-then Defence Minister Sergei Shoigu and Chief of General Staff Gen. Valery Gerasimov. The mutiny was seen as being fuelled by elements within the Russian regime opposed to Putin as it was said that an action as drastic as an outright mutiny and a march on Moscow could not happen without insiders nod.

In the first two years of the Ukraine War, a string of mysterious deaths of Russian oligarchs were also reported. These deaths were said to be potentially related to a power struggle within Russia.
Fico, 59, was hit by four bullets from close range after a government meeting in central Slovakia on May 15. He underwent two lengthy surgeries in a nearby hospital and returned to work last week. The scenario is like a photocopy, the Slovak leader said on his website. The nationalist-leaning Fico accused the liberal Slovak opposition of inciting hatred against him read more

Slovak PM Robert Fico after he was shot at after a government meeting on May 15. Reuters

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico on Sunday said he saw close similarities between an attack on Donald Trump and the one he suffered in May.

The former US president was hit in the ear in an assassination attempt during a campaign rally on Saturday

Fico, 59, was hit by four bullets from close range after a government meeting in central Slovakia on May 15. He underwent two lengthy surgeries in a nearby hospital and returned to work last week.

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The scenario is like a photocopy, the Slovak leader said on his website.

The nationalist-leaning Fico accused the liberal Slovak opposition of inciting hatred against him.

If Donald Trumps attacker spoke Slovak, he would have only had to read the (local) newspapers Dennik N, Sme or Aktuality to want to set things right, Fico said on Sunday.

Trumps political opponents are trying to silence him and when they dont succeed, they annoy the public so much that some poor guy grabs a gun.

Fico leads a three-party coalition of his centrist Smer-SD party, the centrist Hlas party and the far-right SNS party in governing the EU and NATO member state of 5.4 million people.

He has also called on Slovakia to build a wall to stop progressive and liberal ideologies, comparing them to a cancer.
It happened in 1963. During the campaign for the 1964 US presidential election, the incumbent and second-time hopeful John F Kennedy was shot dead, leaving the world shocked read more

]President John F. Kennedy waves from his car in a motorcade approximately one minute before he was shot, Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas. AP File

The assassination bid on former US President and the Republican presidential election hopeful Donald Trump during the election campaign on Saturday has evoked shock reactions from across the world. Questions are being raised over the security apparatus of the US, including the Secret Service that is responsible for the safety of Trump. But this story is not about assassination attempt on Trump which left him injured and at least one attendee dead besides the shooter. This is the story of the assassination of John F Kennedy, a Democrat, in November 1963.

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The fatal day in Dallas

On November 22, 1963, the sun shone brightly over Dallas, Texas, as President Kennedy embarked on a campaign tour to bolster support ahead of the 1964 presidential election. The mood was buoyant as the presidential motorcade wound its way through the citys streets. Crowds lined the route, eager to catch a glimpse of the charismatic leader and his wife, Jacqueline Kennedy.

As the motorcade approached Dealey Plaza at around 12:30 pm (local time), the atmosphere was electric. Suddenly, the unthinkable happened. Shots rang out, shattering the jubilant scene. President Kennedy, seated in an open-top limousine, was struck by two bullets: one in the upper back and the other in the head.

Texas Governor John Connally, who was riding in the same car, was also seriously wounded by a bullet that struck his back, chest, wrist, and thigh.

The rush to Parkland Memorial Hospital

Pandemonium ensued as the motorcade accelerated towards Parkland Memorial Hospital, with Secret Service agents attempting to shield the President. At the hospital, doctors and nurses fought desperately to save Kennedys life, but their efforts were in vain. At 1:00 pm (local time), Kennedy was pronounced dead, sending a shockwave of grief and disbelief across the nation and the world.

Vice President Lyndon B Johnson, who was three cars behind in the motorcade, was whisked away by Secret Service agents to ensure his safety. He would later be sworn in as the 36th President of the United States aboard Air Force One, with Jacqueline Kennedy by his side, her clothing still stained with her husbands blood.

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The hunt for the assassin

In the chaotic aftermath of the assassination, attention quickly turned to identifying and apprehending the assailant. Within hours, law enforcement had a suspect: Lee Harvey Oswald, a 24-year-old former Marine who had recently been hired at the Texas School Book Depository. Witnesses reported seeing Oswald on the sixth floor of the building shortly before the shots were fired, and a rifle was found at the scene.

Oswald was arrested by that afternoon from a movie theatre, where he had gone after allegedly killing a Dallas police officer, identified as JD Tippit. Oswald was charged with the murders of both President Kennedy and police officer Tippit.

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However, Oswald never stood trial. Two days later, as he was being transferred from the city jail to the county jail, he was fatally shot by Jack Ruby, a local nightclub owner, with television cameras catching the murder live.

Ruby stood trial and was sentenced to death after he was found guilty. On appeal, Rubys conviction and death sentence were overturned. He was granted a new trial, but he fell ill and died of cancer in January 1967.

Conspiracy theories and the Warren Commission

Oswalds murder fuelled widespread speculation and numerous conspiracy theories about the assassination. Many found it difficult to believe that a lone gunman could have carried out such a heinous act without assistance. Theories abounded, suggesting involvement by the Mafia, the CIA, the Soviet Union, or Cuban exiles, among others.

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To address these concerns and to investigate the assassination thoroughly, President Johnson established the Warren Commission, led by Chief Justice Earl Warren. The Commissions report, released in September 1964, concluded that Oswald acted alone in assassinating President Kennedy and that there was no credible evidence of a conspiracy. Despite this conclusion, public scepticism persisted, and alternative theories continued to be debated.

The Warren Commission also concluded that Ruby acted alone in shooting Oswald dead.

The nation in mourning

The assassination of President Kennedy plunged the United States into a period of deep mourning. Millions of Americans watched the television coverage of his funeral, held on November 25, 1963, which was marked by poignant moments such as the sight of four-year-old John F Kennedy Jr (who had turned four that day) saluting his fathers casket. World leaders and dignitaries from around the globe attended the funeral, paying their respects to a man whose vision and charisma had left an indelible mark on international affairs.

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Legacy and the aftermath

Kennedys handling of international crises, most notably the Cuban Missile Crisis in 1962, showcased his diplomatic skills and his ability to steer the world away from the brink of nuclear war. His call for peace and cooperation, encapsulated in his famous Ich bin ein Berliner speech, resonated with people around the world and solidified his legacy as a global statesman.

The tragic circumstances of Kennedys assassination have left an enduring impact on American society and politics. The questions and theories surrounding his death continue to spark interest and debate, reflecting the complexity and intrigue of that fateful day. His legacy, however, extends beyond his untimely death. Kennedy is still remembered as a symbol of hope and progress, and as a leader whose advocacy for civil rights continues to influence and inspire American politics.

Kennedy was not the first president assassinated

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President, was the first US president to be assassinated. He was shot by John Wilkes Booth in 1865, while attending a performance of the comedy, Our American Cousin, at Fords Theatre in Washington DC.

James Garfield, the 20th President became the second president to be assassinated, just six months into his term in July 1881. He was shot while he was catching a train in Washington DC. Garfield succumbed to his injuries later that year. The shooter was identified as Charles Guiteau.

William McKinley, the 25th President, was shot in September 1901 while shaking hands after delivering a speech in New York. He was shot twice in the chest at close range. He served just about six months as the US president.

The assassinations of Lincoln, Garfield, and McKinley led to the establishment of Secret Service protection for U.S. presidents.

Some other US presidents who survived assassination attempts included Theodore Roosevelt, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and also George W Bush. Roosevelt, a two-time former president, survived an assassination attempt during his third campaign for the presidency in 1912. He was shot but continued to deliver his speech despite the injury.

Ford, the 38th President, faced two assassination attempts within 18 days in 1975. Reagan, the 40th President, was seriously wounded by a gunmans bullet early in his presidency in 1981. Bush, the 43rd President, survived an attempt in 2005 while attending a rally in Tbilisi, Georgia. A hand grenade was thrown towards Bush but landed about 100 feet away but did not explode.
According to a congressional report which was published in 2008, there have been 15 direct assaults on presidents, presidents-elects and candidates between the years 1835 and 2005 read more

During a doomed rally in the state of Pennsylvania, Former US President Donald Trump was shot in a foiled assassination attempt, sending shockwaves across the United States. However, it was one of more than a dozen attacks on American presidents, presidents-elect or presidential candidates in the history of the country.

According to a congressional report which was published in 2008, there have been 15 direct assaults on presidents, presidents-elects and candidates between the years 1835 and 2005. But the last assassination attempt was in 2011 when a man was charged with attempting to assassinate former US President Barack Obama after authorities noted that he had fired shots at the White House. Also in 2018, the Secret Service also intercepted a pipe bomb that had been sent to him.

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In 2016, a man at a Las Vegas rally for then-candidate Trump attempted to pull a gun off a police officer. He later attempted to the authorities that he intended to kill the former president. A year later, a man attempted to steal a forklift during a Trump rally in an assassination attempt.

While these attacks were prevented before any harm was done to anyone, there were some that can be easily called close calls. Heres a look back at some of the notable attacks on American presidents and candidates in the modern era.

George W. Bush

In 2005, an attacker threw a grenade at then-president George W Bush, during a rally in Tbilisi, Georgia. However, a major tragedy was averted because the bomb did not explode. According to the FBIs report on the matter, the bomb landed just 61 feet from Bush, then First Lady Laura Bush, then-President and First Lady of the Republic of Georgia along with a host of other state officials.

The hand grenade failed to detonate, thankfully, as the red handkerchief wrapped tightly around it didnt allow the firing pin to deploy fast enough, the report further stated.

Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili (R) holds up U.S. President George W. Bushs (L) hand on 10 May 2005, at Freedom Square in the Georgian capital Tbilisi. File Image / AFP

The Georgian authorities eventually identified the man named Vladimir Arutyunian (or Arutunian) as the main suspect in the attack. After the Georgian police raided his apartment, he opened fire killing one Georgian police officer. From his hospital bed, Arutyunian admitted that he had thrown the grenade in hopes of killing Bush. He was later sentenced to life.

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Ronald Reagan

The former US President was leaving the Hilton Hotel in Washington DC when a man named John Hinckley Jr. fired a .22 calibre revolver. According to the Reagan Library, the ex-presidents wounds were not noticed until he began to cough up blood. Three others were also injured in the fatal shooting incident.

n this March 30, 1981 file photo, President Ronald Reagan, center, is shown being shoved into the Presidents limousine by Secret Service agents after being shot outside a Washington hotel. AP

Later at a rally, when a balloon popped, Reagan said missed me, recalling the assassination attempt. The phrase which only had two words is still touted as one one the most powerful phrases by an American commander-in-chief.

Gerald Ford

It is pertinent to note that Ford is the only president in the countrys history who has the honour of surviving two assassination attempts. On September 5, 1975, he survived a gunshot misfired by Lynette Alice Fromme.

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President Ford ducks behind his limousine and is hustled into the vehicle after a shot was fired as he left the St. Francis Hotel in San Francisco. AP

17 days after the incident, a woman named Sara Jane Moore missed her target on the first shot at Ford. However, in the second shot, a bystander grabbed the gun and a taxi driver got hit during the tussle.

George C. Wallace

Democratic presidential hopeful and then Alabama Governor George C. Wallace was shot after a rally in Laurel, Maryland on May 15, 1972. The attack was devastating as after being shot five times, Wallace became paralysed from the waist down. According to the Smithsonian Magazine, the failed assassination made Wallace reconsider his segregationist views.

Arthur H. Bremer is taken into custody on May 15, 1972, moments after then Alabama Gov. George Wallace was shot in Laurel, Md. File Image: AP

Robert F. Kennedy

After winning the Democratic primary in California, Kennedy was shot dead by Sirhan Sirhan, while he was walking through the kitchen at the Ambassador Hotel. Kennedy was shot on June 5, 1968, and died the following day.

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In this June 5, 1968 file photo, Hotel busboy Juan Romero, right, comes to the aid of Senator Robert F. Kennedy, as he lies on the floor of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles moments after he was shot. File Image / AP

Read our story on how the assassination of John F. Kennedy left the world in utter shock: Click Here.

Harry Truman

In the year 1950, two men named Oscar Collazo and Griselio Torresola fired shots at the White House. While Truman was left unharmed the incident killed one police officer and injured two others.

Front page of The Cincinnati Enquirer a day after the Truman assassination plot was foiled. X

Franklin D. Roosevelt

Three weeks before he was elected, a man named Giuseppe Zangara opened fire. The bullets missed Roosevelt, but they hit and killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak who was standing near the then-president.

Theodore Roosevelt

Roosevelt was appointed to the Oval Office after the assassination of then-President William McKinley in 1901. He eventually won his own term in 1904  and campaigned for the third one.

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President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt speaks in Miami on Feb. 15, 1933, just before an attempt on his life. File Image / AP

The former president was leaving dinner at a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, hotel on October 14, 1912, when a man named John Schrank aimed his .38-caliber Colt revolver. According to the Library of Congress, Schrank eventually told the authorities McKinley had asked Schrank to avenge his death in a dream.

Over the years, four US presidents were assassinated during their terms in the White House. They are as follows:

Abraham Lincoln - April 14, 1865

James Garfield - July 2, 1881

William McKinley - September 6, 1901

John F. Kennedy - November 22, 1663

While leaders of other countries have also been assassinated, America emerges as a glaring example of how most powerful people in the world are still not safe. Interestingly, almost all of the incidents are gun-related which begs the question, does the United States need stringent gun laws?

With inputs from agencies.
Vance who is just 48 hours away from being potentially announced as Trumps vice presidential pick at the Republican National Convention, pointed the finger at Democrats and Biden for the tragic incident read more

JD Vance, the top contender to be former US President Donald Trumps running mate, blamed US President Joe Biden for the apparent assassination attempt on the Republican presidential hopeful. Trump was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania sending a shockwave across the United States.

Vance who is just 48 hours away from being potentially announced as Trumps vice presidential pick at the Republican National Convention, pointed the finger at Democrats and Biden for the tragic incident. The 48-year-old freshman senator from Ohio took to X, formally known as Twitter to hurl his accusations.

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Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination," he wrote in the post.

Today is not just some isolated incident.



The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs.



That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.  JD Vance (@JDVance) July 14, 2024

Immediately after getting shot on Saturday, Trump was seen with a bloodied ear raising his fist as he was escorted by the Secret Services. While Trumps campaign spokesperson made it clear that he is doing fine, the authorities noted that the shooting suspect was dead. One spectator was also killed and two Secret Service agents were injured and rushed to treatment following the incident.

Republicans accuse Biden of the assassination attempt

It is interesting to note that Vance was not the only Republican to take such a stance over the matter. Without sharing any sort of concrete evidence, House Representative from Georgia Mike Collins alleged that Biden was responsible for inciting the assassination. Joe Biden sent the orders, the Republican congressman tweeted.

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The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination, he added.

Joe Biden sent the orders. https://t.co/pOc0XLxCwg  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination.  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

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Meanwhile, Trumps campaign has made it clear that he will attend the Republican National Convention, two days after surviving a gunmans attempt to assassinate him.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, RNC chair Michael Whatley, co-chair Lara Trump and Trump advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita said in a joint statement.

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As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action, the statement the statement further reads.
Indian-American entrepreneur and Republican leader Vivek Ramaswamy has condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump read more

Vivek Ramaswamy, an Indian-American entrepreneur, denounced todays attack on former US President Donald Trump, who was struck in the ear during an attempted assassination attempt at an election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

We believe the fact that Trump is safe right now is nothing short of an act of God, Ramaswamy, who challenged the 78-year-old politician for the Republican presidential nomination at the primaries, wrote in a long post on X.

My heart tells me God intervened not just for Trump, but for our nation. Today, the future survival of the United States of America came down to less than a hairs width in the path of a bullet, Ramaswamy said.

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On the other hand, he disparaged US President Joe Biden, stating, First they sued him. They then took him to court. Next, they attempted to remove him from the voting list. If were being really honest, the only thing that is more awful than what happened just now is that it wasnt entirely unexpected.

When Biden finally condemns political violence, it will be a ceremonial denunciation that is both unnecessary and insufficient. The poisonous national atmosphere that caused this tragedy cannot be changed by words spoken tonight, the speaker added.

He stated, Lets come together around the fact that what happened today is unacceptable, now and forever, regardless of who you vote for.

Billionaire Elon Musk, who had earlier swiftly endorsed Trump in response to the horrifying attack, responded to his lengthy statement.
During his visit to Ireland, the Ukrainian leader was asked by a reporter about how he felt when Biden made the blunder. Its a mistake, Zelenskyy replied read more

Days after US President Joe Biden referred to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as President Putin, the latter has brushed off the gaffe and downplayed the whole ordeal by calling it a mistake.

On the final day of the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (Nato) Summit in Washington, Biden introduced Zelenskyy by taking the name of his archnemesis, Russian President Vladimir Putin. However, he quickly corrected himself, leaving the host of world leaders awkwardly defending him.

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During his visit to Ireland, the Ukrainian leader was asked by a reporter about how he felt when Biden made the blunder. Its a mistake, Zelenskyy replied. I think the United States gave a lot of support for Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so," he added.

NATO leaders come to Bidens defence

Before Zelenskyy, several European leaders defended Bidens gaffes at the summit. Slips of tongue happen, and if you always monitor everyone, you will find enough of them, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said when asked by reporters about Biden confusing Zelenskyy with Putin.

The sentiment was echoed by French President Emmanuel Macron and Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof. Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, speaking before Bidens gaffes, said he and the president were able to address a number of issues at pace during their first meeting.

Meanwhile, Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said Biden looked well and that he attended all summit sessions, unlike other leaders. Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni was less effusive but praised Bidens organisation of a very good summit.

When that butcher Putin invaded Ukraine, Trump called it genius and wonderful.



But people would rather talk about how I mix up names.  Joe Biden (@JoeBiden) July 12, 2024

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Biden himself took to X to address public scrutiny. When that butcher Putin invaded Ukraine, Trump called it genius and wonderful. But people would rather talk about how I mix up names, he wrote on X.

With inputs from agencies.
From atop the rim of a volcano in the heart of San Salvador on Friday, 10 Grand Junction residents had the unique opportunity to discuss geology, energy production, and politics while peering down at the cinder cone of the Boqueron crater, which last erupted in 1917.

The group is in El Salvador wrapping up a week-long Colorado Mesa University (CMU) summer Political Science course, led by Dr. Holly Oberle of CMU and Anna Stout, Founder of the Foundation for Cultural Exchange (FCE) and current city council member. The FCE facilitates the sister city relationship and is coordinating the logistics of the delegation.

The trip was planned to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Grand Junctions sister city relationship with the rural community of El Espino, which began in 2004 following a Mesa State College Sociology class.

In addition to Dr. Oberle, CMU professors Drs Tim Casey (Political Science) and Javier Tellez (Geology), are accompanying the group, which includes five CMU students and City of Grand Junction Director of Communications Sara Spaulding.

Dr. Tellez was excited to join the trip because of the unique teaching opportunity that El Salvador poses. El Salvador gives us the opportunity to explore how energy transition is being carried out in developing countries, versus a contrast that can be drawn with the challenges that the state of Colorado has, Tellez said.

El Salvador is located in a unique tectonic setting called a triple tectonic junction that causes massive volcanic activity. According to Tellez, this type of geology allows for extremely rich soil formation, incredible geothermal and hydrothermal energy potential due to the active volcanism, high elevated mountains, and high rainfall in the tropical zone.

Tellez wanted students to see how El Salvador has taken advantage of these resources to achieve their goals in clean energy production. The countrys energy portfolio includes more than 25% geothermal and 60% solar and hydropower, with only 15% of energy generation coming from fossil fuels. In comparison to Colorado, less than 1% of energy comes from geothermal sources, according to Tellez.

Considering other size and economic limitations of the country, El Salvador is an incredible example of a country that uses a combination of clean energy technologies to support internal energy consumption and even export energy to neighboring countries, Tellez told students.

Tellez and Oberle led the students in a discussion at the volcano about the politics of energy production and how the degree to which democratic values exist in a country impacts the speed at which energy development projects are implemented.

The democratic process takes considerably more time to enact change because people have to hear about (an energy source) and want it and demand it, Shayla Trowbridge, senior Political Science major, said following the discussion. In El Salvador, I think theyre able to be on the cutting edge and more developed energy-wise because theyre able to use shortcuts in their democratic processes, because for (President) Bukele, its a priority.

Colorado has the potential to be doing what El Salvador is with geothermal energy, but were neglecting that potential, Lily Nieslanik, also a senior Political Science major, said during a reflection on the day.

+2 Lessons learned inside U.S. Embassy walls The ten Grand Junction residents who are in El Salvador this week to commemorate the 20th an

Despite ongoing efforts by CMU to incorporate geothermal energy into new buildings, little else is happening in Colorado, according to Tellez. CMUs projects have been recognized and praised by the governor, who has worked to advance statewide efforts to deploy geothermal energy projects through millions in grant dollars through the Colorado Energy Office.

Tellez hopes that exposing students to whats possible in energy generation will spark conversation and awareness in their communities. The people are going to be the ones to make the push for energy transition, Tellez said. This is a way for (the students) to understand that an energy transition is viable because we have the resources (in Colorado). Theyre doing it well in places that arent very developed, despite the fact some people believe its very expensive.

Energy transition is going to happen whether people want it to or not, and Colorado has the resources, so we are oooooin an excellent position to be leaders nationwide, Tellez told the group.

Following the visit to the volcano, the students visited the centro historico and saw the new national library, which was built with support from China. The delegation has one more day in the country and they will take part in artistic activities for most of the day. They will return to Grand Junction on Sunday.
Russo-Ukraine War - 13 July 2024 - Day 871

Su M Tu W Th F Sa 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 31

A number of claims and counterclaims are being made on the Ukraine-Russia conflict on the ground and online. While GlobalSecurity.org takes utmost care to accurately report this news story, we cannot independently verify the authenticity of all statements, photos and videos.

On 24 February 2022, Ukraine was suddenly and deliberately attacked by land, naval and air forces of Russia, igniting the largest European war since the Great Patriotic War. Russian President Vladimir Putin announced a "special military operation" (SVO - spetsialnaya voennaya operatsiya) in Ukraine in response to the appeal of the leaders of the "Donbass republics" for help. That attack is a blatant violation of the territorial integrity, sovereignty and independence of Ukraine. Putin stressed that Moscow's goal is the demilitarization and denazification of the country. The military buildup in preceeding months makes it obvious that the unprovoked and dastardly Russian attack was deliberately planned long in advance. During the intervening time, the Russian government had deliberately sought to deceive the world by false statements and expressions of hope for continued peace.

"To initiate a war of aggression... is not only an international crime; it is the supreme international crime differing only from other war crimes in that it contains within itself the accumulated evil of the whole." [Judgment of the International Military Tribunal]

The General Staff of the Armed Forces of Ukraine reported that Ukrainian defenders continue to decisively thwart the Russian forces' attempts to advance deep into Ukrainian territory, giving him an effective fire effect, exhaustion across the entire frontline.

In total, 149 combat clashes have taken place since the beginning of this day. The tense situation remains in the Pokrovsky direction, also Russia is active in Kharkiv, Lymansky and Vremivsky directions.

Russian zagarbniki launched two missile strikes on the territory of Ukraine, using three missiles, and 57 aviation strikes using 103 cabs. In addition, the Russians used 512 kamikaze drones to impress and carried out more than 3,200 shelling at the positions of Ukrainian troops and settlements.

In the Kharkiv direction, Russian forces13 times carried offensive attacks near vovchans ka and glbokoye. During combat clashes suffered defeats.

In the Kupyansky direction, Russian forcesalso attacked Ukrainian positions in the areas of Sinkivka, Petropavlivka, Berestovoye and Stelmakhivka. Ukrainian defenders repelled ten attacks, three more - currently ongoing.

In the Lyman direction during the day Russian zagarbniki 14 times attacked the defensive borders of Ukrainian units near Grekivka, Makiyivka and Terniv. According to the information, all fights ended without success for the Russian forces.

In the sivers komu direction, Russian forcescame in the areas of bilogorivka, rozdolivki, spirnogo, verkhn kamans kogo and viiymki. Defenders of the Ukrainian land stopped five attacks of Russians, three more clashes continue.

In the Kramators komu direction, there were 11 assault actions of the opponent near Grigorivka, Andriyivka, Time Yar and Klishchievka. According to detailed information, there are currently three attacks in the area of Chasovoye Yar.

In the Toretsky direction, Russians have unsuccessfully attacked defense forces near Northern, Toretsk and New York 15 times.

Russian zagarbniks showed the greatest activity today in the Pokrovsky direction. Since the beginning of this day, the Russian invaders 37 times tried to break through Ukrainian defense near the settlements of Vozdvizhenko, Novooleksandrivka, Kalinove, Progres, Lozuvatske, Novoselivka First and Yasnobrodivka. The five clashes are still ongoing.

Russia suffers significant losses - today in this direction 227 invaders were defecated, 79 of them - irrevocably. Also destroyed three BBMs, one BMP, one motor transport, two BTRs, two cars, one MT-LB. In addition, the BTR, five 122-mm D-30 howlers, one MT-12 Rapira anti-tank cannon, a combat armored vehicle and a 120-mm mortar were damaged.

In the kurakhivs komu direction Russian forces 17 times attacked Ukrainian positions near krasnogorivka, konstantinivka and victory. According to detailed information, four fights continue.

In the Vremivs komu direction, Russians carried out 18 offensive actions near Urozhaynogo, Vodanogo, Velika Novosilka and Konstantinivka. Ukrainian defenders repelled 16 attacks, two more are still ongoing.

In the Pridniprovsk direction, all efforts of the occupiers to suppress Ukrainian units from occupied positions were unsuccessful.

In other directions, the situation has not changed significantly.

Today it is worth celebrating the soldiers of the 14th separate mechanized brigade named after Prince Roman the Great, who effectively destroy Russian forcesin their line of defense, inflicting heavy losses in live force and equipment.

The Ministry of Defense of the Russian Federation reported that units of the Sever Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware clusters of the AFU 34th Marines Brigade, 113th, 125th, 127th territorial defence brigades, and 13th National Guard Brigade near Volchansk, Staritsa, Volchanskiye Khutora, Maliye Prohody, and Liptsy (Kharkov region).

Eight counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 42nd Mechanised Brigade, 92nd Air Assault Brigade, and 36th Marines Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 205 Ukrainian troops, one tank, two pickup trucks, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, one 100-mm Rapira anti-tank gun, one Plastun electronic reconnaissance system, and two Anklav-N electronic warfare stations.

Units of the Zapad Group of Forces improved the tactical situation along the front line.

Losses were inflicted on units of the AFU 14th, 21st, 63rd, 66th, 115th, and 116th mechanised brigades, 103rd, 110th, and 117th territorial defence brigades near Petropavlovka, Sinkovka, Podliman (Kharkov region), Novosyolkovskoye, Makeyevka, Chervonaya Dibrova (Lugansk People's Republic), Krasny Liman, and Torskoye (Donetsk People's Republic).

The AFU losses amounted to up to 590 Ukrainian troops, three armoured fighting vehicles, including two U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carriers, 14 motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, one 152-mm D-20 howitzer, two 122-mm D-30 howitzers, one 100-mm Rapira anti-tank gun, two Anklav-N electronic warfare stations, and three ammunition depots.

Units of the Yug Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 24th, 72nd, 93rd mechanised brigades, 46th, 81st airmobile brigades, and 79th Air Assault Brigade near Antonovka, Grigorovka, Nikolayevka, Katerinovka, Uspenovka, Spornoye, Slavyansk, Zaliznyanskoye, and Chasov Yar (Donetsk People's Republic).

Two attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 54th Mechanised Brigade and 10th Mountain Assault Brigade were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 680 Ukrainian troops, 15 motor vehicles, and one Strela-10 SAM combat vehicle.

In the course of counter-battery warfare, one Polish-made 155-mm Krab self-propelled artillery system, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, one UK-made 155-mm FH-70 howitzer, three 152-mm D-20 howitzers, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, one UK-made 105-mm L-119 howitzer, two U.S.-made 105-mm M119 howitzers, and four AFU ammunition depots were destroyed.

Units of the Tsentr Group of Forces improved the tactical situation and inflicted losses on formations of the AFU 32nd, 41st, 47th, 110th, 151st mechanised brigades, 59th Motorised Infantry Brigade, 5th Assault Brigade, 95th Air Assault Brigade, 111st, and 129th territorial defence brigades near Novgorodskoye, Vozdvizhenka, Volchiye, Tarasovka, Kamichevka, Konstantinovka, Aleksandrovka, Progress, and Toretsk (Donetsk People's Republic).

Five counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 23rd, 31st mechanised brigades, 68th Jaeger Brigade, and Lyut Assault Brigade of the Ukrainian Ministry of Internal Affairs were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 355 Ukrainian troops, one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, three pickup trucks, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, one 152-mm Msta-B howitzer, one 122-mm D-30 howitzer, and one U.S.-made AN/TPQ-37 counter-battery warfare station.

Units of the Vostok Group of Forces took more advantageous lines and inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 1st Tank Brigade, 58th, 72nd motorised infantry brigades, 123th Territorial Defence Brigade, and 21st National Guard Brigade near Storozhevoye, Makarovka, Prechistovka, and Oktyabr (Donetsk People's Republic).

Two counter-attacks launched by assault detachments of the AFU 108th and 128th territorial defence brigades were repelled.

The AFU losses amounted to more than 140 Ukrainian troops, two armoured fighting vehicles, including one U.S.-made M113 armoured personnel carrier, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M198 howitzer, and two 122-mm Gvozdika self-propelled artillery systems.

Units of the Dnepr Group of Forces inflicted losses on manpower and hardware of the AFU 65th, 118th mechanised brigades, 35th Marines Brigade, 124th, and 126th territorial defence brigades near Novodanilovka, Malaya Tokmachka (Zaporozhye region), Tokaryovka (Kherson region), and Kherson.

The AFU losses amounted to up to 105 Ukrainian troops, three motor vehicles, one U.S.-made 155-mm M777 howitzer, two 152-mm Msta-B howitzers, one Anklav-N electronic warfare station, and two AFU field ammunition depots.

Operational-Tactical Aviation, unmanned aerial vehicles, and Missile Troops and Artillery of the Russian Groups of Forces destroyed one P-18 radar station, one explosives factory, as well as engaged AFU manpower and hardware in the 136 area.

Air defence units shot down two ATACMS operational-tactical missiles, one S-200 anti-aircraft guided missile converted to hit ground targets, six U.S.-made HIMARS MLRS projectiles, and 17 unmanned aerial vehicles.

In total, 627 airplanes and 277 helicopters, 27,553 unmanned aerial vehicles, 547 air defence missile systems, 16,567 tanks and other armoured fighting vehicles, 1,376 combat vehicles equipped with MLRS, 11,834 field artillery guns and mortars, as well as 23,637 units of special military equipment have been destroyed during the special military operation.

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New York, NY, July 13, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As the Solana Summer and the overall crypto market continue to evolve, the landscape of decentralized finance (DeFi) remains in constant flux. The period of late 2023 and early 2024 marked a significant resurgence in the crypto markets, with Solana ($SOL) at the forefront, reminiscent of past booms in the blockchain industry.

One of the standout phenomena driving this resurgence was the wave of Solana memecoins, notably $BONK and $WIF, which ignited a meme-mania across the community. This surge in activity not only drew considerable attention to the Solana blockchain but also solidified its reputation as a prime destination for developers and investors alike.

Why Solana? Why Now?

For those new to the world of DeFi and Solana, understanding the basics is crucial. Solana is like a super-fast, magical playground where people can create and trade digital tokens safely and quickly. Now, these tokens are getting more popular and valuable, especially with fun, catchy names like $BONK and $WIF.

Print Protocol on Solana seamlessly integrates into this burgeoning ecosystem by offering unique features designed to empower everyday investors. At the heart of this platform is PrintDex, a decentralized exchange (DEX) that prioritizes user security and fairness. PrintDex incorporates sophisticated anti-bot mechanisms and maximum wallet limits, ensuring that users can trade tokens without the fear of being overwhelmed by large wallet dumps that can destabilize markets. This means that even those new to crypto trading, the average Joe, can engage in trading with confidence and peace of mind, knowing their investments are safeguarded against manipulative practices and constant dumping.

Moreover, PrintDex goes beyond just providing a safe trading environment. By holding $PRINT tokens, users can benefit from an innovative H2E (Hold to Earn) model, and a Revenue Share Model, where they earn a share of the revenue generated by PrintDex. This model transforms passive holding into a lucrative venture, offering a steady rewards stream derived from the exchanges trading activities. As a result, Print on Solana not only democratizes access to secure trading but also allows investors to share in the success and growth of the platform, making it a compelling choice for both seasoned traders and newcomers alike.

Why Print?

Through all the chaos and memes the team at $PRINT (@PrintProtocol) figured out the first ever auto-rewards token to reward holders in $SOL, to the success of a 30M MC all-time-high. Before $PRINT launched in late January of this year, a taxed token had never existed on-chain, let alone one with a working auto-rewards script. Using Token-2022, a token program on the Solana Blockchain, the team was able to bring something innovative to Solana users.

As 2024 has passed, Print Protocol has continued its long-term development, putting their focus into continued innovation through a relatively unexplored feature of Solana, Transfer Hook Extensions.

All of this has led to the team recently rolling out PrintDEX (https://www.printdex.io/), the first ever Decentralized Exchange on Solana to offer maximum transaction limits, max wallet limits, taxes and more, all through Token-2022 support and transfer hook extensions.

In addition to rewarding holders through an 8% token tax, the team has also recently implemented Revenue Sharing through transactional fees on the DEX. A nominal 0.0005 $SOL fee is accumulated for every transaction on PrintDEX with 60% going directly back to holders in $SOL.

As development on the DEX continues, the backend team at $PRINT hold public X/Twitter spaces a few times a month to update the community and discuss the outlook for Print Protocol. The team will be in attendance at Solana Breakpoint this fall and continues to build robust partnerships and support within the Solana community.

Learn more about Print Protocol here:

X: https://x.com/PrintProtocol

X: https://x.com/printdexSol

Telegram: https://t.me/printsolana

Website: https://printsolana.com/

DEX: https://www.printdex.io/


NEW YORK, July 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) --

WHY: Rosen Law Firm, a global investor rights law firm, reminds purchasers of common stock of Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. (NYSE: LW) between July 25, 2023 and April 3, 2024, both dates inclusive (the Class Period), of the important August 12, 2024 lead plaintiff deadline.

SO WHAT: If you purchased Lamb Weston common stock during the Class Period you may be entitled to compensation without payment of any out of pocket fees or costs through a contingency fee arrangement.

WHAT TO DO NEXT: To join the Lamb Weston class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=26209 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action. A class action lawsuit has already been filed. If you wish to serve as lead plaintiff, you must move the Court no later than August 12, 2024. A lead plaintiff is a representative party acting on behalf of other class members in directing the litigation.

WHY ROSEN LAW: We encourage investors to select qualified counsel with a track record of success in leadership roles. Often, firms issuing notices do not have comparable experience, resources or any meaningful peer recognition. Many of these firms do not actually litigate securities class actions, but are merely middlemen that refer clients or partner with law firms that actually litigate the cases. Be wise in selecting counsel. The Rosen Law Firm represents investors throughout the globe, concentrating its practice in securities class actions and shareholder derivative litigation. Rosen Law Firm has achieved the largest ever securities class action settlement against a Chinese Company. Rosen Law Firm was Ranked No. 1 by ISS Securities Class Action Services for number of securities class action settlements in 2017. The firm has been ranked in the top 4 each year since 2013 and has recovered hundreds of millions of dollars for investors. In 2019 alone the firm secured over $438 million for investors. In 2020, founding partner Laurence Rosen was named by law360 as a Titan of Plaintiffs Bar. Many of the firms attorneys have been recognized by Lawdragon and Super Lawyers.

DETAILS OF THE CASE: According to the lawsuit, throughout the Class Period, defendants made numerous material misrepresentations and omissions regarding the design and implementation of Lamb Westons new Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system. Specifically, throughout the Class Period, defendants represented that, through the design of Lamb Westons new ERP system, Lamb Weston had strengthen[ed] [its] operational infrastructure. Lamb Weston also downplayed any issues it experienced with the implementation of the system as merely usual bumps, and told investors that its financial guidance for fiscal 2024 appropriately accounted for any negative financial impact associated with the systems deployment. As a result of these misrepresentations, Lamb Weston stock traded at artificially inflated prices during the Class Period. When the true details entered the market, the lawsuit claims that investors suffered damages.

To join the Lamb Weston class action, go to https://rosenlegal.com/submit-form/?case_id=26209 or call Phillip Kim, Esq. toll-free at 866-767-3653 or email case@rosenlegal.com for information on the class action.

No Class Has Been Certified. Until a class is certified, you are not represented by counsel unless you retain one. You may select counsel of your choice. You may also remain an absent class member and do nothing at this point. An investors ability to share in any potential future recovery is not dependent upon serving as lead plaintiff.

Follow us for updates on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-rosen-law-firm, on Twitter: https://twitter.com/rosen_firm or on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rosenlawfirm/.

Attorney Advertising. Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome.

-------------------------------

Contact Information:

Laurence Rosen, Esq.

Phillip Kim, Esq.

The Rosen Law Firm, P.A.

275 Madison Avenue, 40th Floor

New York, NY 10016

Tel: (212) 686-1060

Toll Free: (866) 767-3653

Fax: (212) 202-3827

case@rosenlegal.com

www.rosenlegal.com
Doncaster, UK, July 14, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Mortgages Remortgages, a leading fee free mortgage broker in Doncaster, has announced the expansion of its service area to include more regions in Yorkshire and Lincolnshire. It now offers expert mortgage advice to clients in Sheffield, Leeds, and Scunthorpe, building on its reputation as a trusted mortgage advisor in Doncaster.



Mortgages Remortgages

This expansion allows more homebuyers and homeowners to benefit from its tailored mortgage advisor solutions in Leeds, Scunthorpe and Sheffield. Clients in these new areas can expect the same personalised service and professional guidance that Mortgages Remortgages is known for in Doncaster.

With years of experience in the mortgage industry, Mortgages Remortgages has built a reputation for offering customised mortgage solutions that cater to diverse client needs. As an expert advisor for mortgages in Scunthorpe, Sheffield and Leeds, it brings its expertise to more clients to help more individuals and families secure their dream homes or refinance existing properties.

Our goal is to make the mortgage process as smooth and stress-free as possible for our clients, said a spokesperson for Mortgages Remortgages. With our expanded service area, we can now assist more people in finding the right mortgage solutions.

Its team of experienced mortgage advisors is well-versed in the local property markets and current mortgage products. They specialise in assisting with first-time buyer mortgages, remortgages, buy-to-let mortgages, and equity release options. They tailor their recommendations to every customer and consider their current and future financial situations and goals.

In addition to expanding its service area, Mortgages Remortgages has improved its digital presence to serve clients better. Its official website provides a wealth of information about its mortgage products and services and valuable tools and resources for anyone interested in purchasing a home or investing in property. Clients seeking a mortgage broker in Sheffield, mortgage advisor in Leeds, or mortgage consultant broker in Scunthorpe can find valuable information and contact details on the website.

Mortgages Remortgages has been a reliable mortgage advisor in Doncaster for many years and has successfully established strong relationships with local estate agents, solicitors, and financial institutions. The network of connections it has built, combined with the companys in-depth knowledge of the mortgage market, makes it possible to secure competitive rates and terms for its clients.

The companys recent expansion into Sheffield, Leeds, and Scunthorpe underscores its commitment to growth and excellence in customer service as a premier mortgage broker in Doncaster.

For more information about Mortgages Remortgages and its services as a mortgage broker in Doncaster, visit Mortgages Remortgages.

About Mortgages Remortgages

Mortgages Remortgages is a professional mortgage brokerage firm based in Doncaster, South Yorkshire. Dedicated to simplifying the mortgage process for clients, the company is a trusted mortgage advisor in the region. With a team of experienced mortgage brokers and a passion for personalised service, Mortgages Remortgages helps clients navigate the complex world of property finance, whether theyre first-time buyers, seasoned investors, or looking to remortgage their properties.

###

Media Contact

Mortgages Remortgages

Address: 34 Stoops Rd, Doncaster DN4 7ES

Phone: 01302361361

Website: https://mortgagesrm.co.uk/



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Guam and Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands, CNMI, lawmakers on Friday adopted four resolutions, sponsored by Vice Speaker Tina Muna Barnes, aimed at improving travel, education exchange, cybersecurity and disaster response between the islands.

The lawmakers adopted the resolutions at the conclusion of the 2nd Assembly of the Mariana Islands Legislature Association, MILA.

Here were the MILA-adopted resolutions that Muna Barnes authored:

2-GA-01, expresses support for H.R. 8786, introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives by Guam Del. James Moylan and CNMI Del. Gregorio Kilili Sablan, which seeks to provide for a cabotage exemption for foreign air carriers landing in Guam or the CNMI. Under current U.S. law, a foreign carrier cant transport passengers or cargo from one U.S. port to another.

2-GA-02, creates the MILA Cybersecurity Working Group as a way to share information of internet-based threats and best practices to combat them between Guam and the CNMI.

2-GA-06, aims to expand regional disaster response capabilities across the Marianas.

2-GA-07, aims to enhance educational exchange programs between Guam and the CNMI.

The vice speaker, in supporting cabotage exemption for Guam and the CNMI, reiterated concerns about the high airfare costs of coming, going, and transiting through Guam and the CNMI that have been cost prohibitive for tourists, and more importantly, our own residents and our loved ones who reside in the United States.

This change will mean greater access to CHamoru homelands for a generation of people in the diaspora. It will mean more visitors can afford to vacation in our territories. And it is the fair way for the federal government to administer our territories, the vice speaker said in a press release.

The second adopted resolution, on cybersecurity, is in response to reported sophisticated cyberattacks that are targeting critical infrastructure and sensitive information.

The resolution on expanding regional disaster response capabilities across Guam and the CNMI is aimed at doing better in recovery efforts especially when it comes to sharing critical information while telecommunications are unreliable at best and nonexistent at worst, Muna Barnes said.

The final measure, on enhancing educational exchange programs, is seen as laying the groundwork for more of our students to get degrees in Micronesian studies, CHamoru language, archaeology, marine biology, agriculture, and other fields that support a sustainable economy, the vice speaker added.
Plans to permanently host up to a dozen fighter planes from Singapore at Andersen Air Force Base are moving along but a local group closely monitoring military buildup activities on Guam, the Pacific Center for Island Security, said housing issues need to be included in the planning.

What Im really concerned about is there is no anticipation of housing issues, and (the ongoing military buildup) already plays havoc with our local housing market, Pacific Center for Island Security chairman Robert Underwood said. I just doubt any other community in the U.S. would be dealt with this way.

Underwood, a former Guam delegate to Congress, said these concerns go beyond the environmental impact.

The arrival of Singapore air force and support personnel will likely require another 240 housing units that arent accounted for in the Air Forces current plans, according to Underwood, a former president of the University of Guam.

And thats in addition to 1,700 units needed to house Marines who will be moving by 2029, Underwood added.

Public meetings this week

The Air Force will be seeking public comment this week on a draft environmental impact statement on the proposed construction of an aircraft hangar, airfield, fuel systems, fencing, parking and magazines to support the bed down of 12 Singapore Air Force F15 fighter jets.

Approximately 209 total acres would be disturbed during construction, which is expected to take approximately three to seven years, according to an Air Force notice.

Public meetings are scheduled for:

Wednesday, July 17, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Dededo Senior Center.

Thursday, July 18, from 5 to 8 p.m. at the Yigo Senior Center.

The public meetings will be held in an open house format for the duration of each meeting, and all members of the public are invited and encouraged to attend, the Air Force said.

According to the Air Force notice, constructing the facility is needed to enhance (Air Force) capability to support U.S. and partner nation forces within the Indo-Pacific region and strengthen the U.S.s ability to respond regionally and worldwide.

The facilities will support fighter aircraft and evolving Air Force and Department of Defense strategy for the region, the notice stated, and increase efficiencies and agility for ground operations.

Underwood said the DoD needs to do a complete analysis of their housing needs and be transparent about it.

The F-15 bed down is anticipated to begin in 2029 and would not be wholly dependent upon completion of the infrastructure upgrade construction, according to an Air Force notice.

Training events of about four weeks, twice a year, with support aircraft, are contemplated in a notice from the Air Force.

Theyve got tunnel vision. Theyre just focused on what theyre doing as a military unit, and not having any concern about what the impact is on the civilian community, Underwood said.

Upgrades at Andersen were first considered as far back as April 2021, according to a December 2023 release from the Air Force, but were put on a strategic pause to consider the scope of an environmental impact statement and military strategy in the region.

The draft EIS is available for download at www.AAFBInfraAndF15EIS.com and may also be viewed at the following libraries: Nieves M. Flores Memorial Library, and University of Guam Robert F. Kennedy Memorial Library.

The final EIS and a Record of Decision on the Proposed Action are expected in Spring 2025.
Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with what appears to be blood on his face surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024.
A burst pipe causing flooding in the lobby of the Guam Memorial Hospital is shown in this screen capture of a video footage that circulated online on Tuesday, April 30, 2024.
Eclectic fitness guru Richard Simmons has died at the age of 76, according to his representative.

Police officers and firefighters responded to his Los Angeles home after they received a call from his housekeeper on Saturday just before 10 a.m., law enforcement sources told TMZ. He was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene.

Simmons cause of death was not immediately clear. Authorities believe he died of natural causes and do not suspect foul play at this time.

He had just celebrated his 76th birthday on Friday.

The shocking news comes after Simmons worried fans with a cryptic Facebook message in March, in which he told his followers he was dying.

He returned to the platform hours later to address the concerning post.

Sorry many of you have gotten upset about my message today. Even the press has gotten in touch with me. I am not dying, he wrote on Facebook. It was a message about saying how we should embrace every day that we have. Sorry for the confusion.

The following day, he announced hed been diagnosed with skin cancer.

Mere hours before news of his death broke Saturday, a post was shared to Simmons social media accounts, reading, Hello gorgeous! Please dont rain on my parade.

Simmons, who once struggled with his weight and overeating, moved to Los Angeles in the 1970s, where he opened his own exercise studio, the Anatomy Asylum. It placed an emphasis on healthy eating and portion control and provided a supportive environment for anyone interested in wellness.

The studio was later renamed Slimmons and continued operations in Beverly Hills, where Simmons taught weekly aerobics classes. It closed in 2016.

Simmons had stayed out of the public eye in recent years, but frequently shared updates and inspiring messages to his fans on social media.

I just try to live a quiet life and be peaceful, he wrote in January.

2024 New York Daily News. Visit nydailynews.com. Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
The Project Gutenberg eBook of Disqualified This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online at www.gutenberg.org . If you are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this eBook. Title: Disqualified Author: Charles L. Fontenay Illustrator: Kelly Freas Release date: October 14, 2009 [eBook #30251]

Most recently updated: January 5, 2021 Language: English Credits: Produced by Greg Weeks, Stephen Blundell and the Online

Distributed Proofreading Team at https://www.pgdp.net *** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK DISQUALIFIED ***

Illustrated by Kelly Freas

If Saranta wished to qualify as one who loved his fellow man, he should have known that often the most secretive things are the most obvious.

DISQUALIFIED

BY CHARLES L. FONTENAY

After the morning inspection tour, Tardo, the Solar Council's Planetary Aid agent, and his companion, Peo, were taken to the castle which stood on a hill overlooking the area.

Tardo and Peo were entertained royally at luncheon by Saranta, their host, who appeared to be the wealthy overlord of this portion of the planet. The meal was delicioustender, inch-thick steaks served with delicate wine sauce and half a dozen of the planet's exotic vegetables, topped off by a cool fruit dessert.

"My recommendation will be of considerable importance to you," said Tardo as they ate. "If it is favorable, there is certain technical aid aboard ship which will be made available to you at once. Of course, you will not receive advanced equipment from the Solar Council until there is a more thorough investigation."

"I'm afraid our culture is too simple and agrarian to win your approval," said Saranta modestly.

"That isn't a major consideration. The Council understands the difficulties that have faced colonies in other star systems. There are certain fundamental requirements, of course: no abnormal religious practices, no slavery ... well, you understand what I mean."

"We really feel that we have done well since we ... our ancestors, that is ... colonized our world a thousand years ago," said Saranta, toying with a wineglass. A smiling servant filled the glasses of Tardo and Peo. "You see, there was no fuel for the ship to explore other planets in the system, and the ship just rusted away. Since we are some distance from the solar system, yours is the first ship that has landed here since colonization."

"You seem to have been lucky, though," said Peo. He was navigator of the Council ship, and had asked to accompany Tardo on the brief inspection trip. "You could have landed on a barren planet."

"Well, no, the colonizers knew it was liveable, from the first exploration expedition," said Saranta. "There were difficulties, of course. Luxuriant vegetation, but no animal life, so we had no animals to domesticate. Pulling a plow is hard work for a man."

"But you were able to solve this situation in a humanitarian way?" asked Tardo, peering at him keenly. "That is to say, you didn't resort to slavery?"

Saranta smiled and spread his hands slightly.

"Does this look like a slave society to you?" he countered. "The colonists were anxious to co-operate to make the planet liveable. No one objected to work."

"It's true we've seen no slaves, that we know about," said Tardo. "But two days is a short time for inspection. I must draw most of my conclusions from the attitudes of you and the others who are our hosts. How about the servants here?"

"They are paid," answered Saranta, and added ruefully: "There are those of us who think they are paid too well. They have a union, you know."

Tardo laughed.

"A carry-over from Earth, no doubt," he commented. "An unusual one, too, for a culture without technology."

When the meal was over, the two men from the ship were conducted on a tour of the area. It was a neat agricultural community, with broad fields, well-constructed buildings and, a short distance from Saranta's castle-like home, a village in which artisans and craftsmen plied their peaceful trades.

Peo tried to notice what he thought Tardo would look for on such a short inspection. The Council agent, he knew, had had intensive training and many years of experience. It was hard for Peo to judge what factors Tardo would consider significantprobably very minor ones that the average man would not notice, he thought.

Tardo had seemed most intent on the question of slavery, and Peo looked for signs of it. He could see none. The people of the planet had had time to conceal some things, of course. But the people they saw in the village wore a proud air of independence no slave could assume.

Saranta apologized for their having to walk, explaining that there was no other means of transportation on the planet.

"And, without transportation, you can understand why we have not been able to develop a technology," he added. "We hope transport will be included in the first assistance you will give us."

Tardo asked about the fields.

"I see there is no one working them," he said. "Is that done by the villagers?"

"Our labor supply is transient," answered Saranta after a moment's hesitation. "The laborers who will work our fieldsfor a wage, of courseare probably in the next town or the one beyond it now."

Alpha Persei was sinking in the western sky when Tardo and Peo took their leave of Saranta and made their way down the road toward their planetary landing craft.

"It looks like a good world to me," said Peo. "If tomorrow's inspection is as satisfactory, I suppose you will recommend the beginning of technical aid?"

"There will be no inspection tour tomorrow, and I shall recommend against aid at this time," replied Tardo. "I've seen enough."

"Why?" asked Peo, surprised.

"There are two classes of people on this planet, and we've seen only one," said Tardo. "Those we have seen are freemen. The others are no better than animals. We give no aid that helps men tighten their hold over their fellows."

"If you haven't seen them, how do you know there is another class?" demanded Peo. "There is no evidence of any such situation."

"The evidence is well hidden. But if you think your stomach can take it now, I'll tell you. If you remember your history, colonizing ships 1000 years ago had no space to carry animals along. They had to depend on native animal life of the planet, and this planet had none."

"Saranta said that. But I don't see ..."

"Those were delicious steaks, weren't they?" remarked Tardo quietly.
Microsoft is discontinuing the Office 365 connectors for its MS Teams collaboration platform in the short term and is advising customers who use them for their workflows to switch to its own Power Automate offering and the Workflows app in MS Teams. The company announced this in a blog post and is giving its customers just over ten weeks to convert their processes. Such configurable connectors forward information from external sources as a post to a chat channel in Teams; workgroups in companies in particular make use of this.

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Tight deadline set

In a post on the developer blog for Microsoft 365, two employees explain the company's plans: First, they praise the numerous Office 365 connectors for their versatility and popularity with customers - only to then announce that the connection of the connectors to MS Teams will be discontinued as early as August 15, 2024; from this date, customers will no longer be able to put new connectors into operation. And on October 1, 2024, all existing connectors in all cloud environments will cease to work, according to the blog post. Instead, customers should switch to the alternative Power Automate to ensure "smooth operation".

With the connectors, workgroups can add automated chat messages to their exchanges if they use MS Teams for this purpose. Available Office 365 connectors link services in Microsoft's Azure cloud, an RSS feed, a Trello board or a GitHub repository, for example, and self-developed webhooks can be used to establish a connection to a monitoring or ticketing system or a CI/CD pipeline. Desired information thus appears as messages in a chat room and bundles important information for a workflow in one place.

Low-code tool as an alternative

The authors of the blog post recommend Power Automate from the in-house Power Platform as an alternative. The graphically oriented low-code tool can be used to create workflows without any special programming knowledge and thus connect external components with the Workflows app in Teams. According to the blog post, Microsoft recommends Power Automate as a "scalable, flexible and secure" way to use connectors. In addition, a larger selection of connectors is already available for this. A reference to the Secure Future Initiative (which has been running since 2023) also points to possible security concerns with the Office 365 connectors used to date, although the blog post does not go into this in detail.

Considering the extremely tight deadlines and the hard cut with which Microsoft is presenting its customers with a fait accompli, the numerous expressions of displeasure in the discussion forum below the blog post are hardly surprising. Some users note, for example, that a transition period of barely three months (and in some cases during the summer vacations) is far too short. In addition, a switch to Power Automate also requires a corresponding enterprise license - and of course the necessary effort for the developers. Furthermore, the templates for Power Automate linked in the blog post refer to the Power Platform, which cannot be accessed without a valid license.

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Warning notice displayed

Other accusations in the comments include that Microsoft has learned nothing from past forced migrations and has once again set the deadlines too short. Some customers also perceive the planned move as a "quick money-making exercise" that will only bring them effort but no benefit. It is also unclear whether Power Automate will even be able to handle certain message formats if a previously used connector or webhook has to be replaced. According to The Register, individual customers have recently reported that a warning has been automatically attached to every Teams message generated via webhook: It states that the Office 365 connectors in Teams are outdated and that it is advisable to switch to the Workflows app.

Microsoft has not yet responded to the iX editorial team's inquiry. We will provide a possible statement at a later date.

(tiw)
Nigerian scholars urge expansion of cultural, tourism exchanges with China

Xinhua) 14:14, July 14, 2024

ABUJA, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The people-to-people exchanges between China and Nigeria can be enhanced through stronger cultural and tourism cooperation within the framework of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI), some Nigerian experts have said.

Speaking at a seminar held on Friday to promote cultural and tourism exchanges on BRI cooperation, participants highlighted the importance of stronger cooperation in the academia, culture and tourism fields.

Biodun Ajiboye, head of the National Institute for Cultural Orientation in Nigeria, said during a keynote speech that the BRI has provided a robust framework for such exchanges, allowing countries to share their rich cultural heritage with the world while embracing the diverse cultures of their partners.

"Nigeria, with its rich tapestry of ethnicities, languages, and traditions, stands ready to engage in meaningful cultural exchanges with China. From our vibrant festivals and traditional arts to our music, dance, and cuisine, we have much to offer. Notwithstanding, we are eager to learn from China's ancient traditions, artistic expressions, and innovative cultural practices," Ajiboye said.

At the seminar co-hosted by the China Alumni Association of Nigeria and the University of Abuja, Li Xuda, the cultural counselor of the Chinese embassy, highlighted China's focus on enhancing people-to-people connections, adding that the BRI had significantly deepened bilateral exchanges between China and Nigeria in the past six years since Nigeria joined the BRI in 2018.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Bitcoin rose above $60,000 and other cryptocurrencies gained in market value after Donald Trump's defiant response to an assassination attempt by shooting during his campaign rally increased speculation that his chances of winning the election has increased, Bloomberg reported. Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures with a bloodied face while he is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after he was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. (AP)

Why did Bitcoin rise after the assassination attempt on Trump?

The Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President had become known for being pro-crypto, telling I will make sure that the future of bitcoin will be made in the U.S. and not driven overseas, during an event in Washington, D.C. last month, according to a Forbes report.

This is in stark contrast to the Biden administration's anti-crypto stance. Trump went so far as to accept campaign donations in bitcoin, ethereum, solana, dogecoin and shiba inu, supporting the right to custody of crypto, according to the Forbes report.

What happened at Donald Trump's campaign rally?

The former president was campaigning at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, when an assailant opened fire.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, as the shooter. He was shot and killed by security officials on the spot.

Trump got shot in the ear, while one attendee got killed and two others are in critical condition, according to a CNBC report.

His campaign said that he was fine after the incident and is looking forward to going to the Milwaukee Republican National Convention on Monday.

Also Read: Companies like Nestle and Unilever modify plastic recycling goals due to implementation difficulties: Report

What was the outcome of the assasination attempt on Trump?

Trumps chances of becoming president increased after he defiantly responded to the shooting, gesturing to the public with a bloodied face as he was assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel, Bloomberg wrote, citing data from PredictIt, a New Zealand-based prediction service on political and financial events, owned by the Victoria University of Wellington.

Images of the defiant Trump, with his fist raised over his head and his bloody right ear, and the American flag waving in the background are trending across social media and television after the attack, the report read.

President Joe Biden said he is glad Trump is safe and condemned the violence.

Also Read: Invest on product and supply chain, less on cute ads: Ola's Bhavish Aggarwal on EV sales slowdown

How much did Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies rise after the assassination attempt on Trump?

Bitcoin rose as much as 2.7% to $60,160.71 as of 1:05 a.m. in New York, according to the Bloomberg report.

Dogecoin, Solana, XRP, and some other cryptcurrencies also gained around 5% or more, according to a CNBC TV18 report, which cites Coinmarketcap.

Also Read: Elon Musk's X accused of violating EU digital laws, Musk says EU offered illegal secret deal
Three terrorists were killed as security forces foiled an infiltration bid near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmirs Kupwara district, the army said on Sunday. Three terrorists were killed as security forces foiled an infiltration bid near the Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmirs Kupwara district, the army said on Sunday. (PTI File)

The infiltration bid was foiled in the Keran sector of Kupwara on LoC. Three terrorists have been eliminated in the ongoing anti-infiltration operation on the LoC in Keran sector along with recovery of weapons and other war-like stores, the strategic Chinar Corps said in a post on X.

The army said that the operation was still going on but released no information about the identity of the slain terrorists.

Police officials didnt provide information about the ongoing operation. We are yet to receive any information about the operation, said an official of the police control room, Kupwara.

The operation comes just a week after security forces killed six militants in two separate gunfights in south Kashmirs Kulgam district on July 6 and 7 even as the army lost two of its soldiers who were killed in the gunfights.

Four militants and one soldier were killed on July 6 in Chinigam, while another soldier died in Modergam. The remaining two militants were killed on July 7 as the Modergam operation concluded.

On June 23, an infiltrator was killed in an anti-infiltration operation by security forces near Line of Control in Uri sector of north Kashmirs Baramulla district.

The army had foiled the infiltration bid by a group of militants to sneak into the Valley near Basgrain village on the Line of Control (LoC) in Uri sector by challenging the infiltrating group leading to exchange of fire.

In April, the army had killed two infiltrators in Uri near Rustam post. The army later blamed Pakistani forces for giving cover-fire to two infiltrators who were killed by the security forces near Sabura nullah on the LoC in the Uri sector. It was the first infiltration attempt of the year, which was averted by the alert forces.

In November last year, the army had foiled a similar infiltration bid in the Uri sector and neutralised two terrorists.
A 32-year-old man was shot and killed by a teenager inside a ward at Delhi's GTB Hospital on Sunday, according to police. The incident occurred in Ward Number 24, with only a minor shooter involved. Riyazuddin later died from injuries. (Screengrab)

The victim Riyazuddin, had been admitted on June 23 for treatment of an abdominal infection.

The incident occurred in Ward Number 24, with only a minor shooter involved. Riyazuddin later died from injuries.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (Shahdara) Surendra Choudhary told PTI, The PCR call regarding the incident in Ward No. 24 was received at the GTB Enclave police station. On reaching the spot, police found that a patient, namely Riyazuddin, received injury. He was later declared dead by doctors.

The officer said an 18-year-old man entered the ward around 4 pm and shot Riyazuddin.

The victim's wife claimed that the shooter meant to kill someone else but accidentally shot Riyazuddin.

She told ANI, I met my husband yesterday. After I reached here, I got to know that he was shot dead. They (accused) had come here to kill someone else, but mistakenly shot my husband. There was a person admitted to another ward, his wife used to tell me that her husband was in danger and some people could come to kill him. The shooters had come to kill him but they shot my husband.

Speaking to PTI, Riyazuddin's cousin brother Shoaib alleged that the hospital was aware that an attack was going to take place but did not put proper security measures in place.

He said, Nurse informed us that a youngster shot at our brother while his bandages were being changed. In the adjacent room, another patient had been attacked a day back. His wife had asked for security as they got to know that a second attack was going to be carried out, but they were not provided with security. So, they had come to kill someone else, however, my brother lost his life due to confusion. My brother was innocent, he had no criminal record and was mentally disturbed.

Delhi health minister Saurabh Bhardwaj said, "Negligence in such cases will not be tolerated. Whoever is guilty will not be spared. Security of all hospitals will be reviewed."

A hospital official mentioned that some people pushed the doctor into entering the ward, shot the patient, and then escaped.

GTB hospital released an official statement saying, Nobody else was injured. SHO of GTB Enclave, ACP and Crime Branch officers reached the crime scene after being informed by the CMO on duty.

A nurse, who was on duty and wished to remain anonymous, said the teenager entered the ward at 3:59 pm, asking everyone to stay calm and quiet. The nurse mentioned that the gunshot noise attracted a crowd outside the ward, and someone from the crowd alerted the police. She told PTI, He took out a pistol which he had concealed behind and shot the patient and ran away. It was scary for everyone who were inside the ward.
The Enforcement Directorate (ED) has completed the probe against Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal and the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) with respect to the alleged irregularities in the framing and implementation of the now-scrapped Delhi excise police 2021-22, senior ED officials familiar with the development said on Sunday. Delhi chief minister and AAP leader Arvind Kejriwal (PTI)

The focus, the officials said, will now be to ascertain which properties can be attached equivalent to the proceeds of crime worth 1,100 crore identified by the financial crimes probe agency, along with an early trial.

So far, ED has attached assets worth only 244 crore in the case.

To be sure, the federal agency has not said that the investigation into the policy is complete  its investigation into the case has so far spanned 22 months, leading to 18 arrests, eight charge sheets against 40 accused, and over four dozen raids.

With regards to Arvind Kejriwal and AAP, accused number 37 and 38, our investigation is complete. The court has taken cognisance of all eight charge sheets filed by our team and most accused persons have been refused bail. We are now in the process of tracing the balance proceeds of crime and attaching them, said an officer, who did not wish to be named.

ALSO READ- Arvind Kejriwal lost 8.5 kg weight since his arrest in March, says AAP

In the last one-and-a-half years, the federal agency has extensively availed the services of solicitor general Tushar Mehta, additional solicitor general SV Raju and multiple special public prosecutors against a battery of lawyers such as Abhishek Manu Singhvi, Dayan Krishnan, and Mohit Mathur, who appeared for Kejriwal, Manish Sisodia, Sanjay Singh, to defend its charges.

We will now push for a faster trial in the case considering there are 40 accused, hundreds of witnesses and documentary evidence in thousands and thousands of pages, said a second officer, who also requested anonymity.

The agency has called Kejriwal the kingpin of the excise policy-related irregularities and has primarily used statements of Telugu Desam Party (TDP) MP from Ongole, Magunta Sreenivasulu Reddy, his son Raghav Magunta and businessman P Sarath Reddy to indict the CM.

Kejriwal and AAP have denied all the charges, and called then political vendetta by the Union government.

ALSO READ- BJP flays AAP govt over power bill hike in Delhi: Money illegally collected

The CM was arrested on March 21. The Supreme Court on Friday granted him interim bail in the ED case, but he continues to be lodged inside Tihar prison in the parallel Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) probe in the matter.

ED has claimed in its charge sheet filed on May 17 against Kejriwal and AAP that the CM, his then deputy Manish Sisodia and former media in-charge of the party, Vijay Nair, had asked for additional money over and above 100 crore kickbacks for their election funding in Goa and Punjab.

The federal agency had also alleged that Vinod Chauhan, a close associate of Kejriwal, handled the transfer of 25.5 crore bribe money for AAP from Delhi to Goa as well as managed postings of officers in the Delhi Jal Board (DJB) through the CM.

The AAP, meanwhile, said that the development exposed the motive of the Union government.

They want to crush the AAP and Arvind Kejriwal. The central governments investigating agencies have been probing the so-called liquor scam for two years, harassing 500 people by making them witnesses, and conducting more than 250 raids at multiple locations. Despite all this, they have not found a shred of evidence of corruption against AAP and Kejriwal, AAP said in a statement. AAP claimed the Centre intended to attach the bank accounts of AAP so that they can paralyse the operations of the party. The people of the country are keenly watching these atrocities and they will respond in the elections, the party added.

ALSO READ- Delhi govt explores tech to check tree-felling

The Delhi BJP said that with his pleas for temporary relief, Kejriwal is obstructing the completion of trial. We challenge Kejriwal who claims innocence to allow daily time bound trials. Once summary trial happens the conviction of Kejriwal and other leaders will happen in few weeks, said Praveen Shankar Kapor, Delhi BJP spokesperson.

The Delhi governments 2021-22 excise policy aimed to revitalise the citys flagging liquor business. It aimed to replace a sales-volume-based regime with a license fee one for the traders and promised swankier stores, free of the infamous metal grilles, ultimately giving customers a better buying experience. The policy also introduced discounts and offers on the purchase of liquor, a first for Delhi.

The plan, however, came to an abrupt end, with Delhis lieutenant governor VK Saxena recommending a probe into alleged irregularities in the regime. This ultimately resulted in the policy being scrapped prematurely and being replaced by the 2020-21 regime, with AAP alleging that Saxenas predecessor sabotaged the move with a few last-minute changes that resulted in lower-than-expected revenues.
Jharkhand chief minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha working president Hemant Soren paid courtesy visits to the wife of Delhi chief minister Arvind Kejriwal, Sunita Kejriwal, and Congress parliamentary party chief Sonia Gandhi, in the Capital on Saturday  days after Soren was released from jail and resumed office as the chief minister. Jharkhand CM Hemant Soren with his wife Kalpana Soren, Delhi CM Arvind Kejriwals wife Sunita Kejriwal and AAP Rajya Sabha MP Sanjay Singh, in Delhi, on Saturday. (PTI)

Soren was accompanied by his wife and Jharkhands Gandey constituency MLA Kalpana Soren. Aam Aadmi Party Rajya Sabha MP, Sanjay Singh, who was present during the couples meeting with Sunita Kejriwal at Kejriwals residence, said Soren has extended full support to the Delhi CM and his family. Soren said he hoped that Kejriwal would be granted bail soon in the excise policy case.

Today in Delhi, I met Honourable Chief Minister Bhai Arvind Kejriwal jis wife Mrs. Sunita Kejriwal ji and AAP MP Bhai Sanjay Singh ji. Arvind ji, his family and party are fighting this battle against the conspiracy with great strength. Our support and best wishes are with all of you. The victory of truth is eternal! Soren said in a post on X.

The talks were cordial and the issue of misuse of central probe agencies against opposition leaders was discussed. He (Hemant Soren) and Kejriwal both were victims of the Bharatiya Janata Partys politics of ill will, revenge and efforts to stop opposition leaders from campaigning in the Lok Sabha polls, said Singh.

Also Read | ED moves SC against bail granted to Hemant Soren

Soren was visiting Delhi for the first time since his release from jail and taking charge as the Jharkhand CM. Referring to the INDIA blocs vote share in the recently concluded general elections, Soren said: Indians are very sensitive and tolerant. They tolerate a lot until they cannot and then they make themselves heard by voting.

Discussions for Jharkhand assembly elections will continue... there was no discussion about polls, Soren said when asked whether the upcoming assembly polls in Jharkhand were discussed with Gandhi.

Soren resigned as the chief minister before his arrest on January 31 by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in connection with a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam. He was granted bail by the Jharkhand high court after around five months and took over as the chief minister again on July 4.

Delhi Chief Minister and AAP national convener Kejriwal was arrested by ED on March 21 in a money laundering case linked to the alleged irregularities in the now-scrapped Delhi excise policy.

Also Read | What was Champai Soren's fault?: Shivraj Chouhan jabs Hemant Soren on return as Jharkhand CM

The JMM and the Congress are alliance partners in the Soren-led government. Assembly elections in the state are scheduled to take place later this year.

Meanwhile, Delhi BJP spokesperson Praveen Shankar Kapoor said that people of Delhi are not surprised to see the bonding between the Soren and Kejriwal families as both are facing economic offence charges.

Both Soren and Kejriwal consider public resources a source for their political and economic development... From Sonia Gandhi and Lalu Yadav to Sharad Pawar to Hemant Soren... these are people against whom the Ramlila Maidan fast was held by India Against Corruption... today those who supported Kejriwal in the IAC days must be wondering what a chameleon he is, said Kapoor.
A week after seven schoolchildren ran away from home in Dera Bassi, police traced and brought back the remaining five children from Mumbai. After tracing them in Mumbai with the help of the local Samta Nagar police, a team of Dera Bassi police brought the five boys back home on Sunday, following which they were handed over to their respective families. (HT Photo)

The other two children were already rescued from the New Delhi railway station on July 11.

The boys, aged 10-15, who are friends and study in the same government school in Dera Bassi, had run away from home on Sunday to earn money, said police.

After tracing them in Mumbai with the help of the local Samta Nagar police, a team of Dera Bassi police brought the five boys back home on Sunday, following which they were handed over to their respective families.

According to police, all these children are from migrant families and have been residing in Dera Bassi for a long time.

An investigating officer said all seven boys spent Sunday wandering around Dera Bassi, before boarding a train to Mumbai from Ambala, intending to find work and earn money.

Launching a search, police had sent alerts to all railway stations, and pasted missing person posters at railway stations and bus stops. Meanwhile, after wandering around in Mumbai, two boys decided to head back to Dera Bassi.

They were intercepted by security personnel at the Delhi railway station, causing them to get scared and contact their families. Subsequently, a Dera Bassi police team travelled to Delhi and brought them back with the help of local police.

Continuing the search for the remaining five children, police traced them to Mumbai. According to police, the eldest boy in the group had some money, and bought the train tickets, food and other necessities.

Inspector Mandeep Singh, SHO, Dera Bassi, said, All seven missing children have been brought back home from Delhi and Mumbai, and handed over to their parents.
More than four and a half decades after it was last opened for audit, the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar or the treasury containing precious jewelleries of Lord Jagannath and his siblings in the 12th century Jagannath temple of Puri was opened on Sunday afternoon, breaking its three locks. Devotees during the reopening of Ratna Bhandar at the Jagannath Temple in Puri on Sunday. (PTI)

A 12-member team led by chief administrator of the Jagannath temple, Arabinda Padhee, and comprising Orissa high court judge Biswanath Rath, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) superintendent and several temple servitors among others, broke the lock of the inner chamber of the Ratna Bhandar, more than one and a half hours after the team entered the outer chamber of the treasury. The team then shifted the valuables in four wooden chests from there to a temporary strong room in Changda Mekap room inside the temple premises. However, the team did not open the wooden chests and almirahs in the inner chamber due to paucity of time.

After the team entered the outer chamber of Ratna Bhandar at 1.28pm, it spent close to one and a half hours shifting the valuables from there to the temporary strongroom inside the temple premises. The team had to cut open the three locks of the inner chamber as we could not open it using the keys that were given to us. However, all the team members decided against opening the wooden chests kept inside the inner chamber as there was not much time left to do that. The ornaments and jewels in the inner chamber would be shifted to a temporary strong room in Khata Seja Ghara inside the temple premises another day as the temple administration will be busy in Bahuda Yatra (return car festival) and other rituals from Monday, said Padhee.

The missing keys of the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar has been a major issue in Odisha since 2018 when a team led by chief secretary PK Jena tried to open it but had to return as the keys could not be located. Following a public uproar, the then Naveen Patnaik government instituted a judicial probe headed by retired high court judge Raghubir Das on June 6, 2018, two months after the keys were found to be missing. Justice Das submitted his inquiry report to the state government on November 29, 2018. Around 22.27 lakh was spent for the judicial inquiry, but the report was never made public.

Situated close to the Jagamohana (the assembly hall) of the Jagannath temple, the Ratna Bhandar standing at a height of 11.78 metres with a length 8.79 metres and width of 6.74 metres looks just like a temple. It has two chambers  Bahara Bhandar (outer chamber) and Bhitara Bhandar (inner chamber)  containing the jewels of the Trinity. According to Madala Panji, the official chronicle of the temple dating back to 12th century, Eastern Ganga monarch Anangabhima Dev III donated more than 250 kg of gold while other kings such as Gajapati Kapilendra Dev donated gold, jewels and utensils.

The outer chambers are opened on festive occasions when the servitors take out jewelleries to bedeck the trinities, but the jewels in both the chambers have not been audited since 1978 when a 9-member committee headed by the then governor of Odisha B D Sharma did an inventory between May 13 and July 23 that year. The inventory revealed the presence of a total 454 gold articles with a net weight of 128.38 kg and 293 silver articles weighing 221.53 kg in both the chambers of the treasury. The inner chamber had 367 gold items weighing 43.64 kg and 231 silver items weighing 148.78 kg while the outer chamber had 87 gold items weighing 84.74 kg and 62 silver items weighing 73.64 kg. The inner chamber was opened twice in 1982 and 1985 to take out some gold and silver jewelleries for making new ornaments of Lord Balabhadra as well as silver cladding of the gate in sanctum sanctorum, but no audit was done.

Head of the audit supervisory committee, justice(retired) Biswanath Rath said the team saw five wooden chests, 4 wooden almirahs and 1 steel almirah in the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar. Some dust-like material was also found on floor. Besides, many items were lying on the floor. Many other items might have been there as we did not check the backside of the almirahs.

As the Bahuda Jatra (return car festival of Lord Jagannath and his siblings) is scheduled tomorrow, it is not possible to transfer the containers from the inner chamber to a temporary strong room in a day. We need more time for shifting, said Rath. A member of the committee said rainwater seepage seemed to be a major issue in the inner chamber as the floor was wet.

He said only after the valuables inside the inner chambers are shifted to a strong room, then the ASI will inspect the structure for its structural safety. Structural safety of Srimandir is our topmost concern. We did not open the containers. We will fix a date at our next meeting for shifting all the valuables to the temporary strong room. After repairing work is done by ASI, we will keep the valuables back in the inner chamber. The audit and inventorisation of the jewels would take place only inside the inner chamber, he added.

Incidentally, Rath said two of the three locks on the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar were not sealed.

Hours before the Ratna Bhandar opening, the team prayed to Lord Lokanath, the guardian deity of the treasury and got the Agyanmala from him signaling their consent. After the Ratna Bhandar was opened, several bats that were present inside flew away. The team also offered prayer to Goddess Bimala and Goddess Lakshmi.

Before the Ratna Bhandar was opened, the assistance of Snake Helpline was sought. We were asked to discharge our duty in the process of opening the Ratna Bhandar. However, we were not called up into the inner chamber, said Subhendu Mallick, the Snake Helpline chief. Dr. CBK Mohanty, a member of Ratna Bhandar monitoring committee, ruled out presence of snakes inside the Ratna Bhandar. I could not see any snake inside there. We did not find any awkward situation inside the inner chamber of Ratna Bhandar, he said.

Odisha chief minister Mohan Majhi took to social media and expressed his joy at the opening of the treasure trove of Lord Jagannath. Majhi offered prayers to Lord Jagannath seeking blessings for the 4.5 crore people of Odisha. As per your wish, the Odia race has started moving forward with its Asmita. The four doors of the temple were first opened at your will. Today, after 46 years, your Ratna Bhandar was opened. I strongly believe that this will be successful, he wrote on X.

The opening of Ratna Bhandar had become a major poll plank during the recent assembly elections, with the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) highlighting the disappearance of the treasury key in 2018. From PM Modi to Amit Shah, all BJP leaders raised the slogan of Odia Asmita (Odia pride) to oust the Biju Janata Dal government led by Naveen Patnaik. The BJP had in its elections manifesto promised an audit and inventorisation of the treasury if voted to power.
Senior OBC leader and Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) minister in state cabinet Chhagan Bhujbal on Sunday accused his former boss Sharad Pawar of working with an intention to set Maharashtra on fire over reservation issue. Bhujbal was speaking in Sharad Pawars home ground Baramati at the partys Jan-sanman yatra, where senior NCP leaders including Ajit Pawar were also present. Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had convened an all-party meeting on July 9 to discuss the OBC-Maratha reservation to maintain social harmony. (HT PHOTO)

ALSO READ- Defiant Ajit Pawar launches bid to retain ground in state assembly, hires political strategist

Bhujbal said on a sensitive issue like reservation, it was expected that Sharad Pawar would attend the meeting called by the state government last week. However, after a call from Baramati, opposition leaders decided to skip the meeting.

When serious issues like reservation come up for discussion, it was expected that Sharad Pawar as senior leader should have been there (for a meeting). It is being told that when all the leaders were about to come, a call was made from Baramati at around 5 pm and leaders in the opposition suddenly boycotted the meeting, said the senior NCP leader who has been opposing Marathas being considered as Kunbis, a sub-caste which enjoys reservation under OBC quota.

ALSO READ- Sharad Pawar on Uddhav Thackeray as CM face of Oppn in Maharashtra: One person cant'

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had convened an all-party meeting on July 9 to discuss the OBC-Maratha reservation to maintain social harmony. The meeting was convened amid protest from both sides as pro-quota Maratha activists have been demanding reservation from the OBC category which the members of the Other Backward Class strongly opposed. While the opposition leaders skipped the meeting even as the protest escalated tension in Maharashtra.

It is okay if you are angry with Ajit Pawar and Chhagan Bhujbal, but what has the OBC community done to you? Why are you not coming with us to end this deadlock, Bhujbal asked, adding, The leaders are being told and counselled from behind. This way attempts are being made to set Maharashtra on fire.

The Sharad Pawar-led NCP (SP) however countered the allegations with party executive president Supriya Sule asking for call detail records of the leader to ascertain the phone call which Chhagan Bhujbal spoke about.

Is there any proof in what Bhujbal said? Let us get the Call Details Records, said Sule. On being asked why opposition leaders did not attend the meeting, Sule said, We had asked for a proposal (about the meeting) since we are not against any community. Opposition leaders are speaking on OBC reservation now but I have been talking about it for the past 10 years in Parliament which is the place to speak on this issue.

ALSO READ- Sharad Pawar's NCP (SP) can accept voluntary donations from public: Election Commission

Earlier in his speech, Bhujbal said the reservation issue has become a hot topic and there are attempts by some to create tension between the two communities (OBCs and Marathas) and orchestrate riots in the state.

To end this deadlock, there was an all-party meeting called by the chief minister back at Sahyadri guest house.

I called up the leader of opposition in the state assembly Vijay Wadettiwar and NCP (SP) member Jitendra Awhad, gave them documents on what the law says and also urged them to bring Sharad Pawar for the meeting since he was the one who implemented OBC reservation in Maharashtra after VP Singh govt took a call on it, said Bhujbal.

Vijay Wadettiwar while responding to senior NCP leaders allegations said, Bhujbal is levelling false accusations. There was no question that he would bring Sharad Pawar to attend the meeting.
Delhi University (DU) has no plans to hold separate PhD entrance exams like Jawaharlal Nehru University (JNU), Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh stated on Sunday. Amid concerns over UGC NET, Delhi University Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh said on Sunday that there are no plans to hold separate PhD entrance exams like the JNU. (File image)

The DU Vice-Chancellor added that the university is awaiting guidance from the University Grants Commission (UGC).

The uncertainty surrounding PhD admissions arose after the Centre cancelled the UGC NET exam, which had been crucial for entry into PhD programs. The UGC NET exam, conducted by the National Testing Agency (NTA), determines eligibility for teaching positions and PhD admissions.

Also read: CBSE supply exams for 10th, 12th on July 15, here are the instructions for candidates

"We have no plans to hold a separate in-house PhD entrance exam. We will follow whatever UGC suggests. We have not received any communication from the NTA and are awaiting their guidance. We expect the academic session for PhD to be delayed by a month," he told ANI.

Singh's comments were in response to queries about whether DU planned to conduct its own entrance test following the controversy surrounding the NTA's UGC NET exam.

On June 19, the Centre cancelled the exam after the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) raised concerns about the integrity of the examination.

Also read: CUSAT CAT 2024 Btech 1st allotment: Last date to pay programme fee on July 15, details here

Meanwhile, JNU is considering abandoning the UGC NET exam for PhD admissions and reverting to an in-house entrance test. This year, JNU announced it would accept the National Eligibility Test (NET) scores instead of conducting its own entrance test, in line with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.

The UGC, in a notification dated March 27, 2024, decided that from the academic session 2024-25, the NET score could be used for PhD admissions in place of entrance tests conducted by various universities and higher education institutions (HEIs).

Also read: JKBOSE 11th Result 2024 released at jkbose.nic.in, here's how to check scorecards, result details here

The UGC NET, conducted by the NTA in Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode since December 2018, determines eligibility for Assistant Professorship and Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. The award of JRF or eligibility for Assistant Professorship depends on the aggregate performance in Paper-I and Paper-II of the UGC NET.
Actor Preity Zinta, who is often seen sharing glimpses of her personal life, posted a new photo of her twins. Taking to Instagram on Sunday, Preity posted the photo of the toddlers  Jai Zinta Goodenough and Gia Zinta Goodenough as they played outdoors on a sunny day. (Also Read | Preity Zinta slays as she makes appearance at Rahul Mishras Paris show; fans 'can't believe she's 49') Preity Zinta shared a post on Instagram.

Preity shares new pic of kids

In the photo, Gia was seen walking on a rope net while Jai tried to scale it. While Gia wore a white T-shirt, beige pants and sneakers, Jai was seen in a blue T-shirt, denims and shoes. Sharing the photo, Preity wrote, "They are growing up so fast (red heart and two hearts emojis)." She also added the hashtags  my babies, Jai, Gia and ting.

Fans react to Preity's post

Reacting to the post, a fan wrote, "Awww, they are fabulous like you." A person said, "Woah, they look all grown up. Bless them." "How cutely they are playing. So sweet," read a comment. "Preity enjoying mornings with her two kids," said an Instagram user.

All about Preity's family

Preity and her husband, Gene Goodenough, welcomed twins Jai and Gia in November 2021. The children were born via surrogacy. Preity and Gene married on February 29, 2016, in Los Angeles. Preity has been living in Los Angeles ever since she tied the knot.

Preity's upcoming film

Preity is all set to make her comeback in the industry with Rajkumar Santoshi's directorial Lahore 1947. It marks a significant collaboration between Sunny Deol and Aamir Khan's Productions.

The film was officially announced last October, garnering attention for its star-studded cast and promising storyline. Shabana Azmi and Ali Fazal have also joined the cast of Lahore 1947. The movie will also feature Sunny Deol with his elder son Karan Deol.

Preity was last seen in Bhaiaji Superhit (2018) an action comedy film directed by Neerraj Pathak. It also starred Sunny Deol, Arshad Warsi, Ameesha Patel and Shreyas Talpade.
Actor Alec Baldwin has broken his silence following the dismissal of involuntary manslaughter charges against him by a New Mexico judge in connection with the tragic shooting incident on the set of the film Rust. In a statement obtained by Deadline, Baldwin expressed gratitude amidst a tumultuous legal battle. (Also Read: Prosecutor who quit Rust trial calls out Alec Baldwin's horseplay and reckless behaviour on set) Alec Baldwin breaks down after the judge threw out the involuntary manslaughter case for the 2021 fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins during filming of the Western movie Rust(AP)

"I am grateful for the tremendous support I have received during this challenging time," he said. He also shared a photo of him taken inside the courtroom on Instagram.

Alongside the picture, he wrote, There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now. To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family.

The decision, announced on Friday by Judge Marlowe Sommer, not only dismissed the charges against Baldwin but also barred any possibility of retrial, effectively concluding the criminal proceedings against him, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The ruling followed a day-long hearing filled with heated arguments regarding alleged mishandling of evidence by authorities.

Judge Marlowe Sommer underscored the impact of procedural errors on the fairness of the trial, stating unequivocally, "The late discovery of this evidence has compromised the fundamental fairness of these proceedings. There is no remedy but to dismiss the charges."

During the hearing, the judge personally inspected a bag of ammunition central to the case, which Baldwin's legal team asserted had been withheld from them until recently.

This development triggered significant repercussions, including the resignation of a special prosecutor and the testimony of another, as per The Hollywood Reporter.

Initially projected to span two weeks, the trial abruptly ended on its third day, leaving Baldwin visibly moved but choosing to remain silent as he departed the courthouse.

Prosecutor Kari Morrissey acknowledged the judge's decision while maintaining that there was no conclusive evidence linking the discovered ammunition to the tragic incident involving cinematographer Halyna Hutchins.

The motion for dismissal, filed by Baldwin's defense team, highlighted critical evidence that emerged post-trial of the film's armorer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed.

This included ammunition allegedly matching the fatal bullet, disclosed belatedly to authorities by retired officer Troy Teske in March but not presented to the defense during trial preparations, according to The Hollywood Reporter.

The fatal incident occurred during a rehearsal at a New Mexico church set, where Baldwin inadvertently discharged a loaded revolver he was assured was unloaded.

The incident resulted in the death of Halyna Hutchins and injured director Joel Souza, sparking widespread scrutiny over safety protocols on film sets.

Legal proceedings against Baldwin have been turbulent, marked by conflicting forensic reports and witness testimonies since charges were first filed in January 2023, dropped, and later reinstated.

Following the dismissal, attorney Brian Panish, representing Matthew Hutchins, Halyna's widower, expressed disappointment while reaffirming their commitment to holding Baldwin accountable.

"We respect the court's decision. We look forward to presenting all the evidence to a jury and holding Mr. Baldwin accountable for his actions in the senseless death of Halyna Hutchins," Panish stated in an official statement obtained by The Hollywood Reporter.
Ben Affleck and Jennifer Lopez, one of Hollywood's most high-profile couples, are reportedly eager to move on from their marital home as soon as possible. The Accountant 2 star reportedly found himself anything but comfortable in their recently acquired marital mansion with Jennifer Lopez which has now hit the market again. Speculation is rife that their top priority is a swift sale over maximising their profit, hinting at a stronger desire to distance themselves amid rumours of marital woes. Ben Affleck very protective of Jennifer Lopez but their marriage has been over for months, report claims (Photo by Michael Tran / AFP)(AFP)

Affleck and Lopez in rush to sell their $60 M mansion

According to inside sources who spoke to Page Six, Affleck never quite felt at home in the palatial Beverly Hills estate. The rekindled couple, who apparently spent nearly two years purchasing their dream home, publicly listed their mansion for sale at a whopping $68 million after having purchased it for $60 million. Some sources now claim they could have sold it earlier, but perhaps waited for a more opportune time to maximise exposure  though rumours of a split may have ultimately played a role in the timing.

Also read: Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck officially part ways with their marital home, listing it for sale at whopping amount

They thought they could sell it off-market but made a game-time decision in order to put more eyes on the property, an insider claimed.

Ben was never happy there

They are in a rush to sell it. Ben especially wants to be done with the house. He was never happy there, a source told Page Six. The news of their shared mansion hitting the market emerged in June, with reports suggesting they were also trying to sell some of their art pieces. This development comes as Ben and Jen have been leading completely separate lives in recent months. The actor is currently residing in a rental property in Brentwood, while the pop star remains in her LA home. The couple has not been seen together for over a month now.

The domestic discord has seemingly spilled over into the real estate market, with reports suggesting they want to just get done with it without wasting any more time. Insiders allege the massive 38,000 square foot house never felt quite right for the couple. Perhaps the vast space felt excessive with the kids not always all together. They rarely have all the kids there at once, so it felt huge for the two of them, the source added.

Also read: Trump pulls ahead in 2024 election poll with only 24% of Americans trusting Biden's mental sharpness now

Affleck and Lopez collectively have five children from their previous relationships. The Hypnotic star, has three children with his ex, Jennifer Garner: Violet, 18, Seraphina, 15, and Samuel, 12. Lopez has two children, Max and Emme, with her ex, Marc Anthony.
Ekam review: Making an anthology web series is not new, but the fact that India is so diverse allows filmmakers and writers to explore the nativities across regions, which are unique to our country. Kannada series Ekam, created by Sandeep PS and Sumanth Bhat, does precisely that  it gives the local flavour of the Karavali region of Karnataka, showcasing everything from romance to religion and life itself, in seven episodes. (Also Read  Indian 2 movie review: Kamal Haasan's film is visually striking, but filled with political sermons) Ekam review: Rakshit Shetty-produced Kannada anthology series stars Prakash Raj among others

In the prologue (Munnudi), the audience is asked in a voiceover by Kishore Kumar, "Who am I?" Focusing on stories of life from the Karavali region, the audience is told that they all embody the same despite the differences, and they are all in fact Ekam or one.

The series starts on a lighter note with Haaraata (Flight), directed by Sankar Gangadharan and Vivek Vinod. This is a romantic story set in the village of Padoor, where college girl Manjula (Pallavi Kodagu) gets a crush on Thomas (Shine Shetty). This entire interreligious romance hinges on an exchange of one set of letters and despite what may seem initially as a flippant premise, it conveys a strong message to the viewers.

Moving on to Shoola (Void), written and directed by Sumanth Bhat, it is about Guruva (Basama Kodagu), a superb hunter, who is given a rifle to make life easier. However, this changes him drastically and he loses the essence of who he is. In the third episode, Dombaraata (masquerade), also written and directed by Sumanth Bhat, simple Dhanaraja (Raj Shetty) returns from Dubai and desperately tries to set up a dairy farm to make a living. Do his dreams come true?

Cut to Bhranti (Delusion), again written and directed by Sumanth Bhat, we see a story revolving around a teenage school girl who suspects she may have been adopted. What is the truth? Swattu, also by Sumanth Bhat, narrates the story of an ageing movie star and his sexcapades revealed in an autobiography. While the star may have been proud of this, it impacts the lives of others. How?

Veteran actor Prakash Raj features in episode six titled Poorvachara (Tradition), directed by Sanal Aman and Swaroop Elamon. As a community prepares to perform the last rites of a man believed to be dead, he actually turns up alive. How does this impact the local traditions there? Finally, there's Asmite (Identity), also directed by Swaroop Elamon and Sanal Aman, in which we see an ageing Malayalam writer (Babu Annur) receive an unexpected visitor, and many questions arise.

One of the aspects of the entire series, apart from the superb cinematography, is how each of the stories  which are unconnected  unfold really slowly, showcasing a poignant slice of life. This pacing impacts the series as you get somewhat disengaged when the directors focus more on the beauty and culture of the region to convey their theme. With regard to performances, all the actors in the series have done a commendable job, including the two big names we see  Raj B Shetty and Prakash Raj.

The seven episodes cover all genres from drama to comic satire, but Ekam definitely needed more diversity in terms of its directors and writers. This would bring in more perspectives, and including female voices would have been a good addition. As with all anthologies, some stories have more of an impact on the audience than others. Having said that, Ekam is a different web series and is definitely worth a watch. Co-produced by Rakshit Shettys Paramvah Studios, the Kannada series (with English subs) is available on ekamtheseries.com.
Three terrorists were killed as security forces foiled an infiltration bid near Line of Control (LoC) in north Kashmirs Kupwara district, Indian Army said on Sunday. The infiltration bid was foiled in the Keran sector of Kupwara on the Line of Control (LoC). (Representational image)

The infiltration bid was foiled in the Keran sector of Kupwara on LoC. Three terrorists have been eliminated in the on-going anti-infiltration operation on the LoC in Keran sector along with recovery of weapons and other war-like stores, the strategic Chinar Corps said in a post on X.

The army said that the operation was still going on. Information about the identity of the slain terrorists have not been released yet.

An official of the police control room, Kupwara said they are yet to receive any information about the operation.

The operation comes just a week after security forces killed six terrorists in two separate gunfights in south Kashmirs Kulgam district on July 6 and 7 even as the Army lost two of its soldiers who were killed in the gunfights.

Four terrorists and one soldier were killed on July 6 in Chinigam, while another soldier died in Modergam. The remaining two terrorists were killed on July 7 as the Modergam operation concluded.

On June 23, a terrorist was killed in an anti-infiltration operation by security forces near LoC in Uri sector of north Kashmirs Baramulla district.

The Indian Army had foiled the infiltration bid by a group of terrorists to sneak into the valley near Basgrain village on the LoC in Uri sector by challenging the infiltrating group leading to exchange of fire.

In April, Army killed two infiltrators in Uri near Rustam post. The army later blamed Pakistani forces for giving cover-fire to two infiltrators who were killed by the security forces near Sabura nullah on the LoC in the Uri sector. It was the first infiltration attempt of the year, which was averted by the alert forces.

In November last year, the army had foiled a similar infiltration bid in the Uri sector and neutralised two terrorists.
A 33-year-old man, an accused in the murder case of K Armstrong, the Tamil Nadu unit chief of the Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), was fatally shot by the police in an encounter in Chennai on Sunday. K Armstrong (File Photo)

According to police officials, K Thiruvengadam, among 11 accused in the case, was taken to a spot near a lake in Madhavaram to recover weapons used in the politician's killing.

There, he (the accused) tried to attack police personnel with the recovered weapons and flee from the spot. He was injured in retaliatory firing and rushed to a hospital. However, he was declared brought dead, the officials said.

Recently, a court in the Tamil Nadu capital granted five-day police custody of the accused individuals.

On July 5, Armstrong was hacked to death by six unidentified men near his residence in the city's Perambur area.

BSP supremo and former Uttar Pradesh chief minister Mayawati attended her party leader's burial and demanded a probe by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI). She claimed that those arrested were not the real culprits.

The way he was killed, shows that there is nothing called law and order in Tamil Nadu. We have taken this incident very seriously and we will not sit quietly. I pray to God for strength to his family and supporters to bear the loss. To ensure action against the accused, the party cadre should come forward but at the same time, stay within the limits of law and show that the weaker section does not take the law into their hands, Mayawati said at the burial.

Police, meanwhile, have ruled out any political angles to the BSP member's murder.

The DMK-led Tamil Nadu government transferred Chennai's Police commissioner amid outcry over the incident, bringing in A Arun to replace Sandeep Rai Rathore.
The inner chamber of the treasury of the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri was reopened on Sunday for an audit of valuables after 46 years, officials aware of the matter said, underscoring a move that has been shrouded both in political jostling and superstition. ODRAF personnel at the Jagannath Temple in Puri on Sunday. (PTI)

The Ratna Bhandar, situated next to the sanctum sanctorum that houses the primary idols and assembly hall, has long been considered the custodian of the temples riches. In the last audit of Bhandar held in 1978, the Odisha government said the inventory contained over 149.6kg of gold ornaments fitted with precious stones, 258.3kg of silver utensils, and other items. On Sunday, its door was opened in the presence of a 12-member team comprising the head of the high-level committee appointed by the state government, Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) officials, and temple trust representatives.

We carried out all the work as per SOPs. We first opened the outer chamber of the Ratna Bhandar and shifted all ornaments and valuables kept there to the temporary strong room inside the temple. We have sealed the strong room, Shree Jagannath Temple Administration (SJTA) chief administrator Arabinda Padhee said.

The team then broke the three locks of the inner chamber as we could not open it using the keys that were given to us. The team members decided against opening the wooden chests kept inside the inner chamber due to a paucity of time. The ornaments and jewels kept in the inner chamber will be shifted to a temporary strong room inside the temple premises on another day as the temple administration will be busy with the Bahuda Yatra (return car festival) and other rituals from Monday, Padhee added.

ALSO READ- Priests hold protest against plan for Kedarnath temple in Delhi

During the 1978 audit, it took officials 70 days to prepare the inventory of the valuables, people aware of the matter said.

The head of the audit supervisory committee formed by the state, justice (retired) Biswanath Rath, said the team saw five wooden chests, four wooden almirahs, and one steel almirah in the inner chamber. Many other items might also be there, as we are yet to check behind the almirahs, he said.

The Ratna Bhandar consists of two sections  an outer chamber, which is opened for various rituals from time to time, and an inner chamber, which was last opened in 1985 to take out jewellery to make new ornaments for Lord Balabhadra and for silver cladding of the gate in the sanctum sanctorum, people aware of the matter said. However, no audit was done at the time.

On the wish of Lord Jagannath, the Odia community, with the identity of Odia Asmita, has started making efforts to move forward. On your wish, the four gates of the Jagannath temples were earlier opened. Today, on your wish, the Ratna Bhandar was opened after 46 years for a greater purpose, the office of chief minister Mohan Charan Majhi said in a post on X in Odia.

In March 2018, following a public interest litigation, the Orissa high court asked ASI to inspect the structural condition of the Ratna Bhandar and submit a status report. On April 4 that year, a 16-member team then attempted to enter the Bhandar, but the keys given to them by the Puri district collector did not match the padlock, with little explanation from the government on how the keys were mismatched.

The opening of the treasury became a major issue during the recent assembly elections, with the BJP highlighting the disappearance of the treasury key in 2018. From PM Modi to Amit Shah, all Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) leaders raised the slogan of Odia Asmita (Odia pride) to oust the BJD government. The BJP, in its manifesto, promised an audit and inventorisation of the treasury if voted to power.

ALSO READ- Odisha: Idol of Lord Balabhadra falls on servitors, several injured

The opening of the Ratna Bhandra was marred in confusion in the last two weeks with the states new BJP government scrapping the old panel headed by former judge of the Supreme Court, Arijit Pasayat, set up by the Naveen Patnaik government in February.

The temples treasury has also been engulfed in superstition, with tales of mythical snakes guarding the riches becoming a part of the folklore. This prompted the officials to keep members of the Snake Helpline and doctors on standby. However, no snakes were found when the chamber was opened.

We were asked to discharge our duty in the process of opening the Ratna Bhandar. However, we were not called up into the inner chamber, said Subhendu Mallick, the Snake Helpline chief.
Guwahati, A senior official of a leading PSU bank has been arrested for siphoning off 26 lakh from the account of a retired DIG of Assam Police, an official said on Sunday. Assam: PSU bank staffer nabbed for siphoning off money from ex-DIG's inoperative account

Guwahati Police Commissioner Diganta Barah said 84-year-old Bhabadhar Dutta, a former DIG, had lodged a complaint at Dispur police station last month stating that an amount of 26 lakh was unauthorisedly transferred from his account at Barbari branch of the bank on several dates to numerous other bank accounts without his consent or knowledge.

"Initial investigation revealed that the transactions were made mainly to three persons. On examination of those persons, they disclosed that one particular person, who was the then branch manager, made those transactions," he added.

The accused was currently posted as a deputy manager of the bank's Specialised Currency Administration Branch at Dispur and he allegedly made those transactions through internet banking.

"Based on their statements, the accused has been apprehended. He revealed during interrogation that he had been, for a long time, targeting inoperative accounts for fraudulent and unauthorised use," Barah said.

In this case, he found that there was no registered mobile number linked with the bank account of the victim and the account was not in use for the last three years.

"In furtherance of that, he took the assistance of another person, who has also been arrested, to arrange a SIM card and a used mobile phone. They got the number registered with the bank account of the victim, and created a user ID and password without the knowledge of the account holder.

"It was only when the complainant updated the bank passbook, he came to know about the unauthorised transactions," Barah said.

He said that the accused confessed to targeting bank accounts that had not been operative for a long time and had huge amounts deposited.

"In this case, the complainant was 84 years old and was not using the particular bank account for the last three years. It made the accused presume that the user of the account might have passed away. Accordingly, he hatched the entire conspiracy," the police commissioner said.

The accused has revealed that from the account of the victim, he cleared all his liabilities, which he owed to others, through internet banking.

Barah said the bank employee also invested some amount in trading in the stock market and purchased cryptocurrency.

"In this manner, he misappropriated a total of around 26 lakh from the account of the complainant. It has also been revealed that the accused, in a similar manner, targeted several victims, for which investigation is underway to gather more information," he added.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
In the Muzzafarpur district of Bihar, the rapid increase in water levels in the Bagmati River has led to floodwaters entering thousands of houses in 18 panchayats. In the Muzzafarpur district of Bihar, floodwaters have entered thousands of houses in 18 panchayats. (ANI)

Also Read:9 more die as 17 U.P. districts face flood fury

Water has also risen on both sides of the Pipa bridge, according to news agency ANI. The flooding has led lakhs of people across panchayats to lose contact with their block headquarters and district headquarters for aid.

Also Read: Noida police issue flood alert to people on Yamuna floodplains, ask them to relocate

Water has also entered more than a hundred houses in Barri and Basghatta panchayat. On the banks of the west Bagmati River, rapid land erosion is taking place, from Gangia to Bakuchi Chowk.

Also Read: Over 400 residents shifted to safer shelters in Panvel

Several schools in the region have also been filled with floodwater, disrupting education facilities for hundreds of children as well.

A school staffer told ANI on Saturday, When the water in the Bagmati River rises, floods like this happen at the school. We were present at the school on time, and the children also arrived on time, but there is water at knee level.

They added, "We have informed the authorities of the situation and have given the kids a holiday. We will proceed according to the further orders of the authorities."

A flood-affected villager told ANI, "We are making food in the water; children are starving; our house is full of water; we are scared of snakes, but we don't have a choice. No one from the administration has come here."

Another villager added that this situation occurs every year during floods. They said that, The floodwater has entered our house for four days. Our stove has been drowned, and somehow we are preparing food to satisfy the hunger of children.

Madhumita Kumari, Katra circle officer, stated that after receiving information that the level of water has risen in the Bagmati River, the district administration has given instructions to monitor the panchayats. "We took stock of 3 panchayats and have arranged 5 boats," she said.

A list of affected people will be prepared by officials from the water department. Instructions have also been given about fixing the dam on the river due to concerns about erosion. The administration is on full alert.
The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) has drawn a two-pronged strategy of sharpening its outreach in the tribal community by raising issues of local relevance and retaining support of the urban electorate by highlighting the deficiencies of the state government in Jharkhand, where elections for the 81-member assembly are due later this year. The elections for the 81-member Jharkhand assembly are due later this year. (File)

According to a BJP functionary, the opposition party in the eastern state will focus its campaign on the alleged corruption by chief minister Hemant Soren, who was released on June 28, six months after he was arrested by the Enforcement Directorate (ED) in a money laundering case.

There are several issues that will drive our election campaign in the state, but the focus will be on the poor governance record of the state government and the corruption by chief minister Hemant Soren, the functionary said, declining to be named.

The functionary added that the BJP will also focus on 28 of the 91 constituencies reserved for Scheduled Tribes (STs). As per the 2011 census, 34.6% of the states electorate belong to ST communities, which hold the key to swinging the poll outcome.

The BJPs performance in both the 2019 assembly elections and this years Lok Sabha polls has been attributed largely to the apathy from tribal communities.

In 2019, the BJP lost the assembly elections, with its tally shrinking from 37 to 25 in the 81-member assembly. The JMM, led by Soren, formed the government after winning 30 seats and getting support from the Congress that won 16 seats and the Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) that won a single seat.

In this years Lok Sabha elections, the partys tally came down from 11 in 2019 to eight. The Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) won three, Congress two and the AJSU won a single seat.

Ahead of the assembly elections later this year, there is concern over the loss of support from tribal communities that has been exacerbated by the Oppositions relentless campaign to characterise the BJP as anti-Scheduled Caste (SC) and ST and against caste-based reservations, the functionary quoted above said.

Of the 47 seats (across 16 states) that are reserved for STs, BJP won 25 (in the Lok Sabha polls). This was less than 2019, when the party bagged 31. Here in Jharkhand, the loss was more severe, as the party did not win a single ST seat of the five. This (result) was because of the Oppositions fake narrative that the BJP would end reservation, the functionary said.

In recent meetings with Union minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan and Assam chief minister Himanta Biswa Sarma, who have been appointed as election in-charges of Jharkhand, state leaders underscored the need to redraw the partys outreach towards the tribal communities as well as Other Backward Classes (OBCs) and other caste groups in urban constituencies.

There is a section of leaders within the party who feel that JMMs allegation that the Union government victimised Soren, a tribal chief minister, has resonance among the communities on the ground. The issue of tribal pride being hurt by his arrest is gaining strength even though his track record of governance is poor. Therefore, it is imperative to shine light on his deficiencies such as the failure to provide jobs and flag issues that concern the people, a second functionary said, also seeking anonymity.

To counter the JMMs allegation that Soren was a victim of political vendetta, the BJP has drawn attention to the problems being faced by ST communities, particularly women and youngsters.

Issues such as land acquisition in tribal areas through stealth and illegal settlement of people from Bangladesh have become a huge worry in the Santhal Pargana region, the second functionary said.

The BJP leaders are buoyed by the recent Jharkhand high court order directing the state government to identify infiltrators from Bangladesh and prepare an action plan to deport them.

For retaining support in urban areas, BJP leaders want the Union government to announce state-specific schemes and sops for food security, higher remuneration for crops and enhanced outlay for health, housing and other amenities, as was announced in Chhattisgarh last year when the BJP managed to oust the Congress government from power during the assembly elections.

There is anger on the ground because the chief minister had promised five lakh government jobs, which have not been provided. There was no development nor any economic measures for the youth, the second functionary said.

The other important issue that will need to be resolved in the coming weeks is the question of firming up alliances. There is a section of leaders who feel that the party will benefit from a pre-poll tie-up with the All Jharkhand Students Union (AJSU).

The BJP and the AJSU have been allies on and off, including in 2014, when the BJP won 37 seats and the AJSU won five.

The state BJP is also aware that the question of leadership will surface and dominate electioneering, the second functionary said.

The 2019 defeat was to a large extent attributed to the absence of a tribal face as then chief minister Raghubar Das was not seen as a pan-state leader. With the appointment of tribal leader Babulal Marandi as state BJP chief, the party is hopeful of overcoming the allegation that it does not have a tribal representative at the high table.
The Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday lashed out at Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party government after electricity bills of domestic consumers in Delhi soared by 6-8 per cent due to the revision of the power purchase adjustment charge (PPAC) by discoms. Delhi BJP president Virendra Sachdeva alleged money is being collected illegally in the name of PPAC surcharge and pension surcharge(Raj K Raj/HT Photo)

Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva said,"Delhi government is looting the people of Delhi... The common man is struggling due to hike in electricity bills. Every person who is paying the electricity bill with honesty is being looted."



ALSO READ: BJP, AAP trade barbs over increase in Delhi power bills



Money is being collected illegally in the name of PPAC surcharge and pension surcharge. And the Delhi government and power companies are enjoying this money... Tomorrow, we will protest at 14 electricity offices until the PPAC and pension surcharge are withdrawn. We have written to the chairman of DRC and demanded an inquiry into how the Delhi government and power companies are doing a scam, Sachdeva told ANI.



The discoms in Delhi revised the PPAC in the range of 6.75%-8.75%, PTI quoted officials as saying. The power purchase cost depends on the prices of coal and other fuels used by generation companies and these prices recently witnessed a significant increase. As per officials, the PPAC revision was implemented in February this year.



On Friday, the Delhi BJP unit had staged protest at ITO and demanded chief minister Arvind Kejriwal's resignation. The members of the BJP and representatives of Residents Welfare Associations (RWAs) burnt copies of electricity bills and demanded that the hike in PPAC be rolled back.



The AAP accused the BJP of "misleading" the people of Delhi by spreading "rumours" that electricity prices have been increased in Delhi through the PPAC.

What is PPAC?

Power purchase adjustment charge (PPAC) is defined as a surcharge to cover fluctuations in power purchase costs incurred by the discoms. It saw an increase of 6.15 per cent to 8.75 per cent this year.
The opposition leaders on Sunday hailed the INDIA bloc's remarkable victory in the recent assembly by-polls, where they secured 10 out of 13 seats, leaving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with only two seats, and an independent candidate securing one. West Bengal chief minister Mamata Banerjee interacts with Congress leader Rahul Gandhi during Opposition parties meet, in Bengaluru. (ANI /File)

Ram Gopal Yadav, a senior MP from the Samajwadi Party, was quick to point out the defeat of the BJP in regions historically significant to Hinduism.

"It seems as if BJP's bubble of lies has popped... People understood their tactics... People defeated the BJP from every religious place including the Lok Sabha elections. In every place associated with Lord Ram, right from Ayodhya, Sitapur, Chitrakoot, Nasik, and Rameshawaram, the BJP has been defeated. Even Lord Ram has rejected BJP," Yadav said.

Read: Vote fraud, reign of terror: BJP's big charge at TMC on bypoll results

Noting the slender margin of the BJP's win, Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) MP Manoj Jha said, The two seats where BJP has won, in one of them the margin is of 1000 votes and in the other also the margin is almost the same, and that person was in Congress until recently.

I just hope from now on the governance is of inclusiveness and talks are held on issues of public interest. The biggest issue is unemployment, they (BJP) never talk about that, he added.

Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit interpreted the results as a clear sign of BJP's declining influence.

Right after the Lok Sabha elections, we have won 12-13 seats in 4-5 states, which clearly indicates that the BJP's graph has been falling. Had the Lok Sabha elections been organised after 6-8 months, BJP would not have won more than 120 seats.

For the first time, NDA parties are performing better than BJP in their respective states and BJP is absolutely relying on them... BJP has a multiple organ failure and is failing in multiple states. It is soon headed to an ICU, Dikshit said.

Read: Pappu Yadav urges Congress to rethink Bihar alliance after RJD's bypoll debacle, cites 'new political situation'

Senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP P Chidambaram expressed confidence that the wind is behind the sails of the INDIA bloc. In an interview with ANI, P Chidambaram said that the by-elections indicate that the 'mood' of the people is against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP).

"The by-elections show that the mood of the people is against the BJP. But where the structure of the Congress party is weak, I'm afraid that the 'mood' alone would not help. We have to work in states where the structure of the party is weak," he said.

"But by and large, the wind is behind the sails of the INDIA bloc," he added.

Playing down the NDA's poor performance, Janata Dal (United) leader KC Tyagi welcomed the people's mandate but cautioned against viewing the results as a landslide.

"Whatever the outcome of the by-polls are we welcome people's mandate. In 1-2 places, Congress had an extra win and they should be happy about it...but to think this as a one-sided verdict is wrong," Tyagi said.

Assembly by-polls were held in Himachal Pradesh's Hamirpur, Nalagarh and Dehra; West Bengal's Raiganj, Ranaghat Dakshin, Bagda, and Maniktala; Badrinath and Manglaur in Uttarakhand; Jalandhar West in Punjab; Rupauli in Bihar; Vikravandi in Tamil Nadu; and Amarwara in Madhya Pradesh.

The INDIA bloc parties that fielded candidates in 13 assembly constituencies are -- the Trinamool Congress (TMC), the Congress, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), and the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK).

In Himachal Pradesh, the Congress bagged two seats (Nalagarh and Dehra) while the BJP managed to win one seat--Hamirpur; the ruling TMC in West Bengal swept all four seats; the Congress bagged both of the seats in Uttarakhand; AAP secured the lone seat in Punjab; the DMK won the lone seat in Tamil Nadu; the BJP bagged the lone seat in Madhya Pradesh, whereas, the independent candidate won the lone seat in Bihar.
Bengaluru, Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday said the Karnataka government was ready to release 8,000 cusecs of water from the Cauvery river every day to neighbouring Tamil Nadu instead of one TMC as directed by the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee till this month-end. Cauvery issue: Will release 8,000 cusecs water to TN, says K'taka CM Siddaramaiah

There is only 63 per cent water in the Cauvery basin dams and in this situation, the state was not in a position to release one TMC water each day, the Chief Minister told reporters after an all-party meeting here.

Deputy Chief Minister D K Shivakumar, Leader of the Opposition R Ashoka, JD MLA G T Deve Gowda, farmer leaders and legal experts attended the meeting.

"Everyone was of the opinion that we should release 8,000 cusecs of water and not one TMC, which is 11,500 cusecs of water. If there is no rain then we will minimise the release of water and file an appeal before the Cauvery Water Management Authority," Siddaramaiah said.

According to him, the Cauvery Water Regulatory Authority has directed that starting from July 12 till the month-end, every day one TMC water has to be released.

In a normal year, 9.14 TMC in June and 31.24 TMC in July should be released, he explained.

Advocate Mohan Katarki, who was present in the meeting, said this time Krishnarajasagar dam on Cauvery river has only 54 per cent water whereas other dams in the Cauvery basin have only 63 per cent water, Siddaramaiah said.

On July 12, the inflow of water was 5,000 cusec water in Kabini, which was allowed to flow towards Tamil Nadu, the Chief Minister said, adding that 5,000 cusecs water was flowing in Biligundlu on Saturday.

He explained that on July 12, 20,000 cusecs and 19,000 cusecs on July 13 was released for Tamil Nadu from Kabini dam because water cannot be stored for long due to its holding capacity.

Siddarmaaiah said all the parties in Karnataka were unanimous that they should appeal to the CWMA stating that releasing one TMC water was not possible.

"Katarki said we cannot say we cannot release water because it will be disrespectful to the Cauvery Tribunal. We will release 8,000 cusecs. If there is good rain then it is okay to release one TMC. We are expecting good rains this time," he noted.

The Chief Minister said 2023 was a 'distress year' with scanty rainfall.

"In a normal year, we release 177 TMC but last year we released only 81 TMC water," he added.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Congress Parliamentary Party (CPP)'s chairperson Sonia Gandhi wrote to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla on Sunday informing him about the appointment of the party's Deputy Leader, Chief Whip and two more whips in the Lok Sabha, the party's general secretary KC Venugopal posted on X. Congress leaders Sonia Gandhi, Rahul Gandhi, Priyanka Gandhi and K C Venugopal during a meeting at party president Mallikarjun Kharges residence. (File image)(PTI)

The party's MP from Assam's Jorhat constituency, Gaurav Gogoi, has been appointed as the party's Deputy Leader. Rahul Gandhi is the party's Leader and also the Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha.

Kodikunnil Suresh, the MP from Kerala's Mavelikara constituency, has been appointed as the party's chief whip in the lower house. Suresh was put up as the opposition INDIA bloc's candidate for the position of Lok Sabha speaker during the inaugural session of the 18th Lok Sabha.

Suresh is an eight-time MP of the Congress party from Kerala. He had accused the ruling NDA of breaking parliamentary convention by refusing to offer the position of Lok Sabha Deputy Speaker to the opposition party.

According to PRS legislative research, in parliamentary parlance, a party whip is a designated official to issue directions to the members of the house from time to time. A whip may refer to oral or written instruction to abide by certain directions of the designated party whip. Disobeying the orders of the party whip is also one of the grounds for disqualification of an MP under the Anti-defection law in India.

The Joint Whip of the party will be Manickam Tagore and Mohammad Jawed.

Tagore is a third-time MP from Virudhunagar constituency in Tamil Nadu. He is the All India Congress Committee (AICC) in charge of the state of Andra Pradesh.

Jawed is a two-time MP from Bihar's Kishanganj constituency. He is also a four-time Member of the Legislative Assembly (MLA) from the same seat and also served as a minister in the Bihar government. He also serves as a secretary in AICC.

"Congratulating the new appointees, Venugopal added that Guided by LOP Shri @RahulGandhi ji, the Congress and INDIA parties will energetically champion the people's causes in the Lok Sabha.
A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a veiled jibe at the opposition, saying eight crore jobs in three to four years has silenced "those spreading fake news about unemployment," the Congress has accused him of spinning a web of lies. .Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge

In a swipe at PM Modi, Congress chief and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, accused him of spinning a web of lies about job creation in Mumbai.

Narendra Modi ji, yesterday you were weaving a web of lies about providing jobs in Mumbai. I want to remind you again what you said while announcing NRA  National Recruitment Agency. In August 2020 you said NRA will prove to be a boon for crores of youth. Through the Common Eligibility Test, it will eliminate multiple examinations and save precious time as well as resources. It will also give a big boost to transparency, Kharge said in a post on X (formerly Twitter).

Kharges response came after PM Modis statement on July 13 in Mumbai, where he cited a recent Reserve Bank of India report on employment, saying that the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) governments commitment to stability and growth.

He had mentioned that the creation of eight crore new jobs in the past three to four years has silenced those spreading false narratives about unemployment.

Read: Congress retains Gaurav Gogoi, K Suresh as Lok Sabha deputy leader, chief whip

Those spreading false narratives are enemies of investment, infrastructure development, and the countrys growth. Their policies betray the youth and hinder employment. Now, they are being exposed as people reject their lies, said the PM.

The Congress chief also raised three questions to the Prime Minister in his post, Why has NRA not conducted a single exam in the last 4 years? Despite allocating 1,517.57 crore to NRA, only 58 crore has been spent in 4 years. Was NRA deliberately kept inactive to deprive SC, ST, OBC, and EWS youth of their reservation rights?

NTA committed fraud, paper leaks, and scams, and NRA didn't even conduct the exam! BJP-RSS has taken up the task of ruining the education system and destroying the future of the youth, he added.
New Delhi, Over nine years after a man was charged with rape, a court here has acquitted him, saying the testimonies of the alleged victim were not clear, cogent, credible or trustworthy, nor were her allegations corroborated by other material evidence. Delhi court acquits man charged for rape 9 yrs ago due to lack of credible testimony

Additional Sessions Judge Priyanka Bhagat of Tis Hazari district court was hearing a case against Mahender, against whom the Subzi Mandi police station had lodged an FIR under penal provisions of rape and criminal intimidation.

According to the prosecutrix, in 2014, Mahender took her to Nainital where he spiked her food, raped her after she fell unconscious and filmed the act.

After the woman returned to Delhi, the accused threatened to circulate the video clip and raped her again at an under-construction building after keeping her in confinement, she claimed.

"...The testimonies of prosecution witness 12 or victim are not clear, cogent, credible and trustworthy and the same are not corroborated by other material evidence," the court said in its verdict dated July 9.

"For the reasons stated above, this court is of the considered opinion that the prosecution has failed to prove the case against the accused beyond reasonable doubt. Hence, accused Mahender is hereby acquitted," the bench said.

Underscoring that the prosecution's entire case was based on the statement of the woman, the court said there were some major contradictions in her version regarding the incident of spiking her food, which affected the credibility of her statements.

There were also some improvements in her testimony, it said.

"The entire case of the prosecution is that the prosecutrix was repeatedly raped on the blackmailing that accused Mahender would viral the said video, however, the said video was never brought into evidence by the prosecution," the court said.

Regarding the allegations of rape in the under-construction building, the court noted the alleged victim's testimony where she admitted that when she went to meet Mahender, other people who were working there were also present.

"Thus, the version of the prosecutrix that she was raped in a building where other persons were also working is not probable especially when the prosecutrix was also crying as stated in her complaint," it said.

The court said there was no explanation regarding why the woman did not complain to the people working there or immediately file a police complaint and this discredited her version that she was raped under the threat to circulate the said obscene video.

Regarding the alleged incident of wrongful confinement from November 11 to 15, 2014, the court again noted her "contradictory statements".

It said the alleged victim had admitted that she had access to Mahender's mobile phone during the reported confinement and this meant she had every opportunity to take outside help, which she chose not to do so, and this discredited her testimony.

The court said during the alleged confinement, she made a call to the accused's brother-in-law Gopal Krishan, who had recorded the conversation.

It noted that the said recording was retrieved from the said mobile phone and the voice of the prosecutrix and Krishan was duly proved by the prosecution itself vide a forensic science laboratory report.

"This conversation also corroborates that the prosecutrix on her own went to live with accused Mahender and when the accused did not live with her then she made the call to the brother-in-law of accused namely Gopal Krishan and subsequently had falsely implicated the brother-in-law as well," the court said.

It noted the reply of a woman sub-inspector, as per whom, the prosecutrix was persuading Krishan to facilitate her meetings with Mahender, otherwise, she would name him in the rape case.

The court said the version of the witness should be natural and it must corroborate the prosecution case and it should be of such a quality that there should not be any shadow of doubt upon it.

"The contradictions and inconsistencies appearing in the statements of witnesses create serious doubts about the prosecution story. The version brought on record by the victim is not even corroborated by any other evidence brought on record," it said.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The Opposition on Saturday denounced the Centres move to widen the scope of Jammu and Kashmir lieutenant governors (LG) powers on key administrative and legal matters  ranging from police and public order to postings and prosecution sanction  saying that the step will render the chief minister powerless and disempower the regions people. J&K lieutenant governor Manoj Sinha. (PTI)

The ministry of home affairs (MHA) on Friday amended the transaction rules pertaining to the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019, which was enacted alongside the revocation of Constitutions Article 370 for the bifurcation of the erstwhile state into the Union Territories of J&K and Ladakh.

The amendments give LG, who reports to the Centre, more say in various matters of administrative importance, including those related to the regions police and anti-graft bureau.

No proposal which requires previous concurrence of the Finance Department with regard to Police, Public Order, All India Service and Anti Corruption Bureau to exercise the discretion of the Lieutenant Governor under the Act shall be concurred or rejected unless it has been placed before the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary, the inserted sub-rule (2A) said. Earlier, these proposals required an approval from J&Ks finance department before reaching LG.

Also Read | Congress terms Modi govt's J&K move betrayal: Has only two meanings

According to another new rule, the appointment of top law officers will now have to be approved by LG.

Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs shall submit the proposal for appointment of Advocate-General and other Law Officers to assist the Advocate-General in the court proceedings, for approval of the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary and the Chief Minister, rule 42A states. These appointments were previously decided by the J&K government.

The J&K LG will now also have a say on the grant or refusal of prosecution sanction, the amendments said. Any proposal regarding grant or refusal of prosecution sanction or filing of an appeal shall be placed before the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary by the Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs, the inserted rule 42B said. This was earlier decided by the cabinet or CM.

The MHA notification added that any recommendation related to the posting and transfer of bureaucratic staff will have to be routed through LGs office.

...In respect of matters connected with posting and transfer of Administrative Secretaries and cadre posts of All India Services officers, the proposal shall be submitted to the Lieutenant Governor by the Administrative Secretary, General Administration Department through the Chief Secretary, it said.

Additionally, matters related to prisons, the Directorate of Prosecution and the Forensic Science Laboratory will also be handled directly by LG, according to the notification. MHA officials clarified that the amendments were made to the transaction of business rules and not the J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019. The notification regarding transaction of business rules is not amendment to the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganization Act, 2019. It is a simple amendment to the transaction rules which are issued to avoid any ambiguity, said an MHA official who didnt want to be named.

Also Read | People deserve better than a powerless CM: Omar Abdullah reacts to amendments in J&K Reorganisation Act

The amendments, which came into effect months before elections are expected to be held in the region, drew condemnation from the Opposition.

Former J&K chief minister and National Conference vice president Omar Abdullah said the move indicated that elections were around the corner, adding that a firm commitment laying out the timeline for restoration of J&Ks statehood was a prerequisite for the polls.

The people of J&K deserve better than powerless, rubber stamp CM who will have to beg the LG to get his/her peon appointed, he said in a post on X. J&K has not had an elected government since December of 2018.

Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) president and former chief Minister Mehbooba Mufti said the movie will convert the J&K assembly into a municipality. In 2019, J&K was bifurcated into pieces, even our special status was taken away in an undemocratic way. The (rules) are aimed at converting the once powerful state assembly into a municipality, she said in a video message.

Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge accused the central government of continuing to betray J&K.

Modi Govt wants to delay the restoration of full statehood to Jammu and Kashmir, even though the Supreme Court has mandated Assembly Elections by Sept 30th, 2024. Even if full statehood is restored, it wants to keep the newly elected State Govt at the mercy of the LG, by clamping its executive power, he posted on X

Apni Party chief Altaf Bukhari appealed to political parties to shun their differences and unitedly raise their voice against the Centres move. We appeal to all parties to shun political differences and come together on this issue. If we cannot stand united today, then we will never be. We should ensure that the statehood that we get is not hollow and has all powers to serve people. We have to be united to serve the interests of the people, he said.

The BJP rejected the charge, with its spokesperson Altaf Thakur accusing the Opposition of trying to unnecessarily criticise centre government. The amendments are part of Reorganisation process and nothing new.
The office of the Delhi University Students Union was allegedly vandalised by the members of the Congress students' wing National Students' Union of India (NSUI) on Sunday morning. DUSU president Tushar Dedha also alleged that the assailants destroyed an idol of Ram in his office. The police have registered an FIR on the complaint of the security guard who was present at the time of the incident, reported ANI. (ANI X)

The office of the DUSU vice president was allegedly vandalised at 3 in the morning, Delhi police officials told news agency ANI. This was followed by an attack on the president's office, the police said.

ALSO READ | DU students union alleges president holds dual XII marksheets

The police have registered an FIR on the complaint of the security guard who was present at the time of the incident, reported ANI.

DUSU president Tushar Dedha, affiliated to RSS students wing Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad (ABVP), accused the NSUI of harbouring goons on the campus and demanded the expulsion of Abhi Dahiya, the vice president of DUSU.

Vice President of NSUI, sat in his office last night and consumed liquor. After that 30-40 people first broke the glass of the room of the Joint Secretary of DUSU, then broke the glass of the room of the Secretary of DUSU and after that, they entered my office and broke the Ram temple in my office...This attack on DUSU is not just an attack on DUSU, it is an attack on every student of Delhi University, Dedha told ANI.

However, NSUI President Varun Choudhary has lashed out against the allegations by ABVP accusing the party of having a history of violence and misdirection.

Choudhary said on Sunday, This is a clear attempt by the ABVP to shift focus from real issues like the NEET, NET, and NTA scams. ABVP has consistently indulged in violence across Indian campuses. At the University of Delhi, they have repeatedly resorted to violence, including thrashing and threatening professors. These actions are not only condemnable but also reveal their true intent to mislead students and cover up their own malpractices, reported ANI.

The NSUI has filed complaints before DU vice-chancellor Yogesh Singh against DUSU president Dedha, accusing him of submitting fraudulent marksheet to gain admission in the university.

Dedha termed the claims as baseless and filed a complaint against Dahiya, NSUI president, and Congress' Rohtak MP Deepender Hooda over alleged attempt to tarnish his reputation on social media, reported PTI.

The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) condemns the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) attempts to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. ABVP's fabricated violence, attacks on idols, and production of counterfeit degrees are efforts to mislead students and shift focus from their malpractices, Varun Choudhary said.



(With agency inputs)
The Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday lashed out at Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party government after electricity bills of domestic consumers in Delhi soared by 6-8 per cent due to the revision of the power purchase adjustment charge (PPAC) by discoms. Delhi BJP chief Virendra Sachdeva said,"Delhi government is looting the people of Delhi... The common man is struggling due to hike in electricity bills. Every person who is paying the electricity bill with honesty is being looted." Dig Deeper The Bharatiya Janata Party on Sunday lashed out at Delhi's ruling Aam Aadmi Party government after electricity bills of domestic consumers in Delhi soared by 6-8 per cent due to the revision of the power purchase adjustment charge (PPAC) by discoms.(File photo)

A day after Prime Minister Narendra Modi took a veiled jibe at the opposition, saying eight crore jobs in three to four years has silenced "those spreading fake news about unemployment," the Congress has accused him of spinning a web of lies. In a swipe at PM Modi, Congress chief and Leader of Opposition in the Rajya Sabha, Mallikarjun Kharge, accused him of spinning a web of lies about job creation in Mumbai. Dig Deeper

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Billionaire Mukesh Ambani was visibly emotional during the vidaai (farewell) ceremony of his daughter-in-law, Radhika Merchant. A video showed newly weds Anant Ambania and Radhika Merchant walking slowly, with the groom's father, Mukesh Ambani standing by the side. The bride, who too was emotional, greeted another person who handed over a silver lamp to her. Dig Deeper

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Loved Sara Ali Khan's regal appearance at the Ambani wedding? While her stunning ensemble definitely had fashion enthusiasts swooning, it's not the only reason it's making headlines. The actress is receiving harsh criticism on social media after wearing a stunning lehenga designed by Pakistani fashion designer Iqbal Hussain but failing to give him credit in her post. Sara wore the vibrant outfit to Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's lavish wedding on July 12. In a video she shared of herself twirling and posing in the lehenga at the event, she tagged her stylists, hair and makeup team, and photographers but did not mention or tag the original designer, Iqbal Hussain. Dig Deeper
Former Madhya Pradesh High Court judge Justice Rohit Arya, who has joined the Bharatiya Janta Party, on Sunday said his thinking aligns with the philosophy of the BJP. In an interview with Live Law, the former high court judge said he was invited to a seminar by the Madhya Pradesh BJP where the party members urged him to get associated with the party. Former Madhya Pradesh high court judge Rohit Arya joined BJP in Bhopal on Saturday.

I was overwhelmed, and I didn't say no, he was quoted as saying.

Arya, however, clarified that he doesn't intend to fight elections and just wants to be in public life.

Politics is not my cup of tea. I have no interest in electoral politics and don't intend to fight elections. I just want to be in public life. The BJP, as a party, will help me convert my ideas for the people into reality. I will give them many suggestions, he said, as per Live Law.

Justice Rohit Arya was appointed as a judge of the Madhya Pradesh high court on September 12, 2013, and became a permanent judge on March 26, 2015.

He presided over several high-profile cases, including the denial of bail in 2021 to comedians Munawar Faruqui and Nalin Yadav, who were accused of hurting religious sentiments during a New Year event in Indore.

The Supreme Court later granted bail to Faruqui, overturning the high court's decision.

Reflecting on this, Justice Arya said, "Mera manna hai ki agar aap bhawnaon ko thes pahunchayenge, to aapko sabak milna chahiye. Ab us case ka Supreme Court mein jakar kya hua, uspe mujhe kuch nahin kehna. (I believe that if you hurt sentiments, you should be taught a lesson. I don't want to comment on what happened in the Supreme Court.)"

In 2020, Justice Arya made headlines with a controversial bail order, granting bail to an accused in a molestation case on the condition that he present himself to the complainant on Raksha Bandhan for her to tie a "rakhi" on his wrist, symbolising a brother-sister relationship. This decision faced substantial criticism and was later overturned by the Supreme Court, which issued guidelines for handling such bail petitions.

Commenting on the order, he said, Section 354 IPC ka mamla tha, halanki (accused ne victim ka) bas hath hi pakda tha, no doubt nahin karna tha lekin dono ek hi gaon ke the, maine socha matter aapsi sulah se khatm ho jaaye. Victim-accused ke beech patch-up ho jaaye. (It was a case under Section 354 of the IPC. Although the accused only held the victim's hand, there was no doubt that it shouldn't have happened. However, both were from the same village, so I thought it would be better for the matter to be resolved amicably. I wanted a patch-up between the victim and the accused.)
Former Madhya Pradesh high court judge Justice Rohit Arya joined the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) on Saturday, almost three months after his retirement. The former high court judge received BJP's membership from the party's state unit chief Dr Raghavendra Sharma at a program in Bhopal, reported Bar & Bench citing a local media report. Former Madhya Pradesh high court judge Rohit Arya joins BJP.

Appointed as a judge of the Madhya Pradesh high court on September 12, 2013, and becoming a permanent Judge on March 26, 2015, Justice Arya presided over several cases that grabbed headlines. In 2021, he denied bail to comedians Munawar Faruqui and Nalin Yadav, who were accused of hurting religious sentiments and violating the Covid-19 protocol during a New Year event during a show in Indore.

In his order, Justice Arya emphasised the Constitutional duty to promote harmony and the spirit of brotherhood, stating, "The State must endeavour to ensure that this ecosystem and sustenance of coexistence in our welfare society is not polluted by negative forces."

The Supreme Court later granted bail to Faruqui, setting aside the high court's order.

In another notable case in 2020, Justice Arya infamously granted bail to a man accused of outraging the modesty of a woman on the condition that he present himself to the complainant on Raksha Bandhan so she could tie a "rakhi" on his wrist, symbolizing a brother-sister relationship. The accused was also required to promise to protect the complainant.

This decision was met with significant criticism and was subsequently overturned by the Supreme Court, which issued directives for lower courts on handling bail petitions in cases related to crimes against women.

Born on April 28, 1962, Justice Arya has had an extensive career in the judiciary and legal practice. He was enrolled as an advocate in August 1984 and was designated as a senior advocate by the high court of Madhya Pradesh on August 26, 2003. Throughout his career, he practised in various fields including civil laws, corporate fiduciary, arbitration, administrative, service, labour laws, and tax laws, representing entities such as the central government, State Bank of India, Telecom Department, BSNL, Employees State Insurance Corporation, and the Income Tax Department.
Members of the INDIA bloc on Saturday won the bypolls to 10 of the 13 assembly seats across seven states and said that the results were a reflection of the growing discontent against the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), which won only two of the constituencies that voted on July 10. Trinamool Congress (TMC) supporters celebrate the victory of the party candidate for the Maniktala assembly constituency on Saturday. (ANI)

Although the results have little bearing on the equations in the respective state assemblies, they are likely to provide impetus to a buoyed Opposition after the Lok Sabha elections, which saw the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) come to power for the third consecutive time, but with a reduced majority.

Of the 13 seats that went to polls, the BJP had held three, Congress two and the Trinamool Congress (TMC), Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), Janata Dal United or JD(U) and Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP) one each. Three seats were held by Independent candidates before the bypolls.

Also Read | Vote fraud, reign of terror: BJP's big charge at TMC on bypoll results

The Congress won four seats  two each in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand; the TMC won all four seats that polled in Bengal; the AAP won the lone Punjab seat and DMK the one Tamil Nadu seat. The BJP won one seat each in Himachal and MP. The one seat that polled in Bihar was won by an Independent candidate.

This victory shows that the people have completely rejected the arrogance, misgovernance and negative politics of the BJP. This is also strong proof of the falling political credibility of (Prime Minister Narendra) Modi, (home minister Amit )Shah, said Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge.

Rae Bareli MP and Leader of Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi said that the results proved that the web of fear and illusion woven by the BJP has been broken.

Also Read | Bypoll results: Rahul Gandhi says BJP's web of fear broken; Chidambaram urges caution

Every class, including farmers, youth, labourers, businessmen... wants to completely destroy the dictatorship and establish the rule of justice, he said in a post on X.

Former Himachal Pradesh chief minister and senior BJP leader Jai Ram Thakur said the party accepted the mandate.

Our fight for the welfare of the people of the state would continue from the road to the Vidhan Sabha.

The BJP suffered the most significant damage in West Bengal, where the chief minister Mamata Banerjee-led TMC won all four seats, wresting three of them  Bagda, Ranaghat Dakshin and Raiganj  from the BJP. In Maniktala, a seat where the bypoll was necessitated after the death of former state minister and TMC MLA Sadhan Pandey, his wife Supti Pandey beat the BJPs Kalyan Chaubey by over sixty thousand votes. But more significantly, the TMC also swept both Ranaghat Dakshin and Bagda, the seats which have a significant presence of Matua community, a traditional BJP vote base.

In Raiganj, the TMCs Krishna Kalyani beat the BJPs Manas Kumar Das by 50,000 votes.

The trend across India is against the BJP. Even the earlier mandate (of Lok Sabha elections) was not in favour of NDA, the TMC chief said.

The BJP accused the TMC of indulging in violence and blamed the ruling partys pressure tactics for the drop in its tally. The BJP had to face guns and bombs and couldnt stop the attacks on its vote bank. Despite repeatedly telling the ECI about political violence,the central forces were not utilised. We will fight back , Samik Bhattacharya, BJP spokesperson, said.

Bypolls to Dehra, Hamirpur and Nalagarh in Himachal Pradesh were necessitated after the three Independents who had voted in favour of the BJP in the Rajya Sabha polls on February 27 resigned on March 22. They joined the BJP the next day but their resignations were accepted by the Speaker on June 3. The BJP had fielded the Independents from their respective seats as party candidates. The Congress won two of the seats and the BJP bagged one. From the Dehra seat, Kamlesh Thakur, the wife of Himachal Pradesh CM Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, emerged victorious defeating BJP candidate Hoshiyar Singh by over 9,000 votes. The Congress now has 40 MLAs in the 68-member assembly, providing stability to the Sukhu government, which stared at an uncertain future a couple a few months ago.

This is the victory of people over money power. The voters have delivered a strong rebuke to the politics of horse-trading and have voted to maintain political integrity in the state, Sukhu said

In Uttarakhand, the Congress was able to regain some political face, after it won two bypoll seats, just over a month after it lost all 5 Lok Sabha seats in the state for the third consecutive term. To be sure, neither of the two seats were held by the BJP  one was held by the BSP and the other by the Congress  but both saw a fierce political battle.

In Manglaur, All India Congress Committee (AICC) secretary and three-time MLA Qazi Nizamuddin defeated BJPs Kartar Singh Bhadana by a slender 422 vote margin. The election had been necessitated after the death of sitting BSP candidate Sarwat Karim Ansari, and his son Ubaidur Rahman finished third. Lakhpat Singh Butola of the Congress won his first-ever assembly elections from the Badrinath seat, defeating the BJPs Rajendra Singh Bhandari by a margin of 5,224 votes. The seat had fallen vacant after Bhandari, then the Congress MLA, switched allegiances to the BJP.

BJP state president Mahendra Bhatt said, We will look into the reasons for defeats in both seats.

Uttarakhand Congress chief Karan Mahara said, In these elections, our party stood as one unit...we have been working to strengthen our cadre for the last two years. This is good for democracy.

Also Read | INDIA bloc secures landslide win with 10 of 13 seats, BJP bags 2; independent 1

The one place where the Congress faced a setback was in Madhya Pradeshs Amarwara seatconsidered a bastion because it falls in the Chhindwara region which is home to former chief minister Kamal Nathwhere its candidate Dheeran Sah lost to the BJPs Kamlesh Shah by 3,252 votes.

Three-time MLA Kamlesh Shah was the incumbent legislator, but had quit the Congress and joined the BJP. Kamlesh Shah said, I am happy that residents of Amarwara gave me a fourth chance to serve them. I will change the face of my area with development. The Congress, which faced a setback in a seat that the BJP had only won twice before since independence, however said the ruling party had misused government machinery.

In Bihars Rupauli, independent candidate Shankar Singh, who had quit the Lok Janshakti Party to contest the elections as an independent, stunned both the NDA and the INDIA alliances by defeating Kalandhar Mandal of the JDU by 8211 votes, relegating the RJDs Bima Bharti to third place.

The bypoll had been necessitated by the resignation of MLA Bima Bharti who was a five time MLA, but quit the party to contest the Purnea Lok Sabha polls on a RJD ticketa seat that independent candidate Pappu Yadav won.

In Punjab, the AAP retained its hold on the Jalandhar West assembly seat with its candidate Mohinder Bhagat defeating BJPs Sheetal Angural by 37,325 votes in the bypoll. The bypoll to this seat was necessitated following the resignation of Angural as AAP legislator who joined the BJP in March. With this victory, the AAP will now have 91 MLAs in the 117-member Punjab assembly. The Congress has 15 MLAs, SAD three, BJP two, BSP one and one Independent.

Bhagat said voters had spoken in favour of AAP because of their satisfaction with the Bhagwant Mann-led dispensation. People love and respect Mann. While voting, people kept in mind the welfare works carried out by the chief minister.

Punjab BJP chief Sunil Jakhar said, We expect the state government will start development works in the state, put an end to peoples hardships, take action against rampant corruption and improve the law-and-order situation.

The ruling Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam emerged victorious in the bypoll to the Vikravandi constituency by a margin of 67,757 votes and NDA constituent Pattali Makkal Katchi finished second with 56,296 votes.

BJP must realise that without respecting regional sentiments it cannot run the government and the party, DMK chief and Tamil Nadu chief minister MK Stalin said.
A search and rescue operation in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala to trace a sanitation worker who was swept away in a canal while cleaning crossed 24 hours on Sunday. The search resumed on Sunday morning with the fire force personnel, a scuba team, police, civic workers and NDRF men working on the rescue operation (ANI Photo)

Joy, a 47-year-old temporary cleaning worker, had gone missing on Saturday while cleaning a waste-filled part of the Amayizhanchan canal in Thampanoor near the Central Railway Station, reported PTI. Along with Joy, two others were involved in cleaning this part of the canal which passes through the city. The trio were cleaning the canal with increased water flow due to rain in the city.

Joy, a contractual labourer from Marayamuttom was swept away while he was under a 200-metre-long canal tunnel which runs under the tracks at the railway station, reported PTI.

The search resumed on Sunday morning with the fire force personnel, a scuba team, police, civic workers and National Disaster Response Force men working on the rescue operation, reported PTI.

The rescue operation led by a 30-member NDRF team has crossed 24 hours, reported OnManorama.

A 15-member scuba team has inspected 60 metres of the tunnel as part of the mission, reported OnManorama.

A robotic camera had captured visual hinting the presence of human remains in the canal which was unable to be verified by the scuba divers, reported OnManorama.

Efforts are underway to remove waste which has piled and solidified in the canal, Director General of Kerala Fire and Rescue Department, K Padmakumar told news agency ANI.

Padmakumar said, "The entire area is under the railway land from track 1 to 4. There's a big network of canals inside and is decades old... Our scuba divers dived for about 60 metres but another 80 metres are left. They cannot move forward because that area has solidified over the years... This is a herculean task we are proceeding with. We went in from one end for 60 metres and now we will try to go in from the other end. Each inch forward is difficult because the area is covered with mud and sludge...," reported ANI.

Padmakumar pointed out there are side channels inside the tunnel which makes it necessary to analyse the map of the tunnel which is under the railway lines. The side channels have also collected waste, he told PTI.

A medical team is also deployed near the canal with oxygen and a basic life support system to aid the rescue operation. The health department has also decided to provide medicines including doxycycline to the rescue workers to prevent water-borne diseases including leptospirosis, reported PTI.

Kerala Labour Minister V Sivankutty and Mayor Arya Rajendran said that efforts are being made to trace the missing workers and discussions are being held with railway officials.

Sivankutty added, "One cannot stand near the canal for more than 15-20 minutes. The rescue workers need to clean themselves and take medicines at regular intervals. The fire and the rescue teams are working tirelessly fighting all odds."

Thiruvananthapuram Collector Geromic George is assigned the investigation and is required to file a report.

The contract to clean this part of the canal filled with plastic and hard waste was bagged by a contractor from the Railways. The contractor employed Joy, who is the lone breadwinner of his family for a sum of 1500, reported OnManorama.

(with inputs from news agencies)
Twenty-one months after his elder brother was killed, a resident of Manasa village in Dewas district of Madhya Pradesh managed to prove that it was a case of murder, and not accidental drowning, as first concluded by the local police investigation the death. Police line tape. Crime scene investigation. Forensic science. (Getty Images)

Subhash Sharma, 36, fought against a faulty investigation for two years and managed to prove -- with the help of videos and photos clicked by fellow villagers when the body was found in a local drain -- that his late brother Mahesh Sharma, 40, was brutally murdered on September 4, 2022 over a political rivalry.

Vindication came on June 30, 2024, when police in Sonkatch registered an FIR against Bharat Chawda and Jitendra Chawda under sections 302 (murder) and 120 b (conspiracy) of the Indian Penal Code, and arrested them on July 2. Last Tuesday, police also ordered an inquiry against the former investigating officer in the case, Neeta Darwal.

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According to police, on September 4, 2022, Mahesh Sharma had gone to meet a doctor in Sonkatch but he did not return home till late evening. Subhash tried to call him up, but the phone was switched off. After hours of searching, some villagers suggested looking for him in a drain passing the village, but one of their neighbours, Jitendra Chawda, stopped them saying there was a ghost in the drain, making it unsafe in the night.

At around midnight, I registered a missing complaint. When I returned from the police station at around 1.30am, another neighbour, Bharat Chawda, a childhood friend of my brother, informed us that his body was lying in a drain. Police reached the spot and villagers who were already present there were shooting videos. The body was fished out --- there were injury marks on the body and Maheshs shirt was wrapped around the neck as if he was killed by strangulation, said Subhash.

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Everyone said it was murder, but police didnt see that. Investigating officer Darwal said the reason behind death would be known in the post-mortem examination, and she did call the forensic science laboratory team for investigation. The autopsy said he died of drowning, and police closed the case on September 8, 2022, saying that it was an accident , he added.

Though Subhash moved to the district court, it was rejected on December 12, 2022, since he did not have proof to overturn the polices initial probe.

Subhash was convinced that Bharat Chawda and Jitendra Chawda were behind the killing since it was Jitendra who first stopped villagers from going near drain, and later Bharat who found the body. Bharat also found Maheshs mobile phone four days of his death. he was also clear about the motive -- a political rivalry over the local sarpanch polls in which the Sharma and Chawda families were on opposite sides.

I was clear about the suspects and their motive behind the murder, but I didnt have evidence. I collected all the photos and videos shot by the villagers when the body was recovered. The body had multiple signs of injuries which could have only been caused by dragging, said Subhash adding that he made a file of all the evidence and started filing complaint to senior police officers. Meanwhile, he filed an RTI report to get the post-mortem report and the details of the injuries.

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His complaint reached Sonkatch police station on April 1, 2024, where inspector Shyam Charan Sharma saw merit in the case and started an investigation.

Police collected the videos and photos from the villagers to cross checked with Subhashs evidence. Police registered the statement of villagers and found the allegations of Subhash true. In call details and tower location, it was found that Mahesh Sharma last talked to Bharat, and that they were together on September 4, 2022 evening, said Shyam Charan Sharma.

On June 30, police registered an FIR and later arrested the accused. Bharat and Jitendra Chawda confessed to the crime, saying they took Mahesh to the drain and killed him by forcibly holding his face inside the drain, said a police officer are of the matter.

When contacted, then investigating officer Neeta Darwal declined to comment.
New Delhi: The government has added a new provision to the Draft Broadcasting Services (Regulation) Bill that grants the central government power to direct any internet service provider or social media company to take appropriate action for implementation of the Bill, the ministry of information and broadcasting (MIB) told stakeholders in its presentation during the consultation on July 9. In the same presentation, the MIB also acknowledged that for stakeholders, the impact of the inclusion of OTT and digital news services was the major point of concern in the bill. (Representative Photo)

The Bill was released for public consultation on November 10. In the July 9 meeting, the I&B secretary had told senior officials to share the updated draft with stakeholders to receive comments by July 31 but the draft has not been shared thus far.

In the July 9 presentation, the discussion the same day and an email sent on June 3 (after the May 29 meeting), the MIB made it clear that there is a difference between linear broadcasters and on-demand broadcasting services that the Bill recognises by allowing for different programme and advertising codes for them. The MIB will also review the existing programme and advertising codes, and all new codes will be framed only after due consultation.

MIB said that in the new draft, OTT and digital news broadcasters have been exempted from criminal penalties for failing to inform the government of reaching the prescribed threshold. Under the November draft, providing broadcasting services without registration or after its expiry attracted a fine of 10 lakh and/or a jail term of up to two years for a first offence, and a fine of 50 lakh and/or a jail term of up to five years for subsequent offences.

Unlike all other broadcasters in the bill who are required to register with the government, both OTT broadcasting services, and any person who broadcasts news and current affairs programs online, including through social media, have to provide an intimation to the central government of their operations if they have Indian subscribers or viewers above a to-be-defined threshold.

In the new draft, the MIB has also revised the definition of broadcasting to remove one too many and to include the word textual to include textual content like scrolls, the June 3 email said.

Streaming services will be recognised as broadcasting services instead of broadcasting networks in the new draft. Definitions of publisher of news and current affairs content, publisher of online curated content, operator of OTT broadcasting services and digital news broadcaster have also been included.

A concern mentioned in the July 9 presentation was related to the small teams OTT and digital service broadcasters --- ranging from a single person to a very small team. Reaching to the subscriber threshold of 10 lakhs etc. is not very high and they may also be subjected to the provisions of the draft Bill, the concern read. The MIB said that it would be considered during the rulemaking process. Significantly, while acknowledging the concern, the MIB did not consider that digital news services may be similarly small.

The composition of the Content Evaluation Committee (CEC), which is required to pre-certify all content before it is broadcast, will be decided by the broadcasters in the updated draft. The certificates issued by the CEC will also no longer have any details that may identify the certifiers.

Indian Broadcasting & Digital Foundation (IBDF), an industry body of TV broadcasters whose members include Star, Viacom 18, and Times Television Network amongst others, in February had recommended scrapping CEC altogether as it could lead to pre-censorship and was economically unfeasible.

The negative list, that is, content that will not require certification or vetting by the CEC, has been included in the updated draft. The then I&B secretary Apurva Chandra had mentioned it in November while introducing the bill but it was not a part of the November draft. In the new draft, programmes such as news and current affairs, programmes already certified by the CBFC, live events, etc. are part of this list.

In the new draft, to allay concerns around the independence and necessity of the Broadcast Advisory Council (BAC), which is supposed to take grievances not resolved by the self-regulatory bodies, the five members nominated by the central government from five ministries will not be allowed to vote.

OTT broadcasting services have also been exempted from carrying mandatory channels as was required under clause 6.

Some of the recommendations by Trai, such as the creation of a regulatory sandbox and a technology development fund for the broadcasting sector, and provisions for the obligations of broadcasting service providers for disaster management have also been included in the new draft.

In response to the concern about the bills reliance on over five dozen delegated legislations, the MIB said that they are crucial to ensure flexibility and adaptability of the rules to govern the broadcasting sector.

The November draft allowed the central government to make provision for regulation of services other than broadcasting services that are intricately linked to broadcasting networks or services. In the email, MIB explained that it was meant for regulation of teleport, DSNG vans and other similar services and an illustration has been added in the draft Bill to remove any scope of ambiguity.

In response to a suggestion that the state-owned Prasar Bharti should be subjected to the same regulations as other broadcasters, the MIB said that issues related to DD Free Dish are being examined separately by the MIB.
In his first reaction to the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he was deeply concerned by the attack on his "friend". PM Modi, who is known to share a good rapport with the business tycoon-turned-politician, said violence has no place in politics and democracies. Prime Minister Narendra Modi and US President Donald Trump. (AFP file photo)

"Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery," PM Modi wrote on X.

PM Modi also showed solidarity with the people of America.

"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," he added.

Also read: 'Secret Service blew his head off': Eyewitness accounts of attack on Donald Trump

Donald Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, was addressing a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania when a shooter fired several bullets targeting him in an assassination attempt. One spectator was dead and two were injured in the shooting.

The sleuths of the United States Secret Service shot dead the shooter. The identity and the motivation of the shooter are being ascertained by the US authorities.

As soon as the first shots were fired, Donald Trump clutched his ear. Dark-suited agents covered him. They whisked him away from the rally venue to a waiting SUV.

Before that, in a show of strength, Donald Trump, whose face was bloodied due to an injury in the ear, pumped his fist in the air and mouthed "fight".

The US authorities said Donald Trump's injury isn't serious.

Trump later wrote on his social networking website that a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear.

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social app.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, and shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country, Trump added.

Donald Trump is the frontrunner in the race for the presidential post.
The attack on former American President Donald Trump is part of a rising trend of political violence in America. To make sense of it, both in a broader historical arc and the contemporary moment, HT reached out to Rachel Kleinfeld, a senior fellow with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and among the leading authorities on political violence and democratic backsliding in the US. Kleinfelds latest book, A Savage Order, examines how extremist violence cripples democracies and how they can recover from it. Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. (AFP)

The interview was conducted on Sunday over email.

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How do you place the attack on President Trump in the broader arc of recent political violence in America?

Political violence and threats have been rising in America for much of the last decade  against politicians at every level, from people running for school boards and local offices, to state legislators and national candidates. America has had a number of past eras of political violence, when politics have been highly polarised and when political figures have implicitly called for violence against Americans who differ. These ugly parts of our history  such as the rise of the Know-Nothing party in the early 1800s, the Civil War, and the violence against Civil Rights protesters  end when the government prosecutes violence, politicians stop normalising it, and regular Americans make it clear that they believe political violence is unequivocally wrong. That is what we need now.

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A lot of scholarship on American political violence, especially since January 6, has focused on Right-wing extremists. But in this case, since the attack was on the face of the American political Right, do you think it will lead to a change in assumptions about the nature of radicalization and the kind of people turning to violence? Is there radicalization and violence on the Left thats been underestimated?

We do not yet know if the shooter, who was a registered Republican, acted out of political belief on the Left or Right, or was simply disturbed, and we should not jump to conclusions. However, people who believe that violence can be used to solve political differences exist on all parts of the ideological spectrum. In the 1960s and 1970s, most political violence in the United States came from the Left.

In the last eight years, research shows it has overwhelmingly come from the Right, though there has also been a normalization of violence by the extreme Left that can be seen in a number of attacks on political figures and on university campuses. In all cases, the targets are not just the other side, but are often moderates on the same side as the perpetrators  because political violence is used to hollow out the center and force people to extremes. That is why it is so important to stop the normalisation of violence as a political tool  it spreads and can create retaliatory cycles.

What is leading to this spike in violence in recent years, and whats the period of American history that it reminds you of most sharply?

Populist politicians who polarize their societies have heralded spikes in political violence in many countries. In Brazil, Bolsonaro was also the target of an assassination attempt, yet his own rhetoric yielded a sharp increase in violence against journalists and others. India has seen an increase in anti-Muslim lynchings while other forms of violence have fallen. In the US, polarising rhetoric from MAGA politicians, and normalisation among far Left fringes, has increased violence against Republican and Democratic politicians at all levels.

In America, this looks something like the 1960s, when America faced rising violence and assassination attempts against multiple politicians. As violence became normalized as a political solution, assassins took the lives of John F. Kennedy, Malcolm X, American Nazi Party leader George Lincoln Rockwell, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert F. Kennedy in the few years between 1963 to 1968. What followed after that was the normalisation of violence more broadly, and the US saw a doubling of homicide and an ongoing increase in criminal murder that continued to rise until the early 1990s.

But globally, I fear it looks like the early 1930s, when we saw violence from Fascists on the Right leading to clashes with Communists on the far Left in many countries, such as Italy and Germany. That sort of extremist violence tends to lead to a centralisation of power and government violence.

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What do you think will be the political implications of the attack on Trump and its effect on political violence in general in US?

I hope that it will serve as a shock to the system, and force politicians to stop finger pointing and dividing American society. I fear that it will do the opposite. In either case, it is incumbent on regular Americans to speak out. Majorities of Americans across the political spectrum condemn political violence as unequivocally wrong, in every single case, against anyone. That voice needs to be heard loud and clear.

You have worked extensively on democratic backsliding within US. How does that story intersect with the rising violence?

Most political violence actually takes place in authoritarian countries, when people feel there is no other way to affect politics except through violence. In democracies, political violence rises when politicians and cultural leaders normalise violence as a political solution and undermine accountability for perpetrators by politicizing law enforcement. That breaks down the rule of law and corrodes democracy. It allows political violence to spread across the political spectrum, and to seep into everyday and criminal violence as well. Violence, once begun, is hard to corral, and it can turn against those who try to wield it for their purposes. All countries where politicians are normalising violence against others should be aware of what can occur.
Priests at the Kedarnath temple in Rudraprayag district on Sunday staged a protest in front of the shrine against the laying of a foundation stone of another Kedarnath temple in New Delhi on July 10 by Uttarakhand chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami . The Kedarnath temple in Rudraprayag district. (PTI)

Dhami on Wednesday took part in a bhoomi pujan (consecrating holy ground) at a ceremony held in the Hiranki neighbourhood near Burari in northwest Delhi and laid the foundation stone for a new Kedarnath temple to be built at the location.

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The priests of the Uttarakhand shrine gathered under the banner of Kedar Sabha, along with various other associations, in front of temple premises in Rudraprayag district and raised slogans against the state government and Dhami, alleging that the government was encouraging the construction of a temple in name of Kedarnath and conspiring against the Char Dham Yatra in the Garhwal Himalayas by undermining the sanctity of the ancient shrines.

Kedarnath is among the four Hindu sacred shines of the Char Dham that also includes Badrinath, Gangotri and Yumonotri, which attracts millions of Hindu pilgrims between the months of May and October.

We are not against a temple being constructed, but are opposing the construction of Kedarnath temple by a religious trust in Delhi, which as claimed will have the same form, said Pankaj Shukla, spokesperson of the Kedar Sabha. A stone from the Kedarnath shrine area will also be shifted, thus reducing the religious sanctity of the Kedarnath shrine in Rudraprayag district.

The Kedarnath Dham Trust Delhi has also announced that it will be distributing the charana amrit (sanctified water) of Kedarnath dham to devotees once the temple with the same name is built in Delhi, Shukla alleged. It is against all the religious guidelines of santana dharma.

The proposed construction of Kedarnath temple using the same name and form in Burari in Delhi by a trust is nothing but a conspiracy to reduce the religious sanctity of the shrine in Uttarakhand and earn money from the devotees, accused Pradeep Shukla, another member of the Kedar Sabha. If this trend continues, soon the temple of Baba Amarnath (in Kashmir) will also crop up in Delhi in the name of disaster and security, which will be the most unfortunate day for sanatana dharma.

Rajkumar Tiwari, president of the Kedar Sabha, was not present during the protest, but extended his support to the protesting members. He alleged a conspiracy to divert the pilgrims. This year, the limitation on online registration was introduced on Char Dham yatra, and during the rush, the yatra was proposed to be diverted from Ramnagar in the Kumaon region to promote Manas Khand yatra, which is indicative of the fact that a section of government is conspiring in undermining the Char Dham yatra and the shrines that are revered by many across the globe, Tiwari said.

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We have received some assurance that the religious sanctity of Kedarnath in Uttarakhand will be maintained, but we will continue to protest till the time we are satisfied by the government in letter and spirit,he added.

HT reached out to state government officials for a comment but did not get one immediately.

The proposed construction of a new Kedarnath temple in Delhi has evoked a mixed response.

It is difficult to have darshan (viewing) of Lord Kedarnath during the monsoon in Uttarakhand and it poses a risk to our lives, said Anirudh Tripathi, a pilgrim from Delhi who has returned from Char Dham yatra to Rishikesh. If such a temple is made in Delhi, many elderly and devotees with fragile health will be able to seek blessings from Lord Shiva without any hindrance.

Anuj Thapliyal, a resident of Rudraprayag, differed. The shivling at Kedarnath is believed to be swayambhu (self installed) by the lord himself, so there can be no replica anywhere in the name of Kedarnath, Thapliyal said. It is important to take decisions of construction of temples that are connected with the holy shrines of the Hindus with utmost care and without any self-interest.

The Badrinath Kedarnath Temple Committee (BKTC) has received information of the proposed construction of temple in Delhi through social media, committee CEO Yogendra Singh said. The BKTC will respond only after looking into the matter, he added.

Surinder Rautela, who heads the Shri Kedarnath Dham Delhi Trust in Burari, clarified that only a temple is being developed and not a dham (shirne). There are many temples in India based on famous temples and there should not be any controversy about it, Rautela said.

A Kedarnath temple is going to be built in Delhi, not a dham. Our Shri Kedarnath Dham Delhi Trustis building this temple. The Uttarakhand government has nothing to do with the project. The Uttarakhand chief minister came here for the bhumi pujan at our request. The project as well as the trust has nothing to do with the government. The trust is working with the cooperation of the trust members, most of whom are from Uttarakhand, he added.

Rautela said that that there are many temples in India based on famous temples. A Kedarnath temple is already present in Indore for so many years. Similarly, a temple of Badrinath also exists in Mumbai. It was inaugurated by former (Uttarakhand ) chief minister Harish Rawat, Rautela claimed. There are temples all across country based on Sai temple, Khatu Shyam temple, etc.

We are just making a temple with all our heart and religious belief. There should not be any controversy about it, he said. Some leaders are creating a controversy for political benefit.
Loved Sara Ali Khan's regal appearance at the Ambani wedding? While her stunning ensemble definitely had fashion enthusiasts swooning, it's not the only reason it's making headlines. The actress is receiving harsh criticism on social media after wearing a stunning lehenga designed by Pakistani fashion designer Iqbal Hussain but failing to give him credit in her post. Sara wore the vibrant outfit to Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's lavish wedding on July 12. In a video she shared of herself twirling and posing in the lehenga at the event, she tagged her stylists, hair and makeup team, and photographers but did not mention or tag the original designer, Iqbal Hussain. (Also read: Looks like Isha Ambani loved her giant necklace a lot, repeats it with stunning floral saree: Pics ) Controversy surrounds Sara Ali Khan's failure to credit designer for Ambani wedding ensemble (Instagram)

Netizens criticize Sara Ali Khan for not crediting Pakistani designer

Netizens were not pleased with Sara Ali Khan, criticizing her for not crediting the designer behind her outfit despite showcasing his work on social media. One user remarked, "I've seen your previous posts where you've tagged the designer. I don't understand why you'd only tag the stylist this time. Regardless of whether he's from Pakistan or anywhere else, it's his hard work and design. Credit where it's due." Another commenter said, "If you're hesitant to tag the Pakistani designer whose clothes you're wearing, then why wear them at all? Every designer deserves recognition. It's unprofessional, Sara." A third user added, "Have the courage to mention the designer, whether he's from Pakistan, America, Japan, or anywhere else in the world."

Netizens also tagged the designer, urging him to speak out for himself. As of now, Iqbal Hussain has not responded to the controversy.

About Sara's stunning ensemble

For the Ambani wedding, Sara Ali Khan embraced her royal aura and wore an elegant ivory organza pishwas featuring a long, flowing tunic with intricate Maori embroidery on the neckline, sleeves and flared skirt. The outfit was enhanced by a golden jaal with elaborate zardozi embroidery and applique work, adding a touch of luxury and tradition. The design showcased rich craftsmanship and cultural heritage.
While several factors drove Prime Minister (PM) Narendra Modis recently concluded visit to Moscow  the first in nine years and the first summit meeting in three  the predominant one may be China. Since the onset of the Ukraine war and in the context of Indias growing proximity to the United States (US), New Delhi has been trying to reassure Moscow that the relationship will continue despite the pressure on India to turn its back on Russia. While that may be true, what has been under-analysed is Indias need for assurances from Moscow on the China question.

The current Indian stance towards Russia appears to be driven by a set of interrelated beliefs. One, New Delhi believes Russia is winning the war, and being on the winning side is a good strategy from its perspective. Two, there has been negligible pressure from the US on India to alter its stance towards Russia. Three, Western and US engagement with India has only strengthened since the war began, providing no disincentives for India to change its policy.

Furthermore, Europe is currently on the back foot in the wake of the Gaza war, which has drastically eroded its moral standing. Thus, with little moral authority, Europe will not be able to exert significant normative pressure on India in relation to Russia. In that sense, there has never been a better time in the recent past to organise the India-Russia summit.

Let me now come back to the China question. First, at a broader level, China has had a paradoxical influence on India-Russia relations. Chinese aggression is, at least partly, both the reason why New Delhi sticks to Moscow (since giving up on Russia could decisively turn the two against its regional interests) and also why it seeks to diversify beyond Russia (since India needs more strategic partners who can help it address the China challenge), which amounts to a certain amount of disengagement from Moscow.

Second, PM Modis recent visit to Moscow took place in the shadow of the growing Russia-China strategic partnership. The growing number of bilateral visits, uptick in the trade, financial and business relationship, and increasing synergy between the two sides on a variety of strategic issues have not gone unnoticed in New Delhi. Russia has also been increasing its engagement with Indias neighbours such as Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Pakistan. While Russias engagement with Indias neighbourhood could help indirectly moderate Chinas rising influence in the region, such moderation may not be possible without Indias active engagement with Russia. Put differently, if China and Russia increasingly synergise their strategies in Indias neighbourhood, it could harm Indias interests. For India, the best-case scenario is to drive a wedge between Russian and Chinese strategies in the region. But, if that proves to be too ambitious, which may indeed be the case, the second-best scenario is to ensure their strategies do not align against Indian interests.

Third, despite some recent signalling from New Delhi, Beijing has shown little enthusiasm for a rapprochement with India. Beijings lack of appetite for resolution worries New Delhi, thereby prompting it to seek assurances from Moscow. We do not know if there are any assurances from the Russian side to India on the China question, but it is clear that one of Indias biggest challenges when it comes to relations with Russia is to get the latter to publicly acknowledge Chinese aggression against India, let alone support India. Likewise, Moscow too will find it hard to get assurances from New Delhi on the latters relations with the US.

High on symbolism but somewhat low on substance, the current India-Russia relationship is increasingly transactional. Both sides are hedging their bets and subtly signalling redlines, expectations and limitations. New Delhi reassures Moscow that it will not turn its back on Russia while steadfastly getting closer to the latter's rivals  the US and the West  and pursuing policies that are not in line with Moscows interests. New Delhi has maintained Moscows redlines so far, such as not openly criticising the Russian invasion of Ukraine.

Russia, on the other hand, seeks to maintain its relationship with India while simultaneously strengthening its partnership with China. Moscow faces long-term challenges from Beijing, but they are overlooked given the weight of the short-term benefits of a deeper strategic partnership with China. For India, the long-term interests lie with the US, but in the short-term, Russia brings benefits. Both sides recognise the utility and limits of their bilateral strategic partnership. They also acknowledge that the other side will continue to make strategic choices that are contradictory to their own and that they have little power to influence those choices.

Modis visit to Moscow and the symbolism around it also underscores the fact that New Delhi realises that trying to align the interests of the two sides which are growing more divergent than ever is a futile exercise. In that sense, it makes perfect sense for India to partner with Moscow in spaces where the fundamental interests of Moscow and Beijing diverge such as Central Asia. We may also see Delhi partnering with Moscow and Beijing when it suits its interests, especially under the ambit of the SCO  terrorism, and the Afghan situation, among others, fall in that domain. Likewise, New Delhi partners with other countries (the US and the West) in spaces where Indias interests are in direct competition with those of both Russia and China; the Indo-Pacific is an example of such a space. The test of Indian diplomacy lies in managing these competing pulls, pressures, and interests.

Happymon Jacob teaches at JNU, and is the founder of the Council for Strategic and Defence Research, a New Delhi-based think tank. The views expressed are personal
On July 8, two army trucks moving on a mountain road near Badnota village in the Kathua district were ambushed by a group of terrorists. In the ensuing firefight, five soldiers were killed and five seriously injured. This was the latest in the series of attacks witnessed in the Jammu region, in areas that were, until recently, regarded as militancy-free.

Terror incidents, though isolated, have now taken place across the entire expanse of Jammu Division, stretching from the Poonch district adjoining Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir in the west to the Kathua district bordering Punjab and Himachal Pradesh. Most of these attacks are attributed to Pakistani terrorists who have infiltrated the Jammu region in recent months.

The attempt to reignite violence in Jammu appears to be a meticulously planned and deliberate effort. Under relentless pressure in the Kashmir Valley, terrorists have redirected their focus to areas south of the Pir Panjal Range, where the troop density is lower, the terrain more challenging for the security forces, and the intelligence network is less developed.

These attacks are aimed at countering the governments narrative that terrorism is on its last leg and will be soon eliminated. Many are contesting the claim that normalcy is being restored in Jammu and Kashmir. When their credibility is questioned, governments often find themselves compelled to take action.

Defence Secretary Giridhar Aramane expressed his profound grief on the loss of five Bravehearts and said, their sacrifice will not go unavenged. Some actions are already visible. Additional forces have been inducted into the Jammu region, patrolling has been intensified, suspects are being questioned in large numbers, and the security grid along the international border in Jammu and Punjab is being reviewed to strengthen counter-infiltration measures. There is also a need to improve human intelligence by enhancing outreach to the local communities. A few dozen terrorists are no match for state power applied effectively. There could be costs, but ultimately, the security forces will prevail, particularly in conditions where local support is limited, as is the case in the Jammu region.

How to deal with Pakistan is the more serious question. It is fairly obvious that the planning for the activation of the new areas has been carried out in Pakistan, and the perpetrators of the recent attacks across the Jammu region are all from there. In deciding Indias response, the objective is also clear  to deter Pakistan from continuing with state-sponsored terrorism against India.

The BJP-led governments have shown resolve in dealing with terrorism and have not hesitated to use the military instrument. Improvement in bilateral ties has been made incumbent on Pakistan stopping the use of terrorists to destabilise Jammu and Kashmir, and cross-border operations have been conducted in 2016 and 2019.

However, it must also be admitted that these policies have had only a limited impact. They have served to assuage public sentiment and demonstrate the states decisiveness, but beyond imposing caution, have not entirely deterred Pakistan. India now has to decide how deterrence can be achieved through a more coercive posture.

The core component of traditional deterrence is the threat of punitive measures. There will be a stated penalty if Pakistan continues with actions that we do not want it to take. However, since diplomatic ties are almost non-existent and there is no economic interdependence, little pressure can be put on these areas. We could continue to call out Pakistan for its support of terrorism in international and multilateral forums, but this has yielded few concrete results.

This leaves India with the kinetic option, both covert and direct. Many recent writings suggest that India should conduct cross-border strikes and abrogate the ceasefire in place from 2021. These are decisions for the government to make after carefully considering the pros and cons. However, whatever decision is taken must be clearly communicated and should be credible.

The effectiveness of deterrence hinges critically on the credibility of the threats. There must be a consistent demonstration of our resolve and the political will to follow through if Pakistan continues to send terrorists into our territory. It must also be understood that credible threats involve an element of the risk of escalation, and this should be factored into our planning.

Since deterrence is fundamentally an effort to influence the thinking of the opponent, the other side should also see some perceived benefit of compliance. Benefits provide a positive inducement for the adversary to refrain from taking an undesirable action or to comply with specific demands. What kind of inducements India can offer Pakistan (if at all) is a politically sensitive matter that would have to be closely debated in the inner circles of the government and would depend on affirmative action by Pakistan.

It could be argued that given Pakistans record of duplicity, inducements have little meaning, and punishment is the only way to influence Rawalpindis behaviour. However, as Thomas Schilling writes in his classic Arms and Influence, Coercion requires finding a bargain, arranging for him to be better off doing what we want  worse off not doing what we want  when he takes the threatened penalty into account.

India has shown its resolve in dealing with terror emanating from Pakistan but with limited long-term impact. In the face of continuing intransigence from Pakistan, India must now look to refine its strategy.

While India deliberates its options, Pakistan must also deeply reflect on whether its persistent irrationality over the Kashmir issue truly serves the nation's interests or if it risks plunging the country into an even deeper crisis than it currently faces.

Lt General (retd) Deependra Singh Hooda is the co-founder of the Council for Strategic and Defence Research and a Senior Fellow at the Delhi Policy Group. The views expressed are personal
On a rare sultry day in Bengaluru, the dust had laid siege to my book piles ditched unread, and I was adrift, scouring the web for a pool of new book releases. Little effort did it take to discover that Alia Bhatt has recently turned into an author with her children's book Ed finds a Home hot off the press. I soon learnt that Prajakta Koli's upcoming debut romance novel is to be published by HarperCollins later this year.

Memoirs, children's books, self-help books and even novels penned by famous faces are cropping up on bookshelves. A peculiar trend has swept through the literary world, where renowned individuals are landing book deals with the most celebrated publishing houses. Not only are these celebrity/influencer-authored titles getting increasingly commissioned, but they are also saturating the bestseller lists. This triggers a debate on whether writing books has become an elite celebrity exclusive phenomenon.

The publisher's point of view

Though it is art, and many consider it sacrosanct  in the end, publishing books is a business, and profits are paramount. The allure of celebrity-authored books is multifaceted. With the commercial pull of a celebrity name, fans are pre-sold, book tours become media events, and publishers salivate at the guaranteed sales boost. For publishers, these books represent a low-risk investment with high potential returns.

Speaking about the Indian market, Shreya Punj, an independent consultant and the former commissioning editor at Penguin Random House and HarperCollins, said: "Given the fact that we, as a country, have parasocial relationships with anybody who is even moderately famous, it makes sense for publishers to make money out of books that they know have a high demand."

This commercial appeal has led publishers to prioritise celebrity projects  because, ultimately, publishers too need to make ends meet, and a product with a guaranteed consumer base is a no-brainer. The final word of the flag-wavers of the 'celebrity-turned-author' trope seems to be that publishing is an already sinking ship, and anything that prevents it from drowning is perfectly acceptable.

Is publishing accessible to all authors?

Critics contend that celebrity books often overshadow works by dedicated career authors, potentially crowding diverse voices and literary innovation. There's a valid concern that name recognition, rather than literary merit, becomes the primary driver of book sales and publicity.

"I don't think that there's any debate there. The fact is that it is easy for them (influential individuals) to get a deal with the publishing houses. However, it took them years of building themselves in their field to reach a point where this is easy. But when I feel sad that influencers get (book) deals but regular people can't as easily, I remind myself that at the end of the day, (publishers are) commercial enterprises and for them, a book is a product. And there's no denying that obscure people get published, just the process is way trickier for them," said Nona Uppal, the author of Fool Me Twice, published by Penguin Random House India, 2024, who is now also an influencer.

The surge of celebrity books has made it increasingly challenging for traditional authors to break into the market. It is a widespread speculation amongst budding authors that publishers, driven by the need for profitability, tend to allocate more resources to celebrity projects, leaving fewer opportunities for new or mid-list authors.

"Getting published by a traditional publisher has always been a difficult feat for up-and-coming authors, and now, with the rise in the number of celebrities and influencers getting their books published, it has become even more competitive. I pitched to around nine traditional publishing houses before one of them accepted my manuscript. Some of the publishers didn't respond at all, one rejected my proposal, and one wasn't accepting manuscript submissions at the time. So, it is hard for emerging writers to get represented by prominent publishing houses. Often, the author's popularity overshadows their talent." said Anam Tariq, poet and author of A Leaf upon a Book published by Leadstart.

The element of ghostwriting in celebrity-authored books

While celebrities are the best marketers of their books, they are, at times, not the best ones to write them. The role of ghostwriters in celebrity-authored books is a contentious and often opaque aspect of this spectacle. While some celebrities openly acknowledge working with ghostwriters or co-authors, many present their books as solely their own work, raising questions about authenticity and credit.

In arts, the concept of credits is sacrosanct. Many argue this arrangement of ghostwriting is such that it puts the celebrity's brand appeal to the forefront, and the actual artist behind the work is left unknown in the shadows. But still, the stories of these prominent personalities should be told as well. A fair middle ground seems to disclose that a book has been ghostwritten.

"I would prefer if a celebrity hired a great ghostwriter. The life is theirs, but if I'm reading it, at least the writing should be good. So, if they understand that they're not great writers, I respect their self-awareness in entrusting the story's writing to someone good at the craft," said Punj, bringing up Spare by Prince Harry, who clearly states that his book has been ghostwritten. "However, this level of honesty and transparency is still underappreciated in Indian culture," she added.

Books: The brand builder?

Writing a book helps to build credibility for the celebrity, which is why many have started seeing books as a means to build their brand. Often, the trend of celebrities writing books is less about literary ambition and more about strategic extensions of their brand. In this view, authorship is just another tool in the modern celebrity's arsenal for maintaining relevance, expanding their audience, and diversifying their income streams.

This might not be true for the most established celebrities and influencers, but nascent ones are entrapped into thinking that writing a book would help elevate their overall appeal, which is perhaps why the internet is full of courses and workshops claiming to help one write a book in a week or so.

Many in the literary community would agree that if the sole resolution to writing a book is brand building, it is a disservice to the art of storytelling.

"I am not concerned when someone approaches it primarily from the perspective of brand building, because I would not classify it as art or literature. But from a purely artistic point of view, it's slightly contradictory. For instance, you wouldn't record a song if you didn't listen to music; you wouldn't make a movie if you weren't like a fanatic going to the theatre every Friday to catch the latest release. I find it disingenuous because if a person comes out and says that I've written a book, even when they don't read books, I would not read their book as creation cannot happen without the consumption of art, said Uppal.

The pen remains mightier

While celebrity status may open doors in the traditional publishing world, ultimately, the quality of writing remains paramount in determining a book's lasting impact and critical reception. This fundamental truth serves as both a great equaliser and a stark reality check for celebrities venturing into authorship.

Critics and discerning readers are quick to distinguish between celebrity books that demonstrate true literary merit and those that seem to coast on name recognition alone. This scrutiny can be particularly intense for celebrity authors as their works are often held to an even higher standard.

Still, industry professionals such as Punj remain optimistic about writing and publishing as a democratic space and deny its absolute skewness towards celebrities. "Given the prevalence of social media and how these books are now marketed by celebrities or content creators themselves, it appears that everybody is talking about them  but that is all in the confines of a bubble and can't be generalised into a larger picture," Punj added.

Clearly, publishing books in the present day is a multi-tiered edifice of marketing, influence, relevance, etc, but what remains at its foundation is the very craft of writing.

Suvrat Arora is an independent writer based in Bengaluru, India. His words have appeared in Al Jazeera, Vogue India, The Hindu and elsewhere. Areas of his interest include society, literature, art, culture, books and technology. The views expressed are personal
On 9 July, Prime Minister Narendra Modi was in Moscow for a summit with Russian President Vladimir Putin. The previous day, during an informal conversation with Putin, Modi made two significant statements. First, he said: I have brought with me the love of 140 crore countrymen. Second: Peace talks do not succeed amid bombs, guns, and bullets. What did Modi mean?

His first statement aimed to tell world leaders that they should not think the mandate his government now has is in any way weaker than what he had enjoyed in his first two terms; and that he still is the all-powerful prime minister of a sovereign nation. Putin acknowledged this sentiment. Now we get to the second statement. Modi used words such as bombs and bullets to signal to the West that Indias foreign policy remains unchanged. Those who feel India should align with the US also got a fitting response.

Its vital to mention Quad here. This informal, but crucial strategic group has India, the US, Japan, and Australia as its constituents. The US also proposes to expand the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) as the grouping celebrates its 75th anniversary. Though India is not a member of NATO, its position as a Quad ally demonstrates its balance of policy.

But I wont discuss foreign policy here. My objective is to discuss the first month of Modis third term. Modi has accomplished and communicated a lot in just one month.

Lets begin with the creation of the cabinet. Many believed Modi would not be as powerful as in his last tenure, since the BJP no longer has a simple majority in Parliament and would have to accept the demands of his coalition partners while forming the government. There was speculation that the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) and Janata Dal (United) would strike a hard bargain. But the Cabinet Committee on Security, or CCS, the most powerful organ of the Union cabinet, has remained exactly as it was. Similarly, the portfolios TDP and JD(U) received were not discussed prior to Cabinet formation, nor is it expected in the future.

There were rumours about who would be the Speaker. The selection of Bhartruhari Mahtab, who joined the BJP after leaving the Biju Janata Dal, as pro-tem speaker was seen as a hint. But Om Birla resumed as Speaker. Birlas last tenure was controversial. He suspended scores of MPs. Rahul Gandhi and Mahua Moitra were dismissed from the Lok Sabha. By picking him, the BJP showed that its strength remains intact. Later, during the motion of thanks to the presidential address, there was a lot of bluster, but neither the government nor the Speaker of the Lok Sabha tumbled. People saw only one difference between the previous Lok Sabha and this one: The Opposition was more aggressive owing to their better numbers. It is a different matter that the ruling party MPs went to great lengths to respond.

Now let us talk about the BJP. The prime minister and the home minister have held the party in a firm grip. There were rumours that the RSS had issues with it and may intervene this time. But it didnt. The current BJP national president, Jagat Prakash Nadda, is already on an extension and continues to make decisions as party president a fortnight past the end of his tenure on June 30. It is almost inevitable that the party will elect a new president in time. Perhaps this is why he has been assigned to the critical ministry of health. For sure, Modi-Shahs grip on the party remains strong.

Should we presume that Prime Minister Modi is entirely unchallenged?

Modi has exhibited unprecedented confidence at home and abroad, but new anxieties are emerging on the internal front. This month, the finance minister will present the first budget of the third term of Modi. Will there be an imprint on NDA allies on that? If so, what will happen to economic reforms?

Additionally, the rising attacks on security forces in Jammu and Kashmir have raised concerns. With assembly elections scheduled by September, Delhi needs to make prompt decisions. Meanwhile, the Opposition is vehemently criticising the Agnipath scheme, demanding a caste census, and asking questions about unemployment. The BJP and the government will need to address these challenges.

Shashi Shekhar is editor-in-chief, Hindustan. The views expressed are personal
Former US president Donald Trump survived an attempt on his life on Saturday when a young shooter fired multiple shots at him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, injuring his right ear, days before he was to accept the Republican Party's nomination for the presidential election in November. Social media users weighned in on whether The Simpsons predicted the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

Soon after the attack, leaders from around the world condemned this act and numerous others also posted about their thoughts on it. Among numerous posts, multiple people hinted that The Simpsons, an American sitcom predicted this attack. (Also Read: Donald Trump's Republican associates blame Joe Biden for attack: 'Rhetoric led to...')

Here's how a few people reacted to it:

Who was the gunman who attacked Donald Trump?

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, has been identified as the gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump. As investigators piece together the circumstances leading up to the attack, questions arise about the 20-year-old's past, intentions, and any potential links that could explain his conduct. According to sources, Crooks was on the roof of a manufacturing factory when one of his shots hit Trump's ear.

Crooks reportedly positioned himself 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, where the presidential campaign event was in full swing. (Also Read: Trump Shooting: PM Modi's Bromance With US Ex-President Recapped Amid Murder Bid Shock | US Election)

He was then brought down by Secret Service snipers, who discovered an AR-style weapon on the scene. The special agents later posted on social media that Trump had been safely rushed to a local hospital. According to a statement from an FBI agent, the reason of the assassination attempt is yet to be determined.

According to reports, the 20-year-old who was shot and killed by Secret Service agents was from Bethel Park, a small town located approximately 40 miles south of the rally's location.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Shubh Aashirwad ceremony of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant on Saturday. For the unversed, the shubh aashirwad ceremony was held on the second day of the grand wedding ceremony, which included the newlyweds and their family members getting blessings from priests. Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant touching PM Modi's feet.

A short yet sweet video from this ceremony has gone viral on the internet. It shows PM Modi meeting Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant during the function. As the video goes on, the newlyweds kneel down and touch PM Modi's feet to seek his blessings. Not only that, but they also fold their hands in gratitude. Further, PM Modi can be seen giving a gift to the couple. (Also Read: Giggling Isha Ambani shines as US influencer highlights her magnificent necklace)

Watch the video here:

More on Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant wedding:

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant tied the knot in a star-studded ceremony at Mumbais Jio World Convention Centre on July 12. The opulent wedding combined Western customs with Gujarati customs. The pair recited their wedding vows to each other as they took pheras around the sacred fire and exchanged varmalas.

The wedding celebration was attended by former UK prime ministers Boris Johnson and Tony Blair, futurist Peter Diamandis, artist Jeff Koons, former US Secretary of State John Kerry, and former Canadian PM Stephen Harper. The event was also graced by Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian, John Cena, Priyanka Chopra-Jonas, Nick Jonas and an array of Bollywood celebrities. Numerous social media influencers were also present at the event. (Also Read: Ambanis give Haldirams aloo bhujia, sev and more to Reliance employees for Anant Ambani wedding)

This grand ceremony came after months of pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar and Europe.

Anant is the youngest son of billionaire businessman, Reliance Industries chairperson Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani. Radhika is the daughter of businessman Viren Merchant and his wife Shaila.
A video of top Congress leader Rahul Gandhi dining at a restaurant has captured the internet attention. The undated footage surfaced amid the high-profile wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, leaving social media users wondering if the politician did not attend the star-studded celebrations in Mumbai. Rahul Gandhi was spotted at a pizzeria in Delhi in a viral video. (X)

Wearing a blue t-shirt, Rahul Gandhi was seen sitting across from someone, engaging in a lively conversation.

Watch the undated video here:

PM Modi attends Anant Ambani, Radhika Merchant's 'Shubh Aashirwad'

Prime Minister Narendra Modi attended the Shubh Aashirwad ceremony of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant in Mumbai on Saturday night at the Jio World Convention Centre. Reliance Industries chairman Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani, parents of the groom, personally welcomed the Prime Minister and escorted him to the stage. Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant touched his feet as PM Modi blessed the newly-weds.

PM Modi was in Mumbai on Saturday for laying the foundation stone for multiple projects related to roads, railways, and ports, worth more than 29,400 crore.

Other politicians who attended Ambani wedding festivities

Among the political personalities who were present at the Ambani celebrations in Mumbai on Saturday were Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, Deputy Chief Minister Pawan Kalyan, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde and Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar.

Samajwadi Party Chief and former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, along with his family, also attended the ceremony. The Yadavs had arrived in Mumbai on Friday for the grand wedding.

(Also Read: Anil and Tina Ambani on host mode at nephew Anant's wedding, greet Lalu Prasad Yadav)

Rashtriya Janata Dal (RJD) chief and former Bihar Chief Minister Lalu Prasad Yadav and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee attended the wedding on Friday. BJP leader Smriti Irani, along with her husband, also attended the wedding ceremony. Congress leader Abhishek Manu Singhvi was spotted on the red carpet.

(Also Read: Mamata Banerjee and Kim Kardashian in one frame. See viral photo)
The Uttarakhand Police swiftly sprang into action when they spotted a helpless dog trapped in the powerful currents of the Bhagirathi River. Demonstrating their dedication to serving and protecting, the police shared the heartwarming story of their successful rescue mission on their official social media account, recounting the heroic efforts that led to the safe return of the dog. An official tied the dog to safety gear while rescuing it.

"Policemen saved the life of a speechless dog. Fire service personnel #UttarakhandPolice successfully rescued a mute dog trapped on an island in the strong currents of the Bhagirathi river under the hanging bridge at Joshiada, Uttarkashi," wrote the Uttarakhand Police in the post as they shared a video of the incident.

In the video, a person is shown carefully attaching safety gear to a dog in order to lift it up on a bridge. As the footage progresses, the person slowly and steadily lifts the dog to safety. Once the dog is brought back to solid ground, a heartwarming scene unfolds as several people can be seen cheering in relief and support. (Also Read: Firefighters rescue man who jumped into churning waters to save his dog. Watch)

Watch the video here:

This post was shared on July 13. Since being posted, it has gained more than 2,000 views and several likes.

Earlier, a dog was rescued after it spent a week without food or water in a shipping container. "Earlier today, a team of marine inspectors from US Coast Guard Sector Houston-Galveston saved a life in a way that was unexpected," wrote US Coast Guard Heartland while sharing a few pictures on Facebook. (Also Read: Dog rescued from flood hugs and comforts stranger pooch, heart-tugging video is viral)

They shared, "MST3 Bryan Wainscott, MST1 Lucas Loe, MST2 Ryan McMahon, and MST3 Jose Reyes were busy randomly selecting from thousands of shipping containers for inspection. Suddenly, they heard barking and scratching coming from one of the containers in a stack. When they lowered the container and opened the door, a dog popped out!"

"This sweet girl was trapped in the container for at least a week and was tired, hungry, and very happy to see her rescuers. The Coast Guard members gave her water and brought her to a local animal shelter for further care. Thanks to their actions, Connie the Container Dog is safe and sound!" they further shared.
Nepal's communist leader KP Sharma Oli was appointed as the prime minister for the fourth time on Sunday, after former PM Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda lost the vote of no confidence in the House of Representatives on Friday, news agency PTI reported. Prime Minister of Nepal KP Sharma Oli.(PTI)

Dahal had become the PM in March 2024, when he broke the alliance with Nepali Congress party and joined hands with CPI-UML's KP Sharma Oli after a vote of confidence. The country has seen 13 governments since the monarchy was abolished in 2008.

Oli, the chairman of Communist Party of Nepal (Unified MarxistLeninist) (CPI-UML), faces a daunting challenge to provide political stability to the Himalayan nation. The 72-year-old leader will form a new government as per process under Article 76(2) of the Nepalese constitution, as per a notice issued by the President Ram Chandra Paudel's office.

The swearing-in ceremony is scheduled to take place at 11 am on Monday at Shital Niwas, the main building of Rashtrapati Bhawan.

Oli becomes the PM of a new coalition supported by Nepali Congress party, headed by its president Sher Bahadur Deuba. During the vote of no confidence, Oli submitted the letter of support with signatures from 165 members to form a government in the 275 member House of Representatives.

Under Nepal's constitution, the PM can seek a vote of no confidence only after an ally withdraws support to his government. Among 165 members, 77 are from his party, (CPI-UML) and 88 are from the Nepali Congress party (NC).

Amid political uncertainity, last week, the two leaders signed a seven-point agreement to form a new coalition government to replace Prachanda as the Prime Minister. The deal specified that the remaining term in Parliament will be shared between the two parties by turn. Oli will lead the government for the next 18 months as per the arrangement.

Other smaller political parties including Rastriya Prajatantra Party, Janata Samajwadi Party Nepal, Lokatantrik Samajwadi Party, Janamat Party and Nagarik Unmukti Party are also likely to join the government.

Who is KP Sharma Oli?

Seen by India as pro-China, Oli served as the country's PM twice from October 2015 to August 2016 and then from February 2018 to July 2021. His short stint from May to July 2021 had become controversial, as his appointment as the PM by then President Bidya Devi Bhandari was quashed by Nepal's Supreme Court as unconstitutional.

According to the Indian Express, Oli took a harsh stance against India during the 2015 border blockade that erupted due to tensions in the border areas over Nepal's new constitution.

His government also strengthened ties with Beijing and published an updated map that claimed Lipulekh, Kalapani, and Limpiyadhura in Uttarakhand as part of Nepal's territory. India had rejected the claim as unilateral and the two countries engaged in talks later.



(With PTI inputs)
With a smile enveloped by steam rising from a pot of milk simmering on a stove, Yulia Bachurinskaya reminisces about the moment she fell "deeply in love" with cheese. Cheese heals pain of exile for Belarusians who fled to Poland

The Belarusian cheesemaker traces the start of this love affair back to trips to Italy as a child in the mid-1990s.

The tours were organised by a nonprofit organisation helping Belarusian children like her who grew up in the zone contaminated by the 1986 Chernobyl nuclear disaster.

"The farmers made ricotta the old-fashioned way," she said of the experience that prompted her to learn both Italian and the art of traditional cheese making.

And then in central France's Auvergne home to some of the nation's most beloved cheeses such as Saint-Nectaire, Cantal and Fourme d'Ambert she discovered the "obligatory plate of cheese enjoyed after each meal".

These experiences set Bachurinskaya, alongside her husband, on a lifelong journey dedicated to making cheese, both before and after fleeing political repression in Belarus and resettling in Poland.

"We can't see our parents, or go back," said the 40-year-old from the city of Gomel in southeastern Belarus.

"But we can't think about that all of the time, we have to move forwards," she added.

Bachurinskaya and her husband Alexei Kuchko, 42, remain in frequent contact with many other exiles, with whom they speak their native Belarusian rather than the Russian language preferred by the government back home.

Hundreds of thousands have fled the country in the last few years following a crackdown on protests after President Alexander Lukashenko claimed victory in a 2020 presidential election that rights groups said was fraudulent.

The couple arrived in Poland in late 2021 and are now settled on a farm in the village of Balazowka in the Carpathian Mountains, where they live alongside 37 sheep and five goats.

The couple have been making cheese since ditching their office jobs in Minsk Bachurinskaya was a translator from Italian and Kuchko worked in marketing and settling in the northern Belarus countryside in 2015.

Their efforts paid off with the duo specialising in farm-to-table artisanal cheese in a country where the agricultural sector remains largely linked to its collectivist past and where most farms are state-owned.

Lukashenko a former collective farm director boasts that he has created a paradise for farmers.

The reality on the ground and in the fields was very different, according to the couple.

"Let's imagine you want to buy French sheep in Belarus... If you're an average guy, no one will give you permission. If you're a friend of Lukashenko, you'll have everything," said Kuchko.

Five years after they left the capital, Belarus was upended after Lukashenko claimed to have won 80 percent of the vote in polls, as he sought a sixth term as president.

For weeks, tens of thousands took to the streets to protest against the alleged fraud.

Under mounting pressure from the demonstrations, Lukashenko turned to Russian President Vladimir Putin for support, as he brutally cracked down on the protests.

Opposition figures were rounded up and some allegedly tortured, while more than 300,000 of the country's 9.3 million residents fled abroad, according to UN figures.

For months, Bachurinskaya and Kuchko feared arrest after campaigning for imprisoned opposition figure Viktor Babaryko.

And then in late 2021, they decided it was time to leave the country.

The couple managed to leave with their two horses by passing them off as racehorses, but parted with most of their livestock.

Once across the border in Poland, they started to slowly rebuild after finding a piece of land and buying new sheep and goats.

In their kitchen, they make around 10 varieties of cheese by hand, including one creation that Bachurinskaya says combines the "piquant taste of goat cheese with the creaminess of brie".

The concoctions are later sold in the city of Krakow, a 90-minute drive away, or via their Instagram account, Krapacheese.

Despite all the hardships, the couple say they remain grateful for what they have and the cheese they are able to share with the world.

"We have very little time to be sad," Bachurinskaya told AFP. "And I'm happy about that."

rco/alf/ds/bc

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
A gunman and a member of the audience died in a shooting at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night. Another spectator is in serious condition. Trump was also injured. The law enforcement authorities are investigating the shooting as an attempted assassination. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler.(AP)

Visuals showed Donald Trump dropping to the ground and being swarmed by security officers as gunshots rang out. He was whisked away with blood on his face. US President Joe Biden has condemned the incident.

Also read: PM Narendra Modi reacts to attack on friend Donald Trump: Deeply concerned

Here are 10 points on shooting at Donald Trump's rally:

The US Secret Service said Donald Trump was fine. The law enforcement officials shot the attacker down. This was the first attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. The attack comes just four months ahead of the US presidential elections. According to reports, the shooter wasn't an attendee at the rally and was shot dead by the US Secret Service agents. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats. Trump could be heard saying "oh" as the first shot was fired in the middle of his speech. He put his right hand on his right ear. Later, two more shots were fired. The Secret Service took two minutes to take Trump out of the rally venue to a waiting car. The nature of Trump's injury isn't known yet. Before he was put into his vehicle, Donald Trump turned back to the crowd and raised his fist, signalling that he was unfazed by the attack. He later thanked the authorities for their quick action. "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow," spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement. US President Joe Biden was briefed about the shooting. "I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," he said. Former US President Barack Obama also condemned the shooting. "There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery," he said. The Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, wrote on X: An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available. Trumps eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., posted a photo on X of Trump showing his fist raised in front of an American flag. Hell never stop fighting to Save America," he wrote. The FBI and other intelligence agencies were at the spot to investigate the shooting. Meanwhile, the Biden campaign was pausing all messaging to supporters and is working to pull down all of its television ads as quickly as possible, it said. America has been struggling with gun violence for several decades. US President John F Kennedy was shot dead in 1963. Several poll candidates were also shot dead during campaigning, including Robert F. Kennedy in California in 1968. In 1972, George Wallace, who was running as an independent, was shot on a campaign platform.

With inputs from AP, AFP, Reuters
Former US President Donald Trump escaped with just a minor injury to his ear on Saturday after an assassination attempt on him at an election rally in Pennsylvania. This was not the first time a former or current US president was targeted. President Ronald Reagan being shoved into the President's limousine by secret service agents after being shot outside a Washington hotel, March 30, 1981. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)(AP)

Here's a look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred since the nations formation in 1776.

US Presidents who were assassinated

Abraham Lincoln

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States, was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, while he attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington. He was shot in the back of his head and died the next morning. His support for Black rights was cited as the reason behind his assassination.

James Garfield

James Garfield was the second US president to be assassinated. He was shot in Washington on July 2, 1881, while walking through a train station, trying to catch a train to New England. He was shot in the chest by Charles Guiteau, and lay in the White House for weeks before he died in September that year.

William McKinley

William McKinley was shot on September 6, 1901, while giving a speech in New York. He was shot in the chest twice at point-blank range while shaking hands with the crowd present at the rally. McKinley was expected to survive the assassination attempt but ultimately passed away eight days later.

John F Kennedy

In one of the most shocking assassinations in US history, John F Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. He was shot as his motorcade rolled out in Dallas. Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

US Presidents who survived assassination attempts

Gerald Ford

Gerald Ford, who was the 38th US president, faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident. Ford was on his way to a meeting in California when one of Charles Manson's disciples pushed through the crowd and aimed a pistol at him. However, she did not fire the gun.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Ronald Reagan

Ronald Reagan was leaving after a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd. Three others were shot during the assassination attempt, including Reagan's press secretary James Brady, who was left paralysed due to the attack.

George W Bush

George Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him. Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.
Former US president Donald Trump, giving his first account of the shooting at his Pennsylvania rally, said that one of the bullets fired at him pierced his right ear. The businessman tycoon-turned-politician was seen clutching his bloodied ear after the assassination attempt at the rally. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by US Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024 in Pennsylvania.(AP)

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, Donald Trump wrote on his Truth Social app hours after he was rushed off the stage by Secret Service officials.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump said on social media.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country, Trump added.

Officials clarified that the former US president was not seriously injured in the incident. However, the shooter ended up killing one bystander at the Trump rally. The shooter was tackled and killed by Secret Service officers minutes after he fired his first shot.

US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that protective measures have been implemented and the incident is now under active investigation. Guglielmi confirmed that Trump is safe and more information will be released as it becomes available.

"An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe," Guglielmi wrote in a post on X. He added that the incident is now a Secret Service investigation.

US President Joe Biden was the first to condemn the assassination attempt against Trump, saying that there is no place in America for this kind of violence.

Issuing a statement from Delaware, Joe Biden called for unity across the country after the attack, and called the incident sick.

"I've been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now. I have tried to get hold of Donald; he's with his doctors and doing well. I plan on talking to them shortly; I hope when I get back to the telephone," Biden said.
JD Vance, the potential running mate of former US President Donald Trump, has blamed President Joe Biden's rhetoric for the attack on the business tycoon-turned-politician. Republican presidential candidate, former President Donald Trump, is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Vance said the Biden campaign has projected Donald Trump as an "authoritarian fascist" who must be stopped at all costs, leading to the attack.

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," Vance said.

Donald Trump was shot at by a shooter from an elevated position during his campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Bulter.

Also read: Donald Trump attack eyewitnesses share horror: 'They blew shooter's head off'

A bullet pierced his ear in an indication that the shooter was aiming for his head.

The shooter was neutralised by the United States Secret Service. However, one person died and two sustained grievous injuries in the shooting.

The authorities in the US said Donald Trump's injury wasn't serious.

Also read: Photos: Bullet that whizzed past Donald Trump caught on camera

Shocking visuals showed Secret Service agents covering Donald Trump to save him from bullets. Within 2 minutes, they whisked him away to a waiting SUV.

Donald Trump, the Republican candidate, in a show of strength, pumped his fists in the air and mouthed the word "fight".

The US representative for Georgia's 10th congressional district, Mike Collins, has called for the filing of charges against Joe Biden.

"The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R Biden for inciting an assassination," he wrote on X.

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Indian-American entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy condemned the attack on Donald Trump, terming it "unacceptable" and urging Americans to unite.

"First they sued him. Then they prosecuted him. Then they tried to take him off the ballot. The only thing more tragic than what just happened is that, if we're being honest, it wasn't totally a shock. Biden's inevitable ritual condemnation of political violence today (when it comes) will be insufficient and irrelevant. No amount of verbiage today changes the toxic national climate that led to this tragedy," he said.

With inputs from ANI
Tesla chief executive Elon Musk on Sunday claimed he faced two assassination attempts in the last eight months. Elon Musk disclosed that he had faced two assassination attempts in the last 8 months and supported Donald Trump(Reuters)

Also Read: Elon Musk jumps to Trump's side minutes after rally shooting; compares him with America's

His claim comes after he announced that he was backing former US President and current Republican nominee Donald Trump, who survived an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania.

Also Read: Donald Trump's supporters hail his determination' after assassination attempt: Hes winning the election now

A gunman opened fire at Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, killing one attendee and critically injuring two others.

Also Read: Donald Trump's Republican associates blame Joe Biden for attack: 'Rhetoric led to...'

In his post, Musk said, Dangerous times ahead. Two people (separate occasions) have already tried to kill me in the past 8 months. They were arrested with guns about 20 mins drive from Tesla HQ in Texas.

Musk also announced his endorsement for Trump as the next President, by donating to his campaign and stating that, Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.

Musk had alleged that he would be assassinated previously as well. In 2022, he accused reporters of sharing his real-time location and said they were giving out his assassination coordinates.

The journalists were reporting on the publicly available flight records to show followers where Musk's private jet was flying. Their accounts were banned from X, which Musk owns.

Musk had also faced threats from former Russian space agency chief Dmitry Rogozin, to which he had replied, If I die under mysterious circumstances, it's been nice knowin ya.

The Tesla CEO also criticised the Secret Service for the attempt on Trump's life, stating that they were eitherextremely incompetent or deliberate.

Meanwhile, Trump who suffered a bullet wound on the upper part of his right ear, assured his voters and attendees of the rally that he was safe. He also stated that,"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin."
Washington: Donald Trump, the former American president and the current frontrunner in the upcoming US presidential election, was shot in his ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. He is safe. Former US President Donald Trump being assisted by the Secret Service after he was shot at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening. (REUTERS)

The Secret Service killed the shooter, whose identity wasnt known till Saturday night, eastern time. One other participant at the rally died, and two were critically injured.

The incident, reportedly being investigated as attempted assassination, with the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) taking the lead, left the country in shock. President Joe Biden condemned the attack as sick and said there was no space for political violence.

Trump was speaking to supporters in Butler county in the swing state two days before the Republican National Convention is set to nominate him as the partys presidential candidate. Live footage captured a series of shots; Trump appeared to hear the shots and ducked under the podium and took cover. Within seconds, US Secret Service (USSS) agents covered Trump even as shots continued. The agents then helped Trump up. He raised his fist into the air, with the American flag in the background, and gave a determined look to the crowd. As Trump was being escorted out, his ear appeared to be bleeding, and there was blood on his face.

In a statement, Trump thanked USSS and law enforcement for their rapid response. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Also Read: List of assassinations and attempts on former US presidents throughout history

Biden, who is also Trumps key rival in the presidential poll as the presumptive Democratic nominee, was briefed on the situation soon after. Biden said in a statement that he was grateful that Trump was safe and doing well. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Later, Biden told reporters, Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to happen. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. He said that the bottom line was Trump was at a rally he should have been allowed to conduct peacefully, and this was the kind of political violence that was unheard of in America. Asked if this was an assassination attempt, Biden said he didnt know enough, and while he had an opinion, he didnt have facts.

Biden also spoke to Trump. Later in the evening, American media outlets quoted law enforcement officials as saying that the incident was being investigated as an attempted assassination.

In a statement, the Secret Service said that at approximately 6.15 pm on Thursday evening, a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. Secret Service personnel then neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. The statement added that USSS had quickly responded with protective measures and that Trump was safe. Later, the FBI said that it had assumed the role of the lead federal law enforcement agency in the investigation of the incident involving Trump.

The shooting, of which limited details are publicly available so far in terms of the identity and motivation of the perpetrator or even the extent of Trumps injuries, is sure to affect the political landscape four months before the presidential election, where Trump is leading in polls. The Republican Party announced it was going ahead with the convention in Milwaukee on Monday; Trump will officially be nominated as the partys candidate on Thursday.

Trump is attempting a rare return to the White House for a non-consecutive term. He did not accept the legitimacy of the 2020 election, which was followed by a mob attacking the US Capitol to block the certification of the results in a display of political violence. Trump is also a convicted felon who also faces multiple criminal charges that he rejects.

But he swept the Republican primaries and is running a campaign against the Biden administrations approach to immigration (while promising to deport all illegal immigrants), economy and foreign policy. Biden, whose age-related vulnerabilities came to sharp focus during a debate on June 27, is facing a huge internal backlash within the Democratic Party with growing calls that he drop out of the race. Recent polls have shown Trump increasing his lead over Biden, including in critical swing states.

It is too early to tell how the shooting will affect US politics. But whats clear is that it may be a defining moment in an already unprecedented election and brings political violence centre-stage in the worlds oldest democracy. Despite a gun epidemic in the US and mass shootings being a key reason for killings every year, political violence targeted at top national figures has dropped in recent decades, after a particularly violent period in the 1960s that saw the assassination of John F Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr and Bob Kennedy.
The gunman who attempted to assassinate former US president Donald Trump at a campaign in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa, a village 40 miles south of where the Butler rally was held, New York Post reported citing sources. He was killed by Secret Service snipers and an AR-style rifle was later recovered. Police snipers return fire after shots were fired at former US president Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening. (AP)

The motive of the attack that left Trump injured, killed one spectator and critically injured two others remains unclear, according to the Washington Post.

Crooks was planted on a roof of a manufacturing plant more than 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, New York Post reported citing sources.

FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising the shooter was able to fire several shots, Post reported.

Republican Party officials said in a statement shortly after the incident that Trump is doing well.

Also Read | Former US President Donald Trump shot at campaign rally, but safe

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said, President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Earlier, US Secret Service Chief of communications, Anthony Guglielmi, said on X, The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

Trump was shot in the ear at the campaign rally when he was speaking to thousands of supporters in Butler town two days before the Republican National Convention is set to nominate him as the partys presidential candidate.

Live footage captured a series of shots as Trump ducked below the podium and took cover. Within seconds, US secret service agents covered Trump, as other agents rushed to the stage and did the same. The agents then helped Trump up, as he raised his fist into the air and gave a determined look to the crowd. As he was being escorted out, it appeared that his ear was bleeding and there was blood on his face.

Addressing the nation after the incident, President Joe Biden said there is no place for violence in America. Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he told reporters.
Former US President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt while addressing a political rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Video footage of the shocking incident shows the Republican presidential candidate bleeding from one of his ears while US Secret Service agents and security personnel form a protective shield around him. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday(AP)

The attack on Trump has been condemned by leaders from across the globe, including India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The terrible incident has left Trump fans wondering about his present condition.

After the assassination attempt, Trump was immediately escorted away from the venue of the political rally, in an SUV. A latest viral video on social media believed to be from New Jersey, shows Trump walking down the stairs of an aircraft in the presence of armed security personnel. In the video, the former US President looks alright.

ALSO READ| MAGA attacks left wing, legacy media, branding them complicit in Trump assassination attempt

Details about Trump's injury are yet to be ascertained. Taking to Truth Social site, Trump shared that he was shot with a bullet. He wrote, "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin."

Details about the gunman

According to US media, the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania's Bethel Park. The Secret Service said the shooter "fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally" before being "neutralized" by agents.

Multiple videos of the alleged shooter are viral on social media in which he can be seen with a rifle when the incident happened. The shooter was armed with an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle, US media reported.

The assassination attempt on Trump has raised serious questions over the security given to the former US President who is also running for the elections in 2024 as a Republican party candidate.
Leader of Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, on Sunday condemned the attack on ex-US President Donald Trump, and called for the strongest possible condemnation of such acts.' TOPSHOT - Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an apparent assassination attempt by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday. (Photo by Rebecca DROKE / AFP)

I am deeply concerned by the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. Such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Wishing him a swift and complete recovery, the ex-Congress chief posted on X (formerly Twitter).

Gandhi's grandmother, Indira Gandhi, was assassinated in October 1984 while serving as the Prime Minister of India. Rajiv Gandhi, the Congress leader's father, was assassinated in May 1991 as an ex-Prime Minister.

Meanwhile, Congress president Mallikarjun Kharge said that he was appalled by the shooting incident.

Also Read | Donald Trump attack: List of assassinations and attempts on former US presidents throughout history

Deeply appalled by the attack on former US President Donald Trump. I strongly condemn this henious act. Such violence has no place in any Democracy and civilised society. As India stands with the American people, we offer our deepest condolences (to) the family of the deceased, Kharge wrote on the social media platform.

Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed concern for his friend, the Republican Party's presumptive nominee for November's US presidential election.

"Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery," PM Modi wrote on X.

The business tycoon-turned-politician, 78, was shot at while addressing a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. While largely 'fine,' he took a hit to his right ear; one rally attendee was killed as well, while two other audience members were also injured. Thomas Matthew Cook, the suspected 20-year-old gunman, was neutralised by snipers of the Secret Service.

In the November elections, Trump is likely to face his successor in the Oval Office, Democrat Joe Biden, who defeated the then-US President in the previous elections four years ago.
Israeli police shot dead a car driver supected of ramming into pedestrians waiting at a bus stop in a town on Sunday and injured four people, a spokesman said. Israeli police shot dead a car driver supected of ramming into pedestrians waiting at a bus stop in a town on Sunday and injured four people, a spokesman said.(AFP)

Police called it a "suspected terrorist attack" and said the driver had been "neutralised" during the incident at Nir Tzvi near the city of Lod, in central Israel.

Video footage widely shared on social media and broadcast on Israeli television showed a white car on the pavement next to a bus shelter and uniformed men firing at the car. Traffic is halted on the major highway.

ALSO READ| Hamas withdraws from Gaza ceasefire talks: Report

The four wounded were taken to hospital. Paramedics said two of the injured were in a serious condition, with police saying one of the victims was in a "critical" state.

In a statement released by a first aid group, the paramedic Michelle Rashkovski said, "When we arrived at the scene, we saw a vehicle that had hit pedestrians stopped at a bus shelter. We immediately called additional forces to the scene".
The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un slammed South Korean "scum" on Sunday for launching anti-regime propaganda leaflets across the border via balloon, warning they would pay "a very high price". N. Korean leader's powerful sister slams anti-Kim leaflets

The Korean peninsula has seen tit-for-tat balloon campaigns in recent weeks, with Pyongyang floating trash-filled balloons southward in protest of ones carrying propaganda leaflets sent northward by South Korean activists.

Kim Yo Jong, a key regime spokesperson, said she was informed the latest batch of "dirty leaflets and things of the ROK scum" had been found in North Korean territory along the border, according to a statement carried in English by the official Korean Central News Agency.

ROK is an abbreviation of South Korea's official name.

North Korean military personnel were "now making an all-out search, throwing into fire and disposing of the found rubbishes", she said.

"Despite the repeated warnings of the DPRK, the ROK scum are not stopping this crude and dirty play," she added, using the initials of the North's official name.

"The ROK clans will be tired from suffering a bitter embarrassment and must be ready for paying a very high price."

Pyongyang has already sent more than a thousand balloons carrying trash southward in what it says is retaliation for balloons carrying propaganda criticising Kim Jong Un's rule.

In response, Seoul has fully suspended a tension-reducing military deal and restarted some propaganda broadcasts from loudspeakers along the border.

Relations between the North and South are at one of their lowest points in years, with Pyongyang ramping up weapons testing as it draws ever closer to Russia.

Seoul and Washington have accused Pyongyang of supplying arms to Moscow for use in the war in Ukraine, which would violate rafts of sanctions on both countries.

Earlier this year, the nuclear-armed North declared Seoul its chief enemy, and has jettisoned agencies designed for outreach and diplomacy with Seoul, while ramping up security along the shared border.

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Washington: The attack on former American President Donald Trump is a part of a rising trend of political violence in America. To make sense of it, both in a broader historical arc and the contemporary moment, HT reached out to Rachel Kleinfeld, a senior fellow with the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, and among the leading authorities on political violence and democratic backsliding in the US. Kleinfelds latest book, A Savage Order, examines how extremist violence cripple democracies and how can they recover from it. The interview was conducted on Sunday over email. Excerpts: Rachel Kleinfeld. (Linkedin)

How do you place the attack on Donald Trump in the broader arc of recent political violence in America?

Political violence and threats have been rising in America for much of the last decade  against politicians at every level, from people running for school boards and local offices, to state legislators and national candidates. America has had a number of past eras of political violence, when politics have been highly polarised and when political figures have implicitly called for violence against Americans who differ. These ugly parts of our history  such as the rise of the Know-Nothing party in the early 1800s, the Civil War, and the violence against Civil Rights protestors  ends when the government prosecutes violence, politicians stop normalising it, and regular Americans make it clear that they believe political violence is unequivocally wrong. That is what we need now.

A lot of scholarship on American political violence, especially since January 6, has focused on Right-wing extremists. But in this case, since the attack was on the face of the American political Right, do you think it will lead to a change in assumptions about the nature of radicalisation and the kind of people turning to violence? Is there radicalisation and violence on the Left thats been underestimated?

We do not yet know if the shooter, who was a registered Republican, acted out of political belief on the Left or Right, or was simply disturbed, and we should not jump to conclusions. However, people who believe that violence can be used to solve political differences exist on all parts of the ideological spectrum. In the 1960s and 1970s, most political violence in the United States came from the Left.

Also Read | Victim and Hero: Donald Trumps shooting seals his political edge for 2024

In the last eight years, research shows it has overwhelmingly come from the Right, though there has also been a normalisation of violence by the extreme Left that can be seen in a number of attacks on political figures and on university campuses. In all cases, the targets are not just the other side, but are often moderates on the same side as the perpetrators  because political violence is used to hollow out the centre and force people to extremes. That is why it is so important to stop the normalisation of violence as a political tool  it spreads and can create retaliatory cycles.

What is leading to this spike in violence in recent years, and whats the period of American history that it reminds you of most sharply?

Populist politicians who polarise their societies have heralded spikes in political violence in many countries. In Brazil, Bolsonaro was also the target of an assassination attempt, yet his own rhetoric yielded a sharp increase in violence against journalists and others. India has seen an increase in anti-Muslim lynchings while other forms of violence have fallen. In the US, polarising rhetoric from MAGA politicians, and normalisation among far Left fringes, has increased violence against Republican and Democratic politicians at all levels.

In America, this looks something like the 1960s, when America faced rising violence and assassination attempts against multiple politicians. As violence became normalised as a political solution, assassins took the lives of John F. Kennedy, Malcolm X, American Nazi Party leader George Lincoln Rockwell, Martin Luther King Jr., and Robert F. Kennedy in the few years between 1963 and 1968. What followed after that was the normalisation of violence more broadly, and the US saw a doubling of homicide and an ongoing increase in criminal murder that continued to rise until the early 1990s.

But globally, I fear it looks like the early 1930s, when we saw violence from Fascists on the Right leading to clashes with Communists on the far Left in many countries, such as Italy and Germany. That sort of extremist violence tends to lead to a centralisation of power and government violence.

What do you think will be the political implications of the attack on Trump and its effect on political violence in general in US?

I hope that it will serve as a shock to the system, and force politicians to stop finger pointing and dividing American society. I fear that it will do the opposite. In either case, it is incumbent on regular Americans to speak out. Majorities of Americans across the political spectrum condemn political violence as unequivocally wrong, in every single case, against anyone. That voice needs to be heard loud and clear.

You have worked extensively on democratic backsliding within US. How does that story intersect with the rising violence?

Most political violence actually takes place in authoritarian countries, when people feel there is no other way to affect politics except through violence. In democracies, political violence rises when politicians and cultural leaders normalise violence as a political solution and undermine accountability for perpetrators by politicising law enforcement. That breaks down the rule of law and corrodes democracy. It allows political violence to spread across the political spectrum, and to seep into everyday and criminal violence as well. Violence, once begun, is hard to corral, and it can turn against those who try to wield it for their purposes. All countries where politicians are normalising violence against others should be aware of what can occur.
Chinese President Xi Jinping has been on a strident campaign to rid the countrys armed forces of corruption and has powered through with major military reforms. A key reason for the purge was the widespread rampant corruption in the PLA as viewed by Xi when he took over as chairman of CMC.

Since he took over as powerful general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) on November 15, 2012, and as the chairman of the Central Military Commission (CMC), Xi has conducted large-scale purges in the Peoples' Liberation Army (PLA). In this period, he fired two defence ministers and at least two vice chairmen of CMC, in addition to a large number of top officers on grounds of corruption, inefficiency, political rivalry and for resisting reforms in the PLA.

On June 19, addressing a political-military conference at Yanan, Jinping acknowledged that there were deep-seated problems in the Chinese militarys politics, ideology, work style and discipline. He was quoted by state-run CCTV saying, There must be no hiding place for corrupt elements in the army.

Also read: Why was PM Modi's visit to Russia strategically important?

This is in stark contrast to India, which is still grappling with its armed forces for synergetic theatre commands. Xi, on the other hand, reorganised seven military regions of China into five theatre commands back in 2016.

As per a list of officers facing purges in China compiled by HT through open-source intelligence, close to 52 top generals have faced the axe since 2014.

Another list compiled by HT shows that no less than 65 top PLA officers/ commissars/ commanders/ directors have been purged since 2012, with eight other generals being investigated for corruption and allied charges but not punished.

In fact, a report published in PLA daily in 2015 showed that in just two years, since 2013, 4,024 officers of the rank of Lt Colonel and above, including 82 generals, were the subject of anti-corruption inquiries. As a result of which 21 commanders and 144 officers were demoted and at least 77 were reprimanded.

Generals like Xu Caihou, who was vice chairman of CMC, was expelled from the party in June 2014 on charges of corruption but the charges were dropped after he passed away in March 2015. Another vice chairman Gen Guo Boxiong was purged by chairman Xi in July 2015.

Also read: PM Narendra Modi's Russia visit: Ukraine war on agenda for talks with President Putin

Defence ministers Wei Fenghe and Li Shangfu were expelled from the Communist Party on charges of accepting gifts and facilitating benefits.

According to China watchers in India, the likely reason for purges in PLA, PLA Navy, Air Force or Rocket Forces is that during President Xis first term, officers close to or appointed by the previous Hu Jintao and Wen Jiabao administrations were at higher echelons of PLA leadership  a position that meant they could exercise influence even after their political mentors went out of power  and that it was to check this that Xi replaced them.

Another key reason for the purge, they said, was the widespread rampant corruption in the PLA as viewed by Xi when he took over as chairman of CMC. In December 2012, Xi emphatically claimed that the PLA should be absolutely loyal to the party, absolutely clean and absolutely reliable. At the first meeting of the CMC under his leadership, Xi stated that the Chinese military, which controls the guns, cannot be a hiding place for corrupt figures.

The third reason for the purge, they added, was the inefficiency and opposition of top commanders to Xis modernisation and mechanisation of the PLA.

With Xi determined to make PLA a world-class military rivalling the American armed forces, a large number of generals who were proving to be a hindrance or had performance deemed not up to the mark were fired by paramount leader Xi.
FRANCES FOURTH REPUBLIC lasted from 1946 to 1958. In those 12 years it had 26 governments, two of which were in power for only two days. The Fifth Republic created by Charles de Gaulle in 1958 was meant to provide greater stability, thanks to a new electoral system and a strengthening of the powers of the president. It has worked pretty well. Until now.

The good news from the snap elections on July 7th is that tactical voting has dashed Marine Le Pens hopes that her hard-right National Rally (RN) would lead Frances next government. Squeezed by the left-wing New Popular Front (NFP) and President Emmanuel Macrons centrist Ensemble bloc, the RN was pushed into an inglorious third place. The bad news is that nobody has a clue what will happen next. Mr Macron can stay in the Elysee Palace until 2027. But to run the country, and get legislation through parliament, he needs a prime minister and a government, and that looks tricky. A return to the Fourth Republics drift looms.

As none of the three big groups is close to holding a majority, you might think a coalition would be the way forward. But obstacles abound. The biggest is that the NFP bloc, the largest and the presumptive leader of the new government, is in confusion. It was hastily put together for the election, and uneasily yokes the hard-left anti-capitalists of Jean-Luc Melenchons Unsubmissive France (LFI) to the Socialists, the Greens and the remnants of Frances once-powerful Communist Party. These four cannot even agree on who should be their leader. Working out their policies will be still harder.

Another problem is that these parties may not want a deal with Ensemble. lfi nurses a reservoir of hatred for Mr Macron and his supposedly pro-rich policies. The Socialists look on the imperious president as a traitor, since he served as a minister under his predecessor, Francois Hollande, before splitting away to form his own party. Complicating matters further, some Socialists are also unwilling to work with the irascible, ruthless Mr Melenchon. As one of their leading figures put it pithily: Neither Robespierre nor Jupiter.

Coaxing these elements together would be like getting porcupines to mate. Unlike Germany or the Netherlands, France has no history of calm, lengthy coalition negotiations. Even if they can form a coalition, the price is liable to be high. Mr Macrons pension reforms, vital for Frances long-term fiscal stability, may be reversed in any deal. Big rises for the minimum wage also look likely, as well as expensive price controls on key household items. Perhaps a technocratic government, as has in the past worked in Italy, may be the answer. But that will not be formed until the alternatives are exhausted.

Whatever fix Mr Macron finds, the next few years will be tough. France is running a deficit of over 5% of gdp, and needs cuts, not more spending. Mr Macrons pro-business reforms have helped raise productivity and job creation, but reform needs a foot on the accelerator, not the brake. And a France preoccupied with domestic political strife will find it hard to play its still-vital role in the European Union and beyond.

The battle for the Elysee

Those are just the short-term pitfalls. The deeper problem will come in 2027, when Mr Macron will be ineligible to run again for president, but Ms Le Pen will be raring for her fourth tilt at the big prize. The success of the republican front, the coming together of parties and voters to block the hard right, gives some cause for hope that the trick can be repeated. And yet the RNs record is of steady advance. In the second round of the presidential election of 2017, Ms Le Pen got 34%; in 2022, she jumped to 41%. Likewise, her partially detoxified party got a measly 9% in the second round of the parliamentary election of 2017. But it almost doubled that, to 17%, in 2022; and almost doubled it again, to 32%, on July 7th. Today it complains of an establishment plot to keep it out of office. If political chaos lies ahead, it may well profit.

At some point, the republican front could fail, especially if radical-left LFI voters also come to feel that they are being excluded from power by a centrist stitch-up. Great wisdom and delicacy are now required in France. Instead of Jupiter or Robespierre, the country needs a Solomon.

 2023, The Economist Newspaper Limited. All rights reserved. From The Economist, published under licence. The original content can be found on www.economist.com
SANTA FE, N.M.  The criminal case against Alec Baldwin was about the handling of bullets from the beginning. And the handling of bullets brought it to an end. Alec Baldwin's criminal case was about ammunition at its shocking beginning and its sudden end

When cinematographer Halyna Hutchins was shot and killed nearly three years ago on the New Mexico set of the film Rust, one question obsessed authorities yet was never definitively answered: How was it possible that live, lethal rounds had gotten into the mix with the blanks that traditionally make movie gunfire and the inert dummy rounds that play the role of bullets on screen, then into the revolver that Baldwin, in character, was pointing at Hutchins?

Evidence that Baldwin's attorneys unearthed as part of a possible explanation  ammunition turned over by a man who walked into the Santa Fe County Sheriff's Office in March  brought the actor's involuntary manslaughter trial to a swift and sudden end Friday when a judge ruled prosecutors had improperly failed to share that evidence.

One of two special prosecutors on the case, who resigned just a few hours before the dismissal, told The Associated Press on Saturday that the judge's decision was correct.

When you step back and you think about, OK, could the defense have made use of this in preparing a defense? And the answer is possibly, yeah. ... Then the proper remedy should be dismissal," Erlinda Ocampo Johnson said, adding that it's unfortunate that the jury never got to hear the facts and make a decision.

With the trial ended in its infancy, it is difficult to say whether the case made by Baldwin's elite and expensive team of lawyers would have shed light on the live rounds question or would have muddied it further.

But the dismissal shut off one of the final avenues where the bullet question could be addressed.

I feel like this this entire case has run its course, and we will never know, said John Day, a New Mexico attorney who followed the case but is not involved in it. You cant redo a bad investigation. Once its done, its done like this. Theres really nothing else that can be done.

The other special prosecutor, Kari Morrissey, and other authorities said they are nearly certain of the answer to at least who brought the live rounds on to the set, if not how they got into Baldwin's revolver: Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the film's armorer, who was convicted in March of involuntary manslaughter and got the 18 months in prison Baldwin might have gotten if he had been convicted.

Photos found on Gutierrez-Reed's cellphone showed her with the box where the bullets came from, according to testimony this week from a crime scene technician.

And at the hearing that led to the case's dismissal on Friday, Seth Kenney, who provided the firearms and some of the blanks and dummy rounds to the set of Rust, testified that shortly before Rust, Gutierrez-Reed had called and texted him about shooting live ammo with the guns to be used as props in the Nicolas Cage film The Old Way, which she was working on in Montana.

I said absolutely not and its a big mistake  Kenney said from the stand. I even said it always ends in tears. 

Baldwin's lawyers tried to suggest that authorities had under-investigated Kenney and had an overly cozy relationship with him, and they had looked away from his possible responsibility for the live ammunition because Gutierrez-Reed could be tied directly to Baldwin. The defense didn't get to provide the thorough version of this theory because the trial ended so quickly.

Police and prosecutors say there is zero evidence that Kenney is responsible, and he testified Friday that he was absolutely certain he had not been the source.

Gutierrez-Reed is appealing her verdict as she serves her time. Her lawyer says he is planning a new motion to dismiss after the Baldwin ruling.

When that ruling came, Baldwin wept in the courtroom and hugged his lawyers and his wife.

He made his first public comments Saturday when he thanked supporters.

"There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now," Baldwin said in a brief Instagram post that accompanied a photo of him sitting in the courtroom. To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family.

Several civil lawsuits against Baldwin and Rust producers could still end up shedding light on the bullet question.

A lawsuit from Hutchins' husband and son that had been settled could be revived. And lawsuits from the cinematographer's parents and sister and crew members are still being pursued in court.

The attorneys in those cases won't have the investigative power of police, but they could have one advantage the prosecution didn't. The resolution of the criminal case could open the way for a deposition of Baldwin in civil litigation if he can no longer claim it would expose him to criminal liability.

Im still here. We have a very large legal team," Gloria Allred, a lawyer representing Hutchins' parents and Rust" script supervisor Mamie Mitchell. I have been doing this for 48 years, as long as Ive been practicing law, and I have never allowed the dismissal of a criminal case or a conviction in the criminal case that was later vacated on appeal to deter me.

Allred said she doesn't know how long it will take for a civil trial to come. But "however long it takes to persevere, we want to win accountability and justice for the untimely tragedy of losing this beautiful, talented cinematographer, she said.

Dalton reported from Los Angeles. Associated Press Writer Susan Montoya Brian contributed from Albuquerque, N.M.

For more coverage of Alec Baldwins involuntary manslaughter trial, visit: /hub/alec-baldwin

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
President Joe Biden has strongly condemned the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania, emphasising that "there is no place for this kind of violence in America." On Saturday, the former President of the United States was hurriedly escorted off stage after multiple shots were fired. Trump, visibly bleeding from the side of his head, raised his fist defiantly as he was led away. Reactions and well-wishes flooded in from across the political spectrum with leaders criticising the alleged assailant. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)(AP)

Donald Trump shot at rally: Report

Donald Trump was seen clutching the side of his head as shots were heard. The presumptive Republican candidate for the presidential run was quickly taken off the stage by Secret Service agents on Saturday after a series of loud bangs, believed to be gunshots, were heard at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, AFP reported.

Moments later, the official Secret Service social media handle updated that Trump is safe. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is secure. This is currently an active Secret Service investigation, and additional information will be provided as it becomes available.

Joe Biden condemns Trumps assassination attempt

The incident has sparked global bewilderment, particularly with elections looming on the horizon. President Biden has been briefed on the assassination attempt and subsequently issued a statement condemning the violence as unacceptable in America.

"Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said as per NY Post.

Also read: Donald Trump rushed off stage after apparent gunfire at rally

"Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, he added.

Israeli PM Benjamin Netanyahu reacts to Trumps assassination attempt

Benjamin Netanyahu reacted to the news, stating, Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery. According to an official, at least one person was shot, and the suspected shooter is dead.

Someone just tried to ASSASSINATE President Trump, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote on X. The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today. For years and years, theyve demonized him and his supporters, she added.

Nikki Haley reacts to Trumps incident

"This should horrify every freedom-loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized," said the former UN ambassador who withdrew from the presidential race after a competitive run against Trump. She continued in her statement, We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer.

Nancy Pelosi made it clear that violence in politics isn't okay, sharing her own story to back it up. She was happy that former President Trump wasn't hurt and asked everyone to pray for the well-being of everyone at the rally.

Check out more reactions
WASHINGTON  Republican and Democratic leaders, as well as some international friends and foes, expressed shock and relief Saturday night after an apparent assassination attempt at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Lawmakers from both parties promised hearings and a comprehensive investigation into the attack. Condemnation of Trump rally shooting crosses party lines, and blame game and calls for probe begin

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., said there would be hearings to investigate what happened. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees AS, Johnson said.

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., said in a statement that there were many questions to be answered. "I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Sen. Josh Hawley, R-Mo., suggested on X that the Senate might hold similar hearings. Its a wonder Donald Trump is alive. Lets call this what it was. An assassination attempt with at least one innocent bystander murdered. The nation needs to know who did this. And why. And we need a full, public investigation by Congress into HOW it happened, Hawley posted.

Notable officials, including former Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, praised the fast action of the Secret Service and expressed gratitude that the presumptive Republican presidential nominee appeared to be OK.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said in a statement. "As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Pelosi's husband was bludgeoned with a hammer in 2022 by a man who broke into their home.

Trump's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., said he had spoken to his father on the phone and he is in great spirits. He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him, Trump Jr. said in a statement.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on X: Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro, who has an adversarial relationship with Trump, said during a campaign event broadcast on state television that he wished Trump a speedy recovery: "May God bless the people of the United States and give them peace and tranquility. We have been adversaries, but I wish President Trump health and long life, and I repudiate that attack.

Obama, Trumps immediate predecessor in the White House, shared the views of others who have held the presidency, writing on social media: There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

President Joe Biden said: Theres no place in America for this type of violence. Its sick. Its sick.

Bush praised the Secret Service for their speedy response to the violence. Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life, Bush wrote on X.

The messages of concern and relief were mixed with accusations that Biden was responsible and at least one call that the criminal cases against Trump be stopped.

Trump was convicted in New York in May on 34 charges in a scheme to illegally influence the 2016 election through a hush money payment to a porn actor who said the two had sex. He is awaiting trials in federal courts in Washington, D.C., and state court in Georgia on allegations of plotting to overturn a lost election, and a federal case in Florida that accuses him of illegally stowing classified documents at his Florida estate.

Posting on X, Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee called for President Biden to immediately order that all federal criminal charges against President Trump be dropped, and to ask the governors of New York and Georgia to do the same."

Republican House member, Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia, laid the blame on Biden, saying, "The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination. Collins, a freshman member of Congress from a district east of Atlanta, has a history of provocative social media statements.

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, who has been identified as a potential vice presidential running mate for Trump, said on X that the violence was not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Associated Press writers Bill Barrow, Nicholas Riccardi, Hannah Schoenbaum, Stefanie Dazio, Jeff Amy, Jill Colvin, Yuri Kateyama, Farnoush Amiri and Jorge Rueda contributed to this report.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
The assassination attempt at former President Donald Trump during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has certainly shocked people. The shooting resulted in the death of two rally-goers, including the shooter, and several others were injured. The ex-president was also injured as pictures and videos surfaced of blood streaming from Trumps right year and across his face. This has elicited reactions of shock, disbelief and sorrow. Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump was shot at during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Sunday (AP Photo)(HT_PRINT)

Also Read: Trump assassination attempt LIVE updates: Who was 20-year-old gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks?

Notable figures react to the Trump rally shooting

Many eminent personalities like Barack Obama, Bill Ackman, Vivek Ramaswamy, Joe Biden, Jeff Bezos, Elon Musk and more came forward to share their thoughts on the micro-blogging site X.

Former president Barack Obama extended his support and wrote on X, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Also Read: Donald Trump assassination attempt: Ivanka shares emotional message, I love you Dad, today and always

Hedgefund founder Bill Ackman extensively wrote on X about the events occured on Saturday. He said he will extensively endorse ex-president Trump and to explain his thinking of why he recently decided to criticise Joe Biden and support the latter. He wanted to make his case thoughtful and convincing.

Tesla owner Elon Musk came forward reposted several tweets on his account related to the shooting. Tim cook also wrote on X, I pray for President Trumps rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai expressed his thoughts on the critical matter as he wrote, Im wishing President Trump a speedy recovery. Im shocked by todays shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable and we must all come together to strongly oppose it.

Sam Altman wrote on X, very glad President Trump is safe! while Amazon owner Jeff Bezos wrote, Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families.

Entrepreneur Vivek Ramaswamy shared a series of tweets on the Trump shooting where he wrote, Grateful to President Trump for his sacrifice. Grateful to God for protecting him. He shared several other posts following the initial support post for Trump. President Joe Biden also wrote, Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.
Donald Trumps daughter, Ivanka Trump, has shared a message for her father after his assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. While one rally-goer died, another was seriously injured. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, has been killed too. Ivanka Trump shares emotional message for dad Donlad Trump after assassinption attempt(AP)

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today's senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania, Ivanka wrote on X.

I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country, she said, adding, I love you Dad, today and always.

Crooks was killed by Secret Service snipers, and an AR-style rifle was recovered. The FBI has yet to identify a motive behind the attack.

He showed the toughness people like

Meanwhile, New York State GOP chairman Ed Cox has said that Trumps response to the attack will win him respect. "Americans saw what Donald Trump was made of. It's going to energize us," Cox, the son-in-law of the late President Richard Nixon, said, according to New York Post.

Cox said the incident reminded him of when former President Theodore Roosevelt was shot in 1912 during a speech. "He showed the toughness people like. You can only admire that. You can see him saying after getting shot, `Fight, fight. Keep fighting,'" Cox said, adding that "the whole nation" will watch Trumps nominating speech scheduled this week.

President Biden spoke to former President Trump

In another development, a spokesperson said in an official White House statement that Joe Biden has reached out to Trump after the incident. He is also cutting his beach weekend short so as to return to Washington D.C.

"This evening, President Biden spoke to former President Trump. The President also spoke to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy. Tonight, the President is returning to Washington DC. Tomorrow morning at the White House, he will receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials," the White House said.
Amazon owner Jeff Bezos commended Donald Trump in his new social media post. He called the former president courageous on the micro-blogging site X after shots were fired at the latter. Trump was a few minutes into his rally speech in Butler when shots were fired at the him and he took cover behind the lectern. He was immediately swarmed by the Secret Service agents and was rushed to a nearby hospital. Jeff Bezos praised Donald Trump in his new post after the rally shooting on Saturday.(Left Image: AP)

Also Read: Trump rally shooting LIVE updates: Deceased gunman ID'd as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks

Jeff Bezos applauds Trump amid shooting

The 60-year-old media proprietor shared a post on the Musk owned platform the following morning of the shooting, where he wrote, Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families. Bezos broke his years-long silence on social media platforms to applaud Trump and express his concerns for the latter. The multi millionaire also expressed his apprehension for the others in the crowd who got injured during the rally. The shooting at the rally in Pennsylvania left two people and the shooter dead.

Also Read: Donald Trump assassination attempt: Security was warned about gunman minutes before shooting, witness claims

Amazons CEO since 2021, Andy Jassy also criticised the rally shooting on Saturday as she wrote, It's hard to digest what happened in Pennsylvania today. Just awful. My thoughts go out to the victims' families. Glad that President Trump is safe and hoping he recovers quickly.

Also Read: Donald Trump waves as he is seen at Newark Airport for the first time since assassination attempt: Watch

Trumps feud with Bezos and Amazon

Bezos social media post for Trump is amusing after the latter mocked Amazon and The Washington Post, both owned by Bezos. As reported by Yahoo News, in 2019, Trump ridiculed Bezos, nicknaming him "Jeff Bozo," and seemed to take pleasure in his pending divorce from MacKenzie Scott.

He wrote in a post, So sorry to hear the news about Jeff Bozo being taken down by a competitor whose reporting, I understand, is far more accurate than the reporting in his lobbyist newspaper, the Amazon Washington Post. Hopefully, the paper will soon be placed in better & more responsible hands!"

Amazon had acknowledged this public dispute in a federal complaint following the loss of a $10 billion contract with the Department of Defense to Microsoft. At the time, the company claimed that Trump's continuous public and private criticisms of Amazon and Bezos were the primary reasons for Amazon Web Services losing the lucrative contract to its competitor.
Florida GOP Rep. Mike Waltz has alleged that the Secret Service was urged to increase the protection for Donald Trump, but it was denied by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. Trump was shot by gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. While Trump is now safe, Crooks was killed by Secret Service snipers. Mike Waltz alleges Alejandro Mayorkas denied extra protection for Donald Trump (michaelgwaltz/Instagram, AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

I have very reliable sources telling me there have been repeated requests

In a post on X, Waltz wrote, I have very reliable sources telling me there have been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump. Denied by Secretary Mayorkas.

Waltz shared the post as a caption to another post by Chad Pergram, the Senior Congressional Correspondent for Fox News. In the post, Pergram wrote that House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer wants USSS Director Cheadle to appear for a hearing on Trump shooting soon. He added, His committee has oversight of Secret Service.

Pergram quoted Comer as saying, My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at todays rally in Pennsylvania. I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped innocent victims. Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers. I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.

At least nine shots rang out during the rally. One rally-goer was reportedly killed, and another seriously injured.

Trump was seen for the first time hours after the assassination attempt as he arrived at Newark Airport. He walked down the stairs of his private jet, waving.
Social media is all over the place saying that The Simpsons actually predicted Donald Trump's attack. People are noticing weird parallels between a Simpsons episode and what's been happening in real life, sparking intense debate and intrigue. Screenshots and clips going around online are making people wonder if the show really can predict stuff that's going to happen. But the most interesting bit is that if the claims are true, then Trump is stronger than the curse. Heres how Donald Trump is stronger than Simpsons curse after prediction of shooting incident goes wrong in the end

The Simpsons predicted Donald Trumps attack

The Simpsons' knack for predicting the future is legendary, from the rise of Donald Trump to the death of Elizabeth and so on. A social media user is now asserting that The Simpsons predicted Trump's shooting incident. Sharing screenshots from the episode, the user commented, Simpsons have some explaining to do.

The images show Trump lying in a coffin, a scenario that obviously did not occur but has definitely sparked a lot of interest. Trump, aged 78, was shot during a rally in Pennsylvania. Fortunately, he narrowly escaped the life-threatening incident but suffered an ear injury, which bled immediately as the bullet grazed past it.

Also read: Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20-year-old shooter accused of assassination attempt on Donald Trump?

Was the Simpsons' prediction about Donald Trump true?

In the past, these animated depictions have forecasted the rise of the Republican leader. A photo that just popped up is said to be from a 2015 episode called "Bart to The Future." In the picture, there's a character that looks a lot like Trump talking on a stage when he's shown getting shot. The background has a banner that says "Trump 2024," which matches up with the current year as he eyes the White House for the second time.

Given The Simpsons' track record of accurate predictions, social media users are now discussing how the real-time incident's outcome differed from the cartoon's portrayal. Trump appeared to defy the so-called Simpsons curse, safely returning home after the failed assassination attempt.

Also read: Benjamin Netanyahu, Pelosi and more react to Trump's assassination attempt

"Trump, of all people, really proved The Simpsons wrong and changed the timeline," wrote a social media user. "Bro really shifted the timeline, huh?" another commented. "He's stronger than the curse," added yet another.

The show's been on the air for decades, throwing a lot of satirical barbs at society, and some are bound to hit a nerve years later as reality catches up. Looks like one is happening right now.

Earlier in a statement, the former President of the United States said, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.
Joe Biden has condemned the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, calling it sick. He added that he tried to call Trump at the hospital after the shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Joe Biden calls attack on Donald Trump sick' (REUTERS/Tom Brenner, photo by Anna Moneymaker / GETTY IMAGES NORTH AMERICA / Getty Images via AFP)

What did Joe Biden say?

I have tried to get ahold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly, I hope, when I get back to the telephone, the president said on Saturday, July 13, near his Rehoboth Beach, Delaware., vacation home, according to New York Post.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, Biden said, adding that he wants to thank the Secret Service and all the agency, including the state agencies, that have been engaged.

Biden, however, did not address the fact that one attendee had died, and that the shooter too was killed. We have more detail to come relative to other injured  other people may be injured in the audience. I dont have all that detail. Well make that available to you. I may be able to come back a little later tonight, but well put out a statement if we dont  if Im not able to, if its not convenient for you all, he said.

But the bottom line is that the Trump rally was a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem. But the idea, the idea that theres political violence, or violence in America like this is just unheard of, is just not appropriate, the president stated, adding that everybody must condemn it.

Ill keep you informed. And if I am able to speak to Donald, Ill let you know that as well, Biden said. So far, it appears hes doing well.

Im going back to my phone to speak with the federal agencies that are being put together, again, to give me an updated briefing as anything happened, if they learned more in the last couple hours. So thank you very much, and I hope I get to speak to him tonight, and Ill get back to you if I do, he concluded.

At least nine shots rang out during the rally. While one rally-goer died, another was seriously injured. The shooter has been killed too. Trump is safe following the attack, the Secret Service has confirmed.
Social media was rife with conspiracy theories and misinformation after the Donald Trump campaign rally shooting incident in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an apparent assassination attempt by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday,(AFP)

Several left-leaning outlets, though not all, took a different turn, initially disseminating it as a case of loud noises startling the former president.

CNN wrote: Secret Service rushes Trump off stage after he falls at the rally.

US Today outlets originally reported: Trump removed from stage by Secret Service after loud noises startle former president.

The Washington Post also initially wrote: Trump taken away after loud noises at rally.

Shortly after that, political leaders voiced their outrage, not only condemning the public attack on the former president but also branding the corporate media complicit in his assassination attempt. The Associated Press ultimately painted the terrifying Saturday incident as the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981, aligning with Republicans' concerns.

Evidently, the Republican presidential nominees safety became a subplot to other trends and tones of media coverage inciting political violence and the immensely polarised state of the nation.

Also read | Donald Trump's supporters hail his determination' after assassination attempt: Hes winning the election now

Political leaders didnt mince their words when taking the issue to social media.

Sen Tim Scott (R-S.C.), a potential VP mate for the presidential hopeful, wrote on X/Twitter: Lets be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse.

Robert F Kennedy Jrs running mate Nicole Shanahan, though commonly recognised as a critic of Trumps, also blamed the DNC and legacy media for causing hysteria that is ripping this country apart. She added, Let this be a lesson to all political leaders: when you dehumanize your opponent and radicalize your base, you are responsible for the violence that inevitably ensues.

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene bashed journalists for failing to call the rally incident an assassination attempt.

IT WAS AN ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT! And a Trump supporter was murdered!!

These scum claim they are journalists.

They arent. They are communists who want you dead in a shooting incident.

Simultaneously, she claimed that Democrats were complicit in the attack on the former president as they have wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen. 

In another tweet, she outrightly proclaimed the Democrats wanted this to happen as theyve wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen.

Also read | Was there a security lapse in Donald Trumps assassination attempt?

As possibly one of the most active pro-Trump politicians, Taylor Greenes social media feed was brimming with a series of heated tweets. Directing all her ferocious attacks on the Democrats and the media, she again emphasised they are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today, given how theyve been demonising Trump and his supporters for years.

Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), another potential running mate for Trump, wrote on the micro-blogging platform that the Biden campaigns central premise set on villainising their front-running rival as an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs.

Numerous other lawmakers continued their verbal onslaught on the media. Rep. Andy Biggs took aim at radical Lefts violent rhetoric and hate speech, claiming it was endangering the country.

Rep. Darrell Issa continued the rhetoric with his words: Maybe Democrats and the media will rethink the last eight years of calling Donald Trump the return of Hitler.

Rep. Ronny Jackson kicked it a notch higher in his fiery all-caps social media statement: Trump-deranged Left wing LUNATICS that parade around MSNBC and other FAKE NEWS outlets demonizing Trump and calling him Hitler are DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE for this violent attack on President Trumps life!! They have BLOOD on their hands. ENOUGH of the VIOLENT RHETORIC! AMERICA IS PISSED!!!!
In the strangest way possible, rapper 50 Cent paid tribute to former President Donald Trump at a concert following an apparent assassination attempt planned against the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. 50 Cent performed his iconic track "Many Men," which speaks of his own near-death experience, at his Boston gig on Saturday after Donald Trump survived an apparent assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania. The rapper sang the song while a banner of his altered album art honoured Trump was displayed in the back.

Trump was shot on Saturday, July 13, during his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Although now fine, the near-fatal incident left the former presidents right ear grazed, as pictures showed blood streaming down the side of his head and face. He was reportedly shot by 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Soon after the incident, the In Da Club rapper also started trending on social media. The hip-hop mogul jumped on X/Twitter on Saturday night, sharing, Trump gets shot, and now Im trending. His post came along with a bizarre edited version of the album cover of his breakthrough debut release, Get Rich or Die Tryin.

But, even before that revised poster, topped by Trumps face on his own body, made it to social media, the hip-hop mogul posted a picture of Trump from the Saturday rally as he was seen pumping his fist with blood falling down his face after experiencing the harrowing incident. 50 edited this picture to his iconic 2023 track, Many Men (Wish Death), playing in the background. I know the vibes we are all in trouble now ! he captioned the post.

Also read | Which weapon was used in Trump assassination attempt? See Biden's haunting tweet before that didn't age well

Watch 50 Cent perform Many Men after Trump survived the assassination attempt in Pennsylvania:

Ironically, this song from 50s debut studio album speaks of his own near-death experiences, as he was infamously shot nine times in 2000. Drawing parallels between 50s circumstances from the past and Trumps recent horrors was seemingly a piece of cake.

Many men wish death upon me/ Blood in my eye, dawg, and I cant see/ Im tryin to be what Im destined to be/ And n tryin to take my life away, open 50 Cents Many Men (Wish Death).

Following reports also showed visuals of his supposed Boston gig on Saturday, where 50 performed the song with the same altered album art displayed behind him on a screen. Like the rappers tweets, fans shared videos of his performance online, which eventually went viral.

Also read | Trump rally gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was a registered Republican, his graduation ceremony and yearbook pic surface

Fans lightheartedly played around with the idea that Trump should definitely walk out to Many Men at his next rally. Trump team better be calling for the Many Men remix, someone commented on 50s post. Someone else played with the albums title, referencing Trumps near-death experience in Pennsylvania: Get elected or die trying..

Another user requested 50 in the comments to authorise [Trump] to use Many Men for his campaign.

Several other video edits of scenes from the Saturday rally playing to the Many Men later emerged on the micro-blogging platform.
A shooting at Donald Trump s rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination of the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, law enforcement officials say. The Latest: New details emerge about Trump rally shooting suspect

Trump called Sunday for unity and resilience as shocked leaders across the political divide reacted to the shooting.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter, who attacked from a rooftop of a nearby building outside the rally venue.

Follow the s Election-2024 coverage at: /hub/election-2024

Here's the Latest: King Charles writes to Trump

King Charles III has written to Donald Trump after the assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania, Buckingham Palace said.

The palace did not disclose the contents of the monarchs private message, which was delivered on Sunday through the British Embassy in Washington, D.C.

The message follows a call to Trump on Sunday by British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who condemned the violence, expressed condolences for the victims and their families and wished a quick recovery for the former president and those injured. Trump in great spirits Sunday

Donald Trump spent much of Sunday on the phone with friends, news hosts and local and foreign officials the day after he was injured in an assassination attempt.

Ohio Pastor Darrell Scott, a longtime ally, said Trump was in great spirits when they spoke Sunday morning, hours after the shooting.

He was great, like he always is. He didnt even make a big deal of it, Scott said. He was actually trying to downplay it somewhat, asking how I was doing.

Former RNC chair Reince Priebus, who also served as Trumps White House chief of staff, told ABCs This Week that Trump was grateful for the miracle of what happened, in his case. ... One quarter inch turned the other direction and were obviously talking about something very different this morning. Leading Christian conservative calls shooting wake-up call on rhetoric and social media

Tony Perkins, among the most influential Christian conservatives in the Republican Party, was preparing to mount a confrontation with convention planners over his disdain for how debate during the RNCs platform committee was shut down on Monday, all but eliminating objections to the Trump campaigns desire to soften language on abortion.

The attempted assassination changed all that, Perkins told The Associated Press after a prayer service in suburban Milwaukee Sunday evening.

We live in a violent society. And we run the risk of becoming callous to it. And if we become callous to it, were going to have more of it, Perkins said. Im hoping and praying its a wake-up call in many ways.

So, as a result, Im stepping back from forcing the issue on the platform, he added. More divisiveness would not be healthy.

Perkins called social media a contagion for toxic rhetoric passed along by people who do not feel that theyre heard by their government or leaders, and attributed the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol in part to the notion of overheated online rage.

We need to stop, he said.

And while thanking God during the service for Trumps survival, Perkins told more than 100 in the Pewaukee church, Lord, I believe that our nation is at such a volatile moment that yesterday could have torn this nation right in half. Motive of man who tried to assassinate Donald Trump remains elusive

The 20-year-old man who tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump first came to law enforcements attention at Saturdays rally when spectators noticed him acting strangely outside the campaign event. The tip sparked a frantic search, but officers were unable to find him before he managed to get on a roof, where he opened fire.

In the wake of the shooting that killed one spectator, investigators are hunting for any clues about what may have drove Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, to carry out the shocking attack. The FBI said they were investigating it as a potential act of domestic terrorism, but the absence of a clear ideological motive by the man shot dead by Secret Service allowed conspiracy theories to flourish.

The FBI said it believes Crooks, who had bomb-making materials in the car he drove to the rally, acted alone. Investigators have found no threatening comments on social media accounts or ideological positions that could help explain what led him to target Trump.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. His senior year, Crooks was among several students given an award for math and science, according to a Tribune-Review story at the time.

He tried out for the schools rifle team but was turned away because he was a bad shooter, said Frederick Mach, a current captain of the team who was a few years behind Crooks at the school.

Jason Kohler, who said he attended the same high school but did not share any classes with Crooks, said Crooks was bullied at school and sat alone at lunch time. Other students mocked him for the clothes he wore, which included hunting outfits, Kohler said. Trumps tells Washington Examiner he has rewritten his speech for the RNC

Former President Donald Trump told The Washington Examiner that he has rewritten the speech he was set to deliver at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Thursday after being the target of an attempted assassination at his rally Saturday.

The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger, he told the news outlet in an article posted Sunday evening.

In the interview, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee says he will now call for a new effort at national unity, noting that people from different political views have called him.

This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together. The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago, he said.

Trump also reflected on the moment a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear. He said he was saved from death because he turned from the crowd to look at a screen showing off a chart he was referring to.

That reality is just setting in, he told the news outlet as he boarded his plane in Bedminster, New Jersey, for Milwaukee. I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we? In America we resolve our differences at the ballot box, Biden says

President Joe Biden spoke for about five minutes from the Oval Office and noted that the Republican National Convention was opening in Milwaukee on Monday, while he himself would be traveling the country to campaign for reelection.

He says that during the RNC, he has no doubt Republicans will criticize my record and offer their own vision for this country. But he promised in campaigning to lay out our vision.

The president said passions would run high on both sides and that the stakes of the election were enormous.

But he added, its time to cool it down and noted not just the weekend attack on Trump but also the possibility of election-year violence on multiple fronts.

He used the address to urge all Americans not to accept an escalation in political violence as normal.

We debate and disagree, we compare and contrast ... but in America we resolve our differences at the ballot box, Biden said in his address.

He added: Politics must never be a literal battlefield. God forbid a killing field. Biden decries political violence in address from Oval Office

President Joe Biden says we cant, we must not go down the road of political violence in American after Saturdays attempted Trump assassination.

In a prime-time national address, Biden said that political passions can run high but we must never descend into violence.

We can do this, Biden implored, saying the nation was founded on a democracy that gave reason and balance a chance to prevail over brute force. American democracy  where arguments are made in good faith. American democracy where the rule of law is respected. Where decency, dignity, fair play arent just quaint notions, theyre living, breathing realities. Minutes away: Biden expected to deliver rare Oval Office remarks

The president is planning to deliver extended remarks to the nation in an address from the Oval Office starting at 8 p.m. EDT.

His campaign said the president would touch on the need for every American to come together to end political violence in the U.S. Canadas Trudeau condemns attempted assassination of Trump

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with former President Trump on Sunday.

The Prime Minister condemned yesterdays appalling assassination attempt and reiterated theres no place for political violence. The Prime Minister wished the former President well and offered condolences to the shooting victims and to the family of Corey Comperatore, Trudeaus office said in a statement. Trump arrives in Milwaukee for the RNC

The former president said earlier Sunday that he was going to delay his trip because of the attempted assassination, but then decided he didnt want it to force a change in his schedule.

Trump is not expected to speak at the Republican National Convention until Thursday night. Staff member of US representative no longer employed after social post on Trump assassination attempt

Democratic U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson says one of his staff members is no longer employed after he learned of a post she made on social media.

Screenshots of her apparent Facebook post, which was related to the attempted assassination of Trump, circulated on social media after the shooting.

The screenshots showed a post in which the staffer appeared to say she does not condone violence but suggested the shooter should get shooting lessons and should not have missed.

The was not able to view the users private Facebook profile to identify whether the post was still up. Wisconsin governor asks for reconsideration on a widened no-gun zone around RNC

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers is asking officials to revisit a prior decision that allows people to bring guns within blocks of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee after an assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump, a person familiar with the matter told the Associated Press on Sunday.

Evers believes additional steps need to be taken to keep the conventions attendees, law enforcement and the local community safe, the person said. The person could not discuss details of the request publicly and spoke to the on condition of anonymity.

The request was made to the U.S. Secret Service, which would bring it to the Republican National Committee, the person said.

The Secret Service said at a news conference Sunday that they were confident in their existing security plan and hadnt made any changes following the shooting.

 Jesse Bedayn and Mike Balsamo A timeline of the assassination attempt on former President Trump

The shooter at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking, according to an analysis of more than a dozen photos and videos from the scene, as well as satellite imagery of the site.

Heres some of the key moments in the timeline of the shooting:

6:02 p.m. EDT

 Trump takes the stage to the strains of God Bless the U.S.A. He waves at the cheering crowd and begins his regular rally speech, with spectators both in front of him and behind him on risers.

Around 6:10 p.m.

 After rally-goers notice a man climbing on the top of the roof of a nearby building, a local law enforcement officer climbs to the roof, according to two law enforcement officials.

 A man identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks points his rifle at the officer, who retreats down the ladder, the officials said.

 Crooks then quickly fires, according to the officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation.

 As the first pop rings out, Trump says, Oh. He raises his hand to his right ear and looks at it before quickly crouching to the ground behind his lectern.

 Secret Service agents rush to the stage and pile atop the former president to shield him.

 Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old former fire chief attending the rally, is shot and killed. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday that Comperatore used his body as a shield to protect his wife and daughter.

 Secret Service counter snipers fire back and shoot Crooks.

About 1 minute after the shots

 Video shows Trump getting to his feet and reaching with his right hand toward his face, which was smeared with blood. As Trump stands up, he pumps to the crowd with his right fist.

6:50 p.m.

 Secret Service says the former president is safe. Secret Service says there will be no changes to RNC security plan

The Secret Service says it is confident in the security plans for the Republican National Convention after the attack at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Additionally, the FBI, the lead intelligence agency for the RNC in Milwaukee, said it has seen no known specific and articulated threats" against the convention or anyone attending the event. Nikki Haley will speak at RNC

Former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley will speak Tuesday at the Republican National Convention in what will be a highly anticipated speech by former President Donald Trumps last major challenger in this years GOP primary.

Haley, who was also elected twice as South Carolina governor, initially was not among the list of speakers but has since been added to the schedule, according to Haley spokesperson Chaney Denton.

The schedule change was confirmed by a Republican official who is familiar with the convention plans but was not authorized to speak publicly.

 Michelle L. Price and Meg Kinnard Rally shooters family is cooperating with the investigation, FBI says

The shooters family is cooperating with federal investigators, according to an FBI official.

Relatives of Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, have not returned multiple messages from The Associated Press seeking comment. Attorney general calls attempted assassination of Trump an attack on our democracy itself

Attorney General Merrick Garland told reporters that the Justice Department has no tolerance for such violence and as Americans we must have no tolerance for it.

This must stop, he said. FBI director says rally shooting investigators will leave no stone unturned

FBI Director Christopher Wray says authorities will leave no stone unturned in their investigation of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

In a call with reporters Sunday, Wray called the shooting an attack on democracy and our democratic process.

An attempt to assassinate a presidential candidate can only be described as absolutely despicable and will not be tolerated in this country, Wray said. AR-style rifle used by the shooter was purchased by gunmans father, FBI says

The FBI says they believe the AR-style rifle the Trump rally shooter used was legally purchased by the gunmans father.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh Field Office, told reporters that authorities dont yet know how the shooter gained access to the weapon, and whether he took it without his fathers knowledge.

These are facts that we'll flesh out as we conduct interviews, Rojek said. Authorities recovered the weapon at the scene of the shooting. FBI says it is investigating shooting as attempted assassination and act of domestic terrorism

The FBI says it is investigating the Trump rally shooting as an attempted assassination and also an act of domestic terrorism.

The gunman was not previously on the radar screen of the FBI. Hes believed to have acted alone.

The FBI defines domestic terrorism as acts inside the U.S. that are intended to intimidate or coerce civilians or influence government policy.

The FBI has not yet identified the shooter's ideology, but they are combing through his social media feeds and weapons. So far, they have not found any threatening writing or social media posts.

They said they have located a suspicious device and defused it. They have received more than 2,000 tips.

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate says threatening online rhetoric has been ticking up since the attempted assassination. He says people are going online to pose as the shooter, who was killed by U.S. Secret Service.

Abbate says they are aware of the increased activity and monitoring it closely. Volunteer fire company remembers rally shooting victim

A crew was power-washing the front of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company on Sunday with plans to install memorial drapery to honor the slain former chief, Corey Comperatore.

Assistant Chief Ricky Heasley of Sarver, who knew Comperatore for more than a decade, remembers him as very outgoing and full of life.

He never had a bad word, Heasley said.

A GoFundMe launched to support Comperatores family had already surpassed more than $180,000 in donations as of Sunday. Biden and first lady extend deepest condolences to family of the man who was killed in the Trump rally shooting

Biden said he and first lady Jill Biden extend their deepest condolences to the family of the man who was killed in the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

The president said Corey Comperatore was protecting him family from the bullets that were being fired and he lost his life.

God love him, Biden said. Local police officer encountered shooter before he fired toward Trump, sources say

Not long before shots rang out, rally goers noticed a man climbing to the top of a roof of a nearby building and warned local law enforcement, according to two law enforcement officials.

One officer climbed to the roof and encountered Crooks, who pointed his rifle at the officer. The officer retreated down the ladder and Crooks quickly took a shot toward former President Donald Trump, and thats when the U.S. Secret Service counter snipers shot him, said the officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing investigation.

 Colleen Long Biden directs probe into Trump rally shooting to be thorough and swift

President Biden said hes directed an independent review of the security at the rally Saturday where a gunman apparently tried to assassinate Donald Trump.

Biden said he has also directed the U.S. Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

Biden urged Americans not to make assumptions about the motive of the shooter, who was killed by U.S. Secret Service. He says theyre working swiftly to investigate the incident.

Unity is the most elusive goal of all, he added, while urging the public to strive for it. NBC interview with President Biden will happen in Washington now, instead of Texas

An NBC News interview between President Joe Biden and anchor Lester Holt on Monday will now occur at the White House, the network said Sunday.

Initially, the interview was scheduled to take place in Austin, Texas, but the White House announced earlier Sunday that Bidens trip there has been postponed in the wake of the shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump. Biden postpones planned trip to Texas on Monday after Trump rally shooting

President Joe Biden had planned to speak in Texas on the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act at the Lyndon B. Johnson presidential library, the White House said. House homeland security chair sends letter to homeland security secretary raising questions about Trump rally shooting

U.S. Rep. Mark E. Green, the chairman of the House homeland security committee, sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Sunday raising questions about the Trump rally shooting and demanding information about the former presidents Secret Service protection.

The seriousness of this security failure and chilling moment in our nations history cannot be understated, Green wrote in the letter. The chairman said there were serious questions about how the  shooter was able to access a rooftop within range and direct line of sight of where President Trump was speaking.

Green also noted reports that the Secret Service had rebuffed requests from the Trump campaign for additional security. A spokesperson for the Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, said on social media Sunday that those allegations were absolutely false and that they had added resources and technology as the campaigns travel increased.

The committee is demanding that the department turn over information including documents showing the security plan for Saturdays event; any information about increases to Trumps security detail and about how attendees were screened for the Saturday rally; documents outlining the Secret Services rules of engagement; and all briefing materials from after the shooting. Pennsylvania governor identifies fatal victim at Trump rally shooting as Corey Comperatore

The man who was killed at a rally for former President Donald Trump was Corey Comperatore, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Comperatore was a former fire chief from the area who loved his family, Shapiro said.

Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night, the governor said.

Shapiro declined to discuss the conditions of the two others hurt in the shooting.

The governor also ordered flags to be flown at half staff in Comperatores honor. GoFundMe account for victims of Trump rally shooting has already raised more than $1 million

The fund was created by Trump campaign officials the page says its a place for donations to the supporters and families wounded or killed in Saturdays apparent assassination attempt. Tone it down!

Thats the message from Rep. Mike Kelly, the Republican congressman who represents the Butler Farm area and who was sitting off to the side behind Trump when the shooting unfolded at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Kelly says hed brought his wife and grandchildren to the Trump rally at the fairgrounds, the same place where generations of children have shown off their farm animals and baking skills  a beloved spot he himself visited as a child.

I am in a state of bewilderment of how and what has happened to the United States of America, Kelly told The Associated Press.

This being Sunday, he encouraged Americans to take a day, go to a house of worship, and think of how each person can make a difference in bringing more civility to political discourse.

To his colleagues and others quickly assigning blame or calling for a congressional investigation, Kelly urged everyone to let law enforcement do its work and not turn the probe into a political one.

I just wish people tone it down, he said. Quit trying to find, to blame somebody. The blame lies somewhere in the psyche of America. Law enforcement: Bomb making materials found in vehicle, at home of man suspected in Trump rally shooting

Law enforcement officials tell The Associated Press bomb-making materials were found inside the vehicle of the man suspected in the Trump rally shooting. There were also bomb-making materials found at his home.

The two officials were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.

 Colleen Long and Mike Balsamo Military has no records of shooter in apparent Trump assassination attempt serving

The range from which 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired and his clothing led to early speculation that the shooter had military experience. However, all the branches of the military searched their records Sunday and said in response to a query by The Associated Press that they had no records of him serving. Political leanings of suspected shooter not immediately clear

Records show 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day President Joe Biden was sworn in to office.

Authorities told reporters Crooks wasnt carrying identification so they were using DNA and other methods to confirm his identity.

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
Unwarranted cases of political violence almost always give birth to unfounded conspiracy theories and speculations that simply come into being out of thin air. The unprecedented Saturday attack on former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, is now being labelled the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential campaign since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP)

The incident also left an attendee dead and two others critically injured. Moreover, the shooter himself, whom the FBI identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was also reportedly neutralised and killed. Despite the crowded presence of Secret Service agents surrounding the Republican presidential candidate, he was shot through his upper right ear. Snaps of the event started floating instantly, picturing streams of blood flowing down Trumps face.

Social media lit up in speculative debate without a second thought, alleging the incident was staged and particularly masterminded months ahead of the 2024 general elections to rope in sympathy for Trump, racing forward for his re-election bid.

Trump assassination attempt: Conspiracies consume social media

Many believed in the orchestration of the entire affair despite its ultimate harrowing impact. Netizens just couldnt seem to comprehend the fact that Trump instantly stood back up after being shot in the ear by an AR-15 bullet and pumped his fist in the air like it was anything but an assassination attempt.

Also read | Trump assassination bid: Maga condemns US media coverage, 'they are complicit'

A user came out in protest on social media, emphasising it was an inside job because if the presidential hopeful had really been shot in the ear by the said bullet, it would have taken a chunk of it off. It wouldnt have been just a scratch. Meanwhile, someone else seemingly pointed out that he went behind podium, popped up and theres the blood. Several others alleged that he was hit by a shard of glass that flew off the teleprompter.

What made the whole ordeal seem more questionable was a BBC report suggesting that an eyewitness saw a suspicious man with a rifle on a rooftop minutes before the shots were fired.

Greg Smith reportedly informed the police about the gunmans presence on top of a building just outside the Butler County event.

I'm thinking to myself 'Why is Trump still speaking, why have they not pulled him off the stage'... the next thing you know, five shots ring out, he told BBC. Smith also claimed to have witnessed Secret Service agents shoot the man.

Why is there not Secret Service on all of these roofs here? This is not a big place. "[It's a] security failure, 100% security failure, Smith added.

On the contrary, other netizens couldnt swallow the fact that others were also afflicted by the happenings of the day. Saying this is staged is just weird considering the fact that one of the attendees was just pronounced dead and so was the shooter, someone wrote on X/Twitter.

Former US Marine Brian Berletic also jumped on the bandwagon, pointing out that ultimately, security lapse became the reason for these questions around the nature of the assassination attempt on Trump.

Taking cues from pictures available online, Berletic drew various red flags, rendering many unable to believe the US Secret Service was so systematically incompetent.

Among one of the pictures shared by the ex-marine, he noted how a giant American flag was flying right over the former presidents head, which could have perfectly served as the ideal wind flag, indicating for a potential assassin wind speed and direction. He alerted netizens about how such indicators should have been prohibited by security.

According to the former US marines analysis, officials almost certainly assessed potential positions for an assassin, with video evidence implying security had snipers pointed in their direction, but apparently access to them left unguarded. He added, If the audience saw the assassin moving into an obvious firing position, trained snipers with scopes certainly did.

Also read | Elon Musk reveals he faced two assassination attempts, supports Donald Trump

In a follow-up tweet, Berletic also signalled how unprofessionally the would-be assassin at the time acted, taking up a firing position out in the open making his mission a guaranteed one-way ticket.

He also recognised that the fact he was able to hit Trump meant he had prior experience firing a rifle, but with possibly little to no tactical training.

If security lapses were intentional, I wouldn't be surprised if he was approached by someone like the FBI, walked through the whole process, like many subpar "terror suspects" the FBI has trained, given weapons/explosives to, often arresting them at the last moment, but once in a while "accidentally" failing to do so before a live attack, Berletic concluded.

Ohio State Representative Haraz N Ghanbari joined the conversation, providing visual evidence that shots were fired.

A remarkable photo captured by my former White House Press Corps colleague Doug Mills. Zoom in right above President Trumps shoulder and youll see a bullet flying in the air to the right of President Trumps head following an attempted assassination, he posted on X/Twitter, with the said picture.

Conversely, investigative journalist Laura Loomer also verbalised her thoughts on the platform, questioning how someone could get in a building unidentified with a rifle and make it to the rooftop.

The fact that the FBI identified the 20-year-old shooter as a registered Republican, according to state voter records, further exacerbates the debate, leaving people with only more questions in mind than answers.

In her tweet, Loomer expressed the same sentiment, adding, @SecretService needs to be investigated. This reeks of an inside job.

The head of Secret Service must resign.

This was not an isolated incident.

You cant just get into a Trump rally with a RIFLE and climb on the roof.

Chiming in with other distasteful conspiracy theories, suggesting that Blood is on Bidens hands, internet personality Nick Sortor reported on the social media platform that a source familiar with Trumps Secret Service detail told the Federalist theyve been REPEATEDLY asked for beefed up protection and resources for WEEKS, but Biden failed to act

DHS, which controls the Secret Service protective detail wasnt responsive to those requests for more resources, the source said.

Regardless of which side the conspiracies tip, the Trump assassination attempt has left the political discourse surrounding the upcoming presidential election hanging in the balance. With only months left before the November showdown and a day remaining before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, the US political scene has never been more distressed than it is now.
Early Sunday, the FBI confirmed the New York Posts reporting, officially calling 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks the subject involved in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. Trump rally gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks' (20) old yearbook picture goes viral.

Thereafter, visuals from the gunmans old graduation ceremony surfaced online, giving the public access to his pictures for the first time. Moreover, a yearbook photo of the would-be assassin from his high school days also went viral.

Crooks was discovered on the manufacturing plants roof, 130 yards away from the presumptive Republican presidential nominees rally at Butler Farm Show on July 13. Per captured visual evidence, he aimed at the former President with an AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle, leaving Trumps ear grazed as streams of blood flowed down his face. A rally attendee died in the chaos, while two others were critically injured.

Also read | Trump assassination attempt a result of the worst negligence in history or an inside job? Conspiracies take flight

After the shots were fired, Secret Service neutralised the 20-year-old, eventually taking him out. He was spotted wearing a Demolition Ranch-themed (popular gun YouTube channel) shirt, according to the Post.

Check out Thomas Matthew Crooks' graduation ceremony footage:

While state voting records confirmed that he was a registered Republican, the school district also revealed Sunday morning that he graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. Reuters noted the upcoming November election would have been the first time Crooks could vote due to his age.

Despite ongoing investigations, it has yet to be revealed why the 20-year-old boy attacked the former president.

One of Crooks former classmates confirmed his photos. He didn't seem like really weird or anything. I would have pegged him as a Republican, they told The Post. The classmate also pointed out that Crooks was more of a loner. He probably had a friend group, but not many friends.

Although an old yearbook photo of the boy has indeed emerged online, it appears he wasnt pictured in the 2022 yearbook. His classmate explained why that was possibly the case, Maybe he didnt come back after Covid.

Reports stated the deceased gunman grew up in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park in Pennsylvania, which is about 40 miles south of the Saturday rallys location in Butler.

Also read | Trump assassination bid: Maga condemns US media coverage, 'they are complicit'

Though a registered Republican, Crooks made a small donation of $15 to the Democratic-aligned ActBlue political action committee called the Progressive Turnout Project on January 20, 2021, aka President Bidens Inauguration Day, according to Federal Election Commission records.

His graduation ceremony video captures the usual sight of a graduating student walking across the stage to accept his high school diploma. Per TribLive, he also won a $500 National Math and Science Initiative Star Award in 2022, making him one of nearly two dozen students to earn the honour.

Fox News Digital reported that Crooks would have turned 21 this September and had no prior criminal or traffic citations. When CNN reached out to his father late Saturday night, he said he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on. At the time, he was waiting to talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son.
President Joe Biden and former President Donald Trump reportedly spoke to each other just hours after an alleged assassination attempt was launched against the latter at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday. Donald Trump raising his fist in the air with blood dripping from his ear to his face. (AP)

However, just hours before the harrowing incident struck Trump at his Pennsylvania rally, where 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks apparently opened fire with an AR-style semiautomatic rifle at the former president, Biden shared a tweet that now occupies a haunted space on social media.

President Bidens cursed post, which, as internet users would call it, didnt age well.

I want to ban assault weapons and require universal background checks. Trump promised the NRA that hed do nothing about guns. And he means it, the commander-in-chief wrote on the micro-blogging platform.

Taking a similar stand on X, author Stephen King wrote on Sunday, An AR-15 style semiautomatic rifle was used in the Butler shooting. These are the guns the Republican partyand Trumpwant to protect.

Also read | Trump rally gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was a registered Republican, his graduation ceremony and yearbook pic surface

What kind of weapon was used in the Donald Trump assassination attempt?

Law enforcement officials reportedly recovered an AR-style semiautomatic rifle from the scene in Pennsylvania. As one of the most notoriously recognised weapons, the AR-15 has been at the centre of many US mass shootings in the past. Related to the automatic military combat M-16 rifle, this weapon infamously killed 59 people during the October 2017 Las Vegas attack. It was also responsible for gunning down five people at the anti-LGBTQ+ November 2022 attack in Colorado Springs.

Sources claim that the AR-15 recovered near the 20-year-old shooters body has been reportedly bought legally by his father. Developed by the ArmaLite small arms company, this rifle has also been the focus of several heated debates regarding its ubiquity and easy civilian access.

Handling gun regulations, Lindsay Nichols, the policy director at Giffords Law Centre, described it as a weapon of war. It is really only suitable for soldiers in a combat zone, Nichols told NBC in 2023. Its ability to kill a lot of people quickly is the reason why we want it banned.

Journalist Cameron McWhirter, whos also the co-author of American Gun: The True Story of the AR-15, told the Guardian in November how this gun has become a symbol that people are focussing on.

Everyone knows the silhouette of that image; weve seen it a million times all over the place.

According to Pennsylvania gun laws, background check checks for gun buyers are facilitated at the time of sale. The state reportedly has more than 2,500 federally licensed firearms dealers.

Also read | Trump assassination attempt a result of the worst negligence in history or an inside job? Conspiracies take flight

Earlier this year, President Biden sought to close the gun-show loophole, which allows people to buy guns from unlicensed dealers without the need for a background check.

In February 2023, Republican congressman Andrew Clyde, who owns Clyde Armory in Athens, handed out AR-15-shaped pins to House colleagues. I hear that this little pin that Ive been giving out on the House floor has been triggering some of my Democratic colleagues, he said in February. Well, I give it out to remind people of the second amendment of the constitution and how important it is in preserving our liberties.

Since the attack on Trump, a string of divisive conspiracy theories have emerged on social media, some suggesting it was possibly an inside job. In contrast, others called out the apparent security lapse. Lawmakers even condemned corporate media and left wing representatives for demonising the presumptive Republican presidential hopeful over the years, thereby holding them responsible for the political violence that potentially paved the way for this heart-rending incident in Butler, which left another rally attendee dead and others critically injured.

Biden eventually addressed the nation.

Ive been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now, the commander-in-chief told reporters on live TV. I have tried to get a hold of Donald, hes with his doctors. Apparently, hes doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly.

The president also added, Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country.

Biden also posted a similarly-worded tweet on X/Twitter.
Thomas Matthew Crooks was identified as the gunman responsible for the attempted assassination of former President Trump. As investigators piece together the events leading up to the attack, questions abound regarding the 20-year-old background, motivations, and any potential connections that might explain his actions. According to reports, Crooks was positioned on the roof of a manufacturing plant when one of his bullets reportedly grazed Trump in the ear. Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show

Who was Donald Trumps shooter?

According to the NY Post, Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, has been identified as the assailant responsible for the violent attack on former President Donald Trump while he was addressing a rally. The gunman reportedly positioned himself 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, where the presidential campaign event was in full swing.

He was then taken down by Secret Service snipers, who found an AR-style rifle at the scene. The special agents later posted on their social media, saying Trump was safely rushed to a local hospital. According to statements from an FBI agent, the motive behind what authorities have termed an 'assassination attempt' has yet to be identified.

The 20-year-old who was shot and killed by Secret Service agents was said to be from Bethel Park, a small town about 40 miles south of where the rally was happening. But, we still don't know why he attacked Trump. Crooks injured Trump's ear, resulting in bloodshed, while also killing a person who wasn't involved and critically hurting two other people at the rally. The FBI is currently investigating the matter.

'Too early to tell if gunman acted alone

Moreover, authorities have stated that they cannot yet confirm if the assault on former President Donald Trump was carried out by a "lone wolf."

As per Lt. Col. George Bevins of the Pennsylvania State Police via NBC, Its too soon to determine that. We have provisionally identified one shooter, but our investigation is ongoing. We are following multiple leads, and it will be some time before we can definitively state if it was the act of a single gunman."

Biden spoke to Trump: White House says

The ex-president was giving a speech at the rally when he suddenly grabbed his ears, realising he had been shot close to his ear and was bleeding. He was quickly rushed to the hospital. After the incident, a White House spokesperson said that Joe Biden had called Donald Trump.

This evening, President Biden spoke to former President Trump. The President also spoke to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy.

"Tonight, the President is returning to Washington DC. Tomorrow morning at the White House, he will receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials," the statement further read.
The image of Donald Trump raising his fist in the air, giving a determined look to the crowd and calling on them to fight, fight, fight, with blood dripping from his ear to his face, will define the 2024 American presidential elections. Donald Trump raising his fist in the air with blood dripping from his ear to his face. (AP)

The image allows Trump to position himself as both the hero and the victim and is already charging up his base. It allows his supporters to neutralise the Democratic narrative that has painted Trump as the source, rather than the target, of political violence so far. It can possibly earn him sympathy and respect among swing voters in critical swing states. It is likely to give him a major bounce in polls in a critical week when the Republican National Convention is set to formally nominate him as the partys presidential candidate. And it opens up the room for Trumps campaign to portray him as a brave fighter for the nation, and contrast this with his inward-looking Democratic rivals who appear stuck with an ailing candidate and low morale among supporters.

Four months before an election, it is imprudent to speculate about outcomes. And a lot can still change. But there is little doubt that, at the moment, after Saturdays shooting, Trump, who has been leading in the polls, now has the clear political momentum to return to the White House for a rare, non-consecutive second term.

Examine how the shooting is playing out in American politics.

First, for Trumps base, which identifies itself as the Make America Great Again (MAGA) movement, Trump has always been the champion who has fought for ordinary Americans against an all-powerful American establishment that encompasses the existing leadership of both parties, the deep State, and the liberal elites across the media and cultural spaces. This base has internalised Trumps narrative that he is fighting to secure Americas borders and protect American jobs at home and secure American interests abroad against a globalist consensus. And this base believes that the amorphous establishment has taken every possible step to block Trump. In this view, all the allegations Trump has faced, from Russias possible role in the 2016 election to the subverting of the 2020 elections to his recent conviction in a business fraud case, are examples of this politics of vendetta against Trump. Indeed, the criminal charges and conviction have only helped Trump consolidate his political standing and even raise more money for his campaign.

And so, for Trumps supporters, the shooting confirms what they have always believed. The former president is a selfless nationalist who has given up a life of luxury and comfort to fight for poor Americans. The former president is brave who has taken on Washington. The former president is willing to sacrifice his interests, and now even his life. And the former presidents opponents will do anything, even take his life, to block the return of the MAGA movement to the White House. The fact that Trump took a bullet, yet instinctively stood up back, with a message to stay on in the battle, will go down as the biggest morale-booster of this election cycle for the Republican base.

Two, the shooting fundamentally reverses the narratives that have dominated the current phase in American politics, allows Republicans to wash away the stain of January 6 mob attack on the US Capitol and take the moral high ground, and gives the MAGA movement a way to appeal to swing voters.

Till now, Democrats have claimed that the rise in political violence is due to the rise of the MAGA movement and Trumps active encouragement, or at least ambivalence, about violence. The fact that Trump didnt accept the 2020 elections, resisted the peaceful transfer of power, and encouraged a mob to march to the US Congress that then engaged in violence and vandalism allowed Democrats as well as liberal civil society to project Trump as the instigator of violence and a threat to democracy. The fact that the line between racist mobs, and the MAGA support base, is often blurred has also given ground to Democrats to cast Trump as representing White majoritarian extremism in society.

But after Saturday, Trump can, rightfully, also claim to be the target of political violence. The attack allows Republicans to shift the focus from January 6, 2021 to July 13, 2024. It will lead to Trump and his supporters blaming Democrats for creating a climate that led to the shooting in the first place, even though Democrats of all stripes have forcefully condemned the shooting. As JD Vance, among the top contenders for Trumps vice presidential pick, said on X, The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination. Expect this line of attack to intensify, irrespective of its factual validity. And expect this line of attack to persuade at least some swing voters, including moderate Republicans, in a closely fought election, to develop some sympathy and respect for Trump in battleground states.

And finally, the timing of the attack helps Trump too. His arch rival, President Joe Biden, after a disastrous debate performance, is facing an unprecedented backlash from his own party with the rank and file wanting him to drop out of the race. As Democrats struggle with internal discord, a fragmented base and low morale, the partys credibility has taken a major hit among both donors and voters.

Contrast this disarray in Democratic camp with Trump who will walk into the Republican convention in Milwaukee that commences on Monday as a hero. He will be projected as a leader who has taken a bullet for the nation. The convention will further unify the Republicans. Trump will dominate the airwaves and public consciousness even as Democrats, out of respect for him and their condemnation of the shooting, have had to pause their campaign. And all of it may give him a bounce in polls that may be hard for his rival to offset in the coming months.

With his base charged, his past stain eroded, his appeal among fence-sitters enhanced, and his own image assuming an even larger than life dimension, Donald Trump is set to convert what was clearly a moment of shock, a moment that could have taken his life away, a moment that will be etched in his consciousness and in any examination of his politics forever, into a historic opportunity for the biggest political comeback in American politics.
The assassin bullet missed Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trumps head by a whisker but the security provided to the former US president raises a lot of questions on the protection detail. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa.(AP)

While the Indian Special Protection Group (SPG) allows only 180-degree exposure to Prime Minister Narendra Modi, whose threat level is multiple times more than Trump's, the Republican candidate was exposed 360 degrees at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania with the assassin allowed to take no less than five shots from his AR-15 assault rifle. There were other lacunae too.

The Indian SPG does a 200 square meter sweep from the dais when PM Modi speaks with a gap of nearly 50-100 meters between the public and the speaking VVIP. At the Butler rally, the assassin was spotted a mere 120 yards from the dais with the Secret Service sniper neutralizing him after the assassin Thomas Mathew Crooks had taken his five shots. Had Trump not turned at the last millisecond, the bullet would have found its target.

Donald Trump assassination attempt: Security was warned about gunman minutes before shooting, witness claims

A review of the footage of the assassination attempt shows the protection details were on the side of VVIP as the shots were fired with one tall officer standing with his chest giving protection to hit Trump. The security detail also pulled him down to the bullet-resistant sheet on the ground till the time the identified attacker was neutralised. However, the security detail did not have bullet-resistant shields or any protection from sniper fire. The effective range of the AR-15 rifle used by the assassin is 400 meters.

 I would give 6/10 marks to the US Secret Service in handling the assassination attempt. The access control was faulty and the VVIPs head was unprotected while he was being moved to his vehicle. This made him totally vulnerable to the assassin bullet had there been a team of attackers, said a top Indian security expert.

Although the US Secret Service managed to extricate Donald Trump, the personnel appeared panicked and not in command of the situation with taller male officers guarding Trump from the back and a shorter female officer protecting the tall Republican candidate from the front with Trumps head exposed.

Read: Donald Trump's supporters hail his determination' after assassination attempt: Hes winning the election now

While everything appears 20/20 post-event, the Trump assassination attempt reminds one of the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on July 8, 2022 due to lax security detail. That the assassin was standing behind Abe and carrying a country-made weapon without any intervention was rather shocking. The Japanese security detail that day was virtually caught unawares and allowed the assassin to target one of the tallest Japanese right-wing leaders.

On October 27, 2013, the Indian Mujahideen group targeted then-BJP Prime Ministerial candidate Narendra Modi at Gandhi Maidan through multiple IEDs as a result of which six persons were killed and another 85 were injured. Had the then Intelligence Bureau chief Asif Ibrahim and his joint director (operations) Tapan Deka (present IB Chief) not alerted PM Modi to the possibility of him being targeted, there would have been total mayhem at the rally. After a timer device was found on the bomb that exploded in a public toilet at Patna railway station at 10 am, the BJP candidate was alerted by DIB Ibrahim and Joint Director (Patna) Vivek Shrivastava and persuaded not to go to the rally. However, Narendra Modi overruled them and addressed the rally with bombs going off in the vicinity. He told the crowd not to panic and quietly leave the venue as ambulances were rushing dead and injured to the Patna hospital.

Donald Trump assassination attempt: Shocking photo shows bullet flying past ex-president's head before wounding him

On January 5, 2022, PM Modis convoy was exposed to militant farmers as he was stuck on the Ferozepur flyover for 20 minutes during the Charanjit Singh Channi Congress government. With the state police and intelligence ostensibly unaware of the situation, PM Modi and his SPG found the road blockaded by farmers who had the support of the then-ruling party and Akali Dal.
Sydney, When it comes to inland surface water bodies, saline lakes are unique. They make up 44% of all lakes worldwide and are found on every continent including Antarctica. These lakes existence depends on a delicate balance between a river basins water input and output . Why saline lakes are the canary in the coalmine for the worlds water resources

The reason a lake turns saline is often because it doesnt have a consistent stream outlet, leading to a build-up of dissolved salts from water inflows. The water levels of saline lakes are naturally unstable and these lakes are generally susceptible to any disturbance.

This heightened sensitivity makes saline lakes more responsive than freshwater lakes to natural and human-caused factors. The main cause of change in a saline lake is disturbances in its water balance. These can be the result of natural or human-induced factors that are local, such as droughts, pollution, and upstream water diversions, or global, such as climate change, decreasing precipitation and increasing temperature.

The rapid response of saline lakes to the changing conditions makes these lakes suitable candidates for reliably reflecting the regional, and potentially global, status of water resources, and revealing crucial changes in the water balance. Unsurprisingly, many of the worlds saline lakes are shrinking rapidly, a major warning about the sustainability of regional water resources.

How are saline lakes changing?

There have always been fluctuations in saline lakes. Unfortunately, more lasting changes have become more common in recent years due to regional human activities and global climate change.

Most lakes have been shrinking and their water quality has declined. In permafrost regions of the Arctic and the Tibetan Plateau, however, some salt lakes have expanded due to areas of ice melting in a warming climate.

Changes in saline lakes pose significant challenges. They can endanger local ecosystems and industries, threaten public health and cause broader socio-economic harm.

Irans Lake Urmia is a good example. Until a few decades ago, Lake Urmia was one of the the worlds largest saline lakes, but it shrunk rapidly due to unsustainable human activities. The resulting problems include a decline in tourism, dust and salt storms, falling agricultural productivity and a loss of biodiversity.

The Aral Sea, once the worlds fourth-largest inland water body, is another tragic example. Since the 1960s it has shrunk to a fraction of its former size largely due to poorly planned irrigation development in the region.

The consequences have been disastrous. Despite many efforts, it has not been possible to restore the lake to its former glory.

Our natural early-warning systems

Saline lakes, much like the canaries used to give coalminers early warning of dangerously poor air quality, could play a vital role in monitoring the health of our water resources.

To better understand this analogy, we must first step back in time to the depths of underground mines where coalminers battled a hidden danger: carbon monoxide. This gas could build up silently, without any warning, endangering the miners lives.

Miners devised an ingenious solution: canaries. These small birds, with their rapid breathing rate, small size and fast metabolism, were tiny detectors of danger. When carbon monoxide levels rose, the canaries would be the first to show signs of distress, giving the miners a crucial warning to evacuate before it was too late.

The natural world continues to offer us unexpected insights. Saline lakes, with their intricate ecosystems and unique characteristics, act as natures early-warning systems.

Just as the canaries signalled hidden dangers in coalmines, the behaviour of saline lakes can alert us to looming issues with our water resources.

The bigger picture demands our attention

Of course, it is crucial to act when lakes are shrinking, whether through preservation efforts or restoration projects. But we must not overlook the bigger picture. It would be like a miner focusing on a distressed canary when its a sign of a more serious problem.

The real challenge lies in delving into the root cause, much like improving poor air quality in mines rather than merely trying to revive the birds.

This highlights the urgent need for a fundamental shift to water management and getting to the root of the problem rather than just dealing with the surface issues. Unfortunately, real-world experience shows weve often failed to make much of an impact when tackling these issues. But we can learn from our past mistakes to make better decisions now and in the future.

In the quest to ensure water resources remain sustainable, paying attention to saline lakes would be a good starting point. We need to grasp their intricacies and accurately gauge the water budget of these lakes around the world. We can only do that by investing in continuous monitoring of their health and behaviour. AMS

This article was generated from an automated news agency feed without modifications to text.
A "incredibly dedicated" single mom was fatally run down with her own car by thieves who stole it as her 6-year-old son slept in the backseat, Ohio authorities reported.



Alexa Stakely, a 29-year-old speech pathologist, picked up her boy from a babysitter early Thursday morning in Columbus after finishing her second job as a restaurant server, police said in a statement posted on social media.



After strapping the sleeping child in her Honda SUV, Stakely started the engine, then remembered she needed to retrieve something from the sitter.



She left the motor running and met the sitter at the front door, then suddenly spotted her vehicle being backed out of the driveway of the townhouse on Blue Knoll Drive.



"Stakely was seen running toward her Honda when she was struck and thrown onto the pavement," police said.



Cops were called shortly before 1:30 a.m. and found Stakely lying in the street with traumatic injuries, including a severe head wound.



Cops also found her SUV abandoned nearby with her son unharmed and still sleeping inside.



Stakely was rushed to a local hospital and pronounced dead about seven hours later.



Two unidentified males were seen running past Stakely, jumping a fence and disappearing into the apartment complex after she was run down, police said.



Surveillance video recorded earlier in the morning also showed a group of males casing apartments on a nearby street, with two matching the descriptions of those who ran past Stakely, police said.



No arrests have been made and detectives were seeking additional video to aid their investigation.



Stakely worked at the Winchester Trail Elementary School in suburban Canal Winchester, where she was "passionate about children and speech-language therapy," and was known as "Ms. Alexa'' to her preschool students, the school said.



"She was smart and compassionate, and she cared so much about helping children develop their ability to communicate," the school said in a statement posted on its website.

"She was a great mom who was incredibly dedicated to her son. Ms. Stakely made a difference in the lives of the students and families she worked with and will be missed by so many in our community and beyond."



Stakely was a graduate of Ohio State University and lived in the Columbus suburb of Pickerinton, according to her online resume.
A Catholic group and counselor are suing Michigan officials over the state's ban on so-called conversion therapy for LGBTQ+ youth, claiming it violates First Amendment rights to free speech and religious expression.

The lawsuit filed Friday by Catholic Charities of Jackson, Lenawee and Hillsdale Counties and Emily Jones, a self-described "devout Catholic" and licensed therapist, seeks to block enforcement of the measure signed by Gov. Gretchen Whitmer a year ago.

The move made Michigan the 22nd state to outlaw conversion therapy for minors, with Whitmer  lead defendant in the lawsuit  calling it a "horrific practice" and saying the ban was needed to make the state a place "where you can be who you are," the Associated Press reported at the time.

Conversion therapy involves "sustained efforts to discourage or change behaviors related to LGBTQ+ identities and expressions," and has been widely discredited by professional organizations, according to the American Psychological Association.

In court papers filed in U.S. District Court in Grand Rapids, Catholic Charities and Jones said their lawsuit was intended to help children who "experience distress over their biological sex."

They alleged that many kids who have identified themselves as transgender have been "encouraged to undergo a gender transition"  including "puberty blocking drugs, cross-sex hormones, and surgeries"  when they sought counseling.

The plaintiffs said that there's "no sound evidence that such medical interventions provide any long-term benefits," and that they have instead "helped clients change their behavior and gender expression in ways that better align with the clients' own unique goals for their lives  including by accepting and embracing their biological sex."

"The First Amendment protects not only the right to disseminate information but also the 'reciprocal right to receive' information," according to the lawsuit, which cited a 1976 Supreme Court ruling in a Virginia case.

A spokesperson for Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, who's among the defendants in the case, didn't immediately return a request for comment, according to the Detroit News, which first reported on the lawsuit.

But state Rep. Felicia Brabec, who sponsored the underlying legislation, defended the crackdown on conversion therapy for minors.

"As a clinical psychologist, I cannot emphasize enough how dangerous this practice is and that to call it therapy is misleading and treacherous," said Brabec, who hadn't yet seen the lawsuit.
Gunfire erupted Saturday during a campaign rally being held by former President Donald Trump, who was whisked off the stage with blood streaking his face.

His campaign later said Trump was "fine" and "being checked out at a local medical facility," the Associated Press reported.

Trump was showing off a chart of border-crossing numbers when loud bangs were heard at the site in Butler, Pennsylvania, video of the incident showed.



Trump reached for his neck and ducked behind a riser as Secret Service agents rushed to his side and people in the audience screamed.

The bangs continued as the agents surrounded him and the crowd cheered when he got to his feet and pumped his fist.

After his motorcade left the venue, campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a prepared statement that Trump "thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act."

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro issued a statement saying, "Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States."

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable.



It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.



I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local  Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) July 13, 2024

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi issued a statement saying, "The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available."

An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.  Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) July 13, 2024

The White House released a statement sayiing President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident. He had been attending Mass at a Catholic church in Deleware when the incident took place.

The Secret Service later confirmed one person who was attending the rally was killed and two others were critically injured.

The apparent shooter was reportedly on a rooftop outside of the rally venue and was reported to be dead.
President Joe Biden said in a statement late Saturday that he was grateful that Donald Trump was "safe and doing well" after an assassination attempt earlier at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

"I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania," Biden said in the statement. "I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information."

It went on to say, "Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Biden reportedly plans to address the nation on Sunday evening on the shooting.

Gunfire erupted Saturday during the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. He was whisked off the stage with blood streaking his face.

His campaign later said Trump was "fine" and "being checked out at a local medical facility," the Associated Press reported.

The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was killed by Secret Service agents. His motive has not yet been revealed.
Social media is exploding over the bloody impact of guns in America in the wake of the chilling assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

The fact that Trump, surrounded by Secret Service agents and protected by snipers, could be shot and his face spattered with blood at the start of his address in front of thousands of spectators, underscores the extreme vulnerability to guns of the average citizen, including young schoolchildren, angry critics noted Sunday.

Besides injuring Trump, shooter Thomas Matthews Crooks also killed a spectator and critically wounded two others, according to the FBI.

The shocking violence is something already experienced by thousands of Americans in a nation where gun ownership is ubiquitous, noted the social media posts, with some calling Republicans and Trump complicit in the bloodshed for supporting firearms.

Trump said after his own shooting Saturday that it's "incredible that such an act can take place in this Country."

Crooks was armed with an AR-15 semiautomatic assault-style rifle, favored by mass shooters, which Republicans have opposed banning. Trump vowed to the National Rifle Association earlier this year that if he is elected president "no one will lay a finger on your firearms."

"Every single Biden attack on gun owners and manufacturers will be terminated on my very first week back in office, perhaps my first day," Trump said at the NRA's Presidential Forum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania in February.

He repeated the pledge in May at the NRA's annual Leadership Forum in Dallas.

The number of mass shootings so far this year has already far surpassed the mid-year totals from a decade ago, though the numbers are down from last year, according to the latest statistics of the Gun Violence Archive.

"Stop talking about good guys with guns, and start doing something about the GUNS," Parkland High School mass shooting survivor David Hogg wrote on X early Sunday following the attempt on Trump's life.

If this can happen to a president with secret service, if this can happen in Parkland with a cop assigned to our campus, if this can happen in Uvalde with hundreds of police.



STOP TALKING ABOUT GOOD GUYS WITH GUNS AND START DOING SOMETHING ABOUT THE GUNS.  David Hogg  (@davidhogg111) July 14, 2024

Parkland father Fred Guttenberg, who lost his 14-year-old daughter, Jaimie, in the 2018 shooting that killed 17 people, posted a photo of her Saturday on what would have been her 21st birthday.

Happy 21st Birthday in Heaven to my beautiful and amazing baby girl. This photo is from Jaime's 14th birthday, her last one ever because of a madman with a gun. Jaime should be living her best life right now in college, traveling with friends, having her first "legal" drink. pic.twitter.com/KpJwEBTjBe  Fred Guttenberg (@fred_guttenberg) July 13, 2024

here's an idea: maybe guns shouldn't be so fucking easy to get  Jeff Tiedrich (@itsJeffTiedrich) July 14, 2024

Interesting how #MAGA, who could not have possibly cared less about gun violence against children in schools, concert goers, shoppers, people in nightclubs etc- are now outraged and want civil war because Trump got grazed by the shooter.

THIS is #MAGA pic.twitter.com/HHjwe2g36w  BigBlueWaveUSA  (@BigBlueWaveUSA) July 14, 2024

As we process this news about Donald Trumps assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, remember the shooter didn't act alone.



He was assisted by 220 Republican House members, 49 Senators, and the NRA who have consistently blocked gun safety.  CALL TO ACTIVISM (@CalltoActivism) July 14, 2024

Republicans are upset because the police or secret service didn't immediately do anything when they pointed out that some guy had a gun. Maybe it's because it's legal to open carry in PA.



That's the gun laws you guys voted for.  Alex Cole (@acnewsitics) July 14, 2024
Security is being beefed up for this week's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday.

The Madison Police Department, University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department and Dane County Sheriff's Office said they will be sending officers to help boost safety in and around the Fiserv Forum, according to local TV station WKOW.

Downtown Milwaukee was already divided into "soft" and "hard" restricted-access zones, with only authorized law enforcement personnel allowed to carry guns in the hard zone around the arena, the station said.

Efforts by local officials to ban guns from the soft zone failed because the state prohibitis local gun-control rules, according to WKOW.

A video posted online Sunday by the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel showed closed roads, chain-link fencing, vehicle checkpoints and pedestrian screening tents around the FiServ Forum.

Police officers wearing tactical vests also stood guard at various locations, and cops rode bicycles around the area.

Wisconsin Republican Party Chairperson Brian Schimming said Sunday that officials might alter the convention's schedule in response to the shooting that killed one Trump supporter, critically wounded two and left Trump with a bullet hole through his upper right ear.

Schimming also said it "remains to be decided" when Trump will arrive in the city and what he will do there, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel said, citing remarks made on WISN-TV.

"I don't see a situation where there are massive changes," Schimming said.

In a Saturday night memo,Trump campaign staffers were told that the convention would "continue as planned," but that security would be increased at their offices in Washington, D.C., and West Palm Beach, Florida.

Senior campaign advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles told their team to stay away from the offices on Sunday as officials "assess both locations."

"We are enhancing the armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site. Additional security assessments will be in place. Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe," according to the memo, which was posted online by Politico.

"We also urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election. If something looks or feels off, please flag it immediately for leadership or an on-site security team."

LaCivita and Wiles also told staffers to "not comment publicly" on Saturday's "horrendous attack."

"We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media," they wrote.
As many Republicans come up reasons other than the supply of guns in America helping to fuel violence like the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.) is pointing to another motivaton: Critical race theory.

The conservative senator speculated that the attempt on Trump's life Saturday by gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks was somehow sparked by "identity politics" like critical race theory, but failed to clearly explain himself.

Critical race theory, which cannot be mentioned in many schools due to Republican policies, recognizes the continuing powerful social and economic impact of slavery on American history. Shooter Crooks was white, as is Trump.

Identity politics is indentifying with a certain group of people, like Blacks identifying with other Black people

Trump obviously currently indentifies with conservative Repubicans. Investigators don't yet know enough about Crooks to speculate about his sympathies.

"The greatest threat to our nation right now is we're horribly divided," Johnson explained Sunday to CNN news host Jake Tapper. "In general," he claimed, "we share the same goals, so why are we so divided?"

There "are political figures, there are political groups. I would argue that's what identity politics is about, that's what critical race theory is about, so there are people who are purposely trying to divide us for political advantage," Johnson added, using his own politically divisive point to make his case.

Sen. Ron Johnson on CNN reacts to Trump's shooting by calling out identity politics and critical race theory pic.twitter.com/963k5OxzC0  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 14, 2024

Tapper took a sobering view of most of America in his monologue on his "State of the Union" program.

"I keep hearing from politicians this morning that political violence has no place in America," Tapper began. "We are living in an era of political violence," he insisted.

Tapper pointed to the shootings of former Arizona Democratic congresswoman Gabby Giffords in 2011 and Louisiana Republican Rep. Steve Scalise in 2017, and the murder of countereprotester Heather Heyer in the 2017 "Unite the Right" rally in Charlottesville, along with several other instances of violence.

"There is something troubling the American soul right now," he added.

"Too many Americans see those with whom they disagree as the enemy to be shunned, to be banned, to be ostracized, to be threatened with violence or even to have that violence carried out," he added.

He called for settling political differences by "ballots and votes, not by bullets."

Several Republican lawmakers on Sunday blamed what they characterized as harsh rhetoric by President Joe Biden about Trump, calling him a danger to democracy, as the reason behind the assassination attempt.

But across the aisle, Trump himself is no stranger to violent rhetoric. He told his supporters on Jan. 6, 2021, to "fight like hell" the day they stormed the Capitol, hung a noose outside, and chanted "hang Mike Pence" because the then-vice president refused to overturn the election in Trump's favor.
Pakistan visit of Chinese PM on track despite Karachi terror attack 10 Oct 2024 | 1:16 PM Islamabad, Oct 10 (UNI) The visit of Chinese Prime Minister Li Qiang for the meeting of Council of Heads of Governments of Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) and bilateral engagements with Pakistan is on track despite recent terrorist attack in Karachi that killed two Chinese nationals, media reports said. see more..

Bangladesh expects to receive several UN functionaries this year 10 Oct 2024 | 12:50 PM Dhaka, Oct 10 (UNI) Bangladesh is expected to receive a number of functionaries from the United Nations this year, including UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Turk this month, according to authorities in Dhaka and New York, media reports said. see more..

Over 370 mln women alive today subjected to sexual violence before age of 18: UNICEF 10 Oct 2024 | 12:28 PM United Nations, Oct 10 (UNI) More than 370 million girls and women alive today have been subjected to sexual violence before age 18, the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF) said on Thursday. see more..

Israel strikes refugee camp in Lebanon, killing 6 people 10 Oct 2024 | 10:37 AM Beirut, Oct 10 (UNI) Israel carried out an air strike on a temporary refugee camp in the Wardaniyeh settlement in southern Lebanon, killing six people and injuring 15 others, a rescue service employee told Sputnik. see more..
The two-story belvedere on the library dates to 1865. Trustees have been concerned about its condition for some time.

North Adams Plans $350,000 Restoration of Library Belvedere



Trustees and Friends of the Library tour the structure in 2017. The belvedere offers a dramatic view of the city and its surrounding mountains but has not been open to the public. NORTH ADAMS, Mass.  The city has received a $75,000 grant toward the repair and restoration of the public library's belvedere.

Mayor Jennifer Macksey told the City Council on Tuesday that this funding comes from the Massachusetts Preservation Commission.

"This money in conjunction with the bequest of Gail Carridi will be used to repare the belvedere, estimated cost of the project is about $350,000," she said. "The initial architect design was completed by funding that was earmarked by Rep. [John] Barrett and we thank the representative for the $75,000 earmark and we are finally going to be out to bid to repair the belvedere."

The two-story cupola was not renovated during the overhaul and addition to the library 20 years ago and has long been deteriorating. The plaster walls are cracking and the wooden laths are exposed in some spots, it has no heating or air conditioning, and the paint is peeling from the exterior window moldings. A hand-carved, dust-covered winding staircase connects the two stories.

The bottom level was insulated in 2019 through Green Community grant funds.

The cupola was a favorite architectural feature during the 19th century; a number were removed from other North Adams buildings, such as the Blackinton Block, as time went on. The library's was designed by Marcus Cummings of Troy, N.Y., the architect for the 1865 Second Empire manse built by Sanford Blackinton. It was purchased in 1896 by the city's first mayor, Albert Houghton, and donated for use as a library in memory of his brother.

The structure was long used for storage and has not been open to the public.

State Rep. Gailanne Cariddi, who died in 2017, was generous to the library, naming it as a beneficiary in her will. It received some $266,651.56 as well as smaller targeted amounts, such as a $7,500 gift toward establishing an astronomy program.

The city is also repairing the leaking roof on Brayton Elementary School with $200,000 in the school budget. That work started Monday, the mayor said.

She also updated the council on some other grants and projects, including the closing out of a grant for the Northeast Hangar renovation at the airport, a request for proposals for Sullivan School and two grants for Western Gateway Heritage State Park.

The city has received two proposals that are currently under review for the vacant school on Kemp Avenue. Several RFPs have been issued for Sullivan, formerly East School, but the only one seriously considered, for housing, was rejected by the council. The school has been closed since the opening of Colegrove Park Elementary in 2016.

Macksey said she is waiting to hear on two grants for Heritage Park: one for the roof and painting on Building 3 which houses the state museum for the Hoosac Tunnel and the second to do the envelopes  paint, windows and roofs  on the other buildings.

The council approved the transfer of $56,171.35 from the land sale account as the city's share of the $753,000 project. The Federal Aviation Administration provided $566,000 and the state Aeronautics Division some $130,000.

"I really want to close out these grants properly. Instead of rolling the city share balance I want us to start funding them ... rather than borrow," the mayor said. "The Airport Commission is issuing an RFP for the hangar management and the use of the future. We're expecting to have revenue to exceed about $20,000 per year, which would mean that this will be paid back in less than three years. We cash-flow potential there."

In response to questions, the mayor said the land sale account would have about $550,000 left and that any revenue would flow into the airport's revolving fund and, depending on the fund's total, could be paid back into the account.

The city also received a 911 regional grant for $796,000. This is Phase 2 of upgrading equipment; the first phase was building out the 911 system.

"This funding will support our goal of enhancing emergency response communications," said Macksey. "It will also let us purchase 39 portable radios for the Fire Department and 40 portable radios for police to replace equipment that has been in use since 2005."

She reminded the council and audience that the Department of Public Services had partnered with Tighe & Bond on an inventory of lead and copper pipe material. This will require information from residents.

"We mailed a bunch of postcards out and we're urging residents to update photos of their service line and complete the survey. Everyone should have received a postcard," the mayor. "Don't think it's a scam. It is legit and we are looking for that data."
Corey Bishop, President, Bishop West Real Estate, Nicole McKeen, Marketing Director, Berkshire Humane Society, John Perreault, Executive Director, Berkshire Humane Society, Peter West, Vice President, Bishop West Real Estate

Bishop West Real Estate Raises $25K for Berkshire Humane

PITTSFIELD, Mass  Bishop West Real Estate announced the success of its recent fundraising event, Music Bingo, held on June 30, 2024, at the Proprietors Lodge.

The event raised $25,000 in support of the Berkshire Humane Society, highlighting the community-driven commitment of Bishop West Real Estate to support local nonprofit organizations, stated a press release

"We are thrilled with the overwhelming support we received for our Music Bingo fundraiser benefiting the Berkshire Humane Society," said Peter West, co-owner of Bishop West Real Estate. "It's inspiring to see our community come together to make a significant impact on such a worthy cause."

Corey Bishop, co-owner of Bishop West Real Estate, echoed these sentiments.

"At Bishop West Real Estate, we believe in giving back to the community that has given us so much. The Berkshire Humane Society plays a crucial role in our community, and we are honored to support their efforts through events like Music Bingo," Bishop said.

The $25,000 raised will directly assist the Berkshire Humane Society in funding its various programs aimed at improving the lives of animals in need throughout the Berkshire County area.
New profession emerges as self-driving industry develops

Xinhua) 15:52, July 14, 2024

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan is pictured during a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan adjusts a rearview mirror before a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan prepares for a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Li Cheng checks a vehicle after a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

An aerial drone photo taken on July 4, 2024 shows an intelligent connected vehicle during a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng poses for a photo in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng conducts tests in an intelligent connected vehicle at an automobile inspection center in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng prepares the test report of an intelligent connected vehicle in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan (L) gives a road test training to a new employee in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan prepares for a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Li Cheng is pictured in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Li Cheng checks a vehicle before a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Li Cheng is pictured during a road test in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

An intelligent connected vehicle conducts autonomous emergency braking test at an enclosed test field in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng records the test data of an intelligent connected vehicle at an automobile inspection center in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng installs a braking robot in an intelligent connected vehicle before a test at an automobile inspection center in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng installs a steering robot in an intelligent connected vehicle before a test at an automobile inspection center in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

An intelligent connected vehicle tester works before a test at an enclosed test field in Tianjin, north China, June 14, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Wang Juan poses for a photo in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Li Cheng (back row) gives a lesson to new employees in Wuhan, central China's Hubei Province, July 4, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Wu Zhizun)

Staff members pose for a group photo at National Intelligent and Connected Vehicle Quality Inspection and Testing Center (Tianjin) in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle testers measure the distance between an intelligent connected vehicle and a scooter during a door-opening reminder test at an enclosed test field in Tianjin, north China, June 14, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

Intelligent connected vehicle tester Zhang Cheng (R) and his colleague Zhang Shuai conduct tests in an intelligent connected vehicle at an automobile inspection center in Tianjin, north China, June 19, 2024. Thanks to advances in electrification, networking, and intelligent transformation, along with progress in autonomous driving technologies, self-driving vehicles are gradually becoming a reality. As the industry develops, more professionals are becoming testers of self-driving vehicles. The profession "intelligent connected vehicle tester" was listed as one of 19 new professions by the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security earlier this year. (Xinhua/Sun Fanyue)

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
New York, July 14 (UNI) Former US President Donald Trump was injured in what the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) confirmed as an assassination attempt during his Presidential campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening, officials said.



Trump, who was rushed out of the stage with a bloodied face, is safe, the Secret Service said. The former US president said on social media that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. His campaign team said Trump was fine.



The gunman and at least one member in the audience were killed, the US Secret Service said in a statement.

"One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured. The incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation, the statement said.



A suspected shooter fired multiple shots at former President Trump's campaign rally ... from an elevated position outside the venue," the Secret Service said.





"U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated," the statement added.



The FBI termed the shooting an assassination attempt against Trump, CNN reported.

This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office Kevin Rojek, told a news conference in Butler.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, and said he fired multiple shots from a building rooftop just outside the rally venue, before being killed by Secret Service agents.

He said a probe was on to find the motive behind the assassination attempt.

US President Joe Biden, who was in Delaware, denounced the violence, and spoke to Trump after the shooting. the White House said.

Tonight, the President is returning to Washington DC. Tomorrow morning at the White House, he will receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials, a White House official said in a statement.



Biden in a statement said he was grateful that Trump was safe and doing well.



I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill (Biden, US First Lady) and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.



Trump on his social media platform Truth Social said, 'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening.'



It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead, he added.



Trumps campaign issued a statement announcing that he is fine after the heinous act, and thanked law enforcement and first responders for their quick action.



According to CNN. a witness claimed he told officers that he saw a gunman moving from roof to roof, minutes before the assassination attempt. UNI AKS ARN SSP
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Hannah Gadsby is bewildered. Success has effectively scrambled my brain, they say, letting out a heady giggle for just a fragment of a second. The bigger you get, the more melted your brain gets you cant actually comprehend it. Its understandable  few comedians ever get the kind of traction that their breakthrough special Nanette did in 2018. The Emmy and Peabody-winning show that was filmed for Netflix was a pointed deconstruction of stand-up comedy as an art form, a relatively laugh-light exploration of trauma and marginalisation framed around Gadsbys impending retirement from comedy. Such was Nanettes success that this retirement never manifested.

Its been a hell of a trip, they say, speaking over Zoom from an office on the west coast of the US. Gadsby, 46, is genderqueer and uses they/them pronouns; they have a shock of greying hair, shrewd eyes and a face that perennially threatens to furl into a scowl  but never does. I often compare it to a whitewater rapid, they continue. I didnt go into Nanette with grand plans, or any kind of hopes of some sort of stratospheric career  I was trying to recede.

In the six years since they very much didnt recede, Gadsbys output has been prolific. There have been two more stand-up shows (Douglas and Something Special); an acclaimed autobiography (Ten Steps to Nanette: A Memoir Situation); and a Netflix showcase spotlighting up-and-coming genderqueer comics (Hannah Gadsbys Gender Agenda). Somehow, theyve also found time to star in the fourth season of Netflixs zeitgeisty teen sex drama Sex Education, curate a much-discussed (but critically polarising) Pablo Picasso-themed exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum and, to cap it off, get married (to producer Jenney Shamash, who helped bring Nanette to the off-Broadway stage). Next month, Gadsby will be at the Edinburgh Fringe, performing their newest stand-up special, Woof!  also coming to the London Palladium later this year. A whitewater rapid seems like an apt enough metaphor to me.

And yet, Gadsby does not quite have the air of someone being rag-dolled around by churning water. Instead, they seem sanguine? Content? Happy, even? As happy as any conscientious person can be in the purgatory that we call modern life, at least. The ability to be an artist, to focus my life on creating thats all I ever wanted, Gadsby says. For them, the past decade has brought a number of major positive life changes. Nanette brought financial security and creative opportunity; Gadsbys diagnosis with autism was perhaps even more personally significant. (Being autistic is like being the only sober person in a room full of drunks, they once quipped onstage. ...Or the other way around.) Life as an autistic person can, says Gadsby, be physically painful for me. Its less existentially difficult for me now that I understand that I have autism and also I have the [financial] means to protect myself physically from the world.

Gadsby grew up in small-town Tasmania, and endured, as so many queer and neurodivergent people do, a childhood fraught with imposed prejudices and difficulties. As a student, they studied art history and curatorship  beginning a fascination with visual art that would later be weaponised to mischievous ends in their stand-up, and, for a few years, as a presenter of joke-filled guided art tours for the National Gallery of Victoria. Their artistic predilections came to a head with the 2021 Picasso exhibition at the Brooklyn Museum, Its Pablo-matic, which sought to reframe the artists work through the lens of his misogyny. Critics largely hated it: a brutal New York Times takedown wrote that the ambitions here are at gif level. ArtsHub, meanwhile, described it as a victim of its hype.

Gadsby says that they try to keep their detractors at arms length, and reads little of what is said about them online. Am I gonna read all these criticisms from bitter people, and then talk to these criticisms that my fans dont have? they say. Theres so much going on in the world. You really dont need to talk about me.

Gadsby performing stand-up on stage ( Ian Laidlaw )

Onstage, they speak, and joke, with a sort of knowing, rehearsed authority; there is a particular cadence to a Hannah Gadsby joke. It may be this, combined with the weighty subject matter, that has led some people to read an amount of didacticism into shows such as Nanette. But today, away from the microphone, their clipped Australian patter sounds a good deal softer. They do not give off the vibe of someone desperate to dominate the discourse, to become social medias main character. There seems to be nothing really didactic about them at all.

If anything, ventures such as Gender Agenda suggest an open-mindedness, and a willingness to pass the baton to other, younger voices. I dont feel old, Gadsby says, furrowing their brow a little. But in the scheme of the world, Im middle-aged. I grew up in a very different time. I really think the more interesting conversations are going to come from younger people, who have not been able to get their head above the waves like I finally have.

I just dont want to be remembered forever, they add. Because the lengths people go to be remembered forever are either violent or embarrassing.

Ive moved on from Nanette. Ive moved on a lot  and so has comedy' ( Ian Laidlaw )

Netflix seems to run its stand-up empire with a kind of something for everyone mentality: comedians such as Ricky Gervais and Dave Chappelle have, like Gadsby, fronted multiple specials for the streamer in recent years. I mention these two in particular because Gervais and Chappelles specials have contained repeated and controversial jokes targeting the trans community; Gadsby has taken aim at them, and other contemporaries, on stage and off. I actually find it quite uncomfortable with how unwilling comics are to call out their peers, they say, and thats where the rot sets in.

In taking Netflixs money, is there not a conflict of interest, I ask? I was trying to use that conflict to create some sort of conversation, they reply. But sadly, I think transphobia is par for the course, at this point. I feel like if youre trying to push back against violent rhetoric towards a minority group, I think its safe to say that Netflix really arent on board with that. Its a bold claim  but Gadsby isnt the first to make it. In 2021, Chappelles special The Closer prompted a group of Netflix staffers to walk out and stage a 100-strong protest. Since then, Chappelle has continued to release new material on the platform.

Its the white woman that comes into my audience that feels comfortable

Gadsby pauses, and adds, with a kind of wry exasperation: But, you know, I gave it a go. Ultimately, I wasnt under any impression that I could shift this needle, but what I could do was provide a little bit of that cash cow to some younger genderqueer performers  and that really is important. It is a career building thing even if it gets lost in the noise. I dont see Netflix doing a lot to sponsor grassroots development.

Gadsby is wary, too, of their own fanbase. Even pre-Nanette, they say, it really was like, Im just gonna sort out who my audience is. Because even at that stage, I was like, I dont know who Im talking to any more. In their stand-up, they have (only half-jokingly) described their core demographic as being rich, white, entitled women. If you squint, you could include myself as part of that demographic, they admit. But that joke is very much directed at my audience, who are [largely] white. You know, if an African American woman would walk in, theyre not going, I feel very comfortable here. Its the white woman that comes into my audience that feels comfortable.

Gadsby is keen to avoid conflating the specific struggles of racial discrimination with their own experiences as the victim of gendered bigotry; in a follow-up email sent to me after our interview, they emphasise this point. But there is nonetheless a divide between Gadsbys audience and themself, and they are keen to delineate the difference. Just because chunks of their fanbase may embody or expect a certain brand of safe, straight-palatable feminism, doesnt mean Gadsby does. Some of the audience that Nanette resonated with I want to remind them that Im not Barbie. Im not Taylor Swift. Ive got grit and Im not afraid to use it, Gadsby says.

Gadsby as seen in their Emmy-winning Netflix special Nanette ( Netflix )

Their new stand-up set Woof! is described in its billing as a show about learning how to process the world, with all its catastrophes and hypocrisies, from a new perspective. Fans can surely expect it to touch on some familiar topics  gender, sexuality, Gadsbys experience of the world as an autistic person  but it is also, they say, about their attempt to grapple with the fallout from Nanette. Im gonna get cancelled by feminists, they joke in the set. I dont think theres anything more feminist than getting cancelled by feminists.

Both in Gadsbys comedy and within the ambit of this conversation, its difficult to escape the reverberations of Nanette. I ask gingerly about the backlash to the special, the rip-tidal contrarianism that tends to accompany any work of performance as lauded as Gadsbys breakthrough. Ive lost interest in it because its disingenuous, they respond. I think some people are rocking [back] on that original opinion of Nanette,and, well, that was seven years ago! Ive moved on. Ive moved on a lot  and so has comedy.

But, you know, if theyre still sad about what Nanette was, Gadsby adds, its like, check out the backlash. Were not living in a post-Nanette world any more. Ive always traditionally found criticism quite helpful. But that was when I was beginning my career  the media landscape was very different. Its just noise now. Its too much noise.

Hannah Gadsby jokes at the Emmys: 'Nobody knows what jokes are these days, especially men. That's why I'm presenting alone'

Some of the criticisms of Nanette were plainly and simply rooted in bigotry  a reactionary aversion to a person who looked and spoke like Gadsby finding success and visibility. But Nanette too was also a spiky and deliberate conversation starter, with a thesis that was confrontational by design. It was a special that asked whether the self-deprecation of comedy as a form is inherently alienating for a queer performer  interrogating who, at the end of the day, the joke was really on. It made the splash that everyone dreams of doing, Gadsby says. But I get bored by the conversation around it.

And of course I like to stir the pot. They smile, archly. But I think its interesting how easily stirred the pot is, you know?

Hannah Gadsby will be at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival from 18-25 August. Then, at Londons Palladium from 4-7 November
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Shannen Doherty, who has died at the age of 53 following years of living with cancer, was an actor famous for playing women to whom respect wasnt immediately granted.

Her Nineties TV hits Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed  shows embraced by generations of young people growing up both then and now  cast her as characters who, to the unenlightened, could be read as bitches or mean girls, those annoying descriptors always levelled at women too complicated and interesting to be simplistically boxed in. But as a skilled if often underrated actor, she was deft at conveying pride and regret beneath the surface grumpiness; the feeling of women only being a certain way because the world has made them so.

Doherty was also one of the OG tabloid fixtures, a child star gone berserk (not really) whose club-hopping and on-set lateness apparently warranted round-the-clock coverage at the top of the Nineties. She experienced the kind of wrath that could only have existed back then  regular headlines in the National Enquirer that werent ignored at the supermarket checkout line but actually had an impact on her career; a popular newsletter for pre-internet teens who could come together every month to talk about how much they hated Doherty and Brenda Walsh, the mouthy teen she played in 90210.

She has since admitted to being incredibly hurt by all of this  it contributed to her firing from 90210 in 1994  but it did at least add to the lore that surrounded her. Doherty was sharp and icy and a tiny bit dangerous  all the things despised by the boring among us, and oddly irresistible to those who secretly wanted to be like that themselves.

Doherty was also incredibly glamorous, stomping around with the force of a supermodel and with black hair so shiny that you can imagine millions of women over the decades bouncing between box dyes trying to emulate it just right. I adored watching her on screen, the sense that she was always just on the cusp of slapping someone  as part of a clique of cruel teens in the Winona Ryder classic Heathers, say, or as the pissed-off girlfriend in Kevin Smiths Mallrats. She was brilliant in Charmed, as the eldest of a trio of sister witches, who understood the weight of her duty to protect the innocent. Prue Halliwell was cool, responsible, complex and always inappropriately dressed for battle, but pfft  who says you cant kill a demon in a belly shirt and a miniskirt?

I loved how much Doherty gave to incredibly bad made-for-television movies, too. Friends Til the End, in 1997, saw her play an aspiring musician being stalked by her best friend (the tracks sound like Cranberries knock-offs and Dohertys voice has an air of Susanna Hoffs of the Bangles). Satans School for Girls (2000) cast her as an undercover reporter investigating evil witches on a university campus. Blindfold: Acts of Obsession, from 1994, is the kind of erotic thriller so devoid of eroticism that it becomes almost hypnotic. But Doherty is good in all of them, always magnetic and spirited and salvaging whatever she can from dismal scripts.

From 2023, Doherty hosted her own podcast  Lets Be Clear  a kind of audio autobiography that covered her work, her personal life and her health. Tales of her cancer journey  she was diagnosed in 2015 with breast cancer, which went into remission and then returned, latterly spreading to her brain and bones  were sobering and moving. Doherty was reluctant to pretty up what had been a life-affirming if undeniably painful time. But the most fascinating episodes were ones in which she conversed with Hollywood women equally hurt by an industry that has only ever celebrated female compliance, and only begrudgingly given positive attention to those who march to the beat of their own drum.

She had a natural kinship with the likes of Sarah Michelle Gellar, Katherine Heigl, Tori Spelling and Christina Ricci, all of whom appeared on her show. Like Doherty, they are actors who arrived in Hollywood as children, grew up in the spotlight, and found themselves permanently shackled to misogynist speculation about their character: they were too difficult, too unpredictable, too eager to have a voice on chaotic sets.

open image in gallery Shannen Doherty examined her own life on her podcast Lets Be Clear ( Getty )

Doherty never claimed total innocence; she was happy to admit to sometimes reading the room wrong, or getting defensive rather than looking for a compromise during arguments. But her cancer also provided her with a sense of clarity about her past  the things she should apologise for, and the things she absolutely shouldnt. She put to bed years of speculation about what had happened on the set of Charmed  she was fired after significant on-set tensions with her co-star Alyssa Milano, a feud inflamed by male producers  and spoke eloquently about the relationships she regretted and the domestic violence she experienced while working on 90210.

It was often quite beautiful  here was a woman who knew she was dying, but wouldnt go quietly or with unfinished business. She was funny, sassy, a little intimidating. It was Doherty to a tee. What fool would expect any different?
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Charmed and Beverly Hills 90210 star Shannen Doherty has died, aged 53.

The American actor died of breast cancer on Saturday (13 July) after being diagnosed with the disease in 2015.

It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty, her publicist, Leslie Sloane, said in a statement, confirming the cause of her death.

The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie, Sloane added in a statetemt shared with People. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace.

Doherty went into remission in 2017 but in February 2020, she confirmed the cancer had returned to stage four.

In June 2023, the actor shared a video of the brain radiation treatment she was receiving, revealing her cancer had spread to her brain.

Five months later, Doherty told her fans the cancer had spread to her bones, but said that she would keep fighting the disease through treatment because Im not done with living.

Dohertys career was launched when she was 11 after being cast in short-lived series Little House on the Prairie in 1982, playing Jenny Wilder.

That same year, she voiced a character in animated film The Secret of NIMH and, later that decade, appeared opposite Helen Hunt and Sarah Jessica Parker in Girls Just Want to Have Fun and Reese Witherspoon in the family drama series Our House.

After a role in the 1988 cult film Heathers, Doherty shot to global fame when she was cast as Brenda Walsh in teen drama Beverly Hills, 90210. Brenda and her brother Brandon (Jason Priestley) were introduced as the main characters of the show, which depicted their experiences with a new group of teenages after being moved from Minnesota to California.

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open image in gallery Shannen Doherty in Beverly Hills, 90210 ( Fox )

Also starring in the drama were Tori Spelling, Luke Perry, who died of a stroke in 2019, and Brian Austin Green, whom Doherty revealed she once briefly dated after she had left the show.

Doherty quit the series after four seasons in 1994 and, in 2008, was cast in a reboot produced by The CW. It was reported Doherty was paid up to $50,000 per episode; she featured in seven in total.

Another of the actors defining roles came courtesy of Beverly Hills, 90210 producer Aaron Spelling in 1998: Prue Halliwell in Charmed, a series about three sisters who are witches.

It was claimed that Dohertys departure from the series, after three seasons, was due to behind-the-scenes tensions with her co-star Alyssa Milano.

In February 2024, their co-star Holly Marie Combs claimed that Doherty was fired after Milano issued an ultimatum to producers  something that Milano denied.

open image in gallery Shannen Doherty in Charmed ( The WB )

Im the most sad that a show that has meant so much to so many people has been tarnished by a toxicity that is still to this day, almost a quarter of a century later, still happening, Milano said, adding: And Im sad that people cant move past it. And Im sad that we all cant just celebrate the success of a show that meant so much to all of us.

However, Doherty said that, in light of her health issues, it is also incredibly important to me that the truth actually be told as opposed to the narrative that others put out there for me.

During the 1990s, Doherty regularly made headlines due to her alleged off-screen reputation. Addressing these claims in 2010, the actor said: I have a rep. Did I earn it? Yeah, I did. But, after a while you sort of try to shed that rep because youre kind of a different person. Youve evolved and all of the bad things youve done in your life have brought you to a much better place.

Doherty had a one-year marriage to Sunset Beach actor Ashely Hamilton in 1993 and a nine-month marriage to Rick Salomon in 2002. Salomon is a high-stakes poker player, who went on to marry Pamela Anderson twice  both marriages of which lasted for just one year.

At the time of Dohertys death, she was in the process of divorcing her husband of 11 years, photographer Kurt Iswarienko.

open image in gallery Shannen Doherty has died, aged 53 ( Getty Images )

Earlier this year, Doherty shared a miraculous health update, describing a new kind of treatment that she said felt like God is intervening.

She told her fans on an episode of her podcast Lets Be Clear: Im on a new cancer infusion and after four treatments, we didnt really see a difference and everybody wanted me to switch, and I just kinda was like, Were gonna keep going with this and see And yeah, after the sixth or seventh treatment, we really saw it breaking down the blood-brain barrier.
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Amanda Abbington has shed light on her Strictly Come Dancing experience, calling the show tough and horrible.

The Sherlock star, who quit the show weeks into the 2023 series, has found herself at the centre of a firestorm after accusing the BBC dancing competition of behind-the-scenes misconduct.

Abbington requested what was described by a source as tense footage of her rehearsals with Pernice, which has led to an investigation that has since seen the firing of dancing professional Graziano Di Prima weeks after his return to the forthcoming series was announced.

While Abbington has spoken briefly about her experience on the show and the aftermath, the actor has addressed the furore at length for the first time in a new interview.

Ive had the worst experience, she told The Sunday Times. The show was tough and horrible, but the aftermath of it I was not expecting. Its been really brutal and it just hasnt stopped.

She continued: Its been awful, just relentless. Death threats and rape threats for just standing up for something that I thought was wrong.

The actor elaborated on why she felt the need to speak out, telling the outlet: When Im in a rehearsal room I make sure that its a place where everyone feels safe and feels like theyre having a nice time. And that courtesy wasnt extended to me.

Abbington also cleared up the misconception that she left the show because of Pernice; the outlet notes that the star, who played Mary Morton in Sherlock, actually did have a medical scare, as was noted in her exit statement, but said she was grateful to be given a reason to escape.

open image in gallery Amanda Abbington and Giovanni Pernice on Strictly Come Dancing ( BBC )

In March, It was claimed that Good Morning Britain host Ranvir Singh and former Love Island presenter Laura Whitmore, who previously said she was uncomfortable with Pernice, had a tearful summit with Abbington about their respective difficult experiences working with the dancer, who is well known to be intense during training.

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Strictly, which has reportedly just signed up a contestant that might annoy many fans of the show, announced its professional dancers for 2024 earlier this month, and the list revealed that Pernice had left the show.

After repeated requests for comment, the BBC urged people not to indulge in speculation  but the investigation into Pernice has since led to the dismissal of Di Prima.

On Saturday (13 July), Di Prima revealed he had been axed from the show for events he said he deeply regrets.

Its been claimed Di Primas departure followed unspecified allegations made by those working on the show who had observed Di Primas rehearsals with TV star Zara McDermott, whom he was partnered with on last years series.

open image in gallery Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima were partnered on Strictly ( BBC )

McDermott did not make the allegation, but was recently invited by producers into the BBC to discuss her experience. It was claimed by a source speaking to The Sun that footage showing Di Primas alleged treatment of McDermott reduced those who have seen it to tears.
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Graziano Di Prima has been dropped from Strictly Come Dancing over events he deeply regrets.

In what has become yet another disaster for the series after a controversy surrounding Giovanni Pernice, it was reported on Saturday (13 July) that Di Prima had been axed from the series over claims of gross misconduct.

Di Prima then told his social media followers he would no longer be a part of the forthcoming series, which is set to begin in September  despite being confirmed to return last month.

He wrote on Instagram: I deeply regret the events that led to my departure from Strictly. My intense passion and determination to win might have affected my training regime.

While respecting the BBC HR process, I acknowledge its only right for the sake of the show that I step away. I am saddened that I wasnt allowed to offer a quote to the online news stories, and I take on board the sensitivity of the situation.

He went on: Theres more to this story that I am unable to discuss at this time, but I am committed to being strong for my family and friends. I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future.

Its been claimed Di Primas departure followed unspecified allegations made by those working on the show who had observed Di Primas rehearsals with TV star Zara McDermott, whom he was partnered with on last years series.

Members of the production team are believed to have spoken out after an investigation into the series was launched over a scandal involving Pernice, who left the show last month.

McDermott did not make the allegation, but was reportedly invited by the BBC to discuss her experience. It was claimed by a source speaking to The Sun that footage showing Di Primas alleged treatment of McDermott reduced those who have seen it to tears.

open image in gallery Graziano Di Prima has been dropped from Strictly Come Dancing ( BBC )

The former Love Island star had a tumultuous time on the series, regularly ending up in the dreaded dance-off until her elimination in week six of the competition.

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After one particularly stressful day of rehearsals, McDermott hit back at Di Prima when the latter shared a video of her napping, telling her followers she had done double the workload of her partner.

Graz just had the audacity to call me and tell me his legs hurt after rehearsals yesterday when he spent 50 per cent of the day sitting down and analysing me doing the routine on my own, McDermott wrote to her followers.

The BBC said it would take any issues that were raised seriously and promised swift action would be carried out if neccessary.

We can confirm that Graziano Di Prima is no longer a part of the line-up of professional dancers for the upcoming series of Strictly Come Dancing, a spokesperson said.

open image in gallery Zara McDermott and Graziano Di Prima on Strictly in 2023 ( BBC )

While we would never comment on individual cases, it is well-known that the BBC has established and robust duty of care procedures, and if issues are raised we will always take them seriously and act swiftly as appropriate.

In a photo caption that has now been deleted, Di Prima wrote: "I wish the Strictly family nothing but success in the future. I also want to thank everyone who has supported my career, both professionally and personally. When the time is right, I will share the story of [my] journey.

The Italian dancer joined Strictly in 2018 and was partnered with DJ Vick Hope. In 2021, he performed with comedian and Loose Women star Judi Love and, the following year, reached the quarter-finals with actor Kym Marsh.

open image in gallery Graziano Di Prima confirmed Strictly exit in now-deleted Instagram post ( Instagram )

Pernice was dropped from the series earlier this year months after actor Amanda Abbington left the show weeks into the latest series without thanking him in her goodbye message.

Shortly after, Abbington requested what was described by a source as tense footage of her rehearsals with Pernice for a supposed investigation. In a recent interview, the star launched a fresh attack on the Italian dancing pro, claiming he was awful towards a group of former contestants.

On Sunday (14 July), in a new interview, the Sherlock actor shed light on her horrible Strictly experience.

The next series of the show will start in September  and the latest contestant rumour is one that might leave long-time fans of the show feeling rather annoyed.
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A court in India has ordered the customs department to pay Rs1m (9,250) to a Chinese woman stuck in the country since being wrongly arrested in 2019.

Cong Ling, 38, a mother of two children, was arrested at the Mumbai airport in 2019 for allegedly smuggling gold worth 277,524 into the country.

She was acquitted in October 2023 but remained stuck in India after the customs department refused to give her a no-objection certificate while it challenged the lower courts ruling.

open image in gallery Representational. A Chinese woman was wrongly arrested for smuggling gold by Indian customs in 2019 ( AFP via Getty Images )

On Friday, the Bombay high court directed the customs department to issue a no-objection certificate so Ms Cong could obtain an exit permit to leave India within a week.

The court said the unnecessary victimisation and harassment" of Ms Cong would "reflect in bilateral relations between two countries.

It said the compensation amount shall be recovered from the salaries of the customs officials responsible, The Indian Express reported.

"This is nothing but victimising the petitioner without any reason," the court said.

The conduct of the customs officials was wrongful, vindictive, reprehensible and amounted to gross abuse of their powers, it added.

The ruling noted that the "state has an obligation to protect the liberty of such foreigners who come to this country and ensure that their liberty isnt deprived except in accordance with the procedure established by law".

"Notwithstanding the said guarantee under Article 21 of the constitution, in this case, the customs department acted in a most brazen and perfunctory manner."

Ms Cong said she took a flight to Delhi from Beijing on 12 December 2019 but the aircraft was forced to land in Mumbai due to bad weather in the capital.

She was intercepted by customs officials at the Mumbai airport who examined her baggage and allegedly found 10 bars of 24-carat gold. She was arrested shortly after on charges of smuggling.

She was acquitted of the charges by a magistrate court on 10 October 2023. The acquittal was later upheld by a sessions court.

But the customs department denied Ms Chongs application for an exit permit, forcing her to spend nearly five years in India away from her daughters.

In 2017, a former Chinese army surveyor was allowed to go home after being trapped in India for more than 50 years.

Wang Qi claimed he had accidentally crossed the border into India in 1963 and was unable to leave because he wasnt given the correct exit visa.
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Rose McGowan has shared a touching tribute to Shannen Doherty after she died of cancer at 53.

The fellow Charmed actor took to Instagram on July 14 to post an emotional video compilation, featuring photos and videos of Doherty over the years. In the caption, McGowan reflected on her years-long friendship with Doherty, describing her as a soft-hearted badass amid her battle with breast cancer.

Shannen Doherty had the heart of a lion. Passion for craft is often mislabeled as trouble. Shannen was passion, she began the post. I met her in the 90s and was awed. Getting to really know her later in life, a beautiful gift. This woman fought to live.

Shannen knew how to be a star because she was one since childhood. Her work ethic inspiring to the end. Shannens great love for directing, for acting, Holly, her friends, her parents, dog and her beloved fans was legendary, McGowan continued. Our lives had been intertwined in a unique way. We laughed at dark forces who wanted us to hate each other, instead we chose love and respect.

A soft-hearted badass as there ever was. A force of energy that will live forever in hearts. May angels and God carry her to the holy kingdom where she is healthy, young and wild forever, she concluded the post. Rest now warrior, we will never forget you dear sister.

Following her roles in the 1988 cult film Heathers and her four-season stint as Brenda Walsh in teen drama Beverly Hills, 90210, Doherty was cast in Charmed  a series about three sisters who are witches. Doherty played Prue Halliwell on the first three seasons of Charmed, from 1998 to 2001, opposite Alyssa Milano and Holly Marie Combs. She left the show after season three, resulting in her characters death, and was replaced by McGowan.

McGowan isnt the only Charmed star to pay tribute to Doherty after her death. Milano  whos been at the center of long-standing feud rumors with Doherty  issued a statement about her passing to the New York Post.

Its no secret that Shannen and I had a complicated relationship, but at its core was someone I deeply respected and was in awe of, Milano said about her Charmed co-star on Sunday. She was a talented actress, beloved by many and the world is less without her. My condolences to all who loved her.

open image in gallery Alyssa Milano, Shannen Doherty and Holly Marie Combs pose ahead of Charmed in 1999 ( Getty Images )

Following Dohertys departure from Charmed, it was reported that she left the series due to behind-the-scenes tensions with Milano. However, the cast remained tight-lipped about feud rumors until Doherty began speaking candidly about the subject on her podcast, Lets Be Clear.

In December 2023, Doherty said she felt Milano was competitive and accused her of creating a weird divide between her and Combs. Meanwhile, Combs claimed on the podcast that Milano had her co-star fired after issuing an ultimatum to producers. Milano later denied the claims earlier this year.

Speaking at MegaCon Orlando in February 2024, Doherty maintained that in light of her health issues, it was incredibly important to me that the truth actually be told as opposed to the narrative that others put out there for me.

Doherty died of breast cancer on Saturday, July 13, after being diagnosed with the disease in 2015. She went into remission in 2017, but confirmed in February 2020 that the cancer had returned to stage four. In June 2023, Doherty revealed her cancer had spread to her brain, just four months before telling fans it had also spread to her bones.

It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty, her publicist, Leslie Sloane, said in a statement to People on Sunday. The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace.
Multiple dead in southern Germany's shooting rampage

Berlin, July 14 (UNI) A shooting rampage in the town of Lautlingen, Germany's Baden-Wuerttemberg, has left several people dead and others injured, the Bild newspaper said on Sunday.

The suspect is reported to be a hunter, according to the newspaper.

No details concerning the incident have been given by the police. The motive for the shooting remains unclear.
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A Black nurse who tried to call out alleged racism at a scandal-hit regulator was targeted by a complaint, The Independent can reveal.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC), which regulates more than 800,000 nurses and midwives in the UK, was heavily criticised in a review that found it had a toxic and dysfunctional culture and had failed to address racism in its ranks.

The review, which was prompted by The Independents reports and was published this week, warned that the safety of the public as well as nursing and midwifery staff is at risk because of flawed and delayed investigations by the NMC.

It warned of widespread allegations of racism at the NMC, which senior leaders had failed to address. It also found that the body was mishandling racism complaints against nurses and midwives. Staff told reviewers that prejudice such as racism and misogyny was leading to flawed responses to complaints against nurses.

Now a Black nurse, Neomi Bennett, has revealed that she faced a complaint submitted by a senior NMC representative after she publicly called out alleged racism on the part of the regulator.

She told The Independent that being referred to her regulator for her comments while calling out racism felt like a betrayal and an abuse of power.

The Nursing and Midwifery Council has been criticised for mishandling racism complaints ( PA )

Ms Bennett runs an organisation called Equality 4 Black Nurses, which supports workers during NMC investigations and employment tribunals.

According to a ruling seen by The Independent, in March 2022 she was representing another nurse at a hearing, which she said ignored aspects of racism in their case.

She said at the end of the hearing: What a waste of time  theyre all racist. They never even mentioned the racism once.

The chair of the NMC panel, responsible for overseeing hearings and making decisions against nurses, subsequently referred Ms Bennett to the NMC because her comments were unnerving to him and entirely improper. Seven months later, the NMC cleared Ms Bennett of wrongdoing and said she was entitled to air her opinion.

Ms Bennett told The Independent: Being referred to the NMC by a chair of its independent panel felt like a profound betrayal. I had dedicated my life to nursing and supporting marginalised communities, yet I faced the same systemic racism I fought against.

That referral wasnt just a professional blow; it attacked my integrity and passion for equity. The fact that it was the chair who referred me was alarming  and, I feel, an abuse of his power to perpetuate racism against me.

The anxiety and frustration were overwhelming, but they also fuelled my resolve. I stood not only for myself but for thousands of Black, Asian, and ethnic minority colleagues who endured these injustices. That experience deepened my commitment to dismantling the structures that perpetuate such bias.

Through her work, Ms Bennett said she has witnessed the profound and deeply unsettling impact of the NMCs referral process on Black, Asian, and ethnic minority nurses.

She added: These nurses, dedicated to their profession and patients, are disproportionately scrutinised and unfairly disciplined. The systemic racism inherent in the process has led to career stagnation, severe mental health issues, and an overwhelming sense of injustice. The far-reaching implications of this affect not just individual lives but the integrity of the healthcare system.

Equality 4 Black Nurses and a second campaign group NMC Watch are set to host a protest outside the watchdogs buildings next week.

The NMC did not respond to questions on the appropriateness of the panel chairs referral, but said: We met with Ms Bennett at the time, to explain that a referral had been received and that we would be closing it swiftly without any further action.

We value the relationship we have with Equality 4 Black Nurses and the contribution they make to our work.
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The mother of Jay Slater has issued a new statement as it approaches one full month since the British teenager went missing in Tenerife, as a fresh team of volunteers insisted there is more we can do to find him.

The 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer from Lancashire had been at the NRG music festival on 16 June before going to an AirBnB in the village of Masca with two men. He left the following morning and appeared to start an 11-hour walk back to his apartment in the tourist area of Los Cristianos.

He was last seen by a cafe owner whose brother owns the cottage where his two new acquaintances were staying, who said the teenager had asked her about bus times before deciding not to wait two hours for a service.

She then saw him walk out of the village, and his phone was last detected at 8.50am in the Rural de Teno National Park. The teenager had earlier called friends to say he was lost, had injured his leg, and had 1 per cent battery left on his phone.

( PA )

With the official search for Mr Slater called off after 12 days, his family have criticised local police and residents for not doing more to help their son, as they continued to look for him themselves and with the assistance of volunteers.

In a statement issued on Sunday via the British overseas missing persons charity LBT Global, his mother Debbie Duncan criticised the awful comments and conspiracy theories on social media as vile and warned they were hindering efforts to find him.

Ms Duncan wrote: As we approach four weeks of our beautiful Jays disappearance, we cannot put into words the heartache we are suffering as a family.

Jay is a typical young man who loves life with a bright future ahead of him. This month will mark the end of his three year apprenticeship with the world at his feet. He is loved by everyone and has a close bond with his family and many many friends

We would also like to say that we are aware of the awful comments and conspiracy theories that are filling social media. These theories are hindering the people trying to help us in their investigations here in Tenerife and are vile to see as a family.

( Family Handout/LBT Global/PA Wire )

He is a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to so many. He is such a popular boy this and is very distressing for us all to read.

Aided by volunteers, the family have continued their search, with further support from TV investigator Mark Williams-Thomas, who also became involved in the high profile search for Nicola Bulley last year. A GoFundMe campaign set up to support the family in its efforts has raised more than 50,000.

Ms Duncan said peoples generosity in donating to the campaign had made it possible for volunteers to continue searching.

Netherlands-based non-profit Signi Zoekhonden has deployed a team of five people and four dogs to Tenerife on Sunday, a move which Ms Duncan said had taken a lot of planning.

Speaking as the team prepared to board a flight to Tenerife, volunteer Marieke Krans told the BBC: We are very committed to come and we are confident in the dogs and in ourselves.

Our dogs are trained to find people, both alive or dead, and have more skills. They can search underwater, and up mountains, whatever it may be. They are really creative and that means there is more we can do. We will go where the dogs lead us.
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Sir Keir Starmer has called on Europe to tackle vile trafficking gangs and do more to support Ukraine, warning we cannot be spectators in this chapter of history.

Ahead of his first major European summit as prime minister, Sir Keir promised to change the way the United Kingdom engages with Europe post-Brexit and Conservative rule.

Rishi Sunak had announced that the UK will host European Political Community summit at Blenheim Palace, Sir Winston Churchills former residence, with more than 45 leaders to attend on Thursday.

Migration, energy and defending and securing democracy high on the agenda, according to Number 10.

Blenheim Palace will host the fourth European Political Community Summit (Steve Parsons/PA) ( PA Archive )

In a statement as he prepares to host the summit, Sir Keir said Europe must do more and go further to address vile people-trafficking and Russias barbaric war.

He said: Europe is at the forefront of some of the greatest challenges of our time.

Russias barbaric war continues to reverberate across our continent, while vile smuggling gangs traffic innocent people on perilous journeys that too often end in tragedy.

We cannot be spectators in this chapter of history. We must do more and go further, not just for the courageous Ukrainians on the front lines, or those being trafficked from country to country, but so our future generations look back with pride at what our continent achieved together.

I said I would change the way the UK engages with our European partners, working collaboratively to drive forward progress on these generational challenges, and that work starts at the European Political Community meeting on Thursday.

Along with this weeks Nato summit, and the EPC gathering on July 18 provides an early opportunity for face-to-face talks on the future of the UKs relationship with its allies across the Channel.

Sir Keir Starmer meeting president of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelensky in Washington DC (Stefan Rousseau/PA) ( PA Wire )

Sir Keir said the flurry of pre-arranged diplomatic engagements meant that meetings which would normally take months to arrange could happen within the first fortnight of his premiership.

The Prime Minister wants an ambitious new UK-EU security pact to strengthen co-operation and seeks closer work on defence with key allies such as France and Germany.

In a sign of the importance placed on such efforts by the Labour administration, Sir Keir has given Nick Thomas-Symonds the newly created job of minister for European relations.

He is expected to meet French President Emmanual Macron, who pioneered the EPC event, for a bilateral dinner after the summit, and Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris beforehand for their first official inward visit.

It came after Sir Keir Starmer defended Joe Bidens leadership of the Nato summit despite the US President confusing Volodymyr Zelensky and Vladimir Putin.

The prime minister, who earlier insisted President Biden was not senile and was on good form, faced questions about the presidents mental ability just moments after the US leaders gaffe.

President Biden introduced Ukrainian president Mr Zelensky as president Putin at an event attended by Sir Keir at the Nato summit in Washington.
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The UK parliament and the US Congress are set to work more closely to combat threats to frontline politicians in the wake of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.

The Commons Speaker Lindsay Hoyle is to write to his American counterpart stressing the importance of sharing expertise on security measures, The Independent has learned.

It comes as the shooting at a campaign rally led to concerns about the safety of MPs and the risk of political violence in the UK.

A bloodied Mr Trump was rushed from the stage to a hospital after the attempt on his life and later said that a bullet had pierced his ear.

The gunman was killed at the scene.

Kim Leadbeater, the sister of murdered MP Jo Cox, said the attack on Mr Trump raised questions about what a civilised democracy looks like.

The Labour MP for Spen Valley told BBCs Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg: We are back again having that conversation about what democracy looks like, what our politics looks like. I sadly feel that we are not making a huge amount of progress in this country.

House of Commons leader Lucy Powell also said that there was a growing sense of ... hate and attacks towards UK politicians which was something that we need to take action on.

The governments adviser on political violence has also called on the home secretary to investigate a dark underbelly of abuse and intimidation of candidates during the general election.

John Woodcock, a former Labour MP, who now sits in the House of Lords as Baron Walney, also suggested there could have been a concerted campaign by extremists.

Just hours before the attempt on Mr Trumps life, the Commons speaker warned that the safety of MPs keeps him awake at night.

Sir Lindsay Hoyle said threats and intimidation towards parliamentarians were currently at such a level that he had never seen anything as bad.

The security of MPs was tightened after Sir David Amess was stabbed more than 20 times during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex nearly three years ago. He was the second MP murdered in recent years, after Ms Cox was killed in her constituency in 2016.

A spokesperson for the speaker said: Mr Speaker will be writing to the former president to express condolences.

They added that he would also be writing to the current US Speaker of the House  who is also a G7 counterpart  to reiterate the importance of sharing expertise regarding security measures for those in frontline politics.

Earlier Ms Coxs widower, Brendan Cox, called for a consensus against political violence in all forms.

Jo Coxs widower Brendan Cox called for a consensus against all political violence ( PA )

He criticised Mr Trumps own behaviour towards his political opponents, adding: But that doesnt justify using violence against him. It undermines democracy and makes more violence more likely.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign, said that politicians from all parties were increasingly at risk.

He told Sunday with Laura Kuenssberg that a narrative had built up around him which had led people to hate him.

I have lived with this for a very long time, he added. I think all MPs from all sides now are increasingly at risk. But I do think, I am sorry, but I do think mainstream media has a lot to do with this.

The Clacton MP said MPs now had to balance security with meeting voters and risks of violence might mean we finish up with our political leaders never meeting a voter, never meeting the public.
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Sir Keir Starmer has described Labours work as urgent as he tries to pack 35 new bills into the Kings Speech next week.

The new laws will hand greater powers to local leaders and to economic watchdog the Office for Budget Responsibility (OBR), with growth a key part of the prime ministers agenda, the government has said.

The prime minister described the measures, to be announced on Wednesday, as the down payment on the change his government is seeking to deliver.

The strengthening of the OBR, which was outlined in Labours manifesto, is designed to ensure that nobody can play fast and loose with the public finances ever again, Downing Street said.

Ahead of the speech, which will be delivered by the King as part of the state opening of parliament, Sir Keir said: Our work is urgent. There is no time to waste.

We are hitting the ground running by bringing forward the laws we will need to rebuild our country for the long term  and our ambitious, fully costed agenda is the down payment on that change.

From energy, to planning, to unbreakable fiscal rules, my government is serious about delivering the stability that is going to turbo-charge growth that will create wealth in every corner of the UK.

The task of national renewal will not be easy, and this is just the down payment on our plans for the next five years, but the legislation set out at the Kings Speech will build on the momentum of our first days in office and make a difference to the lives of working people.

The prime minister signalled that Whitehalls grip over big cities and regions would be loosened, as he used his first week in office to meet metro mayors and representatives from the devolved nations.

Meanwhile, legislation to enact policies such as Labours national wealth fund and a new mission control tasked with switching the UK to clean power by 2030 will also feature in the package.

Sir Keir has said such decisions are key to boosting growth, which he has made the central pillar of the changes he wants his new administration to deliver.

Measures to boost housebuilding and infrastructure, improve transport and create more jobs will also be included, No 10 said.

The Sunday Times has reported that the speech will include a law to create a national register of children going absent from school.

A duty on councils to keep the register is aimed at preventing these children from becoming a lost generation of pupils following the pandemic, the newspaper says.

Sir Keir would not be drawn into saying whether his plans to extend the voting franchise to 16- and 17-year-olds would be included in the speech, only telling reporters that everything will be focused on economic growth.

Starmer meets Joe Biden at the White House during a whirlwind first few days as prime minister ( PA Wire )

It came after Sir Keir defended Joe Biden earlier this week as Nato leaders gathered in Washington to discuss the challenges facing the bloc, saying the US president had been across all the detail.

Speaking before Mr Bidens latest slips, in which the US president introduced Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky as President Putin before later calling Kamala Harris Vice-President Trump, Sir Keir had told a US broadcaster that their one-to-one discussions had happened at pace and that Mr Biden had seemed on really good form.

We were billed for 45 minutes  we went on for the best part of an hour, Sir Keir said. He was absolutely across all the detail. We were going at pace through a number of issues. Asked whether the president was senile, Sir Keir told the BBC: No... hes shown incredible leadership.
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The governments adviser on political violence has called on the home secretary to investigate a dark underbelly of abuse and intimidation of candidates during the general election.

John Woodcock, a former Labour MP, who now sits in the House of Lords as Baron Walney, also suggested there could have been a concerted campaign by extremists.

He has urged Yvette Cooper to commission an inquiry.

His call comes just days after the Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle said: If there is something that keeps me awake at night, it is the safety of MPs.

Police secure the entrance for Labour Party leader Keir Starmer and wife Victoria to arrive at a polling station ( AP )

Two MPs have been murdered in the UK in the last eight years. The security of MPs was tightened after David Amess was stabbed more than 20 times during a constituency surgery in Leigh-on-Sea, Essex on 15 October 2021.

Ali Harbi Ali was later convicted of his murder. At the trial it emerged that he had also planned attacks on other MPs, including cabinet minister Michael Gove, who he believed posed a harm to Muslims.

Amesss murder was the second in recent years, after Jo Cox was killed in her constituency in 2016.

A number of MPs had to have police protection because of the threats they received during this election campaign.

Labour MPs Jess Phillips and Shabana Mahmood have highlighted the intimidation and threats they suffered, which they described as an assault on democracy.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage had a milkshake and other objects thrown at him while he was on the campaign trail.

And Reform UKs candidate for Truro and Falmouth, Steve Rubidge, suffered severe injuries during an alleged assault.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign ( PA )

In a letter reported by the BBC, Lord Walney said evidence pointed to a concerted campaign by extremists to create a hostile atmosphere for MPs within their constituencies to compel them to cave in to political demands.

He wrote: The conduct of the election campaign in many communities has underlined the gravity of the threat to our democracy.

Lord Walney added: I am increasingly concerned about the scale of intimidation against candidates in the general election.

I believe there is now a need for a focused piece of work on the scale and drivers of this intimidation so that it cannot continue to mar our democratic processes and put candidates at risk.

In response, a Home Office spokesperson said: Political intimidation and abuse should have no place in our society.

We take reports of intimidation, harassment and abuse extremely seriously and are following up with individual MPs and candidates.
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A father in Georgia is under arrest after shooting his son dead inside a bait shop, police said.

Wayne Eaton, 85, faces charges of malice murder and the possession of a firearm during the commission of a crime for the shooting of his son Troy Eaton, 60.

The shooting happened during a weekly fishing tournament in Covington, Georgia , according to Fox 5 .

Police responded to a property around 7 p.m. Friday after receiving a report of a person shot. When they arrived, they found Tory Eaton dead inside a bait shop.

Wayne Eaton, 85, faces a murder charge after police say he shot his son dead ( Newton County Sheriff's Office )

The shooting happened at a property known as the Lakeview Drive Tournament Lakes, which includes two large ponds, according to WSB-TV . People pay a fee to participate in fishing competitions at the ponds.

Family members said a dozen fishermen were inside the bait shop when Wayne came out of his home, walked to the shop and shot his son inside.

This has affected more than just us. This has affected everyone around here, Troys grandson, Ethan Sanders, told WSB-TV.

Police have not released a motive for the shooting.

Troy Eaton, 60, was set to get married next month, his family said ( Covington police )

Family members, including the victims daughter Heather, told Fox 5 they were having a hard time processing what happened. But she said her dad loved to fish and participate in the tournaments.

"He had been doing that since before I was born, being able to hunt and fish whenever he wanted to," Heather recalled. "That was the main thing he did, he enjoyed doing [it] on the weekends."

Troy was also set to get married next month, Heather said.

"He would do anything for anybody. He wasnt a rich man, but if anyone needed anything from him, he would do what he could to help them out," she said.
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Sandra Sandy Hemme was sitting in a psychiatric hospital the night of her arrest.

It was one in a string of hospitalizations that began when she started hearing voices aged 12. A year later, she tried to kill herself by overdosing on cocaine, court records show.

Heavily sedated with her eyes rolling to the back of her head, the Missouri resident gave monosyllabic responses to police officers questions, until finally, Hemme confessed to being a murderer. She was later sentenced to life in prison.

But earlier this week, more than 43-years later, that conviction was overturned. She has served more time than any other wrongly incarcerated American woman, according to her legal team at the Innocence Project.

Sandra Hemme was just 20 years old when she was convicted of murder ( Innocence Project )

Patricia Jeschke, a 31-year-old librarian, went missing on November 13, 1980.

Her mother climbed through the window of her apartment to find her bound, nude corpse lying in a pool of blood. She had a pair of pantyhose and a telephone cord wrapped around her neck, while a knife lay behind her head.

Hemme was linked to the murder two weeks later when she arrived at the home of her former nurse wielding a knife. Initially refusing to leave, she was later returned to St Josephs State Hospital, where she was interrogated about Jeschkes killing  it had happened close by and also involved a knife  and confessed.

Hemme pleaded guilty to murder to avoid the death penalty in April 1981.

Well, I killed Pat, you know, the then 21-year-old told the court. I stabbed her in the head and I choked her, you know, and I hit her a couple of times in the head. I dont know why.

On June 5, 1985, she was sentenced to life imprisonment in a one-day trial lasting just three and a-half hours, featuring no major evidence bar a confession.

Evidence ommitted

Now, her attorneys have established clear and convincing evidence of actual innocence, a judge ruled.

Hemme had been discharged from hospital and hitchhiked out of town on the day Jeschke was last seen alive. That evening, she was reportedly at her parents home, more than 100 miles to the east of the slain womans apartment.

An extensive review found that Hemme was in a malleable mental state when she was probed by investigators before her confession more than four decades ago.

The psychiatric hospital treated her with antipsychotic drugs that triggered involuntary muscle spasms, and detectives said she appeared mentally confused, her attorneys argued.

Her lawyers claimed that she was unable to hold her head up straight.

The prosecutors main thread of evidence was Hemme admitting to the murder, her lawyers said. The lawyers believe that her confession was false.

Forensic psychiatrist Judith Edersheim recently determined that Hemmes underlying psychological vulnerabilities increased the likelihood that she falsely incriminated herself.

Hemme, now 64, was unable to hold her head up when she was intrviewed by detectives, her lawyers claim ( AP )

Police also allegedly omitted a vital piece of evidence: a fellow oficer was also a suspect.

Discredited St Joseph police officer Michael Holmans pick-up truck was seen outside Jeschkes apartment.

Holman also allegedly tried to use her credit card to steal more than $600, while her earrings were found in his home.

FBI informed local police in 1981 that clearly and completely recorded prints of Holman were needed to rule him out as a source, as palm prints were found on a TV antenna cable in Jeschkes apartment, records show.

Hemmes lawyers say that police sent off Holmans prints for analysis.

A hair found on the victims bed sheet had microscopic characteristics similar to Holmans head hair samples and he could not be eliminated as the source, according to an FBI report.

Before Hoklman died in 2015, he denied killing Jeschke.

Draconian outcome

Jurors in Hemmes trial never heard these details  along with others  because police never shared them with prosecutors, the judge found.

Last month, Missouri Judge Ryan Horsman found the 64-year-old innocent and declared officials at the time forced her to make false statements.

This Court finds that the evidence shows that Ms. Hemmes statements to police are so unreliable and that the evidence pointing to Michael Holman as the perpetrator of the crime [is] so objective and probative that no reasonable juror would find Ms. Hemme guilty, Horsman concluded.

The wrongfully accused woman must be freed within 30 days unless prosecutors decide to retry her. That 30 days ends this Sunday, but local politicians are trying to ensure she is kept in prison.

Republican Attorney General Andrew Bailey is trying to keep Hemme behind bars as the case is reviewed. His office is also arguing that a decades-old sentence for prison violence should start being served now  and theyre taking the case to the state supreme court.

Hemmes lawyers said that any further time served would be a draconian outcome.
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An Oregon anesthesiologist has been suspended after he may have exposed patients at Portland-area hospitals to infectious diseases.

Over 2,000 patients at Providence Portland Willamette Falls Medical Center and Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, in the Portland area, have been informed they may have been exposed to HIV and Hepatitis, according to KGW8.

Legacy Health, a hospital operator that had some of its facilities impacted, announced it would be sending letters to 221 patients it thought had been impacted, the outlet reported.

The infection control breach came from a third-party anesthesiologist who had been contracted through the Oregon Anesthesiology Group. The doctor had been providing care at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center for a six-month period.

He started the role in December 2023, the outlet reported.

Upon learning of this situation, we immediately suspended the provider and launched a comprehensive investigation in accordance with regulations and with our policies and procedures, Legacy Health said in a statement.

According to the outlet, Providence said that 2,200 patients at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center and two at its Portland Medical Center facility were being notified of the breach.

The organization also told KGW8 the outbreak had to do with one medical professional, who is no longer employed by the anesthesiology group. Legacy switched to another provider which caused hundreds of surgeries to be delayed, KGW8 reported.

An Oregon anesthesiologist has been suspended after he may have exposed patients at Portland-area hospitals to infectious diseases (Alamy/PA) ( Alamy/PA )

Neither of the organizations provided details on how patients may have been directly exposed to the diseases. However, Providence said their patients were put at a low risk of exposure to hepatitis B and C and HIV.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are encouraging these patients to get a blood test to screen for the aforementioned infections, at no cost. If a patient tests positive, Providence will reach out to discuss their test results and next steps, the company said.

Patient safety is our number one priority and our patients have our full commitment to a thorough review of this issue and appropriate action.

In a statement, Oregon Anesthesiology Group, the company that employed the anesthesiologist in question, said:

The safety of our patients is our top priority. When we learned that the physician had violated infection control practices, we suspended him, informed our partners Legacy Health and Providence and then began an investigation that resulted in the physicians termination.

Even though the risk of infection was low, new protocols and procedures have been put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Oregon Health Authority said it did not know of any illnesses related to the potential breach.

The physician at the center of the scandal allegedly used unacceptable infection control practices, which put patients at risk of infections, a statement released by the agency said.

While news of this infection control breach at Legacy Mt Hood Medical Center and Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center may be distressing for some people, its important to know that Oregons health care providers employ highly qualified and skilled infection preventionists and laboratory staff who lead the charge to prevent health care-associated infections.
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Supporters of Former President Donald J Trump held a vigil outside his Mar-a-Lago home hours after he survived an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

Were really shocked, just shocked, Debbie Macchia, a Boynton Beach resident told the Palm Beach Daily News, adding she wants to know who ordered the attack.

Theres no question it was a sniper, she told the outlet. This wasnt just someone that was just Looney Tunes.

A bullet from a rifle hit Trumps right ear moments after he took the stage. It was centimeters away from striking his head. When the bullet struck, Trump winced, touched his ear, saw blood and dropped to his knees before several Secret Service members threw themselves on top of him.

The 20-year-old shooter, Thomas Crooks, who managed to strike Trump with a rifle from a nearby roof, was quickly neutralized by security personnel. Shortly after Secret Service jumped onto the stage, one member could be heard saying shooters down, which was caught by the mic Trump had been speaking into.

Once given the all clear, Trump was escorted by the service members to a nearby SUV and shuttled away from the event.

Trump supporters gather outside Mar-a-Lago hours after the former president was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania ( Getty Images )

Hours after the shooting, dozens of Trump supporters stopped by his Florida Mar-a-Lago compound in a show of solidarity with the former president. So many people packed the area that street parking became very limited.

Yeimmi Santa Cruz, a West Palm Beach resident, came to Mar-a-Lago to support the best president weve ever had, she told the Daily News. The woman hugged another Trump supporter who began to cry after watching footage of the president being shot.

Some people joined hands in prayer, asking for Trumps swift recovery. The former president sought medical attention at a local medical facility after he was wounded in the attack.

I just thought it was crazy. I dont- you dont want him to get assassinated. I just want a fair race and so I was like wow, thats tough. But hes OK, thats all that matters, Charlie, a West Palm Beach resident, told CBS 12.

Some people joined hands in prayer, asking for Trumps swift recovery and plenty of Trump 2024 was on display ( Getty Images )

Other supporters brought US flags and flags with slogans of Trumps 2024 campaign.

Several individuals were dressed in red, white and blue clothing. A motorcycle group who stopped by Trumps residence had on vests reading Born to Ride for 45 Donald J Trump.

The same moment he got shot, the Secret Service jumped on top of him. He went up with the fist up saying fight, fight, fight, Joaquin Gutierrez, a West Palm Beach resident, told CBS 12.

Honestly, I wasnt surprised. Everything that they have done to him with the cases, the indictments, its all political. Its so political. So this, to be honest, I was expecting, Alex Gonzalez told the outlet.
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Sleepy Joe Biden gave the Democratic Party a wake-up call on June 27. And concerns about the incumbent presidents age and mental fitness have not gone away.

Last months first presidential debate in Atlanta, Georgia, was the presidents shot to bat away questions about whether he can effectively serve a second term, one that would end with him leaving the Oval Office for the final time aged 86.

Instead, apparently battling a cold, Biden appeared frail, raspy and hoarse onstage, forgetting his words at times and at other points seemingly losing track of his point altogether.

Democratic sources who spoke to The Independent and a wide range of other media outlets immediately after the debate were in panic mode, with some openly fretting about whether it was possible for their party to do the unthinkable: replace a sitting, incumbent president on the ticket after he breezed through primary season virtually uncontested.

Five days later, the first sitting Democratic lawmaker came out with a public call for Biden to drop out fo the race.

Many more have since followed, with influential California Congressman Adam Schiff the most prominent to do so publicly, although former House speaker Nancy Pelosi and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer have reportedly told the president in private that they believe it is time to go.

Biden has insisted in post-debate interviews that only the Lord Almighty could persuade him to step away, his obstinate stance tempered only slightly by subsequent suggestions that convincing polling or a doctor diagnosing him with a medical condition could change his mind. On July 18, reports emerged that Biden  recently diagnosed with Covid  had privately become more receptive to talk of another Democrat at the top of the ticket, and could reach that conclusion as soon as this weekend.

So is it even possible for Biden to drop out of the running and make way for a younger success to take on Donald Trump?

The short answer is yes, it is possible. But it would be messy.

Thats because Biden is not technically the Democratic Partys nominee for president. Not yet.

The Democratic National Committee (DNC) is set to hold its nominating convention from August 19 to 22, when thousands of delegates, elected officials, union leaders, activists, party bigwigs, lobbyists and others will descend on Chicago for a four-day summit at which Biden (or somebody else) will officially be nominated.

The president (or his replacement) will then accept the nomination and deliver a keynote speech on the final night of the convention.

The first 2024 presidential debate between Joe Biden and Donald Trump ( Getty )

Heres the catch: the outcome of that nominating process is already Bidens unless he refuses it.

The president won all 50 states and all US territories in the Democratic Party primaries this spring, netting him all but a few of the delegates whose votes are needed to secure the nomination.

Theyre bound to vote for him on the first ballot in the nominating process  the same round in which unbound superdelegates, who can cast their votes as they please, are prohibited from participating.

So, unless Biden himself drops out, the incumbent president will very much be his partys nominee come August.

If he does exit the race, however, that would lead to the prospect of an open convention  all those delegates bound to vote for Biden would spend the weeks leading up to the convention being courted by whichever Democrats jumped into the race to replace the president on the party ticket.

Voters, who actually participated in the primary process this year, would have no say at all  the outcome would be decided in a series of ballots at the August convention, with each candidate working to consolidate the required total.

If that happens, there are a few prominent members of the presidents party who could throw their hats in the ring:

Kamala Harris

The most likely replacement for Biden is his deputy, Vice-President Kamala Harris, whose constitutional duties include stepping in if the president is unable to continue serving in office.

Vice-President Kamala Harris would be the obvious person to step in to fill Bidens shoes given her constitutional duties  but her run for the nomination in 2020 was notably unsuccessful ( AP )

Shes only one out of two of the likely suspects who has actually run a presidential campaign (albeit an unsuccessful one) and has the most national name recognition of any Democrat who could convincingly join the presidential race.

However, the former California attorney general and US senator does not enjoy widespread public support and is something of a hate figure for the right, who have long alleged that Biden is only a Trojan horse candidate being used to win back the White House before stepping down to allow her to take over.

That conspiracy theory was directly referred to in one of Trumps most recent attack videos, in which she was referred to as Cackling Kamala.

Pete Buttigieg

Bidens transport secretary, Buttigieg is another former 2020 contender (along with Harris) who could make a bid for the White House if Biden were to bow out.

Pete Buttigieg ran for the Democratic nomination in 2020 and has served as transportation secretary since Biden took office ( AP )

The former mayor of South Bend, Indiana, is naturally charismatic and has military service on his resume, which would put him apart from his fellows, not least Trump, recipient of no fewer than five draft deferrals to excuse him from participating in the Vietnam War during his youth.

However, as transport secretary, Buttigieg has often been the administrations fall guy, left holding the bag when air-traffic control disasters, major train derailments or bridge collapses take place, undoing a lot of the good work he does in taking the fight to conservative media, appearing semi-regularly on Fox News to offer vigorous counter-arguments.

Gretchen Whitmer

The Michigan governor is widely popular in her state and is seen as one of the leaders of the moderate wing of the Democratic Party in the post-Biden era.

Gretchen Whitmer is seen as one of the leaders of the moderate wing of the Democratic Party ( AP )

She won re-election in 2022 by a wide margin buoyed by support for reproductive rights and her management of the Covid pandemic, turning a purple state blue with relative ease.

Not everyone relished her tough leadership in lockdown, though, and she remains best known nationally for a Michigan militia groups plot to kidnap her, which was fortunately foiled by undercover FBI agents.

Whitmer has come out as a strong Biden supporter since the debate and has rejected any suggestion she might be interested in challenging Trump in his stead.

Gavin Newsom

One of the most obvious choices to succeed Biden as a nominee is the California governor, whose personal wealth and prolific fundraising abilities would make him a fearsome adversary on the money front.

Gavin Newsom has pledged to finish his second term as governor of California ( AP )

Newsom is in the middle of a second term as governor of his state  therein lies a problem, however, as he pledged during his 2022 re-election campaign that he would serve a full four years in office if sent back to the office.

Like Buttigieg, he has won plaudits for arguing the Democratic point-of-view on Fox and memorably went head-to-head with his Florida counterpart Ron DeSantis  who he has trolled with a series of adverts  in a televised debate last year.

Newsom has been an enthusiastic cheerleader for Biden, including in the immediate aftermath of the Atlanta debacle.

Wes Moore

The first-term Maryland governor would be a long shot for the nomination against others with more national recognition but he makes up for his relative political obscurity with an unmistakable talent for being in front of the cameras and a positive track record in his short time in office.

Wes Moore gained some national profile during his response to the collapse of the Francis Scott Key bridge in his home state of Maryland ( AP )

He has secured the future of the Baltimore Orioles in the state and has also been the public face of Marylands rebuilding efforts following a disaster that destroyed the Francis Scott Key Bridge, an iconic Baltimore landmark and essential part of the citys port infrastructure.

Moore graduated from Johns Hopkins University, and, like Buttigieg, is both a former Rhodes Scholar at Oxford and a military veteran.

He is also the author of five books, one of which is a young adult novel.

JB Pritzker

The Illinois governor has been in office since 2019. A member of the wealthy Pritzker family, which owns the hotel chain Hyatt, the attorney and businessman has long been a financial benefactor of the Democrats.

He won a packed primary in 2018 to become the Democratic nominee and he was re-elected in 2022.

JB Pritzker won a crowded 2018 primary to become the Democratic nominee for Illinois governor ( Getty )

His early political career included stints on congressional legislative staffs in the 1980s and founding an organization focused on attracting younger voters to the party.

Chairing the Illinois Human Rights Commission from 2003 to 2006, he went on to serve as a national co-chairman of Hillary Clintons 2008 presidential campaign and was a delegate to the 2008 and 2016 Democratic conventions.

In a 1998 Democratic primary for the 9th congressional district in Illinois, he finished third in a field of five candidates.
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Senior Democrats both past and present have sent their thoughts and prayers to Donald Trump after the attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night.

Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama were among those denouncing political violence after 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at the rally, grazing Trump with a bullet just minutes into his speech.

Trump dropped behind the podium and clutched his bloody head before being swarmed by Secret Service and escorted off the stage. Crooks was killed by Secret Service just after the attack, which left a spectator dead and two others injured.

Pennsylvania Democratic Senator Bob Casey said that violence was never acceptable and urged those on the ground at the rally to listen to law enforcement.

I am monitoring the situation at President Trumps rally in Butler and Ive reached out to the State Police to offer support, he wrote on X. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement.

Vice President Kamala Harris quickly released a statement that she  along with President Joe Biden  had been briefed on the shooting, describing the incident as an abhorrent act.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured, she said.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X: I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.

House Minority leader Jeffries echoed Schumers sentiments, writing: My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, he wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Obama said that the shocking incident should be a moment for people to recommit ourselves to civility and wished the former president a quick recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Pelosi said she knows firsthand the horrors of political violence after her husband, Paul Pelosi, was attacked with a hammer at their San Francisco home just days before the 2022 midterm elections.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, she wrote. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Trump was rushed to the floor by secret service agents and was later seen with blood trickling down his face ( Getty Images )

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a well-known face in the Democratic party, wrote: Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg called it a horrible moment.

An entire nation must speak with one voice today to completely and unequivocally reject all political violence, he said.

Political violence is absolutely unacceptable, added Senator Bernie Sanders. I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.

( AP )

Meanwhile, Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator for Connecticut, wrote: There is no room in America for political violence. We should all condemn what happened today and I am hoping for the health of the former president and everyone else at the rally.

As well as Democrats, Trumps other political rival Robert F Kennedy Jr  who is running for president as an independent candidate  also called for US citizens to renounce all violence.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, he wrote.

Kennedys father, the US attorney general and senator Robert F Kennedy was assasinated in June 1968, when he was running for the Democratic presidential nomination.

His uncle, former president John F Kennedy, was also assassinated in 1963.
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Elon Musk has publicly endorsed Donald Trump for the first time in the 2024 presidential race, just moments after the former president was targeted in an assassination attempt on Saturday.

Musk, the worlds richest person, posted the endorsement on his platform X alongside video of Trump with blood on his face and pumping his fist in the air moments after a gunman opened fire at his rally in Pennsylvania.

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery, Musk posted on his social media platform X.

The martyr lived, he wrote in a later post, citing a reported debate between conservative venture capitalist Peter Thiel and LinkedIn co-founder and Democratic megadonor Reid Hoffman.

Trump was 15 minutes into giving a speech at a rally in Butler when shots rang out and the former president was seen clutching his ear, before ducking below the podium.

He was then covered by Secret Service agents, before appearing from the huddle to raise his fist at his supporters as he was rushed off the stage to hospital.

He has since returned home to New Jersey and is said to be doing well.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

One rallygoer was killed in the shooting and two others are in critical condition in hospital.

The gunman was shot and killed on the scene by authorities.

The FBI later identified the suspect as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania native who was a registered Republican.

The suspect was reportedly seen bear crawling on the roof of a building less than 500 feet from the stage, according to eyewitnesses, who said they pointed him out to security.

An investigation has now been launched into how the shooter got so close to the stage, with House Republicans demanding answers from Secret Service.

Elon Musk said he fully endorses Donald Trump after the Republican presidential candidate was rushed bleeding from the stage of a rally in Pennsylvania ( REUTERS )

The former US president was helped off stage after he was targeted at a rally in Pennsylvania (Gene J Puskar/AP) ( AP )

Musk also weighed in on the matter, responding to a post on X in which he called for the Secret Service boss to be fired.

Extreme incompetence or it was deliberate, he said. Either way, the SS [Secret Service] leadership must resign.

Trump had earlier thanked the police and Secret Service, which gives lifetime protection to former presidents, after the attack.

Musk also later posted a photograph of Trump at the event, followed by: Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.

Musk, who has been ramping up criticism of President Joe Biden in recent months, has previously donated to a political group working to elect Trump, Bloomberg reported on Friday, citing sources.

The South African-born businessmans sway stands to benefit Trump, since Musk has one of the largest footprints on X with 189.5 million followers, meaning his posts can instantaneously spread widely.

Musk has said he previously voted for Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton as well as Biden.

However, in the last few years, Musk has espoused right-wing views, becoming a fierce critic of diversity initiatives, Bidens immigration policies and complaining that Democrats had given a very cold shoulder to Tesla and his rocket company SpaceX.
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Melania Trump has broken her silence over the assassination attempt on her husband Donald Trump, making an impassioned plea for Americans to come together as one.

When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change, the former first lady wrote in a statement shared on X on Sunday.

I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband, she said in a statement.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Melania went on to call for unity across the country in the wake of the shooting at Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday  a shooting that he survived but which left one spectator dead and two others critically injured.

I am thinking of you, now, my fellow Americans. We have always been a unique union. America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one, she wrote.

A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion - his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration, she continued.

The core facets of my husbands life - his human side - were buried below the political machine.

The former first lady described her husband as a generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times.

The suspected shooter, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire jsut after 6pm from the rooftop of a nearby building, just outside the parameters of the rally.

Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage ( AFP via Getty Images )

Trump was around 15 minutes into his speech when a rapid succession of shots ripped through the venue.

Trump ducked to the ground behind his podium. Secret Service rushed onto the stage, grabbed the former president by the arms, and helped him up to standing position.

He threw his fist in the air while blood dripped across his face from his ear. Agents then led him to safety offstage and rushed him away in his motorcade.

The presumptive GOP nominee later said a bullet struck his ear and thanked God for preventing the unthinkable from happening.

One spectator was killed in the incident and two others were critically injured, authorities said.

The gunman was fatally shot by Secret Service agents on the scene.

In her statement, Melania expressed her sympathies to the families of the victims killed and injured in the shooting.

To the families of the innocent victims who are now suffering from this heinous act, I humbly offer my sincerest sympathy, she wrote.

Melania thanked Americans of all political stripes for voicing their support for her husband and her family in the wake of the incident.

For those of you who cry in support, I thank you, she said.

Republican presidential candidate, former US President Donald Trump and former first lady Melania Trump arrive at the home of billionaire investor John Paulson on April 6, 2024 in Palm Beach, Florida ( Getty Images )

I commend those of you who have reached out beyond the political divide - thank you for remembering that every single politician is a man or a woman with a loving family.

The former first lady has been largely absent from her husbands campaign trail as he tries to take back the White House in November.

Last month, she recently hosted a swanky fundraiser in Manhattan for Log Cabin Republicans.

Her heartfelt statement comes after months of mounting speculation that the former first couple could be heading for divorce. The former model has shied away from the public eye  especially after her husband left the White House.

She also did not show up at the former presidents criminal hush money trial in Manhattan in May. The presumptive GOP nominee admitted at the time: Its very hard for her.

Its not immediately clear if Melania attended the Butler rally. The Independent has emailed a Trump campaign spokesperson for more information.
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Fraternity brothers at the University of North Carolina who held up an American flag during a Gaza solidarity demonstration in the spring will speak at the RNC, according to Donald Trumps campaign.

A group of students and fraternity brothers at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill patriotically protected an American flag that had been disturbed by demonstrators during an anti-Israel protest on their campus, the Trump campaign said on July 12.

The students gained national attention as videos of the protest showed them standing strong to protect the American flag, even as protestors antagonized them, according the campaign continued.

The campaign did not name specific fraternities or their members.

The fraternity members are among a group of everyday Americans who were given a speaking role at the convention, which starts Monday in Milwaukee.

Frat brothers who held up the flag at UNC Chapel Hill amid Gaza solidarity protests are going to speak at the RNC ( CBS 17/screengrab )

The four-day RNC gathering will include two dozen everyday American speakers. The campaign said the RNC will provide a platform and voice for the workers, veterans, and families left behind in Joe Bidens America.

The fraternity brothers made national headlines on April 30 for holding up the American flag on a flagpole after protesters tried to remove it.

Demonstrators had already taken down the flag once and successfully replaced it with a Palestinian flag, photos and videos of the event reveal. Chants of USA! then overwhelmed the crowd.

The interim chancellor announced that the American flag will stand here as long as Im chancellor.

Police arrested more than 30 protesters at UNC-Chapel Hill that day.

The school was one of dozens of colleges across the country that held student-led demonstrations over the ongoing war in the Middle East.
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The gunman who carried out an attempted assassination on Donald Trump at a rally has been identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

The 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, opened fire with a semi-automatic AR-15 rifle while the former president was speaking on stage in the rural town of Butler on July 13.

Multiple shots were fired toward the stage and Trump was quickly surrounded and rushed to safety by his Secret Service detail, with blood streaming from his ear down his cheek.

Trump confirmed that one of the bullets had struck him in the right ear. A Secret Service sniper shot dead the gunman at the scene.

Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old volunteer fire chief, died in the shooting while trying to protect his family at the rally.

Shooter Thomas Crooks is pictured in a yearbook photo ( AP )

The FBI said they were investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism, but the ideological motive of the man shot dead by the Secret Service remains unknown.

Law enforcement officials said that they were using the shooters DNA for biometric confirmation as he was carrying no identification at the time of the attack.

Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks?

Crooks lived in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, located around 35 miles south of where Trump was holding his rally in Butler County.

Local media reported that Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022 and received a $500 star award that year from the National Math and Science Initiative.

Jason Kohler, who said he attended the same high school but did not share any classes with Crooks, said Crooks was bullied at school and sat alone at lunchtime.

Other students mocked him for the way he dressed, such as hunting outfits, Kohler said. He was bullied almost every day, Kohler told reporters. He was just a outcast, and you know how kids are nowadays.

Crooks never outwardly spoke about his political views or how much he hated Trump or anything, Sarah DAngelo, who attended Bethel Park High School alongside Crooks, told The Wall Street Journal. She said Crooks enjoyed playing video games, and was known to have a few friends, but lacked a whole friend group.

Another former classmate, Zach Bradford, told The New York Times that Crooks was incredibly intelligent, and that his politics were slightly right leaning.

I would have pegged him as a Republican, a third classmate told the New York Post.

Crooks was indeed registered to vote as a Republican, according to Pennsylvanias voter database that matched his name, age, and address to public records.

However, federal campaign finance reports show that he had made a $15 contribution to a Democratic-aligned political action committee called Progressive Turnout Project on 20 January 2021, CNN reported.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler ( AP )

He tried out for the schools rifle team but was turned away because he was a bad shooter, according to Frederick Mach, the current captain of the team.

Suspect used roof as snipers nest

Law enforcement officials said that Crooks fired from the elevated roof of a shed outside of the security perimeter on Saturday, around 500ft from where Trump was speaking.

The FBI believes Crooks, who had bomb-making materials in the car he drove to the rally, acted alone. Investigators have found no threatening comments on social media accounts or ideological positions that could help explain what led him to target Trump.

A local police officer encountered Crooks before he fired toward Mr Trump. Not long before shots rang out, rallygoers noticed a man climbing to the top of a roof of a nearby building and warned local law enforcement, according to two law enforcement officials.

One officer climbed to the roof and encountered Crooks, who pointed his rifle at the officer. The officer retreated down the ladder and Crooks quickly took a shot toward Trump, and thats when the Secret Service counter snipers shot him, said the officials who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

He used an AR-15-type, semi-automatic rifle in the attack, according to law enforcement. On Sunday, multiple law enforcement sources told ABC News that the AR-15 found next to Crookss body had been purchased legally by his father, Mattew.

Family shocked at Crookss involvement

The father told CNN that he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on when reached for comment after the shooting. He said that he would wait until I talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son.

Reached by phone, Crookss uncle, Mark Crooks, told The Independent that he had no idea what might have spurred his nephew to take aim at the former president.

I dont know what to say, he conceded. The uncle said he hadnt had any contact with Crooks in years, despite living just 20 miles away.

I havent seen the kid since he was little, Mark Crooks said. He never wanted to bother [maintaining a relationship with me and my wife], so we dont see him.

Asked if it was a shock to find out his nephew had made an attempt on Trumps life, he replied, What do you think? Of course it was.

Crookss motive for the attack remains unknown but it is being treated as an assassination attempt.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online, the FBI said in a statement.

A former high school classmate of Crooks said he had not expressed any deeply-held political leanings during the time she knew him.

He never outwardly spoke about his political views or how much he hated Trump or anything, Sarah DAngelo told The Wall Street Journal.

A witness, identified only as Greg, said that he tried to alert Secret Service agents to a rifle-wielding man he spotted bear crawling onto the roof of a nearby building before gunshots rang through the crowd.

Were pointing at the guy crawling up the roof. We could clearly see him with a rifle, he told the BBC.

Trump rally shooting witness claims he saw rifle-toting man crawling up the roof just before gunfire

Im standing there pointing at him for two to three minutes. Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn, Im pointing at the roof... and next thing you know, five shots rang out, he added.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said they were still reviewing the security detail that the Secret Service had in place and confirmed that officials only discovered Crooks was on the roof when he began firing, raising questions about security lapses.

Were still working through the security apparatus that the Secret Service had in place, what potentially happened, Mr Rojek said.

Theres going to be a long investigation into exactly what took place and how the individual was able to get access to the location, what type of weapon he had. All that is really days, weeks, and months of investigation.

In remarks from Delaware following the shooting on Saturday, president Joe Biden said that theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick.

Donald Trumps reaction to attempted assassination

Meanwhile, Trump said he was saved from death because he turned from the crowd to look at a screen displaying a chart he was referring to in his speech.

That reality is just setting in, he told The Washington Examiner. I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we?

He also says he has rewritten the speech he was set to deliver at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Thursday.

This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together. The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago, he said.

Trumps October return to finish rally in Butler

Months after the assassination attempt, on October 5, Trump plans to return to the Butler venue. He had long vowed to return to the scene of the harrowing incident.

Days before his return, Trump called the venue the safest place on Earth, perhaps alluding to the security enhancements that have been put in place. Secret Service came under intense scrutiny in the weeks that followed the shooting, prompting the head of the agency to resign. The agency has said it has increased its security presence around Trump since July 13 so he has the highest level of security that it provides.

To address issues experienced in July, for the October rally, the Secret Service will work out of a unified command post with state, local and federal partners, will have drones monitoring the area, and secured some of the sight lines, a source in law enforcement familiar with the plan told The Independent. There will be a large coordinated presence of law enforcement, the source added.

Trump will speak behind ballistic glass, as he has been doing in the months since the attack.

Victims of the tragedy are expected to be honored at the October 5 rally.

After surviving two assassination attempts  another occurred on September 15 at his West Palm Beach golf course  Trump suggested that he would pick up just where he left off on July 13, quipping at an Erie, Pennsylvania rally: I think Ill start the speech by saying, As I was saying.
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Former classmates of the 20-year-old gunman authorities identified as the would-be assassin who fired several rounds at former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday remembered him as a somewhat unremarkable teen who enjoyed video games and didnt make much noise about politics.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, who lived with his parents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park before he was shot dead by Secret Service snipers following his attempt on Trumps life, never outwardly spoke about his political views or how much he hated Trump or anything, Sarah DAngelo, who attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks, told The Wall Street Journal . She said Crooks had a few friends, but not a whole friend group, and recalled Crooks penchant for playing games on his laptop in homeroom.

Two former classmates told The New York Times that they hadnt noticed any obvious red flags that might have foretold future violence, with one telling the outlet he was stunned to hear authorities had named Crooks as the shooter.

Crooks was incredibly intelligent, Zach Bradford, who was in American history and government classes with him, told the Times. His politics were slightly right leaning, according to Bradford.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) ( AP )

Bradford said some of Crooks fellow students gave him the occasional ribbing, and another said he didnt seem, like, really weird or anything.

I would have pegged him as a Republican, a third former classmate told the New York Post .

Conversely, Jason Kolher, another Bethel Park HS graduate told KDKA that Crooks often wore hunting-style clothes to school and was bullied nonstop.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Speaking to reporters Sunday on a telephone press briefing, FBI officials said they believe Crooks acted alone and that there was no indication that he was part of a larger conspiracy. The bureau, which said it is investigating the shooting as possible domestic terrorism, has not discovered any evidence that Crooks had mental health issues. He had never previously been under FBI investigation, and there are currently no public safety concerns at present, Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek, said.

Investigators discovered a rudimentary explosive device in Crooks car, according to the FBI, and said it had been sent to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia, along with Crooks cellphone and the AR-15 assault-style rifle found next to his body after Secret Service snipers shot him dead.

Jason Kolher, a classmate of Thomas Matthew Crooks, talks to the media in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. ( REUTERS )

An unnamed federal law enforcement official told the Times that agents are seeking a warrant to search Crooks phone, which they hope will shed light on further clues, such as a possible motive. The official said a review of Crooks online activity has thus far not turned up anything unusual, and that Crooks liked to play online chess and was learning how to code. Investigators say they have not located any sort of manifesto left behind by Crooks, but that agents are digging into every possible aspect of the suspects online and real-world lives.

A statement issued Sunday by Discord, a social media platform favored by gamers, said the company had homed in on a deleted account set up by Crooks, but that it had been rarely utilized, has not been used in months, and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence or discuss his political views.

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to state registration records. City councilman Dan Grzybek, who represents the area where Crooks lived, said he met the family last year. Crooks father was a Libertarian, and his mother a Democrat, according to Grzybek, who told the Times this was a fairly typical mix for the area.

In remarks on Sunday, Attorney General Merrick Garland said he has directed the FBI, the ATF, the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the [Justice] Departments National Security Division to bring every available resource to bear on this investigation.

I want to reiterate that the violence that we saw yesterday is an attack on our democracy itself, Garland said. The Justice Department has no tolerance for such violence. And as Americans, we must have no tolerance for it. This must stop.

While law enforcement continues to probe the situation, the Crooks family is also searching for their own answers.
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As questions swirl about the would-be assassin who shot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday, the shooters family is also struggling to make sense of what happened.

The FBI identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who lived with his parents in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park. Crooks, who was perched on a nearby rooftop, was shot dead by the Secret Service shortly after bloodying Trumps ear with a round investigators believe came from an AR-15 assault-style rifle found at the scene.

Reached by phone on Sunday morning, Crooks uncle, Mark Crooks, said he was inundated with calls following his nephews attempt on Trumps life, which was, of course, a tremendous shock, he told The Independent. He said he had no idea what might have motivated the shooting, and is just trying to process the news.

I dont know what to say, he conceded.

The 68-year-old lives in Allison Park, Pennsylvania, about 20 miles from Crooks hometown of Bethel Park, but said he hadnt had any contact with Crooks in years.

I havent seen the kid since he was little, Mark Crooks said. He never wanted to bother [with maintaining a relationship], so we dont see him.

A 2020 high school yearbook shows the photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks, named by the FBI as the subject involved in Saturdays assassination attempt of Donald Trump. ( REUTERS )

Crooks parents, Matthew and Mary Crooks, nee Frizzi, are certified behavioral health counselors, according to state licensing records. Neither responded on Sunday to multiple requests for comment from The Independent.

In a brief call with CNN on Saturday night , Matthew Crooks, 53, said he was attempting to figure out what the hell is going on, and that he needed to wait until I talk to law enforcement before saying anything further.

According to Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi, Crooks squeezed off multiple shots before agents neutralized him. One rally attendee was killed, and two others were critically injured, Guglielmi said. Crooks was not an attendee at the rally, according to authorities.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Crooks, who was clad in gray camouflage, had explosives in his car, according to unidentified law enforcement officials cited by The Wall Street Journal .

The assault rifle police recovered from Crooks position atop of a manufacturing plant just north of the grounds of the Butler Farm Show, where Trump was speaking to a crowd of supporters, had been purchased legally by Crooks father, sources told ABC News .

Law enforcement officials near the home of 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, who fired shots at Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday. ( EPA )

When law enforcement searched Crooks body, they found he had no ID on him, FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek of the bureaus Pittsburgh Field Office said at a press conference on Saturday night. A DNA analysis was then performed, which confirmed his identity, Rojek said.

Trump was taken to a local hospital and released, then flew to New Jersey on his private jet, surrounded by heavily armed Secret Service agents.

When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change, former First Lady Melania Trump said in a statement issued early Sunday. I am grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their lives to protect my husband.

After the attempt on Trumps life, President Biden said, Theres no place in America for this type of violence. Its sick. Its sick.
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A 20-year-old gunman fired on Donald Trump with a rifle that has been at the center of the national debate over gun control, and that the former president and Congress have resisted calls to ban.

Since taking office, President Joe Biden has made dozens of unanswered calls to Congress to renew a ban on so-called assault weapons like the AR-15-style rifle that was used to shoot into a crowd at a Trump rally on July 13.

The assassination attempt in Pennsylvania on Saturday night is likely to renew debate about the state of the nations gun laws and the proliferation of high-powered firearms like AR-style rifles, which have become the most popular firearms in America while being used in some of the deadliest mass shooting events over the last two decades.

Time and time again our communities are shaken by acts of gun violence that have invaded what should be our safe places, and that includes the violence that we saw, according to Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of gun reform group Moms Demand Action.

But they are a consequence of our countrys weak gun laws and guns everywhere culture  laws that allow hate to be armed with a gun to easily take someone elses life, she added.

The 20-year-old suspected gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, could legally purchase rifles like the AR-15 in Pennsylvania, as shotguns and rifles can be purchased in the state at age 18. The minimum age to purchase handguns in Pennsylvania is 21.

But according to law enforcement officials speaking to ABC News, the firearm recovered at the scene of the was legally purchased by the suspects father.

Secret Service agents cover Donald Trump as he is rushed off the stage after a gunman opened fire at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13. ( AP )

About one in 20 US adults  roughly 16 million Americans  own at least one AR-15-style rifle, according to polling from Ipsos and The Washington Post.

AR-style rifles  which were initially developed as a military weapon before becoming the most popular gun in America  were used in at least 10 of the 17 deadliest mass shootings since 2012.

Biden has called on Congress to renew an assault weapons ban or pledged that his Democratic allies will do so more than 70 times since entering the White House, according to The Independents review of his public statements.

AR-15-style rifles accounted for 1.2 percent of all manufactured American firearms in 1990.

Thirty years later, the weapon made up 23.4 per cent, according to The Washington Post, which estimates there are at least 20 million AR-15s stored and stashed across the US.

Nearly every major gun manufacturer makes its own version of the weapon.

A House Oversight Committee probe found that five major gun manufacturers  Daniel Defense, Bushmaster, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson Brands Inc., and Sturm, Ruger & Co.  collectively earned $1 billion in revenue over a decade from sales of AR-style rifles alone.

Last year, Republican congressman Barry Moore of Alabama sought to make the AR-15 the National Gun of America.

The weapon was first produced by Armalite in the 1950s, intended as a weapon on par with the Soviet Unions AK-47. The patent was later acquired by Colt for production of its M16 under contract with the Department of Defense. That patent expired in 1977.

The Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, which imposed the so-called assault weapons ban, was enacted in 1994.

But the law expired in 2004, and Congress has repeatedly decided not to renew it.

Donald Trump blocked the legislation that would have kept the gun used to shoot him out of the shooters hands, said Samuel Schwartz, whose cousin was killed in the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, in 2018.

AR-15 rifles are displayed at an exhibition booth during the National Rifle Associations annual convention in Dallas, Texas, in May 2024. ( REUTERS )

Gun reform group Brady: United Against Gun Violence  which was named after former White House Press Secretary James Brady, who was permanently disabled and later died in 2014 after he was shot during an assassination attempt against Ronald Reagan in 1981  has called on Congress to renew the assault weapons ban in the wake of the attempt on Trumps life.

If you keep talking about the assassination attempt, dont you dare tell the kids who survive school shootings and their families to just get over it, said activist David Hogg, who survived the Parkland shooting.

The Trump rally shooting was unacceptable and what happens every day to kids who arent the president and dont survive isnt either, he said.

A study from Northwestern University found that the ban prevented 11 public mass shootings within the decade it was in effect. The study also estimates that keeping the ban in place until 2019 would have prevented 30 public shootings that killed 339 and injured 1,139 people.

House Republicans this year have also proposed a national funding bill that would eliminate public money for research on gun violence prevention and limit research on gunshot injuries.

During an address to the National Rifle Association in May, Trump claimed that the Second Amendment is very much on the ballot and baselessly alleged that Biden is trying to rip firearms out of the hands of law-abiding citizens.

Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law in 2022 to clarify licensing requirements for firearms dealers and strengthen background check requirements for gun purchases, including a review of juvenile records for anyone 16 years of age or older who attempts to purchase a firearm.

But the administrations efforts followed a landmark decision from the Supreme Courts conservative supermajority that has complicated how states and the federal government can restrict gun access.

That decision states that such restrictions must be rooted in the nations historical tradition of gun ownership, what critics have blasted as an impossibly high bar to combat a modern crisis.
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An investigation is being launched by Congress following the assassination attempt of Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer said that his panel will hold an emergency hearing on July 22 and have requested an appearance from Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.

I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon, Comer, a Republican from Kentucky, said in a statement.

He also told Fox that he expected a full briefing of the shooting on Monday or Tuesday.

My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at todays rally in Pennsylvania. I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped others who were hurt, Comer also said.

House Speaker Mike Johnson also posted on X that Congress will conduct a full investigation of the tragedy to determine where there were lapses in security.

Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania ( AFP via Getty Images )

A source told Fox News congressional correspondent, Chad Pergram, the Secret Service was relying a lot on local police.

The former president, 78, survived the assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Trump was taken off stage by Secret Service after a bullet hit his ear. He was treated for his injuries at a hospital and later thanked God for preventing the unthinkable from happening.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

The shooting left one spectator dead and two others critically injured. Law enforcement officials said that a Secret Service sniper killed the shooter, who was outside the security perimeter.

The gunman was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The shooting is being considered an assassination attempt, law enforcement said. The FBI has launched an investigation along with other law enforcement agencies.
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Congressman Mike Kelly, who attended the deadly Butler, Pennsylvania, rally where Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt, called on Americans to wake up and stop acting like a third-world country.

Physically, Im fine. Mentally, Im fine. But  This has got to stop. This has absolutely got to stop, Kelly, who represents Butler County, toldThe Hill on Sunday.

Trump was grazed by a bullet just minutes into his evening rally, sending shockwaves through the nation at a time of deep division in American politics. The shooter, identified by federal authorities as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, killed one person in the crowd, while two others were critically injured, before he was neutralized by Secret Service agents.

Kelly said neither he nor his wife, grandchildren, and other relatives who went to the rally were harmed.

Its high-time for a deep dive into what happened to America, the Pennsylvania Republican continued. This is certainly not the America that I grew up in, and that my parents had gone through the Great Depression, World War II to make sure we had a future. But thats what we are right now, as we are right now, like a third-world country.

Its not the United States of America anymore. Its the divided states of America  and too radical, he added.

Kelly speaks to Trump supporters outside of venue after the assassination attempt on the former president at a campaign rally. ( Getty Images )

Kelly insisted that all Americans  regardless of their political views  need to take a hard look at their increasingly divisive rhetoric.

The reality of it all is you have to be responsible for what it is you say, and I think we need to start taking personal responsibility for that, Kelly said. Its not any one party, its not any one group of people.

Unlike other members of his party, some of whom jumped to blame President Joe Biden in the immediate aftermath of the violence, Kelly said it was too early to start pointing fingers.

At his press conference on Sunday afternoon, President Joe Biden similarly warned: Dont make assumptions about [the shooters] motives and affiliations.

The assassination attempt came two days before Trump was scheduled to attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where he is expected to be named the GOP nominee for president.

Meanwhile, former Secret Service agents are questioning the current agencys handling of the shooting. The House Oversight Committee chair announced that his panel was launching a probe into the incident.

Secret Service agents swarm Trump after he was shot in the ear at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania ( Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved )

The motive for the massacre as well as how a rifle-toting man was able to get within such close proximity to a former president is being investigated by authorities. The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination and act of domestic terror, the FBI said on Sunday.

The question is, Why did this young man decide that on that day he had to kill a candidate for the presidency? Kelly said I dont know that the Secret Service could have done anything about any type of law enforcement to do that. That starts in the hearts and minds of men and women.

Its time for the whole country  the whole country  to wake up, Kelly told The Hill. This has gotten to the point that thats just no longer tolerable.
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Donald Trumps chances of being elected president for a second time increased after the attempt on his life at a rally in Pennsylvania, according to an array of Republicans, pollsters and betting markets.

Images of the former president with a bloodied face, and pumping his fist in the air following the shooting on Saturday, prompted an outpouring of support from across the political spectrum. But conservative figures and GOP lawmakers pointed out the potential political impact of the shocking event.

President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election, Wisconsin Republican congressman, Derrick Van Orden, told Politico shortly after the shooting.

This will energize the base more than anything, Tim Burchett, Republican representative from Tennessee, also told Politico. With his fist in the air and he didnt want to leave. And hes yelling, fight, fight, fight. Thatll be the slogan, he added.

Those sentiments were echoed by Frank Luntz, a veteran Republican pollster, who suggested the shooting in Pennsylvania will definitely impact the final vote, guaranteeing that every Trump voter will actually vote.

That participation gap is worth at least 1% and as much as 2%. And because it happened in Pennsylvania, the impact will be highest in Pennsylvania.

This doesnt guarantee that Trump flips Pennsylvania. But the long and winding road for Joe Biden just became even longer and windier, he wrote on X.

Donald Trump walks down the steps of his plane in New Jersey on July 13, 2024 after the assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania ( Margo Martin )

Investors and betting markets also appeared to move toward Trump. The election is likely to be a landslide. This probably reduces uncertainty," Nick Ferres, chief investment officer at Vantage Point Asset Management, told Reuters.

Ferres noted a surge of some 20 points in the polls for Ronald Reagan after a 1981 assassination attempt. He went on to win the 1984 election in a landslide.

Betting markets spiked in favor of Trump overnight, rising 7.5 points, according to an election betting aggregator.

In the hours after the shooting, and seemingly motivated by it, a number of high-profile figures announced their unequivocal support for Trumps re-election.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shared a video of Trump pumping his fist after the attack with the caption: I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania ( The Associated Press )

Bill Ackman, a billionaire venture capitalist, also announced that he is going to formally endorse Trump in the hours after the shooting, while not mentioning the incident in the post.

Trump had just begun a campaign speech in Butler, Pennsylvania when shots rang out and a bullet struck his ear.

The 78-year-old was rushed off stage by members of the Secret Service, as he pumped his fists in the air shouting fight, fight, fight and blood ran down his face.

Secret Service agents killed the suspected shooter who was outside the security perimeter when the shots were fired, according to law enforcement officials. A spectator was killed, and two others have been critically injured.

The FBI has identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, from Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden spoke briefly from a police station in Delaware following the attack.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening, the president said. The president reported that he had called Trump following the attack.

His campaign, meanwhile, is reportedly hitting the pause button, according to ABC News, pulling ads off the airwaves and stopping political communications.

The Republican National Convention, at which Trump will formally receive the nomination of his party as the 2024 presidential candidate, begins in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Monday.
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The assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday has shocked the world. The former president was bundled bloodied from the stage by secret service agents after a bullet clipped his ear.

The gunman, identified as Thomas Matthew Crookes, was killed at the scene, while one other person was killed.

Follow our live blog for latest updates after Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt at a rally

The former president was treated and later described feeling the bullet ripping through the skin. His rival, President Joe Biden, condemned the attack and warned there was no place in America for this kind of violence.

The attack is the latest in a list of political violence targeting presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates since the nations founding in 1776:

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president

Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington.

Abraham Lincoln was shot at Fords Theatre in Washington ( Getty Images )

Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theater for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning. His support for Black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing.

Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

Lincoln was succeeded by Vice President Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot and killed on April 26, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

James Garfield, the 20th president

Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a train station in Washington on July 2, 1881, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfields chest using a device he designed specifically for the president. The mortally wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Garfield was succeeded by Vice President Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

William McKinley, the 25th president

McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Doctors had expected McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds.

McKinley died on Sept. 14, 1901, six months after opening his second term.

He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an unemployed, 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted to the shooting. Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on Oct. 29, 1901.

John F Kennedy, the 35th president

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

The funeral of John F Kennedy in 1963 ( Reuters )

He was succeeded by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room aboard Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an airplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a snipers perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

Gerald Ford, the 38th president

Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Ford was on his way to a meeting with Californias governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at Ford. The gun wasnt fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

Ronald Reagan, the 40th president

Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

George W Bush, the 43rd president

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Robert F Kennedy, presidential candidate

Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Robert F Kennedy at an election rally ( Getty Images )

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

George C Wallace, presidential candidate

Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.
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Joe Biden and Donald Trump had a brief respectful phone call following the assassination attempt against the former president at a campaign rally on Saturday.

The political rivals spoke by phone after Trump was injured in the shooting but no details were provided, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting from Delaware, Biden said he was relieved that Trump is reportedly doing well.

He said he had been unable to reach Trump before his remarks, but the White House said he did speak to Trump several hours later.

The president said every American must condemn political violence after the shooting. Its sick, Biden said. Its sick.

President Joe Biden speaks on Saturday in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware after shots were fired Donald Trump's Pennsylvania campaign rally, leaving him injured ( AP )

The former president was rushed from the stage after shots were fired on Saturday, with blood running down his face. His Secret Service detail who bundled him into a waiting motorcade.

Trumps campaign said that is he fine and was checked out a local medical facility. He later flew to New Jersey to spend the night at his golf club in the state.

One spectator was killed and two critically injured in the assassination attempt, before the suspected shooter  later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks  was killed by a Secret Service agent on the scene.

The motive for the attack remains unclear.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident, was a registered Republican voter, but also donated $15 to a Democratic-aligned PAC, according to online records.

Speaking from a convention center at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden said he has been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government on the situation.

Biden said the incident at the rally demonstrates one of the reasons why we have to united this country and said Americans cannot allow for this to be happening.

We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he said.

Former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania ( Getty Images )

The bottom line is that the Trump rally was a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully, without any problem ... the idea that there's political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. It's just not appropriate. And we, everybody, everybody must condemn it, the president said.

Bidens remarks came not long after he and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the shooting.

According to a White House official, Biden received a briefing from Kimberly Cheatle, director of the US Secret Service, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and his Homeland Security Adviser, Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall.

Biden was at his beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on Saturday and received an initial briefing on the shooting shortly after leaving Mass at St. Edmonds Roman Catholic Church. He has returned to the White House and is being briefed further by security officials.

Separately, the Office of the Vice President said Harris received what they described as an initial briefing at her official residence in Washington, shortly after she returned from a campaign stop in Philadelphia.

In a statement, Harris said that she and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff are relieved that Trump was not seriously injured.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said.

Harris added that she and Emhoff were grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action and said violent acts such as the shooting at the Trump rally have no place in our nation.

The former president was just moments into speech at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally venue when loud pops were heard to the left of the stage.

Trump turned his head in the direction of the sound and appeared to have been struck by something near his ear. He then quickly dropped to the ground as the crowd began screaming and running.

Within seconds, Secret Service agents tackled the former president to the ground and formed a barricade around him, shuffling off stage to safety. He was bundled into a waiting SUV by his security detail, with his fist raised. His motorcade left the rally venue at speed.

Steven Cheung, communications director for Trumps presidential campaign, said in a statement that Trump is fine and being checked out a local medical facility after he was tackled, then hustled off stage at the rally by members of his Secret Service detail after gunshots rang out while he was speaking.

Cheung added that Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act.
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Republican lawmaker Ronny Jackson has revealed that his nephew is among the injured in the assassination attempt of Donald Trump that left one victim dead and two people in critical condition.

The Texas congressman said that his family had been sitting close to the front of the crowd at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when gunshots rang out minutes after Trump took to the stage.

His nephew, who was not identified, was grazed in the neck by a bullet in the shooting.

Thankfully his injury was not serious and he is doing well, Rep. Jackson said in a statement.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking. They heard shots ringing out  my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck.

Jackson said that his nephew was treated by medical staff at the rallys medical tent.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Please join my family and me in praying for all who were injured and the life lost. The President and the survivors are lucky to be alive, he added.

Map showing where the attacker was located when he fired shots toward Trump on stage in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024 ( Anadolu via Getty Images )

The congressman told Fox News that it was a horrific, horrific experience for his family.

One attendee was killed in the shooting and two others left critically injured in the attack on the former president at Saturdays rally, authorities said.

The victims are yet to be publicly identified but Lt Col George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that all three were adult men.

Trump was speaking on stage when suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from his position perched on the building of a nearby rooftop outside of the rallys security perimeter.

Screams filled the air as gunshots rang out and Trump ducked down under his lectern on the stage.

The former president was rushed off stage by Secret Service to a waiting vehicle, his face bloodied and raising a defiant fist to the crowd.

Donald Trump is seen with a bloody face after surviving an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania ( AP )

Crooks, a 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene, authorities said.

Trump later took to Truth Social, speaking out about the moment he said he was shot in the ear and thanking Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said.

Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Ronny Jackson attending Trumps hush money trial in New York. He revealed that his nephew is among the victims injured in the assassination attempt of Donald Trump ( Getty Images )

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

The former president was seen landing back in New Jersey later on Saturday night.

President Joe Biden has since spoken to Trump about the incident, after he condemned the sick violence and said it has no place in America.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country, he said. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

President Biden has since returned to the White House.

Now, questions are being asked about the Secret Service detail at the rally  and how the gunman was able to carry out the attack.
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Explosive devices have reportedly been discovered inside the car of the suspected shooter who tried to assassinate Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday  using a gun believed to have been purchased by the 20-year-olds father just six months earlier.

In a harrowing day for America coming just four months before the nation heads to the polls, the former president survived a surreal attempt on his life when shots were fired towards the stage mere minutes into his rally speech in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Trumps ear was grazed by a bullet but he escaped largely unscathed, while a 50-year-old rallygoer died and two other spectators were critically injured in the attack.

With the nation reeling and questions mounting about the actions taken by Secret Service at the event, new details are beginning to emerge about the gunman and his potential motive.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania native, had parked his vehicle close to the rally in Butler on Saturday, before he climbed on top of the roof of a nearby building with a vantage point of the stage, according to authorities.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Just after 6 p.m., about 15 minutes after Trump began his speech, the gunman opened fire.

Shots rang out and screams filled the air as the former president ducked for cover behind the podium and Secret Service agents leaped on stage to protect him.

Donald Trump raises his fist as he is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents ( AP )

Secret Service agents shot the suspect dead moments later, and Trump was swiftly rushed off stage and driven off in his motorcade.

In a historic image that has already been plastered across unofficial merchandise, the former president was seen defiantly raising his fist in the air to supporters while blood streamed down his face.

Sources told The Washington Post that Crooks vehicle was later recovered by investigators and explosives were discovered inside.

The insiders also revealed that the AR-style rifle used by the 20-year-old in the attack had been legally bought by his father six months earlier, according to an urgent trace conducted by the ATF.

For now, the motive for the attack remains a mystery, though online records reveal that Crooks had been registered to vote as a Republican.

That said, federal campaign finance reports show that he had also made a $15 contribution to a Democratic-aligned political action committee called Progressive Turnout Project on January 20, 2021.

For Crooks family members, the motive for the horrific attack also remains unclear.

The gunmans uncle, Mark Crooks, told The Independent on Sunday morning that he had no idea what might have motivated the shooting.

I dont know what to say, he said.

Former fire chief identified as Trump rally shooting victim ( Dawn Schafer / Facebook )

While he lives just 20 miles from Crooks hometown of Bethel Park, Mark said he hadnt had any contact with his nephew for years.

I havent seen the kid since he was little, Mark Crooks said. He never wanted to bother [with maintaining a relationship], so we dont see him.

The identities of the shooting victims are also coming to light, with the man killed in the attack being named by his family and the Pennsylvania governor as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore.

The former fire chief died protecting his family members from the attack, the governor said.

Comperatores heartbroken sister Dawn Comperatore Schafer posted a devastating tribute on Facebook where she spoke of the terrible nightmare the family is now faced with.

The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most, she wrote on Facebook.

He was a hero that shielded his daughters. His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable.

My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality.

Supporters of former president Donald Trump pray outside of Mar-a-Lago on July 13 ( Getty Images )

A GoFundMe campaign authorized by Trump to support the victims of this brutal and horrific assassination attempt had topped $1 million as of late morning on Sunday.

The conditions of the other two victims, who have not been named, remain unclear.

Republican lawmaker Ronny Jackson revealed that his nephew was also injured in the attack, as his family sat close to the front of the crowd when the shooting unfolded.

His nephew, who was not identified, was grazed in the neck by a bullet but thankfully his injury was not serious and he is doing well, the Texas rep said.

The former president has now called for Americans to stand United following the assassination attempt as he said that God alone had prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness, he wrote in a Truth Social post on Sunday morning.

Map shows how the shooting unfolded ( Google Earth/The Independent )

His comments were also echoed by former first lady Melania Trump who thanked people from all across the political aisle for coming together in condemning the violence.

In a rare moment of solidarity between the longtime foes, President Joe Biden and Trump spoke on Saturday night after the former president was released from the hospital.

The president, who is fighting to remain in the 2024 race this November, is expected to address the nation from the White House on Sunday.

Questions are now being asked about the precautions and safety measures taken by Secret Service prior to the shooting.

The gunman was located just 150 yards away from the stage and witnesses have claimed that they spotted him bear crawling on the roof prior to the shooting and tried to alert law enforcement and Secret Service agents.

Im standing there pointing at him for two to three minutes, a witness named Greg told the BBC.

With criticism building, House Republicans are launching an investigation and demanding answers from the agencys Director Kimberley Cheatle at an emergency hearing on July 22.
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The blood on Donald Trumps face was a shocking and vivid reminder of the fine red line that lies between democracy and violent chaos in even the worlds most powerful country.

The gunmans bullet struck the former presidents right ear before Secret Service agents rushed to the stage and hauled him down.

And now, the image that emerged of him injured, fist raised in defiance, the stars and stripes flying above, may help to propel him back into the White House.

Had it struck him just an inch away from where it did, the shot could have led to Trumps death, sparking a very real chance of America  bitterly divided, with a heavily armed population  sliding into widespread violence, insurrection, and possibly even a second civil war.

The moment of danger for the United States came on a blisteringly hot late afternoon in Pennsylvania, where a crowd of tens of thousands had waited for hours at the Butler Farm showground for Trump to arrive. With little shade available, medics moved among the crowd as elderly rallygoers suffered under the blazing sun and Maga caps were taken off for heads to be sponged.

Any torpor turned into messianic fervour when Trump got onto the stage, settling quickly into the vaudeville pattern of his rallies. The faithful cheered at his boasts, booed at mentions of Joe Biden, and exclaimed in ire when he spoke of a stolen election and attempts to silence him with fake criminal charges.

Then came the shots, muted cracks one after the other, at least eight times. Those of us who have covered violence in conflict zones and at volatile gatherings hit by gunfire are familiar with what unfolded  the initial incomprehension, a brief stillness, and then an eruption of confused fear, shouts and screams.

The first thing I thought to myself was Americas under attack. I grabbed the hands of a couple of people I didnt even know, and we said the Lords Prayer, said Corey Check, a local activist and Republican committee member.

Donald Trump raises his fist as he is helped off the stage by Secret Service agents ( AP )

Ed White, who had gone to the rally with his wife and son, feared the worst: I thought they had come to kill us all. I was scared, really scared, for my family. Then I saw a man who was injured; he looked in a bad way. Whats happened is terrible, terrible.

The gunman, identified hours later by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had opened fire with his semi-automatic AR-15 assault rifle from a corrugated roof around 150 yards from the podium, astonishingly close to Trump.

To put this in context, that is the distance at which army recruits are expected to hit human silhouettes in basic training  thats how exposed the former president was to his attacker.

How did he get so near? Was he acting alone? The FBI special agent in charge, Kevin Rojek, said later that it was surprising that the gunman had been able to target the stage, adding that procedures were being reviewed.

Some people at the rally said they had actually spotted the gunman and tried to alert the Secret Service prior to him opening fire.

Were pointing at the guy army crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof. We could clearly see him with a rifle, a man named Greg told the BBC. Im standing there pointing at him for two or three minutes. Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn. Im pointing at the roof, and the next thing you know, five shots ring out.

Several shots could be heard after Trump, hand clasped over his injured ear, was pushed down onto the ground. The shooter killed one man and critically injured two others, one of whom was said to have been standing behind the former president.

Secret Service counter-assault teams, codenamed Hawkeye, and counter-sniper teams, codenamed Hercules, were deployed at the event. It is their job, in such missions, to detect and eliminate, allowing agents to shield and take away those under their protection.

There is video footage of a Secret Service sniper appearing to notice the gunman. This is followed by a slight body movement upwards as he takes a shot. That is how the threat is said to have been taken out. One of the sniper team is heard to declare: Shooters down, were good to move. A young man, longish-haired, lay dead on the tin sheeting of the roof of a nearby building, his head, face and grey T-shirt covered in blood.

Secret Service agents cover Trump after shots are fired ( AP )

The close protection team had a fraction of a second to pull down the former president. It was fortunate that the shooting came from only one direction. My colleagues and I have seen, in Iraq and Afghanistan, triangulated shooting from multiple locations into a crowd, with no apparently safe path out. A former Royal Marines SBS sergeant, who worked on close protection for British prime ministers in combat zones, said: That was a bonus  even when one hears the suspect has been neutralised, youve got to worry there would be contact from other points.

Having helped to save Trumps life, the Secret Service agents still had to get him out. Lets go, lets move, one said as they pulled him up, his Maga cap knocked off his dishevelled head.

Hold up, your head is bloody, said another agent, his voice carrying through the microphone that the former president had been using to talk about the election victory to come.

Let me get my shoes, my shoes, muttered Trump as they pulled him along. At the edge of the stage, he forced them to stop. Wait, wait, he said.

Struggling upright, he pumped his fist while urging his supporters to Fight, fight, fight. The crowd shouted back, USA, USA, USA, but many were distracted as they sought to get away from the carnage.

Trump was satisfied, moving with his security detail into a waiting bulletproof limousine. Having seen him off, the agents adjusted their dark suits, dark glasses and ties, and turned to face the crowd with a touch of sangfroid.

The crowd were told by the police to leave, and they started to do so, shuffling along. There were some expressions of anger.

Therell be payback, said a supporter wearing a Trump T-shirt, jabbing his hand in the air.

Social media was alive within minutes, with tales of plots.

Frantic video from Trump rally crowd shows chaos during shooting

The notorious far-right conspiracy theorist Alex Jones live-streamed posts that were viewed millions of times, claiming that the deep state had been involved. Other posts included wild QAnon conspiracy theories baselessly suggesting that prominent Democrats and Republicans had allegedly colluded with the CIA to carry out the assassination attempt.

It has since emerged that Crooks, the young man named as the killer, was registered as a Republican in Pennsylvania, according to the states voter records. Social media websites have begun to show photos of him wearing Demolitia (Demolition Ranch) T-shirts  popular with gun enthusiasts, some from the hard-right, and survivalists.

What drove Crooks to try to assassinate Trump is likely to become clearer over the coming days.

But for many Maga supporters, the gunmans Republican registration and Demolitia attire have simply fuelled the deep state conspiracy theories.

This, they say, is a reprise of the grassy knoll, the way Lee Harvey Oswald was framed as a patsy in the assassination of John F Kennedy. Dont even pretend its one man, were coming for those responsible, said one hard-right blogger.

What happened in Pennsylvania was a very close call. America faces fragile days ahead on the turbulent path to the election.

Now, a peaceful endgame looks increasingly doubtful, with accusations and recriminations only likely to get more vitriolic after the day that Donald Trump faced assassination.
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Vice President Kamala Harris and Minnesota Governor Tim Walz made their debut as the Democratic presidential ticket on Tuesday night, kicking off a campaign against Donald Trump and JD Vance in front of an electrified crowd in Philadelphia.

The governor strode on stage at Temple Universitys Licouras Center on Tuesday with Harris just hours after she announced him as her running mate, with 91 days to go until the November election.

Walzs appearance ended the closely-watched contest for the next potential vice president, landing on a seasoned Midwestern politician, military veteran and former school teacher with a progressive track record.

Harris told the estimated 12,000 people in attendance that she set out to find a partner who can build this brighter future during her weeks-old campaign for the presidency.

Her search for a running mate led her to a leader who can unite this nation and move us forward, someone who was a fighter for the middle class and a patriot who believes as I do the extraordinary promise of America, a promise of freedom, opportunity and justice not just for some but for all, she said.

Second gentleman Doug Emhoff, Vice President Kamala Harris, Minnesota Governor Tim Walz and his wife Gwen Walz greet supporters at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on August 6. ( Getty Images )

She told the crowd that she found such a leader in Walz, a 60-year-old former high school teacher who enlisted in the Army National Guard at 17 and served for 24 years, then spent more than two decades teaching and coaching football before entering politics.

The vice president recounted how during the 1990s, a time when the federal government enacted a law banning any recognition of same-sex relationships, Walz served as a faculty adviser for a high school gay-straight alliance group because he knew the signal it would send to have a football coach get involved.

Walz makes people feel they belong and inspires them to dream big, and thats the kind of vice president he will be, she added, and thats the kind of vice president America deserves.

He represented Minnesota in the House of Representatives from 2007 to 2017 and is now in the middle of his second term as the states governor. He has had a recent meteoric rise on to the national stage with his no-nonsense assessment of the GOPs platform and the weird agenda behind it.

Kamala Harris stifled a laugh as her running mate Tim Walz cracked a joke about his Republican counterpart JD Vance and his couch controversy ( Getty Images )

In the governors office, Walz ushered through a series of popular progressive policies, including protections for abortion rights and LGBT+ Minnesotans and a free breakfast and lunch program for public school children.

Minnesotas strength comes from our values, our commitment to working together, to seeing past our differences, to always be willing to lend a helping hand, Walz told the crowd.

Trump, however, doesnt know the first thing about service, because hes too busy serving himself, according to Walz.

The former president weakens our economy to strengthen his own hand, mocks our laws, and sows chaos and division, and thats to say nothing of his record as president, said Walz, who said Trump froze during the Covid-19 crisis, drove the economy into the ground, and make no mistake: violent crime was up under Donald Trump.

Thats not counting the crimes he committed, he added.

Walz said he cant wait to debate his GOP counterpart JD Vance.

Like most people who grew up in the heartland, JD studied at Yale, had his career funded by Silicon Valley billionaires, and then wrote a best seller trashing that community, he said, his voice carrying more than a hint of sarcasm.

Tim Walz told a crowd in Philadelphia on August 6 that rival Donald Trump doesnt know a thing about service ( AP )

He added that what Vance represents is not what Middle America is, and drew some of the loudest cheers of the night when he told rallygoers: I cant wait to debate the guy ... if hes willing to get off the couch and show up.

See what I did there? said Walz, making an apparent reference to an online joke that Vance wrote about having sex with a couch in his best-selling memor.

Harriss announcement arrived roughly three months before Election Day and two weeks before the Democratic National Convention, where the Harris-Walz ticket will formally receive the partys nomination.

After President Joe Biden ended his re-election campaign and backed Harris as the partys nominee, she quickly collected endorsements and delegate pledges to clinch the nomination, with record-breaking fundraising numbers that have eclipsed Republicans multi-million dollar war chest.

A campaign spokesperson said the newly-christened Harris-Walz effort pulled in yet another $20m in the hours after the announcement.

Walz quipped I see those old white guys when he spotted a member of Old White Men for Harris on the front row at the Philadelphia rally on August 6 ( AP )

The electic atmosphere recalled the boisterous rallies of the Obama-Biden campaigns in 2008 and 2012. It attracted a racially diverse crowd that included a pair of gray-haired white men sporting shirts declaring themselves Old White Men for Harris and Freedom.

Its as clear as the T-shirt says, Bernie Strain told The Independent. Its about two old white men liking our Social Security, liking our Medicare, liking our freedom, liking our democracy  well lose it if Trump gets elected.

Strain said that his son, a Marine, had served a pair of tours at the base that was struck by Iran-backed militants in Iraq on Monday.

Hes no loser and hes no sucker for serving in the United Statess service, and Trumps not going to call my son a loser or a sucker, he said. Not today, not tomorrow, not ever.

Harris even drew a pair of former Republican members of Congress, including former Pennsylvania congressman James Greenwood, who told The Independent that he understood Biden had to stand down after his June 27 debate against Trump.

Greenwood described the vibe after Biden stood down as like an electric charge.

The excitement, the volunteers, the fundraising,  everyones pretty excited, he said.

Another ex-Republican House member from Illinois, Joe Walsh, said Walz was a great bet for Harris because the Minnesotan is like an everyman.

I disagree with him on a lot of policy, but he's like a regular guy, and that's what Democrats have to have, he said.

Andrew Feinberg reported from Philadelphia
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A freshman Republican has accused President Joe Biden of ordering the shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania that left Donald Trump injured.

The former president was rushed from the stage, with blood running down his face soon after he began to speak on Saturday, as shots were fired toward the stage.

He was bundled him into a waiting motorcade by his Secret Service detail.

Trumps campaign later said that is he fine and being checked out a local medical facility.

Secret Service said that one spectator was killed and two critically injured in the assassination attempt.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

The suspected shooter, who was later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by an agent on the scene.

The motive for the attack remains unclear. Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident,, was a registered Republican voter, but also donated $15 to a Democratic-aligned PAC, according to online records.

Less than an hour after the shooting, Georgia GOP Representative Mike Collins posted a screenshot of a quote from Joe Biden, which read, were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

The president made the remarks last Monday during a speech to Democratic donors, Politico reported.

Joe Biden sent the orders, Collins posted, above the quote.

Collins, who is known to make inflammatory remarks on social media, also called on Biden to be prosecuted for the shooting.

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination, he said. Other Republicans seemed to fault Democrats for the shooting.

Today is not just some isolated incident, Ohio Senator JD Vance, a potential Trump running mate, posted on X. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.

Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, another Trump ally, retweeted Vances remarks.

In a statement on Saturday night, President Joe Biden said every American must condemn political violence after the shooting.

Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania by Secret Service agents after he is injured in a shooting on Saturday ( AP )

Speaking from a convention center at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden said he has been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government on the situation and that hes attempted to get ahold of Trump but had been unsuccessful, because he was with his doctors.

Biden said he plans on speaking with Trumps doctors as well, and said there was no place in America for this kind of violence.

Its sick, he said. Its sick.

Biden said the incident at the rally demonstrates one of the reasons why we have to united this country and said Americans cannot allow for this to be happening.

We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he said.
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A witness who was just outside the Pennsylvania rally where a gunman apparently attempted to assassinate Donald Trump Saturday night said he tried to alert Secret Service agents to a rifle-wielding man he spotted bear crawling onto the roof of a nearby building before gunshots rang through the crowd.

Were pointing at the guy crawling up the roof, the witness, identified only as Greg, told the BBC of the surreal moment. We could clearly see him with a rifle.

Im standing there pointing at him for two to three minutes, he continued. Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn, Im pointing at the roof...and next thing you know, five shots rang out.

Former president Trump was just minutes into his rally in Butler when around 10 popping sounds interrupted his speech, sending the crowd into chaos. The former president collapsed behind his podium, as red-capped supporters behind him screamed and tried to duck.

A blood-covered Trump pumps his fist while security detail surround him after he was struck by apparent gunshots ( AFP via Getty Images )

Secret Service agents immediately jumped onto the stage, hoisting up Trump, whose face was dripping with blood. He pumped his fist before agents helped him off stage and into his waiting motorcade.

Trump has since said he is fine, revealing in a graphic statement that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said.

The shooting left one spectator dead and another two critically injured. Law enforcement officials said that a Secret Service sniper killed the shooter, who was outside the security perimeter.

The shooting is being considered an assassination attempt, law enforcement said, and an investigation has been launched.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Man outside of Trump rally claims he saw the shooter on roof before Trump was struck by bullet ( BBC / screengrab )

The witness, who was wearing a red Trump 2024 visor, told the BBC that it was absolutely clear the shooter  who he said was clad in muted colors, like tan, tight clothing  was killed.

Secret Service blew his head off, Greg said. They crawled up on the roof, they had their guns pointed at him to make sure he was dead, he was dead. And thats it. It was over.

Others have come forward to share their harrowing accounts of the chaos. Another witness, an emergency room doctor, recalled how he sprung into action to try to save a shooting victim in the crowd.

I heard the shots. I thought it was crackers to begin with, the doctor, who had blood stains on his T-shirt, told a CBS News reporter.

Someone had been screaming he was shot, he was shot so the doctor rushed over. The spectator had been shot in the head, and the doctor said he could see brain matter.

The guy had spun around was jammed between the benches and a head shot here, the doctor explained.

He then performed CPR and chest compressions on the man.

Emergency room physician says he sprung into action to help victim at Trump rally ( @JakeMRosen )

I was the only one that did it, he told CBS News. Theres a helicopter coming in to get him.

Boston Globe reporter James Pindell said he noticed early on that Secret Service agents were pointing rifles at a spot away from the crowd. But it wasnt until Trump was six minutes into his speech that there was a loud popping noise.

When I looked up, the same agents were shooting in the same direction their guns had been pointed all along. I knew they were shooting because I could see smoke from their guns, he wrote. I had a clear view of the stage, but at that moment, I was typing up what Trump was saying. When I looked at the podium again, the agents appeared to have Trump on the ground, protecting him. Then other agents were on the stage.

He said the crowd was in total shock, with most crouching down as they tried to take cover.

After Trump had been escorted to his car and people sensed the rally was over and they were safe, the crowd turned on the media, Pindell said. The crowd was angry. Middle fingers were everywhere. They asked the press if they were happy and blamed the media. You did this, they said to reporters.

This article has been updated
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Albanias prison department Sunday granted a five-day leave to an ethnic Greek minority former mayor to attend the opening session of the new European Parliament in Strasbourg.

The prison departments statement said Fredis Beleris, 51, was granted leave July 15-20. He must stay in contact with police and return to serve the remaining time on his two-year prison sentence.

Beleris, who has dual Greek and Albanian citizenship, is a member of the European Parliament. He won a Greek seat in the EU legislature in elections last month, representing the governing conservative New Democracy party.

Albania, a former communist country and a current NATO member, has a historically tense relationship with Greece, largely over issues of Greek minority rights and the sizable Albanian community in Greece.

Beleris was convicted of offering 40,000 Albanian leks (360 euros at the time) to buy eight votes in last years municipal election. Beleris was elected mayor of the town of Himare, 240 kilometers (150 miles) south of the capital, Tirana, after being arrested two days before the vote. He was never sworn in because he was under arrest. He was later sentenced to prison.

Beleris has denied the charges against him.

European Parliament lawmakers enjoy substantial legal immunity from prosecution, even if the allegations relate to crimes committed prior to their election. In the case of Beleris, that rule is unlikely to affect the outcome, as he is serving time for a crime committed in a non-EU member country.

After the appeals court verdict, Albanian election authorities stripped Beleris of his post as Himaras mayor and a new election will be held Aug. 4.

Beleris case has strained ties between Tirana and Athens, with Greece saying the case could harm Albanias application to join the European Union. Albania, a candidate country, is in the process of negotiating full membership.

Albanias government said it could do nothing while the case was in court.
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Over the past decade, Russia has seen a sharp increase in treason and espionage cases.

Lawyers and experts say prosecutions for these high crimes started to grow after 2014  the year when Russia illegally annexed the Crimean peninsula. Thats also when Moscow backed a separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine.

The number of these cases in Russia spiked significantly after the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, and the Russian president, Vladimir Putin, urged the security services to harshly suppress the actions of foreign intelligence services [and] promptly identify traitors, spies and saboteurs. The crackdown has ensnared scientists and journalists, as well as ordinary citizens.

The following are some treason cases prosecuted in Russia in recent years.

Oksana Sevastidi

In April 2008, bakery worker Oksana Sevastidi saw military equipment on the railway near Sochi, the Russian Black Sea resort where she lived. She texted a friend who lived in neighbouring Georgia about it. Weeks later, in August, the two countries fought a brief war, which ended with Moscow recognizing South Ossetia and another Georgian province, Abkhazia, as independent states and bolstering its military presence there.

Sevastidi was arrested in 2015 on the basis of her text messages, and convicted of treason the following year. The case made national headlines after Ivan Pavlov and Evgeny Smirnov, prominent lawyers specialising in treason cases, took it on in 2016. That same year, Pavlovs team revealed that several other women from Sochi had been convicted of treason in eerily similar cases.

President Putin was asked about Sevastidi at his annual news conference in December 2016. He called her sentence harsh and promised to look into it, saying that she wrote what she saw in her texts and that it didnt constitute a state secret. In 2017, Putin pardoned Sevastidi and two other women.

Ivan Safronov

Ivan Safronov, a former journalist who went on to work for the Russian space agency Roscosmos, was arrested in 2020 and accused of passing military secrets to Czech intelligence and a German national. In September 2022, a court in Moscow convicted him of treason and sentenced him to 22 years in prison.

Safronov rose to prominence as a military affairs reporter for Kommersant, a leading business newspaper. He vehemently rejected the charges against him, arguing that he had collected all the information from open sources as part of his journalistic work and had done nothing illegal.

Colleagues denounced the verdict as unfounded and pushed for Safronovs release, suggesting that the authorities may have wanted to punish him for his reporting about military and space incidents and arms deals.

His fiancee, Ksenia Mironova, said that she believes such treason cases, which are investigated in secret with trials held behind closed doors, are convenient for law enforcement because their accusations can go unchallenged.

They dont have to explain anything to anyone at all. Not that they bother anyway. But [with open trials] there is still a chance that some unfortunate journalists will come and write something. With treason, the case is closed, and they can just concoct something, and thats it, said Mironova, who is also a journalist and has reported on the rise of treason prosecutions.

Valery Golubkin

Valery Golubkin, now 71, was a physicist specialising in aerodynamics when he was arrested in 2021 and convicted of treason in June 2023. He was sentenced to 12 years in a maximum-security prison.

According to his lawyers, the authorities accused Golubkin of sharing state secrets with a foreign country. The scientist and his defence team argued that he had merely submitted research reports relating to an international project to design a hypersonic civilian aircraft, which his state-run institute was involved in.

The reports didnt contain state secrets and were vetted in accordance with regulations before they were sent abroad, according to Smirnov.

In a letter sent from behind bars to the Russian news outlet RBK in 2021, Golubkin said the project in question had been approved by the Trade Ministry, and that the charges against him were based on the testimony of his supervisor, Anatoly Gubanov, who was arrested several months before Golubkin.

Gubanov, 66, was also convicted of treason and sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2023.

Lawyers for Golubkin appealed against his verdict and lost. In April this year, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling on the appeal and ordered another review of it, but in the end, the original sentence was upheld.

Golubkins daughter, Lyudmila Golubkina, said that neither the family nor Golubkin have high expectations after the Supreme Court ruling, and they now hope he can be released on parole after serving two-thirds of his sentence.

When a person has something to live for, a goal, it helps them to overcome everything, she said. I hope we will still get to see him a free man.

Igor Pokusin

Igor Pokusin, a 62-year-old retired pilot who was born in Ukraine, was arrested in the southern Siberian city of Abakan for protesting Russia's 2022 invasion of his native land. He was convicted of vandalism and sentenced to six months of parole-like restrictions.

He was later arrested again on the more serious charge of preparing for treason, according to the First Department, a rights group that investigates treason cases.

The charges against him stemmed from his phone calls to relatives and friends in which he mulled moving to Ukraine and volunteering as a pilot there to ferry the wounded or deliver humanitarian aid, according to the rights group and media reports.

In January 2024, Pokusin was convicted of the preparing for treason charge and sentenced to eight years in prison. The First Department said he died behind bars in June. Advocates from Memorial, Russias oldest and most prominent human rights group, have called for Pokusin, Sevastidi, Safronov and a number of others accused of treason to be designated political prisoners.
Kylie Minogue, dressed head to toe in red latex and high heels, was carried to the stage at BST Hyde Park by Andrew Scott and Jonathan Bailey.

The actors helped the Australian pop star, 56, get safely through backstage before she performed to thousands in London on Saturday evening (13 July).

Her last performance at BST was in 2015.

During the gig, the star remarked: So much has happened for me, for you, for all of us. But we are here and I am so, so grateful.

In a four-star review of the show, The Independents Adam White praised Kylie as a woman who has remembered shes still, in fact, incredibly cool.
Nigel Farage said he was very upset but not shocked at Donald Trump being shot at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, 13 July.

The former president, 78, was shot in the ear as he spoke on stage.

A person in the crowd was killed and two others were injured during what the FBI has described as an assassination attempt.

The Reform UK leader told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.
Volodymyr Zelensky has wished Donald Trump a speedy recovery after the former US president was shot in the ear in an assassination attempt on Saturday, 13 July, at a rally in Pennsylvania.

The Ukrainian president described the incident as a heinous crime and said it showed how serious the global challenges to democracy are right now.

A person in the crowd was killed and two others were injured as Mr Trump was on stage in Butler.

The FBI has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the subject involved in the shooting.
There is only one lesson to be learnt from yesterdays despicable attempt on the life of former US president Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania yesterday: killing politicians is always wrong. Whatever you may think of their politics, their party, or their temperament, a brutal act of violence is no substitute for civilised democracy.

In my 50 years of politics, those decades have been smattered with the sudden and dramatic news of assassination. I remember sitting in school assembly, as a 12-year-old, when our teacher told us that Robert F Kennedy had been assassinated during the course of his 1968 presidential campaign. This was the first time I became aware that something like that could happen. A few years later, in 1981, Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded while he was president.

There have been far too many such incidents, and far too many deaths: Anwar Sadat, prime minister of Egypt, in 1981; Indira Gandhi, prime minister of India, in 1984; Yitzhak Rabin, prime minister of Israel, in 1995; and my close friend Benazir Bhutto, former prime minister of Pakistan, in 2007  all lost their lives in service to their respective countries, murdered in a cynical subversion of the democratic process.

We here in the UK are not immune either  in the past decade we have seen two MPs murdered on our own shores: Labours Jo Cox in 2016, and Conservative Party politician David Amess in 2021. The phenomenon is not limited to any one country, or party, or ideology, or outlook  it is as senseless and chaotic as the individual who carries out the deed.

Last night, in Pennsylvania, it was a close-run thing. If that bullet had veered just an inch to the right, a former president, and current presidential candidate, would likely be dead, and the world would look very different today.

Nobody, regardless of their views on Donald Trumps career as a politician, should harbour thoughts of if only. Regardless of your personal views, political assassinations of this sort are never the solution. In order to preserve peace and order, the ballot must always come before the bullet.

We must use words and ideas to persuade those we disagree with of our views  not violence and coercion. A cross on a piece of paper has not only the power to change the world, but also to keep it safe and decent.

It is crucial that we reject violence in all its forms, and maintain peace and civility in our politics at all costs. We cannot allow fear to win. We cannot allow brutality to supplant democracy. Failure to uphold those ideals, and giving into baseness and fear, will cause the world to suffer overall.

Sir Alan Duncan was UK foreign minister from 2016 to 2019
Technology

A plan to build a high-tech industrial park near Dublin Airport has been turned down by planners because of fears it could cause traffic problems on major strategic roads.

The proposed development could have catered for at least 100 staff, based on the number of parking spaces the developers were seeking to provide. But the plan was rejected because it would negatively contribute to a reduction in the operational efficiency of the strategic road network.

The rejection by Fingal County Council planners of the plan to build five industrial units highlights the constrained traffic situation in the area, with a far bigger proposal to expand the nearby airport also likely to raise traffic concerns.

The site is close to the busy junction of the M1, the M50 and R139

The proposal by development firm Genvest was for a three-hectare site at Stockhole Lane that is zoned for high-tech manufacturing uses next to a large petrol station and two major hotels. The site is close to the busy junction of the M1, the M50 and R139. A smaller version of the plan with fewer units was previously permitted by the planners.

The Transportation Planning Section considers that this application and the scale of the application proposals over and above that which has already been consented for the same site would negatively contribute to a reduction in operational efficiency of the strategic road network, said the local authority in its decision to refuse the new plans.

A smaller version of the plan with fewer units was previously permitted by the planners

The planners rejected the new plan in the absence of larger strategic infrastructural upgrades in the vicinity, which are not on the current capital works programme", it said.

The proposed development, by itself or by the precedent which the grant of permission for it would set for other relevant development, would adversely affect the use of a national road or other major road.

A planning expert writing in support of the proposal claimed it had been designed to a high-quality finish with a fully considered landscape scheme and that it represents a significant investment.

The proposal was strategically located and of sufficient size and scale to accommodate market demand", they said.
Roderic OGorman intervenes in industrial dispute over barristers pay

Green Party leader says there is a shortage of lawyers as many are leaving practice because of low legal aid fees

Sean Guerin, the incoming chairman of the Bar of Ireland council, with current chair Sara Phelan and a group of barristers protesting outside the Criminal Courts of Justice in Dublin. Photo: Collins Courts

Mark Tighe Sun 14 Jul 2024 at 03:30







Green Party leader Roderic OGorman has intervened in the industrial dispute between criminal law barristers and the Government.
From prince of India to king of Connemara: how a celebrated ruler in Britains empire was feted in the Free State

Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji ruled Nawanagar in India, but a visit in 1924 to Ballynahinch Castle was the start of a love affair with Connemara

Kumar Shri Ranjitsinhji was guest of honour at Tailteann Games at Croke Park

Anne Chambers Sun 14 Jul 2024 at 03:30

On July 17, 1924, soldiers of the new Irish National Army and Free State ministers waited at Kingstown Harbour as the Holyhead-Dublin mail boat docked. After a slight delay a figure in silk dress-coat, white leggings and a turban adorned with a large emerald bounded down the gangway.
Minister calls for defence budget to be doubled to 3bn over Russian threat

We must be able to defend our country, says Jennifer Carroll MacNeillAt least 12 naval ships plus combat aircraft needed

Taoiseach Simon Harris greets Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky at Shannon Airport. Photo: PA

Wayne OConnor and Gabija Gataveckaite Sun 14 Jul 2024 at 03:30

Irelands defence spending should be doubled to support a fleet of at least 12 ships as well as combat aircraft, according to EU Affairs Minister Jennifer Carroll MacNeill  because of Russian aggression and the changing circumstances in Europe.
Roslyn Dee: Theres a new little boy in the family, and he has made me so happy to take on the grandparent mantle
An analysis of 201 votes taken since summer recess last year shows Green Party rebel TD Neasa Hourigan missed the most votes, and voted just 33 times in those 201 decisions.
World leaders condemn the shooting at former US presidents rally

Taoiseach Simon Harris has described the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump as truly shocking and said the rise of political violence internationally was alarming.

The Taoiseach joined international leaders including newly-elected UK Prime Minister Keir Stamer in condemning the attack at the political rally, which saw one attendee killed and two others seriously injured.

In an interview with BBC Northern Ireland this morning, the Taoiseach gave his reaction to the attack.

What we've seen happen in Butler, Pennsylvania has been truly shocking. I'm relieved that President Trump is secure and well, and of course, my thoughts are with all of those who've been injured, most particularly with the innocent spectator who has been killed, Taoiseach Simon Harris said.

Mr Harris also described the attack as a chilling and spoke about the rise of political violence in the world.

Political violence must always be condemned, always be called out. And I must say, it is quite alarming the rise that we're seeing in political violence across the world.

It's only weeks since my Slovakian counterpart had an attempt on his life as well, he said.

The Taoiseach said there was a glimmer of hope that came after the attack when US President Joe Biden and former President Trump spoke to one another.

"I think one glimmer of hope we saw last night, in what were very, very chilling moments, was the fact that two fierce political rivals, President Biden and former President Trump, did speak.

It's so important that that happened. It's so important that political violence is condemned. And of course, I want to send former President Trump our very best wishes and his family and all of those who were caught up with this horrific heinous criminal act last night, the Taoiseach said.

Asked if he was concerned that yesterdays shooting could have the potential to add to the toxicity of the US presidential race, Mr Harris said politics needed real leadership to deal with toxicity in politics.

Trump recovering as suspected gunman killed following 'assassination attempt' at campaign rally

I do think the situation around political toxicity is something that absolutely needs real leadership now. Real leadership in the United States, real leadership in Europe, real leadership here on this island as well.

We must dial down the rhetoric when it comes to demonising political opponents. It is so important that we work out a way of engaging and robustly debating issues without dehumanising people, the Taoiseach said.

UK Prime Minister Keir Stamer said he was appalled by what happened and said he thoughts were also with the victims of the attack.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes, the Prime Minister said on X.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, he added.

President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen also took to social media to express her shock at what happened.

I am deeply shocked by the shooting that took place during former President Trumps campaign rally, Ms Von Der Leyen said on X.

I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim. Political violence has no place in a democracy, she added.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was very upset after the attempted assassination of Mr Trump in Pennsylvania.

Mr Farage has been a long-time supporter of the former US President and spoke at a number of Mr Trumps rallies during his 2016 presidential campaign.

"I was very upset and I'm still upset, Mr Farage told BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg.

"I'm obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but he's got away with it.

"But one person is dead. Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so it's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it, he added.
TD Eamon O Cuiv says taxpayers are entitled to know details when public money is involved

TD Eamon O Cuiv says public have a right to know. Photo: Frank McGrath

Former Gaeltacht minister Eamon O Cuiv has criticised the failure of a state agency to disclose the price fetched for a potentially lucrative seaweed company that it sold to a Canadian multinational a decade ago.

Galway seaweed company Arramara Teo was transferred out of state ownership to Canadian company Acadian Seaplants in 2014.

Concerns were expressed at the time that the amount paid by Acadian and the full terms and conditions were the subject of a 10-year confidentiality clause.

Enterprise Ireland had also expressed concern about the sale in a letter to the then Gaeltacht junior minister Dinny McGinley in July 2013.

Now, with the 10-year period up, Udaras na Gaeltachta says it cannot publish any details of the sale contract.

The Canadian owners are separately stating that the confidentiality agreement was indefinite, and was never limited to 10 years.

Udaras na Gaeltachta told the Sunday Independent: The Information Commissioner has made a decision regarding this matter and determined that it involves sensitive commercial information.

As a clear decision has been made on this matter by the Information Commissioner, no one will be available to speak on behalf of the Udaras regarding this subject.

Fianna Fail deputy Mr O Cuiv said this was unsatisfactory, and he had submitted a number of questions to the Dail to try to find out more.

If Udaras na Gaeltachta gave the company away on the basis it believed it was not profitable, Ive no problem with that, but I think we are entitled to know the details when public money is involved, he said.

I would like to see the full terms and conditions  including guarantees that the Canadian owner would stay and not close the place up when it is providing employment in coastal Gaeltacht areas.

Arramara Teoranta, founded in 1947 after seaweed was identified as a source of alginates for pharmaceutical use, was sold to Acadian Seaplants Ltd for an undisclosed sum in a deal completed in early May 2014.

Several politicians, traditional harvesters and a former Arramara chief executive were critical of the deal, which was completed at a time when the company was making a profit and when seaweed was identified as a major global growth industry.

Arramara employs 24 people and contributes at least 4m a year directly to the local economy

Minutes, in Irish, of an Udaras na Gaeltachta board meeting in March 2014 obtained by the Irish news website tuairisc.ie state that there was a confidentiality clause in the agreement which lasted for the duration of the agreement, up to 10 years.

Unusually, board members were asked at the time to return documents relating to the Arramara sale to the executive before the end of the meeting.

Nuacht TG4 sought a copy of the sale contract earlier this year, and appealed to the Information Commissioner after Udaras na Gaeltachta refused its request.

In his ruling, the Information Commissioner investigator said that while he had strong concerns about the appropriateness of FoI [Freedom of Information-compliant] bodies entering into broad confidentiality agreements such as the one at issue, he had to affirm the Udaras decision.

The commissioner stated he had contacted Acadian Seaplants, which said: If such a disclosure were to take place, it would have no choice but to take steps to preserve its rights against Udaras na Gaeltachta for breach of the agreement.

Arramara Teo Europe director for Strategic Affairs Jim Keogh told this newspaper that Acadian Seaplants has not threatened Udaras na Gaeltachta with legal action if it breached the agreement.

Mr Keogh, who previously worked for Udaras na Gaeltachta, also said he believed the confidentiality agreement was indefinite and never limited to 10 years.

He said he had no comment on Mr O Cuivs concerns, and said he personally never had any role in minutes of Udaras board meetings.

Mr Keogh said Arramara employs 24 people and contributes at least 4m a year directly to the local economy through payroll, the purchase and haulage of seaweed and procurement of other services.

In 2013, Udaras na Gaeltachta approved a capital investment grant paid over a five-year period to Arramara Teo before it sold the company.
The State will spend 1.5bn a year by 2028 on protecting our shores, but in a changing world we need much more

The job of Minister of State for European Union Affairs and Defence comes with the added role of being Irelands designated Minister for the Future in Europe. Theres a minister for the future in all other EU nations too.

At a recent meeting of Europe ministers from across the EU, we tried to talk about the future.

We initially focused on green issues  until my Lithuanian colleague, Simonas Satunas, interrupted to ask were we talking about a future of Europe in which Ukraine had won, or in which Ukraine had lost.

Germanys defence minister says Europe must be ready for war before the end of the decade

He said these were completely different scenarios, with completely different prospects for Europe, for democracy, for public finances, for the functioning of the European Union.

It stopped the conversation in its tracks  because he was right. It was the only question we should have been discussing.

We in Ireland have the luxury of living as far away from Russia as you can get, while remaining in Europe. From here, it can be hard to grasp the day-to-day pressure on the eastern front and what that is going to mean for our participation in Europe.

We can forget the scale of the conflict until something horrifying makes the front pages  such as last Mondays attack on the Okhmatdyt childrens hospital in central Kyiv.

Russian president Vladimir Putin. Photo: Reuters

The war isnt limited to Ukraine. Its clear that the Black Sea region is of more importance to the EU than before.

The Baltic states are dealing with hybrid warfare in the form of relentless Russian cyber-attacks and weaponised migration, whereby asylum seekers are taken by bus through Belarus and left at the borders.

Moldova is continuing to face Russian attempts at destabilisation ahead of its upcoming elections and a referendum in the autumn on the countrys EU membership.

There is no doubting the sense of urgency in continental Europe. Germanys defence minister, Boris Pistorius, has said that Europe must be ready for war before the end of the decade.

The fundamental duty of any state is the protection of its territory and its people

We dont want to have this conversation, but we must. The circumstances have changed. We have enjoyed a peace dividend from the creation of the EU  but over the past 10 years, since Russias invasion of Crimea, the security landscape has changed and we have to adapt. As we did with Covid. As we did with Brexit.

In Europe, the far right is enjoying increasing success and tends to be sympathetic to Vladimir Putin. Even though Frances National Rally party failed to win a majority in last weekends elections, there is a strong possibility that its leader, Marine Le Pen, will win the presidency in 2027.

In Germany, the Alternative for Germany (AfD) party  which is too far to the right even for Le Pen  is growing in strength.

It is these changing circumstances in Europe to which we must adapt.

Earlier this month the Dail voted for several government defence motions including approval for Ireland to join the European Defence Agency cyber defence exercises and approval to join an EU defence cooperation project relating to critical seabed infrastructure protection.

These actions will help build our Defence Forces ability to address risks and enhance cooperation with our EU partners.

Patients after Russian strikes on Okhmatdyt Childrens Hospital, Kyiv. Photo: Reuters

We spend about 1.2bn (or 0.23pc of GDP) on defence. Nato members have a target of spending 2pc of GDP, or almost 10 times as much. Or consider another neutral country, Austria, which spends 3.3bn (or 0.8pc of GDP) on defence.

Russia, meanwhile, is now spending 7.1pc of GDP on defence  or, more accurately, on attack.

The extensive Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces, published in 2022, found that the existing level of preparedness and spending would leave the Defence Forces unable to conduct a meaningful defence of the State against a sustained act of aggression from a conventional military force.

In 2022, Ireland took the first major step toward ramping up our defence capabilities.

The Cabinet took the decision to increase defence spending from 1.1bn to 1.5bn annually by 2028 (at January 2022 prices), the largest increase in the defence budget in the history of the State.

The Report of the Commission on the Defence Forces laid out three possible tiers of defence spending, or levels of ambition: the first was to retain the existing capability, which would leave the State with woefully inadequate defences; the second (which was ultimately chosen) allowed for a significant upgrading of capability, including hiring an additional 2,000 personnel, both civil and military, above the current staffing of 9,500.

The world has changed and will continue to change. We must adapt and react

But there was also the third option  developing full-spectrum defence capabilities to protect Ireland and its people to an extent comparable to similar sized countries in Europe.

This would include a fleet of at least 12 naval ships plus combat aircraft.

This third option would come at a cost of almost 3bn annually, roughly double the current target. If that sounds like a lot, consider that 23.5bn is budgeted for the health service this year.

I believe 3bn is a target we now need to be working steadily toward. The fundamental duty of any state is the protection of its territory and its people. This does not mean abandoning neutrality or joining Nato, it simply means being in a position to defend ourselves.

Last year Denmark cancelled a public holiday that it had had since the 17th century. It was cancelled to raise 427m so it could increase its defence spending more quickly. Denmark is not on the front line but it understands the danger.

In Ireland, meanwhile, last year the Government introduced a new public holiday in recognition of Covid.

The world has changed and will continue to change. We must adapt and react accordingly.

Jennifer Carroll MacNeill is Fine Gael Minister of State with responsibility for EU Affairs and Defence
US president Joe Biden has one finger on the pulse of America and another finger on the pulse of the world. He knows whats going on from Utah to Ukraine and from Guam to Gaza.

He also keeps another finger ready just in case he ever has to press the nuclear button. Thankfully, that finger has remained idle. 

President Biden is alert and ready to respond to whatever crisis might fall out of the sky  as long as he hasnt got a cold, isnt feeling tired or its not too early in the morning or too late at night.

He says only God can stop him running again for election. Like the Woody Guthrie song, he has God on his side, which is always reassuring to hear because that always works out for the best.

President Biden doesnt share the same view as any of the people who say he should quit the race, including George Clooney (whose opinion on coffee everyone trusts). Furthermore, he doesnt even believe we should be worried when he mixes up the names of his allies and enemies.

Donald Trump is another big non- believer because he doesnt believe in the results of the last election and wont believe in the results of the next one if he loses again.

So, in the next election, Americans will have to decide which of these two non-believers they believe in most. They have a choice, which proves why American democracy is in much better shape than communism or dictatorships. It also highlights why the future looks rosy for those of us who are lucky enough to live in the free world.

The more you think about it, the more you want President Biden to keep going so that we can all sleep soundly in our beds at night  just like he does.

Chris Fitzpatrick, Terenure Road East, Dublin 6

Presidents honest slips far more acceptable than Trumps deliberate deeds

US president Joe Biden made a political ally of Russian president Vladimir Putin by accident. Donald Trump calls Putin a political ally by intention.

A mistake is nowhere as damaging as an intention.

Dennis Fitzgerald, Victoria, Australia

Government should start exploring ways to support Ukrainians return home

I set up a class last year to assist older Ukrainians learning English. Over the past 12 months, I have come to know many of them personally.

They have all, without exception, expressed a desire to go home. The problem is their properties have been destroyed (with no compensation available) and the social welfare benefits are so inadequate that living there without employment would be impossible. And employment is hard to find.

My suggestion is that the Irish Government should pay for their flights home and agree to give them the 140 currently being paid per week while they remain in Ukraine for one year.

This should be paid directly into their Irish bank accounts, as happens now. They could still access this money with ATM cards.

This would enable them to survive at home and perhaps buy them some time to find work. It would bring funds to the local economy and free up accommodation currently being used here. It would also remove costs related to their food and accommodation from the Irish taxpayer.

Many would be happy to go home if they had some social welfare support. It would also give the far-right one less thing to forward their agenda with. Its a solution worth considering.

Barbara Hamilton, address with editor

We need to address harsh reality that Nato poses the biggest obstacle to peace

Nato was founded in 1949 to counter the perceived threat posed by the Soviet Union. It has had no reason for being since the Warsaw Pact was dissolved in 1991.

Assurances were also made to Mikhail Gorbachev at that time that Nato would not enlarge. In that light, the war in Ukraine was not unprovoked  Nato has expanded in the meantime by adding countries right up to Russias borders.

It is now seeking to expand into the southern Caucasus, thereby posing what Russia considers a fundamental threat to its security.

Indeed, this weeks Nato summit committed itself to bring Ukraine closer to the Alliance. Nato is guided by a militarised response to threat. On the other hand, Russia has made overtures for peace, which have not been adequately responded to.

Why can we not have a peace summit in Ireland? Why are our leaders not intervening with offers of hosting peace talks? We have a constitutional obligation to do so.

Nato has little to do with peace and everything to do with supporting the international arms industry. It is dragging us into the shadow of a nuclear apocalypse.

Elizabeth Cullen, Kilcullen, Co Kildare

Respect for past victims is welcome, now lets do our bit to quell present horrors

The Dail this week stood for a minutes silence to remember the killings of 8,000 men and boys in Srebrenica by the Bosnian Serb army in a UN-designated safe area in 1995.

I salute the Dail for their stance. That was almost 30 years ago. The last fortnight saw Russia blow up a childrens hospital and Israel ramp up the bombardment of Gaza.

Israel has ordered whats left of the Palestinian women and children to leave Gaza City. Where are they to go?

Will the Dail stand in 30 years to recall the Palestinian children, women and men killed? Or will they take action and tell Israels ambassador to leave our land, stop US warplanes using Shannon and tell the US ambassador weve had enough of them supplying Israels war?

John Cuffe, Co Meath

After taking so long to find a new boss, FAI could have held off a day or two more

I welcome the long-awaited appointment of new Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson. Hopefully, he will bring pragmatism to our style of play in the interests of getting results.

It was certainly a long-drawn-out appointment process. In typical FAI form, they made a complete hames of it by upstaging the womens international team ahead of last nights match against England.

We have tried to pay absolute respect to the womens national team, said FAI interim CEO, David Courell (FAI says no offence meant as womens team upstaged by unveiling of mens boss, Irish Independent, July 12). Thats not good enough. Drop the absolute and just do respect.

Aidan Roddy, Cabinteely Dublin 1
New Ross and District Pipe Band members have just returned from another very successful trip to France  their third visit in 12 months.

The band were guests of the Bressuire Highland Games, a festival which is held in the ruins of an old castle in Bressuire  an hour south-east of Nantes in La Nouvelle-Aquitaine region.

The normal arrangements for pipe bands when they travel abroad is that the organisers pay for flights, hostel accommodation and food and in return the bands bring music and colour through their performances.

The great benefit to the band is that the younger players, in particular, get to see many exotic places and get to experience a variety of cultures at very little cost to themselves, said band leader Brian MacMahon.

Twenty four members of the band made the trip to France and they had an extremely busy weekend of recitals, massed band parades and two pipe band competitions.

One competition was held on Saturday and one was held on Sunday.

The New Ross band were delighted to win both competitions and also the award for best drum corps.

The second placed band was the Troon Blackrock band from Scotland while the Letterkenny & District Pipe Band from Donegal won third prize.

Unfortunately, the band endured Irish weather for most of the weekend and locals in France were testifying to their worst summer in living memory.

The Bressuire Highland Games are one of six Highland Games festivals held in France over the summer.

Contestants come from all over Europe to do tests such as the traditional tossing the caber and hammer throwing competitions.

Thousands of people turned out on both days to witness the event although Sunday was somewhat curtailed due to persistent rain.

The pipe bands contributed by means of several parades and recitals throughout a very busy weekend, as well as participating in the band competitions, said Brian McMahon.
Three Wexford SPAR stores were honoured at the recent SPAR 365 Standards Customer Care Programme for achieving exceptional standards in retailing, which was held in Lawlors Hotel, in Naas in Co Kildare. Hosted by BWG Foods, owners and operators of the SPAR brand in Ireland, the awards recognised SPAR stores which have excelled during the year across all areas of store.

The three Wexford stores which received the SPAR 365 Retailing Standards Award were OBriens SPAR, Blackwater, Corrigans SPAR, Oulart, and Hanrahans SPAR in Taghmon.

In winning these awards, the SPAR stores were independently assessed across a range of criteria including customer service through SMA as well as a robust Food Safety and Hygiene audit conducted by LRQA. These exemplary SPAR retailers received their award in recognition of their commitment to implementing Best practice store standards throughout their store, thereby providing an excellent customer experience to their local community.

Congratulating the winners, Colin Donnelly, SPAR Sales Director, said, The SPAR 365 Standards Customer Care Programme recognise those Retailers who, through their ongoing commitment to outstanding retail standards and customer service, continue to set the benchmark for the SPAR brand and the Retail Marketplace overall. I congratulate all the SPAR winners from Wexford. Their efforts have been truly outstanding and this recognition is very well-deserved.
K Thiruvengadam (33), a resident of Kundrathur, is a history sheeter. (Photo courtesy: Video grab)

Chennai: The Tamil Nadu Police gunned down an accused in the murder of the state BSP chief K Armstrong in an encounter, media reported.

The accused, Thiruvengadam, was taken to a spot for the recovery of the weapons used in the murder of K Armstrong when he attacked the police using the same weapon.

According to The New Indian Express, K Thiruvengadam (33) is a resident of Kundrathur, a history sheeter.

On Sunday morning, Thiruvengadam was taken to a location near a lake in Madhavaram where the weapons used to attack and kill Armstrong were hidden. At the scene, Thiruvengadam allegedly attempted to attack a policeman and escape, when police shot and killed him.

He was injured in the retaliatory firing and rushed to the hospital. "He was declared brought dead by the doctors," officials were quoted as saying by NDTV.

#WATCH | Tamil Nadu: Thiruvengadam, an accused in the murder case of Tamil Nadu BSP state president K Armstrong, was killed in a police encounter in Madhavaram area near Chennai.



Additional Commissioner of Police, Chennai North, Narendra Nair said, "The encounter took place pic.twitter.com/qzNVseoWhL  ANI (@ANI) July 14, 2024

K Armstrong was hacked to death by six bike-borne men near his house in Chennai earlier this month.

The attack occurred while Armstrong was having a discussion with a few party functionaries near his home in the city's Sembium area.

After the assault, the attackers fled the scene. Armstrong's family rushed him to a hospital, but he was declared dead on arrival.

Thiruvengadam was one of the suspects arrested in connection with K Armstrong's murder. Armstrong, a lawyer, was elected to the Chennai Corporation Council in 2006.

He gained prominence after organizing a large rally in Chennai two years ago, where he invited BSP chief Mayawati.

The others who were arrested are Ponnai V Balu (39), D Ramu (38), K S Thirumalai (45), D Selvaraj (48), G Arul (33) of, K Manivannan (25) and J Santosh (22). Three other men Gokul, Vijay and Sivasankar were arrested the next day. The city police said that Armstrong was killed in retaliation for the murder of a history sheeter Arcot Suresh near Foreshore Estate in 2023. One of the arrested suspects, Ponnai V Balu, is the younger brother of Suresh, reported the New India Express.

On July 11, the city police took the suspects into custody for five days for questioning.

BSP chief Mayawati has demanded a CBI investigation into the attack.

"I urge the state government, especially the Chief Minister, to ensure law and order in the state. The weaker sections, in particular, should feel safe. Had the government been serious, the accused would have been arrested. Since that is not the case, we urge the state government to refer the case to the CBI," she had said.
Photo courtesy:Video grab

Jiribam (Manipur): A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was killed, and three others were injured after armed miscreants ambushed a combined team of the CRPF and state police in Manipur's Jiribam on Sunday, media reported.

The attack took place at around 9:40 am, targeting a team from the 20th Battalion CRPF and Manipur Police, reported India Today, citing officials.

This incident comes amid ongoing ethnic violence that started in May 2023, leaving the security situation grim.

The ambush took place as the combined security team was approaching Monbung village to conduct a search operation related to a firing incident on Saturday, the report said.

The Jiribam region has recently witnessed several incidents of violence. In June, at least 70 homes and police outposts were set on fire amid clashes between the Kuki and Meitei communities.

Meanwhile, Manipur Police reported on Sunday that they seized arms and ammunition from the Imphal East and West districts, including an AK-56 rifle, a Self-Loading Rifle (SLR), a locally made SLR, several pistols, hand grenades, and 25 rounds of ammunition.

In a separate operation in the Khuyathong and Nagamapal areas of Imphal West district, officials seized an Excalibur rifle, a 7.62 mm Ar (GHAATAK), and an MA-3 MK-II rifle with ammunition on Friday.

On July 12, Indian Army Chief Gen Upendra Dwivedi was briefed about the security situation in Manipur and along the Myanmar border during his visit to all Corps formations under the Eastern Army Command in the Northeast.
Photo Courtesy: Shannen Doherty Instagram page

Actress Shannen Doherty, who is known for her performance in series like Beverly Hills, 90210 and Charmed, died after her long battle against cancer.

She was 53.

It is with a heavy heart that I confirm the passing of actress Shannen Doherty. On Saturday, July 13, she lost her battle with cancer after many years of fighting the disease, Dohertys publicist Leslie Sloane said in a statement to CNN.

The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace, her statement continued.

The actress was diagnosed with breast cancer for the first time in 2015.

The condition went into remission two years later.

The actress announced in 2020 that cancer had returned, spread and reached stage 4.

Last year, she announced that cancer had reached her brain and she underwent surgery to remove a brain tumour.

The actress was even documenting her fight against cancer in her podcast.

The most recent episode was streamed on July 8.

The actress was known for her many roles in television and film, including as Jenny Wilder in Little House on the Prairie (19821983); Maggie Malene in Girls Just Want to Have Fun (1985); Kris Witherspoon in Our House (19861988); Heather Duke in Heathers (1989); Brenda Walsh in Beverly Hills, 90210 (19901994), 90210 (20082009) and BH90210 (2019); Prue Halliwell in Charmed (19982001); and Dobbs in Fortress (2021).
Photo Courtesy: Unsplash

The Italian police have arrested two alleged gangmasters accused of enslaving 33 Indian farm labourers in Verona province, media reports said.

The two suspects, who are also Indian nationals, are under investigation for crimes including enslavement and labour exploitation, reported ANSA news agency.

Finance police also seized assets worth 475,000 euros from the suspects, who own two agricultural sector companies with no employees on the books and are allegedly total tax evaders, the Italian news agency reported.

Police have reportedly released the 33 Indian labourers from slave-like working conditions in Verona.

Labour exploitation came to light in Italy following the recent death of 31-year-old Satnam Singh.

Singh, an Indian labourer, bled to death after being abandoned by his employer when his arm was severed by a wrapping machine.
Photo Courtesy: ThaDietz X page

US President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania but the injured former President' s defiant image with his fist up in the air attracted business owners in China who quickly captured the moment to produce and sell T-shirts with the picture on them.

The first batch went on sale on Taobao, a popular Chinese e-commerce platform, at 8.40pm  before most governments around the world had scrambled together a response, reported South China Morning Post.

By the time the news spread across the world and Chinese people were up for their breakfast, the T-shirts were already available for purchasing online.

We put the T-shirts on Taobao as soon as we saw the news about the shooting, though we hadnt even printed them, and within three hours we saw more than 2,000 orders from both China and the US, Li Jinwei, a 25-year-old Taobao seller, told the newspaper.

Lis factory is based in the northern province of Hebei, and to create new products, she simply downloads an image and presses print, with the factory taking an average of one minute to finish a T-shirt, the newspaper reported.

Former US President Donald Trump received injuries on his right ear during a Saturday election campaign rally at Pennsylvania's Butler, in what is seen as an assassination bid that left the 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate's face streaked with blood with his alert security agents rushing him off the stage even as he pumped his fist in the air, mouthing the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The shooter, along with one bystander who was there to attend the rally, died.

As gunshots were heard, Trump, who was just six minutes into his election speech, was seen clutching a hand to his right ear, where blood was visible across his cheek and mouth.

Two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Secret Service agents were quick to respond and surrounded Trump while escorting him off the stage, as he raised a fist to the crowd in defiance.
Image posted on X by Donald Trump Jr

Butler (Pennsylvania)/IBNS: Former US President Donald Trump received injuries on his right ear during a Saturday election campaign rally at Pennsylvania's Butler, in what is seen as an assassination bid that left the 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate's face streaked with blood with his alert security agents rushing him off the stage even as he pumped his fist in the air, mouthing the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The shooter, along with one bystander who was there to attend the rally, died.

As gunshots were heard, Trump, who was just six minutes into his election speech, was seen clutching a hand to his right ear, where blood was visible across his cheek and mouth.

#WATCH | Gunfire at Donald Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania (USA). He was escorted to a vehicle by the US Secret Service



"The former President is safe and further information will be released when available' says the US Secret Service.



(Source - Reuters) pic.twitter.com/289Z7ZzxpX  ANI (@ANI) July 13, 2024

Two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Secret Service agents were quick to respond and surrounded Trump while escorting him off the stage, as he raised a fist to the crowd in defiance.

Trump's reaction:

In his first reaction after the shooting at his rally, the 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate said in a statement he "was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear".

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin," Trump, who was not seriously injured, said on his Truth Social site.

He is currently doing "fine" and being checked at a medical facility, said reports.

The former President is "fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Trump Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement following the attack.

US leaders react:

US President Joe Biden condemned the assassination attempt on his rival election candidate Donald Trump.

Political leaders on both parties slammed the attack minutes after the Republican candidate was rushed off stage by the Secret Service with blood running down his face.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country... We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," Biden told reporters in an emergency briefing at Rehoboth Beach in Delaware.

"The idea that there's political violence, or violence in America like this, is just unheard of. It's just not appropriate. Everybody, everybody must condemn it. Everybody," Biden said.

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris said on X: "We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting."

I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania.



Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.



We are grateful to  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 14, 2024

Biden's former boss, Barack Obama, in a statement, said there was "absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy."

"Although we don't yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn't seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics," the Democrat said on X.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

Former president George W. Bush condemned the "cowardly" attack.

"Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response," the Republican said in a statement.

The shooter had been "tentatively identified," police said, and was believed to be working alone.

The US Secret Service said in a statement that the suspected shooter "fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally" before being "neutralized" by agents.

Police confirmed that a male spectator was killed and two critically injured, all of them male adults.

The attack sent shock waves around the world prompting leaders of India, Britain, Israel, Japan, and a host of other countries to express outrage.

It has also triggered political storms, with some Republicans pointing the finger at Biden and right-wing conspiracy theories flooding social media.
Photo Courtesy: Real Donald Trump Instagram page

American law enforcement agencies have identified the man who attempted to assassinate former US president Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park.

He was shot dead by Secret Service officials after the attack.

The gunman was immediately neutralized by the Secret Service, chief of communications Anthony Guglielmi told NBC News.

Pennsylvania voter records listed a Thomas Matthew Crooks with the same address and birth date as a registered Republican, though it was not clear from the records when that was put in place, the news channel reported.

Former US President Donald Trump received injuries on his right ear during a Saturday election campaign rally at Pennsylvania's Butler, in what is seen as an assassination bid that left the 78-year-old Republic.

can presidential candidate's face streaked with blood with his alert security agents rushing him off the stage even as he pumped his fist in the air, mouthing the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

As gunshots were heard, Trump, who was just six minutes into his election speech, was seen clutching a hand to his right ear, where blood was visible across his cheek and mouth.

Two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Secret Service agents were quick to respond and surrounded Trump while escorting him off the stage, as he raised a fist to the crowd in defiance.
Billionaires are determined to maintain their wealth even in the afterlife. After all, who would want to experience poverty after living a life of luxury? In a bid to ensure they return to life with their riches intact, some billionaires are opting to freeze themselves not to death but for a return after death. Sounds shocking? Let us explain.



The scientific term for the freezing of bodies is 'cryonics.'

The wealthy and influential are increasingly opting for cryogenic freezing, with 5,500 individuals already signed up and 500 bodies currently in storage.

Representative image/ Unsplash

Cryonics is the practice of preserving individuals at extremely low temperatures after death with the hope that future medical advancements will enable them to be revived and cured of any conditions they had at the time of their passing.



This process involves cooling the body to cryogenic temperatures to halt all biological activity, including decay.

The idea is that future technology will be able to repair or replace damaged tissues and organs, potentially allowing the person to be brought back to life.

The process of freezing bodies for future revival is known as vitrification. This technique involves replacing the body's blood with a special solution to prevent ice crystals from forming, which can cause cellular and tissue damage.

Representative image/ Unsplash

After this preparation, the body is stored in a specialised container filled with liquid nitrogen, cooling it to a frigid temperature of -196 degrees Celsius.



Cryogenic freezing is becoming increasingly popular among the wealthy and influential. As of now, 5,500 people have committed to this preservation process, with 500 bodies already in storage.

Among the latest to embrace this bold hope for the future is billionaire and PayPal co-founder Peter Thiel. In a recent interview on Bari Weiss's podcast, Thiel expressed a cautious optimism about cryonics, stating, "I'm not convinced it works. It's more, I think we need to be trying these things. It's not there yet."

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Imagine discovering a relic 'frozen in time.' The ghostly image of abandoned dinner tables, beds and seating areas is enough to send chills down anyone's back. Recently, urban explorer Ben Stevens happened across a creepy ship and shared photos of the same online. Inside, he saw abandoned slot machines, playing cards and even a room filled with casino chips. Here's what went on.

Who discovered the creepy 'ghost ship?'

The vessel was abandoned three years ago after a deadly disease broke out onboard | Image: Jam Press/@places_forgotten

Also read: Chilling Video Of 8ft-tall 'Aliens' In Cloaks Walking Around Yard In US



30-year-old Stevens is an urban explorer who often goes exploring abandoned and dilapidated places capturing on camera moments that stay frozen in time forever. His social media pages are replete with images and videos of many such places including psychiatric hospitals, amusement parks and even ships.

The vessel disbanded operations after it was unable to compete with the state's growing gambling rules | Image: Jam Press/@places_forgotten

Recently he happened across a 600-passenger casino cruise ship called The Blue Horizon, which as per reports was launched in 2015 and sailed out of the Port of Palm Beach. Reports further state it disbanded operations after it was unable to compete with the state's growing gambling rules.

What did he find on the long-abandoned vessel?

30-year-old Stevens is an urban explorer who often goes exploring abandoned and dilapidated places | Jam Press/@places_forgotten

Also read: Man Haunted By Ghost Of Disfigured Kid Has Creepy Pics To Prove It & You Don't Want To See Them

He told What's The Jam, "It was literally like a ghost ship. It's like people were gambling one day and then they all vanished. It was both creepy and interesting as everything had been left from money and poker chips to all the furniture."



Onboard the vessel, he stumbled across nearly-perfect-looking slot machines, playing cards including a room filled with a gazillion casino chips.

The 600-passenger casino cruise ship was called The Blue Horizon | Image: Jam Press/@places_forgotten

Also read: 'Charged you for street lights too': Gurugram man gets Rs 45,000 electricity bill for 2 months

"There was one room with a safe and all the chips that would have been traded in for cash. I was there for a few hours but it was so hot inside and the smell of mold was crazy," Stevens explained.



The Blue Horizon, the 600-passenger casino cruise ship that now rots in water in Florida was first launched in 2015.



Stevens also came across $50 on board which was covered in mold | Image: Jam Press/@places_forgotten

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Suzanne Casement was shocked to find an intact plastic container with a measurement in fluid ounces listed on it - making it up to 54 years old - on a Sydney beach. Source: Supplied

An Aussie grandmother who spends most of her spare time picking up garbage on her local beaches says she's often astonished by what she finds, but never more so than when she discovered almost intact novelty plastic bottles which would be more than 50 years old on the shore. The containers  which once contained sugary cordial  haven't been sold in decades.

Sydney environmental campaigner Suzanne Casement said she and her daughter-in-law Chrissy, who often helps with the clean-ups, have picked up 30 to 40 of the plastic bottles from a stretch of coastline known as 'The Beach' near the city's airport at Mascot.

It's crazy," Casement told Yahoo News Australia. "I remember them from when I was a child. There's so much rubbish there some days. It's pretty depressing."

The ageing containers  which are sure to awaken childhood nostalgia for some older Australians  were shaped like hand grenades, kangaroos, submarines and Fred Flintstone characters. Back in the day, they had snap-off lids, which are long gone.

Some even had measurements in fluid ounces  making them up to 54 years old, as Australia began transitioning to the metric system between 1970 and 1988. Many had small holes, indicating where they had decayed into microplastics which are often mistaken for food by birds, fish and turtles.

Plastic can stick around for centuries

Cip Hamilton, plastics campaign manager at the Australian Marine Conservation Society, told Yahoo News: The big problem with plastic is we often use it for minutes or even seconds, but it can stick around for decades or centuries".

Suzanne also found these plastic drink containers dating back to the 1970s and 80s. Source: Supplied

Once its entered our environment, it does not really go away. Over time, it has the potential to break into smaller pieces and fragment into microplastics.

Hamilton said Australia was the worlds second largest consumer of plastic per capita and industry bodies needed to provide better options.

At the moment, its really challenging for individuals to even shop for fruit and vegetables without it containing plastic packaging," she added.

Dangerous debris found in the sand on Sydney beaches

Casement has also warned beachgoers to keep their "eyes opened" saying she's found a lot of dangerous debris including hundreds of syringes during her voluntary daily clean-ups over the past eight years on popular Sydney tourist beaches including Coogee.

She said she recently came across needles  and the black box containers used to safely dispose of them  discarded in the sand at La Perouse in the city's eastern suburbs.

A warning has been issued after an environmentalist found used needles on a popular Aussie beach. Source: Supplied

No beach escapes them, she said, I've found hundreds of needles in my time picking rubbish. The black box is usually given to people who use a lot of needles and they've been discarded instead of returned for proper disposal.

Casement said another problem was old fishing lines and hooks that could ensnare or tangle up wildlife.

A week ago at Coogee, I saw a seagull who has likely gone to eat the leftover bait on the hook and its now embedded in his beak, she told Yahoo. The poor guy wouldnt let me get close enough to help.

Environmentalist Suzanne Casement found this seagull chewing on leftover bait on a fish hook which then became embedded in its beak. Source: Suuplied

'Up to all of us' to protect our oceans, council says

A Randwick City Council spokesperson told Yahoo News that rubbish from Greater Sydney flowed through rivers and waterways and washed up onto beaches along the coastline.

Its up to all of us  regardless of where we live  to do our bit to protect our oceans and beaches by disposing of our rubbish responsibly, they said.

The spokesperson said the council mechanically raked every beach in Randwick City with a tractor removing over 200 tonnes of rubbish and excess seaweed every year that washes up, while staff did spot cleans to remove dangerous items such as syringes.

They said littering was an offence and rangers can issue fines of between $160 and $5000, while anyone who finds syringes in a public place can call the Needle Cleanup Hotline on 1800 633 353.

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Mukesh Ambani, the Indian business tycoon, and his wife Nita Ambani recently celebrated the marriage of their youngest son, Anant Ambani, to Radhika Merchant on July 12, 2024, in Mumbai. The Ambani family, known for their opulent lifestyle and influential network, hosted extravagant pre-wedding festivities in Jamnagar and aboard a luxurious cruise from Italy to the South of France.

These events drew celebrities from Bollywood such as Salman Khan, Shah Rukh Khan, Ranbir Kapoor, Hollywood such as Kim Kardashian, John Cena, and Adele, global industrialists, and renowned personalities. This union not only celebrated love but also brought together families with substantial financial clout. Let's explore the impressive net worths of the Piramals, Mehtas, and Merchantsfamilies now intricately linked to the Ambanis through marriage.



The Merchant Family

The Merchant Family | Photo: Reddit

Anant Ambanis wife, Radhika Merchant, comes from a wealthy family. Her father, Viren Merchant, is a billionaire and the CEO of Encore Healthcare. He also holds directorial positions in several major companies, such as Encore Business Centre Private Limited and ZYG Pharma Private Limited. Viren Merchants net worth is approximately Rs 750 crore. Radhika's mother, Shaila Merchant, is also a successful entrepreneur who co-founded Encore Healthcare in 2002.



Ambanis custom lion brooch with a 50-carat diamond



Swati and Ajay Piramal

Mukesh and Nita Ambanis daughter, Isha Ambani, married Anand Piramal, the son of industrialist Ajay Piramal, in 2018. Their wedding, held at the Ambanis family residence, Antilia, was a grand affair costing around Rs 800 crore. According to GQ India, Isha and Anands wedding invitation was worth Rs 3 lakh each.

Swati and Ajay Piramal with Mukesh Ambani, Shloka Mehta and Akash Ambani | Photo: X

One of the most talked-about wedding gifts was a 50,000-square-foot sea-facing house, Gulita, given by Anands parents, Swati and Ajay Piramal. The Piramal Group is a large company involved in various sectors, including medicines, healthcare data, real estate, financial services, and glass packaging. Ajay Piramal, the Chairman of Piramal Group, has a net worth of $3 billion (approximately Rs 25,060 crore).



Cost of Justin Bieber's outfit at Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant's pre-wedding



Mona and Russell Mehta

The Mehta Family

Shloka Mehta, the daughter of Mona and Russell Mehta, is married to Akash Ambani, the eldest son of Mukesh and Nita Ambani. The lavish three-day wedding was held in Mumbai, and Mukesh Ambani invited some of the biggest personalities in the world to his sons wedding. From Googles CEO, Sundar Pichai, to British Prime Minister at the time, Tony Blair, it was indeed a star-studded affair.



Even Maroon 5 performed at their wedding, which broke headlines back in 2019. One wedding card was reportedly worth Rs 1.5 lakhs. Russell Mehta is the managing director of Rosy Blue India, a top-ranked diamond company in India. According to reports, Russell Mehtas net worth is estimated to be around Rs 1,844 crore.

Anant Ambani wears a rare Rs 12.5 crore Richard Mille watch



Mukesh Ambani: India's Richest Person with a Huge Net Worth

Mukesh Ambani is the richest person in India, with a massive net worth of $123.7 billion (Approximately Rs. 10 lakh crores). He is the Chairman and Managing Director of Reliance Industries Limited, one of India's largest companies. According to Forbes, Mukesh Ambani is the 11th richest person in the world and the only Asian in the exclusive 100 billion USD club. He has transformed Reliance Industries Limited (RIL) into a powerhouse.

Reliance Industries has a strong presence in various industries. Some of their top ventures include Jio Platforms, Reliance Retail, Reliance Industrial Infrastructure, Network 18, Reliance Global Corporate Security, and Reliance Industrial Investments and Holdings Limited. For those who don't know, Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries Limited is among the most valuable company in the world. In February 2024, RIL's market capitalization reached Rs. 20 lakh crore, making it the first Indian company to achieve this milestone.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding cost:

With a total of eleven pre-wedding events and high fees paid to international stars, the Ambani family has spent a huge amount of money. According to reports from LiveMint, The Economic Times, and Outlook Business, the celebrations have cost around Rs 5,000 crore. This amount is higher than the costs of famous weddings like Princess Diana and Prince Charless, which was Rs 1,361 crore, and Sheikha Hind Bint bin Maktoum and Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoums, which was Rs 1,144 crore. This makes it one of the most expensive weddings in the world.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants educational qualifications will amaze you



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Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant's wedding has captured global attention, becoming one of the most talked-about events. India's richest person with a net worth of $123.7 billion (Approx Rs 10 lakh crore) spared no expense for his son's wedding, making it one of the most luxurious weddings ever. The lavish celebration is now considered one of the most expensive weddings worldwide. Beyond the extravagant decor and amenities, the Ambanis went all out with their outfits.



Anant Ambani's Stunning Wedding Outfit

For his wedding, Anant Ambani wore a dazzling sherwani designed by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla. The outfit featured gold embroidery and a unique elephant brooch, complemented by sneakers. The entire ensemble is reported to be worth a fortune, with the gold-embroidered sherwani costing around Rs 214 crore.

The Magnificent Lion Brooch

Mukesh Ambani, Anant Ambani and Nite Ambani | Photo: Joseph Radhik

Anant Ambani's custom lion brooch stole the show with its intricate design and a massive 50-carat diamond. Created by renowned jewelry designer Lorraine Schwartz, the lion brooch was adorned with yellow diamonds, adding texture and depth to the lion's mane. The lion's eyes were made of emeralds, known for their spiritual healing properties. The highlight of the brooch was the 50-carat diamond hanging from the lion's mouth.

In an interview with Forbes, Lorraine Schwartz emphasized the meticulous attention to detail in creating the brooch. The yellow diamonds varied in shades to give the lion's mane a lifelike appearance. The lion sat on a pedestal-like structure made of white diamonds with an Asscher cut, symbolizing humility and being grounded.

Cost of Justin Bieber's outfit at Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant's pre-wedding



Cultural Significance and Personal Connection

The wedding celebrations were deeply rooted in cultural traditions, reflected in the couple's attire. Anant Ambani's love for animals inspired the lion brooch, symbolizing his commitment to wildlife preservation. Anant founded an animal rehabilitation center called Vantara, and the brooch represented his passion for this cause. The lion brooch also symbolises the couple's love for each other, with the designer noting that Anant shared traits with a lion, including a loving heart and strong determination.

Designer's Blessings and Behind-the-Scenes Insights

Designer Lorraine Schwartz shared behind-the-scenes pictures of the brooch's creation, expressing her excitement for the couple's wedding. She captioned, So excited for the upcoming wedding of this amazing couple Radhika & Anant. I especially enjoyed working on the vivid yellow diamond lion brooch for Anant at their pre-wedding celebration in Jamnagar. It was spectacular, and their love for the animals at their incredible animal sanctuary #Vantara was inspiring. I was truly in awe! It was a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

Anant Ambani wears a rare Rs 12.5 crore Richard Mille watch



Cost of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant wedding

Netizens had a field day after a Reddit post revealed that the cost of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding was Rs 5,000 crore, which is just 0.5% of Mukesh Ambanis wealth. The post humorously noted that people expected the wedding to cost around Rs 1,000-2,000 crore, but Rs 5,000 crore was beyond imagination.

The post also mentioned that such an amount could sustain five generations of a family comfortably. Anant and Radhika are set to tie the knot today, July 12.

Celebrities from around the world, including former UK Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Kim Kardashian, and Samsung CEO Han Jon, attended the lavish wedding.

The comments on the Reddit post are pure comedy gold. Many users joked about generational wealth. One user commented, I just read an article which said that if the Ambanis spend 3 crores..yes 3 croresevery day, their wealth will last them 962 years [sic]. Another user replied, Hume 3 crore dede to generational wealth ka base ban jaega at least, which translates to, "Give us 3 crores and it will at least establish the foundation of generational wealth for us."

A report by Outlook highlighted that while spending Rs 4,000-5,000 crore might seem extravagant, the Ambani family is actually spending a smaller percentage of their net worth than the average Indian family does on weddings. Typically, Indian families spend about 5% to 15% of their total wealth on weddings, while the Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant wedding is only about 0.5% of the Ambani family's net worth.

Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchant Wedding has truly set a new standard for opulence and grandeur, with Anant Ambani's custom lion brooch by Lorraine Schwartz being a highlight. The golden sherwani, paired with the majestic brooch, showcased the couple's love for culture and personal connections, making their wedding an unforgettable event.

Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants educational qualifications will amaze you



For the latest and more interesting financial news, keep reading Indiatimes Worth. Click here
A 38-year-old man, Ebuka Ofoma, from the Osumenyi community in Anambra States Nnewi South Local Government Area, has been apprehended for allegedly sexually assaulting a three-year-old child.

Ofoma was detained on Friday by the state Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Welfare, in coordination with state police officers, following a tip-off from a whistleblower about his unlawful activities.

According to a statement and video uploaded on Saturday by the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Welfares media aide, Chidimma Ikeanyionwu, the suspect admitted to committing the act while under the influence of alcohol.

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The statement stated that the suspect admitted to the offence during questioning, although he insisted that he was intoxicated when doing the deed after consuming eight bottles of beer.

Recounting how it happened, the suspect said, The little girl approached me at a traditional wedding ceremony where I was already drunk and enjoying myself, and dragged me to come and watch masquerade outside.

After I reluctantly followed her to the scene, the girl, in fear of the masquerade, cuddled me beside a car, while I began to finger her.

He opened up to inserting his two fingers into the victims genitalia while maintaining he wasnt enjoying or feeling anything while defiling her.

He went on to claim that when people saw what he was doing, they went to notify the childs mother, only to have him arrested later in his house.

READ MORE: Court Encourages Settlement In Mohbads Paternity Case, Delays DNA Ruling

Reacting to the development, the commissioner vowed to get to the root of the matter and ensure justice is served as a deterrent to others. The suspect has been handed over to the police for further investigation and prosecution.

She warned parents to be careful about who they entrust their daughters with, adding that the state government is all out to rid the state of illicit behaviours, the statement added.
Nigerias President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, on Sunday, extended his heartfelt sympathies to United States former President, Donald Trump who was shot at on Saturday.

Recall that a now neutralised individual fired shots during a campaign rally which also grazed Trumps ear on Saturday

The incident reportedly left one person dead and another seriously injured.

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Reacting via X, Tinubu who noted that act goes beyond the pale of democratic norms, added that such should have no place in democracy.

The post read: The attack on former President Donald Trump is distasteful.

READ ALSO: We Notified US Police About Rooftop Shooter But They Let Trump Speak  Eyewitness

I extend my sympathies to the former President and wish him relief. I also condole with the family of the deceased and those wounded and wish them a quick recovery.

Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States of America at this time.

Both President Joe Biden and former President Barack Obama have issued statements condemning the violence and wishing Trump a speedy recovery.

Biden said, Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Obama echoed this sentiment, stating, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.


Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, on Saturday, described the Supreme Court ruling on Local Government Councils financial autonomy as a mere distraction from the main issues.

Recall that on Thursday, the apex court ruled that the Federal Government (FG) should henceforth pay allocations directly to Local Government Areas (LGAs).

The Court also ordered the Federal Government to withhold allocations of LGs governed by unelected officials.

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Speaking with some members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ibadan, Makinde said the real issue is that the country is not producing enough.

According to him, the country must focus on addressing the problem of unproductivity, instead of worrying about LGA autonomy.

READ ALSO: LG Autonomy: Supreme Court Has Relieved Us Of A Burden  Govs

Makinde questioned the sustainability of the trend of LGAs receiving allocations from the federal government.

They said there is a judgment of the supreme court on local government autonomy.

I think it is just a distraction. We must face the real issue that we have.

The issue that we have is that we are not producing enough.

We are not productive. Maybe it may be part of the problem (LGA autonomy), we want to have value for what is being shared (federal allocations) but our problem is productivity.

How much are those LGAs generating within their domains?

Can they survive without handouts from Abuja? Handouts from Abuja, is that the way to go? Is it sustainable?
The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone B, confirmed on Saturday the death of one of its personnel, Inspector of Customs Hamza Abdullahi-Elenwo.

According to a statement issued in Kaduna by Zone B Public Relations Officer Isa Suleiman, the incident occurred on Friday, July 12, 2024, near Achilafia on the Daura-Kano Road in Jigawa State during a stop-and-search operation.

The Customs spokesman reported that the incident occurred when a suspected smuggled vehicle, attempting to evade arrest, hit the operative.

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He claimed that the slain officer was taken to General Hospital Kazaure before being moved to the Federal Medical Centre in Katsina, where he was confirmed dead by the on-duty doctor.

He stated that the deceased had been buried according to Islamic customs.

Suleiman said, The Nigeria Customs Service, Federal Operations Unit, Zone B is sad to announce the tragic demise of Inspector of Customs (IC) Hamza Abdullahi Elenwo in an unfortunate incident that occurred on Friday, 12 July 2024 at Achilafia along Daura-Kano Road in Jigawa State during a stop and search operation.

The incident occurred when a vehicle suspected to be smuggled into the country hit the operative while trying to evade arrest. The late operative was rushed to the General Hospital Kazaure and later transferred to the Federal Medical Centre (FMC) Katsina, where he was pronounced dead by the doctor on duty. The deceased has been laid to rest in Katsina, according to Islamic rites.

According to the Customs spokesman, Comptroller Ahmadu Shuaibu, Head of Federal Operations Unit Zone B, expressed condolences to the deceaseds family and prayed for his eternal peace on behalf of the units officers and men.

Comptroller Shuaibu asserted that the incident shows the level of desperation by smugglers operating without recourse to human lives, adding that it is also one of the many instances where smugglers kill and maim Personnel of the service in an attempt to evade arrest.

The Comptroller vowed to ensure justice is served as one auspect has been arrested and is in the custody of the Nigeria Police Force, Gwiwa Division in Jigawa State, he said.

READ MORE: Adultery Scandal: Ill Pay The N5m Fine; My Watches Alone Cost Over N100m, But Im Innocent  Daddy Freeze

He also stated that the units operatives would not be discouraged and would continue unyielding in their fight against smuggling.

Inspector Hamza, a native of Port Harcourt, Rivers State, was born on April 16, 1985.

On October 17, 2013, he joined the Nigeria Customs Service as a Customs Assistant III (CAIII) in the Transport and Logistics Unit. He was promoted to the rank of Inspector of Customs (IC) in 2022.

He was survived by a wife and two children.
Martins Vincent Otse, also known as Verydarkman, a popular social media activist, has called for a nationwide protest in Nigeria due to the countrys continued economic hardship.

On Saturday, he announced the national protest in a video on his Instagram page, urging youths to demonstrate in large numbers on July 29th and August 5th to express their dissatisfaction with the government.

The activist voiced his disapproval of Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubus government.

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He criticised the present government, citing increased food, transportation, and housing prices, as well as insufficient and frequently delayed salaries.

The statement urged immediate action to demand answers from the administration, emphasising that the people could not continue to live in such conditions.

The activist called for a protest and encouraged involvement from youth leaders who can successfully represent everyones interests, with the goal of applying smart and powerful pressure on the government.

So I waited till Saturday to talk about this because I know it is important and I know the information will reach everybody because mama and papa dey for house today, now there are dates that has been released for nationwide protests because of the hardships and the suffering thats going on in this country right now, theres date for 29th of this month, July and theres 5th for August. We have to come out as people of Nigeria to stand up and tell the government that enough is enough, because the hardship and suffering is too much, he partly said.

READ MORE: #EndSARS: Justice Was Served  DJ Switch Reacts To ECOWAS Court Ruling

Captioning the video, he wrote,

As a person I boldly as I do not like Asiwaju bola Ahmed tinubu administration is as if the people are seen as fullz,we cannot continue like this ENOUGH IS ENOUGH,see the price of foodstuffs,see the prices of transportation and see the prices of rent yet the salaries are poor and they come in late,

We cannot continue like this and we have to do something about this and make sure the government give us a solution,dear youth we should stand but stand with an outlined solution and priorities so we will be taken seriously and so we will not be taken advantaged of by the people that have their own agenda,PROTEST PROTEST yes we will protest along side youth leaders that can speak on everyones behalf,lets pepper them the right way.

Watch him speak below
The Lagos State government has set up plans to reform the states transportation system amid traffic situation in the Lekki-Epe axis.

Speaking with Vanguard on Sunday, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Transportation, Sola Giwa, noted that the move was in line with the Lagos State Strategic Transportation Master.

Giwa called for collaboration of Public Transport Bus Operators, such as Korope/Danfo bus drivers, as government releases the restructuring plans to improve commuting experience.

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Mr Giwa stated that a stakeholders meeting was held with bus operators and union leaders on their need to comply before October 1 to successfully regulate and integrate the informal transport sector into the States Bus Reform Initiative using the corridor as a pilot test.

Expressing his dissatisfaction with the current state of bus operations on the corridor, Mr Giwa explained that the Ministry of Transportation and Lagos Metropolitan Transport Authority (LAMATA) has already inspected the corridor to identify limitations of seamless traffic flow along the expressway.

READ MORE: Sanwo-Olu Approves 46% Increase In Fare For Lagos Bus

He said: The e-call up system, an advanced digital platform, is designed to regulate the entry and exit of trucks in the Lekki-Epe area by scheduling and coordinating their movements.

This system will help prevent the chaotic traffic situations often caused by the indiscriminate parking and movement of trucks within the corridor.

The Lekki-Epe corridor, a key economic hub in Lagos, is home to numerous industries, including the Lekki Free Trade Zone, the Dangote Refinery, and the Lekki Deep Sea Port.

The efficient movement of goods and services in this area is crucial for the states economy, making the e-call up system an essential tool for sustainable development.
The Lagos State Police Command claimed it has apprehended one of its officers for allegedly raping a 17-year-old girl at Area H Command in the states Ogudu area.

SP Benjamin Hundeyin, the commands spokesperson, confirmed the detention on his X page on Sunday, and refuted reports that the police were protecting the suspected rapist.

Hundeyin explained that the officer in question allegedly fled following the incident but turned himself in on Saturday for interrogation.

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Hundeyin assured the public that the situation was not being ignored, and that the state Commissioner of Police, Mr Adegoke Fayoade, has directed the commands Gender Unit to conduct a swift investigation into the case.

The case is under full investigation. There is no plan to cover up the allegation, he said.

READ MORE: Enough Is Enough  VeryDarkMan Calls For Nationwide Protest Over Economic Hardship

According to reports on Saturday, a 17-year-old girl had informed her parents about a rape allegation against a senior officer assigned to Area H Command Ogudu, Ojota area.

The girl sought the officers assistance in recovering her stolen phone, which resulted in the alleged sexual assault.

After taking her statement, the officer offered to help her but instead allegedly raped her.

See below
The Ogun State Police Command said it uncovered the shallow graves of 71-year-old farmer Adekunle Ifelaja and Ogunyemi Femi, who were allegedly executed by suspected kidnappers in Ogun States Ijebu-Igbo region.

This is coming after the arrests of two members of a seven-person criminal gang, Chukwuma Bartholomew and Igwe Monday, who are suspected of abducting and murdering the victims.

Omolola Odutola, the commands spokesperson, told PUNCH on Saturday that the arrest came just five days after the anti-kidnapping team killed two suspected kidnappers in a gunfight and rescued other captives, including Indian nationals.

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In terms of the exhumation of the deceaseds bodies, Odutola revealed that the suspects took the Commissioner of Police, Abiodun Alamutu, and the anti-kidnapping team to the forest in Ijebu-Igbo after confessing to the crime during interrogation.

READ MORE: Adultery Scandal: Ill Pay The N5m Fine; My Watches Alone Cost Over N100m, But Im Innocent  Daddy Freeze

She said, They are responsible for kidnappings and abductions that have been recorded in the Ijebu-Igbo area. They kidnapped their victims, demanded ransom from their family members, and then killed them.

They then took them to a forest in Ijebu-Igbo, where they dug a shallow grave and buried them. They were arrested by our anti-kidnapping squad after a thorough investigation, which led the team to the hideouts of the criminals on June 28, 2024, in Ijebu-Igbo.

After their confession, the suspects took the CP and members of the anti-kidnapping units to the forest where they buried the victims to exhume the corpses.
Health issues arising from smoking is costing the economy billions, but there is a way we can wean people off cigarettes, argues Dr Colin Mendelsohn.

One of the nation's leading tobacco harm prevention experts have slammed the government's new anti-vaping laws, warning they're 'doomed to fail'. Source: Reddit

Australia's new vaping laws are "certain to fail" and instead of limiting access to the electric devices, governments should instead "legalise and regulate" them as a method of reducing nicotine addition, one of the nation's leading experts on tobacco harm reduction has warned.

We need only look to our neighbour New Zealand to see their "smoking rate has declined more than twice as fast as ours" after legalising vaping, Dr Colin Mendelsohn said. And although the country moved to ban disposable vapes in March, he said there's much we can learn from them.

While in an ideal world people would neither smoke cigarettes nor use vapes, the latter are an effective method in weaning people off cigarettes and are estimated to be up to "95 per cent safer" according to various studies, Mendelsohn claimed.

He said in addition to regulation, "much more education is needed" across the country to better inform people about vapes  both the health risks and potential "benefits"  and in particular, how to dispose of them. As it stands, the "negative view of vaping is mostly based on misinformation", he added.

The Australian government says it will spend $234 million to stamp out non-prescription vaping in a bid to prevent a new generation of nicotine addicts, including smokers. Source: AAP

Cigarettes a far bigger problem than vapes, expert says

"I think it's important to keep it in perspective," Mendelsohn told Yahoo News Australia. "I think cigarette butts are a far bigger problem in terms of litter, their non-biodegradability, their harm to marine life and so on. Their risk of bushfires, house fires, harm to air quality. I think they're a much bigger problem.

"There's nearly five trillion cigarette butts discarded each year in the world. They're the main cause of litter globally. I think we put the harms that we think are there out of proportion because we have some negative view which has become the dominant narrative.

"The only way we're going to [learn how to] recycle and control the environmental issue is through legalising and regulating vaping, and that is quite possible through a national manufacturer funded program." Almost everyone knows someone who uses a vape regularly. Among young people, they're extremely popular and many studies have attributed the rise of smoking in our youth to the devices.

Smoking-related healthcare costs in Australia have been estimated to cost the economy a staggering $137 billion. Source: Getty

While Mendelsohn acknowledges this, he warned the effects of the alternative, cigarettes, are overwhelmingly worse.

He said the environmental impact of vaping products is far lower than from cigarettes, however vapes are a genuine cause of litter and fire risk and can result in soil and water pollution from leaking chemicals. "Alcohol and cigarettes are deadly," Mendelsohn said.

"And they're available from every corner store. I mean, it's ridiculous.

New vaping laws ineffective, 'bound to fail'

"This is the most effective quitting aid we've got and the most popular, and we're saying to people, well, you can buy cigarettes anywhere you like, but if you want to vape you have to jump through all these hoops. And it's just not risk proportionate to the risk of the product.

"The new legislation is certain to fail. We're quite sure about that. The model that's being proposed is not going to appeal to vapors, people aren't going to do it.

"The black market will continue to thrive, it'll sell continue to sell vapes to young people will still have the youth vaping problem. The products will continue to be unregulated, so there'll be more more risky. And, and unfortunately, it's going to make it very hard for adults to get access to legal products to help to help them to quit smoking. So I think it's bound to fail."

New Zealand legalised vaping in adults in 2020 but backflipped earlier this year after a change of government. It's soon set to ban disposable vapes but reusable devices will remain for sale.

In Australia, smoking-related healthcare costs have been estimated to sting the economy a staggering $137 billion. In response, the government says it will spend $234 million to stamp out non-prescription vaping in a bid to prevent a new generation of nicotine addicts, including smokers

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
Former President of Nigerian Bar Association, Olisa Agbakoba, has faulted moves by the National Assembly to create more States in the country.

Recently in the National Assembly, bills seeking the creation of some States have been deliberated on and some have passed for second reading.

The human rights activist however disclosed that creating more States will only put more strain and pressure on the nations lean resources and finances.

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He made his position known in an interview with News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday.

According to the Senior Advocate of Nigeria, the Federal lawmakers should collapse the existing state and return Nigeria to regionalism.

READ ALSO: South-East: Bills For Creation Of Etiti, Adada States Pass First Reading

Agbakoba said the National Assembly should turn the 36 states into six or eight regions which would have leaders.

Agitation for additional state creation, he said, was a misplaced priority.

His words: State creation at this present harsh economic will, no doubt, lead to an increase in the number of National Assembly members, ministers, local governments, and others, which would further increase the cost of governance in the country

He stated that there are more existential problems confronting the country and needed to be addressed.

This is coming at a time when most Nigerians are starving due to rise in food prices. Insurgents, bandits, and terrorists are abducting people for ransom in other states of the country.

Therefore, the National Assembly should, instead, return the country to regionalism by collapsing the 36 states into six to eight regions or geopolitical zones, each of which will have a leader.

We need to do away from state creation to regional system of government, he added.
A former Lagos state lawmaker, Mojisolaoluwa Kehinde Alli-Macaulay, who was recently accused of looting COVID-19 Palliatives has been appointed as the Executive Director of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund.

INFORMATION NIGERIA learnt that the controversial ex-lawmaker, from Amuwo Odofin 1, was appointed by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday.

Mrs Macaulay was exposed for allegedly diverting some relief items meant to alleviate the suffering of poor masses during the COVID-19 lockdown and rebranding the palliatives as her birthday souvenirs in 2020.

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A petition from her constituents called for her recall, citing poor representation and misappropriation of the palliatives.

READ MORE: Tinubu Names Oloworaran PenCom DG, Appoints New NSITF Executives

Despite these past controversies, Mrs Alli-Macaulay, who shares her state of origin with President Tinubu, has now been appointed to a high-ranking federal position.

The decision to appoint Mrs Alli-Macaulay has attracted criticism and raised questions about the Tinubu administrations commitment to transparency and accountability in governance.

Many Nigerians have been interrogating President Tinubus cabinet over its attitude towards fighting corruption and hardship in the country.

Some believed that the President has no plans to tackle challenges facing the country, while others opined that he just want to reward his loyal political agents.
The All Progressive Congress (APC) has cautioned Chief Whip of the Senate, Ali Ndume, against unhelpful attention-seeking media posturing with his comments about President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Ndume had posited that Tinubu is being caged and has shut his doors on some of his ministers and members of the national assembly.

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In a statement on Saturday, Felix Morka, APCs spokesperson, said Ndumes heedless comments smack of an indulgent sense of entitlement to see the president on a whim.

The APC spokesperson said Ndume has multiple platforms to air his opinions on national issues, rather than the outlandish declaration that the president has been caged.

As a senator of the Federal Republic, Ndume has the platform of the National Assembly to raise and address matters that he may consider to be in the national interest. He also has access to the entire machinery of the federal government of Nigeria. Senator Ndume did not explain the use to which he has put these enormous access in seeking solutions to concerns that he may have.

It is understandable if Senator Ndume feels frustrated by his suggested inability to access the President.

But that does not warrant or justify his outlandish declaration that the President has been caged in some way or ensconced from the reality of conditions in the country. Senator Ndumes heedless comments smack of an indulgent sense of entitlement to see the president on a whim, the statement read partly.

Morka added that the president is busy doing the job for which he was elected by the Nigerian people.

READ ALSO: Tinubu Decides Who To See, Your Media Outbursts Selfish  Daniel Bwala To Ndume

He is the head of government, of which there are many critical parts equipped with the power to process and deal with a wide range of simple to complex social, economic, political, or security challenges.

The Presidents time is required to be used judiciously in attending to important matters of state.

Just about nine days ago, on July 4, 2024, the President inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC) and launched the Economic Stabilization Programme to ensure food security, improved power supply, enhanced social welfare, healthcare, increased energy production, and general economic transformation.

Further, a couple of days ago, President Tinubu was in an important meeting with leaders of organised labour on the issue of the new minimum wage.

President Tinubu meets and interacts regularly with citizens, officials, and guests from all walks of life, as his schedule permits.

He has continued to superintend the formulation and implementation of policy and programme measures aimed at mitigating prevailing economic conditions and boosting availability and price access to food and other essential commodities.

In a similar vein, President Tinubu recently signed an Executive Order aimed at reducing the high cost of drugs; approved tax waivers for the importation of some food items in the bid to crashing prices and ensuring food sufficiency; directed the Armed Forces to combat and defeat resurgent of acts of terror, among many other important engagements that speak eloquently to his command of the situation in the country.

As a senior party man and senator of the Federal Republic, we urge Ndume to exercise restraint and quit his penchant for unhelpful attention-seeking media posturing.

Our dear country needs all hands to be on deck on the cusp of national transformation, each doing their part to remake the social, economic, and security conditions in the best interest of our people, the statement added.
Philly's Roland Bui is a man of many trades, but his most cherished role is his job as a community connector. His sector of choice is fine dining, and he's singlehandedly elevating the profiles of Asian chefs and restaurateurs, at the Bok Bar Wednesday, May 22, 2024 Read more

Roland Bui is a man of many trades.

Sometimes he is modeling for a home goods brand, serving cocktails at a nearby lounge, or writing a list of the best bites for the Lunar New Year. The longtime Philadelphian holds all his roles in high regard but his most treasured occupation is being a culinary connector.

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Whats that you ask? Through extravagant dinner parties and curated soirees, Bui connects Philly chefs, business owners, and dining connoisseurs to bridge gaps.

There are a lot of creative people and creative silos in the city, and they dont necessarily interact or merge, he said. If you look at a Venn diagram, you have a lot going on in Philly. But what I see is a lot of people who should be talking to each other.

Originally from Brussels, Belgium, Bui arrived in Philly 20 years ago to attend Drexel University, and quickly immersed himself in the citys dining scene. He established close relationships with chefs and attended fine dining events and invite-only galas, and has since forged connections with Black Dragon Takeouts Kurt Evans, El Chingon owner Juan Carlos Aparicio, and Kevin Sushi Whisperer Yanaga of Yanaga Kappo Izakaya  among others.

With his experience growing up overseas, paired with the friends hes made over the years, Bui wanted to start something that placed local culinary artists at the center, and reflected his larger ambitions for his adopted city.

Its my interest to help better Philadelphia, and to offer more experiences that I want to go to and see, Bui said. I have amassed this network, but Im happy to leverage it to create these experiences.

Along with his new role as a project manager at Visit Philly, Bui is often the face of dinner parties and ticketed celebrations that highlight seasoned or newly established chefs. Their dishes are always at the center of these events, but their engagement with the citys residents and restaurant-goers is what makes these curated experiences especially intimate. These elements, he hopes, will raise the profiles of the chefs and help them garner the media blaze they deserve.

What started as a series of dinners to promote Citrines table arrangements and dishware has evolved into Com.unity, his company that serves as a marketing arm for Phillys artists and culinary talent.

Its different from a PR company because the chefs dont pay me, he said. Its an amplifier with purpose.

The name, suggested by his wife Sandy Sanchez-Bui, harks back to his Vietnamese roots. The Vietnamese word com translates to rice, and an com means to eat.

Bui officially launched the brand in January, and hes spearheaded several themed dinners and hospitality-focused events with the same vision of connection in mind.

I get satisfaction from seeing people connect and making those introductions that help them achieve something, Bui said. I get asked if I know a graphic designer, a chef, a real estate agent, and other inquiries all the time. Com.unity is a way to make it fun for myself, while still helping people find those creatives.

In January, Bui held an event spotlighting chef Timothy Dearing for his first Little Owl Philly dinner. For this, he brought in five Vietnamese chefs for a five-course Tet or Lunar New Year celebration. He also organized a Sushi Sup & Snack fundraiser for InLiquids 25th anniversary.

To Jacob Trinh, chef de cuisine at Little Fish, Bui is more than an event organizer or consultant; hes a booming presence in the food industry.

Hes bolstering up things we dont see often, or giving people the opportunity to see chefs and restaurateurs in a different light, Trinh said. There are chefs who are doing their own thing, but then there are other chefs cooking in one space that want to cook things from their own culture and upbringing. Hes creating spaces for them to showcase themselves.

Hes like Scotty in Star Trek, chef Timothy Dearing said. Hes the engineer making sure the people at the top can utilize the tools hes presenting. And the people utilizing the tools he engineers are the citys chefs.

While there are other supper clubs and community-wide dinners in Philly, Kalaya owner and chef Chutatip Nok Suntaranon said the source of Buis abilities comes from his vast network of connections, his charming personality, and fearless attitude.

He didnt just wake up and say, Im going to do this. He tried, he failed, and tried again, Suntaranon said. He did different things to see where his heart is, and he finally found a project thats his love. Im very proud of him. Hes a gem.

With Com.unity still in its infancy, Bui is figuring out just how far he and his connections can go, and how much he can improve the city from his current post. Hes on the hunt for more nuanced ways to spotlight chefs, artists, and musicians.

He insists Com.unity isnt a money play for him. It is, he says, is centered on the same goal he had when he first started organizing dinner parties: To make Philadelphia a better and more vibrant Philadelphia.

Theres no bigger goal here, Bui said. Im not trying to make this a production company. Thats not it. Its really to do cool and fun stuff. its a creative outlet for myself, and if people enjoy it, Im quite happy with it.
Former President Donald Trump had just begun his remarks at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday evening when a series of gunshots rang out, followed by screams.

Secret Service agents rushed toward Trump and soon whisked the former president, whose face and right ear were bloodied, from the stage. Trump, who later reported he was shot in the ear, was said to be fine and safe, and was being treated for his injuries.

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Two people were killed, including the suspected shooter, and two rally attendees were injured, according to the Secret Service and the FBI.

The shooting comes amid a presidential campaign that has sharply divided the nation over volatile issues including gun violence, the right to carry firearms, and womens reproductive rights, and while President Joe Bidens campaign is mired in conflict, as some Democratic members of Congress call on him to quit the race.

Heres what we know and dont know.

What happened at the rally in Butler?

Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, had just taken the stage at a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, and was early in his remarks when a series of gunshots sounded at 6:11 p.m. Trump winced and grabbed his right ear and then crouched down behind the podium as rally attendees screamed and members of the Secret Service rushed toward him as more shots were then heard.

 READ MORE: FBI probing motives, background of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the Western Pa. gunman behind Donald Trump assassination attempt

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Soon after, a Secret Service agent or a first responder yelled that shooter is down. Secret Service agents then helped Trump stand up. His right ear appeared bloody and there were streaks of blood on his right cheek.

Was anyone killed by the gunman?

Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old firefighter and enthusiastic Trump supporter from Sarver, Butler County, was killed when shots broke out at the rally and he shielded his wife and daughters, according to Gov. Josh Shapiro and a Facebook post by his sister.

 READ MORE: Corey Comperatore identified as man killed in Trump rally shooting

Who besides Trump was injured?

Pennsylvania State Police identified the two people injured as David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township. Both were hospitalized in stable condition Sunday.

What is Trumps condition?

A spokesperson for Trump, 78, said he was fine and, after being treated at a local medical facility, flew to his golf club in Bedminster, N.J.

In a statement posted on Truth Social Saturday night, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

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Sunday morning, Trump issued a call for unity on Truth Social: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Who was the shooter?

The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Western Pennsylvania, as the alleged shooter.

Crooks resided in Bethel Park, a suburb of Pittsburgh in Allegheny County, according to public records. Bethel Park borders Butler County, where Trumps rally took place.

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Crooks was a registered Republican, according to the voter roll.

He was wearing a T-shirt from a popular YouTube channel that focused on firearms and explosives at the time of the would-be assassination.

Crooks had no identification on him at the time of the shooting, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI Pittsburgh office, said during a news conference early Sunday morning.

 READ MORE: Why Thomas Matthew Crooks tried to assassinate Donald Trump is a mystery to investigators and his ex-classmates

Where was the shooter?

The shooter was just outside the grounds of the rally on a roof and, therefore, would not have passed through magnetometers that were set up to screen rally attendees, authorities said.

What happened to the shooter?

The U.S. Secret Service shot and killed him.

How was he able to get up on the roof with a weapon undetected by law enforcement?

Theres going to be a long investigation into exactly what took place and how the individual was able to get access to the location, Rojek said.

 READ MORE: The Secret Service is investigating how a gunman who shot and injured Trump was able to get so close

What was the motive?

We do not have an identified motive, Rojek said. But he called the shooting an assassination attempt against Trump.

What kind of weapon was used?

Authorities said Crooks used an AR-15-style rifle, which was recovered Saturday at the scene. Two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press investigators believe the weapon was bought by Crooks father six months ago. The AP also reported bomb-making materials were found inside Crooks vehicle and at his home.

Was there more than one shooter?

Bivens said there is no reason to believe theres any other existing threat but an investigation continues.

Who is leading the investigation?

The FBI is leading the investigation into the attempted assassination of Trump, and the state police is investigating the other shootings, including the homicide.

Were there any known threats against the rally prior to its start?

We did not have any specific threat information, Rojek said.

But just before the shooting, people in the audience told local police about a man climbing to the roof of a nearby building, the Associated Press reported Sunday, citing two law enforcement officials. One local police officer climbed to the roof and encountered Crooks, who pointed his rifle at the officer, the AP reported. That officer climbed down the ladder and Crooks took a shot at Trump, according to the AP.

Was this a security failure?

Pennsylvania State Police and FBI officials said they were not prepared to make such a conclusion while the investigation is in its early stages. This is a tragic incident that occurred, Bivens said. Just know it will be thoroughly investigated. Rojek called it surprising that a sniper was able to fire off several shots at such a security-heavy event.

U.S. Rep. Scott Perry (R., Pa.), a member of the House Oversight Committee, pledged a full probe of security surrounding the rally in the coming days.

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America wants answers  without delay, drama, or games  and our leaders need to provide those  without delay, drama, or games, he said in a statement.

What did Biden say about the shooting?

In a brief news conference Saturday night, Biden called the shooting sick and condemned all political violence.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. Its sick, its sick. We have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening.

The president said he was grateful to hear that Trump is safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally.

In a prime-time address to the nation from the Oval Office Sunday night, he called on Americans to recommit themselves to using peaceful political rhetoric and striving for national unity. There is no place in America for this kind of violence, or for any violence, ever. Period. No exceptions, Biden said. We cannot allow this violence to be normalized.

What have other elected officials said?

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said, in part: Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy posted on X, formerly known as Twitter: Please pray for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our country. God Bless America.

Sen. John Fetterman (D., Pa.) said Trump being shot was a dark day for our nation and called for political unity in the country. We just have to turn down the temperature, Fetterman said during an interview on CNN Sunday.

Philadelphia Mayor Cherelle L. Parker said: Violence has no place in American politics.

 READ MORE: GOP delegates from Pa. prepare to give Trump a heros welcome in Milwaukee

Has Trumps wife said anything about the shooting?

Melania Trump issued a statement Sunday saying in part: When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change.

What are religious leaders saying?

Archbishop of Philadelphia Nelson Perez condemned the shooting, and violence in all forms. Working together, we can resolve our differences through peaceful dialogue and conquer the sin of hatred, Perez said.

 READ MORE: 'Conquer the sin of hatred': Turning to prayer after Trump rally assassination attempt

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally on Saturday. Read more Evan Vucci / AP

Where is Butler, Pa.?

Butler, a city of a little over 13,000 as of the 2022 census, is the capital of Butler County. It is 35 miles north of Pittsburgh.

What impact will the shooting have on the GOP convention?

The Republican National Convention is slated to begin Monday in Milwaukee, where Trump is anticipated to be named the partys presidential nominee. The convention is expected to proceed as scheduled. It is not clear if additional security measures will be in place.
Deng Yuwen at his home in the Philadelphia suburbs earlier this month. He is a journalist from China who has built a career writing articles critical of Xi Jinping, the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party. Social media researchers discovered this year that the CCP's propaganda arm is targeting Yuwen and his teenage daughter on social media through fake accounts, accusing him of plagiarism and her of using drugs and other falsehoods. Read more

When dissident journalist Deng Yuwen became the target of an aggressive online harassment campaign over the winter, he had little doubt that the slew of social media accounts calling him a plagiarist and a traitor were tied to the Chinese Communist Party.

After Deng was expelled from his home country in 2018 for criticizing its authoritarian government, he settled in the Philadelphia region.

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But although Deng, who is now 56, believed that life in the United States would offer his family protection, he was shocked to find that in addition to himself, the accounts were unloading their aggravation on an unsuspecting target: his 16-year-old daughter.

In February, social media profiles with fake identities that researchers say are linked to the Chinese Communist Partys propaganda arm began circulating thousands of intimidating messages and digitally altered images on X (formerly Twitter) and other platforms with disparaging and sexualized messages about the teenager, including one that calls for violence against her.

The messages frequently contained the name of the Camden County middle school that his daughter had attended  and in some instances, were posted directly in the replies section of that schools social media pages. Many of the posts are still visible on X.

The Chinese governments harassment of a minor living in the United States has led researchers at Clemson Universitys Media Forensics Hub to sound alarm bells, suggesting that the government of party leader Xi Jinping is escalating its efforts to silence its loudest critics. The Chinese embassy to the United States did not return a request for comment.

For Deng, who remains troubled by the harassment, the campaign is also a sign that his advocacy for free speech and a China unshackled from authoritarian rule is echoing in Beijing.

Im very angry, and meanwhile, theres nothing I can do about it, Deng said through a Mandarin interpreter at his home. On the other hand, it proves Im valuable enough for them to attack.

The job of the account is to attack somebody.

Targeted Chinese harassment campaigns have become increasingly brazen in recent years; after then-Houston Rockets general manager Daryl Morey tweeted support for Hong Kongs democracy movement in 2019, for example, the current Sixers presidents social media was flooded with threatening posts from troll accounts linked to the country.

But Deng considered his family off limits. The journalist has a limited internet presence, and said he learned of his daughters harassment only after staff from her school alerted him.

Bot accounts, many of them without any followers and with Americanized names, were posting thousands of intimidating messages about the teen, who declined to comment. Those that appeared in English were written in stilted phrasing and rife with grammatical errors, a hallmark of a foreign influence campaign.

Researchers at Clemson, which is in South Carolina, found that accounts with the government-linked propaganda network, Spamouflage, had circulated more than 5,000 of the posts, with content appearing on websites such as Facebook, Medium, and Tripadvisor as well as Patch, a local news site.

In the past, if the government attacked any individual on Twitter, you would see the name, it was actually a real account, Deng said. But right now, you click on the person, theres no followers. The job of the account is to attack somebody.

Other posts took the harassment to shocking extremes. Several advertised sex work and provided contact information. Another, posted to X in May, listed a bounty of $8,000 for anyone who could successfully harm her.

Youre not going to talk about it

After analyzing Dengs harassment, Darren Linvill, a propaganda researcher and founder of Clemsons Media Forensics Hub, said he was positive the campaign originated in China.

Linvill formed his team in 2017 following the allegations that Russia had used platforms to influence the U.S. election the previous year. Authoritarian propaganda tactics can vary widely, he said.

Russia, for example, attempts to sow confusion by flooding platforms with false and misleading information, while the Chinese government focuses on suppression. That includes conversations about Taiwans independence, pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong, and the governments persecution of Uyghur Muslims.

Dengs criticism of the Communist Party varied enough that it was not clear what triggered the harassment, though he suspects it stemmed from comments he made earlier this year comparing top officials in Xis government to those under the dictatorship of Mao Zedong.

China tries to demote ideas, Linvill said. If they dont want you talking about something, youre not going to talk about it.

Linvills team has since urged social media companies to remove the harassment. Meta, which operates Facebook, has taken down the content in recent months. A Meta spokesperson said the company included Spamouflage in its annual threat report last year and has linked the network to Chinese law enforcement.

But posts remain elsewhere. A spokesperson for X did not respond to requests for comment.

Like it was in a dream

It wasnt always this way for Deng.

Barring the most extreme criticisms, Deng said he enjoyed the freedom to largely write as he wished during the 2000s; the journalist was then serving as a deputy editor of Study Times, a scholastic journal associated with a Chinese state-run school.

Those are luxury times, golden times compared to the way things are in China today, Deng said. Talking about it, it feels like it was in a dream.

But about the time of Xis ascent to power in the early 2010s, the government began to rein in press freedoms, something Deng would experience in 2012 when he published a Study Times piece critical of Xis predecessor, Hu Jintao.

The piece drew the attention of international media  and his bosses at the party school, who told him not to repeat himself. He would last another year; after Deng published an article criticizing Chinas embrace of North Korea and its then-nascent nuclear program, he was fired.

English-language media have since become a haven for Deng, and his commentary has appeared in Foreign Policy magazine, the U.S. news outlet Voice of America, and on European broadcast networks.

New York City was Dengs initial destination when settling his family in the United States, though concerns over affordable housing led him to a Camden County community with a large and welcoming Chinese diaspora.

Its much more relaxed, Im sending my articles to the U.S. and Germany and Taiwan, he said. I dont feel any restrictions.

Still, the harassment campaign has yet to cease. After Deng spoke with the New York Times in June, more posts appeared. What has waned, however, is his daughters anger over the experience, he said. The fallout is a cold fact of his line of work, Deng said he explained to her.

The way they harassed me is not going to change how I write my articles, Deng said. Theyre not going to hinder me in any way.
Corey Comperatore with his daughter Allyson Comperatore. Corey Comperatore was shot and killed at a rally for former President Donald Trump on Sat., July 13, 2024 in Butler. Pa. Read more

The man killed when shots broke out at former President Donald Trumps rally Saturday was shielding his wife and two daughters, a family member posted on Facebook.

A sister identified the victim as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore.

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In a Facebook post mourning his loss, Dawn Comperatore Schafer described her brother as a hero.

The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most. He was a hero that shielded his daughters, Schafer wrote. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds.

 READ MORE: FBI probing motives, background of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the Western Pa. gunman behind Donald Trump assassination attempt

In statements on Facebook, Corey Comperatores daughter Allyson described her father as a real-life superhero who died trying to shield her and her mother as gunfire erupted at the rally.

Comperatore, who lived in Sarver, Butler County, was a firefighter who loved his family, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference.

Shapiro said he has called for flags to fly at half-staff in honor of Comperatore.

Corey was the very best of us. May his memory be a blessing, Shapiro said.

 READ MORE: Why Thomas Matthew Crooks tried to assassinate Donald Trump is a mystery to investigators and his ex-classmates

Prior to the news conference, Shapiro met with Comperatores family as well as the family of one of two shooting victims who remain hospitalized.

Pennsylvania State police identified the two people who were wounded but survived as David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pa., and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pa. Both victims are hospitalized and in stable condition, according to state police.

Comperatore, Shapiro said, was an avid Trump fan who was eager to attend the rally.

Corey was a girl dad, Corey was a firefighter, Corey went to church every Sunday, Corey loved his community, and most especially he loved his family, Shapiro said.

 READ MORE: Conspiracy theories spread wildly online after Trump shooting

A longtime family friend said Comperatore was a family man, an always-helpful neighbor, and a firefighter who was respected widely in his community.

He was amazing, Jason Bubb, said Sunday. Anything we needed, he was there at the drop of a hat. Hes been there for my kids since they were born.

Bubb said the selfless act of protecting his family was a spot-on reflection of the man he knew. Its a terrible loss, he said.

Bubb went to high school with Comperatores daughter Allyson and has lived near the family for a decade. News of his death has been shattering to those who knew him in Butler County.

I dont have words, Bubb said. Its disgusting.

 READ MORE: GOP delegates from Pa. prepare to give Trump a heros welcome in Milwaukee

When Bubb reached out to Allyson, he offered to help by setting up an online fundraiser through the gym he owns, Three Six Fit, in Cabot, Pa., where Comperatore and his daughter were members, he said.

I opened this gym to support and help those in my community, he said, and I feel like my name was called on.

The GoFundMe had raised over $100,000 shortly by 1 p.m. Sunday.
Vice President Kamala Harris visits Little Thai Market at Reading Terminal Market with Governor Josh Shapiro after she spoke at the APIA Vote Presidential Town Hall at the Pennsylvania Convention Center Saturday. Read more

It was already a big day at Reading Terminal Market Saturday with the annual ice cream festival drawing frozen dessert enthusiasts on another sweltering July day in Philadelphia. And then things ramped up a notch when a motorcade pulled up outside on 12th Street, delivering Vice President Kamala Harris.

Fresh off her speech to a gathering of Asian and Pacific Islander American voters at the Pennsylvania Convention Center around the corner, Harris stopped in to make a brief visit to Little Thai Market, joined by Gov. Josh Shapiro. Not surprising, given their clout, they were able to skip the markets notoriously long lines.

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Onlookers lifted their phones to record as they whispered, Thats Kamala.

Debbi Katz was wondering what she should cook for dinner when she was stopped by a Secret Service agent and told Harris was making her way to the vendor.

I hope I get to meet her, she said she thought to herself. Next thing Katz knew, Harris was shaking her hand.

Still trying to grapple with the unexpected encounter, Katz managed to tell the vice president how happy she was to meet her and thanked her for coming to Philly.

Thank you so much, its great to be here. I love Philadelphia, she recalled Harris saying.

Susiliawati Tjiputra was working the food line at Little Thai when she suddenly noticed men in suits followed by Harris.

She recalls Harris saying hi as a crowd of people began surrounding them.

She just got a big order, Tjiputra said. She got salmon curry, thats the most popular, pop Thai chicken, chicken masala and chicken yellow.

Tjiputra handed her the meal, but their exchange was brief and she didnt think much of the experience, other than being shocked by the amount of people who gathered around to catch a glimpse of the person who made history as the first Asian American, woman, and Black person to serve as vice president in the midst of a rough battle to a woman trying to get her and President Joe Biden elected to a second term.
Prayers were offered Sunday at the Cathedral Basilica SS. Peter and Paul for victims of the shooting Saturday at the campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pa. Read more

On any given day, Michael Corsi doesnt align with Donald Trumps policies. He considers Ronald Reagan and Barack Obama to be the last real presidents.

But, he headed to a Sunday morning Mass at Cathedral Basilica SS. Peter and Paul to keep the former president in his prayers, a day after Trump suffered a graze wound to the right ear at a campaign rally in Western Pennsylvania in what authorities are calling an assassination attempt.

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What happened last night is tragic, Corsi said. Regardless if he is good or bad, nobody should get shot.

The Mass began with the Rev. Gerald Dennis Gill telling the congregation that regardless of political belief, violence is not acceptable.

We live in a very violent society, extremely aggressive, and the value of life is at an all-time low, Gill said, urging people to pray for all the victims of Saturdays shooting about 40 miles north of Pittsburgh.

Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old father of two who was a passionate Trump supporter excited about being at the rally, was fatally shot as he dove to protect his wife and daughters.

Two other rally attendees who were shot were identified Sunday by state police as David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, and reported in stable condition.

The suspected shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa., was fatally shot by U.S. Secret Service officers.

Late Saturday, Archbishop of Philadelphia Nelson Perez condemned the rally shootings and all acts of violence: Working together, we can resolve our differences through peaceful dialogue and conquer the sin of hatred.

Perez asked the country to join in solidarity and accompany him in prayer for all the victims and for the swift recovery of Trump.

As he left Mass Sunday, Republican Marc Costando said the terrifying images of the shooting were still vivid. Seeing Trump reach for his right ear and drop to the rally stage at Butler Farm Show, crouched behind the lectern, Costando said he couldnt help but think how far our country has fallen is very disgraceful.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, had his prayers this day and will have his vote in November, Costando said.

In actuality, prayers appeared to be apolitical the day after an event that has rattled a divided nation.

President Joe Biden, facing a fraught reelection battle with Trump, urged the nation to pray for his political rival, and all victims of the rally shooting. So did fellow Democrats, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy.

We need to learn from our history in this commonwealth and this country and we need to bring our better angels forward and carry that forward in this political season, Shapiro said at a news conference Sunday.
The headstone of Cpl. Waverly B. Woodson Jr. at Arlington National Cemetery. A street in West Philadelphia was renamed Friday for Woodson, a medic who treated 200 soldiers on Omaha Beach on D-Day. Read more

On Friday, Philadelphia honored Waverly B. Woodson Jr.  an Overbrook High School and Lincoln University graduate  by adding his name to a street sign near his boyhood home in the Carroll Park section of West Philadelphia.

The heroism of Woodson, a veteran of World War II, will be a revelation to most. African Americans werent depicted in war newsreels, nor were they seen in movies about D-Day such as The Longest Day and Saving Private Ryan. However, about 2,000 Black troops landed on Omaha and Utah Beaches.

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As an amateur historian, I first learned about Woodsons bravery in 1997, when the Army published The Exclusion of Black Soldiers from the Medal of Honor in World War II. That book highlighted the bravery of multiple individuals whose actions above and beyond the call of duty were overlooked in the awarding of our nations highest military award for bravery.

That omission was corrected in 1997, when seven soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor. Unfortunately, most of Woodsons military records had been destroyed in a massive 1973 fire (which coincidentally occurred on July 12). Woodson didnt receive it.

Its sad America needs to look to Germany to learn how to reconcile the present with history. From 1933 through 1945, Nazi Germany murdered over a third of the worlds Jews, destroyed thousands of synagogues and cemeteries, as well as Jewish schools and community buildings. Immediately after World War II ended, Germany coddled known Nazi war criminals and did little to acknowledge its sins.

However, over the last few decades, Holocaust education has become mandatory in German schools. Today, Germany has hundreds of historical markers and monuments recalling the official persecution of its Jews. It has rebuilt synagogues that were destroyed. It has installed over 100,000 Stolpersteine brass plaques permanently affixed to the pavement in front of buildings where Jews lived before they were murdered during the Nazi era.

Descendants of the survivors of the Middle Passage, which killed substantially over a million Africans on their horrific journey to the Americas, have suffered from slavery, debt peonage, sharecropping, lynching, state-sanctioned pogroms, redlining, segregation, discrimination, and police brutality. However, until recently, American schools have been reluctant to teach all this shameful history.

More than two decades ago, attorney Michael Coard began his campaign to incorporate historical references to the legacy of slavery at Independence Mall. Thanks to his efforts, the stories of how slaveholders Martha and George Washington kept their property a stones throw from the Cradle of Liberty are included at the Presidents House Site, which is now a must-see for every school student and tourist.

Before 1990, the Pennsylvania Historical and Museum Commission had erected only two of its distinctive blue-and-gold historical markers recognizing African American individuals, institutions, or events in Black history. Charles L. Blockson, the noted scholar of Black history, dedicated the next 30 years of his life to getting the commission to erect over 50 African American-themed markers.

Today, there are efforts to limit teaching Black history and acknowledging that America has had a racist legacy.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis recently proclaimed that slaves benefited from slavery.

During the race for the Republican presidential nomination, former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley didnt mention slavery when she was first asked about the cause of the Civil War.

African Americans werent depicted in World War II newsreels, nor were they seen in movies about D-Day.

Former Education Secretary Betsy DeVos stated that historically Black colleges and universities were established to support school choice, conveniently ignoring that many predominantly white institutions barred African American students.

Permanently acknowledging Woodsons bravery brings his story to the fore. Hopefully, other stories of previously unknown African American heroes will follow.

The study of African American participation in World War II shouldnt be limited to Dorie Miller and the Tuskegee Airmen. Over one million Black men, 6,500 Black members of the Womens Army Corps, and 500 Black nurses served in North Africa, Liberia, Italy, Western Europe, the United Kingdom, Australia, Guadalcanal, Guam, Saipan, Iwo Jima, India, China, Hawaii, Alaska, and in every state.

The challenges these brave soldiers faced as they were subjected to segregation and discrimination in the military  while being expected to fight fascism abroad  became the crucible that forged in them a postwar spirit that forever changed America to truly being a country with liberty and justice for all. Their stories must be told.

Paul L. Newman is an amateur historian of African American history. He has written a miniseries docudrama on the African American civil rights movement of the first half of the 20th century.
The incident was filmed by a shocked bystanders who shared the footage online where many condemned the man's actions.

A man was spotting trying to catch and hold the frightened seagull as a woman next to him laughed. Source: Jam Press

There are no limits when it comes to a tourist taking a photo opportunity it seems with one man's recent stunt with a seagull sparking outrage.

A video captured by a shocked onlooker shows the male tourist seizing the large bird with his hands as his partner erupts into laughter, attempting to capture the scene on her phone.

The man attempts to hold the bird firmly as its wings flap about, seemingly in a desperate attempt to be set free. The bird reacts angrily and defensively pecks at his hand, prompting the man to let go and put it back on the wall from which he picked it up from.

The seagull then flies off as the man checks his hand for injuries.

Onlookers shocked over tourists act with 'poor seagull'

The incident was reportedly filmed by TV presenter Salvo Sottile, 51, while he was passing along the Lungotevere boulevard in the Italian capital Rome. It's not known what prompted the man to pick up the bird to begin with.

Sottile shared the clip on X, formally Twitter, where it has been widely shared with 87,000 views and hundreds of comments, many of which condemning the tourist's act.

"The seagull rightly pecked him," said one, commenting on the video. "It should have gouged out his eye instead of pecking his hand," another fumed.

"Seagulls are so used to humans that they arent afraid of them, they should be photographed with care and respect," said a third, while a fourth added, "the idiot tourist should have stayed at home and not bothered that poor seagull".

Rising number of seagull attacks in major city

So far this summer, the authorities in Rome have received over 30 reports of seagull attacks in the city. Last week, Twitch streamer JustKeth filmed herself being dive-bombed by a colony of seagulls while eating a ham sandwich in Venice.

In Australia, it's an offence to "harm, kill, destroy or take" a seagull without a permit. Seagulls are a native and protected species.

Love Australia's weird and wonderful environment? Get our new newsletter showcasing the weeks best stories.
I was boarding a plane from Los Angeles back home to Philadelphia when the news hit that former President Donald Trump had been injured during a rally in Butler, Pa.

The details were sketchy, but the responses online and on the plane were already wild  and entirely predictable.

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This is precisely the kind of thing thats juicy fodder for the social media chaos machine: Take an event about which we know little, and watch the flags unfurl.

Someone just attempted to assassinate Trump! one passenger said as I scrolled through X. (I was waiting for full details.) Did they get him? another passenger asked as X posters began already declaring Trump  dead or alive  a hero. (It appeared that whatever it was had hit him in the ear.) Hes dead? (Again, he was not.)

 READ MORE: Donald Trump wounded in deadly shooting at Pa. rally

In fact, not long after the incident, Trumps campaign said in a statement that he was fine after being rushed off the stage after gunshots rang out. Later reports said one rally attendee was killed, two other spectators were critically wounded, and the alleged shooter was dead.

An AR-style rifle  you know, the kind used in mass killings including that of 19 children and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas, and 10 Black shoppers at a supermarket in Buffalo, N.Y.  was recovered at the scene.

After the shooting, though, most of the responses focused strictly on Trump, and regardless of the posters politics, it was not our finest moment.

Opponents bemoaned that it was a failed attempt: You had one job 

Supporters, meanwhile, took the opportunity to declare their man indestructible, and all but guaranteed reelection in November.

But not so fast.

I am, and will continue to be, a vocal opponent of Trump and his vile and ongoing violent rhetoric, including the kind that led to the assault on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021. But the only response here isnt to make Trump a god or a GOAT: It is to declare, once and for all, that we will finally stop pledging our allegiance to guns more than to one another.

Each day in the United States, upwards of 200 people are wounded by guns and more than 110 are killed, according to Everytown for Gun Safety.

Any other response from anyone who wants to lead our country is not just unacceptable but should be grounds for considering them unfit to lead.

As I write this, Trump posted on Truth Social his gratitude for law enforcement officers and expressed his condolences for the person who was killed and those injured. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, he wrote. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

I feel beyond ridiculous hoping this incident might change the heart and mind of a man who just last year said mass shootings are not a gun problem, as he and other would-be GOP presidential nominees pledged loyalty to the National Rifle Association. In fact, he vowed to defend and expand gun owner rights in his May keynote speech at the NRAs annual meeting.

I was proud to be the most pro-gun, pro-Second Amendment president youve ever had in the White House, Trump said to an audience that leaped to its feet, cheered, and chanted U-S-A when he was introduced. And with your support in 2024, I will be your loyal friend and fearless champion once again as the 47th president of the United States.

Moments after Saturdays attack, bipartisan responses rightly condemned the shooting.

President Joe Biden, who said hed tried to reach Trump, said there was no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick  its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

And yet, we do  every single day in every single corner of this country.

Bidens remarks were brief and almost pitch-perfect in a moment that was still unfolding.

The idea that there is political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, is just not appropriate, he said. Everybody, everybody must condemn it.

Of all the comments pouring in after the shooting, what grabbed my attention came from former Democratic U.S. Rep. Gabby Giffords, whose life was forever changed after a 2011 assassination attempt that killed six people and left her partly paralyzed and unable to speak fluently.

Political violence is terrifying. I know, she said. Im holding former President Trump and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never.

Until this moment, the trajectory of this presidential campaign has been nothing short of horrifying on many levels  and that includes today. It is beyond tragic that an audience member, exercising their right to support their chosen candidate, lost their life.

But today, if we are talking about anything other than ending gun violence in this country, we are simply lying in wait for the next horror.
Larceny has grown to astounding levels in this technological age where the internet, cell phones, texting, and social media have made it easier to fleece the unwitting, writes the Editorial Board. Read more

In a way, it should be no surprise that polls show many Americans have no problem choosing someone convicted of a crime to be their next president. This country is so inundated with felonious conduct that too many of us accept larceny as just another unfortunate fact of life  especially when it comes to politics.

Consider Philadelphias laundry list of politicians turned felons that includes former U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah, former City Councilmembers Rick Mariano and Bobby Henon, former state House Speaker John M. Perzel, former State Sen. Vincent Fumo, and former District Attorney Seth Williams, the citys chief prosecutor.

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Larceny has grown to astounding levels in this technological age where the internet, cell phones, texting, and social media have made it easier to fleece the unwitting. That is especially true when it comes to seniors, who last year lost more than $3.4 billion through romance and grandparent scams, technical support fraud, and other schemes.

We are at a crisis level, said Kathy Stokes, a director at AARPs Fraud Watch Network. So many people have joined the fray because it is pretty easy to be a criminal. They dont have to follow any rules. And you can make a lot of money, and then theres very little chance that youre going to get caught.

 READ MORE: Legislature blows its budget deadline  again  leaving vulnerable Pennsylvanians with the consequences | Editorial

But its not just older Americans who are scammed. The Federal Trade Commission says American consumers lost a record $10 billion to fraud last year, which was a 14% increase over reported losses in 2022. Most of the losses, $4.6 billion, occurred in investment schemes, while another $2.7 billion was bilked through impostor scams.

The FTC says email displaced text messages last year as the most common method used by flimflam artists. Phone calls became the second most common method used by schemers in 2023, which is interesting since for decades phone calls were the most common scam vehicle. Perhaps the telephones resurgence suggests it is the preferred communication device of older adults. But some schemes are much more elaborate.

The family of an 80-year-old San Diego man told the Associated Press that criminals stole almost $700,000 from him in a complex scheme involving a nonexistent Amazon order, a fake refund processing center in Hong Kong, and instructions to synchronize his bank accounts to get his refund. The family sued his bank for making several large wire transfers of cash without asking questions of the account holder. But they didnt win.

We need our banks to get better because they are the first line of defense, said the mans daughter. But banking industry officials say they cant prevent fraud without more help from the federal government, whose current efforts they described as disjointed and uncoordinated.

Yes, this is yet another problem that Congress should address, but it needs to be with more fervor than it has so far given technology issues involving artificial intelligence and social media sites.

 READ MORE: The lingering focus on Bidens shaky debate obscures Trumps major verbal miscues | Editorial

Congress did pass a resolution this year designating May 15 as National Senior Fraud Awareness Day, which notes that law enforcement agencies, consumer protection groups, area agencies on aging, and financial institutions all play vital roles in preventing the proliferation of scams targeting seniors. But the resolution offers no plan or promise of funding to coordinate those efforts.

If the writers of the resolution  a bipartisan coalition led by Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins  are serious about what it says, they need to come up with legislation that does more than pay lip service to this problem.

In the meantime, its up to us, the vulnerable, to protect ourselves from swindlers.

Accordingly, the National Institute on Aging recommends that you never give out sensitive personal information such as your Social Security number over the phone or in response to an email, social media post, or text message, check bills and statements for charges you didnt authorize, and never transfer money or buy a gift card to pay someone over the phone.

Scoundrels, including politicians, are waiting for us to unwittingly open the door for their thievery. Many shamed swindle victims choose to accept their losses rather than report them to authorities. Such meekness has become common in a country that too easily accepts being defrauded as inevitable. Our lack of effective safeguards to prevent scammers thievery has encouraged grifters to rob us not only of our wealth but our dignity.

It shouldnt be so easy to do that.
Fortunately, Donald Trump is safe following an assassination attempt during a campaign rally outside of Pittsburgh on Saturday night.

At a time of deep political divide, the harrowing event is a stark reminder that there is no place for gun violence in America. The best thing that could come from the attempt on Trumps life would be for all sides to dial down the incendiary rhetoric and recommit to stopping the nations deadly gun epidemic.

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Semiautomatic rifles are the weapon of choice in many mass shootings. Assault weapons were banned in 1994, but federal lawmakers allowed the measure to expire.

Gun makers have marketed the weapons of war to young males as something macho. The National Rifle Association and many Republican lawmakers have long opposed efforts to reinstate the ban.

President Joe Biden helped pass the measure when he was in the Senate and has rightly called for prohibiting the manufacture and sale for civilian use of semiautomatic weapons. Earlier this year, Trump told the NRA that he did nothing to curb guns during his term as president and promised if he was reelected in November that no one would lay a finger on your firearms.

Assault weapons  which are designed to kill many people in a short period of time  have no place for recreational use by hunters. Trump could do a great service and save thousands of lives by joining the effort to ban these weapons and pass other sensible gun safety measures.

No other developed country has such ease of access to guns. Or such a high tolerance for daily gun violence. Despite repeated high-profile shootings in schools, churches, theaters, grocery stores, and elsewhere across America, lawmakers repeatedly fail to meet the moment and act as if the killings are the price of freedom.

That is not the case. The assassination attempt on Trump is yet another opportunity to change the countrys deadly gun culture. Will voters demand change? Will lawmakers finally come together or talk past one another?

Biden set the right tone by condemning the attempt on Trumps life.

Look, theres no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he said. We cannot be like this.

The Biden campaign also rightly paused all television ads regarding the election.

Vice President Kamala Harris added that she and her husband, Douglas Emhoff, were praying for Trump, his family, and others impacted by the shooting. Other leaders, including former President Barack Obama, condemned the shooting and wished Trump a quick recovery.

Unfortunately, many Republicans seized on the shooting to dial up the rhetoric by blaming Biden and his allies for the violence. They claimed the criticism of Trumps words and deeds had created a hostile environment.

In particular, they pointed to a recent comment by Biden who told donors it was time to put Trump in a bulls-eye. That was a poor choice of words. Biden should use the opportunity to apologize and remind everyone that words matter.

Sadly, it will likely fall on deaf ears. Sen. J.D. Vance (R., Ohio), a potential Trump running mate, said the shooting was not just some isolated incident.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, he wrote on social media. Without any evidence, Vance added, That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Other Republicans rushed to voice similar divisive messages. This was not the time or place for such rhetoric. Of course, the indignation ignored how Trump for years has used inflammatory and violent language.

When Trump took office in 2017, he vowed to end the American carnage. During the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection, many Trump supporters chanted, Hang Mike Pence! and built a gallows. Rather than condemn the angry mob, Trump said maybe his vice president should be hanged.

Just last year, Trump said retired Gen. Mark Milley, the former chair of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, committed treason and should be put to death. He has also called his political enemies vermin and said that if he does not win the election in November there will be a bloodbath.

This is not normal language. It is especially dangerous coming from a leader with a devoted following. Trumps hate and anger have a corrosive effect on the country. His comments have been compared to the rhetoric of autocratic leaders.

The inflammatory rhetoric and conspiracy theories that have spread in the wake of the shooting are reckless, irresponsible, and beyond the pale.

Calling out extreme language from every corner is not wrong and, in fact, is required to maintain a civil society.

Many details surrounding the shooting remain unknown. But that has not stopped many conspiracy theories from taking hold.

Some of the left claimed the shooting was a false flag pushed by Trumps own supporters. Meanwhile, some on the right accused Biden of ordering a hit on his political rival.

With no evidence whatsoever, Rep. Mike Collins (R., Ga.) claimed Joe Biden sent the orders. He called for Biden to face charges for inciting an assassination.

Such comments are reckless, irresponsible, and beyond the pale. Politics has always been a dirty game, but this has gone too far.

This Editorial Board does not agree with Trump on most of his policy positions and actions, let alone his divisive style, criminality, and penchant for spreading lies. We believe he remains a danger to democracy.

But we wish him no harm and hope something good can come from this latest act of gun violence. A sound first step would be for Trump and Biden to stand together and denounce the heated rhetoric and false conspiracy theories.
WASHINGTON  When I look back at NATOs 75th-anniversary summit last week, the image that will stick in my mind wont come from the conference itself.

Instead, it will be the indelible scene of a pediatric surgeon  his white apron covered with blood  desperately trying to rescue any tiny bald patients trapped in the rubble after a Russian Kh-101 missile collapsed the chemotherapy ward at Okhmatdyt Childrens Hospital in Kyiv last Monday.

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By deliberately targeting the most advanced childrens medical facility in Ukraine on the eve of the NATO conference  as well as a nearby maternity hospital that specializes in problem pregnancies  Vladimir Putin sent a chilling message to NATO members as well as an embattled President Joe Biden.

I can do anything I want to Ukraine, and you wont stop me, was the missive Putin effectively delivered, daring the NATO allies to prove otherwise.

The Russians are showing they arent worried about the consequences, I was told by Ukrainian parliamentarian Yehor Cherniev. The absence of a strong reaction [to the bombing of the hospital] convinces them they are right.

 READ MORE: Ukraines Birdie, freed from captivity, recalls the horrors Russia inflicted on female POWs | Trudy Rubin

That lack of a strong reaction reflected a summit that, for all its real achievements, was still hobbled by the frightening lack of leadership in Washington  from both parties. It exacerbated the failure of NATO to truly put Ukraine on a clear path to membership. And Putin smiled.

Most grotesque was Donald Trumps total inability to grasp the Moscow threat as he prattled last week at campaign rallies about his very good relationship with Putin and his disdain for NATO. (Summiteers spent much time trying to figure out how to Trump-proof further military aid to Ukraine.)

But Biden, who clearly understands the stakes, still blocked a Kyiv response to the attack on the hospital. He failed to lift the U.S. ban on letting Ukraine use U.S.-made long-range missiles to strike the aerodromes from which the attack was launched, deep inside Russian territories.

In other words, Russia can still destroy Ukraines civilian infrastructure, electricity grids, thermal heating systems  and hospitals, schools, and markets  at will.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg could barely contain his upset with the U.S. limitation during a news conference at the summits end. There is no question that Ukraine has the right to hit legitimate targets on the territory of the aggressor, he stressed.

Since Russia has opened a new front by sending thousands of glide bombs into Ukrainian cities, the only way to stop this aggression is at its source.

The U.S. touted NATOs new aid package of U.S.-made Patriot air defense systems and F-16 warplanes to Ukraine. But here again, U.S. and NATO policy is too little, too late.

Kyiv, which lacks any viable air force, has been begging the West for Patriots to protect its cities since the war began. While Western allies have a reported 100 systems, until now only Germany has delivered  sending two  while the U.S. donated one.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky told Washington that seven new Patriot systems are the minimum needed to protect major cities. But at the summit, Germany, Romania, and Washington offered only one new Patriot system each. Another will be cobbled together from European parts, and another Italian system will help NATO deliver five altogether.

 READ MORE: NATO dithers while Russias indiscriminate killing in Ukraine underlines that Putin only understands force | Trudy Rubin

But heres the kicker: Israel has eight Patriot systems, on loan from the U.S., which it has put into mothballs because it considers them old technology, long replaced by Israeli defenses. Yet, the White House has failed to press Jerusalem to return some or all to Washington to be forwarded to Ukraine.

As for the F-16s, they are coming from the Netherlands and Denmark, and have been repeatedly promised for months, if not years. (A long-delayed U.S. green light was necessary since the planes are U.S.-made.) But the Pentagon continues, astonishingly, to slow-walk training for competent, English-speaking Ukrainian pilots, leaving only about a dozen prepared to fly a far larger number of aircraft. This is absurd. Yet, the White House has failed to prioritize training for Ukrainians. Nor has it permitted retired U.S. pilots to do the training abroad.

If NATO is not ready to protect us, and to take us into the alliance, then we ask NATO to give us everything so we can protect ourselves, Zelensky told me in a recent interview in Kyiv. Hampered by White House timidity, that did not happen last week.

European leaders made repeatedly clear at summit events that they would like to see Washington move faster. Those countries bordering Russia fully grasp the danger: The Kremlin has been upping cyberwarfare, sabotage, and assassination attempts within many of their countries and inside their territorial waters.

In another nasty message from Putin, CNN reported last week that the U.S. and Germany broke up a Russian assassination plot to murder Armin Papperger, the head of Europes largest arms manufacturer, Rheinmetall, which sells critical 155 mm artillery shells to Kyiv, and will soon start producing them in Ukraine.

Even with all the uncertainty, there was some good news at the summit.

The event demonstrated that Putins violent effort to destroy a peaceful neighbor has revived and unified the alliance  along with Bidens leadership.

Two-thirds of NATO countries now met the 2% floor on defense spending, and, for the first time, there are some serious efforts to unify allies defense production and innovation.

Moreover, contrary to Trumps claims, the European Union plus individual member nations are already giving Ukraine far more military and economic aid than the United States. And $40 billion in annual military aid will now be funneled proportionately by member states through NATO to try to Trump-proof any U.S. military aid cutoff.

 READ MORE: Zelensky lays out how Ukraine can win, if the West loses its fear of Putin | Trudy Rubin

But the Europeans do not have the military heft, or heavy defense production, to help Ukraine defeat Putin if the White House refuses to face the Ukrainian urgency of now or if Trump wins and cuts off aid.

Biden  whatever happens surrounding his candidacy  can still rectify the summits missed opportunity. The current White House policy of helping Ukraine hold the line  without providing the weapons needed for it to win  wont work.

As Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said in Washington: The blindness is to think that Putin will stop and there will be negotiations. He will continue. He did not stop in 2014 [after Putin invaded Crimea]. We are in this for the long run. We have to create a clear deterrent  lets allow Ukraine to attack them.

To ignore Putins sadistic challenge at the childrens hospital is to encourage Russian escalation. To let Kyiv respond is to deter escalation by making clear that Moscow will pay a strong penalty.

If Biden acknowledges that truth  and lifts restrictions on long-range ATACMS missiles, while retrieving those Patriot missile batteries from Israel  the Democrats could show their foreign policy smarts in November, compared with Trumps Putin-blindness.

But failing a White House sense of urgency, most of the many Ukrainian think tank and parliament members with whom I spoke at the summit left Washington deeply worried about Bidens limits and the possibility of a Putin triumph, aided by Trump.

They were determined to fight on, despite U.S. weakness, but more than a little scared.
Security surrounding the site of the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Sunday following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday. Read more

MILWAUKEE  The Republican National Convention was always going to be a celebration of former President Donald Trump and his pugilistic brand of politics

But the assassination attempt at his rally Saturday in Western Pennsylvania and images of him being escorted off stage, blood streaming down his face as he raised his fist, elevated his idolization among supporters who are prepared to give him a heros welcome this week when the party officially nominates him for president.

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Delegates descended on Milwaukee, a city decked out in red, white, and blue signage, now hosting a convention just days after a shooting shook up an already unpredictable and unprecedented presidential campaign.

We need to be unified as a nation and a people and move forward, Pennsylvania GOP chair Lawrence Tabas said as he waited for the flight to Milwaukee with other delegates at Philadelphia International Airport on Sunday morning. Violence has no place in a political democracy and we just need to come together.

 READ MORE: FBI probing motives, background of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the Western Pa. gunman behind Donald Trump assassination attempt

Democrats, including Gov. Josh Shapiro and President Joe Biden, also called for an end to extreme political rhetoric Sunday and said Trump and the other victims were in their prayers. Biden suspended campaign TV ads and rescheduled a trip to Texas that was originally planned for Monday.

But the shooting, which has further energized Trumps base, was also fueling divisive political rhetoric from both sides of the political spectrum.

Misinformation spread rapidly in the minutes and hours after, and while there was broad condemnation of the shooting, condolences for the victims, and calls to lower the political temperature in America, a deeply divided country was also quick to point fingers.

Theyve called him a tyrant, theyve called him Hitler, an absolute threat to democracy, said State Rep. Aaron Bernstine, a Republican who represents the area and was at the rally earlier in the day, but left before Trump took the stage. As a result of the type of language thats used  it led to a person to take action.

 READ MORE: Conspiracy theories spread wildly online after Trump shooting

State Rep. Stephenie Scialabba, a Republican from Butler County who was seated in the front row at Trumps rally, made a similar argument. Politicians across the political spectrum, she said, needed to condemn the shooting.

And dont play dumb, either, as to how this transpired. It makes me sick when I see Biden on TV saying I dont know how this could have happened. Go read your own tweets, she said.

Biden has repeatedly warned in speeches that Trump  who refused to accept his 2020 defeat and was impeached for incitement of the Jan. 6 Capitol attack  represents a unique threat to democracy.

Trumps assault on democracy isnt just part of his past, Biden said in Blue Bell in January. Its what hes promising for the future.

Pennsylvanias Republican delegation of about 100 people includes at least two delegates from Butler County who attended Saturdays rally. For the Pennsylvania group, the convention will be an opportunity to show support for them as well as for Trump.

 READ MORE: Why Thomas Matthew Crooks tried to assassinate Donald Trump is a mystery to investigators and his ex-classmates

State Rep. Marci Mustello from Jefferson Township missed Saturdays rally to leave early for the convention in Milwaukee. She said Sunday that she expected to encounter more security this week.

And, I think, a lot more excitement, she said. A lot more excitement for our nominee that well be nominating on Thursday and moving forward making sure that we have victory in November.

At the Philadelphia airport Sunday, dressed in Trump T-shirts and MAGA hats, some delegates were still processing the moment of political violence. We woke up in a different America today, one man said.

Drew Morrisroe, an alternate delegate from eastern Montgomery County, was looking forward to a joyful celebration at his first political convention. The week ahead will feel heavier, he said.

No matter who is running for office, these are people that are giving their time, he said. They believe in things for the country, whether you believe in them or not and they should be able to go out and campaign and not feel afraid.

 READ MORE: What we know about the deadly shooting at the Trump rally in Butler, Pa.

There was a time shortly after the 2022 GOP midterm losses when Pennsylvanias top Republicans, including some attending the convention this week, were divided over whether Trump was the right candidate for the party. The mood among the Pennsylvania delegates as they gathered Sunday was total unity.

The heros welcome Thursday is gonna be a deafening event, said Charlie Gerow, a GOP strategist and elected delegate from the Harrisburg area attending his 13th Republican convention. Gerow watched the news reports of the shooting with other members of the Pennsylvania delegation at the groups hotel in a suburb of Milwaukee.

He described the mood as prayerful  and then energized.

Attending a national convention  its a true opportunity to be a part of history and theres no question thatll be heightened after what happened yesterday. People are really holding dear the fact that they are even able to cast votes for the president.

 READ MORE: The Secret Service is investigating how a gunman who shot and injured Trump was able to get so close

Trump was recovering Sunday after a bullet pierced his ear, and released a statement saying he still planned to travel to Milwaukee later in the day.

The suspected shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa., was killed by the U.S. Secret Service.

Shapiro spoke at a news conference in Butler County and said hes talked with the wife of Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, Pa., who died, and the family of one of the two other victims who were critically injured.

This is a moment where all leaders have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity, where all leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists and search for a better, brighter future for this nation, Shapiro said.

U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, a Pennsylvania Republican traveling to Milwaukee for the convention, accused Democrats and the media of vilifying Trump. He called for political rhetoric to shift away from personal attacks in the aftermath of the assassination attempt.

Frankly, we dont like their policies but they just dont like us, Meuser said. They make MAGA out to be like this evil cult.

A reported comment from Biden on a call to political donors has come under close scrutiny in the wake of the shooting.

I have one job, and thats to beat Donald Trump. Im absolutely certain Im the best person to be able to do that. So, were done talking about the debate. Its time to put Trump in a bulls-eye, Biden told donors last week, according to Politico.

Jim Worthington, a longtime Trump ally from Bucks County, who is the chair of the Pennsylvania delegation, pointed to this line in an interview Sunday. These are things that a crazy person could latch onto and it looks like they did, said Worthington.

Worthington previously helped form a political advocacy group called People4Trump. The group, separate from Worthington, organized three buses to transport 200 people from Bucks County to attend Trumps Washington, D.C., rally on Jan. 6, 2021.

Biden, speaking Sunday afternoon from the White House, urged Americans to not jump to conclusions about the shooters motivations or political leanings while the law enforcement investigation plays out.

Biden emphasized the importance of unity and said theres no place for violence in America, describing an assassination attempt as un-American.

Well debate and well disagree, thats not going to change, but were going to not lose sight of the fact who we are as Americans, he said.

In an Oval Office address Sunday evening, Biden tied the attempted assassination on Trump to the attack on the Capitol and other incidents of political violence in recent years.

We cannot allow this violence to be normalized, Biden said. You know the political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. Its time to cool it down. We all have a responsibility to do that.

Staff writers Gillian McGoldrick and Aliya Schneider contributed to this article.
Gov. Josh Shapiro leads Vice President Kamala Harris through the Reading Terminal Market after she spoke at the APIAVote Presidential Town Hall at the Pennsylvania Convention Center in Philadelphia as part of the Biden campaign's outreach to Asian and Pacific Islander voters. Read more

Vice President Kamala Harris fervently defended President Joe Biden while framing the 2024 election as a last line of defense against extremism in her first visit to Pennsylvania since some congressional Democrats began calling for Biden to step aside in favor of Harris.

While addressing a conference of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander voters in Philadelphia, Harris  who made history as the first Asian American, woman, and Black person to serve as vice president  highlighted the administrations first-term accomplishments while acknowledging that the last few days have proven how hard it is to run for president.

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One thing we know about our president, Joe Biden, he is a fighter and he is the first to say When you get knocked down, you get right back up,' Harris said. So we will continue to fight. We will continue to organize. And in November, we will win.

Speakers at the Saturday event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center, hosted by Asian and Pacific Islander American Vote, a civic engagement group, persistently spoke about the power AAPI Americans had in swing states such as Pennsylvania. Before Harris speech, a video played highlighting efforts in Philadelphias Chinatown to oppose a proposed new 76ers arena in the neighborhood.

Harris later referenced that same neighborhood, and the Biden administrations efforts to fund a $160 million project building parks and bike paths over the Vine Street Expressway, which divided the community in 1959, as part of its broader infrastructure spending.

It displaced families and devastated neighborhoods, and it continues to cut off residents of Chinatown from jobs and opportunities in other communities, Harris said.

Harris has darted around the country in recent days to campaign for Biden as the Democratic ticket seeks to recover from last months disastrous debate. While shes campaigning for Biden, these events also showcase her skills as a potential replacement candidate as a growing chorus of Democrats calls for Biden to withdraw in favor of Harris or another candidate.

Even as he insists that he plans to stay in the race, Biden assured reporters in a news conference Thursday that Harris was capable of being president if she needed to be. Harris has remained loyal to Biden.

Harris Philadelphia visit comes amid a flurry of activity in the commonwealth. First lady Jill Biden was set to appeal to Italian American voters in Pittsburgh and former President Donald Trump was scheduled to campaign in Butler County for his final campaign stop before the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which was scheduled to begin Monday.

Biden had no public events scheduled for the weekend while his wife and running mate hit the campaign trail.

Pay attention to who shows up

Some attendees of Harris Philadelphia speech remained supportive of Bidens staying in the race and enthusiastic about the presidents record even as they spoke highly of Harris.

Minh Nguyen, who lives in Penrose in Southwest Philadelphia and is a member of the Asian Real Estate Association of America, beamed about his love for Harris. But he said he does not know whether she could beat Trump due to racism and sexism.

Technically, its up to Biden whether or not he would like to step down, and then I think thats a decision for him to make, and him and God, so I support the president in his decision, and I wish everyone the best of luck in their considerations, he said.

Other attendees expressed frustration with Bidens age and his support of Israel throughout its war with Hamas in Gaza.

Max Jin, who is about to turn 16 and is from the Doylestown area in Bucks County, said calls for the 81-year-old Biden to step down are legitimate due to his age, debate performance, and recent public gaffes. He said he is a little concerned about whether Biden could take another four years in office but believes a Trump presidency would be more of a threat to the country.

Although I am wary of Bidens age, I would still support him getting reelected, said Jin, who wont be able to vote for another two years.

Harris has led the Biden campaigns outreach for Black and Asian voters ahead of the November election. Her work will be especially key after APIAVote released a poll earlier this week showing the presidents support among Asian American voters had declined by 8 percentage points in the last four years  though he still polled ahead of Trump by double digits with the demographic group.

Andrew Peng, the Biden campaigns spokesman for Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders, said Harris attendance at the event was proof that the campaign wouldnt take any vote for granted.

Philadelphia City Councilmember Nina Ahmad, the first South Asian woman to serve on Council, applauded the number of Asian Americans serving in prominent roles in the Biden administration.

What does representation look like? It looks like having the first-ever Asian American and African American woman as our vice president, Kamala Harris, she said.

She told attendees to pay attention to who shows up, in a thinly veiled reference to the Trump campaigns absence from the APIAVote event despite an invitation.

Harris visits Reading Terminal Market

After the speech, Harris visited Reading Terminal Market, where hundreds of people were gathered and some ran through the markets corridors to take photos of the vice president. She stopped for food at Little Thai Market alongside Democratic Gov. Josh Shapiro and ordered salmon curry, Thai chicken, chicken masala, and yellow chicken.

Susiliawati Tjiputra, who was working the food line at the restaurant, said Harris said hi as a crowd surrounded the food stand.

Montgomery County Commissioner Neil Makhija, the first Asian American to serve on the commission, said Harris, the daughter of a woman who immigrated from India, represents a shared history that many Asian Americans can relate to and that has inspired more engagement from the community as a whole.

Before the APIAVote event, Makhija had said he hoped Harris would stop outside the convention to engage directly with Asian Americans in Philadelphia.

She understands the issues of the community. She has been there time and time again. I think theres simply no other national figure who can speak the way that she can to our communities, he said.

As many Democrats push for Biden to step aside and allow Harris, or another Democrat, to take on Trump, Makhija noted Harris power as a messenger on Democrats strongest issues.

Kamala Harris is the most forceful and effective voice on reproductive rights of any national figure in the country right now, said Makhija, who helped with Harris 2020 presidential campaign.

Harris highlighted reproductive rights toward the end of her speech, referring to abortion restrictions enacted in 21 states in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court overturning Roe v. Wade as the Trump abortion ban. She then pivoted to another Supreme Court decision expanding presidential power, and a warning about the stakes of the race.

The high court includes three Trump appointees, who were decisive in both of these rulings.

Do we want to live in a country of freedom, compassion and rule of law or a country of chaos, fear and hate? she said.

Harris speech was interrupted midway through by protesters, including some who chanted Free Palestine and were escorted out of the room. Other attendees sought to cover up the chants with their own chants of four more years.

Of course we are going to have those four more years, Harris said to cheers.

And of course we respect everyones right to voice their concerns. I am speaking right now, however, Harris said, reprising a line she used while debating former Vice President Mike Pence in 2020.
 READ MORE: The Latest: Thomas Matthew Crooks identified by FBI as gunman behind attempted assassination of Trump at Western Pa. rally

Donald Trump was the target of what authorities described Saturday as an assassination attempt by a gunman who fired toward the stage, slightly wounding the former president, during a campaign rally attended by thousands of spectators.

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The suspected shooter and at least one member of the audience were killed as the gunfire rang out around 6:15 p.m., shortly after Trump took the stage. Two spectators were also critically injured by shots the Secret Service said were fired from an elevated platform outside the rally.

Trumps campaign reported that he was fine and that he was being checked over for injuries at a local medical facility. In a post on his social media site, Truth Social, Trump said a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA.

The suspected shooter was killed by Secret Service agents, the agency said. And, according to the Associated Press, an AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene.

 READ MORE: What we know about the deadly shooting at the Trump rally in Butler, Pa.

Law enforcement officials said the incident at the Butler Farm Show in Butler County, which occurred just two days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, was being investigated as an attempted assassination of the presumptive GOP nominee. The identity of the spectator who died was not immediately released and further details surrounding the investigation, which was being led by the FBI, remained sparse.

As authorities probe how a gunman managed to get near enough to the stage to fire at Trump, an election that has already fractured a deeply divided country was thrown into further disarray by the harrowing moment of political violence in Pennsylvania.

The last time a U.S. president or former president was wounded in an assassination attempt was in 1981, when President Ronald Reagan was shot outside the Washington Hilton Hotel. Reagan was seriously wounded in the shooting, and three others were injured but survived.

 READ MORE: Donald Trump wounded after shots fired at Pa. rally; at least two dead, including shooter, Secret Service says

Trump had just started his speech Saturday when the loud popping noise rang out.

He grabbed his neck and appeared to say, Oh. Two more shots could be heard as someone on the stage shouted, Get down. The president crouched down behind the lectern and Secret Service agents rushed to the stage to whisk him away.

With what appeared to be blood on his face from a slight wound on his right ear, Trump pumped his fist in the air as he was guided to a waiting armored SUV.

President Joe Biden said in a statement he was grateful to hear that Trump was safe and doing well. His campaign said it would pull down television ads as quickly as possible and halt campaign-related communication until further notice. In brief comments to reporters Saturday night, Biden said he had not yet spoken to Trump.

Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Thousands attended the rally in the 90-degree heat at the fairgrounds about 40 miles from Pittsburgh, including several Republican members of Congress. Attendees described a chaotic scene.

 READ MORE: Attendees at Trumps rally Saturday walked through metal detectors, were prohibited from bringing weapons

U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R., Pa) was in the first row of the rally with Rep. Mike Kelly (R., Pa) and Republican Senate candidate Dave McCormick.

It was hard to determine the first couple of shots. I mean, it just sounded not necessarily like gunfire. But after the third and fourth shot, it was clear that it was in fact gunfire, Meuser said.

He said someone on the bleachers behind him was hit.

GOP Senate candidate David McCormick, who was slated to speak later in the rally, was seated in the front row.

All the sudden shots started to crack, someone behind me appears to have been shot, he said. Theres lots of blood, and then the Secret Service were all over President Trump.

Jon David Longo, a Trump delegate from Butler, who was a warm-up speaker at the rally, told The Inquirer he heard something ping off the side of the bleachers and realized it was gunfire.

He threw himself over his wife, who is pregnant, and told everyone to get down.

I noticed there was a guy, a gentleman, unfortunately, who lost his life behind us in the bleachers, Longo said.

Corey Check, another Trump delegate from Butler, was in a VIP section near the stage chanting USA with the crowd when the gunfire started.

Check said that when he realized the popping was gunshots, he grabbed a few strangers hands and said the Lords Prayer five times. He said a Secret Service agent pulled his gun and told everyone to get down.

I think Im going to be traumatized after this, Check said in an interview on his drive home from the rally. He said his next thought was, if we survive this s hallelujah and America is not defeated.

Dylan Paulson, 19, and his brother Nick arent huge fans of Trump politically but live seven minutes away from the Butler fairgrounds and wanted to witness history.

Paulson said they were about 50 to 100 feet away from the former president when they heard the gunfire and ducked.

When youre laying on the ground, and you dont know whats going on, all youre thinking is Oh, my gosh, theres a shooter in here, my life is in actual danger, Paulson said.

Attendees described long lines to get into the event that included security checkpoints with bag checks, metal detectors, and hand wands.

Butler County, a largely rural and predominantly white area, supported Trump with almost 66% of the vote in 2020 and 61% of the vote in 2016. Trump visited Butler County in 2020, delivering remarks at the Butler County Regional Airport.

The visit to Butler was Trumps fifth stop this year in Pennsylvania, a critical battleground in the November election. It was the first time this year that Trump has visited a Pennsylvania county that he won in 2020 and anticipation for the moment was high as Trump is expected to announce his vice presidential running mate any day now.

Trumps campaign and the RNC released a joint statement late Saturday confirming he would still attend the convention in Milwaukee starting Monday as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States.

And while the high-stakes campaign will soon resume, condemnations of the shooting and prayers for the victims poured in from both sides of the political aisle on Saturday.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said that he had been briefed on the situation in Butler.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro said. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R., Pa.), a former FBI agent, posted on X: Political violence has no justification or any place in Americaagainst anyone, for any reason, at any time.

North Dakota Sen. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, and Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, the three men on Trumps shortlist for vice president, all sent out statements expressing concern for the former president.

Rubio shared an image taken as Trump was escorted offstage with his fist in the air and a streak of blood on his face along with the words: God protected President Trump.

Trumps eldest son, Donald Trump Jr., said he had spoken to his father on the phone and he is in great spirits.

He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him, Trump Jr. said in a statement.

In New York, a spokesperson for New York Mayor Eric Adams said that out of an abundance of caution, police increased their presence across the city Saturday night, including at Trump Tower and 40 Wall Street.

Past and current members of Congress who had been personally affected by political violence also sent well wishes to Trump, including former Rep. Gabby Giffords (D., Ariz.), who was shot in the head in 2011 at a meeting with her constituents. Political violence is terrifying, I know, she said in a statement.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D., Calif.) said As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society I thank God that former President Trump is safe.

Staff writers Gillian McGoldrick, Rob Tornoe, and Michelle Myers contributed to this article, which contains information from the Associated Press.
Speaking to reporters in Butler County on Sunday afternoon, Gov. Josh Shapiro called for a cooling of political rhetoric and paid tribute to Corey Comperatore, who was killed Saturday in the shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally.

The governor, however, declined to answer detailed questions about the shooting and security at the rally at the Butler Farm Show, noting that law enforcement would have updates.

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Shapiro said he has called for flags to fly at half mast in honor of 50-year-old Comperatore, who died protecting his wife and daughters after shots were fired at Trump.

Corey was the very best of us. May his memory be a blessing, Shapiro said.

Prior to the presser, Shapiro met with Comperatores family as well as the family of one victim who was in critical condition following the shooting. A bullet pierced Trumps ear in the shooting, Comperatore was killed, and two spectators were critically injured by shots the Secret Service said were fired from an elevated platform outside the rally. The shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa., was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents after he fired several shots.

Comperatore, Shapiro said, was an avid Trump fan who was eager to attend the rally.

Corey was a girl dad, Corey was a firefighter, Corey went to church every Sunday, Corey loved his community and most especially he loved his family, Shapiro said.

The governor, who campaigned in 2022 on a promise of bipartisanship and often touts his role as the only Democratic governor working in a state with a divided legislature, made an impassioned plea for civility in politics.

This is a moment where all leaders have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity where all leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists and search for a better, brighter future for this nation, Shapiro said.

He referenced the founding of America and the nations long history of non-violent political passion and action.

We need to learn from our history in this commonwealth and this country and we need to bring our better angels forward and carry that forward in this political season, Shapiro said.
Lt Col George Bivens during the manhunt for Danelo Cavalcante in 2023. Read more

Lt. Col. George Bivens has become a familiar face for Pennsylvanians in high-profile cases in recent years. He held daily press conferences during the manhunt for Danilo Cavalcante, an escaped murderer who fled police for two weeks before his recapture.

Bivens returned to the national stage in a Butler Township municipal building late Saturday night as one of the faces of Pennsylvania State Polices response to the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump.

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The top law enforcement official returned to his place in the public eye, seemingly trying to be an honest voice for people seeking answers of how a former president and current presidential candidate could be shot at from hundreds of feet away.

It was a chaotic scene, Bivens said. Law enforcement acted heroically, quickly identifying and neutralizing the threat.

Bivens, the deputy commissioner of operations  the No. 2 under the State Police police commissioner Col. Christopher Paris  is a Johnstown native who joined the state police in 1985 and rose through the ranks until his promotion to lieutenant colonel in 2014.

Bivens first rose to public prominence in 2014, when he was the public face during a seven-week manhunt for Eric Frein, a survivalist who killed a state trooper and injured another.
The 31-one year-old instantly felt at home after moving to Sydney in 2016. But failing to get her permanent residency, she's now forced to leave her life behind.

Yassu Brandhorst has lived in Australia for eight years but was forced to return to the Netherlands after failing to get a permanent visa. Source: Supplied

Australia has welcomed a record number of migrants in recent years, but 31-year-old Yassu Brandhorst said she's "very sad" not to be able to officially call Down Under home after eight years in the country.

The traveller left the Netherlands for Australia in 2016, but never with the intention to stay". She was hoping to fill a gap year with travel before moving back. But shortly after arriving in Sydney "it instantly felt like home"  and it was until last month when she was forced to leave.

Yassu was just 22 when she first arrived on a working holiday visa as "a young, naive little girl," she told Yahoo News Australia. She began work as an au pair immediately before meeting her then-boyfriend three months in. An Irish national himself, hed planned on doing farm work to gain his second-year visa  a plan shed never before then considered.

After living and working in Mildura, picking fruit on a farm, she was granted a second-year working holiday visa before eventually switching to her boyfriends de-facto visa after he got sponsored through his job.

But when they broke up two years later she was left with few options. In a desperate bid to continue her life in Australia Yassu, then 24, applied for a student visa, allowing her to study and work in event management. But she lost her job when the Covid pandemic hit.

Even with no money and no job she wanted to stay, so her family back home supported her until she was able to find work once more.

During her time in Australia, Yassu lived and worked on a farm in Mildura to land her second year working holiday visa (right). Source: Supplied

Expat 'upset' over being made to leave Australia

Since then, the expat has been on a temporary Covid-19 visa which allows international travellers to stay in Australia to work if they are employed, or have an offer of employment in any sector of the economy. But with that now ending, Yassu was forced to leave behind the life she's known for eight years  one of the hardest things she's ever had to do, she told Yahoo.

"It is very depressing," the 31-year-old told Yahoo from her parents' home in the Netherlands. "It's been very, very hard being back. Especially because I feel it wasn't a decision I made. I feel like I was forced.

"After ten years of living on my own, it's hard to be back with my parents  it's a big change. But I don't have anywhere else to go.

"I just feel upset with the Australian Government because I feel like Ive contributed, I felt like a good citizen. I paid everything I needed to pay and I really tried, it just didn't work out".

Yassu spent most of her eight years living in Sydney, where she visited the beach daily. Source: SUplied

For most of her 20s, Yassu called Sydney home, living in Bondi, Coogee and Randwick. "I fell in love with the lifestyle," she said.

"The good weather and the beaches made me so happy because I had something to look forward to every morning.

"Living in Australia had a huge impact on my mental health, [it made me feel better]. When I left home I was depressed and very dependent on my family".

Traveller considering options to make Australia home again

Australia's migration intake continues to be a contentious political issue. The Labor government has long argued more workers are desperately needed while critics say the pressure on infrastructure and the housing market has become too much.

RELATED: Aussie OnlyFans model's 'traumatic' experience getting deported from US airport

Now, after leaving her friends and her life in Australia, Yassu is considering her options, hoping to find a way to continue her life in the country she calls home. She could study further which "costs a tonne of money"  but already she's spent thousands on Australian visas and moving.

"It's hard because my home is in Australia. My job, my friends, my routine. Also, my furniture is all still there in a storage unit," she said.

Government's crackdown on migration and visas

While many workers like Yassu head Down Under on working holiday visas before seeking out sponsorship and permanent residency, the Australian government is tinkering with certain visa schemes and classifications of skilled workers.

In response to political pressure over high migration, a big crackdown on international students means that from Monday, July 1, those on temporary graduate, visitor, maritime crew and other visas will not be able to apply for a student visa while they are in Australia.

The change is aimed at clamping down on "visa hopping", which the department claims has contributed to a growing cohort of "permanently temporary" former international students in Australia.

After a record net overseas migration intake of 528,000 in 2022-23, Treasury is forecasting that figure will decline to 395,000 in 2023-24, before tapering off even further to 260,000 in the coming financial year.

The permanent migration program will be capped at 185,000 places in 2024-25, with 132,200 places allocated to the skill stream to help address Australias long-term skill needs. A new ballot process for the Work and Holiday visa program for China, Vietnam and India from the coming financial year, designed to better manage program demand.

with NCA Newswire

Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@yahoonews.com.

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Enabling excellence Insurance Business recognizes the Top Insurance Employers of 2024, spotlighting a robust roster of Australian and New Zealand companies that have earned their employees loyalty by providing inclusive and rewarding work environments. IB invited firms across Australia and New Zealand to participate by completing an employer form outlining their various offerings and practices. Then, hundreds of those companies employees completed anonymous forms evaluating their workplace. The best insurance companies to work for exceed employee expectations across various metrics, evidenced by high levels of satisfaction in the following areas: positive workplace culture



safe work environment



employee engagement



career development



diversity, equity, inclusion and belonging

Each leading insurance company has been rated as a top workplace by its respective teams. The following four organisations exemplify the factors contributing to their prestigious recognition.



Best-in-class strategies and initiatives of the top insurance employers



Employee satisfaction rating: 83% | Top rated for team building and social activities

A vibrant culture is paramount at HDI, connecting employees and the industry with the passion and enthusiasm for which it has become known.

My philosophy is to create a sense of unity and purpose that enriches the environment and influences how our team engages with our business partners and each other, says head of HDI Global Asia-Pacific and managing director Stefan Feldmann. Its about building relationships for genuine understanding and mutual benefit.

People are central to HDIs business strategy, and the company backs up that philosophy by:

offering an annual all-staff kick-off and team-building session



regular wellness and health check-ins and monthly events, including a traditional German Wandertag (walk in nature)



valuing its employees, the companys history, and their future together

Investing in employee wellbeing, professional growth and a culture of recognition underscores our commitment to maintaining a motivated and engaged workforce

Stefan Feldmann HDI Global SE, Australia



IBs employee respondents praised the company for:

Being open and transparent on all issues.



The senior leadership team inspires loyalty and confidence in company performance.



Our relationships with colleagues are genuine and positive, making every day at the office enjoyable and rewarding.







Employee satisfaction rating: 84% | Top rated for work-life balance

Employees are encouraged to bring their whole selves to work in a safe, judgment-free environment.

The team members are treated as the adults that they are, and this engenders trust  in me as their leader and in them as the team members, says COO Danielle Brookbanks. This is a safe environment where judgment and politics are banned. We have had staff acknowledge that it makes a real difference to them that we view them as people, not just employees.

NZbrokers Management has earned its industry-leading status by promoting genuine flexibility and allowing staff to manage their workday as they see fit, as well as:

flexible leave policies allowing employees to work around a sick child or personal appointments



health and wellness training seminars



funding for job-related professional development

We strive to promote internally, where possible, and have promoted several employees to move them through their career pathways, despite being a relatively small team

Danielle Brookbanks NZbrokers Management



Employees highlighted the top insurance employers strengths:

Small enough to care for each employee and support them on a personal level.



Our managers and employees trust and respect each other and have a shared commitment to individual and company success.



We have an inclusive, honest and open in-office culture.



Employee satisfaction rating: 92% | Top rated for valuing and appreciating employees

By winning the top insurance employer award for the third consecutive year, the company rewards its employees with a day off, showcasing IQumulates employee-centric strategy.

Were transparent and open, and our strategy is about people, continually focusing on what we can do differently to keep people engaged and how we can enrich staff members experience, says Tricia Kopka, head of operations and process improvement.

Guided by a philosophy of continuous improvement, the top insurance employer stands out for prioritising:

a courteous and respectful work environment



real-time recognition through various online platforms and in person



agility and willingness to evolve within the dynamic insurance landscape



online flexible learning and adopt-a-colleague program

Were focused on our people, and were always striving to review and refine our policies, celebrating the wins and not being afraid to talk about the failings

Tricia Kopka IQumulate Premium Funding



Survey participants lauded the company for the following qualities:

[Being] always on the lookout to promote people from within the ranks.



Understanding that long-term goals can be achieved but allowing for a mix of strategic and ad-hoc plans along the way.



[Having] a genuine intent to strive to improve.



Employee satisfaction rating: 85% | Top rated for diversity and inclusion

With a focus and dedication to fostering an open, flexible, trusted, and respectful culture, the top insurance employer celebrates diversity, ensures inclusion, encourages challenge, and holds everyone accountable.

In addition to its corporate policies, AXA XL periodically rotates the volunteer members of its dedicated inclusion and diversity (I&D) committee to encourage an influx of fresh ideas.

The group is passionate about keeping abreast of all I&D challenges and advancements, and organises regular educational sessions, inviting external speakers to share their stories and insights, says Catherine Carlyon, country leader for Australia.

The following initiatives complement this outstanding commitment:

involvement with global internal business resource groups for individual minority groups, persons with disabilities, and LGBTQI communities



hosting various initiatives throughout the year, focusing on climate change, sustainability, and charitable work, including a Global Day of Giving



training and mentoring programs

Our employees are our biggest asset, and we are passionate about developing their skills and helping them reach their full potential

Catherine Carlyon AXA XL



Respondents also gave high marks to AXA XL for:

Flexibility in being able to work from home when required.



Appreciating the staff and encouraging their growth and development.



Providing a dynamic and fun working environment that encourages collaboration and innovative ideas.

The best insurance companies have employees top needs covered



According to employee respondents, the three most important employer offerings are:

     1. vacation leave

     2. flexible work options

     3. sick leave



At HDI, employees can build diverse and exciting careers reflecting the changes in their personal lives.

Becoming a parent is a significant life event, and HDI supports employees by providing benefits that enable a successful transition to life as a working parent by:

improving equal access to parental leave and flexible work



promoting male engagement in parental leave and carer responsibilities



increasing recognition of inclusive family structures

In addition, HDI has arranged a 20% discount at fertility centres nationwide, where employees also have access to a wealth of free resources, including confidential mini consultations at no cost, ensuring they have valuable information and support throughout their fertility journey.

For NZbrokers Management, its leaders dont think about a whole day or even half a days sick leave, for example. Its approach is based on hours worked, allowing employees to take time off when needed from their sick or annual leave programs.

We continue to look for ways to support staff in their homes and work lives, as we know that, ultimately, if someone is happy and healthy in all facets of their life, then it is better for the company and the people within it, Brookbanks says.

Employees at IQumulate Premium Funding can take advantage of additional leave with a program called Take Five, which grants extra paid days beginning the second year of service.

Promoting a supportive and flexible work environment that helps alleviate employee stress is paramount as management strives to accommodate employee requests for increased flexibility.

Kopka says, Our mindset is to think about what we can do to make that happen. She adds that outlook also applies to staff who need sick time or care for a family member.

AXA XL continues to offer a hybrid work environment with an expectation of two to three days in the office. Employees are encouraged to discuss and agree on any ongoing exceptions to the guidance.

The company believes this strikes the right balance between flexibility, allowing efficient time on tasks without distractions, and being physically present with colleagues to benefit from collaboration and learning opportunities.

Every colleagues personal situation is different and unique, says Carlyon. We encourage everyone to be open, discuss and communicate their needs with their managers and colleagues so we can both thrive as a business and support each other.

Scroll down to see the list of the best insurance companies to work for and read some of the award winners profiles.


PLAINFIELD, Vt.  Volunteers, some with heavy equipment, shoveled river silt and mud from roads, homes, yards and driveways and removed flood-ravaged items from homes Friday in one of the Vermont communities hardest hit by flooding from the remnants of Hurricane Beryl.

Former students of a now retired school principal, whose home and yard were among those damaged, showed up to help.

I think as a community we all got to come together and give a hand and receive nothing but just giving the love back that hes given the community and to the school, said Dillon Mears, 33, of Owen Bradley. Some wore t-shirts emblazoned with the word love, a message that Bradley and his wife Jane spread.

The couples son flew in Friday morning on a red eye from Oakland, California, and quickly went to work with others.

This is how we are. You know, theres people over there helping out, as soon as were done here, were going to help everybody else out, said Adrian Bradley, 35. Thats Vermont. Its a small state, 600,000 people, we know everybody, you help your neighbors.

Gov. Phil Scott said Friday itll take several more days to fully assess damage from flooding caused by the remnants of Hurricane Beryl, but he said Vermont is better positioned to recover quickly after enduring heartbreak, federal red tape and an extensive cleanup from massive floods exactly a year ago.

We can all use what we learned last year to quickly strengthen our response, and that starts with getting homes, businesses and communities clean and dry as quickly as possible, Scott told reporters at a briefing in Berlin.

He praised the resilience of Vermonters who are accustomed to making do without government help in rural areas, but also urged them to take time to report damage and not to be afraid to ask for assistance.

Beryls remnants dumped more than 6 inches (15 centimeters) of rain in just a few hours Wednesday and Thursday on parts of Vermont, destroying and damaging homes, knocking out bridges, cutting off towns and retraumatizing a state where some people are still awaiting assistance from the last catastrophic floods that hit a year ago to the day.

Two people  a motorist in Lyndonville and a man riding an all-terrain-vehicle in Peacham  were killed by the floodwaters, authorities said.

The Vermont Department of Transportation is releasing nearly $30 million in town highway payments by early August  half of it by next week  to help communities repair washed out roads, bridges and culverts, said Joe Flynn, secretary of transportation. The state has already reopened all but 18 of the 54 state roads that were closed by flooding or storm debris, he said.

Public Safety Commissioner Jennifer Morrison urged people on Thursday to take advantage of sunny weather forecast for the next few days to get as much cleanup done as possible, moving sodden rugs and furniture to dry outside to reduce the likelihood of mold.

And speaking to Vermonters not directly affected, she urged them to volunteer through state programs or to simply roll up your sleeves, grab a shovel, and help your neighbors.

Elsewhere in Plainfield, a concrete bridge that collapsed and tumbled downstream was likely responsible for ripping off part of an apartment building with five units, said Michael Billingsley, the towns emergency management director.

The occupant of another home was pulled through a window to safety moments before it was swept downstream, and a mobile home floated away with four pets belonging to a family that narrowly escaped, he said.

Similar stories played out across Vermont, where state swift-water teams alone rescued about 120 residents. Many more were rescued by local emergency responders, officials said.

Beryl, blamed for at least nine U.S. deaths and 11 in the Caribbean, made landfall nearly 2,000 miles (3,220 kilometers) away in Texas on Monday as a Category 1 hurricane that left millions in the Houston area without power. But it wasnt done. The storm traveled across the interior U.S. as a post-tropical cyclone that brought flooding and some tornadoes from the Great Lakes to northern New England and Canada.

The storm spawned seven tornadoes that hit western New York on Wednesday, the National Weather Service said. Flash flooding also closed roads in several northern New Hampshire and upstate New York communities.

Even though Vermont is not a coastal state, it has been pummeled before by tropical weather systems. Tropical Storm Irene dumped 11 inches (28 centimeters) of rain on parts of Vermont in 24 hours in 2011. The storm killed six in the state, washed homes off their foundations and damaged or destroyed more than 200 bridges and 500 miles (800 kilometers) of highway.

Vermont officials on Friday said the state updated requirements for culverts and bridges after Irene to account for the likelihood of more dangerous storms due to climate change, and none of the bridges that washed out in the latest flooding were those rebuilt to the higher standards.

In May, Vermont became the first state to enact a law requiring fossil fuel companies to pay a share of the damage caused by extreme weather fanned by climate change. But officials acknowledged Friday that collecting any money will depend on litigation against a much-better-resourced oil industry.

Associated Press writers David Sharp in Maine, Holly Ramer in New Hampshire, Seth Borenstein in Washington and Stefanie Dazio in Los Angeles contributed to this report.

Copyright 2024 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

Topics Flood
Lockheed Martin Corp. (LMT) is one of the U.S. governments largest contractors. Its biggest customer is the Department of Defense which buys weapons, aircraft, and logistical support. Among Lockheed's products are the F-35 Lightning II fighter, Sikorsky helicopters, and the Aegis naval weapons system. The company also provides data services and space technology to the civilian sector.

The top shareholders of Lockheed Martin are James Taiclet, David B. Burritt, James Ellis Jr., Scott Greene, State Street Corp., Vanguard Group Inc., and BlackRock Inc.

Lockheed Martin engages in research, design, development, and manufacturing as a global defense and aerospace company. It also provides a variety of other services. The company operates across five primary business segments: Aeronautics, Electronics Systems, Space Systems, Integrated Systems & Solutions, and Information & Technology Services.

The company generated $71.06 billion of revenue and net income of $8.3 billion over a trailing 12-month period as of July 2024 with a market capitalization of $125.76 billion.

Key Takeaways Lockheed Martin is a major producer of military aircraft and defense systems.

Lockheed's biggest customer is the U.S. Department of Defense.

James D. Taiclet is the biggest individual shareholder with more than 82,000 shares.

Institutional investors are the largest shareholders, holding a combined 74% of Lockheed Martin stock.

Top 3 Individual Insider Shareholders

The shares owned by individual insider shareholders are those that are held through direct ownership. Shares mentioned in this section don't include shares held indirectly or shares that are accessible through stock options.

Company insiders must file an SEC Form 4 whenever they buy or sell an amount of the company's stock that is deemed to be material.

The term "insider" refers to people in senior management positions and members of the board of directors, as well as people or entities that own more than 10% of the company's stock. It has nothing to do with insider trading in this context.

James D. Taiclet

James Taiclet has 82,596 shares of Lockheed Martin common stock, according to the company's 2024 proxy statement. Taiclet is the president, CEO, and board chairman of Lockheed Martin, having succeeded Marillyn Hewson in 2021. He's been on the board of directors since 2018.

Taiclet was the CEO, president, and board chair of American Tower Corporation, a REIT that invests in communications real estate, before joining Lockheed. He's also served as president of AlliedSignal and a vice president at Pratt & Whitney, both companies involved in aerospace design. He's a board member of the Council on Foreign Relations.

David B. Burritt

David B. Burritt holds 28,542 shares of the company, according to Lockheed Martin's 2024 proxy statement. Burritt was elected by stockholders to the Lockheed Martin board of directors in April 2008.

Burritt served as Caterpillar Inc.'s chief financial officer until 2010 before moving on to United States Steel Corporation (U.S. Steel) in 2013. Burritt's roles with U.S. Steel include president and chief operating officer, chief financial officer, and executive vice president.



James Ellis, Jr.

James O. Ellis has 22,978 shares of Lockheed Martin common stock, according to the company's 2024 proxy statement. Ellis has served on the board of Lockheed Martin since 2004.

Ellis had a military career before joining Lockheed, having served in the Navy for 39 years. Admiral Ellis commanded the U.S.S. Abraham Lincoln and directed allied forces in southern Europe. Ellis has also served as president and CEO of the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations and as a presidential appointee of the Intelligence Advisory Board and the National Space Council.

Top 3 Institutional Shareholders

Institutional investors hold the majority of Lockheed Martin shares at about 74.19% of total shares outstanding.

State Street Corp.

State Street owns 36.33 million shares of Lockheed Martin as of July 2024, representing 15.24% of total shares outstanding.

State Street manages a broad range of assets for clients, including mutual funds, ETFs, and other investments. It has $4.1 trillion in AUM. The SPDR S&P Kensho Final Frontiers ETF (ROKT) tracks an index of companies involved in space and deep sea exploration and holds Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin represents 4.02% of the fund's holdings.

Vanguard Group Inc.

Vanguard Group owns 21.56 million shares of Lockheed Martin as of July 2024, representing 9.04% of total shares outstanding.

The company is primarily a mutual fund and ETF management company with about $8 trillion in global AUM. The Vanguard Industrials ETF (VIS) tracks a market-cap-weighted index of industrial companies and owns Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin makes up about 2.7% of the fund's portfolio.

BlackRock Inc.

BlackRock owns 18.56 million shares of Lockheed Martin as of July 2024, representing 7.79% of total shares outstanding.

The company is primarily a mutual fund and ETF management company with approximately $10.5 trillion in AUM. The iShares U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF (ITA), which tracks a market-cap-weighted index of U.S. airplane and defense equipment manufacturers, assemblers, and distributors, owns Lockheed Martin. Lockheed Martin is the third-largest holding at about 12.8% of the fund's portfolio.

How Often Does Lockheed Martin Pay Dividends? Lockheed Martin pays dividends on a quarterly basis so dividend payments are made every three months. A dividend payment is scheduled for Sep. 27, 2024.

How Much Is Lockheed Martin's Dividend? Lockheed Martin has consistently increased its dividends since 2002. The dividend is $3.15 per share per quarter in 2024.

What Is Lockheed Martin's Share Price? Lockheed's share price is $527.64 as of July 29, 2024. The company's market capitalization is $125.76 billion.

The Bottom Line

Lockheed Martin is a leading producer of military aircraft and defense systems with a total valuation of over $100 billion. Some company insiders have significant stakes in the company but the biggest shareholders are institutions like BlackRock and Vanguard.


There have been calls for an end to the breeding of elephants in Irish Zoos after two of the animals died within a week of each other.

On July 8, Dublin Zoo announced the death of an elephant Zinda aged 7, from suspected elephant endotheliotropic herpesvirus (EEHV) following the passing of Avani, aged 8, on July 1 from the same virus.

On Wednesday Dublin Zoo made another heartbreaking announcement that a third elephant, 17-year-old Asha, mother of Zinda had also tested positive for EEHV  but that age was on her side.

Being older, her body has had more time to develop antibodies to fight the infection, potentially giving her a greater chance of survival the Zoo said.

Currently, the other elephants in our herd are not showing signs of EEHV, but we are closely monitoring their health.

EEHV causes acute, fatal haemorrhagic disease in wild and captive juvenile Asian and African elephants, and in severe cases, the virus can result in death within 24 hours.

However, several animal rights groups and campaigners have spoken out about how the virus (EEHV) can also be stress-related and claim the arrival of a new male elephant  Aung Bo - from Chester Zoo may have activated it.

Seven-year-old elephant Zinda died last week.

While the elephant has not yet been introduced to the herd, an elephant has a strong sense of smell (they can detect water 20km away) and hearing (can recognise calls of other elephants 1.5km away).

Paul Murphy TD wrote a parliamentary question asking Local Government Minister Darragh OBrien to phase out keeping elephants in captivity in Ireland.

Will the Minister now consider entering into discussions with Dublin Zoo, elephant welfare experts, veterinarians and the NPWS (National Parks and Wildlife Service) to end or phase out the keeping of elephants in captivity in Ireland starting with the prohibition of breeding elephants and the prohibition of the importation of elephants from other zoos?"

He also referenced the arrival of the new elephant to Dublin Zoo.

Is it possible that the arrival of the male elephant from Chester Zoo resulted in stress to the rest of the herd, including Zinda and Avani, triggering the infection that has tragically killed them?

Born Free, a wildlife conservation charity, said: Research from 2022 highlighted that elephants kept in zoos were more likely to shed EEHV during times of social stress, such as the arrival of a new individual, as has recently occurred at Dublin Zoo."

Dublin Zoo said it will review the circumstances surrounding the deaths of Zinda and Avani" adding it is essential to approach such sensitive situations with a comprehensive understanding of the factors involved, including the complexities of elephant virology.

"The recent arrival of the male elephant from Chester Zoo has been managed with strict quarantine protocols since his arrival at Dublin Zoo; he has yet to meet the other elephants, making it highly unlikely that he transferred the EEHV virus to the herd. Dublin Zoo was already aware that EEHV was present in its elephants."
A news reporter has told of his terror as he dived for cover just 100ft away from former US president Donald Trump as an attempt was made to assassinate him at a campaign rally.

CBS News campaign reporter Jacob Rosen was in the press pen at the Republican rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday evening when the assassination attempt was carried out.

Mr Rosen spoke to the Irish Examiner as he awaited a flight to Milwaukee to attend the Republic convention which starts on Monday. Mr Trump is expected to attend the event, which will run until Thursday.

He said: We were in the press pen with all the other media and we were about 100 ft away. When the shots rang out, we thought they were fire crackers or fireworks. The first one or two did not really sound like much.

He said his initial thought was how crazy it was that somebody had apparently let off a firework at a Trump rally.

However, he noticed that a hydraulic pipe on a crane holding up one of the speakers had been hit by a bullet and realised quickly that an effort was being made to shoot Mr Trump.

He said: The smoke and steam from it shot out and then I looked back at the former president and there was blood coming from the side of his face and there was Secret Service all near him.

A co-worker pulled me to the ground. We stayed on the ground with security and with other reporters. I was terrified at that point. I would say realistically it was around two or three minutes but it felt like maybe an hour, in terms of the adrenaline and my heart beating.

He said the focus of the presidential campaign has totally changed following the shooting, and admitted: I am worried about my safety, I am worried about my familys safety. When the former president was rushed off the stage, people turned on us (the media)  people tried to climb over the barricades, people tried to come at us. I had a CBS hat on and my lanyard with my press pass on, and I wear a CBS badge to identify myself.

He said he took them off on Saturday night and he remembers having to wait for up to 30 minutes before he could let family and work colleagues know he was safe because there was no phone service available at the time.

Mr Rosen sent a text to a number of group chats as soon as he could, to let people know he was safe.

He has attended several Trump rallies in his five years with CBS News, he said.

Former US President Donald Trump is assisted by Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during his campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. Picture: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

"I have also covered shootings but never active shootings and I certainly have never been a part of any kind of shooting. I have never had bullets flying past me (before).

They were 70 to 100 ft away but there were at least five or six. And then there was the Secret Service shot at the man which was another one. That was the last one we heard obviously.

He remembers that Mr Trump had a chart up on a video board about illegal immigration shortly before the shooting.

He added: He doesnt usually put it up that early at the rally and he turned his head at what seems like the perfect time. You can see from the pictures that my extraordinary colleagues, who were very close in the pit near Trump, were able to get the bullets going past his ear.

"We heard the pop, pop, pop, pop, pop. Everyone hit the ground but a lot of people were stuck standing at the rallies. There were thousands of people, they had been in the sun all day.

The incident occurred at around 6pm on Saturday evening, eight hours after Mr Rosen arrived at the venue to set up and speak with supporters of Mr Trump ahead of this weeks selection convention.

We thought Mr Trump would probably pick a vice president candidate yesterday, not get shot at. Its one of those things that is still surreal today.

However, he said his reporter instinct quickly returned and he focused on working on the story with his colleagues on the ground and in studio in New York and Washington, working until 3.30am on Sunday morning. He interviewed a retired physician who cared for one of the people who was critically injured when shot during the incident.

I feel it today. I am in shock for sure, he said. It is hard for me to watch it again. I have not been able to.

Mr Rosen said that he doesnt want to speculate on what happens between now and the presidential election in November. But he said: About six months ago we crossed into uncharted territory and since then, everything has gone in a way I never thought it could.
Transport Infrastructure Ireland (TII) has admitted there is no silver bullet to ease any further traffic issues on the eastern approaches to the Jack Lynch tunnel at peak times and it will only be solved with better public transport.

This view is leading to further calls for the re-opening of the Midleton - Youghal railway line and for improved bus connectivity from the East Cork region through the tunnel to the citys southern suburbs.

TII said while there has been significant improvements to the 215m Dunkettle Interchange upgrade "there are physical limitations to what can be done with the infrastructure that's in place" and "no silver bullet" fixes.

It said recent analysis of traffic volumes in the area shows they are now higher than pre-covid, adding:

It is vital for the long-term success of the Dunkettle interchange going forward, that more of the load is taken by public transport and active modes in moving people through the area.

TII listed some of the alternative transport modes which aid this, such as additional cycling routes and upgrades of the Cork - Midleton rail line.

TII revealed it has also discussed with Irish Rail the potential of the North Esk Freight Yard (near Glounthaune) to serve as "a transport hub" with full access for traffic to and from both the M8 (Cork - Dublin) and N25 (Cork - Waterford) routes. However it didn't reveal the results of these discussions.

The roads authority maintained gridlock has been significantly reduced in the area since the completion of the major upgrade.

However, many motorists coming from the East Cork side into the tunnel during the rush-hour claim they are experiencing delays. It has also been raised by county councillors from the East Cork region on several occasions with many of them experiencing the gridlock themselves.

The problem is lanes merging into just one for traffic heading into the tunnels southbound bore from the east.

The only physical way to remedy that would be a costly widening of the tunnel bore.

There are also significant problems with gridlock along the N25 at Castletmartyr and just east of Midleton at peak periods. In addition, plans to upgrade the N25 between Midleton and Carrigtwohill have been put on hold.

Many motorists, including Midleton-based Social Democrats councillor Liam Quaide, have questioned TIIs claim there has actually been a reduction in journey times from the East Cork area into the tunnel during the rush hour.

He said this claim doesnt correspond to reality".

The merging lane prior to entering the tunnel is causing prolonged delays, except for some of those drivers who skip ahead and essentially leave one side of traffic queuing, and largely stationary. It's leading to dangerous abrupt lane changes as drivers become frustrated with being passed out while waiting in line, he said.

He said the population is rapidly expanding in East Cork and there comes a point when increasing road capacity just creates more congestion.

Weve seen this the world over, including the M50 in Dublin, which now resembles a carpark at peak times. What we need above all is large-scale public transport investment, such as the reopening of the Midleton - Cork railway, Mr Quaide added.
Jacqueline Ghosh wanted to return home to her native Inishowen.

She was living in Stranorlar, Co Donegal, with her husband Arindam, who is from India, and their two children when in 2021 they decided the rural environment would be a better location to raise a family.

They put their house on the market and agreed the purchase of a new home in the northern peninsula. Everything looked to be going according to plan when problems arose over defective blocks.

By September, Jacqueline and her daughter relocated to Inishowen to rent so her daughter could attend her new school at the beginning of the school year. Then she got a call from her husband in Stranorlar.

My whole world fell apart that day, she says. We had to take the house off the market, take my daughter back to Letterkenny to go to school and face into a future where we didnt know how badly damaged was the home we were trying to sell.

The couple bought their home in 2006.

Defective concrete blocks

Their plight is replicated in thousands of homes along the western seaboard. The defective concrete block scandal led to a major campaign by affected homeowners, including a huge protest in Dublin during the pandemic.

An initial scheme run by Donegal and Mayo county councils was set up in 2020 but this was deemed to be inadequate to meet the needs of those who were affected.

The following year, after huge political pressure was applied, the Government announced the Enhanced Defective Concrete Blocks Scheme (EDCBS).

The new scheme was estimated to cost 2.2bn in order to make good the damage done to at least 7,500 affected homes along the western seaboard.

There have been issues around the EDCBS, not least that it does not cater for 100% redress.

This has been ongoing over the last two years, culminating in victory in the recent local elections for four candidates standing for the 100% Redress party.

Now, however, another issue is coming to light.

One in four homeowners who were told by engineers in an assessment for the original local authority-run scheme that their homes needed to be demolished, are now being told that under the new scheme this is not the case.

Instead, they are due to receive remediation work short of full demolition. This gives rise to the question as to why these assessments differ and quite obviously leaves the affected homeowners wondering whether problems are being stored up for the future.

The Ghoshs applied to Donegal County Council for the original redress scheme. That scheme obliged applicants to pay for the engineer and the samples required to be tested and then be reimbursed with most of the outlay. Their engineer, who was on a list of recommended professionals supplied by the local authority, conducted his survey in 2021 and sent off the samples for testing.

People gathered outside the Department of the Taoiseach in 2021 during a protest by mica-affected homeowners from Mayo and Donegal seeking 100% redress for the faulty concrete in their homes.

There are five options from which engineers must make recommendations. Option 1 is full demolition right through to Option 5, which is to demolish and rebuild only the outer leaf walls that are damaged.

The engineer recommended the minimum remediation required was Option 2, which is to demolish and rebuild full external walls, but he went on to state the most appropriate remediation was Option 1.

The council requested further information and on a second visit the engineer noted 19 further cracks had appeared since his initial examination.

By then, the new EDCBS was up and running and the council handed the case over to the Housing Agency.

In March of this year, another engineer, retained by the Housing Agency, did an assessment of the initial engineers report. This assessment did not include any site visit to the house or the testing of any new samples from the concrete blocks. The engineer was acting totally professionally and within the brief designed by the Housing Agency and the legislation passed to set up the EDCBS.

Its conclusion was that contrary to the initial recommendation, the minimum remediation now should be option four, but due to the localised severe damage internally an Option 3 is considered the most appropriate remediation. This would involve demolishing and rebuilding the external walls.

By its nature, the new recommendation does not take account of any deterioration in the concrete blocks during the three years since the original assessment.

In a statement issued to the Irish Examiner the Housing Agency confirmed approximately three in four appropriate remediation option determinations for Option 1 issued to date by the Housing Agency are consistent with the previous recommendation from a consulting engineer".

The agency noted the technical and geotechnical information contained in the application's chartered engineers report is fully considered by the Housing Agency chartered engineers.

It is unclear how many homeowners have had the original recommendation to demolish downgraded by the Housing Agency. Since November 2023, the agency has issued a total of 268 appropriate remediation options, complete with grant amount determinations totalling approximately 89 million.

The Irish Examiner is aware of an informal WhatsApp group of more than 30 homeowners whose original recommendation was to demolish, but the full figure could be much higher.

Mary Kelly and her family found themselves in the same situation as the Ghoshs. The engineer they retained recommended demolition of their home outside Letterkenny in 2022. Their case was passed onto the new scheme and in January this year they were told they were now being recommended for Option 2, which is full demolition of the external walls.

Ironically, the downgrade, suggesting their home is not as damaged as initially assessed, will also lead to greater costs. This is due to the anomaly that full demolition takes account of floor area of a home, while demolishing the walls is calculated on the basis of the wall area.

Mary Kelly says apart from anything else, finding a contractor to do this kind of work is a lot more difficult than one who will do a full rebuild.

She is highly critical of how the Housing Agency has arrived at its new recommendation.

Contradictory assessments

They havent done their job because they havent even looked at our house, she says. They contradict the chartered engineer [who made the initial assessment] who was to the house several times. I would think that if they are going to contradict him the least they could do is come out and see the damage for themselves.

Kathrina Kirk and her family, who also live in Letterkenny, have had a near-identical experience. One different detail in their case was that an engineer from the Housing Agency did initially come out to view their home.

That was in July last year, Kathrina says.

He stood outside and I asked him did he want to come in and see the cracks. He said no, another engineer would be coming out to do that kind of work. We havent seen anybody since.

The Kirks had their application downgraded from Option 1 to a blend between Options 2 and 4, which involves taking down some walls and leaving others.

The issue of whether there are possible solutions to the various rogue elements in the blockwork  it has been discovered in recent years that there is much more than mica here  has been dogging this scheme, its predecessors and many engineers who have examined the damage.

Ambrose McCloskey, of MA McCloskey Engineers in Dungiven Co Derry, was one of the original professionals to assess the damage. Three years ago, he issued an open letter highlighting what he saw as the application of temporary solutions to a problem his experience told him would be intractable without going back to square one.

In July 2021, he wrote: In simple terms, any course of remedial work short of a complete demolition will mean that potentially degrading blockwork with remain, and will be subject to moisture and potentially oxygen, within the structure. We do not know how this will continue to perform. As such, there is, in my opinion, still a likelihood of further structural deterioration in the medium/longer term.

Anecdotal evidence from numerous homeowners who rebuilt an outer leaf of their own accord in the past few years would also suggest that there may well be future issues.

Today, Ambrose McCloskey says his opinion then still holds largely true.

I believe Ive been proved right, he says. I was told I was wrong but it turns out now when they have done their research I actually was pretty much on the mark. It was convenient at the time to blame mica but there was much more going on. The standard that was used at the time had no scientific basis.

He believes the current scheme and how applicants are being downgraded is not the way to go. As far as I know, there has not been any proper cost-benefit analysis, he says.

Money is being spent fixing these houses, often costing up to two-thirds what it would to demolish. And in five or 10 years time, they may well have to come back and demolish when and if there is further deterioration.

The recent local elections saw four candidates for the 100% Redress party, a one-issue entity seeking full redress from the EDCBS, elected to Donegal County Council. Last week, the four councillors had a zoom call with the Housing Agency to discuss the scheme and problems that are arising.

Cllr Thomas Devine told the Irish Examiner his understanding following the meeting was that 70 applicants had been downgraded, mostly from Option 1.

They dont want to call it downgrading, Mr Devine said. They were telling us that they were on our side and they want to do all that they can, but they have to go by what the legislation set out."

He says the narrative coming from the agency is at variance with that coming from affected homeowners. The officials from the Housing Agency also pointed out that seven applicants had their option effectively upgraded following the assessment by the agency.

I got the impression we were hearing a pre-rehearsed speech even though they say they are trying to do the best for everybody. The whole thing, in my opinion, is just designed to save money. What needs to be done in the vast majority of cases is the house should come down and be rebuilt instead of having constant obstacles in front of people.

A mica brick outside Leinster House, which protesters brought to Dublin.

The recommendations made by the Housing Agency are subject to appeal under the legislation. Dozens of homeowners have already initiated appeals but there is no time limit on how long an appeal can take. A spokesperson for the agency said the appeals panel had been established and had met twice so far. It is unclear whether or not any appeals panel will visit a site to view the damage on which their determination will be made.

In the Ghoshs' appeal, Jacqueline set out how the whole case has impacted on the lives of her and her family. She says the biggest punch was the new recommendation which, she claims, did not take into account the additional information about new cracks reported on by her engineer.

For us, it is simply shocking, she writes in her appeal. It is like one doctor who has done a full and thorough examination saying you need surgery to remove cancer and then another one looking at a part of the report and saying we will do the minimal treatment as a temporary solution and see how it goes. You can always come back if you need more.

"I ask the panel  would this be acceptable for you? Would you be happy to go with the temporary solution? Would this not be a cause of constant worry for you?

For John and Kathrina Kirk, putting together an appeal is, they believe, a considerable body of work. Were sending the kids away next week to stay with relatives, she says.

We need the space to concentrate on putting together a proper appeal. There is a lot of work involved in the whole thing and we never thought we would have ended up in a situation like this.
Law enforcement agents were investigating what they suspected was an attempt to assassinate Donald Trump after a man with a rifle fired shots at him during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler county, Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service spokesperson, Anthony Gugliemi, said on X that the former president [was] safe following several shots, which prompted agents protecting Trump to leap on him amid the ensuing panic. Gugliemi said Secret Service agents then fatally shot the suspected attacker  who had fired toward Trump from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, Gugliemi said.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded.

The FBI later identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, the Associated Press reported.

Officials have not publicly disclosed a possible motive.

A public records database showed a Bethel Park man with the same name and age registered to vote as a Republican in 2021.

In a pair of statements, Trump said he was fine after a bullet hit the upper part of [his] right ear.

The former president also issued thanks to the Secret Service agents as well as other law enforcement officers for their rapid response in a Truth Social post in the shootings aftermath.

Mostly importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed and also to the family of [those] badly injured, said Trump, who was taken to a hospital for evaluation and then reportedly released about 10.20pm local time.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

Mr Trump added: "Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.

Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures while surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin. DJT

Video from NBC News captured more than a dozen shots, with later ones apparently coming from agents protecting the president, who had been speaking on stage at the time.

A voice could be heard saying: Get down, get down, get down! Agents arrived to throw themselves on top of Trump as the gunfire continued and screams were heard from the crowd.

Audio from the network captured agents voices saying: Shooters down. Shooters down. Are we good to move? Were clear, were clear. As agents tried to move Trump off the stage at the rally, he said: Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Agents can be heard telling the former president: I got you. Hold on. Your head is bloody. Weve got to move. Trump replied: Wait, wait.

He then pumped his fist, mouthed the words: Fight, fight, fight. And the crowd at the rally responded with cries of: USA! USA! USA! Armed troops in uniform soon arrived as some spectators shouted abuse at the media.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Agents then whisked Trump away from sight.

Video showed blood on Trumps ear. There were also snipers on a roof near the stage where Trump was standing, the Reuters news agency reported.

NBC News, citing two senior law enforcement officials, reported there was growing concern among investigators that the shooting at the Trump rally may have been a serious attempt on his life.

The local district attorney, Richard Goldinger, appeared on CNN and said he wasnt sure how the suspected shooter wouldve gotten to the location where he was.

Thats something were going to have to figure out  how he got there.

The BBC, meanwhile, interviewed a Trump supporter who said he was outside the rally site and had been trying to get close enough to hear the former president speak when he saw a man carrying a rifle climb on to the roof of a building.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

The man said he pointed out the building in question to police and remarked: Theres a guy on the roof with a rifle.

But none of the police reacted, and about two minutes later, the man fired five or so shots toward Trump.

At that point, the man told the BBC, Secret Service agents shot the attacker to death. They blew his head off, the man said.

Investigators recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, the AP reported, quoting a law enforcement source.

The AP reportedly geolocated a video posted to social media which showed the body of a person lying motionless on the roof of a building at AGR International, a manufacturing plant just north of Saturdays Trump rally.

The roof was less than 165 yards from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target, the APs Scott Bauer wrote on X.

Joe Biden said on X that he had been briefed on the reported shooting.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well, the president said of Trump, with whom he reportedly spoke on Saturday night. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. In a televised address, Biden urged widespread condemnation of political violence.

The bottom line is, the Trump rally  should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem, Biden said.

But the idea  that theres political violence  in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it.

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

The scenes from the rally prompted a flood of reactions, including among Trumps fellow Republicans.

The US House speaker, Mike Johnson, wrote on X that his congressional chamber would conduct a full investigation of the tragic events today.

The American people deserve to know the truth, Johnson said, pledging that the House would summon officials from the Secret Service, homeland security and FBI for hearings as soon as possible.

Former Republican president George W Bush said he was grateful that Trump was safe following the cowardly attack on his life.
Israel said it has targeted Hamas military commander in a massive strike in the crowded southern Gaza Strip that killed at least 90 people, according to local health officials.

More than 300 people were injured in the attack.

It is not immediately known whether Mohammed Deif was among the dead.

Israeli officials confirmed that he and a second Hamas commander, Rafa Salama, were the targets of the strike.

A military official later said they were still checking and verifying the result of the strike, but did not deny it took place inside the Israeli-designated safe zone.

Deif is believed by many to be the chief architect of the October 7 attack that killed some 1,200 people in southern Israel and triggered the Israel-Hamas war.

He has topped Israels most-wanted list for years and is believed to have escaped multiple Israeli assassination attempts in the past.

His potential killing threatens to derail cease-fire talks and would be seen as a major Israeli victory in the nine-month campaign.

Hamas said in a statement in response to Israel: These false claims are merely a cover-up for the scale of the horrific massacre.

At the hospital, Associated Press journalists counted more than 40 bodies and witnesses there described an attack that included several strikes.

Palestinians inspect the damage at a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip

Footage of the aftermath showed charred tents, burnt-out cars and household belongings scattered across the blackened earth as emergency workers and Palestinians displaced by the nine-month war searched for survivors.

Victims were carried on the hoods and in the hatchbacks of cars, and on donkey carts and carpets.

Witnesses said the strike landed inside Muwasi, the Israeli designated safe zone that stretches from northern Rafah to Khan Younis.

The coastal strip is where hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians have fled to in search of safety, sheltering mostly in makeshift tents.

This was designated as a safe zone filled with people from the north, said one displaced Palestinian man who did not give his name.

Children were all martyred here. We collected their pieces with our hands. He estimated there were seven or eight missiles and that first responders were targeted as well.

According to an Israeli official, the strike was carried out within a fenced area of Khan Younis that was run by Hamas, but did not elaborate on the precise location.

Deif is believed by many to be the chief architect of the October 7 attack that killed some 1,200 people in southern Israel and triggered the Israel-Hamas war.

He has topped Israels most-wanted list for years and is believed to be paralysed after escaping multiple Israeli assassination attempts in the past.

Israel launched its campaign in Gaza after Hamas October 7 attack in which militants stormed into southern Israel, killed some 1,200 people  mostly civilians  and abducted about 250.

Since then, Israeli ground offensives and bombardments have killed more than 38,300 people in Gaza and wounded more than 88,000, according to the territorys health ministry.

The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.

More than 80% of Gazas 2.3 million people have been driven from their homes, and most are now crowded into squalid tent camps, facing widespread hunger.

The latest deadly strike comes as US, Egyptian and Qatari mediators continue to push to narrow gaps between Israel and Hamas over a proposed deal for a three-phase ceasefire and hostage release plan in Gaza.
a country already on edge, the assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump has enraged his supporters, paused the Democratic campaign and raised fears of further political violence in the run-up to November's election.

Trump's Republican allies painted him as a hero on Saturday, seizing on the image of him with his ear bloodied and fist raised, appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

Whereas Trump has regularly used violent language with his followers, advisers and allies of the former president flipped the script on his Democratic opponent President Joe Biden, saying it was the demonization of the Republican presidential candidate that led to the assassination attempt.

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," US Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, a top candidate to be Trump's running mate, said on X.

Biden moved quickly to try to defuse the situation, denouncing the attack as unacceptable political violence and pulling election ads attacking Trump.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Biden told reporters.

The motivation of the shooter is not yet known.

The suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was a registered Republican, according to state voter records.

He previously made a small donation to a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians.

In the short term, the attack will likely boost Trump's appearances in Milwaukee this week at the Republican National Convention as he accepts his party's presidential nomination, fortifying the sense of grievance and estrangement his supporters already feel toward the nation's political class.

Within hours of the shooting, Trump's campaign sent out a text asking voters to contribute to the campaign. "They're not after me, they're after you," the message read.

Billionaires Elon Musk and Bill Ackman also swiftly endorsed Trump. "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk said on X, the social media site he owns.

Chris LaCivita, the co-manager of Trump's campaign, said on X that "for years and even today, leftist activists, Democrat donors and now even Joe Biden have made disgusting remarks and descriptions of shooting Donald Trump ... it's high time they be held accountable for it ... the best way is through the ballot box."

People take cover as U.S. Secret Service agents surround Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

LaCivita was apparently referring to recent remarks by Biden made in the context of asking his supporters to focus on beating Trump rather than his own performance.

"So, we're done talking about the debate, it's time to put Trump in a bullseye," said Biden, who has always condemned any political violence.

The U.S. is grappling with the biggest and most sustained increase in political violence since the 1970s. Of 14 fatal political attacks since supporters of Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in which the perpetrator or suspect had a clear partisan leaning, 13 were right-wing assailants. One was on the left.

Despite being a former president, Trump has campaigned as an outsider insurgent, complaining that he has long been targeted by the federal "deep state" and Biden's administration to prevent him from reclaiming power.

He has typically employed violent, degrading and even apocalyptic rhetoric while doing so, warning of a "bloodbath" if he is not elected and saying immigrants in the United States illegally are "poisoning the blood of our country".

Some Republicans were already agitated by his continued stoking of the fire.

"If the country wasn't a powder keg before, it is now," said Chip Felkel, a Republican operative in South Carolina who has opposed Trump.

Brad Bannon, a Democratic strategist, said the shooting could benefit Trump politically because it feeds into his campaign narrative that the country is off-track.
The former fire chief who was killed at a Pennsylvania rally for Donald Trump spent his final moments diving in front of his family to protect them from gunfire that rang out Saturday during an assassination attempt against the former president.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro said on Sunday that Corey Comperatore, 50, had died a hero, using his body as a shield to protect his wife and daughter from the bullets.

His wife shared with me that he dove on his family to protect them, Mr Shapiro said.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden extended their deepest condolences to Mr Comperatores family.

He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired and he lost his life, God love him. Were also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured, Mr Biden said.

We lost a fellow Pennsylvanian last night: Corey Comperatore.



Earlier today, I spoke to his wife and his two daughters. They asked me to share that Corey died a hero  diving on his family to protect them from danger.



Ive ordered United States and Commonwealth flags to be pic.twitter.com/UEN3P4D1Ju  Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) July 14, 2024

At least two other people were injured during the attempt to kill Mr Trump at Saturdays rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

They have been named as as David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania State Police. Both were in a stable condition on Sunday.

Separately, Texas US representative Ronny Jackson said in a statement that his nephew was injured but thankfully his injury was not serious.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the president was speaking, Mr Jackson said.

They heard shots ringing out, my nephew then realised he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck. He was treated by the providers in the medical tent.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue.

The former president was showing off a chart of border-crossing numbers when at least five shots were fired.

Mr Trump was seen holding his ear and got down on the ground. Agents quickly created a shield around him. When he stood, his face bloodied, he pumped his fist to cheering supporters

Randy Reamer, president of the Buffalo Township volunteer fire company, called Mr Comperatore a stand-up guy and a true brother of the fire service.

He said Mr Comperatore was as chief of the company for about three years but was also a life member, meaning he had served for more than 20 years.

Just a great all-around guy, always willing to help someone out, Mr Reamer said. He definitely stood up for what he believed in, never backed down to anyone. He was a really good guy.

Assistant chief Ricky Heasley, who knew him for more than a decade, remembered him as very outgoing and full of life.

He never had a bad word, Mr Heasley said.
By Dalia Alazzeh, University of the West of Scotland and Shahzad Uddin, University of Essex | 

(The Conversation)  Israels ultranationalist finance minister, Bezalel Smotrich, announced in May that he would be witholding tax revenues earmarked for Palestine. The decision was made in response to Spain, Ireland and Norways recognition of a Palestinian state.

He has also made deductions to these revenues, and has threatened to cut off Palestinian banks from their Israeli counterparts. This is a move that would halt all foreign financial transactions and the import of many essential goods into the Palestinian territories.

These developments come at a time when the Palestinian Authority, the government body that exercises partial control over the occupied West Bank, is already grappling with a severe financial crisis.

According to a report published in late May by the World Bank, the financial situation of the Palestinian Authority had dramatically worsened in the three preceding months, raising the prospect of an imminent fiscal collapse.

The Palestinian economy is already battling unemployment and poverty. Nearly half a million jobs have been lost in the West Bank and Gaza over the past nine months. And on July 10, a group of independent human rights experts mandated by the UN said that famine is spreading throughout the Gaza Strip. The financial collapse of the Palestinian Authority will only make matters worse.

Israel has a long-established financial hold over the Palestinian Authority. Under peace accords reached in the 1990s, Israels finance ministry collects tax on behalf of the Palestinians and makes monthly transfers to the Palestinian Authority. But Israel ceased making the transfers shortly after the start of the war, withholding funds that amount to between 60% and 70% of the total Palestinian public budget.

Its not just people in the West Bank that are being affected. The Palestinian Authority was ousted from the Gaza Strip by Hamas in 2007. But many public sector workers in the territory kept their jobs and continued to be paid with transferred tax revenues. Israel has withheld payments earmarked for those employees in the Gaza Strip too on the grounds that they could fall into the hands of Hamas.

DW News Video: Palestinian economy on verge of collapse, according to World Bank | DW News

Then, on May 10, and more recently in June, Smotrich announced that he would be deducting US$35 million and US$46 million respectively from Palestinian Authoritys tax revenue. The World Bank report claimed that the May deduction alone had raised the stakes and the risk for a potential systemic collapse.

The Palestinian Authority is now facing a rapidly widening gap between incoming revenue and the amount needed for essential public expenditures. This financing gap has reached US$682 million and, according to the World Bank report, is projected to double over the coming months to US$1.2 billion.

In May, the Palestinian Authority was only able to pay public sector workers between 50% and 70% of their salaries. And it is also unable to pay its dues to domestic banks, increasing its reliance on foreign assistance to pay its debts.

Financial blackmail

On June 28, hopes that the Palestinian Authority could stave off collapse were given a lift. Smotrich announced that he would finally sign off on the unfreezing of the past three months of tax revenue and extend a waiver that allows cooperation between Israeli and Palestinian banks.

But this would come in exchange for retroactively approving five outposts in the West Bank that had already been built. Outposts  or Israeli settlements  such as this are regarded as illegal under international law by the vast majority of the international community.

The governments new move has drawn criticism from Palestinians, as well as the US and the UK. On June 30, a spokesperson for the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office said: The UK strongly opposes the announcement that five outposts are to be legalised in the West Bank as well as further punitive measures against the Palestinian Authority.

But within the next few days, Israel also made public that it had approved the seizure of more than 12 sq km of Palestinian land in the occupied West Bank  its largest land grab since 1993. The move follows a series of similar land seizures across the past two years. In 2023, for example, Israel established a record 26 settlements in the West Bank, forcing 21 Palestinian communities from their homes.

Alongside greater financial control, which has brought the Palestinian Authority to its knees, these land grabs should be seen as part of Israels broader goal to control more of the West Bank and prevent the development of a Palestinian state.

This intention has been reflected clearly in comments made by Smotrich. Following the most recent land grab announcement, he was quoted saying: Thank God, we are building and developing the settlements and thwarting the danger of a Palestinian state.

The Palestinian economy may be set for a brief reprieve. But the financially embattled Palestinian Authority is by no means out of the woods. The World Bank urged swift action to prevent its financial collapse. What happens now is largely down to Israel.

Dalia Alazzeh, Lecturer in Accounting and Finance, University of the West of Scotland and Shahzad Uddin, Professor of Accounting, University of Essex

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
Ann Arbor (Informed Comment)  American politics has entered the most dangerous phase of its nearly 250-year existence, with the assassination attempt on Donald J. Trump on July 13 in Pennsylvania. As of this writing, the gunman and one audience member are being reported dead, and two other audience members are in critical condition.

One is grateful that Trump appears to have suffered only minor injuries and that his doctors say he is well. Political violence is always fatal to democracy, which is a big political argument. As soon as people get out their guns, it isnt a democracy anymore, it is a war.

The political violence could not have come at a worse time. Although the Right is blaming the political left for the violence, saying that its meme that Trump has dictatorial tendencies is responsible, the fact is that he did try to overthrow the results of the 2020 election, and some of his acolytes, at least, brought guns and ammunition to Washington, D.C, for the purpose, including the Proud Boys. It seems clear that the lives of Mike Pence, Nancy Pelosi and others in the Capitol had been in danger that day, had security not whisked them to safety.

The mob called into being by Donald J. Trump chanted Hang Mike Pence, which was a call for an assassination. Insiders have reported that Trump expressed support for the sentiment.

As it was, a deranged follower of Trump came looking for Pelosi at her house in San Francisco and tried to kill her husband Paul with a hammer when he found she wasnt there.

Trump appears to have thought that the attempt on Paul Pelosis life, which left him with a fractured cranium, was hilarious. In 2023 he told a rally, Well stand up to crazy Nancy Pelosi, who ruined San Francisco. Hows her husband doing, by the way, anybody know? He added that the wall around her house didnt do a very good job, apparently a bizarre reference to her opposition to building a wall at the Mexico border.

The Trump crowd broke into uproarious laughter.

The Hill reported, Donald Trump Jr. posted several photos and comments on Twitter and Instagram making light of the violent home invasion attack last week against Paul Pelosi, the husband of Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.).

When President Biden awarded Nancy Pelosi the Presidential medal of freedom, anchor Rachel Campos-Duffy on the notoriously pro-Trump Fox Cable News, quipped that Pelosi needs the hammer instead of the medal.

This cavalier attitude toward political violence must not be emulated by Democrats. It should be remembered that the bloody May Day demonstrations by the Left in Weimar Germany in 1929 radically hurt their image with the German middle classes and paved the way for the rise of Hitler.

This is a time for extreme political maturity by members of both major parties. The Republic depends on it. Trump and his partisans will inevitably attempt to use the incident to drive further polarization and grievance-based politics. They should be denied ammunition for any such efforts.

Informed Comment wishes Mr. Trump a speedy recovery.
An Auburn man has filed a lawsuit against Cayuga County, accusing it of not hiring him for a planner position because he is Black.

The lawsuit, filed by David Scott on June 24 in U.S. District Court, Northern District of New York, alleges that the county violated the Civil Rights Act. He seeks more than $900,000 in damages.

According to Scott's complaint, he unsuccessfully applied for a position in the county planning department in August 2018. The position went to "a less qualified White woman who was not a resident of the county" and didn't take a civil service exam, he said. After she left the following year, Scott continued, an eligibility list wasn't created and another white candidate who didn't take the exam was hired.

The county would post planner positions two more times through 2021, Scott said. In August 2022, he applied for one a second time. He was again unsuccessful despite taking a civil service exam that October and scoring a 90, he continued, placing him second on the eligibility list. Instead, the county made permanent the provisional appointments of two white planners who didn't take the exam.

Scott filed a complaint under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act, which prohibits racial discrimination by employers, in July 2023. He declined comment on his lawsuit to The Citizen, and referred to a news release he issued in November. In it, the U.S. Army veteran alleges that the county's planning department and Civil Service Commission engaged in "a pattern and practice of employment discrimination."

"As a twice-decorated, second-generation combat veteran, I expected Cayuga County to welcome me to full employment as a planner when I first arrived here in 2018," he said in the news release. "Cayuga County proclaims that it hires veterans, but the reality is that Cayuga County only hires veterans who meet the countys unstated skin color requirements."

Scott seeks damages in excess of $100,000 for lost wages and earning capacity, damages in excess of $500,000 for non-economic damages like emotional distress, mental anguish and post-traumatic stress, and damages in excess of $300,000 for the county allegedly not offering civil service exams for four years and two months.

The county's attorney, Fred Westphal, did not respond to requests for comment on the lawsuit.






Sunday, July 14, 2024 - The involuntary manslaughter case against actor Alec Baldwin was dismissed in dramatic fashion on Friday, July 12 after the judge ruled that prosecutors did not properly turn over evidence to the defense.

The nearly three-year legal saga for Alec Baldwin in the fatal shooting of a cinematographer ended without a verdict but with tears of relief for the actor and a small coterie of family who had settled into a somber daily routine on wooden benches inside a windowless New Mexico courtroom at trial.

Baldwins attorneys had filed a motion to dismiss the case, arguing state investigators did not properly share with the defense that a man delivered a box of ammunition purportedly connected to the case to investigators.

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer sent the jury home for the day and heard several hours of testimony about the alleged issue. At about 4 p.m. local time, she sided with the defense and dismissed the case with prejudice, meaning it cannot be brought again.



Have a great weekend, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer said.

The states discovery violation has injected a needless, incurable delay into the jury trial, she said. Dismissal with prejudice is warranted to ensure the integrity of the judicial system and the efficient administration of justice. Your motion to dismiss with prejudice is granted.

Baldwin cried as the decision was announced, and he immediately hugged his wife Hilaria.

The decision came after a chaotic hearing Friday just a few days into Baldwins involuntary manslaughter trial related to the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on October 21, 2021, on the New Mexico set of the film Rust. Baldwin had pleaded not guilty and could have faced up to 18 months in prison.

Baldwin was practicing a cross draw pulling a gun from a holster on the opposite side of his body from his draw hand with a prop gun when it fired a live round, killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.





During opening statements on Wednesday, prosecutors alleged Baldwin violated the cardinal rules of firearm safety by pointing the prop gun at Hutchins and pulling the trigger.

However, Baldwin's defense blamed the films armorer and the first assistant director jointly in charge of firearm safety on set for allowing a real bullet to be loaded into the prop gun and failing to make it safe before it reached Baldwin.

This was an unspeakable tragedy, but Alec Baldwin committed no crime. He was an actor, acting, playing the role of Harlan Rust, attorney Alex Spiro said. These cardinal rules are not cardinal rules on a movie set.

This is the third criminal case related to the on-set shooting. In March, Hannah Gutierrez Reed, the armorer for Rust, was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 18 months in prison.

Dave Halls, the assistant director, agreed to plead no contest to negligent use of a deadly weapon, the district attorney for New Mexicos First Judicial District said. The terms of the deal included six months of probation and a suspended sentence, prosecutors said.

Watch the video below




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Students from Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology (RVIST) reportedly stormed three shops belonging to a businessman at Kabasis Center in Nakuru.

This follows allegations that the businessman was seen at a club last night with a female student whose body was discovered Sunday morning.



The students are demanding immediate answers regarding the circumstances surrounding the woman's death.



Eyewitnesses report that the shops have been emptied as students retrieve items of value.

Transport was also paralyzed after the students blocked the road in protest.

Watch the video.

RVIST Students Storm Shops Demanding Answers After Woman Found Dead



Students from Rift Valley Institute of Science and Technology (RVIST) have reportedly stormed three shops belonging to a businessman at Kabasis Center in Nakuru.



This follows allegations that the businessman pic.twitter.com/iPPw31Y04k  Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 14, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.
Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has thanked President William Ruto for firing all cabinet secretaries.

Speaking in Elgeyo Marakwet County where he had accompanied the president for tree planting day on Saturday, Gachagua said Ruto did the right thing by sacking the CSs who he said had become arrogant and corrupt.

"The President, you are a hero and to all of us who have messed you up in your administration, kindly forgive us."

He recognized Ruto's move to make bold decisions in the interest of Kenyans.

The second in command further expressed confidence that the government now has an opportunity to appoint a competent team that will enhance efficient service delivery to the people of Kenya.

"We are ready to assist you in coming up with a good team to help you in the economic transformation of the country."

Gachagua also called on fellow leaders to remain attentive to the concerns of Kenyans and to avoid displays of opulence or arrogance while in leadership roles.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has apologized to President William Ruto on behalf of other government officials.

Speaking in Elgeyo Marakwet, Gachagua expressed regret on behalf of officials close to the President, acknowledging that some had failed him.

Gachagua praised Ruto for his decisions, including shelving the Finance Bill 2024, dismissing all Cabinet Secretaries, and personally engaging with Kenyan youth through the X space.

"The President you are a hero and to all of us who have messed you up in your administration, kindly forgive us," Gachagua stated.

The DP expressed confidence that the government now has an opportunity to appoint a competent team that will enhance efficient service delivery to the people of Kenya.

He urged Ruto to carefully consider his choices and take the necessary time to assemble a capable cabinet.

Furthermore, he assured the President of his commitment to sourcing competent and patriotic individuals who can effectively manage the various government departments and support the administration.

"We are ready to assist you in coming up with a good team to help you in the economic transformation of the country."

He called on fellow leaders to remain attentive to the concerns of Kenyans and to avoid displays of opulence or arrogance while in leadership roles.

According to the DP, the President had responded to the wishes of the Kenyan people.

He reaffirmed their dedication to ensuring the President succeeds in fulfilling his campaign pledges.

Ruto recently reshuffled his government by dismissing the entire cabinet, except Gachagua and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

The Kenyan DAILY POST






Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Mark Zuckerberg's Meta has lifted restrictions on Donald Trump's Facebook and Instagram accounts, days after Trump criticized Zuckerberg online.

On Friday, July 12, Meta announced the removal of all limits on Trump's official Facebook and Instagram pages as he approaches the GOP nomination at the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

"In assessing our responsibility to allow political expression, we believe that the American people should be able to hear from the nominees for President on the same basis," Meta stated.

Trump was banned from Facebook and Instagram in 2021 following the Capitol insurrection, and from Twitter as well. Meta reinstated his accounts last year but said they would monitor for potential violations that could lead to further suspension.

Now, the restrictions are fully removed, just days after Trump lashed out at Zuckerberg on Truth Social, a platform Trump created after his mainstream social media ban. Trump posted, "All I can say is that if I'm elected President, we will pursue Election Fraudsters at levels never seen before, and they will be sent to prison for long periods of time. We already know who you are. DON'T DO IT! ZUCKERBUCKS, be careful!"





It's unclear if Trump's post influenced Meta's decision, but Meta has stated that both Trump and President Biden will be held to the same standards as other users, including policies to prevent hate speech and incitement to violence.

It remains to be seen if Trump will become more active on Facebook and Instagram or continue to focus on Truth Social.




Sunday, July 14,2024 - Controversial lawyer and barrister, Miguna Miguna, has accused President William Ruto of ordering the Killing of 400 young people in Githurai on June 25 and ordering the military to cremate their bodies to hide the evidence.

In a post on X on Saturday, Miguna said after Kenyans stormed Parliament on June 25, 2024, Ruto ordered military officers from Kahawa Barracks to kill the youths from Githurai who participated in the storming of Kenyan parliament and chased away their MPs who were supporting the Finance Bill 2024.

Miguna said after killing 400 youths, Ruto ordered them to be cremated at Kahawa Barracks along Thika Superhighway.

This is a screenshot of what Miguna Miguna wrote on his X page.





The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Azimio Leader Raila Odinga has recalled how Wiper Leader Kalonzo Musyoka tricked him into meeting President William Ruto during the signing of the IEBC Bill at the KICC despite turning down State House invitation.

Speaking at a burial in Kakamega, Raila disclosed the decision to meet the Head of State at KICC was reached after a meeting with other Azimio leaders.

According to the former Prime Minister, he turned down several requests to meet Ruto at the State House and demanded the meeting be held at a neutral venue.

Raila disclosed he accepted the invitation to meet Ruto at the KICC and ordered Kalonzo and Ugunja lawmaker Opiyo Wandayi to attend the meeting on his behalf.

However, he revealed that he was forced to attend the meeting at KICC after Kalonzo declined to represent him.

According to Odinga, Kalonzo demanded he must attend the meeting since he was the coalition leader, forcing the Azimio chief to concede to the demand and meet Ruto.

"I demanded the bill be signed elsewhere but not at the State House. They suggested it be signed at the Office of the President but I similarly rejected the idea and finally, they suggested KICC and I concurred," Raila disclosed.

"So, I called Kalonzo on the phone and directed him and Wandayi to go represent me but Kalonzo told me that I must come with him. So, I met Kalonzo and the other leaders before we went to the KICC," he narrated.

At the same time, Raila dismissed allegations of a 'handshake' with Ruto, stating the call for a dialogue was not for his benefit but rather for the benefit of the people of Kenya.

"We did not go there to have a dialogue with Ruto and the UDA party leadership.

"Even Ruto himself declined a dialogue. So, all these things were put out of context," Raila said.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Sunday, July 14, 2024  President William Ruto has assured the Gen Zs that he will not disappoint them again while appointing a new Cabinet.

This was revealed by Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi who revealed Ruto's commitment to assembling a new Cabinet of exceptional competence and integrity.

This announcement follows the dramatic dismissal of all Cabinet Secretaries, signaling a robust reformation strategy aimed at restoring public trust and reshaping governance.

During a critical diplomatic engagement, Mudavadi outlined the President's vision for a government that is inclusive and representative of Kenya's diverse populace.

According to Mudavadi, a seismic shift is underway when Ruto appoints his new Cabinet.

He emphasised that the forthcoming nominees will not only reflect high standards of competence but will also embody integrityessential qualities in the face of rising public expectations and pressing national challenges.

The President is steadfast in his resolve to deepen public participation, fostering a governance structure that champions equity across various social strata, Mudavadi stated.

By advocating for a broad-based government, the President aims to expedite the implementation of transformative initiatives essential for expanding job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.

Mudavadi highlighted that the reform process is intrinsically linked to national unity, peace, and prosperity, aligning closely with the administration's Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda. This approach is set to reflect the aspirations of ordinary Kenyans, ensuring that their voices are heard and considered in the governance process.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary assured international partners that, despite the Cabinet overhaul, government operations would remain uninterrupted.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua has broken his silence after Ruto fired his entire Cabinet due to corruption and incompetence and spared him and Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi.

Speaking during the commissioning of Kipsoen Technical and Vocational College in Elgeyo Marakwet, Gachagua commended Ruto for his bold move to dismiss the ministers.

He called on Ruto to appoint a fresh team of competent Cabinet Secretaries.

Gachagua urged the Head of State to consider appointing apolitical, uncorrupt, and humble cabinet secretaries who will help him serve the people of Kenya.

According to the DP, Kenyans demanded a cabinet that served with efficiency, and harmony and one that puts the people's demands ahead of personal interest.

We fully support you for the bold decision to dismiss your cabinet secretaries so that you can appoint new ones to help you in your role," Gachagua commented.

"Appoint CSs who have no pride, those who don't engage in politics and those who are not corrupt. That will help you to deliver to the people, the Deputy President added.

The Deputy President exuded confidence in the president, stating it was the time for Ruto to exercise his powers and choose the right leaders for the betterment of the nation.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has disclosed that it is currently assessing the developments in Kenya to make adjustments.

This comes after President William Ruto dismissed his entire Cabinet with the exception of the Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi and Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

In a press statement yesterday, IMF Spokesperson Julie Kozack disclosed that the global lender was working with the Kenyan authorities to achieve this and was confident that they would find a balance.

"At every program of review, we do take the opportunity to assess developments and make adjustments considering the evolving circumstances. And that's exactly what we're doing in our active and constructive discussion with the Kenyan authorities," Kozack remarked.

She further maintained that the IMF was committed to supporting Kenya in its efforts to achieve inclusive growth.

At the same time, Kozack noted that the goal of the IMF-supported program in Kenya was to help establish sound macroeconomic fundamentals crucial for fostering inclusive and sustainable growth.

"We are currently working with the authorities to ensure that these objectives can be met, and we recognise that there is a careful balance between providing public services and securing adequate financing.

"Our program also included initiatives to improve governance and transparency and to ensure responsible use of public funds to safeguard social programs and social spending, particularly to protect the most vulnerable members of the society," Kozack remarked.

She expressed the IMF's sympathies to Kenyans who were affected by the anti-government protests witnessed a few weeks ago.

The Kenyan DAILY POST




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - A student from Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT) was filmed smoking bhang in the presence of a police officer when the students blocked a section of Thika Road to protest over the abduction and murder of a third-year student Denzel Omondi by suspected rogue state agents.

The anti-riot police officer watched in dismay as the student broke the law by smoking bhang in his presence.

The daring student even had the audacity to pass the blunt to the police officer.

Watch the video.

Mzee pale kwa ikulu hajui ana fight watu wana offer karao blunt.

He will not believe. pic.twitter.com/fkAIlNM2o8  Eve Maina (@evenmaina) July 13, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.




Sunday, July 14, 2024 - Plain-clothed police officers were filmed abducting a middle-aged man in Nairobis Matopeni area, Embakasi, in the presence of his two kids.

According to sources, the cops trailed the victim after dispersing a crowd that had gathered at the Kware dumpsite in Embakasi where several bodies were found dumped.

The victim was among the crowd that had gathered at the Kware dumpsite earlier in the day as the bodies were being retrieved.

The cops stormed his rented house and tried to abduct him, prompting his neighbours to intervene.

In the video, the victims neighbours are seen confronting the police officers and demanding to know why they were arresting him.

The suspected rogue cops had no uniform or identification cards.

A tussle ensued between the victim and the cops as neighbours watched in dismay.





Watch the video.

Hi Nyakundi. This guy was followed at night by people believed to be police officers after they were chased from the Kware dumpsite. They had no identification cards or uniforms. They did not reveal the probable cause for making the arrest. Please Help us circulate and confirm pic.twitter.com/gGHTXW189t  Cyprian, Is Nyakundi (@C_NyaKundiH) July 14, 2024

The Kenyan DAILY POST.
The Environmental Protection Agencys Provisional Greenhouse Gas Emissions report for 2023 has revealed a national reduction in emissions of 6.8% (-4.0 Mt CO2eq) year on year. Emissions from Agriculture decreased by 4.6% (-1.0 Mt CO2eq) in 2023.



This is primarily driven by reduced fertiliser nitrogen use and reduced liming.

Minister for Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Charlie McConalogue, T.D, said the results are positive.

They show that agriculture is on the right path, especially following on from reductions in 2022. It is very encouraging to see the work that farmers are putting in on the ground reflected in the results.

Its important that we maintain this positive trajectory and continue in our efforts to achieve the commitment of a 25% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions for agriculture by 2030.

Agriculture has laid a solid foundation to deliver a downwards emission trajectory over the coming years.

Policies and strategies are bearing fruit with emissions from Agriculture trending downwards. These include measures such as genotyping of 740,000 calves, promoting the use of renewable energy on farms, reducing the use of fertilisers and pesticides, improving soil health and promoting biodiversity.

The use of chemical nitrogen in 2023 reduced by 18%.

The efforts of farmers were also praised by Minister Pippa Hackett. We need to sustain this reduction, and we need to continue rolling out schemes that we know are successful and that we know will reduce the need for chemical nitrogen.

The organic farming scheme, the protein aid scheme, and the multi species sward and red clover silage measures have all played a critical role here, so we should keep expanding them.

The area of land farmed organically has trebled to 225,500ha (5% of land area) in 3 years, meaning that we are halfway to achieving our 2030 target of 10% of Irish agricultural land being farmed organically  I am excited to keep that good work going.

This year has seen the finalisation of the National Agricultural Soil Carbon Observatory, supplying the scientific infrastructure to measure GHG fluxes from soils under agricultural management.

This project is placing Ireland at the forefront of EU carbon sequestration research.
A man has sustained serious injuries after a petrol bomb incident in Dublin on Saturday which has left a family without a home.

Gardai said they were investigating an incident of criminal damage by fire at a house in Drimnagh, Dublin 12 in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Gardai said the man was rushed to hospital with "serious injuries" following the incident, which occurred between 3am and 3.45am, and said his condition has been described as stable.

READ ALSO - Zelenskyy thanks Irish for 'hosting a lot of Ukrainian refugees' during visit with Taoiseach

Local councillor Daithi Doolan described the incident as "unacceptable", adding that a family had been left homeless.

Cllr Daithi Doolan of Sinn Fein, who is himself a local resident, said the family had fled in fear after the "frightening" attack on their home overnight.

"This attack is unacceptable and should never have taken place," Cllr Doolan said.

"The family had to flee in the middle of the night and find shelter elsewhere. It was a terrible incident and has left local people in fear."

Cllr Doolan pointed out the attack was just the latest in a number of "very violent" incidents in the area in recent months.

"Weve had a fatal shooting, weve had a gun attack and now a firebomb attack that has effectively left a family homeless.

"This latest attack is an attack on the whole community in Drimnagh," he added. "And those behind it, those who organised and carried it out need to face the full rigours of the law."

Any person who was in the vicinity of Dromard Road in Drimnagh in the early hours of Saturday morning between 3am and 3.45am and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sundrive Road Garda Station 01 666 6600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Gardai added that investigations are ongoing.

READ NEXT - WATCH: Shocking footage emerges of female Bus Eireann bus driver shot in face by an air gun
Eileen Lanigan retired from Kilkenny Fire & Rescue Service administration section on June 29 after over 41 years of service.

Eileen began her career in April 1983 as a telephone operator in Kilkenny City Fire Station. Capt. Hugh Corrigan was the Chief Fire Officer at this time. She was responsible for answering all emergency calls for the whole of County Kilkenny and beyond. Emergency calls comprised of property fires, road traffic incidents, oil spillages and other special services. She would then have to alert the appropriate fire brigade, whether it be Kilkenny City, Castlecomer, Freshford, Urlingford, Thomastown, Callan or Graiguenamanagh, record all data and carry out radio control until the incident was finished. Workload increased dramatically over the years and in 2006 the Kilkenny Control Centre was taken over by Eastern Regional Control Centre in Dublin. Eileen was then responsible for the payroll of all approximately 70 firefighters in County Kilkenny which she carried out with dignity, confidentiality and expertise. She also carried out a lot of other general office duties over the years. She served under three chief fire officers in her time, namely Capt. Hugh Corrigan, Ciaran Cormican and John Collins, the current chief fire officer.

Although retired from the fire service Eileen will not be sitting still. She has started up her own business, Lanigan Training & Office Services, helping out businesses and people with office and secretarial duties.

Eileen was wished well in her retirement by all in the fire service and beyond.
Read the full story on Backfire News

Death Valley Truck Crash Leads To Bee Attack

Theres something about animals and horrific car crashes in Death Valley. Just last month, a couple driving through the National Park caused a motorcyclist to slam into the back of their camper van after taking evasive action to avoid hitting a tarantula in the road. This month a truck crashed and the driver plus those rescuing him were stung by bees. Remind us to just stay out of that part of California altogether.

Florida man injured after running from cops on his motorcycle.

The bees were being transported in hives on the back of a semi trailer back on the morning of November 5. However, the truck driver lost control as the big rig was descending down a steep section of the highway, says the National Park Service in an official release. Thats what we like to refer to as a code brown moment.

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Sadly, the truck rolled over in the process, injuring the driver and causing a bee explosion as the hives were thrown around and damaged. Obviously, the bees had no idea what happened but were defensive, so they started stinging the driver and Good Samaritans who helped get the badly injured driver out of the cab.

This unlocks all kinds of new fears in us. We knew beehives have to be transported but never gave it a thought about a load of them being on a semi-truck, let alone what would happen if the truck were to crash violently like in this case.

According to the National Park Service, the 35-year-old male driver of the semi-truck suffered traumatic injuries in the rollover and from the many bee stings. He was transported to a nearby hospital then airlifted to another facility. Theres no word on his recovery, but it sounds like the poor guy has a long road ahead of him.

Image via National Park Service
NEW YORKDr. Ruth Westheimer, known popularly as Dr. Ruth, passed away Friday at the age of 96 years old in her home in New York City, her publicist told the Associated Press.

A sexual health and wellness expert and survivor of the Holocaust during the Second World War, Westheimer proved that frankness and honesty about sex were the way.

"She was restful when she passed away. Her son and daughter were with her and holding her hand at that moment," said Pierre Lehu, Dr. Ruth's publicist and a co-author, via a statement sent to the news media. "It was as peacefully as she could possibly go."

Westheimer held various roles advocating for sexual well-being and evidence-based sexual education. She was a sex therapist, talk show host, author and academic covering these topics. What set Dr. Ruth apart was her candor, which contributed to her popular culture profile during the 1980s. Her radio call-in talk show, "Sexually Speaking," was at one point the highest-rated talk show in some of the country's largest radio markets, like in New York City. Dr. Ruth then launched her eponymous television show, The Dr. Ruth Show, which attracted millions of viewers each week at its peak.

Dr. Ruth also authored a national advice column and appeared in groundbreaking Playboy-produced videos on the virtues of open discourse on sexuality. During this period, she was also squarely in support of the LGBTQ+ community, having spoken in favor of equal rights and protecting the health and rights of gay men during the AIDS epidemic.

She was also a champion for equality as a response to far-right groups who have called some groups of people to be "subhuman," citing her own past as a survivor of Nazi Germany's genocidal crimes against innocent Jews. Born in 1928 to an Orthodox Jewish family in Frankfurt, she was sent away by her parents when she was just 10 to nearby neutral Switzerland to escape Kristallnacht, which was a precursor to the Shoahthe Hebrew word for "catasrophe" that has been used to describe the loss of millions of lives. Her parents were killed.

"I was left with a feeling that because I was not killed by the Nazisbecause I survivedI had an obligation to make a dent in the world," she told The Guardian in November 2012. "What I didn't know was that that dent would end up being me talking about sex from morning to night."

In 1995, she told the New York Times, "I come from Nazi Germany ... and the one thing I've learned is that you must stand up for what you believe."

Dr. Ruth is the author of Dr. Ruth's Guide to Good Sex (1983), Human Sexuality: A Psychosocial Perspective (1991), The Art of Arousal (1993), and many more.
South Korea warned on Sunday that North Korea will face the end of its regime if it attempts to use nuclear weapons.

"We sternly warn that there is no scenario in which North Korea's regime will survive after using nuclear weapons," Seoul's defense ministry said in a statement.

It was released in response to a statement by the North Korean defense ministry from the previous day. After South Korea and the United States adopted "Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula" in Washington on Thursday, North Korea condemned it as a "reckless provocative act."

North Korea also threatened that Seoul and Washington will pay "an unimaginably harsh price."

Commending the signing of the guidelines, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden warned any North Korean nuclear attack against South Korea will be met with a "swift, overwhelming and decisive" response.

The allies' guidelines are expected to expand the assignment of U.S. strategic assets on the Korean Peninsula by increasing the frequency and level of their deployment during both wartime and peacetime.

The South's defense ministry said it was "self-contradictory" on North Korea's part to condemn Seoul and Washington for formulating joint nuclear deterrence guidelines, when it is Pyongyang that threatens the use of nuclear weapons.

"Without North Korean nuclear threats in the first place, those joint guidelines would not have been necessary," the ministry added. "This is a fair step taken by the South Korea-U.S. alliance in the face of the improving North Korean nuclear capabilities and its blatant nuclear threats."

The ministry also blamed the rising tension on the Korean Peninsula on the North Korean regime and noted, "Despite opposition from the international community and sufferings of North Korean people, the regime has continued on with its illegal nuclear missile development."

The ministry issued a similar warning in April after North Korea said it had conducted rocket drills simulating a nuclear counterattack. (Yonhap)
By Kwon Mee-yoo

Fostering artistic exchange between Korea and Lithuania, the Sunblanket Foundation hosted the exhibition "Phenomenon" at its gallery Art Corner H.

The exhibit, featuring artworks by Lithuanian artist Aurelija Bulaukaite and Korean artist Choi Ki-chang, explores the complexities of contemporary social phenomena through the two countries' narratives influenced by tumultuous histories under Soviet and Japanese influences, respectively.

Bulaukaite utilizes a combination of performance, installation and digital media to address ontological inconsistencies within virtual communication, culminating her explorations on canvas. Her works question the authenticity of digital interactions and their impact on personal identity, portraying the evolving digital landscape with a touch of improvisational flair.

On the other hand, Choi presents an introspective approach with his corrosion-based artworks on steel plates reminiscent of windows. His technique, involving the layering of spray paint to create narrative structures, reflects a meticulous study of materiality and the unpredictable nature of time and artistry.

Choi Tae-ho, the foundation's art director who organized the show, said the two artists' works share an artistic language based on the historical experiences of Korea and Lithuania.

"In line with the curator's research theme, I will continue to strive for artistic exchanges between the Korean art world and various countries, focusing on the Baltic states," Choi said.

This exhibition is supported by the Embassy of Lithuania in Korea and the Noewe Foundation in Vilnius, Lithuania.
North Korean leader Kim Jong-un reprimanded senior officials overseeing a major development project in the northern city of Samjiyon during his recent visit, blaming their "irresponsibility" for causing financial losses, Pyongyang's state media reported Sunday.

Kim traveled to the city of Samjiyon, near Mount Paekdu, on Thursday and Friday, along with senior Workers' Party officials, according to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA).

Samjiyon is known to be the birthplace of Kim Jong-il, Kim Jong-un's late father and former North Korean leader. The younger Kim has been seeking to turn Samjiyon into a tourist destination featuring new roads, a railway and hotels.

According to the KCNA, Kim praised construction workers for their efforts but came down hard on administrative officials overseeing the development project.

"He strongly pointed out the irresponsibility of senior officials revealed in the course of construction and a series of serious deviations caused by it and gave instructions to execute necessary measures," the KCNA's English-language report said. "Going round the newly-built hotels for domestic tourists, he severely pointed out that their construction was carried out at an outdated and backward level contrary to the requirement of the developing times. Noting that those new buildings have to be remodeled and, consequently, this problem badly affects the general long-term plan for the city development, bringing economic losses, he criticized the construction inspection organ for its irresponsible neglect of duty of passing innumerable and serious shortcomings through the completion inspection and handing over to the operation unit."

Kim also said officials in charge of construction inspection "do not pay attention the demands, instructions and warnings" from the Workers' Party and added those officials should be suspended and handed over to law enforcement authorities for investigation, per the KCNA report.

The KCNA added that Kim expressed hope that the Samjiyon area will become "an oasis of our people and the world people and make tourism a major driving force of regional development." (Yonhap)
The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong-un said Sunday that South Korea should be ready to pay "a very high price" for sending anti-Pyongyang leaflets north of the border, calling such an act "dirty play."

Kim Yo-jong, vice department director at the ruling Workers' Party, said she was informed earlier in the day by party and military officials that "dirty leaflets and things" had been discovered in 17 places in the border region and other areas of her country. Kim said those leaflets were burned, according to the regulation on handling "enemy-dropped objects."

"Despite the repeated warnings of the DPRK, the ROK scum are not stopping this crude and dirty play," Kim said in an English-language statement carried by the North's official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA). DPRK is short for the North's official name, Democratic People's Republic of Korea. ROK refers to the South's official name, Republic of Korea.

"As already warned, the scum, who are resorting to do this play, will be more strongly criticized by their people. We have fully introduced our countermeasure in such situation," Kim continued. "The ROK clans will be tired from suffering a bitter embarrassment, and must be ready for paying a very high price for their dirty play."

So far this year, North Korea has responded to leaflets from South Korea by sending balloons filled with trash across the border. South Korea then pushed back by blaring anti-Pyongyang broadcasts through its border loudspeakers.

In an unprecedented move, the KCNA released a photo showing leaflets flown in from South Korea being burned, along with a pack of cold medicine. (Yonhap)
By Jung Min-ho

The number of illicit fentanyl trafficking cases in Korea has increased sharply this year, a report showed on Sunday.

According to a report from the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety shared by Rep. Kim Yoon of the liberal opposition Democratic Party of Korea, there were 202 cases of online fentanyl sales recorded from Jan. 1 through June 21.

This shows a more than three-fold increase from 62 cases detected during all of 2023.

Fentanyl, known by its street name tranq, among many others, and referred to in media reports as a zombie drug, is a powerful synthetic opioid that is up to 50 times stronger than heroin and 100 times stronger than morphine, accordding to the United States Drug Enforcement Administration.

Fentanyl can be prescribed to patients suffering acute or chronic pains. But in recent years, an increasing number of people have been trying to obtain the highly addictive and potentially life threatening drug online.

When Ministry of Food and Drug Safety officials discover illicit fentanyl trading, they request that the Korea Communications Standards Commission (KCSC) ban public access to selling site. However, this process often takes months, and few perpetrators face penalties, as most of these operations are based overseas.

Of the cases detected this year, the KCSC, on average, took 86 days to decide to shut down access to such sites following the ministrys request, according to the lawmakers office.

Even if the drug ministry detects such illegal trading online, it takes such a long time for the KCSC to take action, the lawmaker said, calling for regulatory reforms to speed up the process.
President Yoon Suk Yeol said Sunday that South Korea will "spare no diplomatic effort" to prevent the forced repatriation of North Korean defectors overseas.

"We will never neglect North Korean people suffering in the North Korean regime," Yoon said during the commemoration of the inaugural North Korean Defectors' Day held at Cheong Wa Dae. "We will spare no diplomatic effort to ensure North Korean defectors in a foreign country aren't repatriated to the North against their will."

Addressing about 200 defectors and their family members, Yoon said their pursuit of freedom serves as a reminder of how freedom can change people's fate.

"I will do my best to ensure everyone who defects North Korea will be embraced by the Republic of Korea," Yoon said, referring to South Korea by its official name. "Resolving North Korean human rights issues is an important foundation for peace and unification of the Korean Peninsula, and accepting North Korean defectors is the first step toward that."

Yoon vowed to enhance support for North Korean defectors, so that they can find their footing south of the border.

As part of that effort, Yoon said resettlement funds provided to the defectors, stuck at the same level since 2005, will be substantially increased.

The president also said the central and regional governments and state-run institutions will hire more defectors. Companies that employ defectors will be offered tax credits, among other incentives, Yoon added.

The government will also support communities of North Korean defectors, so that those who arrived in South Korea early can help others coming in after them, Yoon said.

During a Cabinet meeting on Jan. 16, Yoon instructed the unification ministry to designate a day for North Korean defectors, stressing that those defectors are South Korean citizens under the Constitution.

The ministry then chose July 14 as the official day for the defectors because the law on protecting them and supporting their settlement in the South went into effect July 14, 1997. (Yonhap)
Hours after former U.S. President Donald Trump sustained a gunshot wound during a campaign rally, Korean political parties on Sunday were united in condemning the attack as an act of terrorism that threatens democracy.

Ho Jun-seok, spokesperson for the ruling People Power Party (PPP), wished Trump a speedy recovery, after the Republican presidential candidate had a bullet pierce the upper part of his right ear during a Saturday rally (U.S. time) in Pennsylvania.

"Political terrorism is a threat to democracy and cannot be tolerated for any reason," Ho said in a statement. "Political terrorism is a product of extremism and politics of hate. Politicians have the duty to unite society through understanding and harmony."

Ho said Korean people have also been affected by political terrorism, citing attacks on former presidential candidate and ex-Democratic Party of Korea (DPK) leader Lee Jae-myung and PPP lawmaker Bae Hyun-jin.

"The PPP strongly condemns political terrorism, and we will lead the efforts to eradicate the politics of extremism and hatred," Ho added.

DPK spokesperson Han Min-soo also sent best wishes Trump's way and echoed the PPP's sentiment that political terrorism must never be justified.

"The Democratic Party of Korea suffered an act of terrorism against former leader Lee Jae-myung, and we've been battling to fend off the ghosts of such terrible politics based on hatred," Han said. "We strongly condemn political terrorism that destroys democracy, and we will be on the front lines of the battle against the politics of hatred."

The Federal Bureau of Investigation has said it will treat the shooting as "an assassination attempt" against Trump. Lee, who was stabbed in the neck in January, also called it as such.

"I strongly condemn the assassination attempt against presidential candidate Trump. Violence and terrorism must not be tolerated under any circumstances," Lee wrote on his social media. "I demand a thorough and stern response to such a serious crime that shakes the foundation of democracy." (Yonhap)
President vows to improve support for North Korean defectors

By Anna J. Park

President Yoon Suk Yeol promised on the inaugural North Korean Defectors Day to protect North Korean escapees abroad from being forcibly repatriated.

Yoon also pledged to expand support for North Korean defectors here, including more financial aid for initial settlement, employment assistance and child care services.

Those pledges were made, Sunday, the first North Korean Defectors' Day, which was designated in January to encourage the successful settlement of North Korean defectors in the South. July 14 marks the anniversary of the enactment of the North Korean Defectors Protection and Settlement Support Act in 1997.

"North Korean residents are constitutionally recognized as citizens of the Republic of Korea, and safeguarding its citizens is a country's most fundamental duty," Yoon said during a ceremony marking the day at Cheong Wa Dae, Seoul.

"We will never return a single North Korean escapee who comes to South Korea. We will also make every diplomatic effort to prevent any forced repatriation of North Korean refugees overseas."

Yoons remarks are believed to refer to a 2019 case during the previous Moon Jae-in administration when two North Korean fishermen, who sought asylum in South Korea, were sent back to the North via Panmunjom. The administration had claimed that the fishermen decided to defect only after killing 16 coworkers and repatriated them to prevent a threat to the safety of South Koreans.

Additionally, the president stressed that the central and local governments will work in close partnership to establish a comprehensive safety net designed to ensure North Korean refugees stability in employment, health care, and welfare.

"The government will substantially increase the amount of settlement support for North Korean defectors, which has remained unchanged since 2005," Yoon said, highlighting that the government will facilitate their asset formation by supporting specialized banking accounts.

In addition, the president pledged to institutionalize comprehensive support for child care and education for defectors, with about 75 percent of them being women. He also vowed to offer assistance to children born to North Korean defectors, whether in North Korea, other countries, or South Korea.

He acknowledged the generally poor job opportunities for North Korean defectors and promised that the government will take proactive steps to create more employment opportunities by working together with local governments and public institutions. Additionally, Yoon announced incentives like tax deductions for companies that employ North Korean defectors to boost the number of quality jobs available in the private sector.

Currently, about 34,000 North Korean defectors reside in South Korea.
By Jon Dunbar

The curtains are set to close around a large neighborhood south of central Seoul's Itaewon, the first phase of the Hannam New Town redevelopment project.

Hannam Zone 3, the first of possibly four to commence, comprises parts of Bogwang-dong and Hannam-dong, separated by a narrow, tall ridge now filled with abandoned storefronts, some with their windows shattered. Unwanted furniture is piled along the alleyways, and scavengers prowl around during the day, loading whatever's salvageable into their trucks. The green 01 village bus still weaves through the area but without passengers on this part of its route. As night falls, the streetlights still switch on, but the windows of the area's many homes and shops remain dark. Everywhere, nature is creeping back in, but its lease is only temporary before full demolition begins.

About seven months of large-scale evictions wrapped up last month, and almost all the area's residents have moved on. The area was depopulated without violence, but the resulting derelict cityscape still feels more unsettling than calm, like a taped-off police crime scene, or a city evacuated after a disaster or the ruins of an ancient civilization wiped out by an invading force. After decades of delays, Seoul's most culturally and economically diverse neighborhood begins its inevitable transformation into its most affluent.

"It needs to happen. It should have happened decades ago. Is it kind of sad that it will inevitably become a copy/paste of other uber-rich areas in Korea? Kind of," said a Canadian national who wished to be identified only by the name Gordon. "It would be nice if it could be developed with a new character of its own, but what can you do? It is some of the most central, most valuable land in Seoul, if not the entire country. It can't remain as a dump that resembles 1960s Korea. Will it lead to 'improvements for people'? Sure, those who can afford it."

Gordon, who moved out of the area last October, described the view from his area, being able to see luxury apartments such as Hannam The Hills and Nine One Hannam on one side, and in the other direction was the new presidential office. Meanwhile, parts of his own neighborhood felt like the 1960s, and sections of the hillside were being used for urban farming. "It was kind of surreal to walk through the area," he said.

He and his Korean wife were among the earliest departers, as their lease was up for renewal with less than a year remaining before the place was to close down.

Gordon told The Korea Times he felt they were treated well enough when they moved out last October.

"It went relatively smoothly. We left in October, quite far ahead of the May deadline, so I think it made it easier for sure. As tenants, we received 1.8 million to cover our moving fee. If we lived there even longer we would have gotten an even larger payout, even if we didn't own the property," he said. "In order to receive the moving fee there were many steps to go through. My wife had to wait at the association office for four hours one afternoon to register. Then on the day we moved out there were things that needed to be done to get the 1.8 million won. Cut the gas line, inspect for trash and leftover furniture and disconnect the electricity for good. I guess all to ensure that no one else was able to move in after us."

He lived in a building that had originally been constructed in 2006, much newer than others in the area. According to him, his unit was originally worth 300 million won, but it was worth well over $1 million when they finally moved out. He expects his landlord got a payout considerably larger than that.

"Anyone who owned property anywhere in the area made off like a bandit!" he said. "I was in a realtor's office a few years ago. I overheard them talking on the phone. A 6 pyeong (20 square meters) area of land near my house was sold for 900 million won. Insanity!"

He said that from the time they moved into the area in 2016, there was already talk that they would only have a couple years before having to move again. But they still stayed in the area for years longer than expected due to delays. Once the eviction period was announced, they moved out rather than stay for less than another full year. He is glad to have moved out so early, before the process became too chaotic.

"The longer people waited, I heard, prices were being raised and appointments for moving companies were becoming impossible to arrange," he said.

As more people left Bogwang-dong, they looked for housing in other affordable neighborhoods nearby, such as Itaewon and Haebangchon. This put added pressure on the local housing market, especially catering to foreign residents.

"Everywhere else in Yongsan is way more expensive," Gordon said. "I assume a ton of the residents in the area now live significantly further away."

The diverse communities that developed in the area have consequently been largely dispersed. In its heyday, the whole region had enjoyed prosperity due to its location next to U.S. Army Garrison Yongsan. In its shadow, diverse communities thrived  including originally Korean migrants from all across the peninsula, Koreans who earned a living supporting the U.S. military community, foreign residents from around the world and sexual minorities.

"The population was a mix of young, kind of hipster-ish Koreans, super old Koreans who had lived there for like 100 years, a large foreign population of mostly Middle Eastern and Africans and some Europeans and North Americans," Gordon said.

But with the base now mostly vacated, the American military's spending power has also moved on, and the area isn't the geographically and socially isolated enclave it used to be. Just as nature abhors a vacuum, so do development companies.

There have been various delays as well as changes to the Hannam New Town project. It was announced last year that the Zone 3 redevelopment would close over 8,000 households and build enough new housing for only 6,000. While the new housing is all likely to be prohibitively expensive, redesigns were introduced in order to offer apartments as small as 20 pyeong (66 square meters), to ensure some form of economic diversity.

Fragile diversity

While the Hannam Zone 3 area will be fenced off and destroyed over the coming years, the surrounding areas will be relatively spared  but that doesn't mean they're immune to change.

They are also likely to suffer a drop in foot traffic of nearby local residents on their way to and from home for the next few years, as the area moves from a central location to the outer edge. The nearby construction may add extra disruptions, due to sound pollution and an increase in heavy vehicles using the surrounding streets.

When the new residents of Hannam New Town move in, the surrounding urban fabric will have to cope with their needs. There may even be conflicts if the new residents opt for a not-in-my-backyard mindset toward the existing establishments, which also include gay bars, transgender bars and an HIV testing clinic.

The LGBTQ community has been fading from the area in recent years, opting for newer, trendier areas.

"Due to the redevelopment, I'm seeing a lot of Bogwang-dong/Hannam-dong residents leaving the area and therefore the businesses in the area getting affected  shutting down, not doing well in general," said Heezy Yang, a well-known member of Itaewon's LGBTQ community.

He has seen major changes to the local LGBTQ community, which has centered on an alleyway colorfully named "Homo Hill," as the area pivots from serving a local residential community to welcoming outside visitors. He has seen at least one gay bar there close down after being open for over a decade.

"As a queer person, Homo Hill and its gay bars played a huge role when I was figuring out who I was and how to live in my 20s. That's where I met a lot of the community members that are still dear to me and close to me as well. The COVID-19 pandemic, the Halloween disaster and general gentrification have already been huge hits to the gay (and) queer businesses and community. The redevelopment would be another and probably a bigger hit to the community."

Yang lives in the neighborhood, but his area has not received clear eviction orders yet. He said he is living in uncertainty of when he will eventually have to move out.

The familiar areas in the tourist district around Itaewon have escaped redevelopment, as has the Seoul Central Mosque, which should shield the smaller buildings around it from large-scale redevelopment. The restaurants on Halal Hill are holding on, preparing for a long wait until Hannam's transformation is complete.
The chief of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command has said the introduction of nuclear-powered submarines (SSNs) in South Korea could be considered in the future depending on its operational analysis, the presidential office said Sunday.

"From the standpoint of submarine warfare, I think it's important as allies and partners to find the most efficient and effective ways to combine our capabilities in ways that most effectively defend our alliances and partnerships," Commander Adm. Samuel Paparo said during an interview with the Korean press Thursday on the runway of the Hickam Air Force Base in Hawaii.

"And if the operational analysis leads us to believe that, then we can move forward at a later date," he added.

Paparo, however, stressed he has no further comment on the issue at this time.

"But I do have a comment that as equal partners and highly technical countries, we have to approach this from the standpoint as equals," he said.

The debate over whether South Korea should possess SSNs has gained traction in recent years as North Korea has been doubling down on its pursuit of stronger naval capabilities, including underwater attack drones and submarine-launched ballistic missiles.

It is considered rare for a high-ranking U.S. military official to discuss the possibility of the South acquiring SSNs.

Pointing out that the recent developments in North Korea are "very concerning to everybody," Paparo said Washington continues to seek the denuclearization of the Korean peninsula "at all times."

"We're equal partners with South Korea, and in the spirit of (the) Washington (Declaration), we've established a Nuclear Consultative Group (NCG) and as equal partners, at very high levels of government and as strategic partners," he said. "Through the NCG, we're in a constant dialogue at very high levels of secrecy to find a strategic way ahead to deal with the issue."

On President Yoon Suk Yeol's visit to the Indo-Pacific Command in Hawaii last week en route to a North Atlantic Treaty Organization summit in Washington, Paparo said it was a "great honor" and a "very strategic move."

"We talked about the importance of the ROK-U.S. alliance, we talked about the very concerning meeting of (Russian President Vladimir) Putin and (North Korean leader) Kim Jong-un, and the implications for proliferation of missile technology and nuclear technology in the Korean peninsula and the very great importance of the denuclearization of the Korean Peninsula," he said. (Yonhap)
By Jung Min-ho

A court in Seoul has ruled in favor of the Ministry of Justice over its decision to denaturalize a Pakistani man who fraudulently obtained his Korean citizenship through marriage.

According to court officials on Sunday, the Seoul Administrative Court on May 9 dismissed a complaint by the man who was challenging the ministry's decision to revoke his citizenship over bigamy, the act of entering into a marriage while still legally married to someone else.

Bigamy is not permitted in Korea.

The man and his Korean wife registered their marriage in both countries in July 2001.

Then, in January 2003, he married a Pakistani woman in Pakistan, where polygamy is legally permissible for Muslim men. The couple had four children.

Seven years later, he applied for naturalization in Korea without revealing his marital status in Pakistan in the documents he submitted to the ministry. As the spouse of a Korean citizen, the legal process for him was relatively fast and uncomplicated. In July 2012, he became a naturalized citizen.

Four years later, the man divorced his Korean spouse before bringing his Pakistani wife and children to Korea the following year.

After belatedly becoming aware of the omission from the man's naturalization application, the ministry launched an investigation into the case and decided to revoke his citizenship in June 2023. Under the Nationality Act, those who procured naturalization with false documents are subject to revocation of their status.

A panel of judges, led by Ko Eun-seol, concluded that the man deliberately hid his marital status in Pakistan in his submission to the ministry and that the relevant officials would have rejected his application if they had known of his dual marriage status.

"The Constitution states, 'Marriage and family life shall be entered into and sustained on the basis of individual dignity and equality of both sexes, and the state shall do everything in its power to achieve that goal.' This naturally includes monogamy," the court said. "Bigamy is a grave violation of Korea's rule of law."

The court said the man did not reveal that he had another family in Pakistan because he was apparently aware that doing so would affect the ministry's decision over his naturalization.

On May 30, the man brought the case to an appeals court.
By Kim Hyun-bin

Over the past five years, nearly 40,000 cases of verbal abuse, bullying and other forms of workplace harassment have been reported in Korea, according to the Ministry of Employment and Labor, Sunday.

However, less than 5 percent of the cases resulted in prosecution, fines or corrective guidance, prompting the government to work on improving the systems effectiveness.

From the time the revised Labor Standards Act took effect making workplace bullying punishable on July 16, 2019, to the end of May this year a total of 39,316 bullying cases have been reported.

The number of reports has been steadily increasing each year: 2,130 cases in 2019, 5,823 in 2020, 7,774 in 2021, 8,961 in 2022 and 1,960 in 2023. For the first five months of this year, 3,668 cases were reported.

Out of these cases, 38,732 have been processed. This includes 4,005 cases where corrective guidance was given, 501 cases resulting in fines and 709 cases referred to the prosecution for further investigation.

Among the 709 cases referred to the prosecution, 302 perpetrators were indicted, representing 0.78 percent of the total processed cases.

In 11,998 cases, the victims withdrew the reports, while in 11,301 cases, the ministry or the police concluded there were no legal violations.

A low number of cases resulted in indictment because only one clause of the law stipulates criminal penalty, stating an employer should not fire or give disadvantageous treatment to a worker who reports workplace bullying. Violators are subject to three years in prison or a fine of up to 30 million won ($21,800).

Last year, only 4.3 percent of reported cases resulted in relatively strong measures of fines or prosecution referrals, highlighting the need for improvements to enhance the systems effectiveness.

In response, the government is working on improving the system, including clarifying the criteria for bullying. The ministry noted that most countries, including France, Norway and Australia, require persistence or repetition to define bullying.

As there are differing opinions on this matter, we plan to improve systems and regulations by collecting opinions from across the field and from experts, the ministry said.
S. Korean president, politicians condemn Trump rally shooting

By Lee Hae-rin

President Yoon Suk Yeol said Sunday that he is "appalled by the hideous act of political violence" in response to the Pennsylvania rally shooting that came as a minor injury for U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump but killed one and critically injured two of his supporters who attended the rally.

"I am appalled by the hideous act of political violence. I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery. The people of Korea stand in solidarity with the people of America," Yoon said Sunday on X, formerly Twitter.

Korea's ruling and opposition parties condemned the attempted assassination.

"Former U.S. President Trump was shot and wounded during a campaign rally, and one of his supporters was killed," said ruling People Power Party (PPP) spokesperson Ho Jun-seok in a written commentary.

"Political terrorism is a threat to democracy and cannot be tolerated for any reason  Political terrorism is the product of extreme politics and hate politics. The PPP strongly condemns political terrorism that threatens democracy and will take the lead in eradicating extreme politics and hate politics," he said.

The main opposition Democratic Party of Korea's (DPK) Rep. Lee Jae-myung also said on social media Sunday, "An unbelievable event has happened," adding, "Violence and terrorism for any reason should not be tolerated. We urge a thorough and decisive response to a serious crime that has shaken the foundation of democracy."

DPK spokesperson Han Min-soo said during a press briefing Sunday, "We condemn the political terrorism against former President Trump and will fight to prevent the ghosts of hate politics from wandering around."

"Political terrorism is a serious challenge to democracy," Han said, "It cannot be justified for any reason and should never be allowed to take place."

"The DPK has suffered from political terrorism against former leader Lee Jae-myung," he said, "The DPK strongly condemns political terrorism that destroys democracy and will take the lead in eradicating hate politics."

In January alone, Korea has seen two attacks targeting politicians.

Former DPK chairman Lee was attacked by a knife-wielding assailant during his visit to Busan on Jan. 1.

On Jan. 25, a teenage boy struck PPP Rep. Bae Hyun-jin in the back of the head with a rock. She sustained no major injuries.
By Lee Hyon-soo

According to a recent worldwide survey reported by the New York Post, Canada ranks first among destinations favored by immigrants. Not surprisingly, many Koreans want to immigrate to Canada to try their luck. As an old-timer who settled in Canada half a century ago, I would like to share my experience with prospective Korean immigrants.

Having worked for an American bank for several years in Korea with a six-month stint in Japan, I had an amazing stroke of luck in obtaining a job offer from a major Canadian bank. I came to Canada in my early 30s. As I was reasonably proficient in English and had a well-rounded banking experience under my belt, I settled into my new job with relative ease. But my private life was another story.

Like other new immigrants in Canada, I too encountered a measure of culture shock. Culture shock is the traumatic effect of disorientation caused by a major change in milieu experienced by new inhabitants. But I eventually managed to overcome my culture shock by embracing Canadian customs, values and beliefs. It took a lot of getting used to.

Another challenge I faced was finding my place in Canadian society. As a newcomer, I felt like the odd man out at first, but over time I made connections with other Canadians by participating in local activities and community gatherings. I found that most Canadians are laid-back yet friendly people who are always ready to lend a helping hand. I was eventually accepted by Canadians as one of their own.

The challenges I faced were largely overshadowed by the benefits of living in Canada. Chief among the numerous benefits is the quality of life. Canada is consistently ranked as one of the best places in the world with a high standard of living along with universal healthcare and top-notch social services. In addition, Canada is a country where everyone can achieve a healthy work-life balance.

I also found many joys in Canada. The country is famous for its breathtaking landscapes including the Canadian Rockies, Niagara Falls, Banff National Park and the Northern Lights. It also boasts vast forests, pristine lakes and majestic mountains. I had the opportunity to explore these landscapes and discover new adventures.

A more significant joy of living in Canada was meeting people from all over the world. My banks international banking division to which I belonged was staffed by Canadians, Americans, Britons, Frenchmen, Germans, Dutchmen, Japanese, Chinese, etc. and I was the only Korean.

As a matter of fact, Canada is a multicultural country that is home to many different ethnic groups. By rubbing shoulders with people from various parts of the world, I was able to broaden my perspectives and appreciate the diversity of the world.

Although Canada has a reputation for being tolerant and inclusive, there is no denying that there are some latent barriers that new immigrants face. As far as new Korean immigrants are concerned, the barrier to employment poses a serious challenge; they find it difficult to land jobs for which they are well qualified because Canadian firms tend to hire people who have prior Canadian work experience.

Although I have accepted Canada as my new home wholeheartedly, I am always mindful of my roots as a Korean. I am proud of my dual identity as a Korean Canadian. I have no doubt that such feelings are shared by most, if not all, Koreans who live in Canada.

Lee Hyon-soo (tomhslee43@gmail.com) is a retired banker and the author of the book "Ramblings of A Wanderer."
'IP4' nations' meeting should be institutionalized

During a meeting with the representatives of the four Indo-Pacific countries  South Korea, Japan, Australia, and New Zealand, known as the IP4 nations  on Thursday in Washington D.C., President Yoon Suk Yeol delivered a remark that was both timely and important.

Yoon said, strong deterrence and cooperation among like-minded countries are two key pillars to prevent war.

The leaders' meeting of the IP4 nations exemplifies a convergence of countries with shared values committed to a rules-based global order. This gathering is particularly relevant in light of the dangerous global security developments, such as the arms trade between Russia and North Korea amid the ongoing war in Ukraine.

Australia and New Zealand have not been seen as security partners for South Korea, despite their resilient bilateral relations with the South.

However, the ongoing geopolitical shift driven by the U.S.-China rivalry has united South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, as NATO seeks to strengthen cooperation with these IP4 countries to address the dangerous spillover effects of the Russia-North Korea arms deals on both the Asia-Pacific region and Europe amid the Ukraine war.

The IP4 meeting, once institutionalized, will benefit South Korea.

Enhanced intelligence sharing is one of the areas South Korea can expect from the multilateral gathering.

Australia and New Zealand are two of the five member countries of an English-speaking intelligence-sharing alliance known as The Five Eyes. The other three members of this alliance are the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada.

Intelligence failure has emerged as a key challenge for the Yoon Suk Yeol government. South Koreas counter-intelligence capabilities significantly weakened during the previous Moon Jae-in government as it took a set of measures to reform intelligence agencies. Most notably, the National Intelligence Service (NIS) was deprived of its jurisdiction to investigate espionage cases as investigative powers were transferred to the police in January this year. This development is a direct result of the 2020 revision bill passed during the Moon administration.

During the five years of the Moon government, South Koreas human intelligence network was significantly undermined due to a policy focus on diplomatic engagement with North Korea, which led to reduced covert operations and increased scrutiny on intelligence activities.

Read More Veteran of spy war fights for justice

The repeated cycle of politically motivated investigations and legislation with each new government has turned out to be self-destructive. These actions weakened the intelligence-gathering and analytical capabilities of the agencies.

If South Korea and the Five Eyes members agree to share intelligence, this will help rebuild South Koreas intelligence capabilities.

Since the signing of the mutual defense treaty between the U.S. and South Korea in October 1953, the South has depended significantly on this alliance to protect itself from North Koreas potential invasions. Faced with persistent and growing security threats from the North, it is understandable that South Koreas best option has been to bolster its military cooperation with the U.S. to ensure the safety of its citizens.

But the global security environment has undergone a seismic shift over the past few decades. One of the most notable changes is the evolution of the concept of national defense. In the past, national defense was primarily about strengthening a countrys military capabilities to cope with or deter increasingly sophisticated weapons systems from adversaries. To achieve this, countries focused on increasing their military spending.

Today, cyberspace, in addition to physical territory, has become another critical domain that nations must defend. Peacetime cyberattacks, often launched by state-sponsored actors, occur every day and around the clock. No country or entity is completely safe from these attacks. The expanded concept of national defense now encompasses both physical territory and cyberspace, requiring governments to take swift and effective measures to detect and counteract cyber threats and to build robust cybersecurity systems to safeguard their national security.

Due to their shared experience with cyberattacks and misinformation campaigns from countries like China, Russia, and Iran, Australia and New Zealand are well-positioned to be South Koreas partners in addressing the challenge of building robust cybersecurity defenses. By holding regular IP4 meetings, South Korea can collaborate with Australia, New Zealand, and Japan to share experience and develop effective strategies to enhance cybersecurity. This ongoing dialogue will provide opportunities for the four nations to learn from each other and achieve significant advancements in their collective cyber defense efforts.
Korean EV battery maker SK On is in talks with automakers to supply prismatic batteries, expanding from its existing pouch-type batteries, a senior executive said, as it scrambles to turn around amid slowing global electric vehicle (EV) demand.

SK On, a unit of energy group SK Innovation, which supplies EV batteries to Ford Motor, Hyundai Motor, Volkswagen among others, is speaking to multiple automakers that are looking to line up prismatic battery supply deals, SK On chief spokesperson Ko Chang-Kook said.

"We are having talks with automakers who will take our prismatic batteries ... we will now have the opportunity to diversify our product portfolios sooner than later," Ko told Reuters.

Ko did not disclose the names of automakers but said the company has already completed the prismatic battery technology and is prepared to start producing prismatic batteries once discussions are finalized.

There are three types of lithium-ion batteries currently used in EVs  prismatic, cylindrical and pouch-type, all of which are fundamentally the same in functionality, but each has pros and cons.

Prismatic and cylindrical batteries are cased in hard materials. Pouch-types use sealed flexible foils and are protected by thin metal bags. SK On currently produces only pouch-type batteries for EVs.

While the firm secured prismatic battery technology, it is also looking to develop cylindrical-type batteries, widely known for the type used by Tesla.

When asked if SK On, which has never made a profit since it was split off from SK Innovation in late 2021, plans to cut its capital expenditure for the year, Ko said SK On is not considering that for now, adding it will not cut research and development spending.

Earlier this year, SK On's parent SK Innovation said it had a capital spending budget of about 9 trillion won ($6.55 billion) for this year, with more than 80 percent allocated for SK On.

Cross-town rival LG Energy Solution (LGES) said in April it plans to minimise capital expenditure this year due to slowing EV demand. Last month, LGES paused part of construction of its multi-billion dollar battery factory in the U.S. state of Arizona as it adjusts the pace of planned investment execution flexibly to optimize its operations.

In April, SK On said it was still on target to break even in the second half of this year. The company said this month it would implement across-the-board expense cuts, including freezing salaries of all executives until the firm turns a profit.

SK Innovation is expected to pursue a merger with profitable gas affiliate SK E&S to help prop up SK On, local media outlets have reported.

On Friday, SK Innovation said in a regulatory filing that it would hold a board meting next Wednesday to discuss various strategic measures, including mergers to strengthen its competitiveness, but nothing has been decided. (Reuters)
By Ko Dong-hwan

GS Engineering & Construction (E&C) has announced a new company vision and introduced new internal rules for employees to improve quality in construction and regain public trust, the major construction firm said Sunday.

It comes after the company has suffered a series of criticisms since last year for its past apartment projects that were found to be built with sub-standard construction practices like insufficient number of steel bars or windows uncertified in the country.

President and CEO Huh Yoon-hong released a video on GS E&C's internal communication platform conveying the new vision, Friday. He said in the video that the company must "build the world, beyond structures."

"Perfecting a safer today, forging a brighter tomorrow: with transparent trust and relentless innovation, we create a better future for all," he said.

He introduced the company's six new target values for employees to keep in mind. They were customers, trust, responsible freedom, orthodox management, future-oriented and expertise.

A GS E&C official said that voices of the company's entire employees were reflected in the new vision. The company held workshops dedicated to collecting feedbacks from the employees. Consultants outside the company also have worked with the company for months to introduce a new assessment system over the company's business portfolio and competence.

He added that the company will introduce new digital work infrastructure to raise work efficiency for employees. The company will also allow employees to address each other more comfortably and have a more creative mindset by unifying the hierarchical internal titles.

"We'll have our employees see clearly the very reason why our company exists," Huh said in the video. "Then, every stakeholder around us will start trusting and loving us."
Lee seeks network expansion opportunities at latest Ambani wedding

By Nam Hyun-woo

Samsung Electronics Executive Chairman Lee Jae-yong returned home Sunday after meeting the companys officials in India and attending the wedding ceremony of the youngest son of Mukesh Ambani, chairman of Indias Reliance Industries.

According to Samsung, Lee attended the wedding ceremony of Anant Ambani, the youngest son of the tycoon, at Jio World Convention Center in Mumbai, Saturday.

Chairman Ambani is better known as the richest man in Asia and the ninth richest man in the world, whose net assets are valued at around $116 billion.

Reliance Industries is India's largest conglomerate, with a portfolio that spans a wide range of sectors including petrochemicals, oil and gas, telecommunications, retail and financial services. It maintains a close partnership with Samsung, particularly in supplying telecommunications network equipment.

The venue of the wedding ceremony, Jio World Convention Center, was also built by a Samsung Group company, Samsung C&T. The company secured a $678 million project to build the convention center on an area of 75,000 square meters in July 2014, and opened it in March 2022 as the largest convention center in India.

This was the third time for Lee to attend a wedding ceremony of the Ambani family. Lee attended the wedding ceremony of the eldest daughter of Chairman Ambani in December 2018, and the wedding of Akash Ambani, the eldest son, in March 2019.

The Ambani family weddings are globally recognized networking events, attracting prominent business leaders and influential politicians from around the world. Along with Lee, Adobe CEO Shantanu Narayen, HSBC Chairman Mark Tucker, Aramco CEO Amin Nasser, Lockheed Martin CEO James Taiclet and a slew of serving and former international leaders attended the wedding.

During his stay in Mumbai, Lee also had meetings with Samsung's officials in India, Saturday, asking them to "make history with fierce competitiveness and a sense of urgency."

Lee's visit to India came amid the country's growing importance as a lucrative market for IT devices.

India is the second-largest market for smartphone shipments globally, following China, and the local home appliance market is also showing a rapid growth, buoyed by the economic expansion of the country's middle class.

Currently, Samsung operates a smartphone factory in Noida, a home appliance factory in Chennai and a number of research and design institutes across India. There are 200,000 retail stores and 3,000 after-service centers in India, with the number of local employees totaling at 18,000.

As of last year, Samsung was leading the Indian smartphone market with a 18 percent market share, followed by China's vivo with 17 percent and Xiaomi with 16.5 percent.
Donald Trump was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally on Saturday, sparking panic in the crowd and spattering the Republican presidential candidate's blood across his face, before he emerged and pumped his fist in the air appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The shooter was dead, one rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement.

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump said on his Truth Social platform. "Much bleeding took place."

As the shots rang out, Trump grabbed his right ear with his right hand, then brought his hand down to look at it before dropping to his knees behind the podium before Secret Service agents swarmed and covered him. He emerged about a minute later, his red "Make America Great Again" hat knocked off and could be heard saying "wait, wait," before agents ushered him into a waiting vehicle.

The Secret Service and the former president's campaign said Trump was safe following the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles (50 km) north of Pittsburgh.

The shooter's identity and motive were not immediately clear. Leading Republicans and Democrats quickly condemned the violence.

The shots appeared to come from outside the area secured by the Secret Service, the agency said.

An audience member was also dead, and another person was in critical condition, a Washington Post reporter said on social media, citing the Butler County district attorney.

The shooting occurred less than four months before the Nov. 5 election, when Trump faces an election rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow," spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement.

Trump had just started his speech when gunshots erupted and Trump and other rally attendees hit the deck. Secret Service agents swarmed around him and Trump disappeared behind the podium for about one minute before he was rushed to the waiting vehicle.

Trump and Biden are locked in a close election rematch, with most opinion polls including those by Reuters/Ipsos showing the two evenly matched.

Biden said in a statement: "Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Ron Moose, a Trump supporter who was in the crowd, described the chaos: "I heard about four shots and I saw the crowd go down and then Trump ducked also real quick. Then the Secret Service all jumped and protected him as soon as they could. We are talking within a second they were all protecting him."

Moose said he then saw a man running and being chased by officers in military uniforms. He said he heard additional shots, but was unsure who fired them. He noted that by then snipers had set up on the roof of a warehouse behind the stage.

The BBC interviewed a man who described himself as an eyewitness, saying he saw a man armed with a rifle crawling up a roof near the event. The person, who the BBC did not identify, said he and the people he was with started pointing at the man, trying to alert security.

"I am thinking to myself, why is Trump still speaking. Why have they not pulled him off stage," said the man, who was wearing a red Trump hat. "Next thing you know, five shots rang out."

Trump is due to receive his party's formal nomination at the Republican National Convention, which kicks off in Milwaukee on Monday.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said on social media.

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he was horrified by what happened and was relieved Trump was safe. "Political violence has no place in our country," he said.

A Secret Service spokesperson said on social media: "The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former president is safe ... This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available."

CNN reported that Trump was injured, but gave no other details. It was not clear how or what injuries he may have sustained.

The venue was abandoned with chairs knocked over and yellow police tape around the stage. A helicopter flew above and law enforcement officers walked through the area, the video feed showed. Armed law enforcement officers were also seen on a roof near the stage where Trump was standing.

Biden's campaign was working to pause its television ads and halting all other outbound communication, a campaign official said on Saturday.

Trump, who served as president from 2017-2021, easily bested his rivals for the Republican nomination early in the campaign and has largely unified around him the party that had briefly wavered in support after his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, attempting to overturn his 2020 election defeat.

The businessman and former reality television star entered the year facing a raft of legal worries, including four separate criminal prosecutions. He was found guilty in late May of trying to cover up hush money payments to a porn star, but the other three prosecutions he faces  including two for his attempts to overturn his defeat  have been ground to a halt by various factors including a Supreme Court decision early this month that found him to be partly immune to prosecution. (Reuters)
Elon Musk, the billionaire CEO of Tesla, publicly endorsed Donald Trump for the first time in the U.S. presidential race, calling the Republican former president "tough."

Musk tweeted the endorsement with a video of Trump pumping his fist after multiple shots rang out at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, as video showed the Republican candidate grimacing and raising a hand to his right ear.

"I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk posted on his social media platform X.

"The martyr lived," he wrote in a later post.

The posts cement Musk's shift towards right-wing politics and hand Trump a high-profile backer in his quest to return to the White House in the Nov. 5 election.

Musk later posted a photograph of Trump at the event, followed by: "Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt."

Musk and representatives from X did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Musk, who has been ramping up criticism of U.S. President Joe Biden, has donated to a political group working to elect Trump, Bloomberg reported on Friday, citing sources.

The South African-born businessman's sway stands to benefit Trump, since Musk has one of the largest footprints on X with 189.5 million followers, meaning his posts can instantaneously spread widely.

Musk has said he previously voted for Democratic presidential candidates Hillary Clinton as well as Biden.

However, in the last few years, Musk has espoused right-wing views, becoming a fierce critic of diversity initiatives, Biden's immigration policies and complaining that Democrats had given a "very cold shoulder" to Tesla and rocket company SpaceX.

Since his acquisition of the social media platform formerly known as Twitter, critics and social media researchers have noted spikes in hateful content, in part due to Musk's promises to reduce the company's content moderation policies.

In March, Trump, who is expected to be formally nominated next week as the Republican Party's candidate for the Nov. 5 election, met with Musk and other wealthy donors.

In response to reports of the meeting, Musk posted on X: "Just to be super clear, I am not donating money to either candidate for US President." In May, he also denied media reports that there had been talks over a potential advisory role for him in any Trump presidency. (Reuters)
People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)





People visit Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing, July 10, 2024. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)

A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Liu Chan)

A drone photo taken on July 10, 2024 shows Shibaozhai, a scenic spot in Zhongxian County, southwest China's Chongqing. Shibaozhai looks like a heart-shaped bonsai sitting in the middle of Three Gorges section of Yangtze Rier. It is home to a 12-story, 56-meter wooden pagoda that stands on 20 pillars and leans against the cliff. This structure dated back to the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) serves as a leading tourist attraction of Shibaozhai. (Xinhua/Huang Wei)
















The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the "subject involved" in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, it said in a statement on Sunday.

Crooks, who was from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was registered as a Republican, according to the state's voter records.

The Federal Aviation Administration said on Sunday that the airspace over the Bethel Park was closed "effective immediately" for special security reasons. (Reuters)








Shots were fired during a rally speech by Donald Trump, in an incident that investigators are treating as a possible assassination attempt on the former president.

Including Abraham Lincoln and JFK, here are some notable examples of shootings involving U.S. presidents or presidential candidates:

Ronald Reagan (1981)

President Reagan was shot and seriously wounded as he left an event at the Hilton hotel in Washington. The attacker was John Hinckley Jr., who was granted unconditional release in 2022.

Reagan spent twelve days in the hospital. The incident boosted Reagan's popularity, as he displayed humor and resilience during his recovery.

Gerald Ford (1975)

President Ford was left unscathed in two separate assassination attempts by women in September 1975, both in California and within a span of just 17 days.

George Wallace (1972)

While campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination, Wallace was shot four times and paralyzed for life at a shopping mall in Laurel, Maryland.

The assassination attempt on Wallace, who was known for his segregationist views and populist appeal, highlighted the ongoing political tensions in the U.S. and potential for domestic violence in the Vietnam War era.

Robert F. Kennedy (1968)

President John F. Kennedy's brother Robert, who was running for the Democratic presidential nomination, was shot and killed at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

The assassination had a profound impact on the 1968 presidential race and occurred just two months after the killing of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., adding to the political turmoil of the late 1960s.

John F. Kennedy (1963)

Riding in his motorcade with his wife Jackie, President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas by Lee Harvey Oswald.

The Warren Commission investigating the assassination concluded in 1964 that Lee Harvey Oswald, a former marine who had lived in the Soviet Union, had acted alone.

Many Americans believe the death of JFK began a more violent period in U.S. politics and society, with the Vietnam War build up and the civil rights struggle as a backdrop.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933)

As president-elect, FDR was the target of an assassination attempt in Miami, Florida. He was unharmed, but Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak was killed in the attack.

Theodore Roosevelt (1912)

Like Trump, Teddy Roosevelt was running for the White House as a former president when he was shot in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The bullet, which remained lodged in his chest for the rest of his life, was slowed by the folded 50-page speech and steel eyeglass case in his breast pocket.

Famously, Roosevelt decided to deliver his scheduled speech despite being shot.

William McKinley (1901)

President McKinley was shot and killed by anarchist Leon Czolgosz in Buffalo, New York.

Abraham Lincoln (1865)

Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer, while watching a play called "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theater in Washington.

Booth's attack, just days after the Confederate surrender in the Civil War, was part of a larger plot that included attempts to assassinate Vice President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William Seward. (AFP)
The FBI identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania as the suspect in Saturday's attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump at a campaign rally.

The suspect was shot and killed by the Secret Service seconds after he allegedly fired shots toward a stage where Trump and was speaking in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The FBI said it was working to determine a motive for the attack, in which one rally attendee died and two other spectators were critically injured. Trump was shot in the ear.

State voter records show that Crooks was a registered Republican. The upcoming Nov. 5 election would have been the first time Crooks had been old enough to vote in a presidential race.

Crooks lived about an hour away from where the shooting took place in Butler. The Federal Aviation Administration said on Sunday that it closed the airspace over Bethel Park for "special security reasons."

When Crooks was 17 he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing. The donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote. The groups did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Crooks' father, Matthew Crooks, 53, told CNN that he was trying to figure out what happened and would wait until he spoke to law enforcement before speaking about his son.

Thomas Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. He received a $500 "star award" from the National Math and Science Initiative, according to the newspaper.

A 2022 graduation ceremony video cited by the New York Times shows Crooks receiving his high school diploma to some applause. Video from that ceremony posted online shows Crooks with glasses in a black graduation gown and posing with a school official. Reuters could not immediately verify the authenticity of the video.

Law enforcement officials said on Saturday that Crooks carried no identification to the site of the shooting and had to be identified using other methods.

"We're looking at photographs right now and we're trying to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation," Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, said during a press briefing.

USA Today reported that dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside a residence listed at the address on Crooks' voter registration record. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence, USA Today reported.

The perimeter of the residence of the suspect was guarded on Sunday by yellow police caution tape. An Allegheny County Police vehicle was parked outside.

Its insanity that anyone would do this, Dan Maloney, a 30-year-old resident from the area was quoted as saying by USA Today.

Reuters could not immediately identify social media accounts or other online postings by Crooks. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, did not immediately respond to questions on whether the platforms had removed any accounts related to the suspect. (Reuters)
China and Russia conducted a joint naval patrol in the northern and western Pacific, Beijing's defense ministry said Sunday, adding that the exercise was not "targeted" at any other nation.

The two countries have drawn closer in recent years and tout their friendship as having "no limits". Both share hostile relations with U.S.-led Western defense alliance NATO.

Beijing has further strengthened its diplomatic, economic and military ties with Moscow since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

China, which has never condemned the invasion, maintains it is a neutral party to the conflict. But Western leaders have criticized it for giving political and economic support to Russia, including trade in goods that have both civilian and military uses.

"According to the annual plan and the consensus between China and Russia, naval vessels of China and Russia recently carried out their fourth joint maritime patrol in the western and northern Pacific Ocean," the Chinese defense ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

"This operation is not targeted at any third party and has nothing to do with the current international and regional situation," it added.

No details were provided on the Pacific maneuvers, including the ships' routes, their exact locations or the nature of the forces involved.

On Friday, China said it was also conducting drills with Russia  known as Joint Sea-2024  along its southern coast.

This came after NATO leaders declared Beijing had "become a decisive enabler" of Moscow's war in Ukraine, and after Japan warned of a growing threat from Beijing's strong ties with Moscow.

Beijing has rejected the criticisms.

The drills in the waters and airspace around Zhanjiang, a city in southern Guangdong province, are "to demonstrate the resolve and capabilities of the two sides in jointly addressing maritime security threats and preserving global and regional peace and stability," the ministry said.

The Russian defense ministry said Saturday that two of its warships had arrived in Zhanjiang to take part in the joint naval drills, with an initial phase taking place from Monday to Wednesday.

The Pacific is a hotbed of international tensions due to sovereignty disputes between Beijing and several of its U.S.-backed neighbors, such as Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan.

China and Russia hold joint military exercises regularly but their level of interoperability is greatly inferior to that of NATO, the European Union Institute for Security Studies said in a report in early July.

In 2023, ships from the two countries took part in a naval exercise off the U.S. state of Alaska. (AFP)
The Kremlin said on Sunday it did not believe the U.S. administration was responsible for Saturday's assassination attempt on U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, but that it had created an atmosphere that provoked the attack.

Trump was shot in the ear during a rally in Pennsylvania, in an attack now being investigated as an assassination attempt. The attacker was shot dead and law enforcement officials said they had not yet identified a motive.

"We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"But the atmosphere around candidate Trump ... provoked what America is confronting today."

U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, saying there was no place for that kind of violence in America. Peskov said Russia condemned any violence in the course of the political struggle.

His comments echoed those of some of Trump's Republican allies, who immediately pinned the blame on Biden.

"After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena  using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate  it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger," Peskov said.

He added that there were no plans for Putin to call Trump in light of the incident.

World leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, rapidly condemned Saturday's attack, expressing shock, denouncing political violence and wishing Trump a quick recovery.

Russia's foreign ministry used the shooting to urge Washington to stop funding Ukraine's military and concentrate on improving domestic law enforcement instead.

Foreign ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova, writing on Telegram, responded to remarks made by independent presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr following the shooting.

"Dear Bobby and all those who vote in the United States to supply Zelenskiy with arms," Zakharova said.

"Wouldn't it be better for this money to finance the American police and other services that are supposed to ensure law and order within the United States?"

Moscow's invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has brought Russia's ties with the West to their lowest ebb since the height of the Cold War.

Asked whether the Trump attack could affect the legitimacy of the United States' upcoming election, Peskov said: "It is not for us to judge. We have not the slightest desire to interfere. This is a U.S. matter." (Reuters)
(The Center Square)  Nine Democrats in the U.S. House sought to strip former President Donald Trump of his Secret Service detail just months before an assassination attempt was made against him on Saturday.

After Trump survived the shooting, one of their staffers reportedly said in a Facebook post the shooter needed shooting lessons so he wouldnt miss the next time. The post has since been deleted and the staffer has been fired.

U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., who chaired the bipartisan select committee to investigate the Jan. 6 attacks, introduced a bill in April to strip Trump of his Secret Service detail. The bill was introduced on April 19 and has gone nowhere in the Republican- controlled House.

The Denying Infinite Security and Government Resources Allocated toward Convicted and Extremely Dishonorable Former Protectees Act, or the DISGRACED Former Protectees Act, would amend current law to terminate U.S. Secret Service protection for those who have been sentenced to prison following conviction for a Federal or State felony  clarifying that prison authorities would be responsible for the protection of all inmates regardless of previous Secret Service protection, according to a Thompson press release.

Unfortunately, current law doesnt anticipate how Secret Service protection would impact the felony prison sentence of a protectee  even a former President, Thompson said. It is regrettable that it has come to this, but this previously unthought-of scenario could become our reality. Therefore, it is necessary for us to be prepared and update the law so the American people can be assured that protective status does not translate into special treatment  and that those who are sentenced to prison will indeed serve the time required of them.

Eight Democratic Reps. cosponsored the bill: Troy Carter of Louisiana, Barbara Lee of California, Frederica Wilson of Florida, Yvette Clarke of New York, Bonnie Watson Coleman of New Jersey, Jasmine Crockett of Texas, Joyce Beatty of Ohio, and Steve Cohen of Tennessee.

Trump was recently convicted on 34 felony counts in what he describes as a baseless political witch hunt case brought against him by political rivals. Sentencing in the case was postponed after the U.S. Supreme Court ruled all presidents have immunity from prosecution for core constitutional acts and official acts. The high court ruled earlier this month in a 6-3 decision that the "president's exercise of his core constitutional powers, this immunity must be absolute. As for his remaining official actions, he is entitled to at least presumptive immunity."

In response, Trump called for all of the criminal prosecutions against him to end.

Todays Historic Decision by the Supreme Court should end all of Crooked Joe Bidens Witch Hunts against me, including the New York Hoaxes - The Manhattan SCAM cooked up by Soros backed D.A., Alvin Bragg, Racist New York Attorney General Tish James shameless ATTACK on the amazing business that I have built, and the FAKE Bergdorfs case, he wrote on TruthSocial. PROUD TO BE AN AMERICAN!

President Joe Biden and other Democrats said the ruling created a dangerous precedent.

Thompson said, a lawless and corrupt Supreme Court extreme conservative majority rewrote the Constitution for their master, Donald Trump, and dangerously undermined the rule of law in this country. By granting a twice-impeached felon absolute immunity for many of his acts that sought to undermine the legitimate results of the 2020 Presidential election, such as weaponizing the Department of Justice to do his campaigns bidding, these extreme Justices clearly put the ex-President above the law. Further, they have granted criminal defendant Trump even more delays  which is not only what he desperately wanted but will also deny the American people justice before a critical election.

On Saturday, Thompsons case manager and field director, Jacqueline Marsaw, posted on Facebook, I don't condone violence but please get you some shooting lessons so you don't miss next time oops that wasn't me saying that."

Rep. Thompson issued a statement, saying, "I was made aware of a post made by a staff member and she is no longer in my employment, his director of communications, Yasmine Brown, told The Center Square.

On Saturday, U.S. Rep. Michael McCaul, R-Texas, said, I can only imagine what could have happened had House Democrats been successful in their attempts to terminate his Secret Service detail. This should be a sobering reminder to them and others on the Left that their rhetoric and actions matter.

Our democratic process will not be deterred by this baseless act, as President Trump so powerfully demonstrated. Millions of Americans will never forget seeing his fist in the air  a symbol of hope, courage, and strength in the face of despicable evil.
As we welcome Waterbomb 2024, let's pay homage to the five K-pop queens of the iconic music festival!

In recent years, the Waterbomb music festival has gained worldwide attention for its eye-catching, high-quality stages featuring the biggest names in K-pop. Each summer, this event crowns a "summer queen," celebrated for her visuals, steamy figure, and ability to hype up the crowd. Here are the five that were most named in recent years.

1. HyunA

remembering that HyunA's performances are the most viewed of Waterbomb (9.4M and 5.8M)  pic.twitter.com/ZrvI73RaII  HyunA International (@hyuna_fb) June 24, 2022

Despite at times being criticized for her bold makeup and unconventional outfits, "sexy queen" HyunA remains a main-stay at Waterbomb festivals.

IN CASE YOU MISSED IT: HyunA, Yong Junhyung To Tie the Knot on THIS Date

Her captivating charisma and passionate performance style have inevitably made her one of the most iconic figures associated with this vibrant music festival.

2. Jessi

With her voluptuous figure, strikingly sexy tan skin, and stage presence, Jessi always delivers electrifying performances.

CHECK THIS OUT: 4 Female Idols Praised For Chaebol-Like Fashion: TWICE Mina, BLACKPINK Jennie, MORE!

She amplifies the summer heat with her dynamic energy, making her a must-have on the list of popular Waterbomb queens. Her outfits are both sexy and summery, reflecting her youthful dynamism.

3. Sunmi

Sunmi caused a sensation at Waterbomb with her stunning figure and irresistible sexy visuals.

FOR YOU: 8 K-Pop Girl Groups That Debuted With 10+ Members: IZ*ONE, LOONA, More!

The "Gashina" songstress showcased fresh energy on the festival stage, showcasing her charm and physique. Sunmi's 2018 Waterbomb performance was so impactful that the Gucci swimsuit she wore became one of the summer's most sought-after items.

4. cignature Jeewon

The latest sensation at Waterbomb 2024 is Jeewon, the center of the group cignature.

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Her jaw-dropping figure and radiant beauty have made her one of the most-searched artists that performing at the festival this year. Jeewon's eye-catching bust and smooth, bright skin have helped her go viral across various platforms.

5. Kwon Eunbi

When it comes to the "queen" of Waterbomb, Kwon Eunbi is THE name to mention. Despite her beginnings with IZ*ONE, she only became a household name following her steamy performance at the 2023 Waterbomb festival.

FOR MORE INFORMATION: Waterbomb Star Kwon Eunbi Faces Backlash Over Revealing Outfit: Agency Steps In

Drenched thanks to the water jets, Kwon Eunbi captivated the audience with her sexy body and full bust. Her sweet, captivating visuals make her the new generation Waterbomb queen, enchanting everyone with her innocent yet fiery presence.

Who is your Waterbomb queen? Tell us in the comments below!

In other news, the 2024 Waterbomb Korea Tour kickstarted in Seoul on July 5. The tour is headed to several cities in the country, namely Jeju, Daegu, Busan, Incheon, Daejeon, Sokcho, Suwon, Yeosu. The tour is expected to go international, with dates announced in Japan.

KpopStarz Owns This

Written by Alexa Lopez
Ken Smiths period-clothing shirt was about soaked through with sweat as he demonstrated tin-smithing Saturday beneath a white tent barely blocking the July heat as muggy air temperatures surpassed 90 degrees.

But the craftsman was expecting some relief as he watched the shadows grow longer from the tree line behind him, and he had some 19th-century technology to help him cut and shape tin  also known as poor mans silver  into dinnerware and other products.

Smith, no relation to the Bethlehem mayor of the same name from 1988 to 97, was among several folks demonstrating bygone trades and techniques of daily living as Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites hosted the first of two days of its Blueberry Festival & Market To Go.

The event continues Sunday.

The nonprofits Burnside Plantation, at 1461 Schoenersville Road in Bethlehem, is the setting for the annual celebration of history and, yes, plenty of blueberries.

It draws an estimated 4,000 attendees and helps support Historic Bethlehems mission to interpret and maintain 20 historic buildings and some 65,000 artifacts. In addition, the group provides local educational programming that brings three centuries of history to life.

Numerous crafters and vendors are set up around the grounds of Burnside Plantation, 1461 Schoenersville Road in Bethlehem, as Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites opens its two-day Blueberry Festival & Market To Go on Saturday, July 13, 2024. It continues Sunday.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

We are thrilled to host the Blueberry Fest for its 37th year, said Lindsey Jancay, Historic Bethlehems interim vice president and managing director. This event has been a great way to promote local vendors, showcase the Burnside Historic Farm, and enjoy some fresh blueberries!

LoriAnn Wukitsch, the Historic Bethlehem president and CEO, emceed the childrens and adult hands-free blueberry pie-eating contests and culinary challenge.

Various staff members and volunteers manned the Dessert Tent and other attractions. Contestant Isabel Holland, of Bethlehem, who just started baking this past year, whipped up some blueberry cinnamon rolls as her entry.

Anna Corby, a volunteer with Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, stands ready to offer tours of James Burnsides 1748 home as the nonprofit opens its two-day Blueberry Festival & Market To Go on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Burnside Plantation. It continues Sunday.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

From the porch of James Burnsides 1748 home, Anna Corby stood ready to lead tours of the first privately-owned Moravian home in Bethlehem.

Historic Bethlehem intern Andy McLeod told visitors about exhibits planned on early Moravian industries, in the works for spring 2025 at the 1782/1832 Grist Millers House under renovation beside the 1869 Luckenbach Mill in Bethlehems Colonial Industrial Quarter near Main and Spring streets.

As an example befitting the blue theme of the festival, McLeod  a student at Bucks County Community College  said Bethlehems Moravian settlers got creative because they couldnt import indigo. Thus, they developed a new method of dyeing items blue by using woad from a flowering plant, said McLeod.

Nolan Russo from Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites hydrates amid muggy conditions in the Lehigh Valley 250 tent ahead of the national semiquincentennial in 2026 as the nonprofit hosts the first of two days of its Blueberry Festival & Market To Go on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Burnside Plantation.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

Nolan Russo from Historic Bethlehem chugged water in his tent stocked with literature about plans to celebrate Lehigh Valley 250 as part of the national semiquincentennial in 2026. Several observations and celebrations are in the works through partner organizations Lafayette College and its Art Galleries, the Northampton County Historical & Genealogical Society, Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites, Delaware & Lehigh National Heritage Corridor and the Lehigh Valley Passport to History.

Keith Sten, Historic Bethlehems museum sites and education manager, stocked drinks on ice to help cool off those in attendance. Nearby, Olivia Caleca, a volunteer from Easton, cut servings of blueberry pie. Hilary Brown, of Bethlehem, took hers with ice cream and fresh blueberries.

Hilary Brown, of Bethlehem, couldnt resist the blueberry pie with ice cream and fresh blueberries as Historic Bethlehem Museums & Sites hosts the first of two days of its Blueberry Festival & Market To Go on Saturday, July 13, 2024, at Burnside Plantation.Kurt Bresswein | For lehighvalleylive.com

The festival runs until 7 p.m. Saturday and resumes 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. Admission is $12 for adults, $5 for children 4 to 17. Parking is free at the nearby Moravian University X-lot, 1150 Mauch Chunk Road, and at Nitschmann Middle School, 1002 W. Union Blvd., with shuttle buses running on a continuous loop.

No dogs are permitted on the buses, and the buses are not accessible to people with disabilities.

Visit historicbethlehem.org for the schedule of events and full details.

Click here for more photos from Saturday at the festival.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to lehighvalleylive.com.

Kurt Bresswein may be reached at kbresswein@lehighvalleylive.com.
BUFFALO TOWNSHIP, Pennsylvania (AP)  The former fire chief who was killed at a Pennsylvania rally for Donald Trump spent his final moments diving in front of his family to protect them from gunfire that rang out Saturday during an assassination attempt against the former president.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro confirmed Sunday that Corey Comperatore, 50, had died a hero, using his body as a shield to protect both his wife and daughter from the bullets.

His wife shared with me that he dove on his family to protect them, Shapiro said.

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden extended their deepest condolences to Comperatores family.

He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired and he lost his life, God love him. Were also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured, Biden said.

At least two other people were injured during the attempt to kill Trump at Saturdays rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Those two have been identified as David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania State Police. Both were listed in stable condition as of Sunday.

Separately, Texas U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson said in a statement Sunday that his nephew was injured but thankfully his injury was not serious.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking, Jackson said. They heard shots ringing out  my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck. He was treated by the providers in the medical tent.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue.

The former president was showing off a chart of border-crossing numbers when at least five shots were fired. Trump was seen holding his ear and got down on the ground. Agents quickly created a shield around him. When he stood, his face bloodied, he pumped his fist to cheering supporters

Randy Reamer, president of the Buffalo Township volunteer fire company, called Comperatore a stand-up guy and a true brother of the fire service. He said Comperatore served as chief of the company for about three years but was also a life member, meaning he had served for more than 20 years.

Just a great all-around guy, always willing to help someone out, Reamer said of Comperatore. He definitely stood up for what he believed in, never backed down to anyone.  He was a really good guy.

A crew was power-washing the front of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company on Sunday with plans to install memorial drapery to honor the slain former chief.

Assistant Chief Ricky Heasley of Sarver, who knew him for more than a decade, remembered him as very outgoing and full of life.

He never had a bad word, Heasley said.

A GoFundMe launched to support Comperatores family had already surpassed more than $180,000 in donations as of Sunday.

46 1 / 46 Donald Trump rally ended by shooting in Butler, Pa.

~ Story By Ron Todt, Marc Scolforo and Kimberlee Kruesi
A thick layer of suds covers Tammy Sytch as she lounges in a bubble bath.

Tonight contains material of a graphic nature, she says in the soft glow of candlelight.

The girl from an Old Bridge trailer park is playing Sunny, a fresh face on the cusp of stardom. Shes performing in the cold open of a 1996 World Wrestling Federation broadcast filmed in Vince McMahons Greenwich, Connecticut mansion.

Tammy reaches for a glass of champagne as guitar bends play in the background.

Viewer indiscretion  I mean, discretion  is advised, she says knowingly.

At 23, Tammy is going viral before the zeitgeist even has the word to describe it. But the line between the honor student she once was and the provocative character Sunny has become is starting to blur.

Tammy is beginning to lose herself.



For a fleeting moment in the mid-1990s, Tammy Sytch was the Jersey girl who had it all.

She was a female star in a mans world, engineering her own improbable rise through beauty, brains and bravado. A woman so desirable that fans wore her face on T-shirts  and their hearts.

She was pro wrestlings original diva, a trailblazing, 90s sex symbol and self-made pioneer for women in pro wrestling. She was also the first internet queen: the most downloaded human on America Online.

Entertainment Tonight came calling. Tammy glowed on MTV. And she graced magazine covers as one of the biggest wrestling stars of her generation  even if she never actually wrestled.

The whole nation knew who she was, said Claudia Pace, Tammys cheerleading coach at Cedar Ridge High School in Old Bridge.

But she was already teetering on the brink of ruin.

An addict at 24. Banished at 26. Bankrupt at 32. There was rehab. Seven DUI arrests. A turn in adult entertainment. And the sudden death of Chris Candito, 33, her partner in life and in pro wrestling, in 2005.

She had become a star when people her age were still in college. But with her success came crushing expectations in an industry that didnt care who it ruined.

This is a tragedy, said Vince Russo, a former producer and writer with the WWF, which rechristened itself World Wrestling Entertainment in 2002. This is a horrible, horrible story The wrestling business has a lot to do with it.

Last November, Tammy finally hit bottom. Draped in an orange jumpsuit, she listened as a Florida judge handed down her judgment: 17 years in prison for pleading no contest to driving under the influence causing death. Police say she was speeding and intoxicated in March 2022 when she slammed into a car driven by Fran Lasseter Jr., a 75-year-old grandfather, killing him.

Tammy, now 51, was stoic as the judge spoke. No letters were read in her support. Not a single family member came to say goodbye. The WWFs girl-next-door had been recast as a real-life villain.

Thats a stranger to me. I dont know that person, said Paul Bykow, a Barnegat resident and former pro wrestler who was once so close to Tammy he thought of her like a sister. It just breaks my heart.

By then, Tammy had been labeled the fing devil by some former colleagues and friends after a series of arrests, bitter feuds, and racist and homophobic social media posts.

But even those who know Tammy well cant seem to agree on who she is  or whether she was playing a role all along.

Was Sunny an extension of Tammy? Did the character absorb the person? Or did the toxic environment of pro wrestling claim yet another victim, another woman used and discarded?

Tammy was shrewder than Sunny. Tammy was smarter than Sunny. Tammy was nicer than Sunny said Tom Buchanan, the former WWF head photographer. So theres a difference there.

And thats always an interesting part of the professional wrestling business: Whats real and whats not?

Who is the real Tammy? And how did she end up like this?

As an investigative journalist who has previously covered the dark side of pro wrestling, I wanted to understand who the real Tammy was. Over the course of six months, I contacted 35 sources  family, friends, colleagues, detractors  and even added money to her county jail account so we could correspond.

I learned theres a complex woman cloaked beneath her famous skin. I was told she can be charming and kind, cruel and capricious. And I discovered how the overt misogyny and objectification of the 1990s pro wrestling scene shaped both Tammy and her reputation.

But a compelling mystery remained, begging painful questions:

Who is the real Tammy?

And how did she end up like this?

Not even Tammy has the answers. Because, in some ways, the woman behind the character no longer exists.

Chapter 1

Tammy doesnt want to talk.

Its Nov. 13, 2023, and shes been locked in a jail cell for 550 days.

Her sentencing looms in two weeks. And she doesnt know how much more of her life will be spent behind bars.

Im so nervous and depressed about it, she writes in a message to me from Volusia County Jail in Daytona Beach, Florida. This isnt the easiest thing in the world ya know. Its not like a walk in the park.

Tammy and I have exchanged about 25 messages since March 2023. At one point, she agreed to an introductory collect phone call, but never rang. She later said she would answer written questions, but never responded.

So I pieced together a detailed portrait of her life from the people who knew her intimately. Even among them, the former Cedar Ridge cheerleader had become a disheveled stranger in an infamous mugshot. A name that inspired former friends to hang up the phone.

When I told Tammy I had reached out to her family and friends about the forces and factors that shaped her life, she said she wished I hadnt.

She wasnt the only one.

This is a horrible, horrible story The wrestling business has a lot to do with it. Vince Russo, former WWF producer and writer

Her sister Denise declined to comment on behalf of Tammys three siblings. Her uncle Andre said he couldnt help me and hung up. Canditos family declined to speak, still too angry and raw to discuss her.

And one former friend declined to comment, but texted me a screenshot of the common signs of a psychopath.

She just alienated everybody, said PJ Polaco, who first met Tammy in the WWF while playing Aldo Montoya, the Portuguese Man-o-War. Anybody you could alienate. I mean, she was ruthless at times.

Yet others knew a different Tammy.

She was very, very sweet and well-liked, Pace said.

Dont make it a trash piece, said Bykow, who met Tammy at the height of her fame and watched her gently braid his daughters hair. In everybodys eyes, its usually more bad than good. And its just not so.

Who is the real Tammy Sytch?

The answer doesnt lie in a concrete cell or a prison dorm. So I went searching.

Chapter 2

Many of the cornerstones of Tammys life have been erased one by one.

The trailer park where she spent her early years? Razed. The high school she attended? Folded into the new Old Bridge High. The man she called the love of her life? Long dead.

What survived are artifacts, disparate clues providing one-dimensional glimpses into the prism of Tammys complicated life.

There were the interviews she gave, likely numbering in the hundreds over the years. But even Tammys words only deepened the mystery.

What you see on TV, the Sunny character, its not a character. Thats me just exaggerated a little bit, she said in a 2008 interview with Pro Wrestling Report.

But five years later, she proclaimed so much of what she says in interviews is nonsense.

Do you know how many shoot interviews Ive done  that Ive completely made up stories to make it sound interesting? she asked.

So I started in Old Bridge, a place where Tammy is known as a person first and a wrestling character second.

The outgoing teenager was headed to the University of Miami  or so she thought  as a top student at Cedar Ridge. She compiled one of the longest lists of extracurriculars in the Class of 1990.

Cheerleading co-captain. Co-editor of the yearbook. Prom committee. Baseball scorekeeper. Ski club. National Honor Society. Student Council. She spent Friday afternoons teaching special education students how to swim.

Pace noticed no red flags, no warning signs that Tammys life would go off the rails.

The Tammy I knew was very wholesome, she said.

But Pace did notice one unusual quirk: Tammy loved talking about professional wrestling.

She just alienated everybody. I mean, she was ruthless at times. PJ Polaco, who wrestled as Aldo Montoya

Then came the night of June 2, 1990  the night Tammy met Candito. An independent wrestling show in Old Bridge would change the trajectory of their lives. The Central Jersey teenagers fell in love that night after Candito, a Red Bank Catholic senior, wrestled. And in the months that followed, Tammy decided to forego Miami and follow Candito as he pursued his dreams on the unforgiving wrestling circuit.

I often wonder what would have happened if she didnt go to that wrestling match that night, said a childhood friend of Tammys who requested anonymity to protect their privacy. I feel like her whole personality changed.

Tammy had been fun and easy going, a Jersey girl who loved hanging out at the beach, that friend said. But after meeting Candito, Tammy was  different. Their relationship was intense, described by friends as codependency bordering on addiction.

She was a smart girl  She seemed driven. She seemed happy said the childhood friend. All I know is that the things that she used to do, she stopped doing.

Tammy found herself on the indie wrestling circuit, an ecosystem populated by dreamers, has-beens and never-would-bes, a motley crew bound by spilled blood and compensated in beer money and just enough gas to make it to the next show.

At its best, the early 90s scene produced future legends like Kane and Chris Jericho. At its worst, it was a path to addiction and lifelong injury.

In 1993, Tammy and Chris found themselves immersed in that world, working in Kentucky. Then an ambitious young promoter made Tammy a proposition one night over a plate of barbeque, according to her 2016 autobiography, A Star Shattered: The Rise & Fall & Rise of Wrestling Diva.

I need a girl, Jim Cornette said in his folksy twang.

The co-founder of Smoky Mountain Wrestling assigned 20-year-old Tammy a wrestling character so villainous, so deplorable, the people of Appalachia would instantly hate her: Cornette made her a Hillary Clinton lover.

Tammys brown eyes darted nervously, unsure exactly where to look while recording her first backstage interview as Tammy Fytch, of the fictionally prominent New England Fytches. But it was the first clue that Tammy could perform in front of the camera. And it was proof she could captivate an audience.

I am currently enrolled in Wellesley College, the same school that my personal idol Hillary Clinton attended, she said in a snooty tone. Mrs. Clinton has proven that a woman can do anything she wants.

Soon, the WWF was on the phone with a job offer for Tammy and Chris.

There was a young girl and young guy that came to Tennessee, and they had dreams, said Robert Smedley, who worked with them in Knoxville as the underdog wrestler Bobby Blaze.

Some dreams end up being nightmares, I guess.

Chapter 3

To the naked eye, pro wrestling is violence for the sake of violence, a bloody spectacle in barbarism masquerading as a pseudo-sport.

But Tammy saw heroes and villains performing cathartic stories of redemption and revenge. Action rising and falling like a symphony, played to the crescendo of a roaring crowd. Tragic flaws. Inner conflict. Betrayal lurking around every turnbuckle.

She found a kindred spirit in Candito (who wrestled as Chris Candido), a sculpted muscleman with bleached blond hair. To true connoisseurs, pro wrestling is an art form. To Tammy and Chris, it was Shakespeare in a steel cage.

And they came along in the mid-1990s just as the mighty WWF needed something new.

The promotion had come a long way from its huckster origins in the 1950s and the reign of Bruno Sammartino in the 60s and 70s. But pro wrestling was still regional, divided up geographically by rival promotions.

Then Vince McMahon took over the WWF in 1982 and made it a national brand. He got its events on syndicated TV, building a large audience and poaching talent from his rivals. Then he branched into network TV  Saturday Nights Main Event on NBC.

In so doing, he ushered in the Golden Age of pro wrestling, when Hulk Hogan, Andre the Giant and Macho Man Randy Savage ruled. Hogan became a crossover star, hosting Saturday Night Live and appearing in movies such as Rocky III and No Holds Barred. And McMahon conceived Wrestlemania, pro wrestlings answer to the Super Bowl, stocking it full of spectacle, drama and mainstream celebrities such as Muhammad Ali, Cyndi Lauper and Mr. T.

The audiences were extraordinarily diverse, said Sharon Mazer, a pro wrestling author and historian who attended shows at Madison Square Garden. Elderly men and women of all ethnicities, young families, gay white professional couples, groups of men  and women  who looked like bodybuilders complete with mullets. Everyone seemed to be in on the game.

But by 1995, the WWF had grown tired and cartoonish. Ratings were down. Scandals involving steroids and sexual harassment had stained its image. And Hogan and Savage were starring in World Championship Wrestling, a rival promotion owned by billionaire Ted Turner.

So the WWF needed fresh faces and new storylines. It viewed Chris among the next generation of talent. And Tammy brought sex appeal  a factor the WWF had underplayed in its PG-rated programming.

I often wonder what would have happened if she didnt go to that wrestling match that night. A childhood friend of Tammy's

Not that the producers knew what to do with her at first. The couple debuted as uberfit egomaniacs The Bodydonnas in a half-baked gimmick that christened her as Sunny.

The character as written was forgettable. But Tammy saw an opportunity.

She slipped out of the arena during a show that October in Rochester, New York. She abandoned Sunnys fitness instructor getup in favor of a black top and vest that revealed her previously covered cleavage and styled her mall bangs to anchor teased up hair, evoking another starlet of the moment, Pamela Anderson.

Tammy then posed on a bridge as the sun set.

Buchanan snapped photos, capturing a look that was edgy as heck for the WWF at the time, he said.

He wasnt supposed to shoot characters outside the aesthetic of their storylines. So his team posted the images where nobody who mattered in our company would ever see them, Buchanan thought.

America Online.

Sunny was suddenly thrust into the spotlight, becoming one of WWFs biggest stars as a manager, timekeeper, guest ring announcer or whatever the company could think up in the moment. She was soon followed by a series of female characters ordered to push boundaries in pursuit of higher ratings. But whether Tammy was a bold pioneer or a corporate pawn didnt matter to her fans. Tammy was Sunny now.

And Sunny was adored.

Often the person takes on a character and then becomes that character, Buchanan said, and they have a hard time separating that in real life

She played this character so long that it became part of her.

Chapter 4

The audience couldnt get enough of Sunny.

She was a character unlike anything the WWF had before. She was more charming than 1980s wrestler Wendi Richter. More dynamic than the brash manager Sherri Martel. More commanding than Savages manager Miss Elizabeth.

We were all really proud of her, said Pace, Tammys former cheerleading coach.

Those looking beyond the surface found more than a sex symbol. They saw savvy and intelligence in her personas construction, often the difference between a flash-in-the-pan wrestling sensation and a career with longevity.

Sunny turned the conventional manager character into a scheming, trash-talking personality all her own, according to Patrice Oppliger, a Boston University professor who studies professional wrestling.

They thought, Heres this really attractive blonde, naive, very young woman, Oppliger said. But she was surprisingly empowered to take on her persona and work the microphone the way she wanted to.

In a year, Tammy had established herself as a star, eventually earning a salary well into the six figures. She became a central figure in the companys pivot toward more adult programming as the WWF waged war with WCW.

We needed her, said Russo, the former WWF producer. Manager, timekeeper, guest ring announcer  it was very, very important to get her on TV during that time. She was a big draw.

She played this character so long that it became part of her. Tom Buchanan, former WWF head photographer

Her wrestling appeal soon became crossover appeal. MTV invited Sunny on its hit dating show Singled Out, where she appeared in character wearing a leopard print dress. In 1997, Entertainment Tonight host Bob Goen profiled Sunny, whose photos had been downloaded more than 1 million times by that point, making her the most downloaded pinup girl in history, he reported.

Youre on these shows and the cover of magazines  Nobody prepares you for that, Polaco said. If youre not a well-adapted human at a young age, that could get anybody.

At 23, Tammy was a catalyst in growing two iconic businesses of the 1990s. The WWF had a partnership with American Online, which was in the midst of sending free trial discs to every American home. The more minutes the WWF enticed people to stay online, the more AOL paid the company.

Sunny quickly became the face of WWFs AOL page, smiling in promotional ads in an unbuttoned gold blouse. Soon there were bikini photo shoots. Then lingerie shoots that rivaled Maxim and FHM covers.

All I really had to do was let Sunny be Sunny, Buchanan said.

Tammy and Chris bought a boat and once took his longtime friend Jim Heaney jet skiing. Heaney was never fond of Tammy. But for a few hours in the sun, he saw a relaxed and fun woman.

I think that was the genuine person that she is  or was, said Heaney, who wrestled as Jimmy Shoulders in several promotions.

I never saw it again.

Chapter 5

By 1997, Sunny was a bona fide star. But off-camera, Tammy was unraveling.

She had begun to lose herself in a haze of drugs and backstage feuds.

Success. Money. Access to things. That really magnifies who you are, Heaney said. And if you dont have your flaws in check, your demons in check, theyre going to get magnified.

Tammys drinking and abuse of muscle relaxers had reached monumental levels by her own estimate. She began falling asleep during dinners. She slurred her words and became belligerent. Company officials questioned whether she could be counted on to perform.

But the WWF trailed WCW in the ratings. It needed Sunny to be an incandescent headliner.

Do you know how much pressure that was? said Bykow, a friend of Tammys. A lot of people dont realize she lost her friggin innocence  because she went through this business so young.

Tammy seemed lost in the void between what Sunny was and what Tammy wanted to be. Sunny symbolized arrogance and sex. Tammy yearned for more: to be respected and an essential part of storylines, not merely eye candy.

Everybody thinks its glamour and glitz and glory, and its not, Russo said. There is a horrible underbelly to the wrestling business that (Tammy and Chris) fell victim to.

If youre straight out of high school, 21, 22 years old, the wrestling business is probably the absolute worst business that you could get into, he added.

Tammy would eventually bear little resemblance to the quiet and demure woman she once was, according to Mike Lano, a longtime wrestling photographer who knew her and Chris when they were teenagers.

She went from shy in real life to this character  maybe based on some elements of herself but magnified, ramped up  to then those elements of her character are starting to change her own personality, he said.

As Tammy became less reliable, she railed against the very phenomenon she had started. She waged war in the media with her female rivals and her WWF bosses for exploiting womens bodies to boost ratings and sell tickets.

We needed her. She was a big draw. Vince Russo, former WWF producer and writer

You dont try to sell sex to sell wrestling, do you? the host of a popular Canadian sports talk show once asked her.

No, Tammy said in character as Sunny. But the boss does.

A WWE spokesperson did not respond to my request to interview McMahon in late 2023. McMahon resigned from the company weeks later after a lawsuit filed by a former employee accused him of sexual misconduct.

Tammy repeatedly ripped Sable, played by Rena Mero and one of the first women to piggyback off her success. The unrelenting campaign went so far, WWF officials warned Tammy to stop publicly criticizing Sable. Instead she doubled down on her attacks, calling Mero Miss Anti-Personality.

While Tammy embraced the spoils of the ultimate mans world, she found she was being judged by a different set of rules.

A series of high-profile liaisons  including an infamous nine-month relationship with Shawn Michaels, the companys top draw  destroyed her reputation among her colleagues, even as Michaels star took no meaningful hit.

Some wrestlers felt bad for Chris, who had quit the WWF after his character failed and he broke his neck in 1996. Tammy insisted she and Chris were on a break during this period.

The way she had treated Chris at times was very toxic, almost bullying, Polaco said. That was just her being her  that was her demeanor. You saw a different side of her, for sure.

Other wrestlers resented Tammy for taking air time and promotional space from them, according to Russo. In their eyes, this was just one more reason to condemn her.

Regardless, the affair with Michaels cemented what would become a pattern in the minds of wrestling fans: Tammy was a troublemaker.

By early 1999, the WWFs new, sexier direction was finally paying off. The company seized a commanding lead in the TV ratings  thanks in part to the wave of women who followed Sunny, like Sable and Chyna, and new stars such as The Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. But Tammy wouldnt be there to see it.

Her drug use, unreliability and boorish behavior had undermined all she created. In the middle of 1998, she was released from her contract.

Her run on top had lasted just 39 months.

Chapter 6

Tears streamed down Tammys face as she stared at the floor, unable to look into the camera.

There were some nights that I was hoping I wouldnt wake up the next morning, she said. Its the worst feeling in the world  to know that you dont care if you wake up in the next morning or not.

The reality-blurring TV interview about her drug use debuted in late 1999 during an Extreme Championship Wrestling segment billed as an expose.

The following week, Tammys real life problems were mocked as part of an ECW storyline in which wrestler Lance Storm called her a has-been. She was 26.

Just a few months later, her career in wrestling was all but over. A spiraling Tammy had been granted her release from ECW, then was fired by WCW.

Tammy would never have a regular role in a major American wrestling promotion again.

She was Sunny. She was on top, Bykow said. To have that taken away from you, its a blow to your ego and your self worth.

By then, the Sunny persona seemed to take over the real person, according to some in the industry.

She definitely got more difficult to be around, said Bykow, who wrestled in ECW as The Equalizer. She was a lot more arrogant and sloppy. She wasnt her usual self, shining like a star.

As their careers crumbled, Tammy and Chris were forced to sell their four-bedroom, four-bathroom McMansion in Freehold Township. The couple  back together  moved in with her mother in Old Bridge. Tammy also sold her original breast implants on eBay in 1999 for $11,999.99, according to published reports. Later, she took a job at a strip mall tanning salon.

Success. Money. Access to things. If you dont have your demons in check, theyre going to get magnified. Jim Heaney, a friend of Chris Candito

The wrestling industry was eager to capitalize on what Sunny offered its predominantly male audience. And when she no longer captivated it? It tossed her aside.

Depression pushed Tammys drinking to epic proportions. One binge left her in Atlantic City Medical Center with her kidney and liver failing from pancreatitis. Doctors told her family she might not make it through another night.

She seemed headed down the path of countless pro wrestling stars lost to substance abuse. Women certainly werent immune, including Miss Elizabeth, Chyna, Sherri Martel and Luna Vachon, all of whom died of drug overdoses between 2003 and 2016.

Chris was sinking too. By 2004, he couldnt find work because of drug use and was forced to get clean.

He then shattered two bones in his leg during a steel cage match on April 24, 2005 with Total Nonstop Action, an up-and-coming promotion. He hobbled to ringside on crutches two days later to appear on the next TV taping  his final appearance in professional wrestling.

The following evening, he was so weak he could barely breathe. He died the next day from pneumonia.

His devastated family blames Tammy.

Christophers biggest problem, and the reason for 99% of his actions and issues was his involvement with Tammy, his father Donald Candito said in an interview for a 2021 book, Chris Candido: No Gimmicks Needed. All I will say here is that if Tammy never entered his life, he would be alive and happy today, and she knows it.

At 32, Tammy was devastated and adrift.

We lost Tammy when we lost Chris, Bykow said. Her spirit died along with him.

Chapter 7

Maybe it was grief. Maybe it was guilt. But something broke inside Tammy in the years after Chris died.

Her partner was gone. So was the money, forcing her to file for bankruptcy. And Tammy was confronted with vicious ridicule from former friends, rivals and complete strangers. They criticized her for Chris death. For feuding with Sable. For gaining weight. For her addictions.

That couldnt have helped her mental state having these crowds who one minute love her and then the next minute theyre calling her a crack whore as shes struggling through addiction, Oppliger said.

Maybe all that was left was Sunny.

About three months after Chris died, the arrests began, revealing the depths of her pain and addiction.

A DUI after a Bret Michaels concert at a Jersey Shore venue. Six months later, another DUI. In 2012, Tammy was arrested three times in one week in Connecticut for choking her then-boyfriend and then twice violating a protective order. A month later, she was arrested for violating the order yet again.

Two more DUIs and a parole violation forced Tammy back behind bars in 2016 and part of 2017.

Tammy, when alcohol is not involved, is the sweetest, nicest, most genuine person you ever want to meet, said attorney Rob Serafinowicz, who became a close friend after he represented her pro bono around this time.

But there might have been more to it than that.

We lost Tammy when we lost Chris. Her spirit died along with him. Paul Bykow, former pro wrestler

Tammy would lash out at former colleagues and friends. She criticized the next generation of women wrestlers on social media. She made headlines for allegedly using the hashtag, #WhitePower, and a derogatory slur for gay men on Twitter (she would later apologize and say her account had been hacked).

And every time things would calm down, every time Tammys name would finally vanish from the headlines, another self-inflicted incident seemed to erupt. It appeared the need for attention  any kind of attention  drove her.

If I dont see my name out there as much, yeah, I will stir up a little stuff on social media and, you know, spark the flame, Tammy said in a 2018 interview. And it works every single time. Like these people just, like, feed into it.

So, I mean, like I said, I dont care if people are talking good about me or talking bad about me. As long as theyre talking about me.

By then, Tammy crossed a line she said she would never cross. During the height of her fame, she turned down an offer to pose nude in Playboy  even though the WWF encouraged it, she said  because it would compromise her values.

Its hard being No. 1 and then dropping to nonexistence because someone is willing to take off more clothes than you are, she said in a 1999 interview just after Mero graced the Playboy cover.

But in 2001, Tammy co-founded and posed for her own adult website. In 2016, she starred in the adult film, Sunny Side Up.

The stigma of pornography only added to the perception she was spiraling.

Heaney thinks a broken Tammy regressed to the most successful moment in her life: when she was Sunny. Bykow thinks his old friend just lost herself.

I really dont think she had a plan after wrestling, he said. In her head, she was going to be Sunny forever.

Then came the evening of March 25, 2022. Tammy was in Florida, eating leftover burritos and drinking vodka when she decided to drive to Wawa.

Chapter 8

Tammy was asleep in May 2022 when the cops gathered outside her door.

There were 10 of them huddled around Room 733 at The Hard Rock Hotel on a warm Daytona Beach night. Their target: a tortured soul with blonde hair and brown eyes.

The police threw open the door, and an officer pulled the sheets off Tammy as she lifted her head from the pillow.

Whoa, whoa, whoa. Wait, wait, wait, she said as an officer reached for her wrists. Whats going on?

Youre under arrest, he said coldly.

Six weeks earlier, she had gotten behind the wheel of her white 2012 Mercedes Benz  without owning a drivers license  and plowed into traffic waiting at a red light. She hit a black Kia with such force, her sedan propelled the car into the back of a GMC Yukon, according to the prosecutors office. Fran Lasseter Jr., the man driving the Kia, died in the crash.

As first responders sorted through the twisted metal and shattered glass, they found Tammy barely conscious in the drivers seat of the Mercedes, an open bottle of Grey Goose vodka next to her. Blood drawn by police four hours after the crash showed she had a blood alcohol concentration of .28, more than three times Floridas legal limit. A sample taken by the hospital an hour after the collision revealed her BAC was at least .32 and may have been as high as .36.

And now she was being escorted by police to the hotels elevator bank in her sleepwear, a fallen star on public display in the seventh-floor hallway. She had a chance to show remorse, to start to atone for her recklessness. Instead, hands cuffed, hair bedraggled, she refused to concede a single inch.

She turned to the officers, glaring through her fake eyelashes.

Did you guys just, like, let yourself in? she asked in disgust.

There were some nights that I was hoping I wouldnt wake up the next morning. Tammy Sytch

Some 20 months later, a gentler Tammy Sytch stood in a Florida courtroom, shackled and sniffling back tears.

A precious life was lost that tragic day, she said, her usually confident voice gone shaky. And Im so incredibly sorry.

Her fall was complete. Her name was synonymous with disgrace.

Tammy asked for leniency. Mental health experts testified that she was battling PTSD from Chris death and had been living with undiagnosed and untreated bipolar disorder.

I have done something horrible, she said through tears. But I am so much more than the worst that I have done.

The judge was unmoved. She sentenced her to 17 years in prison. In Florida, there is no parole, and inmates must serve at least 85% of their sentences.

For the foreseeable future, Tammy will be Inmate J82154.

No one argues what drove Tammy. Fame  the pursuit of it, the bliss of it, the quest to reclaim it  propelled her for more than 30 years. It shaped her and warped her in ways only she understands  and perhaps in ways she never will.

Friends and family have turned their backs on Tammy, exhausted by the selfishness, the arrogance, the arrests. Turned off by Sunny.

Now Tammy is a bleach blonde emblem of the dark side of American culture. Created by an insatiable demand for sex and downloads. Hooked on pills, booze and fame. Objectified, devoured and discarded.

But every woman who rose to stardom in pro wrestling since Tammy owes her a debt. She blazed the path. And for a short time, she owned her own piece of the wrestling world.

Epilogue

I decided to try Tammy one last time.

Nearly six months after her sentencing, I hoped she would be ready to reflect on her past and consider her future. So I wrote to her in May after her transfer to Lowell Correctional Institution in Ocala, Florida.

Im currently in the infirmary, Tammy wrote back, complaining of a blood clot that had gone untreated for several weeks, she said.

A week later, she directed me to a TMZ headline about her lack of medical care.

The story could have been yours, she wrote, but you wanted to focus on the story you were already doing. lol.

It was her final response.

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Adam Clark may be reached at aclark@njadvancemedia.com.
A civil rights group states it will file a complaint if a Slate Belt community doesnt repeal a recently passed ordinance that deals with discharging of weapons.

Pen Argyl Borough Council voted July 2 to pass Ordinance 732, which increases the fine for discharging a weapon within the borough from $50 to $1,000 and includes fines for people who allow shooting on their property.

The borough code already prohibited anyone from discharging a weapon in the borough.

Attorney Joshua Prince from the Civil Rights Defense Firm sent a letter to borough officials stating that he has been retained by Firearm Owners Against Crime-Institute for Legal, Legislative and Educational Action regarding the ordinance.

The FOAC-ILLEA website lists Prince as chief counsel of that organization.

Prince states, The proposed ordinance is unlawful and its enactment constitutes a criminal offense.

Princes letter cites multiple court rulings that make it crystal clear that only the Pennsylvania General Assembly can regulate firearms.

However, Pen Argyl Borough solicitor Peter Layman said Prince points to Pennsylvania law that states no municipality may regulate the ownership, possession, transfer or transportation of firearms.

Pen Argyls ordinance does not prohibit any of those things, Layman said.

Weve made no attempt to do that, Layman said.

Layman pointed to a February Pennsylvania Supreme Court ruling regarding Stroud Township in Monroe County.

The states highest court ruled the Stroud Township ordinance that restricts firing guns to indoor and outdoor ranges does not violate the Second Amendment.

The case is not nearly as crystal clear as attorney Prince thinks it, Layman said.

Layman said he is preparing a memo for borough council to consider.

Prince stated he plans to file criminal complaints against the borough and its elected officials if it does not immediately repeal the ordinance. He asked that the borough advise him within 14 days of his letter dated July 8.

Weapons are defined in the borough code as firearms, including rifles, shotguns, pistols, or any weapon that can fire a projectile by use of an explosive charge. Weapons also include air rifles, air pistols, spring-loaded guns, bows, crossbows, and slingshots.

The prohibition of discharging weapons does not include those legally hunting and does not include lawfully approved firing ranges or archery ranges.

Please subscribe now and support the local journalism YOU rely on and trust.

John Best is a freelance contributor to lehighvalleylive.com.
A drunk driver drove from Kerry in his BMW with a bottle of whisky beside him before coming to a standstill in Laois at the M7/M8 toll booth.

The case of Tomas Wojas, aged 34, 13 Green, Bawnogue, Clondalkin, Dublin, came before Portlaoise District Court on July 11 arising from an incident in the run up to last Christmas.

Garda Rebecca Gavin gave evidence to Portlaoise that on 15 December 2023 she received a report at 4pm to attend the M7/M8 toll plaza where there was an intoxicated male driving a BMW 530 series.

On arrival at the scene at 4.15pm, she said poll plaza staff Shauna Harrington and Breda Bergin had informed her that the vehicle had driven into the self-service payment bay.

She was informed that there was a backlog behind the BMW so staff checked on the driver. On checking they found the driver to be very disoriented and strongly smelling of alcohol. This caused gardai to be alerted.

Garda Gavin told Judge Andrew Cody that when she began to speak with the driver he seemed disoriented and also got a strong smell of alcohol. He told her his name but she noticed that his speech was slurred and his breath smelled strongly of alcohol.

She arrested him and conveyed him to Portlaoise Garda Station. Garda Gavin told the judge that the accused had told Gardai in the patrol car that he had travelled from Kerry that day.

Alcohol breath testing equipment was not working in the station so a doctor was called to take a sample of blood or urine at 6.44pm.

The resulting blood sample subsequently showed a reading of 307mg per 100 ml of blood which is three times the legal limit.

CCTV was available to the judge as evidence while toll booth staff were also present as witnesses.

Ms Harrington, a toll booth supervisor, took the stand. She told the judge that the driver was very intoxicated and unable to string a sentence together. She said she saw what she believed there was a bottle of what appeared to be whisky on the passenger seat.

She said a dision was made to call gardai as it would have been their responsibility if he went up the road and killed somebody.

Garda Gavin said Mr Wojas was convicted of drunk driving in 2015 and banned for three years. He also has previous no insurance convictions.

Commenting before sentencing, Judge Cody said the driver was just drunk but had to be absolutely paralytic given the reading in the blood sample.

He added that it was very fortunate that people "were not killed" by a driver who drove from Kerry with a bottle of whiskey in the passenger seat.

Convicting Mr Wojas, the judge banned him for 10 years and fined him 2,500.

No defence was offered in court for the accused.
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USE THE ARROWS OR 'NEXT' TO BROWSE THROUGH THE FULL GALLERY

The announcement of over 4million funding for rural development projects in Laois was celebrated at the official launch of the LEADER Local Development Strategy 2023  2027. Members of the community from across County Laois and beyond attended a packed event in the Laois Partnership Company headquarters on the New Road in Portlaoise. CONTINUE READING BELOW PHOTO

LEADER programme team at LPC from l  R Suzanne Wallace (Project officer); Brian Killian (Project officer); Brian Kelly (Rural Development Programmes Manager); Michelle Cummins (Admin officer)

At the event they were welcomed by Laois Partnership Company CEO Caroline Lydon who was MC for the evening.

Chairman, Laurence Phelan, outlined the companys steadfast commitment to a bottom-up, community approach. He acknowledged the importance of ongoing collaborations with other agencies, particularly Laois County Council, in supporting local development projects across the County.



The audience were then given a detailed overview of the LEADER strategy by Rural Development Programmes Manager Brian Kelly, who explained that the LEADER programme has been operating in Ireland and across EU Member States since 1991,

with a keen focus on rural development.

LEADER is a community-led approach to local development funded through Irelands CAP Strategic Plan 2023  2027, financed by the European Agricultural Fund for Rural Development (EAFRD) with funding administered via the Department of Rural and

Community Development (DRCD).

During the presentation, two previous beneficiaries of the LEADER project were introduced, so that they could share their experience and tips with other potential applicants.

The first was Johanna Steenkist of Camross Parish Development Association, who received 70,691 grant aid to assist with the fit-out of a community building in Camross as a multipurpose village hub. Johanna delivered an informative presentation on the boon to the village that this funding provided, with the natural allure of Camross Community Park also highlighted.

A further presentation was made by Barry Fingleton, who along with his wife Kyra runs the award-winning holiday destination Glamping Under The Stars. Like the Camross Parish Development Association, this thriving local business was a recipient of LEADER support under the 2014  2020 scheme, and Barry shared images from this picturesque

retreat in the Cullenagh area of Portlaoise.





The onsite launch of the strategy was followed by an online launch event, at which David Walsh-Kemmis of Ballykilcavan Brewing Company, another past recipient of LEADER support, gave a presentation on this family-owned farm and brewery based near Stradbally.



Attendees received a copy of the Summary Document, outlining the themes and subthemes that will be supported during the lifetime of this programme.

The new programme will build on the achievements of previous LEADER funding and will continue to support a wide range of sectors including farm diversification, small and medium enterprise, rural youth, heritage, town and village renewal, community facilities and amenities, renewable energy and environmental projects.



For more information on LEADER, or for a copy of this document, please contact leader@laoispartnership.ie.
InvestigationSince Yevgeny Prigozhin's death on August 23, 2023, the Russian Ministry of Defense has taken over the Wagner Group's activities in Africa. Among the many paramilitary units it supervises is the Bear Brigade, whose men made a conspicuous arrival in Burkina Faso.

The terrace of the Hotel Sonia offers a great view over Ouagadougou airport's runways. In late May, gone were the Western guests who used to frequent the new establishment in the center of the Burkinabe capital before Captain Ibrahim Traore took power on September 30, 2022.

Instead, they have been replaced by some 30 white men in fatigues, face masks and sunglasses. These paramilitary soldiers who let themselves be filmed belong to the Bear Brigade, a Russian private military company  a type of company officially forbidden in the country  under the Russian Ministry of Defense's supervision.

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Initially created in March 2023 in Crimea, the Bear Brigade is comprised of volunteer Russian soldiers. Grouped into different units, they serve alongside the regular army in the war in Ukraine and the Donbas. In images geotagged by Le Monde, some of its fighters can be seen training at the Perevalne camp in occupied Crimea, which was visited by Russian Deputy Defense Minister Yunus-bek Yevkurov on April 5, 2023.

In a message accompanied by photographs on its Telegram channel, the Bear Brigade claimed that Yevkurov had promised it "help and assistance." Less than two months later, on May 30, 2023, it officially became the "81st specialized volunteer brigade."

The shadow of Russian military intelligence

According to several analysts, it was around that time that the Bear Brigade grew closer to Redut, another private military company headed by Konstantin Mirzayants. Supervised by unit 35555 of the GRU Russian military intelligence, Redut is a semi-institutional framework used to incorporate groups of volunteer fighters like those of the Bear Brigade.

Read more Subscribers only How Russian intelligence services have taken over Wagner's operations in Africa

"'Bears' is not a PMC, not even a quasi-PMC in the sense that Wagner was. It is another instance of a semi-formalized structure that is controlled by [the Ministry of Defense], leveraged for advantage in recruitment, flexibility, and ability to draw resources from non-MoD sources," explained Jack Margolin, a US specialist in Russian non-state armed groups. Back in 2014, the same unit 35555 supplied the first elements of the Wagner Group in occupied Donbas with arms and ammunition.

Its contacts with Russian military intelligence do not stop there. In a video compilation posted on Telegram on May 31, Bear Brigade commander Viktor Yermolaev could be seen shaking hands with Vladimir Alekseyev, GRU's deputy director, at a medal ceremony.

Yet, the leaders of the Bear Brigade deny any ties to the Russian Ministry of Defense. Le Monde was able to speak to Yermolaev via encrypted messaging. A former biker with a notorious reputation in Russia, the airborne troop veteran served in Ukraine, Chechnya and Syria before taking command of this volunteer brigade.

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Huguette Bello in Saint-Denis, La Reunion, France, on February 26, 2022. BASTIEN DOUDAINE

Hopes of France's left-wing bloc finding a consensus candidate to lead the country's next government after an inconclusive snap election unraveled Sunday, July 14, as the best-placed contender dropped out. Several days of wrangling within the loose coalition produced little until the emergence of 73-year-old Huguette Bello, a former Communist MP and currently the president of the regional council in France's overseas territory La Reunion, as a possible consensus candidate.

Bello quickly got the backing of La France Insoumise (LFI, radical left), Communists and, it was thought, the Greens. But they could not bring on board the center-left Socialists, who have continued to back their party boss Olivier Faure for the job. In the face of Socialist resistance, Bello said Sunday that she would drop out.

In a statement, Bello said there was no consensus on her candidacy "among all members" of the NFP, notably the Socialists. "Hopeful of an early agreement within the NFP, I have decided to decline without further delay the offer that I was made," she said.

Read more French Socialists refuse to endorse former communist MP Huguette Bello as prime minister

Bello's withdrawal sends the left-wing alliance back to the drawing board. "There is no consensus name," the Socialists' number two, Pierre Jouvet, told Agence France-Presse, late Saturday.

The broad alliance of Socialists, Communists, Greens and LFI holds the largest number of seats in the Assemblee Nationale after last week's election runoff, but with 193 seats in the 577-seat lower chamber they are well short of a majority. The result, says the leftist bloc  called the Nouveau Front Populaire (NFP)  entitles it to pitch their candidate for prime minister to President Emmanuel Macron, whose allies trailed in the vote.

Macron, meanwhile, has ruled out a government role for either the LFI  the largest player in the NFP alliance  or the far-right RN in any new coalition. Macron's allies came second with 164 seats in the election, and the far-right Rassemblement National (RN) third at 143.

According to the Constitution, Macron appoints the prime minister, who should be able to survive a confidence motion in parliament. Outgoing Prime Minister Gabriel Attal is expected to submit his resignation again to Macron over the coming days, but the president could ask Attal to stay on as a caretaker while Paris hosts the Olympic Games starting July 26.

Read more Subscribers only Macron's decision to maintain Attal government is contested on both left and right
Two dairy farms planned for eastern North Dakota would more than quadruple the number of dairy cows in North Dakota and provide a dramatic shift to the livestock industry in a state that has fallen behind its neighbors in animal agriculture.

Riverview Dairy, based in Morris, Minnesota, hopes to build a 25,000-cow dairy farm southeast of Hillsboro in Traill County and a 12,500-head dairy north of Wahpeton in Richland County, according to the North Dakota Monitor.

The Traill County dairy would create about 100 jobs and the Richland Dairy 45 to 50 jobs, Riverview officials said.

Riverview held an open house Tuesday in Halstad, Minnesota, the closest community to the proposed Traill County dairy, to provide information and answer questions. It has not held a similar event for the Richland County project.

Traill is an estimated $180 million project and Richland is at $90 million.

Jim Murphy of the Traill County Economic Development Commission called it a once-in-a-lifetime event for any community.

Randy Paulsrud is a neighbor who rents the land. He said at first he wasnt happy about losing a section of land that he farms for a dairy but now is interested in selling feed to the dairy and buying manure to fertilize other nearby fields.

Im on board with it, Paulsrud said. He said he toured Riverviews dairy near Gary, Minnesota, and came away impressed, with no concern about odor from covered manure pits.

Oh man, it was clean, he said.

Martha Koehl, Riverview spokesperson, said the cows will be kept in climate-controlled barns and milking machines will operate 22 hours a day, with the other two hours for cleaning.

Koehl said the projects are contingent on Riverview finding a market for the milk they produce. She could not offer a definitive timeline for when construction and operations might begin.

North Dakotas dairy industry has been dwindling for decades, shrinking to about 10,000 dairy cows and just 24 dairy farms.

State Rep. Dawson Holle, R-Mandan, who operates one of North Dakotas larger dairy farms, said he has mixed feelings about the mega-dairy.

Im very concerned when it is a corporate farm that is coming in, not a family farm, said Holle, who operates an 1,100-cow dairy farm.

Riverview is technically not a corporation, but is a limited liability partnership. It has built other large dairy farms in Minnesota and also has plans for one at DeSmet, South Dakota.

Loosening North Dakotas restrictions on corporate farm ownership for livestock operations was one of the goals for Gov. Doug Burgum going into the 2023 legislative session.

The Legislature passed a bill that made it easier to bring in outside capital in modern livestock operations that have become major investments.

North Dakota Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring said Riverviews business structure would have allowed it to operate in the state even without the changes. But he added the bill sent a message that the state is receptive to livestock projects.

Holle was among those who voted against the corporate farm changes. Rep. Mike Beltz, R-Hillsboro, voted in favor and gave some credit to the changes for bringing the dairy to his home district.

The Legislature also passed a bill to support infrastructure projects related to agribusiness development. Beltz said that could be tapped to help pay for improving the 1-mile road that would connect the Traill County dairy to North Dakota Highway 200 and possibly for utility work.

Theres some opportunities for some infrastructure work around the site, Beltz said.

The Traill dairy will be called Herberg Dairy for Herberg Township and is planned just south of North Dakota Highway 200 near the Red River, about 7 miles east of Interstate 29.

The Richland site would be in Abercrombie Township and called Abercrombie Dairy, about 7 miles north of Wahpeton. Riverview has already applied for a permit with the North Dakota Department of Environmental Quality for that project.

Todd Leake of Grand Forks County questioned whether state regulators are equipped to enforce environmental regulations for concentrated animal feeding operations.

Amber Wood, executive director of the North Dakota Livestock Alliance, has been working to stimulate animal agriculture in the state.

She said she expects the growth in the dairy industry to continue to be along the Interstate 29 corridor, where there is better access to milk processing and livestock feed.

Ethanol plants, sugar beet processing plants and new soybean crushing plants at Casselton and Jamestown all provide byproducts that can be used to feed livestock.

American Crystal Sugar has a beet plant at Hillsboro. Minn-Dak Farmers Cooperative has its only beet processing plant at Wahpeton.

Cattle absolutely love beet pulp, Wood said.

Koehl said beet pulp and soybean could be part of the feed ration that will be primarily corn and alfalfa hay.

A state Agriculture Department map of dairy farms shows none operating in Traill County and one in Richland.

Morton County, home to the iconic Salem Sue dairy cow statue along Interstate 94 west of Bismarck, is down to just four dairy farms, including Holles.

While North Dakotas dairy industry has been shrinking for decades, the situation turned even more dire in 2023 when Prairie Farms Dairy closed its milk processing operation in Bismarck.

Holle said that is forcing him and others to send milk to a cheese plant in Pollock, South Dakota, nearly 90 miles south of Bismarck.

Holle said milk used for cheese production has a lower price than fluid milk and the extra freight cuts into profits.

A lot of the dairy farmers are crunching the numbers and wondering what their future is, Holle said.

North Dakota has fallen far behind neighboring states in the livestock sector and especially in dairy.

South Dakota put an emphasis on animal agriculture under Gov. Dennis Daugaard, who served from 2011 to 2019, and its dairy cow numbers rebounded. South Dakota went from 96,000 dairy cows in 2000 to 187,000 in 2023, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Holle said the North Dakota Department of Agriculture hasnt done enough to support dairy farming.

They can say that theyre doing a lot for farmers in North Dakota, which they are, but theyre not doing a lot for animal ag in North Dakota, Holle said.

There isnt a lot that we can do, Goehring said. I mean, short of the Legislature wanting to do something more like build a processing facility, but I dont see that happening either.

He said the department can try to address some issues, but its a difficult challenge.

A key resource for large dairies is water supply, needing 28 to 30 gallons of water per cow each day, Koehl said. That would equal at least 700,000 gallons of water per day for the Traill County site and 350,000 gallons per day for the Richland site.

Koehl said the Riverview farms squeeze the liquid out of the manure, which can be piped to farm fields for fertilizer. The solids from the manure are dried and used for animal bedding.

Koehl said the Traill dairy would fill 22 tanker loads of milk at about 7,900 gallons per tanker -- more than 170,000 gallons per day.

Beltz said he was impressed by a tour of a Riverview dairy in Minnesota.

You wouldnt know you were standing on a site with that many animals, Beltz said. Theyve been here for a while. They know how to do it right.
IT WASNT just sixth class pupils who were moving onto new experiences at the end of the school term in Scoil Mhuire Murroe as four staff members also departed.

Principal Marie Griffin is retiring, as is Elizabeth OConnor. Deirdre Walters left after 41 years to take up a job-share for the coming year and Niamh Hickey is taking up a position in Anglesboro NS near where she lives.

All four were celebrated with an outdoor concert. Two new achievements - the Biodiversity Flag and the Active School Flag - were also raised on the day.

Deputy principal, Patricia Griffin said it was a momentous day as the school community gathered to bid farewell and honour Marie who has dedicated 23 years of her life in Scoil Mhuire Murroe.

It is with mixed emotions that we come together to celebrate Maries retirement - gratitude for all she has done for the school, sadness at her leaving and joy in knowing that she will embark on a new chapter in her life, said Patricia.

Marie dedicated her life to teaching - a remarkable 44 years imparting knowledge, skills, ethics and values to countless pupils and colleagues. After time spent in Thurles and Meelick, Marie came to Murroe in 2000 as principal.

She has led with unwavering dedication, passion and a commitment to excellence. She has been a role model for professionalism, integrity and ethical conduct. Her leadership has guided our school through many successes, said Patricia.

This includes the building of two phases of classrooms with the third phase underway. She also led the development of the running track at the back of the school.

The legacy Marie leaves behind is not just in the bricks and mortar of this school but in the lives of many she has touched and the seeds of knowledge and kindness she has planted, said Patricia.

The deputy principal concluded by saying: On behalf of the entire school community, I want to express our deepest gratitude to Marie for her timeless dedication, vision and boundless energy. We are grateful to her for the countless ways she has made a difference to Scoil Mhuire.

Patricia wished Marie happiness and fulfilment in all that she does next in life.

READ MORE: To the Limerick hurlers and management, thank you

In tune, Marie paid tributes to her three colleagues who are also leaving for pastures new.

She said Niamh Hickey joined in 2017.

She taught junior infants, third, fourth and fifth class. Niamhs fourth and fifth class had a science fair in November 2018. She and the principal worked with her class participating in the National Childrens Choir in 2019. Niamh has obtained a position in Anglesboro NS near her home in Galbally. We thank Niamh for her work in our school, said Marie.

Elizabeth OConnor, who started in Murroe in 1985, is retiring alongside Maie.

Elizabeth taught junior infants, second, third and fourth and has worked as a special education teacher. Elizabeth has led us in our Green School endeavours as we achieved our first flag for Litter & Waste, our second flag for Energy Awareness, our third flag for Water and our fourth for Travel and our most recent flag, the fifth green flag, Biodiversity.

"Elizabeth carried her interests in the environment to her Christmas concert with Eddie the Penguin Saves the World, said Marie, who added that Elizabeth has used her talents teaching recorder and conducting the choir at school Masses.

Her class has participated down through the years in the Hallelujah concert and in the Peace Proms concert. Elizabeth has taught second class again this year preparing them for First Holy Communion. She has been the maths co-ordinator in our school. She has always been a guide for young teachers in our school. As Elizabeth is retiring we wish to thank Elizabeth for her years of work in our school, said Marie.

Another lady with decades of service is Deirdre Walters who joined the staff in 1983 and has spent 41 years teaching in Murroe.

She began with junior infants and spent 24 years teaching the combined senior infants and first class group. She then moved from mainstream teaching into special education and has been a special education teacher since 2008 where Deirdre has worked both full-time in our school and also in a cluster arrangement with other schools, said Marie.

Deirdre drafted the visual arts policy for the school and was successful in obtaining the Artist in Residence Programme for the school.

She enabled all the children in the school to work with the late Sinead Dinneen on the project, Life from Way Back O where the evolution of life was traced from the time of dinosaurs. Deirdre has been a great colleague and friend to all on the staff helping everyone in any way that she could.

We are very sorry to see her leave us but Deirdre has decided to take up a job share position with a teacher in St John the Baptist School. This is one of the schools that Deirdre has worked in since 2017. As Deirdre leaves us we say mile buiochas and we wish her the very best in her new position, said Marie.

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THREE Limerick winners were announced at the second National Dairy Awards in the Midlands Park Hotel in Portlaoise.

Marie Louise Ryan was crowned Norbrook Dairy Vet of the Year, while John Hanrahan and Louise Crowley won the MSD Animal Health Tech Innovator Dairy Farmer of the Year and the Green Acre Marketing Dairy Social Media Ambassador of the Year respectively.

The entry of Marie-Louise Ryan (pictured above), of Mulcair Vets, was based on improving animal health along with improving productivity and farm-profitability for farmers by focusing on reducing antibiotic usage on farms, carrying out selective dry cow therapy and reducing involuntary culling by improving fertility through submission rates and pre-breeding work.

Judges said: It was an excellent application, demonstrating a high level understanding of challenges facing farmers on a wide range of aspects and clearly committed to a holistic approach to herd health and farm performance. Really liked the emphasis placed on social aspect of being a vet - developing and maintaining relationships and really understanding the social situation and drivers for each farmer.

John Hanrahan, winner of the MSD Animal Health Tech Innovator Dairy Farmer of the year, farms alongside his daughter Natasha on their dairy farm in Granagh. His award was accepted by Brian Griffin (pictured below).

They have been heavily dependent on skilled labour which has become increasingly difficult to source. Therefore, he has invested heavily in the farm with an emphasis on investing in technologies which improve efficiencies and productivity on the farm.

Louise Crowley farms in Croom with her dad John and is also Limerick IFA secretary. She uses her social media profile to show how dairy farmers produce top quality food, why there is a need to show the general public about farming and advocating policy makers to understand the importance of farmers to the country.

READ MORE: To the Limerick hurlers and management, thank you

Judges said of her entry: Louise is a really positive advocate for the dairy industry, showing the challenges right across the sector along with the positives. Louise uses her profile for the good of the industry and demonstrates her knowledge in a really informative manner.

A total of 21 awards were presented on the night celebrating the high achievers that continue to develop and strengthen the Irish dairy industry.

The judging process comprised a panel of 12 dairy experts.
A LIMERICK trader has praised the increase in gardai on city centre streets, adding petty crime has dropped in the last few weeks.

Shane Gleeson, whose family run a number of Spar shops across the city, was reflecting the views of other members of the traders association.

They shared their experience with gardais top brass at a meeting last month in the Engine building, reporting, among other things, that staff were afraid to take out bins due to the threat of encountering drug addicts, dealers and beggars.

In the wake of that meeting, Superintendent Andrew Lacey, Henry Street garda station, put in place a 10-point plan to tackle anti-social behaviour in the city centre.

This includes a targeted approach to aggressive begging, while offering overtime hours for garda members to patrol the city centre.

And Mr Gleeson said the early signs are good.

We have seen a dramatic reduction in petty crime. The amount of intimidation we are getting at the tills has virtually vanished with the gardai on the streets, he explained.

READ MORE: Addicts 'pulling knives' on retail and hospitality staff in Limerick

The atmosphere of the city centre, he added, has moved to become very friendly and jovial, he reported.

The garda van which was on Thomas Street has had a dramatic effect. They were stopping and searching people, and the people who they were stopping and searching were the ones causing us trouble. As a result, these people largely avoid the street now the gardai are present, the businessman added.

Mr Gleeson said up until a few weeks ago, things were very different.

Before, we saw open drug-taking in the street, weve seen aggressive begging - to the point of intimidation. Thats dramatically scaled back now the gardai are on the street. Instead of watching your front door waiting for the bad guys to come in, we can concentrate on looking after our customers and running our business. It allows you to work properly instead of looking over your shoulder all the time, he added.

Supt Lacey said: We are committed to putting traditional resources into the city centre. There is a lot of footfall, businesses have been in touch with us. The feedback has been really good. We need to build on this going into the latter part of the summer.

Mayor John Moran has welcomed reports of a reduction in anti-social behaviour in the city centre.

He was also present at the traders meeting last month in the Engine building.

He said: I want to commend the gardai for the openness to work with us. Ive also committed that in respect of the needs they have for different resources, they would be high on the list of items I will be raising with ministers. What is clear is you wont meet the expectations of the traders and the people who voted for me unless we have more resources in Limerick to support them. Its an important message to continue highlighting.
Two Irish citizens are among six people who have been arrested by Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) special agents after being charged with ATM fraud worth hundreds of thousands of dollars across the US.

Armando Ion Codreanu, 23, and Nicolas Longin Codreanu, 21 were charged with conspiracy to commit access device fraud, conspiracy to commit bank fraud and aggravated identity theft after an investigation by US Homeland Security into the scam that saw a gang install skimming devices on ATMs in six different states.

Armando Ion Codreanu is a citizen of Ireland who last entered the US illegally at an unknown place and time, while Nicolas Longin Codreanu is a citizen of Romania and Ireland who last entered the United States on or about October 10, 2017, and has since overstayed the conditions of his admission.

READ ALSO - Man seriously injured and family left homeless in petrol bomb attack in Dublin

The cops allege the gang got more than $300,000 (roughly 274,000) in the operation.

The scale, scope, and brazen nature of these defendants scheme to steal the financial account information of unsuspecting consumers and use it to help themselves to funds and property, as we have alleged in federal court, is staggering, said U.S. Attorney Zachary A Cunha.

According to HSI, the conspiracy involved placing skimming devices on ATMs at banks across towns in Rhode Island.

The six individuals involved also allegedly placed skimming devices at retail store self-checkout terminals in Rhode Island and Massachusetts.

HSI New England Special Agent in Charge Michael J. Krol alleged that the conspiracy defrauded thousands of New England residents by stealing credit card information.

"The complaint alleges these six individuals are members of an organization who defrauded thousands of residents of Rhode Island and beyond of their hard-earned money," Krol said in a statement.

"The ATM and point of sale skimming equipment they used worked quickly and efficiently to steal credit card information, allowing them to clone and illegally access credit cards, bank accounts, and other financial accounts of unsuspecting victims."
Although hotel rates have increased around the world since the pandemic, there could be some correction in global occupancies in the coming quarters. A top executive at Switzerland-headquartered luxury chain Kempinski Hotels S.A. said there is now a sea change in the way the free independent traveller is moving about the world, experimenting far more with 'destination dupes' or locations that offer a similar experience for a lower price.

"The informed traveller is more willing to try new destinations now. If they want a good standard of hotel for less, they now opt for other locations like Portugal, St. Moritz, Slovakia, Latvia, Bulgaria, etc. That's why we're looking at new locations seriously. For instance, we have lodges coming up in Tanzania and hotels in Lombok and Ubud, Indonesia, which we are excited about. There is more in the pipeline in Asia and then the Middle East," Amanda Elder, chief commercial officer of Kempinski said in an exclusive chat with Mint. She is also a member of the management board of the hotel major. The Baharaini Royal Family holds a majority position in this business, buying out the King of Thailand who earlier held the majority position.

Also Read: Kempinski looking at re-entering India "In fact, if we had a good destination in India, it would be great for us as the Indian traveller has become very important for hospitality companies. We are still fondly remembered when we were in India about a decade ago with The Leela," she added.

In 2013, a decision was made by the two mutually to discontinue its 25-year-old branding alliance due to strategic reasons. Kempinski, one of the worlds oldest luxury hotel groups, maintained its partnership with the local builder Ambience Group in Delhi till 2015 to manage its one hotel in the city. It had then hoped it would have about five hotels here by 2020 but couldn't achieve that goal. The company still hopes to flag its brand in metros like Delhi and Mumbai and could even look at existing luxury hotel properties that are looking to have a rebranding. At present, it has 82 hotels and residences around the world.

"We want to because we know there is an appetite for consumption. There's a financial upside to it as well and we recognize that. There is also the value of brand recognition. When a hotel company is present in a market, people have trust in it when they travel overseas. So we need to find the right partner here, someone who wants our culture and our brand positioning," she said.

Plan for 100 hotels and resorts in coming years At a global level, it would like to have about 100 hotels and resorts in the coming years. "Overall, rather than having a target number of hotels in mind, we know that the world is now redefining what luxury is and the destinations we are looking to open in the future could see portfolio shifts based on the choices of travellers," she added.

For the company, locations like Seychelles, Engelberg, Switzerland, Dubai, and Munich (during Oktoberfest) have seen a big influx of Indian travellers. "We're very appreciative of the Indian guests going to these locations," she said. Its biggest group of travellers are Germans though followed by the Chinese. At the moment though, the Chinese are largely travelling within their own country. A third of its portfolio is actually in China so it has done well.

She said hospitality companies are also now starting to use AI with technology. It's about appropriately using data and technology to understand the needs of the guest. "And this won't just be to take down only simple data but also to be very human, personalised, and yet use technology to service guests," she added.



Also Read | Hotel cos expect recovery in H2 FY25 post tepid performance amid polls, heatwave

She emphasized that the company, and to an extent the hospitality industry, was now looking at pushing for rate parity with its online travel agency (OTA) partners. "That is actually the number one thing, whether it is a top luxury property or an independent or branded property."

"We have a healthy rapport with OTA companies and what we are working on with them is trying to grow the number of room categories they sell. It shouldn't just be the lead or the entry-level room category because it's better for them as they have more margins and commissions if they're booking a higher rate and of course for us (too). We like the fact that the average rates should remain high. Because then we can continue to focus on the luxury elements of our hotels and focus on the high labour cost, amenities, appointments in the room, refurbishment, etc.," she said.
New Delhi: With over 5,000 artificial intelligence patents under its belt, Chinese smartphone maker Oppo aims to set off a wave of the generative AI (GenAI) phones that will become mainstream consumer devices in the coming years, Peter Dohyung Lee, head of product strategy, said in an exclusive interview with Mint.

Lee, responsible for the kind of devices Oppo buyers will end up using in the coming years, said that over time all its phones will have GenAI embedded into the devices, though it will begin with a target of 50 million devices by end of this year.

After feature phones and smartphones, next-gen AI phones will represent the third major transformative stage in mobile technology. Oppo is already a frontrunner in imaging technology, and this gives us an edge as we continue to integrate AI in enhancing the imaging experience, he said.

Also read | Mint Primer: Will XR glasses, Neuralinks kill smartphones? The company is integrating its GenAI features across its entire product line-up, with over 100 functionalities planned for release this year alone. Oppo is determined to make AI phones accessible to everyone, and we will continue to innovate to present optimal AI phone experiences to our users, he added. He also noted that the company set up its own AI centre for research and generating innovative concepts, even as it has been developing its own large language models since 2020 and has been active in large vision models and multimodal technology.

AI Adoption He said that India will be a significant adopter of AI and, hence, would be a critical market in which Oppo is the fourth-largest player in terms of sales volume.

India is an extremely significant market for Oppo. The country has over a billion mobile phone users, and the penetration of smartphones across smaller towns and villages has grown significantly over the last few years, Lee said, adding that particularly for AI, Indias young population was driving rapid adoption, largely through phones.

The Reno12 Series include an AI Recording Summary feature that records meetings in English and Hindi, generating notes and summaries with a single touch. We are looking forward to adding more Indian languages to this feature, he added.

While AI is a key focus, Lee acknowledges the need for evolving hardware and software to keep pace with rapid AI integration. Oppo is addressing this by prioritizing robust privacy, security, and data encryption technologies. This ensures a safe and secure user experience as AI features become more prominent. Durability is another focus area for Oppo, ensuring their devices are built to last in the ever-changing technological landscape.

For the rest of the financial year, Oppo India will launch new products, but also add new AI features, updates, and refinements to existing models across various price segments, he said.
Kathleen Quirk is taking the reins of one of the worlds largest copper companies at a fortuitous time. Copper prices have risen this year as the metal benefits from its status as a key enabler of electric cars and data centers propelling the artificial-intelligence revolution.

Quirk, 60, became chief executive of $74 billion Freeport-McMoRan last month, ascending to the top spot after a 35-year career at the Phoenix-based company, where she served as chief financial officer and in tax and corporate-development roles.

She and her predecessor, Richard Adkerson, began crafting a copper-focused strategy for Freeport in the early 2000s, when China emerged as a big consumer and the pair realized the supply of the metal wouldnt be enough to satisfy global demand.

With the companys share price up 21% this year, Freeport is profiting from the global push for electrification. But to get to this moment, Quirk has had to navigate dealings with an activist investor, a foreign government and her own board.

Facing off against the boss

In 2012, when Quirk was CFO, Freeport was doing well and expanding under the leadership of Adkerson and then-Chairman James Jim Bob" Moffett, a former oil wildcatter who in the 1980s led the discovery of Freeports Grasberg copper and gold deposits in Indonesia.

The company was generating cash and needed somewhere to spend it. At Moffetts behest, the board proposed investing in oil and gas businesses.

Quirk and Adkerson advised against it, cautioning that investors would likely punish any deviation from the focus on copper. They were ignored, and the backlash to the oil-and-gas plan was immediate: Shares tumbled and investors condemned the company for changing its strategy and taking on debt. Freeport spent some $9 billion on acquisitions it later had to undo.

Then, in 2015, copper and oil prices collapsed. By 2016, Freeports market value had fallen to just $4 billion while its debt had ballooned to some $20 billion. It took the company years to dig itself out.

It was a tough, tough situation to be in," Quirk said, calling it a very difficult time" in her career. Adkerson was deciding whether to stay on as CEO, and Quirk was getting calls of her own for other CFO opportunities.

She stayed put, calling it a test of loyalty.

I just felt a big responsibility to our people and I didnt want to leave them at a time when strong leadership was needed," she said. At any given time all the cards could have fallen down, but I didnt give serious thought to leaving. I really wanted to find my way through."

Encountering outsiders

In 2015, the company was racing to stabilize in the wake of a steep drop in energy prices, pledging to cut capital spending and jobs and scale back production. Then Carl Icahn showed up.

The famed activist investor revealed a more than 8% stake in August of that year, and later got two independent seats on the board. Icahn and his representatives on the board encouraged spending cuts and were involved in ousting Moffett, the investor said in a recent interview.

Both Quirk and Icahn say they had a good working relationship, though their methods sometimes differed. One example: when Freeport needed to negotiate an agreement with the Indonesian government over the companys mining rights. Indonesia was barring exports at times, which was preventing the company from selling gold and copper it had mined. The parties were working on a framework to resolve the outstanding issues.

The Icahn side proposed undertaking a public-relations campaign against Indonesia, an idea that Quirk and others nixed.

Some of their playbook didnt necessarily work with a country like Indonesia, Quirk said. Sometimes the patience level that we need to exercise as a management team with a long-term view is different than a patience level of an activist investor."

Freeport asked the Icahn side not to interfere with Indonesia, and the team agreed to respect company executives wishes.

One-way tickets to Jakarta

The negotiations with Indonesia over Freeports mining rights spanned years and were crucial for Freeport, given the outsize role Grasberg plays in supplying the worlds copper.

Since 1991, Freeport had been operating on a 30-year contract that allowed two 10-year extensions. The government wanted Freeport to adopt a new licensing regime, and also wanted to own 51% of the project, up from 10% at the time.

Freeport thought it had the right to mine until 2041, but the government stipulated 2021. The company could have gone to arbitration but decided against it because it wanted to work with the government, Quirk said.

There were stops and starts, Quirk said, and it took time for Freeport to get comfortable with the new licensing regime and be confident it could protect its long-term investments.

The discussions were so numerous and intense that Quirk would buy one-way tickets to Jakarta, where many government ministries were involved in the deliberations.

Ultimately a deal got done at the end of 2018, under which the government got a 51% stake and Freeports local subsidiary 49%. Freeport also pledged to build a smelter, which extracts metal from ore.

It worked out, but there were times of real concern given the situation," Quirk said, adding that the government did a great job."

Freeport is once again in discussions with the government, this time about extending its mining rights beyond 2041.
JKBOSE 11th Result 2024: The Jammu and Kashmir Board of School Education (JKBOSE) declared Class results on Sunday.

Candidates who appeared in the JK Class 11 examinations can check their scores and download scorecard from the official website of JKBOSE at jkbose.nic.in.

Essential login credentials include roll number and registration number. According to the result statistics this year, the overall pass percentage of Class 11 examinations was registered to be 72 percent. As many as 88,396 students passed the Jammu and Kashmir Board Class 11 exams out of a total of 1,23,026 students who enrolled for the examination.

Also Read | GATE 2025 exam schedule out, application form by August end

JKBOSE 11th result statistics are given below:

First division: 38,998

Second division: 16,400

Third division: 797

Distinction: 32,163 students

Passed additional subject: 38

Re appear: 31,174

Failed: 3,462

This year, the Jammu and Kashmir Board Class 11 examination for all streams- Arts, Science and Commerce was held in April and May. In the soft zone areas of the state, the exams were held between April 22 and May 26. In the hard zone areas, the exams commenced on April 2 and wrapped up by May 1.

Also Read | Karnataka SSLC Supply Result 2024 Highlights: KSEAB results OUT

Earlier, the Jammu and Kashmir Board declared the Class 10 and 12 board exam results which are accessible from the official website of JKBOSE. Candidates can also visit the official website of the Jammu and Kashmir Board at jkresults.nic.in, for more details.

How to check? Follow the below mentioned steps to check JKBOSE Class 11 results 2024

Step 1: Visit the official website at jkresults.nic.in.

Step 2: On the home page, click on the Class 11th result link

Step 3: Enter your roll number and registration number.

Step 4: Click on Submit. View and download the JK board Class 11 result.

Step 5: Take a printout of the results and keep a hard copy for future reference.
VELYKIY BYCHKIV, UkraineIt was seven weeks after Pvt. Ivan Pidmalivskiy had been due back on the front line with Russia when rescuers pulled his lifeless body from a river on Ukraines western edge.

His death added to a toll of more than two dozen other men who have drowned in the River Tysa since Russia invaded, many of them fugitives from a military draft aimed at sustaining Ukraines war effort. Pidmalivskiy was different: He had fought for two years after returning to Ukraine from abroad to defend his country.

His family had seen the war take a growing toll on the burly 32-year-old, but he never revealed the depths of his exhaustion to them. What was happening inside his soul, I dont know," said his mother, Liubov Pidmalivska.

The bodies in the river are a grim manifestation of one of the biggest issues facing Ukraine as the war enters its third summer without a clear path to victory. Many of the men who initially mobilized to repel Russias invasion are dead, missing or woundedand the rest are worn out from more than two years of brutal combat.

Ukraines government has struggled to replace them after dragging its feet over a politically unpopular decision to expand the draft. A wartime law bans men aged between 18 and 60 from leaving Ukraine. Still, tens of thousands have fled the country illegally and many are lying low to avoid conscription.

The delay in mustering fresh troops has increased the strain on soldiers serving with no prospect of demobilization other than through injury or death. Military contracts became indefinite when martial law was introduced in the early days of the war.

We need to do this so that the guys have a normal rotation. Then their morale will be improved," said Ukraines President Volodymyr Zelensky in an interview with the BBC in May about the mobilization drive. A large number of Brigades were empty," he acknowledged.

Recruitment numbers have improved since Zelensky signed a law lowering the age of conscription to 25, along with other steps taken to replenish threadbare ranks. Despite the challenges, support for the war remains strong, according to a recent poll by the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, which found that 58% supported further mobilization compared with 35% against.

But the conscription campaign has also driven more men into the shadows and inflamed tensions in society. Across the country, men are hiding from draft officers, who have been filmed snatching potential conscripts off the street. Data from three neighboring countries indicates the number of men fleeing Ukraine illegally has increased in recent months. Border guards catch dozens of men daily, with some of the more desperate attempts ridiculed on social media.

Its impossible to look at it without shame," commented Maksym Zhorin, the deputy commander of Ukraines 3rd Assault Brigade, after border guards caught 41 men trying to escape in the back of a grain truck last month.

It is a stark reversal from the heady first days of the war when so many men volunteered to fight that Ukraines military turned some away. Many even returned from the safety of other countries, including Pidmalivskiy, who left his wife and two children in neighboring Slovakia.

It was a shock," said Pidmalivska, recalling the day her eldest son turned up in his hometown of Velykiy Bychkiv, a village of some 9,000 people on the banks of the River Tysa, and said he was going to join the army.

The first year of the war went well for Pidmalivskiy. He took part in a surprise offensive that routed occupying forces from a swath of territory in the north. As Ukraine geared up for a major counteroffensive in the spring of last year, he was sent to France for training on the Caesar self-propelled howitzer.

But hopes of a breakthrough soon shattered against the hard reality of Russian defenses. Ammunition began to run low as political deadlock in the U.S. held up a key package of aid. As the victories of 2022 turned into a grinding battle of attrition against a larger, more powerful enemy, Pidmalivskiys mood darkened.

In calls with his mother, he said everything was fine. But a fellow soldier who joined the army with Pidmalivskiy and served alongside him in the 148th Brigade said he confided that he and the rest of the unit were exhausted.

They were begging for a rotation," said the soldier, who gave only his call sign, Horets, in line with military protocol. Pidmalivskiy complained his commander wouldnt sign off on a vacation to see his family in Slovakia, and had underpaid him. He was sick and tired of everything," Horets said.

In March, Pidmalivskiy was finally granted his third leave since the start of the war. From the battlefields of eastern Ukraine, he returned to his village in the west, where the government is struggling to prevent men from fleeing.

At least 44,000 Ukrainians have left the country illegally since Russia invaded, according to data provided by border authorities in Moldova, Romania and Slovakia. That doesnt include men who crossed the border officially using documents exempting them from military service issued in exchange for bribes.

Zelensky fired the heads of the countrys regional military-recruitment centers last year in an effort to crack down on corrupt practices that have enabled men to avoid conscription.

On the main road leading to the western Transcarpathia region, a sign at a checkpoint exhorts men not to leave. We are strong," it reads. Once a tourist destination, the mountainous regions borders with four countriesRomania, Hungary, Slovakia and Polandhave made it a hub for illegal crossings.

Plainclothes officers are posted at train stations and monitor hotels for fugitive men. Many Ukrainians head for the mountains, undeterred by warnings about wildcats and bears. Rescue services sometimes receive calls from men who have lost their way in the rugged terrain. Its obvious theyre not tourists," said a spokeswoman for the services.

Smugglers now cater to booming demand from men trying to flee the country, charging from $4,000 to $15,000 for their services. It is more lucrative than their traditional trade in counterfeit and contraband cigarettes, of which Ukraine is a top source for Europe.

Many of the smugglers are locals with knowledge of the area. Some accompany their clients to the border or send children to guide them. Others provide directions remotely.

One smuggler recently detained by the police was equipped with a bug detector he used to ensure clients werent informants recording his activities, authorities said. Another was a local who attempted to smuggle 20,000 packs of cigarettes along with two men concealed in a secret compartment in a minivan. In May, a soldier on medical leave for concussion was charged with attempting to smuggle a draft evader across the border.

Men caught trying to cross the border illegally face a fine of up to $360 and 15 days in prison, though it isnt a criminal offense. The bigger risk is of being fast-tracked to the front line.

As Ukraine tightened conscription, 25-year-old Valeriy Minikhinov also came home to Velykiy Bychkiv.

After Russia invaded, border guards extended barbed wire along the river banks. At night, drones with thermal imaging scan for men trying to swim across to Romania.

Minikhinovs mother had persuaded him to return from Kyiv so she could hide him away from the draft. She had previously forbidden him from enlisting in the army with his father, who has been missing in action since the first year of the war. I was afraid of losing my son," Ninel Kopekova said.

Unknown to her, he decided to flee across the river to Romania with the aid of a smuggler he paid $4,000. A day after he vanished, Minikhinovs girlfriend revealed his plan to travel to Sweden, where relatives had found him a job. The journey ended about 25 miles downriver from Velykiy Bychkiv, where rescuers recovered his body in mid-February. An autopsy found Minikhinovs heart had failed.

Reeling from the loss of her eldest son, Kopekova is now trying to get Minikhinovs younger half-brother enrolled in a university abroad before he turns 18 this year and is no longer allowed to leave Ukraine. She blames the government for Minikhinovs death: Theyre destroying our kids," she said.

A few weeks later, the end of Pidmalivskiys vacation was approaching. He told his younger half-brother Mykola Yaremchuk he didnt want to go, but began gathering supplies he said he would take back to the front.

After an evening drinking beer together on March 28, the family woke to find Pidmalivskiy was gone. At first, they werent concerned. His bags were still there, though his passport and bank cards were missing.

Days later, Pidmalivskiys commander called asking why he hadnt reported for duty. Still, the family waited nearly a week before going to the police.

Rumors began swirling around Velykiy Bychkiv that Pidmalivskiy had fled across the river to Romania. One person even claimed to have spoken to him on the other side, momentarily easing the familys disquiet. But if Pidmalivskiy had made it safely, why hadnt he been in contact?

As winter thawed, the Tysa swelled and the current grew stronger. In late April, rescuers recovered the bodies of two men beached on an islet in the river. Soon afterward, a fisherman spotted the body of another man in the water. Two more were pulled out the same dayone of them just 20 years old.

They want to live," said Oleksandr Schubert, head of a team of rescuers who work along the river. But instead of dying there [on the front line], they die here."

In mid-May, Romanian border guards found the corpse of another man floating in the river. He appeared to have been dead in the water for some time and wasnt carrying any documents. It was the 30th body recovered from the river since Russias invasion.

Police sent Yaremchuk a photograph of a body three days later. The drowned man was of a similar build to his brother, but it was the shoes he recognized instantly. They were my shoes," Yaremchuk said, recalling that Pidmalivskiy had borrowed them.

Many questions remained: Did Pidmalivskiy plan to flee all along, or was it a snap decision? Why had he risked crossing after heavy rain in March, when locals know the water is high? Five more bodies have been pulled out of the river since.

Unlike soldiers killed at war, Pidmalivskiy was buried without fanfare in a plot near Minikhinovs.

It saddened Horets that his friend and fellow soldier should receive no tribute after returning to Ukraine voluntarily and fighting for two years. He wasnt a draft dodger; he was a true patriot," he said.

So he presented Pidmalivskiys family with the flag of their battalion, which they planted over his grave. I dont care what anyone thinks," Yaremchuk said. He deserved to be buried as a hero."
About 1.3 billion tourists around the world travelled internationally last yearthats roughly the population of India making their way across the world to take in the sights, experience new cultures and bring home happy memories. This year, summer travel has increased about 40%, business dailies report, alongside headlines about increasing visa rejections and rising airfares. Concurrently, there is news of weary, angry residents in Barcelona spraying tourists with water pistols, Venice introducing an entry fee for day-trippers, and Kyoto limiting tourist access to its historical Gion district. The French tourism minister announced plans to prevent overtourism in landmarks such as the heritage Mont-Saint-Michel monastery in Normandy and the Channel beach in Etretat (suddenly on the tourist map after the Netflix series Lupin was shot there), even as Paris gears up for about 15 million visitors for the Olympics later this month. At home, Tamil Nadu introduced permits for tourists wanting to visit its overburdened, fragile towns in the Western Ghats, in Nilgiris and Kodaikanal. Goans have long demanded curbs on untrammelled tourism which impacts their environment and makes their cities and villages unliveable. Heat waves, traffic jams, litter and water shortages have made Himalayan towns less than idyllic in the summer.

Despite the benefits to the local economy, everywhere there seems a backlash against the heavy toll of overtourismcrowding, the stress on resources and infrastructure, higher rents for locals, and often, unfortunately, a lack of respect for the local culture and ecology. Tourism has become increasingly stressfulwhether one travels or one stays home. Reading Shahnaz Habibs Airplane Mode: A Passive-Aggressive History of Travel in this context is truly an education, making one question more than ever the need to travel regularly, see new places and collect experiences as if theyre fridge magnets.

Habib describes wanderlust as a consumerist idea peddled to us by capitalism, and travel itself as an exploitative concept made possible by colonialism. Colonial explorers, writers and adventurers packaged milking a place for all its worth as the romance of discovery, an idea that has evolved into modern travel and the belief that every place has something to take away. This is Habibs most compelling argument, laying the foundation for everything else she goes on to explore in this entertaining and elegantly written book. Her lens as an Indian Muslim woman navigating the globe brings depth and layers to her reimagining of the travel genre of writing.

View Full Image Airplane Mode: A Passive-Aggressive History of Travel: By Shahnaz Habib, Context Westland, 288 pages,  699

Travel is, in every way, social injustice in actionwhose passport is more powerful, who gets visa-free access, who requires transit visas just to travel between terminals, who chooses places of tourist interest, even who writes the guidebooks is an exercise in perpetuating discrimination against Third World countries. Habib prefers the term over other more politically correct ones, such as developing nations, emerging economies or the Global South, because it describes the reality, the chaos and the creativity of the world that were all from far better. And because, if we were being honest, wouldnt we just call it the exploited world?".

Drawing on her own experience of having to file reams of paperwork for a French visa before she got her US permanent residence permit (this was when she still held an Indian passport), Habib discusses passportism", which discriminates based on the colour of a persons passport". This too has its roots in colonialismthe modern passport was introduced largely to police the movement of people from the colonies to white countries"and weve all now internalised it to discriminate against one another. In Africa, for instance, richer countries make it easier for Europeans to enter than fellow Africans, and Indian immigration authorities are often more flexible about granting visas to Americans and Europeans. And of course, passport rankings have become a means for richer nations to sell golden visasa path to citizenship based on financial and real-estate investmentstapping into the resources of poorer nations. Immigration, then, is easier for some than for others, but at its heart is the same desire to escape the world, and passport, one was born into.

Also read: 7 essential travel tech items to pick for your next trip

Born in Kozhikode in Kerala, brought up in Ernakulum, now a US citizen, a resident of Brooklyn in New York, a practising Muslim and married to an American citizen, Habib reflects on the many contradictions of this multifaceted identity, never shying away from calling herself out. She is at once immigrant, traveller, resident and tourist. Her father, who hates travelling, preferring to read about the world rather than see it, is the main source of inspiration for this exploration of what it means to travel. When he does visit her in New York or her brother in Dubai, he chooses wandering through local markets over visiting monuments. As she realises, from conversations with her father, from aimless meanderings around her once-new neighbourhood of Brooklyn, from reading, and of course, from travelling, there are many ways to travel. Travel, we are constantly told, makes us better human beings, yet we rarely reflect on the many downsides of roaming the world, the essential inequities that enable us to do so, and what really constitutes true experience and understanding of people and societies. We are led to believe that cosmopolitanism comes from tourism," she writes, but, in fact, migration and minorityhood is a more effective education in worldliness".

Then there is the discovery" of places that to locals were always just as stunning, beautiful or calming to those who lived there. At Lounge, for instance, we often run stories on mountaineeringbut long before these mountains were discovered", mapped", named" and climbed, they were revered and valued by local communities. Habib proposes a new word, pseudiscovery, for the people and places that were rendered invisible" the moment Europeans arrived. In a way, this is what modern-day tourists, travellers and travel influencers do when they commodify the beauty of a place, and this is what residents in Barcelona and Malaga in Spain, Hallstat in Austria and Kyoto in Japan are resisting. Tourism renders them invisible, pricing them out of their homes, squeezing them out of their recreational spaces and changing the characteristics that made their cities unique.

For all the serious questions it raises, Airplane Mode is not a grim, gloomy lecture about the ills of overconsumption. Habibs voice is pitch perfect, blending anecdote, fact, history and personal stories to create a lively rethinking of how weve viewed the act of travel. Her sharp observations, perceptive analysis and felicity for home truths are heightened by her sense of humour and eye for the ludicrous.

Finally, a book that gives you many good reasons to stay home.

Also read: Finding traces of a globalised past in a Colombo cemetery
Sadly, 2023 has been a violent one on the global stage. War broke out between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, leading to the deaths of thousands of Palestinians and hundreds of Israelis, including many children on both sides. And the bitter war between Russia and Ukraine continued with no end in sight.

As a result of the focus on these two conflicts, other countries have dropped off the radar for many people. Some of these nations have been dealing with simmering unrest, however, which could erupt in 2024 and seize the global spotlight.

So, where should we be watching in the coming year? Here are five places where I believe civil conflicts or unrest could worsen and potentially lead to violence.

Myanmar

Myanmar descended into chaos in 2021 when a military coup overthrew the democratically elected government led by Aung San Suu Kyi and sparked widespread civil protests that eventually morphed into an armed resistance.

The country, home to 135 ethnic groups, has rarely known peace. For years before the coup, there was a ongoing, low-grade civil conflict between the military and several minority ethnic groups who have long sought control over natural resources in their regions and independence from the state.

This exploded after the coup as ethnic militia groups joined forces with pro-democracy fighters from the Bamar majority protesting the junta.

Their resistance escalated in late 2023 with a coordinated northern offensive dealing the military its most significant losses in many years.

Insurgents won control of towns and villages on the northeastern border with China, including control over key trade routes. This led to renewed fighting in western Rakhine state, as well as in other areas.

The tenacity of the resistance of these minority groups, paired with the refusal of the military to compromise, suggests the countrys civil war may worsen considerably in 2024 and regain international attention.

Mali

In Mali, a nation in the turbulent Sahel region of Africa, tensions escalated throughout 2023 and now threaten to erupt into full-scale civil war.

Mali has long battled insurgent activity. In 2012, Malis government fell in a coup and Tuareg rebels, backed by Islamist militants, seized power in the north.

A United Nations peacekeeping mission was established in 2013 to bring stability to Mali. Then, in 2015, key rebel groups signed a peace agreement with the Mali government.

Read more: Mali crisis: UN peacekeepers are leaving after 10 years  what's needed for a smooth transition

After two more coups in 2020 and 2021, military officers consolidated their power and said they would restore the states full territorial control over all of Mali. The regime insisted the UN peacekeeping mission withdraw from the country, which it did in June 2023. Subsequently, violence broke out between the military and rebel forces over future use of the UN bases.

In November, the military, reportedly backed by Russias Wagner Group, took control of the strategic northern town of Kidal which had been held by Tuareg forces since 2012. This undermines the fragile peace that has held since 2015.

It is unlikely the military will regain complete control over all rebel-held areas in the north. At the same time, insurgents are emboldened. With the 2015 peace agreement now all but dead, we can expect increased volatility in 2024.

Lebanon

In 2019, widespread civil protest broke out in Lebanon against leaders who were perceived not to be addressing the day-to-day needs of the population.

The situation continued to deteriorate, with a reshuffled government, escalating economic crisis and a massive port explosion that exposed corrupt practices.

A protest outside a bank in Lebanon after the lira hit an all-time low against the US dollar in March 2023. Wael Hamzeh/EPA

The International Monetary Fund criticised Lebanon in September for a lack of economic reform. The Lebanese government has also failed to reach agreement on appointing a president, a post that has been vacant for more than a year.

This risks undermining the fragile power-sharing arrangement in Lebanon in which the key political posts of prime minister, speaker and president are allocated to a Sunni-Muslim, Shia-Muslim and Christian Maronite, respectively.

Most recently, the war between Israel and Hamas has threatened to spill over to Lebanon, home to the Hezbollah militant group, which claims to have an army of 100,000 fighters. Importantly, this jeopardises tourism as a key hope for Lebanons economic recovery.

These factors may precipitate a more serious economic and political collapse in 2024.

Pakistan

Since Pakistans independence in 1947, the military has played an interventionist role in politics. Though Pakistani leaders are popularly elected, military officials have at times removed them from power.

In 2022, Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan fell out of favour with Pakistans militant leaders. He was subsequently ousted from power in a parliament vote and later arrested on charges that his supporters claim are politically motivated.

Violent demonstrations broke out nationwide after his arrest  a display of anger against the military that was once unthinkable.

Pakistan also faces spillover from instability in neighbouring Afghanistan and increased terror attacks. These security challenges have been compounded by a struggling economy and ongoing costs from the devastating 2022 floods.

Pakistan is expected to hold parliamentary elections in February 2024, after which the current military caretaker government is expected to transfer power back to civilian rule. Many are watching the military closely. If this transfer of power does not take place, or there are delays, civil unrest may result.

Read more: How Imran Khan's populism has divided Pakistan and put it on a knife's edge

Sri Lanka

Sri Lanka faced a debilitating economic crisis in 2022 that led to critical fuel, food and medical shortages. Civil protests caused then-President Gotabaya Rajapaksa to flee the country. He was quickly replaced by current President Ranil Wickremesingh.

Stability returned in 2023 as Sri Lanka began implementing economic reforms as part of a bailout agreement with the International Monetary Fund. However, widespread dissatisfaction with political elites and the underlying drivers of the countrys economic hardship have not been addressed.

Soldiers block a road as workers protest against the governments domestic debt restructuring process and proposed new labor laws in July 2023. Chamila Karunarathne/EPA

Elections are also due in Sri Lanka by late 2024. While Wickremesingh, the incumbent, is likely to run for a second term, he has low trust with the public. He is viewed as too close to corrupt political elites.

This dissatisfaction could lead to renewed protests  particularly if the economy stumbles again  in a repeat of the situation that led to Rajapaksas ousting in 2022.
Harsh Bardhan Mishra, a 24-year-old software engineer, has carved out a unique career path working remotely for a cloud computing startup based out of Switzerland. Working from his home in the picturesque town of Darjeeling, Mishra began his investment journey early, leveraging earnings from his college internships.

His early investments, however, lacked direction and focus, Mishra admits. To get some feedback, he anonymously posted his portfolio on Reddit, a community-based platform. A fellow user pointed out that his portfolio was overcrowded with too many mutual funds, prompting Mishra to rethink his investment strategy. At the time, Mishra had 14-15 mutual fund schemes in his portfolio.

Realising he needed professional guidance, Mishra began searching for financial advisers. He discovered a list of advisers on the website of an association of registered investment advisers, and chose Bengaluru-based Akshay Nayak.

Rejigging the portfolio

Nayak observed that Mishra's mutual fund investments were scattered across several funds. As he is fairly new to equity investing, I advised him to streamline his portfolio to just a simple Nifty 50 Index fund for now. His existing investments can be moved to the index fund, and fresh investments can also be made in the index fund, but(with a) separate folio to demarcate it," he said.

Mishra can be gradually exposed to other market segments through index funds such as Nifty Next 50 or even mid-cap index funds as he gains more experience, and if his goals and risk tolerance allow it, Nayak said.

Mishra had also mistakenly bought all his mutual fund schemes under regular plans, as the fintech platform he was using didnt clearly mention that it was operating under a mutual fund distributor licence and hence these were regular plans, and charged distributor commissions.

View Full Image ...

Recognising the potential job instability in the IT sector, Nayak also recommended that Mishra establish a contingency fund.

Mishra had already experienced the instability of the IT sector during a previous internship. I was on a six-month contract with an organization and expected it to be renewed, but suddenly I was informed that it wouldnt be renewed this time," he recalled. He now plans to build a contingency fund holding 6-12 months of expenses.

Mishra had started investing in a National Pension Scheme (NPS) as his current employera foreign startupdidnt offer any Employee Provident Fund (EPF). Nayak asked Mishra to switch from NPS to the Public Provident Fund (PPF).

Also read | Slow and steady: How a passive approach secured this CEO's retirement future

Harsh, like quite a few of my clients, aims for financial independence by 50-55," Nayak said. However, with NPS, if one decides to exit completely before 60, at least 80% of the accumulated corpus must be used to purchase an annuity, while the remaining 20% is paid out as a lumpsum. Further, the annuity is taxable at the individuals slab rate."

Mishra has opted for an NPS-E accountan equity-oriented NPS scheme with 75% equity allocation, unlike pure debt investments such as EPF and PPF.

Asset mix

Mishras portfolio has 60% allocation to equities, 15% investment in real estate, 5% in gold, and the remaining 20% in debt.

Of his equity portfolio, 70% is in mutual funds, and 30% in direct equity shares. Within mutual funds, 20% is invested in the index fund category, 14% in small-cap, 11% in equity-linked saving scheme, 18% in mid-cap, 6% in infrastructure fund, 8% in flexicap, 4% in contra fund, and 13% in other equity funds. Then there is also some exposure to hybrid funds.

Mishra said he bought a flat as an investment in Pune last year and expects to get possession of the property sometime next year. He said he opted for Pune as he sees it as a growing market with several opportunities and spotted a good location near an IT park in Pune.

Also read | Are you sharing too much? The risks of giving your ITR credentials to CAs

Mishra decided against taking a home loan to save on interest costs. Instead, he opted for staggered payments to his developer on a quarterly basis.

He plans to rent out the property and expects a 4-6% rental yield.

Mishra said his family has had positive experiences with real estate investing. However, Nayak has advised Mishra to avoid significantly increasing his real estate exposure due to its lack of liquidity.

Financial independence goals

Mishra is targeting a 15 crore-corpus to achieve financial independence by age 50-55. He loves reading and writing, and plans to pursue fiction writing in his 50s. He may not necessarily fully retire or stop working, but would like to have the freedom to pursue his passions.

Mishra plans to get married in 4-5 years, and said he has some older investments that should help him with his wedding costs.

Also read | Paying high taxes? Save up to 16% by paying with these credit cards

Mishra also likes to travel frequently. He said he travels every 2-3 months and takes solo trips. The costs are not much as I am usually travelling solo and within India."

Living in Darjeeling costs Mishra 15,000- 20,000 per month, which allows him to maintain a high savings rate of 65% and invest towards his financial goals.

Quitting F&O

Mishra earlier tried his hand with trading in futures and options (F&O). Given his expertise at coding, he said he could run codes to automate trading and make money from it. But he soon realised it was not easy and after some nominal losses, he quit F&O trading for good. I also felt it was getting a bit addictive," he recalls.

Mishra also prefers to avoid direct stock investing. It requires a lot of research, and even with the best research, it may not be enough for a retail investor to always pick the right stocks. So going forward, I want to let mutual funds take care of my investment research needs," he said.

Insurance cover

Mishra doesnt have a life insurance cover but said he would consider it after his wedding or starting a family.

He has a 10 lakh as a base healthcare cover, with a 10 lakh top-up. Besides this, as his father is in the Border Security Force, he is also covered under BSFs health cover scheme, for up to 5 lakh.
Donald Trump shooting update: The gunman who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump, former US President and 2024 US Presidential candidate, at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, reported New York Post.

Following the attack, the assailant was shot dead by Secret Service agents and the security officials recovered an AR-style rifle.

Also Read | Jeff Bezos to Sam Altman; top leaders react to shooting at Donald Trump

According to sources, the attacker was stationed on the roof of a manufacturing plant that was more than 130 yards away from the stage where Donald Trump was addressing the public at Butler Farm Show grounds.

Donald Trump was shot in the right ear and in a first account after the incident, he elaborated on the details. Taking to social media platform Truth Social, Donald Trump said, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."

Also Read | List of Presidents, candidates who were assassinated or targeted

He added, I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The former US President extended his condolences to the family of the dead rally-goer and expressed gratefulness towards law enforcement for their response.

Also Read | Donald Trump live updates: Trump lands in NJ after assassination attempt on him

The FBI is treating the incident as an assassination attempt but has not yet identified a motive. Meanwhile, Trump's campaign stated that he is "fine" and still plans to attend his party's nominating convention next week in Milwaukee.

The harrowing incident drew criticism from US President Joe Biden who said We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," reported Bloomberg.
Donald Trump was shot in the ear during a campaign rally on Saturday after a major security lapse, an attack that will likely reshape this years presidential race and fuel long-standing fears that the campaign could descend into political violence. This is not the first time US president or candidates were shot. In the past, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting US presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

Donald Trump shooting LIVE updates Here's a look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations: Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president Abraham Lincoln was the 1st president to be assassinated. On April 14, 1865, he was shot by John Wilkes Booth when he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Ford's Theatre in Washington.

After Lincoln was shot in the back of the head, he was taken to a nearby house for medical treatment and passed away the following morning. His advocacy for Black rights was considered a motive for his assassination. After his death, Vice President Andrew Johnson took over as President. On April 26, 1865, Booth was shot and killed after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

Ames Garfield, the 20th US president The 20th US President, Ames Garfield was the second to be assassinated. He was assassinated within six months after taking office. The incident occured on July 2, 1881 when he was walking through a train station in Washington, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

As per Associated Press report, Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, had tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfield's chest using a device he designed specifically for the president.

After being critically injured, the president remained at the White House for several weeks but passed away in September after being transported to the New Jersey shore. Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

William McKinley, the 25th president In September 1, 1901, William McKinley who was the 25th US President, was shot after giving a speech in New York's Buffalo. He was shot by an unemployed 28-year-old doctor, Leon F. Czolgosz.

The incident occured when he was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when Czolgosz fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Initially, doctors anticipated McKinley's recovery, but complications from gangrene around the bullet wounds changed the outlook. On 14 September, he passed away. In the same year, on 29 October, Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair.

John F Kennedy, the 35th president In November 1965, John F Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he had visited Dallas with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the president's motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas. Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

Shortly after the assassination, police apprehended Lee Harvey Oswald, who was found near a sniper's nest in the Texas School Book Depository. Two days later, as Oswald was being transferred from police headquarters to the county jail, he was shot and killed by Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby.

List of Presidents who were survived the attack Franklin Roosevelt, the 32nd president In February 1933, Franklin Roosevelt, the then president-elect, had finished delivering a speech in Miami when gunshots suddenly erupted. Although Roosevelt escaped unharmed, the shooting tragically claimed the life of Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak. Zangara was later found guilty of the shooting and received a death sentence.

Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president In 1950, two gunmen had broke in at Blar House where Harry Truman was staying which was right across the street from the White House. Truman was not injured, however, but a White House policeman and one of the assailants were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House policemen were wounded.

Gerald Ford, the 38th president In 1975, President Gerald Ford survived two assassination attempts within a matter of weeks. In the first incident, Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme had attempted to kill him and in the Sara Jane Moore. Both were sentenced to prison with Fromme was released in 2009 while Moore in 2007.

Ronald Regan, the 40th president Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

George Bush, the 43rd president Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Theodore Roosevelt, presidential candidate The former president was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

Roosevelt had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in Roosevelt's pocket apparently blunted the bullet's impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the remainder of his life in mental hospitals.

Also Read | Social media trolls lambast former US President after staged assassination bid

Robert Kennedy, presidential candidate Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

Also Read | Where did Donald Trump assassin Thomas Crooks source the gun used for shooting?

George Wallace, presidential candidate Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.
(Adds background on Alphabet and Wiz, tech sector deals)

By Milana Vinn and Steven Scheer

NEW YORK, July 14 (Reuters) - Google parent Alphabet is in advanced talks to acquire cybersecurity startup Wiz for roughly $23 billion, a person familiar with the matter said on Sunday, in a deal that would represent the technology giant's biggest acquisition ever.

The deal, being funded mostly in cash, could come together soon, the source added, speaking on condition of anonymity. Wiz, founded in Israel and now headquartered in New York, is one of the fastest-growing software startups globally, providing cloud-based cybersecurity solutions with real-time threat detection and responses powered by artificial intelligence.

If Alphabet moves ahead with the deal, it would be a rare example of a major technology company attempting a mega-deal amid heightened regulatory scrutiny of the sector under U.S. President Joe Biden's administration. In recent years, U.S. regulators have indicated growing aversion to large technology companies getting bigger through acquisitions.

Wiz generated about $350 million in revenue in 2023 and works with 40% of Fortune 100 companies, according to its website. It recently raised $1 billion in a private funding round that valued the company at $12 billion.

Alphabet and Wiz did not immediately respond to requests for comment.

Wiz works with multiple cloud providers such as Microsoft and Amazon, and counts companies from Morgan Stanley to DocuSign among its customers. With 900 employees across the United States, Europe, Asia and Israel, Wiz previously said it planned to add 400 workers globally in 2024.

Alphabet recently decided not to pursue a takeover of online marketing software company HubSpot.

Dealmaking in the broader technology sector has experienced a pickup this year.

In January, design software company Synopsys agreed to buy smaller rival Ansys for about $35 billion. Hewlett Packard Enterprise struck a deal in January to buy networking gear maker Juniper Networks for $14 billion.

Technology accounted for the largest share of mergers and acquisitions during the first half of the year, jumping more than 42% year-on-year to $327.2 billion, according to data from Dealogic.
A total of 27 companies have surrendered their exemptions, adding 1688.82 crore and 30,000 employees to the provident fund under the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) in the last two years, as per a report by news agency ANI on Sunday, July 14.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment released a statement on Sunday, saying that due to the improved services, more establishments are surrendering their exemptions granted by the EPFO. These companies prefer that the EPFO manage their employee's provident fund (PF) allowing them to focus on their core business.

Improvements in areas like faster claims, higher settlement rates, a strong monitoring system, and ease of engagement are making EPFO a better choice for establishments.

Last year, EPFO took multiple steps under the ministry to streamline the compliance process for establishments under the Employees' Provident Fund Act, according to the report. This involves publishing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and manuals highlighting the process for the exempted establishments, the newswire agency reported.

Also Read | EPFO membership surges: Why investing in EPF matters more than ever

The major step towards digitization is a new software and portal which will be launched soon to simplify the process of surrendering the exemptions, said the Ministry of Labour and Employment, reported ANI.

Companies which wish to manage the PF collection of their employees on their own need to seek exemption under Section 17 of the EPF Act. This gives them the permit to manage the PF Trust without making regulatory contributions.

Also Read | EPFO adds 1.89 million net members in April

There are a total of 1,002 establishments managing 3.2 lakh crore for its 31,20,323 or 31.2 lakh members, as of the end of financial year 2022-2023.

These companies are regulated and have the mandate to provide benefits to their subscribers that are on par with the EPFO standards. The compliance with the conditions of exemption according to what is marked in the EPF Act.
Three unidentified terrorists were killed on Sunday as Indian Army foiled an infiltration bid along the Line of Control (LoC) in Keran sector of Kupwara, Jammu and Kashmir.

03x Terrorists have been eliminated in the ongoing anti-infiltration operation on the #LoC in Keran Sector, alongwith recovery of weapons and other war-like stores, Srinagar-based Chinar Corps of the Indian Army posted on social media platform X (formerly twitter).

Also Read | Exchange of fire in Basantgarh Tehsil of J&Ks Udhampur

An Infiltration bid has been foiled today on #LoC in the Keran Sector, #Kupwara. Operations are in progress, said the Indian Army.

Jammu and Kashmir has seen a rise in terror attacks recently. These attacks have come during the ongoing Amarnath Yatra in South Kashmir.

On June 9, the terrorists had attacked a bus carrying pilgrims in Reasi, after which it fell down in the gorge killing nine people.

On July 8, five soldiers were killed and eight sustained injuries when a group of heavily armed terrorists ambushed a patrolling party of the Indian Army in the Badnota area of Kathua.

On July 11, senior BSF and police officials from Jammu and Kashmir and Punjab discussed ways to share real-time inputs and further strengthen the anti-infiltration grid along the International Border in a meeting in Kathua district.

The high-level meeting, which was also attended by officers from central agencies, was held to bolster the security apparatus and to focus on enhancing coordination and synergy among the Border Security Force (BSF), Punjab Police and Jammu and Kashmir Police.

More than 60 people have so far been detained for questioning in connection with the Kathua ambush.

In separate encounters, six terrorists were gunned down in the Kulgam district.

On July 2, security forces had recovered a cache of arms and ammunition during a search operation in Kupwara district.
A Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) jawan was killed in a gun battle by suspected militants at Mongbung village in Manipurs Jiribam district on Sunday morning. Another CRPF jawan and two state police commandos sustained bullet injuries, Manipur police said.

The Manipur police said that armed miscreants and combined state and central security forces began exchanging fire at around 9.30 am in Mongbung and Seijang villages of Jiribam district. During the gun-battle, one CRPF jawan was hit on his forehead. He was evacuated to Jiribam District Hospital; however, the hospital authorities declared him dead.

The deceased has been identified as Ajay Kumar Jha, 43, a resident of Bihar.

The other injured are receiving treatment at Jiribam District Hospital. The gunfight stopped at around 11.30 am, the state police added.

Meanwhile, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh condemned the attack on the security forces and prayed for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Taking to the microblogging platform X (formerly known as Twitter), Singh said I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today."

His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased soldier, while praying for the speedy recovery of the ones injured during the attack, he added.

Another police officer said that after today's attack on security forces, additional forces have been called from the adjacent hill areas and deployed at the Mongbung village.

A vehicle belonging to security personnel has been damaged in the gun battle, he added.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday extended best wishes for Kharchi Puja, an ancient traditional festival celebrated prominently in Tripura. The celebration of the festival will begin today at the Chaturdasha Devata (Fourteen Gods) Temple in Khayerpur, Old Agartala.

Wishing everyone, particularly the people of Tripura, on the occasion of Kharchi Puja! May the divine blessings of Chaturdash Devata always remain upon us, bringing joy and good health to all. May it also enrich everyones lives with prosperity and harmony, wrote PM Modi on X.

About Kharchi Puja festival The festival has been celebrated since the erstwhile royal dynasty and is associated with meticulous rituals and customs. Kharchi Puja is observed in the Ashadha month and is deeply associated with the religious heritage and culture of the region.

The ceremonial proceedings commenced Saturday afternoon with the revered ritual of bathing the idols of the Fourteen Gods in the Howrah River. The event witnessed the presence of temple authorities, priests, and a gathering of devotees who participated in the traditional rites.

Significance of Kharchi Puja Kharchi Puja is a week-long festival which holds immense significance among the local devotees and also for those who come

Kharchi Puja is a week-long festival of immense religious significance that draws thousands of devotees from across the state and beyond. The ritual bathing of the deities marks the beginning of the festivities, symbolising purification and the washing away of sins. The idols are then brought back to the temple with great reverence and elaborate rituals.

Throughout the festival, the deities are worshipped by devotees with offerings of flowers, fruits, and sweets, accompanied by the chanting of hymns and traditional music. During the celebration, the temple is decorated with flowers, and various cultural programs are organised.
By Jody Godoy

NEW YORK, July 10 (Reuters) - A jury in Manhattan federal court reached a verdict on Wednesday in the criminal case against Archegos Capital Management founder Sung Kook "Bill" Hwang, accused by prosecutors of manipulating stock prices before the 2021 collapse of his $36 billion private investment firm.

The judge in the case announced that the verdict has been reached. It will be disclosed in open court. U.S. District Judge Alvin Hellerstein instructed jurors on the law before they began their deliberations on Tuesday in the trial of Hwang and Patrick Halligan, his Archegos deputy and co-defendant.

The trial began in May.

Hwang, 60, has pleaded not guilty to one count of racketeering conspiracy and 10 counts of fraud and market manipulation. Halligan, 47, has pleaded not guilty to fraud and racketeering conspiracy. Halligan is the former Archegos chief financial officer.

If convicted, they face maximum sentences of 20 years in prison on each charge, though any sentence would likely be much lower and would be imposed by the judge based on a range of factors.

Prosecutors and defense lawyers delivered closing arguments to the jurors on Monday.

Hwang's lawyer said the prosecution has criminalized aggressive but legal trading methods. A federal prosecutor said Hwang and Halligan unlawfully pumped up stock prices and lied about the holdings of Archegos to the banks with which they traded.

The implosion of Archegos left global banks nursing billions in losses and, according to prosecutors, caused more than $100 billion in shareholder losses at companies in its portfolio.

Prosecutors have accused Hwang of secretly amassing outsized stakes in multiple companies without actually holding their stock. They have said Hwang lied to banks about the size of Archegos' derivative positions to borrow billions of dollars that he and his deputies then used to inflate the underlying stocks.

According to the U.S. Attorney's Office for the Southern District of New York, which brought the case, Hwang's positions eclipsed those of the companies' largest investors, driving up stock prices. At its peak, prosecutors said Archegos had $36 billion in assets and $160 billion of exposure to equities.

When stock prices fell in March 2021, the banks demanded additional deposits, which Archegos could not make. The banks then sold the stocks backing Hwang's swaps, wiping out $100 billion in value for shareholders and billions at the banks, including $5.5 billion for Credit Suisse, now part of UBS , and $2.9 billion for Nomura Holdings.
Pune Police issued show cause notice to Trainee IAS Pooja Khedkar's mother Manorama Khedkar on Sunday, July 14, after confiscating a luxury car used by Pooja Khedkar. Pune Police Commissioner Amitesh Kumar issued the notice, which was later pasted on Pooja Khedkar's house in Maharashtra's Pune after no one turned up to receive the notice.

The notice demands response and an explanation from Pooja Khedkar's mother within 10 days as to why her gun license should not be cancelled. A case has been filed against her under the Arms Act in the Pune rural police jurisdiction. This follows a complaint from a local farmer who alleged that Manorama Khedkar and others had threatened him.

Also Read | FIR filed against parents of IAS officer Pooja Khedkar for alleged threats

Also Read | Trouble mounts for IAS Puja Khedkar, gets PMC encroachment notice

This development comes after, Pooja Khedkar's car was taken to the Chaturshrangi Police Station in Pune for examination and document verification. The luxury car had illegally installed red beacon light and 'Maharashtra Government' written on it without permission.

On Thursday, the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) issued a notice to a city-based private company, the registered owner of the Audi car that Pooja Khedkar used during her posting in Pune.

According to officials, Shivane village in Haveli taluka was the address mentioned on documents of the Audi car registered in the name of a city-based private company that owned the car that Pooja Khedkar used during her posting. On Thursday, the Pune Regional Transport Office (RTO) issued a notice to the private company.

"A notice was issued on Thursday against the unauthorised use of a beacon and name sign on the private sedan Khedkar had been using. The car now has been confiscated, its documents will be checked and we are probing the matter further," PTI quoted a senior police official as saying.

Also Read | Uttar Pradesh govt transfers Ayodhya DM, and 10 IAS officers

The probationary officer made headlines after a controversy picked up surrounding her demands such as a separate cabin and staff during her posting. Probe revealed that in order to secure a position in the Indian Administrative Service (IAS), she allegedly misused the disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) quota. In the backdrop of controversy, the trainee officer was transferred from Pune to Washim district even before her training completed.
Paramount, you got some splainin to do! 'I Love Lucy: The Complete Series' Blu-ray Box Set Coming November 5th!
Shooting at US Presidential candidate Donald Trump rally: A witness claimed that he saw the attacker was positioned on the roof before firing a shot at Donald Trump. He even saw the attacker crawling the building before aiming at the former president with a rifle.

The guy crawled up the building 50 feet from us. He had a rifle, the witness Greg, told BBC.

Also Read | Gunshots fired at 2024 US Presidential candidate Donald Trump rally | Watch

The report also stated that he had informed about the suspicious man with a rifle to both the police and Secret Service.

"I'm thinking to myself 'Why is Trump still speaking, why have they not pulled him off the stage'... the next thing you know, five shots ring out," he said as quoted by BBC.

Following the gunshots, Donald Trump was immediately rushed out of the podium by the police, and Secret Service members. Greg further confirmed that he had seen the agency shoot down the attacker, reported the BBC.

The witness further told BBC, the the police did not have any idea on what was going on at the site. Greg said he had informed the police two to three minutes before, but they probably could not see the attacker because of the slope of the roof.

"We're pointing at him, the police are down there running around on the ground, we're like 'Hey man, there's a guy on the roof with a rifle'... and the police did not know what was going on,"Greg told the BBC.

The shooting at Donald Trump's rally is currently being investigated as an attempted assassination, reports mentioned.

Another witness,Jason, told the BBC that he saw the Secret Service jump on Trump immediately after the gun shots were heard. Moments later, Trump stood up, and put his fist in the air, said Jason.
Shooting at Trump rally: Prime Minister Narendra Modi has on July 14 strongly condemned the shooting incident at Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania.

In a post on social media site X (formerly known as Twitter), Modi said there is no place for violence in politics.

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, Modi wrote.

Besides Modi, Congress leader Rahul Gandhi also wrote on X, calling it an assassination attempt and wishing Trump a swift and complete recovery. I am deeply concerned by the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. Such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Wishing him a swift and complete recovery. Gandhi wrote.

P Chidambaram also took to X to express concern over the incident. Political violence of any kind is unacceptable. I condemn the person who fired the shot at former President Trump  thankfully, Mr Trump survived. Let American citizens debate the merits of rival candidates and choose one as President. That choice cannot be interfered with by a mad person  who is now dead  with a gun, Chidambaram stated.

Trump shooting draws all-round ire Modi, Gandhi and Chidambaram joined several world leaders and prominent personalities who chorused condemnations against the attack.

US President and Democratic Party candidate Joe Biden was among the first leaders who condemned the attack and urged others to speak against political violence. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden stated on X.

UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer condemned the attack in strong words and said he was appalled by the shocking scenes of the shooting targeting former US president Donald Trump at an election rally. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, he wrote on X.

Canadian PM Justin Trudeau also reiterated the zero-tolerance stance on political violence. Simply disgusted by the shots aimed at ex-President Trump. We can never say it enough: political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with Mr Trump, those in attendance and all Americans, Trudeau said on X.

Wishing Trump a quick recovery from his injury, former US President Barack Obama wrote, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Google CEO Sundar Pichai lso took to social media to urge a united attempt against political violence, stating, Im wishing President Trump a speedy recovery. Im shocked by todays shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable, and we must all come together to strongly oppose it.

Witnesses share testimony A witness claimed that he saw the attacker was positioned on the roof before firing a shot at Trump. He even saw the attacker crawling the building before aiming at the former president with a rifle.

The guy crawled up the building 50 feet from us. He had a rifle, the witness Greg, told BBC. The report also stated that he had informed about the suspicious man with a rifle to both the police and Secret Service. "I'm thinking to myself 'Why is Trump still speaking, why have they not pulled him off the stage'... the next thing you know, five shots ring out," he said as quoted by BBC.
Donald Trump, the 2024 US Presidential candidate, landed at Newark Liberty International Airport in New Jersey just hours after surviving an assassination attempt. A video footage posted by his deputy communications director Margo Martin showed Trump walking unaided from his plane, though his wounded ear was not facing the camera. The New York Times reported that he was staying the night in New Jersey.

Trump was shot at an outdoor rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening. He said that a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear as he gave his first account after the gunshot incident. On Truth Social, the former US President wrote a post, which read, I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Also Read | Elon Musk fully endorses Donald Trump after rally shooting

"Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

Though the former President was safe, a bystander was killed, two other spectators were critically injured.

The FBI also released details on the gunman, who was shot dead. The gunman was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to US media reports. The motive behind the shooting remains unknown, as reported by AFP.

President Joe Biden, who is will be facing Trump in the upcoming November election, condemned the incident as "sick" and stated that "there is no place in America for this kind of violence." The attack on Trump has heightened political tensions, with some Republicans attributing blame to Biden. J.D. Vance, a potential vice presidential candidate for Trump, claimed that Biden's "rhetoric" had "directly" contributed to the attack on Trump.

Also Read | US Presidential Polls: Calls for Joe Biden to exit race mount after NATO address
Donald Trump assassination bid: Former US President Donald Trump on Saturday was attacked while he was leading a rally for the upcoming US Presidential Election 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. The Republican Presidential nominee suffered minor injuries in his right ear and was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents.

Also Read | Donald Trump live updates: China expresses concern about Trump rally shooting

The gunman had fired multiple shots towards the stage, after which he was shot by the US Secret Service personnel. The attack is under investigation.

Also Read | Man says father threw him out of house for laughing over Trump shooting

The attack on Donald Trump at an election rally sparked strong criticism from US President Joe Biden, former US President Barack Obama and several global leaders, including British PM Keir Starmer, Canada PM Justin Trudeau, and Israel PM Benjamin Netanyahu. Here are top 10 updates on Donald Trump assassination bid.

Also Read | List of Presidents, candidates who were assassinated or targeted

Donald Trump Shooting incident: Top 10 updates - Former US President Donald Trump is doing well after he was shot by an unidentified gunman at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The update was given by his campaign senior advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles in a statement.

-In a statement, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles said, As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action.

Also Read | Watch | Trump lands in New Jersey hours after assassination attempt on him

-Soon after the attack, Donald Trump's sons Eric Trump and Donald Trump Jr issued a statement on their father's attack. In a statement shared with Page Six, Eric Trump said, toughest man I have ever met.

-His brother, Trump Jr also showed support for his father and maintained that Donald Trump will never stop fighting. He'll never stop fighting to Save America," wrote Donald Trump Jr on X.

-It was a close shave for Donald Trump, who was shot in his right ear while he was on stage at a rally in Pennsylvania's Butler.

Also Read | Jeff Bezos to Sam Altman; top leaders react to shooting at Donald Trump

-Soon after the attack, Secret Service agents stormed the stage and escorted Donald Trump out of the location. The Secret Service agents neutralised the gunman, who died later.

-One person was killed during the attack, and another person was critically injured. The incident is under investigation, said the US Secret Service in a statement.

-Donald Trump's daughter, Ivanka Trump, expressed gratitude to the Secret Service and the other law enforcement officers for their swift action.

-The attack was the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
Hours after falling victim to an assassination attempt, US Presidential candidate Donald Trump urged Americans to "stand United" and "how our True Character as Americans". Trump sustained injuries on his right ear after 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks fired multiple shots at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The suspect was shot and killed by the Secret Service seconds after he allegedly fired shots toward a stage where Trump was speaking on Saturday. However, several questions were raised on the alleged security lapse during the rally.

Donald Trump assassination: Here's all yo need to know so far

1. 'FEAR NOT': Donald Trump's latest message Donald Trump shared his second statement on Truth Social since the Pennsylvania shooting on Saturday. He wrote:

"Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

"We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

"We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

"In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin," he said.

2. Bomb-making materials found in suspect's home Law enforcement officials told The Associated Press that bomb-making materials were found inside the vehicle of the man suspected in the Trump rally shooting. "There were also bomb-making materials found at his home," sources were quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal cited sources as saying that the suspected shooter had explosive devices in his car. The car with the reported devices was parked near the rally where Donald Trump addressed a crowd before his assassination attempt.

3. Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, fired shots at the stage from which Trump was addressing the public. The range from which he fired and his clothing led to early speculation that the shooter had military experience. Read more about him here

However, all the branches of the military searched their records Sunday and said in response to a query by The Associated Press that they had no records of him serving. He was killed by the Secret Service soon after the assassination bid.

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to state voter records. When Crooks was 17, he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing, Reuters reported.

The donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote. The groups did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

4. How gunman who shot was able to get so close? The US Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Donald Trump at a rally.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

5. AR-15 used An AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle used in the shooting was recovered near his body, according to sources. The AR-15-style rifle is one of the most popular guns in the US, the AFP reported. It has also been a common denominator in some of the country's worst mass shootings.

The attempted assassination of former Trump with a semi-automatic rifle illustrates once again how easy it is for shooters in the US to get their hands on inexpensive, easy-to-use, military-style weapons.

6. Major security lapse A Hindustan Times report claimed that Trump, the Republican candidate, was exposed 360 degrees at the Pennsylvania rally with the assassin allowed to take no less than five shots from his AR-15 assault rifle. It added that the Indian Special Protection Group (SPG) allows only 180-degree exposure to Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Read full report here

7. Joe Biden wants to ban assault weapons "I want to ban assault weapons and require universal background checks. Trump promised the NRA [National Rifle Association] that hed do nothing about guns. And he means it," Joe Biden tweeted on Sunday.

8. 'Monster': Melania Trump has issued a statement In her statement released on Sunday, Donald Trump's wife Melania Trump called the suspect a "monster". She said, "A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine...
President Joe Biden had just begun to turn the tables in his reelection bid when the attempt on Donald Trumps life took away his most powerful tool: drawing attention to his opponents behavior and second-term agenda.

Battered by doubts about his mental fitness and pressure to step aside, Biden fought back on Friday with an energetic speech in Detroit vowing to shine a spotlight on Trump  an argument he planned to drive home until Election Day in November.

About 24 hours later, and just under 200 miles away, shots rang out at Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, the chilling apex of an era in American politics defined by radicalized views and heated rhetoric.

Bidens beleaguered campaign is now limited in how it can push forward. The outburst of political violence stymies his efforts to argue his case. It also undercuts a core premise of his presidency  that he would restore decency and normalcy to national politics.

Instead, the president will hope that a unifying message in a time of crisis resonates with voters. Biden announced he would deliver a rare Oval Office address at 8 p.m. local time. He plans to call on Americans to come together and end political violence, a campaign official said.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden told reporters on Sunday at the White House. Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is as important than that right now.

The intense focus on the attempted assassination does offer Biden a reprieve from the conversation that had dominated headlines for weeks: whether he should withdraw after his disastrous debate. One Democratic donor, speaking on the condition of anonymity, said that they previously believed the party would be best served by replacing Biden, but theres no way that could happen now without contributing to a sense of chaos.

The shooting  and Trumps iconic, bloodied, fist-pumping response  seems certain to rally voters and donors behind the Republican candidate.

Business leaders Elon Musk and Bill Ackman, who previously resisted endorsing the former president, came out with public statements backing Trump within minutes of his being struck.

It will be days or weeks before public opinion surveys are released assessing the aftermath. But former President Ronald Reagan saw a substantial increase in support when he was shot and wounded in 1981. Many presidential historians say that attack cemented his status in the conservative movement.

By contrast, Biden must balance how to push forward without seeming insensitive. The president plans to reiterate his condemnation of violence in politics on Monday in a prime-time interview with NBC News, then his political operation will pivot back to drawing contrasts between Bidens vision and Trumps, the campaign official said.

Biden expressed sympathy for Trump on Sunday while vowing a thorough and swift federal investigation, a Secret Service probe into its security measures and an independent review of the shooting that he pledged to release to the American people.

The president urged people not to make assumptions about the gunmans motives or his affiliations, imploring the public to let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job.

With Election Day less than four months away, Biden badly needs to reverse his standing. He trails Trump by nearly 3 percentage points, according to the RealClearPolitics polling average.

Figures on both sides of the aisle have called for leaders to rise above the political fray and attempt to heal national divisions. The shooting confirmed the fears of half of swing-state voters, who said in a Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll in May that they were worried about violence surrounding the election.

Already, the presidents campaign said it would pause messaging and television ads. Biden postponed a Monday speech in Austin to mark the 60th anniversary of the Civil Rights Act. His campaign canceled a Monday event counter-programming the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Vice President Kamala Harris delayed political travel originally scheduled for Tuesday in Florida, according to a campaign official.

Biden will not be off the road for long. He plans to travel to Las Vegas to address Black and Latino advocacy groups on Tuesday and Wednesday and sit for another interview with BET, the White House said.

Republican Criticism

While law enforcement officials, and Trump himself, have not ascribed a motive to the shooter, some Republicans have already made unsubstantiated claims blaming Biden for motivating the would-be assassin.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, a possible Trump running mate, posted on X. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Supporters of the president pointed to his call for unity after the shooting. Biden also said he had a short call with Trump.

Still, the failed assassination attempt shifts the dynamics of the race in Trumps favor.

Its a remarkable twist of fate for Trump, who has glorified violence throughout his political career, from encouraging rally attendees in 2016 to knock the crap out of protesters to telling supporters to fight like hell on Jan. 6, 2021, just before they stormed the US Capitol.

Bidens inevitable ritual condemnation of political violence today will be insufficient and irrelevant, posted Vivek Ramaswamy, who ran against Trump in the 2024 GOP primaries.

Defiant Images

Republican pollster Frank Luntz said the shooting guarantees every Trump voter will actually vote, while Biden wont be able to count on that certainty. The biggest effect is likely to be in battleground Pennsylvania  a must-win for Biden  because that is where the shooting occurred, he said.

The long and winding road for Joe Biden just became even longer and windier, Luntz posted on X. The shooting of Donald Trump will be significantly consequential in a way the shooter never intended.

With Trump dominating the national conversation, theres little Biden can do in the near term to push his anti-Trump message, mend Democratic divisions and shift the dynamics of the race in a way that reassures skeptics.

This has got to help Donald Trump, at least for a while, with independents, said Matthew Wilson, a Southern Methodist University political science professor. Those images showing a defiant Donald Trump with blood on his face and his fist in the air are better advertising than anything money can buy.

Others urged caution in overstating the impact of the moment. They pointed to a minimal shift in polls after other seismic events, including Bidens debate catastrophe and Trumps conviction in the New York hush-money trial.

Senator Bernie Sanders, a progressive stalwart, expressed confidence in Bidens chances as long as he focuses on his plans for a second term to bolster the social safety net, slash drug prices and expand workers rights.

If he continues to talk about that, I think he gets reelected, Sanders said on NBCs Meet the Press.

With assistance from Bill Allison, Alicia Diaz, Jenny Leonard and Julie Fine.
It was supposed to be a good week for Samsung Electronics Company, with attention focused on the consumer gadgets to be unveiled last Wednesday at its annual summer product event. Instead, the South Korean tech titan is grappling with an unprecedented three-day strike staged by its largest union.

This work stoppage is not about artificial intelligence (AI) taking peoples jobs. But the biggest organized labour action in Samsungs 55-year history portends what companies inside and outside the tech industry will soon have to confront on a global scale.

As Generative AI technology increasingly threatens to upend entire industries and sow further labour unrest, firms creating this turbulence have an outsize responsibility to work with unions and give workers a seat at the table.

How this technology effects the jobs market will likely take years, if not decades, to unfold, but some workers are already feeling the pinch. In Silicon Valley, the very firms racing to create AI recently cut hundreds of thousands of jobs at the same time as company leaders doubled down on multi billion-dollar investments into it.

Also read: Samsung Galaxy Unpacked Event Highlights: Galaxy Ultra Watch & Watch 7 launched

Beyond the tech sector, the threat of AI to livelihoods brought Hollywood production to a standstill last year as actors and writers went on a high-profile strike.

Its not unheard of for tech companies to team up with labour unions. Industry leader Microsoft announced late last year that it was forming a historic alliance with a coalition of 60 unions to discuss how AI will impact workers. Its a rare example of a tech giant showing foresight and responsibility over how the products its creating could impact real peoples employment prospects.

At Samsung, rank-and-file chip assembly line workers are also now seeing the AI boom make their company richer, and are seeking a clearer method of tying bonus payments to operating profits, among other demands. Samsung last Friday posted a 15-fold increase in profits, buoyed by a rebound in demand for memory chips for data centres and AI development. These rosy earnings come after a difficult last year for its memory chip division.

The work stoppage at Samsung could not come at a more consequential time for the company: The one-time leader lags domestic rival SK Hynix in making high-bandwidth memory chips that can be used for AI.

While SK Hynix has benefited from being the main supplier of these semiconductors to AI leader Nvidia, Samsung has yet to get its own HBM chips to pass Nvidias qualification checks, and it cannot afford any missteps. SK Hynix shares have rallied more than 60% since the beginning of the year, while Samsung stock is up roughly 10%.

Some union representatives at Samsung have criticized the company for failing to get ahead of the high-end memory chip demand. These feelings of betrayal also underscore the love-hate relationship many Koreans have with their chaebol, or large corporations.

Within Asias fourth-largest economy, those employed at chaebol tend to receive higher pay and benefits than most other workers. Many Koreans are also very patriotic and proud of how companies like Samsung and SK Hynix have succeeded globally in the technology sector. Even union workers may not want to put those so closely tied to their nations economic strength at risk.

Times are changing fast, and businesses need to adapt. In what would have seemed impossible just a few years agoSamsung took a hardline industrial approach for most of its history and only in 2020 said it would respect workers rights to organizethe union held a strike and is seeking an additional annual paid day off, changes to the bonus system and other improvements.

Samsung said on Monday that the strike has had no impact on chip output, and markets have so far shrugged off any potential business disruption. But the union is threatening further action later this month if demands are not met, and the optics of thousands of workers rallying amid a monsoon downpour are not great for the countrys wealthiest corporation. Organized labour movements tend to inspire each other, and the Samsung strike could spur similar actions across the tech sector in Asia and beyond.

The South Korean electronics company now has a unique opportunity to show global leadership. It can start by working with its own employees as it races to cash in on the AI boom and give the union a proper seat at the table. Developing this relationship now could help empower its workforce and catch up to competition.

And as AI continues to reshape the global labour market, other firms will need to do the same. bloomberg
The budget is now slightly more than a week away. Finance ministry officials would have already sifted through all the proposals, recommendations and advice received from various quarters, and taken a decision on which ones to retain and which ones to discard.

Many proposals and measures are probably already in the oven for final baking; what is probably left are incorporating last-minute proposals from party members, updating data and putting final touches to finance minister Nirmala Sitharamans commentary.

There is another source that the finance ministry may wish to assess while drawing up the final contours of the new governments first budget: the results of the latest general elections.

The ruling party Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) had claimed in a meeting of its office-bearers that it would increase its 2019 tally of 303 seats by 67 seats to 370 seats; the BJP, instead, lost 63 seats and ended up having to rely on coalition partners for support. The deepest cuts were delivered by Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra and West Bengal where its tally dropped by more than half.

Much newsprint and airtime has been devoted to analysing the myriad factors leading up to the 2024 Lok Sabha election results. As usual, there is probably not one particular reason but a multi-layered stack of causes. Three factors, among the multiple strands, make for compelling inclusion in the budget-making process.

One is the fact that even though the Lok Sabha elections are national in character, in reality each state follows different voting patterns. This had become an accepted home-truth for over two decades after the late 1980s, when the era of coalition governments began, and persisted for some time thereafter.

However, over the past 10 years, the BJPs majority position in Parliament had raised doubts about that thesis. The 2024 general elections seem to indicate that the trend of differentiated approaches has returned, challenging the emerging tenet that the voting behaviour of Indian voters resembles something close to a unified national movement.

This has major implications for fiscal federalism as well, including the central governments use of funds devolution as a bargaining tool. A 4 July report from Motilal Oswal Financial Services on fiscal data from 20 states (representing 93-94% of all states budgets) highlights central parsimony.

The report shows that total fund transferstax devolution plus grantsfrom the Centre to states grew by only 2.5% during 2023-24, against a growth of 4.9% during the previous year. What is even more shocking is the revelation that grants-in-aid from the Centre to states contracted by close to 22% in 2023-24, compared with a modest 4% growth the previous year. This decline in grant transfers during the year is likely to have affected spending across many social sector schemes.

Grants-in-aid are transferred from central funds to states as per Article 275 of the Constitution. Successive finance commissions have tried to remedy the vertical imbalance between the Centres taxation powers and states spending responsibility by recommending a mix of tax devolution and grants.

However, states have regularly preferred higher tax devolution, a Constitutional right, over grants, which are perceived to be discriminatory. The 15th finance commission, while recommending almost 20% of transfers as grants, may have ended up strengthening those perceptions (and stoking fears of deepening central powers) by introducing performance criteria as a condition for devolution.

The second strong message coming from voters is anxiety over employment and income. Many pre-budget presentations to the government as well as some research reports have recommended state support for labour-intensive industries such as textiles.

The governments production-linked incentive scheme, to be fair, has employment generation as one of the desired outcomes and textiles is included in the scheme. However, the scheme focuses largely on man-made fibressuch as polyester, acrylic and viscose fibres.

But man-made fibre manufacturers have over the years automated their operations to a large extent and reduced the need for additional manpower. In addition, the scheme has shown patchy progress so far, compelling the government to drop hints of extending it to the apparel sector.

While the apparel segment does hold promise, the handloom industry might be better placed to meet the governments ambitions on employment generation. The textiles ministry admitted as much in its 2022-23 annual report: One of the largest in terms of employment potential, handloom industry, with 23.77 lakh looms, plays a very important role in the countrys economy, producing both for domestic as well as international consumption."

The third signal emerging from ballot boxes relates to capital expenditure. The government has been bold in front-loading its infrastructure investments, but has failed to evoke the desired investment response from the private sector that could have generated additional employment.

Numerous papers and op-eds have pointed to some of the tangible and intangible hurdles holding back higher private-sector investment, and the government needs to heed these. In addition, to make capital expenditure more effective, the government could also look internally and force some key ministries, such as the ministry for development of northeast states, to spend their allocated capital budget.
Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli reprised his role as Nepal Prime Minister on Sunday following the collapse of the Pushpa Kamal Dahal-led coalition. The Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist leader will take oath on Monday following his appointment by President Poudel.

First elected as prime minister in 2015, he was reelected in 2018 and then reappointed briefly in 2021 in Nepal's often turbulent parliament.

His predecessor and former coalition government ally, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, lost a vote of confidence on Friday, barely 18 months after taking office.

Dahal, a former Maoist guerrilla commander better known by his nom de guerre Prachanda ("The Fierce One"), was forced to step down after Oli's party withdrew its support.

Oli instead forged a deal with Sher Bahadur Deuba of the Nepali Congress.

He has promised to yield the post to the former five-time prime minister Deuba, 78, later in the parliamentary term.

Nepal became a federal republic in 2008 after a decade-long civil war and a peace deal that saw the Maoists brought into government and the abolishment of the monarchy.

Since then, a revolving door of ageing prime ministers and a culture of horse-trading have fuelled public perceptions that the government is out of touch with Nepal's pressing problems.

Nepal's next general elections are due in 2027.

In a Himalayan republic of about 30 million people, overshadowed by giant neighbours India and China, Oli previously trod a fine balance between the rivals, cordial to both but reaching out to Beijing to decrease Nepal's dependency on New Delhi.
Tesla CEO Elon Musk denied a New York Times report which cited sources as saying that "Mr. Musk has volunteered his sperm to help seed a colony" on Mars. The NYT's sources were "two people familiar with Musk's comments". This claim was, however, denied by Musk.

In a post on the social media platform, the X owner wrote with laughing emoji, "I have not fwiw [for what it's worth] volunteered my sperm" "

He also said no one at SpaceX has been directed to work on a Mars city. "When people have asked to do so, Ive said we need to focus on getting there first," he added.

Musk's idea of multi-planetary life Elon Musk has been on the mission to "establish a self-sustaining city on Mars to ensure continuation of life (of all species) in case Earth gets hit by a meteor like the dinosaurs or WW3 happens & we destroy ourselves," he had said back in 2018.

He aims to make life "multi-planetary"  this refers to the extension of life to other planets. In an old, Musk also explains Why is making life multiplanetary important? Watch here

Making the idea even more interesting, Musk said on July 11 that sci-fi author Isaac "Asimovs Foundation series was part of the inspiration for making life/consciousness multiplanetary."

"Being multiplanetary greatly extends the probable lifespan of civilization," he said.

Musk's idea of making life possible on Mars Back in 2020, Elon Musk had mentioned how humans will inhabit the red planet initially. He had said, Life in glass domes at first. Eventually, terraformed to support life, like Earth.

Also Read | Neuralink to implant second brain chip next week, says Elon Musk

According to the National Space Society, Terraforming (literally, Earth-shaping) of a planet, moon, or other body is the hypothetical process of deliberately modifying its atmosphere, volatile components, temperature, surface topography or ecology to be similar to the environment of Earth and to make it habitable for Earth life.

"Terraforming will be too slow to be relevant in our lifetime. However, we can establish a human base there in our lifetime. At least a future spacefaring civilization  discovering our ruins  will be impressed humans got that far," Musk had said.

Referring to the idea of glass dome, the New York Times, in its latest report, cited "two people" as saying that the "colony will center on a giant dome for communal living, with smaller domes scattered around it".

"Let the Martians decide their own future," he had said.

Mars city game plan and Starship "Starship is the largest rocket ever built and itll take us to Mars," an X account named "Tesla Owners Silicon Valley" posted on social media earlier this year.

Reacting to the post, Elon Musk said a "game plan" is being mapped out "to get a million people to Mars". He added, "Civilization only passes the single-planet Great Filter when Mars can survive even if Earth supply ships stop coming."

Elon Musk's SpaceX plans to build a fleet of Starships capable of ferrying people and cargo throughout the solar system, though transportation may not be the biggest challenge to colonising Mars, the Independent reported.

Also Read | Elon Musk is one step closer to his goal of setting a colony on Mars

The Space X website mentions that its Starship spacecraft and Super Heavy rocket  collectively referred to as Starship  represent a fully reusable transportation system designed to carry both crew and cargo to Earth orbit, the Moon, Mars and beyond.

Also Read | Elon Musk wants to colonise Mars but Earth needs to write its constitution first

But why Mars? SpaceX says that Mars is one of Earth's closest habitable neighbours at an average distance of 140 million miles. The company adds that Mars is about half again as far from the Sun as Earth is, so it still has decent sunlight.

It is a little cold, but we can warm it up, SpaceX says.
The attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump on Saturday was "truly shocking" and must be condemned, Taoiseach Simon Harris has said.

Trump was shot in the right ear as he addressed supporters at an outdoor campaign rally in Pennsylvania yesterday evening.

The US Secret Service confirmed a bystander had been killed and two others are in hospital in a critical condition. The attacker, who has been named by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was also shot dead.

READ ALSO - Man seriously injured and family left homeless in petrol bomb attack in Dublin

Taoiseach Simon Harris told the BBC that the attack was a "horrific and heinous criminal act". He also welcomed news that Trump had spoken with President Joe Biden in the aftermath of the incident.

"It's so important that political violence is condemned and, and of course I want to send former President Trump our very best wishes and his family and all of those caught up in this horrific heinous political act last night," he added.

"Political violence must always be condemned and always be called out, and I must say it is quite alarming the rise that we're seeing in political violence across the world. It's only weeks since my Slovakian counterpart [Robert Fico] had an attempt on his life as well," he said.
Music, Movies & Entertainment, National & World News, Health & Wellness

By Long Island Published: July 13 2024

In recent years, Simmons retreated from the public eye, sparking concern among fans.

Richard Simmons, the beloved fitness personality known for his exuberant energy and flamboyant personality, passed away today at the age of 76 in Los Angeles, California. Simmons inspired millions through his "Sweatin' to the Oldies" workout videos and his passionate advocacy for health and wellness.

Born Milton Teagle Simmons on July 12, 1948, in New Orleans, Simmons rose to fame in the late 1970s and 1980s, promoting weight loss and fitness with a unique blend of encouragement and humor. His gym, Slimmons, became a haven for those seeking to improve their health in a supportive environment.

Throughout his career, Simmons made numerous television appearances, including on "The Richard Simmons Show," "General Hospital," and various talk shows. His influence extended beyond fitness as he championed noncompetitive physical education in schools and remained a beloved figure in pop culture.

In recent years, Simmons retreated from the public eye, sparking concern among fans. However, his legacy continued to inspire many to lead healthier lives.

In March, Simmons revealed he had been diagnosed with skin cancer. In a rare interview with People Magazine this week, he said he feels good despite his age. I am grateful that Im here, that I am alive for another day, he said. Ill spend my birthday doing what I do every day, which is to help people.

The Sweatin to the Oldies star had announced earlier this year that he was planning to open a Broadway musical with renowned producer and composer Patrick Leonard.

Simmons was beloved and often parodied for his flamboyant, positive attitude that helped millions of Americans get in shape for decades. He leaves behind a legacy of positivity, health advocacy, and unwavering support for those battling weight issues. His impact on the fitness industry and popular culture will be remembered for years to come.

The health guru, who stepped away from the public eye a decade ago, rose to fame in the 1970s and 80s after opening several gyms across the country and releasing his iconic high-energy fitness tapes.

His death was first reported by TMZ. Police told the outlet they believe it was a natural death.

For more details on Richard Simmons' life and career, visit here.
Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant meets Israeli pilots and Israeli Air Force personnel at Nevatim Air Base on July 13. (Israel Ministry of Defense photo/Ariel Hermoni)

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) targeted the head of Hamass armed forces in Gaza and one of its remaining brigade commanders in a series of airstrikes in south Gaza on July 13. The strikes aimed to eliminate Mohammed Dief, Hamass top military commander, and Khan Younis Brigade Commander Rafaa Salameh. The IDF and Israel Security Agency, Israels internal security service, said on July 14 that they assessed that Salameh was killed.

The strikes took place in the Mawasi area of southern Gaza, which has been designated a humanitarian zone. Egypt and other countries condemned the attack due to the reported civilian death toll.

Israeli assessments are still being made about the fate of Deif, who has survived several Israeli strikes over the last two decades. It is still too early to conclude the results of the strike, which Hamas is trying to hide. We are determined to continue and pursue senior Hamas officials, those who planned and carried out the October 7th Massacre and dedicated their lives to the murder of innocent civilians, IDF Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Herzi Halevi said on July 14. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant, visiting the IDFs Nevatim Air Base on July 13, said the the pursuit of Hamas terrorists will continue for years to comefrom the most senior ones to the terrorists in the field.

Salemeh and Deif are among the handful of remaining top Hamas commanders in Gaza. Marwan Issa, the deputy commander of Hamas forces in Gaza, was killed in an airstrike in Gaza in March. Saleh al-Arouri, another key Hamas figure, was killed in Beirut in January. Deif is well known in Hamas for his uncanny ability to avoid not only past airstrikes and raids but also being caught on camera. Few public images of him exist. Nevertheless, Deif is seen as a central figure behind the planning of the October 7, 2023, attack on Israel.

Salameh is one of Hamass five brigade commanders in Gaza. With his death, only two of these commanders remain: the heads of the Rafah Brigade and the Gaza Brigade. Both units, which once had thousands of men, have been shattered or forced to retreat in fighting since Israel launched its ground offensive in November. The IDF entered Rafah in May, and the Hamas fighters in Rafah mostly fled to Khan Younis. Around 900 Hamas members in Rafah were eliminated in clashes with the IDF, Israel believes.

Salemeh has a long record of involvement in terrorism. He joined the group and moved up through the ranks, closely following Mohammed Sinwar, the brother of Yahya Sinwar, who currently leads Hamas in Gaza. Salemeh played a role in the kidnapping of IDF soldier Gilad Schalit in 2006. It appears that losing Salameh and possibly Deif would reduce the groups top command to only a skeleton of its former self, forcing Hamas to fill numerous open spots in its Gazan-based terror leadership. In contrast, Hamass foreign-based leaders, often seen as the more political wing of the group, reside in Doha and have continued their activities relatively openly since the war began.

Halevi met with members of the elite IDF Shaldag unit at Israels Palmachim Air Base. He noted that the strikes on Hamas commanders are part of how the IDF generates pressure on Hamas for a hostage deal. An agreement for the return of the hostages is an urgent moral imperative to save lives. [] The IDF will know how to abide by any agreement that will be approved by the political echelon, and even at the end of a ceasefire, to return and operate again with great strength, he said. Halevi also noted that the IDF intelligence concluded that no hostages were present at the site of the airstrike.

In a discussion with IDF pilots and support personnel at Nevatim Air Base who participated in the July 13 strike, Gallant emphasized that Hamass capabilities are eroding every day, they are paying huge prices, and their ability to rebuild is very limited. He said the airstrikes are ensuring that Hamas is unable to regain military and industrial capabilities.

The airstrike on July 13 was larger and more complex than Israels usual precision strikes in Gaza. Since January, Israel has shifted gears in Gaza to a more low-intensity operation with fewer large airstrikes. The July 13 attack was an exception, and the extensive crater and reports of numerous strikes on the same area illustrate how the IDF sought to make sure its target was eliminated, according to various reports in Israeli media.

Reporting from Israel, Seth J. Frantzman is an adjunct fellow at FDD and a contributor to FDDs Long War Journal. He is the senior Middle East correspondent and analyst at The Jerusalem Post, and author of The October 7 War: Israel's Battle for Security in Gaza (2024).
An Earth-shaking incident took place on Saturday in the city of Butler, Pennsylvania. Former U.S. President and current Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump was shot at in an assassination attempt during one of his rallies.

Trump was grazed by an off-target bullet and was left with a bloody ear, but he was escorted out by Secret Service and is reportedly fine. One rally attendee has been pronounced dead, as has the shooter.

It's a historic and tragic moment in America with the U.S. Elections nearing in November.

Former president Donald Trump get shot in the head at campaign rally

Latest updates on the status of former President Donald Trump and the shooter who launched an assassination attempt

Update narration

The incident occurred at approximately 6:15pm ET in the city of Butler, Pennsylvania. Donald Trump was holding one of his trademark rallies, which always attracts a lot of supporters of his and Republican voters.

Trump is a divisive figure and he's dealt with plenty of hate from opposers, but no one would have ever expected an assassination attempt of this magnitude. Trump was lucky to get out alive. Unfortunately, a spectator was killed in the crossfire. According to the Secret Service Chief of Communications, Anthony Guglielmi, two other spectators were "critically injured". We hope they will pull through.

Attempts like this are not completely uncommon, particularly when it comes to current and former Presidents. But this one turned truly tragic due to an innocent bystander being killed in the process. The identity of the shooter is not yet known, but more information will come out shortly.

The shooter was apparently set up on the rooftop of a nearby building. Whether it was due to a lack of security or not, the shooter was able to get a good sightline, at least enough to get very close to hitting Trump. The shooter was neutralized by a counter-sniper team once he began firing.
Taylor Swift's feud with Kim Kardashian is some of the most unlikely beef in the celebrity sphere and one fan has taken it to the next level at the Eras Tour in Milan, where Swift performs on Sunday, July 14 by mocking Kim K's famous photo.

The feud was reportedly caused by Kanye West, who was married to the influential businesswoman, when he decided to name Swift in one of his songs and fans have picked it up ever since and run with it, despite Kardashian and West divorcing.

So, an Italian artist named Alexsandro Palombo has decided to poke fun at the pair by taking Kim Kardashian's famous 2014 Paper Magazine cover photo which "broke the internet" and adding Taylor Swift's face to it whilst making it her skin tone too just metres away from the San Siro Stadium where she will perform.

The pop-style mural also references thanK you aIMee by Swift, which is reportedly about Kim Kardashian thanks to the unconventional capital K in the title of the track which is located on the left buttock of the art.

How is thanK you aIMee about Kim Kardashian?

As mentioned, the song from Swift's The Tortured Poets Department album includes the capital K found in both the forename and surname of the most famous Kardashian on the planet.

In fact, all of the captialized letters spell out KIM so it does appear it could be a not-so-subtle hint at the Armenian-American, born in Los Angeles back in 1980 who is known for modelling, her Skims business, and her role as popular celebrity personality.

The track has been suggested to be referencing Kardashian and her daughter, North, who was dancing to 2014's Shake It Off by the Eras Tour star, "And one day, your kid comes home singin' a song that only us two is gonna know is about you. 'Cause all that time you were throwing punches."

50% of fans who responded to a poll in The US Sun said they felt it was time for Swift to move on from the 2009 feud, and only 5.3% felt the song was talking about someone else.
An Earth-stopping incident occurred on Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania. Former President and U.S. Republican Presidential Candidate Donald Trump was shot at in a supposed assassination attempt.

Trump was immediately swarmed by Secret Service agents, got back up to raise a fist and then was escorted out with a bloody ear. Reports say that he is fine. It was a surreal moment; so much so that many are not buying it.

Former president Donald Trump get shot in the head at campaign rally

Some online users don't believe Trump shooting was real

Across the platform X, there were many users who were calling the shooting "staged".

A couple of people pointed out that the gunshots didn't sound realistic, and that it sounded more like a paintball gun.

We're still a ways from the second Presidential Debate between Trump and Joe Biden. That one is slated for September 10. The Presidential Election is on November 5.
The world was rocked on Saturday, when a gunman attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at one of his campaign rallies in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump was grazed by a bullet and was escorted out by Secret Service, and is reportedly fine.

The shooter is reportedly dead. Sources claim he was positioned on the rooftop of a building near the rally. He was gunned down and neutralized by the Secret Service's counter-sniper team once he began firing.

Suspected Donal Trump rally shooter found dead on nearby rooftop

Information on shooter in Donald Trump assassination attempt

We didn't know the identity of the shooter for a while, but more information has finally come out. The gunman has been "identified" as a 20-year-old from the local area, and his name is revealed to be Thomas Matthew Crooks.

In addition to the shooter, there was unfortunately other civilian casualties. At least one innocent bystander has been confirmed as deceased. Another was apparently injured as well, although the extent is unknown as of this moment.

This is a developing story and new information continues to trickle in by the moment.
The governor of Pennsylvania identified Corey Comperatore as the victim killed during the failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday.

Comperatore, 50, was a father of two and a firefighter, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said during a news conference Sunday afternoon. He said that Comperatore dove on his family to protect them from gunfire during the rally.

The assassination attempt on the former president, Donald Trump, last night was absolutely unacceptable and tragic, Shapiro said. The Democrat governor said he spoke with the families of the three victims, two of which were described as in critical condition by law enforcement officials.

The identities of the two other victims were not released by the governor.

Comperatores sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, spoke to The New York Times and said: The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we all love the most.

Comperatore Schafer said that they learned about her brothers death while watching the news.

Shapiro said that Comperatore went to church every Sunday and said that his wife asked that I share with all of you that Corey died a hero, that Corey dove on his family to protect them last night, at this rally.

The man identified as the shooter in the apparent assassination attempt of Trump was a 20-year-old from a Pittsburgh suburb not far from the campaign rally where one attendee was killed.

Authorities say Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, opened fire at the rally before being killed by Secret Service on Saturday, days before Trump was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time.

An FBI official said late Saturday that investigators had not yet determined a motive. One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

Material from the Associated Press was used in this report.
Five Massachusetts residents and one New York woman have been accused of carrying out a health care fraud scheme in which they billed health insurance companies for over $1 million in fake medical costs for treatment they supposedly received while overseas.

Dorchester resident Brendon Ashe, 40, 36-year-old Roxbury resident Aqiyla Atherton, 40-year-old Randolph resident Darline Cobbler, 36-year-old Brockton resident Henry Ezeonyido, 36-year-old Brockton resident Chinenye Nwodim and 34-year-old Brooklyn resident Ariel Lambert are all facing one count of health care fraud, the Massachusetts U.S. Attorneys Office said in a press release.

The six defendants are alleged to have submitted fraudulent health insurance claims for expensive medical treatments they purportedly paid for out-of-pocket while traveling outside the U.S., the U.S. Attorneys office said. The claims  which were billed to four health insurance companies  said that the defendants had been hospitalized after being injured in stabbings, hit-and-run car crashes and shootings.

The defendants are also accused of providing fake records to support their claims, including bank documents purportedly showing hospital payments, medical records purportedly showing the treatments they received and police reports describing the incidents in which they were injured, the U.S. Attorneys office said. Some of the fake supporting documents were nearly identical to one another, down to the date of the incident, the location at which it happened and the nature of the incident.

Prosecutors allege that the defendants were in the U.S. at the times they claimed to have been hospitalized overseas, the U.S. Attorneys office said. Additionally, some of the defendants are alleged to have undergone unrelated medical treatments in the U.S. at the times they reported as having received care outside the U.S.

These defendants allegedly fabricated over $1 million in insurance claims for injuries that never happened in a brazen abuse of our healthcare system, Acting U.S. Attorney Joshua Levy said in the release. This kind of deceit is not only illegal, it victimizes every law-abiding person by diverting resources from those truly in need and driving up costs for everyone.

All six defendants appeared for their arraignments in federal court in Boston and were released on their own person recognizance, the U.S. Attorneys office said. The charge of health care fraud carries a sentence of up to 10 years in prison, up to three years of supervised release and a fine of up to $250,000 or twice the gross gain or loss from the offense.
The U.S. Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former President Donald Trump at a rally Saturday in Pennsylvania, a monumental failure of one the agencys core duties.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking. A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a man wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trumps rally was held.

The roof was less than 150 meters (yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-15, like the shooter at the Trump rally had, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service didnt have anybody at a late-night news conference where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

Members of the Secret Services counter sniper team and counter assault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

The heavily-armed counter assault team, whose Secret Service code name is Hawkeye, is responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting. The counter sniper team, known by the code name Hercules, uses long-range binoculars and is equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting. Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the departments most vital priorities, he said.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, Mayorkas said. We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who is the House Oversight Committee chairman, said he contacted the Service Service for a briefing and called on Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. Comer said his committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers, Comer said in a statement.

U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat, called for investigating security failures at the rally.

The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them, especially when those failures have implications for the nation, Torres said.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, posted on X that he and his staff are in contact with security planning coordinators ahead of the Republican National Convention set to begin Monday in Milwaukee. We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind  that is not who we are as Americans, Evers said.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Garland said in a statement. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy.

___

By Michael Biesecker and Michael Kunzelman Associated Press

Associated Press writers Colleen Long and Zeke Miller in Washington contributed to this report.
Politicians across Massachusetts have swiftly moved to condemn political violence after an attack on former President Donald Trump that left one person dead and two more gravely injured.

We are appalled and sickened by the shooting that took place at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania today and relieved he is safe. We condemn this senseless act of violence which has no place in our political discourse or our democracy. Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the innocent bystander who was killed and another seriously injured, Massachusetts House and Senate Republican floor leaders Bradley H. Jones Jr., R-20th Middlesex, and Bruce E. Tarr, R-1st Essex/Middlesex, said in a joint statement.

Trump was just moments into a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh, on Saturday night when shots rang out.

In a text message to supporters, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee said he was shot in the ear, but otherwise was fine.

I knew immediately that something was wrong, in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote in the text message.

The U.S. Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Trump, a monumental failure of one the agencys core duties, the Associated Press reported.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

In a statement, state Senate President Karen E. Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, said she was praying for our country ... My own family sought refuge in the United States to escape political violence. There is no place for that type of violence in America.

We must come together to condemn it, to see the humanity in each other, and to remember that we are all Americans who can disagree in our political discourse without wishing harm on each other, Spilka continued.

In a post to X, Massachusetts Gov. Maura Healey, a Democrat, joined a bipartisan chorus of condemnation, saying that political violence has no place in this country, and all Americans must condemn it.



Im grateful for the swift response from law enforcement. Im relieved the former President appears to be safe and my thoughts are with all who were at [Saturdays] rally, Healey wrote.

U.S. Sen. Elizabeth Warren, D-Mass., offered a similar sentiment in a post to X, saying that political violence is wrong and I condemn it. I hope everyone who attended the rally is ok and I am glad the former president is safe.

Swansea lawyer John Deaton, who is seeking the GOP nomination for U.S. Senate in the Bay State, said the attack represented a truly a sad day for America.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and everyone present in Butler ... There is no place for violence in our political discourse, Deaton wrote in a post to X. Our gratitude goes to the men and women of the Secret Service and local law enforcement for their bravery in protecting everyone in attendance.

Quincy City Council President Ian Cain, who also is seeking the GOP U.S. Senate nod, said much the same in a post to X.

My prayers are out for President Trump and for all those who were at his rally, Cain wrote. ... Im thankful for those there to protect him and the attendees. This is a sad day for our country and violence has no place in politics.

U.S. Rep. Jake Auchincloss, D-4th District, a vocal proponent of gun violence reduction efforts, wrote on X that political violence has no place in our democracy. The loss of innocent life is a tragedy.

U.S. Rep. Ayanna Pressley, D-7th District, took to X to observe that no one should fear for their life anywhere, including at a political rally.

Pressley said she was condemning this brazen act of violence in the strongest terms and praying for everyone impacted.

U.S. Rep. Richard Neal, D-1st District, the dean of the states U.S. House delegation, said this type of violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in America or our political system.

My thoughts are with former President Trump, and I hope that everyone in Butler, PA is safe, Neal wrote in a post to X.
(*Editors Note: This story was updated at 8:26 a.m. on Monday, July 15, 2024, with additional reporting, and to reflect the attack on former President Donald Trump.)

Good Sunday morning, all. Congratulations on surviving a scorcher of a week.

We also saw a headache-inducing derailment on the Red Line that was simply the dress rehearsal for the return to shuttle bus land that started this weekend.

And there was a whole lot of action on Beacon Hill  not to mention our ongoing national political soap opera.

Speaking of which, Republicans from Connecticut to California and all points between are descending on Milwaukee for this weeks Republican National Convention.

The five-day party conclave, which runs through Thursday at the Fiserv Forum, home of the Milwaukee Bucks of the NBA, will end with former President Donald Trump formally locking up the GOPs presidential nomination.

Massachusetts Republicans, of course, are sending a delegation to the convention. And an early look at the schedule indicates that theyll be kept plenty busy.

On Saturday, the celebratory air of the party gathering was shattered by an attack on former President Donald Trump during a rally in western Pennsylvania.

Politicians across the political spectrum condemned the violence and called for a return to civility.

"It has taken the buzz off of the happiness from 24 hours ago,Ron Kaufman, the general chair of the convention and a national committeeman representing Massachusetts, told Politicos Massachusetts Playbook on Sunday.

Late last week, before the attack on Trump, we chatted with Julie Hall, a former Attleboro city councilor, U.S. Air Force vet, and one-time congressional candidate, whos an at-large delegate, about the week ahead.

The conversation below has been lightly edited for clarity and content.

Q: Republicans are going first this year. Whats the advantage of that? And what message does the party have to send to the nation this week?

A: This is my first time. And Im so excited. I cant even tell you. At this point in time, they need to focus ... on the message that Republicans bring. I dont think the message has changed.

(Editors Note: Hall ticked off a variety of issues, from energy independence and immigration reform to the economy and abortion rights, that she believes are top concerns for the party, and for the country.)

We just have to keep hammering those kinds of things. There are certain messages that transcend both parties. There are things that affect middle-class Americans.

Q: Safe to say youll be backing former President Donald Trump for the nomination?

A: We have to not only look at the president  but no matter whos in charge, [he or she is] only one person. The real power is in the Senate and the House; We have to keep our eyes very carefully on [Congress]. I do like a balance. I would love to have a majority down the line, but I hope we have people who are willing to work together. We need to get to a country that really looks out for the average American.

Q: The former president was convicted in June on 34 felony counts. He still faces other charges, including a case connected to the violence on Jan. 6, 2021, at the U.S. Capitol. How concerned are you about his legal issues?

A: "All of those things worried me. One of my biggest concerns is what happened with the Jan. 6 folks. If youre going into a public building and doing damage, thats one thing. But if youre going down there just to protest ... They told me what the government did to them. If you didnt take a guilty plea, they went after you. Its an abuse of power.

" ... Im very concerned about the abuse of power [in] our justice system. If you look at some of the Third World countries, this is some of the stuff they do ... It does look like a strategy. Im a retired Air Force colonel. I know what a strategy looks like.

Q: Its no secret the state Republican Party went through a bit of a rough patch. But it appears its rebounded. And theres been the election of state Sen. Peter Durant in Worcester last year. How are you feeling about the party these days?

A: I feel good about it. Im on the state committee now ... We need to move forward ... Weve got to get some seats back.

We have to start at the grassroots level  mayors, select boards  we need to pick off those positions and move up from there.

Q: Theres a three-way Republican primary for U.S. Senate [between lawyer John Deaton, Quincy City Council President Ian Cain and conservative activist Robert Antonellis.] Who do you like for that race?

A: I do like John Deaton. He has an interesting story. People who are veterans, they tend to know whats really important and can put things aside. The bigger thing is the loyalty to the country. Im sure he will put that above all. To me, thats one of the most important things.

 ... Im dying to see who will be vice president ... Id love to have Sarah Huckabee. I think shed make a great vice president.

In this undated photo, U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-6th District, speaks during an event on Capitol Hill (Photo courtesy of the Office of U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton).Ike Hayman

Moultons Method

U.S. Rep. Seth Moulton, D-6th District, was in the early ranks of Democratic lawmakers calling for President Joe Biden to drop his 2024 reelection bid.

In an interview with WGBH-FM on Friday, Moulton stuck to his guns there. But he also offered some thoughts on what Democrats must do if they want to win up and down the ballot in November and mused aloud about how Democrats can regain working-class and other voters who have backed former President Donald Trump.

Well, heres the basic case. The Republican Party is in the midst of a civil war playing out across the country, although it came to a head in the House of Representatives, where we didnt even have a speaker for the first time in American history last fall, he told the station, referring to the U.S. House GOPs internal struggles last year to elect the chambers presiding officer.

Meanwhile, Republicans are led by a convicted criminal, someone whos a terrible person ... and yet, Democrats are not winning. I mean, this should be the easiest election for us ever. We should be cleaning up from school board to President of the United States, and were not.

Indeed, Bidens recent travails have Democrats worried about their chances  even in securely blue states, Politico reported last week.

So what does that say about us? How have we lost touch with so many people in America? I dont know what the exact answer to that question is, but thats a question ... Democrats have to be asking ourselves, he continued. Weve got to look ourselves in the mirror and say, where have we gone wrong?

Turned Up to 11

No summer party is complete without a fantastic playlist. And its even better when youre rooting for the home side. Enter Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, whose office has just released the second Dear Summer playlist highlighting artists from across the states largest city.

The annual collaboration serves as a beacon of unity, bringing together residents and families from every corner of Boston, the city said in a statement.

Your Sunday long read

Ever hear that voice in your head while youre reading? That internal speech is called subvocalization, and researchers believe its a memory aid that helps us hold onto words as we move through sentences, according to My Modern Met, which has everything you need to know about this weird and wonderful quirk of human nature.

This skill likely stems from how our brains process language as well as how children are taught to read by sounding out words, the websites Madeleine Muzdakis reports.

Have a peaceful Sunday. See you all back here next week.
You dont have to agree with  or even like  former President Donald Trump to be horrified by whats being investigated as an assassination attempt at a rally in western Pennsylvania on Saturday night.

The Associated Press reported that Trump, just days away from formally securing his partys nomination at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, was unharmed, though his ear was covered in blood.

In a text message to supporters on Saturday night, Trump confirmed that he had been shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong, in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote in the text message.

At least one person, a spectator, appears to have been killed, and two more wounded, according to NBC News.

The person believed to be the gunman also has died, the outlet reported.

Trump expressed his condolences, adding that it is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

The events Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania, the county seat of Butler County, about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh, were shocking.

But they also seemed to have a grim inevitability and familiarity to them.

First, the politics of it all.

Trump carried heavily Republican Butler County in 2020, taking 65% of the vote, according to Politico, making it an obvious choice for the former president to rally the faithful.

The event in Butler also came just a few hours after Vice President Kamala Harris held an event of her own earlier in the day on Saturday in Philadelphia, the states largest city, and a Democratic stronghold.

Its hard to overstate how important Pennsylvania, one of a half-dozen critical swing states, is to the electoral fortunes of those seeking the highest office in the land.

President Joe Biden carried Pennsylvania, taking 50% of the vote, and with it, the Keystone States 20 electoral votes, giving him the White House in 2020.

The polling website FiveThirtyEight showed Trump leading Biden on Saturday in the Keystone State, further emphasizing the important role it will play this fall.

Now the political violence.

Speaking to NBC News, one rally-goer, who said he was just yards away from the spectator believed to have died, observed that, during a time of heightened polarization, it was surprising that the events of Saturday night had not happened sooner.

Its not an unusual sentiment.

A majority of respondents to an April GBH News/CommonWealth Beacon poll, conducted by the MassINC Polling Group, said they were concerned about the prospect of political violence this campaign season.

And that sentiment cut across the commonwealths populace, MassINC pollster Steve Koczela said.

The thing that really sticks out to me is just the number of demographic groups where this is a majority, Koczela told GBH News. Theres really not anybody who thinks everything is going great right now.

Political leaders, from President Joe Biden on down, were swift to condemn the violence, saying it had no place in American politics.

We cannot allow this to be happening, Biden said, according to the Associated Press. The idea that theres violence in America like this is just unheard of.

Biden stopped short, however, of characterizing the event as an assassination attempt.

I dont know enough  I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, the president said, according to The Guardian.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, and the states former, two-term attorney general, offered a similar sentiment.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, Shapiro said.

Massachusetts Senate President Karen Spilka, D-Middlesex/Norfolk, and the Massachusetts Republican Party condemned the violence in separate statements.

Im praying for our country today. My own family sought refuge in the United States to escape political violence. There is no place for that type of violence in America, Spilka said. We must come together to condemn it, to see the humanity in each other, and to remember that we are all Americans who can disagree in our political discourse without wishing harm on each other.

For now, we emphasize that as Americans, we must not become so entrenched in division that we forget we are all brothers and sisters under the American flag. Whether Democrat or Republican, despite our differences, we all desire peace and prosperity for our nation. Political violence is intolerable, and we must unify as a nation to condemn this horrible incident, state GOP Chairperson Amy Carnevale, and Republican National Committee members Ron Kaufman and Janet Fogarty, said.

Still, the country has been here before.

In 1981, then President Ronald Reagan, along with aide James Brady, was seriously wounded as he left an event at the Washington Hilton Hotel in Washington D.C.

Earlier generations dealt with the death of President John F. Kennedy. Other presidents, including Abraham Lincoln and William McKinley, also were felled by an assassins bullets.

And more than three years ago, the nation watched in horror on Jan. 6, 2021, as some of Trumps supporters stormed the U.S. Capitol and tried to stop the certification of Bidens victory.

Each time, Americans reeled from the violence of those days. Each time, the nation regrouped.

But as shocked as we are by Saturdays events, we also are a country that lives with the reality of gun violence every day.

We also are, arguably, far more polarized and more divided than we were when Reagan legendarily resolved his problems with Congress courtesy of some tough talk and laughter with former U.S. House Speaker Thomas P. Tip ONeill, of Massachusetts.

Thanks to social media, its become all too easy for people to dehumanize their political opponents.

We use the language of violence, instead of compromise and reconciliation, to address our greatest political and public policy challenges. It sometimes seems its not enough to disagree, one also has to dismantle their opponents.

In the days to come, were likely to hear calls to cool this rhetoric, to try to find a way back to the middle.

The toughest question to answer: Whether we can. And whether it might be too late.
BOSTON  Red Sox starter Kutter Crawford has gone 48 straight outs without allowing a run. How about that kind of dominant stretch heading into the All-Star break?

Its eye opening, manager Alex Cora said. But its a testament of the hard work he put in, in the offseason. Buying into the concept of throwing quality strikes. Get ahead, stay ahead.

Crawford gave up just two hits and one walk while striking out four over 7-plus scoreless innings in a 5-0 win over the Royals on Saturday here at Fenway Park.

He threw 76 of his 96 pitches for strikes  or 79.2% strikes. Thats the highest strike percentage by a starter this season, according to Red Sox Stats on X.

How would Crawford describe this scoreless stretch after his manager called it eye opening?

Pretty cool. Pretty cool, yeah, Crawford said.

The 28-year-old righty technically has gone 15 straight innings without giving up a run but he has recorded 48 straight outs (16 innings worth of outs). He allowed a homer to lead off the fifth inning against the Marlins on July 2, then recorded six outs through the fifth and sixth innings without giving up a run. He followed it with 7 scoreless innings at New York against the Yankees last Sunday and 7 scoreless frames here against the Royals.

His ball moves everywhere, Cora said. His four-seamer, cutter, curveball, the split, the sweeper. As far as like weapons, he has a lot of them. And any day he can go attack with the four-seamer or use the cutter more. So yeah, hes a complete pitcher.

Cora said he doesnt get caught up on stats and all that.

But I look up and the ERA is down and the WHIP is down, he said. For everything weve been talking about (with) Tanner (Houck making the All-Star team), Kutter has been there, too. Just posting every five days and giving us a chance to win.

Crawford has a 3.04 ERA and 1.03 WHIP in 19 starts.

Cora sent Crawford back out for the eighth and he gave up a leadoff single to Maikel Garcia. Cora would have kept him in for two batters if he had retired Garcia. He didnt plan for him to go beyond those two hitters.

I felt he could have the first two (batters), but then after that, we were going to run into bad matchups, Cora said.

Zack Kelly replaced Crawford and recorded the final six outs.

Crawfords 7 innings matches a career high. He has done it three times this year, including in back-to-back starts.

He has allowed just one run over his past three starts (20 innings). He said he has recently focused on the mental side, including his approach and confidence.

I try to go out there and challenge myself, trying to see how many competitive strikes I can throw, Crawford said. And after the last three, it feels good to be able to attack the zone and fill it up one after another.

The rightys most important inning was the fourth. He recorded a shutdown inning vs. the middle of the Royals lineup in the top of the fourth after Boston scored three runs in the bottom of the third inning to jump ahead 4-0.

The righty got No. 3 hitter Vinnie Pasquantino to ground out to second base, cleanup hitter Salvador Perez to strike out swinging and No. 5 hitter Hunter Renfroe to ground out to second base.

Crawford received a standing ovation as he walked off in the eighth.

It was awesome, Crawford said. Any time you can have a performance like that in front of the Red Sox faithful on a beautiful Saturday afternoon, its a great feeling. It almost feels like youre on cloud nine. Just try to soak it all in.
On Wednesday at 3:17 a.m. the National Weather Service issued an updated heat advisory in effect until 8 p.m. for Northern Worcester and Southern Worcester as well as Franklin, Middlesex, Essex, Hampshire, Hampden, Norfolk, Suffolk, Bristol and Plymouth counties.

The weather service states, "Heat index values up to 98 degrees."

"Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses," describes the weather service.

Beating the heat: Weather service Heat safety guidelines

Stay hydrated: Keep yourself well-hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids.

Seek cool shelter: Stay indoors in an air-conditioned room to keep cool.

Avoid sun exposure: Avoid direct sun exposure, protect yourself and check on vulnerable relatives and neighbors.

Child and pet safety: Never leave young children and pets alone in vehicles, especially during hot weather when car interiors can become dangerously hot in a matter of minutes.

Caution outdoors: If you work or spend time outside, be sure to take additional safety measures.

Optimal timing: When possible, reschedule strenuous activities to early morning or evening.

Recognize heat-related issues: Educate yourself about the signs and symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Stay cool with clothing: Wear lightweight, loose-fitting clothing to stay comfortable.

Additional tips for outdoor workers:

The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends frequent rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas for outdoor workers.

If someone succumbs to the heat, promptly relocate them to a cool, shaded location.

In emergency situations, dial 911 for immediate assistance.

These NWS heat safety recommendations are vital for your well-being during periods of high temperatures. Stay informed and take the necessary steps to protect yourself and others from the heat's potentially dangerous effects.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
A man who had to be pepper-sprayed after refusing to be handcuffed has been disqualified from driving. Sinval de Oliveira Santos of 17 Abbeyvale, Ballyhaunis, was disqualified for drink-driving despite his solicitor arguing that his case had been prejudiced by unfilled paperwork.

On March 17, 2023, at 11.35pm, Garda Mervyn Forde was on duty in Main Street in Ballyhaunis when he saw a silver BMW driving over the speed limit. Garda Forde deployed blue lights on his patrol car before following the vehicle onto Abbey Street before it turned left at Station Rise without indicating.

The vehicle continued on Station Rise before turning left onto Abbeyvale estate without indicating. The vehicle travelled a total of 750 metres while being followed by Garda Forde before driving into a driveway behind a parked car at 17 Abbeyvale.

Garda Forde got out of his car and spoke to the driver, who identified himself as Sinval De Oliveira Santos. He handed the keys of his vehicle as requested to Garda Forde, who then was asked why he didnt stop his vehicle in response to the blue lights. No problem, Mr Oliveira replied.

Warning

While speaking to Mr Oliveira, Garda Forde noticed a large number of alcohol bottles and cans behind the passenger seat of his car. Mr Oliveiras pupils were also dilated and he also had a smell of alcohol from his breath.

At 11.40pm, Garda Forde formed the opinion that Mr Oliveira was under the influence of alcohol and arrested him. While inside the Garda patrol car, Mr Oliveira again said there was no problem and tried to exit the vehicle.

Garda Forde refused to let him leave, telling Castlebar District Court that he thought he would try to flee. He explained to Mr Oliveira that he was under arrest on suspicion of drink driving and made numerous attempts to handcuff him.

Garda Forde then produced incapacitant pepper spray and warned Mr Oliveira three times that he would have no option but to use it if he continued to resist.

Mr Oliveira then caught Garda Fordes sleeve before being warned that he would use his pepper spray if he did not let go. When Mr Oliveira refused to let go, Garda Forde used his pepper spray on Mr Oliveira just as his housemate, Lima de Jesus, arrived out of his house.

Housemate interpreted

Garda Forde explained what had happened to Mr Jesus, who spoke good English, who then acted as an interpreter for Mr Oliveira.

Despite Mr de Jesus explanation, Mr Oliveira refused to be handcuffed for between two and three minutes before he eventually complied.

Mr Oliveira was then placed in the rear of the patrol car and was told by Garda Forde not to rub his eyes. He was also told that opening and closing them would alleviate the pain caused by the pepper spray.

Garda Forde then conveyed Mr Oliveira, who was accompanied by Mr de Jesus, to Claremorris Garda Station. After being introduced to Garda Maura Hopkins, Mr Oliveira was then brought to the doctors room in the station, where he provided two breath specimens at 1.15am.

Through Mr Jesus, Garda Forde explained that Mr Oliveira would be liable to a 5,000 fine or six months in prison for refusing to provide a specimen. The test returned a result of 40mg of alcohol 100ml breath.

At 1.26am, Mr Jesus and Mr Oliveira were brought to the custody suite before Garda Forde dropped the two men home.

Prejudice

Defending her client, who was not present in court, solicitor Cathy McDarby said Mr Oliveira did not understand what instructions he was being given.

The court heard that Mr Oliveira is a Brazilian national whose first language is Portuguese. He works in a local meat factory in Ballyhaunis and has no previous convictions. Ms McDarby argued that an official interpreter should have been sought for her client and noted that the relevant garda form for dealing with foreign nationals had been left blank. A section of the custody record had also not been filled in as required under law, she added.

Garda Forde did not dispute this, but insisted that Mr de Jesus understood perfectly his instructions before relaying them to Mr Oliveira.

Ms McDarby argued that her client had been prejudiced by gardai omitting to fill out all of the relevant paperwork.

Speaking on behalf of the State, Inspector Colm Mac Donnacha said that the interpretation provided from Mr de Jesus to Mr Oliveira was correct, given that the latter complied with Garda instructions.

Insp Mac Donnacha said the omission of the aforementioned paperwork would only be relevant where the trail of the accused would be prejudiced.

Judge Vincent Deane said it could be argued that there was a level of prejudice if Mr Oliveira refused to comply with garda instructions because he did not understand them.

However, Judge Deane ruled that he had not been prejudiced given that he subsequently complied with garda instructions. He imposed a one-year disqualification from driving and a 400 fine with six months to pay.
An appeal has been issued to the public to help solve the mystery of two Early Bronze Age axeheads which were sent anonymously in the post to the National Museum of Ireland.

The Irish Antiquities Division of the National Museum of Ireland are reaching out to the public for information regarding two Early Bronze Age axeheads, dating from around 2150-2000 BC, which were sent anonymously to the museum at the end of June.

"These fascinating artifacts were accompanied by a letter stating that they were discovered in the Westmeath area using a metal detector. The sender expressed a desire for the axeheads to be conserved by the Museum but did not provide any contact details or further specifics," the museum outlined.

"The axeheads were thoughtfully packed in foam cut-outs and cardboard, ensuring their safe arrival. Our experts at the NMI have identified these items as flat axeheads from the Early Bronze Age, a significant archaeological find that offers a glimpse into Ireland's distant past.

"However, to fully understand and appreciate these artifacts, it's crucial to know the exact location where they were found. The context of such discoveries helps archaeologists piece together ancient settlement patterns and cultural practices. For instance, hoards or collections of objects were often deliberately placed in specific locations for reasons that could range from ritualistic to supernatural," the National Museum outlines.

"With this in mind, we are appealing to the person who sent these axeheads to reach out to us. Any information about their discovery will be treated with the utmost confidentiality and used solely to verify the find location and its circumstances," the museum said.

The National Museum of Ireland is currently participating in an international study of Bronze Age metalwork, aiming to trace the origins of the metals used in such artifacts. Details about the find spot of these axeheads could provide critical data for this research.

Matt Seaver, Assistant Keeper of Irish Antiquities at the NMI, shared his excitement: We are thrilled about the discovery of these Early Bronze Age axeheads, but to truly understand their significance, we need to know where they were found.

He also reminded the public of the importance of reporting archaeological finds: It is our legal duty to report the discovery of archaeological objects. The NMIs role is to preserve these treasures for everyone in the State, ensuring they are available for future generations. We rely on the publics support to achieve this.

"We also wish to remind everyone about the regulations surrounding the use of metal detectors for searching archaeological objects. Archaeological finds without a known owner are the property of the state and are preserved as part of our collective heritage in national and designated museums. More information on this topic can be found on our website at museum.ie.

"If you have any information about these axeheads or any other archaeological discoveries, please contact us at antiquitiesdo@museum.ie or call 01-6777444," he said.
Police are investigating complaints around the placing of election posters and flags on loyalist bonfires as hate crimes and hate incidents.

Posters of First Minister Michelle ONeill (Sinn Fein) and South Belfast MP Claire Hanna (SDLP) appeared on a structure in the Donegall Road area of the capital on Thursday night. It was topped with Irish and EU flags.

Irish flags also appeared at a nearby bonfire at Sandy Row and were burnt as the structure was set alight at around midnight.

Meanwhile, a bonfire in Londonderry bore a board with an apparent threat against SDLP leader Colum Eastwood as well as having an Irish flag on it.

Secretary of State Hilary Benn condemned the threatening messages and burning of effigies.

I really dont know why people do that. Its wrong. Its disrespectful. We should all be able to celebrate our traditions and histories without engaging in that sort of activity, he told the BBC, while attending a Twelfth demonstration in Irvinestown, Co Fermanagh, on Friday.

And when that does happen then it undermines what is the central purpose of all of this, respect, respect for all.

SDLP MLA Cara Hunter criticised absolutely despicable behaviour and challenged the leadership of unionism to come out strong against this nonsense and call it for what it is.

Most of the bonfires, which are normally lit ahead of loyal order parades across Northern Ireland on July 12, pass off without incident but some continue to be the source of controversy.

The fires, ranging from towering structures to beacons, are at an estimated 300 locations.

One of the tallest bonfires in recent years has been at Craigyhill in Larne, which reportedly reached 62 metres in 2022.

On Friday, PSNI Assistant Chief Constable Bobby Singleton said: We have received a number of complaints relating to election posters, flags and other offensive material being placed on bonfires across Northern Ireland and are treating these as hate crimes and hate incidents.

We have gathered evidence, and commenced investigations.

Last year there was condemnation after an image of Ms ONeill appeared on a bonfire in Co Tyrone with Irish flags.

In 2023, police received 68 reported incidents, including 21 alleged hate crimes, involving the burning of election posters or effigies, and 47 alleged hate-related incidents, including the burning of flags.

The fires are traditionally ignited on the eve of July 12 before thousands of members of the Orange Order and accompanying marching bands take to the streets at 18 locations across Northern Ireland to commemorate the Battle of the Boyne in 1690.

One of the bonfires that was lit on Wednesday night in Moygashel, near Dungannon, featured a mock police car on the top.

The bonfire was also adorned with an Irish tricolour flag and a banner reading Saoirse don Phalaistin  an Irish phrase for Freedom for Palestine.

Hundreds of people gathered to watch the tower burn.

In 2023, a boat was placed on top of the fire in Moygashel, themed as an anti-Northern Ireland Protocol bonfire.
  Trusted Source

South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and United Nations call for commitment to support millions of pregnant girls and young mothers in South Asia



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South Asia accounts for 290 million #childbrides, nearly half of the world's burden. It's time to take action and protect our girls. #endchildmarriage #SouthAsia #protectourgirls

Addressing Child Marriage and Adolescent Health in South Asia

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South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation and United Nations call for commitment to support millions of pregnant girls and young mothers in South Asia - (https://www.who.int/southeastasia/news/detail/12-07-2024-south-asian-association-for-regional-cooperation-and-united-nations-call-for-commitment-to-support--millions-of-pregnant-girls-and-young-mothers-in-south-asia)

UN agencies reported that almost 6,500 adolescent girls die in childbirth annually in South Asia, urging prioritization of girls and adolescents health in the region ().Experts from the agencies discussed this at a two-day regional dialogue on adolescent pregnancy jointly organised by the SAARC, UNICEF Regional Office for South Asia (UNICEF ROSA), United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), and the World Health Organization (WHO) in Kathmandu, Nepal.At the event, officials and civil society representatives from India, Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka reaffirmed their commitment to prioritise health for over 2.2 million adolescent girls that give birth yearly in South Asia; and to provide better opportunities to learn, set up their businesses, and earn a living.The experts noted that most of these girls were child brides who have limited power over their reproductive health or lives. The South Asia region has a long way to go. I call upon everyone to resolutely address the root causes including child marriage, access to adolescent health education, and removing social stigma in managing the teenage population of SAARC region, said Ambassador Golam Sarwar, the Secretary General of SAARC.These girls are forced to drop out of school and face stigma, rejection, violence, unemployment as well as lifelong social challenges. About 49 percent of young girls in South Asia are not in education, employment, or training  the highest in the world, the experts noted.With poorer health coverage adolescent mothers are also at increased risk of early deaths, and the babies born also face a significantly higher risk of death.It is high time that we reverse this trend, said Saima Wazed, Regional Director, WHO South-East Asia. She stressed adolescents unique physical, cognitive, social, emotional, and sexual development needs to be given special attention in national and international policies.She also called for cross-sectoral collaboration and equitable access to a variety of services, and an increase in investments to tackle adolescent pregnancy and promote their healthy socio-economic development.This supports the well-being of the youth of today - who are the human capital of tomorrow, the Regional Director said.Source-IANS
TAIPEI, Taiwan (AP)  Taiwan's Defense Ministry said Saturday it was monitoring waves of test-firing by China's missile unit in a region more than 1,600 kilometers (1,000 miles) from the self-ruled island and that its air force stepped up its alertness.

China views the democratic island as a breakaway province that should be reunified with the mainland.

According to Taiwan's military news agency, the ministry had detected multiple waves of test-firing operations by China's Rocket Force in Inner Mongolia on Saturday. It did not give details on the tests taken by the force, which takes charge of China's arsenal of missiles.

It is not immediately clear whether the tests were related to China's harassment of Taiwan. In recent years, China has ramped up its military activities around the island, which is ruled by the Democratic Progressive Party.

In May, Taiwan's newly elected President Lai Ching-te said in his inauguration speech that he wants peace with China and urged it to stop its military threats and intimidation of the island.

China's military has displayed a strong show of force toward Taiwan since Wednesday, when the U.S. new top envoy to Taipei promised that Washington would help the island defend itself.

Taiwan's Defense Ministry said Thursday it had detected 66 warplanes around the island and that dozens flew across the median line in the Taiwan Strait, the de facto boundary between the two sides.

On Saturday, 30 warplanes were also detected around Taiwan over a 24-hour period, with 20 crossing the median line.

The U.S., like most countries, does not recognize Taiwan. But it is the islands main partner and is bound by U.S. laws to provide it with the means to defend itself. Less than a month ago, the U.S. State Department approved the sale to Taiwan of missiles and drones for an estimated $360 million.

Meanwhile, Chinese state broadcaster CCTV reported that Russian warships arrived at a port in Zhanjiang city, in Guangdong province, on Friday for joint naval drills. The military exercise will include anti-missile exercises, sea strikes and air defense, CCTV said. It is expected to last until around mid-July.

The exercise aims to demonstrate the armies' capabilities in jointly tackling maritime security threats and preserving peace and stability regionally and globally, China's defense ministry said Friday. It would further deepen the strategic partnership of both sides for the new era, it said.

Earlier this week, NATO allies called China a decisive enabler of Russias war against Ukraine in their most serious rebuke of Beijing. They also expressed concerns over Beijings nuclear arsenal and its capabilities in space.

The sternly worded final communique, approved by the 32 NATO members at their summit in Washington, makes clear that China is becoming a focus of the military alliance. The European and North American members and their partners in the Indo-Pacific increasingly see shared security concerns coming from Russia and its Asian supporters, especially China.

In response, China accused NATO of seeking security at the expense of others and told the alliance not to bring the same chaos to Asia. Its foreign ministry maintained that China has a fair and objective stance on the Ukraine issue.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The man identified as the shooter in the apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump was a 20-year-old from a Pittsburg suburb not far from the campaign rally where one attendee was killed.

Authorities say Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, opened fire at the rally before being killed by Secret Service on Saturday, days before Trump was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time.

An FBI official said late Saturday that investigators had not yet determined a motive. One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

Relatives of Crooks didnt immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press. His father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN late Saturday that he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but wouldnt speak about his son until after he talked to law enforcement.

Crooks' political leanings were not immediately clear. Records show Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day President Joe Biden was sworn in to office.

Public Pennsylvania court records show no past criminal cases against Crooks.

The FBI released his identity early Sunday morning, hours after the shooting. Authorities told reporters that Crooks was not carrying identification so they were using DNA and other methods to confirm his identity.

Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation.

An AP analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos from the scene of the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a person wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a building at AGR International Inc., a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trumps rally was held.

The roof where the person lay was less than 150 meters (164 yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M-16 rifle.

Investigators believe the weapon was bought by the father at least six months ago, two law enforcement officials told The Associated Press.

The officials said federal agents were still working to understand when and how Thomas Crooks obtained the gun. The officials were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity

_____

Associated Press reporter Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania; Mike Balsamo in Chicago and Colleen Long in Washington contributed.
They have two multi-platinum, five platinum and three gold albums to their names, as well as 19 top 40 hits. This Rock and Roll Hall of Fame rock power couple also has deep Michigan roots.

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo are returning to Michigan to perform at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on Tuesday, July 16. Tickets can be purchased here.

Half of Giraldos family actually lives in Michigan. And not only that, the legendary guitarists bourbon company, Three Chord Bourbon, is based in Ann Arbor.

Michigan is a place we travel to quite a bit, Benatar told MLive. When Neils family came here from Italy, half of them went to Ohio, the other half went to Michigan. Weve spent a lot of time there visiting cousins and things, going to places like Charlevoix and the U.P. We like to visit when we can. Its a beautiful state. And hes there a lot because of his bourbon company.

My favorite aunt lived in Dearborn and I used to visit her from Cleveland when I was young and I just had the greatest time there, Giraldo added. My aunts daughter is my favorite cousin. We also visit her in Brighton quite often.

Giraldo says he loves running his bourbon business out of Ann Arbor.

It started eight years ago in 2016. I said that I wanted to challenge myself to make bourbon. I wanted to make a spirit that you could sip and have conversations with people about music and books and things. My partner looked all over the place for a distiller. And where did we find one? Ann Arbor, Michigan.

Giraldo says the area is actually perfect for making his product.

Michigan has a great history of spirits and the weather is great for the juice and the barrels when its cold. Michigan is just a great place for distilling whiskey.

Benatar and Giraldo both say they still love performing, have a lot of energy and theres no end in sight.

If anyone ever told me Id still be doing this at 70... Im about to be 72... its insane. Its crazy, said Benatar. If youre healthy, you dont feel it. For me, I have a lot of zip still and I still love getting out there.

Benatar says theres so much chemistry on stage with her longtime husband that fans would have a good laugh if they knew what they were actually saying to each other in the middle of playing.

There are times that were talking and Im sure people are thinking were talking about music, but hes asking what food I ordered at the show or something. Youre in cities and you remember things and well say, hey, do you remember that? We talk about all kinds of stuff. And playing together, before we were romantically involved, we were in love with each others music.

And it all came to fruition when the two were inducted together into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. Benatar says it wasnt something she really cared about until it actually happened.

All those years, it really didnt matter to us. It doesnt validate to you what youve done. Its based on past work. It didnt matter until it happened, and then it mattered to us. I was overwhelmed when I realized I was in this unique group of people where everyone acknowledged what you did. And that changed everything. It felt different after that and I wasnt expecting that.

When they dont tour, Benatar and Giraldo love to spoil their three grandchildren. The two are also working on a childrens book together which is expected to come out sometime next year. Giraldo is also working on a Christmas album and a book about his struggles growing up.

I was a very sick child. I never went to school. It was just horrible. I wasnt even supposed to be here to begin with. The book isnt a memoir. Its about the story thats important to me. I wanted to write it to give people hope.

IF YOU GO

Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo at Meadow Brook Amphitheatre on Tuesday, July 16

Tickets can be purchased here
The fast conditions that were forecast are coming true as the 115th Chicago Yacht Club to Mackinac sailboat competition has turned into a downwind drag race.

About 250 boats are competing. The Cruising Division left Chicago on Friday and the Racing Division left around lunchtime today. The online tracker shows the two groups flying northward up the Lake Michigan course.

The Racing Division continues to accelerate and were now seeing mid-teen speeds from the faster boats which are now nearly catching the Cruising Division, race staff said. Look for sustained boat speeds overnight ... this is the fast race that was forecast!

The 250 boats underway are enjoying a magic carpet ride thanks to the southerly, downwind sailing conditions that will carry them to up Mackinac Island, Mich., over the next 24 - 48 hours.

These wind conditions mean many of the larger boats are averaging 10 to 15 knots as they head north. The boats are going so fast, some of them are expected to reach Mackinac Island by Sunday afternoon.

But first, the sailboat crews may have some severe weather to battle. Radar shows the first of three storm systems approaching Michigan will cross the big lake tonight. Perhaps in preparation for this - or perhaps because of the wind direction - some of the boats appear to be heading over to the lakes Michigan shoreline to hug that track a little closer.

The race stretches 333 miles from Chicago to Mackinac Island. This year, 2,200 sailors are on board - and about 20% are first-timers to the race known as Americas Offshore Challenge. The race is heralded as the longest freshwater sailing race in the world.

The race record is 23 hours, 30 minutes, 34 seconds and was set in 2002 by Roy Disneys Pyewacket, a Reichel Pugh 75.

Although early and as we know anything can  and usually does  happen on Lake Michigan, if this pace continues, we are currently on track for the 115th Race to Mackinac to be one of our fastest, said Winn Soldani, chair of the Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust.

The Racing Division of the 115th Chicago Yacht Club to Mackinac race got underway Saturday. Photo provided by Barry Butler, Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust.Barry Butler, Chicago Yacht Club Race to Mackinac presented by Wintrust.

You can check the progress as the competition tracks up the spine of Lake Michigan. Each entry is equipped with a satellite tracker that sends information on speed, location and direction every 15 minutes. This race tracker gives you a color-coded map.

The race starts near Chicagos Navy Pier, heads up Lake Michigan, rounds the top of The Mitten and sails under the Mackinac Bridge before approaching the finish line near the Round Island Lighthouse alongside Mackinac Island.

And once the boat crews step onto Mackinac Island, its party time.

Many of the boats will post individual updates, photos and videos during the race. You can follow the race on social media: #CYCRTM
HOLLAND, MI -- Short-term rentals have set off a lengthy legal drama in a small Lake Michigan town. As the case sits in court, a new report is trying to assess the economic impact of vacation homes.

A group of rental advocates in Park Township, a small township along the lakeshore adjacent to Holland, commissioned a survey to better determine the value of rentals in the townships economic ecosystem.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Two Zanu-PF rural district councillors, Valentine Mukahanana and Johane Mandiringana, have been accused of stealing government food aid meant for villagers affected by the El Nino-induced drought.President Emmerson Mnangagwa declared the drought a national disaster in April, seeking US$3 billion for mitigation. However, reports have emerged of food aid being politicized, hijacked, or stolen.In Mutasa, villagers alleged that Mukahanana diverted inputs intended for Ward 19 beneficiaries, while Mandiringana redirected maize meant for villagers in Chidazembe and Nyamukwarara. Despite reporting the theft to Penhalonga police, villagers claim the cases were ignored due to alleged bribery.Washington Ziwiwi, Zanu-PF Mutasa district coordinating committee chairperson, called for thorough investigations and legal action if the councillors are found guilty. Acting Manicaland police spokesperson Wiseman Chinyoka stated he was unaware of the matter but would investigate.Over nine million Zimbabweans, including urban residents, are food insecure due to the drought and harsh economic conditions.
Saline, MI  The annual Michigan Celtic Festival was held this weekend with thousands of attendees celebrating music, culture, performance, art, and, of course, the Corgi Races

Since 1996, the city of Saline has hosted the Celtic Festival, spreading its popularity throughout the state. This year was the festivals first under a new name: Michigan Celtic Festival.
ANN ARBOR, MI -- Both a kayaker and a child in an inner tube had to be rescued from the Huron River Saturday afternoon in simultaneous but separate incidents.

Ann Arbor fire crews were called around 4:40 p.m. Saturday, July 13, after a boy in an inner tube became separated from the rest of his party, said chief Mike Kennedy. The boy, 10, and his companions had gotten into the river near Argo Park, 750 Longshore Drive, before he was caught in some trees and stranded along the riverbank near Nichols Drive.

Crews located him and reunited him with the party, Kennedy said.

At 5:10 p.m. the same day, crews were also called to rescue a kayaker who was stranded near Dixboro Dam in Ann Arbor Township. The woman, in her 30s, had also entered the river near Argo Park with companions, Kennedy said. The group was supposed to rendezvous at Gallup Park, 3000 Fuller Road.

Related: 30 cars submerged by University of Michigan garage flooding

Instead, the woman became stranded near Dixboro Dam, roughly a mile downriver. She was rescued via boat and reunited with her party, Kennedy said.

No one was injured in either incident.

The river is currently treacherous because of remnant storms from hurricane Beryl, Kennedy said. The storms brought seven inches of rain to some parts of Michigan, including roughly four inches in Washtenaw County, according to previous reporting.

The river is running incredibly high and very fast, Kennedy said.

Read more: Big Michigan rain: Storm totals show a whopping 7 inches at top

Boaters and others in the water should be wearing life jackets, he added.

Thats a non-debatable, given the speed that the rivers at and the height that the rivers at, Kennedy said.

The Washtenaw County Sheriffs Office has responded to seven water rescues on Saturday as of 7 p.m., according to Eugene Rush, spokesperson for the office.

Want more Ann Arbor-area news? Bookmark the local Ann Arbor news page, the Ypsilanti-area news page or sign up for the free 3@3 Ann Arbor daily newsletter.
FLINT, MI  Forty years ago, workers in Flint were still painting AutoWorld on its grand opening day, rushing to finish the most basic elements of an $80 million theme park that boosters believed could help save Flint.

There were fireworks, a parade of flags and even a release of 12,000 balloons.

It was a spectacle.

The long-awaited buildup of rejuvenation and optimism was at an all-time high throughout the city.

Then-Gov. James J. Blanchard predicted the theme park would trigger the rebirth of the great city of Flint. Those who were there agreed the opening ceremony on July 4, 1984, turned out better than the theme park itself.

Suddenly our hometown area didnt seem quite so boring.  Flint has always been an auto-centric town and this was the perfect theme for it. Within a mile there were still factories humming along and so many ghosts of the past were there then too that were all automotive related, said Kelly Leishman, who worked at The Emporium, a souvenir shop by the main entrance. There (was) record-breaking attendance when the park opened and the concert was great, so everyone was looking forward to the experience.

A full-page congratulatory advertisement featured in a commemorative AutoWorld special edition Flint Journal newspaper, printed on June 24, 1984, showcases the headline, "AutoWorld and Flint, a great future together."(Jake May | MLive.com)

Former U.S. Senator and Flint native Donald Riegle said AutoWorld came along at a time when Flint leaders were doing anything and everything we could think of to diversify the areas economy.

Everybody set out with very high hopes (but) for a lot of reasons it was destined not to succeed, Riegle said in a 2009 interview with The Flint Journal. It wasnt a place that could attract enough visitors on its own. It wasnt like Cedar Point or even Greenfield Village. ... There wasnt enough regular traffic to make it sustainable.

It was a profound disappointment to everybody who worked at making it a reality, Riegle said.

Plagued with operating problems and static attractions such as a three-story, V-6 engine, the $80-million theme park closed its doors six months later in January 1985.

It did not take Six Flags long to pull the plug and want out. Dismal attendance after the initial blush was the beginning of the end, Leishman said. All of the businesses around the complex started to suffer and not as many people came to downtown. The University of Michigan-Flint was still keeping young people in the area but so many businesses failed as the people stream just dried up.

The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation was one of the projects leading investors, which in turn, lost more than $50 million on AutoWorld.

In an interview with The Flint Journal 15 years ago, Mott Foundation President William S. White said even before construction started, long before the grand opening, he had a bad feeling about what the theme park was growing into and he wasnt alone.

A lot of people blame (former GM Chairman) Roger Smith for this, White told The Journal. (But) he sat in my office and said, Its not going to work. What can I do to stop it?'

Mott Foundation President William S. White admires a model of AutoWorld before the park was built.(Flint Journal file photo)

White said in the end, the project couldnt be stopped because civic and business leaders were so committed to bringing the idea to life.

It had a life of its own, said White, who became a de facto spokesman for AutoWorld because private investors were scattered all over the country. People were just sold on this dream.

In addition to an initial $31.6-million investment into the theme park, White said the foundation also covered investments made by the city of Flint.

He blamed the facilitys failure on a lack of flexibility by operators, disconnected ownership, the wrong management and too much debt.

Stephen Wisniewski, who is a longtime Flint musician and employee at the Flint Childrens Museum, remembers going to AutoWorld as a child. He described the experience as fascinating, boring, and scary all at the same time.

I didnt really care about cars, and there were so many cars, but I was also fascinated by the recreations of historical space, Wisniewski said. The idea of a little city inside the bigger city outside was interesting to me. But they also heavily invested in animatronics, which was really creepy, even as a child  I remember feeling very unsettled by the whimsical technology, from the ghost of Jacob Smith to all of the talking, singing animatronic characters.

Leishman cherished her time working at AutoWorld as a teenager, but also thinks that the theme park was promoted to be something it was not, which ultimately led to the lack of attendance and its unsustainable financial collapse.

There were limited rides and thrills for lack of a better word, Leishman said. It was more like an interactive museum rather than a true amusement park and that did not go unnoticed. I remember several people being disappointed that it was not what they were expecting.

But the crowds were still amazing, and the people really did love the overall concept. There would have been so much more Six Flags could have done to expand on the Automotive theme but that is now a part of the history.

The reality was that rides at AutoWorld werent very thrilling and sometimes didnt work.

A look back at the rise and fall of AutoWorld in Flint, Michigan, which opened on July 4, 1984. Plagued with operating problems and static attractions such as a three-story, V-6 engine, the $80-million theme park closed its doors six months later in January 1985.(Flint Journal file photo)

On just its second day, two rides -- the Humorous History of Automobility and The Great Race -- were shut down and a 1916 carousel also had to be closed.

Six Flags brought in a four-member, mock gunfighting team that staged gunfights every hour or so. But the loud bangs of the guns frightened children and some adults complained that the guns created too much noise under the dome that made up part of the complex.

Longtime Flint resident Joel Rash had just graduated from Grand Blanc High School one month before the opening.

He and his friends  self-proclaimed punk rockers and skateboarders  treated AutoWorld with some derision because it all seemed so hokey.

Maybe due to karma, Rash ended up working second shift there for the summer season of 1985.

He said he didnt have to work hard and jokingly quipped he was making a handsome $4 per hour, spending as much of his shift playing arcade games for free and flirting with cute cashiers.

People love a failure, and AutoWorld unfairly colored peoples perception of Flint for far too long. We were the failed AutoWorld city, the Roger and Me city, the Murder Capitol city, and now the Water Crisis city, Rash said. None of those capture the dreams and aspirations of the people who call Flint home, and none of them are predictive of the future.

AutoWorld reopened in May 1985 with a limited schedule, fewer employees and a discounted admission price, but nothing, including an additional $2 million in attractions, could save the park, which permanently was closed in 1991 and demolished in 1997.

The complex was located immediately north of downtown on the Flint River in part of the old IMA Auditorium. The site is now part of the University of Michigan-Flint.

Since the demolition of AutoWorld, the vacant 24 acres have been transferred to UM-Flint for campus expansion and is now the site of a building named after White.

Rash said thats the positive that came out of the failure of AutoWorld.

Sure, AutoWorld was a bust, and because of that several other big projects struggled or failed. City and state officials, corporate leaders, funders and others learned some painful lessons, and their planning, funding and building projects changed accordingly, Rash said. The AutoWorld property is now a key location for UM-Flints William S. White Building, Genesee Early College and the new innovation center.

After AutoWorld Flint turned away from giant projects that were going to try and fix everything at once. Now we see smaller scale, mixed use, spread out around the city, people-oriented projects that are creating new housing, new businesses, new educational opportunities, new recreation spots and more. If AutoWorld was the price to get to where we are today, Im glad we paid it.

A look back at the rise and fall of AutoWorld in Flint, Michigan, which opened on July 4, 1984. Plagued with operating problems and static attractions such as a three-story, V-6 engine, the $80-million theme park closed its doors six months later in January 1985.(Flint Journal file photo)

Most people still hold it as one of Flints biggest flops, and while true, Wisniewski wants people to consider its greater impact on Flint then, today and for generations of Flintstones ahead.

I think that it perfectly reflected the personality and point of view of the economic and cultural elites that created and brought it to fruition. ... AutoWorld and the revitalization efforts around it came from elites who wanted to reframe history with themselves at the center, erase the history of workers, and make problems like poverty invisible to middle-class consumers, Wisniewski said. At the same time, projects like AutoWorld were based largely on white middle-class anxieties that cities  and especially Rust Belt cities  were too run-down, too dangerous, and too Black, which opened space for these projects to seem like the only way forward for cities.

AutoWorld presented a contained, policed space that could offer nice food and fun and a sanitized version of Flints history for those who could afford to access it. We are being offered essentially the same vision by essentially the same elite group of leaders today. I think its important to learn that we can dream and demand a better, more inclusive vision for Flint.

Read more at The Flint Journal:

30 years, 30 pictures: See the history of Autoworld three decades after it opened

Listen to NPR report on AutoWorld as failed magic bullet for Flint
GRAND RAPIDS, MICH -- Competitive eaters filled their bellies with berries at the inaugural Great American Blueberry Eating Contest at Belknap Park on Saturday, July 13.

The eight contestants from across the country consumed as many berries as possible in eight minutes.
Eclectic fitness guru Richard Simmons has died at the age of 76, according to his representative.

Police officers and firefighters responded to his Los Angeles home after they received a call from his housekeeper on Saturday just before 10 a.m., law enforcement sources told TMZ. He was reportedly pronounced dead at the scene.
Michigan officials and lawmakers are offering prayers for Donald Trump after an apparent assassination attempt against the former president during a rally in Pennsylvania Saturday, July 13.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period, wrote Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on X, formerly known as Twitter. I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences.



I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.  Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 13, 2024

Trump was removed from the stage during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday evening after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd. He could be seen reaching toward his neck with his right hand, with blood on his ear and face.

He ducked behind the riser as members of his security team rushed the stage. Bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage.

Related: Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

A local prosecutor says the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead, according to the Associated Press.

The official X account for the Michigan Republican Party said its members are praying for Trump.

We are praying for President Trump.  Michigan GOP (@MIGOP) July 13, 2024

The partys chairman, Pete Hoekstra, echoed the sentiment.

Pray for President Trump and America.  Pete Hoekstra (@petehoekstra) July 13, 2024

Michigan Sen. Roger Victory, R-Hudsonville, said on X he is praying for the former president and the thousands in attendance at his rally.

Peter Meijer, R-Grand Rapids Township, called the incident a disgusting act of political violence.

Praying for the health of former President Trump and everyone at the PA rally after this disgusting act of political violence. https://t.co/7w0B9RuAsG  Peter Meijer (@RepMeijer) July 13, 2024

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Bruce, asked people on X to stop what you are doing and pray.

Shots were just fired at President Trump.



Please stop what youre doing and pray.



Pray for President Trump.

Pray for those in attendance.

Pray for our heroic Law Enforcement.

Pray for our Country.



This has no place in America.  Lisa McClain (@LisaForCongress) July 13, 2024

Meshawn Maddock, previous co-chair of the Michigan Republican Party, said she couldnt stop crying.

I cant even imagine what Melania and his kids are feeling, heartbreaking  meshawn maddock (@MeshawnMaddock) July 13, 2024

State Rep. Angela Rigas, R-Caldonia, said she is disgusted and outraged by what she called an attempt to assassinate the former president.

The attempt on his life is a stark reminder of the threats we face from those who seek to undermine our nation and its leadership, Rigas said in a statement shared by her re-election campaign. ...Let this incident serve as a powerful reminder of the resilience and strength of our country. We will not be intimidated or divided by acts of violence and hatred.

Lavora Barnes, chairwoman of the Michigan Democratic Party, said democrats condemn this act in the strongest possible terms.

Political violence has no place in our democracy. Michigan Democrats condemn this act in the strongest possible terms, and we continue to work toward an America where no one is a victim of gun violence.  Lavora Barnes (@LavoraBarnes) July 13, 2024

Democratic Congresswoman Elissa Slotkin, candidate for U.S. Senate, also condemned the incident.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

Willard Kudakwashe Jonifati, a man from Domboshava, is currently detained at Harare Remand Prison for allegedly robbing and raping two female job seekers.According to court proceedings, Jonifati is accused of deceiving the victims by promising them employment opportunities. The first complainant was approached by Jonifati at Mverechena Business Centre, Domboshava, where he convinced her to accompany him to the purported workplace. During their journey, he allegedly brandished a knife, demanded her cellphone, and proceeded to rape her.In a separate incident involving the second complainant, Jonifati reportedly lured her to Molife turn off in Domboshava under the false pretense of offering her a job. He then coerced her into giving him all her money, amounting to US$20, before instructing her to follow him to meet her supposed new employer. Subsequently, he allegedly raped her three times after threatening her with harm.Prosecutor Anesu Chirenje presented these allegations against Jonifati in court.
News / Local

by Staff reporter

We are concerned about the levels of Political violence in America. We urge the Americans to resolve their differences peacefully. We will be deploying observers to monitor the volatile situation. All Africans in America should keep in contact with their respective Embassies. We pic.twitter.com/ppXIEJ46D7  African (@ali_naka) July 14, 2024

African commentators are making fun of violence that has emerged in the race for the American presidency. The US Embassies which are too quick to issue advisories and statements have not issued any at the moment.Front runner Donald Trump survived an apparent assassination attempt during his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.Some commentators are saying it is high time the African Union and ECOWAS step in to bring peace and democracy to the United States of America.If it was in Africa, America would have been quick to issue warnings and sanctions.@Ali_Naka wrote, "We are concerned with the level of Political violence in America. We urge the Americans to resolve their political differences peacefully. We will be deploying observers to monitor the volatile situation. All Africans in America should keep in contact with their respective Embassies. We advise Africans to stop travelling to America during this period."The European Union chief Ursula von der Leyen said on Sunday she was "deeply shocked" by the shooting at rally by Donald Trump in which the former US president was wounded and a bystander killed."I am deeply shocked by the shooting that took place during former President Trump's campaign rally," the European Commission president said on X, formerly Twitter."I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim. Political violence has no place in a democracy," she said.Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he was "deeply concerned" by the attack on his friend and former US president Donald Trump at an election rally."Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery," he said in a post on social media."Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," he added.
Opinion / Columnist

DESPERATION can drive one to extremes and often than not, it results in an undesirable outcome, chief among them embarrassment.The opposition elements in this country have become irrelevant and have thus turned to some desperate and questionable actions to try and gain some form of attention with the hopes of perhaps salvaging their sinking political careers and their dwindling appeal among the masses.Since the dawn of the Second Republic, Zimbabwe has become Zanu-PF territory once more, with the colossal people's party being able to attract people from all walks of life, including some former high-ranking opposition officials who have seen the light and recognised that they were going nowhere slowly.Zanu-PF now even has quite a heavy presence in constituencies that were previously dominated by the opposition. It is such successes that have resulted in the opposition elements coming up with all sorts of theatrics in an attempt to save their buried political careers.Their next planned move is to target the upcoming Sadc meeting in August. It has become abundantly clear that there are those working tirelessly behind the scenes to try and spoil the Sadc meeting pencilled for this August, wherein His Excellency President Dr E D Mnangagwa is set to assume the Sadc Chairmanship. So many in the opposition circles have pinned their naive hopes on disrupting this crucial meeting, but their chances of success are next to nothing.The disintegration of the opposition Citizens Coalition for Change (CCC) and the demise of its infamous leader has been a public spectacle witnessed by all. So, whatever drama that they are trying to conjure up on the eve of the Sadc meeting reeks of desperation.It is evident that the opposition is heavily fragmented and there are no prospects of them achieving anything with whatever they have planned. All planned demonstrations will likely not see the light of day. What the Sadc Heads of States will witness upon their arrival in Harare is a tranquil environment, the booming new city in Mt Hampden and the hive of economic activity that has been ushered in by the Zanu-PF Government. The time for petty shows and distractions is gone. Zimbabwe has entered a new era and so much work has been put towards the development of this country that any side shows will not be of any effect.Failure lies at the doors of those who are unpatriotic and are under some false illusion that last year's elections in which the colossal Zanu-PF Party emerged victorious will become a topic for discussion. The Sadc leaders are well aware of the opposition shenanigans and will not have a moment to waste focusing on irrelevant issues.The election season is over, and my Party Zanu-PF emerged triumphant. The election issue will not form part of the agenda of the Sadc meeting. As far as everyone is concerned, that ship has sailed and that matter has been laid to rest.It is almost one year now since my Party's victory and we as Zanu-PF managed to ensure that our Government achieves massive gains since being re-elected into office. We will continue doing so until the next election, where our works will serve as our manifesto and this again will be key to our victory in 2028.We have not moved away from our belief that; great works speak for themselves and our people will always choose their beloved party because it delivers. We have no time for tomfoolery and messing around. We do take the business of politicking and governance with the utmost seriousness it deserves and this mindset has been key to ensuring that our people choose Zanu-PF at every election.There can be no denying that the opposition circles are made-up of those who are unable to accept the truth and are so bent on flogging a dead horse back to life. Such a disposition is not only misplaced but is unwise as well. Conjuring up protests over some illusory crisis in Zimbabwe just shows how the opposition does not have a single iota of nationalism within their DNA.It is abundantly clear that their mission is one to discredit Zimbabwe's Government and try by all means to disrupt our developmental trajectory. As they scheme and make efforts to spoil the party for the Zanu-PF-led Government, they are at the same time exposing themselves as the architects of Zimbabwe's economic hurdles in recent years.The attempts by the fragmented opposition elements or whatever is left of them are quite pitiful. The tragedy we have suffered over the past two decades has been the lack of a patriotic opposition.The opposition is well-known for relying on dirty tricks that they often deploy to soil the country's image whenever the world's eyes are focused on Zimbabwe. This is a method they have deployed countless times before and it seems it may not be any different come this August. Such unpatriotic behaviour is pitiful and exposes the opposition elements for their lack of patriotism and ideology.Let the evident failures by the opposition over the past decades serve as a reminder that there can be no benefit derived from unpatriotic behaviour. As we make preparations for the upcoming Sadc meeting, let us all enjoy and marvel at the great works that have been achieved by the Zanu-PF-led Government under President Mnangagwa.Dr Obert Moses Mpofu is an academic and the Secretary-General of Zanu-PF. He writes in his own capacity.
Fluvanna Countys oldest Baptist church will celebrate and honor 250 years this Sunday.

The Palmyra congregation of Lyles Baptist Church will mark the milestone with a worship service at 11 a.m. that everyone is welcome to attend, said congregant Connie Tillman. She is the wife of the Rev. Warren Tillman, who has served as the churchs pastor for 14 years now.

Connie Tillman told The Daily Progress attendees should expect a presentation of a plaque from the Virginia Baptist Historical Society to mark the occasion, as well as a framed certificate from the Baptist General Association of Virginia. The service will include celebratory music, and there will be time for people to share their own memories of the church.

As Sundays service draws to a close, the focus moves outdoors to the dedication of a dogwood tree that will be planted in memory of a longtime member who grew up in the Lyles congregation and served for many years as church clerk and led the kitchen committee, Connie Tillman said.

Two benches also will be dedicated. One bench is being placed in memory of a pastor who served the church at two different times and then returned to fill in when the congregation was between pastors. The other will recognize past and present pastors, deacons and Sunday School teachers.

Were the oldest Baptist church in Fluvanna County, and what has kept this church going is the members, the pastors wife said.

Fluvanna Countys oldest congregation was founded in 1774 as Liles Baptist Church and retained that spelling until September 1795. The original structure was built on a single acre of land donated by John Peace, and a stone in the building honors the gift.

Church records note that 6 1/2 adjoining acres were purchased in June 1832, and the initial log-built meeting space was sold in 1839. Worshippers met in members homes during 1839 and 1840 while a new brick church was built. The current structure was built in 1884 to replace it after water damage to the foundation caused the walls to crack.

Over the years, Lyles has been a member of Albemarle Baptist Association, Goshen Baptist Association and Central Virginia Baptist Association.
The Virginia Department of Transportation will hold a public hearing Tuesday at Kate Collins Middle School in Waynesboro on the plans for lighting on Interstate 64 at exit 99 at the summit of Afton Mountain.

The hearing is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. Those attending the hearing can speak with project team members, view project plans and provide comments. All comments received at the public hearing and during the 10-day comment period after the hearing will be reviewed by the project team and included in the public hearing record.

The proposed project involves installing lighting at the top of Afton Mountain around the exit 99 interchange to improve safety and visibility for motorists. Thirty-five pole-mounted lighting fixtures will be installed within the limits of the interchange along I-64 and U.S. 250. The lighting will improve visibility where the interchange ramps connect with U.S. 250.

A visual impact study conducted in coordination with the National Park Service concluded that the planned lighting would have minimal impacts on most of the adjacent natural areas, including Shenandoah National Park, Skyline Drive and the Blue Ridge Parkway.

The lighting project is one of two safety improvement projects coming to Afton Mountain. The other improvement that is now being done is the installation of a congestion warning system on I-64. The lighting project is expected to start in the spring of 2025 and be completed by fall 2025.
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Assassination attempt on Trump dark chapter in American democracy, say Indian Americans
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Donald Trump Shooting: A look back at US Presidential assassination attempts
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'God alone... prevented the unthinkable': Trump on assassination attempt
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Trump assassination attempt: Here is a blow-by-blow account of the shooting in Pennsylvania
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The question burning at the center of American public opinion since the first presidential debate: If President Joe Biden steps down, who will replace him as the Democratic nominee for president of the United States? The most obvious answer appears to be the nations second-in-command, Vice President Kamala Harris.

But her candidacy would face nearly insurmountable odds of success, if American history and recent voter polls are any indication.

Its not because she isnt qualified; as the president asserted Thursday in a press conference, she is, undoubtedly. And, being decades younger than Biden and accustomed to the demands of public office, shed likely have the energy and stamina to campaign and serve out four years of the presidency. Shes also a history-maker, as the first woman, African American and South Asian American person elected vice president. Theres the rub.

Poll after poll shows only mere percentage points separating Biden and former President Donald Trump.

Reflect on that: A huge chunk of American voters want Trump, a convicted felon whose racist, sexist, violent rhetoric went beyond bombast before, during and after his time in the White House and was frequently reflected in his policies.

If that many voters are seriously considering voting for him, then does Harris  representing so much of what Trump stands against  even stand a chance?

I think that she does not, Jatia Wrighten, an assistant professor of political science at Virginia Commonwealth University, told me last week.

In this political climate, and historically in the countrys political climate, Americans have been hesitant to put support behind Black women at the national level, Wrighten said.

Enter Shirley Chisholm, the first Black woman elected to Congress and, in 1972, the first Black candidate to seek a major partys nomination for president of the United States. Despite her track record of success representing New Yorks 12th Congressional District  including sponsoring legislation that expanded food assistance programs for low-income single mothers and drawing from her experience as an early childhood educator and authority to further Head Start and school lunch programs  her candidacy was largely viewed as a joke.

Media members, mostly White men, picked apart her appearance and dismissed her presidential run as female meddling. Those who seemed most likely to support Chisholm  such as feminist leader Gloria Steinem and civil rights leader Rev. Jesse Jackson  instead supported her opponent, George McGovern. In the end, she clinched just 152 delegate votes at the Democratic National Convention that year and the party deemed McGovern its nominee.

More recently there was Stacey Abrams of Georgia, who, though seeking her states highest office and not the countrys, experienced many of the same obstacles Chisholm did by daring to seek public office while existing as a Black person and woman, at the same time.

Perhaps as much as supporters and the media covered her work to root out voter suppression in the Peach State, Abrams opponents and the media zoomed in on all the wrong things, betraying a double standard which subjects Black woman political candidates to scrutiny that White candidates, male or female, just arent.

They talked about [Abrams] being single, her weight, how dark she was, on top of examining the things we look at with any candidate, like how qualified she was, her education, how well spoken she was, Wrighten said. Heightening all of this is the fact that dark-skinned, kinky-haired Chisholm and Abrams dont mirror classic American beauty standards, derived from European ideals of fair skin, straight hair, a narrow nose and a thin physique.

Concerning Black women in American politics, Wrighten posited, Being overweight matters, having darker skin matters, having natural hair matters ... and it shouldnt. Black women candidates are faced with this standard of beauty that others dont have to contend with.

The same sentiments that poisoned Chisholms candidacy and Abrams governors race still exist in America and would pose a serious hurdle to Harris victory, said Wrighten.

At the national level, theres a lot of media attention that works against Black women. Theres a lot of bias, there are stereotypes at play that hurt Black women especially. Theres still a sense that women are unfit for the office.

Another obstacle Harris could encounter if she tried to make the leap from VP to commander-in-chief: I think established Democrats would have an issue with [Harris] running; theres this sense of, you have to put your time in, pay your dues, Wrighten said.

That dynamic is familiar is Virginia state politics, too, evidenced by the establishment Dems putting their weight behind Terry McAuliffes 2021 run for governor  a role hed already held, in addition to chairing the Democratic National Committee from 2001 to 2005 and Hillary Clintons presidential campaign in 2008 and co-chairing former President Bill Clintons 1996 reelection campaign  instead of the Jennifers, McClellan and Carol Foy. Both Black women  with their bold ideas, statehouse experience and lots of public support  had the potential to be Virginias first Black woman governor. Instead, McClellan and Carol Foys prospects were blunted because their partys heavy hitters backed McAuliffe (who then lost to Gov. Glenn Youngkin).

Theres also the lingering effects from the Obama era that would likely damage Harris chance to be commander-in-chief. The election of the countrys first Black president ushered in a double-edged sword: a post-racial era (yeah, right) marked by more opportunities and tangible progress for historically oppressed, disenfranchised groups, most notably Black Americans. The flipside was a seething resentment of that progress mostly expressed by the historically powerful group that orchestrated the oppression and disenfranchisement: White Americans.

From the tea partys racially tinged attacks on the presidents policy agenda to the birther movements more overtly racist fantasies asserting that Obama was not even an American citizen, the national racial climate grew more, and not less, fraught after Obamas presidency, wrote historian Peniel Joseph, director of the Center for the Study of Race and Democracy and the LBJ School of Public Affairs at the University of Texas, in a 2016 Washington Post series on Obamas legacy.

Obamas presidency, flesh-and-blood proof of the nations shifting demographics and values, fueled a public sentiment held by many White Americans that Black people were getting perks they didnt deserve, Wrighten said. So we see this pushback against that.

All of this consideration may be for nought, as Biden again reiterated Thursday that he intends to stay in the race, despite any voter polling indicating Harris would fare better against Trump than he would. But should Harris come to the forefront as the nominee, shell have a tough time ahead of her.

I think shell continue to be sexualized, Wrighten said, referring to the unfounded rumors that emerged almost as soon as Biden announced Harris as his VP in 2020. There will continue to be this idea that she didnt earn what she has.

There are 59 countries of the United Nations 193 member states who have elected women heads of government, a number that has risen steadily since 1990. It doesnt seem likely that Novembers presidential election will put America on that list; since George Washingtons election in 1789, Americas presidents have always been men.

I think that the U.S. should take a long, hard look at itself when were thinking about who can be a leader and what they look like, Wrighten said.

I also think theres ample evidence to suggest that some serious self-examination is in order, on a national scale. The reality is, only Americans can transform the nation into one that would actually support and enable Harris, or any other woman or woman of color, becoming president. But it doesnt appear were in a particularly reflective mood.
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Who is Thomas Matthew Crooks? 20-year-old gunman who tried to assassinate Donald Trump
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Trudeau, Obama, others condemn attack on Trump at Pennsylvania rally; heres what leaders said
The Oregon Department of Transportation plans to start road and sidewalk work in downtown Corvallis the week of July 15 as part of the Van Buren Bridge replacement project.

First, ODOT crews will work on the northwest side of the Northwest Van Buren Avenue and Second Street intersection to build Americans with Disabilities Act-compliant curb ramps, install signal pole foundations, add new drainage structures and pipes, and rebuild the northern two lanes of Van Buren Avenue, according to a news release.

Local residents can expect lane and shoulder closures. The southern lane will remain open while crews work in the other two lanes.

An alternate route for pedestrians will be designated, according to the release. Construction noise and delays are to be expected. Businesses will remain open during construction.

The work schedule may change. Visit TripCheck.com for the most up-to-date information on road closures and traffic impacts.

The bike and pedestrian path on both the east and west sides under the bridge are closed, according to the release. These paths will remain closed for the duration of the project.

The new temporary detour bridge includes a separated path shared by pedestrians and bicyclists. This is the new alternate path to get across the river.

For people biking, walking or rolling from South Corvallis, follow the signed detour to get onto the new path. This detour includes crossing Northwest Van Buren Avenue at the temporary traffic signal.

Residents can continue to use the river during construction, per ODOT. The river channel is marked with buoy lines and signs directing river users where to go. Residents are reminded to stay in marked areas.

The agency asks motorists to pay attention in work zones, slow down and move over. Fines are doubled in all Oregon work zones, whether or not workers and signs are present, according to the news release.

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A man who stole a fire department rescue truck in Vancouver, Washington earlier this year and abandoned it in Albany was sentenced to time in prison.

Alex Joseph Doupe, 33, was arrested in January by Linn County Sheriffs deputies after an Albany family woke up to find him in their home.

A Place to Sleep, episode 9: Sleep The latest episode is here, and this time we put a lot less emphasis on the word "place" and a lot more on "sleep."

Charged with felony counts of unauthorized vehicle use and first-degree burglary as well as misdemeanor interfering with a firefighter/emergency medical provider, Doupe pleaded no contest to the felony charges on July 5 and was sentenced to two years in prison and a month in jail, according to court records.

Doupe was also ordered to pay $4,587 in restitution to the Vancouver Fire Department, and his drivers license was suspended for a year.

The rescue truck was stolen while the Vancouver Fire Department was responding to a call at a homeless camp, according to a probable cause affidavit. Court documents put the value of the truck at $50,000 or more.

A Linn County deputy sergeant found the abandoned truck the morning of Jan. 16 on Columbus Street, near the intersection with Old Highway 34. It was apparently undamaged, and no equipment was stolen, according to a news release from the Linn County Sheriffs Office.

When a deputy arrived, Doupe identified himself but was hesitant to say where he came from or where he was living, according to the affidavit. Court records do not list a recent city of residence for Doupe.

Doupe admitted to taking the truck from Vancouver and driving it to Albany, the affidavit states, saying they wanted me to but not saying who they were.

Another probable cause affidavit says a woman at the Columbus Street home found Doupe in her living room with her son. As the deputy entered the home, he saw the womans husband and son standing in the living room, pointing to Doupe covered in a blanket, the affidavit states.

He wasnt sure what was going on or where he was at, the deputy wrote in the affidavit, noting Doupe was aware the residence was not his. Security camera footage from the residence showed Doupe arriving at the home at around 12:39 a.m., the affidavit states.

Another deputy interviewed the son, whose age was not disclosed, who said he was sleeping on the couch and was woken up at around 8 a.m. by Doupe patting him, according to the affidavit, which states Doupe asked the son for help and told him he drove a fire truck.

Related story:
Happy Bastille Day to those who celebrate. lambert

Where are all the butterflies this summer? Their absence is telling us something important Guardian

These Are the Best U.S. National Parksand Theyre Not Even That Crowded WSJ

Climate

Its good news: Scientists suspect history about to be made in China Sydney Morning Herald

Extreme weather halts container traffic at Cape of Good Hope Container News

Climate change and shareholder value: Evidence from textual analysis and Trumps unexpected victory Journal of Business Research. Firms exposed to climate change saw a reduction in shareholder wealth after Trumps election.

Montanas High Court Considers a Constitutional Right to a Stable Climate Inside Climate News

The predicament of climate scientists on the road to a super tropical Earth Arctic News
By Lambert Strether of Corrente.

The iconic image (from APs Evan Vucci), helpfully annotated to show how composition makes for an iconic image:

And speaking of iconic images, if your first thought is Trump (nearly) died for us:

(Notice, in Vuccis image, a woman also supporting Trump in his agony.)

Or if your first thought is Trump (nearly) died for our country (APs Joe Rosenthal):

(The stars and stripes doing its work, although I suppose Secret Service agents in sunglasses will have to stand in for the Marines. But thats where we are, isnt it?)

Icons propagate. Already, T-shirts printed with Vuccis image are on sale at a New Jersey boardwalk:

Shooting makes me stronger.[1]

Having begun, as it were, in medias res, lets circle back to the beginning, and proceed in an orderly manner. I will aggregate the material I have read on the shooter, the venue, the shooting, and cui bono. Ill conclude with some of the more humane reactions. Starting with the shooter

The Shooter

We know very little about the shooter, although one of the first things we know about is his partisan affiliation (or proxies therefor). From the New York Post, Thomas Matthew Crooks IDd as gunman who shot Trump during Pa. rally

According to state voter status records, Crooks was a registered Republican. The shooter made one singular $15 donation to the liberal ActBlue political action committee on January 20, 2021  Bidens Inauguration Day, the Intercept reportedp[2].

(Smith was not carrying ID; he was identified through the gun and DNA analysis[3].)However, from the Inquirer:

[ex-Bethel Park student Max Ryan] Smith recalled participating in a mock debate with Crooks in an American history course in which the teacher had students stand on opposite sides of the classroom to signal their support or opposition. The majority of the class were on the liberal side, but Tom, no matter what, always stood his ground on the conservative side, Smith said. Thats still the picture I have of him. Just standing alone on one side while the rest of the class was on the other  It makes me wonder why he would carry out an assassination attempt on the conservative candidate.

Crooks graduated from high school two years ago. From the Post:

Crooks was a member of the 2022 graduating class at Bethel Park High School, the school district confirmed Sunday morning. Video shows him walking across a stage to accept his diploma. He also received a $500 National Math and Science Initative Star Award during his graduating year, TribLive reported.

His high school experience was unhappy. NBC:

A high school classmate, Jason Kohler, 21, said Crooks was a loner who was bullied so much in high school. Crooks would regularly wear hunting outfits and was made fun of for the way he dressed. He often sat alone at lunch, Kohler added.

His post-high school experience seems not to have been happy, or at leat not STEM-oriented. BBC:

Crooks worked in a local nursing home kitchen just a short drive away from his home, the BBC understands.

Then theres the family. CNN:

When reached by CNN late Saturday night, Crooks father, Matthew Crooks, said he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but would wait until I talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son. He could not be reached again on Sunday.

We have no motive. BBC:

Having established Crookss identity, police and agencies are investigating his motive. We do not currently have an identified motive, said Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, at a briefing on Saturday night.

It would be disconcerting if a diary documenting Crookss motives were found; a lone gunman, acting alone, but leaving behind a diary is a movie weve all seen before. And the sequels, too.

The Venue

From the New York Post:

Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pa., squeezed off at least five to seven shots  one of which grazed Trump in the ear  at an outdoor rally in Butler, just outside Pittsburgh, according to law enforcement sources. Sources said Crooks crawled on the roof of a manufacturing plant more than 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds.

Here is a map from the New York Times that shows the rally site and the manufacturing plant:

Security at the manufacturing plant (likely to be American Glass Research) was lax[4]:

I am talking to an individual who works in the building where the shooter was posted. Building does not have inside cameras. They think access likely gained via area circled in photo. They do not recall Secret Service or law enforcement sweeping building prior to event https://t.co/erOQVBuSay pic.twitter.com/iiykEfPwTt  Robert Evans (The Only Robert Evans) (@IwriteOK) July 14, 2024

And:

They have seen photos of the deceased shooter and do not recognize them. They noted before the event that security seemed weirdly lax, and their building seemed to be almost ignored prior. "If we live in a security theaterthis was a security 8th grade recital." pic.twitter.com/5MUIokkQ02  Robert Evans (The Only Robert Evans) (@IwriteOK) July 14, 2024

I recall reading, but cannot find again, that the cops talked to people at the plant, but only to tell them theyd be using the parking lot. Here is a report of a guy sighted moving between the buildings of the manufacturing plant:

JUST IN: Eyewitness says he saw the suspect at Trump's rally go "in between one building to the next" when he alerted the police. "I noticed two officers that were looking for something or somebody." "I was looking around myself and seeing a guy on top of one of the buildings pic.twitter.com/PbXx8QSnnV  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 14, 2024

The question arises how Crooks picked this building, how he knew to get access, etc.

The Shooting

Here is an extraordinary interview from the BBC with an eyewitness to the shooting:

FULL INTERVIEW with a witness, talking to @BBCNews, who says he saw a man with a gun on a building roof firing shots. Donald Trump was rushed off stage during a rally in Pennsylvania after gun shots were heard. He talked to @BBCBlindGazza  more information @BBCNews pic.twitter.com/aWqSXbzor2  BBC Newsnight (@BBCNewsnight) July 14, 2024

The prose version, Witness says he saw gunman on roof near Trump rally:

Mr Smith was listening from outside the rally and said he saw the gunman around five minutes into Trumps speech. We noticed the guy bear-crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50ft away, he said. He had a rifle, we could clearly see a rifle. Were pointing at him, the police are down there running around on the ground, were like Hey man, theres a guy on the roof with a rifle and the police did not know what was going on. Mr Smith said he tried to alert the authorities for three to four minutes, but thought they probably could not see the gunman because of the slope of the roof. Why is there not Secret Service on all of these roofs here? he asked. This is not a big place. [Its a] security failure, 100% security failure. He said he later saw the agents shoot the gunman: They crawled up on the roof, they had their guns pointed at him, made sure he was dead. He was dead, and that was it  it was over.

Here is what someone very near the stage itself experienced. From the Free Press:

I was four feet from the stage, in a causeway with about five other journalists. My daughter, a photographer, was next to me. Her husband was next to her. Trump was back on his feet within seconds, although his red hat was knocked off his head. He was calm. I heard him shout to one of his staffers, Get my shoes! He lifted his arm in the air. I think he shouted, Fight! Then he definitely shouted, USA! The crowd chanted it back in unison.

Here is a photo of the bullet whizzing toward Trumps head[5]:

A remarkable photo captured by my former White House Press Corps colleague Doug Mills. Zoom in right above President Trumps shoulder and youll see a bullet flying in the air to the right of President Trumps head following an attempted assassination. pic.twitter.com/FqmLBCytoW  Haraz N. Ghanbari (@HarazGhanbari) July 14, 2024

And here is a video of Trump shouting Fight! Fight!:

Trump yelling Fight. Fight, after getting grazed by a bullet in the ear, an inch from ending his life. No panic. No crawling on his knees to safety. The man stands up, faces the crowd, and yells Fight. Historic footage. Just incredible. pic.twitter.com/9ERhGJaia0  Lomez (@L0m3z) July 13, 2024

Taleb comments:

The NYT is in bad faith: any other leader (or NYT journalist) would have cowered on the floor. Trump exhibited exceptional physical courage; recognize the fact even if you disagree with the politics. pic.twitter.com/6smqbxGg23  Nassim Nicholas Taleb (@nntaleb) July 14, 2024

Note that there were more victims: A former fire chief attending the rally with family was killed, as was the gunman. Two other people were also critically wounded.

Cui Bono

Now let us ask who benefits. Curiously enough, both Trump and Biden may. I say may rather than do because of this salutary reminder from Stoller:

I dont know why anyone assumes a big polling bump for Trump. Trump got convicted and it barely mattered. Biden showed cognitive decline and it barely mattered. No one knows anything right now.  Matt Stoller (@matthewstoller) July 14, 2024

But lets not be nihilists. First, Trump:

The first and simplest reaction comes from the New York Post (and I confess that it was mine, as well):

The moment probably also won him the election.

The same reaction from The Hill:

President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election, Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) told POLITICO in a brief interview shortly after the shooting.

Prediction markets agree:

There are far more important things than markets, as the Trump assassination attempt makes very, very clear. But its my job to look at this, and this is whats just happened to the odds of a Trump victory in the betting markets, according to Real Clear Politics: pic.twitter.com/sYxqrM1Ia5  John Authers (@johnauthers) July 14, 2024

But then I remembered [checks campaign timer] that 114 days is a long time in politics.

Axios draws attention to the effect on apartisan voters:

The biggest electoral impact from Saturdays stunning events could come courtesy of low-information and politically disengaged Americans, who are expected to make up a decisive voting bloc. The attempted assassination was so shocking that it immediately cut through a wide range of cultural and digital bubbles, drawing mostly sympathetic reactions from influencers, athletes and CEOs. Elon Musk, for example, immediately endorsed Trump in a post that racked up more than 80 million views on X. YouTuber Jake Paul, who has legions of young followers, tweeted: If it isnt apparent enough who God wants to win. When you try and kill Gods angels and saviors of the world it just makes them bigger.

Axios, however, equates electoral impact with popular sentiment; however, the salient point is the effect on low information voters in the swing states where the election will be won or lost. However, Pennsylvania is a key swing state (which is why I keep drawing a red box around it on the RealClearPolitics poll averages chart), and while I hesitate to say that Crooks just sewed up Pennsylvania for Trump, he certainly did Trump no harm. I would speculate that turnout in the non-Philly, non-Pittsburgh counties will be, well, fervent.

The Telegraph argues that the assassination attempt reinforces Trumps messaging:

Trump has built his campaign on the idea that everyone is out to get him. Federal prosecutors, judges, election officials, rival politicians and journalists have all been accused of trying to bring down his campaign and prevent his return to the White House. Many of those claims have rightly been contested. But after the incident in Pennsylvania, even Trumps worst enemies cannot deny that there are some who would rather see him dead than re-elected.

Trump supporters urge that the attempt reinforces Trumps ethos:

And people say, why do people like Trump so much? Why are his supporters, why are they so loyal to Trump? You know why? Because of what we saw today. Because he got up after getting hit by a bullet or something, and he said, Im here basically fighting for you, and fight on. And we dont have enough people like that in this country in politics.

But Biden may also benefit. First, his staff can wrap him up in tissue paper again. Axios:

For President Biden, it was an easy decision to reach out to former President Trump, pull down his political ads and return to the White House.Biden advisers were unanimous that he needs to take his fight directly to Trump. Thats a difficult case to make against a man who came within several millimeters of losing his life. Theres now a broad recognition that Biden is facing a delicate balancing act in the coming weeks: He must continue to warn that Trump is a threat to democracy, while acknowledging the recent threat to Trumps life.

Second, out of deference and respect to Trump in this difficult time, the Biden campaign can save some money:

The Democratic National Committee told Fox News that it is in the process of pulling down ads that it went up with on Monday on 57 municipal buses in Milwaukee.

Third and most importantly, I speculate that the Republican National Convention plus Trumps cannily postponed selection of a vice-present, would already have sucked all the oxygen out of the room. The Trump assassination attempt will blot out the sun (I somehow did not preserve the link to the Democratic strategist who used that phrase). The campaign to unelect Biden has depended critically on constant, incestuous dogpiling in the press. That coverage will be much, much harder to get, and so indeed Biden may run out the clock. (Alert reader antidlc helpfully points out that the DNC may set a date for its virtual roll call before the end of the month.)

Conclusion

I really wanted to have a section about how the blame cannons are being deployed, but time presses, and so I must leave them on the cutting room floor. To conclude, Ive aggregated some of reactions to Trumps assassination that are more kind or humane, rather than less; tending to reject the Schmittian view that the essential dichotomy of politics is the friend/enemy distinction:

First, Russell Brand:

Trump Assassination Attempt Failed. What now? pic.twitter.com/V2thuSJJM8  Russell Brand (@rustyrockets) July 13, 2024

Second, Robert F. Kennedy, Junior:

A truly presidential and beautifully poetic, compassionate, and inspiring commentary by @RobertKennedyJr on @NewsNation about the attempted assassination of President Trump. pic.twitter.com/frDGF5IUVH  Jaya Phillips (@iamJayaLove) July 14, 2024

Third, Melania Trump:

(I actually found Melania Trumps letter touching. Odd, but touching. Note that all these reactions, in their different ways, appeal to the better angels of our nature instead of vacuous notions of civility.)

Lincoln, in his First Inaugural, got it wrong:

We are not enemies, but friends. We must not be enemies. Though passion may have strained it must not break our bonds of affection. The mystic chords of memory, stretching from every battlefield and patriot grave to every living heart and hearthstone all over this broad land, will yet swell the chorus of the Union, when again touched, as surely they will be, by the better angels of our nature.

In fact, slaveholders and abolitionists were enemies. But can anyone truly say that the country faces such a polarizing issue today? (Perhaps it should  climate, for example; or, well, capitalism  but does it?) Perhaps this time we can get it right, or more right than wrong. Of course, this would take an extraordinary turnaround from defiance to generosity of spirit but what are we fighting for?

NOTES

[1] On Trumps fist pump and whether the Secret Service should have permitted it, The American Conservative:

An assassin can kill a president, but cowardice is what kills a movement. President Donald Trump didnt give his would-be murderer what the gunman wanted. Trump survived the shots, then he did something profoundhe waved back the Secret Service agents shielding him, freeing his bloodied face up from the scrum, and, with a look of defiance, raised his fist and said, Fight! He shouldnt have done it, according to the rules of presidential security. And the Secret Service were obviously torn between the urgency of covering the former president and getting him to safety, and allowing him to do what he was determined to do. They parted just far enough for Trump to show his face and pump his fist. His life and theirs were at risk. But the risk had to be taken. The United States cant be led by a coward or by someone who looks like one under fire. Trump knew in a split second what a leader had to do in that situation. He had to show courage. Morale is a nations blood. Trump refused to let the assassin shed it, even as his own wounds bled.

Despite the garish prose, I think Trump was right to do what he did. We cant have the stagehands directing the stars, after all. NOTE Re Kayfabe: Could Trump possibly have converted himself from a Heel to a Face?!

[2] The PAC was the Progressive Turnout Project:

The Pennsylvania voter file lists him as a 20-year old registered Republican, while FEC contribution records show a single $15 ActBlue contribution earmarked to Progressive Turnout Project (same street address for both), so there's something for everyone to freak out over. https://t.co/fJwoVLm3X4 pic.twitter.com/YtuCM29xmC  Rob Pyers (@rpyers) July 14, 2024

Progressive Turnout Projects email consultant was the cartoonishly evil Mothership Strategies. Mothership Strategies was not on my Bingo card!

[3] Crooks is said not to have had a criminal record, so where did the DNA come from?

[4] Im not entirely happy with this account; the writer has done work for Bellingcat.

[5] There is a theory running round that the blood on Trumps face comes from the shattered glass of a TelePrompter, but so what?

APPENDIX: The Cassandras

Here are some of the people who called it.

(August 30, 2023) Tucker Carlson, Tucker Carlson stokes conspiracies, claims U.S. is speeding towards assassination of Trump, NBC: If you begin with criticism, then you go to protest, then you go to impeachment, now you go to indictment and none of them work. Whats next? Graph it out, man. Were speeding towards assassination, obviously.  They have decided  permanent Washington, both parties have decided  that theres something about Trump thats so threatening to them, they just cant have him.

(August 31, 2023) Yves Smith, The Other Option for Containing Trump: Its not as if this is the first time Tucker has brought up the possibility that Trump could be assassinated by members of the power structure.

Steve Bannon (June 2024), the Guardian: In a Guardian interview in June, Steve Bannon  a Trump adviser and former White House chief strategist  spoke of his concerns that the Republican nominee would be assassinated before the election in November. Its my number one fear, Bannon said, speaking before he began a four-month prison sentence for defying a congressional subpoena. Assassination has to be at the top of the list and I believe that the woman thats running the Secret Service part is not doing her job.' (I cant find the original when I search on these quotes, and I tried several search engines. Readers?)

* * *

Sadly, this tweet supposedly from wint is a fake:

yes its real. please follow me for more real shit https://t.co/JXotTam4c5  wint (@dril) July 14, 2024

But:

APPENDIX: The Lighter Side

Via:
Trump shot, survives ASSASSINATION ATTEMPT in Pennsylvania; shooter, one rally attendee killed, others wounded

Former President Donald Trump has just survived an assassination attempt during a Pennsylvania rally on July 13.

Trump, who was in the middle of delivering his rally speech, was grazed in the right ear by a bullet as he turned toward the right with his hands on his lectern when the sound of multiple gunshots suddenly rang out at approximately 6:15 p.m. ET.

The former president instinctively grabbed his bloodied right ear and dropped to the ground as multiple Secret Service agents rushed to the stage and several more gunshots could be heard. About 45 seconds after Trump was shot, agents were heard on the rally microphone saying, "Shooters down" and it was safe to move the ex-POTUS to a safer place.

As the agents moved Trump offstage into his nearby SUV, he lifted his fist in the air, prompting a loud cheer from the crowd at the rally and he mouthed the word "fight" three times while pumping his fist. The crowd then chanted "USA!" as he was taken down the stairs by several agents and into his vehicle.

"This evening we had what we are calling an assassination attempt against our former president, Donald Trump," Kevin Rojek, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) special agent in charge, said at a late-night press conference, confirming that what has just occurred was a serious liquidation threat.

One of the rally attendees was killed in the shooting. Two other rally-goers were critically injured, according to the Secret Service. All of the victims were male as per the FBI.

Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police said law enforcement is following up on a "number of suspicious occurrences" including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

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"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow," Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He was sent home from the hospital as of this writing.

Trump posted on Truth Social the same evening, describing the shooting. "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, and shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!" Trump wrote.

The shooting comes right before Trump is set to accept the 2024 presidential nomination at the Republican National Convention this coming week. (Related: Leftists call for Biden to order U.S. military to ASSASSINATE Trump before he wins November election.)

Shooter identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, PA

Several hours following the incident, the FBI reported that it has identified the now-deceased shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, just south of Pittsburgh and about 40 miles away from where Trump was speaking.

FBI noted that Crooks is the main "subject involved" in Trump's attempted assassination. State voter records note that Crooks was a registered Republican.

Sources indicate that Crooks planted himself on the roof of a manufacturing plant more than 130 yards away from the rally grounds where Trump was speaking. He was able to squeeze off multiple shots before Secret Service snipers located him and eventually neutralized him. His body was later recovered with an AR-style rifle.

Why Crooks fired on the Republican Party's standard bearer is still unclear.

Biden "condemns" shooting at Trumps PA rally

As security concerns heightened following the apparent assassination attempt on Trump, President Joe Biden was quick to react to condemn the shooting incident.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence," the president said. "It's sick. It's sick. That's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. You cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this." He added that Trump's rally should have been able to take place peacefully, "without any problem."

In his public remarks, the president said he believes Trump is doing well and claimed that he has been updated by top Secret Service and Homeland Security officials. "I have been briefed on the shooting, He said in a statement. "I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety," he added. The Biden campaign also announced that they will be pausing all political activity, including outbound communications and will be pulling down television ads as quickly as possible.

A White House official said Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle, Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Liz Sherwood-Randall, assistant to the president and Homeland Security adviser, participated in the briefing. Also at the briefing were chief of staff Jeff Zients, White House counsel Steve Ricchetti and deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini. Vice President Kamala Harris' office said she had been briefed as well.

The White House confirmed late Saturday night that Biden and Trump spoke by phone, but did not detail what was said on the call. A Trump adviser also confirmed the two spoke.

Visit Trump.news for more news related to the former POTUS' journey to earning back the White House seat.

Watch the actual assassination attempt at the Trump rally below.

This video is from the Real Free News channel on Brighteon.com.

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Sources include:

LifeSiteNews.com

CNN.com

USAToday.com

Reuters.com

NYPost.com

CBSNews.com

Brighteon.com
U.S.-built $230 million floating pier in Gaza to shut down after two months

The $230 million floating pier built by the United States to provide humanitarian aid to starving Palestinians in Gaza is shutting down after just two months of barely being operable , with the White House claiming that the U.S. Navy is having trouble distributing relief goods due to looting and inclement weather.

During the State of the Union address back in March, President Joe Biden announced the pier construction to "enable a massive increase in the amount of humanitarian assistance getting into Gaza every day." But the floating pier, first anchored on May 17, has faced significant obstacles from the start.

Starving and desperate Palestinians reportedly hijacked the first convoys of aid in May, while adverse weather conditions have frequently disrupted operations, sometimes detaching the pier from the shore and beaching vessels associated with the effort. At least three of the 1,000 troops involved in the operation had been injured due to these challenges. (Related: U.S. Navy vessels attached to floating pier off Gaza coast dislodged by storm, grounded on nearby beaches.)

The floating pier, initially scheduled to remain operational until at least July 31, had been relocated to Ashdod Port in Israel thrice due to adverse weather conditions, most recently on June 28. And now, it is scheduled to be reattached to Gaza on July 17 and shut down a few days later. As a result, it has only been operational for 23 out of the 53 days since May.

These challenges have led to the decision to shut it down before the end of July.

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"I do anticipate that in relatively short order, we will wind down pier operations," national security adviser Jake Sullivan announced during the North Atlantic Treaty Organization Public Forum in Washington on July 11.

Sullivan suggested that the floating pier is no longer essential for Gaza's supply of food, water and other humanitarian aid due to the re-opening of key border crossings amid the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict.

"The real issue right now is not about getting aid into Gaza. It's about getting aid around Gaza," Sullivan added.

U.S. wasted millions of taxpayer money on the floating pier

This announcement came amid an escalating humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

According to Politico, border checkpoints have closed following Israel's war against Hamas. Israeli officials have intensified inspections of trucks at open border crossings to minimize the entry of weapons into the territory. These additional Israeli checkpoints have slowed the entry of trucks, carrying basic necessities, including food and medicine, into the territory from Israel, Jordan and Egypt.

"There is an unprecedented horrific humanitarian disaster in Gaza right now, and weve got to do everything we can to make sure that tens of thousands of children do not starve to death," Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) said in an interview.

Israeli military activities in urban areas of Gaza have hindered aid groups' efforts to distribute critical supplies. The U.S. initially attempted to overcome these obstacles through airdrops and the pier installation, but security concerns have left much of the aid undelivered onshore.

Follow WWIII.news for more stories about the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.

Watch this clip from Newsmax featuring Rep. Michael Waltz (R-FL) discussing how $320 million in taxpayer money was wasted on the pier in Gaza.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

More related stories:

Desperate, starving Palestinians resorting to intercepting aid delivered to Gaza via American "floating pier."

Biden: U.S. to. build FLOATING PIER along Gaza coast to improve aid delivery.

U.S. completes installation of makeshift pier in Gaza; first load of humanitarian assistance moves ashore.

U.S.-built Gaza pier transported to Israel for repairs after being heavily damaged by high waves, strong winds.

Construction of U.S. military floating pier off Gaza nearly complete.

Sources include:

MiddleEastEye.net

USAToday.com

Politico.com

Brighteon.com
If Kamala Harris replaces Joe Biden, survey shows Donald Trumps lead in the polls would only increase

Following President Joe Biden's disastrous debate performance, a survey has found that if the Democrats decide to replace him with Vice President Kamala Harris, former President Donald Trump's lead in the polls would actually increase

This is according to a post-debate poll conducted by research company HarrisX, which was done between June 28 and 30 among 1,500 registered voters. (Related: JOE BI-DONE: 25 House Democrats preparing to call for Biden to end reelection bid.)

The poll found that, if given the choice between Trump or Harris, 49 percent of voters prefer Trump and only 42 percent prefer Harris, with the remaining nine percent of voters undecided.

Without the option to choose undecided, Trump still leads with 53 percent of voters preferring the former president while only 47 percent would choose Harris.

When including three third-party candidates  independent candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Green Party candidate Jill Stein and independent candidate Cornel West  Trump still leads with 43 percent voter support against Harris' 38 percent. Kennedy would garner 16 percent of the vote and Stein and West would get two percent support each.

The possibility of Harris replacing Biden comes as sources within the Democratic Party view the vice president as a plausible successor due to her potential to seamlessly take over the Biden-Harris campaign's fundraising efforts and existing campaign infrastructure.

Party insiders are also concerned about possibly losing Black voters if they decide to bypass Harris, a Black woman, for another candidate.

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Despite these considerations, Harris' performance as vice president has been seen as overwhelmingly negative, with her lack of popularity only surpassed by the negative view Americans have of Biden.

Trump also favored against any other potential replacement for Biden

Analysts note that while Harris might be a viable replacement for Biden, the Democratic Party might come out of Nov. 5 on more solid footing if Biden continued to run against Trump.

Furthermore, a Reuters/IPSOS survey has found that any other potential replacement the Democratic Party could field to run in Biden's place would likely be defeated by Trump.

This survey found that Trump would defeat California Gov. Gavin Newsom 42 percent to 39 percent, Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer 41 percent to 36 percent, Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear 40 percent to 36 percent and Illinois Gov. J.B. Pritzker 40 percent to 34 percent.

The survey only shows one individual leading Trump  former First Lady Michelle Obama, who has made it clear time and again that she is not interested in running for president.

"As former First Lady Michelle Obama has expressed several times over the years, she will not be running for president," said Crystal Carson, director of communications for the Obama family's office. "Mrs. Obama supports President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris' reelection campaign."

This same survey found that a decent portion of Americans  including 32 percent of registered Democrats polled  want Biden replaced with a different candidate.

Learn more about the Democratic Party and President Joe Biden's reelection campaign at CancelDemocrats.news.

Watch this clip from Fox Business as former Democratic Ohio Rep. Dennis Kucinich explains how Biden dropping out of the race would cause the Democratic Party to tear itself apart.

This video is from the NewsClips channel on Brighteon.com.

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Pelosi now claims it's LEGITIMATE to question Biden's mental state after initially backing him.

After Biden's disastrous debate last week, Democrats are truly panicking and desperately looking to replace him.

Maine Democratic Rep. Jared Golden questions Biden winnability, says he's "OK" with Trump victory.

Biden's DISMAL performance in debate against Trump threatens to undermine his candidacy, causes panic among Dems.

Biden will not withdraw from presidential race despite calls for a replacement candidate from the Democratic Party.

Sources include:

YourNews.com

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Brighteon.com
NATOs endgame appears to be nuclear war

The world is at its most dangerous moment since the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962. Back then, however, the fear of total destruction consumed the public; today, few people seem even to be aware of this possibility.

(Article by Chris Wright republished from CommonDreams.org)

It is easily imaginable that nuclear war could break out between Russia (and perhaps China) and the West, yet politicians continue to escalate tensions, place hundreds of thousands of troops at high readiness, and attack military targets inside Russia, even while ordinary citizens blithely go on with their lives.

The situation is without parallel in history.

Given that Russian use of nuclear warheads might well precipitate a nuclear response by the West, the fate of humanity hangs on the restraint and rationality of one man, Putina figure who is constantly portrayed by Western media and politicians as an irrational, bloodthirsty monster.

Consider the following facts. A hostile military alliance, now including even Sweden and Finland, is at the very borders of Russia. How are Russian leaderswhose country was almost destroyed by Western invasion twice in the 20th centurysupposed to react to this? How would Washington react if Mexico or Canada belonged to an enormous, expansionist, and highly belligerent anti-U.S. military alliance?

As if expanding NATO to include Eastern Europe wasnt provocative enough, Washington began to send billions of dollars worth of military aid to Ukraine in 2014, to improve interoperability with NATO, in the words of the Defense Department. Why this Western involvement in Ukraine, which, as Barack Obama said while president, is a core Russian interest but not an American one? One reason was given by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) in a recent moment of " target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"> startling televised candor : Ukraine is sitting on $10 to $12 trillion of critical minerals I dont want to give that money and those assets to Putin to share with China.

As The Washington Post has reported : Ukraine harbors some of the worlds largest reserves of titanium and iron ore, fields of untapped lithium, and massive deposits of coal. Collectively, they are worth tens of trillions of dollars. Ukraine also has colossal reserves of natural gas and oil, in addition to neon, nickel, beryllium, and other critical rare earth metals. For NATOs leadership, Russia and, in particular, China cant be permitted access to these resources. The war in Ukraine must, therefore, continue indefinitely, and negotiations with Russia mustnt be pursued.

Meanwhile, as Ukraine was being de facto integrated into NATO in the years before 2022, the United States put into operation an anti-ballistic-missile site in Romania in 2016. As Benjamin Abelow notes in How the West Brought War to Ukraine , the missile launchers that the ABM system uses can accommodate nuclear-tipped offensive weapons like the Tomahawk cruise missile. Tomahawks, he points out, have a range of 1,500 miles, can strike Moscow and other targets deep inside Russia, and can carry hydrogen bomb warheads with selectable yields up to 150 kilotons, roughly 10 times that of the atomic bomb that destroyed Hiroshima. Poland now boasts a similar ABM site .

American assurances that these anti-missile bases are defensive in nature, to protect against an (incredibly unlikely) attack from Iran, can hardly reassure Russia, given the missile launchers capability to launch offensive weapons.

In another bellicose move, the Trump administration in 2019 unilaterally withdrew from the 1987 Treaty on Intermediate-Range Nuclear Forces. Russia responded by proposing that the U.S. declare a moratorium on the deployment of short- and intermediate-range nuclear missiles in Europe, saying it wouldnt deploy such missiles as long as NATO members didnt. Washington dismissed these proposals, which upset some European leaders. Has the absence of dialogue with Russia, French President Emmanuel Macron said , made the European continent any safer? I dont think so.

The situation is especially dangerous given what experts call  warhead ambiguity . As senior Russian military officers have said, There will be no way to determine if an incoming ballistic missile is fitted with a nuclear or a conventional warhead, and so the military will see it as a nuclear attack that warrants a nuclear retaliation. A possible misunderstanding could thus plunge the world into nuclear war.

So now were more than two years into a proxy war with Russia that has killed hundreds of thousands of people and has seen Ukraine even more closely integrated into the structures of NATO than it was before. And the West continues to inch ever closer to the nuclear precipice. Ukraine has begun using U.S. missiles to strike Russian territory, including defensive (not only offensive) missile systems .

This summer , Denmark, the Netherlands, Norway, and Belgium will begin sending F-16 fighter jets to Ukraine, and Denmark and the Netherlands have said there will be no restrictions on the use of these planes to strike targets in Russia. F-16s are able to deliver nuclear weapons, and Russia has said the planes will be considered a nuclear threat.

Bringing the world even closer to terminal crisis, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg states that 500,000 troops are at high readiness, and in the next five years, NATO allies will acquire thousands of air defense and artillery systems, 850 modern aircraftmostly fifth-generation F-35sand also a lot of other high-end capabilities. Macron has morphed into one of Europes most hawkish leaders, with plans to send military instructors to Ukraine very soon. At the same time, NATO is holding talks about taking more nuclear weapons out of storage and placing them on standby.

Where all this is heading is unclear, but whats obvious is that Western leaders are acting with reckless disregard for the future of humanity. Their bet is that Russian President Vladimir Putin will never deploy nuclear weapons, despite his many threats to do so and recent Russian military drills to deploy tactical nuclear weapons. Given that Russian use of nuclear warheads might well precipitate a nuclear response by the West, the fate of humanity hangs on the restraint and rationality of one man, Putina figure who is constantly portrayed by Western media and politicians as an irrational, bloodthirsty monster. So the human species is supposed to place its hope for survival in someone were told is a madman, who leads a state that feels besieged by the most powerful military coalition in history, apparently committed to its demise.

Maybe the madmen arent in the Russian government but rather in NATO governments?

It is downright puzzling that millions of people arent protesting in the streets every day to deescalate the crisis and pull civilization back from the brink. Evidently the mass media have successfully fulfilled their function of manufacturing consent. But unless the Western public wakes up, the current crisis might not end as benignly as did the one in 1962.

Read more at: CommonDreams.org
Two lion brothers set a record when they swam across a river in Africa that was teeming with predators. The record swim was seen on camera by a team led by an Australian university researcher.

Nine Lives

Drones equipped with high-definition heat detection cameras were used to capture footage of the two-male lion coalition as they crossed the Kazinga Channel in Uganda at night.

The two tried twice and eventually managed to cross the channel by swimming roughly 1.5 km.

One half of the pair was a 10-year-old local icon named Jacob, who had overcome multiple potentially fatal situations, such as having one of his hind legs severed by a poacher's snare.

His swim breaks records and is an incredible demonstration of fortitude in the face of extreme danger across a channel teeming with hippos and crocodiles.

African lions have been known to swim anywhere from ten to several hundred meters in the past; some of these swims have ended in crocodile attacks that have killed the animals.

According to Dr. Alexander Braczkowski of Griffith University, the research leader, Jacob "really is a cat with nine lives."

"I'd bet all my belongings that we are looking at Africa's most resilient lion: he has been gored by a buffalo, his family was poisoned for lion body part trade, he was caught in a poacher's snare, and finally lost his leg in another attempted poaching incident where he was caught in a steel trap," he said.

According to Braczkowski, it is an accomplishment in and of itself that Jacob and his brother Tibu have endured this long in a national park despite intense human pressures, such as high rates of poaching.

Read Also: Human Noise is 'Scarier' for Wildlife Than a Lion's Roar, New Study Reveals

Battle For Lionesses

The major swim raises an important question: why did Jacob and Tibu decide to take a chance on the hazardous one-kilometer night swim in the first place?

Dr. Braczkowski explained that the brothers most likely had a female target in mind.

It's possible that the two mounted the perilous trek to reach the females on the other side of the channel since competition for lionesses in the park is high and they lost a battle for female affection in the minutes before the swim.

In Queen Elizabeth National Park and numerous other national parks in Uganda, Dr. Braczkowski has been conducting an extensive study on African lions and other predators.

As the scientific director of the Volcanoes Safaris Partnership Trust, he oversees the Kyambura Lion Project and has been collaborating with the Ugandan government since 2017 to enhance the wildlife department's scientific capabilities for the purpose of lion and predator census.

This behavioral discovery highlights skewed sex ratios in lion populations, which is a direct result of some of his earlier studies.

According to Dr. Braczkowski, Jacob and Tibu's epic swim is simply another poignant illustration of how some of our most cherished wildlife species must make difficult choices in order to find homes and partners in a world where humans rule.

Related Article: Can Lion's Roar Paralyzed Humans?
A 375-pound loggerhead sea turtle named Bubba was returned to the Atlantic Ocean on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, after he had spent three months in intensive rehabilitation at the Brevard Zoo in Florida. Crowds of people attended the event, cheering Bubba on as he made his way back to the sea at Lori Wilson Park.

Discovery and Rehabilitation

Bubba, the sea turtle, was discovered on April 10, 2024, in St. Lucie County by Inwater Research biologists.

The minimally obvious part of this turtle that bore injuries included trauma to both front flippers, seemingly an attack by a predator. In addition, the creature had a horrible case of infestation by marine leeches that caused anemia.

The biologists rescued Bubba from the water with the use of a crane and took him to the Brevard Zoo for treatment.Bubba received treatment at the Sea Turtle Healing Center at Brevard Zoo. The group attended to his injuries and treated him for leeches.

It is during this three-month care that his health improves dramatically so that he can begin building up his strength toward eventual release back into the wild. According to biologists, Bubba is estimated to be between 60-75 years old; thus, his recovery totaled.

Triumphant Return

The release event was a happy moment for the Brevard Zoo staff and the local community in general.

The journey of Bubba back to his home-to the ocean-was met by clapping and ecstatic cheers from the crowd that attended the event at Lori Wilson Park.

The overall message learned from this story of Bubba is that conservation is very necessary, but at the same time, these teams needed to rescue and rehabilitate injured marine life exist.

The Brevard Zoo has been at the vanguard of medical care and rehabilitation regarding sea turtles and other marine animals. Bubba's story is a great example of how positive conservation efforts can affect individual animals and the ecosystem more broadly.

Also Read: Invasive Chinese Softshell Turtles Found in the Philippines, Biodiversity Experts Starting to Worry

What else is going on in terms of conservation efforts at Brevard Zoo?

Brevard Zoo is involved in various conservation programs at the local and global levels. The Sea Turtle Healing Center facilities have been used in the rehabilitation of sick and wounded sea turtles for release back into the wild.

Their Restore Our Shores project is geared toward living shoreline construction in the Indian River Lagoon, providing basic habitats for wildlife while striving to keep the water clearer.

The zoo is also active in endangered species increase and habitat restoration breeding programs, such as the Florida grasshopper sparrow and the Perdido Key beach mouse.

Added to this, Brevard Zoo is involved in FrogWatch USA, a citizen science program concerned with monitoring native amphibian populations, and is creating a safeguard population for the critically threatened frosted flatwood salamander.

This commitment to sustainability materializes into numerous green initiatives that secure better wildlife well-being while, at the same time, improving the quality of life for animals and people.

These denote Brevard Zoo's commitment to conservation and the position it occupies regarding species and ecosystem protection. You can get to know more about or support their work on their official website.

Related article: Sea Turtles Threatened By Plastic Pollution, Researchers Say
Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh CMs discuss cooperation for progress of states

A

ndhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday met his Maharashtra counterpart Eknath Shinde at the latter's official residence 'Varsha', during which they decided to strengthen cooperation for the development of the two states.

TDP chief Naidu and Shiv Sena leader Shinde discussed the political scenario, especially after the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) formed the government for the record third term.

Incidentally, Shiv Sena and TDP are two crucial allies in the NDA.

The Chief Minister's Office said, "Both CMs held detailed discussions on boosting development by increasing cooperation between the two states. They discussed a wide range of issues relating to infrastructure development, interlinking of rivers, allocation of river water and further increasing the cultural cooperation between the two states."

Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Maharashtra Public Works Department Minister Dada Bhuse and Shiv Sena MP and CM Shinde's son Shrikant Shinde also attended the meeting.

 Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh CMs discuss cooperation for progress of states

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Trump authorises fundraising page for victims of shooting at his Pennsylvania rally

F

ormer US President Donald Trump, on Sunday, authorised a GoFundMe fundraising page for donations to the supporters and families of the spectators who fell victim to the shooting at his Pennsylvania rally.

Trump's Presidential campaign's call for action has raised $213,193 just within a few hours after it was set up.

The National Finance Director and Senior Advisor of the Trump campaign, Meredith ORourke, organised the fundraising campaign and wrote: "President Donald Trump has authorised this account as a place for donations to the supporters and families wounded or killed in today's brutal and horrific assassination attempt."

"All donations will be directed to these proud Americans as they grieve and recover. May God bless and unite our nation," the organiser added.

Trump, who is due to be anointed the Republican Party's Presidential candidate, had a narrow escape on Saturday when shots aimed at him at a campaign rally grazed his right ear and killed two people at the event.

The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks (20) of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Crooks was killed on the spot by the security officials after he fired shots at the former US President during a campaign rally in western Pennsylvania.

 Trump authorises fundraising page for victims of shooting at his Pennsylvania rally

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We will remain defiant in face of wickedness: Donald Trump

A

day after a failed assassination attempt, former US President Donald Trump said that he will remain defiant in the face of wickedness.

We will fear not but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness, Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social, a social media platform he launched after he was banished from X.

I truly love our country and love you all and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin, the former President said.

On Saturday, Trump was shot at an election rally in an assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.

The former President is recovering at his home in New Jersey, where he reached on Saturday from Butler, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden, who called the former president after the shooting, said there is no place in the US for this kind of violence.

It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this, the President said.

The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks (20) was killed by snipers of the US Secret Service, which protects the previous and incumbent US presidents and their immediate families.

As per the media reports, Crooks was a registered Republican but had donated $15 to a liberal voter mobilisation group in 2021.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allow evil to win, Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday morning.

His campaign leaders Chris Lacivita and Susie Wile wrote in a memo to staff: Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media.

Political violence in US politics has become a new threat. Trumps supporters attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, to stop a joint sitting of Congress from certifying Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election and the next president, in which several people, including police officers, were killed.

 We will remain defiant in face of wickedness: Donald Trump

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University of Illinois police have brought out therapy dogs to campus events and mental health calls for more than two years. Now, the department's four-legged employees are sniffing out more places to help in the surrounding community.
Ever since the Hyundai Exter was launched in India, it has received an overwhelming response from customers, all thanks to its competitive price and bold design. It was launched at Rs 5.99 lakh last year in July, and since then the company has sold over 93k units in just one year.

The company has termed the model one of the best-selling products in the product range. It has not just increased sales, but also attracted new customers in its segment. The company says it has sold over 71,301 units in FY2024.

Design

Talking about the design, the Hyundai Exter comes with an aggressive style statement, featuring a headlight setup and impressive fog lamps, which are placed below its H-shaped DRLs. The model gets heavy cladding on the side, making it look more bold in its segment.

At the rear, it gets LED treatment, which is complemented by the Exter badging in the centre.

Engine and Power

Under the hood, Hyundai Exter is available in both Petrol and CNG engines options. The former is powered by an 1197 cc unit that generates a maximum power of 81.8bhp at 6000rpm and a peak torque of 113.8Nm at 4000rpm. The latter has been given an 1197 cc CNG engine that churns out an impressive power of 67.72bhp at 6000rpm and a torque of 95.2Nm at 4000rpm.

The model has been offered in both Manual & Automatic transmission. When it comes to the overall size, flaunts the length of 3815 mm, width of 1710 mm and height of 1631 mm.

Competitors

Amid the time when the most competitive segment has been dominated by Citroen C3, Tata Punch, Toyota Taisor, Maruti Fronx, Nissan Magnite and Renault Kiger, the tech-loaded Exter has created its way and took the seventh place in FY2024.
Budget 2024: A direct tax practitioners body has urged the union government to reduce the personal income tax burden on citizens in the upcoming budget later this month.

Budget 2024 Expectations Income Tax

All India Federation of Tax Practitioners (AIFTP) president Narayan Jain stated that the exemption limit should be increased to Rs 5 lakh.

Also Read: Budget 2024: Income Tax Expectations From Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman

He emphasized the need for simplifying the tax structure to ease compliance.

Income between Rs 5 lakh to Rs 10 lakh be taxed at 10 per cent, between Rs 10 lakh to Rs 20 lakh at 20 per cent, and income above Rs 20 lakh at 25 per cent, Jain said in his memorandum to the Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman.

Jain suggested eliminating the surcharge and cess, arguing that their continuation is no longer justified.

He said that the government does not adequately explain how the education cess is utilised, emphasizing that providing education and medical facilities is a fundamental duty of the government.

The memorandum also addresses the tax rate under section 115BBE on unexplained cash credits, loans, investments, and expenditures, which was increased to 75 per cent plus cess during the demonetization period.

Jain advocates for reverting this rate to the original 30 per cent.

Budget 2024 Standard Deduction

The finance ministry is reportedly considering raising the standard deduction limit for income taxpayers under the new tax regime while leaving the tax exemption-heavy old regime unchanged.

The finance minister may consider increasing the standard deduction to up to Rs 1 lakh per annum in the upcoming budget.

Budget 2024 Date

The Union Budget for 2024-25 will be presented on July 23rd, 2024. This is the full budget, following an interim budget presented earlier this year.

(With PTI inputs)
With NTA yet to declare CUET UG 2024 results, first-year undergraduate admissions at Delhi University have seen a delay. The results of the Common University Entrance Test were initially scheduled to be released on June 30 but were delayed following the NEET UG 2024 paper leak issue. The first semester classes at Delhi University were originally scheduled to begin on August 1 but now it may be pushed to August 16, Vice Chancellor Yogesh Singh told ANI.

The delay in the publication of CUET UG results 2024 has disrupted the academic calendar, Singh said adding that classes for other semesters will begin as per schedule on August 1. The result has not been announced, but it will impact the academic calendar for the students for the first semester in courses where admission is through CUET-UG. The semester will likely start on August 16. For other semesters, we will start the semester on August 1, the VC told the news agency.

Meanwhile, while releasing the provisional answer key, the National Testing Agency (NTA) had said that it would redo the exam if any grievances are found to be genuine. The agency, which is currently embroiled in controversy for irregularities in NEET-UG, specified that if any grievances raised by the candidates on the conduct of the exam are found to be correct, it will re-take the exam between July 15-19 for such candidates under the Computer-Based Test (CBT) mode, the agency added.

The NTA is addressing the grievances received regarding the exam conducted for CUET-UG 2024 and received up to June 30. If the grievance is genuine, the NTA is committed to redoing the exam for these candidates at selected centres any day between July 15-19, 2024. The admit card will be issued to the candidates. All such candidates will take the exam in CBT mode only, the notification read. The results are expected to be released anytime soon.

Stay ahead with all the exam results updates on News18 Website.
From UPSC Civil Services to SSC recruitment exams, from college admissions to group discussions, general knowledge questions mark a significant part of almost every exam. For candidates preparing to crack an exam or those who need to get their news in a compact form, News18 offers a weekly column  GK Capsule. While we provide you a weekly news wrap, to get more information on a specific topic or an exam, reach out at @news18dotcom.

Aspirants preparing for any competitive exam in India need to stay up-to-date with news and recent events. A lot has transpired in the last week, and we have created a list of the weeks most relevant news stories to help you prepare for your forthcoming exams. From the NEET UG paper leak accuseds bail to the Hathras Stampede mishap, heres a rundown of the most important events of the week:

NEET UG Paper Leak: Court Grants Bail To Accused After Defence Argues Case Of Mistaken Identity

Delhis Rouse Avenue Court has granted bail to Gangadhar Gunde, who was arrested by the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) on June 26 in connection to the NEET paper leak case in Maharashtras Latur. The case was initially registered by the Latur police at Shivaji Nagar police station but was later taken over by the CBI. The defence advocate Kailash More claimed CBI had arrested Gangadhar Gunde due to mistaken identity. More added that he was not the person the agency was looking for.

Pune Traffic Police Sends Notice To IAS Officer Puja Khedkar Over Beacon Use

The central government has constituted a one-member committee to investigate the ongoing controversy surrounding 2022-batch probationary IAS officer Puja Khedkars alleged misuse of power. The committee, chaired by a senior Additional Secretary-level officer, has been tasked with probing allegations related to fake certificates and scrutiny at the time of her interview. Meanwhile, the IAS Academy will additionally look into her conduct during probation. The committee has been instructed to submit the investigation report in two weeks.

Global Forecasters Predict Delayed Emergence of La Nina

With the scorching days of summer gradually fading away, global forecasters have predicted a delay in the onset of La Nina, a naturally recurring ocean phenomenon. It is said that La Nina influences weather across countries, including the southwest monsoon over India. As per the US-based National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), the temperatures over the equatorial Pacific Ocean are mostly near average presently, which means it is still in the ENSO-neutral phase. There is a 70 per cent chance that it may develop during the AugustOctober period and then continue through the winter.

India, Russia To Boost Bilateral Trade by 2030

India and Russia decided to boost bilateral trade to over USD 100 billion by 2030, using national currencies for trade, reviving investments, and increasing cooperation in sectors ranging from agriculture to energy and infrastructure. Following the 22nd Annual Bilateral Summit between Russian President Vladimir Putin and Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Moscow, the two sides in a joint statement reiterated their commitment to developing a strategic partnership. They also vowed to give additional impetus to strengthening bilateral interaction by promoting Russia-India economic cooperation and trade.

Hathras Stampede Case

Days after the Hathras stampede mishap at a religious event of self-styled godman Narayan Sakar Hari, a special investigation team (SIT) said that the incident happened due to overcrowding and a failure of the organisers and the local administration. Over 120 people died in the stamped at Hathras Phulrai village on July 2. The UP government suspended six police and administrative officials, including the sub-divisional magistrate (SDM), circle officer (CO), and inspector, in its first action over the tragedy. The SIT did not rule out the possibility of a conspiracy and suggested an in-depth investigation.
Presidential candidate Donald Trump was the target in an apparent assassination bid at a golf course on Sunday. The incident comes two months after he was a gunman fired at him at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13 night.

According to the US media, the suspect has been identified as Ryan Routh. The incident unfolded at the Trump International Golf Club in West Palm Beach, about 15 minutes from Trumps Florida residence, Mar-a-Lago.

Routh was first seen by Secret Service agents, who were sweeping the course ahead of the former president as he played. The agents usually go one hole ahead to perform security checks, according to police.

Agents opened fire when they spotted the gunman and fired four to five rounds of ammunition. The suspect dropped the rifle and fled in a vehicle, abandoning the weapon along with two knapsacks, a BBC report mentioned.

The suspect left an AK-47-style assault rifle and other items at the scene and fled in a vehicle but was later arrested, as per Reuters.

What Happened in Pennsylvania?

A bullet whizzed past his right ear, leaving a bloodied US presidential candidate on stage, with Secret Service men rushing him off the stage.

As the US goes into the election mode, much of the focus will shift to the shooter and security lapses after Saturdays incident.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, whose department oversees the Secret Service, said officials were engaged with the Biden and Trump campaigns and taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

The attack has raised some serious questions about the security protocols of former US presidents.

Who Protects Former US Presidents?

The United States Secret Service, one of the nations oldest federal investigative law enforcement agencies, protects former presidents and their spouses.

In 1965, Congress authorised the Secret Service (Public Law 89-186) to protect a former president and his/her spouse during their lifetime, unless they decline protection.

Richard Nixon relinquished his Secret Service protection in 1985, the only president to do so.

How Does Secret Service Ensure Protection?

The level of security measures is determined based on intelligence assessments and coordination capabilities. The number of agents assigned to protect a former president depends on perceived threats and the duration since leaving office.

The Secret Service calls upon other federal, state and local agencies to assist on a daily basis. The Secret Service Uniformed Division, the Metropolitan Police Department, and the US Park Police patrol the streets and parks nearby the White House. The Secret Service regularly consults with experts from other agencies in utilising the most advanced security techniques. The military supports the Secret Service through the use of Explosive Ordnance Disposal teams and communications resources.

When the president travels, an advance team of Secret Service agents works with the host city, state and local law enforcement, as well as public safety officials, to jointly implement the necessary security measures.

How Former Presidents Security is Ensured

According to Ronald Kessler, the author of In the Presidents Secret Service, former presidents can also remain potential targets for terrorists, with security details sometimes numbering around 75 officers for round-the-clock protection shortly after leaving office.

Recent former presidents are accompanied by four agents during outings, ensuring continuous coverage through shifts and day offs.

Compared to active presidency, security of a former president is less. Security protocols include thorough checks of venues like restaurants or convention halls before visits, involving background checks on staff and the deployment of bomb-sniffing dogs.

What is Donald Trumps Security Arrangement?

According to former Secret Service agent Tim Miller, Donald Trumps security is unique because he is not only a former president but also a presidential candidate. This dual status adds complexity as Trump travels extensively between various locations.

While other former presidents like George W. Bush, who lived relatively private lives post-presidency, at their ranch, Trump maintains a more public and active profile. Therefore, maintaining his security is paramount.

Regarding Trumps legal challenges, Miller stresses that the Secret Service maintains continuous protection throughout such circumstances, ensuring that no one else assumes responsibility for his security besides the agency itself.

The Secret Service said in a statement that it had recently added protective resources and capabilities to Trumps security detail, without providing further details, according to Reuters.

Security At Trump Rally

During most of Trumps campaign stops, local police aid the Secret Service in securing the venue. Before the event, agents scan the venue for bombs or other threats, and Trump invariably arrives in a fortified motorcade.

Law enforcement officials typically put up barriers as a perimeter, and require all attendees to go through a metal detector to enter the venue. Armed protective agents search all attendees bags and even wallets. Many rallygoers are patted down by hand.

Paul Eckloff, a former Secret Service agent who retired in 2020, said agents would have surveyed all the rooftops with a line of sight ahead of time.

When Obama Restored Lifetime Secret Service Protection

Former President Barack Obama signed the Former Presidents Protection Act in 2012 to reinstate lifetime Secret Service protection for former presidents.

Not all lawmakers agreed with the decision. Republican Representative Howard Coble of North Carolina argued that former presidents often have lucrative post-presidential careers and should fund their own security arrangements.

When Bill Clinton was in power in 1994, the Congress amended a law to limit lifetime protection for former presidents to just 10 years, citing a belief that continued protection was unnecessary and that former presidents were unlikely targets.
Sporting a clean, crisp look with a pinkish tone, probably due to a fresh plaster of surkhi, lime and mortar, the iconic Rumi Darwaza  one of the most sought-after heritage structures located in the historic Old City of Lucknow  continues to captivate visitors.

A testament to the architectural brilliance of the bygone era, the 80-feet-high Rumi Darwaza was built in 1784 by Nawab Asaf-Ud-Daula, the Nawab of Oudh, and reopened to the public recently after nearly two years of closure initiated by the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) for essential maintenance and conservation work.

Rumi Darwaza has been restored. Almost 99 per cent of the entire restoration work has been completed after which the structure was made open for the public, keeping in mind Muharram (as the gate falls on the route of the traditional Muharram procession). It took us nearly one-and-a-half years and about Rs 50 lakh to restore the giant multi-storeyed gate, Aftab Hussain, superintending archeologist, Lucknow Circle, ASI, said.

However, ASI officials made it clear that traffic movement through the gates would remain restricted. Traffic will remain banned as it was before, with vehicles being diverted to the adjacent road. This arrangement has been approved by the district administration to ensure the safety and preservation of the historic Rumi Darwaza., Hussain told News18.

The restoration of the iconic gate was not childs play, say the team of archaeologists involved in the mammoth task of giving a fresh lease of life to the structure that was lying in ruins for the last five decades. In December 2022, the ASI undertook the task of restoring the architectural marvel after several gaping cracks surfaced on its walls.

Restoring the Nawabi-era Rumi Darwaza was a unique challenge as the structure was in bad shape. There were gaping cracks in the structure, the plaster and the stucco work was coming off at many places. Hence, while carrying out the restoration process, we relied heavily on traditional construction methods to ensure that the newly constructed portion seamlessly assimilates with the original structure from the Nawabi era, ensuring a firm and durable grip. It was for the same reason that a basic material, including pulses, jaggery, babool juice (used as adhesive), batasha (sugar sweet), eggs without the yolk, and fine jute were also used along with the mortar, lime and surkhi, said Hussain.

The Process

Obtaining permission to restrict vehicular movement passing through the gate was the first step, Hussain said. Once permission was granted by the district administration and traffic police, we began with the research and development part. We managed to procure the original pictures of the heritage structure in order to give it the original look and a team of experts minutely studied the pictures and other documents related to the structure. The entire process took almost three to four months, the ASI officer recollected.

He said this was followed by erecting iron scaffoldings in which over 1,000 pipes were used. After that, huge pits were dug up to prepare the traditional binding material, which turned out to be the elixir for this 240-year-old architectural marvel. For the intricate floral designs and stucco work on the gate, the team meticulously took impressions of every motif using butter paper to ensure accuracy without altering the original design. This careful approach preserved the authenticity of Rumi Darwaza.

Stitching Cracks Was Most Crucial Task

Over the years, the 240-year-old Rumi Darwaza had developed many cracks due to lack of maintenance and repairs. While filling cracks is usually straightforward for experts, they were puzzled by the fact that the cracks widened with every attempt to reach their root. This unexpected challenge made the restoration process more complex and required innovative solutions to preserve the structures integrity. We used special stainless-steel clamps to stitch the cracks which was later covered with layers of plaster to give a uniform look to the surface, Hussain said.

Most Vulnerable to Seismic Activity

In 2013, experts from the Department of Civil Engineering at the Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur (IIT-K), identified Rumi Darwaza as the most vulnerable standing monument in Lucknow. This conclusion stemmed from a study conducted by Professor Durgesh C Rai and his team, who assessed the monuments seismic load-carrying capacity. Their evaluation revealed that the seismic load capacity of the masonry arch structure was only 17 per cent of its weight, below the required 21 per cent, making it inadequate for the demands of seismic zone III, where it is located.

The study highlighted that apart from weather exposure, frequent vehicular movement through the gate had exacerbated the damage. The team of experts also carried out on-site ambient vibration testing, using sophisticated sensors and equipment placed at four different levels in both latitudinal and longitudinal directions. This testing showed that the structures excitations were primarily due to vehicular vibrations. The Complex Mode Indicator Function (CIMF) technique was used and a three-dimensional model of the monument was created using ABAQUS software to obtain accurate data.

The IIT-K team suggested that only high-quality restoration work could enhance the structures strength, making it resilient enough to withstand future seismic events.

Restoration A Hit

The restoration of Rumi Darwaza has brought a smile on the faces of heritage enthusiasts in Lucknow, who appreciated ASIs work.

S Mohammed Haider, senior lawyer and heritage enthusiast, said Rumi Darwaza was declared a protected monument on in December 1920, vide notification No. UP 1645-M/1133. Unfortunately, despite there being a clear mandate of law, the Rumi Darwaza was on the verge of collapse as a result of heavy vehicular movement through it, a concern which has been duly highlighted by us in our PIL which is pending with the Lucknow Bench of the Allahabad High Court.

He added: With our concerted efforts and a series of correspondences by the ASI, more particularly their letter dated 01.09.2022, to the district administration and the state government for providing an alternative route, the said request was finally heeded and restoration work of this magnificent edifice was started.

He said the finials on the monument, which were damaged, would be repaired and restored within this financial year as confirmed by ASI. We sincerely hope that the vehicular movement from the monument, which was stopped on account of its conservation, shall remain stopped to prevent any further damage to the monument, he added.

The ASI has also planned an exhibition in February next year in order to showcase the entire restoration work and the efforts made to save the structure. Other than Rumi Darwaza, the exhibition will also highlight 22 other structures in UP that underwent conservation work.
The assassination attempt on US Presidential nominee Donald Trump brings back horrific memories of 2013 when Narendra Modi, then Prime Ministerial candidate for the 2014 election, was on target of Students Islamic Movement of India (SIMI) terrorists at a public rally in Patna in Bihar.

Bombs were going off even as Modi was on the stage at the Hunkar Rally in Patnas famous Gandhi Maidan on October 27, 2013. Six people were killed in the attacks, and nine terrorists were convicted in 2021, with four of them being sentenced to death. Six blasts took place at the rally between 11.40 pm and 12.45 pm that day. The details that came out in the charge sheet and the trial were shocking  the terrorists had originally planned to assassinate Modi using a suicide bomber but later decided to explode bombs at the venue to try get close to Modi and target him.

The investigation by NIA revealed that the accused had conspired to target the election rallies of Modi and had conducted recces of various places in the country where Modis rallies had been held. The accused on observing the security arrangements concluded that it was almost impossible to attack Modi with firearms, the NIA said in its charge sheet. They therefore decided to explode IEDs in the election rally of Modi (in Patna), with an intention to kill a large number of common people which would lead to a stampede and in the ensuing melee Modi could easily targeted from a close range, the NIA said in its charge sheet.

The Suicide Bomber Plan was Aborted

The NIA said initially one person was motivated to become a suicide bomber and a suicide jacket packed with explosives was also prepared to be used to attack Modi. A test blast was also done by the accused by fastening the said jacket on a tree and exploding it with a remote control switch.

But considering the security cover provided to Modi as observed by the accused at an earlier rally of Modi in Chhattisgarh on September 7, 2013, the accused thought it would not be possible to target him as planned. The person motivated for the purpose also refused to participate in the planned attack.

The accused then attended and conducted reconnaissance of the election rallies of Modi in Delhi and Kanpur on October 2, 2013 and October 19, 2013 and later collected materials like gun-powder, pipes, gelatin rods and detonator to prepare bombs. Bombs were then placed by the accused both on the northern side and southern side of the Gandhi Maidan in Patna before Modis rally, after a recce of the ground was done and preparatory sketches and maps were made. Fortunately, Modi emerged unscathed from the attack.
The journey from Delhi-born Rajiv Bhatia to the famous Akshay Kumar began with an interesting twist in his debut film. Speaking to Galatta Plus, Akshay Kumar revealed why he changed his name. Directed by Mahesh Bhatt, the film featured Raj Babbar, Smita Patil, and Kumar Gaurav, with Akshay making a special appearance. He shared, Do you know what was Kumar Gauravs name in the film? Akshay! Thats how I got my name. Not many people know this. So, my real name is Rajiv and during the shoot I just casually asked what is the name of the hero in the film, they said Akshay, I told them, I want to keep my name as Akshay!

Akshay clarified that changing his name wasnt based on advice from a priest or anyone else. When his father asked him about it, he simply explained that he liked the name because it was the heros name in his first film. Rajiv is a good name and I think back then Rajiv Gandhi was the Prime Minister or something. So, it was a great name but I changed it just aise hi. It wasnt like some pandit advised me to change my name! My father also asked me, Whats wrong with you? but I told him the same, that the heros name in my first film was this so I will keep it!

Meanwhile, Akshay is not a part of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding celebrations. The Sarfira actor was personally invited by Anant a few weeks ago. However, a new report claimed Akshay will not be attending the wedding bash because he has been diagnosed with Covid-19.

Akshay Kumar had been promoting his latest release Sarfira when he felt unwell, and decided to get tested after being told that some crew members of his promotions team had tested positive for covid. The actor tested positive on Friday morning, and would end up missing the last leg of promotions, as well as Anant Ambanis wedding for which Anant had personally gone to invite him. Its disappointing but the responsible guy that Akshay is, he has immediately isolated himself, a source close to the actor told Hindustan Times.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant are now married. Following a spectacular wedding ceremony that captured the attention of the nation and the world, they hosted another grand event, the Shubh Ashirvad ceremony, at BKC in Mumbai on Saturday evening. On day 3, the Ambanis are celebrating with a Mangal Utsav for the newlyweds. On Sunday evening, a fleet of luxury cars was seen departing from the Ambani residence, Antilia, heading to BKC, the venue for the star-studded ceremony. As with the previous days, a host of Bollywood celebrities are expected to attend todays festivities. Live shehnaai and dhol played in the backdrop as the family left for the celebrations at BKC. Check out the video here:

On Saturday, the Ambani family hosted a Shubh Aashirvaad ceremony with a galaxy of stars attending the auspicious event. Among those who attended were Captain Cool MS Dhoni with his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva, Kiara Advani, Sidharth Malhotra, Amitabh Bachchan with granddaughter Navya Nanda and son-in-law Nikhil Nanda, Suniel Shetty, Athiya Shetty, KL Rahul, Ranbir Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor and others.

Veteran actor Anupam Kher has shared a glimpse of the ceremony. In four videos posted on social media, Kher described the event as spectacular, dignified, and sacred. He highlighted how the ceremony displayed the Vedic and Sanatani traditions of Bharat to guests from around the world. The videos that he shared on X (formerly Twitter) feature Vedic Pandits chanting important texts of Vedic mantras, adding to the ceremonys spiritual atmosphere. Several esteemed religious leaders attended the celebration, including the Shankaracharya of Dwarka Peeth Swami Sadananda Saraswati and Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath Swami Avimukteshwaranand, who received standing ovations on their arrival. Another video that he shared captures Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting the newlywed couple and blessing them with gifts.
Following the festive celebrations of Shubh Aashirwad, the Ambanis are set to hold a grand wedding reception today to wrap up the marriage festivities of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. Across India, anticipation is high as everyone eagerly awaits the conclusion of these elaborate celebrations. The reception, scheduled to be held at the luxurious Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai, promises to be a truly extravagant affair with a mix of esteemed Indian and international guests. The venue has been adorned with beautiful decorations in preparation for the upcoming event, adding to the air of excitement surrounding the celebration.

In a video shared by popular paparazzo handle Viral Bhayani, one could see the anagram of Anant and Radhika decorated with flower and parrot cutouts. Then the camera pans towards the left, where we can see five huge scrolls next to each other, with shlokas and verses from the Hindu epic Ramcharitmanas written by Tulsidas. Meanwhile, the red carpet is ready for the stars to grace.

Take a look:

During the Shubh Aashirwad festivities, Prime Minister Narendra Modi made a grand entrance, graciously welcomed by business magnate Mukesh Ambani. Amid tight security, Ambani personally escorted the PM into the venue, where Modi humbly greeted the guests with folded hands. As the chief guest, an announcement heralded Modis arrival, prompting the other attendees to rise as a sign of respect.

The newlyweds, Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant, as well as Ambanis children Akash and Isha, paid their respects by touching the PMs feet. Throughout the event, Modi was seated in the front row with Akash and Isha Ambani, where he was observed presenting shagun to the newlyweds and imparting his blessings upon the couple.

Amid the post-wedding revelry of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant at the esteemed Jio World Convention Centre, Bollywood legend Amitabh Bachchan paid respects to the revered Tulsi Peeth Jagadguru Rambhadracharya. A video capturing this heartfelt moment was shared by a paparazzo on Instagram, showcasing the intersection of tradition and glamour at the event.

Bachchan arrived accompanied by Navya Naveli Nanda, while Aishwarya Rai Bachchan made a separate entrance with her daughter Aaradhya Bachchan. Elsewhere, the cameras caught a candid moment between Ranbir Kapoor and Sanjay Dutt as they posed together for the paparazzi. The star-studded event saw the arrival of numerous other celebrities including Salman Khan, Ram Charan, Janhvi Kapoor, KL Rahul, Anjanya Panday, Ranveer Singh, Sara Ali Khan, Shanaya Kapoor, Athiya Shetty, Arjun Kapoor, Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, Suhana Khan, Ajay Devgn, Suniel Shetty, along with notable figures like President Ram Nath Kovind, Prime Minister Boris Johnson, and international personalities like Kim Kardashian and Khloe Kardashian, among many others.
Veteran actor Anupam Kher has shared a glimpse of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants Shubh Ashirwad ceremony held in Mumbais BKC on Saturday evening. In four videos posted on social media, Kher described the event as spectacular, dignified, and sacred. He highlighted how the ceremony displayed the Vedic and Sanatani traditions of Bharat to guests from around the world. The videos that he shared on X (formerly Twitter) feature Vedic Pandits chanting important texts of Vedic mantras, adding to the ceremonys spiritual atmosphere. Several esteemed religious leaders attended the celebration, including the Shankaracharya of Dwarka Peeth Swami Sadananda Saraswati and Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath Swami Avimukteshwaranand, who received standing ovations on their arrival. Another video that he shared captures Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting the newlywed couple and blessing them with gifts.

What a spectacular, dignified and sacred #AashirwaadCeremony it was for the #AnantRadhikaWedding!!! The ceremony also displayed the Vedic and Sanatani traditions of #Bharat to the guests from all over the world. Mr. #MukeshAmbani spoke so so well about the family and traditional pic.twitter.com/cZ33iHUyry Anupam Kher (@AnupamPKher) July 13, 2024

Videos of moments from the Shubh Aashirwad and wedding and guests walking the red carpet have gone viral on social media. In one video, PM Modi was seen making a grand entry with Mukesh Ambani. Videos going viral also show him sitting in the front row with Isha and Akash Ambani and having a chat.

The wedding of the year brought together a dazzling array of stars from Bollywood, Hollywood, and the South film industry. Illustrious personalities like Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Priyanka Chopra, and Ranveer Singh joyously joined Mukesh and Nita Ambani in Anants vibrant baraat procession. The star-studded guest list didnt stop there; renowned international names like Kim Kardashian, Khloe Kardashian and John Cena made their presence felt at Anant and Radhikas grand union.
Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai stands as a monumental film in Emraan Hashmis career, where he delivered a riveting performance as Shoaib Khan, a character inspired by the infamous underworld figure Dawood Ibrahim. However, this pivotal role did not come without its challenges. Emraan faced initial resistance from his uncle and acclaimed director, Mahesh Bhatt, who was hesitant about Emraan embracing such a negative character. Bhatts apprehensions were rooted in the storyline, which had been narrated to him by director Milan Luthria, causing him to worry about the potential impact on Emraans career trajectory. Despite these concerns, Emraan took on the role and left an indelible mark with his portrayal.

In a recent conversation with The Lallantop, Emraan Hashmi revealed a pivotal moment in his career when his uncle, Mahesh Bhatt, expressed serious concerns about his choice of role. Bhatt cautioned him, saying, If you play this character, your career will be over. The apprehension arose from the irredeemable nature of the character and the potential impact on the audiences perception of Hashmi. Recalling the warning, the star of Murder shared, He warned me, While some characters with grey shades are able to redeem themselves, this character will change peoples perception of you overnight,

Despite Mahesh Bhatts warnings, Emraan Hashmi chose to take on the role. Following the films release and its overwhelming success, Bhatt had a change of heart. Emraan recounted, When the film released and became a massive success, he called Milan and said, I am sorry. I was wrong. He admitted that the film, contrary to his initial thoughts, was entertaining rather than dark.

Once Upon a Time in Mumbaai (2010) is a captivating neo-noir crime thriller that melds gripping storytelling with stellar direction by Milan Luthria and a compelling script by Rajat Arora. The films ensemble cast, including Ajay Devgn, Emraan Hashmi, Kangana Ranaut, Prachi Desai, and Randeep Hooda, delivers powerful performances that bring the gritty underworld of Mumbai to life.
Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding was a glamorous affair, with guests enjoying a lavish celebration at the Jio World Convention Centre. The couples union on July 12th was marked by a traditional baraat ceremony, where friends and family joined in the festivities. The event was graced by celebrities from all over, adding to the grandeur of the occasion. Memorable moments included Anant Ambanis striking saafa, joyful dances by celebrities, and touching moments such as Nita Ambanis dance. The presence of Bollywoods young stars like Ananya Pandey and Shanaya Kapoor added to the glitz. Notable highlights were the grooms dance at the baraat, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas sharing a dance with Anant and Nick Jonas. International guests like WWE star John Cena and the Kardashian sisters made the event even more special. The couples first pictures during the varmala ceremony captured the essence of their love beautifully.

A guest presents Ranbir Kapoor with their business card

At Anant and Radhikas wedding, Ranbir Kapoor had an unexpected encounter with a mysterious guest. The individual quietly shared words with the actor, engaging him in a conversation where Ranbir spoke while the guest attentively listened. Following their interaction, the guest bid farewell to Ranbir, leaving behind his business card as a token of their meeting.

Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopras memorable performance

Ranveer Singh and Priyanka Chopra set the stage on fire with their electrifying dance performance at the wedding. Their high-energy moves to both iconic songs and traditional dhol beats were a sight to behold. Joining them in the dance festivities were other notable guests like Kriti Sanon, Mahendra Singh Dhoni, Rajinikanth, and Anil Kapoor, each adding their own flair to the celebrations. Despite the star-studded presence, it was Ranveer and Priyanka who truly captivated the audience with their infectious energy and standout performances, making them the true stars of the evening.

Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan revive the nostalgic essence of Karan-Arjun.

Shah Rukh Khan and Salman Khan brought back the beloved nostalgia of the iconic movie Karan Arjun with their recent collaboration. The duo recreated the magic of the past as they came together for a special project, reminiscent of their on-screen chemistry in the classic film. Fans were delighted to see the two superstars unite once again, evoking fond memories and excitement for what they have in store. Their joint effort not only reignited the Karan Arjun era but also showcased their enduring camaraderie and star power, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their new venture.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino Embraces Indian Culture

FIFA President Gianni Infantino showed his moves to the beat of AP Dhillons track Insane alongside Ranveer Singh on the dance floor. In a surprising twist, Ranveer handed Gianni a gandasi while the two gave an energetic dance performance. Giannis joy was palpable as he held the gandasi, with Ranveer providing enthusiastic support from behind. Fans marveled at Ranveers ability to create magical moments, jokingly stating, Ranveer can truly make anything happen. Dancing with Gianni? Hahaha. The playful interactions among users added to the fun and lighthearted atmosphere surrounding the memorable dance-off.

Madhuri Dixit dazzled with her dance moves to the iconic song Choli Ke Peechhe.

Madhuri Dixit, synonymous with 90s chart-toppers, revisited her legendary hit Choli Ke Peechhe at Anant-Radhikas wedding, solidifying its status as one of her timeless classics. Mesmerizing fans with her dynamic performance, Madhuris energetic dance to the song captivated the audience, reaffirming her status as the ultimate Bollywood dance diva.

Anant Ambani presented Shah Rukh Khan, Ranveer Singh, and groomsmen with Rs 2 crore limited edition watches

Anant Ambani, son of billionaires Mukesh Ambani and Nita Ambani, exchanged vows with Radhika Merchant in a lavish wedding affair on July 12. As a gesture of appreciation, Anant gifted his groomsmen exclusive Audemars Piguet limited-edition luxury watches valued at over Rs 2 crore each. A viral video showcasing prominent figures like Shah Rukh Khan and Ranveer Singh proudly displaying these extravagant timepieces on their wrists has captivated netizens, sparking a surge of online fascination with the opulent display.

Aishwarya Rai Shares Emotional Hug with Pregnant Deepika Padukone at Ambani Wedding  Must Watch Video for Fans

At Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding at the Jio World Convention Centre on July 12, Bollywood icons Aishwarya Rai Bachchan and Deepika Padukone had a touching and profound encounter. Despite Aishwarya garnering attention for her separate arrival from the Bachchan clan, she shared a warm, heartfelt hug with Deepika, creating a poignant moment at the luxurious affair.

Justin Beiber performance at Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchants wedding.

Kicking off the lineup is Justin Bieber, who set the stage ablaze with his electrifying performance at Anant-Radhikas sangeet ceremony. Justin reportedly commanded a fee of Rs 83 crore for his thirty-minute show, mesmerizing the audience with chart-toppers like

Baby, Peaches, and other popular hits.

Aishwarya Rai and Abhishek Bachchan Unite at Ambani Wedding After Individual Entries, Viral Photo Sparks Buzz

Aishwarya Rai Bachchans striking solo entrance at the lavish wedding, accompanied solely by her daughter, Aaradhya, sparked curiosity among guests. The contrasting arrivals with Abhishek Bachchan, who was accompanied by his renowned parents Amitabh Bachchan and Jaya Bachchan along with Shweta Bachchan Nandas family, prompted speculation. Aishwaryas poised poses, both solitary and with Aaradhya, added an air of mystery and intrigue to her entrance, leaving attendees pondering the significance of her distinct arrival.

John Cenas Heartfelt Message to SRK After Anant Ambanis Wedding: The Impact He Made

In a social media post over the weekend, John Cena, on his X(formerly Twitter) account, posted a snapshot featuring himself alongside Shah Rukh Khan at the wedding of Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant. Dressed in a sophisticated powder blue kurta paired with white pyjamas and brown shoes, Cena exuded elegance with the traditional Indian attire adorned with intricate silver embroidery. The professional wrestler expressed gratitude towards the Ambani family in a heartfelt message to the Dunki star, reflecting on the surreal experience of the past 24 hours and acknowledging the familys exceptional warmth and hospitality.
Katrina Kaif and Vicky Kaushal made a stylish appearance at Anant Ambani-Radhika Merchants wedding. Both were looking beautiful as they walked the carpet with hand in hand. And today, Katrina was spotted at Mumbai airport leaving the city after attending a wedding. The video has gone viral.

Reddit shared the video on its thread. Katrina is seen wearing a white colour suit and walking towards the gate of the airport. She also smiled at the shutterbugs. Vicky Kaushal was not seen with her. Katrina returned from Germany just a day before the wedding. Well, as soon as the video was shared, fans were seen reacting to it. One of the fans wrote, Seems like kat came to Mumbai only to attend the wedding ..and then went back again I feel she will shift forever to London in future. Another wrote, Baby bump is clearly visible. Wonder why they think wearing loose clothes will make it invisible. Anushka also tried hard but ..

Watch the video here:

For the wedding, Kaif opted for a red Sabyasachi saree with a golden border and a full-sleeved red blouse, complemented by her trademark open straight hairstyle with a middle parting. She looked stunning, with minimal makeup. Vicky Kaushal looked handsome in a cream coloured sherwani with floral patterns from the house of Anamika Khanna, he completed the look with a safa and brown shoes. The couple happily posed for the shutterbugs at the pink carpet laid for the guests at the wedding ceremony of Radhika Merchant and Anant Ambani underway at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

On the work front, Katrina was last seen in Merry Christmas with Vijay Sethupathi. The film received mixed response. And since then she has not announced any new project. There are rumours going on that she is expecting her first child with Vicky Kaushal but couple is yet to make an announcement. On the other hand, Vicky Kaushal will be next seen in Bad Newz.
Anand Ambani and Radhika Merchant are now married. The wedding ceremony took place on Friday in Mumbai, attracting a galaxy of Bollywood celebrities who gathered to celebrate their union. On Saturday, the Ambani family hosted a Shubh Aashirvaad ceremony at the BKC in Mumbai, with a host of celebrities attending the auspicious event. Among those who attended were Captain Cool MS Dhoni with his wife Sakshi and daughter Ziva, Kiara Advani, Sidharth Malhotra, Amitabh Bachchan with granddaughter Navya Nanda and son-in-law Nikhil Nanda, Suniel Shetty, Athiya Shetty, KL Rahul, Ranbir Kapoor, Janhvi Kapoor and others.

Kiara has now taken to Instagram to wish the couple a happy married life. Sharing a beautiful photo of them and wrote, My dearest Anant and Radhika, Heartiest congratulations as you begin the next chapter of your lives Wishing you both a lifetime of love, happiness and togetherness

Thank you Nita aunty, Mukesh uncle @mamamagish @anandpiramal @shloka11 @aambanil for being the most gracious hosts and making us all feel like family.

At the wedding, Kiara looked stunning in her traditional Gujarati outfit, which beautifully put classic Indian craftsmanship on display. Her purple lehenga was intricately embellished with hand embroidery, highlighting its artisanal beauty. Paired with a striking red blouse and a red and purple dupatta, Kiaras ensemble was flawless and complemented her figure perfectly. She accessorised with elegant earrings and bold bangles, adding the perfect finishing touches to her look.

On the other hand, Sidharth Malhotra made hearts flutter in an egg-shell white Manish Malhotra sherwani that had beautiful brocade work done on it. The colour scheme of his outfit was pristine and extremely subtle and also matched his calm and cool demeanour. His hair was gelled back and his beard well trimmed.

Mukesh Ambani and his wife Nita Ambani kicked off the wedding festivities for their son Anant Ambani and his fiancee Radhika Merchant with the Mameru ceremony at their residence, Antilia, in Mumbai last week.
Talk about having a work-life balance, Priyanka Chopra surely aces it. Amid all the busy shoot schedules and professional commitments, public appearances, the global icon always manages to spend quality time with her daughter Malti. On Sunday, the actress shared a happy photo reuniting with her baby girl, after almost 42 hours of travel.

Priyanka shared an adorable photo of herself hugging Malti and wrote, After 42+ hours of travel around the world in a couple of days, this is all I needed .

Earlier in an interview with Quint, Priyanka was asked how she balances her work and motherhood duties. The actress shared that even she was raised by a working woman and added that it has greatly helped her take care of Malti.

I was raised by a working mom and my moms sisters were working moms. Even the moms who are not working (hold a job) are working all day. Working women dont get enough credit you have to surround yourself with a village, you have to make sure that you find a supportive partner. I have so many people around my daughter, but I still feel guilty when I go to the set, Priyanka said.

Earlier this week, Priyanka Chopra made a grand appearance at Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchants wedding with hubby Nick Jonas. She brought the house down with her stellar dance moves in Anant Ambanis baraat on Friday, July 12. The was seen dancing her heart out in the baraat as Nick stood by, clapping for his stunning wife.

In one video, Priyanka was seen dancing to Katrina Kaifs iconic song, Chikni Chameli with Isha Ambani. Nick Jonas clapped along as Akash Ambani joined in the dance. Nick also gave Akash a warm hug before the brother-of-the-groom flaunted his dance moves.

At Anant and Radhikas wedding, Priyanka stunned in a gorgeous yellow lehenga, while Nick looked dapper in a powder pink sherwani. Fans were enchanted by their chemistry and the ease with which they complemented each other, both in style and demeanour.

Priyanka Chopra has now resumed shoot for The Bluff in Australia.
Malaika Arora is turning up the heat on social media with her latest bikini photos from her vacation in Marbella, Spain. The Bollywood diva shared two sexy photos of herself in a neon green bikini, showcasing her toned physique and enviable abs. Her sizzling photos have gone viral, leaving fans in awe.

In the first photo, Malaika is seen enjoying her dessert, donning the striking neon green bikini that perfectly accentuates her curves. Paired with white sunglasses, her relaxed yet glamorous look captures the essence of a perfect summer vacation. The caption, Dessert is served, adds a playful touch to the already enticing photo.

In another image, Malaika poses confidently in the same neon green bikini. Her toned abs and fit physique are on full display, proving once again why she is considered one of the hottest celebrities in Bollywood.

Amidst her vacation updates, Malaika took a moment to extend her heartfelt wishes to Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant on their wedding. Sharing a beautiful photo of the newlyweds on her Instagram story, she wrote, Celebrating the beautiful union of Anant and Radhika. Wishing you both all the happiness in the world as you step into this new chapter hand in hand.

While Malaika enjoys her time in Spain, her personal life continues to make headlines. Recently, she has been in the news for her rumoured breakup with actor Arjun Kapoor. The buzz intensified when she skipped his birthday celebration, fuelling speculation about their relationship status. Adding to the intrigue, Malaika has been sharing cryptic posts on Instagram, leaving fans and followers guessing about her current state of mind.

Amid the ongoing rumours surrounding her on-off relationship with Arjun, Malaika recently spoke about how the internet can be a very toxic space. I have somehow built a mechanism  or shield, I would say  around me where I dont let the negativity through anymore, Malaika told Hello magazine. Ive insulated myself from it. Whether its people, a work environment, social media or trolls. The minute I feel that energy, I recoil instantly. Its something Ive learned to do over time. It would get to me earlier and I would lose sleep over it. Id be lying if I said things dont affect me at all  Im human too and so I will cry, break down and have all the emotions associated with being trolled. But youll never see that in public.
As Bigg Boss OTT 3 completes three weeks, Chandrika Dixit Gera, popularly known as the Vada Pav Girl, has been eliminated from the show. She is the fifth contestant to leave, following Neeraj Goyat, Payal Malik, Poulomi Das, and Munisha Khatwani. Before her departure, Chandrika faced intense scrutiny from host Anil Kapoor during the Weekend Ka Vaar episode. Despite the dramatic turn of events, it seems Chandrika has accomplished her mission on Bigg Boss OTT 3.

Chandrika entered the show with the aim of revealing her true self, countering the image portrayed on social media. However, she left the house with additional labels, such as being a hypocrite and a man-hater. In the recent weekend episode, Chandrika was reprimanded for character-assassinating Vishal Pandey over his comment about Kritika Malik. Anil Kapoor also criticised her for spreading negativity about Vishal among the contestants and questioned her loyalty to her allies.

Moreover, Chandrika faced backlash for creating a false narrative about Sai Ketan Rao. While many housemates appreciated her cooking skills and helpful nature, her personality clashed with others, leading to several conflicts.

Before joining Bigg Boss OTT 3, Chandrika addressed her controversy with the Delhi Municipal Corporation regarding her Vada Pav cart. She told Indian Express.com, It wasnt like mine was the only cart in Delhi! I cant stand anything wrong. When only my cart was threatened to be taken away multiple times, I just couldnt take it and took action in my own capacity. Now it is all fine, but if there arises any problem again, I will fight, I wont back down. The phase made me stronger. It was mental torture, there was high pressure, crowd of 600 people including vloggers, people accusing you, calling you good or bad. You shouldnt judge me without knowing me.
A severed head in a bag is a surprise gift. A charred body is found amidst mountains of garbage. The politicians are corrupt and manipulative. Ambitious and ruthless crime bosses are engaged in an endless battle for power. The third season of Mirzapur, the much-awaited crime drama series streaming on Amazon Prime, is, expectedly, an offering with non-stop action. Some viewers might be partly disappointed for various reasons, such as the near-complete absence of a ruthless don, or since a couple of subplots seem like distracting appendages that dont contribute to the main story. What is certain is that the latest season of Mirzapur will work  and a fourth season will be made someday.

Although all crime dramas and thrillers havent been able to match the popularity of Mirzapur, why are so many of them made for OTT platforms? Several such series have attracted viewers, encouraging more makers to explore these genres. Variety is on offer, however, with dramatic twists a frequent selling point. After all, what can be more exciting than an episode coming to an end after raising the intriguing question: what next?

A sprawling crime saga on Netflix, whose first season began streaming in 2018, Sacred Games is much more than a cop-and-criminal story. The world depicted in the series is alarmingly bizarre, and the highlight is consistently inventive storytelling. Many characters, with the cop and the criminal at the centre, live on as unforgettable memories despite the release of numerous web series later.

Sacred Games and Mirzapur, whose first season was also released in 2018, earned the viewers applause. Since then, we have grown accustomed to the creation and presentation of all kinds of stories in the genre. The much-acclaimed police procedural crime drama Delhi Crimes first season (2019), which premiered on Netflix, takes us deep inside the aftermath of the 2012 gang rape case that shocked India and is usually referred to as the Nirbhaya case. Released in 2022, the second seasons story originates from the activities of the Kachcha Baniyan gang, which unleashes violence on elderly citizens in Delhi after years of inactivity. The web series looks beyond acts of crime to talk about the personal and professional lives of cops, discrimination and hierarchy in the police department, the role of the media, and much more, which is possible because of the episodic nature of the show.

Creators try to generate ideas with a difference even if they attempt to make serial killer thrillers. And, some of them deliver great outcomes. Kalkoot (2023), a police procedural crime thriller on JioCinema, revolves around a rookie cop who has been assigned a case of an acid attack. The show covers several other subjects, among them female infanticide, corruption in politics, homophobia and cybercrime. How these themes have been interwoven to create a gripping web series is truly commendable. A police procedural crime thriller set in Punjab, the much-acclaimed Kohrra (2023) on Netflix is, at the surface level, the story of a murder investigation. As the two cops conducting the probe proceed with their assignment, the story widens its focus to portray the worrisome problems of a deeply flawed society. Every suspect seems as guilty as the other in the engrossing mystery, whose appeal is enhanced by its portrayal of the place in which the story unfolds.

Incidentally, Kohrras co-creator is Sudip Sharma, who created the fascinating Paatal Lok (2020), the widely watched crime series on Amazon Prime revolving around a disillusioned beat cop who is asked to investigate the high-profile case of a murder attempt on a TV anchor. Although the series is a crime thriller, it also exposes the rot and filth that exists in society. How it does exactly that  helped by characterisation, plotting, direction and performances by appropriately cast actors  results in a memorable experience for the viewer.

A brilliantly knit psychological crime thriller, Asur (the first season premiered on Voot in 2020, the second on JioCinema in 2023) focuses on a forensic expert and his team, who pursue a ruthless serial killer. How the plot merges mythology with modern-day realities makes the series particularly memorable.

Some makers choose real-life happenings as the source material for their crime dramas. Selecting a real-life happening as the basis of the web series is a challenge, mainly because countless acts of crime have taken  and continue to take  place in our society. How to write the story after the source material for the central plot has been identified is equally if not more important.

A Netflix crime thriller, Khakee: The Bihar Chapter (2022) based on IPS officer Amit Lodhas book Bihar Diaries  The True Story of How Bihars Most Dangerous Criminal Was Caught tells two intertwined stories: that of an IPS officer and the other of a man who rose from being a truck driver to become a dangerous outlaw in Bihar. The relentless pursuit of the outlaw and his gang until they are brought to justice forms the essence of the action-packed plot. In Jehanabad: Of Love & War (2023), a SonyLIV crime drama, the main plot is inspired by the Jehanabad jailbreak in 2005 in which Communist Party of India (Maoist) freed their imprisoned comrades from the jail after fighting against security forces and killing incarcerated members of the upper caste militia. A lot of masala has been added to the story as it is shown, but that contributes meaningfully to make the web series watchable.

Those who watch crime dramas and thrillers are aware that many of them fail to rise above mediocrity because of their treatment of the subject matter. Because web series on OTT platforms started getting made in India not long ago, the number of good crime dramas and thrillers that have already been produced shows that OTT viewers will continue to enjoy quality content in the genre that will keep them engrossed from time to time.

The writer, a journalist for three decades, writes on literature and pop culture. Among his books are MSD: The Man, The Leader, the bestselling biography of former Indian captain MS Dhoni, and the Hall of Fame series of film star biographies. Views expressed in the above piece are personal and solely that of the author. They do not necessarily reflect News18s views.
It can be so unsettling to find unexpected items such as a dead animal or a foreign object in what you expect to be a safe meal. However, there are several reports of bizarre objects showing up in peoples food. From a centipede in ice cream and a snake in a meal served at a college mess to a mouse in chocolate syrup and a human finger in ice cream, these bizarre incidents in 2024 left the buyers shocked and horrified.

In this article, we are unwrapping those instances when people got something bizarre than what they actually ordered:

Bone in Paneer Biryani

Imagine you ordered a vegetarian dish and ended up finding some non-vegetarian bit in the food. This is exactly what happened with Avinash, a Swiggy customer, who allegedly found a bone in his plate of paneer biryani. The said person ordered the dish from a restaurant named Mehfil, a well-known Mughlai food franchise in Hyderabad. Fortunately, Avinash later said that the issue was resolved.

Same issue I have ordered a Paneer Biryani in mehfil, Nizampet Kukatpally I got a bone in it. pic.twitter.com/2YbteDdrNF AVINASH (@Avinashtime) June 24, 2024

Metal blade in Air Indias food

As of now, people used to compare airline meals to inedible hostel food. But now, a new fear has been unlocked after a passenger of Air India flight AI 175 from Bengaluru to San Francisco found a piece of metal blade in his meal of roasted sweet potato and fig chaat. Yes, we arent joking. The flyer, Mathures Paul, shared that he luckily avoided injury after chewing into the metal piece for a while and spitting it out. He posted about the incident on social media, criticising Air Indias catering services.

Air India food can cut like a knife. Hiding in its roasted sweet potato and fig chaat was a metal piece that looked like a blade. I got a feel of it only after chewing the grub for a few seconds. Thankfully, no harm was done. Of course, the blame squarely lies with Air Indias pic.twitter.com/NNBN3ux28S Mathures Paul (@MathuresP) June 10, 2024

Dead mouse in Hersheys chocolate syrup

In another bizarre incident, a family had a distressing encounter when they allegedly found a dead mouse inside a Hersheys chocolate syrup bottle. The shocking incident came to light after they shared their harrowing experience on Instagram. In their post, they mentioned that three members of the family had already consumed the syrup, leading one to see a doctor immediately due to health worries. The family claimed no action has been taken, while the company urged them to share more details to investigate and reach out for a resolution.

Centipede in Amul ice-cream

If you are a person with a sweet tooth who often craves eating ice- cream, then this bizarre incident will give you chills. A Noida resident claimed to have found a centipede in an Amul ice cream tub she ordered from Blinkit. The Gujarat Cooperative Milk Marketing Federation (GCMMF), which markets dairy products under the Amul brand, regretted the incident and assured the customer of stringent quality controls. Moreover, Noidas food safety department has also launched a probe into the matter.

"Finding an insect  inside my @Amul India ice cream  was truly alarming  Quality control and food safety should never be compromised@FSSAI Publication have to take some legal action on such kind of incidents they are increasing in numbers day by day pic.twitter.com/K7yxiARwK5 Deepa Devi (@Deepadi11) June 15, 2024

Live Worm in Dairy Milk

Just hearing this will make you go eerie. A man discovered a live worm wriggling within a Cadbury he bought from a store in Telangana on the occasion of Chocolate Day. He immediately shared a video on X displaying a tiny worm crawling on the back of Cadbury Dairy Milk Roast Almond and the chocolates purchase receipt. The buyer, Robin Zaccheus, also lodged a complaint, tagging Dairy Milk India, the concerned retail store, and Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC), among others.

Later, the said user shared an update on the issue. Dropping photos of a lab report from the Telangana State Food laboratory, they claimed that the lab report confirms that the Cadbury Chocolate (Roasted Almond) was UNSAFE TO CONSUME and they found WHITE WORMS & WEB!

Found a worm crawling in Cadbury chocolate purchased at Ratnadeep Metro Ameerpet today.. Is there a quality check for these near to expiry products? Who is responsible for public health hazards? @DairyMilkIn @ltmhyd @Ratnadeepretail @GHMCOnline @CommissionrGHMC pic.twitter.com/7piYCPixOx  Robin Zaccheus (@RobinZaccheus) February 9, 2024

Dead Cockroach In Vande Bharat Meal

A couple travelling on the Vande Bharat train found a cockroach in the meal served to them on June 18. The couples nephew dropped the picture of the incident on social media platform X demanding action against the vendor. Responding to the post, the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) stated that a suitable penalty has been applied to the concerned service provider.

Today on 18-06-24 my Uncle and Aunt were travelling from Bhopal to Agra in Vande Bharat.They got "COCKROACH" in their food from @IRCTCofficial. Please take strict action against the vendor and make sure this would not happen again @RailMinIndia @ AshwiniVaishnaw @RailwaySe pic.twitter.com/Gicaw99I17 Vidit Varshney (@ViditVarshney1) June 18, 2024

Dead snake in Mess food

In Bihars Banka district, ten students of a government engineering college had to be taken to a hospital after a dead snake was allegedly found in their mess food. The mess is run by a private contractor. Fortunately, the on-duty doctor said that all students, who came with complaints of food poisoning, are healthy now. The incident sparked outrage at the hostel, with the students protesting against the incident and alleging that college staff had even threatened them. Meanwhile, there are reports that the issue with food quality pertains to the girls mess too.

Human finger in ice-cream

Thinking about what could be even worse? Let us tell you that a 27-year-old doctor in Mumbai, Brendan Ferrao, found a human finger in a Yummo Ice Creams butterscotch cone. The cone was ordered by his sister via the grocery delivery app Zepto. According to the Free Press Journal, the person sensed something unusual on his tongue after eating half of the ice cream. He then discovered the finger, about 2 cm long. He shared a post on social media showing the body part sticking out of the dessert.

Mumbai doctor finds a human finger in the ice cream she ordered through a food delivery app  pic.twitter.com/NGXn7Re1fr Waseem   (@WazBLR) June 13, 2024

He reported the incident to the Malad police, who sent the thumb for forensic testing, and a case against the ice cream company has started.
Anyone, who is updated with recent social media trends, knows how popular bizarre food recipes are. People create recipes with just about anything under the sun. There are moments when it seems like many of these chefs purposefully combine strange ingredients to stir debate and encourage social media interaction.

The trend has also given relevance to a new group of food vloggers who share the most bizarre recipes. From Fanta Maggi to fruit chai, we have seen it all. And just when you think that it cant get more bizarre, something new pops up.

Here are some of the bizarre food recipes that went viral so far in 2024:

Snickers Pasta

An Instagram user posted an intriguing recipe for Snickers pasta. The video starts with the woman boiling and straining the pasta. She then adds milk and water and thoroughly mixes them. Everything seems okay for now. However, things start to get interesting as she adds more ingredients to the pan, like peanut flour, date syrup, cocoa powder, chocolate cubes, custard powder, and chocolate spread. The woman gives it all mix, letting it cook for a few minutes before serving it in a bowl. Towards the end of the video, she is seen enjoying a bowl of chocolate pasta, referring it to as Snickers Pasta.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Maren Braust (@marenmorereal)

Green Peas With Chocolate

In this video, a man is eating green peas and chocolate together. Yes, he did!. He mixes frozen peas with chocolate before placing it in a microwave. After heating, the green peas blend well with the melted chocolate. He then places this mix in a freezer. The dish is finally ready, and the man is seen enjoying it.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Calvin Lee | Singapore Foodie (@foodmakescalhappy)

Mutton Keema Cake

A baker from Tamil Nadus Madurai created a new fusion of cake and mutton keema. Vidhu Singh, who per her Instagram bio is a cake artist and a passionate baker, showed off her baking abilities in a video that triggered online outrage. In the video, she prepares a spicy keema sauce to place between layers of sponge cake. Finally, instead of frosting the cake, she decorates the cream with chiles and coriander leaves.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Vidhu Singh (@vidhus.kitchen)

Egg Halwa

This video begins with a woman cracking eggs in a bowl before adding flour and sugar. She mixes the ingredients using an electric hand-beating machine. The woman then boils ghee in a pot and pours in the prepared concoction. She cooks till it is thickened. After cooking, she adds cream and garnishes the dish with dry fruits.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Asma Grey (@asmagray9)

Gulab Jamun Chaat

A video of a street seller making a unique dish with gulab jamun sparked a debate on X (formerly Twitter). The video begins with the street vendor preparing a plate of gulab jamun with curd and tamarind chutney. He then pours on some green chutney. He garnishes the chaat with pomegranate, sev, and papri. As expected, this generated a flood of comments from the public, with many pleading with him to stop, while some even labelled the dish as a sin.

Gulab Jamun Chaat anyone???I am fasting warna me kha leta pic.twitter.com/UFJeF2nFrY  Mohammed Futurewala (@MFuturewala) March 23, 2024

Which one is the most bizarre food recipe according to you?
US President Joe Biden Saturday night spoke with his predecessor and Republican rival Donald Trump, hours after he survived an assassination attempt on him.

Trump, 78, was hit by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear when the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, the US Secret Service said.

The attacker killed one spectator at the rally, and two others were critically injured.

This evening, President Biden spoke to former President Trump. The President also spoke to Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy, the White House said.

Biden was spending time this weekend at his home in Delaware but returned to the White House past midnight.

Tomorrow morning at the White House, he will receive an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials, the White House said.

Biden went on to thank the Secret Service and all the law enforcement agencies involved in responding to the shooting.

President Biden was in Delaware attending church when the shooting occurred.

He was briefed by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall.

Attorney General Merrick Garland, National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan, and FBI Director Christopher Wray.

The FBI said it has assumed the role of the lead Federal Law Enforcement agency in the investigation of the incident involving Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.
Durian sellers in Singapore have reported seeing a 20% decline in supply but noted that prices of the stinky fruit have remained steady.

The decrease in supply was due to extreme weather delaying the harvest in Malaysia, the city-states top durian supplier, CNA reported.

The 227 Katong Durian store in Singapore has been receiving a wildly fluctuating inflow of the stinky fruit recently, with supply coming in droves some weeks. "Then out of a sudden, like today, [there is] 60% less in supply," the store owner said.

But prices of the stinky fruit have been stable so far. The local favorite Musang King variety, for example, is sold at around S$23-38 (US$17-28), the same level as last year.

Charlie Phua, business development director at supplier Durian Supply, said imports from Malaysia will still be ample as getting durians into the city-state is much easier than China. "One of the reasons why we will still import to Singapore is because on the logistical side, the issue of just having our trucks bring our durians from Malaysia to Singapore is so much easier."

Furthermore, they said that prices of the fruit are expected to decrease in August as the harvest in Malaysia hits full swing.

Last year, the city-state acquired around 85% of its durians from Malaysia and imported around 100,000 kilograms of the stinky fruit per day during the peak season, as reported by The Business Times.
Former President Donald Trump, in an email to his supporters, sent a short but defiant message after he was injured in an assassination attempt during his rally on Saturday night in Butler, Pennsylvania. THIS IS A MESSAGE FROM DONALD TRUMP, the brief email read. I WILL NEVER SURRENDER! The email signed off with his signature and portrait.

Trump was hit in the ear by a gunman in a chaotic and shocking incident that fueled tensions ahead of the US presidential election. The 78-year-old former president was rushed off stage with blood streaked across his face after the shooting in Pennsylvania, while the gunman and a bystander were killed and two spectators critically injured.

As multiple bangs ran out, Trump, wearing a red Make America Great Again cap, grimaced and clutched a hand to his ear, with blood visible on his ear and cheek. The Republican candidate raised a defiant fist to the crowd as he was bundled away to safety and said afterward I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

President Joe Biden, who is set to face Trump in Novembers deeply polarized election, said the incident was sick and added that there was no place in America for this kind of violence. Biden later spoke to Trump, the White House said, in their first contact since a debate just over two weeks ago in which the president gave a disastrous performance.

The US Secret Service said in a statement that the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally before being neutralised by agents. It confirmed the death of a spectator while two others were critically injured.

The shooter has not yet been identified. Unconfirmed images appeared to show the assailants body lying on the sloping roof of low building from where he had fired.

US political figures including former presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton lined up to condemn the attack and say there was no place for violence in politics.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday said he was deeply concerned by the attack on his friend and former US president. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery, he said in a post on social media. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, he added.

HOW THE ATTACK UNFOLDED

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard and he crouched down. More shots were heard then.

Someone could be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents tackled the former president. They piled atop him to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. A woman screamed louder than the rest. Afterward, voices were heard saying shooters down several times, before someone asked are we good to move? and are we clear? Then, someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump could be heard on the video saying at least twice, Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes, with another voice heard saying, Ive got you sir.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word Fight twice his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of USA. USA. USA. The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

His motorcade left the venue moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.
US security agencies have identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania as the suspect in the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally.

Crookks was shot and killed by the US Secret Service seconds after he allegedly fired shots toward a stage where Trump was speaking in Butler. The FBI said it was working to determine a motive for the attack, in which one rally attendee died and two other spectators were critically injured. Trump was shot in the ear.

Who Was Matthew Crooks?

State voter records show that Crooks was a registered Republican, according to several US media reports. The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the subject involved. He was shot dead by the Secret Service. He was a registered Republican, according to state voter records.

The upcoming November 5 election would have been the first time Crooks had been old enough to vote in a presidential race. Crooks lived about an hour away from where the shooting took place in Butler. The Federal Aviation Administration said that it closed the airspace over Bethel Park for special security reasons.

When Crooks was 17 he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing. According to Reuters, the donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote.

Crooks father, Matthew Crooks, 53, told CNN that he was trying to figure out what happened and would wait until he spoke to law enforcement before speaking about his son. According to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, Thomas Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School. He received a $500 star award from the National Math and Science Initiative, according to the newspaper.

Far-left activist

US law enforcement officials said on Saturday that Crooks carried no identification to the site of the shooting and had to be identified using other methods. USA Today reported that dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside a residence listed at the address on Crooks voter registration record. A video surfaced on the internet showing a far-left activist who allegedly tricked the media into reporting that he was Thomas Crooks.

BREAKING: VIDEO SURFACES OF FAR-LEFT ACTIVIST WHO ALLEGEDLY TRICKED THE MEDIA INTO REPORTING HE WAS TRUMP SHOOTER THOMAS MATTHEW CROOKS  pic.twitter.com/L57Uihwb9s Matt Wallace (@MattWallace888) July 14, 2024

What Happened in Pennsylvania

On Saturday, gunfire erupted in the midst of Trumps speech, prompting him to cover his right ear before Secret Service agents tackled him to the ground. Moments later, Trump stood up, instructed his security detail to wait, and raised his fist, urging the shaken crowd to fight. A senior law enforcement source told The Post, He came within inches of having his face shot open.

At least one attendee was killed, and two others were critically injured, the Secret Service reported. Bystander footage from the aftermath shows what appears to be a deceased man in light-colored military fatigues on a rooftop near the rally stage. Several Trump supporters outside the event told BBC News they saw a suspicious person bear crawling up the roof of a nearby building before the shooting began.

One witness claimed his group tried to alert nearby police but felt their warnings were not heeded in time. The witness described the shooter as being in position for 3-4 minutes before the shots were fired. He also reported seeing the Secret Services fatal response, stating, They blew his head off. US law enforcement officials said they had no reason to believe the threat was ongoing. We have no reason to believe that there is any other existing threat out there, Pennsylvania State Police Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens told reporters.

(With agency inputs)
World leaders spoke out against political violence and reacted with shock after US presidential candidate Donald Trump was wounded at a rally shooting in Pennsylvania, in an alleged assassination attempt that also left a bystander dead and two other spectators critical. Presidents and prime ministers expressed their support for those affected by the shooting on Saturday (July 13).

Trump, who is the Republican candidate, was shot in the right ear and rushed off stage by the Secret Service with blood running down his face. The attacker was shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

Newly elected UK PM Keir Starmer said he was appalled by the shocking scenes at the rally. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, he said.

The European Unions foreign policy chief, Josep Borrell, condemned the attack. Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives, the blocs top diplomat said.

A close ally of the US, Israels Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he and his wife Sara were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, he wrote on social media platform X.

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery. Benjamin Netanyahu    (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said political violence is never acceptable. Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former president Trump, those at the event, and all Americans, Trudeau said on social media platform X.

Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans. Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 14, 2024

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said she was following with apprehension updates from Pennsylvania and wished Trump a speedy recovery. The right-wing leader expressed her hope that in the following months of the electoral campaign, dialogue and responsibility can prevail over hate and violence.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was deeply concerned by the attack on my friend. Violence has no place in politics and democracies, he said.

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2024

Japanese PM Fumio Kishida also spoke out against political attacks, saying we must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy.

Taiwans President Lai Ching-te offered his sincere condolences to the shooting victims. Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies, he said.

Australias Anthony Albanese described the shooting as concerning and confronting, expressing his relief that Trump was safe. There is no place for violence in the democratic process, the prime minister said.

The incident at former President Trumps campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process.I am relieved to hear reports that former President Trump is now safe.  Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) July 14, 2024

New Zealands Prime Minister Chris Luxon echoed such views, writing no country should encounter such political violence.

From the Americas, Argentinas President Javier Milei was among the first to react to the shooting. He blamed the international left after the assassination attempt. In panic of losing at the polls, they resort to terrorism to impose their backward and authoritarian agenda, said the populist president.

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the shooting must be strongly condemned by all defenders of democracy and political dialogue.

Costa Ricas government condemned the attack and said it was following updates on this unacceptable act. As a leader in democracy and peace, we reject all forms of violence, the presidency said.

Chilean President Gabriel Boric expressed his unqualified condemnation of the shooting. Violence is a threat to democracies and weakens our life together. We must all reject it, said Boric.

In Bolivia, President Luis Arce said despite our deep ideological and political differences, violence, wherever it comes from, must always be rejected by everyone.

Back home, US President Joe Biden led the condemnation following by shocked reactions from political leaders on both sides of the aisle. The president spoke with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy, the White House said.

Biden, who was scheduled to be in Delaware for the weekend, changed his plans to return to the White House. He earlier said everybody must condemn the suspected assassination attempt. Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting, he said: We cannot allow this to be happening. The idea that theres violence in America like this is just unheard of.

(With agency inputs)
Tech billionaire Elon Musk on Saturday said he fully endorses Donald Trump after the Republican presidential candidate was rushed bleeding from the stage of a rally in Pennsylvania after an apparent shooting.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Former US President Says Bullet Pierced His Ear; Shooter Dead

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery, Musk wrote on X, which he owns along with carmaker Tesla, as he shared a video of Trump pumping his fist while being escorted away by Secret Service officials.

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

Eyewitnesses have reported that the shooting during Trumps campaign rally may have originated from a one-story building with a white roof situated to the right of the stage. One witness described seeing a man crawling onto the roof with a rifle before alerting law enforcement, according to BBC.

Shortly after, what appeared to be gunfire was heard. Several witnesses corroborated this account, suggesting that the building could be the source of the shots. However, the situation remains fluid, and the UK broadcaster has not been able to verify these reports. In another post on X, Elon Musk said the head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign.

The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

Trump is fine

Trumps campaign says he is fine after being whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after what law enforcement officials are treating as an apparent assassination attempt. A statement says President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. It adds that he is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

US President Joe Biden said everybody must condemn the attack. Theres no place in America for this type of violence, he said. Its sick. Its sick. The former president and presumptive Republican nominee was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when bangs started ringing through the crowd.

Trump could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his neck. There appeared to be blood on his face. In a sign of how important Pennsylvania is for both parties, Trump and Vice President Kamala Harris, and first lady Jill Biden were all campaigning in the state Saturday. Biden met virtually with members of the two largest Democratic caucuses on Capitol Hill as he looks to rebuild momentum for his reelection campaign, even as the number of Democrats calling for him to step aside increased.

(With agency inputs)
A new video has emerged that shows rallygoers may have spotted the gunman before an alleged assassination attempt was made on former US president Donald Trump at Butler, Pennsylvania. Spectators can be heard shouting, trying to warn police about a man with a gun on the roof.

Hes got a gun, hes got a gun, hes on the roof, they are shouting in the video as shots are heard in the background. Trump, who escaped the attack with an ear injury, was rushed off stage by the Secret Service and whisked away in a black SUV while the suspected shooter was killed by an agent.

WATCH: New video shows people trying to warn police before gunman opened fire at Trump rally pic.twitter.com/ESdRsGroBF BNO News (@BNONews) July 14, 2024

An eyewitness to the shooting, in fact, claimed that he personally warned the police and the Secret Service about suspicious activity on a roof, where he spotted a man with a rifle. But, he said, he was ignored.

We noticed a guy crawling up the roof, bear crawling up the roof of the building beside us, about 50 feet away from us. Were standing there, pointing at the guy crawling up the roof, he told the BBC in an interview. The video was posted by Tesla maker Elon Musk, calling for the resignation of the head of the Secret Service and the leader of Trumps security detail.

The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

Asked if the man had a rifle, the eyewitness, who said he had come to attend the rally but was at the back, said: He had a rifle, we could clearly see he had a rifle. Absolutely. Were pointing at him, the police are down there running around on the ground. They dont know whats going on, and we were constantly telling them, Hey, man. Theres a guy on the roof with a rifle. We can see him from here, we can see him, hes crawling, he told the reporter.

And Im thinking to myself, whys Trump still speaking the Secret Service was looking at us pointing to the man on the roof. And, the next thing I know, shots rang out, he added.

Asked if he sure that the shots came from the man on the roof, the eyewitness said: A 100 per cent. One hundred per cent! He said the man was up on the roof for at least four minutes and all the while they were constantly pointing at him.

But, when asked if the security personnel could spot him, he said: Probably not because the way the roofs slope went, they could not see him. But, why is there no Secret Service on all of these roofs here? This is not a big place.

Trumps attacker, however, was shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service. The 78-year-old Republican presidential candidate was hit by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear when the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. The attacker killed one spectator at the rally, and two others were left critically injured.

The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination. US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased. The US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe, Anthony Guglielmi, Secret Service spokesperson said in a statement.

This incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has notified the FBI, he said after the incident.

The suspect fired from between 200 feet and 300 feet away on an elevated shed with an AR-style rifle, multiple law enforcement officers told CBS News. The FBI has deployed investigative agents, evidence response teams, and other personnel from across the country.

Lt Col George Bivens from the Pennsylvania State Police said officers at the scene had acted heroically to respond to the shooter. He said there is no reason to believe there was any further existing threat out there.

(With agency inputs)
Shots were fired during a rally speech by Donald Trump, in an incident that investigators are treating as a possible assassination attempt on the former president. Here are some notable examples of shootings involving US presidents or presidential candidates:

Learn how global leaders responded to the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Ronald Reagan (1981)

President Reagan was shot and seriously wounded as he left an event at the Hilton hotel in Washington. The attacker was John Hinckley Jr, who was granted unconditional release in 2022. Reagan spent twelve days in the hospital. The incident boosted Reagans popularity, as he displayed humor and resilience during his recovery.

Gerald Ford (1975)

President Ford was left unscathed in two separate assassination attempts by women in September 1975, both in California and within a span of just 17 days.

George Wallace (1972)

While campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination, Wallace was shot four times and paralyzed for life at a shopping mall in Laurel, Maryland. The assassination attempt on Wallace, who was known for his segregationist views and populist appeal, highlighted the ongoing political tensions in the US and potential for domestic violence in the Vietnam war era.

Robert F. Kennedy (1968)

President John F. Kennedys brother Robert, who was running for the Democratic presidential nomination, was shot and killed at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, California. The assassination had a profound impact on the 1968 presidential race and occurred just two months after the killing of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr, adding to the political turmoil of the late 1960s.

John F. Kennedy (1963)

Riding in his motorcade with his wife Jackie, President Kennedy was assassinated in Dallas, Texas by Lee Harvey Oswald. The Warren Commission investigating the assassination concluded in 1964 that Lee Harvey Oswald, a former marine who had lived in the Soviet Union, had acted alone. Many Americans believe the death of JFK began a more violent period in US politics and society, with the Vietnam War build up and the civil rights struggle as a backdrop.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933)

As president-elect, FDR was the target of an assassination attempt in Miami, Florida. He was unharmed, but Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak was killed in the attack.

Theodore Roosevelt (1912)

Like Trump, Teddy Roosevelt was running for the White House as a former president when he was shot in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The bullet, which remained lodged in his chest for the rest of his life, was slowed by the folded 50-page speech and steel eyeglass case in his breast pocket. Famously, Roosevelt decided to deliver his scheduled speech despite being shot.

Abraham Lincoln (1865)

Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth, a well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer, while watching a play called Our American Cousin at Fords Theater in Washington. Booths attack, just days after the Confederate surrender in the Civil War, was part of a larger plot that included attempts to assassinate Vice President Andrew Johnson and Secretary of State William Seward.

(With agency inputs)
Let me get my shoes  This is what Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump said just seconds after a young gunman shot him during an election rally in US Pennsylvania.

Trump, who kept mumbling Fight Fight even as he was being escorted by secret service officials after receiving a bullet wound, is being widely praised for his calm and composed reaction after the fateful incident with many calling him a real fighter.

Trump is the best President ever!He is so damn real. He was like let me get my shoes. Then stood up and yelled fight three times with his fist in the air! Trump is like a cat with 9 lives. So blessed that God protected Trump from this evil. I love this man! pic.twitter.com/HyhNueu9vr  Jessico Bowman (@JessicoBowman) July 14, 2024

Trump yelled Fight. Fight, after getting grazed by a bullet in the ear, an inch from ending his life. No panic. No crawling on his knees to safety. The man stands up, faces the crowd, and yells Fight. Historic footage. Just incredible, said a social media user along with Trumps footage from the rally.

The assassination attempt on former President Trump has enraged his supporters, paused the Democratic campaign and raised fears of further political violence in the run-up to Novembers election.

Among his many supporters is Republican Senator Ted Cruz, who called the photos Extraordinary and blessed President Trump.

Trumps approval rating, which was abating significantly after his conviction in the New York Hush Money case, also took an interesting surge right after the assassination attempt.

World leaders, including Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, French President Emmanuel Macron and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, also denounced the appalling assassination bid on the former US president and asserted that violence has no place in politics and democracies.

Former US president Donald Trump was injured after being shot in the ear during an apparent assassination attempt at an election rally in Pennsylvania after which a male attacker was shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who authorities say attempted to assassinate former president was a 20-year-old registered Republican who would have voted for the first time in the presidential election in November.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday expressed deep concern over the recent attack on former US President Donald Trump, who was shot at during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. In a post on social media platform X, Modi stressed that violence has no place in politics or democracies and wished him a speedy recovery.

READ MORE: Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: After Assassination Attempt, Ex-US President Says Bullet Pierced His Ear; Shooter Dead

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, PM Modi said in a post on X.

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery.Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American  Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) July 14, 2024

Trump was shot in the ear during a Saturday campaign rally, streaking the Republican presidential candidates blood across his face and prompting his security agents to swarm him. The shooter was dead, one rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

World leaders reacted with shock to the wounding of Donald Trump in an assassination attempt against the former US president at an election rally. Presidents and prime ministers globally spoke out against political violence and expressed their support for those affected by the shooting on Saturday, which killed one bystander and left two other spectators critically wounded.

READ MORE: No Place For This Kind of Violence in America: Biden, World Leaders React to Assassination Bid on Trump

Trump, 78, had just started his speech when the shots rang out. He grabbed his right ear with his right hand, then brought his hand down to look at it before dropping to his knees behind the podium before Secret Service agents swarmed and covered him. He emerged about a minute later, his red Make America Great Again hat knocked off, and could be heard saying wait, wait, before agents ushered him into a vehicle.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, Trump said on his Truth Social platform following the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles (50 km) north of Pittsburgh. Much bleeding took place. The shooters identity and motive were not immediately clear. Leading Republicans and Democrats quickly condemned the violence. The Trump campaign said he was doing well.

(With agency inputs)
The political tension is on the rise in the United States after the fateful assassination attempt on Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump with several reports suggesting that chances of his winnability might soar due to the incident.

According to Polymarket, a political prediction platform, Trumps chances of winning have risen to 70 per cent, marking an all-time high with an 8 per cent surge.

The report suggests that the support and approval rating for the former President, who garnered significant negative publicity after his conviction in the New York Hush Money case, have also increased significantly after the attack.

Support Pour In For Trump

After photos of defiant Trump with blood on his face emerged on social media, it invoked sentiments of support, sympathy and concern for the former President.

Among his many supporters is Republican Senator Ted Cruz, who called the photos Extraordinary and blessed President Trump. In contrast, other supporters praised Trumps response to the incident as historic and incredible.

Another supporter, Lomez, commended Trumps response: Trump yelling Fight. Fight, after getting grazed by a bullet in the ear, an inch from ending his life. No panic. No crawling on his knees to safety. The man stands up, faces the crowd, and yells Fight. Historic footage. Just incredible.

Trump yelling Fight. Fight, after getting grazed by a bullet in the ear, an inch from ending his life.No panic. No crawling on his knees to safety. The man stands up, faces the crowd, and yells Fight. Historic footage. Just incredible. pic.twitter.com/9ERhGJaia0  Lomez (@L0m3z) July 13, 2024

Trumps Republican allies painted him as a hero on Saturday, seizing on the image of him with his ear bloodied and fist raised, appearing to mouth the words Fight! Fight! Fight!

President Joe Biden, Trumps opponent in the upcoming election, also condemned the incident as sick and stated that there is no place in America for this kind of violence.

Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump

Former US president Donald Trump was injured after being shot in the ear during an apparent assassination attempt at an election rally in Pennsylvania after which a male attacker was shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

Trump, 78, was hit by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear when the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue in Butler on Saturday, the US Secret Service said.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who authorities say attempted to assassinate former president Donald Trump was a 20-year-old registered Republican who would have voted for the first time in the presidential election in November.
Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: US President To Address Nation From Oval Office On Sunday Night The US President said he will speak to the nation further from the Oval Office Sunday night.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Gunman at Trump Rally Pointed Rifle at Officer Who Found Him on a Rooftop Shortly Before He Opened Fire Gunman at Trump rally pointed rifle at officer who found him on a rooftop shortly before he opened fire.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Trump Rally Shooting Victim Died Shielding Family from Bullets The person shot and killed at former President Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday was a 50-year-old volunteer firefighter who shielded his family to protect them as gunshots rang out, the states Governor Josh Shapiro said on Sunday. The victim was identified as Corey Comperatore, according to his familys posting on Facebook.

Trump Says He Will Be Traveling to Milwaukee for GOP Convention on Sunday Afternoon After Assassination Attempt Former US President Donald Trump says he will be traveling to Milwaukee for GOP convention on Sunday afternoon after assassination attempt.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Biden Orders Review of Security Measures, Directs Swift Probe US President Joe Biden while addressing the media at the White House directed that the probe into Trump attack should be thorough and swift and asked public not to make assumptions about motive. He further ordered independent review of security measures.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: 'Contrary To Everything We Stand For...', Biden on Trump Assassination Bid US President Joe Biden said that the assassination attempt on Trump is contrary to everything they stand for as a nation.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Ivanka Trump Currently With Former President at Bedminster Former President Donald Trumps daughter Ivanka Trump met her father in New Jersey last night when he returned home after the shooting at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a source familiar with the matter tells CNN. She is currently with him as he recovers at his Bedminster New Jersey Golf Club.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Secret Service Facing Scrutiny About Security Protocols and Rooftop Access at Trump Rally In the wake of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, there are widespread concerns and questions about how a sniper was able to obtain rooftop access roughly 150 yards from the former presidents position at the podium at an outdoor rally. Sources have described the shooting as coming from the three oclock position of Trumps podium location, with shots coming from his right side. Seconds after gunfire rang out, Secret Service counter-assault snipers began shooting the suspect who was found on top of a roof.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Biden Will Deliver Remarks This Afternoon Following Trump's Assassination Attempt President Joe Biden will address the country around 1:30 p.m. ET Sunday following an updated briefing on the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. The remarks this afternoon mark the second time Biden has spoken since the Saturday rally. He condemned the shooting and all political violence in a brief televised address last night, calling for national unity. Biden also had a short and respectful phone call with Trump on Saturday night after the shooting, according to sources familiar with the conversation.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Harris Postpones Trip to Florida Following Trump Assassination Attempt Vice President Kamala Harris has postponed her trip to Florida in response to former President Donald Trumps assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, according to a Biden-Harris campaign official. Harris originally planned on traveling to Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday for a moderated conversation alongside Republican women to discuss Trumps stance on womens reproductive rights. After being briefed on the incident on Saturday, the vice president denounced the senseless shooting and said she is relieved Trump was not seriously injured.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Governor Says Man Killed at Trump Rally Was Former Fire Chief Who Died a Hero The victim at the Donald Trump rally shooting has been identified as Corey Comperatore. Pennsylvanias governor says he was a former fire chief who died a hero.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: 'Political Disagreements Can Never...', Says Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro On the attack during the Donald Trump rally, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said, Last night was shocking for this community and for this commonwealth and this country. Political disagreements can never, ever be addressed through violence. Disagreements are okay, but we need to use a peaceful political process to settle those differences. This is a moment where all leaders have a responsibility to speak and act with moral clarity, where all leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists and search for a better, brighter future for this nation.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: New Law Could Boost Security For Trump, Biden, and Kennedy Jr A new law could give Donald Trump, Joe Biden and presidential candidate Robert Kennedy Jr enhanced Secret Service protection. Congressmen Ritchie Torres (Democrat) and Mike Lawler (Republican) issued a statement saying, Last nights attempted assassination of former President Trump was a dark moment in our nations history. As reports continue to emerge, its clear that more protection is needed for all major candidates for president, a BBC report stated.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: President Biden in Situation Room Now Getting Briefed By Law Agencies President Joe Biden is currently in the Situation Room getting briefed by law enforcement agencies in the aftermath of yesterdays assassination attempt on Donald Trump, according to a White House official.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Shooter Was Spotted By Local Law Enforcement Outside Event, Official Tells CNN The shooter at former President Donald Trumps rally Saturday night was spotted outside the event by local law enforcement, who thought he mightve been acting suspiciously near the walk-through metal detectors, according to a senior law enforcement official. Authorities announced over law enforcement radio to keep an eye on him, and that information was passed to Secret Service as well, according to the source. Later, people alerted law enforcement in a field outside the event that they saw a gunman up on the rooftop.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Suspected Shooter Had Explosive Devices in His Car, Sources Say Authorities found explosive devices in the car of the man who officials say tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump, according to people briefed on the investigation.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: 'Mom Was Watching Over Dad': Ivanka Trump After Her Father Survives Assassination Bid Hours after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, his daughter, Ivanka Trump took to her social media account and said expressed that her late mother was surely watching over her Dad last night during the attempt on his life. Taking to X, Ivanka said, Two years ago today, my mom passed away. I believe she was watching over Dad last night during the attempt on his life.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: Trump Says He Looks Forward to Speaking from Wisconsin This Week Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday he looks forward to speaking from Wisconsin where the Republican National Convention will be held this week. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, Trump said in a Truth Social post. It is his second post since he was shot and injured at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Donald Trump Shooting LIVE: 'Any Assistance With the Investigation is Encouraged', Says FBI in Official Statement The FBI in its updated statement on the assassination attempt that took place yesterday in Butler, Pennsylvania said that the shooter has been identified and that the investigation is active and ongoing. Updated FBI statement on the ongoing incident that took place yesterday in Butler, Pennsylvania. https://t.co/yqwxGmKOjw pic.twitter.com/pk2Rw55Lga  FBI (@FBI) July 14, 2024
Xi Focus: Inspiring China's reform with vivid metaphors

Xinhua) 09:15, July 14, 2024

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- President Xi Jinping has articulately used adages, idioms and metaphors to discuss a new round of reform to drive the development of the world's second-largest economy since 2012.

In a distinct fashion, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, vividly communicates the country's reform goals and methods to audiences both at home and abroad.

The following are some examples.

VENTURING INTO THE MOUNTAIN DESPITE KNOWING THERE ARE TIGERS

In April 2014, Xi delivered a speech at the College of Europe during his state visit to Belgium.

China needs to "venture into the mountain despite knowing there are tigers," as its reform has entered a "deep water zone" where tough challenges must be addressed, Xi said.

Ahead of a visit to Latin America about three months later, Xi once again invoked the expression to proclaim to the world China's unwavering determination and courage in furthering reform.

"We will advance reform with the political courage and wisdom of 'venturing into the mountain despite knowing there are tigers,' and with great dedication to working hard and achieving tangible results," he said.

PLAYING THE PIANO WITH ALL 10 FINGERS

In an interview with a Russian TV station in February 2014, Xi said that Chinese leaders must "play the piano with all 10 fingers," emphasizing the need to plan for the bigger picture while keeping all moving parts in play.

Since assuming the Party's top post in November 2012, Xi has made "coordination" a keyword in the CPC's endeavors to deepen reform so as to improve and develop socialism with Chinese characteristics and modernize China's system and capacity for governance.

Amid changes in the domestic and global landscapes, China's reform is confronting challenges on an unprecedented scale, involving a wide range of complex issues.

"It is crucial to enhance the coordination and mutual support among reform measures, ensuring that reforms across different fields and sectors align and synergize to maximize overall effectiveness," Xi said in his inspection tour of east China's Shandong Province in May this year.

CLEARING THE CAGE FOR NEW BIRDS

During his tenure as Party chief of Zhejiang Province, Xi put forward the expression "clearing the cage for new birds" to shed light on the transformation of a relatively extensive model of growth in the eastern province, which boasts a strong private sector.

Since he became general secretary of the CPC Central Committee in 2012, Xi has made use of this expression on multiple occasions. In March 2014, when taking part in deliberation in the annual national legislative session with lawmakers from Guangdong Province, China's economic powerhouse and a pioneer in reform and opening up, Xi used the expression to stress the importance of deepening reform in all areas and promoting structural adjustments.

Xi called for efforts to advance industrial upgrading, give full play to the role of innovation in propelling progress, and embrace green development.

Three years later, also during the annual national legislative session, Xi mentioned the phrase again in a discussion with lawmakers from Liaoning Province, one of China's earliest major industrial bases, emphasizing the necessity of replacing old industries with new ones amid the country's economic transformation drive.

TWO WINGS OF A BIRD, TWO WHEELS OF A CART

Xi referred to the roles of reform and the rule of law in propelling China's development as "two wings of a bird or two wheels of a cart" while addressing senior officials during a meeting in February 2015.

"Reform should be promoted under the rule of law and the rule of law should be enhanced in the process of reform. This is why we refer to them as 'two wheels,'" Xi stressed.

ENGINE IGNITER

"If innovation is the new engine for China's development, reform is the indispensable igniter," Xi said in his address at the APEC CEO Summit held in Beijing in November 2014.

"To comprehensively deepen reform, we need to broaden the path for innovation," Xi stressed in his address, pledging to enable the engine of innovation to run with full power.

China has reformed its talent evaluation system for years to boost creativity among sci-tech professionals. Provinces including Anhui, Shandong and Sichuan have introduced pilot programs to shift away from overemphasizing academic papers, professional titles, degrees and awards.

"In a new round of global growth, only reformers can advance, only innovators can thrive, and only those who reform and innovate will prevail," Xi said.

A FAIR SHARE OF A BIGGER PIE

Addressing the G20 Hangzhou Summit in 2016, Xi used the metaphor "a bigger pie" to describe China's development and stressed the necessity of "ensuring that people get a fair share of it."

This is an answer to the question "for whom the reform was conducted."

"We will resolve the most pressing problems affecting the immediate interests of the people to their satisfaction," he said.

Achieving common prosperity is a basic requirement of socialism and an important feature of the Chinese path to modernization. Making "the pie" bigger while dividing it well has enriched both the theory and practice of common prosperity.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Minister of Foreign Affairs Bui Thanh Son (Photo: VNA)

The minister told the press that these are the first overseas trips of President To Lam in his new position. The results reaped during the visits are important to the relations between Vietnam and the two Southeast Asian neighbours.

Highlighting the visits successes in all aspects, he called them new imprints in the implementation of the foreign policy adopted at the 13th National Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), and a demonstration of the determination of the Vietnamese Party, State and people in continuously consolidating and promoting the traditional friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation with Laos, and the good neighbourliness, traditional friendship, comprehensive cooperation and long-term sustainability with Cambodia.

The visits have also helped tighten the relations between President Lam himself and Lao and Cambodian leaders, the minister said.

According to Son, the visits are also the outcome of the implementation of high-level agreements, especially the high-level meeting between the CPV and the Lao People's Revolutionary Party, and the Cambodian People's Party (CPP).

The comprehensive results of the visits will create milestones for the new development period of the relations between Vietnam and Laos and Cambodia, as well as among the three countries, he affirmed.

In less than three days of his trips to Laos and Cambodia, President To Lam had 32 talks and meetings with the high-ranking leaders, students and overseas Vietnamese; and visited economic establishments in the two countries. On this occasion, leaders of departments, ministries and agencies also held working sessions with their partners from Laos and Cambodia to exchange specific cooperation contents.

In Laos, the two sides affirmed their determination to continuously develop the great friendship, special solidarity and comprehensive cooperation between Vietnam and Laos in a more intensive, practical and effective manner.

They agreed on measures to effectively implement high-level agreements between the two Parties and States, contributing to creating new momentum and further promoting relations between the two countries in the coming time. Focus will be placed on defence - security, economy - trade - investment, education - training, culture and people-to-people exchanges.

The two sides consented to coordinate in effectively implementing the Vietnam - Laos cooperation strategy agreement for the 2021-2030 period and the Vietnam - Laos bilateral cooperation agreement for 2021-2025. They will continue to make efforts to completely address problems to successfully carry out some important cooperation projects between the two countries.

To preserve and foster the unique and special relationship between the two countries, the leaders agreed that both sides need to intensify dissemination and education for their people, especially the young, in this regard as well as promote locality-to-locality cooperation, especially between border provinces.

Regarding regional and international cooperation, the two sides pledged to continue close coordination and mutual support at regional and international forums, especially within the framework of ASEAN, the United Nations and the Greater Mekong Sub-region. Laos' senior leaders appreciated Vietnam's support in the process of preparing and organising conferences during its ASEAN Chairmanship Year.

President To Lam affirmed that Vietnam will continue to actively coordinate and support Laos to successfully undertake international responsibilities in 2024, including the roles as the Chair of ASEAN and the ASEAN Inter-Parliamentary Assembly (AIPA).

During the Presidents visit to Cambodia, the leaders of the two countries agreed to promote and strengthen solidarity, mutual trust and understanding, making bilateral cooperation intensive, practical and effective. The two sides emphasised the solidarity, attachment, and friendship; and the need to continue to help the young generation understand the value and history of the bilateral relations.

In their talks and meetings with President To Lam, the Cambodian leaders noted that the Cambodian people always remember Vietnam's support and sacrifice to help Cambodia escape from the Pol Pot genocidal regime and revive.

The two sides agreed to further promote economic - trade - investment ties, defence - security and border cooperation, collaboration in human resources development, and people-to-people exchanges. They consented to actively support each other in building an independent and self-reliant economy while ensuring deep and effective international integration.

In human resources development, the two sides will focus on promoting the attraction of students from the two countries to study in each country in areas that meet their demands such as digital transformation and science-technology.

Both sides welcomed their relevant agencies to coordinate closely to build a border of peace, friendship, stability and cooperation and agreed to develop and promote cooperation between border provinces.

Regarding the Vietnamese community in Cambodia, the high-ranking Cambodian leaders affirmed they will create more favourable conditions for them to live and work stably and legally in the country.

Within the framework of regional and international cooperation, the two sides agreed to promote cooperation in the Cambodia - Laos - Vietnam Development Triangle Area and the Greater Mekong Sub-region; support Laos to fulfill its roles as Chair of ASEAN and AIPA 2024; and boost the management and sustainable use of Mekong River water resources for the benefit of communities in the basin and in all the three countries.

According to the minister, the visits achieved important and comprehensive results in all fields, affirming the high determination of the high-ranking leaders of Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia to further develop the great Vietnam-Laos relations and the close ties between Vietnam and Cambodia for the practical benefits of the people of each country and the three as a whole./.
After an apparent assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, President Joe Biden on Sunday appealed for the country to unite as one nation following the fateful attack.

The President also mentioned that an independent security review of the lead-up to the attack is being ordered by him.

After receiving a briefing on the investigation in the Situation Room, Biden delivered brief remarks from the White House.

He also said he has directed the probe to be thorough and swift, and asked the country not to make assumptions about the perpetrators motives or affiliations.

Biden, who strongly condemned the attack on his political opponent, said he has also directed the US Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

Biden urged Americans not to make assumptions about the motive of the shooter, who was killed by the US Secret Service.

Unity is the most elusive goal of all, he added while urging the public to strive for it.

The President spoke briefly Sunday afternoon saying he and his wife Jill Biden were praying for the family of the person killed at the rally and that he was sincerely grateful that Trump is doing well and recovering.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter, Biden stated.

US President Joe Biden and former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton condemned the assassination attempt on Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump at an election rally in Pennsylvania, saying there is no place for violence in America.

Trump, the 78-year-old former president, was injured on Saturday after being shot in the ear during an apparent assassination attempt.

The attacker killed one spectator at the rally, and two others were critically injured. The male attacker was shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.
Alec Baldwin on Saturday issued his first public comment since a New Mexico judge dismissed his involuntary manslaughter trial the day before. "There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now," the actor wrote in an Instagram post that included a photo of him in the Santa Fe courtroom, per the AP . "To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family." He had broken down in the courtroom as the judge angrily ripped the prosecution's handling of evidence, the Los Angeles Times reports. Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer said there were "signs of scorching prejudice" among prosecutors against Baldwin. "There is no way for the court to right this wrong," she said.

Baldwin's lawyers repeatedly had complained to the judge about prosecutors' actions, and the outcome raises fresh questions about how they and law enforcement officers handled the nearly three-year case concerning the shooting death of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on a film set. Erlinda O. Johnson, one of the state's two special prosecutors, resigned from the case Friday afternoon. The other, Kari Morrissey, told reporters outside court that she respects the judge's decision but disagrees with it. The "importance of the evidence was misconstrued by the defense attorneys," she said, per the New York Times.

The evidence at issue was ammunition that was taken to the sheriff's office on the day when Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, the armorer who put a live round in the gun Baldwin fired, was convicted of involuntary manslaughter. It hasn't been clear how the live ammunition got to the set. Troy Teske told officers he believed the ammunition he was delivering was related to the case. Baldwin's team said it wasn't informed about the development. Morrissey said the ammunition had no connection to the case, per NBC News, while defense lawyers said they should've been given a chance to decide whether it did. Sommer sided with Baldwin. "The late discovery of this evidence during trial has impeded the effective use of evidence in such a way that it has impacted the fundamental fairness of the proceedings," she told the courtroom on Friday in dismissing the case. (More Alec Baldwin stories.)
The shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania Saturday is being investigated as an attempted assassination of the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, law enforcement officials tell the AP . Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was "fine" after the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania. The suspected gunman and a rally attendee are dead, and two attendees were reportedly injured, authorities say. "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. "He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow."

Two officials who spoke to the AP on the condition of anonymity said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by Secret Service agents. Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the gunfire began. As Trump was talking, a popping sound was heard. Trump said, "Oh," and put his right hand up to his right ear as people in the stands behind him appeared to be shocked. Two more pops could be quickly heard and he crouched down.

story continues below

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage. He could be heard on the video saying at least twice, "Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes," with another voice heard saying, "I've got you sir." Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. He had blood on his face. The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist. (More Donald Trump stories.)
Video from Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday shows the jarring moment gunshots rang out as the former president was speaking. Watch it here. Trump ducked to the ground and had blood on his right ear and on the side of his face when Secret Service agents rushed him from the scene, report the New York Times and NBC News. Trump raised a fist to supporters while being led away. He was rushed to a local hospital, and a spokesman says he is "fine," per the AP. A suspected gunman and an attendee are dead. (More Donald Trump stories.)
Donald Trump was indeed hit by a bullet Saturday when gunshots rang out during his rally in Pennsylvania . The president himself wrote about the incident hours later on Truth Social , reports the Washington Post .

His son Donald Trump Jr. issued a statement Saturday night: "I just spoke to my father on the phone and he is in great spirits," he said, per the New York Post. "He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him." The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, reports the New York Times. No details have surfaced about the gunman, who was killed by Secret Service agents. (President Biden quickly condemned the shooting.)
Four people died in a shooting with multiple victims at a Birmingham nightclub late Saturday, while an earlier shooting outside a home in the city killed three people including a young child, police in Alabama said. Officers responded shortly after 11pm to a report of multiple people shot outside a nightclub on the 3400 block of 27th Street North, Birmingham police officer Truman Fitzgerald said in a video posted on social media. Fire and Rescue personnel pronounced one man dead on a sidewalk near the nightclub, the AP reports. Two women were pronounced dead inside the club, Fitzgerald said.

A second man was pronounced dead at a hospital where at least nine additional victims were being treated for gunshot wounds, he said. Some of the victims traveled to the hospital on their own. Investigators believe at least one suspect fired shots into the nightclub from the street, Fitzgerald said. Separately, police responded around 5:20pm to a report of a vehicle accident in the 1700 block of Indian Summer Drive in Birmingham. Police found a car that appeared to have been shot into located in the front yard of a home, Fitzgerald said. Inside the vehicle were a man, woman, and a small boy thought to be as young as 5 who had suffered gunshot wounds.

Birmingham Fire and Rescue pronounced all three dead at the scene, he said. Investigators believe that they were victims of a targeted shooting and that the killer fled in a vehicle, Fitzgerald said. Police asked area residents to provide footage from home surveillance cameras to assist the investigation, per the AP.

(More shootings stories.)
President Biden plans to speak to the nation Sunday afternoon after a Situation Room briefing about the apparent assassination attempt on his predecessor, Donald Trump. The White House says Biden will speak at 1:30pm EDT. Homeland Security and law enforcement officials briefed Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris earlier Sunday, per the AP. The president condemned the shooting in remarks Saturday night in Delaware. He then returned to the White House.
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BISHKEK, Kyrgyzstan, July 15. The trade turnover between Turkmenistan and Kyrgyzstan from January to May this year hit the jackpot, reaching over $41.3 million, Trend reports.

Trade turnover between the two nations was $32.2 million over the stipulated time, up 28 percent from the same period last year, according to the National Statistical Committee of Kyrgyzstan.

Kyrgyzstan exported roughly $1.9 million to Turkmenistan in the first five months of this year, down 5 percent from 2023's $2 million.

Also, trade between the two nations was $30.2 million in JanuaryMay of this year, down 5 percent from the previous year's total of about $39.5 million in imports from Turkmenistan into Kyrgyzstan.

Meanwhile, the total trade turnover of Kyrgyzstan with foreign countries in the first 5 months of this year amounted to $6.48 billion, which is 18 percent more than in the same period last year, which amounted to almost $5.47 billion.
Youtuber Connecting the Dots makes the case for Tesla to use Robotaxi to replace Uber. The BG2 podcast (VCs that own Uber and Tesla) suggest that it would be better for Tesla to partner with Uber. He believes Tesla could use the X (aka Twitter) user base to seed a critical mass of ridehail users for a new robotaxi application and service. He then makes the case for a city by city roboaxi service with 20,000 vehicles per city.

ARK estimates that autonomous taxis will cost consumers $0.35 cents per mile, or roughly half of the all-in cost car owners pay to drive today. This will be less than the price of Uber and Lyft today. The prices outside of North America and certain European cities is far lower. Ark Invest believes the robotaxi mobility as a service could teach $10 trillion in annual sales in the 2030s. If Ark Invest is correct then the current ridehailing and taxi market at about $300 billion is about 3% of the eventual market in revenue and 1% in total rides.

Youtuber Connecting the Dots makes the case for Tesla to attack the best major city markets with about 100,000 used Teslas that have been returned from leases. The prime markets could generate twice the revenue compared to the price of the robotaxis in the $30000 per vehicle range.

It does make sense for Tesla with or without partners to saturate a city with a critical mass of sufficient robotaxis to satisfy service demands.

Achieving the multiple trillions in annual revenue will need at least 100 million robotaxis servicing the best markets and segment. This would be about $3 trillion in capital spending. Replacing the 2 billion global cars and 30 million large trucks with a tripling of usage would need 500 million to 1 billion robotaxi. This would be $10 trillion of capital spending for half a trillion $20,000 vehicles.

The robotaxi ramp assuming it is using electric vehicles only could not go faster than 20-50% of the global electric vehicles fleet in any year. There would need to be a surge in electrical energy generation and a surge in the supercharger network. This means the capital spending for the robotaxi vehicles would also require capital spending and build out of the energy and supercharging infrastructure.

I would argue that Tesla getting to adding 10 million and then 100 million new robotaxi deployed and operating each year as fast as possible is more valuable than profit maximizing the first 100,000 to 1 million robotaxi.

Tesla will get paid for each copy of FSD either with the full profit of a car with an $8000 sale or $1200 per year from monthly subscriptions. Tesla will collect fees and a share of the business from those using the Tesla robotaxi network and app. Tesla can adjust FSD sale and subscription pricing.

Tesla also has to build out billions of Teslabots. Tesla cannot own and take all of the robotaxi and teslabot businesses. It is not politically or socially sustainable. Tesla being to greedy would cause countries like Saudi Arabia, Brazil and China to nationalize the assets and network.

Tesla must let everyone take water from the well. Certainly they will charge for such services, after all we are not communists. It is better for Tesla to welcome partners whether they are individuals or companies. Tesla can have a mix where Tesla operates its own fleet of wholly owned robotaxi vehicles alongside others in the network. Elon already said the robotaxi business will be a mix of Uber and Airbnb models.

UberX (Standard Service)

Base Fare: $1-$2.50

Per Mile: $1-$2

Per Minute: $0.10-$0.40

Booking Fee: $1.50-$3

UberXL (Larger Vehicles)

Base Fare: $2-$5

Per Mile: $1.50-$3

ARK expects traffic to increase to almost 3X todays levels by 2030. Autonomous taxis should boost US GDP by over $2 trillion by 2035. Auto accident rates should decline by 80%.

Uber is making about $40 billion per year in annual revenue (mostly Mobility rides and about 30% Uber eats).

22% of Ubers Gross Mobility revenue came from five major cities globally: New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, Sao Paulo, and London. 15% of Mobility bookings revenue came from airport bookings, which likely includes major hubs in cities like New York, San Francisco, and London. California and New York had the highest concentration of Uber drivers in the United States, suggesting these states were important revenue sources.

The Tesla Model 3 RWD is sold for about $31800 in China to $38900 in the USA. The Tesla Model 3 RWD long range is $42000 in the USA but qualifies for the $7500 tax credit for a $34500 price in the USA. Tesla has about 20% gross profit on the cars. This makes the cost to Tesla about $27000 in the USA and $25000 in China for the purpose of using new cars for Robotaxi.

Tesla has introduced the Model 3 Long Range RWD in the US.

 Starting price: $42,490 ($34,990 including Fed EV credit)

 EPA range: 363 miles

 0-60mph: 4.9s

The production cost for Tesla is about
TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 14. The trade turnover volume between Uzbekistan and the US reached $386.2 million from January through May 2024, Trend reports.

According to the data from Uzbekistan's Statistics Agency, this figure indicates a 50.1 percent increase compared to the same period last year ($257.2 million in January-May 2023).

The US ranked ninth among the countries with the largest volume of foreign trade turnover in Uzbekistan.

Uzbekistan's exports to the US totaled $110.2 million, which is more by 53.2 percent over year ($71.9 million in January-May 2023).

Uzbekistans imports from the US reached $276 million from January through May 2024. This figure has increased by 48.9 percent year-on-year ($185.3 million in JanuaryMay 2023).

Meanwhile, Uzbekistan's foreign trade turnover volume amounted to $26.7 billion from January through May 2024. This figure indicates a 3 percent growth year-on-year ($25.9 billion in JanuaryMay 2023).

Uzbekistan's exports reached $10.8 billion, while imports totaled $15.9 billion during this period.
Shortly after reports broke that former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage Saturday following apparent gunfire at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Gov. Phil Murphy and other New Jersey leaders from both parties quickly sent prayers to Trump, while several called for everyone to condemn political violence.

Law enforcement officials later Saturday night said the shooting was being investigated as an attempted assassination of Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee in this years presidential race.

Please pray for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our country. God Bless America.  Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) July 13, 2024
Former president Donald Trumps daughter, Ivanka Trump, issued a statement after an apparent assassination attempt on her father at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa. on Saturday night.

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of todays senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania, the statement read. I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.

Reaction was swift, with most condemning the violence, although some Trump supporters, including possible GOP vice presidential pick J.D. Vance, an Ohio Senator, pointed fingers at the Biden campaign. They sparked immediate backlash.

President Joe Biden in a televised address:

I plan on talking to Donald shortly  I hope when I get back to the telephone. Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one reason why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. And so I want to thank the Secret Service and all the agency, including the state agencies, that have been engaged.

Watch Bidens statement here.

In a statement before he went on television, Biden said:

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Former President Bill Clinton:

Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.

Former President Barack Obama:

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Vice President Kamala Harris:

I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania, Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders and local authorities for their immediate action. Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Former Speaker of the House Nancy Pelosi, whose husband was attacked in political violence:

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Former Rep. Liz Cheney:

Reports of the shooting in Pennsylvania are horrifying. Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured.

Secretary of Transportation Pete Buttigieg:

In this horrible moment, encouraged to hear President Trumps team indicate that the former president is doing well. An entire nation must speak with one voice today to completely and unequivocally reject all political violence.

Sen. Bernie Sanders:

Political violence is absolutely unacceptable. I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.

Former Arizona Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who is a victim of a shooting:

Political violence is terrifying. I know. Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptablenever.

Michael Cohen, Trumps former lawyer and a key witness against him at his criminal trial: Whether you agree or disagree with someones political position, THIS IS NOT THE SOLUTION!

James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability: Political violence in all forms is un-American and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers. I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing.

Billionaire Elon Musk: I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.

The National Rifle Association: We pray for the safety and well-being of President Trump and the brave men and women protecting him and all in attendance in PA.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau: Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.

MORE COVERAGE:

Trump statement after apparent assassination attempt: Felt the bullet ripping through the skin

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Trump supporters, led by Clay Travis and J.D. Vance, point fingers at left wing media and Biden campaign

Shooting at Trump rally: Reaction after apparent assassination attempt from Biden, Obama, Clinton, Cheney, more

Yankees react to Donald Trump shot in assassination attempt

The Latest from The Associated Press:

Donald Trumps campaign says he is fine after what law enforcement officials are treating as an apparent assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

In a social media post, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. The former president was quickly whisked from the stage by Secret Service agents, his ear covered in blood.

The Secret Service said the suspected gunman and one spectator are dead, and two attendees and two spectators were critically injured.

President Joe Biden and political leaders of all stripes condemned the attack. Theres no place in America for this type of violence, Biden said. Its sick. Its sick.
In an epic failure by the U.S. Secret Service, a shooter with an AR-15 style rifle was able to fire several shots at former president Donald Trump, possibly grazing his ear with a bullet, in an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday night.

Heres the latest on what we know after a late-night press conference by the FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials, who briefed reporters on the shooting investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

Donald Trump

The presumed Republican presidential nominee, his ear bloodied, said in a statement that he is fine.

He was holding his final rally ahead of the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. He is expected to announce his vice presidential running mate any day now.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong and I heard a whizzing sound of shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

MORE COVERAGE:

Officials say man who opened fire at Trump rally was a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania

Trump rally eyewitness incredible story: We warned Secret Service and police about shooter on roof

Trump statement after apparent assassination attempt: Felt the bullet ripping through the skin

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Trump supporters, led by Clay Travis and J.D. Vance, point fingers at left wing media and Biden campaign

Shooting at Trump rally: Reaction after apparent assassination attempt from Biden, Obama, Clinton, Cheney, more

Yankees react to Donald Trump shot in assassination attempt

Trump was only minutes into the rally, addressing the crowd and displaying charts on border crossings as the shots were fired at approximately 6:15 p.m. Secret Service members shouted at him to get down before pulling him to the stage until the shooter was killed.

Trump flew to New Jersey after visiting the Pennsylvania hospital, landing shortly after midnight at Newark Liberty International Airport.

The shooter

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa.

The authorities said they were still trying to uncover his motive.

Secret Service failure

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a man wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trumps rally was held.

The roof was less than 150 meters from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. The AR-15, like the shooter had, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M16.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter, who fired from an elevated position outside the rally venue, a farm show. The shooter fired multiple shots from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the U.S. Secret Service said in a statement.

Reaction to the shooting

Immediately following the attack, Democrats and Republicans widely condemned the apparent political violence. President Joe Biden spoke in a press briefing roughly three hours after the shooting. He said everybody must condemn the suspected assassination attempt.

Theres no place in America for this type of violence, Biden said in a statement broadcast to the world. Its sick. Its sick.

He said he had been unable to reach Trump before his remarks, but he did speak to him several hours later, according to the White House.

Former lawmakers and presidents including Presidents George W. Bush and Barack Obama, as well as the foundation set up by 99-year-old President Jimmy Carter, were also appreciative that the outcome wasnt worse.

Trumps possible running mates  North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Ohio Sen. JD Vance  issued statements. Atlthough the motive behind the shooting wasnt clear, Vance blamed the Biden campaign for its anti-Trump rhetoric.

Today is not just some isolated incident, Vance wrote on Twitter/X. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Shocking eyewitness account

The BBC interviewed a man who said he was an eyewitness to the assassination attempt, and he said he tried to warn police and the U.S. Secret Service about the would-be assassin, whom he spotted with a rifle on a nearby roof minutes before shots were fired.

WATCH THE INTERVIEW HERE.

The man, who wore a Trump 2020 visor, was not identified in the video clip. He said he was on the outskirts of the rally when he spotted the suspected gunman.

He had a rifle. We could clearly see him with a rifle, the man said. Absolutely. Were pointing at him. The police are down there, running around on the ground. Were like, Hey, man, theres a guy on the roof with a rifle. And the police were like, Huh, what? You know, like, they didnt know what was going on, you know? Were like, Hey, right here on the roof. We can see him from right here. We see him, you know, hes hes crawling.

And next thing you know, Im thinking to myself, Im like, Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage?

The investigation

The FBI is set to lead the investigation and said its working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle briefed President Joe Biden and are working with law enforcement partners to respond to and investigate the shooting, Mayorkas said on X.

We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump, and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson also said the House will conduct a full investigation of the attack on Trumps campaign rally. The American people deserve to know the truth, Johnson said. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

The AP contributed to this report. Thank you for relying on us to provide the journalism you can trust. Please consider supporting us with a subscription.
Before any details were released on the shooter who made an apparent assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump, right-wing commentator Clay Travis pointed fingers at the left-wing media:

I am f---ing furious beyond words. F-- every left wing media member who has been calling him Hitler for the past eight years. This is on them. They made this happen, Travis tweeted minutes after the shots at the rally in Butler, Pa.

Former Republican Rep. Joe Walsh fired back on Twitter:

F--- you. What a horrible thing to tweet. Nobody has encouraged violence more than Trump has. Both sides HATE the other side. Take a f---ing breath and plea for BOTH sides to stop this hate. With this tweet, you are spreading the hate & division. Lower the temp. Shame on you.

Walsh added:

1. Political violence, no matter where it comes from, is ALWAYS wrong. ALWAYS.

2. I pray that Donald Trump is okay. I pray that everyone hit at todays rally is okay.

3. Nobody has encouraged & incited political violence these past nine years more than Donald Trump has. NOBODY.

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, in the running to Trumps VP running mate, also blamed Democrats:

Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.
Former president Donald Trump is in New Jersey, presumably at Trump Bedminster, after an assassination attempt at a Saturday night campaign rally in Butler, Pa.

Trump was taken to a hospital, but there was no immediate statement from medical personnel on the former presidents injuries or condition.

Later Saturday night, an aide to the former president posted a video on social media that showed him walking off his plane unaided after he had landed in New Jersey, according to the New York Times. His injured ear was out of camera view.

Steven Cheung, a spokesman for the Trump campaign, released a statement shortly after the shooting that Trump was fine and being looked at at a medical facility.

Trump also released a statement on his Truth Social platform, thanking the Secret Service and all law enforcement.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

MORE COVERAGE

Trump assassination attempt: Latest on shooter, Secret Services failure, Biden-Trump chat and more

Trump rally eyewitness incredible story: We warned Secret Service and police about shooter on roof

Trump statement after apparent assassination attempt: Felt the bullet ripping through the skin

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Reaction after apparent assassination attempt from Biden, Obama, Clinton, Cheney, more

Trump also extended his condolences to the family of the person killed at the rally.

Trump was holding his final rally ahead of the Republican National Convention that begins Monday in Milwaukee.

Pennsylvania is one of the most important states in the presidential race, and Trump has had at least two rallies in the state this year.

The convention is expected to continue despite the shooting, and Trump advisers said he looks forward to attending.

President Joe Biden in a televised address that he planned on talking to Donald shortly  I hope when I get back to the telephone, and the presidents staff said later that the two chatted.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden told the nation in a televised address. Its sick. Its sick. Its one reason why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. And so I want to thank the Secret Service and all the agency, including the state agencies, that have been engaged.

Please consider supporting NJ.com with a voluntary subscription. The Associated Press contributed to this report.
By Mikie Sherrill

Buried deep in the Project 2025 plan, on page 594, is the far-rights plot to enact a national abortion ban.

Project 2025 is the extremist manifesto for a second Donald Trump Administration, authored by the Heritage Foundation, and it would undermine our democracy and its institutions, raise prices and hurt the middle class, and severely restrict access to abortion and reproductive care. Dont just take my word for it.

This attack on reproductive choice specifically targets abortion medication, and incredibly, it is rooted in the misapplication of a 150-year-old law: Following the Supreme Courts decision in Dobbs, the plan reads, there is now no federal prohibition on the enforcement of [The Comstock Act]. The Department of Justice in the next conservative Administration should therefore announce its intent to enforce federal law against providers and distributors of such pills.

If you have never heard of The Comstock Act, thats reasonable. It is whats known as a zombie law  an archaic statute that remains on the books, but is thought to be unconstitutional and unenforceable.

Comstock was passed in 1873. Thats nearly 50 years before women even had the right to vote. The law bans the mailing and receiving of obscene matter, as well as instruments used by medical professionals in abortions. When Roe v. Wade established a womans legal right to an abortion in 1973, Comstock was essentially deemed irrelevant.

That all changed when the conservative Supreme Court overturned Roe and punted abortion rights to the states. Now, through Project 2025, the anti-abortion MAGA movement is planning to resurrect Comstock, and misuse it to ban Mifepristone -- a common, safe, and effective abortion medication -- and enforce what could ultimately become a national ban on abortion.

This strategy was raised by Justices Clarence Thomas and Samuel Alito in the recent case Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA, where extremists sued to block access to Mifepristone. While the Supreme Court allowed the abortion pill to stay on the market while the case proceeds, this will not be the final attempt to ban it.

So Congress needs to act before its too late.

Thats why I just helped introduce the Stop Comstock Act, a bill that would repeal provisions of Comstock  notably, its prohibition on the mailing of medication or material used to perform abortion procedures.

Federal appellate courts have uniformly held that the law does not apply to lawful abortion care. Its time for Congress to update the law before a right-wing administration could misapply Comstock to ban abortion nationwide, even in states like New Jersey.

We also need to address the underlying problem that allowed Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine v. FDA to make it to the Supreme Court in the first place.

Three months after Roe v. Wade was decided, the Alliance for Hippocratic Medicine was incorporated in Amarillo, Tex., and shortly thereafter began legal action against the FDA. The suit, filed by the so-called Alliance Defending Freedom  a right-wing extremist legal advocacy group  went to the Amarillo division of the Northern District of Texas, which has a single judge named Matthew Kacsmaryk.

It was a strategic choice  known as judge shopping  to file a case in a court with only one judge, especially a far-right jurist. Appointed by Trump and a favorite of MAGA legal advocates and Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, Kacsmaryk is known for his staunchly right-wing views against abortion and contraception, LGBTQ rights, gun safety measures, and even no-fault divorce.

Thats why after this case was filed, I took action and introduced the End Judge Shopping Act  which would end this practice where right-wing litigants cherry-pick single-judge divisions to get a favorable outcome in their cases. We need to close this loophole so they cannot game the system to secure a national injunction on important issues like contraception, abortion, and other important federal policies.

Comstocks consequences for American women are grave. I will continue fighting to protect abortion rights for women  through the courts, for military servicewomen who serve in states with abortion bans, and for women in states across the country. They deserve nothing less than full reproductive freedom under the law.

Congresswoman Mikie Sherrill represents New Jerseys 11th Congressional District. She is a U.S. Navy veteran.

Our journalism needs your support. Please subscribe today to NJ.com.

No matter what Donald Trump says, his advisors are telling us loud and clear that a second Trump administration will try to weaponize the Comstock Act to ban abortion nationwide.



This is their agendabanning abortion every way they can. We'll keep fighting back. https://t.co/HqTrrZJTer  Senator Patty Murray (@PattyMurray) July 10, 2024

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TASHKENT, Uzbekistan, July 14. The Agency for Quarantine and Plant Protection of Uzbekistan held a meeting with Latvian experts, the Ministry of Agriculture of Uzbekistan says, Trend reports.

According to the information, the parties discussed the further development of cooperation between the countries.

It is reported that the project Improving the phytosanitary system to increase the export of Uzbekistans products, financed by the Latvian government, has been launched.

It is noted that at the first stage, Latvian experts will conduct research and give recommendations on plant protection, soil analysis, fertilizers and other key aspects for both countries.

One of the priority areas of cooperation will be scientific research for the exchange of experience between Uzbekistan and Latvia.

The parties agreed to conduct regular visits of Uzbek and Latvian specialists to exchange knowledge and experience.
President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

After 'shocking' Trump shooting, Louisiana Republicans and Democrats send prayers Democrats and Republicans alike sent their thoughts and prayers, saying violence 'should never be tolerated.' Read the full statements here.

Two officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation. They said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the apparent shots began.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 14. Former US President Donald Trump is undergoing a medical examination after being injured during a shooting at a rally of his supporters in Pennsylvania, Trend reports.

A statement from Trump spokesman Steven Chun said that the former American leader, who is seeking the Republican presidential nomination, "is fine and is being examined at a local medical facility."
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 14. A senior Hamas official announced the radical Palestinian movement's decision to stop ceasefire negotiations in the Gaza Strip due to Israel's position, Trend reports.

"Hamas Politburo chief Ismail Haniyeh briefed mediators and regional stakeholders in a series of phone calls about the movement's decision to end negotiations," the Hamas representative noted.

He explained this intention by Israel's allegedly "frivolous attitude" to the negotiations and "mass killings of civilians."
"Pray for President Trump, his family, and our country," Braun said in a statement on X, previously known as Twitter.

Republican Senator Todd Young denounced the violence that took place on Saturday.

"A terrifying scene at President Trumps event this afternoon," Young said. "Praying that he and all in attendance are ok and that calm will prevail. Violence is never the answer."
Shirley Heinze Land Trust is planning a Nature in the Arts event in Michigan City to bring the arts into the Great Outdoors.

Shirley Heinze, the Lubeznik Center for the Arts and Franciscan Health Michigan City will host Wellness in the Wetlands at the St. Francis Nature Preserve "to bring attention to the calming, restorative effects of nature and art."

The free public event will take place between 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. on Saturday, July 20 at the St. Francis Nature Preserve, 3500 Franciscan Way, Michigan City.

People can park by the trailhead entrance at the west end of the parking lot at Franciscan Health Michigan City or take Michigan City Transit Bus Route 4.

The event will include 3D waterlilies, paper collage landscapes, salad spinner art, hydration health education and assorted other family-friendly activities. Participants can walk along the quarter-milelong boardwalk to see the wetlands and learn about how they can elevate human health.

People can enter a drawing for a year-long family membership to the Lubeznik Center for the Arts in Michigan City, score free water bottles from Franciscan Health Michigan City and get hydration mix samples from Natures Cupboard.

The Shirley Heinze Land Trust hosts Nature in the Arts events at its nature preserves across Northwest Indiana. The program, which is partly funded by South Shore Arts, Indiana Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts, aims to bring together nature and the arts.

The land trust was founded in 1981 and has protected more than 3,400 acres in Lake, Porter, LaPorte, St. Joseph, Starke, and Marshall Counties, including some of the rarest habitats in the state.

For more information, visit www.heinzetrust.org/nature-in-the-arts or go to www.facebook.com/heinzetrust.
At 61, Mr. Simmons is as American as apple pie and the Big Mac  two things he would no doubt warn you away from eating. He has outlasted many of his peers, including Jane Fonda, whose career as a fitness guru started around the same time as his (the same company released their first videotapes in the early 80s). While she has moved on from leg lifts to political activism and the occasional acting role, he is about to release two new videos, Sweating to the Oldies 5 and Toning to the Oldies  his 58th and 59th.

Other contemporaries like Susan Powter, the buzz-cut dynamo behind Stop the Insanity, and Denise Austin, the peppy telegenic trainer, are still active through books and DVDs. But Mr. Simmons is the only one regularly offering classes to the public in his own studio.

Its not that he needs the money. He commands up to $20,000 to speak and has sold millions of DVDs, according to his manager, Michael Catalano. But Mr. Simmons, who says he is deeply religious, has an almost spiritual connection with his followers.

I dont have to teach anymore, I dont have to work anymore, God has been really good to me, Mr. Simmons said. But I cant forget these people  where would they go? Where would these men and women who dont feel accepted in other places, where would they find a place to work out where they could laugh and feel good about themselves?

Yes, he is a people person.

When he is in town  and last year he traveled 200 days  he teaches up to three times a week at Slimmons. Its a very unusual place  it has a spirit all its own, Mr. Simmons said of the studio. Ive been on a month-to-month lease for 35 years.
Abe Krash, who as a junior partner at the law firm Arnold, Fortas & Porter played a critical role in Gideon v. Wainwright, the 1963 case in which the Supreme Court unanimously declared a right to counsel in criminal cases, died on July 6 at his home in Chevy Chase, Md. He was 97.

His daughter Jessica Krash confirmed the death.

The Gideon decision is widely considered one of the most significant of the 20th century, part of a string of cases in which the Supreme Court under Chief Justice Earl Warren shored up Americans civil liberties in the face of the criminal justice system.

The case centered on a Florida man named Clarence Earl Gideon, who had been arrested in 1961 after breaking into a pool hall and stealing money from a vending machine. The judge denied his request for legal counsel, forcing him to mount his own defense. He was found guilty and sentenced to five years in prison.
President Biden condemned the shooting incident at former President Donald J. Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday and expressed gratitude that Mr. Trump survived and was evacuated.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Mr. Biden said in a nationally televised statement. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Mr. Biden said he had tried to reach Mr. Trump but was not able to talk with him because the former president was with his doctors. He said he would try again later in the evening. Apparently, hes doing well, the president said. I plan on talking with him shortly, I hope.

Asked if he would characterize the incident as an assassination attempt, he said he had his own opinion but would wait for more facts to come in first.
The tech billionaire Elon Musk endorsed former President Donald J. Trumps presidential campaign mere minutes after Mr. Trump was rushed from the stage at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

With chaos still unfolding and as Mr. Trump was being rushed to a hospital, Mr. Musk wrote on X, the platform he owns, I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery. He later posted a photograph of Mr. Trump moments after the episode and added another message: Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.

Mr. Musks formal endorsement may have been surprising in its speed, about 30 minutes after Mr. Trump was sent down to the ground, but not in its content. Mr. Musk, the chief executive of Tesla and SpaceX, has drifted rightward considerably during the Biden era, and he has spent years bashing Mr. Biden and flirting with a formal statement of support for Mr. Trump. Over at least the last year, allies of Mr. Trump have been seeking the endorsement and financial support of Mr. Musk, who has developed a cult following among the online right.

If he so chooses, Mr. Musk could uncork his fortune, measured at $265 billion by Bloomberg, on Mr. Trumps behalf. Mr. Musk has resisted making major political donations in the past, and has even gone as far as to say that he tries to stay out of politics, despite his conservative rhetoric on immigration and cultural issues.
Vice President Kamala Harris condemned former President Donald J. Trump as a leader who incites hate during an address on Saturday at a convention of Asian American voters in Philadelphia.

Someone who vilifies immigrants, who promotes xenophobia, who stokes hate and who incites fear should never again have the chance to stand behind a microphone, Ms. Harris said. And never again have the chance to stand behind the seal of the president of the United States of America.

During the pandemic, Mr. Trump often referred to Covid-19 as the China virus or the Kung Flu, angering Asian Americans who said he was being racist.

The Biden campaign has been battling to turn the nations attention back toward Mr. Trump after the presidents poor debate performance caused panic among some Democrats who worry he is too old to win re-election. Polls show that a majority of Democratic voters now want Mr. Biden to drop out of the race.
Former President Donald J. Trump had just started to talk about immigration in his stump speech when several shots rang out from the bleachers to his right. It sounded like a small-caliber weapon.

Everyone immediately ducked  myself included. I was in an area cordoned off for journalists, directly facing the stage.

There were screams in the crowd as Mr. Trump ducked to the ground before being surrounded by bodyguards. Around me, people were screaming and saying, Get down, get down, shots fired. I ducked under the press stand and remained there  until I heard cheering.

I came out and saw Mr. Trump raising his fist defiantly. The crowd, though subdued, cheered. I saw Mr. Trump led down the stairs of the stage to his left, taken immediately to a vehicle. An armored truck also arrived.
Authorities have identified the gunman who tried to assassinate Donald Trump yesterday but are still racing to understand what the shooters motives were and how he was able to get so close to Trump.

The F.B.I. named the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa., roughly 40 miles from Butler, the small city in western Pennsylvania where the attack occurred. Crooks was a registered Republican, though records show that he had donated money to a liberal voter turnout group in 2021. Here is the latest on Crooks.

The attack killed one spectator at the scene and left two others critically injured, officials said. Trump had blood on his face as he was escorted from the stage but was safe this morning.

The assassination attempt added a shocking and violent turn to a presidential campaign that had already been more tumultuous than any in decades. In todays newsletter, well help you understand what we know this morning.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 14. Turkish law enforcement agencies conducted Operation BOZDOGAN-50, Interior Minister Ali Yerlikaya wrote on his X page, Trend reports.

The minister said that the terrorists were neutralized based on the results of intelligence studies carried out by the Mardin Provincial Gendarmerie Command and the Mardin Provincial Police Directorate, in coordination with the Intelligence Directorate of the General Directorate of Security and the Gendarmerie Intelligence Directorate, as well as the Turkish District Intelligence Directorate.

It is reported that two terrorists were neutralized during an armed clash with Turkish law enforcement agencies.
As she struggled through her sophomore year in college, Zhenzhen spent hours in therapy, but it hadnt addressed the central strain in her life: her parents.

They called her at her Midwestern campus again and again, badgering her to fulfill their expectations  to study business, and to return to China, marry a wealthy man and raise children near them, she said. When she pushed back, her father screamed, she said, and her mother wept.
They entered with courage and exited as cowards. In the past two weeks, several leaders have told me they arrived at meetings with President Biden planning to have serious discussions about whether he should withdraw from the 2024 election. They all chickened out.

I dont know whether Mr. Biden should drop out of the race. Its impossible to predict the outcome with certainty. My concern is about the decision process. Theres a gap between what people say behind the presidents back and what they say to his face. Instead of dissent and debate, theyre falling victim to groupthink.

According to the original theory, groupthink happens when people become so cohesive and close-knit that they put harmony above honesty. Extensive evidence has debunked that idea. The root causes of silence are not social solidarity but fear and futility. People bite their tongues when they doubt that its safe and worthwhile to speak up. Leaders who want to make informed decisions need to make it clear they value candid input.

Mr. Biden has done the opposite, declaring first that only the Lord almighty could change his mind and then saying that hell drop out only if polls say theres no way for him to win. That sends a strong message: If youre not an immortal being or a time traveler from the future, its pointless to share any concerns about the viability of his candidacy.
President William Ruto knows hes in trouble. A few weeks ago Mr. Ruto was barricaded inside his official compound in Nairobi, Kenya, while thousands of young Kenyans marched on the streets. Since then, nationwide protests that started over a potential tax hike on basic goods and services have evolved into something much bigger: a demand for Mr. Rutos ouster  and an end to a culture in which Kenyas political class enriches itself at the expense of the social and economic needs of its citizens.

From the start, this movement felt different from other protests. Most of the demonstrators were part of the countrys young majority, spreading information about where and when to show up on TikTok, Instagram and WhatsApp. No central political figure or unifying political party stood behind the crowds, and no common ideology united them beyond anger at the governments plan to increase taxes while social services collapsed, public university fees soared and an unemployment crisis deepened. Even as the street action has faded, more Kenyans are now openly following graft cases on social media, circulating excerpts from the constitution and calling and texting legislators.

This marks a seismic shift in a nation where young people have been accused of political apathy. During general elections in 2022, most young Kenyans didnt even register to vote. Now, for the first time since the country adopted a new constitution in 2010, the countrys youth are a critical part of a movement in which people are risking their lives to fight for the democratic gains they have been promised. It is clear Mr. Ruto senses his tenure is in danger; on Thursday he sacked all but one of his cabinet secretaries, bowing to public pressure.

Mr. Ruto is a protege of Daniel arap Moi, the dictator who ruled Kenya between 1978 and 2002. From the beginning of his political career, Mr. Ruto appeared to share his mentors disregard for democracy. Some of his early political work involved organizing teams of university students to work for Mr. Moi during their school holidays; he later helped disrupt opposition rallies during the 1992 elections, Kenyas first multiparty voting in decades.
On March 30, 1981, I was sitting in my therapists office when one of my Secret Service agents burst through the door. At first I was angry, thinking, Now theyre intruding on my therapy sessions? But then I saw how pale his face was. He said, Patti, theres been a shooting.

The day was one of the longest of my life. I didnt know if my father, Ronald Reagan, would live, and I found out later that the doctors searching for bullet fragments in his chest didnt know, either. There was a long flight on an Army transport plane, arriving in Washington, D.C., a few hours before dawn; there was my mother sleeping with one of my fathers shirts pressed to her face to breathe in his scent; there was my father pale, fragile in a hospital bed, his eyes here but also far away. And there was the stunned mood of the country over the days that followed  strangers coming up to me gently, compassionately. Politics became irrelevant, at least for a while.

I dont know where Donald Trumps family members were when bullets were fired at his Pennsylvania rally, injuring him, killing one attendee and seriously injuring two others. I think I do know the shock that theyre feeling. For all of the apparatus around a president or a presidential candidate, for all the planning, the security, it still comes down to this: They are flesh and blood, they are human beings just like the rest of us, and their lives can change in a split second. It takes only one bullet to bring that fact home.

America is far more angry and far more violent now than it was in 1981. I dont know if this event will soften any of that. I dont know if the Trump family will have the same experience I did  that of a nation setting politics aside and simply responding in a human and humane way. I also dont know how, or if, this experience will change Mr. Trump. My father believed that God spared him for a very specific reason, to end the Cold War with the Soviet Union, to try to reach some kind of agreement on nuclear weapons. Its possible that what he and Mikhail Gorbachev achieved might not have happened had he not been shot. Thats the other part of being reminded of your fragility as a human being: You are reminded that time is precious and its imperative to use its gift in the most meaningful way you can. But how any individual interprets that realization is impossible to predict.
Tally Abecassis and

Cindy Elgan glanced into the lobby of her office and saw a sheriffs deputy waiting at the front counter. Lets start a video recording, just in case this goes sideways, Elgan, 65, told one of her employees in the Esmeralda County clerks office. She had come to expect skepticism, conspiracy theories and even threats related to her job as an election administrator. She grabbed her annotated booklet of Nevada state laws, said a prayer for patience and walked into the lobby to confront the latest challenge to Americas electoral process.

The deputy was standing alongside a woman that Elgan recognized as Mary Jane Zakas, 77, a longtime elementary schoolteacher and a leader in the local Republican Party. She often asked for a sheriffs deputy to accompany her to the elections office, in case her meetings became contentious.

I hope youre having a blessed morning, Zakas said. Unfortunately, a lot of people are still very concerned about the security of their votes. Theyve lost all trust in the system.
Earlier this year, Satya Nadella hammered out a deal that surprised everyone outside his inner circle at Microsoft.

Mr. Nadella, Microsofts chief executive, had his eyes on a Silicon Valley start-up called Inflection AI. The companys chief executive, Mustafa Suleyman, was one of the founders of the pioneering artificial intelligence company DeepMind. He had raised more than $1.5 billion in funding and hired top researchers for his new company, but he had a not-so-great reputation as a boss. Inflection also didnt seem to make any money.
Law enforcement officers from around the country were working in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention.

Follow the latest news on Trump and the Republican National Convention.

Milwaukee was always an unlikely host for the Republican National Convention: small in population with 560,000 residents, short on hotel rooms and unaccustomed to holding large-scale gatherings.

The city is now facing even more scrutiny in the wake of an assassination attempt Saturday night against former President Donald J. Trump at a Pennsylvania rally. On Sunday, Milwaukee officials and the U.S. Secret Service spent the eve of the convention scrambling to reassure the public that the event would be safe, as delegates began arriving and thousands of protesters prepared to gather on Monday in a large demonstration near the convention site.

Even as workers this weekend were erecting fences, posting shiny signs and adding final touches as the first of 50,000 people descended on the city, party and local officials met to re-evaluate security plans.

At a news conference in Milwaukee, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the R.N.C. coordinator for the Secret Service, said that the agency was ready to go for the convention on Monday.

Were not anticipating any changes to our operational security plans for this event, she said.

Omar Flores, a leader of the Coalition to March on the R.N.C., said at a news conference on Sunday that the attempted assassination of Mr. Trump should not affect the groups plan to hold a rally and march on Monday aimed at conveying their views to the Republican delegates. It was expected to draw as many as 5,000 left-leaning protesters.

There is some uncertainty about how close to the Republicans meeting protesters will be allowed to march, as a dispute over that question has simmered for weeks. Mr. Flores said that his group intended to come within sight and sound of the Fiserv Forum, the main convention hall. We have not had safety issues at any of our several marches or events, and we look forward to our family-friendly march tomorrow, Mr. Flores said.

Others said they were wary of the unknowns: whether any last-minute security changes should be implemented and whether the event could be truly secure after the Pennsylvania rally shooting.

Image Fences and barricades have blocked off secured areas of downtown Milwaukee for the convention. Credit... Jamie Kelter Davis for The New York Times

Image Officials made final checks of convention space and security. Credit... Kenny Holston/The New York Times

A primary concern for some Milwaukee leaders is the fact that while weapons are banned from the convention center and security checks are expected to be extensive, pedestrians not far from the center will not be prohibited from carrying firearms.

Alderman Robert Bauman, who represents downtown Milwaukee, has objected to the policy for months and attempted to pass a city ordinance to ban firearms near the convention site. But the ordinance did not pass, to the frustration of Mr. Bauman and others.

The city is prevented from regulating firearms beyond state law, officials said.

Mr. Bauman, who is, like many leaders in Milwaukee, a Democrat, said it seemed unwise to allow weapons so close to the convention site, particularly in light of the shooting in Pennsylvania.

Guns are fully allowed and it was discussed and argued over, he said on Sunday. I think its very dangerous and creates a very volatile situation, especially if you have groups with conflicting ideology.

But Brian Schimming, the Wisconsin Republican Party chairman, told reporters on Sunday morning that everything for the convention is going on as planned and that he was not concerned about security.

The plans have not changed, he said. We are all praying and thinking about the victims. And we will have a convention very, very focused, moving towards the future of this country with Donald Trump.

He said that delegates did not seem overly concerned about security issues at the convention.

There are always questions, Mr. Schimming said. You know, people are concerned about the situation in Pennsylvania, as we all should be. But I will tell you, in terms of Milwaukee here, there dont seem to be major concerns.

Image Security was raised on Sunday, even along a river in Milwaukee. Credit... Jamie Kelter Davis for The New York Times

One delegate, Jodi Schwartz, 50, arrived downtown Sunday morning after flying to Milwaukee from her home in Palm Beach County, Fla.

It was a horrifying feeling to see it happening, Ms. Schwartz said of the shooting in Pennsylvania.

The shooting has not dampened her enthusiasm for the Republican meeting, she added, and did not give her second thoughts about her own safety in Milwaukee.

I feel very confident that the city is going to take care of us, she said.

Law enforcement officials in Wisconsin have said they would allow protests as long as they remained peaceful and orderly. Milwaukee officials say that some 4,500 law enforcement officers will travel to the city to assist local authorities, a common practice for cities hosting large-scale events.

Chief Jeffrey B. Norman of the Milwaukee Police Department said that the public should have confidence in the security arrangements because of the long-range planning; the federal, state and local agencies involved; and the funding of $75 million from the federal government.

I want to reassure not only those involved in the convention but those in our city, Chief Norman said. We got this. We got this.

City and convention leaders have touted the event as an economic boost and a chance for Milwaukee to sparkle in the national spotlight, despite questions over the citys ability to pull off a nationally televised four-day party.

Logistical challenges have been embedded from the start of the planning: The immediate convention area includes about 6,200 hotel rooms, meaning that thousands of conventiongoers will need to ride to hotels beyond downtown. Milwaukee residents say they fear that downtown traffic, which can be an issue even on a normal day, is sure to get snarled amid all the visitors and security perimeters.

But Milwaukee, where some residents say they have grown accustomed to being underestimated, has hosted plenty of sizable gatherings, some noted, pointing to the Harley-Davidson Homecoming, which is likely to see more than 100,000 people rumbling into town.

We have our fair share of large conventions, just not ones that are televised, said Peggy Williams-Smith, chief executive of Visit Milwaukee, which helped bring the Republicans to town. As it happens, the city also has drawn more national note recently, with political strategists focused on Wisconsins role as a key battleground in this years elections, and with Top Chef, the popular cooking show, set in Wisconsin this season.

In a way, Milwaukee has been gearing up to host a national political convention since 2019. That was the year the city was picked as the site of the Democratic National Convention, and city leaders soon began preparing for  and investing in  improvements to ready the place for delegates. In the end, though, Covid turned that convention into an almost entirely virtual event, and Milwaukee was left without much to show for it.

So when the chance to host the Republicans arose in 2024, leaders in Milwaukee agreed. Not everyone in Milwaukee was eager to host the Republicans  Mr. Biden carried Milwaukee County by 40 percentage points in 2020  but local leaders, including Mayor Cavalier Johnson, are eager to reap the economic rewards and national attention for which they prepared four years earlier.

Robert Chiarito and Mitch Smith contributed reporting.
One of the main missions of the Secret Service snipers supporting former President Donald J. Trumps rally was to perform a counter-sniper mission, as is standard practice. That means they were in position specifically to eliminate the kind of threat posed by the gunman who opened fire on his rally on Saturday.

One of the snipers had a white card attached to the scope of his rifle marked with diagrams and numbers. Such cards are used to detail the specific calculations needed for a snipers rifle in relation to various points  in this case, that would likely include the distant buildings on the property of the Butler Farm Show where Mr. Crooks shot from.

In photographs of the Secret Service snipers, they appeared to be using long-range and powerful rifles that likely fire .300 or .338 cartridges, commonly used by well-trained military snipers.

According to maps of the site and Google maps, the snipers were within roughly 200 yards of Mr. Crooks, an easy shot for any trained marksman.

A State Department agent tasked with the personal security of high-ranking diplomats said the snipers were in the right place but that the building Mr. Crooks shot from should have been secured given its height and short distance from Mr. Trump. The agent, who wasnt directly involved in security for the Trump rally on Saturday, spoke on the condition of anonymity since he was not authorized to speak to the media.
Former President Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania when shots rang out. Multiple people at the rally were filming at the time. The F.B.I. has said the shots were fired by a 20-year-old man from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, which is about an hours drive from the rally. Trump was on stage speaking for just over six minutes and talking about illegal immigration when the first sound of gunfire is heard. There are two bursts of fire. First three shots and then five shots Three seconds after the first shot is fired, he is surrounded by Secret Service agents who attempt to hurry him from the stage. Theyre followed by other law enforcement personnel who are more heavily armed. For a brief moment, Trump tells them to stop until he can get his shoes. Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Sir, I got you, sir. Let me get my shoes on. When he gets up, blood is visible on his right ear. He pauses again before being rushed off stage and raises his fist in the air, appearing to mouth the word fight. The former president was standing on stage at this location. Soon after the first gunfire is heard, a video captured what appears to be the suspected shooter dead on the roof of this building. The building is the closest one to the rally that wasnt within the security perimeter and is roughly 400 feet north of where Trump is standing. The location of the body matches the likely firing position. This is because the injury to the ear of Trump, who is facing northwest, is consistent with gunfire from that location. An audio analysis of the shots by an acoustic expert at Montana State University found the gunfire reached the stage from the same approximate distance as the bodys location. A Secret Service spokesman also said the suspected shooter fired from an elevated position and was killed. A video filmed during the rally showed a law enforcement sharpshooter positioned here on a roof roughly 400 feet from that suspected gunman and aiming in the gunmans general direction before Trump was shot. Footage recorded after the shooting shows one spectator bleeding from a head wound in the bleachers to the north of where Trump was standing. According to the Secret Service, one person at the rally was killed and two others were critically injured. The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.
Follow the latest news on the Trump assassination attempt.

Donald J. Trump is not the first former president to survive an assassination attempt while trying to reclaim his old office. More than a century ago, Theodore Roosevelt was shot just before he was scheduled to go onstage at a campaign event  and went ahead to give his speech anyway with a bullet in his chest.

Roosevelts gritty response to the attack in 1912 proved to be the stuff of legends and helped cement his reputation for toughness. To that point in American history, three other presidents had been killed by assassins, including William McKinley, whose death elevated Roosevelt, then the vice president, to the presidency. But as of then, no current or former president had been shot without dying.

Roosevelt, like Mr. Trump, was staging a comeback attempt, running again four years after moving out of the White House. Unlike Mr. Trump, Roosevelt had left office voluntarily, declining to run in 1908 after serving nearly two terms. Instead, he had helped elect his protege, William Howard Taft. But within four years, the two had a falling out and Roosevelt decided to challenge Taft for the presidency.

Although Taft beat him for the Republican nomination at the G.O.P. convention, Roosevelt broke off from his old party to form the Progressive Party, also known as the Bull Moose Party, so that he could compete in the fall contest against Taft and Woodrow Wilson, the Democratic governor of New Jersey.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 14. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, Trend reports.

I strongly condemn the attack on the 45th president and presidential candidate of the United States, Donald Trump, the Turkish president said.

Erdogan also expressed his sincere support for Trump, his family and loved ones. He expressed confidence that the investigation into this attack will be carried out as efficiently as possible, and the perpetrators will be brought to justice as soon as possible.

The statement also emphasized that Turkiye will continue to support the friendly and allied American people.
Follow the latest news on the Trump assassination attempt.

When President Ronald Reagan was shot by an attention-seeking drifter in 1981, the country united behind its injured leader. The teary-eyed Democratic speaker of the House, Thomas P. ONeill Jr., went to the hospital room of the Republican president, held his hands, kissed his head and got on his knees to pray for him.

But the assassination attempt against former President Donald J. Trump seems more likely to tear America further apart than to bring it together. Within minutes of the shooting, the air was filled with anger, bitterness, suspicion and recrimination. Fingers were pointed, conspiracy theories advanced and a country already bristling with animosity fractured even more.

The fact that the shooting in Butler, Pa., on Saturday night was two days before Republicans were set to gather in Milwaukee for their nominating convention inevitably put the event in a partisan context. While Democrats bemoaned political violence, which they have long faulted Mr. Trump for encouraging, Republicans instantly blamed President Biden and his allies for the attack, which they argued stemmed from incendiary language labeling the former president a proto-fascist who would destroy democracy.
Hundreds of Russians packed an auditorium in central London on a recent warm evening to listen as Boris Akunin, the author of a wildly popular detective series, told them that when it came to the Ukraine war, I believe that the actions of the Russian Army are criminal.

Mr. Akunins series, set in late czarist times, made him rich and famous, but outspoken statements like that one have made him more infamous of late back home in Russia. The Kremlin recently labeled the author  who went into self-imposed exile in London a decade ago  a terrorist and effectively banned his works.

When President Vladimir V. Putin ordered the invasion of Ukraine in February 2022, Mr. Akunin wrote on Facebook, Russia is ruled by a psychologically deranged dictator and worst of all, it obediently follows his paranoia. At that time, he began contemplating how cultural figures fleeing abroad might still reach their domestic audience and perhaps help to spur change at home. Being cut off from his own readers lent the project special urgency.

I have to say, the amount of work and writing Ive been doing over these two terrible years, never in my life have I written so much, he told the audience members, who laughed when he said that a writing binge trumped a drinking binge. It is a form of escapism.
For weeks, Israel kept watch on a palm-tree-dotted villa in southern Gaza where it believed a top Hamas lieutenant was staying with his family, but it held off on a strike, according to three senior Israeli defense officials. The Israelis had a bigger target in mind: Muhammad Deif, the elusive leader of Hamass military wing.

On Saturday, after learning that Mr. Deif appeared to be at the villa, the officials said, the Israeli government sent in fighter jets that devastated the compound and killed dozens of Palestinians in the area around it.

The Israeli military and the Shin Bet, Israels domestic intelligence agency, said on Sunday that the strike had killed the lieutenant, Rafa Salameh.

But the fate of Mr. Deif, who is second in command of Hamas and considered an architect of its Oct. 7 attack on Israel, remained unclear. He has survived other assassination attempts.
In comparison with the first strike, which destroyed a building and buried Palestinians inside an enormous crater, the second was significantly smaller. Videos show the strike and its immediate aftermath from three different angles. All the videos show a plume of white smoke rising from a street crowded with rescuers, bystanders and people injured in the first strike.

In two of the videos, a loud whooshing sound can be heard before the explosion, indicating an airstrike, rather than an artillery blast or an explosion on the ground, said Wes Bryant, a retired U.S. Air Force master sergeant who was responsible for choosing targets and assessing civilian casualties during the campaign against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria.

Mr. Bryant and Trevor Ball, a former U.S. Army explosive ordnance disposal technician, said that shrapnel damage seen on one of the Civil Defense vehicles and two cars near the blast was consistent with a Spike or Mikholit missile, two munitions used by the Israeli military.

Both experts also said the Civil Defense vehicles would have been clearly visible to the soldiers launching the strikes. Mr. Bryant said that, in the Israeli militarys calculus, any Hamas targets carry enough military necessity that any civilian loss is considered proportional.
Security gate Chinese-funded buildup CAMBODIA Chinese warship CAMBODIA CAMBODIA Dry dock and other repair facilities Before After China insists it is not building a naval base in Cambodia. Cambodia says the same. But this aircraft carrier-ready pier suggests otherwise. As does this enormous drydock. Perched near a major sea route, they appear tailor-made to advance Chinas naval ambitions.

CHINA Ream, Cambodia

The Chinese Base That Isnt There New facilities and the months-long presence of Chinese warships show Beijings growing global influence.

In 2020, something curious happened at Cambodias Ream military base, on the Gulf of Thailand.

Not long after submitting  and then abruptly withdrawing  a request for the U.S. Defense Department to refurbish parts of the base, Cambodian officials proceeded to demolish the American-funded buildings that were already there, some only four years old.

Then the Chinese got to work.

Since December, two Chinese warships have docked nearly every day at the rapidly expanding port. And the work taking place at Ream is in keeping with a Chinese building spree that ranges from near the Red Sea to the South China Sea.

The Chinese military presence near one of the worlds most vital sea lanes raises fundamental questions about Beijings ambitions. While the American constellation of military bases remains by far the largest in the world, a resurgent China is bringing countries like Cambodia into its orbit.

The potential for a permanent Chinese military presence in Cambodia raises significant geopolitical concerns, said Sophal Ear, a Cambodian-American political scientist at the Thunderbird School of Global Management at Arizona State University. It could prompt strategic adjustments from the U.S. and heighten global perceptions of Chinese militarization.

Cambodian and Chinese flags at joint military drills in Cambodia last month. Agence France-Presse  Getty Images

The Long Visit

On Dec. 3, 2023, Cambodias defense minister announced that two Chinese Navy corvettes were visiting Ream for a joint military exercise. Satellite images show that the warships had arrived two days earlier. They have stayed in the vicinity ever since.

The corvettes are the only ships that have docked at the new Chinese-built pier at Ream, which can accommodate ships far larger than any in Cambodias fleet. Cambodias own smaller corvettes dock at a much more modest pier to the south.

Two Chinese warships have docked at Ream for more than seven months Dec. 3, 2023 Dec. 14 Dec. 29 Jan. 16, 2024 Jan. 30 Feb. 7 Feb. 18 Feb. 24 March 3 March 24 April 5 April 17 April 29 May 8 May 18 June 6 June 14 July 2 Source: Satellite images by Planet Labs

Over the past few years, American officials and Japanese naval vessels have also tried to visit Ream. They were denied full access.

We are clear eyed about the Peoples Republic of Chinas efforts to establish overseas military bases, including at Ream, said John Supple, a Pentagon spokesman. Were particularly concerned about the Peoples Republic of Chinas lack of transparency around its intentions and the terms it negotiates, because countries should be free to make sovereign choices that support their interests and regional security.

The Cambodians deny any greater Chinese intent.

When Lloyd J. Austin III, the U.S. secretary of defense, traveled to Cambodia in early June, he was told by his counterparts there that China was simply helping Cambodia modernize its military, not building a base for itself.

The Ream military base is Cambodias, not the military base of any country, Mey Dina, the commander of the base, told The New York Times. It is not right to say that the base is controlled by China.

While the construction at Ream is still underway, no foreign vessels will be allowed to dock there, Mr. Mey Dina said. The foreign vessels that have been docked there for more than half a year  the Chinese corvettes  were for training only, he said.

Power Projection

Chinas leader, Xi Jinping, has articulated a grand vision for his growing superpower. Chief among his military goals: a blue-water navy that can project Beijings might far from Chinas shores.

Today, China boasts the worlds largest navy in terms of the number of vessels. And it has added aircraft carriers to its fleet.

But navies of this size and scope, operating thousands of miles from home, need access to bases abroad.

In 2017, after years of evasiveness about what was being built, China completed its first base on foreign soil, in Djibouti, in the Horn of Africa.

The pier at Ream appears similar to one at Chinas Djibouti Naval Base 1100 ft Long pier Perimeter fence Fuel storage Aircraft hangars Red Sea Basketball courts YEMEN Djibouti, Djibouti ETHIOPIA Perimeter fence 1100 ft Fuel storage Similar style of pier Basketball courts Dry dock THAILAND VIET- NAM Ream, Cambodia Malacca Strait 750 feet Sources: BlackSky; Center for Strategic and International Studies (C.S.I.S.); satellite images by Planet Labs on May 27 and May 8, 2024.

That same year, China put finishing touches on a far more startling project in disputed waters in the South China Sea.

Churning up coral and sand from the ocean floor, state-owned dredgers created military installations on what had once been placid atolls called the Spratlys. An international tribunal has ruled that some of those specks of land are not Chinese territory.

The same kind of state-owned dredgers are now operating in Ream. Out of reclaimed land, they have created a wharf and dry dock, each of which far surpasses the needs of the Cambodian fleet.

Still, unlike the installations at the Spratlys, Ream does not appear to have building sites reserved for missile launchers or fighter jet hangars. Ream may be primarily intended as a resupply station for the Chinese navy, according to satellite analysts.

Chinas military footprint abroad is small but growing Mischief Reef South China Sea Completed 2018 Djibouti Subi Reef Africa, 2017 South China Sea, 2018 Fiery Cross Reef Ream South China Sea, 2018 Southeast Asia Under Construction 2 miles Djibouti Mischief Reef Africa, Completed 2017 South China Sea, 2018 Ream Fiery Cross Reef Subi Reef South China Sea, 2018 South China Sea, 2018 Southeast Asia, Under construction 1 mile Mischief Reef South China Sea, 2018 Djibouti Ream Africa, Completed 2017 Southeast Asia, Under construction Fiery Cross Reef Subi Reef South China Sea, 2018 South China Sea, 2018 1 mile Sources: C.S.I.S.; Congressional Research Service; satellite images by Planet Labs. Note: Completion year based on first report of personnel deployment or training exercise.

Ream is more like China playing roulette as it looks for ports for the blue water navy that Xi Jinping wants, said Gregory B. Poling, director of the Asia Maritime Transparency Initiative at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. I dont think any Chinese planner looked at all the possible locations around the world and said, Ream is the one we need. Its more that Ream is one of the only ones on offer because China has no real allies and few friends.

Commercial Beachheads

Even as the dredgers were working overtime at the Spratlys, Mr. Xi stood at the White House and swatted away fears that Chinas new islands  which now bristle with fighter jet-ready runways, radar domes and warehouses made for missiles  were for military purposes. Chinese officials said they would be havens for tourism.

Chinas base building has depended on state-owned companies, which are legally obligated to pursue the countrys national security interests, to make the initial forays. Chinese officials are blunt about the strategy: First civilian, then military, is how they put it.

China has expanded its commercial influence across the world's seas ASIA EUROPE NORTH AMERICA Ports financed by China CHINA AFRICA Djibouti Ream SOUTH AMERICA SRI LANKA may host the next base, say experts AUSTRALIA Ports financed by China ASIA EUROPE CHINA AFRICA Djibouti Ream SRI LANKA may host the next base, say experts AUSTRALIA Source: AidData Note: Data shows ports partially or fully financed by Chinese state-owned companies via loans and grants made in 20002021 for implementation 20002023. Map shows only projects over $10 Million.

Establishing a commercial beachhead is easier in countries where China already holds economic sway.

In recent years, Cambodia has steadily marched into Chinas arms. Its longtime leader, Hun Sen, used to excoriate the United States for linking its aid and investment to improvements in the countrys human rights record.

Now, Cambodia is led by Mr. Hun Sens son, Hun Manet, who, although a graduate of the United States Military Academy, has shown little inclination so far to recalibrate from his fathers pro-China bent.

Ream is 80 percent finished, according to its commander, Mr. Mey Dina. Military analysts expect that the base will be complete by the end of the year.

Not far away, a Chinese company has carved out of once-protected jungle a runway long enough to accommodate bombers, which Cambodia does not have. The company says the airfield is largely intended for Chinese holiday-goers.

That is reminiscent of the innocent explanations offered for the Chinese construction in the Spratlys and Djibouti, said Mr. Ear, the political scientist.

China downplays or misrepresents the military nature of its overseas installations, he said. Despite Cambodias denials, the lack of transparency and the close relationship between Cambodia and China suggest the possibility that Ream could follow this familiar playbook.
An entire Offaly school gathered before the end of the school year to pay tribute to Ms Veroncia Crowley on the occasion of her retirement after almost 24 years in Dromakeenan NS.

Principal Donal Ryan welcomed everyone to the hall and called for Ms Crowley to join them. The ceremony opened with a Mass celebrated by school Chaplain Fr Antun to acknowledge the tireless dedication Ms Crowley had to the pupils and wider school community. Mrs O'Meara led the school choir throughout the Mass.

Aoibhneas pupils Aine and Lucy presented gifts to represent Ms Crowleys huge commitment to Aoibhneas. The reading was read by School Secretary Deirdre, while Prayers of the Faithful were read by pupils Patrick Comerford and Faye Dunford, fellow Aoibhneas teacher Ms McMahon and SNA Nicola Keeshan. The reflection was read by Ms DArcy.

Following the mass the Junior and Senior Infants paid a lovely tribute to Ms Crowley with songs and a specially written poem of memories. Presentations were then made by the Board of Management and Parents Association.

Deputy Principal Paul Maher spoke eloquently about Ms Crowleys teaching career. From her time in Mary Immaculate College to her first position in Wexford.

In 1987 she taught in Coolderry Central School, and then St Anne's Special School followed by St Joseph's Borris in Ossory before travelling to teach in Australia.

On her return to Ireland she taught again in Coolderry Central School, St Anne's Roscrea, St Anne's The Curragh, Killeen NS before taking up her position in Dromakeenan in 2000 in a shared capacity with Shinrone NS.

In 2008, she was instrumental in setting up a special class in Dromakeenan NS for children diagnosed with autism, giving them access to integrate with mainstream classes.

Over the years many schools visited Aoibhneas to seek advice as they set up classes in their own school.

Veronica taught in Aoibhneas until 2016 when she went on secondment to work in the area of autism.

A presentation was made on behalf of the Parents Association (l. to r.) Antoinette Harding, Elaine Sherlock, Veronica Crowley and Ronan Harding. Photo: P.J. Wright.

She returned in 2021 to once again teach in Aoibhneas for another two years  one could say she had found her niche! Her love for Special Education continued this past year when she was the SET for Junior and Senior Infants.

Another string to her bow, which she happily shared with the school community, was her love of music, playing for Christmas shows, concerts and religious ceremonies. Many past pupils will remember the launch of their school CD, and the numerous assemblies and choirs she led.

Mr Maher wished her a retirement filled with relaxation, adventure and the pursuit of her passions  Ms Crowley, they will miss you.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy landed in Ireland on Saturday for a bilateral meeting with Taoiseach Simon Harris, where he thanked the nation for accepting Ukrainian refugees into the country.

Harris held the meeting with Zelenskyy at Shannon Airport in Co Clare.

Zelenskyy landed at Shannon Airport in Co Clare at noon, stopping over following a NATO event in the US.

READ ALSO - WATCH: Shocking footage emerges of female Bus Eireann bus driver shot in face by an air gun

He embraced Harris after descending the steps from his state aircraft. The leaders also shook hands, with Ukrainian ambassador to Ireland Larysa Gerasko also present.

Asked by reporters for his message to Ireland, Zelenskyy said: First of all, thank you so much for your support, thanks to Ireland for hosting a lot of Ukrainian refugees, you were with us from the very beginning of the Russian invasion.

While discussing the future of the conflict during the bilateral, Harris expressed his condolences for the citizens whom Ukraine has lost in the war including the bombing of Ukraines largest childrens hospital earlier this week.

He also expressed Irelands full support for Ukraines bid towards EU membership.

Speaking at a press conference, Harris said: "Ive just had a very good meeting with President Zelensky. Im very pleased to welcome him to Ireland."

He added: "I took the opportunity to express condolences on behalf of the people of Ireland to the people of Ukraine, to the president of Ukraine, for all the loss of civilian life throughout this brutal illegal war of Russian aggression."

Speaking after the meeting, the Taoiseach said he will visit Kyiv in the coming weeks.
The investigation into missing Cavan woman Jean Tighe has been castigated as "totally inadequate" by Fianna Fail TD Brendan Smith.

The Cavan-Monaghan TD, who is friends of the Tighe family, told the Dail the family are distraught by her disappearance.

His remarks coincide with the four-year anniversary of Jean's disappearance. Jean was last seen in Parede, a Portuguese holiday resort, on July 13, 2020. She was 38-years old when she went missing.

The Cavan native who hails from Munterconnaught had reportedly told a worker at the hostel where she was staying that she was going to meet a friend and left with her handbag.

READ ALSO - Man (60s) killed and woman (40s) airlifted to hospital in horror crash in Co Louth

She had booked a flight home from Portugal for July 15, 2020 but never boarded the plane.

Despite repeated efforts from Irish authorities it took three years before Jean'scav name was added to a missing persons database in Portugal.

Very understandably, Jean's loving family are distraught and have been at their wits' end over her disappearance. Those concerns are shared by their many friends in the community in Cavan and neighbouring areas, Deputy Smith said.

To put it mildly, the investigation into Jean's disappearance has been totally inadequate. It is simply just not good enough.
BAKU, Azerbaijan, July 14. Former President Donald Trump has issued his first statement after a gunman fired several shots at him at a rally in Pennsylvania, Trend reports.

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!," Trump wrote on his page on Truth Social.
The recent incident involving violence against a political figure in the United States has reignited discussions about political terrorism and its historical prevalence.

It should be noted that Former US President Donald Trump was struck in his right ear during a deadly shooting at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Throughout American history, acts of political violence have tragically targeted prominent figures, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape. Perhaps the most well-known examples include:

John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States was assassinated on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. His assassination shocked the nation and triggered intense investigations and conspiracy theories that continue to resonate to this day.

Martin Luther King Jr: A pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. His assassination sparked riots across the United States and marked a significant loss in the struggle for racial equality.

Robert F. Kennedy:The younger brother of John F. Kennedy and a U.S. Senator, Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated on June 5, 1968, in Los Angeles, California, while campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination. His assassination occurred shortly after delivering a victory speech for the California primary, further deepening the sense of national tragedy.

These high-profile assassinations underscore a disturbing trend in American history where political figures who challenge the status quo or advocate for significant social change are often met with violence. These events have not only shaped the course of American politics but have also raised profound questions about security, political discourse, and the vulnerability of public figures in a democratic society.

Political terrorism often emerges when traditional avenues like the judiciary and administrative processes fail to achieve desired outcomes against political opponents. This underscores a dangerous recourse where extreme measures are employed to eliminate opposition voices.

Critics argue that such crimes should not be obscured or dismissed. It is crucial to uncover and identify the instigators behind these acts of political terror. Unfortunately, within the American system, the perpetrators and motivations behind such acts often remain obscured, complicating efforts to hold them accountable.

The implications of political violence extend beyond domestic concerns, impacting perceptions of political safety within the United States, especially as elections approach. Heightened tensions during electoral periods could potentially escalate such incidents, prompting caution among international visitors, including Azerbaijani citizens, when considering travel to the United States.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for increased security measures at political events across the United States. Concerns over political safety and the potential for further violence as the country heads into election season remain at the forefront of public and governmental discourse.

In light of these historical precedents, several strategies may considered to address the issue of political violence more effectively: Enhanced security measures, public awareness campaigns, international cooperation, legislative reforms and so on.

Implementing stricter security protocols at political events and rallies is crucial to prevent potential threats and ensure the safety of political figures and attendees. Educating the public about the dangers of political violence and promoting non-violent means of political expression is essential to foster a more peaceful political discourse.

Furthermore, strengthening cooperation with international allies to combat terrorism, share intelligence on potential threats, and coordinate efforts to prevent cross-border incidents of political violence is necessary. Considering legislative reforms to enhance protections for political figures, including increased penalties for acts of political terrorism, and ensuring swift justice for perpetrators to deter future incidents are important steps. These measures aim to safeguard democracy, protect public safety, and uphold the principles of peaceful political engagement amid ongoing challenges and threats.
Recently, French First Lady Brigitte Macron violated royal protocol. The incident occurred near the memorial in Ver-sur-Mer, during a ceremony marking the 80th anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy, when the Frenchwoman tried to take Queen Camilla of Great Britain's hand.

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Despite the fact that the official website of the family of monarchs states, "There are no binding rules of conduct when meeting the Queen or a member of the royal family," there is an unwritten concept of minimizing physical interaction with a handshake, and only if offered by a representative of Buckingham Palace. However, Brigitte Macron is not the only one who has found herself in unpleasant situations due to non-compliance with generally accepted concepts of behavior with monarchs. The Daily Mail made a selection of famous people who violated royal protocol.

Donald Trump

During the former US president's meeting with Queen Elizabeth II in 2018, Donald Trump walked in front of the monarch while inspecting the Windsor Castle Guard of Honor.

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Michelle Obama

Former U.S. First Lady Michelle Obama violated royal protocol by hugging Elizabeth II in 2009 during an official reception at Buckingham Palace. However, the monarch welcomed this behavior.

Frankie Dettori

Italian jockey Frankie Dettori broke royal protocol twice during the celebration of Royal Ascot 2023. First, the Gold Cup winner kissed Queen Camilla on the cheek and then stood in front of her for a photo.

Tom Cruise

In 2022, when the Prince and Princess of Wales arrived at the premiere of Top Gun: Maverick, the actor held out his hand to Kate Middleton to help her up the steps.

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Paul Keating

Australian Prime Minister Paul Keating broke royal protocol in 1992 by hugging Queen Elizabeth II behind her back.

John Howard

Former Australian Prime Minister John Howard made a similar mistake when dealing with monarchs. During an official parliamentary reception in 2000, he extended his hand to Queen Elizabeth II.

Janine Kirk

Janine Kirk, the executive director of Prince Charles' charitable projects, put her hand on the monarch's back during a tour of Australia, breaking royal protocol.

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Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
To prevent asteroids from colliding with the Earth and avoiding deadly consequences, NASA's Center for Near-Earth Object Studies (CNEOS) uses the Sentry impact monitoring system. Which of them is the most dangerous, how likely is an impact and how destructive will it be?

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To understand the current situation, scientists are performing a long-term analysis of possible future orbits of potentially dangerous asteroids. Live Science tells about five of them.

About 66 million years ago, an asteroid the size of a city collided with the Earth. The impact released energy equivalent to the detonation of 72 trillion tons (65 metric tons) of TNT, leaving a 180-kilometer-wide scar on the modern-day Yucatan Peninsula in Mexico.

The most infamous effect of this asteroid, dubbed the Chicxulub impactor, was the death of the dinosaurs, along with about three-quarters of the Earth's species, in an event called the Cretaceous-Paleogene extinction. To prevent such catastrophic impacts, NASA's CNEOS uses the Sentry impact monitoring system.

Bennu

Size: 0.49 kilometers

Mass: 74 million tons (67 million metric tons)

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Discovered in September 1999 and officially designated as "101955 Bennu (1999 RQ36)", the near-Earth asteroid Bennu now poses the greatest risk of impacting our planet. However, not soon at all. NASA scientists estimate that Bennu will approach Earth on September 24, 2182, at which time there is a 0.037% - or 1 in 2700 - chance that the asteroid will collide with our planet.

In preparation for this, scientists are learning as much as they can about this carbon-rich asteroid, which is believed to have separated from a larger asteroid between 2 billion and 700 million years ago. On September 24, 2023, NASA's OSIRIS-REx spacecraft returned a sample of Bennu to Earth, and the space rock was analyzed by teams of researchers from around the world. Initial results suggest that Bennu contains the building blocks of life, including the simple amino acid glycine, as well as many water minerals. This suggests that Bennu's parent body witnessed many water-related episodes before it eventually split.

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If Bennu collides with the Earth, it will release energy equivalent to the explosion of 1.4 billion tons of TNT, causing regional but not global devastation. If a collision occurs in a densely populated area, Bennu could cause millions of deaths.

29075 (1950 DA)

Size: 1.3 kilometers

Mass: 78 million tons (71-meter tons)

The second most hazardous object is asteroid 29075 (1950 DA), which was lost after its first discovery in February 1950 and rediscovered 50 years later. It is believed that 1950 DA is an asteroid of loose debris with a high content of iron and nickel. Currently, 1950 DA has a 0.0029% - or 1 in 34,500 - chance of colliding with Earth on March 16, 2880.

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If the 1950 DA hits Earth, it will release the energy equivalent to 75 billion tons of TNT, which is enough to cause a global catastrophe that could potentially wipe out humanity.

2023 TL4

Size: 0.33 kilometers

Weight: 47 million tons (43 million metric tons)

Asteroid 2023 TL4, discovered in 2023, shows that it can immediately become one of the most potentially dangerous. Based on observations collected between October 8 and 19, 2023, astronomers estimate that 2023 TL4 has a 0.00055% chance - or 1 in 181,000 - of hitting Earth on October 10, 2119. If such an impact occurs, 2023 TL4 will release energy equivalent to the detonation of 7.5 billion tons of TNT.

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2007 FT3

Size: 0.34 kilometers

Weight: 54 million tons (49 million metric tons)

2007 FT3 is designated as a "lost asteroid" because astronomers have not seen it since 2007. Now the orbit of this object is not very constrained, but NASA predicts that the asteroid has a 0.0000096% - or 1 in 10 million - chance of colliding with us on March 3, 2030. The asteroid has a slightly lower probability of 0.0000087% - or 1 in 11.5 million - of colliding with Earth on October 5, 2024.

If such an impact were to occur in 2024 or 2030, FT3 would release energy equivalent to the detonation of 2.6 billion tons of TNT, enough to cause massive regional damage but not to trigger a global catastrophe.

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1979 XB

Size: 0.66 kilometers

Weight: 390 million tons (354 metric tons)

Another lost asteroid, 1979 XB, hasn't been seen by scientists for about 40 years, and so its orbit is also poorly understood. From what CNEOS scientists do know, the asteroid, which was first observed on December 11, 1979, has a 0.000055% - or 1 in 1.8 million - chance of colliding with Earth on December 14, 2113. Such a collision would release the same amount of energy as the detonation of 30 billion tons of TNT.

No longer dangerous: 99942 Apophis

Size: 0.34 kilometers

Mass: 27 million tons (24 metric tons)

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It's hard to talk about risky asteroids without mentioning 99942 Apophis. This asteroid - with an appropriately apocalyptic name that recalls Apep, the enemy of the ancient Egyptian sun god Ra - has been at the top of the risky asteroid table for almost two decades.

Discovered in June 2004, Apophis was quickly recognized as one of the most dangerous asteroids that could collide with Earth. However, that changed in 2021 when a radar surveillance campaign better constrained the asteroid's orbit. This made astronomers to conclude that the 340-meter-wide Apophis poses no danger to Earth for at least 100 years. It is now in the "Removed Objects" section of the Sentry Risk table.

This means that skywatchers will be able to observe Apophis during its close approach in 2029 when it passes within 32,000 km - closer than some satellites - with binoculars and telescopes and without fear that its return in 2036 and 2068 will endanger the planet.

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So what are the risks?

The thought of an asteroid falling is frightening, but all of the space rocks on this list are labeled "zero" or "white" on the Torino Impact Hazard Scale. The Turino scale, adopted by the International Astronomical Union in 1999, gives asteroids a number from 0 to 10, indicating both the risk of collision and the consequences of such an impact.

Level 0, the white zone, indicates zero risk of impact, or at least a risk so low as to be zero. This level applies not only to asteroids that miss the Earth but also to small objects from space that will burn up in the atmosphere and therefore pose no threat.

Levels 8 through 10, on the other hand, are in the red zone, representing asteroids that will definitely impact the Earth, with consequences ranging from localized destruction (level 8) and unprecedented regional destruction (level 9) to global climate catastrophe (level 10) that could threaten the future of civilization.

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Currently, there are no facilities in the Sentry Risk table that are approximately level 0. Bennu and 1950 DA do not have Torino ratings because their projected impact is more than 100 years in the future. According to NASA, "there is currently no known significant collision threat over the next hundred years or more."

Of course, there could still be potentially dangerous objects out there waiting to be discovered - indeed, thousands of potential "city killers" and even some "planet killers" could be hiding in the sunlight - which is why CNEOS is always vigilant in its search for near-Earth asteroids.

Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Trump rallies, known for their vitriol and violent rhetoric, became "joyful gatherings" of people there to enjoy music and food and see their preferred candidate speak. These crowds, who cheered suggestions of violence on others, were now, suddenly traumatized by it. Even as Trump was brought up to his feet his first words were "fight". The difference of course is that Trump is a "worthy" victim.

Trump started out his political career rousing crowds to cheer for his opponent to be jailed. He offered to pay the legal fees of someone at a rally if they attacked someone in the crowd who opposed Trumps views. He waxed nostalic for the days when someone like that would be "carried out on a stretcher"

When Biden's campaign bus was run off the road during the campaign, there was no condemnation of political violence on the right. Comments accompanying the video made excuses, blamed the Biden vehicles and even laughed and joked that the Trump supporters just merely escorting the bus to make sure it got there safe. There was no condemnation of the violence by the right.

Now llets talk about the insurrection.Trump followers not only justified their violent attack on the capital, which included chants of "Hang Mike Pence", the construction of a gallows, the brutal assault on capital police and threats against members of the house including house leader Nanci Pelosi, but they celebrated it. They depicted those who participated as patriots and those prosecuted as martyrs.

And what about when an attacker broke into Nancy Pelosis home, wanting to kidnap and possibly torture and kill her? The attacker finding, she wasn't home, brutally assaulted her husband with a hammer. What didn't right wing do? They cast disgusting, evidence-free dispersions on her husband insinuating that he was engaged in some kind of homosexual relationship with his attacker. In the comments under these videos are all kinds of conspiracy theories and complaints about how the police in San Francisco never arrest anyone but they are going to throw the book at this guy. And how there was a police cover up. But what you don't see are any condemnations of the attackers violence.

There is an unwavering consistency in these types of events. When someone on the right is attacked, people on the left condemn the bad act and say that violence is wrong. When someone on the left is attacked, the right laughs, mocks, justifies and cheers the attack, not once condemning it.

Today as all the right wing floods the media to condemn this attempted assassination of Trump, wringing their hands about "violent rhetoric" it feels dystopian. The right has the absolute ability to shut off their capacity to hold themselves to the same standard by which they judge others.

There are so many examples. The bullseye on a political opponents face, the violent video posted by a Republican member of Congress depicting the murder of democratic member of Congress, the constant hopeful talk on the right of a new civil war, in which they will be free to commit violent acts on whoever they deem to be "the enemy".

Reason for all this double standard is because the right sees its own as worthy victims. Those on the right are castt as good people victimized by leftists while the left are cast as those who must be punished or purged from society and therefore deserve what happens to them.

Rather than calling out this history of violent rhetoric and its natural result- real violence- the media says they want to "avoid a tit for tat" that will only lead to an "escalation" of rhetoric.

This of course is absolute nonsense. And if the media keeps bringing a pillow to a gun fight, they will only act as the best silencer for their own assassins.
PASADENA, CALIFORNIA -- In her career, Kaitlin Olson has shown a talent for comedy, as fans of the long-running Its Always Sunny in Philadelphia know, as well as for nuanced blends of humor and drama, as Olson demonstrates with her subtle portrayal of DJ Vance, daughter of Jean Smarts character in Hacks.

In the new ABC series, High Potential, Olsons ability to be both funny and vulnerable takes center stage as Morgan Gillory, a woman whos a mix of extraordinary gifts, and all-too-human complications.

In the show, inspired by a French series, Morgan is a single mother who works as a cleaning lady. She is also, as the pilot explains, high potential intellectual, with advanced cognitive abilities.

While Morgan is at work, cleaning a police office, she stumbles a case file, and, thanks to her gifts, instantly deduces that a woman the police think is a crime suspect is actually a victim.

Morgans gift -- or is it? -- helps a detective (played by Daniel Sunjata) and his boss (played by Judy Reyes) figure out the solution to a murder. Despite resistance from the detective, and Morgans misgivings, she agrees to use her abilities to help the police unravel mysteries.

In a recent panel at the Television Critics Association 2024 summer press tour at the Langham Huntington hotel in Pasadena, actors and members of the creative team, including creator and executive producer Drew Goddard (whose credits include screenplays for Cloverfield, The Martian, and more), talked about High Potential.

Olson, who was born in Portland and attended Tigard High School and the University of Oregon, said, I love comedy. It is one of my very favorite things to do. But Im a theater person. I come from a theater background. Ive done all kinds of stuff.

Of Morgan, Olson said the character is Very flawed, very mouthy, but added, this woman is very grounded. She is a very loving mother. Im a very loving mother. That wasnt so hard to jump into.

A reporter asked Olson if she felt there was a common thread in the characters youve been playing lately, who may be underestimated, and whether she felt like there was a parallel in her career.

Yes, Olson said. I love an underdog. I love a character who is so deeply insecure that they act out. When she was in first grade, Olson said, I just was a very insecure kid, though she always knew she wanted to act.

Then I discovered theater, but I was so shy that I never even attempted it, Olson said. I mean, in summer camps and stuff like that, but I didnt audition for a play at school until high school. And so there was this inner weird balance between I know I have this thing that I can do, but Im way too shy and insecure to be vulnerable enough to open that up for other people to shoot me down. So, thats always kind of been in there, so maybe thats a little bit why Im drawn to characters like that. I just also find a more layered character so much more interesting, with those complete opposites smashed into one person. I just like that.

High Potential premieres Tuesday, Sept. 17 on ABC. Episodes stream the following day on Hulu.

 Kristi Turnquist covers features and entertainment. Reach her at 503-221-8227, kturnquist@oregonian.com or @Kristiturnquist

Our journalism needs your support. Please become a subscriber today at OregonLive.com/subscribe
As I write this on July 9, we have endured nine nights of fireworks exploding in our local park, (Portlands fireworks ban remains in effect before, during and after July Fourth, June 24). This has interrupted much-needed sleep, stressed out neighborhood pets and veterans, and impacted wildlife. And who cleans up this mess? Not the pyromaniacs.

If this were one night we would groan and bear it, but seriously  nine nights? Some may call it fun or patriotism - a selfish form of it, if you ask me. I call it vandalism and dangerous. We live near Gabriel Park, and its obvious that this has become a gathering spot for knuckleheads.

All this in the middle of a heat wave, with fire danger increasing daily.

I have tried in vain to call the non-emergency number, which had hold times of more than 20 minutes. I tried to fill in an online report form which was not set up with fireworks in mind. Our neighbors to the north in Vancouver have a much better system in place, and friends there tell us it is extremely effective.

The city bans all forms of fireworks, with a minimum $500 fine. Clark County Emergency Services has a phone line in place for reporting violations, and a dedicated online form for reporting them. With the funds raised from the fines, I suspect that this program would pay for itself and then some. And fireworks are expensive! We can hardly feel sorry for those required to pay a fine.

Mary Anne Cassin, Portland

To read more letters to the editor, go to oregonlive.com/opinion.
In a social media post Saturday after an apparent assassination attempt, former President Donald Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

He wrote on his Truth Social platform that he knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Trump, 77, also thanked the Secret Service and other law endorsement for their rapid response. And he extended condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

Trump just released a statement pic.twitter.com/QxcV1efk4G  Hodgetwins (@hodgetwins) July 14, 2024

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead, he said.

President Joe Biden condemned the violence on Saturday night.
President Joe Biden was briefed on the shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally and released a statement Saturday evening condemning what occurred. He later made remarks to the media on live television.

Theres no place in America for this type of violence, President Joe Biden, who is running against Trump as the presumptive Democratic nominee, said in remarks. Its sick. Its sick.

The White House said Biden received an updated briefing from Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the United States Secretary Service, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall.

The White House released the following statement from Biden:

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the three men on Trumps shortlist for vice president, all quickly sent out statements expressing concern for the former president, with Rubio sharing an image taken as Trump was escorted off stage with his fist in the air and a streak of blood on his face along with the words God protected President Trump.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said in a statement on X that he had been briefed on the situation and Pennsylvania state police were on hand at the rally site.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, he said.
The shooter at former President Donald Trumps event was not an attendee at the rally and was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed, two officials told The Associated Press.

The officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation. Sources told the AP the shooting was being investigated as an apparent assassination attempt against Trump.

Here is the latest information from our investigation. We are grateful to the Secret Service team and our law enforcement partners for their swift action. Our thoughts go out to the families affected by this tragedy. pic.twitter.com/E8FazqtUVZ  Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) July 14, 2024

The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees such as Trump and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

He said the shooter was outside the rally grounds, but he didnt give additional information about where.

Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location where he was, but he was outside the grounds, and I think thats something that were going to have to figure out  how he got there, Goldinger told CNN, which reported the shooter was on a nearby roof.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the apparent shots began.

As Trump was talking, a popping sound was heard, and the former president put his right hand up to his right ear, as people in the stands behind him appeared to be shocked.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard and he crouched down. More shots are heard then.

Someone could be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as Secret Service agents tackled the former president. They piled atop him to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. A woman is heard screaming louder than the rest. Afterward, voices were heard saying shooters down several times, before someone asks are we good to move? and are we clear? Then, someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump could be heard on the video saying at least twice, Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes, with another voice heard saying, Ive got you sir.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word Fight twice his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of USA. USA. USA.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist. It took two minutes from the moment of the first shot for Trump to be placed in a waiting SUV.

His motorcade left the venue moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he is put into a vehicle.

Reporters covering the rally heard five or six shots ring out and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables.

After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled, but not panicked. An AP reporter at the scene reported the noise sounded like firecrackers at first or perhaps a car backfiring.

But then there were more shots. Panic set in as people realized what was happening. Shouts of Get down! rang through the crowd.

When it was clear the situation had been contained and that Trump would not be returning to speak, attendees started filing out of the venue. One man in an electric wheelchair got stuck on the field when his chairs battery died. Others tried to help him move.

Police soon told the people remaining to leave the venue and U.S. Secret Service agents told reporters to get out now. This is a live crime scene.

Two firefighters from nearby Steubenville, Ohio, who were at the rally told the AP that they helped people who appeared injured and heard bullets hitting broadcast speakers.

The bullets rattled around the grandstand, one hit the speaker tower and then chaos broke. We hit the ground and then the police converged into the grandstands, said Chris Takach.

The first thing I heard is a couple of cracks, Dave Sullivan said.

Sullivan said he saw one of the speakers get hit and bullets rattling and, we hit the deck.

He said once Secret Service and other authorities converged on Trump, he and Takach assisted two people who may have been shot in the grandstand and cleared a path to get them out of the way.

Just a sad day for America, Sullivan said.
In June, Ukraine imported 858,400 MWh of electricity, which is 6% more than in the whole of 2023. It is the largest monthly volume in the last 10 years. Most of the electricity was purchased in Hungary (42%), Slovakia and Romania (17% each).

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This is reported by DiXi Group with reference to Energy Map data. According to the results of June, the largest volume of electricity was imported from Hungary - 357,100 MWh, which is 42% of the total.

Another 297,000 MWh came from Slovakia and Romania (17% from each country) and 138,100 MWh (16%) from Poland. The least amount of electricity was purchased from Moldova - 66,200 MWh, or 8% of the monthly volume.

Compared to the previous month (448,200 MWh), imports almost doubled, and compared to June 2023 (43,700 MWh), they increased almost 20 times. There were no electricity exports in June.

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Also last month, Ukraine asked emergency assistance from Romania, Slovakia, and Poland for five days, and gave away surplus electricity on June 2 and 22 due to the inability to supply domestic consumers. In addition, for eight days in June, Ukraine provided assistance to Poland in the form of urgent reception of surplus electricity, receiving a total of more than 8,000 MWh of electricity.

Ukrenergo CEO Volodymyr Kudrytskyi complained that Ukraine was receiving less electricity from the EU due to increased consumption amid hot weather in Europe . Due to significant damage to generating and distribution capacities, Ukraine has introduced blackout schedules for more than a month, which have recently been extended to a full day.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!

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The spacious rooms of the newly-built Holgate Library were far from quiet on Saturday, its first day open to the public, as well over a 100 neighbors and families loudly explored the space.

But staff werent shushing the excited patrons who showed up to kick off the three-day celebration of the librarys opening  they were enthusiastically chatting with the people who turned out to see Multnomah Countys newest library, built with $27 million in funding from a November 2020 capital bond.
Two conservative federal judges in Texas have halted the Biden legislation from implementing new anti-bias preservations for LGBTQ students, preventing the rule from being enforced in the Republican-led state and a school district backed by a Christian legal rights organization.

Texas Judges Block LGBTQ Protections

On Thursday, U.S. District Judges Matthew Kacsmaryk in Amarillo and Reed O'Connor in Fort Worth released rulings that echoed former decisions by three other Republican-appointed judges in Kansas, Kentucky, and Louisiana, efficiently barring the managing in 14 more states.

The U.S. Department of Education's rule views the prohibition on discrimination "on the basis of sex" in Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 as also prohibiting bias based on sexual orientation and gender identity.

The Education Department referenced the 2020 Supreme Court decision in Bostock v. Clayton County, which ruled that Title VII's workplace bias prohibition includes protections for gay and transgender workers.

Courts regularly use interpretations of Title VII when analyzing Title IX, as both laws ban sex-based bias.

Donald Trump, aligning with Republican Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton and two University of Texas at Austin professors, determined that Title VII does not apply to Title IX.

He contends that a stringent interpretation of Title IX's text signifies its main goal was to avoid bias against women in public and higher education. He declared that the rule would need Texas schools to stop separating bathrooms, locker rooms, and other facilities by biological sex.

He stated that Title IX protects women in traditionally designated areas for men. In sharp contrast, the Final Rule allows men to enter those very Title IX spaces legally reserved for women.

He granted a preliminary injunction to stop the enforcement of the rule in Texas. Paxton commended the decision on the social media platform X, stating it stops the Education Department from "imposing radical 'transgender' ideology on Texas schools."

Read Also : Florida Files Lawsuit Against the Biden Administration to Block Regulation Regarding Gender Transition Treatments

O'Connor Blocks Rule in 11 Texas Schools

In a separate, nearly simultaneous decision, O'Connor, an appointee of Republican former President George W. Bush, blocked the rule's enforcement in 11 schools within the Carroll Independent School District in Texas.

O'Connor stated that the Final Rule threatens over fifty years of progress for women and girls achieved through Title IX. Furthermore, she noted that the Final Rule puts not only women and girls at risk but all students.

Lawyers from the conservative Christian legal group Alliance Defending Freedom, representing the district, had urged O'Connor to delay the rule's August 1 effective date, a measure the judge indicated might need to be applied nationwide.

O'Connor, who had earlier declared related guidance from the department invalid, postponed a decision on that issue and requested additional briefing by July 18 on how a stay would be implemented in this context.

The Education Department, in a statement, defended the rule as designed "to realize the Title IX statutory guarantee."

The cases in the U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Texas are State of Texas v. United States, No. 2:24-cv-00086, and Carroll Independent School District v. U.S. Department of Education, No. 4:24-cv-00461.
The health department of New York City said on Friday that two individuals living in a migrant shelter in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn, have been verified to have measles.

The cases have been connected to the Hall Street sanctum, indeed though the cause of the infection is still unknown. Health officers are tracing connections of all individualities who abided on the first floor of the shelter.

Health Department Initiates Contact Tracing and Quarantine Measures

Ashwin Vasan, Health Commissioner, said that the Health Department and Health Hospitals are working together to make sure that individuals who have been exposed admit the necessary assistance and resources.

The department is laboriously testing individuals with close contact to the infected and without vaccination records. Individuals lacking immunity must separate themselves for a period of 21 days.

Vaccinated individuals face a minimum threat from measles, a largely contagious viral respiratory illness.

Despite its high contagiousness, measles poses a low community threat in New York due to wide vaccination. It's important to note that measles can be avoided.

Getting vaccinated is the most effective way to avoid getting measles.Dr. Vasan stressed the significance of reaching a healthcare provider to admit the measles vaccine if you have not formerly been vaccinated.

NYC Migrant Shelter's Recent Measles Cases

City records show that there have been 11 reported cases of measles this time. Following a three-year period with no reported cases between 2020 and 2022, New York City endured only one case in the former year.

The health department of the megacity advises getting vaccinated as the best way to avert measles.

For complete protection, people need to get two shots of the MMR vaccine. Measles vaccination is needed for children attending academy, daycare, and pre-kindergarten in New York State, with university scholars demanding to show immunity starting in August 1990.

People are supposed protected if they were born previous to 1957, got two shots of the MMR vaccine, have had measles in the past, or have a lab test verifying immunity.

Read Also: Ohio Mother Dies Trying to Stop Car Theft with Son Inside

Measles Exposure and Prevention Guidance

Anyone concerned about possible exposure should reach out to their healthcare provider or a nearby clinic before seeking treatment to reduce further exposure threats.

In March, Dr. Demetre Daskalakis, who leads the National Center for Immunization and Respiratory Conditions at the CDC, mentioned that the adding number of measles cases nationwide should serve as an exemplary signal rather than bring about fear.

Despite the United States declaring measles wiped out in 2000, the reemergence of outbreaks has been attributed to the rise of anti-vaccination movements.

In 2019, a major measles outbreak impacted Orthodox Jewish communities in Brooklyn and Rockland County, New York, latterly extending to Michigan, leading to the largest countrywide outbreak since 1992, with 605 cases verified in New York City.

There was little exertion at the Clinton Hill sanctum on Saturday, with residers coming and going while being observed by two guards.

Earl Sweeney, a worker at a drawing company that cleans the shelter, participated his worries about the measles outbreak even though he'd taken the vaccination. He observed that the entire first bottom is under counter blockade.

Sweeney, who generally cleans the first and second floors, declined to work on the quarantined bottom due to worries about his family's well- being. Signs of measles correspond of high body temperature, coughing, nasal congestion, teary eyes, and a skin eruption.

The contagious period ranges from four days prior to the onset of the rash to four days following. Symptoms generally show up between 7 and 21 days after exposure, with the average manifestation being around 10 to 12 days.

Those who don't have immunity should take preventative conduct similar to getting the MMR vaccine within 72 hours of coming into contact or getting vulnerable globulin within six days. To learn further about measles, check out the New York Department of Health website.
A Utah teenager, along with her two younger relatives, who disappeared in Mexico around two weeks ago, have been discovered unharmed.

Authorities apprehended a man linked to the suspected abduction, relieving the worry of their families.

Girls Located in Mexico After Disappearance

The missing Utah teenager was found safe along with her younger cousins who also disappeared the same time as her.

The FBI stated late Friday night that Elizabeth "Ely" Gonzalez was located unharmed in Mexico. Gonzalez went missing on June 30 while visiting her 4 and 6-year-old cousins in Mexico City.

According to Amber Alerts issued in Mexico, the three individuals were recently spotted in the San Juan Tlihuaca neighborhood of Azcapotzalco, a borough in Mexico City.

Mexican officials found the girls with Antonio Moreno in Veracruz at approximately 9:30 p.m. on Friday. Officials reported that Moreno, who is now confronted with kidnapping charges, was present with the girls at the time of their discovery.

Family's Agony and Relief

Alma Soreque, who is Gonzalez's mother, mentioned to KTVX-TV that she had talked to her daughter the morning she went missing.

Later on the same day, family members told her that Gonzalez had left to walk to a nearby convenience store but didn't come back. Police authorities believe that an adult forced Gonzalez and her cousins to enter a taxi when they went missing.

Family members felt a great sense of relief when they found out the girls were safe. Gonzalez's relatives had been eagerly anticipating updates ever since she and her cousins disappeared.

The FBI announced that Antonio Moreno has a federal arrest warrant for offenses linked to Gonzalez's vanish, such as abduction.

Moreno, recognized as Gonzalez's uncle and the biological parent of her two young cousins, will be sent back to the United States to confront these accusations.

Moreno, who resided in Kaysville, Utah, suddenly went to Mexico City on June 30, the day the girls vanished. It is thought that he coerced the girls to enter a taxi, as seen in surveillance video.

The FBI had previously stated their belief that a grown-up was involved in the disappearance of the girls. While staying with her grandmother in Mexico City, Gonzalez, who is from Ogden, Utah, disappeared.

At that moment, she was accompanied by her two cousins who reside in Mexico. The extradition process for Moreno back to the United States has started, and he is anticipated to be charged with multiple offenses linked to the abduction of his niece and daughters.

Read Also: Missing American Teen Found Safe After Leaving Cruise Ship in Germany

Community Reactions To Alleged Kidnapping

Finding the missing 14-year-old and her cousins has brought great relief to both their families and the wider community. Efforts to swiftly advance Moreno's accountability are underway.

The families of the girls have shown appreciation for the help they received during the frightening experience and are now concentrating on ensuring their loved ones return safely and recover.

The FBI is still looking into the details of the kidnapping and collaborating with Mexican officials to make sure justice is achieved.
When I spoke at Denton UU on the Summer Solstice, I gave a three-line summary of one of the greatest stories of ancient Egypt: how Set murdered his brother Osiris, how Isis restored Osiris to life, and how Horus battled Set for the throne of Egypt and won. Weve told this story numerous times, including a ritual dramatization at the largest public park in Dallas in 2009.

From this story you might assume that Set is an evil deity, or even a God of evil. Some have speculated that Set is a proto-Satan, but even though they were both first known in the Near East, their mythologies are not related.

In later stories Set fought alongside Ra every night, as the Sun God made his way through the Underworld so he could rise again in this world the next morning. Whatever Set may be, he is not evil.

This is also a reminder that our ancient ancestors understood that myths are stories people tell to help themselves understand the world and their place in it. They are not history, they were never understood as history, and they were most definitely never intended to be read literally.

What can we learn from these stories, and from our own experiences?

Set is a God of the Desert

Osiris was the God of the black land  the narrow strip of fertile land next to the Nile River, where the people lived and grew their crops. Set was the God of the red land  the desert, a place that is inhospitable to humans and most other mammals. Is it any wonder Set was jealous of Osiris?

But the desert has its place in the diversity of Nature. There are plants and animals who call it home. The desert is beautiful in its own way and we can visit there, if were responsible and respectful.

If were not responsible and respectful, the desert can kill us.

That doesnt mean the God of the Desert is evil. It does mean the God of the Desert is not primarily concerned with the wellbeing of humans who act like theyre the center of the universe.

Set is a God of Chaos

Much of Egyptian worship  and mundane life  was centered around maintaining Maat, personified by the Goddess of Order and Justice, and of doing things the right way. The Egyptians did a pretty good job of that, considering that the Kingdom of Egypt lasted for 4000 years. You cant do that any place, especially in a place where the boundaries between life and death are so sharp, unless theres a constant effort to maintain order.

Set is a God of Chaos, of what happens when you stop maintaining the boundaries and the irrigation channels. You wake up and all of a sudden the desert has taken over your fields. Or when, for the third year in a row, the floods of the Nile are less than normal and youre running out of stored grain.

Those of you who know me know that Im very fond of order. Perhaps too fond, but thats another post for another time (and probably for my private journal, not for the blog). But even I know this much:

Chaos is necessary

Chaos is necessary

The phrase military precision exists because armies around the world train constantly, following precise regulations, processes, and procedures. This level of discipline is necessary so that when people are shooting at you and trying to blow you up, you dont have to think. You just have to do what youve done a thousand times.

In battle, a simple mistake that otherwise is no big deal can get you and your fellow soldiers killed. Absolute order is necessary to survive the absolute chaos of war.

But order requires constant vigilance. And constant vigilance is tiring. Exhausting.

More than that, excessive order can turn into stagnation. You do things the same way time after time after time, because you know they work. And then you look up and the world has moved on and youre stuck in the past. Youre driving a Model T in a Toyota world. Youre using a rotary phone in an iPhone world.

Youve mistaken ancient cultural norms for divine truth, or youre telling people to live by sexual morals that may have made sense when there were 200 million people on Earth but are unhelpful and unnecessary with 8 billion.

Chaos disrupts stagnation. Chaos tears down the old and makes space for the new. Chaos removes people whove gotten comfortable in places of power, whove forgotten that their job not to rule but to serve.

Chaos is necessary.

Chaos harms those dependent on the current order

As the memes remind us, good doesnt mean nice. In this case necessary doesnt mean pleasant.

The current order  in whatever context is relevant  exists because its beneficial to some. Many times thats the rich and powerful. But not always, and not in all ways.

I have some friends who are anarcho-primitivists. They believe the best thing for humanity is for modern society to crumble and for us to return an ultra-low-tech lifestyle. But doing away with technology and industry and all it brings is one thing if youre young and healthy. Its quite another if youre old and sick, or if youre dependent on insulin or other modern drugs to stay alive.

Which is to say, if youre advocating for chaos, make sure you have a plan to take of those whose lives are unduly disrupted.

And if youre dependent on vulnerable systems, make sure you have a plan for how youre going to take care of yourself if those systems are no longer functioning.

Chaos presents opportunities

Opportunity is the benefit of chaos.

When systems crumble, they open spaces where those who were previously excluded can step in, fill a need, and benefit from it. They create opportunities.

Opportunities alone accomplish nothing. They must be seized, assessed, and filled. They require work. Most times lots of work. They favor those who are aggressive, those who already have some skills and resources. Mainly those who are paying attention. Chaos-based opportunities are not distributed evenly and they rarely come with an invitation.

But for those who will see them and can respond to them, they can be life-changing.

Chaos is part of Tower Time

The Tarot card that best embodies chaos it not the Wheel of Fortune. Thats the card of randomness  and life is far more random than we like to admit. Rather, the card that embodies chaos is The Tower.

Most decks  including Waite-Smith, the most commonly used deck  show a tower struck by lightning. Its now on fire and those who were in high places are falling, likely to their deaths. The Tower was built on a weak foundation and so it could not withstand the storm. The old is falling away to make room for the new.

But theres a lot that has to happen in between the lightning strike and the opening of the brand new mixed use development with plenty of affordable housing were going to build in its place.

That is what were going to build, isnt it?

I wrote about Tower Time two weeks ago  Im not going to repeat myself here. I am going to say that the chaos were all seeing and experiencing right now is part of that phenomenon.

We have to get through Tower Time  and its not going to be over quickly. We have to take care of ourselves and we have to take care of each other. We have to clear out the rubble and begin the process of building something to replace The Tower.

And if were wise, we will keep our eyes, ears, and other senses open for the opportunities that the chaos of Tower Time will place in front of us.

The divinity of Set

There are a million and one Gods  we cannot worship them all. I look up from my writing and I see statues of Isis and Thoth. Cernunnos and the Morrigan keep me plenty busy. Right now Im getting ready to lead a ritual in honor of Lugh Lamhfada (and in honor of his foster mother Tailtiu) the first Saturday in August.

I had to borrow the statue of Set you see in these pictures. Hes not someone I have a close relationship with, or really, any relationship at all.

But a God of inhospitable places and a God of chaos is a God nonetheless.

In these times of chaos, Set reminds us to do what must be done, whether we live in the black land or in the red land.

And sometimes, he brings opportunities.
Ga Mantse, Nii Tackie Teiko Tsuru II, has expressed optimism for Accra's revitalisation, stressing the importance of resident participation in maintaining a clean and healthy city.



He made this statement during an inspection tour of the Homowo clean-up campaign's second phase on Saturday, July 13, which covered areas such as Makola, Tudu, Rawlings Park, CMB, and the central business district (CBD) of Accra.



I have a firm belief that Accra will rise and shine again, adding that cleanliness in next to godliness, he stressed.



King Teiko Tsuru II was joined by senior officials from the Greater Accra Regional Coordinating Council (GARCC), Asafoatsemei, Asafoanyemei, and Environmental Health Officers on the inspection tour.



It's a pleasure to walk on these streets, knowing they're now safe and clean," he remarked, beaming with delight, as he addressed participants during the exercise.



The Ga Mantse assured that the exercise will be sustained beyond the Homowo festivities, vowing to continue the clean-up efforts and lead by example in the Homowo clean-up initiative.



"We will ensure that this exercise goes beyond the Homowo celebrations and becomes a regular feature in our community," he said.



He, however, cautioned that the Special Task Force will be patrolling in Accra to ensure the city remains clean.



"Those who will be found flouting the sanitation by-laws will be dragged to the sanitation court and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent," Nii Teiko Tsuru II warned.



The Ga Mantse also used the opportunity to advise Ghanaians to ensure that "we all play our part as citizens to ensure a peaceful, free, and fair poll on December 7".



The 5-hour exercise was led by a dedicated team of Asafoatsemei, Asafoanymei, and environmental health officers, who form the Special Task Force and Zoomlion.



Zoomlion provided the necessary resources, including garbage trucks, personnel, and equipment.



The Chief Operating Officer for the Environment and Sanitation Cluster of Jospong Group of Companies (JGC), Mrs. Florence Larbi, and the Chief Corporate Communication Officer, JGC, Madam Sophia Kudjordim both participated in the exercise.



Security personnel from the Ghana Police Service and Ghana Armed Forces ensured security and compliance.



The clean-up team worked tirelessly to ensure that the streets and surroundings within the CBD of Accra were thoroughly cleaned, leaving the areas spotless and hygienic.



The Director of Communications and Corporate Affairs of Zoomlion, Madam Emma Adwoa Appiaa Osei-Duah, encouraged, especially the traders, hawkers, and shop owners, to take active part in the exercise for their own safety.



According to her, unsanitary conditions bring about diseases that can affect them and people who patronise their goods and services.



She urged the metropolitan, municipal, and district assemblies (MMDAs) to enforce the sanitation by-laws to ensure cleanliness in Accra.



The success of the exercise was a testament to the power of community spirit and collective action, inspiring a cleaner and healthier Accra for all.









Source: Peacefmonline.com









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This year's BOMA of Africa, a joint initiative by AUDA-NEPAD and AfroChampions, is set to take place at the Kempinski Hotel in Accra, Ghana. The landmark event highlighting Africa's strides toward the ambitious Agenda 2063 will take place on July 20th, 2024, from 10:00 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. GMT.



The event, which will be live on Zoom, will occur on the sidelines of the African Union's 6th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting to take place in Ghanas capital.



Under the theme "From the Africa We Want to the Africa We Build," the 2024 edition of BOMA of Africa will celebrate the radical ideas and actions driving Africa forward. This festival of innovation and unity will feature debates, discussions, and announcements of groundbreaking initiatives that exemplify the milestones of African integration and development.



The BOMA of Africa has become a premier platform for showcasing the continent's most inspirational achievements in unity and integration. Convened at the highest level, the event aims to move beyond discussions to concrete actions, inspiring Africans across various fields such as science, technology, education, the creative arts, and entrepreneurship.



AUDA-NEPAD and AfroChampions, alongside other strategic partners, have hosted this annual event during African Integration Week since 2019. This year's BOMA will align with the Mid-Year Coordination Meeting, further cementing its significance on the continent's commemorative calendar.



In a world marked by geopolitical shifts, technological advancements, conflicts, and economic turbulence, Africa's strategic blueprint, Agenda 2063, has become urgent and necessary. The BOMA of Africa serves as a high point for showcasing and celebrating strategic developments on this roadmap, providing a platform to mobilize support for peace, security, and development.



AUDA-NEPAD's pivotal role in implementing Agenda 2063 is underscored by its co-hosting of the 2024 BOMA with AfroChampions. This collaboration demonstrates a deep commitment to mobilizing the continent for significant action and sustained progress.



The 2024 BOMA of Africa aims to:



1. Showcase major projects and initiatives shaping Africa's emergence as a global force, such as AUDA-NEPAD's Energize Africa, the Programme for Infrastructure Development in Africa (PIDA), and the Agenda 2063 Dashboard.



2. Present the 2nd Sankoree lecture by an eminent international change-maker, addressing Africa's positioning in the global system.

3. Introduce the maiden 2024 Sankoree Awards, celebrating leaders who have advanced Africa's integration.



4. Generate high-quality policy and resource mobilization inputs for artificial intelligence, biomedical innovation, and digital trade.



5. Validate the trillion-dollar framework for supporting SMEs, value chain enablers, and infrastructure developers through innovative financing mechanisms.



6. Strengthen multi-stakeholder partnerships for regulatory and policy harmonization, supporting AfCFTA and PIDA.



BOMA 2024 will honor distinguished leaders whose visionary efforts have advanced regional integration and AUDA-NEPAD's mission.



Among the honorees are H.E. Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, President of the Arab Republic of Egypt; H.E. Paul Kagame, President of the Republic of Rwanda; H.E. Macky Sall, Former President of the Republic of Senegal; Madame Nkosazana Dlamini Zuma, Former Chairperson of the African Union Commission; and Mr. Gervais Koffi Djondo, Co-founder and former Chairman of EcoBank, Founding President of ASKY Airlines.



The 2024 BOMA of Africa is more than an event; it is a strategic milestone on the path to achieving the Africa We Want. AUDA-NEPAD and AfroChampions reaffirm their unwavering commitment to the goals of Agenda 2063, setting a precedent for accountability, innovation, and unity across the continent.



This year's theme, "From the Africa We Want to the Africa We Build," encapsulates the essence of Africas journey. Through focused discussions on health, wealth creation, development financing, and governance, BOMA 2024 aims to ignite new momentum towards realizing Africa's continental aspirations. By spotlighting major projects and initiatives, the event fosters a spirit of collaboration and determination.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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The Chiefs and people of Nawuri and Nchumuru traditional area have commended Vice President and flagbearer of the NPP, Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, for his role in ensuring development in the area.



Welcoming Dr. Bawumia to Kpandai Friday morning during his campaign tour of the area, Paramount Chiefs of the two traditional area, in a statement, said Vice President Bawumia has excelled in assisting President Akuf-Addo.



They further said Dr. Bawumia has made a significant impact in the area in terms of development.



"The people of Kpandai are proud of you for the role you have played as Vice President in helping His Excellency to implement policies that address inequalities in the country, the Chiefs told Dr. Bawumia.



They added; "Your administration has demonstrated to the people of Kpandai that equality is a hallmark to you.'



The Chiefs also stressed that his mandate as Vice President 'has brought significant development in the Kpandai district".



"The free Senior High School policy is the biggest social intervention this country has ever had. This has brought about an increase in secondary education enrollment in the history of this country.



Kpandai has received a lot of development across the district in education, health, agriculture, among others. Kpandai senior high school has two new storey class room blocks and over 7000 furniture and other classroom blocks across the district.



"On health, Kpandai is also benefitting from the Agenda 111 Hospital which is about 65% complete, and a number of chips compound across the district.'



"In agriculture, Kpandai also benefitted from the one district one factory, water harvesting rice field at Lonto and Jangbai. On peace and security, the government has put up a district magistrate court building, a one storey police office and a district fore office in KpandaiOn the part of electricity, the District has over 95% coverage, just to mention a few."



The Chiefs however requested an improvement in their road networks, especially the road linking Kpandai to Krachi as well as improved water system to meet the growing population of the area.



The Chiefs wished Dr. Bawumia well and assured him of their unflinching support.



"Continue to be who we have known you to be and your humility will send you far. Concentrate on your 70 point vision for the country. Dr, it is possible.



"We want to thank you and assure you that, we as a people, will demonstrate that the breaking of the 8 is possible."

Source: Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Russia has confirmed the deaths of businessman Igor Kotelnikov and Defense Ministry official Magomed Khandayev, both involved in a corruption case. They were also both linked to the former deputy of ex-Minister Sergei Shoigu, the arrested Timur Ivanov.

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The former was an accused and was held in solitary confinement in a pre-trial detention center, and the latter was a witness. They died a day apart. This was reported by the Institute for the Study of War (ISW), citing data provided by the Russian media.

The propagandists reported that 52-year-old businessman Igor Kotelnikov, accused of bribing senior officials of the Russian Defense Ministry, died of heart failure in a pre-trial detention center in Moscow on July 8.

A Russian insider source claimed that officers of the Russian Federal Security Service "tried to force" him to testify against Ivanov and other unnamed defense officials. He was said to have fallen ill in solitary confinement.

At the same time, a blogger affiliated with the Wagner PMC said that Kotelnikov had agreed with the FSB military counterintelligence to testify against Ivanov, and now he had "suddenly" died.

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According to the Kremlin media, the next day, July 9, 62-year-old Magomed Khandayev, head of the Defense Ministry's State Expertise Department, also died in Moscow of unspecified causes.

He was a former subordinate of Ivanov. The Russian authorities interrogated him as a witness in his case but did not bring any criminal charges or send him to prison.

ISW did not comment on the possible causes of the mysterious deaths of the Russian businessman and official. They only emphasized their connection with Ivanov, who, according to Russian investigators, conspired with third parties to receive bribes "in the form of providing property services during contracting and subcontracting for the needs of the Ministry of Defense."

"Ivanov was arrested on April 24, 2024, on charges of taking bribes, and his arrest was the first arrest in a long-running large-scale removal of Russian defense officials," the analysts reminded.

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Earlier, Russian investigators began analyzing Ivanov's telephone conversations. Several new examinations were ordered in his case. Russian investigators began to study the documents and electronic media seized during the searches and were waiting for a response to the FSB's requests.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
A former General Secretary of the Peoples National Convention (PNC) and a Social Commentator, Atik Mohammed, has described NAPOs apology as an after-thought.



Atik Mohammed opined that, the apology came rather late, adding that, the outgoing Energy Ministers subsequent justifications of the assertions that President Akufo-Addo has received the most achievements, an enviable feat that, not even Ghanas first President could achieve.



On Tuesday, July 9, 2024, the Manhyia South lawmaker, during his unveiling at the Jubilee Park in Kumasi, said, Since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumah... no President has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



NAPOs statement appeared denigrating in the eyes and minds of many people who felt that the statement was an unfortunate one.



However, NAPO, during his visit to Wassa after the inauguration, reiterated his assertion, adding that, he made the statement without mincing words.



In an apology letter dated 12th July, 2024, NAPO said, My statement last Tuesday, 9th July, in Kumasi on the performance of President Akufo Addo has elicited varied reactions."



"The statements reflects my personal opinion about President Akufo-Addos impact relative to the other Presidents we have had."



"I wish to emphasise that I never meant to disrespect our former President, Dr. Kwame Nkrumah, or any of our former heads of state, including my own grand Uncle and mentor, Mr. John Agyekum Kufuor.



However, Atik Mohammed posits that, The apology is an after-thought. When he went to the Western-north region, he repeated the same thing. The apology should have come immediately after the event but if an event comes before your apology, then you can say it is an after-thought.



Between the event and the apology, something happened which is exposing and creating an impression of insincerity because he attempted to rationalise what he said; but he should redeem himself.

Source: Kobina Darlington/peacefmonline.com









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Ex-PNC General Secretary, Atik Mohammed has slammed Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, NPP Running Mate, over his comment that no President in the history of Ghana has outperformed President Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



Dr. Matthew Opoku Prempeh, addressing a charged crowd of NPP members and supporters while being unveiled publicly on Tuesday, July 9, in Kumasi asserted that President Akufo-Addo is the best ever.



He said; Since independence from 1957 till today, weve not had any president that has helped Ghana like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo. I say from 1957 till today, you can bring your Kwame Nkrumahno President has protected Ghana and moved the country forward like Nana Addo Dankwa Akufo-Addo.



But to Atik, this is a factually inaccurate statement.



To him, Dr. Opoku Prempehs remark is flawed stressing the fact is Nana Addos administration is a worse administration as compared to some previous governments.



Lets not even extend it to the Nkrumah era; thats even too far. Lets take 1992; can you say Akufo-Addo is the best performing President since 1992?, he questioned and maintained that Dr. Opoku Prempehs assertions cannot be; its not true!



Atik made these submissions on Peace FM's "Kokrokoo" morning show.

Source: Ameyaw Adu Gyamfi/Peacefmonline.com/Ghana









Disclaimer : Opinions expressed here are those of the writers and do not reflect those of Peacefmonline.com. Peacefmonline.com accepts no responsibility legal or otherwise for their accuracy of content. Please report any inappropriate content to us, and we will evaluate it as a matter of priority.

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Former President Donald Trump is set to officially become the Republican nominee for president, and the Butler, Pa. rally where he was injured during a shooting was his last before the convention was set to begin.

Heres what we know about the convention, Trumps next stop on the campaign trail.

When is the Republican National Convention?

The Republican National Convention begins Monday and runs through Thursday.

Where is the Republican National Convention being held?

This years convention is being held in Milwaukee, Wisconsin at the Fiserv Forum. Officials estimate that more than 50,000 will attend.

When will Trump be officially nominated?

Trumps acceptance speech is expected to be broadcast in prime time before the end of the convention. The exact day is not known, but tends to be toward the end of the convention.

Has Trump named a vice president candidate?

He has not. It was expected to be brought up during Saturdays rally that was derailed by the shooting.

What is Wisconsins reaction to the shooting?

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers posted on X, formerly known as Twitter, that he and his staff were in close communication with the RNC regarding security.

What is the Republican National Conventions reaction to the shooting?

The convention has not issued a response at this time, choosing to retweet a statement from the Trump campaign that was posted after the shooting.
Butler County District Attorney Richard A. Goldinger confirmed to multiple news sources that former President Donald Trump was grazed by gunfire at a rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday.

Goldinger added that the shooter was dead, as well as one person in the audience.

The news was reported by ABC, the Associated Press, the Washington Post, and WTAE in Pittsburgh, among other sources.

No information was available about the audience member who was shot or the shooter at this time.

Butler county district attorney Richard Goldinger tells me Trump was grazed by gunfire but is safe. An audience member was killed and the shooter is dead. Another person is in serious condition, the prosecutor said.  Meryl Kornfield (@MerylKornfield) July 13, 2024

The Associated Press reported that Trump grabbed his ear as the first shot was fired, saying Oh. He crouched down and agents tackled him as someone yelled, Get down, get down, get down, get down!

Trump ducked behind the riser as the bangs continue, starting to give him medical attention. The crowd cheered when he rose with blood on his face and pumped his fist, before being whisked away from the rally.

Trumps campaign said in a statement after he was rushed off stage that he was fine and being checked out.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service echoed in its own statement that the former President is safe. The New York Times reported that Trump was flown to a hospital via a medical helicopter.

Dave McCormick, who is running against U.S. Sen. Bob Casey for Caseys seat this fall, said that he was in the front row when the shots were fired.

All the sudden shots started to crack, someone behind me appears to have been shot, McCormick told Politico. Theres lots of blood, and then the Secret Service were all over President Trump.

Gov. Josh Shapiro posted that he had been briefed and Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, he wrote.

Casey posted that he is monitoring the situation as well and has offered his support to state police.

Pray for President Trump, U.S. Rep. Scott Perry posted on X, formerly known as Twitter. Pray for America.

The rally was Trumps final one before the Republican National Convention begins Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
By DARLENE SUPERVILLE and CHRISTINA A. CASSIDY, The Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP)  Before Saturdays apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting U.S. presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

A look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred since the nations founding in 1776:

The death of Lincoln, circa 1865. Abraham Lincolns body was removed from Fords Theater and taken across the street to the Petersons boarding house. Secretary of War Stanton stands to the right of the bed, holding papers behind his back. Courtesy of the Onondaga Historical AssociationCourtesy of the Onondaga Histori

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, the 16th president

Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington.

Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theater for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning. His support for Black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing.

Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

Lincoln was succeeded by Vice President Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot and killed on April 26, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

A crowd gathered on September 6, 1881 as a train brought President James A. Garfield, to the Francklyn Cottage in Long Branch as he struggled to recover from an assassin's bullet.

JAMES GARFIELD, the 20th president

Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a train station in Washington on July 2, 1881, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfields chest using a device he designed specifically for the president. The mortally wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Garfield was succeeded by Vice President Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

President William McKinley and his cabinet. (Library of Congress)

WILLIAM McKINLEY, the 25th president

McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Doctors had expected McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds.

McKinley died on Sept. 14, 1901, six months after opening his second term.

He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an unemployed, 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted to the shooting. Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on Oct. 29, 1901.

President Franklin Roosevelt a month after surviving an assassination attempt in 1933. Courtesy of the Library of CongressCourtesy of the Library of Congress

FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, the 32nd president

Roosevelt, at the time the president-elect, had just given a speech in Miami from the back of an open car when gunshots rang out.

Roosevelt was not injured in the February 1933 shooting that killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak.

Guiseppe Zangara was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to death.

- President Harry S. Truman. Post-Standard File PhotoPost-Standard File Photo

HARRY S. TRUMAN, the 33rd president

Truman was staying at Blair House, across the street from the White House, in November 1950 when two gunmen broke in.

Truman was not injured, but a White House policeman and one of the assailants were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House policemen were wounded.

Oscar Callazo was arrested and sentenced to death. In 1952, Truman commuted the sentence to life in prison. He was released from prison in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter.

FILE - President John F. Kennedy waves from his car in a motorcade approximately one minute before he was shot, Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas. Riding with President Kennedy are first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, right, Nellie Connally, second from left, and her husband, Texas Gov. John Connally, far left. (AP Photo/Jim Altgens, File)AP

JOHN F. KENNEDY, the 35th president

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

He was succeeded by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room aboard Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an airplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a snipers perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

U.S. Secret Service agents put handcuffs on Lynette Fromme after she allegedly pointed a gun at President Gerald Ford as he walked from his hotel to the State Capitol building in Sacramento, Ca., on Sept. 5, 1975. (AP Photo)

GERALD FORD, the 38th president

Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Ford was on his way to a meeting with Californias governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at Ford. The gun wasnt fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

Secret Service agent Timothy J. McCarthy, foreground, Washington policeman, Thomas K. Delehanty, center, and presidential Press Secretary, James Brady, background, lie wounded on a street outside a Washington hotel after shots were fired at U.S. President Reagan on March 30, 1981. McCarthy threw himself into the line of fire and Delehanty, on crowd control duty, was standing close to the gunman, John Warnock Hinckley, Jr., who pushed a pistol through a cluster of bystanders and fired six shots. Police and secret service subdue the gunman in the background. (AP Photo/Ron Edmonds)AP

RONALD REAGAN, the 40th president

Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

U.S. President George W. Bush prepares to speak to supporters in Freedom Square in Tbilisi, Georgia in a Tuesday, May 10, 2005 photo. A grenade hurled in a crowd during the speech was live and considered a threat against the president, though it failed to explode because of a malfunction, the FBI said Wednesday, May 18, 2005. (AP Photo/Pablo Martinez Monsivais, File)ASSOCIATED PRESS

GEORGE W. BUSH, the 43rd president

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Theodore Roosevelt was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT, presidential candidate

The former president was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

Roosevelt had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in Roosevelts pocket apparently blunted the bullets impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the remainder of his life in mental hospitals.

Sen. Robert F. Kennedy addresses a throng of supporters in the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles early in the morning of June 5, 1968, following his victory in the previous day's California primary election. A moment later he turned into a hotel kitchen corridor and was critically wounded. His wife, Ethel, is just behind him. (AP Photo/Dick Strobel)AP

ROBERT F. KENNEDY, presidential candidate

Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

George Wallace shot in Maryland in 1972.File

GEORGE C. WALLACE, presidential candidate

Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.
By JILL COLVIN, COLLEEN LONG, JULIE CARR SMYTH, ERIC TUCKER and MICHELLE L. PRICE, The Associated Press

BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  The shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination of the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, law enforcement officials say.

Law enforcement officials said the shooter was outside the Trump rally and was killed by the U.S. Secret Service. A local prosecutor said at least one attendee also is dead.

Two officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation.

They said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

The officials said the shooter was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)AP

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the shots began.

As Trump was talking, a popping sound was heard, and the former president put his right hand up to his right ear, as people in the stands behind him looked shocked.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard and he crouched down. More shots are heard then.

Several sources have said the shooter was on a building near the rally.

Someone could be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents tackled the former president. They piled atop him to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. A woman is heard screaming louder than the rest.

Afterward, voices were heard saying shooters down several times, before someone asks are we good to move? and are we clear? Then, someone orders Lets move. He could be heard on the video saying at least twice, Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes, with another voice heard saying, Ive got you, sir.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump waves from the stage as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)AP

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word Fight twice to his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of USA. USA. USA.

The crowd cheered as he got back up.

His motorcade left the venue moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he is put into a vehicle.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former president is safe.
WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former President Donald Trump at a rally Saturday in Pennsylvania, a monumental failure of one of the agencys core duties.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking. A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows Crooks body lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trumps rally was held. A different image shows Crooks is wearing a gray T-shirt with a black American flag on the right arm and has a bloody wound to his head.

The roof was less than 150 meters (164 yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-style rifle, like that of the gunman at the Trump rally, is the semiautomatic civilian version of the military M16.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)AP

The FBI on Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden said Sunday hes directed an independent review of the national security at the rally. Biden said he has also directed the U.S. Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

Biden urged Americans not to make assumptions about the motive of the shooter. He said investigators are working swiftly to investigate the attack.

Unity is the most elusive goal of all, he said, but nothing is more important than that right now.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

Rep. Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican who chairs the House Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Mayorkas on Sunday raising questions about the shooting and demanding information about the former presidents Secret Service protection.

The seriousness of this security failure and chilling moment in our nations history cannot be understated, Green wrote.

The Secret Service did not have a speaker at a news conference Saturday night where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

Members of the Secret Services counter-sniper team and counterassault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

The heavily armed counterassault team, whose Secret Service code name is Hawkeye, is responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting. The counter-sniper team, known by the code name Hercules, uses long-range binoculars and is equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting. Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the departments most vital priorities, he said.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, Mayorkas said. We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Green also noted reports that the Secret Service had rebuffed requests from the Trump campaign for additional security. A spokesman for the Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, said on X Sunday that those allegations were absolutely false and that they had added resources and technology as the campaigns travel increased.

Green said he would be talking with Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on Sunday.

James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who is the House Oversight Committee chairman, said he contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and called on Cheatle to appear for a hearing. Comer said his committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Political violence in all forms is un-American and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers, Comer said in a statement.

U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat, called for investigating security failures at the rally.

The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them, especially when those failures have implications for the nation, Torres said.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, posted on X that he and his staff are in contact with security planning coordinators ahead of the Republican National Convention set to begin Monday in Milwaukee. We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind  that is not who we are as Americans, Evers said.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Garland said in a statement. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy.
NEW YORK, N.Y.  In the wake of the Pennsylvania assassination attempt against former President Donald J. Trump Saturday, New York City will have an increased police presence at Trump Tower and other Manhattan locations, according to the Gothamist.

Deputy Mayor Fabien Levy announced the boosted police presence on the social media site X.

.@NYCMayor has been briefed on the incident involving former President Trump in Pennsylvania & continues to get updates.



Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD will be increasing its presence across the city, including at Trump Tower, 40 Wall Street, Foley Square, & City Hall.  Fabien Levy (@Fabien_Levy) July 13, 2024

Levy said on the platform that the increased police presence is out of an abundance of caution and is not in connection to any specific threat.

There is no known connection between the incident at the Pennsylvania rally and New York City.

Trump Tower, the Trump-owned 40 Wall St., Foley Square and City Hall are among the sites where extra police officers will be deployed, Levy said.

In a separate post on X, Mayor Eric Adams called the incident horrific.

Sending my prayers to former President Trump, his family, and everyone who was at todays event, Adams said. Political violence has no place in this country.

The events that unfolded at todays rally in Pennsylvania are horrific.



Sending my prayers to former President Trump, his family, and everyone who was at todays event.



Political violence has no place in this country.



Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD is surging  Mayor Eric Adams (@NYCMayor) July 13, 2024

Authorities say Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, opened fire at the rally before being killed by Secret Service on Saturday, days before Trump was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time.

An FBI official said late Saturday that investigators had not yet determined a motive. One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

Trump said he was shot on the ear.
Pennsylvanias Republican candidate for U.S. Senate, Dave McCormick, was sitting just off-stage at Saturdays Trump rally in Butler County, awaiting his chance to bask in Republican glory with the former president, when the gunshots rang out.

We heard a series of shots. I think seven or eight shots. Just pop, pop, pop, McCormick said in a telephone interview with CNNs Wolf Blitzer. Uh, you know I was a former Army guy. They sounded like a small caliber weapon but obviously Im not sure about that. And you know it was like, all of a sudden it was just chaos.

The Secret Service immediately covered the president. Jumped on top of him. And the crowd obviously all went immediately to the ground. People on their knees or laying down on the ground.

And then the president got up and sort of was surrounded by the Secret Service. You could see him just with a little bit of blood on him and his, sort of fist came out in defiance, McCormick said.

McCormick was not hurt in the shooting.

U.S. Senate candidate Dave McCormick (Paul Chaplin | Special to PennLive, 2024)Paul Chaplin | Special to PennLi

But it was a close call, as he told Blitzer someone in the audience behind him had been shot.

People around this gentleman were trying to administer first aid... There was a lot of blood. And eventually some police officers came up and carried him to where I hope he got to urgent care. And obviously praying for him now, McCormick said.

The U.S. Secret Service has since reported that one spectator at the rally was killed, and two others were critically injured. Trump is still being evaluated, the statement said, though the former president had indicated in one of his own social media posts that he was not seriously hurt.

McCormick told CNN it seemed to him like the shots were coming from the presidents left, which meant his seating area off the side of the stage was in the line of fire.

Early reports are that the shooter was situated outside the perimeter of the rally scene, where all attendees are screened for weapons.

McCormick, a 58-year-old former U.S. Army officer and combat veteran, is the Republican nominee seeking the Pennsylvania U.S. Senate seat currently held by Robert P. Casey Jr., who is seeking a fourth term in office.

He was among the battery of Republican candidates invited to speak at the rally in Butler County, including U.S. Reps. Mike Kelley, R-Butler County, and Dan Meuser, R-Luzerne County. McCormick said he was still at the scene of the rally at the time of the interview.

The interview closed with Blitzer asking McCormick how he was doing.

Im OK. Im processing (what happened) and trying to be a voice of reason, and make sure that we look at this moment as the kind of political violence that just cant be tolerated and, you know, recognize this is a line thats been crossed here that is just horrific and unforgivable, McCormick said.

And we need to have cooler minds prevail.
U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser, seated with other Republican officials just off the stage of the rally where former President Donald J. Trump was shot in Butler Saturday night, said at first he wasnt quite sure was going on as shots started to ring out around him.

But by what Meuser counted as shot number three, as Trump reacted to what the former president has described as a shooting wound to the ear, it sunk in.

Meuser, a third-term Congressman from Luzerne County who serves on the Trump campaigns Pennsylvania Leadership team, was witnessing an act of political warfare. Meuser spoke with PennLive about what he experienced late Saturday night.

The 60-year-old was not hurt in the attack. But he was shaken by what is believed to have been the first assassination attempt on a president (or former president) since President Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.

Seated on Trumps right side, or to the left side of the main stage as viewed by an audience member in front of the dais, Meuser said he believed the shooter was behind them, shooting toward the former president from a rooftop maybe about 100 yards away.

The first two shots, I was looking around as to what the heck is that? It didnt necessarily sound like gunfire, Meuser said. But the third shot... I knew what it was. Then I looked up and fixated on President Trump, and I saw him grab the side of his head.

And clearly I knew then he was under fire, and I had no idea how bad he was hit.

The Secret Service was yelling: Everybody get down! People were crying. They are asking: Oh my God. Is the president OK? Thats when he did get up and give a thumbs up and all that. That was pretty amazing. But people were really, really upset. It was pandemonium, Meuser said.

Meuser, in the phone interview, said hes experiencing all kinds of emotions from the shooting: Questions about the gunmans motives and mental health. Frustration that he couldnt do more to help those who were hurt. And, how security didnt account for the rooftop within firing range of the stage.

The latter point, he said, must certainly be a point of future investigation, though Meuser also cautioned he didnt personally have enough information to draw conclusions.

Meuser, who was among the representatives evacuated from the House floor during the siege by Trump supporters on Jan. 6, 2021, said Saturday he also hopes the incident leads to a reset in the intensity of American political dialogue.

Maybe this will be a catalyst to do better, Meuser said. You know? Not demonize, but discuss. Not politicize, but have a policy discussion. Not accuse, but have a conversation.
Russia continued shelling Ukraine throughout the week. From July 8 to the present day, the invaders have launched more than 700 guided bombs against our country.

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During the week, the occupiers also used more than 170 drones of various types and almost 80 missiles. This was stated by President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

According to the head of state, since the beginning of this week alone, Russia has used more than 700 guided aerial bombs, more than 170 attack drones of various types and almost 80 missiles against Ukraine.

"The scale of this evil must be matched by the scale of solutions to protect life. Each partner can influence the situation, strengthen the defense against terror. And Ukraine is grateful to all our friends who are doing just that. Together we will overcome evil," Zelenskyy said.

The President also clearly demonstrated why Ukraine desperately needs to significantly strengthen its air defense. He posted horrific footage of the destruction caused by Russia in Kyiv, where the invaders bombed hospitals and residential buildings, as well as in the Dnipro, Kharkiv, Kherson, Zaporizhzhia, and Sumy regions.

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Only verified information is available on OBOZ.UA Telegram channel and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!
In a recent opinion piece by former U.S. Rep. Ryan Costello, he argued against the new EPA tailpipe emission standards, suggesting they restrict choice, hurt rural Pennsylvanians, and benefit the Chinese. He says, We cannot afford to sacrifice the well-being and freedom of Pennsylvanians in the pursuit of unrealistic environmental objectives.

I couldnt agree more.

Lets talk about freedom. Do I have the freedom of clean air here in Pennsylvania? Do I have the freedom from increasingly severe storms? Do I have the freedom from extra-hot summers? Do I have the freedom from tropical diseases now showing up? Do I have the freedom of not living in a rapidly warming planet? I hope Mr. Costello is equally concerned about the well-being of all Pennsylvanians.

Is doing nothing to stop greenhouse gas emissions a realistic environmental policy? One-third of the greenhouse gases come from the transportation sector. We need to move quickly away from gasoline- and diesel-powered vehicles. EPAs standards do not mandate buying electric vehicles. Promoting electric vehicles and discouraging tailpipe emissions is a sensible carrot and stick approach.

In 1910, gas-powered cars were affordable only by the wealthy, and you had to get gasoline from the neighborhood drug store. It certainly disadvantaged rural Pennsylvanians. We figured it out then. We can figure it out now.

The price of electric car prices is rapidly reducing. More charging stations will emerge as will better battery technologies, made in the USA. We cant keep is the status quo on gas engines and their CO2 emissions.

Where is the outrage for our Pennsylvania government heavily subsidizing our fossil fuel industry? Pennsylvania is the 4th highest state in CO2 emissions in the nation. If we werent in such a rush to burn coal, oil, and natural gas, maybe we could afford more flexibility in converting to electric vehicles. Theres no time to waste.

Ira Beckerman, New Cumberland, Pa.
Two of Donald J. Trumps predecessors in the Oval Office took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to offer gratitude for his safety after the secret service swept Trump away from the stage after a shooting at a Saturday evening rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, 44th President Barrack Obama wrote on the social media platform, calling for a recommitment to civility and respect in our politics.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

George W. Bush, 43rd, also issued a statement on X:

Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life, Bush wrote. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Statement by President George W. Bush: "Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response."  George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) July 13, 2024

The statements come amid the chaos following the ringing of apparent gunshots at the Butler County, Pa. rally which saw Trump swept from the stage, blood overtop his face.

... We should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, Obama said.

46 1 / 46 Donald Trump rally ended by shooting in Butler, Pa.

Butler County District Attorney Richard A. Goldinger confirmed to multiple news sources that Trump was grazed by gunfire at the rally. The shooter is dead in addition to one person in the audience, as corroborated by ABC, the Washington Post, and WTAE in Pittsburgh, among other sources.

No information was available about the audience member who was shot or the shooter at this time.
An updated heat advisory was issued by the National Weather Service on Tuesday at 3:39 p.m. in effect until 8 p.m. for Northern Wayne and Southern Wayne as well as Bradford, Susquehanna, Wyoming, Lackawanna, Luzerne and Pike counties.

The weather service states, "Heat index values up to 100 degrees."

"Hot temperatures and high humidity may cause heat illnesses," explains the weather service.

Beating the heat: Weather service Heat safety guidelines

Stay hydrated: Make sure to drink plenty of fluids.

Seek cool shelter: Stay in an air-conditioned room.

Avoid sun exposure: Stay out of the sun, and make sure to check up on relatives and neighbors.

Child and pet safety: Never forget to safeguard young children and pets by not leaving them unattended in vehicles, especially during scorching weather when car interiors can become life-threateningly hot.

Caution outdoors: If you must work or spend time outdoors, take extra precautions.

Optimal timing: If possible, move strenuous activities to early morning or evening for more favorable conditions.

Recognize heat-related issues: Familiarize yourself with warning signs and how tp recognize the symptoms of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Dress for comfort: Wear lightweight and loose-fitting clothing to stay cool.

Additional tips for outdoor workers:

For outdoor workers, the Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) recommends regular rest breaks in shaded or air-conditioned areas.

If someone is overwhelmed by the heat, swiftly relocate them to a cool, shaded location.

In emergencies, call 911 for immediate assistance.

These NWS heat safety directives are essential for safeguarding your well-being when facing high temperatures. Stay well-informed and take the necessary precautions to shield yourself and others from the potential hazards of extreme heat.

Advance Local Weather Alerts is a service provided by United Robots, which uses machine learning to compile the latest data from the National Weather Service.
Czech President Petr Pavel commented on the level of support provided by our partners to Ukraine. According to him, military assistance would be sufficient if our country could fully regain its territory.

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However, this is not possible now, the politician said. Pavel made the statement during a conversation at the Atlantic Council during a visit to Texas the day after the Washington NATO summit, Voice of America reports.

"It would be enough if its level allowed Ukraine to fully regain its territory. At the moment, this is unrealistic. We must remember who the enemy is," he said.

According to the President, Russia has much more resources than Ukraine with all the provided assistance.

"I believe that if Ukraine is ready to hold its territory, this will be our success in the foreseeable future. We cannot expect any significant breakthrough on the front line," Pavel added.

He also explained why supporting Ukraine should be important for all countries of the free world.

"We should all care about what is happening in Ukraine because this is not a war for the territory of Ukraine, it is a war for principles. Russia believes that they can achieve their long-term political goals by military force. They disregard the international order, the international law. They just want to restore the 'greatness' of the Soviet Union," the politician said.

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As reported, Ukraine expects to receive six F-16 fighters from partner countries this summer, and up to 20 aircraft by the end of 2024. The long-awaited decision to send combat aircraft was complicated by the partners' concerns, including the fact that Ukraine does not have enough runways and that those that are there are vulnerable to attacks by the aggressor country Russia.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
It started more than a week ago as nothing more than an impossible dream: navigate through a massive field of more than 10,000 players and make it to the World Series of Poker Main Event final table. Now that dream is close to reality for the 18 players still in with a chance at being crowned world champion after Day 7.

More than five two-hour levels were needed to bring the field down from 59 to the lucky 18 who will return tomorrow at 2 p.m. local time inside the Horseshoe Event Center to play for a chance at every pokers players dream, a spot at the final table.

Malo Latinois is the man best positioned to book one of those seats as he finished as chip leader with 61,300,000. The French pro has already far eclipsed his $96,000 in total live earnings as he and the rest of the field are already guaranteed $350,000 for making it this far.

Five different countries are represented in the top ten spots on the chip leaderboard. Diogo Coelho of Portugal is in second place in this international field with 51,500,000.

Coelho picked up pocket aces in the biggest pot of the tournament so far as he, like Latinois, is making his first live WSOP cash a memorable one. He does have one previous big score on his poker resume, winning a high roller at EPT Paris in 2023 for $857,000.

End of Day 7 Top Ten Chip Counts

Rank Player Country Chip Count Big Blinds 1 Malo Latinois France 61,300,000 77 2 Diogo Coelho Portugal 51,500,000 64 3 Jason Sagle Canada 51,400,000 64 4 Niklas Astedt Sweden 50,000,000 63 5 Kristen Foxen Canada 47,400,000 59 6 Joe Serock United States 46,300,000 58 7 Malcolm Franchi France 45,900,000 57 8 Jason James Canada 45,800,000 57 9 Brian Kim United States 42,400,000 53 10 Jessie Bryant United States 27,600,000 35

Canadian veteran pro Jason Sagle is in third place with 51,400,000. Sagle has WSOP cashes going back two decades, including seven so far this summer. While he has finished in the top 10 in three WPT events, his lone WSOP final table came 18 years ago in a $2,000 Pot-Limit Holdem event. Hes already surpassed his best Main Event performance  as he was 23rd in the 2004 Main Event.

Hes joined in the top ten by fellow Canadian Jason James, whos trying to follow a familiar path to WSOP glory. Two years ago, Espen Jorstad won the Tag Team event before capturing the Main Event bracelet. James took down the Tag Team this year with partner Jimmy Setna, who himself went deep in the 2022 Main Event, and hes replicating Jorstads Main Event success as he takes 45,800,000 into Day 8.

Swedish online legend Niklas Astedt, who in 2021 was voted the best online poker player ever, is among the top stacks with 50,000,000. Hes joined by bracelet winner Joe Serock (46,300,000) and fellow bracelet winner and high roller regular Brian Kim (42,400,000), whose run so far is already better than his 23rd-place showing two years ago.

Niklas Astedt

Kristen Foxen Takes Her Shot at WSOP History

For all the success and accolades players like Astedt have amassed over their careers, though, the spotlight wont be on them tomorrow. Its been nearly 30 years since Barbara Enright became the first, and only, woman to make the Main Event final table. The player who is trying to join her also happens to be the most decorated female player in WSOP history.

Kristen Foxen is already the only woman with four WSOP bracelets. Foxen and Vanessa Selbst are also the only women to win three bracelets in open-field events.

In a tournament where the percentage of women players is often less than five percent, a deep run could spark another poker boom. Foxen ended the day with 47,400,000, in fourth place, while recognizing that women across the poker world are following her closely.

Im just hoping that I can show other women not to be intimidated. To feel confident, like we belong here. Lets beat them if we want to, Foxen said.

Foxens run in the Main Event nearly ended early today. She was down to just five big blinds when she was all in and behind with ace-five against Gabriel Moura's queens. The flop and turn provided no help and Foxen was one card away from elimination, but she spiked an ace on the river to stay alive.

She doubled up again, this time for 7,400,000, as she picked up two kings against Gerardo Hernandez' sevens. Foxen later won a big pot off Boris Angelov with trip kings as she continued to climb up the leaderboard

It was the type of rollercoaster day that tested her nerve as much as her skill.

Kristen Foxen Doubles With Ace on the River

Im excited to go sleep and get some rest. That was really, really intense. Probably the most intense day Ive ever had, she said. Definitely needed to muster up all of my strength and perseverance because I had a couple of frustrating hands where I folded the best hand. I dont know if hes bluffing or value-betting, or whatever. Down to five big blinds and ran it back up, just feels great.

The rest of the remaining field includes the likes of Moura (24,600,000), Yegor Moroz (24,500,000), Jonathan Tamayo (18,400,000), and Angelov (8,300,000).

Day 7 Action

Day 7 began with just 59 players remaining out of a record-setting field of 10,112. Richard Lowe, who began the day in the middle of the pack, moved all in for 6,925,000 with top two pair on one of the first few hands, but Tamayo had a set of sevens to bust Lowe in 58th place. Tamayo then eliminated bracelet winner and former chip leader Stephen Song in 57th the next hand.

Jesse Capps and his army of rubber ducks lost most of his stack when he called Luis Vazquezs river shove with a flush, but Vazquez had a full house to double up. Alex Keating was out in 55th when Guillermo Sanchez Otero made a running straight to crack Keatings flopped two pair. Capps eventually fell in 51st as his ducks enjoyed their last quack of the Main Event.

Jesse Capps

Daniel Kyosev doubled up with a royal flush, but his newfound wealth would only last a few minutes before he fell in 50th place. Coelho then doubled up with two kings against Charles Russell, while Kim doubled up off Aliaksandr Shylko with the nut straight against top two pair.

Hernandez picked up aces and was all in for 19,600,000 against start-of-day chip leader Kevin Davis kings. Hernandez held up to double into the chip lead with 40,000,000, while Davis was left with just 475,000 and was eliminated in 48th shortly afterward. Russell Rosenblum, the only remaining player to have made the Main Event final table before, ran into Sagles kings to finish in 46th, while Hiroki Nawa (45th), WSOP bracelet winner Nick Jivkov (43rd), and Robert Renaud (41st) followed him to the payout desk.

Shundan Xiao, the California software engineer and one of two women left standing along with Foxen, vaulted up to 30,000,000 after picking off a bluff from Astedt. Brandon Cantu then saw a flop against Sagle with just 525,000 behind and jammed all in. Sagle called with top pair and Cantu could only muster eight-high to hit the rail in 39th.

Kim doubled up again when he hit an ace on the river against Orson Youngs tens. Latinois then took a massive pot off Xiao with flopped two pair as Xiao was left with less than 3,000,000. Latinois, meanwhile, jumped up to 56,000,000 and opened up a commanding chip lead over the rest of the field.

Malo Latinois

Shylko fell in 36th place, while Arthur Morris was eliminated in 34th after running his tens into Brian Rasts kings. Xiaos run eventually came to an end in 28th when Yake Wu showed a flopped set of fours to beat her queens, making Foxen the last woman remaining in the field.

Daniel Zadok was all in for 12,200,000 and poised for a double up with two aces, while Moroz had a pair of jacks. Moroz has had the most boisterous rail throughout the past few days, and they had reason to erupt in celebration when a jack fell on the flop to give him the pot and send Zadok to the rail in 27th place.

Young was eliminated by Astedt in 26th, while Justin Vaysman ran jacks into Latinois aces to fall in 25th. Rast called off his last 11,225,000 in a pot against Tamayo with ace-queen, but Tamayo had a pair of kings and the Poker Hall of Famer couldnt find an ace as he was eliminated in 24th.

Brian Rast Elimination

James rocketed up the counts when he shoved the turn on Sagle. Sagle ended up folding two queens as James took the big pot with two kings to move past 60,000,000. Angelov then earned a massive double up through Moroz with queens against tens.

Players were preparing to go off on a break as Vazquez and Kim were still involved in a big pot. Kim had jammed for 18,650,000 and Vazquez tanked for several minutes before calling with two queens. Kim had ace-king and hit a king on the flop to double up. Left on an extreme short stack, Vazquez was eliminated in 22nd in a three-way all in soon after.

Kyosuke Nagami fell in 21st as he ran ace-nine into Malcolm Franchis ace-king. Sagle, meanwhile, took his turn as chip leader when he won a big pot off James with just ace-high. Wu lost a race to Franchi in 20th place, bringing the field within one elimination of bagging up for the night. Hernandez couldve been the last to fall as he was all in with two fours against Mouras aces, but he spiked a set on the flop to double up. Coelho then won his massive pot against Russells jacks as he vaulted up to 62,000,000.

Diogo Coelho

Russell, left on a short stack after that encounter, was then eliminated by Latinois in 19th to bring an end to the night.

The remaining players return tomorrow at 2 p.m. with 1 hour and 18 minutes remaining in Level 36 with blinds of 400,000-800,000 and an 800,000 big blind ante. Theyll play down to the final table tomorrow, with a spot among the final nine worth at least $1,000,000. The eventual champion will earn $10,000,000, the gold bracelet, and the title of world champion when the final table is played out over two nights on July 16-17.

What was once a sea of hardened pros and home game heroes taking their one shot at glory has been reduced to just two tables. Eighteen are left, but there are only nine seats around the final table. Theyll determine who gets them tomorrow. Stay tuned as PokerNews provides all the action leading up to the final table.
After six hours of play of Day 3 at the Horseshoe and Paris Las Vegas, Event 90: $1,500 6-Handed Pot-Limit Omaha of the 2024 World Series of Poker (WSOP) has come to its conclusion as Joseph Sanders has emerged victorious after defeating Anatoliy Zlotnikov in a brief heads-up battle. Along with the first place prize of $269,530, Sanders takes home his first WSOP gold bracelet.

Sanders is a Henderson local who plays mostly cash, but likes to hop into the Pot-Limit Omaha tournaments whenever he can. His previous best tournament cash was in 2021 when he took fifth place in the PGT $10,000 PLO for $50,400 and then he had a similar score in the 2021 WSOP in the $25,000 PLO later that year.

I was hopeful Sanders said when asked how he felt coming into Day 3 but ya know, I was trying to be realistic, every player was capable and good, but hey it worked out.

He then reminisced on when he doubled heads-up against Zlotnikov to take the lead.

Oh man, that was huge, I mean he got lucky on the turn but yeah that one felt really good Once that happened I felt like it was my tournament to lose.

Sanders said he plans on playing the larger buy-in version of this one, Event #97: $3,000 6-Handed Pot-Limit Omaha which starts on Monday, July 15.

I doubt Ill run as pure as I did in this one but I gotta give it a try, ya know.

Speaking of running pure, Sanders did have to navigate a field of 1,306 players, including some of the best PLO players in the world over a course of three days, which is no easy task.

Event #90: $1,500 6-Handed Pot-Limit Omaha Final Table Results

Place Player Country Prize 1 Joseph Sanders United States $269,530 2 Anatoliy Zlotnikov Russia $179,689 3 Alfred Karlsson Sweden $124,984 4 Long Tran United States $88,273 5 Mike Leah Canada $63,321 6 Dustin Nelson United States $46,144

Day 3 Action

Today saw six players return to action at noon but the action started off relatively slow as the players were still fairly deep-stacked, with Long Tran as the chip leader with 100 big blinds. The first elimination of the day was an hour and a half into play when short-stacked Dustin Nelson got it all in on the flop against Alfred Karlsson with just a pair of fives, but Karlsson rivered a superior pair of tens to send him out in sixth place.

After that, the action REALLY slowed down as the next elimination wasnt until Mike Leah dwindled down to around 13 big blinds when he got it all in preflop against Karlsson who held aces. The board ran out seven-high and Karlsson wound up making a wheel to send out Leah in fifth.

With Leah gone, the players seemed to get a lot more loose as the chips began to fly. The lead changed several times before they eventually accumulated in front of Zlotnikov, who at one point earlier in the day was down to 10 big blinds himself. He then went on a tear, first by eliminating Long Tran in fourth by hitting a full house, then quickly followed that up by sending out Karlsson in third with a rivered straight.

Anatoliy Zlotnikov

Zlotnikov then entered the heads-up battle against Sanders with over a 2:1 chip lead, but in one of the first few hands, Sanders scored a huge double when he rivered a full house after Zlotnikov had turned a straight. Sanders then took down another big pot after that when he check-raised the flop to force a fold from Zlotnikov in a big pot, putting him in a dominating chip position. It wasnt long before all of the chips were back into the middle once again, but this time it was Zlotnikov whose tournament life was on the line. They got it in on a flop of nine-nine-ten, and Zlotnikov held aces for top two pair, but Sanders held a nine for trips that held to send out Zlotnikov as the runner-up for $179,689. Sanders was then awarded the WSOP gold bracelet along with the grand prize of $269,530.

Thats it for the coverage on this event but be sure to keep a tab open on PokerNews for all of the remaining coverage during the 2024 WSOP.
The Secret Service has announced that they are investigating an incident at Trumps rally in Butler, PA.

The spokesman for the Secret Service posted, An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

While Trump was ranting about immigration, just after he asked permission to stop using his teleprompter, shots rang out, and the former president grabbed the side of his head.

Video:

Here is the moment when shots were fired at the Trump rally. pic.twitter.com/wEPNhMA9O0  Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) July 13, 2024

In an election year, that has been tense and contentious in every way, the last thing the country needed was some person potentially trying to shoot one of the candidate.

This behavior is not democracy.

Yes, Trump is trying to destroy democracy, but it is undemocratic to respond to those attempts with political violence.

The way to respond to anti-democracy politicians like Donald Trump is to beat them at the ballot box.

What happened in Butler shouldnt happen to anyone in a democracy, even Donald Trump.
Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Butler, PA when shots rang out and Trump was rushed off the stage by Secret Service.

Video:

Here is the moment when shots were fired at the Trump rally. pic.twitter.com/wEPNhMA9O0  Sarah Reese Jones (@PoliticusSarah) July 13, 2024

If these were shots that were fired, it is not surprising. Violence is not the answer, but Donald Trump has trafficked in extremism, partisan division and violent imagery for a decade.

We still do not know if these were shots that were fired, but as someone who grew and lived near the venue where Trump staged his rally, I can tell you that it a security nightmare. The venue is literally giant fairground surrounded by empty space and pasture.

If somebody with bad intentions wanted to harm a speaker, keeping that area secure would be difficult at best.

It is difficult to feel any sympathy for Donald Trump, but democracies to engage in political violence. The fact that Trump engaged in political violence on 1/6 does not give anyone else the right to do the same.

Trump will probably try to play the victim, and fundraising emails are probably being prepared and sent right now, but dont be surprised if Trump uses this as an excuse to not campaign anymore.

Donald Trump was barely campaigning one day a week before, Dont be surprised if the laziest president turned laziest candidate in history completely stops holding campaign events.
Mere hours after the shooting that claimed the life of at least one audience member and two others are in critical condition at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday night, Republican Senator J.D. Vance was blaming Democrats and President Biden.

Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

In 2016, J.D. Vances college roommate says he called Donald Trump Americas Hitler.

In 2024, J.D. Vance blamed President Bidens rhetoric for the shooting carried out by someone who appears to have been a registered Republican who three years ago might have donated $15.00 to ActBlue.

J.D. Vances Yale law roommate shared an apparent screenshot from his messages in which he claims, and the now Republican Senators campaign confirmed, Vance wrote:

I go back and forth between thinking Trump is a cynical asshole like Nixon who wouldnt be that bad (and might even prove useful) or that hes Americas Hitler. Hows that for discouraging?

Vance also described the Republican Party as whether we like it or not, the party of lower-income, lower-education white people, and said, Trump is the fruit of the partys collective neglect.

Vance had a lot to say about Trump back then. So much so that the Lincoln Project mocked him by calling him a Never Trumper as he campaigned with Trump:

Whats the difference between JD Vance and his book Hillybilly Elegy? The book has a spine. pic.twitter.com/PxC7zHRWi1  The Lincoln Project (@ProjectLincoln) May 4, 2022

The point of going back in time here is that Vance  sans evidence  immediately and dangerously blamed Democrats due to rhetoric for this shooting before we had any information. But he himself actually said something much worse about Trump, albeit privately, which is a big difference. But what isnt different is Vances rhetoric putting a target on President Bidens back by blaming him for something he had nothing to do with.

One cannot incite more violence while one is calling out political rhetoric and expect to be taken seriously by anyone except the MAGA base, which is the concern.

Vances statement is gaslighting at its finest, as it is the Republican Party that has systemically failed to hold Trump and MAGA politicians accountable for violent rhetoric and this ex-president who incited a deadly attack in an attempted self-coup to stay in power and again refused to denounce political violence in January of this year and at the debate refused to honor the will of the voters  of these actions contribute to an atmosphere of higher temperatures, fear, anger, anxiety, mistrust, and violence.

Kevin Roberts, the leader of the pro-Trump Project 2025, saying there would be a new American Revolution that will be bloodless if the left allows it to be isnt turning down the temperature.

Calling out Project 2025 for the actual plans it lays out is not incitement; its accountability based on facts. A party cannot plot to radically undermine the foundations of the U.S. government after they incited a deadly insurrection when they lost power and expect everyone to ignore it.

The threats being monitored by law enforcement are coming from both sides, but one side is inciting political violence from the top and the other side is citizens reacting to the continuing radicalization of the Republican Party and the rights theyre stealing from Americans. The obvious answer to this problem is for all political leaders to stop inciting violence, but heres J.D. Vance responded to deadly violence by recklessly inciting more violence.

Its unknown at this point what grazed Donald Trumps ear. He says he was shot, but law enforcement briefed the media last night that hed been hit with glass from his teleprompter. The telepromter appeared unbroken from the audience angle, but law enforcement would have obviously had a better view of the teleprompter from Trumps point of view.

What cant be denied is someone got access to a an AR-15 type rifle, climbed up on a rooftop in the wide open area that the Trump campaign chose for the venue, and shot into the crowd. Law enforcement is calling this an attempted assassination of an ex-president.

We also need to pay attention to words versus actions. Republican lawmakers often wear pins of AR-style rifles on the House floor and in December once again blocked efforts by Democrats to pass an assault weapons ban and universal background checks.

President Biden condemned violence in remarks to the public following the shooting, Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

The President also said earlier in a statement sent to PoliticusUSA that he had been briefed on the shooting and was praying for Trump and his family and all who were at the rally, adding Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

The FBI has assumed the lead role in the ongoing investigation and urges anyone with information to call 1-800-CALL-FBI.
In romance, breaking up is hard.

In business, it can be expensive.

Ingevity Corp.'s latest restructuring move is a case in point.

The North Charleston-based global chemical maker told shareholders last week that it will fork out $100 million this year to unwind a deal with forest-products giant Georgia-Pacific.

The long-term supply contract was for "crude tall oil," a highly cyclical paper-mill byproduct that's been weighing heavily on Ingevity's bottom line. The agreement was terminated July 1.

The nine-figure parting of the ways is tied directly to the O'Hear Avenue company's overhaul of its largest division. The Ingevity "performance chemicals" unit has catered to an array of industrial customers, such as adhesive makers, ink manufacturers and oilfield operators. Its U.S. production sites include a North Charleston factory on Virginia Avenue next to the shuttered WestRock paper mill, which once supplied crude tall oil for its neighbor.

Last year, chemical sales generated $902 million for Ingevity, a 3 percent gain from 2022 and accounting for slightly more than half of the $1.69 billion in total revenue. The performance materials and advanced polymers businesses brought in the rest.

But the chemical division's profitability has been squeezed hard by volatility in the obscure crude tall oil market, fueled in part by a rash of U.S. paper mill closures as well as government regulations.

Ingevity, which booked a $5.4 million loss for 2023, noted in its latest annual report that its biggest business "is highly dependent" on the viscous compound, which is extracted from pine pulp. The rub is that the dark additive "is limited in supply and subject to price increases"  as much as 300 percent  "that have negatively impacted the business and will continue to do so if our ability to pass through such price increases remains limited," the company said.
The Russian occupation army intensified its activity in several areas at once. A total of 149 combat engagements took place over the last day.

ADVERTISIMENT

This is stated in the General Staff's report as of 22:00 on July 13. Most of the fighting is taking place in the Pokrovsk, Lyman, Vremivka and Kharkiv sectors.

Since the beginning of the day, the Russian invaders have launched three missiles and 103 UAVs. In addition, the Russians used 512 kamikaze drones and shelled the Ukrainian troops' positions and populated areas over 3,200 times.

"Ukrainian defenders continue to resolutely repel the enemy's attempts to advance into the depths of our territory, inflicting effective fire damage and depleting it along the entire front line," the statement said.

Separately, the General Staff noted the soldiers of the 14th Separate Mechanized Brigade named after Prince Roman the Great, who are effectively destroying the enemy in their defense line, causing significant losses in manpower and equipment.

ADVERTISIMENT

Situation at the front

In the Kharkiv sector, the enemy conducted 13 offensive attacks near Vovchansk and Hlyboke. The Russians were defeated.

In the Kupyansk sector, the enemy also attacked our positions 13 times. Ukrainian defenders repelled ten attacks. Three are currently ongoing.

In the Lyman sector, Russian invaders attacked the defensive lines of our units 14 times over the last day. According to updated information, all the battles ended without success for the enemy.

ADVERTISIMENT

In the Northern sector, the enemy was advancing in the areas of Bilohorivka, Rozdolivka, Spirne, Verkhniokamianske and Vyymka. Ukrainian defenders stopped five Russian attacks, three more combat engagements are ongoing.

In the Kramatorsk sector, 11 enemy assault actions took place. According to updated information, three attacks are currently underway in the area of Chasiv Yar.

In the Toretsk sector, Russians unsuccessfully attacked the Defense Forces 15 times near Pivnichne, Toretsk and Nyzhnyk.

ADVERTISIMENT

Russian invaders were most active in the Pokrovsk sector today. Since the beginning of the day, the occupants have tried to break through our defense 37 times. Five combat engagements are still ongoing.

The enemy suffers significant losses in this sector. Today alone, 227 occupants were neutralized, 79 of them were irretrievably wounded. Also, three armored personnel carriers, one infantry fighting vehicle, one motorized vehicle, two armored personnel carriers, two vehicles and one MT-LB were destroyed. In addition, an armored personnel carrier, five 122-mm D-30 howitzers, one MT-12 Rapier anti-tank gun, an armored combat vehicle and a 120-mm mortar were damaged.

ADVERTISIMENT

In the Kurakhove sector, the enemy attacked our positions 17 times near Krasnohorivka, Kostiantynivka and Peremoha. According to the updated information, four battles are still ongoing.

In the Vremivka sector, the Russians conducted 18 offensives. Our defenders repelled 16 attacks. Two are still ongoing.

In the Prydniprovskyi sector, all the occupants' efforts to push our units from their positions were unsuccessful.

In other areas, the situation has not changed significantly.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Tea, the worlds second most popular beverage after water, boasts a rich history that traces back to 3rd century AD China, where it was first recognized as a medicinal drink. Merchants played a vital role in spreading its allure across continents, establishing tea as a global favorite. By th Read moreBetween the stacks: Timeless tradition of Tea
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LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / The Schall Law Firm, a national shareholder rights litigation firm, announces that it is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. ("Arbor" or "the Company") (NYSE:ABR) for violations of the securities laws.The investigation focuses on whether the Company issued false and/or misleading statements and/or failed to disclose information pertinent to investors. Arbor is the subject of a report issued by Viceroy Research November 17, 2023, titled, "Arbor Realty Trust - Slumlord Millionaires." According to the report, "Arbor's high-risk multifamily bridge loans, which comprise substantially all of its asset book, are going bad fast The end is near." Viceroy Research then issued a follow up report on December 5, 2023, titled "Arbor - Jacksonville Case Study." In the second report, Viceroy Research claims that the Company's "entire loan book is distressed and underlying collateral is vastly overstated." Based on this news, shares of Arbor fell by more than 5% over the next two trading sessions.If you are a shareholder who suffered a loss, click here to participate.We also encourage you to contact Brian Schall of the Schall Law Firm, 2049 Century Park East, Suite 2460, Los Angeles, CA 90067, at 310-301-3335, to discuss your rights free of charge. You can also reach us through the firm's website at www.schallfirm.com , or by email at bschall@ schallfirm.com The class in this case has not yet been certified, and until certification occurs, you are not represented by an attorney. If you choose to take no action, you can remain an absent class member.The Schall Law Firm represents investors around the world and specializes in securities class action lawsuits and shareholder rights litigation.This press release may be considered Attorney Advertising in some jurisdictions under the applicable law and rules of ethics.CONTACT: The Schall Law FirmBrian Schall, Esq. www.schallfirm.com Office: 310-301-3335 info@ schallfirm.com SOURCE: The Schall Law Firm
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Learn how fractional ownership and digital platforms make global real estate investing accessible and hassle-free for everyone.DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES / ACCESSWIRE / July 14, 2024 / Digital platforms likeGulfEstateare changing how people invest in real estate. By using a fractional ownership model, people can buy and own parts of a property instead of the whole thing.This model enables aspiring investors around the world to acquire shares in rental properties for as little as $150 USD while receiving all the associated benefits, such as rental income and capital appreciation.How it works:Real estate experts choose properties with the best return rates globally. In upcoming cities, like Dubai, rental returns can reach 20% per year. Selected properties are listed on the platform where investors acquire shares. The property is then managed by experts and rental profits are distributed monthly, and when properties are sold, returns go to investors.This is possible thanks to a crowdfunding and fractional ownership model. The funds from all investors are pooled to purchase the property, and then GulfEstate manages all time-consuming aspects of property ownership, from tenant selection to maintenance, making it a hassle-free investment for the platform users.The benefits:Traditionally, property investment was reserved for the wealthy and those willing to take loans. Even then, it required time-consuming management and extensive market knowledge. GulfEstate is changing that, enabling everyone to build wealth by investing in real estate. The key advantages are: Accessibility: The low entry point opens up real estate investing to a broader audience, democratizing access to potentially lucrative markets. Diversification: Investors can spread their capital across multiple properties and locations, reducing risk. Liquidity: Compared to traditional real estate investments, fractional ownership offers improved liquidity options. Passive Income: Regular rental income provides a steady stream of passive earnings. Professional Expertise: Investors benefit from the knowledge and experience of real estate professionals in property selection and management. Global Reach: Access to international property markets that may have been out of reach for individual investors.Unlike some European platforms, GulfEstate follows an equity crowdfunding model, where no debt-related products are sold to users. While this may yield lower potential returns, it has significantly reduced risks as only tangible real estate properties are offered for investment rather than development projects.The technology behind it:GulfEstate's platform uses advanced technology to make investing simple and secure.The platform is accessible through a website and mobile apps for Android and iOS devices. Investors can view property details, track their investments, make deposits or withdrawals, and receive rental payments. This technology also allows for quick and easy transactions, making it possible to invest in properties around the world from anywhere.Proprietary algorithms are used backstage to conduct complex data analysis and forecasts, aiding real estate experts in the process of screening and selecting investment opportunities to be listed on the platform. GulfEstate is also working to implement a peer-to-peer market where investors can sell their property shares before the investment period is over. This would enhance liquidity and solve one of the greatest drawbacks of real estate investing.Potential returns:Rental returns can vary significantly depending on the location, but many markets around the world offer attractive yields. Traditionally, investing in foreign markets presented significant challenges due to legal requirements, overseas management, and a lack of transparency. GulfEstate is changing that, empowering investors to build an international portfolio from their phones. The average properties listed on the platform boast 6-12% net annual rental yields, paid monthly.In addition to rental income, investors can benefit from property value appreciation. Real estate markets can experience significant growth over time, leading to substantial returns when properties are sold. As an example, Dubai's property market has seen remarkable surges, with some areas experiencing an appreciation of over 100% in just a few years. While such dramatic increases aren't guaranteed or typical in all markets, this illustrates the potential for significant capital gains in addition to rental income.About the company:GulfEstate was founded by a team of real estate and technology experts aiming to make property investing accessible to everyone. Currently based in Dubai and working to expand their presence in the European and Asian property markets. The business model is straightforward and aligns the company incentives the best interest of the investors, by charging transaction and performance-based fees it compels the company to make long-term choices that will benefit its investors.The company's CEO says, "We want to make real estate investing available to everyone, not just the wealthy. Our platform makes it easy and safe for people to invest in property, no matter where they live." GulfEstate manages all aspects of property ownership, from tenant selection to maintenance, making it a hassle-free investment model. Allowing investors to benefit from global real estate markets without high capital requirements, market knowledge, or management responsibilities.Risk Mitigation & Regulation:The risk mitigation strategies employed by GulfEstate stem from compliance and adherence to regulatory frameworks established by local and international authorities for Real Estate Property Crowdfunding Platforms and other relevant guidelines. The platform and business model have been designed to achieve regulatory compliance and therefore have multiple built-in risk mitigation strategies that aid in protecting users from conflicts of interest and safeguarding their assets.The GulfEstate platform offers complete transparency on all details regarding the properties listed on the platform, their forecasted returns, and proposed management strategies as well as complete financial breakdowns for fund allocation.Appropriate legal structures are set up for holding and managing each property, effectively limiting user liabilities. Stringent Identity Verification (KYC) and Anti Money Laundering (AML) procedures are in place to guarantee the safety and integrity of our platform and community. The best practices and state-of-the-art Cybersecurity measures are employed coupled with regular checks conducted on all areas of the platform's digital-facing infrastructure to
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PHOENIX, AZ / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Healthcare lead generation is crucial for clinics and hospitals looking to grow. By building an effective strategy, they can connect with prospective patients and turn them into loyal clients. Using high-quality digital marketing techniques helps to create an engaging online presence and capture more medical leads. These strategies make it easier for potential patients to find and contact healthcare providers. Creating valuable content and maintaining a robust online reputation is key to attracting new leads. Digital advertising, such as pay-per-click (PPC) andsearch engine optimization(SEO), offers a cost-effective way for healthcare providers to reach their target audience. By constantly optimizing their tactics and analyzing performance metrics, healthcare organizations can ensure continuous improvement in theirpatient acquisition marketingefforts.Image Credit: KarelNoppe, Doctor Marketing, MDThe Role of SEO in Generating Healthcare LeadsHealthcare lead generationis the process of attracting and converting potential patients into interested leads, primarily throughdigital marketing tactics . This involves using search engine optimization ( SEO ), email marketing, and social media to expand reach and engage with prospective patients effectively. Search engine optimization is crucial for healthcare providers. By using relevant keywords and optimizing content,healthcare websitescan rank higher in search engine results. This increased visibility helps attract more potential patients. Ensuring that website content is informative, updated, and answers common patient questions can significantly improveorganic search rankings .SEO for medical practicesis also important. This includes optimizing website speed, ensuring mobile-friendliness, and using meta tags efficiently.Local SEO , which focuses on geographical keywords, is particularly useful for healthcare providers who serve specific regions.Effective Email Marketing TacticsEmail marketing remains a powerful tool in healthcare lead generation. Targeted email campaigns can nurture potential patients through personalized messages and relevant content. It is essential to segment email lists based on demographics, past interactions, or specific healthcare needs. This ensures that messages are tailored and more likely to engage recipients. Automated email sequences can be used to send appointment reminders, healthcare tips, or special promotions. Including clear calls to action in emails, such as scheduling an appointment or contacting the clinic, can improve conversion rates. Ensuring that emails are mobile-friendly is also important, as many recipients will read emails on their smartphones.Leveraging Social Media for Patient AcquisitionSocial media platforms offer valuable opportunities for engaging with potential patients. By creating and sharing informative and engaging content, healthcare providers can build trust and attract leads. Platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter allow for targeted advertising, reaching specific demographics and interests. Engaging with followers through comments, messages, and regular posts helps maintain a strong online presence. Sharing patient testimonials, health tips, and behind-the-scenes content can humanize the healthcare practice and make it more approachable. Social media analytics can also provide insights into what content resonates most with the audience, allowing for further optimization.Healthcare lead generation strategiesmust adapt to the evolving digital landscape. By effectively using SEO, email marketing, and social media, healthcare providers can attract and convert more leads, ultimately growing their patient base and improving overall care. In the digital age, healthcare providers must focus on improving their online presence andgaining the trust of potential patients . Employing effective strategies will enhance both visibility and credibility, making it easier for patients to find and trust their services.Optimizing Your Online PresenceA strong online presence starts with a fullySEO optimized website . It needs to be mobile-friendly since a significant number of users access the internet via their phones. The design should be intuitive, ensuring ease of navigation for users. Using SEO techniques , healthcare providers canimprove their rankingson search engines like Google. Incorporating strategic keywords related to healthcare services will make it easier for patients to find relevant information. Besides SEO, healthcare providers should consider using content marketing. Regularlypublishing informative blogsand articles helps to establish them as authorities in their field.Hosting webinars and sharing educational resources is another way to boost credibility. They provide value to potential patients and demonstrate the expertise of the healthcare provider. Utilizing social media platforms ensures that healthcare services reach a broader audience. Engaging posts, updates, and interactions will keep the audience interested and informed.Creating Compelling Content MarketingCreatingengaging and informative contentis a powerful way to attract potential patients. By developing articles, videos, or infographics that address common health concerns, healthcare providers can establish themselves as trusted sources of information. For example, Doctor Marketing, MD suggests that educational content on health topics not only draws in readers but also builds credibility. Including strategic keywords in the content can improve search engine rankings, making it easier for patients to find the practice online.Another important aspect is patient reviews. Encouraging satisfied patients to share their experiences can help build a positive online reputation. These reviews can be showcased in blog posts, videos, or social media updates, further attracting new leads.Utilizing Email Campaigns and AutomationEmail marketing is a direct way to communicate with potential patients. Crafting personalized email campaigns ensures that the content is relevant to the recipient, increasing the likelihood of engagement. For instance, sending health tips, appointment reminders, or follow-up care notes can keep the practice at the forefront of the patient's mind. Automation tools can streamline this process by segmenting patient lists and sending out targeted emails based on specific criteria, such as age or medical history. This not only saves time but also enhances the effectiveness of the campaigns.Additionally, collecting contact information through various touchpoints (like website forms, social media, or in-office visits) is crucial. This data can then be used to grow the email list and reach a broader audience with tailored messages. In summary, direct l
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FORT WORTH, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Pay-per-click (PPC) advertising has become a vital tool for healthcare providers looking to increase their online presence and attract more patients. In the ever-competitive field of healthcare,PPC adscan help you reach those actively searching for medical services and information. For healthcare administrators, leveraging these targeted ads means potentially higher conversions, especially when the campaigns are well-optimized. Crafting aPPC strategy for healthcareinvolves selecting the right keywords that align with the services offered, ensuring the ads appear to theright audienceat the right time. The aim is to catch the attention of users who are looking for specific medical information or services, thereby increasing the chances of engagement and appointment bookings. It is crucial to stay updated with search engine algorithms and industry trends to maintain the effectiveness of the ads.Image Credit: AndreyPopov, Doctor Marketing, MDManaging PPC campaignsrequires ongoing analysis and adjustments to ensure they meet the set objectives. Additionally, adhering to ethical standards and compliance regulations is paramount in healthcare advertising to build trust and maintain credibility. PPC campaigns, if properly managed, can serve as a powerful component of a broader digital marketing strategy, positioning healthcare providers like Doctor Marketing, MD, as leaders in the field. Healthcare pay-per-click (PPC) advertising offershealthcare providersa way toattract new patientsonline usingtargeted ads . It involves paying for each click on their ads, which appear during relevant searches on platforms like Google.What Is PPC in Healthcare?PPC in healthcare refers to a model of internet marketing where healthcare providers pay a fee each time their ad is clicked. These ads are shown to potential patients using search engines, social media, and other websites. Healthcare PPC targets people who are actively searching for health services, making it an effective way to increase visibility and reach the right audience.By using PPC, healthcare providers can ensure their ads appear when specific keywords related to their services are searched. This method helps in getting targeted traffic, as ads are shown to users based on their search intentions. Ultimately, PPC in healthcare is about buying visits to a website instead of aiming for visits through organic search alone.The Importance of PPC for Healthcare ProvidersPPC is vital for healthcare providers looking to attract new patients in the digital age. The high competition and vast number of online health information seekers make it necessary to stand out. Nearly 90% of health-related searches happen online, and PPC provides a direct route to reach these potential patients.The ability to target specific demographics, such as geographic location, age, and interests, helps healthcare providers to reach the right people at the right time. This can lead to higher conversion rates, as ads are shown to users who are more likely to be interested in the services offered. For healthcare providers, investing in PPC means staying competitive and ensuring that they are visible to those seeking their services.Google Ads and Healthcare PPC BasicsGoogle Ads is a popular platform forhealthcare PPC . It allows healthcare providers to create ads that appear in search results when users look for relevant healthcare services. These ads can be customized with ad extensions, providing more information like contact details, which can improve conversion rates. Creating custom landing pages that match the ad content is another essential strategy in healthcare PPC. This ensures that when potential patients click on an ad, they are directed to a page specifically designed to meet their needs, increasing the likelihood of conversion.Crafting Your PPC StrategyA successfulhealthcare PPC strategyinvolves setting clear business objectives, targeting the right audience throughkeyword research , creatingcompelling ad copy , and optimizing landing pages for conversions. Each aspect is crucial for attracting new patients and enhancing your online presence. First, define what you want to achieve with your PPC campaigns. Are you aiming to increase website traffic, get more patient appointments, or promote a new service? Specific objectives guide the rest of your strategy and help measure success.Keyword Research for Targeting The Right AudienceSelecting the right keywords is vital to ensure your ads reach the intended audience. Keywords should be relevant tohealthcare servicesand what potential patients might search for. Utilize tools like Google's Keyword Planner to identify effective keywords. Pay attention to search volume and competition. Long-tail keywords often work well because they're specific and attract more qualified traffic. For instance, instead of just "doctor," use phrases like "pediatric doctor in New York" to target specific needs.Creating Compelling Ad CopyYour ad copy must be engaging and relevant to the audience's needs. It should speak directly to their concerns and offer solutions your healthcare services provide. Use action words and highlight unique selling points. For example, "Get same-day appointments for urgent care" can attract those looking for immediate attention. Including a call-to-action (CTA) like "Book Now" or "Learn More" encourages users to click. Also, regularly test different versions of your ad copy to find the most effective one.Optimizing Landing Pages for ConversionAn optimized landing page is key to transforming ad clicks into conversions. Ensure that the landing page is relevant to the ad copy and provides a seamless user experience. The landing page should be clean, easy to navigate, and mobile-friendly, as many users will access it from their phones. Include a clear CTA, such as "Schedule an Appointment Today," and make it easy for visitors to take action. Testimonials and patient reviews can add credibility and encourage conversions.Managing PPC CampaignsHealthcare PPC campaignscan drive targeted traffic to healthcare providers. Successfully managing these campaigns involves careful budgeting, precise geo-targeting, continuous testing, and meticulous tracking. Setting a clear budget and effective bidding are critical in healthcare PPC. Start by determining how much you can allocate to your campaigns. Use average industry cost-per-click (CPC) rates as a reference. Healthcare providers should prioritize high-value keywords that directly relate to the services provided. Adjust bids based on factors like competition and ad performance. Use automated bidding tools to help maximize return on investment (ROI). These tools can help balance the budget against the potent
Ukraine is still negotiating with Sweden to receive Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighters. The first attempts to reach an understanding of this issue took place before Sweden joined NATO.

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Currently, negotiations are taking place at the level of the Ministries of Defense of both countries, as well as at the highest level. This was stated by the Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine Ihor Zhovkva in an interview with Voice of America.

According to him, the topic of Ukraine's possible receipt of Saab JAS-39 Gripen fighters from Sweden is still open.

"This is a topic that my president constantly raises with the Swedish leadership. And it was like that even before Sweden joined NATO. For obvious reasons, they were not ready to make any promises then, as they were finalizing their membership in the Alliance. Now the country is in NATO, and my president is again in contact with the Swedish prime minister, and our defense ministry is in contact with the relevant Swedish authorities. These fighters are as good as F-16s and we are moving in this direction," Zhovkva emphasized.

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The publication also reminded that earlier, Swedish Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom, speaking about these fighters, explained that they were not delivered because Ukraine believed that it would be too difficult to introduce both F-16 and Gripen at the same time. However, Billstrom emphasized at the time that official Stockholm remained open to discussing the supply of such aircraft to Ukraine.

"Sweden, and the Swedish government, has no restrictions on these discussions after the introduction of the F-16. But this decision was made by the Ukrainian government, not the Swedish government," the diplomat emphasized.

Will Swedish Gripen fighters help Ukraine

Interestingly, the military, both Western and Ukrainian, consider Swedish Gripen to be a good option for Ukraine.

"Gripen is a much smaller team that can land anywhere, refuel quickly, and take off quickly. It's a much harder target for Russia," said retired US Air Force Major General Charles Corcoran.

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A pilot of the Ukrainian Air Force, nicknamed "Phantom," is also confident that these Swedish fighters would significantly strengthen Ukrainian aviation.

"This is a very modern aircraft, it has undergone many stages of modernization, and currently the official fleet that the Swedish Air Force has in its composition can both suppress enemy air defense forces, inflict pinpoint fire damage, and what is called a standoff weapon in English, that is, a weapon at a distance that does not allow you to hit your aircraft," the military man said in an interview with Voice of America back in February.

It was reported last fall that Sweden was preparing to potentially provide Ukraine with Gripen fighter jets. At that time, OBOZ.UA explained how they differ from the F-16 and which option is preferable for the Armed Forces of Ukraine.

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The fact that Gripen would be a "good option" for Ukraine was also stated at the end of 2023 by the then spokesman for the Ukrainian Air Force, Yuriy Ihnat, who said that at that time Ukrainian pilots had already tested these fighters.

In February 2024, the opposition in Sweden demanded that the Swedish government provide Ukraine with JAS-39 Gripen fighters.

However, already in May, several countries called on Sweden to pause the provision of Gripen fighters to Ukraine, citing the fact that it would be more appropriate to focus on American F-16 fighters at that time.

A few days ago, the Presidential Administration said that Sweden was ready to provide Gripen fighter jets and explained why Ukraine was not ready for them.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber . Do not fall for fakes!

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WASHINGTON, DC / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Building an effectivemedical blogis crucial for healthcare practices looking to expand their reach and build trust with their patients. A well-structured blog can significantly enhance yourhealthcare marketing strategy , ensuring your practice grows in the increasingly competitive digital landscape. By focusing on content that resonates with your community and provides valuable health information, you can establish your practice as a trustworthy source of medical knowledge.A successful medical blog should prioritize regular and consistent posting. Blogs not only help increase the number of indexed pages on your website but also create opportunities for backlinks, which can boost your search engine rankings. Integrating a mix of online strategies, such as compelling website content and active social media presence, helps further enhance your practice's brand visibility and patient engagement.Effective content marketingis about more than just sharing facts; it's about connecting with your readers. By centering your posts around the needs and concerns of your community, you make your practice not just a healthcare provider but a trusted partner in their wellness journey. This approach not only drives engagement but also fosters long-term relationships, making your medical practice a preferred choice for current and potential patients.Developing a Robust Medical Blogging StrategyCreating an effective medical blog involves understanding your audience, producing valuable content, optimizing for search engines, and engaging with your community. Focusing on these areas will help build trust and authority in your field.Identifying Target Audience and Content DemandIdentifying the target audience is crucial for any successful blogging strategy. Determine who will benefit most from your content, such as patients, caregivers, or other healthcare professionals. Research the specific needs and questions of your audience by looking at common health concerns and trending topics. Tools like Google Trends and forums can provide insight into what your audience is searching for.National health months and events can guide your content calendar, ensuring relevance and timely information. By aligning your topics with what your audience finds important, you create a more engaging and responsive blog.Crafting High-Quality, Educational Medical ContentHigh-quality,educational contentis the foundation of a robust medical blog. Make sure that each post is well-researched and fact-checked. Include credible sources and use straightforward language to explain medical concepts, ensuring the content is accessible to a broad audience.Creating how-to guides, informative articles, and patient stories can provide practical value and personal connections. Infographics and videos are also effective for breaking down complex information. Consistent posting helps maintain interest and establishes your blog as a reliable resource.Optimizing for Search Engines and User ExperienceSearch Engine Optimization( SEO ) is essential for increasing your blog's visibility. Utilize tools such as Ahrefs to find the best keywords related to your topics. Integrate these keywords naturally into your content, titles, and meta descriptions to improve yourranking on Google .Besides keywords, focus on user experience. Ensure your blog is easy to navigate with a clean layout and clear calls to action.Mobile optimizationis a must, as many users access information through their phones. Fast loading times and minimal technical issues will keep readers engaged.Engaging with Community and Building AuthorityEngagement with your readers builds trust and authority. Respond to comments and questions promptly, showing that you value their interaction. Encourage discussion and feedback through polls or question-and-answer sessions.Leveraging social media platforms to share your blog posts can reach a wider audience. Collaborate with other reputable healthcare professionals and guest blog to expand your reach and build credibility. Over time, these efforts will position your blog as a trusted source of medical information.Amplifying Blog Impact and Measuring SuccessTo increase the impact of your healthcare blog and accurately measure its success, it is crucial to leverage social media channels, use analytics for monitoring performance, and adapt strategies based on insights and ROI.Leveraging Social Mediaand Networking ChannelsOne effective way to amplify the reach of your healthcare blog is through social media and networking channels. Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, and Instagram offer powerful tools topromote blog content , engage with the community, andattract potential patients .Sharing blog posts regularly on social media enhances visibility, which can lead to more traffic and, ultimately,higher conversion rates . Social media posts should be engaging, using eye-catching images or infographics, to entice users to click through to the blog.Networking within professional groups and forums, like LinkedIn groups or health-related forums, can also drive engagement and establish the healthcare practice as a thought leader. Regular interaction within these networks helps build trust, leading to more shares and promoting stronger community ties.Monitoring Performance Through AnalyticsMonitoring blog performance requires effective use of analytics tools like Google Analytics. These tools provide insights into metrics such as website traffic, traffic sources, bounce rates, and conversion rates. By understanding where visitors are coming from and how they interact with blog content, healthcare practices can identify which topics resonate most with their audience.Analytics also track the performance of backlinks, which are essential for improving search engine rankings. Patient reviews and online reviews should also be monitored as they affect overall reputation and search volume. Consistent analysis ensures improved targeting and a higher return on investment.Setting up regular reports helps in visualizing trends and measuring key performance indicators (KPIs). This data-driven approach allows healthcare practices to make informed decisions, optimizing blog strategies and enhancing reader engagement.Adapting Strategies Based on Insights and ROIUsing insights gathered from analytics, healthcare practices can adapt their blogging strategies to boost effectiveness and ROI. For instance, if certain topics generate more traffic and leads, the practice should focus on creating more content around those areas. Also, lower-performing posts may need re-evaluation or revision to improve engagement.Paid advertising can be an additional strategy to promote high-value content, increa
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / In today's digital age,medical practice digital marketinghas become indispensable for healthcare providers striving to build a robust online presence and connect with patients. Effective digital marketing enables medical practices to reach, attract, and engage patients by leveraging various online tools and platforms. This includes creating a responsive website, optimizing for search engines, and engaging patients through social media. Brand identity forms a critical aspect of healthcare digital marketing, helping practices distinguish themselves in an increasingly competitive market. Crafting a strong, unique brand identity involves establishing your practice's values, mission, and visual elements that resonate with your target audience. Utilizing consistent branding across all digital channels ensures that patients recognize and trust your practice.Image Credit: PeopleImages12, Doctor Marketing, MDEngagement does not stop at brand identity; medical practices must continuously interact with potential and existing patients.Digital marketing strategiessuch as email campaigns, patient reviews, and content marketing foster ongoing communication and trust. By regularly updating andoptimizing your digital presence , practices can maintain patient interest and loyalty, ultimately leading to growth and success in the healthcare industry.Understanding Digital Marketing in HealthcareDigital marketing in healthcare is transforming how medical practices reach and engage their patients. The transition from traditional to digital methods and the essential components of an effectivedigital marketing strategyare critical for success. The evolution from traditional marketing todigital marketing in healthcarehas been driven by advances in technology and changes in patient behavior. Traditionally, medical practices relied on flyers, billboards, and word-of-mouth to attract patients.Today, they leverage websites, social media, and online ads. Digital marketing allows practices to reach a broader audience more efficiently and provides detailed analytics to measure success. Medical professionals now use tools likesearch engine optimization(SEO), email marketing, and social media platforms to engage with patients, providing information and fostering trust.Key Components of a Digital StrategyAn effective digital marketing strategy for healthcare combines several key elements. SEO ensures that a practice's website appears in search engine results, increasing visibility. Content marketing involves creating valuable blog posts and articles that educate patients and build credibility. Social media marketing engages patients on platforms they frequently use, such as Facebook and Instagram.Email marketing keeps patients informed about new services and wellness tips. Lastly, online reputation management is crucial as patients often read reviews before choosing a healthcare provider. By focusing on these components, medical practices can create a comprehensive digital marketing plan that improves patient engagement and grows their practice.Building a Strong Online PresenceEstablishing a strong online presence is an essential element for medical practices. This involves creating a professional and user-friendly website, optimizing for search engines, and effectively managing yourGoogle Business Profile . A professional website serves as the online face of a medical practice. It should be aesthetically pleasing, easy to navigate, and contain all necessary information patients need. Key elements to include are contact information, services provided, biographies of medical staff, and appointment booking options.Web design also plays a crucial role. A well-designed site incorporates responsive design, ensuring it looks good on all devices, and fast load times, as site speed impacts user experience and SEO ranking. Investing in a secure, HIPAA-compliant website boosts patient trust and data protection.Leveraging SEO for VisibilitySearch Engine Optimization (SEO) is vital for enhancing a medical practice's online visibility. Effective SEO strategies involve keyword research, optimizing web pages with relevant keywords, andbuilding quality backlinks . These efforts help the website rank higher in search engine results, making it easier for potential patients to find the practice.Local SEO ensures visibility among local audiences. This includes local citations, optimizing for local keywords, and ensuring consistent NAP (Name, Address, and Phone Number) information across the web. Content marketing, through blogs and updates, tailored to patient interests can further enhance SEO efforts, driving organic traffic to the site.Managing Your Google Business ProfileA well-managed Google Business Profile (GBP) enhances a practice's local visibility. This profile should be filled out completely with accurate business information ,hours of operation , service details, and high-quality photos of the practice. Encouraging patients to leave reviews on the GBP can improve the practice's credibility and ranking.Regularly updating the profile with fresh posts or announcements keeps the information current and engaging for visitors. By addressing patient reviews-both positive and negative-a practice demonstrates commitment to patient care, boosting trust and potential loyalty. Utilizing the insights provided by GBP analytics can help refine marketing strategies based on patient interactions with the profile.Engaging with Social MediaEngaging with social media is critical for any medical practice looking to connect with patients, share valuable information, and enhance its reputation. This section outlines strategies for choosing the right platforms, creating valuable content, and best practices formanaging social media effectively . Choosing the right social media platforms is foundational. Facebook is widely used by various demographics and is excellent for building a community. LinkedIn is ideal for professional networking and sharing detailed medical insights. Instagram and Twitter can be used for quick updates, health tips, and engaging with patients in a more casual setting.Doctors should consider the preferences of their target audience. Are patients more likely to engage with detailed articles, quick tips, or visual content? Different platforms excel in different types of media. Therefore, understanding patient demographics and their online behavior helps in making informed decisions. Social media profiles also need regular monitoring. Each platform's unique features should be leveraged accordingly, ensuring content is optimized and reaches the intended audience. Using analytics tools on these platforms can provide insights into what's working and wha
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DALLAS, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / In the rapidly expanding field of plastic surgery, a powerfuldigital marketing strategycan make a significant difference. With the global plastic surgery market projected to reach $48.84 billion by 2026, plastic surgeons have a great opportunity to grow their practices. A well-designed, informative, and user-friendly website is crucial for attracting and converting prospective patients. This online hub not only needs to showcase services but also build trust and credibility.Content marketingplays a vital role in educating and engaging potential clients. By offering valuable insights, plastic surgeons can address common concerns and questions patients may have. This helps create a relationship of trust even before the first consultation. Sharing success stories, posting informative articles, and usingSEO techniqueswill boost thepractice's search engine rankings , leading to higher visibility.Image Credit: Iakovenko, Doctor Marketing, MDEstablishing a Strong Online PresenceTo maximize earnings, plastic surgeons must establish a robust online presence. This requiresoptimizing the website , utilizingSEOand analytics, and fostering a strong reputation through testimonials and reviews. A well-designed website is crucial for plastic surgeons. The website should have a clean and appealing design with easy-to-navigate menus and clear calls to action. A user-friendly website improvesuser experience , making it simple for potential patients to find the information they need.Incorporating an online booking system can streamline appointment scheduling, enhancing user satisfaction. Mobile responsiveness is vital, as many users will access the site through their phones. Therefore, ensuring the website looks good and functions well on mobile devices is essential to reach a broader audience. Including a blog section can also provide valuable content, such as patient stories and procedure explanations, which can engage visitors and keep them on the site longer.Effective Use of SEO and Google AnalyticsSearch engine optimization(SEO) is a powerful tool to boost a plastic surgery practice's online presence. By incorporating relevant keywords, such as "plastic surgery," "cosmetic procedures," and "body contouring," into website content, plastic surgeons can improve their site's visibility in search engine results.Local SEOis also critical, helping target potential patients in the surrounding area.Using tools likeGoogle Analyticscan provide insights into how visitors interact with the website, revealing which pages are most popular and where users might drop off. This data allows surgeons to refine their SEO strategy and website design for better performance. Regularly updating website content with new blogs or patient testimonials also positively impacts SEO rankings and keeps the site fresh and engaging.Building a Reputation with Testimonials and ReviewsOnline reputation is pivotal in attracting new patients. Encouraging satisfied patients to leave positive reviews on platforms such as Google My Business can significantly enhance a plastic surgeon's credibility. Displaying authentic testimonials on the website can reassure potential clients of the quality of care they can expect.Doctor Marketing, MD recommends a follow-up email system that directs happy clients to review sites to streamline this process. Reviews not only build trust with new clients but also improve SEO, as search engines favor well-reviewed businesses. Managing and responding to reviews shows potential clients that the practice values feedback and strives continually to improve.Content Marketing: Educating and Engaging PatientsPlastic surgeons can greatly benefit from employingcontent marketing strategiesto educate and engage their patients. This section delves into the critical aspects of usingblog postsand videos, leveragingsocial media platforms , and showcasing success stories through visuals.Blogging is a cornerstone of content marketing for plastic surgeons. Regular blog posts that offer informative content on various procedures and patient care can help build trust and authority. By addressing common concerns and questions, surgeons can attract potential patients researching their options. Valuable content that educates rather than just promotes is key to establishing a strong, professional presence online.Videos are another effective tool. They provide a visual and personal touch that text alone cannot. Short clips explaining procedures, patient testimonials, and behind-the-scenes looks can greatly enhance engagement. Video content appeals to visual learners and can significantly boost website traffic and patient inquiries. High-quality videos often lead to better social media shares, expanding the reach of the surgeon's expertise and services.Leveraging Social Media Platforms for EngagementSocial media platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok offer unparalleled opportunities for plastic surgeons to connect with their audience. By sharing educational content and engaging posts, surgeons can keep their audience informed and involved. Instagram is particularly suited for before-and-after photos, while Facebook allows for more in-depth discussions and patient interactions. TikTok's short-form content can creatively showcase procedures and results quickly and engagingly.Active participation on social media fosters a sense of community and trust. Responding to comments, participating in Q&A sessions, and sharing patient success stories can drive significant engagement. Social media engagement is crucial for maintaining visibility and relevance in the competitive field of plastic surgery.Showcasing Success Through Stories and VisualsSuccess stories and visuals are powerful components of a plastic surgeon's content marketing strategy. Before-and-after photos and patient testimonials serve as compelling proof of a surgeon's skills and can greatly influence potential patients' decisions. These visuals must be of high quality to accurately represent the outcomes and the surgeon's expertise.Sharing detailed success stories, including patient experiences, challenges, and results, provides a relatable and emotional connection with potential patients. Visual content allows prospects to envision their transformations, making them more likely to trust and choose the surgeon for their needs. Effective use of visuals in content marketing builds credibility and showcases the tangible benefits of the procedures offered.Building a Robust Email Marketing StrategyEmail marketing remains a powerful tool for plastic surgeons. By building an email list, surgeons can maintain direct communication with current and potential patients. Personalization is key; emails should be ta
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JACKSONVILLE, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Many potential patients start their search for plastic surgery services through Google, making it crucial for clinics to appear in local search results. Bysetting up a comprehensive GMB profile , clinics can ensure they show up in the prominent "map pack" on Google Search, making it easier for patients to find them. Plastic surgery clinics can greatly benefit from creating a robust GMB profile. This profile not only provides basic information like address and hours of operation but also allows clinics to showcase patient reviews, share photos of their work, and post updates about the clinic. This added information can build trust with potential patients by showing them real examples of the clinic's expertise andpositive patient experiences .Image Credit: WaveBreakMediaMicro, Doctor Marketing, MDCreating Your GMB ProfileSetting up a Google My Business profile for your plastic surgery clinic involves several key steps, including claiming your clinic, verifying your business, andoptimizing the contenton your profile. Doing this helps potential patients find and choose your services. The first step is to claim your clinic on Google My Business. By doing this, you ensure that you have control over your business information online. Begin by going to the Google My Business website. Click on "Manage now" and sign in with your Google account. Enter your clinic's name and address. If your business is listed, you can claim it. If not, you'll need to add it.Next, provide accurate details like your business category (e.g., Plastic Surgery Clinic), address, phone number, and hours of operation. Make sure all the information you entered is correct. Accurate information helps patients find and contact your clinic easily. By claiming your business, you can also respond to reviews and keep your profile updated.Verifying Your BusinessAfter claiming your clinic, the next important step is to verify your business. Google offers a few verification methods including postcard, phone, or email. The most common method is receiving a postcard with a verification code. This postcard typically arrives in 5-7 days at the clinic address you provided. Once you get the postcard, log back into your Google My Business account and enter the verification code. Verifying your business is crucial because it confirms your legitimacy to Google and helps prevent unauthorized changes to your profile. Only verified businesses get full access to GMB features like post updates, upload photos, and more.Optimizing GMB ContentOptimizing your GMB profilecontent makes your clinic stand out. Start by adding high-quality photos and videos of your clinic, staff, and treatments. Visual content is essential as it gives potential patients a glimpse of your services. Include clear, professional images and, if possible, short videos explaining your treatments. Regularly update your profile with posts about new services, promotions, or events happening at your clinic. Encourage your patients to leave reviews and make sure to respond to them professionally. Reviews build trust and can improve your ranking in search results. Consistently provide accurate and up-to-date information about your clinic to keep it appealing and relevant.Enhancing Online VisibilityTo improve their online presence, plastic surgery clinics need to focus on managing reviews, engagement, and leveragingSEO strategies . These tools can significantlyincrease their clinic's visibilityon Google. A critical aspect of enhancing visibility is actively managing Google reviews. Positive reviews help build trust and credibility. Encourage satisfied patients to leave reviews on the clinic's Google Business Profile. This not only boosts trust but also helps in ranking higher on Google search results.Engagement goes beyond just obtaining reviews. It's also essential to respond to them. Whether positive or negative, responding to reviews shows that the clinic values patient feedback and cares about their experiences. Engaging with patients through Google posts can further increase interaction. Regularly updating the Google Business Profile with new posts, such as updates about the clinic, special offers, or educational content, keeps the profile active and visible.Leveraging SEO for Your ClinicSearch Engine Optimization(SEO) is vital for a clinic's online success. By optimizing the Google Business Profile, clinics can ensure they appear in relevant search results. Important factors include usingaccurate and detailed informationabout the clinic, such as services offered, business hours, and contact information. Adding high-quality images of the clinic and staff can also improve search rankings. Using keywords relevant to the plastic surgery industry in descriptions and posts can help in reaching potential patients. Ensuring that the clinic's profile is correctly categorized and tagged helps Google understand what services are offered, further enhancing visibility on Google Maps and Google Search.Interacting with Potential PatientsIt's crucial for plastic surgery clinics to effectivelycommunicate with potential patientsthrough their Google Business Profiles. This involves promptly answering questions and maintaining accurate, up-to-date clinic information. Potential patients may have multiple questions about the services, costs, and details of plastic surgery procedures. Clinics should actively monitor and respond to these questions posted on their Google Business Profile. Swift and helpful answers build trust and can convert inquiries into appointments.Providing accurate information is essential. Misleading or incomplete answers can drive potential patients away. Clinics should answer questions in a thorough and patient-friendly manner, ensuring clarity. It's also beneficial to have a few FAQs prepared that can be quickly modified to suit individual inquiries.Updating Clinic Information RegularlyKeeping the clinic's information up-to-date on the Google Business Profile is vital. This includes details like clinic hours, location, contact information, and services offered. Regular updates ensure that potential patients have the most current and accurate information, making it easier for them to contact the clinic or find its location on the map.Updating information regularly helps in avoiding confusion and potential frustration for patients. For example, ensure the clinic hours are accurate, especially during holidays or special off-days. If there are changes in services or new procedures available, adding these details promptly can attract more inquiries.Showcasing Clinic Services and ExpertiseShowcasing your clinic's servicesand expertise on your Google My Business (GMB) profile is crucial. This not
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 14, 2024 / Leading securities law firm Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP announces an investigation into Salesforce, Inc. (NYSE:CRM) for potential violations of the federal securities laws.If you invested in Salesforce, you are encouraged to submit your information at https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/salesforce-inc Why Did Salesforce's Stock Drop?On May 29, 2024, Salesforce reported its fiscal Q1 2025 financial results. In pertinent part, Salesforce's reported $9.13 billion in revenue came in below the midpoint of its previously issued guidance range and the current remaining performance obligation growth rate-a key bookings metric-came in below the company's outlook. Salesforce also issued fiscal Q2 2025 revenue guidance of $9.2 to $9.25 billion, below consensus estimates.As a result, Salesforce's stock price declined over 20% at the close of trading on May 30, 2024. BFA is investigating whether Salesforce and certain of its executives made materially false and/or misleading statements to investors related to Salesforce's customer buying environment and/or the company's sales execution abilities.Submit your information here: https://www.bfalaw.com/cases-investigations/salesforce-inc What Can You Do?If you invested in Salesforce, Inc. you may have legal options and are encouraged to submit your information to the firm. All representation is on a contingency fee basis, there is no cost to you. Shareholders are not responsible for any court costs or expenses of litigation. The firm will seek court approval for any potential fees and expenses.Find out more by visiting:Or contact:Ross Shikowitz ross@ bfalaw.com 212-789-3619Why Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP?Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP is a leading international law firm representing plaintiffs in securities class actions and shareholder litigation. It was named among the Top 5 plaintiff law firms by ISS SCAS in 2023 and its attorneys have been named Titans of the Plaintiffs' Bar by Law360 and SuperLawyers by Thompson Reuters. Among its recent notable successes, BFA recovered over $900 million in value from Tesla, Inc.'s Board of Directors (pending court approval), as well as $420 million from Teva Pharmaceutical Ind. Ltd.For more information about BFA and its attorneys, please visit https://www.bfalaw.com Attorney advertising. Past results do not guarantee future outcomes.SOURCE: Bleichmar Fonti & Auld LLP
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HOUSTON, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / Cosmetic surgery practices need a website that is not only visually appealing but also optimized for search engines. This includes making sure the site loads quickly, is mobile-friendly, and has relevant keywords. Engaging content such as blogs, patient testimonials, and educational videos can also drive more traffic and keep potential patients interested. LocalSEO for cosmetic surgeonsis crucial as most patients prefer to find a nearby practice. This involves using location-specific keywords, getting listed on local directories, and having a strong presence on social media. By focusing on these aspects of SEO, cosmetic surgeons can boost their online presence and attract more clients.Image Credit: Justmeyo, Doctor Marketing, MDFor cosmetic surgeons, having anonline presenceis essential to attract new patients and grow their practice. SEO for cosmetic surgeonshelps improve their visibility on search engines, leading to more website traffic and potential clients. Understanding how to use SEO effectively can give a practice a significant edge over the competition.Understanding SEO in Plastic SurgerySearch Engine Optimization ( SEO ) is vital for cosmetic surgeons. It helps attract new patients through improved visibility of their practice online, notably on search engines like Google.The Importance of SEO for Cosmetic SurgeonsEffective SEO can significantly boost a cosmetic surgeon's digital presence. A high ranking on search engine results pages (SERPs) enhances visibility and attracts more potential patients. Doctor Marketing, MD specializes in helping surgeons achieve this. Being on the first page of results means more clicks and inquiries.Traditional marketing, such as word-of-mouth, is still relevant, but SEO now plays a critical role. Many people search online before choosing a service, making SEO indispensable for staying competitive. Plastic surgery SEO focuses on optimizing the surgeon's website and content to be easily found by search engines and potential clients.Key SEO Concepts and TerminologyKeywords: Keywords are specific terms people type into search engines. For plastic surgeons, these include phrases like "facelift," "botox treatments," or " liposuction." Content:High-quality contentis essential. This can includeblog posts , videos, and patient testimonials.Meta Descriptions: These are short snippets that describe a webpage's content. They appear under the page title in search results and can increase click-through rates.Backlinks: Links from other reputable websites to yours. They build credibility and improveSEO rankings .Conversion Rate Optimization (CRO): This isn't just about traffic; it's about turning visitors into patients. Strategies include making the website user-friendly and ensuring contact information is easy to find.How SEO Affects Plastic Surgery PracticesWhen implemented correctly, SEO can dramatically impact a plastic surgery practice. More website traffic can lead to more consultations and surgeries. SEO also helps build a digital presence. Regularly updated content showcasing the surgeon's expertise and success stories creates trust with prospective patients. Video content is especially effective, allowing potential clients to see procedures and hear from patients directly.Doctor Marketing, MD focuses on these aspects to help plastic surgeons grow. Ultimately, good SEO is about visibility, credibility, and conversion, ensuring that when people search for cosmetic surgery options, they find the practice easily.Building a Strong Foundation: Website OptimizationOptimizing a cosmetic surgery website involves creating a seamless user experience, employing technical SEO strategies, and ensuring the site is mobile-friendly and secure.A clear and easy-to-navigate website is essential.Cosmetic surgery websites should have an intuitive layout with a visible menu and straightforward categories.High-quality images and concise descriptions of services improve the site's appeal.Contact information, including phone numbers and addresses, must be easy to find.Including a simple appointment booking form makes it convenient for visitors. Speed is crucial, as slow-loading pages can drive users away.Patient testimonials and before-and-after photos help build trust.Technical SEO for Cosmetic SurgeonsTechnical SEO ensures that search engines can index and rank the site's pages effectively.Clean URL structures with relevant keywords help search engines understand the content.A comprehensive sitemap allows better navigation.Meta descriptions and title tags should be optimized with keywords related to plastic surgery.Utilizing alt text for images enhances accessibility and SEO.Internal linking helps spread link equity around the site, improving overall search engine rankings.Mobile-Friendly and Secure WebsitesA responsive design ensures that the site functions on various devices. Cosmetic surgery websites should use responsive templates that adjust to different screen sizes.Security is a top priority. Implementing SSL certificates guarantees that user data is encrypted.A mobile-friendly site is preferred by users and search engines alike.Pages should load quickly on mobile devices, ensuring an optimal user experience.Use secure forms for any data collection, such as appointment bookings.Developing Engaging ContentCreating engaging contentfor cosmetic surgery websites involves understanding what potential patients are looking for and avoiding practices that can hurt search engine rankings. Quality contentandstrategic use of keywordsare crucial for successful SEO.Content Strategy for Plastic SurgeonsPlastic surgeons should aim to develop content that meets both the needs of their audience and search engines. Before-and-after photo galleries are highly effective, showcasing the surgeon's work and building trust with potential patients. Including subheadings, bullet points, and images can make the content more readable and visually appealing. Another effective strategy is to embed videos or infographics which can increase engagement. FAQs and blog posts on local trends and services can also help capture the attention of local audiences, making the content more relevant.Keywords and Search IntentUnderstanding the relationship between keywords and search intent can significantly boost theonline visibility of a cosmetic surgery practice . By knowing what potential patients are searching for, practices can craft their content to meet these intentions effectively.Effective keyword researchstarts by pinpointing keywords that potential patients use when searching for cosmetic surgery services. Tools like Google Keyword Planner and Ahrefs can help identi
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SAN ANTONIO, TX / ACCESSWIRE / July 13, 2024 / SEO, or search engine optimization, is crucial for medical practices looking to grow their patient base and improve their online presence. By understanding and applyingSEO principles , medical practices can ensure they appear at the top of search engine results when potential patients look for healthcare services online. Effective SEO helps medical practicesattract more patients , enhance their credibility, and stay competitive in the rapidly growing digital healthcare landscape. A strong SEO strategy involves optimizing themedical practice's websitewith relevant keywords, engaging content, and a user-friendly design. It's important to ensure that the site is easy to navigate and provides valuable information that meets the needs of its visitors.Image Credit: LenetStan, Doctor Marketing, MDBesides content, technical SEO plays a key role in the success of a medical website. This includes improving the backend of the website to enhance its performance, such as faster loading times and mobile compatibility. These elements contribute to a better user experience and higher search rankings, making it easier for patients to find and choose the medical practice for their healthcare needs.SEO for healthcare is crucial for medical practices aiming to enhance their online presence. By understanding thefundamentals of search engine optimization , medical websites can attract more patients through better visibility on search engines. This section delves into the importance of SEO in healthcare and the key concepts necessary for optimizing medical websites.What Is SEO and Its Importance in Healthcare?Search Engine Optimization (SEO) is the practice of enhancing a website to rank higher in search engine results. For healthcare providers, this means their websites become more visible to patients searching for medical information. With more people turning to Google to find doctors or health services, SEO can significantly impact a practice's ability to attract new patients.Healthcare SEO is especially important because it helps match patients to the right providers and services. By using relevant keywords, healthcare websites can appear in search results when patients look for specific treatments or medical advice. This increased visibility leads tohigher organic traffic , which is crucial in a competitive digital landscape. For medical practices, an effective SEO strategy can translate to more appointments and better patient outcomes.Key SEO Concepts for Medical WebsitesThere are several key concepts that medical websites should focus on to improve their SEO. First, keyword research is essential. Medical practices need to identify the terms and questions that patients are searching for and incorporate these into their website content. This helps ensure that their pages appear in relevant search results.Next,on-page SEO factors , such as meta tags, headings, and image alt texts, play a significant role. These elements help search engines understand the content of the website and rank it appropriately. Additionally, having a mobile-friendly website is crucial since many users access medical information via smartphones. A responsive design ensures a good user experience, which is a factor in search rankings.Finally, creatinghigh-quality, informative contentis vital. Regular updates to blogs or articles about health topics relevant to the practice can help keep the website relevant and valuable to patients. This not only improves search engine rankings but also establishes the practice as a trusted source of medical information. Engaging, clear, and useful content can make a significant difference in SEO performance for healthcare websites.Conducting Effective Keyword ResearchCreating a strongSEO strategy for a medical practiceis crucial forattracting patientsand improving your online presence. This section will covereffective keyword research , crafting quality content, and important on-page SEO techniques.Keyword research is the backbone of any successful SEO strategy. Identifying the right keywords involves understanding what potential patients are searching for. Medical practices should focus on specific terms relevant to their services. For example, keywords like "pediatric care in [city]" or "dental implants [city]" are more useful than generic terms. Tools like Google Keyword Planner can help in identifying high-traffic keywords. Always consider the search intent behind the keywords.People may look for symptoms, treatments, or specialists, and targeting these intents can attract more visitors to your site. Using a mix of short-tail and long-tail keywords is also beneficial. Short-tail keywords can drive large amounts of traffic, while long-tail keywords often have less competition and are highly specific, leading to better conversion rates.Content Is King: Crafting Quality Posts and PagesHigh-quality content is essential for any medical site. Content should be informative, relevant, and engaging. Patients are looking for credible information, so it's important to write content that addresses their needs. Content can include blog posts, patient testimonials, and detailed service pages. Use keywords naturally within the content. Overloading keywords can lead to penalties from search engines. Including relevant keywords in headings and subheadings also helps search engines understand the content better. Additionally, adding images, videos, and infographics can make the content more engaging and shareable.On-Page SEO Techniques for Medical SitesOn-page SEOrefers to optimizing individual pages to rank higher in search engines. Title tags and meta descriptions are crucial components. Title tags should contain the main keyword and be descriptive. Meta descriptions give a summary of the page content; they should be persuasive to encourage clicks.Including internal links to other relevant pages on your site can improve navigation and keep users engaged longer. External links to reputable sources can also build trust and authority. Finally, ensuring mobile-friendliness and fast loading times is essential as more users turn to mobile devices for their searches.Together, these strategies can ensure that your medical practice is visible and trusted by potential patients searching online.Local SEO and Your Medical PracticeCreating a strong online presence is essential for medical practices. This involves optimizing forlocal searches , managing online profiles, and engaging with patients through social media.Local SEOis crucial for medical practices. Ensuring the practice shows up in local searches helps attract patients nearby. Medical practices should focus on their name, address, and phone number (NAP) being consistent across all
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NEW YORK, NY / ACCESSWIRE / July 14, 2024 / Pomerantz LLP is investigating claims on behalf of investors of Community Health Systems, Inc. ("Community Health" or the "Company") (NYSE:CYH). Such investors are advised to contact Danielle Peyton at newaction@ pomlaw.com or 646-581-9980, ext. 7980.The investigation concerns whether Community Health and certain of its officers and/or directors have engaged in securities fraud or other unlawful business practices.[Click here for information about joining the class action]On June 19, 2024, Community Health issued a press release "provid[ing] an update on the planned divestiture of two North Carolina hospitals[.]" The press release stated that "[o]n June 18, 2024, Novant Health, Inc., a North Carolina non-profit corporation (Novant'), informed [Community Health] that Novant has decided not to move forward with the acquisition of two North Carolina hospitals. The transactions were contemplated by an Asset Purchase Agreement dated February 28, 2023 (as amended, the Purchase Agreement'), by and among Novant and certain subsidiaries of the Company[.]" The press release further stated that "Novant's decision follows a ruling by the Fourth Circuit Court of Appeals", which "issued a temporary injunction blocking the sale to Novant Health, pending final resolution of an appeal by the Federal Trade Commission. The injunction prevented completion of the transaction until the Court of Appeals decides whether to uphold or overturn a previous District Court decision that allowed the sale to proceed." On this news, Community Health's stock price fell $0.33 per share, or 9.48%, to close at $3.15 per share on June 20, 2024.Pomerantz LLP, with offices in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles, London, Paris, and Tel Aviv, is acknowledged as one of the premier firms in the areas of corporate, securities, and antitrust class litigation. Founded by the late Abraham L. Pomerantz, known as the dean of the class action bar, Pomerantz pioneered the field of securities class actions. Today, more than 85 years later, Pomerantz continues in the tradition he established, fighting for the rights of the victims of securities fraud, breaches of fiduciary duty, and corporate misconduct. The Firm has recovered billions of dollars in damages awards on behalf of class members. See www.pomlaw.com Attorney advertising. Prior results do not guarantee similar outcomes.SOURCE: Pomerantz LLP
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MIAMI, FL / ACCESSWIRE / July 14, 2024 / The esteemedStephen Millan Scholarship for Law Students is now accepting applications for its annual award, designed to support and recognize aspiring legal professionals across the United States. This scholarship, established by distinguished attorney and former judge Stephen Millan, is a testament to his unwavering commitment to justice, community service, and legal excellence.Scholarship OverviewTheStephen Millan Scholarship for Law Students is a competitive program that awards a one-time prize of $1,000 to a law student who demonstrates exceptional academic performance, a dedication to community service, and superior analytical writing skills. The scholarship is open to students currently enrolled in an accredited Juris Doctor (JD) program at a recognized institution.Criteria for ApplicationTo be eligible for theStephen Millan Scholarship for Law Students, applicants must meet the following criteria:Enrollment in a Juris Doctor (JD) program: Applicants must be currently enrolled in an accredited Juris Doctor program.Academic Achievement: Applicants should demonstrate strong academic performance and a commitment to excellence in their legal studies.Community Service: Preference is given to applicants who have actively engaged in community service or volunteer activities, showcasing a dedication to making a positive impact beyond the classroom.Essay Submission: Applicants must submit a well-crafted essay addressing the provided prompt, showcasing their analytical thinking, writing skills, and unique perspective on a significant legal case or issue.Essay PromptApplicants are required to submit an essay reflecting on a significant legal case or issue that has personally inspired them, discussing its impact on their understanding of justice, advocacy, and the role of law in society. The essay should also explain how this case or issue has shaped their aspirations as a future legal professional and outline the steps they plan to take to address similar challenges in their career.Submissions should be sent as a PDF attachment to apply@ stephenmillanscholarship.com , including the applicant's full name, contact information, and the name of their law school in the email body.Application DeadlineThe deadline to apply for theStephen Millan Scholarship for Law Students is November 15, 2024. The winner will be announced on December 15, 2024.About Stephen MillanStephen Millan , the attorney and founder of this scholarship, has had a distinguished career marked by a deep commitment to justice and community service. Born and raised in New York, Stephen Millan is a graduate of Northeastern University School of Law and Boston College. He has served as a Circuit Court Judge in the Eleventh Judicial Circuit and has extensive experience as an attorney, specializing in State and Federal Criminal defense and post-trial litigation.Stephen Millan's career is highlighted by his dedication to upholding the principles of fairness and equity. He has served in various capacities, including as an Assistant State Attorney for Miami-Dade County, where he worked in divisions such as Career Criminal/Robbery, Narcotics, and Domestic Violence. Throughout his career, Stephen Millan has been committed to mentoring students and serving as a liaison with the community and the legal system.The Stephen Millan Scholarship for Law Students reflects his passion for fostering the next generation of legal professionals who embody the values of integrity, compassion, and leadership.Contact Info:Spokesperson: Stephen MillanOrganization: Stephen Millan ScholarshipWebsite: https://stephenmillanscholarship.com Email: apply@ stephenmillanscholarship.com SOURCE: Stephen Millan Scholarship
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The 100 year old venue kicks off its 100 year anniversary with a series of music, cultural, community and historic events ranging from live music, chef-driven food festival, mariachi brunches, latin jazz nights and many more events culminating in a September celebration. The Paramount building includes the Brooklyn Avenue Pizza Co, the Boyle Heights Arts Conservatory (a local non-profit) and KQBH 101.5 fm, a hyper-local community radio station.LOS ANGELES, CA / ACCESSWIRE / July 14, 2024 / The Paramount Ballroom is celebrating its 100th year in Boyle Heights. An elegant Renaissance revival structure built in 1924-the building is a thriving example of L.A.'s textured, layered history. From its origins as a place of organization and unionization to its Eastside legacy as a performing arts destination, The Paramount embodies the layers of Boyle Heights/East L.A.'s cultural heritage: a place where social justice, cultural influence, and the arts collide.Paramount Copa America The Paramount LA Copa America 100 year kick-offThe Paramount is kicking off its 100 year celebration with several live music, community and cultural events and a free community watch party of the Copa America 2024 Final between Colombia & Argentina this Sunday July 14, 2024 from 4pm to 9pm.First opened on what was then Brooklyn Avenue, the building was initially operated by the Jewish baker's union of Los Angeles and the Jewish subdistrict of the Communist Party. It was a touchstone of cultural commerce and community organizing during the height of the Jewish population in East Los Angeles. A few decades later, the Paramount became a premier ballroom venue and educational center run by Hollywood legend Rita Hayworth's father, Eduardo Cansino. This ushered in the era of a midcentury focus on live music, dance, and the atmosphere of a cafe society within the Paramount. Throughout the 1980s, the venue became the backdrop for punk music and the new wave Eastside sound.In 2011, a thorough restoration and revival of the space as a cultural convergence point began, spearheaded by owner Frank Acevedo. He was also interested in the Paramount's unique history as a political, cultural, and musical hot spot within the Boyle Heights neighborhood of east Los Angeles.Upstairs in the Paramount venue, the 1920s influence and architecture were preserved and embellished. The stage and bar were revived with a design that honored the building's history. There was specialized design and care put into maintaining the historic elements of the building.The current version of the Paramount building operates a music venue, radio station, nonprofit, and restaurant to benefit the surrounding community and the greater community of Southern California through programming and education. The Paramount is not the end-all-be-all but merely a page in the building's larger story as a setting for so many different cultural exchanges of ideals shared by Angelenos throughout the city's history.Contact InformationAvery WilcoxMedia Directoravery@ theparamountla.com 323-262-9300Frank AccevedoGeneral Managerfrank@ theparamountla.com 323-262-9300Related FilesCopa Watch PartySOURCE: Paramount Brooklyn, LLCView the original press release on newswire.com
President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy reacted to the shooting in Pennsylvania, where Republican Donald Trump was shot at. He was speaking at a campaign rally when a bullet flew past him, causing a minor injury.

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The Ukrainian leader noted that he was glad that the American politician was okay. This is stated in his post on X.

Zelenskyy said he was horrified to learn of the shooting of former US President Donald Trump during his campaign rally. He noted that there is no excuse for such violence and should be no place anywhere in the world.

"Violence must never win. I am glad to know that Donald Trump is safe and wish him a speedy recovery," the Ukrainian leader wrote.

He also expressed his condolences to the family of the victim of the attack, a rally participant.

"I wish strength to everyone who is shocked by this event. I wish America to come out of this stronger," Zelenskyy added.

Earlier, US President Joe Biden condemned the assassination attempt on Donald Trump. He called his opponent, who was taken to the hospital with a minor injury, who emphasized that he was fine.

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As a reminder, on July 13, during a speech by US presidential candidate Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, the sounds of gunfire were heard. After the shots, the politician fell to the ground. He was picked up by Secret Service agents, led off the stage, and then taken to the hospital. The photos show that Trump's cheek is scratched and his ear is bloody.

As reported, the US found out that the attacker at the rally in Pennsylvania was Thomas Matthew Crooks, who had recorded a video with threats on the eve of the event. The man made at least eight shots, killing one person and wounding two more.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
Dangote Refinery is upbeat its 650,000 barrel-per-day capacity crude processing plant will commence sales to fuel marketers in August.

The development follows the intervention of big industry players and the Nigerian Government in a major dispute with suppliers, helping end a delayed kick-off of distribution of the fuel.

Production began at Africas biggest refinery in January, with the refiner processing diesel and aviation for a start in big relief from construction delays that caused the project ten years to be completed, shooting initial costs of $9 billion to $19 billion at delivery.

Gasoline production to commence in July with sales from August, Aliko Dangote, Africas richest man and the president of the Dangote Group, said on Sunday during a presentation at a media tour of the plant in Lagos.

Annual revenue is projected to exceed $26 billion, the document further stated.

Mr Dangote told journalists the conflict with international oil companies in respect of the supply of feedstock has been laid to rest following the mediation of state oil company NNPC Limited and the Nigerian Government.

Last week, the Nigerian Upstream Regulatory Commission (NUPRC), which regulates the segment of the industry that focuses on exploration and production, announced it had entered an agreement with producers to ease supply to local refineries.

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We will never allow price strangulation to disincentivise our domestic refining capacity optimisation, NUPRCs CEO Gbenga Komolafe said after meeting with the members of the Oil Producers Trade Section, a group of domestic and international producers.

Mr Komolafe assured that his agency would discourage crude supply profiteering.

His remark followed an allegation by Dangote Group that international oil companies are standing in the way of the smooth running of the plant by offering crude oil to the refiner at a cost above the market price.

The IOCs are deliberately and willfully frustrating our efforts to buy the local crude. They are either asking for ridiculous/humongous premium(s), or they simply state that crude is unavailable, Devakumar Edwin, vice president oil & gas at Dangote Industries, said in June.

The refinery has had to rely on crude from the US in recent times to keep running and is set for a receipt of oil shipment from Brazil soon.

Currently running at a capacity per day, the refinery is expected to wean Nigeria off reliance on imported fuel, which consumes a big portion of its scarce foreign exchange, and also supply petroleum products to other parts of West Africa.

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The Rotary Club of Lagos has installed Adetunji Lamidi as its 64th president, ushering in a new era of leadership.

Mr Lamidis predecessor was Abiodun Role, a retired major general.

The Rotary Club of Lagos was Chartered on 3 June 1961 and is the oldest active Rotary Club in Nigeria

The event was officially announced on Saturday through a press release by the club.

An array of dignitaries, Rotary members, partners, and community leaders witnessed the new presidents installation ceremony.

The event was marked by an atmosphere of celebration and anticipation, with speeches, recognitions, and the unveiling of strategic initiatives to foster sustainable growth and positive change in Lagos and beyond.

In his inaugural address, the newly installed president, Mr Lamidi, outlined his ambitious vision for the Rotary Club of Lagos.

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He emphasised the clubs dedication to enhancing community welfare through strategic interventions and partnerships.

He said, Our goals for the year are audacious yet achievable.

He also revealed plans to commission a secondary school in Iboku Aro village, Awode Ogun State, support over 200 children, empower 200 widows, and donate five incubators to general hospitals in Lagos. Notably, the club has initiated its first project by donating an infant incubator to Island Maternity.

Mr Lamidis strategic vision includes several key initiatives to impact various community sectors significantly.

A cornerstone project is expanding the clubs micro-credit fund to N20 million, supporting five markets across Lagos.

We currently support the markets in Gbagada and Oke-Arin, and we aim to expand to five other communities, Mr Lamidi explained.

Additionally, the club plans to build five bore-hole projects to ensure access to clean water and provide annual scholarships for 20 university students across Lagos, promoting educational advancement and community well-being.

More Impact

Further amplifying the clubs impact, First City Monument Bank (FCMB) announced its support for a significant service project spearheaded by the Rotary Club of Lagos, District 9112.

This initiative aims to empower over 200 widows through micro-credit and skills acquisition.

The announcement was made during Mr Lamidis installation ceremony, with FCMBs Managing Director, Oluyemisi Edun, marking the banks commitment to supporting the Rotary Clubs initiatives.

FCMB views the Rotary Club as a vital platform for driving inclusion, national cohesion, and sustainable development, Mr Edun said.

We are delighted to support the club in empowering over 200 widows through micro-credit and skills acquisition under the new leadership of Rotarian Adetunji Lamidi.

The ceremony celebrated the installation of a new president and highlighted the Rotary Club of Lagoss dedication to community service and development.

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Movie stars Patience Ozokwor, Mama G and the late John Okafor, Mr Ibu, were the perfect on-screen couple. Not only did they star in some of Nollywoods biggest films, but they also boast a loyal fanbase extending beyond Nigerias shores.

However, besides their professional relationship, Mr Ibu and Mama G were friends. So, when Mr Ibu died on 2 March after battling with clotting of blood in his leg, stemming from diseased blood vessels and other strange illnesses for months, which led to the amputation of the affected leg, Mama G was broken.

Aside from Mr Ibu, another beloved actor, Amechi Muwonagor also died after a protracted illness.

Ozokwor, a former teacher whose acting career spans over thirty years, has been outspoken about the welfare of her colleagues and has been celebrated for her performances, which addressed societal issues.

Speaking exclusively with PREMIUM TIMES in Lagos, the 65-year-old actress discusses her career, her bond with Mr Ibu, recent Nollywood deaths and the industrys broader implications.

Excerpts

PT: Youve played many memorable roles over the years. Which role has had the most significant impact on your career and why?

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Patience: Looking at my movie roles, you will see they are wicked. I never got disenchanted with them because I felt that I must expose these things, the ills in society. Let people see what is happening. Somebody has to do it, and Im the one doing it. I dont get angry with people who see me as obsessed with these roles. Im delighted that Im interpreting every script.

I dont get angry with people who see me as obsessed with these roles. Im delighted that Im interpreting every script.

These roles exist today, and I always keep them in my mind in every situation. How people in the city react to things differs from how people in the village respond to them.

I know what to do when I play the role of a woman in the village. I can never bring the city to me, so I interpret it the way a town interprets it. To embody a role, I study the environment and see what people go through.

PT: Youve mentioned not wanting to be likened to Liz Benson. Can you elaborate on why you must carve out your identity in Nollywood?

Patience: I love Liz a lot; she inspired me a lot. From her, I knew that a married woman could be in Nollywood. At that time, there were just a few women in the industry, but I remember her and the heights she attained then. I knew I could reach that height on my platform because I am not Liz, and she cant be me. I knew I had to carve out a niche for myself, and I didnt have to be like her.

When I came to Lagos, people called me Liz Benson of Enugu; I said no. I wanted people to know me for who I am and appreciate me for who I am. Liz is my senior; she was one of the people who inspired me to get a university degree. I wanted to be by her side, but she is Liz, and I am Patience.

This was without prejudice because somebody must trigger you to do something to become great.

PT: You became born again and adopted a simpler lifestyle, including dumping adornments. What led to this decision?

Patience: God called me and adopted my simpler lifestyle. I never knew that God could remember somebody like me.

God called me to work for him in 2016. I used to be a teacher in the church, but I didnt climb the pulpit. Its not something I can explain.

God asked me to separate myself, so he wanted to talk with me. I thought somebody was talking to me, but I discovered it was a voice coming from somewhere. It took me time to accept submitting myself for 21 days, and it was extended to 30 days. My son reminded me that the owner of my life was asking me to separate myself for 21 days, and I didnt want to yield to his call, and He may make it 100 days.

At that point, I quietly went in, and by the time I came out from those 30 days, I became a changed person. And I knew He was the one who called me; he created a platform for me to appear on stage and testify what He did with me for 30 days. While I was giving the testimony, people started falling under the anointing. And after the encounter, other pastors and evangelists began inviting me to their programmes. Thats how I became an evangelist.

PT: For the longest, you played a wicked mother-in-law role. When you act as a good woman, we dont trust you. Do you think that character affected your career and made you a stuck character?

Patience: I was scared that role would affect my career, but it didnt. Some people still think I am as wicked as I am in the movies. Only those who knew me closely knew I was not all that wicked. However, the wicked mother-in-law role did not limit my career. It became a signature role that I could play exceptionally well, opening up more opportunities for me in the industry.

My schoolmates never believed I could play such a role.

PT: Your colleagues are looking to YouTube and mass-produce films other than traditional media. What do you think of this trend?

Patience: Traditional movies were failing us. We were fed by filmmakers who would give you whatever they liked and put you on set as they wanted. There was no royalty, nothing. Thats why developing AGN bylaws, which advocate fair pay, proper working conditions, and respect for actors rights, will help us.

We worked so hard. When people ask for money, we cant give it, and sometimes we dont have royalty. We do one or two movies, and nothing comes out of it. That peanut they give you, and if you get a job now and cannot get another job in the next three months, that money would have finished.

So how will you save? How will you make ends meet? You have a family to run and things like that. But if you go from one location to another, you dont know what God has done for you. So thats the reason we always need more cash. People think we are more buoyant than we are. There needs to be royalty and continuity for the things that we do.

There is this thing I said about money. A star will have a lot of money if you have endorsements. If you shoot every day and every time, you will have money. And if you are high there, the funds will be significant. But what if you are the one who does not have jobs at all times? What do you do?

The money they paid you for the other job is finished before the next job comes. Thats it.

PT: Your career spans over 25 years. Are you fulfilled, and is there any role you are dying to play?

Patient: I have yet to start. Thats one thing with acting: the older you are, the more roles you will get because people who retired from civil service came in as freshmen. I know a lot of people who retired. And once they come, lives change changes. You become young again. You become nourished again. You dont look like the older man who retired from civil service.

PT: What is the secret to a scandal-free career like yours?

Patience: My secret is that the fear of God has always been there. I have always been a teacher in the church. I know what it means to make God angry. And I try to run away from it. Sometimes, they talk about me, and others say, No, its a lie. Shes not like that.

PT: What are your thoughts on the recent deaths of John Okafor (Mr Ibu) and Amechi Muonagor, and how can such incidents be averted in the future?

Patience: I was shocked at Ibus death because Ibu didnt drink, nor did he smoke. So, for him to have such complications, I couldnt contain it. We were very close; we had a slang we greeted ourselves with, which was how we communicated. I broke down in tears at Mr Ibus burial because it dawned on me that he was gone forever. When I went close to his corpse and called him by his name, I used to call him, but he didnt respond.

I used to tell him (Mr Ibu), dont drink alcohol; you are sick. But he didnt want to believe that the drinking had anything to do with his health. My husband also suffered from diabetes and hypertension. So, I have that knowledge, especially since they discovered the type of diabetes. As for hypertension, there are things to do to manage it or even get yourself out of it. They didnt do these things and expected themselves to be healthy. You wont bother taking care of your health when you do something you enjoy. Once there is life in you, you keep doing what you are doing. And its something that pays back on your body.

Some people are so careless that when they are sick, they prefer to visit a chemist or a pharmacy to buy a pain reliever instead of going to the hospital for a proper check-up. I am curious to know how many people think like I do. We are trying to put smiles on peoples faces while forgetting to care for our health.

PT: How does acting before the social media boom in Nigeria compare to acting when you started? Do you think younger actors are more privileged than your generation?

Patience: They are highly privileged. But they have to be very careful. Because social media can ruin you and bring you down if they are wise, they could realise that becoming a star is not the problem, but maintaining stardom is a problem. So, you have to be careful with stardom. Stardom can kill you; stardom can help you rise even higher. Social media is excellent. They are privileged. We were not. When we started, there was no phone.

PT: You have spoken about actors begging for money when sick. Why do you think it is primarily men who face this issue?

Patience: Women are more careful with their lives than men. Men are very careless, even generally, not just in Nollywood. For example, a man can return from work, eat, stay with the family, and still go out in the evening. What does he go out to do? A woman doesnt have that.

A woman comes back, thinking of what to do for the family for tomorrow, what to give the children in the morning before they go to school. What are they eating when they come back? The men dont have time for that. They go out, make the money, and come back.

Women stay indoors most of the time. They need more time to go out, meet with friends, or drink, which is why it is more difficult for men.

PT: Its becoming alarming that the legends we grew up watching say they are sick and need money almost every month. What care must be implemented to ensure those people dont lack anything?

Patience: We have suggested that in the bylaws we submitted to the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN). Every production team will have specific first aid treatments, check on peoples BP before they go on set, and then have some little things to help sustain people until they get to the hospital for more treatment. Even if the person is not sick, check the blood pressure. Knowing the blood pressure will make you understand whether this person is alright.

Because I know somebody in the East, he was sick. Maybe he has spent the money they paid him, so he doesnt want to stop going to shoot. But when he came on set, and the producer saw that he was sick, the producer should have excused or taken him to the hospital for treatment. They just left him and only wanted to shoot.

And then Joyce Kalu, who was there, said, This man is sick; take care of his life before you can continue using him. I used to fight with them, and they always checked how much they had and how much they were supposed to spend on set.

If they cant comprehend it, they will keep working with you until you slump on set. And the man would have slumped on set if not for Joyce Kalu. She stood her ground and said, If you dont take care of this man, Im not shooting again.

She entered her car and left. That was when the crew now took him to the hospital. And eventually, he died.

PT: What are your thoughts on the prevalence of divorce in the Nollywood industry?

Patience: Its not just actors and actresses or celebrities. Its happening everywhere. We are public figures, and our lives are constantly being scrutinised.

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The US Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has named the man who shot ex-President Donald Trump as Matthew Crooks.

Mr Crooks, 20, was shot dead after he shot at the Republican presidential nominee during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. One other rally attendant was shot dead while two others were severely injured from the shootings.

The FBI has now described the attack as an assassination attempt on Mr Trump, saying the gunman fired multiple shots, CNN reports.

Mr Trump was briefly treated at the hospital after the incident with the former president saying he was shot at the upper part of my right ear.

PREMIUM TIMES reported the attack which has been condemned by Mr Trumps main opponent, President Joe Biden, and ex-President Barack Obama.

Mr Biden, who was in Delaware during the shooting, has also spoken to Mr Trump, the White House said.

In his reaction, former President Obama wrote on X that there is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. He said he was relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt.

It is unclear how the shooting will impact the November US presidential election that sees Mr Trump locked in a close race with Mr Biden of the Democratic Party.

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Mr Trump, 78, is popular among conservatives and right-wing voters and has repeatedly campaigned against immigration and vowed to deport thousands of illegal immigrants.

Mr Biden, 81, who is currently the Democratic Party candidate, supports a more inclusive society and has created pathways for illegal immigrants without crime records to become American citizens. He faces internal criticism from his party following concerns about his cognitive ability, especially after a poor debate performance against Mr Trump. Although there have been calls from some Democrats that he should drop from the race, the president has said he would not and would defeat Mr Trump in the election.

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The Lagos State Environmental Sanitation and Special Offences Unit Task Force, on Sunday, averted a potential outbreak of an epidemic in Epe after it seized dozens of cartons of contaminated turkey.

Eight suspects were arrested in the operation.

According to the Director of Press and Public Affairs for the Task Force, Gbadeyan Abdulraheem, the contaminated turkey had earlier been seized and incinerated by the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) before being retrieved by the suspects.

The raid, spearheaded by the chairperson of the Task Force, Adetayo Akerele, was carried out following a joint tip-off from Rasheed Shabi, a member of the Lagos State House of Assembly, and Oba Kamorudeen Animashaun, the Oloja of Epe.

The contaminated items were recovered in shanties near a dumpsite where the contraband were being sold.

According to Mr Akerele, a chief superintendent of police, the cartons of turkey were originally confiscated by the Nigeria Customs Service and meant to be destroyed, but somehow found its way to the hands of unscrupulous elements trying to sell them to members of the public.

They must have failed at some point to meet the required health and safety standards before being deemed unfit for human consumption, which led to it being set ablaze at a dedicated dumpsite, he added.

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Mr Akerele said we cannot allow some ignorant individuals reintroduce products which have been condemned by a federal agency into the market.

Contaminated foods like this could cause cancer, lung or liver disease. Consumption of these foods are highly dangerous, and we are here to ensure that Lagosians are protected at all costs, he said.

The chairman disclosed that the contaminated goods have been recovered and taken to the headquarters of the agency, while the arrested parties will be charged in court accordingly.

He commended Mr Shabi and Oba Animashaun for the useful tipoff, which helped avert the disaster.

He urged the public to continue reporting suspicious activities through its see something, say something campaign.

Speaking on the incident, Oba Animashaun commended the Lagos State Taskforce on its swift response to the incident, which, if left unchecked, could result in a nationwide epidemic.

I am glad this has been nipped in the bud before it blows out of proportion. The State is currently battling to contain the cholera outbreak in some parts of the metropolis, so we need not compound the issues. It is our responsibility to the citizenry to ensure sinister forces do not plunge the state into crisis for their own selfish gains, he said.

The Oloja also admonished the Nigerian Customs Service to seek the support of sister agencies like the police, military, DSS and LAWMA when carrying out exhibit burning exercises to avoid official compromise and ensure the confiscated goods are thoroughly burnt beyond recovery by miscreants in the community.

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Osun State government has advised residents to avoid consuming unhygienic food to prevent cholera outbreaks in the state.

The State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, gave the advice on Saturday during the commissioning of primary health centres and borehole water projects implemented by the states community and social development agency in the Odo-Oba community, Iwo area of the state.

In June, the Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) announced that the country recorded 53 deaths and 1,528 suspected cases of cholera across 107 local government areas (LGAs) in 31 states.

The fatalities represent a case fatality rate of 3.5 per cent since the beginning of 2024.

During the commissioning, Mr Adeleke urged residents to maintain environmental hygiene, wash their hands with soap and water and thoroughly wash vegetables and fruits before consumption.

Before I end my address, I want to remind all and sundry that the Cholera outbreak is still in the country; therefore, let us ensure that we maintain personal and environmental hygiene. Wash your hands regularly with soaps and water, and wash thoroughly your fruits and vegetables before eating or cooking to put cholera away, he said.

The governor also urged the residents to visit health centres for medical attention immediately if they feel distress in their bodies.

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Go quickly to the available hospital or health centre whenever you feel any discomfort in your body. A ko ni se aisan o, he added.

Mr Adeleke stressed that his administration would prioritise the healthcare system of the state.

Factors such as clean and drinkable water, health care services, safe communities and good roads have been found to contribute to good health, especially for women, infants and children. They all have an interplay on the health of the people.

That is why this present administration is embarking on systematic interventions, taking practical steps and pragmatic approach in providing social infrastructural facilities that will make life more meaningful and impact the public health outcomes, the governor added.

Mr Adeleke advised the residents to maintain the primary health centres and borehole water projects.

I must especially appreciate the good work that Osun CSDA is doing in ensuring that the dividends of democracy reach the nooks and crannies of the state. I assure the agency of continuous support of the State Government.

Micro projects

The Managing Director of Osun CSDA, Aderonke Abokede, said about 31 micro projects were marked for funding in the Iwo area of the state.

Mrs Abokede said the projects were funded by the states social and development agency under the Osun CARES, a World Bank intervention programme.

She expressed appreciation to the governor for making the fund available to the agency and urged residents to maintain the facilities.

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The All-Rights Foundation (TAF) Africa said distant polling units, among other factors, impeded the full participation of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) in Saturdays local election in Delta State, south-south Nigeria.

TAF Africa Programme Manager Adeolu Kilanko disclosed this following the observed participation level of PWDs in the election.

He noted that the organisation observed the election because it was committed to promoting the inclusion of PWDs in electoral processes.

According to him, TAF Africa focuses on evaluating the compliance of the Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC) with provisions to assist voting and the overall experience of PWDs during elections.

Our observations revealed that several issues, including distant polling units, impeded the full participation of PWDs in the Saturday Local Government election in Delta.

Many newly created polling units were located far from voters residences.

Given the restriction of movement policy on election days, voters were unable to reach the distant polling units, thereby contributing to low turnout of voters, he said.

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He noted the delayed commencement of voting in some polling units in Asaba, which election officials attributed to poor logistics and early-hour rainfall.

According to him, there is a decline in voter turnout, largely blamed on diminishing confidence in the electoral process following events of previous elections.

He said that low participation could undermine the political process, adding that inadequate communication of the newly created polling units was largely responsible for the disenfranchisement.

Meanwhile, TAF Africa Senior Communication Manager Lynn Agwuncha said DSIEC should review and update its guidelines to be more inclusive of PWDs.

To prevent delays, the commission must improve its logistics arrangements to ensure materials and officials arrive in record time.

Borrowing from the Provisions for PWDs in the 2022 Electoral Act, DSIEC should incorporate best practices to facilitate assisted voting and ensure polling units are accessible.

This includes the provision of ramps, braille materials and trained personnel to assist voters with disabilities, she said.

Ms Agwuncha, however, lauded DSIEC for taking prompt action in creating a window for the inclusion of PWDs in its electoral process.

(NAN)

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The All Progressives Congress (APC) has said that the inability of a senator, Ali Ndume, to access President Bola Tinubu cannot warrant or justify his declaration that the president had been caged.

Felix Morka, the partys national publicity secretary, said this in a statement on Saturday in Abuja.

The statement was the partys reaction to comments credited to Mr Ndume, the Senate chief whip, who said President Tinubu had been caged.

Mr Ndume, while saying that securing financial autonomy for local governments was the greatest achievement of Mr Tinubu since he assumed office in 2023, also said that he was unaware of existential challenges in the country.

The latest outburst in the media by the senator representing Borno South, and Chief Whip of the 10th Senate, Sen. Mohammed Ali Ndume, claiming that President Tinubu has been caged and unaware of existential challenges in the country is as haughty as it is unnecessary.

As a senator, Ndume has the platform of the National Assembly to raise and address matters that he may consider to be in the national interest.

He also has access to the entire machinery of the federal government, the APC spokesman said.

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He added that Mr Ndume was, however, yet to explain the use to which he had put these access in seeking solutions to concerns that he might have.

Mr Morka said it was understandable if the senator felt frustrated by his suggested inability to access the President.

But this does not warrant or justify his outlandish declaration that the president had been caged in some way or ensconced from the reality of conditions in the country.

Ndumes heedless comments smack of an indulgent sense of entitlement to see the president on a whim. The president is busy doing the job Nigerians elected him for.

He is the head of government, of which there are many critical parts equipped with power to process and deal with a wide range of simple to complex social, economic, political or security challenges.

The Presidents time is required to be used judiciously in attending to important matters of state, Mr Morka explained.

He recalled that on 4 July, the President inaugurated the Presidential Economic Coordination Council (PECC) and launched the Economic Stabilisation Programme.

According to him, the programmes are to ensure food security, improve power supply, enhance social welfare and healthcare, increase energy production and for general economic transformation.

Mr Morka said President Tinubu was earlier in an important meeting with leaders of the organised labour on the issue of the new minimum wage.

He further explained that Mr Tinubu meets and interacts regularly with citizens, officials and guests from all walks of life, as his schedule permits.

He said the president had continued to superintend the formulation and implementation of policies and programmes, aimed at mitigating prevailing economic conditions.

He said the president was also working to boost availability and price access to food and other essential commodities.

In a similar vein, President Tinubu recently signed an Executive Order aimed at reducing the high cost of drugs and approved tax waivers for the importation of some food items.

This speaks eloquently to his command of the situation in the country, the APC spokesman stressed.

He advised that as a senior senator, Mr Ndume should exercise restraint.

Our dear country needs all hands to be on deck on the cusp of national transformation, each doing their part to remake the social, economic and security conditions in the best interest of our people, Mr Morka said.

(NAN)

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The Police Command in Lagos State said it has detained one of its officers who allegedly raped a 17-year-old girl at the Area H Command, Ogudu.

The commands spokesperson, Benjamin Hundeyin, who confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday, however, denied reports that the police authority was shielding the suspected rapist.

Mr Hundeyin explained that the officer in question had allegedly absconded from work since the alleged incident and only turned himself in on Saturday to face questioning.

The image maker, who assured the public that the matter was not being swept under the carpet, said that the Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Adegoke Fayoade, had ordered the Gender Unit of the command to immediately investigate the case.

The case is under full investigation. There is no plan to cover up the allegation, he said.

NAN had earlier reported that a 17-year-old girl (name withheld), reported a case of rape against a senior officer attached to Area H Command Ogudu, Ojota area, to her parents.

NAN learnt that the girl became a victim of alleged violent sexual assault while trying to recover her alleged stolen phone by some criminals.

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NAN investigation revealed that the said police officer, who got wind of the stolen phone, offered to help track the girls missing phone after taking her statement.

It also learnt that the officer, simply identified as Owolabi, allegedly deceptfully tricked the teenager with false information that police operatives had arrested the suspected thief.

The officer then lured the girl with the false information. When she arrived his office, he allegedly raped the girl under gun point, a source said.

(NAN)

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The need for critical thinking, introspection, verification, and media literacy remains sacrosanct to protect the values of truth, justice, peace, fairness, and social equity in Nigeria and globally, panelists said at the 2024 Wole Soyinka Centre Media Lecture.

The event was held at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos, on Saturday to honour Africas first Nobel Laureate in literature on the occasion of his 90th birthday.

The 16th media lecture, with the theme, The death of truth? Realism, literature and journalism in an age of disinformation, had literature icons, journalists, media experts and policy advocates debate the nexus between truth, realism, media literacy and the rise of disinformation in the digital age.

The panelists included professor of African and African American studies at Harvard University, Biodun Jeyifo; chief executive officer, RadioNow, Kadaria Ahmed; poet, author and political scientist, Odia Ofeimun; and the co-founder of Media and Information Literacy and Intercultural Dialogue (MILID) Foundation, Chiamaka Okafor. Tolulope Adeleru-Balogun moderated the session.

The panelists noted that the absence of the identified markers  critical thinking, introspection, verification and media literacy  in society has led to an increase in disinformation in the digital age.

They highlighted the importance of realism in depicting the world honestly and accurately and the need for critical thinking and media literacy in navigating the complex landscape of information.

The keynote speaker, Mr Jeyifo, explored justice as the first condition of humanity.

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In providing an apparent answer to the poser in the theme as to whether truth was dead in this age, the professor noted that truth was not dead.

Another panelist, Mr Ofeimun, said the only thing that could survive the confrontation of truth and falsehood is the truth.

In the death of truth, all of us are collaborators. We need not wait for the edifice to collapse before we commence the caretaking, he said.

The poet observed that truth translates into the general absence of falsehood and lies, adding that many people have been used to promote falsehood on social media.

Lies should be given their proper names. Once you know what you are doing is a lie, there would be consequences, he said.

For her part, Ms Okafor agreed with Mr Ojeifo that truth was not dead but noted that disinformation existed to fill the vacuum where there was a scarcity of truth.

She noted that the dissemination of falsehood is now a paid truth.

Addressing dozens of secondary school students at the event, Ms Okafor urged them to always question what they shared and posted on social media, adding that one of the many things that reduce your steeze as a young person is falsehood.

Disinformation happens offline as well. Absence of critical thinking and verification fuels disinformation, she noted, adding that critical thinking, introspection, verification and media literacy were all essential in curbing disinformation.

While Ms Ahmed also aligned with Mr Jeyifo that the truth may not be dead, she declared that it is actually on life support as we speak.

She contended that the tools that are used to kill the truth are quite effective and that for the truth to be reflected out in the world, we have to self-examine.

Remarks

Earlier, Ropo Sekoni, a professor of Semiotics and African Literature, described the celebrant as the youngest nonagenarian.

The pro-democracy activist said the event, which started 16 years ago, is to honour Mr Soyinka for his contribution to civilisation.

Earlier in her opening remarks, the Coordinator of the Wole Soyinka Centre for Investigative Journalism (WSCIJ), Motunrayo Alaka, said the lectures theme is timely in an age where opinion reigns supreme.

The pressure on the truth (which) journalism seeks, documents and defends is real, intense and at scale. Journalisms credibility is threatened and with it, the values of justice, peace, fairness and social equity it protects, she said.

Mrs Alaka said Mr Soyinkas life is worthy of emulation and propels one to advocate for a more just society through interventions, conversations and collaborations.

Also speaking earlier, Umaru Pate, the vice-chancellor of the Federal University of Kashere, Gombe State, described the celebrant as a dogged defender of the truth.

He is a highly respected citizen, not just a Nigerian citizen but a global citizen, whose ideas and writings are all over the place, Mr Pate, the chairperson of the event, said.

Saturdays event was one way Mr Soyinka was honoured on his 90th birthday in Nigeria and other parts of the world.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that the Nigerian government also named its iconic National Theatre after the don.

Today, I join the world to celebrate his profound influence on generations of writers, scholars, and activists who have been inspired by his work. I celebrate him for giving us the spark to fight and confront military dictators in our country.

I am, accordingly, delighted to have the honour to announce the decision of the Federal Government to rename the National Theatre in Iganmu, Surulere, as The Wole Soyinka Centre for Culture and the Creative Arts, President Bola Tinubu wrote in a Friday statement by his office.

PREMIUM TIMES also reported that the Royal Academy of Morocco (RAM), on Wednesday, honoured Mr Soyinka with a Gold Medal in recognition of his exceptional influence on the development of world literature.

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US President Joe Biden has condemned the attempted assassination of Donald Trump during his campaign speech in Pennsylvania. He called his opponent, who was taken to the hospital with a minor injury. The victim said that he was fine.

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At the same time, it became known that a civilian was killed in the incident and some were injured. The American leader's reaction was posted on the X and on the White House website.

"I have been informed of the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. I am glad to hear that he is safe and doing well. My prayers are with him and his family, as well as everyone who was at the rally, as we await more information," Biden said.

According to him, he and his wife are grateful to the Secret Service for taking the Republican to a safe place.

"There is no place for such violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," the president added.

As a reminder, on July 13, during a speech by US presidential candidate Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, the sound of shooting was heard. After a series of shots, the politician fell to the ground. Photos published online show blood on his face.

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"The Secret Service agents 'pounced' on Trump and hid behind the podium. Blood could be seen on his right ear as they surrounded him and led him off the stage to a car to be taken away," ABCnews noted.

Citing the Republican's press service, they reported that one of the civilians was killed, and several other citizens were seriously injured. The shooter is allegedly already dead.

"Trump is fine. The alleged shooter is dead. According to officials, one spectator was killed, two are in serious condition," the publication writes.

Only verified information is available on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
The Federal High Court in Lagos, in a landmark judgment, has ordered Lai Mohammed, former minister of Information and Culture and the ministry of information to disclose the details of the agreement between the federal government and X, formerly Twitter, to assess whether the agreement complies with the exercise of Nigerians human rights online.

The judgement was delivered in May 2024 by Justice Nnamdi Dimgba following a Freedom of Information suit number: FHC/L/CS/238/2022, brought by the Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP). The certified true copy of the judgment was obtained last Friday.

In his judgment, Justice Dimgba held that The former minister and the Ministry of Information are directed and compelled to provide a copy of the agreement between the Nigerian Government and Twitter to SERAP solely to ascertain its impact on the protection of fundamental human rights of Nigerians.

Justice Dimgba stated that Disclosing the details of the agreement between the Nigerian Government and Twitter is in the public interest and does not affect Twitters business interest as a third party. It is also not prejudicial to Nigerias sovereignty and national security.

Justice Dimgba also stated that The agreement between the Nigerian Government and Twitter must still be disclosed irrespective of the harm to Twitter if it would be in the public interest to make sure disclosure.

Justice Dimgba dismissed the objections raised by the ministers counsel and upheld SERAPs arguments. Consequently, the court entered judgment in favour of SERAP against the minister.

Justice Dimgba further said, The minister has failed to prove that the President has followed due process of law to designate Twitter as a Critical National Information Infrastructure upon the National Security Advisers recommendation and issued an Order in the Federal Gazette in that regard.

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Justice Dimgbas judgment, dated 28 May 2024, read in part: Therefore, I hold that the disclosure of the Twitter agreement is not prejudicial to Nigerias sovereignty and national security or protected by the Official Secrets Act, as the minister has failed to prove the same.

The first question that needs to be answered is how the need to disclose the agreement is outweighed by the importance of protecting the commercial interests of the third party, Twitter.

The former minister has unequivocally argued that the disclosure could harm Twitters business interests in other jurisdictions, potentially with Twitters contractual negotiations.

However, this defence is hypothetical and does not point to the specific business or contractual interests of Twitter that could be affected.

It is my view that the disclosure of the details of the agreement as requested by SERAP will not interfere with the commercial interests and trade secrets of Twitter or lead to financial losses to it, as the former minister has failed to prove the same.

Besides, Section 15(4) of the Freedom of Information Act envisages only real and not hypothetical financial loss or gain to or prejudice to, the competitive position of or interference with contractual or other negotiation of a third party like Twitter which could be affected by the disclosure.

No evidence was placed before this Court pointing to the fact that Twitter has an agreement with another country as a precondition for its operation in such jurisdiction as obtainable in Nigeria.

I am of the view that SERAP has a legitimate reason to wish to be availed of the agreement, which is to understand how the agreement affects them and other Nigerians as far as the protection of the human rights of Nigerians are concerned.

Another point of controversy is whether the need to disclose the agreement for public interest is subject to the need to protect national sovereignty, as argued by the minister. National sovereignty depending on context is synonymous with national security.

In most cases, the need for national security outweighs public interest, including protection of fundamental human rights. In this case, however, I am of the view that the reason for the refusal by the minister to disclose the agreement does not come within the need to protect national security and sovereignty.

The ministers defence is predicated on the Cybercrimes (Prohibition and Prevention Act) 2015 but has failed to prove how the Act relates to the Twitter agreement other than mentioning the same.

More than merely linking SERAPs request for the agreement to critical national information infrastructure in section 3 of the Cybercrime (Prevention and Prohibition) Act, nothing more is said about its relevance and how it supports non-disclosure of the Twitter agreement.

As such, the Cybercrime Act cannot apply to this case, and the protection that would have availed the minister is exempted. The minister also failed to prove how SERAPs request for the agreement between the Nigerian Government and Twitter came within the protection of the Official Secrets Act.

SERAPs lawsuit falls within the framework of Section 20 of the Freedom of Information Act.

The minister is directed and compelled to provide a copy of the agreement requested to SERAP to enable the organization to study the same and come to an assessment of whether the agreement incorporates the provisions of Chapter IV of the Nigerian Constitution 1999 [as amended] on fundamental human rights and Nigerias international human rights obligations.

It is clear that Twitter was from the beginning ostensibly suspended from operating in Nigerias cyberspace solely to protect the countrys corporate existence. The same ban was lifted after Twitter reached agreement with the Nigerian Government on some terms and conditions for its operation in Nigerias cyberspace and the former minister has not denied the existence of such an agreement.

SERAPs request does not involve disclosing personal information but relates to an agreement between the government and an international company that plays in the social media and public data space.

By paragraph 13 of SERAPs affidavit evidence, the organization requested a copy of the agreement to know whether it complies with Nigerias domestic fundamental human rights laws and international treaties to which the country is a state party.

SERAPs request seeks clarification on the scope and enforcement of the agreement to ensure it complies with fundamental human rights laws. For emphasis, matters of human rights enforcement fall within the ambit of public interest, as can be gleaned from a holistic understanding of Section 15(4) of the Freedom of Information Act.

Thus, a public institution may grant a request for information on human rights protection grounds within Section 15(4) of the FOI Act, provided that the importance of granting the same outweighs the commercial interests of the third party.

Particularly, Order 1 Rule 2 of the Fundamental Rights Enforcement Procedure Rules 2009 provides that public interest includes the interest of Nigerian society or any segment of it in promoting human rights and advancing human rights law.

Paragraph 3(1)(3)(d) of the Guidelines on the Implementation of the Freedom of Information Act Revised recognizes the following factor as constituting public interest allowing individuals and companies to understand decisions made by authorities affecting their lives, and in some cases, assisting individuals in challenging those.

Reacting to the judgment, Femi Falana said, We commend Justice Dimgba for this landmark judgment. This is a judicial confirmation of Nigerians rights to freedom of expression, and access to information online. We call on the government of President Bola Tinubu to immediately implement the judgment.

SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare said: This ground-breaking judgment is a victory for freedom of expression and privacy online, which is central to achieving individual freedom and to developing democracy.

The onus is now on President Bola Tinubu to immediately comply with the courts orders. We commend Justice Dimgba for his courage and wisdom. SERAP will do everything within its power to secure the full and effective enforcement of this important judgment.

In the letter dated 13 July 2024 sent to President Tinubu on the judgement, and signed by SERAP deputy director Kolawole Oluwadare, the organisation said, We urge you to demonstrate your expressed commitment to the rule of law by immediately obeying and respecting the judgment of the Court.

SERAPs letter, read in part: We urge you to direct the Ministry of Information and Culture and the office of the Attorney General of the Federation to immediately disclose the details of the Twitter agreement, as ordered by the court.

The immediate enforcement and implementation of the judgment by your government will be a victory for the rule of law, freedom of expression including digital and data rights in Nigeria.

SERAP trusts that you will see compliance with this judgment as a central aspect of the rule of law; an essential stepping stone to constructing a basic institutional framework for legality and constitutionality. We therefore look forward to your positive response and action on the judgment.

The suit was filed against the former minister of information and culture. The suit followed the Nigerian Governments statement on 13th January 2022 after lifting the suspension of Twitter operations in Nigeria, to the effect that, Twitter has agreed to act with a respectful acknowledgement of Nigerian laws and the national culture and history.

The Nigerian government suspended Twitter on 4 June 2021 after it removed a post from former President Muhammadu Buhari. The former president was joined in the suit as co-respondent but the court gave the orders against the minister.

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An Israeli attack on a designated humanitarian zone has killed 90 people and injured 300 others, according to Palestinian health officials.

The attack on Saturday on the Israeli-designated safe zone, located west of Khan Younis in southern Gaza, involved fighter jets and drones, according to witnesses who spoke with Al Jazeera.

Thousands of displaced Palestinians were sheltering there.

The Israeli military claims it was targeting Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, and later, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he was not certain Mr Deif had been killed in the strike.

A witness in Al-Mawasi told the BBC that the site of the strike looked like an earthquake had hit.

Footages from the area show smouldering wreckage and bloodied casualties being loaded onto stretchers.

People can be seen trying desperately to pick through the rubble of a large crater with their hands.

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In the aftermath of the strike, BBCs analysts confirmed that it occurred within an area shown on the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) website as a humanitarian zone.

Mr Netanyahu said he gave the order for the operation to go ahead after being briefed by his general security forces.

He said he wanted to know if there were no hostages nearby, the extent of the collateral damage and what kinds of weapons would be used.

During the news conference, Mr Netanyahu reiterated his promise to eradicate all of Hamass senior members. Either way, we will get to the whole of the leadership of Hamas.

Later, Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh, quoted by the AFP news agency, accused Mr Netanyahu of seeking to block a ceasefire in the Gaza war with heinous massacres.

Hamas said the claim that their leaders were targets was false.

It is not the first time Israel claims to target Palestinian leaders, only to be proven false later, Hamas said in a statement.

Al Jazeera reports that Khalil al-Hayya, Hamass deputy head in Gaza, claimed that Mr Netanyahu had wished to declare a fake victory and that claims about targeting the Hamas leaders were false.

Mohammad Deif is listening to you now and mocking your false, empty statements, he told Al Jazeera Arabic.

Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa condemned Israels genocidal crimes in Gaza, saying that Palestinians were already going through a very difficult stage.

Mr Mustafa said Israels actions were more broadly targeting the Palestinian project as a whole and included Israels goal of establishing an independent state with Jerusalem as its capital.

After the strike, Hanan Ashrawi, a scholar and activist, said the attack on Al-Mawasi had turned all of Gaza into one massive death zone.

American bombs and shells rain down on Gaza while the Israeli government and thugs succeed in preventing any form of medical, food, or fuel supplies from reaching the devastated population, she said in a post on X.

World Leaders react

Riyadh called for activating international accountability mechanisms against Israeli abuses.

The Foreign Ministry condemns in strongest terms the

continuation of genocidal massacres against the Palestinian people at the hands of the Israeli war machine, the latest of which was the targeting [of] displaced peoples camps in Khan Younis in the south of the Gaza Strip, the countrys Ministry of Foreign Affairs said in a statement.

On X, the European Unions top diplomat, Josep Borrell, condemned the attack that he said seems to have provoked a carnage in Muwasi refugee camp, designated safe zone by Israel.

Wars have limits enshrined in international law; the end cant justify all means. We condemn any violation, he added.

Direct attacks on civilians in designated safety zones are potential violations of international humanitarian law.

In a statement, Egypts Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Israels ongoing violations against the rights of Palestinian citizens add serious complications to achieving a ceasefire deal.

Egypt has been among the countries working to mediate such an agreement between Israel and Hamas.

We condemn in the strongest terms the Israeli raids on the al-Mawasi area, the Foreign Ministry said.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was shocked and saddened by the Israeli air raids on X.

The [Israeli military] stated that they were targeting two senior members of Hamas, Mr Guterres said. The Secretary-General underlines that international humanitarian law, including the principles of distinction, proportionality, and precautions in attack, must be upheld at all times.

Al Jazeera reported Columbias President Gustavo Petro as saying the attack is the greatest injustice.

I am even more outraged because this destruction of international human law is a prelude to the barbarism they want to unleash on all the oppressed people of the earth, he said.

The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs also strongly condemned Israels relentless attacks against Palestinians, including Saturdays attack on the al-Mawasi camp.

This heinous and appalling attack, which took place inside an area Israel designated itself as a safe zone for Palestinians, is a flagrant disregard for all human life, the ministry said in a statement shared on X.

Similarly, Irans Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the attack on al-Mawasi was the latest crime in the series of crimes committed by the child-killing Zionist regime.

The Zionists have once again brutally shown that in order to compensate for the defeats suffered on the battlefield with the resistance, they do not recognise any humane and moral red line towards the defenceless residents of the Gaza Strip, but they must know that insisting on this path is nothing but a wider global hatred, Mr Kanaani said in a post on X.

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President Bola Tinubu has joined other world leaders to condemn the assassination attempt on ex-US President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The shooting on Saturday grazed Mr Trumps right ear and killed one bystander. Two other spectators were critically wounded.

In a post on X, Mr Tinubu said the attack on Mr Trump is distasteful and goes beyond the pale of democratic norms.

Violence has no place in democracy, the Nigerian leader said, adding, Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States of America at this time.

The US Secret Service killed the suspected shooter who attacked Mr Trump from an elevated position outside the rally venue. The US police also said they are still investigating the shooting.

Other World Leaders React

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the inexcusable attack on the United States and Australias shared democratic values.

In Australia, as in the United States, the essence and the purpose of our democracies is that we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully, ABC News reported Mr Albanese as saying.

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British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he is: appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was sickened by the shooting at Mr Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable.

French President Emmanuel Macron extended his thoughts to Mr Trump. I send him my wishes for a speedy recovery. A spectator has died, and several are injured. It is a tragedy for our democracies. France shares the shock and indignation of the American people.

In the same vein, Chinas President Xi Jinping expressed his compassion and sympathy with Mr Trump.

China is closely following the situation surrounding the shooting of former President Donald Trump, the Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement.

Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was deeply concerned by the attack on my friend.

He added, Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people.

READ ALSO: Donald Trump survives assassination attempt

Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan condemned the assassination attempt on X, offering his good wishes to Mr Trump, his family and supporters.

He said he believed the investigation into the attack will be conducted effectively so as not to undermine the US elections.

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The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has won all 25 local government chairmanship seats in the Delta Local Government election held across the state on Saturday.

The party also clinched 499 of the 500 councillorship seats, losing one to the Allied Peoples Movement in Oshimili North Local Government Area.

Jerry Agbaike, the chairperson of Delta State Independent Electoral Commission (DSIEC), announced the results at the commissions headquarters in Asaba on Sunday.

However, Mr Agbaike said the election was not held in the Udu Local Government Area as the PDP chairmanship candidate was returned unopposed.

The DSIEC chairperson also issued Certificates of Return to the elected local council chairperson to mark the end of the exercise.

The News Agency of Nigeria recalls that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State and other PDP chiefs had earlier predicted victory for the partys candidates.

After casting his vote on Saturday, Mr Oborevwori said he was confident of victory in an election he described as transparent, free and fair.

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The governor also expressed support for the local government autonomy, claiming he did not, for this reason, constitute caretaker committees at the end of the tenure of the immediate past chairpersons.

The Supreme Court judgement has no effect here in Delta State because we dont tamper with local government funds.

READ ALSO: Police arrest eight suspects over killing of officers in Delta State

As a former speaker, we were at the forefront of the issue of autonomy for the legislature and the judiciary. So, that judgment does not affect us here in Delta State.

In the past, the state government cleared monies owed by local governments.

The Joint Accounts Allocation Committee is just a monitoring process to ensure transparency, Mr Oborevwori said.

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The Nigerian police have announced the suspension of the enforcement of the controversial e-CMR on vehicle owners.

The police had earlier announced that the enforcement would commence on 29th July which would have led to sanctions on vehicle owners who do not posses the e-CMR.

PREMIUM TIMES reported that many Nigerians condemned the earlier announcement and the Nigeria Bar Association gave the police one week to rescind the decision.

The critics argued that it was not the duty of the police to issue such vehicle documents.

In his statement on Sunday, police spokesperson Olumuyiwa Adejobi defended the decision of the police to issue the certificate to vehicle owners who pay for it.

The e-CMR will provide a firsthand database to the Force for curbing vehicular crimes as dedicated officers can access real-time comprehensive data of every vehicle on their tablets, he wrote.

Mr Adejobi said police chief Kayode Egbetokun suspended the enforcement of the certificate to allow for mass enlightenment of Nigerians.

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The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered an immediate suspension of the proposed enforcement of the e-CMR initially scheduled to commence on the 29th of July, 2024.

This is to give ample opportunity for mass enlightenment and education of all citizens and residents on the process, benefits and effectiveness in solving the challenge of vehicle related crimes, and protection of individual and corporate vehicle ownership, Mr Adejobi wrote.

Read Mr Adejobis full statement below.

PRESS RELEASE

E-CMR: POLICE HIGHLIGHTS BENEFITS, EFFICIENCY OF APPLICATION TO CURB VIOLENT CRIMES

As IGP Orders Suspension of Enforcement Process, Massive Enlightenment of Nigerian Residents

Following the reconfiguration and commencement of the electronic central motor registry registration process (e-CMR), the Police has deemed it necessary to highlight the benefits and effectiveness of the e-CMR initiative which is designed to ensure the safety and security of all types of vehicles including motorcycles by collating data imputed into the system by vehicle owners and acting on such to flag the vehicles if reported stolen.

The e-CMR will provide a firsthand database to the Force for curbing vehicular crimes as dedicated officers can access real-time comprehensive data of every vehicle on their tablets. Similarly, the e-CMR will prevent multiple registration of vehicles and serve as a database to collate biometric and other data of vehicle owners and individuals, adding value to the national database and incident report portal generated from other Ministries, Departments and Agencies towards general security.

Furthermore, contrary to news making the round and insinuations about the e-CMR, the NPF wishes to state categorically that the e-CMR is not a revenue generating platform but an initiative to digitalize policing for effectiveness and general safety of lives and property of Nigeria residents.

The Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, has ordered an immediate suspension of the proposed enforcement of the e-CMR initially scheduled to commence on the 29th of July, 2024. This is to give ample opportunity for mass enlightenment and education of all citizens and residents on the process, benefits and effectiveness in solving the challenge of vehicle related crimes, and protection of individual and corporate vehicle ownership.

Members of the public are urged to obtain the digitalized CMR certificate online at cmris.npf.gov.ng. For further inquiries, individuals can contact the 24/7 hotline (02018870133), CMR Command Centre at FHQ Abuja (08117777666, 09169892000) and FHQ Annex Lagos (08117777555, 09169891000). Technical support is also available at cmrtech@npfcmr.ng.

In light of this, we seek the understanding and support of all well-meaning Nigerians and residents to key into the e-CMR system. In the same vein, the IGP charges all Police officers to desist from requesting for e-CMR certificates as individuals found extorting or exploiting members of the public on the guise of not having e-CMR certificates will be sanctioned accordingly as the enforcement which will be done by only dedicated officers has been suspended till further notice.

ACP OLUMUYIWA ADEJOBI, mnipr, mipra, fCAI,

FORCE PUBLIC RELATIONS OFFICER,

FOR: INSPECTOR-GENERAL OF POLICE

FORCE HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA

14th July, 2024

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whilst it is easy to use the exit of some multinational corporations from Africa as a stick on the back of our politicians and political leaders, it is equally important to reflect on the nature and type of multinational corporations exiting Africa at this point. Are they genuinely committed to Africa? Are they fair-weather friends? Are they in Africa just for their interests?

The exit of some multinational corporations from Africa in recent times has continued to make exciting headlines. In most cases, it is seen as a bad omen. Some take advantage of the negative narrative and fashion out of them big sticks to clumber their politicians and political leaders. However, it is not necessarily bad that some multinational corporations are exiting Africa, and I will tell you why.

Please be patient while I walk you through my argument.

I have paid close attention to the role of multinational corporations in Africa, especially from the responsible and sustainable business perspective, for over two decades. These corporations come in various shades, and their relationships with Africa vary. Some are exploitative and parasitic, while others are symbiotic or mutualistic.

The exploitative multinational corporations see Africa purely as a market for grab and run. They are usually footloose and thrive on the placelessness created by globalisation. As such, they are not committed to any place. The only commitment is to profit, and they move or relocate at the slightest push, unless they are place-bound by their operations.

In Africa, these exploitative multinationals are usually in the extractive industry, e.g., mining and oil and gas, although they can also be found in other sectors. Their interest in Africa is mainly because the bulk of the raw materials and resources they need for their business are in the continent. They would prefer not to be in Africa if they had options, but because their options are limited, they are constrained and compelled to deal with Africa.

They hardly invest in research and development (R&D) and local knowledge transfer in their host countries, because they do not have any long-term commitment there. Their commitment is only for as long as they depend on the localised resources. They create only essential jobs and do not bother to innovatively generate extra jobs through their value chains. Most senior roles in the direct jobs they create are often reserved for expatriates, and they treat locals as inferiors.

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Because they are compelled out of necessity to do business in Africa, they are often psychologically and culturally distant. They also do not see any incentives to be embedded, as their primary interest is to extract resources and profits from the continent. In that regard, they treat Africa as a host, not a home. Environmental, ecological and human devastations often trail their operations.

African governments should be particularly weary of parasitic corporations who are wolves in sheeps clothing. On a positive note, notwithstanding, the exit of foreign firms offers opportunities for African governments to support and develop local firms, which should not be missed.

The old quest for oil, as exemplified by the state of affairs in the Niger Delta region of Nigeria, and the new rush for green energy powered by lithium, as exemplified in Namibia, reveal the dark side of these exploitative multinational corporations in Africa.

The parasitic multinational corporations share a lot in common with the exploitative multinational corporations. The main difference is that while the latter quickly leaves, the former stays on as a sponge on the host. This could be through government capture or mere corruption. Because they have perfected their art of capture, they are always in bed with any government in power (i.e., the AGIP syndrome).

Some have stayed so long in Africa that they have become dangerously indigenised in their ways. Some of them are into commodities, retailing, construction, and services. Sometimes, these parasitic multinational corporations are willing to go down with their host nations and communities. As such, their extended stay in Africa can easily be misconstrued as a commitment to Africas cause.

The symbiotic multinational corporations are significantly different from the exploitative and parasitic corporations. Their engagement with host nationals and communities is usually mutualistic. They meet their hosts where the hosts are and grow together. Because they are interested in a symbiotic relationship, they invest in R&D and local knowledge transfer; they work collaboratively with the government and host communities as critical friends.

They genuinely embed themselves in their host nations and communities and see a future of mutual benefits. They are not in a haste to exit at the slightest challenge, but their commitment to shared prosperity remains unwavering on many occasions and issues. They are driven by a strong sense of positive value and vision informed by our shared humanity, where the distinction between host and home countries becomes meaningless. Notwithstanding, they are few and hard to find.

Where, then, does this leave us?

As much as Africa needs investors and investments, exploitative and parasitic investors and investments are not what it needs. Africa needs symbiotic or mutualistic investors and investments. In other words, the government and the people should focus on them in appraising the exit of some multinational corporations from Africa.

Many African governments are looking for investors and investments. The number of Foreign Direct Investments (FDIs) a country can attract has become a measure of success and performance. As such, all the African countries are singing the same song: we are open for business! However, this song often misses the required quality and type of investments and how these courted investors and investments fit for purpose.

Unemployment, especially youth unemployment, is a big problem in Africa today. Food security and investment in education and infrastructure are also significant problems. I want to argue that Africa needs investors and investments that can help her address these challenges profitably and responsibly. As such, African governments should pay closer attention to existing and potential investors who can meet Africa where it is. Often, this consideration is missed in the ostentatious and populist quest to attract any investment that can come our way. This is a flawed strategy and a recipe for disaster.

African governments should be particularly weary of parasitic corporations who are wolves in sheeps clothing. On a positive note, notwithstanding, the exit of foreign firms offers opportunities for African governments to support and develop local firms, which should not be missed.

On the side of the people, whilst it is easy to use the exit of some multinational corporations from Africa as a stick on the back of our politicians and political leaders, it is equally important to reflect on the nature and type of multinational corporations exiting Africa at this point. Are they genuinely committed to Africa? Are they fair-weather friends? Are they in Africa just for their interests?

As much as Africa needs investors and investments, exploitative and parasitic investors and investments are not what it needs. Africa needs symbiotic or mutualistic investors and investments. In other words, the government and the people should focus on them in appraising the exit of some multinational corporations from Africa.

In return, it is the collective duty of African governments and citizens to value and reward the multinational corporations who have chosen to stick with them through thick and thin with their customs and other incentives, because a friend in need is a friend indeed.

Kenneth Amaeshi is a professor of sustainable finance at the European University Institute, Italy, Chair of business and sustainable development at the University of Edinburgh, United Kingdom, and a public philosopher. He is currently the Chief Economic Adviser to the Imo State Government, working part-time and pro bono. He tweets @kenamaeshi_

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Before measurement became a hot topic at international journalism conferences, Ogunshola insisted that what cannot be measured cannot be rewarded. He infused PUNCH with the values of innovativeness and a near-obsession for rational thinking. His work ethic makes you strong, if it doesnt kill you.

Ive written this before. Ten years ago, but this mans story is new every time. To me. And to many who have crossed his path. On his 80th birthday today, 14 July, Im repeating this story with the zeal and delight I shared it ten years ago.

If the lot had fallen on Chief Ajibola Ogunshola to be the undertaker, not many would have blamed him for the fate of PUNCH.

He was 40 when he was appointed a director. Though he was a star in the insurance world (former Managing Director of Niger Insurance) and one of Africas leading actuaries (a consultant to the UN on pensions), he did not know jack about newspapers, if you get what I mean.

For the three months that I worked in PUNCH as an intern in 1986, after Olatunji Dares note paved the way, our paths did not cross. The Aboderin family was still in turmoil after the passing of the founder, James Olubunmi Aboderin, in 1984 at 49 years of age.

Aboderin, an accomplished accountant at National Bank, was an extraordinary man whose presence and legacy were legendary. At the time, co-founder Sam Amuka (fondly called Uncle Sam) had left, but a relic of his time, like the famous armchair tucked away in a room in the last office in the old wooden building, was still there.

After the founders death, Ogunsholas half brother, Moyosore Aboderin, who took over, invested quite a fortune to turn the company around, but the prospects remained bleak. The destiny of the Aboderin publishing empire  quite formidable in its heyday  now rested mainly on the shoulders of a 43-year-old non-newspaperman.

I returned in 1989 as a reporter. At that time, you could gauge the public mood or government temperament by the writings of newspapermen, whether in the Tribune, Sketch, Triumph, Daily Times, New Nigerian, Newbreed or Newswatch.

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PUNCH was also a significant force. On the Board were the likes of Dr Lekan Are and Lolu Forsythe, who, together with those in the editorial department, especially Najeem Jimoh and Ademola Osinubi, would be instrumental in helping Ogunshola rebuild in the years ahead. However, the companys redemption was squarely the burden of this non-newspaperman at that point.

He turned this disadvantage into an incentive. He became an avid consumer of news and how it is produced, distributed and consumed, letting facts and figures show the way. Most of all, whenever decisions were made, he ensured the execution with ruthless efficiency.

But I met a completely different man. He is challenging, deep and engaging  a man who calls a spade by its first name. I spent the next 18 months in his office researching, asking questions and taking notes. This was the inside story of how court battles, family feuds and not a few frenemies brought Aboderins dream dangerously close to the edge.

I learnt of one rare occasion when Dr Are  perhaps the most feared and respected in equal measure on the Board  brought an advert for publication. Are handed the copy to the editor (in the presence of Ogunshola) and asked him to publish it the next day. There was no discussion of payment. The editor was afraid to ask.

When Are left the office, Ogunshola asked the editor about payment.

I didnt ask him, sir, the editor replied.

Well, go and tell him it will be paid for.

The editor rushed after Are, who returned with him to the office, obviously upset.

He asked Ogunshola if he had sent the editor after him.

I did, boda, Ogunshola reportedly responded firmly but politely. You remember that we agreed at the Board meeting that all adverts must be paid for, without exception.

Are opened his wallet and wrote the cheque.

I am trying to remember which of my stories or feature articles first caught Ogunsholas attention. I was a small fry, unconcerned about what was happening at the top. But, somehow, Ogunshola noticed.

After I had been in the PUNCH for nearly one year, the editor, Osinubi, told me that the chairman was gathering materials for a book. He wondered if I could help with research.

I was confused. At the time, Ogunshola had the reputation of being a taskmaster amongst the staff. When he took over as chairman, he sacked 400 or so of the 600 staff members in one day. I thought sending me to his Ajele, Lagos office was putting me on the supplementary sack list.

But I met a completely different man. He is challenging, deep and engaging  a man who calls a spade by its first name. I spent the next 18 months in his office researching, asking questions and taking notes. This was the inside story of how court battles, family feuds and not a few frenemies brought Aboderins dream dangerously close to the edge.

We toyed with a few names for the book, and I think he finally settled for Against All Odds  a fitting title for a book that never was.

If he didnt restart the book on his 70th birthday, its improbable he would do so now.

I have cleared my library substantially, he told me at the height of COVID-19 in 2021. I do only essential reading and retain the most important records.

There was pressure on Ogunshola to beg Abacha. He refused, insisting that the newspaper had done nothing wrong. It was a very, very tough call. I remember him saying afterwards, If the closure had continued for another three months, the paper would have gone down irretrievably.

He has left a trove of living words in my heart with chapters to read for a lifetime. I still have one of his lectures, Lessons from the 2014 National Conference, delivered at the Second Chief Chris Ogunbanjo Lecture Series on 18 May, 2017.

I believe there is no better summary of the National Conference than the one provided in Ogunsholas 16-page lecture. I have carried it in my bag for seven years and used it very often, especially on matters related to restructuring.

Before measurement became a hot topic at international journalism conferences, Ogunshola insisted that what cannot be measured cannot be rewarded. He infused PUNCH with the values of innovativeness and a near-obsession for rational thinking. His work ethic makes you strong, if it doesnt kill you.

He is a man of strong views. He resents tardiness, collectivism and all shades of intermediaries in a way that reminds me of Thomas Sowells contempt for collective bargaining.

He waged trade wars against newspaper agents and advertising agencies for fairer commissions or more transparent practices. Some of these were solo wars, which earned him powerful enemies, while a few were under the umbrella of newspaper publishers, of which he was president.

Apart from the crisis after the death of the founding chairman, perhaps one of the most challenging wars was the one against the military. PUNCH was shut down thrice, the third and longest under General Sani Abacha, which lasted 18 months.

There was pressure on Ogunshola to beg Abacha. He refused, insisting that the newspaper had done nothing wrong. It was a very, very tough call. I remember him saying afterwards, If the closure had continued for another three months, the paper would have gone down irretrievably.

But he stood his ground, and the rest is history.

At 80, he is slowing down. But thanks to a lifestyle of moderation, contentment, and empiricism  a decent amount of money to keep him as well as he can be at 80  he looks good for another 10, at least.

The non-newspaperman has paid his dues, with some change to the bargain.

Long may your legacies endure, Baaroyin of Ibadan!

Azu Ishiekwene is the Editor-in-Chief of LEADERSHIP and author of the new book, Writing for Media and Monetising It.

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In the African literary precinct, where minds form thoughts and thoughts mould minds, Wole Soyinka, until perhaps there is another revelation in his class, will remain the definitive African confounding literary enigma and the actual definition of literature itself for eons to come.

When Oluwole Akinwande Babatunde Soyinka, Africas first Nobel Laureate in Literature, clocked 80 in 2014, I raised an 80-cannon salute in his honour as one of Africas most enigmatic pathfinders. At 90, the bard remains a torch-bearer of continental excellence and an inspirational global export from Africa to the world. The 90 volley count is an intentional multiple of the traditional 21-gun salute in recognition of his exceptional humanity and an acknowledgment of Ogun, his companion deity.

In the African literary precinct, where minds form thoughts and thoughts mould minds, Wole Soyinka, until perhaps there is another revelation in his class, will remain the definitive African confounding literary enigma and the actual definition of literature itself for eons to come. Granted that Kongi is not given to wanton adulation or competitive overgeneralisation, especially the typically African tendency to rank, I am not Kongi and neither is this bias without basis  or reckless without a just cause.

There were great African writers before Soyinka happened to Africa. Some wrote in their indigenous languages and as a result had a restricted audience. There were and there are still great African writers who are/were contemporaries of Soyinka. Many wrote in the language of yore, leaving the reader with the literary taste that the writer was attempting to recreate the African past. Not Soyinka. He communicated in the contemporary language and with such suaveness that was both awesome and appealing. There will continue to be great African writers after Soyinka. He is however not just a great African writer. Neither is Kongi just another literary icon. He is literature. His life sealed and cemented his place in African history. Soyinkas being has come to represent a theatre in 3D, as his very life embodies the very substance great dramas are made of. At a relatively young age, when many feared to dare, Kongi, a one-man battalion stormed the broadcasting house in the then Western region of Nigeria, and successfully replaced the recorded lies of one of the thieving politicians at the time, with his. That was Soyinka, literature in motion.

By the time the Igbo people of Eastern Nigeria were locked in a titanic survival battle with the side claiming to represent a united Nigeria, Soyinka saw through the charade of the kind of unity on offer and dared to embrace a destiny in opposition to the leading tendencies back then  he backed the right of the Igbo people to self-determination if that was what they desired as a people. The core of his stance was very simple, the Igbos had the inalienable right as humans to determine how they would want to exist as a people. For so daring, Soyinka was hunted, hounded, arrested, and imprisoned. That was Soyinka, literature in motion.

Then came the Nobel prize. Prizes, especially super-prestigious types of the calibre of the Nobel have a way of changing their beneficiaries. Most would begin to hang out only with the rulers, while then doing their bidding. Not Soyinka. Rather, Soyinka became more Soyinka. From the battle to erase apartheid in South Africa, to the precarious and dangerous challenge he mounted against vicious military rulers, Soyinka was at the forefront of civil action for the protection of the ordinary people from arbitrary rule of the juntas. How the Ibrahim Babangida government loved to dismiss Soyinka as a dramatist! But the dramatist was one of the forces who ensured Babangida was forced into submission and had to abdicate in a hurry when the hearth became too hot. That was Soyinka, literature in motion.

Soyinka in the public service. Before the ultimate showdown with Babangida, Kongi, following a call akin to an if you know how to do it, then come do it dare from Babangida, accepted to establish and serve as the foundational chairman of the Federal Road Safety Corp (FRSC). Many had expected the crusader to fail at this assignment. Not Soyinka. As Nigerians would still admit today, Soyinkas era in the road safety corps remains a watershed in the nations history. That was the era when no officer of the Corp would collect bribes from anybody, even though their sister organisation, the Nigeria Police, was notorious at the time for only two things  bribery and corruption. As Dele Momodu recently revealed, when an attempt was made to soil Soyinkas reputation with a smear campaign, news hounds from the African Concord were dispatched to get the juicy details of the embezzlement charge. Kongi, though 28 years behind the passage of the Freedom of Information Act, personally wrote to the bankers of the FRSC with the instruction to make all their accounts public! That was Soyinka, literature in motion.

While Wole Soyinkas predilection as signposted by these experiences is about integrity, what is right, and what is just, irrespective of tribe, race, religion, or social status  his later life would cement his place as an avowed advocate of universal justice  no matter who the victim is. This is where he stands shoulder higher than any of his contemporaries. While some of them were perennially locked in the defense of their kin, Soyinkas mind transcended Ake or his Oduduwa clan and captured the universal spirit that defined and separated truly great beings from the rest.

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Soyinka the philosopher could be glimpsed from The Interpreters, where the bard sought to know whether it was appropriate to insist on a spot in the water, whereas the water as an entity was definitely constantly moving. In the Trial of Brother Jero, it would be difficult to resist a good laugh as the prophet successfully predicted the promotion of Chume to Chief Messenger, with an additional prophecy still that he would become Chief Clerk. Soyinka in that work clearly saw tomorrow, as every antic of the main character has now become the trademark and a powerful tool through which self-professed spokesmen for God swindle unsuspecting folks in 2024 Nigeria. Soyinka inspires. Any student activist in the past 30 years, would either have used or have heard the famous words The man dies in all who keep silent in the face of tyranny taken from The Man Died: Prison Notes of Wole Soyinka. It remains the number one rallying cry to free the souls of the undecided for battle against forces of repression in Nigerias unending Armageddon of civil unrest against abusive use of power and positions against the interests of the masses. Of Soyinka, John Updike in Hugging the Shore (New York: Knopf, 1983) says, he is remembered in Nigeria with awe, both for a political boldness that landed him in prison and for a commanding intellect that is manifest in every genre he tackles. And what do you make of the poem, Telephone Conversation? Read the last verse, again;

THATS DARK, ISNT IT? Not altogether.

Facially, I am brunette, but madam, you should see

The rest of me. Palm of my hand, soles of my feet

Are a peroxide blonde. Friction, caused

Foolishly, madamby sitting down, has turned

My bottom raven blackOne moment madam!sensing

Her receiver rearing on the thunderclap

About my earsMadam, I pleaded, wouldnt you rather

See for yourself?

 Wole Soyinka in Telephone Conversation

90-cannon salute to Soyinka! The African god of literature is 90. Iba!

Olatunji Ariyomo is an engineer and development strategist. He tweets @olatunjiariyomo

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The Christian marriage is no longer till death do us part. It is now till divorce do us part.

I wrote a book entitled: Why Christians Wont Go to Heaven. Some Christians complained that my book is too absolute. They said I should have written: Why Some Christians Wont Go to Heaven. No, I replied. I mean no Christian will go to heaven. Christianity is not a criterion for heaven. Then, I wrote an article entitled Christians Make Terrible Husbands. Some self-righteous Christian husbands shot back saying I should have said: Some Christian Make Terrible Husbands. No! No! No! I mean all Christian husbands.

Gods prophetic word is appropriately expressed in absolute terms. Jesus says: The sons of the kingdom will be cast out into outer darkness. There will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. (Matthew 8:12). He does not say some of the sons of the kingdom. It is not the job of the prophet to give you the option whereby you can exclude yourself from his prophecy.

Option of Divorce

Man specialises in turning the Gods truth into a lie. Take, for example, the question of divorce. Moses knew God is against divorce. Nevertheless, he permitted the Israelites to divorce their wives. What gave Moses such audacity?

Jesus says: Moses, because of the hardness of your hearts, permitted you to divorce your wives, but from the beginning it was not so. And I say to you, whoever divorces his wife, except for sexual immorality, and marries another, commits adultery; and whoever marries her who is divorced commits adultery. (Matthew 19:9).

Gods command on the question of divorce is absolute; but man turned it into a relative command. When the disciples discovered that God is absolutely against divorce, they replied: If such is the case of the man with his wife, it is better not to marry. (Matthew 19:10). In short, they would rather not marry than obey God in marriage.

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But if we dont marry, we are confronted with another absolute commandment. We must not have sex outside of marriage. We must not fornicate. What then is the way out? Sin!

Relative Marriages

Most Christians contract relative marriages, even though the marriage covenant is couched in absolute terms. When we say: for better, for worse; for richer, for poorer; in sickness and in health, we are speaking absolutely and not relatively. Nevertheless, we retain the option of divorce if things get worse or poorer.

When we quarrel one year down the road, we play the divorce card. But if divorce were an option in Gods plan for marriage, He would not have asked Hosea to marry a prostitute. As to be expected, Hoseas prostitute wife was unfaithful to him. She even had children by other men. Nevertheless, divorce was not an option for Hosea.

In short, the Christian marriage has become a farce. We talk the talk but do not walk the walk. We make the absolute commitment, even before God, knowing full well we have no intention of keeping it. We promise to be faithful; forsaking all others, but have no qualms whatsoever about having affairs. We even have one or two children out of wedlock.

We promise to love and to cherish, yet we are not averse to beating up our wives, sometimes to the point of hospitalisation. No wonder then that the Christian marriage is no longer till death do us part. It is now till divorce do us part. It is till problems do us part, or till economic adversity do us part, or till the bondwoman do us part.

As usual, Jesus foresaw all this hypocrisy. He would not have us deceive ourselves by signing a legal agreement, or by going before a pastor and a church to make our marriage binding. Precisely because we choose to swear the oath of marriage, that implies we are not trustworthy and cannot trust others. In the scriptures, marriages were not determined by oaths, but by sexual intercourse.

Jesus says: You have heard that it was said to those of old, You shall not swear falsely, but shall perform your oaths to the Lord. But I say to you, do not swear at all: neither by heaven, for it is Gods throne; nor by the earth, for it is His footstool; nor by Jerusalem, for it is the city of the great King. Nor shall you swear by your head, because you cannot make one hair white or black. But let your Yes be Yes, and your No, No. For whatever is more than these is from the evil one. (Matthew 5:33-37).

Rationalising Absolutes

Christians specialise in converting Gods absolutes to mans relatives. A famous Nigerian pastor was divorced from his wife. He then committed adultery by remarrying a divorced woman. Nevertheless, he told his congregation that the Holy Spirit ministered to him that his new wife had never been married before. The woman who was married before is dead and this newly-married wife is born again. So, old things are passed away (including her previous marriage), behold, all things have become new. (2 Corinthians 5:17).

Pauls scriptures are often twisted by those inclined to contradict Jesus. Sometimes, people use Paul to lose complete sight of Jesus. When you quote Jesus to them, they accuse you of heresy. One pastor with a vested interest said forbidding a Christian to remarry because he is divorced is a doctrine of demons. Where does he get this from? Paul says: The Spirit expressly says that in latter times some will depart from the faith, giving heed to deceiving spirits and doctrines of demons, speaking lies in hypocrisy, having their own conscience seared with a hot iron, forbidding to marry. (1 Timothy 4:1-3).

When queried by a journalist about his remarriage after divorce, a famous Nigerian pastor had this to say:

Some argue that the Bible says you must remain unmarried for as long as your spouse is alive The bible doesnt say so. It doesnt say so. I think a lot of people dont study the Word of God enough. There is a difference between a man who marries a woman and the woman leaves him and the one that divorces. There are so many people who are parading themselves as preachers of the scriptures who dont know the Bible enough, particularly in the area of marriage.

Absolute Marriage

However, marriage is Gods institution. It is not man-made. Gods marriage plan is absolute; there is no divorce. It is till death do us part. Indeed, everything about Gods concept of marriage is absolute. Gods absolute marriage has one prototype. It is between Adam and Eve. It is not between Adam and Steve.

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a man to hate his wife?

Under absolutely no circumstances!

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a man to beat his wife or for a wife to slap her husband?

Under absolutely no circumstances!

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a husband or a wife to commit adultery?

Under absolutely no circumstances!

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a husband and wife to abuse one another?

Under absolutely no circumstances!

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a husband and wife to deceive one another?

Under absolutely no circumstances!

Under what circumstances is it lawful for a husband to kiss his wife?

Under absolutely all circumstances!

Faribisala@yahoo.com; www.femiaribisala.com

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Armed with a calabash full of frothing palm wine, I raise an elbow in a twin celebration of our own WS, the irrepressible Kongi, Eniogun, the man of iron on the one hand; and the unassuming four-star general of journalism, dean of satire and incredibly prescient public intellectual, Olatunji Dare, on the other.

An ingrate is but a robber in disguise. I am thrilled to celebrate, on the same platform today, two great Nigerians who have impacted greatly on our collective intellectual environment and whose birthdays providentially fall within a few days of each other. Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka turned 90 on 13 July, while Emeritus Professor Olatunji Dare will clock 80 on 17 July.

Armed with a calabash full of frothing palm wine, I raise an elbow in a twin celebration of our own WS, the irrepressible Kongi, Eniogun, the man of iron on the one hand; and the unassuming four-star general of journalism, dean of satire and incredibly prescient public intellectual, Olatunji Dare, on the other.

Lets take them one after the other.

Kongi

Soyinka is 90! Our very own teacher, playwright, poet, novelist, hunter, philosopher, rebel, musician, essayist, literary stylist, cultural beacon, social engineer and public intellectual has defied all odds to breast the tape of his 90th year.

If you ask, whats in a number, you may attract the riposte, whats NOT in a number. In their own esoteric way, numerologists break 90 into 9 and 0 and postulate that Number 9 brings us the energies of completion, universal love, inner wisdom, and compassion, while 0 adds its own vibrations of eternity and infinity  a reminder that we have access to infinite resources within ourselves when we remain connected to our spiritual essence.

A little over 50 years ago, many people who analysed his trajectory as an activist of the talk-and-do hue, swore that the young Soyinka was destined to die young, without even the remote possibility of having a nice-looking corpse. But whoever is monitoring when the crab goes to bed should prepare for a long vigil because the crab does not go to bed early (and the crab is Soyinkas zodiac sign)!

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Former presidential aspirant, Kingsley Moghalu, has this to say on the matter: Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka is a principled fighter for justice in our country and around the world. He is a phenomenon that unlettered and uncultured people may not fully understand in an age of lazy social media in which many dont read or think deep.

Ninety years is special, culturally, spiritually and commemoratively. It is called the nonagintennial or granite anniversary. There are only about 22 million nonagenarians in existence, constituting 0.28 per cent of the global population of 8.1 billion people. It is the privileged club of the anointed; those fated to be among the last set to tell the story of their generation  and Soyinkas generation of intellectual elites was our golden generation.

It is not given to many people to be of abiding relevance to their country as Soyinka has been for six decades. By the time my path crossed his own at the University of Ife in the 70s, he had already achieved fame (his foes will say, notoriety) and was a highly sought after academic. I wasnt a spring chicken myself, having cut my teeth in journalism at DRUM publications before returning to school.

As president of the students union, I knew that I needed the collaboration of those who had seen it all before and who would be there as trusted allies if things turned awry. In that sense, Soyinka was an uncommon counsellor and backbone. It was from him that I learnt that what matters in life is not the ariwo oja, but the nobility of your convictions and the courage with which you pursue your ideals, using all your talents, no matter the odds. He shares that honour in my life with his cousin, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, Dr Tai Solarin and Chief Gani Fawehinmi.

I pity those who, because of a disagreement over political perspectives, think that they can diminish Soyinkas stature as a global intellectual. Great as the invention of social media is, it has sadly been turned into a lynching machine by those who Nelson Ottah (one of those who taught me how to chew the journalistic cud) would have described as intellectual piccaninnies.

Former presidential aspirant, Kingsley Moghalu, has this to say on the matter: Nobel Laureate Wole Soyinka is a principled fighter for justice in our country and around the world. He is a phenomenon that unlettered and uncultured people may not fully understand in an age of lazy social media in which many dont read or think deep.

In 2014 when he turned 80, I invoked Providence to spare our elderly friend and pathfinder for many more years, especially as he still looked so comely and strong. In many ways, he is a tree that makes a forest, as I titled my column in Daily Trust at the time. In just one more decade, if the Heavens permit, well be gathered to usher him into the club of centenarians. Happy birthday, Prof!

Olatunji Dare

By the time I enrolled for a Masters degree at the University of Lagos, I was already an editor at DRUM. I knew a few of the teachers on the faculty, like Professor Alfred Opubor and Dr Idowu Sobowale. I was later to meet another respected member who made a strong impression on me  Professor Frank Ugboaja. We hit it off straight away as friends. Ugboaja said he would be proud to supervise my final thesis and I looked forward with excitement to it.

But Fate decreed otherwise. Ugboaja died. In the meantime I had also become familiar with other faculty members, especially those whose speciality tallied with editorial expertise. The then Dr Olatunji Dare easily stood out. Among the postgraduate students, the whisper making the rounds was that Dare was the first and only student of the faculty so far to make a first class and that he had only returned to UNILAG from the United States out of patriotic commitment, after finishing his Masters and PhD at Columbia and Indiana universities respectively.

Dares Editorial Writing class opened the eyes of many strutting professional peacocks to the reality that they still had a lot to learn to become field generals. His style was collaborative, rather than autocratic. He preferred to show how, rather than pontificate. He deservedly won the respect and friendship of his students. I am proud and grateful that he took on the responsibility of supervising my MSc thesis titled, Nigeria As Graveyard of Magazines. Without his expertise and guidance, the journey would certainly have been much rougher.

When he took his talent and art to Nigerias flagship newspaper, The Guardian, his brilliance was acknowledged on the national stage. His award-winning Tuesday column was a must-read. Indeed, his satirical writings have become the subject of two Masters theses. He was to serve as editorial page editor and chair of the Editorial Board of the newspaper for almost 10 years.

Dare resigned from The Guardian when the newspapers proprietor chose to apologise to the military junta of General Abacha, rather than continue to suffer financial loss on account of the shutting down of the newspaper over the June 12 crisis. Abacha was a usurper and the newspaper clearly said so through its powerful editorials and op-eds, many of which had Dares imprimatur.

The oak is the symbol of octogenary. Just as the oak is the source of durable timber, Dare has been instrumental in not just helping to produce some of the finest editorial writers in contemporary Nigerian journalism, but has also been part of the movement to elevate public discourse and mobilise public opinion for the common good. He still writes a weekly column in The Nation from his base in the United States.

Embarrassed that his publisher would choose acquiescence with despotism over principled commitment to propriety and the rule of law, Dare resigned from The Guardian without an immediate Plan B. Nigerian journalism has produced many heroes of the June 12 struggle. Dare was one of them. Unable to find meaningful media work and facing constant harassment, he left Nigeria in 1996 to take up a faculty position at Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois, USA.

His book, Diary of a Debacle: Tracking Nigerias Failed Democratic Transition, 1986-1994, is, perhaps, the most authoritative work on the militarys democratic transition programme in Nigerias Third Republic.

The oak is the symbol of octogenary. Just as the oak is the source of durable timber, Dare has been instrumental in not just helping to produce some of the finest editorial writers in contemporary Nigerian journalism, but has also been part of the movement to elevate public discourse and mobilise public opinion for the common good. He still writes a weekly column in The Nation from his base in the United States.

Both Soyinka and Dare are Cancerians with the crab as their zodiac sign. Experts say that the symbol of the crab offers a key to understanding Cancers preternatural ability to know things without knowing how they know them.

I raise an elbow in a hearty toast again. Birthday blessings!

Wole Olaoye is a Public Relations consultant and veteran journalist. He can be reached on wole.olaoye@gmail.com, Twitter: @wole_olaoye; Instagram: woleola2021.

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Azerbaijans Minister of Foreign Affairs Jeyhun Bayramov met Saturday with OSCE Secretary General Helga Maria Schmid, Azernews reports.

During the meeting, the discussions revolved around the prospects of the Azerbaijan-OSCE bilateral cooperation agenda, as well as the regional and international security issues, and regional cooperation opportunities.

The sides emphasized the importance of effectively using the current opportunities in addressing regional issues based on international legal norms within the framework of the OSCE in light of the current regional and international security situation. In this regard, the significance of the organizations setting up its activities in accordance with realities of todays world was highlighted. The meeting also hailed Azerbaijans active membership of the OSCE in a number of areas.

The parties noted that Azerbaijan's chairmanship of the 29th session of the Conference of the Parties to the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP29) could contribute to strengthening the climate action in the current cooperation agenda.

Minister Jeyhun Bayramov highlighted the regional situation in the post-conflict period, the restoration and reconstruction process, as well as the countrys peace agenda, current threats and challenges. The FM mentioned that the mine threat of Armenia continues to threaten the return of Azerbaijani citizens to the liberated territories, as well as the large-scale restoration and construction works carried out in this regard.

FM Bayramov also provided an insight into the current situation of the normalization process between Azerbaijan and Armenia, as well as the progress achieved in the peace process. The minister emphasized that the existence of territorial claims in the current Constitution of Armenia against Azerbaijan is unacceptable. He underlined that the steps jeopardizing the advancement of the peace agenda, especially the increasing rapid militarization in Armenia, remain a matter of concern.

During the meeting, the sides also exchanged views on other issues of mutual interest.
FBI has identified the man who attempted to assassinate presidential candidate Donald Trump. The shooter was a local, Thomas Matthew Crooks.

ADVERTISIMENT

The shooter was killed at the scene. This was reported by the New York Post.

The resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, fired at least 8 shots, one of which hit Trump in the ear. It is also known that there is a dead and wounded among the participants of the rally.

Crooks was shooting from the roof of a manufacturing facility located more than 120 meters from the stage at the Butler Farm Show. The attacker was eliminated by Secret Service snipers.

Later, an AR rifle was found at the scene of Crooks' death. Law enforcement is currently establishing the motives for the shooting of the Republican presidential candidate.

At the same time, a video allegedly recorded by Crooks shortly before the shooting was posted online. In it, he stated that he "hates Trump and Republicans." But in fact, the video was shot by jewgazing blogger posing as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

ADVERTISIMENT

As a reminder, US presidential candidate Donald Trump was shot at. The shooting took place during his speech in Pennsylvania. It is noted that the former US president and current candidate has a scratched cheek and a bloody ear.

Only verified information on our Telegram channel OBOZ.UA and Viber. Do not fall for fakes!
the judges have toppled the people and installed themselves as the ones who alone can elect politicians to positions of power and influence in Nigeria. Access to political office now, therefore, is a transaction that begins and rests with political access to judges. Having thus murdered the rule of law, what we now have is rule by judges under which both political power and judicial office have become bereft of legitimacy. The victim is the public good.

The judiciary has immense power. In the nature of things, judges cannot be democratically accountable for their decisions. It therefore matters very much that their role should be regarded as legitimate by the public at large.  Jonathan Sumption, Law in a Time of Crisis, 121 (2021)

For a cumulative period of 17 years between 1885 and 1905, Hardinge Giffard  who was better known as Lord Halsbury  served three tenures as Lord Chancellor. In this capacity he earned a reputation for having appointed many undistinguished men to the Bench because of their political services to the Conservative Party. In 1897, Lord Salisbury, one of the prime ministers under whom Lord Halsbury served, advised him that the judicial salad requires both legal oil and political vinegar; but disastrous effects will follow if due proportion is not observed. For having so manifestly got the proportions out of kilter, Nigeria could be on course for a date with Lord Salisburys predicted effects.

Abuja, Nigerias federal capital, is a place where mutual intercourse between lawyers, politicians and judges is both natural and habitual. It is home to judges too numerous to count and host to the headquarters of many court systems, including the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT High Court), as well as of Nigerias Court of Appeal and Supreme Court. The headquarters of the Court of Justice of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS Court of Justice) is also in Abuja.

The pace of production and reproduction in the courts in Abuja has been rather dizzying recently. On the penultimate day of the past working week, Nigerias Supreme Court, in a case instituted by the Federal Government against the states, issued a decision designed to make it mandatory for local government to be run only by elected officials. This judgment has unlocked a predictable scrum of both political ululation and lamentation but the risk remains that its full benefits are likely to be undermined by the well-established jurisprudence of the Supreme Court, in favour of bandit ballots which support the production of leaders at all levels who lack electoral legitimacy.

The day before the Supreme Court judgment, on the approach to the fourth anniversary of Nigerias #EndSARs uprising of 2020, the ECOWAS Court of Justice ruled that the conduct of the Nigerian government and its security agencies in their response to the #EndSARS uprising, violated the guarantees of security of person, prohibition of torture and cruel, inhuman, and degrading treatment, rights to freedom of expression, assembly, and association, duty to investigate human rights violations, and right to effective remedy. In effect, the Court said that the Nigerian government engaged in a cover-up of the violations that occurred during the #EndSARS protests, especially at the Lekki Tollgate in Lagos.

Among the 12 new judges of the FCT High Court, at least seven were family members of serving or living judicial figures and three were family members of persons directly involved in the appointment process. Among these, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who presided over the appointment, had his daughter-in-law made a judge; the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court made his daughter a judge; and the President of the Court of Appeal got her daughter appointed a high court judge for the second time in three years.

Weighty as they were, both of these otherwise seminal outcomes were relative non-events in the political and judicial registers of Abuja this past week. On the same day that the ECOWAS Court delivered its judgment in the #EndSARS case to a near empty gallery and the day before the Supreme Court held forth on the destination of local government funds, all roads led to the Supreme Court, where the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria, Olukayode Ariwoola, presided over the inauguration of 22 new Justices of the Court of Appeal and 12 new judges of the FCT High Court.

Many people may have missed the number of Justices of Appeal inaugurated, however. Anyone who followed the reportage would have been forgiven for supposing that there were just two Justices of Appeal sworn in: Wikes wife and 21 others, a reference to the wife of political bruiser and current Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike. Also among the new Justices of Appeal is Abdullahi Liman, Kanos self-appointed federal king-maker. The excess political vinegar in some of these most recent elevations to the Court of Appeal sadly detracts from the tasteful salad among some others. For the sake of their own professional and career advancement in a cynical system, it is best at this time to preserve the anonymity of those deserving ones.

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Among the 12 new judges of the FCT High Court, at least seven were family members of serving or living judicial figures and three were family members of persons directly involved in the appointment process. Among these, the Chief Justice of Nigeria, who presided over the appointment, had his daughter-in-law made a judge; the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court made his daughter a judge; and the President of the Court of Appeal got her daughter appointed a high court judge for the second time in three years. In 2021, Governor Simon Lalong of Plateau State had made the same daughter a judge of the Plateau State High Court.

Responding to these appointments, Access to Justice, a group that monitors judicial independence and accountability in Nigeria pointedly said that three candidates were ineligible to be considered for such appointments in the first place at the time the vacancies were announced. This was in reference to the daughter of the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court; the daughter of the President of the Court of Appeal; and the daughter-in-law of the outgoing Chief Justice of Nigeria. According to the group, these three appointments were a composite transaction between the CJN, President of the Court of Appeal and the Chief Judge of the FCT High Court, best described in local parlance as: you scratch my back, I scratch your back.

The week ended with a report which said that (J)udges top (the) list of bribe recipients in Nigeria. 15 years ago, the African Commission on Human and Peoples rights warned that the courts need the trust of the people in order to maintain their authority and legitimacy. The credibility of the courts must not be weakened by the perception that courts can be influenced by any external pressure. In Nigeria, this is now a vain hope.

To say that these three appointments clearly violate the judicial code of conduct, as well as the regulations governing judicial appointments is to be kind to the lack of scruples at the helm of the current judicial appointments process in the country. It makes a joke of the judicial appointment process that someone in Nigeria can be appointed a High Court judge, while holding a subsisting appointment as a High Court Judge.

In the days when the Nigerian judiciary was under credible leadership, these judicial inaugurations would have passed almost as a non-event, attended only by select staff of the affected courts and by some members of the families of the new appointees. Reflecting the mood and mores of the times and consistent with the current tyranny of perverse incentives in judicial appointments, however, this swearing in was a carnival taken over by cavalcades of dubious politicians and insider dealers in perverse political influence. Following the formal swearing in of the new judges, Abuja was littered with receptions convoked by politicians and senior lawyers for many of the new judges.

There was good reason for the politicians to make an obligation of their noisy presence at the swearing in of the new judges. Section 14(2) of Nigerias Constitution loudly proclaims that sovereignty belongs to the people of Nigeria but under the colour of rule of law and judicial independence, the judges have toppled the people and installed themselves as the ones who alone can elect politicians to positions of power and influence in Nigeria. Access to political office now, therefore, is a transaction that begins and rests with political access to judges. Having thus murdered the rule of law, what we now have is rule by judges under which both political power and judicial office have become bereft of legitimacy. The victim is the public good.

The week ended with a report which said that (J)udges top (the) list of bribe recipients in Nigeria. 15 years ago, the African Commission on Human and Peoples rights warned that the courts need the trust of the people in order to maintain their authority and legitimacy. The credibility of the courts must not be weakened by the perception that courts can be influenced by any external pressure. In Nigeria, this is now a vain hope.

Chidi Anselm Odinkalu, a lawyer, teaches at the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy and can be reached through chidi.odinkalu@tufts.edu.

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Today, Nigeria isnt so far away from where Yugoslavia was in 1995. Several Milosevics are promising a return to a glorious past where their ethnic group was supreme. Their playing ground is social media, and their hate mongering is gaining so much momentum that even educated cosmopolitans are being seduced. If we allow this trend to continue unchallenged, it wont be long before there is a violent outbreak.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, a South Asian Muslim man, Mohammed Asaduzzaman, provided 500 free meals to essential service providers, as a show of gratitude for their contributions to the community. Not just that, he pushed for vaccinations for those with uncertain immigration status, acted as an interpreter for those in legal need, and supported victims of crime, according to a report in the BBC. Unsurprisingly, on 17 May, Mr Asaduzzaman was elected as the first South Asian Muslim Mayor of Brighton and Hove  a community he had lived in for 30 years, after migrating from Bangladesh.

Asaduzzamans victory, like that of Sadiq Khan in London and Britains former Prime Minister, Rishi Sunak, is a triumph for multiculturalism and the beauty of representative democracy. It didnt matter so much that Asaduzzaman was a devout Muslim or that he migrated from a country that was a British colony for 200 years. What mattered was that he had woven himself into the very fabric of the community and earned his fellow constituents trust.

In Nigeria, however, instead of assembling the building blocks of a stable and progressive pluralistic society, groups of vile and divisive ethnic entrepreneurs are now instigating a retreat to ethnic fascism disguised as nationalism. They abhor cosmopolitans and dream of a homogenous society. They still want democracy, but the participants and beneficiaries must be limited to their in-group members. Ostensibly, theyre motivated by a dire need to preserve their culture and a recalcitrant out-groups erosion of their values. Why should foreigners be given appointments or jobs in their own land? they query. Some even go as far as challenging the use of the English language as the lingua franca.

As Yuval Noah puts it, these groups fail to realise that the past wasnt a good time, and you cant bring it back. Yuval would go on to argue that people who play identity politics and want to go back to the past are not creatively thinking about the future. Despite the rise of far-right nationalists in Europe and the growing influence of religious fundamentalists in certain parts of the Middle East and the Sahel, the future is more likely to be multicultural.

How did a country that had stayed peacefully together for forty years under President Tito unravel in such a short time? Why did Sarajevo, a modern, diverse city where Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks had lived and intermarried for several decades, give in to their worst instincts that led to their slaughtering of one another? The reason isnt far-fetched. Milosevic had taught them how to hate their neighbour.

Notwithstanding, the rise of ultra-nationalists, ethnic supremacists, and fascist groups in Nigeria, many of whom are constantly stoking ethnic discords, are gradually sowing the seeds of a violent insurrection that could consume our nation. Young people are now being encouraged to spread hate. Others embrace bigotry as a badge of honour and vow to cleanse their region and home state of invaders who are desecrating their land. Do not rent out your houses to them, or give your daughters to them in marriage, they declare. Other more extreme elements have gone as far as saying, you have no obligation as a doctor to treat a patient who is not from your tribe. These are what the drums of violent conflict sound like. These are dangerous times.

It started similarly in Yugoslavia. A few years after the death of President Tito, a ruthless manipulator of Serbian nationalism  as the Guardian UK describes him  emerged on the scene. His name was Slobodan Milosevic, and he would later become the most dangerous man in Europe. In his quest for power, Milosevic made clever use of the media to spread propaganda of an imminent threat to Serbians (his ethnic group) and the need to resist those who seek to destroy their way of life. He reminded Serbians of their glorious past and promised a return to that period of greatness. Serbs believed him, and not long after, 200,000 people were killed in Bosnia, and more than 800,000 Albanians were ethnically cleansed from their homes in Kosovo.

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How did a country that had stayed peacefully together for forty years under President Tito unravel in such a short time? Why did Sarajevo, a modern, diverse city where Serbs, Croats, and Bosniaks had lived and intermarried for several decades, give in to their worst instincts that led to their slaughtering of one another? The reason isnt far-fetched. Milosevic had taught them how to hate their neighbour. He even promised a reward for that hatred, which was a Serbian nation where all their aspirations would be fulfilled. He had also convinced them to believe that members of the out-group inflicted the cause of whatever challenges they encountered. Wanting to be part of something great, they took up arms and slaughtered their fellow citizens.

we must regulate the extremism in social media and excommunicate those who seek to sow the seeds of ethnic discord. We can do this by leaning on social media companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to censor bigotry and suspend accounts that promote extremism. Indeed, this will not solve the problem of mutual distrust among major ethnic tribes, nor will it magically promote love and unity. What it will do is to halt a descent into violent conflict

Today, Nigeria isnt so far away from where Yugoslavia was in 1995. Several Milosevics are promising a return to a glorious past where their ethnic group was supreme. Their playing ground is social media, and their hate mongering is gaining so much momentum that even educated cosmopolitans are being seduced. If we allow this trend to continue unchallenged, it wont be long before there is a violent outbreak.

Therefore, we must regulate the extremism in social media and excommunicate those who seek to sow the seeds of ethnic discord. We can do this by leaning on social media companies like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to censor bigotry and suspend accounts that promote extremism. Indeed, this will not solve the problem of mutual distrust among major ethnic tribes, nor will it magically promote love and unity. What it will do is to halt a descent into violent conflict and provide the opportunity for the nations elite to do the hard work of nation-building.

There will be no return to kingdoms, so we are better off learning the lessons of multiculturalism from Brighton and Hove and shunning the destruction that ethnic nationalism guarantees.

Ayodele Adio, a media and communications strategist.

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Soyinka is a patriot who has used his innate talent to serve humanity at every opportunity. His radical posture has come handy in dangerous times when only persons of sterner stuff could stand. In 1967, he was imprisoned because of his audacious antagonism to the genocidal assault that the civil-war represented. Before then, he had intruded a radio station in Ibadan in 1965 to frustrate the broadcast of an electoral heist that was meant to entrench an unpopular government.

The name Wole Soyinka aka WS evokes sundry emotions across the spectrum. Regardless of where one stands on the spectrum, we can all agree that Wole Soyinka is one of Nigerias most celebrated personalities, certainly Africas most iconic literary maestro and one of the worlds most influential citizens. Even though I know him to treat public celebrations of his birthdays with studied indifference and a hunters disdain, it is still almost unbelievable that WS is 90, given his frenetic pace of work and travels. And whether he likes it or not, this is one celebration he cannot stop!

For me, WS is not the unfathomable mystery that many perceive from a distance and he is not the mythological pantheon that exists in the realm of the gods in the imagination of many. He is a mentor, a role model, a father figure and a thought-leader with whom I have had the rare privilege of communing and sharing great moments of significant historic importance in my life.

My first physical encounter with Professor Wole Soyinka was in 1994 in the course of the struggle to return Nigeria to democratic order. My familiarity with WS however preceded our opportune encounter. My first interaction with him was in his prison notes, The Man Died, which I first struggled to grasp in 1975. While the motif of the book was a seductive topic of interest, the inscrutably elevated language and discursive point of view of the book made it a hard nut for me to crack at such a young age. Since then, I have not only read all his other writings I have come across  particularly the autobiographical series  Ake, Isara, Ibadan: the Penkelemes Years and You Must Set Forth at Dawn, I have gobbled them with obsessive enthusiasm. His writings and public advocacy for good governance, social justice, democracy and freedom had always made him a godfather and mentor whose association I had deeply coveted.

Consequently, when the opportunity to meet Prof happily came my way through his son, Olaokun in 1994, it was a dream come true. Professor Soyinka (who was already familiar with my work as a democracy activist in the UK through the activities of the New Nigeria Forum and its journal, Nigeria Now which I edited and regularly sent to him in Nigeria), seized the opportunity of our meeting to invite me to be part of his newly established National Liberation Council of Nigeria (NALICON) as Director of Communications.

Without giving it much thought, I enthusiastically jumped at the rare opportunity to work closely with Africas first Nobel Laureate in literature. I had reasoned that his international reputation, connection and clout would greatly enhance our struggle for the return of democratic order in Nigeria. And I reasoned right! As I indicated in my memoir of the exile years, I came close to being labelled a passionate enthusiast and defender of the Soyinka mystique, especially having shared his worldview of the Nigerian struggle as one between authoritarianism and democracy, and not purely an ideological fixation between socialism and capitalism (Fayemi, 2005:210). Throughout his time in exile in the 1990s, I worked closely with him on numerous projects in NALICON and the United Democratic Front of Nigeria (UDFN) along with several other patriots  the most popular of which was the underground opposition radio  Radio Freedom, later Radio Kudirat.

There is no doubt that I have always shared an ecumenical ideology and kindred spirit with Kongi. His natural spur to resist oppression, instinctive spontaneity to defy authoritarianism and his impregnable commitment to civil liberty makes him a natural inspirational mentor. In both the youthful and sagely Soyinka, has been a consistent resurgence against brutality and inordinate absolutism. As he often opines, justice is the first condition of humanity. His resentment against state terror and abuse of power burns like the inferno of the mythical Hades.

For WS, humanity and its happiness are the tunnels through which he travels his mind in the visualisation of social problems. Anything that denies man his inalienable rights, is for Soyinka, an abhorrent act that must be condemned in the strongest terms. He is predictably obdurate and conscientiously unapologetic for his repetitive fidelity to the triumph of human freedom, primacy of his liberty and elevation of his essence as the sole creed that all gods must serve.

His temperament rejects every iota of practices that suborn human happiness. Even in his old age, he continues to prick the conscience of the nation with penetrating homilies that poke a revelatory finger in the nose of public decadence. WS is that bitter remedy that purges a poisoned belly of its troubling constipation. His corrective words are like the surgical knife that cuts out the malignancy of a petulant lesion. He refuses to suffer fools gladly and would rather be misunderstood by people too thick to decode his angst against all governmental decadence.

He is classical in all aspects of his artistry. For some and for his obscurantism, he is the African Homer; some others say he is the ultimate Aristophanes; some even think he is the rebirth of Socrates and not just for the accident of initials, WS is our own William Shakespeare and John Milton rolled into one. He is the agglutination of literary reincarnation of the best that history can recall.

Like his ancestral forebears, WS untiringly rages against the foibles of governmental chieftains and their foreboding delinquencies. He has spoken vehemently against the cowardice of intellectual ambiguity that continues to indulge venal characters in public places. For him, no space must be yielded to the debauchers who gorge the nations wealth and fritter its assets in the realisation of their gluttonous hedonism.

Soyinka is impatient with the loud silence that punctuates clear cases that should strike a thunder of a mass anger. For him, until the obscurity of silence gives way to visibility of voices, any unexplained figuration about the existence of Nigeria will remain an empty indoctrination that serves the hypocritical cowardice of the nations power barons.

Soyinka is a patriot who has used his innate talent to serve humanity at every opportunity. His radical posture has come handy in dangerous times when only persons of sterner stuff could stand. In 1967, he was imprisoned because of his audacious antagonism to the genocidal assault that the civil-war represented. Before then, he had intruded a radio station in Ibadan in 1965 to frustrate the broadcast of an electoral heist that was meant to entrench an unpopular government. The Man lives in Soyinka like the ageless Olumo Rock. His stout courage, broad repository and undeniable conviction radiates his writing in plays, fictions, poetry, essays and public interventions. He uses the power of words to carry out corrective surgery and as a righting atonement for the transgressed. When he chooses his object for critical scrutiny, he deploys the elegance of humour and the pettiness of satire to disrobe the social psychopaths wherever they might be.

Soyinka is spiritual but not religious, ideological but not bigoted; for, he could not submit his intellect to the whimsical machinations of another being. He acknowledges, as he found out through his teacher, Bonany Dombree, that all spirituality sprouts from the relationship between nature and man and that the quest to create a meaning for its inscrutable foundation gave expression to the concept of deity. Thus, Soyinkas spirituality is in the primacy of humanity and the pursuit of universal egalitarianism; this, I think, is the basis upon which his ideas of the ideal is anchored. No wonder he remains a respectable voice for human advancement in the global arena.

Even though Professor Soyinka has been an unsuccessful politician in the narrow manner success in politics is defined in our clime, his contribution to the political development of Nigeria is undeniable and inspiring. Apart from constantly being in the trenches for the enthronement of democracy and rule of law, he has floated a political party in the past to advocate a set of political ideas that he believed could provide an alternative answer to Nigerias predicament. More importantly, Professor Soyinka has been one of the moral giants who continue to point the nation to the path of rectitude in politics, constitutionalism, justice, equality and good governance. His life has been a watershed and a blessing in every aspect.

I have been a beneficiary of WSs generosity in innumerable ways for which I owe him a great deal of gratitude, not just for writing a rare Foreword to my 2005 exile memoirs, Out of the Shadows but also for his unflinching support when I chose the partisan political route. He kept a regular watch on my political journey and was quick to commend my edifying strides in office whilst also upbraiding me whenever he found any untoward development difficult to fathom. He honoured me with the commissioning of the iconic Ekiti Government House in 2014.

At 90, WS reminds me of those unforgettable lines in Alfred Tennysons Ulysses:

Old age hath yet his honour and his toil;

Death closes all: but something ere the end,

Some work of noble note, may yet be done,

Not unbecoming men that strove with Gods.

The lights begin to twinkle from the rocks:

The long day wanes: the slow moon climbs: the deep

Moans round with many voices. Come, my friends,

T is not too late to seek a newer world.

Push off, and sitting well in order smite

The sounding furrows; for my purpose holds

To sail beyond the sunset, and the baths

Of all the western stars, until I die.

It may be that the gulfs will wash us down:

It may be we shall touch the Happy Isles,

And see the great Achilles, whom we knew.

Tho much is taken, much abides; and tho

We are not now that strength which in old days

Moved earth and heaven, that which we are, we are;

One equal temper of heroic hearts,

Made weak by time and fate, but strong in will

To strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield.

On behalf of myself and my wife  Bisi who adores him, here is wishing our timeless Nobel Laureate, an esteemed mentor and a humanist extraordinaire, a happy 90th birthday. Long live, Eniogun!

Kayode Fayemi is a visiting professor in the School of Global Affairs, Kings College, London.

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Treacherous was the moment. Most editors got a whiff of the story but were either afraid or reluctant to publish it. Meffy (Godwin Emefiele, then CBN governor) had gone rogue in a perfect depiction of either state capture or paralysis.

Unfolding before the nation was a farcical drama in which Meffy, long declared wanted by DSS for a raft of alleged weighty felonies against the fatherland, had not just continued to disobey Supreme Court ruling against the naira freeze but added the novelty of being chaperoned around Abuja by a battalion of troops of the Nigerian military, whose Chief of Defence Staff, Lt General Lucky Irabor, had his spouse, Victoria, planted as a director in an agency reporting directly to the errant CBN governor.

In ordinary times, only the commander-in-chief is considered worthy of such significant deployment of soldiers. The second round of the 2023 general polls, already touted as the most consequential in two decades, was only days away.

The pervading suspense in the land could, therefore, only be imagined given that the results of the presidential poll, in which a toxic combo of region and religion was weaponised, were still being collated across the country.

The lead floating in the media was a plot for an encore. That is, a repeat of a not-so-secret release of hefty tranches of banknotes to certain candidates a few days before the first election at the expense of other contenders. Even as the rest of the populace roiled in an induced fiscal pestilence in which naira notes were clinically drained from circulation.

Lagos, the nations economic nerve centre, was particularly targeted for hostile takeover by the Abuja power cabal in cahoots with Meffy now leaving no one in doubt he had descended into the political arena.

At Matori (The Nation newspapers headquarters in Lagos), the customary bolt and nut of the big story had been tightened, with discreet help from Tunji Bello, leveraging his vast network of contacts in the intelligence community to double-check the facts.

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Regardless, as the production deadline approached, a big dilemma seized the newspapers Editor-In-Chief, Victor Ifijeh, whether to approve as the lead story for the next day, considering its high sensitivity. At such dire moments of clouds, The Nation newspaper customarily never looks up to another oracle other than Dr. Olatunji Dare for direction.

So, a frantic call was made to his base in the United States. In this particular case, without hesitation, the old journalism professor gave unqualified approval however the risk, if only in the defence of truth and democracy.

On account of the dramatic turn of events thereafter, The Nations lead story on the Monday preceding the state elections in March 2023 could then be described as the tie-breaker in a perilous season of power abuse at the highest level in the land, all obviously calculated to force the outcome of a national poll in a certain direction.

For the heat it generated right from the break of dawn the next day was so earth-shaking, was sufficient enough to force the hitherto vacillating presidency  conspiratorially silent, some said  to finally issue a clear statement disowning Emefiele in his continued disobedience of the Supreme Court that hoarded Naira cash be released to suffering bank depositors across Nigeria.

The recourse to Dr Dare in faraway United States by The Nation, it bears restating, is a measure of the absolute trust reposed in his professional and moral judgement.

Indeed, as the exemplary teacher turns 80 (July 17), there can be no better time to celebrate a life dedicated entirely to the pursuit of the very symbiosis intended in the conceptualization of the idea of town and gown on the one hand, and an unstinting exhibition of the nobility of spirit and moral purpose at a personal level on the other. And one who, with the force of personal example, demonstrated professional courage at a dangerous hour in Nigerias history.

As philosophers already postulated, the ivory towers should serve as the nursery of ideas that nourishes and regenerates society.

As the first-ever first-class graduate of Mass Communication at UNILAG at a time when tempting offers awaited those in such an elite academic category in the job market, Dr Dare deliberately chose the far less materially rewarding but socially sacrificial: teaching.

Though most professorial in thoughts and articulation (having bagged the much-coveted Presidents Prize for Meritorious Service from the prestigious Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois, and long been proclaimed a full professor until August 2015 when named Professor of Journalism, Emeritus following retirement), Dr Dare still prefers to be addressed simply as Dr Dare till date.

Thus affirming the aphorism that empty vessels make the loudest noise. Certainly not when the title is increasingly bastardised by just any quack and con artist now also prefacing their cognomen with Professor.

In nearly five decades, he has taught and practised journalism at the elite level and is widely acclaimed today more as a master satirist, bagging coveted medals along the line, too numerous to list here.

He has reported from more than a dozen datelines on three continents and interviewed several statesmen of global stature. His professional journalism has appeared in West Africa, Newsday, and The Seattle Times.

His popular and respected weekly column, At Home Abroad, is in its fourteenth year in The Nation.

Literary scholars will compare Dr Dare to Charles Dicken, often acclaimed as one of the greatest British writers of the 19th century, in terms of this inimitable facility to command words to inflict otherwise lacerating blows with the most insidious guile. In Nigerias contemporary media space, his is now regarded as the gold standard in satire writing.

In fact, his satire has been the subject of two M.A. theses in Nigerian universities and articles in learned journals. It has also been featured in courses on Stylistics in programs in the English Department of some universities.

However, faced with clear death threats in 1996 under Abachas military despotism, he had to flee Nigeria through the fabled NADECO route and had no difficulty in picking a ready faculty position at Bradley University, Peoria, Illinois, U.S on account of his academic reputation.

A year earlier, he was awarded the Louis M. Lyons Prize for Conscience and Integrity in Journalism by the Nieman Foundation at Harvard University, recognising his steadfast commitment to journalisms best practices.

In 1994, when compromise was quite profitable in Nigeria under a military dictatorship intent on silencing dissent, Dr Dare, as editorial page editor, conscientiously objected to joining The Guardian mission that went to Abuja to beg Abacha as pre-condition to re-open Rutam House following the sweeping clampdown on media houses with the resurgent agitation for June 12.

To the bitter pain of the Nigerian dictator, exile only seemed to have further energised Dr Dares satirist sorties against the evil rule at home at the time.

When they could not get him, the evil men on a rampage in Nigeria soon pounced on his younger brother in the Army and retired him prematurely. Years earlier, the Dare family had another illustrious son, a promising officer in the police, reported dead in suspicious circumstances.

A conscientious detective, he had bumped on probable leads to unmasking the faces behind the 1986 murder, via letter bomb, of journalist Dele Giwa. He would not yield to threats from anonymous callers to back off the investigation of a murder in which circumstantial evidence clearly established a prima facie case against Babangidas ranking intelligence chiefs.

Then, one day, the police told the Dare family their son had died in a motor accident without any convincing proof. So much for one family to bear in the search of truth and defence of liberty.

As a Mass Comms tutor at UNILAG for ages, Dr Dare was directly involved in nurturing of minds and moulding the character of generations of media practitioners who have excelled in the outside world. By their fruits, says the holy Bible, you shall know them.

Today, you dont have to look too far or think too hard to identify products of Dr Dares sterling pedagogy. Among them is John Momoh, now an icon of broadcast journalism and founder of Channel TV. Another is Azu Ishiekwene, winner of multiple awards and arguably Nigerias most syndicated columnist.

Not forgetting Victor Ifijeh, the self-effacing prodigy who has steered The Nation from a rather small beginning to its present Olympian height in Nigerias print media space within a record time.

Despite a colossal record of accomplishments, Dr Dare remains a study in modesty. Whenever home and he chooses to stop over at The Nations Lagos office, there is hardly any trumpeting to herald his coming. If he were to meet you at the opposite side of the staircase, there is a high probability that Dr Dare would be the first to concede the right of way to you. Such is the intensity of his humility.

But dont be fooled.

The saunter of a lion at leisure is starkly different from its ferocious leap when enraged or in offence. An experience perhaps best described by another senior columnist from Arewaland who once found himself in a literary cage-fight with the ordinarily gentle warrior from Kabbaland in Kogi state over a decade ago.

The equally respected writer had made an innuendo in a piece. But as they say in Dr Dares native Yorubaland, only a coward afraid of the fight will conveniently choose to misinterpret a poignant innuendo to be a compliment. The ink of that insult had barely dried when Dr. Dare responded in kind.

Here is wishing the king of satire a happy 80th birthday.

Coping with Lufthansas Racist Discrimination

Travelling surely comes with its own vicissitudes: fun sometimes and nightmare at another. But ones recent experience with Lufthansa, a German airline, was worse than a nightmare.

First, the flight from Lagos to Frankfurt was delayed by more than six hours!

When we landed in Frankfurt, my connecting flight to Texas, US, had departed. Long story short, I spent 48 hours in transit on a journey scheduled to be less than 24 hours. Worse still, it took bouts of epistolary hell-raising before my two luggage were delivered 96 hours after departing Lagos!

But that was even a childs play compared to my ordeal on my return trip a week later. Again, the trip was delayed by almost four hours from the take-off point such that by the time we arrived in Houston, the connecting flight had again gone. Eventually, I spent four days in transit, missing an important meeting in Lagos!

Annoyingly, on arrival, I left the airport empty-handed. It took another 48 hours to receive my luggage.

Worse still, it turned out that one of my bags was completely destroyed. When I lodged a complaint demanding compensation consistent with international best practices, Lufthansa would not accept liability. Hear their apology:

Kindly note that Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004 applies to flights departing from EU member states and flights arriving in EU member states from third countries. As your journey starts in Nigeria and ends in the United States of America, we cannot accommodate your request for compensation according to Regulation (EC) No. 261/2004.

We would appreciate the chance to earn back your trust in our service and hope to welcome you on board again soon.

Sincerely, Yogesh Umarani.

Louis Odion is a Fellow of the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE).

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Zamfara State has emerged as the top-performing Northern state and second in the whole of Nigeria in the National Examination Council (NECO) entrance exams for gifted students.

Last week, the national examination body released the 2024 results for admission into the Federal Government Gifted Academy, Suleja.

In a statement issued on Sunday, the spokesperson for the Zamfara Governor, Sulaiman Bala Idris, said that Zamfara State secured the highest number of slots, emerging as the best state in the entire north.

He added that throughout the country, Zamfara came second with 30 talented students, while Anambra State secured the first position with 35 students.

Zamfara State students have achieved the highest performance in the NECO entrance exams for gifted students among the 19 Northern states, breaking a significant educational barrier.

For the first time, Zamfara State is excelling on the national stage, marking a significant shift from its usual place at the bottom regarding performance hierarchy.

NECO organises the Gifted Examination for admission into the Federal Government Academy Suleja for gifted and talented children. Only final year primary school pupils under 11 years old are eligible to take the exam by December of the examination year.

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The Federal Government Academy Suleja is a training ground for proven Nigerias gifted and talented children. It provides significant opportunities for exceptional students to develop their potential in the interest of nation-building and technological development.

The students benefit from federal government scholarships through tuition, external examination fees, boarding, feeding, uniforms, and introductory textbooks.

In 2024, Zamfara received three slots based on the state quota and secured an additional 27 slots based on national merit into the Federal Government Academy. The students from Zamfara performed exceptionally well in the exams, obtaining more slots than any other state in the North.

This is a significant development, particularly considering that a state of emergency was declared in the states education sector last year.

Out of the 30 qualified students from Zamfara, 21 are girls, and 9 are boys, indicating a growing emphasis on girl-child education in the state.

The Zamfara State government will continue to make greater efforts to ensure the full implementation of the administrations educational policies, which will lead to more successes for the state.

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A journalist in Akwa Ibom State, South-south Nigeria, has been remanded in prison for about three months now after the police arrested him over alleged cybercrime.

The police arrested the journalist, Koko Robson, in May, along with two others  Victor Akpan and Okon Ben.

Mr Robson writes for a local newspaper, The Waves, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom.

The three are accused of publishing materials on Facebook, accusing the village head of Ikot Ebidang in Onna Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State, Ukpe Alfred, of embezzling N45 million given to the village by an oil company, Sterling Global Ltd, according to court documents exclusively obtained by PREMIUM TIMES.

The prosecution counsel, Japheth Japheth, from the police headquarters in the state, told the court that the publication was false and intended to cause annoyance, inconvenience, danger, obstruction to the peace the community and to intimidate and caused hatred and ill-will against the village head.

The prosecution counsel has moved the case through three courtrooms  from a Magistrate Court in Uyo to a Federal High Court in Calabar, Cross River State, and then to a State High Court in Awa, Akwa Ibom.

The charge was later changed from cyberstalking to defamation of character, which the prosecution said is punishable under Section 332 of the Criminal Code CAP Vol 2 Laws of Akwa Ibom State of Nigeria, 2022.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later

Messrs Robson, Akpan, and Ben were initially remanded in Uyo prison before they were moved to Eket prison.

Mr Robsons lawyer, Assam Assam Jnr, could not be reached immediately for comment as he did not respond to calls from our reporter.

Its against his fundamental rights.

Some journalists in Uyo who commented on the matter said Mr Robson and others were only holding the village leadership to account, not cyberstalking, as the police claim.

The Chairperson of the Nigeria Union of Journalists in Akwa Ibom, Amos Etuk, condemned the arrest and detention of the journalist. Its against his fundamental rights, Mr Etuk told PREMIUM TIMES on Sunday.

We had reached out to every party concerned, including the village head, where we went to make an appeal because, by the time the issue had the attention of the State Council (of the NUJ), the case had already been ruled on for him to be remanded in prison. We appealed to the village head, who assured us that by the time we get to the next hearing, they would seek out of court settlement, Mr Etuk said.

Unfortunately, there have been new twists and turns in the case which have left us bewildering. First, a suit was filed at the Federal High Court, Calabar. After that, the case was taken to Awa (in Onna). All these to prolong and frustrate getting him out on bail.

Now, we have no other option than to draw global attention to this matter, he said.

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Gunmen have abducted at least three yet-to-be-identified people in Anambra State, South-east Nigeria.

The victims were abducted in separate attacks across the state on Saturday, PREMIUM TIMES gathered.

The first attack occurred at about 2 p.m. along Ifite-Amansea-Awka Road in Awka North Local Government Area of the state.

A video clip recorded during the attack has been circulating on various WhatsApp groups.

In the clip seen by PREMIUM TIMES, some armed men, operating in a Sienna vehicle and a white saloon car, double-crossed an SUV vehicle and, forced two unidentified male occupants into the Sienna and drove off.

In a separate attack in the evening of the same day, some armed hoodlums attacked and abducted another unidentified resident along Agulu-Oraukwu Road in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

It is unclear, for now, if the gunmen were the same who carried out the previous attack.

Article Page with Financial Support Promotion Nigerians need credible journalism. Help us report it. Support journalism driven by facts, created by Nigerians for Nigerians. Our thorough, researched reporting relies on the support of readers like you. Help us maintain free and accessible news for all with a small donation. Every contribution guarantees that we can keep delivering important stories no paywalls, just quality journalism. SUPPORT NOW x Do this later

Police speak

The police in Anambra State have confirmed the attack at Ifite-Amansea-Awka Road in the state.

The police spokesperson in the state, Tochukwu Ikenga, in a statement on Sunday, said the police response team had recovered the victims abandoned vehicle.

Mr Ikenga, a superintendent of police, said a joint security operation had been launched to forestall further kidnap attacks in the area.

The police spokesperson was silent on the kidnap attack along Agulu-Oraukwu Road in Anaocha Local Government Area of the state.

He said the Commissioner of Police in the state, Nnaghe Itam, has assured that efforts were ongoing to track down the abductors and rescue the victims of the first attack.

Mr Itam, he said, has urged the tactical teams of the police deployed to complement the joint security team to redouble their efforts to stop the hoodlums from carrying out further attacks.

The police commissioner vowed that the police in the state would not relent in hunting down the assailants.

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Governor Ademola Adeleke has reaffirmed the sanctity of Oluwo of Iwoland as the consenting authority over the three local governments constituting Iwo zone under the Iwo Traditional Council just as he restated his administrations readiness to complete the Iwo-Osogbo road project.

The Governor also ordered the immediate reversal of any instance where consenting authority was granted to any traditional ruler under Iwoland, directing the Ministry of Chieftaincy and Local Government to enforce the directive in line with tradition and laws.

In a reaction to widespread complaints over alleged encroachment on the traditional areas of authority of Oluwo of Iwoland, Governor Adeleke affirmed his deep respect for tradition and history which he said duly conferred leadership of Iwo zone on the Oluwo of Iwoland from time immemorial.

According to Governor Adeleke, any granting of consenting authority to any traditional ruler within the Iwo Traditional Council and the exercise of such authority by such beneficiary are hereby nullified and declared illegal and of no effect.

Any installation of a Baale done by such beneficiary is built on illegal foundation and is hereby declared a nullity, the Governor further affirmed, warning against actions and activities within and outside government that may jeopardise the peace and unity existing within the zone.

I heard of several reports indicating usurpation of the legal authority of the Oluwo of Iwoland. Any such conduct is illegal and is hereby reversed. I have deep respect for the traditional institution. I particularly have deep affinity and respect for the people of Iwo at home and abroad including His Royal Majesty, the Oluwo of Iwoland, the spokesperson to the Governor, Olawale Rasheed, quoted Mr Adeleke as saying.

Our government did not and will not embark on any move or ploy purportedly designed to decimate the areas of authority of Oluwo of Iwoland. Oluwo remains the consenting authority for Iwoland and President of the Iwoland Traditional Council.

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The Ministry of Chieftaincy and Local Government Affairs is hereby directed to immediately withdraw any consenting authority that is purportedly granted the Olu of Ile-Ogbo, the Olowu of Kuta or any other traditional ruler who are traditionally under the Oluwo of Iwoland. Neither myself nor our government will be a party to the revision of history that is capable of igniting communal conflict and destruction of cultural heritage.

Let me state it loud and clear: there is no anti-Iwo or anti-Oluwo agenda in our government. Anybody spreading such is a marketer of fake news. I have a pan-Osun vision and agenda which entails equitable development of all local governments of the state and phased infrastructure upgrade across the three senatorial districts.

Our government will complete the Iwo-Osogbo road very soon. The contractor already has a deal on the best way to fast-track the road construction with the State Government. This administration will deliver a quality road to revive the economic fortunes of the six local governments on that road.

It is fake news to suggest that our government has abandoned the all-important road. Iwo is benifitting from our government in many ways that will soon be manifested to Iwo people at home and abroad, Governor Adeleke was quoted as saying.

Meanwhile, the Iwo Board of Trustees (IBOT). the prime and apex decision making body in Iwo has praised Governor Adeleke for the pronouncement.

In a statement by its President, Lai Olurode (a professor) and Secretary, Jiire Ayinla, the organisation said the Governors directives will rest all controversies and insinuations surrounding the supremacy and paramountcy of the Oluwo title in Iwoland.

The statement continued, The Board is happy that the Governor has followed with keen interest the developments as they perlain to the sanctity of Oluwo as the only prescribed authority in lwoland, comprising Iwo. Ayedire and Ola Oluwa Local Governments Areas of the State.

With the pronouncements of His Excellency. the Governor has demonstrated thathe is a listening governor whose commitments to fairness and justice is not indoubt. His Excellency has by this pronouncement, displayed his respect for culture and traditions.

Mr Governor believes that without a clear-cut hierarchy in any sociopolitical setting, chaos may set in and peaceful coexistence can become threatened and compromised. Development will also be endangered in such a setting. We are all aware of cases in some communities in Osun where intercommunal conflict had once been poorly managed. The outcomes were unpleasant.

IBOT therefore wishes to appeal that the state government clarifications on the lwo Traditional Council matter has produced neither a victor nor a vanquished. All are winners.

We wish to advise all Obas and Chiefs under the Iwo Traditional Council to seek genuine reconciliation and work together harmoniously for the betterment of their people.

The people of Iwoland and particularly, their traditional rulers should manage their diversity in ways that will benefit all without discrimination.

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The relationship been drug trafficking and deforestation in Central America has been heavily studied. Whether through the construction of illegal roads to move cargo, the clearing of forest to erect waystations or the expansion of cattle ranches suitable for money laundering and the control of territories, the presence of the drug trade in the region has left scars on its lands. Studies indicate that between 15% and 30% of deforestation in Nicaragua, Honduras and Guatemala can be attributed to cocaine trafficking alone.

But the risk is even greater than previously believed. According to an article published by Nature Sustainability, birds that live in or migrate to the forests of Central America are also being affected by international anti-drug campaigns, putting their conservation at risk. According to the publication, two-thirds of the key habitats for forest-based birds in the region are at risk from such policies, and more than half of the migratory species that pass through the region are at risk of losing more than a quarter of their populations in areas threatened by drug trafficking.

We were quite surprised by the spatial overlap that exists between landscapes that are important for birds and areas expected to become more conducive to drug trafficking, says professor Amanda Rodewald, director of the Center for Avian Population Studies at the Cornell University Lab of Orinthology and co-author of the study, on a phone call with EL PAIS. Because we leveraged two existing data sets, we were able, for the first time, to learn how vulnerable some of these forest birds, whether resident or migratory, are to the movements of the narcos.

What the expert is referring to is that, in order to find this not-so-evident relationship, her team superimposed two layers of data. The first was from a previous study, carried out by one of the studys other co-authors, geographer Nicholas Magliocca of the University of Alabama, which tracked which areas were most attractive to drug traffickers and where they would elect to move after being interrupted by anti-drug policing. Here it is important to clarify that this data is not about drug cultivation, but about their trafficking routes. The likelihood of an area being chosen takes place through the lens of drug trafficking, and not from the perspective of earth sciences or ecology, Rodewald points out.

Once that initial mapping had been done, it was cross-referenced with information from the EBird database, a global platform onto which scientists, as well as other citizens, upload their bird sightings. This allows for the precise registration of each species habitat. The countries studied were Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua and Panama, putting particular emphasis on the anti-drug operations that were carried out between 2007 and 2018, and identifying 196 species of birds that at one point lived in this area, whether they were residents or migrants.

Officials from the Honduras Marines patrol the Patuca River ecosystem in search of signs of drug trafficking, in 2012. Rodrigo Abd (AP)

This is how researchers were able to find that one out of every five species that migrate to Central America in the winter have more than half of their population located in areas that have become more attractive to drug traffickers following a spike in police crackdowns designed to seize cocaine. For species such as the federally endangered golden-cheeked warbler (Dendroica chrysoparia), the federally endangered golden-winged warbler (Vermivora chrysoptera) and the Philadelphia vireo (Vireo philadelphicus), the figure rises to 90% and 70%, respectively.

The primary message of our study is that we cannot address social problems like drug trafficking in a vacuum, because it can have unintended environmental consequences, explains Rodewald. Current drug policy strategies, largely driven by the United States, focus on the supply side, interdicting traffickers. By doing this, what is being created is a dynamic that is pushing them into increasingly remote and highly important forest areas for both species conservation and Indigenous populations.

Therefore, the study emphasizes that other, more local policies are needed, such as strengthening institutions that monitor deforestation and guaranteeing land rights to Indigenous and rural communities. Attacking illegal drug routes for 40 years has not proven sufficient in stopping the illegal drug trade and has instead pushed deforestation. In addition, the research indicates that such prohibitionist policies endanger birds that migrate to or reside in Central American forests. Many of these are part of the five big forests of Mesoamerica, including the Moskitia in Nicaragua and Honduras, the Indio Maiz-Tortuguero in Nicaragua and Costa Rica, and the Talamanca region in Costa Rica and Panama.

This intersection between social issues, human health, well-being and biodiversity conservation is coming increasingly into focus, Rodewald concludes. It is something that is explored by the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework and that will be continued to be discussed in Cali. Talks will continue at the COP16 on biodiversity that will be held in Colombia, a country that has undoubtedly experienced the relationship between drug trafficking, nature and human life at the deepest, most painful level.

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In tribute to Florida Southern College and Museum Trustee Ashley Gibson Barnett's deep commitment to the arts, the Smithsonian-Affiliate museum will be renamed The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art (The AGB) at Florida Southern College, effective July 13, 2024. This generous gift establishes an endowment to support world-class exhibitions, operations, community art and educational programs, expanding the Museum's engagement, accessibility, and influence.

"As one of the founders of the Museum, I believe this gift brings full circle Mr. George Jenkin's donation of the property in 1966 for our museum location. To have it now named by his grandson for his beloved wife is a true testament to creating a legacy of support for the arts in our community," said Dr. Sarah McKay, Florida Southern College and Museum Trustee Emerita.

Along with its signature exhibitions, like the recent Rockwell/Wyeth, Rodin, and Degas shows, the Museum will introduce new youth, adult, family, and senior programs, including art therapy and art wellness, while remaining admission-free.

"Surprising Ashley with the naming of our community's esteemed museum was a meaningful way to recognize her dedication to the arts and their impact on our community," explained Nicholas Barnett. "The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art will be a link between our treasured past and an exciting, forward-thinking future for our community, and we are thrilled to be a part of it."

The Museum is also home to the growing Florida Southern College Art History and Museum Studies program, the only of its kind housed in a museum. The AGB is thus uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled educational opportunities. Additionally, through a three-decade partnership with the Polk County Public Schools over 5,000 fourth-grade students from the County enjoy field trips to the Museum.

"We are profoundly grateful for this extraordinary gift from our alumni, Nick and Ashley Barnett," said President Kerr. "This remarkable generosity ensures a world-class future for our revered museum, leaving a legacy that will inspire generations to come."

As a premier arts destination for Central Florida for the past 58 years, the Museum will continue to play a critical role in attracting cultural tourists and serving as the area's only community academic art museum. Recently, Ashley Gibson Barnett was appointed by the Governor to the Florida Council on Arts and Culture which speaks to her passion for expanding the influence of art museums in our State and beyond.

"As we enter our exciting next chapter, our future has never looked brighter," said Dr. H. Alexander Rich, Executive Director and Chief Curator of The AGB. "This incredible gift will enhance the Museum's capacity to deliver outstanding exhibitions and extensive educational programs, attract and retain top talent, and continue our abiding mission to offer exceptional arts and arts education experiences for every person who walks through our doors for generations to come."

For more information about The Ashley Gibson Barnett Museum of Art, upcoming exhibitions, memberships, and programs, please visit polkmuseumofart.org.

SOURCE Florida Southern College

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Condemns Violence Against Political Leaders

INDIANAPOLIS, July 14, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- American Legion National Commander Daniel J. Seehafer issued the following statement concerning the assassination attempt on former President Trump:

"The American Legion is deeply saddened about the attack on former President Trump and the shooting of innocent spectators. There is absolutely no justification for violence against any political leader. We are confident that an investigation will reveal any security deficiencies that have occurred but are also grateful for the quick reaction by the brave secret service agents who shielded the president to safety and neutralized the shooter. Our prayers are with President Trump and we wish him a full recovery. We also extend our condolences and prayers to the victims and families of all who have been impacted by this heinous act."

Seehafer also added his expressed desire that Americans would unify in condemning the violence and tone down hateful rhetoric. "In addition to the shooting at the Trump rally, we have seen horrific attacks on Paul Pelosi, Rep. Steve Scalise and former Rep. Gabby Giffords. We should remind one another that political disagreements do not make us enemies. I pray that civility will become the norm in our discourse."

Media contact: John Raughter, [email protected], 317.630.1350

SOURCE The American Legion National Headquarters
If you were looking for the Charlestown Democratic Town Committee website and ended up here, try this





Got news tips, gossip, suggestions, complaints?E-mail us: progressivecharlestown@gmail.com We strive to avoid errors in our articles. Our correction policy can be found here
Lucknow, July 14 : BJP President J.P. Nadda will preside over the State Executive meeting of the party in Lucknow on Sunday, a party spokesman said.

This is the first executive meeting time after the BJP's poor show in the 2024 Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh.

According to the BJP spokesman, closed-door sessions will be held in which party lawmakers will place their views before the National President and the state leadership of the party.

Around 3,000-3,600 delegates from across the state will attend the meeting at the Ram Manohar Lohia National Law University auditorium.

Along with the party's sitting MLAs and MPs, all Lok Sabha candidates who lost the poll have been invited.

Besides, MLCs, Zila Panchayat chairpersons, Nagar Palika adhyakshas (municipal heads), district presidents, and all office bearers of the party will attend the meeting.

aUsually, 300 to 400 delegates attend the State Executive meeting of the BJP. But this time around 3,000- 3,600 delegates will attend the meeting," said Hero Bajpai, State BJP Spokesperson.

After winning only 33 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the BJP had constituted 40 teams with two members each to visit 78 Lok Sabha constituencies to figure out reasons for the party's poor show and submitted their reports to the State BJP President Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary. They received feedback from party workers.

These issues could come up before BJP President Nadda at the State Executive meeting on Sunday.

Earlier, BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) B.L. Santhosh was in the state capital on a two-day visit on July 6-7.

B.L. Santhosh met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak and regional heads of the party to discuss several issues along with the party's performance in the state in the Lok Sabha poll and the by-election to 10 Assembly seats to be held later this year.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Badlapur BJP Legislator Ramesh Mishra stoked controversy by stating that the BJP would lose the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections if Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is not removed from office.

This statement comes amid growing discontent, with some leaders, including ministers, claiming their pre-election warnings about anti-incumbency and other issues were ignored.

However, hours later Mishra retracted his video statement saying it was read out of context.

Union Minister and Apna Dal leader Anupriya Patel had also raised concerns about irregularities in government appointments, particularly affecting OBC, SC, and ST candidates as damaging the party's prospects.
Prayagraj, July 14 : For the first time in the Maha Kumbh, scheduled to be held in early 2025, saints and seers of different akharas will be given identity cards that will give them access to the Mela areas, said a top Akhara Parishad official.

The decision was taken by Akhil Bharatiya Akhara Parishad (ABAP).

"The process for making ID cards is on. ID cards are being made for all officials, including seers, mahamandaleshwar, mandaleshwar, naga sanyasis, etc. associated with the 13 akharas," said ABAP President Mahant Ravindra Puri.

The identity card will bear the name, age, name of the guru, name of the siddha, madhi, dhuni, Aadhaar number and PAN number along with a photo of the seer.

The decision is aimed at identifying fake saints and keeping them away from the Maha Kumbh.

The ABAP, after the recent Hathras stampede in the religious discourse of Bhole Baba, has announced that it would weed out 'black sheep' and prevent people from getting duped by fake seers.
Barabanki : , July 14 (IANS) A man shot dead his elder brother in Barabanki to claim the Rs 10 lakh insurance payout his brother's death would have fetched, the police said.

However, the plan was revealed and he was arrested on Saturday.

Sanitation worker Arvind Kumar was shot dead on July 5.

Police investigations revealed that Arvind was shot by his younger brother, Virendra.

Police said Virendra had an illicit affair with Arvind's wife. He needed money to settle his debt and decided to eliminate Arvind to claim the insurance money through his wife.

Barabanki Superintendent of Police, Dinesh Pratap Singh, said that on the night of July 5, Arvind Kumar, 35, a resident of Murai Majre Madhnapur village in the Badosarai police station area, was shot dead while sleeping in the front room of his newly constructed house.

Initially, it was reported that someone from outside shot him through a window. However, during a forensic examination by Forensic Science Laboratory experts, it was determined that the shot was fired from close range. Later, based on surveillance, it was found that Virendra's location was at the same spot, said the police.

"A team questioned him and Virendra could not give a reason for his location and broke down," the police added.

Virendra, who deals in property transactions, had borrowed money from several people and was in debt.

Further probe revealed that Virendra also had an illicit relationship with Arvind's wife and frequently visited her at a rented house in Barabanki.

The police have found the firearm used in the crime and have sent the accused to jail, the police said.
New Delhi, July 14 : Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday condemned the attack on US Presidential candidate Donald Trump, saying that "violence has no place in politics."

In a post on X, PM Modi said: "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies."

"Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," the Prime Minister added.

On Saturday, the former US President was shot at an election rally in western Pennsylvania in a possible assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.

"The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is safe," said Anthony Guglielmi, the Chief of Communications for the Secret Service, in a statement.

The former US President is "fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Trump Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement.
San Francisco, July 14 : Big Tech leaders on Sunday condemned an assassination attempt aimed at former US President Donald Trump during an election rally, stressing that political violence is intolerable.

The CEOs of Apple, Google, Microsoft and Meta posted comments on X social media platform, wishing for Trump's speedy recovery while criticising the use of violence.

"I pray for President Trump's rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence," said Apple CEO Tim Cook.

Alphabet and Google CEO Sundar Pichai wished President Trump a speedy recovery.

"I'm shocked by the shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable, and we must all come together to strongly oppose it," Pichai posted on X.

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella said, "There is simply no place for any type of violence in our society."

"Sending my best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery and to all those impacted by today's horrific event," Nadella said.

Mark Zuckerberg, Meta Founder and CEO, also prayed for a quick recovery for the US Presidential candidate.

"This is such a sad day for our country. Political violence undermines democracy and must always be condemned," he posted on Threads social media platform.

Trump thanked the United States Secret Service and law enforcement for their prompt response after the assassination attempt on him.

"I want to thank the United States Secret Service and all of law enforcement for their rapid response to the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania," the former President wrote on his own social media platform 'Truth Social'.

"Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured," he said.

The shooter, who remains unidentified, was shot dead. Local authorities said he was in a low-rise building outside the rally venue.

A member of the audience was also dead, while another person was grievously wounded.
Alejandra, a Mexican migrant, checking on her cell phone to see if she received the CBP One application appointment needed to cross the U.S. border at a shelter in Tijuana last June.

Members of the group of migrants kept looking at their cell phones. There were 18 of them, including 11 minors, comprised of two families from Mexico and one from Guatemala, who have been living in a Tijuana shelter. But the weeks had gone by, and confirmation of the appointments that would allow them to request asylum in the United States had still not shown up on their devices. The three families wait, which lasted for over a year, is familiar to many of those who are trying to migrate to the United States via its southern border. They were chained to their phones.

Thats because a cell phone app, CBP One, has been charged with announcing when they will be allowed to step foot on U.S. territory, when, at long last, their wait in the oftentimes dangerous border towns of northern Mexico will come to an end. In 2023, U.S. President Joe Bidens administration designated the CBP One app as the only avenue  save for a few exceptions  to requesting asylum on the U.S.-Mexico border. To use it, the app must confirm that the applicant is currently in northern or central Mexico.

A migrant looks at the CBP One app on her cell phone at the Juventud 2000 shelter in Tijuana. Aimee Melo

Out of desperation, on November 29, 2023, this 18-member group of migrants who could not stop looking at their phones, decided to get a flight to Reynosa, in the Mexican state of Tamaulipas, which is also on the U.S.-Mexico border. Theres a better chance of getting an appointment at that border crossing because its more dangerous, pastor Albert Rivera, the owner of the Agape shelter where the migrants stayed during their time in Tijuana, tells EL PAIS by phone. This turned out to be a bad decision. Upon arriving in Reynosa, the group was assaulted and kidnapped.

According to Rivera, their captors told one of the women to pay their ransom quickly so she wouldnt lose her CBP One appointment. On December 4, 2023, after the families were able to collect the $41,500 that had been demanded of them, they were set free. Pastor Rivera, who traveled from Tijuana to Reynosa, was charged with bringing them back. He says that every individual from the group that was kidnapped lost their CBP One appointment and had to start the process over again. He also recalls how one family member said that, during the kidnapping, they were forced to witness other people who had been captured being murdered and dismembered.

A May report issued by the international organization Human Rights Watch (HRW) collects similar experiences in other parts of Tamaulipas, concluding that cartels extort asylum seekers who have CBP One appointments, threatening to prevent them from getting to their appointments if they dont pay. The CBP One application system exposes migrants to harm, says the non-profit. According to its analysis, migrants forced to wait in Mexico also face forced relocation to southern Mexico by Mexican officials; a lack of access to basic services like health care, potable water, and shelter; violence at the hands of criminal groups as well as Mexican immigration authorities, National Guard soldiers, and police; and the possibility of summary deportation.

Few appointments, high demand

Around 6,000 people irregularly cross the southern border of the United States every day, according to statistics from the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP). But only 1,450 CBP One appointments are issued each day, hardly enough to address this demand. Most of them are assigned randomly, according to CBP, which clarifies that an update to the application now allows for a certain quota to be assigned to people who have been waiting the longest.

According to official data, between January and June 2023, more than 170,000 people obtained an appointment through the application, mostly Haitians, Mexicans and Venezuelans. Thats not Alejandra Centenos impression. Everyone in the shelters leave and only us Mexicans remain. We have to wait longer to get an appointment, like eight to nine months, she complains in front of the doors of the Juventud 2000 shelter in Tijuana, which is located a few hundred feet from the wall that separates Mexico from the United States.

Centeno is traveling with her family, 19 people in total, all from the Mexican state of Michoacan. They have been waiting for their appointment confirmation through the CBP One for nine months. One of her three children has asthma and has to sleep on the floor of tents inside the shelter: He has been hospitalized three times because of the cold, she says.

Mexican migrants at the Juventud 2000 shelter in Tijuana, waiting for a CBP One application appointment to apply for asylum in the United States. Aimee Melo

People who have been here tell me that it takes up to nine or 10 months to get the appointment, says another woman in Tijuana, who prefers to remain anonymous for security reasons. She has been waiting for her CBP One appointment for three months with her four children, who are 16, 11, nine and six years old. Its very frustrating because I had the oldest girl in high school, and she was doing really well at school, but we cant put her in classes here because the high schools are so far, an hour away. If she doesnt get her appointment soon, her daughter will miss a year of school, her mother says.

The CBP One application turns the legal right to asylum into a lottery system based on chance, Amnesty International said in a May 2024 press statement, which advocated for allowing people to present themselves at U.S. border crossings to request asylum, as required by international law, free of technological barriers. HRW adds that the daily limit on appointments is a de facto digital metering system designed to limit the number of asylum seekers that can be processed at the border every day, and results in others being sent back to Mexico.

In July 2023, several humanitarian organizations and people who have suffered the consequences of using CBP One filed a class action lawsuit against the U.S. government for rejecting asylum seekers without the appointment app at the southern border, arguing that the application erects unjust barriers and puts the lives of asylum seekers in danger. One of the organizations that participated in the lawsuit, which is still pending, is Al Otro Lado. Its executive director Erika Pinheiro says that the group has been litigating to, challenge policies that block access to asylum since 2017. CBP One is just the latest in a series of policies that we have been facing, she says.

Two migrants climb the border fence between Tijuana and San Diego in June 2024. Aimee Melo

Technological obstacles

The class action lawsuit also argues that restricting asylum access to only individuals who can use a smartphone app imposes unfair and at times, insurmountable, barriers and creates language, literacy, and disability access issues. The application is only available in English, Spanish and Haitian Creole. Thats a problem because migrants from Asian countries, the Middle East, Africa, Europe and Indigenous communities are also arriving at the southern border. Whats more, many asylum seekers do not have a smartphone, either because they did not bring one or they were robbed along the way. Free internet access is not always easy to obtain, and many cannot afford to pay for the service.

Amnesty International has also questioned why the CBP One app requires a photograph to begin the process of requesting an appointment. The applications use of facial recognition, GPS tracking and cloud storage to collect data on asylum seekers prior to their entry into the United States raises serious privacy and non-discrimination concerns, states the organization. It adds: It is a widely recognized fact that facial recognition systems perform unevenly, depending on key characteristics such as skin color, ethnicity and gender.

Centenos experience validates these fears. I am very dark. I put in my photo and it said error, she says. She was ultimately able to solve the problem by taking her photo in front of a very white background. Seated inside her tent as she does one of her daughters hair, the woman seems resigned. Here we are, waiting to see if CBP One takes pity on Mexicans and sends us confirmation of our appointment.

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Los Angeles, July 14 : Hollywood star Alec Baldwin, who has been embroiled in the 'Rust' fatal shooting case since October 2021, has spoken out following the dramatic dismissal of his involuntary manslaughter trial.

Recently, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer issued a verdict to dismiss the case with prejudice on its third day in Santa Fe's 1st Judicial District Court of New Mexico, reports People magazine.

The 66-year-old actor-producer expressed relief that the years-long legal drama was over in an Instagram post on Saturday.

"There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now," Baldwin wrote alongside an image of himself in court.

He added: "To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family."

According to People, Baldwin was indicted by a New Mexico grand jury in January after the gun he was holding during a 2021 rehearsal on the set of his Western movie discharged, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

Baldwin has maintained that he did not pull the trigger of the gun or know why it contained live ammunition. He pleaded not guilty and, if convicted, faced up to 18 months in prison.

The actor's legal team had repeatedly asked for the case to be dropped, including on July 12, when special prosecutor Kari Morrissey made the unusual move of taking the stand herself to testify about possibly suppressing relevant evidence.

In part because ammunition dropped off at the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office was filed separately, "the late discovery of this evidence during the trial has impeded the effective use of evidence in such a way that it has impacted the fundamental fairness of the proceedings," said Sommer in the announcement of her decision, which prompted Baldwin to burst into tears.

Alongside his wife Hilaria Baldwin, others who supported the star throughout the three-day trial were his sister Beth Keuchler and brother Stephen Baldwin.
New Delhi, July 14 : Rahul Gandhi, Leader of the Opposition in Lok Sabha, on Sunday, expressed "deep concern" over the suspected assassination attempt on the US Presidential candidate Donald Trump.

On Saturday, the former US President was shot at an election rally in western Pennsylvania in a possible assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.

Rahul Gandhi took to his X and wrote: "I am deeply concerned by the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump."

"Such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Wishing him a swift and complete recovery," the Congress leader added.

Trump touched the right side of his face after what seemed like the first two shots and dropped to the ground. Secret Service agents threw themselves on him to protect him.

A member of the audience was killed, and another person was grievously wounded.

"The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is safe," said Anthony Guglielmi, the Chief of Communications for the Secret Service.

The former President Trump is "fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Trump Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement.
Phnom Penh, July 14 : Cambodia's Ministry of National Defence said on Sunday that search and rescue operations for a missing military helicopter are underway amidst poor weather and obstacles.

The chopper had lost contact with the Air Force headquarters while flying over the densely forested Cardamon Mountain range in Pursat and Koh Kong provinces during a training flight on Friday, reported Xinhua news agency.

Bad weather was blamed for the disappearance of the helicopter.

"After a full day of search and rescue efforts on July 13, 2024, with unfavourable weather and many obstacles.., the rescuers have not yet located or found this missing helicopter," the Ministry of National Defence said in a statement.

"On the morning of July 14, 2024, the rescue team, with the participation from relevant units in the geography of the lost helicopter, is continuing search activities for the missing chopper," it added.

The statement did not specify how many people were aboard the disappeared helicopter.
Seoul, July 14 : South Korea warned on Sunday that North Korea will face the end of its regime if it attempts to use nuclear weapons.

"We sternly warn that there is no scenario in which North Korea's regime will survive after using nuclear weapons," Seoul's defence ministry said in a statement, reported Yonhap news agency.

It was released in response to a statement by the North Korean defence ministry from the previous day. After South Korea and the United States adopted "Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula" in Washington on Thursday, North Korea condemned it as a "reckless provocative act."

North Korea also threatened that Seoul and Washington would pay "an unimaginably harsh price."

Commending the signing of the guidelines, South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol and US President Joe Biden warned any North Korean nuclear attack against South Korea will be met with a swift, overwhelming, and decisive response.

The allies' guidelines are expected to expand the assignment of the US strategic assets on the Korean Peninsula by increasing the frequency and level of their deployment during both wartime and peacetime.

The South's defence ministry said it was "self-contradictory" on North Korea's part to condemn Seoul and Washington for formulating joint nuclear deterrence guidelines when it is Pyongyang that threatens the use of nuclear weapons.

"Without North Korean nuclear threats in the first place, those joint guidelines would not have been necessary," the ministry added. "This is a fair step taken by the South Korea-US alliance in the face of the improving North Korean nuclear capabilities and its blatant nuclear threats."

The ministry also blamed the rising tension in the Korean Peninsula on the North Korean regime and noted, "Despite opposition from the international community and sufferings of North Korean people, the regime has continued with its illegal nuclear missile development."

The ministry issued a similar warning in April after North Korea said it had conducted rocket drills simulating a nuclear counterattack.
New Delhi, July 14 : India's defence exports have recorded a 30-fold quantum leap over the last 10 years from a mere Rs 686 crore in the financial year 2013-14 to a record Rs 21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, reflecting the global acceptability of Indian defence products and technologies.

New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) Indiaas defence exports have recorded a 30-fold quantum leap over the last 10 years from a mere Rs 686 crore in the financial year 2013-14 to a record Rs 21,083 crore in FY 2023-24, reflecting the global acceptability of Indian defence products and technologies.

With exports reaching more than 85 countries across Southeast Asia, the Middle East, Africa and Latin America, Indiaas defence industry has shown its capability of design and development to the world, with around 100 firms exporting defence products at present, a senior official said.

To give a push to defence exports, the Government has taken a number of policy initiatives like aMake in Indiaa and rolled out economic reforms over the last 10 years. Export procedures have been simplified and made industry-friendly with end-to-end online export authorisation curtailing delays and bringing Ease of Doing Business, he added.

Further, the Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives have helped the country by encouraging indigenous design, development and manufacture of defence equipment in the country, thereby reducing dependence on imports in the long run.

A significant development has been the emergence of the private sector as a supplier of defence equipment with companies such as Larsen & Toubro, Tata Advanced Systems, and Bharat Forge emerging as major players.

Of the total value of production in 2023-24, about 79.2 per cent has been contributed by DPSUs/other PSUs and 20.8 per cent by the private sector. The official data shows that in terms of absolute value, both DPSUs/PSUs and the private sector have recorded steady growth in defence production.

Indiaas export basket of defence products includes missiles, radars, naval systems, helicopters, and surveillance equipment.

India has made substantial progress in the indigenous production of advanced naval systems that also cater to the export market. Advanced platforms like the INS Vikrant aircraft carrier highlight the achievement in this segment. Fast-attack naval craft, offshore patrol vessels, and various maritime weapon systems are other products that are being exported. The export of BrahMos supersonic cruise missiles, developed jointly with Russia, has been another major achievement, with countries like the Philippines purchasing the system recently.
Panaji, July 14 : Monsoon session of Goa Legislative Assembly will begin from July 15 and will conclude on August 7.

The budget session of the Goa Legislative Assembly was held between February 2 to 10.

In the past, Opposition parties attacked the BJP government for curtailing the days of Assembly session. However, this session will be for 18 business days.

The opposition may question the BJP government over issues like Smart City work, alleged corruption in Kala Academy renovation, the law and order situation, and the National Games among others.

Goa Forward Party (GFP) recently demanded an audit of the renovated Kala Academy building after rainwater leaked into the main auditorium, while the programme was going on and has warned to raise the issue in the forthcoming Assembly session.

GFP MLA Vijai Sardesai has filed around 504 LAQs and has said that he will raise all the issues concerning people of the state.

He held ajanta darbarsa in 10 of 12 talukas of the state and listened to the issues raised by people.

Leader of Opposition Yuri Alemao had also convened a meeting of Opposition MLAs, including GFP and AAP and had planned a strategy to grill the government.

To tackle the Opposition, Chief Minister Pramod Sawant also held meetings with his Cabinet colleagues, BJP MLAs and other five MLAs supporting his government to discuss the Assembly business.
Hyderabad, July 14 : The latest defections by Bharat Rashtra Samithi (BRS) MLAs have come as a shot in the arm for the ruling Congress party in Telangana as it looks to consolidate in Greater Hyderabad, a region where it drew a blank in Assembly elections held in November last year.

Buoyed by the victory in the by-election to the Secunderabad Cantonment Assembly seat, the Congress party has succeeded in making three BRS MLAs in Greater Hyderabad defect during the last two weeks.

The Congress, which had already lured Khairatabad MLA D. Nagender and Greater Hyderabad Mayor Gadwal Vijayalaxmi, appears to be making calculated moves to cement its position in the state capital ahead of next year's elections to Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC).

Political analysts say Greater Hyderabad was one region where the Congress desperately needed a foothold and it achieved this with its 'Operation Akarash'.

The grand old party, which wrested power from BRS, had put up an impressive performance in rural Telangana but failed to win even a single seat in Greater Hyderabad, a region which sends 24 MLAs.

Despite suffering huge setbacks in its strongholds, the BRS had maintained its grip on Greater Hyderabad, winning 16 seats, while All India Majlis-E-Ittehadul Muslimeen (AIMIM) retained all its seven seats. The Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) held on to its only seat.

There was an apprehension among a section of voters in Greater Hyderabad that a change of guard may impact the development in the region and this was believed to have prompted them to remain loyal to BRS.

Analysts say voters may have thought that the change of government may impact the business environment and the flow of investment as the KCR-led government claimed to have laid special emphasis on the development of the IT sector and urban infrastructure in and around the city.

In the 2018 elections, the Congress had won two seats (Maheshwaram and LB Nagar) in Greater Hyderabad but both the MLAs later defected to BRS.

Sabitha Indra Reddy, who was rewarded with a Cabinet berth, retained Maheshwaram in the recent elections while D. Sudhir Reddy was re-elected from LB Nagar.

They were among over a dozen Congress MLAs who had defected to BRS in 2019.

It's now the Congress' turn to pay back. The ruling party has already succeeded in poaching nine BRS MLAs and more are said to be waiting in the wings.

The Congress, which won 64 seats in the 119-member Assembly, has improved its tally to 74. This includes the win in the Secunderabad Cantonment by-election.

The Congress began its 'Operation Akarsh' from Greater Hyderabad in March when then Chevella MP Ranjith Reddy and Khairatabad MLA Danam Nagender, both of BRS, switched loyalties.

Ranjith Reddy and Nagender, contested unsuccessfully on Congress tickets, from Chevella and Secunderabad Lok Sabha seats in the May 13 elections.

BRS MLC P. Mahender Reddy and his wife Sunitha, chairperson of Vikarabad Zilla Parishad, also joined Congress. Sunitha was fielded as a Congress candidate from Malkajgiri Lok Sabha constituency but she too tasted defeat.

The Congress got a big boost in March when Hyderabad Mayor Gadwal Vijayalaxmi of BRS joined the ruling party. She is the daughter of senior leader K. Keshav Rao, who quit BRS to join Congress earlier this month.

The victory in the by-election for the Secunderabad Cantonment Assembly constituency came as a shot in the arm for Congress. The ruling party wrested the seat from BRS.

The by-election was caused by the death of BRS sitting MLA Lasya Nandita in a road accident early this year.

Sriganesh of the Congress party defeated his nearest rival T. N. Vamsha Tilak of BJP by 13,206 votes. BRS candidate Nivedita Sayanna, sister of Nandita, finished third.

The win helped Congress to show its presence in Greater Hyderabad and build on the defections from the main opposition party.

After the Lok Sabha elections, the exodus from BRS continued. Though BJP emerged stronger in Lok Sabha elections in Greater Hyderabad wresting Chevella and Malkajgiri from BRS and Congress respectively, it was the grand old party that attracted more defectors from BRS.

On June 28, Kale Yadaiah, BRS MLA from Chevella constituency in Rangareddy district, joined the Congress.

It was a homecoming for Yadaiah, who had defected to BRS in 2015 a few months after he was elected to Assembly on a Congress ticket. In 2018, he retained the Chevella seat as BRS candidate.

In the Assembly elections held in November 2023, Yadaiah won the Chevella seat for a third consecutive term, defeating Congress partyas P. Beem Bharat by a slender margin of 268 votes.

On July 12, BRS MLA from Rajendranagar constituency, T. Prakash Goud joined the Congress. The next day another BRS MLA Arekapudi Gandhi switched loyalties.

They had met Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu during his visit to Hyderabad recently. As CM Naidu is planning to revive the Telugu Desam Party (TDP) in Telangana, this meeting sparked speculation that they will return to TDP, a party they were associated with in the past.

However, both the MLAs denied any such plans and finally joined Congress. Prakash Goud was elected from Rajendranagar constituency on a TDP ticket in 2009. He was re-elected in 2014 but later joined TRS (now BRS). He won the seat as BRS candidate in 2018 and retained it in the recent polls,

On July 13, Arekapudi Gandhi, the MLA from the Serilingampally constituency, joined the Congress in the presence of Chief Minister A. Revanth Reddy.

Gandhi was elected Serilingampally on Telugu Desam Party (TDP) ticket in 2014 but later joined TRS (now BRS). He retained the seat in 2018 and 2023.

The latest defections are expected to help Congress consolidate its position in Greater Hyderabad ahead of next yearas municipal polls.

In the previous elections for Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) held in 2020, BRS emerged as the largest party by winning 55 out of 150 wards. The BJP had emerged as the main opposition with 48 seats while AIMIM had secured 44 wards. The Congress party could win only two wards.

While encouraging defections, the ruling party also mended fences with AIMIM. Asaduddin Owaisi-led party, which was a friendly party of BRS in Assembly elections, also softened its stand towards Chief Minister Revanth Reddy and backed Congress in all Lok Sabha constituencies, barring Hyderabad.

AIMIM has historically played the role of kingmaker in GHMC. In the event of a hung verdict, AIMIM's support will be crucial for Congress to have its own mayor.
United Nations, July 14 : World leaders have condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump at an election rally in western Pennsylvania.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres's Spokesperson, Stephane Dujarric, on Saturday said, "The Secretary-General unequivocally condemns this act of political violence."

"He sends his best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery," he added.

Trump, who is due to be anointed the Republican Party's presidential candidate, had a narrow escape on Saturday when shots aimed at him at a campaign rally grazed his ear and killed two people at the event.

Many leaders took to X, the social media for immediate dissemination, to express their disgust with the attack and condemn political violence, while some saw it as an attack on democracy.

US Vice President Kamala Harris took to her X handle and expressed her shock over the attack on Republican Party Presidential candidate Trump.

"I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trump's event in Pennsylvania. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting," Harris wrote.

She said, "We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action."

"Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," Harris added, condemning the attack.

Former US President Barack Obama said, "There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we do not yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump was not seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also expressed shock over the incident and wished for Trump's speedy recovery.

"As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former President's rally today are unharmed," Pelosi said in a post on X.

Former Presidential candidate Nikki Haley, in a post on X, said, "This should horrify every freedom-loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized. We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer."

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock over the attack and said that political violence has no place in society.

"I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally, and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack," Starmer said in a post on X.

One of Trump's closest Western allies, Hungaryas President Viktor Orban posted. "My thoughts and prayers are with President in these dark hours."

Another right-wing politician, Argentina's President Javier Milei, blamed what he called the "international left" for the attack, writing, "In panic of losing at the polls, they resort to terrorism to impose their backward and authoritarian agenda."

Italy's Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni, another leader from the right, expressed "apprehension" and wrote that she hoped during "the electoral campaign, dialogue and responsibility can prevail over hate and violence."

From the US neighbour to the north, Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau posted, "I'm sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated - political violence is never acceptable."

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, "We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy. I pray for former President Trump's speedy recovery."

Writing in Portuguese, Brazil's President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said, "The attack on former President Donald Trump must be vehemently repudiated by all defenders of democracy."

Writing on his and his wife's behalf, Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted, "Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese wrote that the "incident" at the campaign rally "is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process."

Chile's President Gabriel Boric Font posted in Spanish, "Violence is a threat to democracies and weakens our life together. We must all reject it."

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol denounced the attack as "horrible political violence" and wished Trump a quick recovery.

"I am appalled by the horrible political violence. I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery. The people of Korea stand in solidarity with the people of America," Yoon wrote in English on his official X handle.
Srinagar, July 14 : Former Jammu & Kashmir Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah, on Sunday, continued his tirade against the MHA amendment to transaction of J&K government business rules aimed at empowering the Lt Governor.

Omar said today that while the LG of Delhi is often challenged by the elected government there, the amendments in J&K government business rules have left little scope for such a challenge to the powers of the J&K LG by the elected government.

He said on his X: "While the Delhi LG often finds their authority challenged by the elected government, the MHA's clear delineation of the LG's powers in J&K stands in stark contrast, showcasing a deliberate effort to centralise authority and streamline decision-making in the UT."

He has also appealed to people of Jammu region, seen as a political bastion of BJP, to vote against the BJP-led NDA government as he said that the BJP intends to "disempower the people of J&K."

In another post, Omar said: "The people of J&K, especially Jammu, will have to vote against the nefarious intentions of the BJP-led NDA government which wants to disempower the people of J&K. A strong government in J&K with a solid mandate is the only answer to this order because it's going to be a tough fight to get our statehood back."

Former Chief Ministers, Ghulam Nabi Azad and Mehbooba Mufti in addition to Sajad Gani Lone and Altaf Bukhari, whom Omar and Mehbooba had been calling the 'B' team of BJP, have also criticised the Centre for giving more executive powers to the J&K Lt Governor.
Lucknow, July 14 : The Uttar Pradesh's pre-monsoon preparations have successfully averted major losses from flooding, demonstrating foresight and effective planning.

These efforts in highly sensitive areas and sensitive areas have resulted in the relocation of over 11,962 individuals to safer locations in the last 10 days, ultimately saving countless lives during this critical period, said a government spokesman.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath visited ground zero while officials were deployed in the field. He also conducted aerial surveys of the affected areas and inspected them by boat.

During his visits, the chief minister distributed relief kits to flood victims and consoled disaster-stricken individuals. He provided financial assistance to kin of families who lost their loved ones in the disaster.

The Yogi government had initiated flood preparations well ahead of the monsoon's arrival in the state. All necessary measures were completed across 24 flood-prone and 16 sensitive districts to mitigate potential disaster scenarios.

Relief Commissioner GS Naveen stated that on the chief ministeras instructions, continuous monitoring is being conducted in flood-affected areas.

"In Shravasti, due to a sudden release of water in Nepal, 11 workers who were in the fields were rescued late at night. It took about 8 hours of intense effort, but everyone was safely rescued. Similarly, seven individuals stranded in floods in Pilibhit were airlifted and rescued in coordination with the Air Force. Additionally, 76 people trapped in the flood in Kushinagar were successfully rescued."

The Relief Commissioner said that in the past 10 days, over 11,962 people have been relocated to safe areas in the flood-affected regions. Additionally, more than 21,239 cattle have been moved to secure locations.

There are currently 804 flood shelters operational in these areas, accommodating a total of 1,365 individuals.

Furthermore, 1,178 flood posts have been established to monitor the situation continuously, with 914 boats actively operating in the affected zones.

A total of 12 teams from NDRF, nine from SDRF, 23 from PAC, and one from SSB have been deployed to carry out relief operations in the flood-affected areas of the state. Continuous coordination is maintained with the Army, Air Force, NDRF, SDRF, and PAC in these regions.

Medical teams are conducting health check-ups, and arrangements for drinking water, medicines, and ORS are in place. Beds have been provided for rest, and adequate lighting has been arranged for nighttime. Additionally, milk and nutritious food have been organised for children in these shelters.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump suffered an attack on Saturday while at a rally in Butler (Pennsylvania). He had been speaking for a few minutes when shots rang out. He put his right hand to his face, as if he had been hit, fell to the ground and was covered by Secret Service agents. He was slightly wounded by a bullet that hit his ear. He left the stage with a trail of blood on his face and his fist raised to the cheers of his supporters. The shooter, whose identity and motives are unknown, was shot dead by security services. One rally attendee was also killed and two others were seriously injured, authorities said. The attack is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

As shots were heard and Trump fell to the ground, heavily armed police officers rushed onto the stage amid screams from the frightened audience, who were also trying to protect themselves. Shooter down, the officers shouted, after one of their own returned fire from a rooftop. The former president stood up, surrounded by bodyguards, and asked to retrieve his shoes. He was evacuated from the scene with some blood on his face coming out of the area around his ear, with Secret Service agents around him, but in apparent good condition. With shouts of U-S-A, his supporters celebrated his departure on his own feet and without apparent serious injuries. He raised his fist several times.

Trumps motorcade left the venue in a hurry. A spokesman for the former president said later that Trump was fine and that he was undergoing an examination at a medical center near the rally site. And about four hours after the attack, Trump gave his version through Truth, his social network: I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA! he wrote.

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service. DAVID MAXWELL (EFE)

The former president thanked the Secret Service and the other law enforcement agencies for their rapid response on the shooting. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. he added.

The shooter fired from a rooftop of a nearby building, about 120 meters away from the president, outside the rally venue. A witness told the BBC that police had been warned of the shooters presence but did not intervene. Videos taken by attendees show members of the Secret Service stationed on top of a tent firing. They immediately respond to the shooters fire, at whom they were aiming. The exchange of gunfire broke out while Trump was speaking. Photographs of the shooter on the roof after being hit by the agents, who later recovered a semi-automatic rifle, with which the attack was apparently carried out, were also circulated on social media.

The attendees, thousands of people, were evacuated from the venue where the rally was taking place after the shooting. Security forces cordoned off the area, which they called a crime scene, and also cleared out the journalists who were present.

US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement also posted on the X social network.

Biden condemns attack

U.S. President Joe Biden appeared some three hours later to condemn the attack: Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he said from Rehoboth Beach, where he spends the weekend.

The Secret Service is responsible for the security of former presidents. Trump is assigned a large escort that accompanies him everywhere. His rallies are held amid heavy security measures, with exhaustive searches at the entrance. The gunfire came from outside the open-air venue where the event was being held.

The Attorney General, Merrick Garland, said in a statement that the Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation. My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy he wrote.

The rally was the final one given by the former president before the Republican convention that is meeting from Monday in Milwaukee (Wisconsin) to certify his candidacy for the presidency by the Republican Party. Trump is still to announce who will be his vice-presidential candidate, as he has pressed the deadline to the limit. In some fundraising messages to his supporters he suggested he might announce it at this Saturdays rally in Pennsylvania, but he sent similar messages a few days ago giving before another rally in Doral (Florida) and finally did not do so. None of the front-runners for the nomination (Senators J. D. Vance and Marco Rubio and Governor Doug Burgum) were at the rally Saturday.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents. Evan Vucci (AP)

What impact the attack on Trump may have on the presidential campaign is uncertain. The former president is a divisive figure who has contributed like few others to the polarization of American politics. He calls those convicted of the violent assault on the Capitol on January 6, 2021 hostages and was the first to resist the peaceful and orderly transfer of power after losing the election. Now it is he who has become the latest victim of political violence in a country where four presidents have been assassinated in its nearly 250-year history.

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Lucknow, July 14 : The Bharatiya Janata Party, on Sunday, cautioned Samajwadi Party president Akhilesh Yadav against continuing his alliance with the Congress.

UP BJP president Bhupendra Chaudhary, while addressing the inaugural session of the party's state executive here, said that the Congress has no base, no ideology of its own and wins with the support of other parties.

He said that the Congress has never done good to anyone and Dr B. R. Ambedkar understood this very well.

The UP BJP president further said that the weaker sections and Dalits had never benefitted from Congress regimes.

"SP is a party of a family that considers Lohia as an ideal and should follow his principles," he said.

Chaudhary further said that the soul of India resides in Ayodhya, Kashi and Mathura.

"Narendra Modi ji became the Prime Minister of the country for the third time, and it is under his guidance that the country is progressing. A grand Ram temple was built in Ayodhya after 500 years. Prime Minister Modi did the work of removing Article 370 and wrote a new chapter in the country's history. Earlier, Kanwar Yatra was stopped but today, they are being taken out with much fanfare," he said.

He further said that the respect of every party worker was of prime importance for the BJP and there would be no compromise on this issue.

Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Brajesh Pathak and Keshav Prasad Maurya, along with ministers legislators and MPs are attending the one-day meeting that will be addressed by party president J. P. Nadda, later in the day.
Mumbai, July 14 : Actor Sai Dharam Tej met with Telangana Chief Minister Revanth Reddy on Sunday to discuss strategies aimed at combating child abuse and the misuse of social media for such purposes.

The actor expressed his gratitude to the leader for dedicating time to address these critical issues.

Sai shared a photo with Reddy on X, where he is seen presenting flowers to the Chief Minister.

"Thank you Chief Minister @revanth_anumula Anna for giving me your valuable time to listen, understand and discuss the way forward to curb child abuse and misuse of social media for the same filth," Sai wrote.

The actor also appreciated the Chief Minister for ensuring stringent rules and swift action to ensure a safer environment for children.

"Thanks for extending your highest assurance of stringent rules and action to make our society a safe place for children. May this be the big step towards change," he added.

The 37-year-old actor expressed his heartfelt gratitude for the prompt response.

"My Heartful gratitude for the swift response and serving justice. The mission to stand up to with all my strength and integrity will continue. Jai Hind," he concluded.

Earlier this month, Sai Dharam Tej had raised concerns about child abuse on social media, condemning inappropriate content shared by a YouTuber involving a father and daughter.

Describing such incidents as "gruesome, disgusting, and scary," Sai Tej wrote on X: "Monsters like these go unnoticed on the very much utilised social platform doing child abuse in the disguise of so-called Fun & Dank. Child safety is the need of the hour."
New Delhi, July 14 : India has made significant economic growth in the last 10 years, and as per Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar, now "we need economic growth that is relatable to every individual."

Speaking at a cyber security conference organised by the Global Counter Terrorism Council (GCTC) in the national capital, the Vice President said that "from slot number 11, we are at number 5, ahead of the UK, France, Canada, Brazil."

He noted that in a matter of time, India will also be ahead of Japan and Germany.

However, we now need "economic growth that is relatable to every individual," he said.

Dhankhar informed about the "banking inclusion of 500 million people" and that the country "accounts for nearly 50 per cent of global transactions."

Citing that India's Internet per capita consumption is more than that of the US and China taken together, he also called for ramping up cyber security.

"What India has achieved in just six years is normally not achievable in four decades. And that being so, we have to be extremely well prepared to sustain our economic growth, to see the trajectories incrementally, so that people are not disheartened by the onslaught of cybercrimes so that they are not cheated," Dhankhar said.

Further, he noted that the government is focussing on commercialisation of 6G. He also called on educational institutions, and people to brace up to live with and to get training in disruptive technologies like the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, blockchain, and machine learning, which is here to stay.

"We have decided for ourselves that in 2047, when we have the centennial celebration of our Independence, Bharat will be a developed nation," he said, noting that India is "in a position to handhold other nations" as during the Covid pandemic.

Notably, India helped 100 countries with its Covaxin-Maitri programme.

"We must build a cyber capacity building in the Global South that will promote a secure and inclusive cyberspace for sustainable development. Development is vital, but sustainable development is soothing, wholesome, relieves the pain of everyone," said the Vice President.
New Delhi, July 14 : NITI Aayog, on Sunday, announced the launch of the GearShift challenge as part of the e-FAST India initiative.

The hackathon is in collaboration with Indian Institute of Management (IIM) Bangalore, Smart Freight Centre India, CALSTART/Drive to Zero, and WRI India.

It "will help foster innovative business models for the adoption of zero-emission trucks (ZETs) in India, and also address the nation's pressing economic and environmental challenges," NITI Aayog said.

As part of the hackathon, students, transport service practitioners, academics, and researchers will develop innovative business models that address financial, technical, and operational challenges in the adoption of electric trucks.

In the first round, teams will submit their initial business models addressing a specific barrier -- technical, operational, or financial -- that is supported by high-level strategies and research.

Those shortlisted will then present detailed business models with an implementation roadmap, backed by both primary and secondary research.

The proposals will be mentored by industry leaders to ensure practical and impactful solutions, NITI Aayog said.

"India's freight sector is vital to the economy, ensuring the smooth delivery of goods to over 1.4 billion people. With road freight accounting for a staggering 55 per cent of India's annual diesel consumption and nearly 40 per cent of carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from road transport, there is an urgent need to transition to more sustainable solutions," the apex public policy think tank said.

It noted that the "electrification of freight transportation is a key priority, as electric trucks offer a transformative opportunity to reduce emissions, improve air quality, and enhance energy security."

"The GearShift Challenge marks a pivotal move towards sustainable freight transportation in India," NITI Aayog said.

The hackathon will tap into the creativity and expertise of participants, and help generate practical solutions that will accelerate the adoption of zero-emission trucks. It will both benefit the economy and the environment.
Jammu, July 14 : The body of a youth who reportedly ended his life by jumping into river Chenab in Akhnoor area of Jammu district, was recovered in Pakistan. His family sought the Prime Minister's intervention to bring back his body.

Officials said that a youth named Harash Nagotra went missing on June 11 while his motorcycle was found on the banks of the Chenab in Akhnoor.

The family lodged a missing report in the concerned police station and preliminary investigation revealed that the youth might have ended his life by jumping into the river.

Before he went missing, he had lost Rs 80,000 through an online gaming app.

The family got to know about Nagotra's death through a WhatsApp message from a Pakistani official.

"Subash, father of the youth, said that he had got the WhatsApp message from a Pakistani official who said he was working in the post-mortem department. The official told the family that the youth's body had been recovered from a canal in Sialkot area of Pakistani Punjab on June 13," officials said.

"The relatives of the youth said that they have written to the PMO, Ministry of External Affairs and MHA. The family has appealed to the Prime Minister to intervene and get the body of the youth back to India for last rites," officials said.
Mumbai, July 14 : Director Nikhil Nagesh Bhat has been garnering praise from all quarters for the portrayal of violence in his recently released movie 'Kill'. Unlike 'Animal', the violence in his film is receiving appreciation for its thoughtful depiction rather than mere sensationalism.

Nikhil spoke with IANS and shared how the portrayal of violence was well thought out.

"I'm not trying to make violence for someone's greed or selfishness," he said.

The director shared that in his narratives, those involved in violence endure significant pain, grief, and loss.

Nikhil told IANS: "Violence, be it at the protagonist's side or the antagonist's side, you will end up feeling defeated."

This perspective also resonated in his earlier film, 'Apurva', starring Tara Sutaria, where the female protagonist kills those who have abducted her.

The director further mentioned, "I don't portray violence in film as a part of bravado or through the lens of glorification. Violence has consequences, which are much more ghastly than the reasons for violence. I'm not trying to glamourise violence; rather, I don't believe in attaching swag to violence."

Nikhil may look at the on-screen violence through a certain lens. But, what about filmmakers like Quentin Tarantino, who like to be a little indulgent while portraying violence on screen, case in point being 'Pulp Fiction' or 'Kill Bill 1 and 2', what is his opinion on filmmakers who like to take this route?

The director said: "Quentin Tarantino is a legendary filmmaker. As a viewer, you get a certain high, and you feel so energised given the experience is so immersive. It's nearly impossible to not be influenced by his storytelling. Every filmmaker has a voice which grows with time, and that's what make the platter of stories so delectable. What's the fun if everyone starts making the same stuff?"

Talking about his biggest influences, Nikhil told IANS: "Not just Tarantino, I have a huge penchant for Shaolin films, Bruce Lee's work, and Jackie Chan's movies."

The story of 'Kill' had brewed in Nikhil's mind for nearly two decades, a testament to his enduring passion for creativity.

Reflecting on maintaining objectivity in filmmaking, he stressed the importance of patience.

"I feel patience is something which every filmmaker needs to have. It's a talent to have because every film has its own journey, and takes its own time to be made."

He continued, "Even while writing the script, casting, and taking a shot, all you need is patience. Only a lot of patience and hard work will get you the reward."

Nikhil faced personal challenges during the film's production, suffering a slipped disc just a month before shooting began. Despite the physical pain, he remained dedicated, personally demonstrating action sequences to his team from a nearby bed.

The director told IANS: "Given it's an action film, I had to brief the actors and the team by showing them what I wanted, and it required body movements."

So, there was a bed next to me, every time I was done explaining to them what I wanted in a sequence, I would come back and lie down on the bed," he added.
Mumbai, July 14 : Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu on Sunday met his Maharashtra counterpart Eknath Shinde at the latter's official residence 'Varsha', during which they decided to strengthen cooperation for the development of the two states.

TDP chief Naidu and Shiv Sena leader Shinde discussed the political scenario, especially after the Narendra Modi-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) formed the government for the record third term.

Incidentally, Shiv Sena and TDP are two crucial allies in the NDA.

The Chief Minister's Office said, "Both CMs held detailed discussions on boosting development by increasing cooperation between the two states. They discussed a wide range of issues relating to infrastructure development, interlinking of rivers, allocation of river water and further increasing the cultural cooperation between the two states."

Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, Maharashtra Public Works Department Minister Dada Bhuse and Shiv Sena MP and CM Shinde's son Shrikant Shinde also attended the meeting.
Mumbai, July 14 : Actor Gurmeet Choudhary, who has been receiving positive responses for his recently released streaming series 'Commander Karan Saxena', shared a video on his Instagram on Sunday, speaking in his native Maithili language.

In the video, he spoke in Maithili and expressed his dedication to his titular role in the series.

The actor said: "A lot of people from Bihar are today in the administrative forces, they're IAS, IPS, RAW agents, and in diverse roles."

Gurmeet encouraged his followers from Bihar to work diligently before promoting his show and urging them to watch it on OTT platforms.

The actor captioned the video: "Today's Mood: Speaking in my Maithili language, feeling connected with my Bihari family."

Maithili is native to the Mithila region, which covers parts of Bihar and Jharkhand, as well as the Nepalese Koshi and Madhesh Provinces.

Gurmeet, who is also a martial artist, was born in Bhagalpur, Bihar. His television career spans two decades, during which he has starred in many prominent shows.

Regarding his show 'Commander Karan Saxena', the series revolves around a RAW agent navigating political intrigue and betrayal.

Gurmeet portrays the role of Commander Karan Saxena, based on a character created by writer Amit Khan.
Mumbai, July 14 : Buoyed by the victory of its two candidates in the biennial election to the Maharashtra Legislative Council held on Friday, Nationalist Congress Party (NCP) president and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar on Saturday met Union Home Minister Amit Shah and discussed a range of issues including crucial seat-sharing among the MahaYuti partners for the upcoming assembly election, a road map to further strengthen the alliance to take on the Maha Vikas Aghadi (MVA) and the crop loan waiver for farmers.

Confirming Pawar's meeting with Shah, sources from NCP on Sunday said, "It is very clear that MahaYuti will together contest the ensuing assembly election in Maharashtra with full force and strength with a sole objective of retaining the power. Shah has ruled out the possibility of the BJP going solo or severing links with the NCP or with Shiv Sena. A veteran BJP leader and Union home minister also clarified that the BJP will give due justice to the allies including Shiv Sena and NCP in the seat-sharing with winnability as the leading criteria."

The sources added that MahaYuti's victory over nine seats in the state council election has boosted the morale of its party workers, especially after the dismal performance in the Lok Sabha elections.

The timing of Pawar's meeting is crucial as Chief Minister Eknath Shinde had reportedly held a similar meeting with Shah a fortnight ago. Shinde, who will lead the MahaYuti in the upcoming assembly election, has been calling the shots after he won seven of the 15 seats fought in the Lok Sabha elections.

Shinde is believed to have conveyed to the BJP that Shiv Sena is keen to contest 100 seats in the Assembly election. Shinde's proposal came after pressures mounted on the BJP from the cadres to not contest less than 150 seats considering its victory on 106 seats in the 2009 assembly elections.

Against this backdrop, Pawar's meeting was all the more significant as the NCP has been repeatedly reminding the BJP that it was promised 90 Assembly seats when it joined MahaYuti in July 2022. If BJP is staking claim over 150 seats and Shinde on 100 seats then NCP will be left with 38 seats which will be unacceptable for it.

As per the sources, Shah has reiterated that MahaYuti will remain intact.

Pawar, who as the state finance minister has proposed a slew of freebies and sops to farmers, women, youth, industry and varied sections in the budget, has also made a strong case for the waiver in crop loan in a bid to give much-needed relief to farmers who are in distress due to damage to their crops in the wake of natural calamities and market variations in the prices of agricultural produces.

The deputy CM brought to Shah's notice that the previous Maha Vikas Aghadi government had implemented a crop loan waiver scheme but MahaYuti covered and gave benefits to the farmers who were repaying their loans regularly. Pawar's suggestion is important as during 2023-24, agriculture and allied sectors are expected to grow by a paltry 1.9 per cent against 4.5 per cent in 2022-23.
New Delhi, July 14 : Union Minister for Parliamentary Affairs and Minority Affairs Kiren Rijiju, on Sunday, expressed his sentiments as he attended Muharram Majlis at Kargil.

Taking to X, he said: "I'm deeply touched by my account of the Muharram Majlis at Kargil during my visit."

"The eternal peace and harmony experienced, along with the profound message of Karbala shared by Hazrat Imam Hussain 1,300 years ago, are a testament to the enduring power of faith and sacrifice," he added.

Stressing the significance of unity and understanding within community, Rijiju said further: "Meeting with esteemed leaders like President JUIAK Ladakh, Sheikh Nazir Mehdi Mohammadi and Chairman IKMT Kargil Sheikh Sadiq Rajai, as well as other religious scholars, reinforces the importance of unity and understanding within our community."

"Let us continue to be inspired by the timeless teachings of Hazrat Imam Hussain and strive for peace and harmony in our lives," he concluded.

Muharram Majlis refers to the ceremonial narration of stories of Karbala and recitation of mourning prayers that often move the congregation to tears out of devotion. The occasion is observed by Shia Muslims.
Lucknow, July 14 : Union Minister J. P. Nadda, on Sunday, said that the BJP was the only pan-India party that has a presence in all four corners of the country.

"We are a party representing the aspirations and sentiments of 140 crore people. We are the only party that has internal democracy and does not believe in nepotism. It is the BJP alone that follows the concept of 'Sabka Saath, Sabka Vikas, Sabka Vishwas, Sabka Prayas'," BJP national president Nadda said while addressing the one-day state executive of the party in Lucknow.

Asking party workers to maintain self-confidence and continue with introspection, the union minister said that in BJP, "Every leader is a worker first and every worker can be a leader".

Slamming the Congress, the BJP president said that the Congress has zero presence in 13 states and could not cross the 100-seat mark in ten years.

"The Congress is not standing on its strength - it is like a parasite on other smaller parties and is trying to weaken them. The Congress ran a campaign accusing the BJP of trying to change the Constitution but it is the Congress that has been tampering with the Constitution. The Allahabad High Court ruling on Indira Gandhias election and the imposition of Emergency are proof of this," he pointed out.

He said that the Congress has toppled several governments in its regime but the BJP imposed President's Rule only once in Jammu and Kashmir.

"And it is the Congress that made maximum noise when June 25 was declared 'Samvidhan Hatya Diwas'," he added.

He further said that the Congress opposes one party and then allies with it, while the BJP is a mass-based and cadre-based party with 18 crore members.

The BJP chief said, "For us, the Ram temple was a matter of faith, not of election. We have fought against appeasement. You should remember the pre-2014 period when corruption, was at its highest and the economy was in doldrums. There was no investment, and riots happened at regular intervals. You value the importance of light when you remember darkness."

He further said that the people of the country had chosen Prime Minister Narendra Modi for a third term to realise the dream of Viksit Bharat.

"BJP is a party of the present and BJP is a party of the future. We have to recognise the responsibility on our shoulders," he pointed out.
Basmati, July 14 : Veteran OBC leader and NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Sunday asked his former boss and NCP SP Chief Sharad Pawar why he holds a "grudge" against the OBC community and failed to find any solution to the reservation issue.

Basmati, July 14 (IANS) Veteran OBC leader and NCP minister Chhagan Bhujbal on Sunday asked his former boss and NCP SP Chief Sharad Pawar why he holds a "grudge" against the OBC community and failed to find any solution to the reservation issue.

"Sharad Pawar is working with an intention to set Maharashtra on fire by giving some advice to the opposition parties instead of finding a way out on the politically sensitive reservation issue amid ongoing protests by Maratha and OBC communities. Why is Sharad Pawar holding a grudge against the OBC community," said Bhujbal who heads the Samata Parishad, an organisation working to safeguard the interests of OBCs.

Last week, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde called for an all-party meeting to address the reservation issue raised by Maratha and OBC communities which was boycotted by the opposition including NCP SP.

"The opposition boycotted the all-party meeting following a call by Baramati (Sharad Pawar) a few minutes before the meeting. I had appealed to Sharad Pawar and to his party's legislator Jitendra Awhad to attend the meeting. However, the opposition chose not to attend the meeting," said Bhujbal while addressing his party's Jansanman Rally in the presence of NCP National President and Deputy Chief Minister Ajit Pawar.

The veteran OBC leader also thanked Sharad Pawar for implementing the OBC reservation given by Late Prime Minister V.P. Singh.

"Now, when any issues arise related to reservation, Sharad Pawar as a senior leader is expected to come to that meeting and express his views. But someone called from Baramati and the opposition boycotted the meeting," he claimed.

Interestingly, Bhujbal has been at the forefront of taking on the pro-Maratha activist Manoj Jarange Patil and is opposing his demands for implementation of the draft 'sage-soyare' (those related by birth or marriage) notification.

"Malis, Marathas, and Dhangars have voted for both Sunetra Pawar and Supriya Sule in the general elections. 'But why you (Sharad Pawar) don't tell everyone what your stand is on the Maratha-OBC reservations?" Bhujbal said.

He also appealed to the leaders of other parties to come together on social issues and address them through discussion.

Bhujbal's outburst against Sharad Pawar came after Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, Deputy Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis and members from MahaYuti led a scathing attack against the Maha Vikas Aghadi for indulging in "doublespeak" and "playing politics" on the reservation issue with an objective of gaining political mileage in the run-up to the Assembly election.

The Chief Minister said that the government has already provided 10 per cent reservation to the Maratha community and it would do no injustice to other social groups including the OBC community.

The Chief Minister including both the Deputy Chief Ministers have said that the OBC interests would not be harmed at the cost of Maratha reservations.
Kolkata, July 14 : The Border Security Force (BSF) foiled a major infiltration attempt across the India-Bangladesh border, close to the Amudiya border outpost in West Bengal's North 24 Parganas district on Saturday night, an official said on Sunday.

A BSF trooper on duty was attacked and had to lob a stun grenade and then fire a round from his service rifle to deter the intruders and send them back. The BSF has not ruled out the possibility of any of the infiltrators being injured in the firing.

"The jawan spotted 10-15 people moving across the fields towards the Indo-Bangladesh Border Road (IBBR) and alerted his colleagues over the radio. He then moved forward and challenged the mob, ordering them to retreat. Suddenly, 3-4 people, hiding in the field, attacked the jawan with sharp weapons and canes. The jawan realised that he was outnumbered and used the stun grenade. This did not deter the miscreants who attempted to attack him again. This was when the jawan fired a single round in self-defence," BSF DIG, South Bengal Frontier and spokesperson A.K. Arya said.

Criminal activities seem to have increased along the India-Bangladesh border over the last several weeks.

On Saturday, infiltration attempts were made close to the Madhupur, Maluapara, Haldarpara, Banpur and Matiyari Border Outposts in the state's Nadia district. BSF personnel were attacked by cattle smugglers close to the Charamrashi Border Outpost in Murshidabad and the Sasni Border Outpost in Malda, and they had to use stun grenades and fire from Pump Action Guns (non-lethal) as well as regular weapons to fend off the attacks.

The BSF has registered strong protests against such activities with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) and lodged reports at local police stations.

"In spite of frequent flag meetings with BGB to alert them about frequent attacks and illegal infiltration by Bangladeshi criminals, no concrete action has been taken from their side. This inaction has emboldened the smugglers and criminals. Nevertheless, our jawans are resolute in protecting our borders and ensuring the security of our nation under all circumstances," Arya said.
New Delhi, July 14 : Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with Indians living in Moscow during his visit to the BRICS Parliamentary Forum in Russia on Sunday.

"Glad to be among brothers and sisters from India in Moscow during my visit to the BRICS Parliamentary Forum. Indians living here are country's brand ambassadors and they are equal partners in India's development and modernisation. Congratulated them for their contributions," the Speaker wrote on X.

He informed that Indians in Russia have a reputation as disciplined, hardworking and law-abiding people, contributing to the progress of both Russia and India.

The Speaker also asked the Indians living there to promote Sanatan culture, Indian history, and Yoga.

"Urged them to spread awareness about Sanatan culture, Yoga, ancient knowledge and diversities among the Russians and to encourage them to visit India," the Speaker said.
New Delhi, July 14 : Former diplomat Jitendra Nath Misra, who previously served as Indian ambassador to Portugal and Laos, said on Sunday that the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump has shattered the illusion the US had harboured for being a "safe" and "secure" democracy.

New Delhi, July 14 (IANS) Former diplomat Jitendra Nath Misra, who previously served as Indian ambassador to Portugal and Laos, said on Sunday that the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump has shattered the illusion the US had harboured for being a "safe" and "secure" democracy.

In an interview with IANS, the former diplomat said that the assassination attempt also raised questions about the US's advocacy of democracy abroad.

However, the former diplomat said that a bloodied Trump raising his fist defiantly sends a message of resolve and to fight the Democrats with more vigour.

Misra, who is now a Professor of Diplomatic Practice at O.P. Jindal Global University in Sonipat, added that the US Secret Service will also come under scrutiny following Sunday's episode in Pennsylvania.

Interview excerpts:

IANS: What does the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump reveal about the security of the US?

Jitendra Nath Misra: An illusion has been shattered that American democracy is safe and secure.

IANS: Does the incident reflect poorly on the current US administration for its failure to adequately protect an opposition leader?

Jitendra Nath Misra: Even though the US Secret Service acted effectively, it will still come under scrutiny for the assassin coming so near Trump.

IANS: Violence has no place in any mature democracy. How will today's events impact the long-term image of the US especially in view of the democracy promotion and activism it undertakes abroad?

Jitendra Nath Misra: The assassination attempt does undermine the image of the US and raises questions about its advocacy of democracy. A bloodied Trump raising his fist defiantly sends a message of resolve. His defiant gesture may not only help his bid for the presidency but it also demonstrates that a candidate fighting an election can't be cowed by an assassination attempt. That's good for democracy. Besides, this assassination attempt is not a first. Four US Presidents have been assassinated including Abraham Lincoln and John F. Kennedy. President Ronald Reagan was shot at by John Hinkley Jr in 1981. Presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated. Civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King Jr were also victims of political violence.
Srinagar, July 14 : The Army foiled an infiltration bid by a group of heavily armed terrorists across the Line of Control (LoC) in J&K's Kupwara district on Sunday and firing exchanges were still on in the area, officials said.

Officials said that alert troops of the army noticed the movement of heavily armed terrorists along the LoC in the Keran sector of Kupwara.

"The terrorists were challenged after which an exchange of fire started between the army and the terrorists. The firing exchanges were continuing when last reports came in," an official said.

Security forces including the army, paramilitary forces, and the J&K Police are aggressively fighting terrorists, by destroying their hideouts, and arresting over-ground workers (OGWs) and sympathisers of the terrorists.

In a massive security revamp, it was recently decided that all the mountain tops in the Jammu division would be manned by the army and the CRPF to ensure that the terrorists are deprived of the opportunity to carry out hit-and-run attacks on security forces. During the last few months, it was noticed that the terrorists would carry out attacks and then disappear into the densely forested areas in Poonch, Rajouri, Reasi, Doda, Kathua and adjoining districts in the Jammu division.
New Delhi, July 14 : The Centre on Sunday said that 27 establishments have surrendered their exemption in the last two years, adding about 30,000 employees and an amount of Rs 1688.82 crore to the Fund under the Employees' Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO).

These establishments prefer to let EPFO manage their employees' Provident Fund (PF) directly due to improved services while focusing on their core business activities.

The Ministry of Labour and Employment said the EPFO has taken multiple steps in the last year to streamline compliance procedures for establishments exempted under the EPF Act.

"With faster claim settlement, higher rates of return, strong monitoring, and ease of engagement, services provided to both establishments and members by EPFO are continuously improving," said the ministry.

Establishments that wish to manage the PF corpus of their employees need to seek exemption under Section 17 of the EPF Act.

As of March 31, 2023, there were 1,002 exempted establishments managing a corpus of Rs 3,52,000 crore of 31,20,323 members.
Going to CBI soon with proof of Mamata Banerjee's involvement in Saradha scam: Suvendu Adhikari. Image Source: IANS News

Kolkata, July 14 : West Bengal is headed for an eventful day on July 21 as Trinamool Congress will observe it as 'Martyrs' Day' while the BJP has said they will observe the day as 'Democracy Slaughter Day'.

Trinamool will organise its annual 'Martyrs' Day' programme on July 21 at central Kolkata as a tribute to the 13 people killed during a demonstration held by the West Bengal Youth Congress led by Mamata Banerjee on July 21, 1993.

On the same day, the BJP will hold protest demonstrations in front of all the police stations of the state, calling it 'Democracy Slaughter Day.'

"Trinamool government stopped the Hindu voters from casting their votes both in the Lok Sabha polls as well as in the bypolls this year. I will request all the democracy-loving people to join our protest on July 21. We will observe the day as 'Democracy Slaughter Day'," Leader of the Opposition (LoP) Suvendu Adhikari announced at the end of BJP's four-hour sit-in demonstration in front of Raj Bhavan in central Kolkata as a mark against the post-poll violence in the state.

He said that the BJP will organise the protest against the continuing post-poll violence in West Bengal and added that around one crore people were unable to cast their vote in the 2023 state panchayat polls as well.

"The effigies of the Chief Minister will be burnt at the end of the demonstration on July 21," the LoP said.
Washington, July 14 : A day after a failed assassination attempt, former US President Donald Trump said that he will remain "defiant" in the face of "wickedness".

Washington, July 14 (IANS) A day after a failed assassination attempt, former US President Donald Trump said that he will remain "defiant" in the face of "wickedness".

"We will fear not but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness," Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social, a social media platform he launched after he was banished from X.

"I truly love our country and love you all and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin," the former President said.

On Saturday, Trump was shot at an election rally in an assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.

The former President is recovering at his home in New Jersey, where he reached on Saturday from Butler, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden, who called the former president after the shooting, said there is no place in the US for this kind of violence.

"It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this," the President said.

The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks (20) was killed by snipers of the US Secret Service, which protects the previous and incumbent US presidents and their immediate families.

As per the media reports, Crooks was a registered Republican but had donated $15 to a liberal voter mobilisation group in 2021.

"In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allow evil to win," Donald Trump wrote on Truth Social on Sunday morning.

His campaign leaders Chris Lacivita and Susie Wile wrote in a memo to staff: "Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media."

Political violence in US politics has become a new threat. Trump's supporters attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, to stop a joint sitting of Congress from certifying Joe Biden as the winner of the 2020 election and the next president, in which several people, including police officers, were killed.
New Delhi, July 14 : The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) on Sunday said that it will challenge Uttarakhand's Uniform Civil Code (UCC) law in court.

Reacting strongly, AIMPLB member Kamal Faruqui said, "The UCC is not acceptable to us under any circumstances and we will challenge this law in court."

Speaking to IANS, Faruqui said that the UCC is not a part of the Constitution, "so we do not accept it". "The Constitution gives us complete freedom to follow our religion. Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, Christians and others can follow their religion," he added.

He said, "We got the personal law from the Constitution. We do not want any kind of interference in the instructions provided by the Holy Quran. We will challenge the (UCC) law made against it (the personal law).

On the Supreme Court's ruling, allowing alimony to Muslim women after divorce, Farooqui said that the issue was discussed during the AIMPLB's Working Committee meeting on Sunday. "We are exploring all possible measures...," he added.

AIMPLB spokesperson Qasim Rasool Ilyas also spoke to IANS on the UCC issue. He said, "India is a country of diversity, so if everyone will be made equal, it would trigger unrest. We do not have the same laws under the IPC and the CrPC, there is no equality in the Constitution as well, there are exceptions there too. We will challenge the UCC."

On the alimony issue, Ilyas said that the Supreme Court's decision clashes with Islamic law (Sharia). "This decision will create more trouble for women," he said, arguing that if a man has to pay maintenance for the whole life even after divorce, "then he will not give divorce, and the woman will have to suffer throughout her life because of the bitterness that will come in the relationship".

He further said that the legal committee of the AIMPLB will explore measures to get the alimony verdict overturned.
Chandigarh, July 14 : Heart diseases are increasing at an alarming rate, with many young patients in their 20s and 30s succumbing to heart attacks in India. This trend is a huge concern for cardiologists, world-renowned interventional cardiologist H.K. Bali said here on Sunday.

HEART Foundation organised a day-long academic program, CIIST360, to highlight the latest advances in the field of cardiology. Around 250 cardiologists and physicians from northern India attended the conference.

Speakers delivered lectures on cardiac diseases, including coronary artery diseases, structural heart diseases, and heart failure. Delegates had the opportunity to interact with distinguished speakers and discuss specific patient cases, enhancing the collaborative spirit of the event.

Bali, the founder patron of HEART Foundation, highlighted advances in the medical field that are now saving the lives of heart patients, especially those with poor heart function, considered untreatable, or those in which traditional methods could not be performed.

The notable advancements include protected angioplasty in which a miniature pump aImpellaa is inserted for better results and faster recovery.

He emphasised the importance of image-guided angioplasty using IVUS or OCT, which provides better short-term and long-term results.

In addressing the needs of elderly patients at high surgical risk, Bali discussed the non-surgical treatment of aortic valve stenosis through the percutaneous technique called TAVI (transcatheter aortic valve implantation). This procedure can even be performed safely in elderly patients with surgical risks.

M.K. Das from Kolkata emphasised that artificial intelligence is going to play an increasingly important role in the diagnosis and management of patients with heart failure. He said already in many hospitals, artificial intelligence is being used to better manage heart failure patients to reduce recurrent admissions in hospitals.

T.S. Kler from Delhi explained that irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation) is becoming a very common clinical problem and it can be an important cause of strokes.
Gurugram, July 14 : The residents of Dwarka Expressway have expressed their happiness and relief following the government's decision to halt the ongoing and planned work on the proposed dump yard in the area.

The decision came after a strong agitation from the local community, supported by various Residents' Welfare Associations (RWAs), villages and social organisations.

Recently the residents, villagers and farmers have raised significant concerns regarding the adverse health impacts the dumpyard could have on children and the elderly, leading to widespread protests.

The community's collective voice was heard by the Chief Minister, who promptly took cognizance of the issue.

In response, the Haryana Chief Minister instructed the Deputy Commissioner of Gurugram to put the project on hold and seek an alternative site for the dumpyard.

"We are looking for fresh sites such as Sohna, Nuh, Tauru and Farrukhnagar. We have also discussed the plan to have multiple sites so that bulk waste can be dumped at different sites. We are planning to take land owned by panchayat and rent will be paid to them so that they have a rental income," said an administration officer.

Wing Commander R.D. Deshpande (Retd), Secretary of Rise Always Welfare Association, expressed gratitude towards the government, stating: "The decision to put a hold on the dumpyard is going to positively impact the lives of people around the area. We were very much concerned about the health of children and the elderly. The worry seems to be over with the intervention of the Hon'ble Chief Minister."

The Dwarka Expressway, one of the most significant and expansive residential hubs in the National Capital Region (NCR), stands to benefit greatly from this decision.

The government's responsiveness has not only alleviated immediate health concerns but also restored faith among the residents in proactive governance and community welfare.

The RWAs and social organisations involved are extremely pleased with this outcome and look forward to a sustainable solution that ensures the well-being of all residents.
Mumbai, July 14 : In the wake of heavy rains and rising water levels in many rivers, the District Collectors of Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg in Maharashtra's Konkan region have asked officials to be vigilant and swiftly undertake rescue and relief operations.

This is in the wake of the IMD issuing a red alert in Ratnagiri, Kolhapur, and Satara, an orange alert in Raigad and Sindhudurg, Pune, Chandrapur, Gadchiroli, and Gondiya, and a yellow alert in Mumbai, Thane, Palghar, Sangli, and Solapur.

According to the state government sources, In Sangameshwar taluka of Ratnagiri, the roads in Kond, Ambed-Dingni-Karjuve, Dhamani, Kasba, and Phanaswane areas are flooded and vehicular movement has been ordered stopped.

The administration has swung into action to evacuate the people from low-lying areas.

As flood waters of the Vashisti river have entered Chiplun city, there has been heavy water-logging in the markets and the administration has asked traders and citizens not to venture out. An NDRF team has been deployed there.

Due to floods in the Khed-Diwan Khavati area of Ratnagiri district, connectivity to seven villages has been snapped and seven hamlets are also cut off from Ganeshwadi. Life in rural areas of Ratnagiri district has been disrupted due to heavy rains and revenue and police officials are maintaining a close vigil.

The Mumbai-Goa highway is also closed. Traffic has been stopped at the Borghar bus stop on the highway due to the water logging.

The incessant and heavy rains in Raigad district since Saturday have led to a rise in the level of the Kundalika, Patalganga, and Amba rivers, which have crossed the warning level. The district administration has warned the citizens of Roha, Nagothane, Khalapur, Khopoli, and Apta areas to be alert. The bridge over the Kundalika river in Roha town has been completely closed to traffic due to the flow of flood waters.

The NDRF is monitoring the water level of the Savitri river in Raigad.

The powerloom town of Bhiwandi and rural areas have also been hit by heavy rains and water has accumulated up to 3 to 4 feet in the Khadipar area and has entered many houses.

Rainwater has also accumulated in large quantities in Tin Batti, Vegetable Market, and the Eidgah Road.

The Kalyan city has also been hit by heavy rains. The Raita bridge on the Kalyan-Nagar route has been closed to traffic due to the swelling water level of the Ulhas river. The administration has appealed to those coming to Kalyan to use the Goveli-Titwala route.
New Delhi, July 14 : The All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) said on Sunday that it is exploring all possible measures to get the Supreme Court to "roll back" its ruling on alimony to divorced Muslim women as it is "against" Islamic law.

The AIMPLB Working Committee held a meeting here on Sunday to discuss the Supreme Court verdict on the maintenance of Muslim divorcee women and adopted a resolution, which stated it is against the "Sharia" (Islamic law).

"The Board emphasised that the Holy Prophet had mentioned that amongst all permissible deeds the most abhorred is divorce in the sight of Allah, hence it is desirable to continue the marriage by applying all permissible measures to safeguard it and follow several guidelines mentioned in Holy Quran about it. However, if married life becomes difficult to maintain, then divorce was prescribed as a solution to mankind," the resolution read.

"The board observed that this judgment will create further problems to women who have successfully come out of their painful relationship," it added.

The AIMPLB authorised its President, Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, to initiate all possible measures (legal, constitutional and democratic) to ensure that "this decision by the Supreme Court is rolled back", AIMPLB spokesperson Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas said after the meeting.
New Delhi: During the recently concluded Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan's geostrategic location as an "ideal conduit for connectivity" and emphasised its potential to further enhance economic interlinkages in the region.

New Delhi: During the recently concluded Shanghai Cooperation Organisation's (SCO) Council of Heads of State meeting in Astana, Kazakhstan, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif highlighted Pakistan's geostrategic location as an "ideal conduit for connectivity" and emphasised its potential to further enhance economic interlinkages in the region.

While Pakistan's position could indeed facilitate regional trade and potentially help revive its struggling economy, its historical preference for economic ties with the West over its neighbours, with the notable exception of China, has left it regionally isolated and overly dependent on American and Chinese benevolence.

Several factors have hindered Pakistan's economic integration within the region. These include political and territorial disputes with neighbouring countries, both perceived and actual security concerns, a limited range of exportable products, and a reliance on the West for trade and aid. These elements are key contributors to Pakistan's ongoing economic isolation.

As such, Pakistan's regional economic isolation is underscored by its limited participation in active regional trading blocs. Although Islamabad is nominally a member of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) and the South Asian Free Trade Area (SAFTA), both groupings have remained largely non-operative since their inception and more so because of Islamabad's actions.

This lack of active engagement in regional trade certainly contributes to Pakistan's failure to capitalise it's strategic location for diversifying its trading partners and strengthening its economy. Baring China, its trade relations with the other three bordering countries of Afghanistan, India and Iran are hardly any substantive.

Consider Iran, Pakistan's western neighbour. Despite sharing over 900 km of border, bilateral economic cooperation between Islamabad and Tehran has been minimal.

As of 2022, Pakistan's imports from Iran were just $848 million, while its exports to Iran were only $162 million. By the end of 2023, the total trade volume increased to $2 billion.

During his maiden visit to Pakistan in April, Iran's Late President Ebrahim Raisi was prompted to highlight the dismal state of their bilateral economic cooperation, stating that the "economic and trade volume between Iran and Pakistan is not acceptable at all."

He announced a commitment to increase the trade volume to $10 billion as a first step toward strengthening ties. However, the likelihood of this commitment translating into improved trade dynamics remains uncertain due to Islamabad's susceptibility to the US pressure against engaging with Tehran, as part of Washington's policy of isolating Iran.

It may be noted that the US quickly warned Islamabad against deepening its economic engagement with Tehran, threatening sanctions. As such, this alliance with the US has hindered Pakistan and Iran from enhancing their economic cooperation over the years.

It begets the assertion that if Islamabad had maintained its strategic autonomy, it could have leveraged Iran's economic isolation to its advantage, acting as a frontline state similar to what the United Arab Emirates, especially its Dubai emirate, has done over the years.

Despite strained Tehran-Abu Dhabi dynamics, Dubai has played a crucial role in facilitating Iran's economic outreach to the world, a role Pakistan could have easily assumed due to its geographic proximity to Iran.

Similarly, Pakistan, which supported the Afghan Taliban's takeover of Kabul in August 2021, has failed to establish sustainable bilateral trade cooperation with Afghanistan.

Contrary to expectations that a friendly regime in Kabul would enhance Pakistan's internal security and allow it a greater economic role in the country, relations between Pakistan's military-dominated establishment and the Afghan Taliban government have consistently deteriorated over the last two years, as Kabul has overlooked Islamabad dictations, especially with regards to the presence of Pakistan Taliban in Afghanistan.

This has not only exacerbated Pakistan's security challenges but also restricted its influence over Afghanistan's economic outreach to the world.

As such, Pakistan-Afghanistan bilateral have continued to decline and failed to witness a turnaround even after the Taliban takeover.

Apparently, Pakistan's exports to Afghanistan have significantly dropped from $2.1 billion in 2012 to an estimated $969 million in 2023, according to the United Nations COMTRADE database. Meanwhile, Afghanistan's exports to Pakistan were estimated to be around $440 million in 2023.

As with Iran, Pakistan's economy would have benefited from maintaining cordial relations with the Taliban regime by serving as its gateway to the world. However, instead of leveraging the geo-economics through Iran and Afghanistan, Pakistan has isolated itself in the region due to its flawed policy outlook.

Pakistan's economic cooperation with India is again abysmal. The two countries have not maintained full diplomatic relations since 2019, when Islamabad recalled its High Commissioner from New Delhi in response to India's constitutional reorganisation of Jammu and Kashmir, an internal matter for India.

This diplomatic rift led to a significant decline in trade, from $2.5 billion in 2018-19 to just $0.6 billion by 2023. In 2023, Pakistan's exports to India were estimated at a mere $20 million, while its imports from India stood at $627 million. Notably, India's trade with Pakistan constitutes only 0.1 per cent of its total exports and 0.03 per cent of its total imports for that year.

With its economy in free fall, Pakistan has recently expressed a desire to re-establish trade relations with India. Pakistani officials, including Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar, have made multiple public appeals in recent months. However, New Delhi has largely ignored these overtures.

For India, it has made it clear that terrorism and trade cannot coexist and unless Islamabad takes concrete steps to address New Delhi's concerns there will be no resumption of trade relations.

On the other hand, despite its expressed desire to improve relations with India, Pakistan has failed to take meaningful steps to curb its support for terrorism in India. The recent instances of terrorist attacks in Jammu by Pakistan-based terrorist groups, clearly demonstrate a lack of genuine commitment on Pakistan's part to foster cordial relations with India.

In contrast, consider Pakistan's economic relations with the US. According to the Pakistan Bureau of Statistics report for 2023, the US continues to be the topmost export destination for Pakistani goods.

Pakistan's exports to the US were recorded at $5.1 billion, constituting 21.23 percentage share in the country's total exports. Likewise, Pakistan imported goods worth over $2.1 billion during the same year, thereby totalling their total bilateral trade over $7.2 billion. This shows Islamabad's continued preference for overseas trade partners over its immediate neighbours.

It appears that Pakistan is unwilling to shed its dependency on the West and diversify its economic relations, and more so on integrating itself in the regional geoeconomic mix.

Islamabad needs to understand that profound economic engagements with the regional countries are a prerequisite to not only overcome its regional trade isolation but also to forge a meaningful economic recovery.

This is a golden opportunity for Islamabad to leverage its geostrategic position more effectively so as to actively participate in regional trade initiatives to become indispensable to regional economic interlinkages.

Unless and until, Pakistan change its state policy towards its immediate neighbours, it will continue to be a dependent aid economy and will fail to make any meaningful economic recovery.
Kolkata, July 14 : The Indian Coast Guard (ICG) has carried out a successful operation and recovered the mortal remains of a fisherman who recently went missing from a trawler in the deep seas off the West Bengal coast.

Fisherman Mohan Majhi (50) was on board the Indian Fishing Boat (IFB) 'Jai Baba Lokenath' that is registered at Diamond Harbour in the South 24-Parganas district of West Bengal.

He went missing on Thursday before the trawler returned to the harbour. The boat owner approached the ICG District Headquarters in Haldia around 7:30 p.m. on that day and requested officials to carry out a search for Majhi.

ICG Ship (ICGS) Kamla Devi was immediately deployed to the area where the fisherman went missing.

Braving rough seas, ICGS Kamla Devi carried out a sustained search operation in the area and sighted Majhi's decomposed body. The body was taken on board the Coast Guard vessel where a medical team inspected it, officials said on Sunday.

The ship then left for Haldia. After berthing there, the body was handed over to the local police on Saturday in the presence of family members and the boat owner, they added.

The recovery of the body will bring closure to the case for the bereaved family and allow them to overcome several legal hurdles regarding insurance claims and compensation.
Mumbai, July 14 : The Maharashtra government on Sunday issued a notification on free travelling facilities to important pilgrimage sites across India by senior citizens of all faiths.

Chief Minister Eknath Shinde recently announced that the Mukhyamantri Teerth Darshan Yojana will be implemented for the senior citizens of the state to visit various pilgrimage sites across the country.

The scheme includes 73 pilgrimage sites in India and 66 from Maharashtra state. Nearly all the important pilgrimage sites are included in the scheme.

The eligible senior citizens will get the benefit of this scheme to visit one of the pilgrimage sites mentioned under this scheme. Similarly, the maximum amount per head towards travelling allowance will be Rs 30,000. This will include actual travelling, meals, lodging and other important expenses.

The annual income of the beneficiary should be less than 2.50 lakh and the beneficiary should be a resident of Maharashtra state and should be a senior citizen above 60 years of age.

For taking the benefit of the scheme the applicant will have to apply online.

The beneficiaries will be selected by the committees appointed at the district level. The quota will be decided on the basis of the population of the district and the beneficiaries will be selected by a lottery method from the applications received. Beneficiaries who are above 75 years of age will be permitted to travel with their spouse or any assistant.

A 17-member committee led by the Social Justice Minister had been formed to monitor and review the scheme at the state level.

A seven-member committee under the chairmanship of the guardian minister will be looking into the matter at the district level.

The Assistant Commissioner of the Social Welfare Department will be the member secretary, whereas at the state level, the Social Welfare Commissioner will be working as the Nodal Officer.

"The state government is leaving no stone unturned for fulfilling the dreams of the poor, downtrodden and destitute citizens of the state. We are satisfied that we will be getting the blessings of the senior citizens. This will definitely provide energy and inspiration to the government," the Chief Minister said.
Mogadishu, July 14 : At least four people were killed and 42,000 others displaced by recent armed clashes between local clans in the town of Luuq in southern Somalia, the United Nations relief agency said.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said on Sunday that the three-day fighting that started on July 5 in the Gedo region was caused by a dispute over land ownership, Xinhua news agency reported.

"The displaced people were not only caught up in the crossfire but also were targeted in some cases due to their clan affiliation. Some of them faced secondary displacement due to fear of being directly affected," the OCHA said in its latest update released in the Somali capital of Mogadishu.

The OCHA added that some calmness has been observed since July 8 as the armed clashes ceased, though tensions remain high.

It said access to the displaced population in some areas is restricted due to possible attacks from non-state armed actors, including militiamen from the conflicting parties.

The UN agency said the conflict paralysed the ongoing delivery of humanitarian services, including health, nutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions.

Conflicts over land and revenge killings have been fueling inter-clan violence in Somalia for years, instilling widespread fear among the populace, with minimal efforts visible to mitigate the violence, leading to numerous fatalities, according to residents.

The OCHA said the burnt-down market will have a significant economic impact, as many people have lost their livelihoods and may face food insecurity.

"Initial assessment by humanitarian partners on the ground indicate that the displaced communities, especially women, children, elderly, and persons with disabilities, are facing critical conditions and urgent needs of humanitarian assistance, including temporary shelters, health services, clean water, and provision of food," the OCHA added.
Washington, July 15 : US President Joe Biden on Sunday announced an independent review of the security at the election rally at which a shooter made an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump who is also the putative Republican nominee for the White House.

The US President also said that he has ordered a continued heightened level of security for his Republican rival and a review of the security arrangements at the Republican party's presidential convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

In a short speech after meeting top security officials in the Situation Room, Biden also said he spoke to Trump.

"An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, everything. It's not who we are as a nation, it's not America, and we cannot allow this to happen," he said, adding: "Unity is the most elusive goal of all but nothing is important right now, Unity. We will debate and will disagree. It's not that's not going to change. But we're gonna not lose sight of who we are as Americans".

Biden said the shooter's motive remains unclear and appealed to Americans to not speculate and wait for the FBI's investigation. The FBI is leading the probe into the shooting. He did not specify who or which agency will conduct the "independent review", but promised to share its findings.

While the FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, the US Justice Department's National Security Division is also involved in it, as Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement.

This indicates the US is treating the assassination attempt as also a threat to national security.

While the shooter has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, officials have said nothing yet about his motivation. According to news reports, he was a registered Republican but had donated $15 to a liberal voter mobilisation group in 2021. The gunman used an AR-15 military-style assault rifle that has been the weapon of choice for most mass shooting perpetrators. New reports now suggest the shooter was carrying two explosive devices in the car and a possible third at his residence.

Earlier in the day, Trump struck a defiant note the morning after surviving the assassination attempt, writing on social media, "We will FEAR NOT".

He also announced he would be speaking at the Republican party convention.

Trump is recovering at his home in New Jersey, where he reached last night from Butler, Pennsylvania when a 20-year-old white man opened fire on his election rally, wounding the former President and killing an attendee.

The shooter was killed by snipers of the US Secret Service that protects past and present American Presidents and their immediate families.

"We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness," Trump wrote on Truth Social, a social media platform he launched after he was banished from Twitter, now called X.

He added: "I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin."

The Republican party convention kicks off Monday in Milwaukee to anoint Trump formally as the party's nominee for the White House. He will announce his pick for his running mate over the next few days, if he doesn't do it on Sunday.

Political violence in US politics has become a new threat, from both the right and the left.

Trump's supporters attacked the US Capitol on January 6, 2021, to stop a joint sitting of the Congress from certifying Biden as the winner of the 2020 election and the next President. Several people, including a police officer, were killed during or after the rampage.

An armed man was arrested from outside the house of Brett Kavanaugh, one of the six conservative justices of the Supreme Court.

Biden said: "There is no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this."

Trump has posted several statements on Truth Social but has not expressly addressed the question of political violence. "In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win," he wrote on Sunday morning.

But his campaign leaders Chris Lacivita and Susie Wile confronted the issue directly. "Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today," they wrote in a memo to staff. "We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media."
Bengaluru, July 15 : The Karnataka government has ordered a probe into the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land case by a single-member commission headed by retired Justice of the High Court P. N. Desai, allegedly involving Chief Minister Siddaramaiah,

The government announcement has come ahead of the monsoon session which will begin from Monday and has asked the committee to submit its findings within six months after completing the probe.

The order said that the allegations regarding the allotment of sites have come to the government's attention and have been reported by the media.

"The decision was made under Sub-rule 1 of the Commission of Inquiry Act, 1952. The inquiry commission is empowered to investigate under the Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952, and the Code of Civil Procedure," the government order reads.

The opposition has been demanding the resignation of Chief Minister Siddaramaiah and to handover the case to the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI).

"The Urban Development Department and MUDA are directed to provide all documents and information to the commission and also to provide the services of technical, economic, and administrative experts," the order reads.

It further underlines that the concerned officers attached to the Urban Development Department and MUDA must be present during the investigation and provide all documents, files, and other required materials, ensuring full cooperation.

Union Minister for Heavy Industries and Steel H.D. Kumaraswamy has made an appeal to the legal fraternity to seek consent for the prosecution of Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah from Governor T.C. Gehlot in connection with the alleged irregularities in Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) and the tribal welfare Board.

Union Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution Minister Pralhad Joshi had accused Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah of being "directly involved" in the Mysuru Urban Development Authority (MUDA) land scam.

Chief Minister Siddaramaiah had said that he is being targeted regarding the MUDA land case as he hails from a backward class.

"I am being targeted as I hail from the backward class. The agitation against me is political but I am capable of countering it," the Chief Minister had said.

The MUDA controversy is primarily over the purchase, de-notification, gifting, encroachment, and awarding of alternative sites in connection with 3.16 acres of land owned by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah's wife B.M. Parvathi.

The BJP has alleged a loss of about Rs 4,000 crore to the government by alleged fraudulent allotments.
Gaza, July 15 : Hamas has claimed that its fighters killed and wounded some Israeli soldiers, who were trying to infiltrate Rafah City in the southern Gaza Strip.

"Our fighters monitored a private Israeli force hiding inside a truck loaded with humanitarian aid ... then the soldiers entered a local Palestinian house and hid inside it," al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, said on Sunday in a press statement.

Al-Qassam said, "Our fighters clashed with the soldiers, attacking them with homemade shells, killing and wounding all of them."

The Israeli army has not commented on the incident yet, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israel has been waging a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were taken hostage.
Jerusalem, July 15 : Israeli security forces have confirmed that they killed Rafa'a Salameh, the commander of Hamas's Khan Younis Brigade, in airstrikes in the Gaza Strip late last week.

In a statement, the Israeli military and Shin Bet internal security agency said on Sunday that Salameh was killed in the area of Khan Younis, Xinhua news agency reported.

Israeli warplanes on Saturday bombed the tents of displaced people in the Mawasi area in Khan Younis, killing at least 90 Palestinians and wounding 300 others, most of them women and children, according to the health authorities in Gaza.

Israeli media reported that Mohammed Deif, the commander of Hamas's military wing, and Salameh were the targets of the Israeli airstrike.

Israel has not confirmed Deif's status but a Hamas official said on Sunday that the senior militant, who survived at least seven assassination attempts by Israel, has survived the recent attack.

"Salameh was one of the closest associates of Mohammed Deif," the military said, adding he was also "one of the masterminds" of Hamas' rampage through the southern Israeli border on October 7, 2023.

Salameh joined Hamas in the early 1990s.

In 2016, he was appointed commander of the Khan Younis Brigade, and was responsible for launching projectiles from the Khan Younis area towards Israeli territory and overseeing the operation of attack tunnels, the military said.

"The elimination of Rafa'a Salameh significantly impedes Hamas' military capabilities," the military noted.
Beirut, July 15 : Hezbollah attacked a new Israeli division with assault drones in Illit in response to Israel's attacks on Lebanon's southern villages.

"In response to the Israeli enemy's attacks ... the fighters of the Islamic Resistance launched an air attack with a squadron of assault drones on the headquarters Command of the newly created 91st Division in Illit, targeting the places where its officers and soldiers reside, achieving confirmed casualties," the party said on Sunday in a statement.

Lebanese military sources told Xinhua that "Lebanese army positions monitored the launching of about 30 surface-to-surface missiles from Lebanon to Israel, and Israeli Iron Dome intercepted some of them".

They added that during the past 24 hours, Israeli drones and warplanes launched nine air strikes on six towns and villages in the eastern part of southern Lebanon, including a raid carried out by a drone that fired two air-to-surface missiles at a car in south Lebanon, injuring its driver, a Hezbollah member, as reported by Xinhua news agency.

According to the sources, Israeli artillery also bombed with 20 shells the Marjayoun power station in southern Lebanon, which supplies about 60 border towns and villages in the Marjayoun and Hasbaya districts and 11 drinking water pumping stations, all of which have been deprived of electrical current for an indefinite period.

Tensions along the Lebanon-Israel border escalated on October 8, 2023, following a barrage of rockets launched by the Lebanese armed group Hezbollah toward Israel in solidarity with Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7.

Israel then retaliated by firing heavy artillery toward southeastern Lebanon.
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Price: $ 1,005 Seller State of Residence: New York Type: Homesite, Lot Property Address: 4134 Plumas Drive Zoning: Residential City: Kingman State/Province: Arizona Location: 864**, Kingman, Arizona

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Natural Wilderness MODOC COUNTY This Property is located in the vicinity of Alturas; south west about 18 miles-drive; is a city in and the county seat of Modoc County, Ca. The population was 2,827 at the 2010 census. It is also only 15 minutes-drive from California Pines. Alturas is located on the Pit River, east of the center of Modoc County, at an elevation of 4370 feet. As the county seat, the town is a home to regional government offices, including a California Highway Patrol office and a st...

Price: $ 860 Seller State of Residence: California Type: Homesite, Lot Zoning: Residential State/Province: California Location: 928**, Anaheim, California

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FLORIDIAN MANOR LOT IS CLOSE TO I 95 . LOT IS BETWEEN JACKSONVILLE AND DAYTONA BEACH !NOT- A PRE-FORECLOSUREAUCTION IS FOR THE DEED. NO MOBILE HOME ON LOT ! I-4 AND FLORIDA ATTRACTIONS ARE A VERY SHORT DRIVE AWAY ! Country Living in Floridian Manor - Mobiles In the area - This property is close to the Saint Johns River. The Saint Johns River is a great place for catching bass and shad. . The Intracoastal Waterway and is full of fish and shrimp. BEAUTIFUL LOT , CLOSE TO SEVERAL LARGE LAKES AND JU...

Price: $ 760 Seller State of Residence: Florida Type: Recreational Zip/Postal Code: 32177 City: PALATKA State/Province: Florida Location: 321**, Palatka, Florida

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Normal 0 false false false EN-US X-NONE X-NONE Red Bird 1 Mining Claim The Red Bird 1 Mine consists of one (1) unpatented lode claim covering 20.66 acres on federal land managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management (BLM). The claim covers an historical mining area in Lander County, Nevada which was explored and mined for gold, silver and copper. The video is titled Red Bird 2 but it is of the Red Bird 1 area  this was just the second claim I have staked in this area. I didnt get a c...

Price: $ 1,675 Seller State of Residence: California Zoning: EBM & Industrial City: Battle Mountain State/Province: Nevada Location: 921**, San Diego, California

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HERE IS A GREAT RESIDENTIAL LOT IN LITTLE ROCK ARBasic InformationParcel Number:23N0670019600Sec-Twp-Rng:32-2N-11WLot/Block:525 & 526/0Subdivision:RICH ACRES SUBLegal Description:PART BLOCKS 525 & 526 RICH ACRES SUBDIVISION MPDA BEG ON THE WEST LINE OF BLOCK 525 7.6' S OF NW COR BLOCK 525 TH SW'LY ALONG THE WEST LINE OF BLOCKS 525 & 526 163.4' TO THE NORTH R/W LINE OF A P & L COMPANY'S PROPERTY LINE TH S16*36'E ALONG THE NORTH R/W LINE OF A P & L COMPANY'S PROPERTY LINE 27.9' TH E'LY PARALLEL TO...

Price: $ 549 Seller State of Residence: California Property Address: 4801 N Alpha Street Zip/Postal Code: 72117 Zoning: Residential City: Little Rock State/Province: Arkansas Location: , Dermott, Arkansas

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Relisting due to buyer non-payment!!LOW PRICE! LOW MONTHLY PAYMENTS! Please ONLY Bid if you intend to pay!*******Just in time for Summer Vacation! Hurry and Bid ... Great Place for Family Fun Getaway! Camp Out!! Beautiful Northern California Property! 1 acre with BIG TREES! ...PLEASE KNOW THAT YOU WANT THIS PROPERTY BEFORE BIDDING.You are bidding on a property that is OWNER FINANCED! LOW MONTHLY PAYMENTS! 0% Interest NO BANKS! Full Price ON SALE $4290 THIS IS AN AUCTION FOR A SELLER FINANCED SAL...

Price: $ 220 Seller State of Residence: California Property Address: Hill Unit 4 Type: Homesite, Lot Zip/Postal Code: 96101 Zoning: Residential/Recreational City: Alturas State/Province: California Location: 957**, El Dorado Hills, California

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Discover the perfect canvas for your dream home or investment in the heart of Whitney, Texas. This exceptional plot of land, spanning 5488 square feet, offers a unique opportunity to own a slice of serene countryside with all the modern conveniences close by. $11,250 total pricing. Financing options available, as little at $445 per month. Property Highlights: Ideal Location: Nestled in the picturesque town of Whitney, known for its charming community and rich history. Enjoy easy access to Whitne...

Price: $ 11,250 Seller State of Residence: Texas Type: Homesite, Lot Property Address: 18060 FORREST DR Zip/Postal Code: 76692 Zoning: Residential City: Whitney State/Province: Texas Location: 766**, Whitney, Texas

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.BUY LAND NOWCORNER LOT!! START INVESTING NOW!This land is perfect for Land Banking! Buy and hold for future investment. Many companies and investors purchase land at a substantial discount for their investment portfolios. Then later, use this as collateral for their business. Low Low Prices!Great Investment for new investor. Start your own land business now!DescriptionWe are selling a beautiful corner residential lot located in Helena Arkansas. HelenaWest Helena (listen; /hln/) is...

Price: $ 870 Seller State of Residence: California Type: Homesite, Lot Property Address: 204 S Baringo St N Helena-West Helena Arkansas 72342 Zip/Postal Code: 72342 Zoning: Mixed City: Helena State/Province: Arkansas Location: 723**, Helena, Arkansas

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Wind Power HOMESITE Mojave, CA KERN COUNTY NO MINIMUM / NO RESERVE --- HIGH BID OWNS THE LOT This property is located North-East of Mojave this land lies along 58 Hwy near North Edwards, south of Aerial Acres in Kern County. A really growing community. Enjoy the Wonderful 4 Seasons Weather, all in the growth in The Heart of This City! Just across State Route 14, north of State Hwy 58 Barstow-Bakersfield and 395 Fwy. Aerial Acres is a fly-in unincorporated community in Kern County, California. It...

Price: $ 2,200 Seller State of Residence: California Type: Agricultural Zoning: Mixed State/Province: California Location: 928**, Anaheim, California

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AS-IS VALUE $32,000 This amazing deal offers one house at 634 Main Street in Pennsylvania. The property boasts two bedrooms, one bathroom, and a total of 930 square feet. It is being sold by the owner as part of a sale. The house are of the residential real estate category and are ideal for those looking for a great investment opportunity. The property's location in Brownsville, Pennsylvania, is also a plus. Don't miss out on this chance to own at an affordable price. HOUSE IS FREE & CLEARNO MOR...

Price: $ 7,500 Seller State of Residence: Pennsylvania For Sale by: Owner Property Address: 634 Main Street Number of Bedrooms: 2 Property Type: House Sale Type: Existing Homes Number of Bathrooms: 1 Zip/Postal Code: 15463 City: Brownsville State/Province: Pennsylvania Location: 193**, Kennett Square, Pennsylvania

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For sale by owner,4bd 2ba $299,000usd obo. Beautiful Northern Baja Mexico Home, built-in 1968 by a craftsman/cabinet maker. I've added a attached garage and lower deck. New water, pilas and system new gas tank and new electrical service. Home is equipped with 2 kitchens, 2 living rooms with fireplaces and an upstairs and downstairs bathroom. Downstairs can be locked off as a one bedroom apartment. Beautiful, shared indoor laundry/Craftroom.wonderful outdoor patios and decks. The house is ergonom...

Price: $ 299,000 Setting: Ocean Seller State of Residence: Mexico For Sale by: Owner Property Address: #25 Campo Torres Property Type: House Number of Bedrooms: 4 Sale Type: Home in mexico at the beach Number of Bathrooms: 2 Zip/Postal Code: 245-22710 City: Campo Torres State/Province: Campo torres north Rosarita Location: 921**, San Diego, California

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Disney/Eric McCandless

By Elizabeth Kwiatkowski, 07/14/2024



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Elizabeth Kwiatkowski is Associate Editor of Reality TV World and has been covering the reality TV genre for more than a decade.

The Bachelorette alum Charity Lawson rolled her eyes when recalling the repetitive criticism she had received from the judges on .After starring on The Bachelorette's 20th season and getting engaged to Dotun Olubeko , Charity competed on ' 32nd season late last year.Charity and her professional partner Artem Chigvintsev made it to the finale and finished in fourth place, but the process wasn't exactly easy for Charity, who had been told over and over again that she needed to let loose onstage and perform with passion."[The] judges were critical, of not your technique but you showing the emotion and the confidence," The Bachelorette alum Jason Tartick told Charity on the Monday, July 8 episode of his "Trading Secrets" podcast.Charity, 28, responded with a laugh and said, "Yeah. Sorry, my eyes are rolling."Charity admitted while judges Derek Hough Carrie Ann Inaba and Bruno Tonioli were "not wrong" with their observations, hearing the same complaint repeatedly bothered her."Dancing is a very vulnerable thing, first of all, and I don't think people realize that. But if you have ever taken dance, you understand how it's not just about technique, which for me, I had a cheerleading background, so my whole life, I was trained based off of technique and technique alone," Charity explained."When we were performing, we're performing with the same [moves] and facial expressions for two minutes and 30 seconds. Dance is different; it's coming literally from within."Charity therefore shared, "Obviously, the first few weeks, they wanted to see more and they were pushing me to [show] more. But then when it got to the point where I was getting the consistent comment the whole season, I was [like], 'Literally, what am I doing wrong?'"Charity confessed that when she returned home to Dotun from dance rehearsals, there would be "so many nights" when she was "just frustrated" and overwhelmed."I was like, 'I'm not doing something right.' It was hard because it did take me back to moments when I was going through cheerleading training," Charity said, adding how she didn't think people were seeing who she is as a person."They see me as this person who's always put together and is perfectly poised, and I'm like, 'But that's not me.' Obviously you've seen the sides of me, and my best friends have seen the crazy sides of me, and my family."Charity said while many people truly "knew" her, she also had to "let the world in," which was difficult for her."Obviously The Bachelorette, it's an emotional journey and it's an emotional experience. Y'all saw that. But you're not seeing it in the way where it's translated through dance," Charity vented."It was really hard. It was really challenging for me. I think I was afraid, 'I'm not doing it right,' and no one was really leading me."Charity acknowledged she'll "never talk bad about" Artem because he's a "phenomenal" dancer and partner; however, she believes she may have benefited from trying to connect to the dances emotionally rather than just focusing on the steps."I do think there were times where I was like, 'Okay, maybe we should not focus on technique. This is the area that I really need help on. Let's just take one whole rehearsal doing this and this alone, not just a minute and 30 seconds working on it,'" Charity recalled."That's where I was getting frustrated, and it was really tiring to kind of go through that. It became a lot on me throughout the experience."Charity laughed about how "a lot" happened behind the scenes before actress Xochitl Gomez and her pro partner Val Chmerkovskiy were finally crowned champions."I could talk for hours about that, but yeah, it was really hard! It was really hard," Charity concluded.Charity and Dotun, however, survived the chaos and left stronger than ever before, and Jason pointed out how a Bachelor couple's foundation better be "solid" if one person chooses to appear on or go on its tour.Charity, who participated in the tour for about a month, totally agreed. She and Dotun are currently planning two weddings , one in California and one in Nigeria, in 2025.Since the next season will be coming up, Charity shared how she thinks both The Bachelor alums Joey Graziadei and Maria Georgas would "do really good" on the show.She also considered -- prior to his divorce making headlines with Theresa Nist -- that The Golden Bachelor star Gerry Turner would be "really engaging."And Charity noted of the current The Bachelorette star Jenn Tran , "I don't know if Jenn wants to do it. She probably does. Would she be good at it? Probably."Interested in more The Bachelor news? Follow our Bachelor Nation News Page on Facebook or join our The Bachelor Facebook Group
By Takuya Karube, KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2024 - 16:37 | All, World

Former U.S. President Donald Trump was wounded Saturday in a shooting at a rally in a rural Pennsylvania town, just days before his formal nomination to become the Republican candidate for the White House, with the Secret Service saying he is "safe."

Television footage captured multiple shots ringing out as Trump was speaking about immigration. Secret Service agents quickly shielded him after he crouched down behind his podium, while screams were heard from the crowd. Photos showed blood on his right ear and face.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation said it is looking into the shooting as an assassination attempt on Trump. The FBI identified the suspected shooter as Thomas Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania. He was killed at the scene.

Hours after Trump was escorted off the stage and taken to a nearby medical facility, he said in a post on his Truth Social platform, "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin."

The Secret Service said in a statement that shots were fired at around 6:15 p.m. toward the stage from "an elevated position" outside of the venue in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 50 kilometers north of Pittsburgh.

The service said its agents killed the suspect, adding that one rally attendee was dead and two others were critically injured.

TV footage showed the presumed shooter motionless on the rooftop of a nearby building. U.S. media outlets, citing law enforcement officials, said an AR-style rifle was recovered at the scene.

President Joe Biden said in a statement, "I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information."

"There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," Biden said.

He later spoke with Trump, according to a White House official.

Before leaving the stage escorted by Secret Service agents, Trump, who is aiming to be reelected this fall by defeating Biden, raised his fist in the air multiple times and the crowd chanted "USA, USA."

Pennsylvania is one of the November presidential election's key battleground states.

For months, Biden and Trump have been neck-and-neck in national opinion polls, with the former president very slightly ahead in several of the swing states.

The attack happened ahead of next week's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where the 78-year-old is due to be formally nominated as the party's presidential candidate.

Trump's campaign said he will take part in the convention, which will begin Monday. He was released from the medical facility and his private jet landed at a New Jersey airport, with a video released by an aide showed him walking down the plane steps unassisted.

Photos of bloodied Trump, pumping his fist with an American flag behind him, have spread fast among his supporters and already been used as something to symbolize his defiance and resiliency. Some U.S. media said these images will be plus for his reelection bid.

Robert Axson, chairman of the Utah Republican Party, who came to Milwaukee for the convention, said, "I think there will be a rally of patriotism that you will see here" in the wake of the attack.

"He is a man of courage and boldness," Axson said, referring to Trump. "I would anticipate that (former) President Trump will very boldly articulate his message and vision for the people of our country and he will not cower or back down from this type of evil."

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2024 - 19:39 | All, World, Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida on Sunday spoke out against any violence that undermines democracy, after former U.S. President Donald Trump was targeted in a shooting at an election campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

"We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy," Kishida said on social media site X, as the incident rekindled memories in Japan of the fatal shooting of the country's former leader.

"I pray for former President Trump's speedy recovery," Kishida added.

Senior members of Japan's ruling and opposition parties also expressed their concerns about the incident, bearing in mind the fatal shooting of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe during an election campaign speech in 2022.

Touching on Abe's assassination, Tomomi Inada, acting secretary general of Japan's ruling Liberal Democratic Party, said she senses a rising trend of increased radicalism in protests and opposition toward politicians.

"There is a situation in which we cannot ensure the fairness of elections and the foundations of safety," the former defense minister said on a television program.

Hiroshi Ogushi, head of the election strategy committee of the leading opposition Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan, also called the Trump rally incident a "challenge to democracy that should never happen."

Leaders across the world offered messages of support for the former president and expressed their horror over the attack.

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote on X that he was "appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes." He added that "political violence in any form has no place in our societies."

French President Emmanuel Macron said his country "shares the shock and indignation of the American people" and called the incident a "tragedy for our democracies."

Elsewhere in Asia, a Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson said Chinese President Xi Jinping "expressed sympathies" to Trump, and that the government is "following the shooting incident."

Singaporean Prime Minister Lawrence Wong wrote on social media, "We should never resort to violence regardless of any differences of views."

In South Korea, President Yoon Suk Yeol wished Trump a speedy recovery. "The people of Korea stand in solidarity with the people of America," he wrote on X.

Trump, the 78-year-old Republican seeking to be reelected in November by defeating his Democrat rival President Joe Biden, was rushed off the stage Saturday at the rally in Pennsylvania after shots were fired from a rooftop. He later said on social media that he was shot in the upper right ear.

Related coverage:

Trump "safe" after apparent gunshots fired at rally
Automobile exports from India rose 15.5 per cent year-on-year in the June quarter with all verticals, barring three-wheelers, recording growth in shipments, according to the latest SIAM data.

Photograph: PTI Photo from the Rediff Archives

Overall shipments stood at 11,92,577 units in the first quarter the current fiscal year, as compared with 10,32,449 units in the same period of the last fiscal.

Passenger vehicle exports stood at 1,80,483 units in the first quarter, registering a jump of 19 per cent over 152,156 units in the same period last year.

Maruti Suzuki India led the space with shipments of 69,962 units in the period under review.

It exported 62,857 units in the first quarter of the 2023-24 fiscal.

Hyundai Motor India exported 42,600 units in the April-June period.

It had shipped 35,100 units in the same period last year.

Two-wheeler exports stood at 9,23,148 units in the first quarter, up 17 per cent as against 7,91,316 units in the year-ago period.

Commercial vehicle shipments rose 8 per cent year-on-year to 15,741 units in the first quarter as compared with 14,625 units a year earlier.

Three-wheeler shipments, however, saw a drop of 3 per cent year-on-year to 71,281 units in the April-June period this year as against 73,360 units in the year-ago period.

SIAM president Vinod Aggarwal said it is a good sign for the industry that exports have started doing well.

"I think that's a very good sign that exports seem to have bottomed out, especially in the commercial vehicle segment... we have started seeing the growth from the first quarter this year," he noted.

Till last year, there was a huge drop in the export volume of trucks and buses, he added.

"But Q1 has been good even for two-wheelers and passenger vehicles.

"We are very positive that exports have started to recover," Aggarwal said.

Automobile exports from India had declined 5.5 per cent in FY24 due to the monetary crisis in various overseas markets.

Overall exports stood at 45,00,492 units in the last fiscal year as compared with 47,61,299 units in FY23.
Former United States president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump on Saturday said he was shot at during his rally in Pennsylvania and a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear.

IMAGE: Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump is assisted by security personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024, in this screen grab taken from a video. Photograph: Reuters TV/Reuters

In his first statement issued on the social media platform Truth Social, 78-year-old Trump thanked the US Secret Service for saving his life.

'I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response to the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania,' the former president said.

Trump got injured during his election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania following an apparent series of gunshots. He was immediately escorted out of the venue by the US Secret Service.

'Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country,' he said.

According to Anthony Guglielmi, spokesperson of the US Secret Service, the incident happened around 6.15 pm local time when the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.

'US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased. The US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured,' he said, adding that this incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI).

Trump said nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. God bless America!' Trump said.

Thousands of Trump supporters were attending the rally when the shooting, which was captured live on news channels, happened.

As the bullet hit his ears, the former president was seen ducking with the secret service surrounding him. He could be heard making a few comments on an audio feed from the stage.

Trump said, 'Let me get my shoes,' as he was escorted to the safe place. He was seen pumping his fist to the public.

The shocking incident happened two days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump will formally become the party's nominee.

According to The Wall Street Journal, eyewitness Colleen Phillips, 62. said she was about eight rows from the stage when she heard the sounds of gunfire.

"We had a little prayer circle for President Trump," Phillips said. "I don't know what's wrong with people."

Another eyewitness Mark McEvoy, 50, said he thought he heard eight to 10 shots.

"I saw Trump go down, but then I saw him get up and he raised his hand that he was OK," McEvoy told the Financial Daily.
Former US president Donald J Trump survived an attempt on his life on Saturday, July 13, 2024, when a young shooter fired multiple shots at him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, injuring his right ear, days before he was to accept the Republican party's nomination for the presidential election in November.

IMAGE: Former US President Donald J Trump is assisted by Secret Service agents after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. All Photographs: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Trump, 78, was speaking at the packed outdoor election rally in Butler town when bullets started flying. Video footage showed him grabbing his ear as shots were fired.

The crowd started screaming behind him and then someone yelled, 'Get down! Get down! Get down! Get down!' as Secret Service agents piled on top of Trump to shield him. The shooting created chaos with people in the back of the venue immediately running to the exits.

As blood gushed from his ear, Trump was then rushed off stage. He boldly pumped his fist into the air and told the crowd to 'Fight!' He was then whisked away in a car to a Pittsburgh-area hospital.

'Let me get my shoes,' Trump said as he was escorted to safety.

The shooting, which left one spectator dead and two others critically injured, is being investigated as an attempted assassination. The male attacker was also shot and killed by a member of the Secret Service.

A spokesperson for the Trump campaign said the former president is 'fine' after the 'heinous act'.

The gunman was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, US media reports said though authorities did not release the identity of the gunman.

In a post on his Truth Social social media account, Trump elaborated on what happened and described his injuries: 'It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.'

'I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!' Trump wrote.

The incident happened two days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump will formally become the party's nominee for the November 5 presidential election.

In a news conference, Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, said it was 'surprising' the gunman was able to fire multiple shots'

'This evening, we had what we're calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump,' said Rojek.

'We're still working through the security apparatus that the Secret Service had in place, what potentially happened,' he added.

'There's going to be a long investigation into exactly what took place and how the individual was able to get access to the location, what type of weapon he had. All that is really days, weeks, and months of investigation.'

Bomb-clearing assets were deployed at the scene of the shooting out of an 'abundance of caution,' said the FBI.

'It's primarily standard procedure of any suspicious packages, In this case, there was identification of a suspicious package around where the shooter was and so we deployed, in an abundance of caution, bomb assets to make sure those were cleared for investigators to move safely in the area,' said Rojek.

When asked whether authorities knew what kind of gun was used or how many shots were fired, George Bivens of the Pennsylvania state police followed up by saying that officials had 'a good idea of what the weapon was' but that it was still part of the investigation.

Bivens said they plan to release information on what caused delays in identifying the shooter. Rojek added that the FBI has not yet identified the shooter's motive.

Authorities said they believe there is no other threat.

The FBI has deployed investigative agents, evidence response teams, and other personnel from across the country.

The suspect fired from between 200 feet and 300feet away on an elevated shed with an AR-style rifle, multiple law enforcement officers told CBS News.

'As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action,' his campaign said.

'President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again,' his campaign said.

US President Joe Biden spoke to Trump, his November election opponent, a White House official said.

Biden also talked with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy, the White House said.

Biden was scheduled to be in Delaware for the weekend but changed his plans to return to the White House.

Biden earlier said that 'everybody must condemn' the suspected assassination attempt.

Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting, he said, 'We cannot allow this to be happening,' Biden said.

'The idea that there's violence in America like this is just unheard of.'

Vice President Kamala Harris and former presidents Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton have condemned the attack on Trump.

Harris says she is 'relieved' Trump was not seriously injured.

'We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting,' Harris said in a statement.

'Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence,' she said.

Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump also issued a statement.

'Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today's senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania,' Ivanka said in a statement on X.

'I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.'
As the investigation progressed into the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, explosive material has been recovered from inside the car and residence of the shooter, CNN reported, citing multiple law enforcement sources.

IMAGE: Former US President Donald J Trump is assisted by Secret Service agents after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

The FBI has publicly identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage.

According to the authorities, the shooter fired multiple shots from a building rooftop just outside the rally venue before he was killed by the Secret Service agents.

Authorities used the gun to help determine the shooter's identity, as he did not have identification on him, according to law enforcement sources, as reported by CNN.

Moreover, the shooter at former President Donald Trump's rally was also spotted outside the event by local law enforcement, who thought he might've been acting suspiciously near the walk-through metal detectors, the senior law enforcement official stated.

Authorities further announced over law enforcement radio to keep an eye on him, and that information was passed to the Secret Service as well, according to the source.

Later, people alerted law enforcement in a field outside if they saw a gunman up on the rooftop, reported CNN.

Moreover, the US House Intelligence Committee chairman Mike Turner joined the ongoing calls for congressional oversight into the security failings that led to what the FBI cited as an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

US Vice President Kamala Harris postponed her trip to Florida in response to former President Trump's assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, according to a Biden-Harris campaign official.

Harris originally planned on traveling to Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday for a moderated conversation alongside Republican women to discuss Trump's stance on women's reproductive rights.
A life-threatening attack on former United States president and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump during his rally in Pennsylvania shocked the entire nation on Saturday.

IMAGE: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is assisted by the Secret Service after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Cutting across party lines, leaders strongly condemned the attack on Trump while he was addressing an election rally in Butler, which is about 56 km north of Pittsburgh in Pennsylvania.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and other federal law enforcement agencies rushed to the scene, while the Secret Service escorted him to a safe place. He was seen raising his fists to the supporters while being escorted out.

Blood was seen on Trump's face and ear as he reached toward his neck with his right hand. Multiple media reports said that several gunshots were heard while the former president was addressing the rally.

Both the Secret Service and his spokesperson said Trump was fine.

"He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Steven Cheung, Trump spokesperson said in a statement.

"An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," Secret Service Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. More details will follow," Cheung said.

Both President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed about the incident, which is receiving widespread condemnation from a shocked nation.

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don't yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former president Trump wasn't seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery," former president Barack Obama said.

"Laura and I are grateful that Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response," former president George W Bush said as Americans prayed for his speedy recovery.

'Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family,' said Robert F Kennedy on X.

"I thank God that former President Trump is safe," former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said.

"God protect President Trump," said Senator Marco Rubio.

"He will never stop fighting for Trump," said his son Donald J Trump Jr.

"I'm praying for President Trump, his safety, and for our country," said former Congresswoman Tulsi Gabbard.

Meanwhile, California Governor Gavn Newsom said, 'Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump.'

'Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement,' said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell.

'My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable,' said House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries.
Two witnesses at Donald Trump's election rally in Pennsylvania, where he was attacked, claimed to have seen the shooter, with one recalling how the gunman moved from roof to roof, apparently scouting for a perfect perch to shoot at the former US president.

IMAGE: Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is assisted by the Secret Service after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

The FBI on Sunday identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Crooks, armed with an AR-style rifle, was killed by Secret Service personnel.

He fired multiple shots at the stage from an 'elevated position outside of the rally venue,' the agency said.

The gunman was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Trump is seen as a huge failure of the security agencies tasked with providing cover for him ahead of the election.

The gunman was on a rooftop approximately "200 to 250 yards" from where the former US president was addressing his supporters, US media reported.

According to an attendee named Ben Macer, he was up along the fence line and "saw the guy move from roof to roof", CBS News reported.

Macer further said he told an officer that the shooter was on the roof, approximately "200 to 250 yards" away from where Trump was addressing his supporters.

"When I turned around to go back to where I was, it was when the gunshots started, and then it was just chaos, and we all came running away, and that was that," he said.

Butler resident Ryan Knight, another witness along the fence line, also said he saw the suspected shooter atop the American Glass Research building, the report said.

"I walked over about 20 minutes before the shooting happened to stand along the fence line where Trump was. As I was doing that, I was right beside the AGR building, which had the shooter on it," Knight said.

"When I was sitting there, a guy said, 'Oh God, he had a gun.' When I looked up, there was a guy on top of the building with an M16 with a blanket, pointing at the president. He starts shooting. Four to five shots rang out. I throw the guy I'm with to the ground. I jump to the ground, I look up, and I see his head get split up from the shot from the Secret Service," he said.

The Secret Service has confirmed that one attendee was killed and two others were critically injured in the shooting.

"All the cops started flying over, pushing us out, they took my name, witness report, [and] cell phone number to go over what happened because there [weren't many] eyewitnesses," Knight said.

"My main thought is why wasn't the Secret Service on top of AGR? That's a very big vantage point to shoot at the president. How did that get missed?" Knight asked.

Macer said he did not get a clear look at the alleged shooter, but reiterated that he saw him move from building to building.
Security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir are grappling with what they call the "hidden threat" of "conservation and consolidation" tactics employed by infiltrating terrorists, which was evident in the recent ambushes and encounters in North Kashmir and Kathua district.

IMAGE: Security forces conduct a search operation after a terrorist attack on an Army bus on July 8 that claimed the lives of 5 soldiers, in Samba, July 10, 2024. Photograph: ANI Photo

Analysing the ambushes and encounters with terrorists, officials in the know of the matter said while security agencies are on high alert, the lack of ground-level intelligence -- human intelligence -- hampers operations.

Reliance on technical intelligence has not been fruitful as terrorists use online activity to mislead authorities. Officials feel that there is an urgent need for heightened surveillance to counter foreign terrorists, especially in the Jammu region.

The region, previously known for its peaceful atmosphere, has recently seen a surge in terror incidents, particularly in border districts such as Poonch, Rajouri, Doda and Reasi.

Attacks on an Indian Air Force convoy, a pilgrim bus and the recent killing of soldiers in Kathua highlight the evolving threat.

Under the "conservation and consolidation" tactics, terrorists infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir but remain quiet initially, blend in with the local population and wait for instructions from handlers in Pakistan before carrying out attacks, the officials said.

Though security agencies are on high alert in Jammu and Kashmir after uncovering the "conservation and consolidation" tactic of the infiltrating terrorists, the absence of on-ground intelligence is playing a spoilsport for operations.

One official explained that technical intelligence has not been that fruitful as the terrorists leave signatures on the Internet only to confuse the security agencies.

Describing this as a significant shift in terrorist activities, officials emphasise the urgent need for heightened surveillance to prevent foreign mercenaries from carrying out their malicious intentions.

The April 26 encounter in Sopore, in which the foreign terrorists involved had been hiding for 18 months, serves as a stark reminder of the "conservation and consolidation" tactic. Evidence showed their connections with terror groups across Kashmir and their use of sophisticated weaponry.

Similar operations in June further dismantled hidden networks, exposed terrorists' plans and capabilities, and also threw light on a previously unseen high level of infiltration from across the border.

While two terrorists belonging to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were killed on April 26, dreaded Pakistani terrorist Usman Langda is said to have been killed in the June 19 encounter at Hadipora of Sopore.

The decline in HUMINT, coupled with the use of encrypted communication tools like "Ultra Set" phones by terrorists, makes tracking them difficult. Security agencies are urging heightened surveillance and public vigilance to counter this hidden threat.

While the terrorists' capabilities may have diminished, their intent remains a constant threat, a senior police official said.

Officials have highlighted the challenge posed by the use of encrypted messaging apps for radicalising and recruiting youths, and planning attacks. They have emphasised public vigilance in monitoring suspicious communication, especially among the youths, to safeguard the community.
Maharashtra's cyber police have registered a case against popular YouTuber Dhruv Rathee after a parody account allegedly posted a fake message on X about Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla's daughter, a senior official said on Saturday.

IMAGE: Dhruv Rathee. Photograph: Courtesy @dhruv_rathee/X

According to the state cyber department, the account with the handle @dhruvrahtee had claimed on X that Birla's daughter had cleared the Union Public Service Commission (UPSC) exam without appearing for it.

The X bio of the account reads, 'This is the fan and parody account and not affiliated with the original account of @dhruv_rathee. Not impersonating anyone. This account is Parody.'

Acting on a complaint by a relative of Birla, police booked the YouTuber under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) sections for defamation, intentional insult with intent to provoke breach of peace, and statement leading to mischief, as well as the IT Act, the official said.

When pointed out that the alleged fake message was posted by a parody account and not the one belonging to Rathee, the official said, "We are investigating the matter."

The parody account on Saturday posted another tweet saying, 'As directed by @MahaCyber1, I have deleted all my posts and comments on Anjali Birla, I will like to apologize as I was unaware about the facts and copied someone else' tweets and shared it (sic).'
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Sunday asserted that the Supreme Court verdict on maintenance to Muslim women was against Islamic law and authorised its president to explore all possible measures to ensure that this decision is overturned.

Image used for representational purpose only. Photograph: ANI Photo

The board also decided to challenge in the Uttarakhand high court the Uniform Civil Code brought in the state.

After a meeting of its working committee in New Delhi, the board adopted a resolution which stated that the recent judgment of the Supreme Court on the maintenance of Muslim divorcee women is "against the Islamic law (Shariah)".

The Muslim body's assertions came days after the Supreme Court ruled that a Muslim woman can seek maintenance from her husband under Section 125 of the CrPC and said the "religion neutral" provision is applicable to all married women irrespective of their religion.

A bench of justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih in a separate but concurring verdict said, "(a) Section 125 of the CrPC applies to all married women including Muslim married women. (b) Section 125 of the CrPC applies to all non-Muslim divorced women."

In a statement, issued after the meeting, the AIMPLB said, "The Board emphasised that the Holy Prophet had mentioned that amongst all permissible deeds the most abhorred is divorce in the sight of Allah, hence it is desirable to continue the marriage by applying all permissible measures to safeguard it and follow several guidelines mentioned in Holy Quran about it."

"However, if married life becomes difficult to maintain, then divorce was prescribed as a solution to mankind," it said.

The board observed that this judgment will create further problems for women who have successfully come out of their painful relationship, the statement said.

The AIMPLB authorised its president, Khalid Saifullah Rahmani, to initiate all possible measures "legal, constitutional and democratic"? to ensure that this decision by the Supreme Court is "rolled back", AIMPLB spokesperson SQR Ilyas said at a press conference here.

Five other resolutions, including one against the Uniform Civil Code, were also passed during the meeting of the working committee of the AIMPLB.

The board pointed out that according to Article 25, all religious entities have the right to practice their religion, which is a fundamental right enshrined in the Constitution, the statement said.

The AIMPLB also stated that in "our multi-religious and multi-cultural country, UCC is impractical and undesirable" and hence, any attempt to implement it is against the spirit of the nation and the rights ensured for minorities, according to the statement.

Therefore, the central or state governments should refrain from drafting UCC laws, it said.

The board further observed that the decision to implement UCC in Uttarakhand was wrong and unnecessary, and also against the constitutional safeguards given to the minorities.

Therefore, the board has decided to challenge the Uttrakhand UCC in the high court, and directed its legal committee to file a petition, the statement said.

It was also resolved at the meeting that the Waqf properties are a legacy created by the Muslims for specific charity purposes, and therefore, they alone should be entitled to be its sole beneficiary, it said.

The board strongly condemned any attempts of the governments to weaken or eradicate the Waqf law.

In a resolution, it was noted that the results of the parliamentary elections indicated that the people of the country have expressed their deep resentment towards the agenda based on hatred and malice.

"It is expected that the frenzy of mob lynching would end now. The government continues to fail in its obligations to provide security to the deprived and the marginalized Muslims and lower castes citizens of India," the statement said.

In another resolution, the board stressed the implementation of the Places of Worship Act.

"It is a matter of great concern as to how the lower courts are entertaining the new disputes related to the Gyanvapi masjid and Shahi Eidgah of Mathura. The Board observed that the Supreme Court while pronouncing its judgment on Babri masjid had clearly stated that the 'Places of Worship Act, 1991' has now closed all such doors," the statement said.

The board expects the Supreme Court will put an end to all the new disputes and cases, it said.

The AIMPLB also observed that the NDMC, while using the traffic issue as an excuse, tried to demolish the Sunehri Masjid in Delhi, although the court intervened and put a stay on the matter.

However, the Board expressed caution over Sunehri mosque and six other mosques in the Lutyens' Zone which are shortlisted and "likely to be targeted by the disturbing elements", according to the statement.

It was also resolved at the meeting that the Palestine crisis is a humanitarian problem as Israel has illegally occupied and displaced the citizens of Palestine and made them stateless.

"It has broken all records of cruelty and atrocities and is consistently promoting genocide and barbaric acts of violence on the innocent Palestinians," the board said in its statement.

The AIMPLB stressed that India has always stood by the Palestinian people, right from Mahatma Gandhi to Atal Bihari Vajpayee, and even after that.

The AIMPLB appealed to the Muslim World to exhibit genuine concern for the people of Palestine.
A key accused in the murder of Bahujan Samaj Party Tamil Nadu chief K Armstrong was shot dead in Chennai on Sunday after he attempted to assault police personnel and flee from custody, police said.

IMAGE: K Armstrong. Photograph: ANI Photo

When the accused, K Thiruvengadam, was taken by sleuths to a location in north Chennai as part of investigation to unearth weapons concealed in a spot, he assaulted a policeman and tried to escape and he was shot at by a police officer.

He was taken to a hospital, where he was declared by doctors as brought dead. Thiruvengadam, in his thirties, is one of the 11 accused arrested in the Armstrong murder case and is a history-sheeter.

A couple of days ago, a court here had granted police five-day custody of the accused persons.

On July 5, Armstrong was hacked to death here by a gang and the murder led to outrage and opposition parties alleged complete deterioration of law and order.

The police and the government had assured stern measures to bring the culprits to book.

On July 11, police had shot dead a history-sheeter in Pudukottai district.
Azerbaijan's Central Election Commission (CEC) has prepared a practical guide - "Candidates handbook" within the framework of awareness-raising of different election stakeholders regarding the snap parliamentary elections of the Republic of Azerbaijan scheduled for September 1, 2024, Azernews reports.

The main goal of implementing the project and compiling the booklet is to enhance access of information to citizens intending to be elected as a member of Parliament, provide methodical assistance to them to exercise their passive election right and further facilitate their activities.

The edition contains detailed information on procedures and the steps of nominating and registering the candidacy, rights and duties of registered candidates.

The guidebook is compiled based on the Election Code of the Republic of Azerbaijan and the legal documents approved by CEC.

The "Candidates handbook" can be obtained from lower election commissions, as well as the CEC official website (www.msk.gov.az).
KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2024 - 09:24 | All, Japan

Japan and Pacific island nations are set to express their strong opposition to any unilateral attempt to change the status quo by force or coercion amid China's growing clout in the region during a summit next week, a draft of the meeting's declaration showed Saturday.

At the 10th Pacific Islands Leaders Meeting to be held in Tokyo on July 16-18, Prime Minister Fumio Kishida also plans to announce more than 60 billion yen ($380 million) in development aid over the next three years to counter China's influence and bring the island nations closer to Japan, sources close to the matter said.

Regarding Japan's release of treated radioactive wastewater from the crippled Fukushima Daiichi nuclear power plant into the Pacific, the draft declaration welcomes the Japanese government's cooperation with the International Atomic Energy Agency to ensure the discharge will not adversely affect human health or the marine environment. The issue is expected to be included as an agenda item for future meetings.

The document also touches on the principles of global peace and stability, freedom and democracy, sustainable development, the rule of law, and human rights, as well as the importance of a "free and open rule-based international order" in accordance with international law.

With climate change regarded as the single greatest existential threat to the Pacific region, the draft notes the urgent need for actions to mitigate and adapt to its impacts.

It also outlines a policy to focus on cooperation in seven areas, including economic development and climate change, to realize the strategy formulated by the Pacific Islands Forum, a regional body involving Oceania, by 2050.

The document additionally highlights the importance of countering the spread of disinformation and welcomed Japan's support in building cybersecurity capabilities.

It demands North Korea's complete disarmament of nuclear weapons and ballistic missiles, while also addressing humanitarian concerns in the country, including the issue of Japanese abductees.

The summit, which has taken place every three years since 1997, involves Japan and the 18-member PIF.

The PIF comprises Australia, the Cook Islands, Micronesia, Fiji, Kiribati, the Marshall Islands, Nauru, New Zealand, Niue, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, the Solomon Islands, Tonga, Tuvalu, Vanuatu, and France's overseas territories of New Caledonia and French Polynesia.

Related coverage:

Japan stresses caution over North Korea arms, China-Taiwan tensions

NATO, Indo-Pacific leaders agree to cooperate more on mutual concerns

Japan, South Korea leaders agree North Korea-Russia ties as serious threat
Republican presidential candidate and former United States president Donald J Trump, 78, was hit by a bullet in the upper part of his right ear when a shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally venue in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13, 2024, the US Secret Service said.

The attacker killed one spectator at the rally, and two others were critically injured.

IMAGE: Trump gives the clenched fist salute as Secret Service agents move him off stage after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. All photographs: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

IMAGE: A bullet struck Trump's right ear, but the former president was otherwise okay, hospital sources told reporters.

IMAGE: The moment Trump was hit by the bullet.

IMAGE: Trump ducked for cover immediately; his quick reaction saved his life.

IMAGE: Trump is assisted by Secret Service agents, here and below.

IMAGE: US Secret Service agents patrol the area after multiple gunshots rang out at the Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

IMAGE: Trump supporters react after the shooting.

IMAGE: Security personnel put up barricade tape at the location of the shooting.

Photographs curated by Manisha Kotian/Rediff.com

Feature Presentation: Mahipal Soni/Rediff.com
The shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, New York Post reported, citing sources.

IMAGE: Members of the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division stand guard outside the White House in Washington, US, July 13, 2024. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, fired shots, one of which grazed Trump in the ear at an outdoor rally in Butler.

Thomas Matthew Crooks was planted on the roof of a manufacturing plant located over 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, the New York Post reported, citing sources.

The US Secret Service snipers shot him and an AR-style rifle was later recovered.

Bethel Park is a village 40 miles south of where Trump's rally was held in Butler. Crooks' motive behind firing on the presumptive Republican presidential nominee is unclear.

Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage, The Hill reported.

The Secret Service agents surrounded the Republican candidate and escorted him off the stage, with blood visible across his face. He raised his fist towards the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement personnel.

According to the US Secret Service's statement, one spectator was killed and another was critically injured and the incident is being investigated. Hours after the shooting, Donald Trump said that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said former President Donald Trump has left the Butler area following the shooting in a rally on Saturday (local time).

In a statement posted on X, Shapiro stated, "Under the protection of US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, former President Trump has now left the Butler area. Lori and I are thankful that his team reports that he is fine and we continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery. We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are being treated at this time."

He expressed gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded to the incident, protected Trump and worked to bring the situation under control. He stated that the enforcement officials will continue to lead the investigation into the shooting of Trump.

In the post on X, he further said, "I am grateful for all law enforcement who responded, protected the former president, and worked to bring the situation under control. Federal law enforcement officials will continue to lead the investigation into the shooting of former President Trump. Pennsylvania State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting of the other victims."

"I have been in regular communication with law enforcement on the ground in Pennsylvania and have spoken with President Biden who offered his full support. As we wait to learn more from the investigations, I am mindful of just how painful and shocking this event is to so many of our fellow Pennsylvanians. I respectfully ask that we treat our fellow Americans with respect and join together to universally condemn the unacceptable violence we witnessed earlier today in Butler," he added.

While sharing the US Secret Service's statement on X, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, stated, "Here is the latest information from our investigation. We are grateful to the Secret Service team and our law enforcement partners for their swift action. Our thoughts go out to the families affected by this tragedy."

In a statement, US Secret Service stated, "During former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13th at approximately 6:15 pm, at the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased."

"US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured. The incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of investigation," it added.

US President Joe Biden condemned the violent attack on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday (local time), saying that "there is no place in America for this kind of violence."

Speaking from Delaware, Biden described the attack as "sick" and emphasised the need for unity to prevent such incidents."It's sick; it's one of the reasons we have to unite this country," he continued, adding, "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this; we cannot condone this."

Shortly after the shooting, the US vice president shared a post on X, saying, "I have been briefed on the shooting at Trump's event in Pennsylvania. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured."

"We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting," she said.

Harris also expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service for their swift response. "We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action," she said, adding that "violence such as this has no place in our nation."

"We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," the US vice president said.
Thomas Matthew Crooks, the gunman who authorities say attempted to assassinate former president Donald Trump was a 20-year-old registered Republican who would have voted for the first time in the presidential election in November.

IMAGE: Former US President Donald J Trump is assisted by Secret Service agents after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

He lived in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, about 56 km south of the Trump rally site where law enforcement officials said he fired at Trump, the presumptive presidential candidate of the Republican Party.

Crooks was shot dead by the Secret Service personnel on Saturday, soon after he fired a volley of shots at Trump from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.

He had previously made a small contribution to a Democratic-aligned group, CNN reported, quoting public records.

He graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, according to a local media report and a video of the school's commencement.

Crooks was registered to vote as a Republican, according to a listing in Pennsylvania's voter database that matched his name, age, and a Bethel Park address that law enforcement searched.

This year's presidential election would have been the first he was old enough to vote in, CNN said.

A US citizen who turned 18 years old on or before Election Day (November 5, 2024) is eligible to vote.

Federal Election Commission records show that a donor listed as Thomas Crooks with the same address gave $15 to a Democratic-aligned political action committee called the Progressive Turnout Project in January 2021.

When reached by CNN after the attack on Trump, Crooks' father, Matthew Crooks, said he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but would wait until I talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son.

Crooks did not have any identification on his body, so agents had to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said at a press conference Saturday night before Crooks was named.

One attendee at the rally was killed and two others were critically injured, authorities said.
The assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump is a "horrific moment" for America and a "sobering reminder" of the threat that political violence poses to democracy in the country ahead of the high-stakes presidential election, the US media commented on Sunday.

IMAGE: A member of the United States Secret Service Uniformed Division directs a tourist past a security perimeter outside the White House in Washington, US, July 13, 2024. Photograph: Nathan Howard/Reuters

Trump, 78, survived an attempt on his life on Saturday when a young shooter fired multiple shots at him at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, injuring his right ear.

"Americans received a sobering reminder on Saturday of the threat that political violence poses to our democracy," The New York Times said.

"It is now incumbent on political leaders of both parties and on Americans individually and collectively, to resist a slide into further violence and the type of extremist language that fuels it. Saturday's attack should not be taken as a provocation or a justification," it said.

"Americans also must be clear-eyed about the challenge that is confronting this nation. Saturday's events cannot be written off as an aberration. Violence is infecting and inflecting American political life," the newspaper said.

"Acts of violence have long shadowed American democracy, but they have loomed larger and darker of late. Cultural and political polarisation, the ubiquity of guns and the radicalising power of the internet have all been contributing factors, as this board laid out in its editorial series The Danger Within in 2022.

"This high-stakes presidential election is further straining the nation's commitment to the peaceful resolution of political differences," it said.

Democracy requires partisans to accept that the process is more important than the results. Even before Saturday's events, there were worrying signs that many Americans were failing that essential test, it added.

The assassination attempt is a horrific moment for America that could have been much worse. But we can't say it comes as a complete surprise. Political hostility and hateful rhetoric have been rising to a decibel level that far too often in the American past has led to violence and attempted murder. Some of us still remember 1968 all too well, The Wall Street Journal said.

The shooter alone is responsible for his actions. But leaders on both sides need to stop describing the stakes of the election in apocalyptic terms. Democracy won't end if one or the other candidate is elected, it added.

"Fascism is not aborning if Mr. Trump wins unless you have little faith in American institutions," the paper said.

The targeting of a former president, also the Republican presidential candidate for the November election, at a campaign rally just days before he accepted the Republican nomination is, by definition, an attack on democracy and the right of each American to choose their leaders, CNN said in an opinion piece.

The attempted assassination, which opens a dark new chapter in America's cursed story of political violence, shook a nation already deeply estranged during one of the most tense periods of its modern history, it said.

While Trump is not currently serving as president, his wounding underscores the ever-present threat that always hangs over the office and those who run for it  and especially for those who claim it, it said.

Trump is likely to face President Joe Biden, a Democrat, in the November election. However, Biden, 81, is under pressure to quit the race following his disastrous debate performance against Trump last month.

Four American presidents have been killed while in office, most recently John F. Kennedy in 1963.

The fact that Trump was attacked ends a 40-year period in which many have assumed that the Secret Service's expertise had greatly reduced the potential for such outrages  and will cast a pall that will last for years, the news network said.

Trump's targeting during a presidential campaign drew comparisons to the assassination of Democratic candidate Robert F Kennedy in 1968, a blood-soaked year that also saw the killing of civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr and violence at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago, which will host the same event this year, it said.
Brattleboro, VT (05301)

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KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2024 - 10:26 | Arts, All

About 98 percent of people with some foreign heritage in Japan have experienced microaggressions such as praise for their Japanese language ability, a nationwide survey by a group of researchers has shown.

The results released recently come as Japan's foreign population continues to rise and it transitions into a more multicultural society. In 2022, one in 50 children born in the country had one parent who is not a Japanese citizen, according to the Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare.

Microaggressions are typically unintentional or casual hurtful words or actions made to members of marginalized groups, such as ethnic minorities and women.

About 60 percent of respondents reporting microaggressions said they have been asked questions that seemed to question their Japanese identity, such as where they are from. Some 30 percent reported being looked down on for their roots, and 15 percent said they had been questioned by police in the street.

In all, 448 people provided eligible responses to the survey held online from March to April, with nearly 90 percent of respondents aged 18 to 39. The survey was aimed at adults who have spent at least a total of a year living in Japan.

The survey was conducted by a committee made up of Lawrence Yoshitaka Shimoji, a visiting scholar at the University of California, Berkeley, and Viveka Ichikawa, a psychotherapist and University of Toronto PhD candidate.

In addition to the reports of microaggressions, some 68 percent said they had experienced bullying and discrimination due to their identity.

The report includes experience testimonies from respondents. One person of Japanese and Sierra Leonean heritage said a company terminated an employment contract with the person, saying the individual did not look Japanese in a first face-to-face meeting. Another in her 20s with British heritage said her elementary school teacher told her she would grow up to have large breasts because she is "half."

"Japan already has people living in it with multiple ethnic and racial backgrounds. Misunderstanding of them perpetuates exclusion, and this is a serious situation," Shimoji said.

Related coverage:

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Some 40% of skilled foreign workers choose to remain in Japan: OECD
After the Taliban's de facto government cut ties with a number of diplomatic missions operated abroad by diplomats loyal to the ousted Afghan republic, the British and Norwegian authorities have opted to shut down Afghan embassies on their soil.

Both Oslo and London say their decisions in no way represent official recognition of the Taliban's rule in Afghanistan, which no country recognizes due to concerns over a woeful human rights record and other failures to live up to promises it made before seizing power in August 2021.

But experts say the embassy closures are likely to pave the way for more engagement with the Taliban, which controls all of Afghanistan's territory and has increased its hold on power.

Diplomats who served the former Afghan government were left in limbo when the Taliban took control, but remained open for business in some Western states and continued to assist Afghan citizens.

The window on their operations began to close when the Taliban announced in July that it was cutting ties with 14 such missions in Western countries and that it would not accept any consular documents they processed, a critical source of funding to keep them running.

Many of the consular services, such as verification of identity documents or police clearance, offered by the embassies do require a degree of cooperation from the country's government because diplomatic missions might not be able to access all government data.

This month, the British Foreign Office announced that it was shutting down the Afghan Embassy in London, explaining to RFE/RL on September 9 that the decision was made after the "dismissal of its staff by the Taliban."

Norway quickly followed suit, announcing that the Afghan Embassy in Oslo would be shut down on September 12.

Both the British and Norwegian governments have indicated that the move does not amount to a formal recognition of the Taliban's hard-line government. And the embassy buildings, which are Afghanistan's properties, will be eventually handed over to a "recognized" government of Afghanistan.

But Hameed Hakimi, an Afghanistan expert, says the decisions to shut the embassies can be taken as "reality setting in" that the Taliban is "unlikely to be replaced in the immediate future."

And for the Taliban, he says, it creates an opportunity to argue that its rule is being acknowledged, even without formal recognition.

"The Taliban can use this to their advantage in their pursuit of claiming legitimacy with the Afghans and internationally," said Hakimi, an associate fellow at London's Chatham House think tank.

More than a dozen countries, mostly Afghanistan's neighbors, already operate embassies in Kabul, and some have accredited Taliban diplomats. The Taliban government also partially controls diplomatic missions in some countries, and has established working relations with Afghan diplomatic missions in the Czech Republic, Spain, the Netherlands, Bulgaria, and the Afghan Consulate in Munich.

The missions operating in Western countries staffed by diplomats appointed by the previous government are the outlier.

Hakimi said that if all those missions are shut down, it "truly signifies the closure of the chapter of the Afghan Islamic Republic."

The Afghan Islamic Republic, as it was formally known, emerged soon after a U.S.-led military alliance toppled the Taliban government in November 2001 following the 9/11 terrorist attacks in New York and Washington.

Nearly two decades later, the internationally recognized Afghan republic collapsed as the Taliban seized power in the wake of the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan.

The Taliban, meanwhile, recreated its brutal emirate from the 1990s by imposing harsh bans and discriminatory laws that resulted in widespread human rights violations. Afghan women and girls are deprived of education and employment in most sectors and lack fundamental freedoms.

These Taliban policies have so far kept its government from being officially recognized. This absence of recognition has complicated engagement with the Taliban government on important issues, such as humanitarian aid, and made it difficult for the estimated 2 million Afghans living in Western countries to access consular services.

Graeme Smith, a senior Afghanistan analyst at the Brussels-based International Crisis Group, says Western governments might be acting on the UN special coordinator's recommendation to facilitate the processing of documentation for Afghans abroad.

In his report endorsed by the UN Security Council in December 2023, Feridun Sinirlioglu, the UN special coordinator for Afghanistan, called for better cooperation between the Taliban regime and the outside world to ensure that Afghans can obtain the paperwork they need to continue with their daily lives.

"Afghans have been suffering in limbo without clarity about where to go when they need identity papers or travel documents," Smith said, describing how Afghans who still do not have travel documents from another country suffer from the lack of consular services.

"The steps we are witnessing now may represent practical efforts by some governments" to remedy the situation, Smith said.

The challenge remains, he said, to ensure that efforts "aimed at pressuring the regime do not sabotage the lives and livelihoods of Afghans."

Many Western capitals are also grappling with the complex issue of what to do with Afghan asylum seekers whose applications were rejected.

Last month, Germany deported 28 Afghan men convicted of crimes in the country to Kabul, with Qatar playing an intermediary role in securing the Taliban's cooperation in accepting the returning Afghans.

Smith said that some countries "are discovering the usefulness" of having a consular presence "connected to the authorities in Kabul" if they need to arrange the return of Afghan migrants.

"But it's unclear if that motivated the recent closures," he said.

Both Britain and Norway have not said anything about whether they will allow the Taliban government to offer consular services in London and Oslo.

The fates of the Afghan Embassy in Berlin and consulate in Bonn are not clear, although the consulate in Munich is likely to remain open because it cooperates with the Taliban government on consular services.

In London, Afghanistan expert Hakimi said the closure could create an "opportunity for the Taliban to lobby with the Western countries" and allow its representatives to at least run counselor services.

These Afghan diplomatic missions can remain closed indefinitely, similar to what happened in the United States, where the Afghan Embassy and two consulates have been closed since March 2002. The Afghan Embassy in Canada offers remote consular services to Afghans living in the United States.

In Norway, Afghans have mixed feelings about their embassy's closure.

Sima Nouri, an Afghan woman living in Oslo, is worried over how her compatriots will now access consular services.

"There is a possibility that the process of forced deportation of Afghan refugees will begin," she told RFE/RL's Radio Azadi. "This process, however, must be stopped."

Mina Rafiq, another Afghan woman in Norway, prefers shutting the embassy down to cooperating with the Taliban.

"This might work to the advantage of Afghan asylum seekers," she said, "because the Norwegian government will now have to give them necessary documents."
World leaders rushed to condemn the attack on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, an incident that roiled the U.S. election campaign and raised fears of further political violence.

Antonio Guterres, the United Nations secretary-general, "unequivocally" condemned what the FBI has described as an assassination attempt.

"The secretary-general unequivocally condemns this act of political violence. He sends his best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery," Guterres spokesman Stephan Dujarric said in a statement.

Trump was speaking at a campaign rally on July 13 in western Pennsylvania when several shots were fired. He said later that he had been hit in the ear by a bullet and slightly wounded.

Two people were killed, including the suspected shooter, and two other spectators were wounded. The FBI later identified the suspected gunman as a 20-year-old man from a town not far from where the rally was held. Law enforcement officials also said a semiautomatic rifle had been recovered at the scene.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply shocked" by the shooting.

"Political violence has no place in a democracy," she wrote on X. "I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was "sickened" by the violence.

"It cannot be overstated -- political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans," he said in a post to X.

Josep Borrell, the European Union's top diplomat, said he was shocked and strongly condemned the attack.

"Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," he wrote on X.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni voiced "solidarity" with Trump, while French President Emmanuel Macron wished him a "speedy recovery," while calling the shooting "a tragedy for our democracies."

"France shares the shock and indignation of the American people," Macron said in a post to X.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz also described the violence as a threat to democracy.

"The attack on U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable," he said in a post to X. "Such acts of violence threaten democracy."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who visited Trump at his home in Florida earlier in the week, said his thoughts and prayers were with the former U.S. president.

And Ukraines president, who has had a fraught relationship in the past with Trump, said he was appalled to hear of the violence.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail," Volodymyr Zelenskiy said in a post to X.

"We pray for his safety and speedy recovery," Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said in a post to X.

In Moscow, Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov accused President Joe Biden's administration of creating an atmosphere that provoked the attack on Trump.



"We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organized by the current authorities," Peskov told reporters in a conference call.

"But the atmosphere that the [Biden] administration has created through its political fights, the atmosphere that's surrounding candidate Trump, has provoked what America is now facing today."

The incident came two days before the opening of the Republican National Convention, at which the businessman and former reality TV star is expected to secure the party's nomination and less than four months before the November 5 election.

With reporting by AFP
U.S. President Joe Biden has condemned the assassination attempt on election rival Donald Trump and ordered an independent investigation into the shooting that took place the night before at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania, as the search went on for a motive behind the attack.

"There is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence, for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for...as a nation. Everything," he said from the White House after being briefed in the Situation Room.

"We don't yet have any information about the motive of the shooter. We know who he is. I urge everyone, please don't make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations," Biden said.

Biden said he was ordering a review into security measures surrounding the attack as questions arose on how someone with a semiautomatic rifle could get so close to the former president. The Secret Service is responsible for the security of U.S. presidents, former presidents, and other top officials.

The president said he had ordered "an independent review of the national security at yesterdays rally to assess exactly what happened" and that details would be made public.

Biden also said he had a "short but good" conversation with Trump following the shooting and that he was "sincerely grateful he is doing well and recovering," but he did not discuss details of the call.

The president said he would address the nation with extended remarks later on July 14 from the White House Oval Office, tentatively scheduled for 8 p.m. local time.

Throughout the day, U.S. authorities raced to identify a motive behind the assassination attempt on Trump, as officials blamed a 20-year-old man for the shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The alleged gunman, identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service officers, and one other spectator also died, the agency said. Two other people were critically wounded.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro identified the slain rally participant as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief from the area.

Trump said later he had been shot in the ear, and video from the July 13 rally showed blood visible on the right side of his head as Secret Service agents rushed him from the stage.

The 78-year-old presumptive Republican nominee for the 2024 election had just begun to deliver a speech in the city of Butler when several gunshots were heard, prompting screams from the crowd.

Trump then reached for his right ear before he quickly crouched down behind the podium where he was delivering the speech.

Secret Service officers rushed the stage and surrounded him.

WATCH: Donald Trump responded with a defiant raised fist -- a startling image that, political analyst Robert Spitzer says, will be used to promote his candidacy.

As he got up and was led off of the stage, blood was visible on Trump's right ear and cheek. He was whisked by the Secret Service agents into a waiting car and left the venue.

As he was being led off of the stage, Trump turned toward the crowd, pumped his fist in the air and appeared to yell, "Fight, fight, fight!"

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country," Trump said on his Truth Social platform following the shooting.

In a second statement issued about 12 hours after the shooting, Trump said he was looking forward to speaking at the Republican National Convention, which gets under way later this week.



"In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined," Trump said on Truth Social.

At a briefing for reporters late July 13, Kevin Rojek, the FBI agent in charge of the bureau's local office, said the shooting was being investigated as an "assassination attempt."

In a statement published on X shortly after the incident, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said the shooter had fired "multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue." He also said the shooter had been "neutralized."



In a statement provided to RFE/RL, the FBI identified Crooks, 20, as the suspected gunman, and said he was from a town located about an hour south of Butler.



Several U.S. news outlets reported that state voting records showed Crooks was a registered Republican, but that he had also made small donations to Democratic campaigns.

Leslie Vinjamuri, director of the U.S. and the Americas Program at Chatham House in London, told RFER/RL that it was too soon to tell how Crooks' background factored into the incident.,



"I've seen reporting that he is a registered Republican who, when he was 17, donated to Act Blue [a Democratic political campaign group], suggesting that he was at one point also a Democrat," Vinjamuri said.



"He's a young person. We have no information about motivation yet.... We know that many acts of violence are linked to mental health issues, to guns being in the hands of people who shouldn't possess them. And so I would be deeply reluctant to project on the basis of really very limited knowledge right now," she said.



Overnight on July 13, law enforcement officials blockaded the roads leading to the house identified as belonging to Crooks' family.

AP reported that police had recovered an AR-style rifle -- a lightweight, semiautomatic rifle similar to the U.S. military's M16 -- at the scene. The weapon is popular in the United States, and widely available for sale throughout the country.

The FBI said the gun used in the attack appeared to have been purchased by Crooks' father at least six months before.

The agency also said that bomb squads had found a "suspicious" device in the suspect's car, while media outlets said bomb-making materials were found at his residence.

Trump was treated locally, before flying to his golf club in neighboring New Jersey. Video of his arrival released by a campaign official showed him being escorted to the club by heavily armed Secret Service agents.

The shooting comes two days before the opening of the Republican National Convention at which the businessman and former reality TV star is expected to secure the partys nomination and less than four months before the November 5 election.

Trump said he would travel on July 14 to Wisconsin for the event.

Robert Spitzer, a professor of political science at State University of New York-Cortland, told RFE/RL that "I think Trump will want to return to the campaign stump partly to demonstrate that he is OK, partly to demonstrate that he's not deterred by this terrible event."



"You will see a bump for him [Trump] in the polls in the next couple of weeks. There will be sympathy for him," he said. "But I think in the space of a few weeks, the results on the relative poll standing of Trump and President Biden will even out to where they have been in the last month or two."

Matthew Dallek, a professor of political history at George Washington University, told RFE/RL said the shooting was likely to be a major theme of the Republican Convention.

"Oh, yeah, I think it will, it'll thrust it to the fore of the convention," he said.

Participants will paint Trump as a martyr, and someone whosacrificesfor the good of the country and for his supporters, he added.

Pennsylvania is considered one of the key swing states that will determine the election outcome. Vice President Kamala Harris was in the state campaigning on the same day as Trump's rally.

Before his televised remarks, Biden, whom Trump is challenging in the November election, said in a statement he was grateful to hear that Trump was safe and well.

"Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information," Biden said in the statement.

"There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Leading U.S. politicians rushed to condemn the shooting of Trump, who served as president from 2017 to 2021.

"Political violence has no place in our country," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said in a tweet, adding he was "horrified" by the news and "relieved" that Trump was safe.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," Mike Johnson, the Republican leader of the House of Representatives, said in a post on X.

He also said Congress would schedule hearings to know the circumstances behind the shooting, and how someone was able to bring a weapon into the rally.

The Secret Service, which provides protection to leading political candidates such as Trump, also conducts security checks for political rallies.

While political violence is rare in the United States, several presidents or candidates have been shot over the country's history.

Most recently, President Ronald Reagan was shot and seriously wounded as he left an event at a Washington hotel in 1981.

In 1975, President Gerald Ford was unscathed in two separate assassination attempts.

Four presidents -- Abraham Lincoln (1865), James Garfield (1881), William McKinley (1901), and John F. Kennedy (1963) -- have been assassinated in U.S. history.

With reporting by AP and Reuters. Todd Prince contributed to this report.
WASHINGTON -- The assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump, the first of its kind in more than four decades, has stunned the nation.

The attack, allegedly carried out by a 20-year-old man using a semiautomatic rifle, could potentially alter the course of the race, a rematch between the two men who faced each other in the election four years ago.

Trump was speaking at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a key swing state, on the evening of July 13 when the gunman fired several shots at him. Trump was slightly injured in the attack but is doing fine. The motives of the gunman, who was killed, have not yet been determined.

The shooting comes two days before the Republican National Convention, during which Trump is expected to secure the party's nomination. The conventions symbolize the start of the real campaign for president.

RFE/RL spoke with experts to discuss how the race could be impacted.

Will The Assassination Attempt Generate A 'Trump Bump' In The Polls?

Social media has been filled with commentary that candidate Trump will benefit politically from the assassination attempt. Indeed, billionaire Elon Musk, the owner of social-media site X and a powerful influence, immediately endorsed Trump after the July 13 shooting.

As the race is tight, any lift in the polls is crucial. However, analysts cast doubts about the impact it will have on voting day four months away.

Robert Spitzer, a professor of political science at the State University of New York at Cortland, says Trump could get a temporary boost, but he did not expect it to carry through to November.

"So you would expect Trump's candidacy to have a post-convention booster bump. And that may be a little higher because of this assassination attempt. But I think in the space of a few weeks, the relative poll standing of Trump and President [Joe] Biden will even out to where they have been in the last month or two," he told RFE/RL.

Matthew Dallek, a professor of political history, says the historical record does not indicate politicians can successfully translate sympathy from violent attacks into election victories.

"Theodore Roosevelt was shot while campaigning for the presidency in 1912 yet still lost. An assassination attempt on President Harry Truman in 1950 did not prevent his Democratic Party from losing big in the midterms later that year. Two assassination attempts were made on President Gerald Fords life in 1975. He still lost the presidential election a year later," he said.

Will The Shooting Beget More Violence?

Dallek fears violence in this election cycle won't end with the assassination attempt on Trump.

"Violence typically begets violence, right? It's not like there's a violent attack, and then all of a sudden, things quiet down. So I think the attack kind of pushes the country into a more dangerous place over the next few months and years," he said.

Dallek notes that polls show that a minority on both the left and the right believe political violence is justified "and that of course is very worrisome," he said.

Spitzer says the moment should be used to bring the country together and heal sharp partisan divides, but he warned that vocal "fringe elements" could potentially call on their supporters to arm themselves, he said.

"And that unfortunately, I think, is the possible dark side coming out of this event," Spitzer said.

How Does The Shooting Impact Messaging At The Republican National Convention?

The assassination attempt on Trump is likely to be thrust to the forefront of the convention and the campaign, Dallek says.

"I think that they will paint Trump as a martyr, and someone who sacrifices [himself] for the good of the country and for his supporters," he said.

Trump will likely use it to reinforce his "strong man" image, Dallek said, adding that many of his supporters find it appealing.

How Will It Impact Campaign Rhetoric?

The Democratic Party announced it would temporarily pause campaign ads, a move Dallek says is typical for such an event.

It is unclear though if they will change their line of attack, which has included labeling Trump as a threat to democracy.

Senator JD Vance (Republican-Ohio), who is rumored to be one of Trump's potential picks for vice president, claimed that the Biden campaign's messaging was responsible for the attack, something Spitzer called "over the line." Spitzer says there is nothing that Biden or his campaign has said or done to incite such violence.

Indeed, Dallek notes that Trump has used inflammatory language to describe certain groups, like immigrants, and joked about an attack on the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (Democrat-California).

Trump has also been accused of inciting his supporters to attack the Capitol on January 6, 2021, during which one person was shot dead.

Dallek says he did not expect the rhetoric to change much over the medium term in the campaign.

"It doesn't seem like these events shift fundamentally the structure of the violent rhetoric, the denunciations," he said.

Immigration is one topic that whips up aggressive language. It is perhaps the key policy issue Trump will use to attack Biden's record. An unprecedented number of undocumented foreigners have crossed into the United States during Biden's term in office, overwhelming many cities.

Do The Shooter's Political Motives Matter?

While some may seek to blame mental illness for the attack on Trump, violence against politicians has historically been driven by an attackers attraction to ideas, Dallek says.

They are "inspired and emboldened by rhetoric and ideas they come into contact with," he said. One of the individuals who tried to kill President Gerald Ford was an anti-war radical who hoped to end U.S. involvement in Vietnam.

Such people are "part of a larger culture of political violence" in the United States, and they are not aberrations. [They are] part of an American political tradition, obviously, one that is ugly, in that, most of us, would prefer didn't exist. I think it is important to kind of try to tease out what this individual thought, you know, he was trying to do.

Can Democrats Leverage The Shooting To Make Gun Control A Key Issue In The Election?

The attack on Trump was carried out by a 20-year-old using a semiautomatic AR-type rifle, potentially catapulting gun control into a major issue in the campaign. Democrats for years have argued that it is too easy for individuals, especially young people, to get their hands on semiautomatic weapons, which have been used in many school shootings.

At an address to the National Rifle Association earlier this year, Trump called himself the "best friend gun owners have ever had in the White House" and said he would terminate gun-control laws passed by the Biden adminstration should he return to office.

The "ease of access to these sorts of weapons, and the increasing fact that shooters like to use AR-type weapons to wreak violence, especially mass violence.... I think those questions will very much be discussed in the days and weeks to come very much by the Biden camp," Spitzer said.

While Dallek agrees gun control will become a more prominent issue following the assassination attempt, he does not think it will be a decisive issue. Dallek says that most Americans already have strong views on the issue of guns and won't be swayed by the shooting.

"If the killing of elementary school children with assault weapons is not enough to really move the national needle on guns in a fundamental way, then I don't think that this attack or any one attack changes people's minds," he said.

"The issue of gun control has been buried in this election as a top issue. It may get elevated some, but I don't see it being a kind of decisive issue. And I don't expect that, you know, Republican and Democratic views on the issue are going to shift as a result," Dallek said.
U.S. President Joe Biden emphasized the need for a diplomatic arrangement for the return of both Lebanese and Israeli civilians to their homes on both sides of the Israeli-Lebanese border in a call on October 9 with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, the White House said.

Biden also condemned Irans ballistic missile attack against Israel on October 1, a White House statement said.

Biden "affirmed Israels right to protect its citizens from Hezbollah, which has fired thousands of missiles and rockets into Israel over the past year alone, while emphasizing the need to minimize harm to civilians, in particular in the densely populated areas of Beirut," the statement said.

Biden spoke with Netanyahu earlier about Israel's plans to retaliate against Iran for a missile attack last week, according to statements from both the White House and the Israeli prime minister's office on October 9.

The White House statement said Biden and Netanyahu "agreed to remain in close contact over the coming days both directly and through their national security teams."

The call comes amid escalating tensions between Israel and Iran-backed Hezbollah, an armed group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon.

The Middle East has been on edge awaiting Israel's expected response to Iran's largely ineffective missile attack, which Tehran carried out in retaliation for Israel's escalation in Lebanon, including the assassination of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant said in a video published on Israeli media that Israel's response "will be deadly, precise, and above all surprising."

Biden last week said he would not support Israel striking Iranian nuclear sites as part of its retaliation. He also said that, if he were in Israel's shoes, he would think about alternatives to striking Iranian oil fields.

Israel has faced calls by the United States and other allies to accept a cease-fire deal in Gaza and Lebanon but has said it will continue its military operations until Israelis are safe.

U.S. State Department spokesman Matthew Miller warned on October 9 that Israel must avoid conducting military operations in Lebanon like those it has conducted in Gaza.

"I'm making very clear that there should be no kind of military action in Lebanon that looks anything like Gaza and leaves a result anything like Gaza," Miller told journalists.

The White House statement said Biden and Netanyahu discussed the urgent need to renew diplomacy to release the hostages held by Hamas, which is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States and the EU. Biden also discussed the humanitarian situation in Gaza, the White House said.

Israels bombardment of central and northern Gaza in recent days has killed dozens of people and trapped thousands in their homes, Palestinian officials said.

Hezbollah, a group and political party that controls much of southern Lebanon, is designated as a terrorist organization by the United States, while the European Union blacklists its armed wing but not its party, which has seats in the Lebanese parliament.

The call between Biden and Netanyahu took place as Israeli forces stepped up their ground offensive against Hezbollah militants in southern Lebanon.

On October 9, Hezbollah said in a statement that its fighters had used artillery and rockets against Israeli troops near the Lebanese border village of Labbouneh.

In a separate statement, the group said it engaged in combat with Israeli forces as they "attempted to infiltrate the border town of Blida" in southeast Lebanon.

The Israeli Army said early on October 9 that it had intercepted two projectiles fired from Lebanon as air-raid alarms sounded in and around Caesarea, a coastal city south of Haifa.

The latest fighting comes as fears grow of a larger conflict in the region after Israel also claimed that the successor to Nasrallah has likely been "eliminated."



Gallant said on October 8 that Hezbollah was an "organization without a head" and there's no one left to make decisions.

Netanyahu later echoed those comments, saying, "We've degraded Hezbollah's capabilities."



"We took out thousands of terrorists, including Nasrallah himself and Nasrallah's replacement, and the replacement of the replacement," Netanyahu said.

Hashem Safieddine, a top Hezbollah official and a cousin of Nasrallah, was widely expected to be named to the group's top position, but his whereabouts and condition remain unknown since an October 2 Israeli strike on a suspected Hezbollah leadership meeting.



Hezbollah has not commented on Safieddine's fate, although unidentified members have told various media that the group had lost contact with him since the attack.



Safieddine has been declared a global terrorist by the United States.
ALMATY, Kazakhstan -- A "worthy response" to Russia's soapbox chauvinists or a sign that Uzbekistan is closing the door to more measured foreign critics?

It depends on who you ask.

But whomever it is aimed at, Uzbekistan looks set to pass a law on "undesirable persons" that will provide a legal framework for deporting or denying entry to foreign citizens and stateless people perceived as having offended the country and its population.



According to the Oliy Majlis's press service, the law was drafted "due to the need to establish, in modern conditions of globalization, additional measures to protect the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Uzbekistan."



A final reading of the bill sailed through the lower house of parliament last month, leaving only senatorial approval and the president's signature for it to become law.



Foreigners can become undesirable because of "public calls or actions that contradict the state sovereignty, territorial integrity and security of Uzbekistan, provoking interstate, social, national, racial and religious hostility, discrediting the honor, dignity, and history of the people of Uzbekistan."



The law comes just months after two Russian chauvinists made deeply presumptuous remarks in relation to Uzbekistan and its people.



Yet it also comes at a time when Central Asia's most populous country is becoming less accessible to foreign journalists and activists who ask uncomfortable questions about its direction, explaining why activists and journalists -- especially Uzbek-born foreign nationals -- feel targeted by the law.



Prilepin's Law?



When the ultranationalist Russian politician and writer Zakhar Prilepin used a press conference in Moscow in December to taunt Uzbekistan and Uzbeks, it went down very badly in the country he was insulting.



Prilepin called for countries that send migrant workers to Russia to be "annexed" and for their citizens to be "taught Russian language on the spot...in Uzbekistan, for instance."

By disavowing documents on the collapse of the Soviet Union, Russia could reabsorb former Soviet republics, he argued. "Since 2 million of your citizens are on our territory, we claim your territory," he added.



A robust response was demanded.



The Uzbek Foreign Ministry duly called in Russian Ambassador Oleg Malginov to protest Prilepin's statement.



The Russian Foreign Ministry said Prilepin did not represent Russia's official position.



Monitoring of Telegram groups by RFE/RL's Uzbek Service at the time found several calls for the type of law that Uzbekistan's lower house just passed.



The calls were repeated in January when another Russian public figure, Mikhail Smolin, questioned the history of the Uzbek people in an insulting form during a talk show in January on the Russian NTV channel.



Rasul Kusherbaev, a government adviser and former lawmaker who positions himself as a pro-reform voice in President Shavkat Mirziyoev's administration, sent Prilepin "and all those who want to take over Uzbekistan" an X-rated response on his Telegram channel.



More than half a year later, after the passage of the bill, Kusherbaev was triumphant.



"Earlier, a number of foreign politicians made humiliating and offensive statements against Uzbekistan. In the future, the new law will be a worthy response to such chauvinists," he wrote.



But nearly 30 human rights groups, mostly based in Europe and Uzbekistan's Central Asian neighbors, disagree.



They wrote in a joint appeal on July 5 that the amendments "represent a flagrant violation of international standards on freedom of expression and pose a serious risk of isolating the country."



That outcome would be bitterly ironic, given the political capital Mirziyoev has invested in pulling the country out of the isolation of his hard-line mentor and predecessor, Islam Karimov.



Or A Law For Labor Rights Monitors?



In addition to entry bans, the law on undesirables envisages two types of deportations for foreigners and others without citizenship. One is soft and the other hard, with a five-year prohibition on reentry in both cases.



According to the draft law, foreigners found to have transgressed the law can be asked to leave the country voluntarily within a period of 10 days. "If the [undesirable] person does not leave the country voluntarily within this period, he will be deported by the internal affairs bodies[and] forcibly expelled from the country," it reads.



Other restrictions forbid undesirable persons from opening bank accounts, purchasing real estate, privatizing property, or entering into financial and contractual relationships with Uzbek citizens.



Uzbek authorities have said that Russia, which has a law on "undesirable organizations," was one of the sources of inspiration for the law along with countries like Belarus and Poland.



Little in the law's language seems relevant to Prilepin, who, after making his remarks, probably isn't considering visiting Uzbekistan any time soon, much less buying a house there.



But they seem much more applicable to foreign rights defenders -- including those born in Uzbekistan but naturalized elsewhere -- that come to the country to monitor and support their increasingly under-pressure colleagues.



The Cotton Campaign, a global coalition for labor rights in the cotton industry, released a statement in May about rights defender Umida Niyazova cutting her visit to Uzbekistan short after Niyazova and local journalist Sharifa Madrahimova were intimidated by a pair of men near Madrahimova's house.



The men, one of whom is a pro-government blogger, accused Niyazova of "organizing information attacks against Uzbekistan."

Niyazova is the Uzbek-born, Berlin-based chairwoman of the Uzbek Forum, an organization well-known for its monitoring of labor rights in Uzbekistan, including in the lucrative cotton sector.



She spent four months in jail in Uzbekistan in 2007 when the government was heavily cracking down on civil society and media in the wake of the government's killing of hundreds of protesters in the eastern city of Andijon.



Now a German citizen, she felt safe enough to return to the country in 2021 and, in 2023, when she was invited to participate in the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development's annual meeting in Samarkand.



"This time [2024] was the most hostile, for sure. Surveillance. Intimidation. I really got the feeling that they were trying to tell me: you're not welcome," Niyazova told RFE/RL.



In addition to the incident that she and Madrahimova endured in Ferghana, Niyazova told RFE/RL that she was unable to meet with some partners of the Uzbek Forum in Tashkent after they were called in by the police and questioned for several hours in their home regions.



"They were not charged with any crime. They were psychologically intimidated. [Police] asked them, 'Why are you working with enemies of our country?' That sort of thing."

The Door Is Open, Just Not For You



The shame of all this is that Mirziyoev's Uzbekistan gave even the most cynical Central Asia-watchers something to get excited about in the first four or so years after Karimov's death in 2016.



From being a republic that still had exit visas in force for its own citizens prior to Mirziyoev's arrival in power, Uzbekistan by January 2020 had become arguably Central Asia's most tourism-open country, having granted visa waivers to citizens of 85 different countries -- the United States a notable exception.

Even more importantly, in terms of their international image, Uzbek authorities led a successful drive to reduce forced labor in the cotton harvest, defined by the International Labor Organization as "the largest seasonal mobilization of labor in the world."



This achievement led to the Cotton Campaign ending its more than decade-long boycott of Uzbek cotton and, in 2019, won Uzbekistan the honor of being The Economist's "country of the year. "



But the second half of Mirziyoev's nearly eight years in charge has seen an uptick in prison terms against bloggers, deportations of foreign journalists and activists, the introduction of punitive new laws, and his administration's very own watershed moment -- the bloody crackdown on pro-autonomy protests in Uzbekistan's autonomous Karakalpakstan region in 2022.

And now that the news coming out of the country is not so good, Tashkent seems to want fewer critical eyes coming in.



Joanna Lillis, a correspondent for the same publication that awarded Uzbekistan "country of the year," has not had her media accreditation renewed since she applied in February 2023, and says she has been asked not to carry out any professional activities during trips to the country.

Mihra Rittmann, a U.S. citizen and researcher for Human Rights Watch, applied for an Uzbek visa in April, after her previous visit to the country at the end of 2023. Despite following up on the request multiple times, she was not granted a visa for her intended May visit.



Many Karimov-era Uzbek exiles say they are still on a blacklist that in some of their cases goes back to the 1990s. Others were allowed back, only to be shown the door later.



Journalist and documentary filmmaker Shahida Yakub, an Uzbek-born British citizen, was able to visit the country -- albeit after an hourlong interrogation about her work at the border -- for a family funeral in 2022. But she was barred from entering while on another private visit in April 2023.

There are plenty of other examples -- the 2021 deportation of Polish journalist Agnieszka Pikulicka-Wilczewska being one of the more headline-grabbing -- but prominent Russian chauvinists are not among them.



Indeed, "desirable" international visitors to Uzbekistan apparently include Denis Pushilin, the Kremlin-appointed head of the Russian-occupied Donetsk region in Ukraine, who is subject to sanctions from the United States, the European Union, and at least six other Western countries.



A statement by the so-called "Donetsk People's Republic" separatists on April 23 described Pushilin's trip to the country as a "working visit."



Reflecting on what he witnessed at a tech-focused business park in the Tashkent region, Pushilin called the park an experience "which we can adopt and implement" and noted plans to create an "eco-technopark on the basis of Azovstal," a former steel plant in Mariupol that now lies in ruins after being besieged by Russian forces in one of the most intense and deadly battles of the war in Ukraine.

"Thanks to cooperation with friendly countries, we have the opportunity to gain new experience in order to develop, increase intellectual capital, and introduce modern technologies and innovations," Pushilin said.



RFE/RL sent requests for comment to the Uzbek Foreign Ministry on Niyazova, Rittman, and Lillis's cases, but had not received a reply at the time of publication.
KYODO NEWS - Jul 14, 2024 - 21:28 | All, Japan

The Japanese government is considering allowing the peacetime monitoring of private metadata in a way that does not directly identify individuals, in a bid to bolster its pre-emptive cyberattack defenses, government sources said Sunday.

Data such as messages themselves, in principle, will not be subject to monitoring, amid concerns that the plans to strengthen surveillance against potential cyberattacks could infringe on privacy, the sources said.

Japan's Constitution forbids the violation of the secrecy of any means of communication.

Instead, the government would allow, during normal times, surveillance of changes to information such as amounts of metadata -- accompanying data such as a message's size or the date it was sent -- and IP addresses that identify devices on networks.

The sources said the government has judged that limiting the target information to metadata would be within the scope of the law.

Cyberattacks are often staged via multiple devices, making it useful to regularly monitor changes in data traffic and times information is sent.

The government aims to submit a bill during an extraordinary parliament session in the fall at the earliest to boost the country's "active cyber defense," in which signs of cyberattacks are observed and detected, and if necessary, enable preventative measures such as disrupting enemy servers with computer viruses.

The government is also considering creating a framework to allow it to obtain metadata held by the country's communications firms.

Collection and management of the metadata is planned to be centered at a new organization to be devised by the government's National Center of Incident Readiness and Strategy for Cybersecurity.

Related coverage:

Russia-linked group claims cyberattack on Japanese video site niconico

MUFG bank, brokerages told to improve operations over info-sharing

Japan space agency suffers multiple cyberattacks since last year
Oran GAA club has lodged plans with Roscommon County Council to build a shop at its GAA grounds at Clooneenbaun.

In the planning documents submitted to the local authority, the club said it wished to add to and provide additional facilities for its members, match attendees, and wider community at their grounds.

The shop is for the sale of tea, coffee and light refreshments on match days.

In the planning file, the club said that that funding for the works is subject to receiving planning permission.

County planners are due to make a decision on the development in early September.
From Abraham Lincoln to Donald Trump: Know history of shootings in US Presidential politics

US Presidential elections have seen several incidents when such attacks took place.

Abraham Lincoln to Donald Trump Attack, History of shooting US Presidential politics: In a shocking attack on former US President Donald Trump, gunshots were fired at him during a rally speech. The investigators have been treating the incident as a possible assassination attempt on the former President.

This is not the first time that the US has witnessed an attack ahead of the US Presidential elections because there have been several incidents when such attacks took place.

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Ronald Reagon (1981)

The then US President Reagan was shot and seriously injured while he was leaving an event at the Hilton hotel in Washington. The attacker was identified as John Hinckley Jr, who was later granted unconditional release in 2022.

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Gerald Ford (1975)

The then US President Gerald Ford was left unconscious in two separate assassination attempts by women in September 1975. Both attempts were held in California and within 17 days.

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George Wallace (1972)

Wallace was shot four times that led to paralysis for life at a shopping mall in Laurel, Maryland. He was campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot.

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Robert F Kennedy (1968)

President John F. Kennedys brother Robert was running for the Democratic presidential nomination. He was shot and killed at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles, California.

John F. Kennedy (1963)

John F. Kennedy was riding in his motorcade with his wife Jackie when he was assassinated in Dallas, Texas by Lee Harvey Oswald.

Franklin D. Roosevelt (1933)

As president-elect, Franklin D. Roosevelt was also a target of an assassination attempt in Miami, Florida. Fortunately, he was unharmed, but Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak was killed in the attack.

Theodore Roosevelt (1912)

Just like Donald Trump, Theodore Roosevelt was running for the White House as a former President when he was shot in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

William McKinley (1901)

The then President McKinley was shot and killed by anarchist Leon Czolgosz in Buffalo, New York.

Abraham Lincoln (1865)

Abraham Lincoln was assassinated by John Wilkes Booth while watching a play called Our American Cousin at Fords Theater in Washington.

(For more news apart from Abraham Lincoln to Donald Trump Attack, History of shooting US Presidential politics, stay tuned to Rozana Spokesman)
July 14, 2024 UPDATE

A roundup of domestic and international news

Newsflash

Newsroom, 14.07.2024, 20:00

HEAT WAVE  With the exception of a few counties in the center, north and southeast, the entire Romanian territory is under a code red alert against extreme heat, the widest such warning issued so far in Romania. A new code red alert is expected to take effect on Monday, targeting the entire country with the exception of nine counties in the north, where a code orange alert will be in place. Highs during the interval are expected to reach or exceed 42 degrees, with heat persisting throughout the night and the THI exceeding the critical level of 80, thus creating severe thermal discomfort. Central and local authorities are making efforts to cope with the effects of the heat wave. First aid and water supply tents have been set up in several towns and villages. Road and rail traffic are subject to certain restrictions. Doctors recommend the population observe special rules, particularly vulnerable categories such as elderly, children, pregnant women and people suffering from chronic diseases. People are urged to avoid going out at noon, wear light clothing and drink lots of water. Some outdoor events have been cancelled, and only means of public transport with air conditioning will remain in service in Bucharest during the interval.

TRUMP SHOOTING  World leaders reacted on Sunday to the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump. European Commission president, Ursula von der Leyen, expressed her deep shock at the news. Germanys Chancellor, Olaf Scholz, said the attack on Donald Trump is a despicable act. In turn, the president of France, Emmanuel Macron, labeled the attack as a tragedy for our democracies, while the head of Italys ultraconservative government, Giorgia Meloni, expressed solidarity with Trump, hoping that dialogue and responsibility will prevail over hatred and violence. In turn, UN Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, unequivocally condemned the assassination attempt. Violence and aggression are not the attributes of a democracy, Romanias president, Klaus Iohannis, said in turn, condemning the horrific attack. Donald Trump was shot in the ear on Saturday at a rally in Pennsylvania. The gunman and one person in attendance were killed, while another two people sustained critical injuries. This was the last rally ahead of the Republican Convention scheduled next week, where Donald Trump is expected to be officially designated the Republican candidate in the US presidential election. The FBI have identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a native of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, registered as a Republican voter.

BUSINESS  Over 9,000 companies in Romania suspended their activity in the first five months of the year, up by a third compared to the similar period of 2023. According to data published by the Trade Registry, most such companies are operating in Bucharest, Cluj-Napoca, Brasov and Iasi. Broken down in fields of activity, most companies that suspended their activity operated in wholesale and retail, car and motorcycle repairs, but also in scientific, technical and construction fields. This year a number of measures adopted by the government at the end of last year took effect, prompting criticism from the business sector and leading to tax hikes and new bureaucratic obligations for businesses.

BACCALAUREATE  High-school graduates who failed to pass the Baccalaureate exam in the first session can sign up for the August session, set to take place over August 8-22. The registration phase will take place over July 15-22, according to the timetable approved by the Education Ministry. Digital and linguistic skill tests will first take place over August 8-14, with the written exams scheduled for August 19-22.

VOTE  MEPs next week are voting on Ursula von der Leyens candidacy for a second term at the helm of the European Commission. A debate will also be held ahead of the vote. To get re-elected, the 65-year-old German president of the European Commission needs at least 361 of the total number of 720 eligible votes. This week, two new far-right parties were set up in the European Parliament, one of them totaling enough members to become the third political force of the current legislature. The EPP, S&D, RENEW and the Greens together hold 454 seats and are planning to isolate the two extremist groups  The Patriots for Europe and the Europe of Sovereign Nations. Both oppose support for Ukraine, are viewed as friendly towards Moscow and accused of comprising authoritarian parties. Also next week, MEPs will also cast their votes to elect the new president of the European Parliament, as well as 14 vice-presidents and quaestors. Born in 1979, Roberta Metsola of Malta is favorite to secure a new term in office. (VP)
Romanian officials react to Trump shooting

A number of Romanian officials have strongly condemned the attempted assassination on former US president Donald Trump.

Credits (Agerpres/ Xinhua)

Eugen Cojocariu, 14.07.2024, 10:50

Violence and aggression are not attributes of any democracy, President Klaus Iohannis conveyed in a message on Sunday in response to the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. I am horrified by the attack on former President Trump at his campaign rally. I wish him a speedy and complete recovery. Violence and aggression are not attributes of any democracy. We stand with the American people, Iohannis wrote on X.

Senate Speaker, Nicolae Ciuca, condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump, stressing that hatred, bias and violence have no place in the life of any democracy. The attack on former US President Donald Trump is an attack on freedom of expression and assembly. I wish him a speedy recovery. God bless him and God bless the American people, Nicolae Ciuca wrote on X on Sunday.

Prime Minister Marcel Ciolacu in turn conveyed a message in the context of the armed attack on former US President Donald Trump, saying that, regardless of political or ideological differences, violence is never justified or acceptable. I wish a speedy recovery to president Trump and all the victims of this horrific attack! Regardless of political or ideological differences, resorting to violence is never justified or acceptable, the Prime Minister also wrote on X.

The assassination attempt on former President Trump is a serious attack on the United States. Nothing can justify violence in politics, it is absolutely shocking. My thoughts go out to President Trump, whom I wish a speedy recovery and good health. The context in which the assassination attempt took place makes it an attack on democracy and freedom, thus an attack on the fundamental values that define the United States, MEP Eugen Tomac, president of PMP, in turn wrote.

The assassination attempt against Donald Trump is shocking  we pray for his safety and wish him and those who were injured in Pennsylvania a speedy recovery. Politically motivated violence has no place in a democratic society, it should never be used and always condemned, Romanias Ambassador to the USA, Andrei Muraru, also wrote.

We recall former American President Donald Trump was shot in the ear on Saturday at an election rally in Pennsylvania. (VP)
Trump injured during shooting at Pennsylvania rally

The former US president was shot in the upper part of his right ear

Credits (Agerpres/ Xinhua)

Vlad Palcu, 14.07.2024, 05:11

SHOOTING  Former US president Donald Trump was shot in the right ear during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The president was rushed off stage quickly by Secret Service. According to preliminary reports, the shooter fired multiple shots from an elevated position overseeing the stage before US Secret Service personnel neutralized him. Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told the media that one audience member was also killed in the ensuing panic. According to law enforcement officials, the shooting is now investigated as an attempted assassination.

One of Trumps senior campaign advisers released a statement after the attack, stating that President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action.

Shortly after the attack, president Joe Biden was briefed on the developments. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, president Biden said in a statement.

Scores of other US former and current officials have condemned the attack, wishing the former president a speedy recovery.

Trump is expected to receive a formal nomination at the Republican National Convention, slated for Monday in Milwaukee, which will proceed on schedule, one party official said. (VP)
Jack D. Schwager, a seasoned trader and author, once remarked, "There are a million ways to make money in the , but the irony is that they are all very difficult to find." Despite the inherent challenges in navigating financial markets, savvy investors succeed in identifying promising stocks that can yield significant returns.

The following compilation represents some of the healthcare stocks featured on our website that reached new 52-week high levels on Friday (July 12, 2024).

Mirum Pharmaceuticals Inc. (MIRM)

Mirum is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company developing treatments for rare diseases. It has three approved medications - Livmarli oral solution, Cholbam capsules, and Chenodal tablets.

For full year 2024, the company expects to report revenue in the range of $310 million to $320 million. Revenue was $186 million last year.

Last month, Mirum submitted a new drug application for Chenodol (Chenodiol tablets) for the treatment of Cerebrotendinous xanthomatosis. If approved, Chenodol would be the first and only medication approved to treat patients with this rare inborn bile acid metabolism disorder. Chenodol is approved for the treatment of people with radiolucent stones in the gallbladder.

MIRM was featured on our site on May 22, 2024, when it was trading around $25.81. The stock closed Friday's trading at $39.44, reflecting a gain of nearly 53% in less than 2 months.

Nurix Therapeutics Inc. (NRIX)

Nurix is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing targeted protein modulation drugs for hematologic malignancies and solid tumors.

The company's lead drug candidate is NX-5948, currently being evaluated in a phase 1a/b clinical trial in adults with relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, including CLL and non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Last month, the company presented positive data from the phase Ia dose escalation part for patients with relapsed or refractory CLL, which demonstrated an objective response rate of 69.2%. Additional clinical data from this study for patients with CLL and non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) are expected in the second half of 2024.

Also in the pipeline is NX-2127, which is under a phase 1a/b clinical trial in relapsed or refractory B-cell malignancies, and NX-1607, which is in a phase I trial in monotherapy and in a combination cohort utilizing paclitaxel in adults in a range of oncology indications.

NRIX was featured on our site on July 11, 2023, when it was trading around $10.03. The stock closed Friday's trading at $23.82, representing a gain of over 130% from our published price.

The Pennant Group Inc. (PNTG)

Pennant is a holding company of independent operating subsidiaries that provide healthcare services through home and hospice agencies and senior living communities.

For the first quarter ended March 31, 2024, the company reported total revenue of $156.9 million, up 24.1% over the prior year quarter, and adjusted net income of $6.0 million, an increase of 55.0% over the prior year quarter.

PNTH was featured on our site on Feb.7, 2023, when it was trading around $12.38. The stock closed Friday's trading at $25.62, reflecting a gain of over 100% from our published price.

Amneal Pharmaceuticals Inc. (AMRX)

Amneal is a global pharmaceutical company having a diverse portfolio of essential medicines, including retail generics, injectables, biosimilars and specialty branded pharmaceuticals.

For the first quarter ended March 31, 2024, net revenue was $659 million, an increase of 18% compared to $558 million in the first quarter of 2023.

The company is slated to release its second quarter 2024 financial results on August 9, 2024.

AMRX was featured on our site on June 11, 2024, when it was trading around $6.80. The stock closed Friday's trading at $7.19, reflecting a gain of 6% in 1 month.

AnaptysBio Inc. (ANAB)

AnaptysBio is a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing innovative immunology therapeutics.

A global phase 2b trial with ANB032 to treat atopic dermatitis is underway, with top-line data anticipated by year-end 2024. The company is also conducting a global phase 2b trial to treat rheumatoid arthritis and global phase 2 trial to treat ulcerative colitis with Rosnilimab, with top-line data anticipated by mid-2025 and H1 2026, respectively.

ANAB was featured on our site on October 5, 2023, when it was trading around $18.53. The stock closed Friday's trading at $30.10, which implies a gain of 62% from our published price.

ADMA Biologics Inc. (ADMA)

ADMA is a fully integrated commercial biopharmaceutical company focused on the manufacture and marketing of specialty biologics for the treatment of immunodeficient patients at risk for infection and others at risk for certain infectious diseases.

The company's marketed products include the FDA-approved ASCENIV, BIVIGAM and NABI-HB.

For 2024, the company expects total revenue to be more than $355 million and net income to exceed $85 million. Looking ahead to 2025, total revenue is projected to surpass $410 million and net income to exceed $135 million.

We featured ADMA on our site on Feb.15, 2024, when it was trading around $5.36. The stock closed Friday's trading at $12.78, which implies a gain of over 130% in just 5 months.

Krystal Biotech Inc. (KRYS)

Krystal is a commercial-stage biotechnology company developing genetic medicines for high unmet medical needs. Its lead product VYJUVEK was approved in the U.S. in May 2023, for the treatment of dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa.

VYJUVEK generated net product revenue of $45.3 million for the first quarter of 2024.

A phase I trial evaluating KB301 designed to address - and potentially reverse - biological changes in aging skin, dubbed PEARL-1, is underway. Results from Cohort 3 of the trial, evaluating KB301 for the improvement of lateral canthal lines at rest, and Cohort 4 in the improvement of dynamic wrinkles of the decollete (chest wrinkles), are anticipated mid-2024.

KRYS was featured on our site on June 8, 2023, when it was trading around $127.46. The stock closed Friday's trading at $203.13, representing a gain of 59% from our published price.

Select Medical Holdings Corp. (SEM)

Select Medical operates critical illness recovery hospitals, rehabilitation hospitals, outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and occupational health centers in the United States.

The company is slated to report financial results for its second quarter ended June 30, 2024, on August 1, 2024, after the market closes. For the second quarter ended June 30, 2023, the company had reported revenue of $1,674.5 million, an increase of 5.7% over the same quarter, prior year.

SEM was featured on our site on Nov.22, 2023, when it was trading around $23.36. The stock closed Friday's trading at $37.49, which represents a gain of 60% in 8 months.

Harrow Inc. (HROW)

Harrow is an eyecare pharmaceutical company making pharmaceutical products for ophthalmic surgeries in the U.S., as well as medications prescribed to treat patients managing chronic and acute eye conditions.

For the first quarter ended March 31, 2024, the company had reported revenue of $34.6 million compared to $26.1 million in the year-earlier quarter, a 33% increase. The company is confident of meeting its revenue guidance of more than $180 million for full year 2024. Revenue was $130.2 million last year.

We featured HROW on our site on Feb.13, 2024, when it was trading around $11.32. The stock closed Friday's trading at $23.61, implying a gain of over 100% in just 5 months.

Crinetics Pharmaceuticals Inc. (CRNX)

Crinetics Pharma is a clinical-stage pharmaceutical company developing novel therapeutics for endocrine diseases and endocrine-related tumors.

The company's lead drug candidate is Paltusotine, being developed for acromegaly and for carcinoid syndrome associated with neuroendocrine tumors.

A New Drug Application, seeking approval of Paltusotine for the treatment of acromegaly is expected to be submitted to the FDA in the second half of 2024. A phase III program of Paltusotine for carcinoid syndrome is planned for initiation by the end of 2024, pending discussions with the FDA.

CRNX was featured on our site on Jan.4, 2023, when it was trading around $18.17. The stock closed Friday's trading at $53.67, reflecting a gain of 195% from our published price.

Innoviva Inc. (INVA)

Innoviva is a diversified holding company with a portfolio of royalties and other healthcare assets.

The company's royalty portfolio is made up of respiratory assets partnered with Glaxo Group Limited including RELVAR/BREO ELLIPTA and ANORO ELLIPTA. Its commercial and marketed products include GIAPREZA approved in the United States to increase blood pressure in adults with septic or other distributive shock, and XERAVA, approved in the U.S. for the treatment of complicated intra-abdominal infections in adults.

For the first quarter 2024, gross royalty revenue from Glaxo Group was $61.9 million compared to $60.3 million for the first quarter of 2023. Net product sales and license revenue were $19.1 million in the first quarter of 2024, a 66% increase compared to $11.5 million in the year-ago period.

We featured INVA on our site on April 19.2023, when it was trading around $11.34. The stock closed Friday's trading at $16.73, implying a gain of 47% from our published price.

ARS Pharmaceuticals Inc. (SPRY)

ARS Pharma is a biopharmaceutical company developing needle-free, effective treatments for severe allergic reactions.

The company's investigational product, Neffy, a "no needle, no injection" solution for Type I allergic reactions or anaphylactic reactions, is under FDA review, with a decision due on October 2, 2024. Neffy, under the brand name EURneffy, is also under review by the European Medicines Agency.

Last month, the Committee for Medicinal Products for Human Use (CHMP) of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) recommended approval of EURneffy for emergency treatment of allergic reactions (anaphylaxis). The final decision of the EMA is expected this quarter (Q3).

SPRY was featured on our site on June 11, 2024, when it was trading around $8.99. The stock closed Friday's trading at $11.35, reflecting a gain of 26% in 1 month.

Medpace Holdings Inc. (MEDP)

Medpace is a global full-service clinical contract research organization (CRO) providing phase I-IV clinical development services to the biotechnology, pharmaceutical and medical device industries.

The company had reported revenue of $511.0 million for the first quarter of 2024, compared to $434.1 million in the year-ago quarter.

While reporting first quarter 2024 results in April, the company forecast full year 2024 revenue to be in the range of $2.150 billion to $2.200 billion, representing growth of 14.0% to 16.7% over 2023 revenue of $1.886 billion.

The financial results for the second quarter of 2024, are scheduled to be reported after the market close on July 22, 2024.

We featured MEDP on our site on Oct.25, 2022, when it was trading around $202.45, and again on April 24, 2024, when it was trading around $415. The stock closed Friday's trading at $443.

Avidity Biosciences Inc. (RNA)

Avidity is focused on building a new class of RNA therapeutics known as Antibody Oligonucleotide Conjugates. It has 3 clinical programs - Del-desiran in DM1, Del-brax in FSHD, and AOC 1044 in DMD44.

Del-desiran, formerly AOC 1001, is under a phase III study for the treatment of Myotonic Dystrophy Type 1, dubbed HARBOR. Del-brax, also known as AOC 1020, demonstrated promising results in a phase I/II trial in facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD), dubbed FORTITUDE, last month. AOC 1044 is being evaluated in a phase I/II trial in Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy amenable to exon 44 skipping, dubbed EXPLORE44, with data anticipated this quarter (Q3).

RNA was featured on our site on Feb.20, 2024, when it was trading around $14.33. The stock closed Friday's trading at $44.80, which marks an impressive gain of over 200% in just 5 months.

Revolution Medicines Inc. (RVMD)

Revolution Medicines is a clinical-stage oncology company developing targeted therapies for RAS-addicted cancers.

The company is scheduled to provide an update on its RMC-6236 pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) clinical development program on July 15, 2024. Initial data reported from a phase 1/1b trial of RMC-6236 as monotherapy in patients with advanced solid tumors harboring KRASG12X mutations, last September, were promising.

RVMD was featured on our site on May 9, 2023, when it was trading around $24.17. The stock closed Friday's trading at $45.14, representing a gain of over 85% from our published price.

For comments and feedback contact: editorial@rttnews.com

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Mahindra is getting ready for their next blockbuster launch next month on 15th August  Thar 5 door

The highly anticipated Mahindra Thar 5-door has been fully revealed ahead of its scheduled debut on 15th August 2024, with leaked photos providing enthusiasts a detailed look at whats to come. Positioned to compete against the 5-door versions of the Force Gurkha and Maruti Suzuki Jimny, the Thar 5-door promises to offer a blend of rugged off-road capability and enhanced practicality for everyday use. Hat tip to Muddu Rebel for sharing these exclusive spy shots.

Exterior Design and Features

In the leaked images, the Thar 5-door is showcased in a vibrant red colour, emphasizing its robust and iconic design elements. It retains the distinctive features of the Thar lineup, including flared wheel arches that accommodate its off-road credentials, a redesigned front grille that adds a touch of modernity, and circular LED headlamps that provide excellent illumination. The rear of the vehicle maintains the signature vertical tail lamps and a tail-mounted spare wheel, ensuring continuity in design with its 3-door counterpart while adding the convenience of two additional doors.

Interior Comfort and Technology

Inside, the Thar 5-door offers a spacious cabin that caters to both comfort and utility. The second row provides ample room for passengers, complemented by versatile boot space that can be further expanded by folding the rear seats. The interior ambiance is enhanced with premium materials and finishes, including dual-tone upholstery options, while modern conveniences such as dual-zone climate control, rear AC vents, and an electric sunroof add to the overall comfort of the cabin.

Technological upgrades include a fully digital instrument cluster that displays essential vehicle information at a glance and a large 10.25-inch touchscreen infotainment system that supports connectivity features for seamless integration with smartphones and other devices.

Safety and Driving Dynamics

Safety remains a top priority for Mahindra, with the Thar 5-door equipped with advanced safety features to ensure peace of mind on and off the road. The SUV is expected to come with a comprehensive suite of safety technologies, including multiple airbags, a 360-degree camera system for enhanced visibility, front parking sensors, and four-wheel disc brakes that provide superior stopping power. These features are likely to be standard or available on higher trims, reflecting Mahindras commitment to delivering a safe and reliable driving experience.

Engine Options and Performance

Under the hood, the Mahindra Thar 5-door will inherit the powertrain options from its 3-door counterpart, offering a choice between a potent 2.0-liter petrol engine and a robust 2.2-liter diesel engine. The petrol variant is expected to deliver 150 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque, while the diesel variant will offer 129 horsepower and 300 Nm of torque.

Transmission options will include a smooth-shifting 6-speed manual gearbox and a convenient 6-speed torque converter automatic transmission, catering to different driving preferences and ensuring optimal performance across varied terrains. Both rear-wheel drive and four-wheel drive configurations are likely to be available, further enhancing the Thars versatility and capability in challenging conditions.

Market Positioning and Pricing

Priced competitively between Rs 15-20 lakh (ex-showroom), the Mahindra Thar 5-door aims to appeal to a wide range of consumers who prioritize adventure, capability, and style in their vehicle choices. With its rugged yet refined design, advanced features, and proven off-road prowess, the Thar 5-door is poised to carve a niche for itself in the competitive SUV segment. The launch of the Thar 5-door marks a strategic expansion of Mahindras SUV portfolio, aligning with the companys broader vision to introduce a diverse range of new models and strengthen its market presence.
Royal Enfield will launch Guerrilla 450 on 17th July  Ahead of that, the motorcycle has arrived at dealership

As Royal Enfield gears up for the launch of its highly anticipated Guerrilla 450 motorcycle on July 17th, 2024, new spy shots have emerged, offering a detailed look at the bikes design and features. Positioned as a formidable contender in the Roadster segment, the Guerrilla 450 promises to deliver a blend of performance, style, and innovation that sets it apart in the market.

Guerrilla 450 Spied At Dealer

As launch nears, Royal Enfield has started shipping the first batch of Guerrilla 450 to dealers across India. It is from here that the latest spy shots have arrived. These reveal a striking Roadster-style silhouette for the Guerrilla 450, featuring a design that combines modern aesthetics with classic Royal Enfield heritage.

Notably, the bike boasts a new fuel tank design, suggesting a departure from the larger capacity seen in the Himalayan 450. This design tweak aligns with its urban-focused approach, catering to riders looking for agility and style in their daily commutes and spirited rides.

Technical Specs and Performance

Under the hood, the Guerrilla 450 is powered by the Sherpa 450 engine, marking a significant leap in Royal Enfields engineering prowess. This engine incorporates modern features such as a DOHC 4V head and liquid coolingfirsts for any single-cylinder Royal Enfield model. Paired with a 6-speed gearbox, slipper clutch, and ride-by-wire throttle, the Guerrilla 450 promises a refined and responsive riding experience suitable for diverse road conditions.

The spy shots also highlight the bikes chassis, which appears to be derived from the Himalayan 450 platform. However, the Guerrilla 450 features notable modifications, including RSU telescopic front forks with gaiters for enhanced suspension travel and roadster-style handlebars for a sportier riding stance. Alloy wheels shod with road-biased tubeless tyres further emphasize its urban-oriented design, offering superior grip and handling on city streets.

Styling and Ergonomics

In terms of aesthetics, the Guerrilla 450 exudes a neo-retro charm with round LED headlights, round ORVMs, and a minimalist approach to fairing and wind protectionperfectly suited for its Roadster genre. The absence of a front windshield and beak enhances its sleek profile while maintaining a balance between classic design cues and modern functionality. Large disc brakes with dual-channel ABS ensure reliable stopping power, underscoring its commitment to safety and performance.

Expected to be competitively priced around Rs 2.3 lakh (Ex-showroom), the Guerrilla 450 will challenge established models like the Honda CB300R and Triumph Speed 400. Its lighter weight and agile handling characteristics make it an attractive option for riders seeking versatility and excitement in their daily rides and weekend getaways.

Beyond its technical prowess, Royal Enfield has captivated enthusiasts with its Guerrilla Marketing campaign, leveraging provocative visuals and cryptic messages to build anticipation. This unconventional approach not only teases the bikes features but also sparks conversation and engagement across social media platforms, reinforcing the Guerrilla 450s rebellious and distinctive identity.
COLOMBO, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The Maldives has pledged to donate over 1.29 million U.S. dollars in humanitarian aid for Palestine, Permanent Representative of the Maldives to the United Nations Ali Naseer Mohamed said on Saturday.

The aid was announced during the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) Pledging Conference held Friday at the UN headquarters.

Naseer also said that the Maldivian government has increased its annual donation of 5,000 U.S. dollars to Palestine by 10-fold, to 50,000 U.S. dollars this year.

The representative also urged the international community to increase their financial assistance and fulfill political obligations to progress UNRWA initiatives. 
GAZA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in an Israeli air raid on a school housing displaced people in the Nuseirat refugee camp in the central Gaza Strip, said Palestinian security and medical sources on Sunday. 
URUMQI, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China has scheduled over 150 special tourist trains bound for the country's northwestern Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in 2024, according to the Ministry of Culture and Tourism.

The first such tourist train arrived in Xinjiang's Shihezi City on Friday, four days after departing from Nanchang in south China's Jiangxi Province.

The trains are part of a program that was launched by the ministry and China State Railway Group Co., Ltd. to aid the development of Xinjiang and the Xizang Autonomous Region through railway tourism.

The introduction of the Xinjiang-bound tourist trains was also a move to leverage the role tourism plays as an industry closely related to people's well-being and happiness, according to an official of the railway company.

The company will continue introducing measures to enhance the integration of rail networks and tourism, connect tourist destinations with markets through tourist trains, and contribute to the high-quality development of Xinjiang's tourism industry, the official said.

This year marks the 70th anniversary of the establishment of the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps. 
Actors perform during the dance drama "The Exploitation of Nature's Works" ("Tian Gong Kai Wu") in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi Province, June 1, 2024. (Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group/Handout via Xinhua)

NANCHANG, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Sounds of labor, such as farming, sericulture, smelting and pulling bellows, blended with the rhythm as dancers joyously depicted the contentment and comfort that ancient people derived from these activities.

The dance drama adaptation of the Chinese science classic "The Exploitation of Nature's Works" ("Tian Gong Kai Wu"), commenced its nationwide tour Friday in Xiamen, east China's Fujian Province, bringing to life a nearly 400-year-old masterpiece.

The book, compiled by Song Yingxing, a scientist in the late Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), was first published in 1637 during the reign of Emperor Chongzhen. It offers a summary of ancient China's manufacturing and farming techniques, earning recognition as an encyclopedia of science and technology from that time.

Known as the world's first comprehensive treatise on agriculture and handicraft production, the pioneering work has since been translated into multiple languages including English, Japanese, French, German and Russian.

The eponymous drama, co-produced by Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group and Beijing Dance Academy, is helmed by Chinese filmmaker Lu Chuan, known for directing the movie Mountain Patrol and the Hangzhou Asian Games' opening ceremony.

"Song was profoundly intrigued by the ingenuity and creativity of laborers," said Xu Binbin, director of Song Yingxing Memorial Museum, located in Song's home county of Fengxin in east China's Jiangxi Province.

"During his six trips to the capital to take the imperial examinations, or Keju in Chinese, he made multiple visits to farmlands and workshops along the way, meticulously documenting his observations on agricultural techniques and craftsmanship," said Xu.

"The drama revolves around Song's quest, portraying his journey to gather the techniques and tools, emphasizing the craftsmanship of ancient Chinese laborers," explained Lu.

"The graceful dance would infuse vitality into this science encyclopedia, which may otherwise seem cold and dull," Lu added.

Hu Wenjun, who headed to the theatre after finishing work to watch the drama, found himself captivated by the spectacular choreography. "It is a novel endeavor to showcase craftsmanship through dance. I felt invigorated and proud of traditional Chinese culture," he remarked.

According to Xu, Chinese craftsmanship had a significant global impact over four centuries ago, catalyzing a technological revolution in handicraft industries across Asia and Europe.

"The dance drama transcends language barriers, allowing people of different ages and nationalities, especially the younger generation, to gain insights into China's scientific and technological development," noted Lu.

The performance will tour cities including Beijing, Nanjing, Wuhan, Nanchang and Chengdu until October, according to the drama's producers. 

An actor performs during the dance drama "The Exploitation of Nature's Works" ("Tian Gong Kai Wu") in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi Province, June 1, 2024. (Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group/Handout via Xinhua)

Actors perform during the dance drama "The Exploitation of Nature's Works" ("Tian Gong Kai Wu") in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi Province, June 1, 2024. (Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group/Handout via Xinhua)

An actor performs during the dance drama "The Exploitation of Nature's Works" ("Tian Gong Kai Wu") in Nanchang, east China's Jiangxi Province, June 1, 2024. (Jiangxi Cultural Performance Group/Handout via Xinhua)
BERLIN, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A shooting rampage in the town of Lautlingen, Germany's Baden-Wuerttemberg has left several people dead and others injured, the Bild newspaper said on Sunday.

The suspect is reported to be a hunter, according to the newspaper.

No details concerning the incident have been given by the police. The motive for the shooting remains unclear. 
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China has seen declining incidence rates of hepatitis B and related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), according to Chinese health authorities.

China has achieved significant progress in increasing the rate of hepatitis B vaccination, containing new hepatitis B infections, and preventing and controlling HCC related to hepatitis B, said Li Bin, deputy head of the National Health Commission, at a conference on the matter on Saturday.

Data shows that China's three-dose hepatitis B vaccination rate among newborns has been maintained at over 95 percent and reached the 2030 goal set by the World Health Organization.

In 2022, around 367,700 new cases of liver cancer were reported in China, with a standardized incidence rate of approximately 15.03 per 100,000 people, revealing a downward trend when compared to historical data.

Zhuang Hui, academician of the Chinese Academy of Engineering, has called for continued efforts to improve hepatitis B diagnosis and treatment rates.

The key to eliminating hepatitis B and reducing its mortality rate is vaccinating susceptible adults that do not have immunity against the virus and other groups at risk, Zhuang suggested.

China still faces challenges as it works toward the goal of eliminating hepatitis B by 2030, Li said, adding that more will be done to promote vaccination and optimize testing strategies. 
For many people, the snooze alarm is a vital part of the morning. Once, twice or more, it delays the inevitable start to the day. According to sleep experts, however, it may be more accurate to call that button an enemy.

Its satisfying in the moment to hit the snooze and delay getting out of bed and starting the day, but it does actually fragment and undermine that sleep quality, Dr. Brandon Peters, a neurologist and sleep medicine physician with Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, told CNN.

A 2022 study published in the journal Sleep, helmed by researchers at the University of Notre Dame, discovered around 57% of 450 participants habitually used the snooze button.

These are people who have been in the workforce for years, white-collar workers with advanced degrees  and 57% of them are snoozing, lead study author Stephen Mattingly said in a news release. Critically, these statistics are only representative of a small population that is likely to be in the best position with respect to sleep habits. We have no idea about various age groups such as teenagers, lower-income households or any of the populations that are historically more sleep deprived than the respondents of this study. So, the odds are this is probably a conservative estimate of the wider population.

Michigan Medicine Sleep Disorders Centers sleep medicine physician Dr. Cathy Goldstein told CNN that the most common reason someone repeatedly uses the snooze button is sleep deprivation. According to the Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, around 36% of Americans didnt get enough sleep in 2022.

Number one: are you actually getting the sleep you need? Goldstein asked. Not the amount of sleep you think you should get or that you want to get, but the amount of sleep that you actually need. And are you getting that on a nightly basis?

For most adults, seven to nine hours of sleep will suffice, but every person has different requirements. Another reason a person may be hitting the snooze button is they are naturally predisposed to operating late in the night and sleeping through the early morning, a proverbial night owl forced to wake up because of an early work schedule.

Another possible cause of snoozing is sleep inertia, a disorder that hampers a persons ability to transition out of sleep. For most, however, its just about needing to catch more Zs, the experts say.
NEW YORK, N.Y.  In the wake of the Pennsylvania assassination attempt against former President Donald J. Trump Saturday, New York City will have an increase police presence at Trump Tower and additional Manhattan locations, according to the Gothamist.

Deputy Mayor Fabien Levy announced the boosted police presence posted on the social media site X.

.@NYCMayor has been briefed on the incident involving former President Trump in Pennsylvania & continues to get updates.



Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD will be increasing its presence across the city, including at Trump Tower, 40 Wall Street, Foley Square, & City Hall.  Fabien Levy (@Fabien_Levy) July 13, 2024

Levy said on the platform that the increased police presence is out of an abundance of caution and is not in connection to any specific threat.

There is no known connection between the incident at the Pennsylvania rally and New York City.

Trump Tower, the Trump-owned 40 Wall St., Foley Square and City Hall are among the sites where extra police officers will be deployed, Levy said.

In a separate post on X, Mayor Eric Adams called the incident horrific.

Sending my prayers to former President Trump, his family, and everyone who was at todays event, Adams said. Political violence has no place in this country.
New York City health officials have announced the discovery of two cases of measles in people living at one of the citys migrant shelters, ABC7NY is reporting.

Officials are investigating who has been exposed to the illness of those living on the first floor of the Hall Street migrant shelter in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn.

According to the outlet, those who dont have vaccination documentation will be tested for immunity, while those who arent found to be immune will be required to quarantine for 21 days.

Experts believe that while Measles is contagious, there is low risk to the community as most New Yorkers are believed to be vaccinated against it, the report said.

The illness is likely to be another point of contention for Clinton Hill residents whove claimed the shelter has led to an increase in trash, noise and homelessness underneath the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway, the report said.
Following a shooting at a Pennsylvania rally that left former President Donald Trump bloodied, and killed at least one attendee, the Staten Island community reacted with shock and horror.

The apparent shooter was also killed, according to the Associated Press.

As word of the incident spread at the Saturday evening Ferryhawks game in St. George, people from all sides of the political spectrum expressed grave concern.

Too many people died for the right to vote, now people shouldnt be dying because theyre running for president, regardless of what your opinion is, said Robert Perkins of New Brighton, who served as the Democratic District Leader for the 61st District. I understand people dont like him, but when you get to the point where you want to take somebody outthats problematic on so many levels.

A Trump supporter, Chris Johannsen of West Brighton said, I think that former President Trump is being persecuted. I dont like it. I feel that its unjust and its unfair to a presidential candidate to try to assassinate him.

Meanwhile, elected officials were also quick to share their prayers for Trumps recovery.

The events that unfolded at todays rally in Pennsylvania are horrific, said Mayor Eric Adams. No matter our disagreements, we must all agree that violence of any kind is unacceptable. I am praying for the safety of former President Trump and anyone else who may have been injured in the attack in the incident today.

While we continue to gather more information, we will be surging officers to certain sites across the five boroughs.

Borough President Vito Fossella said in a statement, our main focus now is on the health and well-being of President Trump, and Rep. Nicole Malliotakis posted on X, We are praying for President Trump and for the safety of everyone at the Butler, PA rally.

Both have been endorsed by Trump in local races.

A SCENE OF TERROR

Donald Trumps campaign said in a statement that the former president was fine after a shooting at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A local prosecutor says the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the apparent shots began.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard and he crouched down.

Someone could be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents tackled the former president. They piled atop him to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

Assemblyman Michael Tannousis acknowledged the work of the secret service.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and I applaud the brave men and women of the secret service and law enforcement who acted quickly in this instance and who put their lives on the line every day to protect the public, he said.

As the months ahead of a tense presidential election loom, back at the Staten Island ballpark, Ryann McConnell from New Jersey expressed concern that they are going to continue to try and assassinate Trump and stop him.

In an Instagram video Saturday, ardent Trump supporter and artist Scott Lobaido begged Trumps followers not to react to the incident with violence. He said he would be venting his own feelings in a new piece of art that he planned to work on overnight.

Associated Press material was used in this report.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y.  In a hall off Richmond Road, elected Staten Island GOP officials gathered to express their sorrow and outrage over the apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

State Sen. Andrew Lanza (R-South Shore), Councilman David Carr (R-Mid-Island/South Brooklyn), Councilman Joe Borrelli (R-South Shore), Assemblyman Michael Tannousis (R-East Shore/South Brooklyn), and Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo (R-Mid-Island) took to a mic-ed up podium within the Staten Island Republican Party Headquarters in New Dorp, surrounded by veterans, Trump supporters, and other staff.

Rep. David Carr speaks at the Staten Island Republican Party Headquarters on July 14, 2024, a day after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred. (Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney)Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney

This is a crucial moment in history. We just celebrated the 248 years since our independence, just the other week. We saw yesterday, our constitutional republic come within a breath of being dealt a significant blow with the near killing, the near assassination of Donald Trump, Carr said.

What separates us from communist states, dictatorships, third world banana republics, is that we dont murder our political opponents. We beat them at the ballot box. That doesnt mean we dont get angry, that doesnt mean we dont protest, it doesnt mean we dont fight hardbut we fight on soap boxes, we fight in ballot booths. Not with weapons, Borelli said.

Councilman Joe Borelli speaks at the Staten Island Republican Party Headquarters on July 14, 2024, a day after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred. (Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney)Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney

Lanza, however, said that this tragic event ought not be any surprise to anyone.

The responsibility for this act is that deranged, demonic shooter who, obviously, did not have the benefit of good upbringing. I dont think, as it has been suggested through the night, that its too early to ask questions, that we ought not to politicize or ask questions. I think thats nonsense, Lanza emphasized.

He highlighted the need to know whether presidential candidates like Trump, President Joe Biden, and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., and their supporters are safe within their respective rallies as the country moves forward.

As he continued to speak, Lanza and his colleagues were quick to pin some of the blame on the hate from the left and the media for this disaster. Lanza himself called the shooter a sort of Manchurian assassin.

Listen to what has been said about Donald Trump for 10 years. The left, both in Hollywood, the media, in government  have not said his policies are bad. Theyve demonized him for 10 years You turn on the television, any morning show, and you hear people who have a following, especially among young people, say things like, Hes Hitler. Lanza stated. What do you think is going to happen when you say the man whos running for office is Hitler? What do you think some impressionable, deranged, demonic person might think to themselves after youve convinced them that the person running for president is Hitler?

The suspected shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, is registered to the Republican party.

Assemblyman Michael Tannousis speaks at the Staten Island Republican Party Headquarters on July 14, 2024, a day after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred. (Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney)Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney

It doesnt matter who he is. It doesnt matter why he did it. The fact is that he tried to kill President Trump. Thats it. We are here to condemn those actions, to say violence is not the answer. Violence should not breed more violence. [If] you want to do something about it, you dont like the direction our country is headed, make your voice heard in the political process and in the ballot box. Thats the reason why were here today, Tannousis said.

Tannousis also offered condolences and prayers to the family of the fallen rally goer, in addition to the two victims who were critically injured during the shooting.

It is both shocking and heartbreaking that someone attempted to assassinate President Trump. In the process, innocent bystanders were also shot, including one who sadly succumbed to injuries. While we are still waiting to learn more about the shooter and how this horrifying act was able to occur, we are thankful for the Secret Service officers who ushered President Trump to safety and neutralized the situation in a matter of seconds. The way President Trump has been targeted and vilified has gone too far. This act of political violence and pure hatred is unacceptable. As Americans, we can disagree but should respect opinions from across the political spectrum and engage in respectful dialogue about the important issues facing our country today. The attempted assassination of any political candidate is unacceptable and only further divides our nation, Rep. Nicole Malliotakis said in a written statement.

A security failure

Lanza went on to credit former President Barack Obama and Biden for their statements in the wake of the rally, saying that they took on the right tone. Nevertheless, he called for the president and Democrats to stop calling Donald Trump a threat to democracy. Thats bullst and you know it.

Its no secret that both sides of the aisle have exhibited fiery speech against their political opponents, but when a member of the press asked whether or not the officials believed that Trumps prior rhetoric had anything to do with this shooting, Borelli called the question fking bizarre.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)AP

Though they thanked the Secret Service and other first responders in their swift action to protect Trump and the attendees, the elected officials were vocal in their assessment that there was a security failure at the fated rally.

A rookie cop out of the academy, if she were sent to that scene, would have known enough to look at that building and say, Whos got that rooftop? Lanza said, his hands shaking as he spoke. Someone in Secret Service signed off on that security plan. They send an advanced team; they go there, the experts, with millions of dollars of assets and they survey, and they say, What is the plan? We need something here; we need to put assets there. Hey, someone take that rooftop. Someone signed off on that plan. Someone failed the people of this country.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump reacts following an assassination attempt at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)AP

When asked by a member of press about gun control, the elects quickly said that the investigation is ongoing and information about the gun used in the shooting is not yet available. Tannousis, who served as a prosecutor, said our streets are filled with illegal guns.

What about Staten Island political rallies?

We cannot let this incident stop us from participating in the political process. If anything, it should motivate us to participate more in the political process. I assure you that on Staten Island, we have an adequate police. We support the police department. We have more than enough police officers that live on Staten Island, off duty police officers, [and] more than enough people that have carry licenses to carry firearms because they are either retired law enforcement personnel, or active law enforcement. Any political events that we have on Staten Island, I assure you, the Republican Party will take safety as a top priority and any people that would like to come in will be secure, Tannousis stated.

For those looking to fight back, Pirozzolo offered some ways to safely and peacefully do so.

Assemblyman Sam Pirozzolo speaks at the Staten Island Republican Party Headquarters on July 14, 2024, a day after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump occurred. (Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney)Staten Island Advance/Jillian Delaney

You vote. You do it at the ballot box. You dont do anything crazy. This election is our election to lose. Do not give the media or the Democrats any opportunity to hold anybodys actions against us. You want to help out? You vote, you get your friends, your family, to vote; you get lawn sign, you put it on your lawn; you contribute to a candidate; you participate in the democracy that has made this the best country on the face of this planet, Pirozzolo said.

Staten Islanders on Sunday also commented on the incident, with two folks noting theyre fearful for the state of the country.

I saw [the assassination attempt on President Reagan], I remember Reagan. They hated Reagan and they hate Trump. This is more hatred than back then, that time wasnt as divisive. This is clearly, purely, about divisiveness, Paul, 59, from Westerleigh, said.

I think its terrible, and very sad. It makes me worried about the future of our country, Anne F., 62, from Willowbrook, said.

 Advance reporter Mike Matteo contributed to this report.
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- New York City homeowners and the owners of small apartment buildings with fewer than 10 units will soon need to transition to new trash cans as part of the citys ongoing war on rats.

Starting Nov. 12, all homeowners, which includes one- and two-family residences, as well as small apartment buildings, will need to adhere to new trash containerization rules requiring the use of official New York City trash cans.

Today, we are tossing even more black bags into the dustbin of history and taking the next step forward in our Trash Revolution, said Mayor Eric Adams. The first-ever, official NYC Bin is high-quality, affordable, and will build on our efforts containerizing more than 70% of the citys trash to protect our most valuable and limited resource  our public space.

The new official trash cans, manufactured by North Carolina-based company Otto, will cost residents $45.88 for a 35-gallon bin, which holds up to three kitchen garbage bags, and $53.01 for a 45-gallon bin, which holds up to four kitchen garbage bags, according to the city website.

The official bins come with latching lids, wheels, a metal bar for mechanized collection to compliment the citys new rear-loading tipper trucks and a 10-year warranty. The city recommends ordering NYC Bins by Oct. 1 to receive them by the Nov. 12 kickoff of the new containerization rules.

NYC-branded wheeled containers, custom designed to work with our trucks, are the key to keeping our most precious real estate  New York City sidewalks  clear, said Deputy Mayor for Operations Meera Joshi. With over 70% of New York Citys trash contained, the Adams administration and the hardworking men and women of DSNY are defying the odds and the naysayers and winning the Trash Revolution.

City sanitation officials said there will be an 18-month grace period, running through June 2026, during which New Yorkers can continue to use bins they have as long as they are 55 gallons or less and have a latching lid.

Those who fail to containerize their trash entirely and continue to place garbage bags directly on the curb will be subject to escalating fines starting Jan. 2, 2025. The fines will be $50 for a first offense, $100 for a second offense and $200 for a third offense and all subsequent offenses.

NEW TRASH RULES

The official NYC Bins are the latest in a long line of efforts by the Adams administration to cut down the citys rampant rat population by implementing new sanitation rules, including later set out times and required containerization.

On Apr. 1, 2023, New York City implemented later set out times for both residential and commercial trash, recycling and composting in an effort to reduce the amount of time it spent sitting out on the citys sidewalks.

Previously, trash could be placed at the curb for collection beginning at 4 p.m. the day prior to your scheduled pickup  the earliest time of any major American city.

Under the new rules, residents must wait until 6 p.m. to put out their containerized garbage and until 8 p.m. to place bags directly on the curb, while businesses must place their bins at the curb one hour before closing or after 8 p.m.

In addition to the new set out times, New York City has been phasing in required containerization of trash, starting with businesses and now expanding to cover residential properties.

First, the city required all food-related businesses  including restaurants, caterers, grocery stores, delis, and bodegas  to containerize their waste as of July 30, 2023.

The required containerization was expanded on Sept. 5, 2023 to cover all chain businesses with five or more locations in the city, regardless of what they sell.

The next phase, which began March 1, required all New York City businesses to place their trash in bins, regardless of what they sell or how many locations they operate out of.

The city will now require containerization for all residential buildings with nine or fewer units starting Nov. 12, with larger residential buildings next in line.

Buildings with 10-30 units will choose between stationary on-street containers and smaller wheelie bins, while buildings with more than 30 units will need to use on-street containers, according to DSNY, though an implementation date for these larger residential buildings has not yet been set.
Sebonda Arts Group performs Sebirwa traditional dance during the 13th Annual National Arts Festival for Traditional Song and Dance at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks in Gaborone, Botswana, July 13, 2024.(Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)

GABORONE, July 14 (Xinhua) -- In an effort to address Botswana's high unemployment rate, the government is committed to developing the creative and cultural sector, which has the potential to create jobs, a senior official said on Saturday.

Tumiso Rakgare, minister of youth, gender, sport and culture, said in Gaborone, the capital of Botswana, during the 13th Annual National Arts Festival for Traditional Song and Dance that the world has resolved to assess and determine the true value of the creative sector in the economy and sustainable development.

"It is one of the most dynamic sectors, offering opportunities, particularly for developing countries, to emerge into high-growth areas in order to support and attract investment, entrepreneurship, and innovation, thus promoting cultural diversity and well-being," said Rakgare.

Held under the theme "The Creative Economy: Botswana's Economic Future Redefined," the event featured about 32 traditional groups from various parts of Botswana. The performances demonstrated how past generations used to heal the ill, pray for rain, and learn how to plow.

Rakgare said the National Arts Festival aims to highlight the richness and uniqueness of Botswana's cultures, assist creatives in realizing their full potential and contribution to the economy, and promote economic diversification.

This year's event attracted more than 14,000 artists from across the country, promoting both visual arts (fashion, pottery, painting, graphic design, photography, and sculpture) and performing arts. 

An artist performs Sebirwa traditional dance during the 13th Annual National Arts Festival for Traditional Song and Dance at Sir Seretse Khama Barracks in Gaborone, Botswana, July 13, 2024.(Photo by Tshekiso Tebalo/Xinhua)
Compensation of $85,000, a public apology and reinstatement as a fill-in radio presenter are the three items on Antoinette Lattoufs wish list from the ABC, should the national broadcaster want to avoid a costly trial in the Federal Court.

Lattoufs legal team, led by Maurice Blackburns head of employment law, Josh Bornstein, wrote to the ABC last week offering a compromise settlement after mediation between the parties failed last month.

The message from ABC chief content officer Chris Oliver-Taylor (right) confirming Antoinette Lattouf would be stood down. Credit: Marija Ercegovac

The offer is modest and is made on an open basis. It is a compromise on what our client could be awarded at trial if she is successful, particularly having regard to any penalties that may be imposed, said the letter, seen by this masthead.

In the letter to the ABCs lawyers at Seyfarth Shaw, Bornstein and his team said if the offer were rejected, they estimated the broadcaster would spend an additional sum in the hundreds of thousands in legal costs, on top of the significant sum it had spent to date.
Major delays to the expansion of Australias outdated east-coast power grid are limiting its capacity to connect more renewable energy and threatening to increase prices by hundreds of dollars a year in some parts of the country.

The lack of high-voltage power lines to connect far-flung renewable generators and batteries to major cities has emerged as a roadblock to the energy transition and is heightening concerns in the industry as the next wave of coal and gas plant closures nears.

New high-voltage transmission lines are needed to expand the grid to carry more renewables and achieve the Albanese governments target for 82 per cent of Australias power being green by 2030. Credit: Luis Ascui

However, key projects to modernise the grid, such as building new transmission links to enhance the flow of energy between states, are running into delays that are now averaging three years, according to analysis from energy consultancy Nexa Advisory.

Unless the delays are addressed, experts say, the consequences could be severe: energy reliability will come under pressure as the economys growing demand for electricity outpaces supply, while wholesale prices will become more volatile  tumbling during the day when its sunny before spiking in the evenings when solar recedes and the grid must call on expensive gas-fired generation to plug gaps.
Federal minister and former union boss Bill Shorten says the union movement has a once-in-a-generation chance to straighten things out after the crisis which has enveloped the CFMEU.

It follows explosive reports by The Age, The Sydney Morning Herald, the Australian Financial Review and 60 Minutes alleging criminal activity by parts of the union.

Victorian CFMEU boss John Setka resigned on Friday before publication of the first in a series of stories by this masthead about close ties between the Victorian and NSW divisions of the construction union and underworld figures and bikie gangs.

When asked by ABC Melbournes Ali Moore whether the revelations about the CFMEU shocked him, Shorten replied, some of them do.

Minister for the NDIS and Government Services, Bill Shorten. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

Trade unionists, the vast bulk of them, are honest, law-abiding people, and so are most of their representatives, he said. But the idea that anyone in the trade union movement is operating with bikies and criminals, that betrays the whole ideal of Australian trade unionism.

Prior to entering politics, Shorten was the national secretary of the Australian Workers Union. He said the investigation into the CFMEU would mean the status quo is going to be questioned pretty severely.

Theres an opportunity here to straighten things out, which might be a once-in-a-generation opportunity. And I say that on the basis that unions have a role in workplaces to to get their members, you know, better safety and better conditions. But you cant do it using middle men and hack gangsters. Maybe its been a long time coming, but theres an opportunity for the trade union movement to say, Hey, there is standard we will accept, and theres a red line we wont cross.

Shorten said the rules for unions were simple: Dont break the law, dont ask for kickbacks, dont engage with bikies.

I dont know the ins and outs of every allegation, and I dont want to start prejudicing every matter. But on the other hand, somethings not right here in the construction industry and I think ordinary people know this, he said.

In response to a call from Business Council of Australia chief executive Bran Black for a judicial inquiry, Shorten said what was needed was actual action.

For everyone whos doing the standover, what business person is also engaged? Because for everyone who takes a bribe, theres also someone giving a bribe.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This article is part of a months-long series investigating misconduct in the CFMEU. See all 35 stories . An undercover sting operation has caught a self-styled CFMEU fixer offering to bribe construction union officials to push corrupt building firms onto large taxpayer-funded projects. In explosive recordings that will step up pressure on Labor to clean up the construction union, business consultant Harry Korras claimed he could funnel large cash payments and regular kickbacks to his good friends in the CFMEU. In return, he said the union would push favoured firms onto construction sites involved in Victorias $100 billion Big Build program, which has funding from the state and federal governments. Korras explained the illicit payments were necessary because his long-standing union contacts needed to eat their piece of contracts won by firms that obtained CFMEU backing through his scheme. In a separate damning development, a major investigation by this masthead and 60 Minutes can also reveal Derek Christopher, the Victorian CFMEU boss positioning to replace John Setka as leader of the unions most powerful branch, received an estimated $200,000 in free labour and supplies from major building companies and remains the subject of an ongoing police corruption probe. Police say their investigation of Derek Christopher is ongoing. Credit: Luis Enrique Ascui Three sources with detailed knowledge of Christophers conduct, along with confidential documents revealing his dealings, have exposed how he personally benefited from labour and supplies provided over several months in 2017 by commercial building giants Built and Multiplex, and plastering firm Express Interiors.

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Express Interiors has been separately implicated in the underpayment of building workers. A Victoria Police spokesperson said in a statement that a joint federal and state police inquiry, codenamed Operation Pantile, into Christopher remained active and ongoing. In NSW, pressure is growing on CFMEU secretary Darren Greenfield to step aside from his role leading the construction union until his criminal court case  involving allegations he was bribed by a Sydney company in return for union support  is resolved. The charges, laid by federal police in 2021, have not been proven and are entirely separate to Christophers case, but CFMEU manufacturing division assistant secretary Leo Skourdoumbis said Greenfield should stand down as secretary until his case was concluded. The charges are serious and people in positions of leadership, whether theyre in the trade union movement or even in the corporate world, when those situations arise [involving criminal charges] should not continue to hold and exercise power, he said. There is no suggestion that Greenfield is guilty, only that it is unusual for the leader of an organisation to stay in the role after being charged with corruption.

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The CFMEUs construction division is facing a growing crisis amid explosive revelations of its links to the underworld, bikie gangs and alleged corruption. On Sunday, federal Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke said it was unacceptable that bikies would hold positions of authority in a union. He told the ABC that he had asked his department for an assessment of his options to clean up the union, including deregistration, but said he would assess the unions response before deciding on his next step. Heir apparent Christopher has in recent months been unofficially anointed by Setka  who sensationally quit the union on Friday night after facing questions from this masthead  to replace him as leader of the CFMEUs most powerful branch. Evidence gathered by Operation Pantile includes vision from a concealed video camera that recorded workers from some of Victorias biggest building firms repeatedly attending Christophers house during its renovation. The firms do not engage in residential renovations. Australian Taxation Office data obtained by Operation Pantile details how workers covertly filmed by police at Christophers renovation site were simultaneously being paid by commercial builders to ostensibly work on major building sites  and not on Christophers residential job.

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Phone taps and listening device recordings also captured evidence suggesting Christopher had arranged for free labour and supplies from major building firms with CFMEU agreements and also used CFMEU delegates on commercial building sites to assist with his home renovation. This masthead has also confirmed that law enforcement intelligence indicates Christopher attempted to cover up his conduct by creating invoices after a police raid on his property in 2019. Police raided Derek Christophers Keilor house in 2019. Credit: Joe Armao This masthead previously revealed the raid. However, details of the free benefits he obtained and the companies that gave them have not previously been reported. Built said it had fully co-operated with the police investigation and Multiplex declined to comment. Express Interiors did not respond to requests for comment. One source, speaking anonymously to discuss confidential information, said the CFMEU conducted an internal investigation into the claims at the time of the police raid but found no wrongdoing. But the belief of many within the union that the investigation into Christopher  who did not respond to questions  was no longer active will be shattered by the police confirmation it remains live and legal advice is being sought about whether the union boss can be charged under Victorias criminal code.

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There is no suggestion from this masthead that Christopher is guilty of an offence, a finding that can only be made by a court. Secret funnel for union contracts The revelations about Christophers suspected kickbacks come after a major investigation by this masthead and 60 Minutes obtained audio of self-styled CFMEU fixer Harry Korras describing a plan to separately funnel secret benefits to his own union contacts. Korras, a colourful former security company owner with underworld connections, was convicted of tax evasion in 2019. This masthead and 60 Minutes launched the sting operation in March after gathering information from building industry insiders that Korras was offering to help companies secure union backing and access to big construction projects in return for large payments. An undercover operative  who told Korras they were the owner of a new firm seeking CFMEU support to win contracts to supply traffic-management workers to construction sites  approached Korras to ask about obtaining union backing.

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The banging and clattering was all night and unstinting. Excavators beeped, backhoes rumbled and the sound of clashing metal reverberated from the new Sydney Fish Markets construction site into the bedrooms of sleepless residents across the road.

One set up a makeshift bed on the floor of her bathroom. Another packed up after midnight and drove to her parents house. The vibrations ran through their bodies and shifted the furniture.

Gulay Oz, who lives opposite the new Sydney Fish Market, had sleepless nights during the worst part of the construction. Credit: Louise Kennerley

It was like hell for me, said resident Gulay Oz, who was recovering from surgery during the worst part of the nightworks. All I needed was a good nights sleep, and I just never got it.

And yet, monthly noise assessments consistently produced the same result: the noise did not exceed the maximum permitted volume.
It is not often that any of Governor Arthur Phillips material comes up for auction. The last was a letter 20 years ago and before that was 70 years earlier still.

No journals of NSWs first governor survive so when a 20-page fair copy fragment turned up, providing a three-month snapshot of the colony in 1791-92, it was something of a must-have for the State Library of NSW.

State Library of NSW senior curator Sally Hone and Indigenous Engagement branch manager Damien Webb with the newly acquired fragment of Governor Arthur Phillips long-lost journal. Credit: Dion Georgopoulos

A bookshop in rural England had put it up for auction as a Third Fleet document, and an Australian dealer in old books and manuscripts thought it interesting.

When the first 10 pages closely mirrored accounts, some verbatim, from Phillips chapters in 1793s An Historical Journal of the Transaction of Port Jackson and Norfolk Island, the dealers knew they were on to something.
Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has called on Australians to lower the temperature of public debate over divisive issues such as the war in Gaza as he expressed his horror at the attempt on the life of former US president Donald Trump.

Albanese would not be drawn on whether the assassination attempt would force changes to security measures for Australian MPs, but drew a link between Americas fractious political culture and recent attacks on MPs offices and on parliamentarians being harassed by protesters.

We must lower [the] temperature of debate. There is nothing to be served by some of the escalation of rhetoric that we see in some of our political debate, political discourse, in the democratic world. Its a phenomenon thats not unique to the United States, he said.

He said he was still worried about recent pro-Palestinian protests outside MPs offices, including his own, which has been the subject of a months-long protest.
I want to make absolutely clear: everything is on the table, Burke said in an interview on the ABCs Insiders program on Sunday. The fact that John Setka went is a start. It is in no way the end of what needs to be done. The criminal elements, for example, people involved in outlaw motorcycle gangs having the place of delegates on site  completely unacceptable. The extent of the criminal elements that have been there, I find absolutely abhorrent. Loading The workplace minister said he would look at three things: the advice and the extent of his powers, the allegations, and the extent to which the union had acted to address the allegations. Burke confirmed he was exploring deregistration: I have sought advice on all my powers, including that one, including appointing administrators to the different branches, Ive sought advice on all those powers. Im not taking anything off the table.

But he cautioned that acting too quickly to deregister the construction division of the CFMEU might sound tough but could create new problems because you end up with people with even less regulation around them. The only reason I can intervene is because were talking about registered organisations, he said. Burke said federal police, working with state police, would deal with some elements of the allegations while the Fair Work Ombudsman and Fair Work Commission would also probably be involved. In 2012, then-workplace minister Bill Shorten threatened the scandal-plagued Health Services Union with deregistration if the unions senior leadership was not cleared out. In April of that year, the ACTU voted to suspend the HSUs membership on the basis of corruption. Shorten then successfully applied to the Federal Court to have an administrator appointed to run the Eastern branch of the union.

Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan is yet to issue a statement or respond to questions on the CFMEU revelations. Loading On Sunday, Victorian Local Government Minister Melissa Horne said the state government would not jump to conclusions when we do not have that full body of evidence. Its clear that there have been a number of CFMEU officials who have not done the right things. They have been bad actors in this space. She said some matters had been referred to Victoria Police and Allan would respond later in the week.

Asked whether Victorian Labor should stop accepting donations from the CFMEU until the matters were investigated, Horne said that would be up to the party. She said she would not accept any donations for her re-election campaign. Loading Victorian Opposition Leader John Pesutto called on Sunday for Albanese and Burke to place the CFMEU into immediate administration while the union was investigated. He accused the premier of being in hiding over the allegations. These are taxpayer-funded projects and what the Allan Labor government has allowed to continue is criminal. Bikie gang members [are] working on taxpayer-funded projects, Pesutto said. Where is the Victorian premier? Acting federal opposition leader Sussan Ley called on all levels of the Labor Party nationwide to stop accepting donations from the union.

They need to be clear and transparent about what donations they have accepted and make a very strong statement that that will end. Burkes anger over criminals working for the CFMEU challenges national secretary Zach Smiths assertion on Friday that the union unapologetically believes in second chances and construction was one of the few industries where those with a criminal history could find steady job. Smith also said if there is credible evidence of delegates or officials committing crimes, we will report them. If allegations are proven, people will be thrown out. Australian Industry Group chief executive Innes Willox said billions of dollars in taxpayers money has been wasted over decades due to the antics of the CFMEU and called for a royal commission into allegations against the union. Business Council of Australia chief Bran Black also urged an independent judicial inquiry into the CFMEU. An inquiry of this nature would have the power to compel documents and witness, which is critical if we are to genuinely get to the bottom of how union officials and criminal organisations have allegedly worked together to profit from government and taxpayer-funded projects, he said.
Azerbaijan and Pakistan share a deep-rooted friendship built on centuries of mutual respect and historical connections between our peoples.

Kamaladdin Gafarov, a deputy of the 6th convocation of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, highlighted these sentiments in his recent statement to the press, emphasizing the multifaceted cooperation flourishing between the two nations, Azernews reports.

"Our bilateral relations span various sectors including defense, energy, infrastructure development, information technologies, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and more," Gafarov stated. He underscored the significance of the 2002 agreement on defense and military cooperation, signed during the leadership of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev, which has significantly bolstered military ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.

Gafarov noted the recent state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Pakistan on July 11 as a pivotal moment in advancing bilateral relations. "During this visit, both leaders discussed crucial projects in energy, infrastructure, transportation, and defense industries, solidifying a robust partnership not only at the political level but also in terms of economic cooperation, trade, and investments," he remarked.

Highlighting Pakistan's steadfast support for Azerbaijan, particularly during Armenia's occupation and the Patriotic War, MP Gafarov emphasized President Aliyev's recognition of Pakistan's unwavering solidarity. "Pakistan's decision to refrain from establishing diplomatic relations with Armenia and its consistent support at critical junctures, including condemning military provocations in Garabagh, exemplifies their sincere friendship," he affirmed.

President Aliyev's reaffirmation of Azerbaijan's support for Pakistan regarding the issue of Jammu and Kashmir further underscores the deep bond between the two nations. "Azerbaijan stands firm in supporting Pakistan's stance on Jammu and Kashmir based on principles of international law and justice," Gafarov stated. He highlighted Azerbaijan's commitment to advocating for the rights of Kashmiris, echoing the sentiments expressed during President Aliyev's visit.

Concluding his statement, Gafarov expressed optimism about the future of Azerbaijani-Pakistani relations, noting that President Aliyev's recent visit has paved the way for further diversification and deepening of ties between these friendly nations.
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- In a move that violates the U.S. government's long-held position and commitments and the basic norms governing international relations, a Xizang-related bill, titled "Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act," which gives recognition to the so-called notion of "Greater Tibet" made up by the Dalai group, was signed into law by U.S. President Joe Biden on Friday.

Such an act grossly interferes in China's domestic affairs, undermines China's interests, and sends a wrong signal to the "Tibet independence" forces. China firmly opposes it and has lodged a protest with the U.S. side.

The essence of the so-called Xizang-related bill is to contain China with Xizang-related issues. The web of lies spun around this issue is no different from the various fabrications propagated in recent years by anti-China forces in the West to tarnish China's image.

Xizang has been part of China since ancient times. Xizang affairs are China's internal affairs which brook no interference by any external forces. Xizang today enjoys social stability and harmony, with a sound economic performance and people's well-being is well protected. Xizang is making fresh progress in effectively running its society, maintaining social stability, and achieving high-quality development. No one and no force should ever attempt to destabilize Xizang to contain and suppress China. Such attempts will never succeed.

Why do some Western political forces persistently smear China? This is mainly because they are obsessed with hegemonic logic and power politics and do not wish to see China develop smoothly. They create topics to malign China in various fields, aiming to tarnish China's image in international public opinion and often use lies as an excuse to impose so-called sanctions to squeeze China's development space. Fabricating various bills and distorting facts by using the media are important tools in their campaign against China.

However, as the lies multiply and become increasingly crude, the effectiveness of the American lie-making machine diminishes. Many international figures, including politicians and scholars, have rebutted the baseless smears against China, objectively recounting what they have seen in China.

Mozambican Ambassador to China Maria Gustava, who has visited Xizang, said that some Western media hype the so-called human rights issue in Xizang not because they care about the lives of people in Xizang, but for ideological and hegemonic purposes.

U.S. politicians' obsession with fabricating lies not only fails to undermine their opponents but also further erodes their credibility in the international community. The U.S. side should take concrete actions to honor its commitments of recognizing Xizang as part of China and not supporting "Tibet independence." The United States must not implement the bill. If the United States continues down the wrong path, China will take resolute measures to firmly defend its sovereignty, security and development interests. 
Lowe, 33, lodged the claim almost three years ago and feels he has no other option but to take up the fight against Lloyds Of London, which underwrites all NRL players who step onto the field for a competition which generates $400 million per year in television money. Its got to here [Federal Court] and I havent had the mental bandwidth to do much else, Lowe tells this masthead. All my focus has been on this. Im quite isolated at the moment dealing with the insurance claim. Ethan Lowe is tackled by Manlys Jorge Taufua during a match for the Rabbitohs in 2019. Credit: Getty Images It took a while, but it dawned on me when we were going through this and we had to start fighting for it, this is about me, but its also bigger than me. The case is the most significant of its kind taken out against the company which insures the NRL and will be centred on Lowes condition after a crusher tackle in which accidental pressure was placed on his head and neck. Lowe knows the tackle wasnt intentional, but its had a severe impact on his life.

In an affidavit lodged with the Federal Court and seen by this masthead, Lowe says hes been left with permanent hemiplegia, a condition which means theres no improvement over time. Lowes symptoms are unlikely to get worse, but they wont get better. He was told he would be denied access to the policy in April last year because the insurer said he did not satisfy the definition of complete paralysis. But his everyday life has been a struggle ever since the tackle, which resulted in him having urgent spinal surgery three days after his last game. Lowe tells countless stories of not being able to function properly with the condition, which was diagnosed as a protrusion on the C5/6 discs on the left side of his spinal cord (Lowe is left-side dominant), or Brown-Sequard syndrome, damage to one half of the spinal cord.

The condition has caused numerous and continuing problems with his body: leaving his left hand in a claw like shape, hand and arm numbness, tingling in his fingers, left leg weakness, poor balance and limb spasms which can see him stumble and fall over. I can put my hand on a pan thats hot and not even notice, Lowe says. Hitting buttons is hard. Tying my shoes is time-consuming. My handwriting wasnt the best to start with, now I cant even read it. I went to grab a can of Coke from the servo, I walked to pay for it and it slipped straight out of my hand because I wasnt concentrating. My hand just went. My balance on my left side is going. If I walk the dog and he wants to pull me to go to the toilet, I just lose balance. Ive had to deal with it for four years and its part of my everyday life now. But everything I have to do, I need to fully concentrate. Its draining mentally. The court is expected to hear a history of Lowes rugby league injuries, which included a surgery in 2016 for a protrusion on his spinal cord after a tackle in an NRL finals game while playing for the Cowboys. Lowe says he recovered without further symptoms after that operation.

But after moving to the Rabbitohs for the 2019 season, his career was cut short at 143 NRL games following the injury against the Knights, in which he felt his head snap backwards under the weight of rival Herman Eseese, commonly known in rugby league as a crusher tackle. He was 29 at the time. A month after the Lowe tackle, the NRL announced a crackdown on crusher tackles for putting pressure on the head or neck, with harsher sanctions for players found guilty of the offence. Lowes case - headed by counsel Callan ONeill - will call Dr Rowena Mobbs, one of the best neurologists in the country who has been at the forefront of the concussion crisis, treating rugby league legends such as Wally Lewis and Mario Fenech. Dr Mobbs has tabled a report which describes Lowes injuries as permanent and his prognosis poor, and she said the severity of Lowes condition was made worse by the vulnerability of his 2016 injury, not the cause of it.

Lloyds Of London will rely on a report from Dr Terry Coyne, who says it is likely that the [2016 injury] resulted in a predisposition to a further injury in the event of significant force to the cervical

spine. As such both incidents have likely together resulted in Mr Lowes current condition. Loading Regardless of the case, its a far cry from when Lowe was alongside Johnathan Thurston for the North Queensland Cowboys fairytale 2015 premiership and then made his State of Origin debut four years later in the deciding game of the 2019 series, kicking four crucial goals. The Rabbitohs offered a job to Lowe in Queensland during 2021, the final year of his contract in which he was supposed to be paid $300,000 before retiring, and hes now employed as a customer experience executive at Tabcorp. There are certain things because of my injury, Ill never have a chance to do those as a career, Lowe says. Ive had to come to terms with that basically from the start.
Airbus is hinting it might resume production of the king of the skies  the prospect of a new version is a tantalising possibility.

Christian Scherer, the head of Airbuss civil aircraft division, sparked excitement last month when he suggested that the European plane-maker might resume production of its four-engine A380 double-decker superjumbo. Airbus scrapped production of the $US665 million king of the skies in 2021 after airlines opted for smaller, more fuel-efficient twin-engine jets. But Scherer told the German newspaper Hamburger Abendblatt that while the door to the A380 production line is closed, it is not locked. In industry, nothing is ever ruled out.

Emirates is the largest operator of Airbus A380 superjumbos. Credit: iStock

The reason for his teasing announcement? The A380 is enjoying a remarkable comeback. When COVID struck, many airlines decided to scrap the big bird because, with fuel costs rising and predictions that demand for business- and first-class travel would crater post-pandemic, most figured the behemoth would be unprofitable. Premium seats may only account for one quarter of the double-decker but they generate three-quarters of its operating profit.

But Lufthansa, Qatar Airways, Korean Air, Japans ANA and Etihad, the Abu Dhabi flag carrier, have all done a U-turn at 39,000 feet and re-introduced the A380 (only Air France and Malaysian Airlines have stuck to their original decision).
Returning to Britain, Flinders was married in 1801 to Ann Chappelle, the very one he had successfully wooed by naming the Chappelle Isles for her in Bass Strait. Loading Just months later, he left once again, this time as skipper of HMS Investigator, to circumnavigate and map the continent then known as Terra Australis, but which Captain Flinders himself would rename Australia and persist with, despite heavy resistance, until it became the accepted term. It was in this church, too, that his new bride, Ann, would sometimes retreat to pray for his safe return. Little did she know that it would be nigh on a decade from their wedding before she would see him again. This was the time taken by his voyage and his subsequent imprisonment for over six years on Ile de France (now Mauritius) on his way home. He returned, ailing badly from failing kidneys, among other things, and died aged 40 in 1814, Ann by his side. This was just one day after he finally held in his withered hand the first published copy of the book he had written detailing his adventures.

His modest funeral was held at St James Church in Piccadilly, and his coffin was taken to the vast burial ground in Hampstead Road, Camden, where it lay for more than 200 years as London grew up and over it. The crypt for Flinders, freshly dug in the church of his youth. Credit: Peter FitzSimons Extraordinarily, when Euston Road Station was being expanded in 2019, that coffin and Flinders remains were rediscovered. In Donington, a Bring Him Home Committee was quickly established. And now, here he is. From 10am, the church bells ring as the people of Donington come out from their homes. At 1400 hours, in naval parlance, the coffin, draped in the British and Australian flags joined, is slowly driven in the hearse through the streets, past his two-storey family home where his father, the local surgeon, received his patients. Villagers crowd on either side of the road, their heads bowed. At 1430, three shots ring out from a Royal Navy Honour Guard and his coffin is borne into the church on the shoulders of six young ensigns behind the Bishop of Lincoln as the local choir sings Leonard Cohens epic Hallelujah.

All stand. The church is packed with dignitaries, diplomats and a diverse array of Flinders folk, many of whom are Australians. They include two men with charmingly battered Akubra hats, who prove to be descendants of Bungaree, the Darug man who accompanied Flinders and his crew on the circumnavigation and whose own diplomatic skills in negotiating with tribes all over the country proved crucial to its success. Australian diplomat George Brandis attended the memorial service for Matthew Flinders. Credit: Liliana Zaharia At the front, on the left, are descendants of Flinders. His brother, Samuel, is buried in the adjoining cemetery, as are their parents, while Matthews open grave is right here in the church, on the left, watched over by two undertakers in top hats and long tails, looking for all the world like startled escapees from a Dickens novel. It is some surprise, to this correspondent at least, that neither Australias High Commissioner Stephen Smith nor the Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles are in attendance, despite both being in the country on AUKUS submarine business.

The highest-ranking dignitaries from Australia are our Deputy High Commissioner, Elisabeth Bowes, and the Governor of South Australia, Frances Adamson. Former Australian high commissioner George Brandis is also here. On the British side, there were no members from the new government, or the old for that matter, and nary even a third cousin once removed from the royal family. In many ways, the importance of Flinders has been substantially, and sadly, forgotten by both nations. But not in Donington, where five years of planning reaches journeys end. The six young ensigns lower Flinders into his eternal resting place. Clods of earth from Mauritius, London, South Australia and Sydney are thrown upon the coffin. The latter is scattered by the two Bungaree descendants, Shad Tyler and Laurie Bimson, and with it they add a boomerang daubed with ochre clay from Beacon Hill. It is the perfect end to a wonderfully resonant ceremony before all 400 of us gather in the churchyard for tea and scones.
London: The King and Queen will visit Australia this October for the first time since their accession to the throne, Buckingham Palace has confirmed.

In an official statement on Monday, the palace said the tour, which has been widely speculated on for months, would be shorter than first planned on doctors orders as Charles III recovers from cancer treatment.

Charles and Camilla will make their first visit to Australia as king and queen in October. Credit: Chris Jackson/PA

The visit, the first by a reigning monarch to Australia since Elizabeth II in 2011, will likely take in only Canberra and Sydney - skipping Melbourne - before heading to Samoa to join the leaders of 56 Commonwealth nations for the biennial heads of government meeting.

The 75-year-old began a schedule of regular treatments in February after cancer was discovered when he spent three nights in hospital for an unrelated procedure for an enlarged prostate. The palace has not revealed what kind of cancer the King has, nor what treatment he has been receiving.
The madness that lurks the other side of American exceptionalism has potentially ensured Donald Trump wins the presidency in a landslide.

The failed assassination attempt on Trump has created an iconic image of defiance, with footage of the former president bleeding from an apparent bullet that ripped through his right ear and raising his fist after he was shot while speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania. The gunman killed one bystander and critically injured another two before being killed by US authorities.

Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by US Secret Service agents. Credit: AP

The world has seen US Secret Service agents leap to cover their man in other American political assassination attempts, but Trump emerged from the scrum of agents yelling fight, fight, fight and fist held high, both a torch to his supporters and an instant reminder that he is no ordinary political animal.

President Joe Biden has spent the past few weeks struggling to retain support and counter fears about his ability to run the Oval Office for another four years, but in a violent moment Trump has swept the president aside.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size Before any shots were fired, some people in Butler, Pennsylvania, knew something was amiss. A man crawling along a roof, armed with a rifle, had caught the attention of some Trump supporters gathered just outside the rally, out of Trumps sight but within earshot. We could clearly see him with a rifle. Were pointing at him, a witness later told the BBC. Im thinking, Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage? What happened next over 2 minutes  all captured on live television and on mobile phones  will become a significant moment in US history; one which, months away from the presidential election, may yet change the course of history, too. 6.11PM (20 seconds):

At that exact moment, Trump was directing his audience to a chart depicting illegal immigration numbers. Thats a little bit old, that chart, that charts a couple of months old, he says. And if you really want to see something thats sad, take a look at what happened ... Credit: CSPAN 6.11PM (34 seconds):

This is the moment the first round of gunshots is heard; three quick pops rather than deep booms. Witness Robert Razzano later told ABC News it sounded like they were of a smaller calibre.

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The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Credit: Backgrid / TMZ 6.11PM (35 seconds):

Immediately after the first shot, Trump grabs his ear, just as the second shot is fired and people in the crowd begin to gasp. The former president crouches below the podium. 6.11PM (36 seconds):

On the third shot, people are picked up by the microphones saying duck, duck, and several Secret Service agents rush on stage, staying low, to shield Trump on the ground. Some come from behind Trump, and some from the side. A photo captures a projectile flying past Donald Trumps head. Credit: New York Times 6.11PM (38 seconds):

More shots can be heard, as people in the audience crouch and scream. Directly behind where Trump was speaking, one woman continues recording on her phone, while ducking slightly. Credit: Getty Images

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6.11PM (41 seconds):

The shots cease for a few seconds. One photographer hangs to the side of the stage trying to capture images of Trump as he is shielded, while another rushes over to join him. More suited agents jump on stage and join the throng protecting Trump. 6.11PM (44 seconds):

On the roof of a nearby shed, behind the stage and to its right, at least two Secret Service snipers have their guns trained towards the shooter. One kneels on the tin roof with his hands clasped on a tripod-mounted weapon, while another behind him stays low, eyes firmly on his viewfinder. Credit: AP 6.11PM (48 seconds):

After about 10 seconds of panic, another solitary gunshot goes off. This prompts at least one blood-curdling scream to ring out over the assembly. There is little movement on stage as the agents hold Trump in place. 6.11PM (58 seconds):

After another eight to nine seconds, the agents get ready to help Trump to his feet. Hold, hold. When youre ready. On you, one says. Credit: AP 6.12PM (01 seconds):

By this point, agents armed with machine guns are on stage. One patrols his way across the stage in front of the podium, scanning the crowd. Another keeps his gun trained stage-left, towards where they are preparing to take Trump. Some in the crowd behind Trump are looking out to their right, apparently toward the shooter.

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Credit: AP 6.12PM (17 seconds):

After another 15 seconds, voices on the live feed, seemingly the agents being picked up by the live microphones on stage, can be heard saying Shooters down. Are we good to move? one says. Were clear. Lets move, lets move. 6.12PM (27 seconds):

It is another 10 or so seconds before they begin lifting Trump to his feet. Its at that point that he can be heard saying for the first time: Let me get my shoes. Credit: AP 6.12PM (35 seconds):

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An agent says, I got you, sir, as Trump comes back into view. Let me get my shoes, Trump repeats. People in the front row of the audience are filming on their phones. Behind the stage, some people are staring and pointing to their right, towards where the shooter has apparently been taken down. Credit: AP 6.12PM (38 seconds):

An agent shoves the podium out of their way as Trump struggles to his feet. His hair is askew and he is without his signature red Make America Great Again cap. 6.12PM (43 seconds):

Trump again says he wants to get his shoes, but he keeps half an eye on the crowd in front of him, when his view isnt being obstructed by the agents. 6.12PM (48 seconds):

Then, just as the team of agents is preparing to move him off the stage, Trump says: Wait, wait, wait. He looks out toward the crowd and the cameras between the heads of two agents assisting him, and raises his fist in defiance. That image has since been beamed around the world. Credit: AP 6.12PM (51 seconds)

At this point, the crowd erupts into cheers. Behind Trump, we can see his supporters emerge from their crouching positions and rise to their feet. As he pumps his fist, Trump repeatedly mouths something to the crowd, which most news sites have reported as: Fight. Fight. Fight.

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The gunman was a registered Republican voter, according to a Reuters report that cited state electoral records, but The New York Times reported that Crooks had donated $15 three years ago to the Progressive Turnout Project through the Democrat campaign finance platform, ActBlue. The reports said Crooks was from Bethel Park, south of Pittsburgh, had no criminal history and graduated from high school in 2022. Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick  we cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. US President Joe Biden The FBI confirmed there were three victims of the shooting in the crowd, all men. One was killed and two were critically injured. Trump laid no blame for the incident on anyone except the gunman in a brief statement on social media, thanking the security officers for their rapid response and expressing his condolences to the families of the victims.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country, he said. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Credit: Backgrid / TMZ Trump posted a second statement on his Truth Social platform later in the day. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, he posted.

Biden spoke to Trump last night before making an unscheduled return to the White House. In a public address earlier on Saturday, Biden said everyone should condemn the violence. Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, its sick, he said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. While most political leaders sought to emphasise national unity after the attack, prominent Republican J.D. Vance, a US senator named as a potential vice-presidential running mate for Trump, blamed Biden and his supporters for provoking violence.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Vance said. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination. Another Republican named as a potential vice-presidential candidate on the Trump campaign, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum, said the events proved that Trump was stronger than his enemies. The third rumoured running mate, Florida senator Marco Rubio, said God had protected Trump. The Republican convention will proceed as planned in Milwaukee, according to a statement from the Trump campaign and Republican officials.

Footage of the campaign rally, which began about 6pm on Saturday local time (8am on Sunday, AEST), appears to show the shooter had crawled across the roof of a building about 125 metres from the stage at the Butler Farm Showgrounds, with some people in the crowd spotting him before any shots were fired. One witness, who identified himself as Greg, told the BBC he could see the man on the roof with a rifle for two or three minutes. The next thing you know, five shots ring out, he said. Videos taken by those in the crowd also showed the gunman on the roof. The witness told the BBC the security agents turned on the gunman after the shots, saying: The Secret Service blew his head off. A photographer at The New York Times, Doug Mills, captured an image that showed a bullet passing behind Trumps head.

A visual breakdown of a projectile flying by Trumps head. Credit: Photograph: Doug Mills, New York Times All of a sudden, there was what I thought were three or four loud pops, Mills said of the shooting. At first, I thought it was a car. The last thing I thought was it was a gun. The gunman was said to be using an AR-15-style semi-automatic rifle, the model used in at least a dozen mass killings in the United States over the past decade, including the killing of 60 people in Las Vegas in 2017 and the fatal shooting of 19 students and two teachers in Uvalde, Texas, in 2022. The AR-15 is available only to professional shooters in Australia. The FBI special agent in charge, Kevin Rojek, told reporters it was surprising the shooter was able to gain access to a position so close to the president and fire several rounds when Secret Service agents were securing the event.

Pennsylvania state police Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens added that it was difficult to fully secure a campaign rally that was open to the public. Loading The shooting took place at 6.11pm local time (8.11am AEST on Sunday), and officials rushed Trump off the podium and to a medical centre, where his campaign staff reported he was fine but bleeding from his ear. Seven hours later, Trump adviser Dan Scavino posted footage of Trump descending the stairs of his aircraft after arriving in New Jersey, adding a defiant message to supporters: He will NEVER SURRENDER!
PHILIPSBURG:--- The members of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset celebrated a significant moment as they held their 2024-2025 Board Installation Ceremony at the Melange Grill on June 22nd, 2024. Distinguished guests, including the 2024-2025 Assistant Governor of St. Maarten and Anguilla, Elisia Lake, and the Assistant Governor of St. Barthelemy and St. Martin, George Gumbs, as well as Past District Governor Louis Wever and his wife Amanda Wever, and President Jharna Dialani of the Rotary Club of St. Maarten, President Yvette Hart and Secretary Jon Hart of St. Maarten Mid-Isle, President Jean Marie Renard and Secretary Valerie Renard of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Nord, joined well-wishers at the restaurant to share and engage in fellowship. The evening was filled with various activities, and attendees enjoyed a delectable three-course dinner buffet. Rotarian Daniella Arrindell captivated the crowd with a beautiful rendition of the St. Martin Song, while Ms. Geraldine Hanson serenaded the audience with an inspiring song for the Rotary year 2024-2025. Mistress of Ceremonies Luciana Raspail kept the crowd enthused throughout the entire event.

During her reflective speech, outgoing President Kimberley Duzong, expressed how pleased she was to have served for two consecutive years. She also applauded the club members for their determination in carrying out Rotary Internationals motto, Service Above Self. Following this acknowledgment, she particularly highlighted members who displayed outstanding commitment throughout the Rotary year with the Presidents Awards in areas that included Rising Star, Rotarian of the Year, and Board Member of the Year. The recipients were Rotarians Jamila Boirard, Kathy Africa, and Michelette Boasman-Rogers.

Assistant Governor Elisia Lake proudly installed Rotarian Franklyn Salomons as the clubs president for the new Rotary year, while Salomons installed and pinned the incoming board for the 2024-2025 term. President Franklyn delivered an inspirational message to all attendees, emphasizing the "WHY" of Rotary. He spoke passionately about the importance of being a Rotarian, connecting with others, and his reliance on the board members, Rotarians, and the community at large to help him effect change not only in St. Martin but also around the world.

The 2024-2025 board members of the Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset are as follows:

President Franklyn Salomons, President-Elect/ Secretary and Fundraising Chair Alex Pierre, Immediate Past President and Membership Chair Kimberley Duzong, Vice President/President Nominee and Public Image Chair Jade Maccow, Treasurer Jaida Nisbett, Rotary Foundation Chair and Club Learning Facilitator Elisia Lake, Sergeant at Arms Kathy Africa, Service Projects Chair Magdiona Gumbs, Club Administration Chair Cheryl Dangleben-York, Youth Service Chair Fabiana Beauperthuy-Richardson, Wellness Chair Linaisa Mardenborough, Disaster Relief/Environment Chair Chair Jason James.

The Rotarian wives Fabiana Beauperthuy-Richardson and Alia Mathew-Young awarded their husbands, Mr. Dimitri Beauperthuy and Mr. Leonidas Mathew, with the Rotary spouses pin. Rotarian Kathy Africa and Rotarian Jamila Boirard were awarded the prestigious Paul Harris Fellow (PHF) for their outstanding commitment to the ideals of Rotary. Continuing the legacy of Rotarys founder, the Paul Harris Fellow program recognizes individuals who contribute, or who have contributions made in their name, of $1,000 to the Rotary Foundation of Rotary International.

The Rotary Club of St. Martin Sunset meets on the second and fourth Monday of the month at Carl N Sons Unique Inn and Conference Facilities in Cole Bay at 7:30pm. The club can be contacted via email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or via the official Facebook page at facebook.com/rotarysxmsunset.
GAZA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Hamas on Sunday denied freezing indirect ceasefire negotiations with Israel following a massive bloody attack on Khan Younis in the southern Gaza Strip.

Izzat al-Rishq, a member of the Hamas political bureau, said in a statement that "all reports over the movement's decision to stop negotiations in response to the Al-Mawasi massacre is baseless."

He added that Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and his government are trying to obstruct reaching an agreement to stop the aggression on Gaza.

Some reports said that Hamas asked mediators Egypt and Qatar to stop ceasefire negotiations and a swap deal after the Al-Mawasi incident.

On Saturday, 90 Palestinians were killed and 300 others wounded after an Israeli airstrike hit tents for displaced people in Khan Younis, the Gaza-based health authorities said.

Israel said that the target of the Israeli attack was Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, noting that the army was awaiting the results of the raid.

Meanwhile, Netanyahu said in a press conference on Saturday that the "war will end only after Israel achieves all its goals."

In addition, the Hamas movement said in a press statement on Saturday that the head of the political bureau, Ismail Haniyeh, held a series of contacts with mediators and some regional countries in light of the "massacre" committed by the Israeli army in the Mawasi area.

Haniyeh pointed out that while Hamas showed a positive and responsible response to the latest proposal with the aim of reaching an agreement to stop the aggression against our people, the Israeli position taken by Netanyahu was to place obstacles that prevent reaching an agreement, added the movement. 
Kremlin warns Russia could target Europe if US deploys missiles



Moscow, July 14 (AFP) Jul 14, 2024



The Kremlin on Saturday warned that the deployment of US missiles in Germany could make European capitals targets for Russian missiles in a repeat of Cold War-style confrontation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke of a "paradox" in which "Europe is a target for our missiles, our country is a target for US missiles in Europe".

"We have enough capacity to contain these missiles but the potential victims are the capitals of these countries," he said, speaking to Russian state television channel Russia 1.

Peskov also hinted that such a confrontation could undermine Europe as a whole -- in the same way that the Cold War ended with the Soviet Union's collapse.

"Europe is coming apart. Europe is not living its best moment. In a different configuration, a repeat of history is inevitable," he said.

The White House announced on Wednesday during a NATO summit that it would periodically station long-range weapons including Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany from 2026 as a deterrent.

"Exercising these advanced capabilities will demonstrate the United States' commitment to NATO and its contributions to European integrated deterrence," the White House said.



- 'It's securing peace' -



The Kremlin has already criticised the move, accusing Washington of taking a step towards a new Cold War and of directly participating in the conflict in Ukraine.

Russia's defence ministry on Friday said that Defence Minister Andrei Belousov held a telephone call with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin where they discussed lowering the risk of "possible escalation".

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has hailed the US decision despite criticism from members of his Social Democrats.

The decision marks a return of US cruise missiles to Germany after a 20-year absence.

Defending the decision, Scholz told reporters at the NATO summit that it was "something of deterrence and it's securing peace, and it is a necessary and important decision at the right time."

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius told broadcaster Deutschlandfunk that the deployment decision addressed a "very serious gap" in the country's capabilities.

Responding to the Kremlin's warning that the US missile deployment could put European capitals at risk, a US State Department spokesperson said the United States and NATO "do not seek a military conflict with Russia... but any military action directed against a NATO Ally would trigger an overwhelming response".

Russia is "the most significant and direct threat to Allies' security and to peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area", the spokesperson said, adding it was "Russia that started this war and Russia could end it today".

The German army does not have long-range missiles that launch from the ground, only cruise missiles that can be fired by aircraft.

The 1980s deployment of US Pershing ballistic missiles in West Germany at the height of the Cold War prompted widespread demonstrations, with hundreds of thousands coming out in pacifist protest.

US missiles continued to be stationed through the reunification of Germany and into the 1990s.

But following the end of the Cold War, the United States significantly reduced the numbers of missiles stationed in Europe as the threat from Moscow receded.

Now NATO countries -- spearheaded by the United States -- have been bolstering their defences in Europe following the start of Russia's military campaign in Ukraine in 2022.
China, Russia conduct joint Pacific military patrol



Beijing, July 14 (AFP) Jul 14, 2024



China and Russia conducted a joint naval patrol in the northern and western Pacific, Beijing's defence ministry said Sunday, adding that the exercise was not "targeted" at any other nation.

The two countries have drawn closer in recent years and tout their friendship as having "no limits". Both share hostile relations with US-led Western defence alliance NATO.

Beijing has further strengthened its diplomatic, economic and military ties with Moscow since the start of the Russian invasion of Ukraine in February 2022.

China, which has never condemned the invasion, maintains it is a neutral party to the conflict. But Western leaders have criticised it for giving political and economic support to Russia, including trade in goods that have both civilian and military uses.

"According to the annual plan and the consensus between China and Russia, naval vessels of China and Russia recently carried out their fourth joint maritime patrol in the western and northern Pacific Ocean," the Chinese defence ministry said in a statement on Sunday.

"This operation is not targeted at any third party and has nothing to do with the current international and regional situation," it added.

No details were provided on the Pacific manoeuvres, including the ships' routes, their exact locations or the nature of the forces involved.

On Friday, China said it was also conducting drills with Russia -- known as Joint Sea-2024 -- along its southern coast.

This came after NATO leaders declared Beijing had "become a decisive enabler" of Moscow's war in Ukraine, and after Japan warned of a growing threat from Beijing's strong ties with Moscow.

Beijing has rejected the criticisms.

The drills in the waters and airspace around Zhanjiang, a city in southern Guangdong province, are "to demonstrate the resolve and capabilities of the two sides in jointly addressing maritime security threats and preserving global and regional peace and stability", the ministry said.

The Russian defence ministry said Saturday that two of its warships had arrived in Zhanjiang to take part in the joint naval drills, with an initial phase taking place from Monday to Wednesday.

The Pacific is a hotbed of international tensions due to sovereignty disputes between Beijing and several of its US-backed neighbours, such as Japan, the Philippines and Taiwan.

China and Russia hold joint military exercises regularly but their level of interoperability is greatly inferior to that of NATO, the European Union Institute for Security Studies said in a report in early July.

In 2023, ships from the two countries took part in a naval exercise off the US state of Alaska.
Israel in new Gaza school strike



Gaza Strip, Palestinian Territories, July 14 (AFP) Jul 14, 2024



Israeli warplanes on Sunday staged a fifth attack in eight days on a Gaza school sheltering war displaced, and residents said more casualties were inflicted.

The latest attack hit a UN-run school in Nuseirat refugee camp, central Gaza.

Schools in Nuseirat were the target for two of the earlier school strikes as Israel keeps up its offensive against Hamas Palestinian militants who triggered the war with their October 7 attack on Israel.

The Israeli military said its air force "struck a number of terrorists who were operating in the area of UNRWA's Abu Araban school building in Nuseirat".

It said the building had "served as a hideout" and base for "attacks" on Israeli troops.

Some wounded, including children, were taken to nearby hospitals, residents said, but neither the health ministry in Hamas-run Gaza, nor hospitals, were able to give a precise toll.

AFPTV images showed the three-storey complex still standing, with clothes and bedding airing out over its railings. A wall bearing the UN logo had been blown out, and rooms inside were damaged.

On July 6, Israeli aircraft hit Al-Jawni school, also run by the United Nations relief agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA), in Nuseirat. UNRWA said about 2,000 people were sheltering there at the time.

The following day, four people died in a strike on the church-run Holy Family school in Gaza City, in the territory's north, according to the Civil Defence agency.

On Monday, Israel hit another Nuseirat school, again saying it was targeting "terrorists".

The next day, a hospital source said at least 29 people died in a strike at the entrance to Al-Awda school in the Khan Yunis area, southern Gaza.

Israel says Hamas uses schools, hospitals and other public infrastructure for military purposes. Hamas denies the accusation.

France and Germany on Wednesday called for an investigation into the school strikes.

After the Al-Jawni strike, UNRWA spokesperson Juliette Touma told AFP that when the war began "we closed the schools and they became shelters."

UNRWA is the main relief agency in Gaza but more than half, or 190, of its facilities have been hit -- "some more than once" -- in the military response to the October 7 Hamas attacks, she said.
PHNOM PENH, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's Ministry of National Defense said on Sunday that search and rescue operations for a missing military helicopter are underway amidst poor weather and obstacles.

The chopper had lost contact with the air force headquarters while flying over the densely forested Cardamon Mountain range in Pursat and Koh Kong provinces during a training flight on Friday.

Bad weather was blamed for the disappearance of the helicopter.

"After a full day of search and rescue efforts on July 13, 2024, with unfavorable weather and many obstacles..., the rescuers have not yet located or found this missing helicopter," the Ministry of National Defense said in a statement.

"On the morning of July 14, 2024, the rescue team, with the participation from relevant units in the geography of the lost helicopter, is continuing search activities for the missing chopper," it added.

The statement did not specify how many people were aboard the disappeared helicopter. 
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DAMASCUS, July 14 (Xinhua) -- The Syrian Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Expatriates cautioned on Sunday that Israeli attacks on Syrian soil could lead to uncontrollable consequences and serious repercussions.

In a statement released hours after Israeli missile attacks on a residential neighborhood in the Syrian capital of Damascus and military sites, the ministry reaffirmed Syria's legitimate right to defend its sovereignty and liberate its occupied land through all legitimate means guaranteed by international law.

The ministry warned against the escalation of Israeli attacks on Syrian soil, adding that persistent international silence regarding such attacks would undermine the ability of the international system to confront violations of its charter and international laws.

Israeli strikes in Damascus earlier in the day resulted in casualties among the Syrian military and fires in the targeted areas, as reported by the Syrian Ministry of Defense and relevant sources.

The Defense Ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured during the attacks.

The ministry added that the attacks were launched from the direction of the occupied Syrian Golan and aimed at several military sites in the southern region and a residential building in the Kafr Sousa area of Damascus.

The Syrian air defense systems responded to the "enemy's missiles" and shot down a considerable number of them, the ministry said. 
Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump  along with every victim and their families.
For those of us who believe in Conservative values, in sound money, in the Union, in working with our friends and allies to increase trade and to shoulder our security burden in the world, it is incumbent on us to get ourselves together and make sure it doesnt take so long next time.
Speaking on The Sunday Show on BBC Radio Scotland, he said: We have to be clear there is no place for violence, regardless of how you feel about one politician or one political point of view or another.
NEW YORK, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on social media that he was shot at a rally in Butler, U.S. state of Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," he said on his social media platform Truth Social. 
ST. LOUIS  A resident early Sunday shot a burglar in his home near Fairground Park in north St. Louis, police say.

The 30-year-old resident at about 5 a.m. confronted a man who was inside his home in the 4000 block of Peck Street, police said.

The resident then shot the intruder, according to police.

The 21-year-old burglar ran out of the back door of the residence, police said.

Officers found him about a mile away in the 4200 block of Blair Avenue.

The man had been shot, police said. He was arrested and taken to a hospital.

Additional information was not immediately available.
Smoke rises following an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city. The Syrian state TV said the Syrian air defenses are intercepting an Israeli attack in the countryside of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

DAMASCUS, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The Syrian state TV said the Syrian air defenses are intercepting an Israeli attack in the countryside of Damascus.

The attack this time was bigger than the usual attacks amid the incessant sound of Syrian air defense missiles.

The sirens of ambulances were heard in parts of the capital.

The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights said the current attack is "violent." 

Smoke rises following an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024.

A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The Syrian state TV said the Syrian air defenses are intercepting an Israeli attack in the countryside of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

Smoke rises following an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024.

A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The Syrian state TV said the Syrian air defenses are intercepting an Israeli attack in the countryside of Damascus. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
The 82nd Special Troops Battalion along with the 82nd Airborne Division Sustainment Brigade prepare equipment for the Rapid Removal of Excess Program at Fort Liberty, N.C., in October 2023. Units will relinquish outdated and excess equipment to align with the Armys vision of keeping brigades light and more lethal. (Vincent Levelev/U.S. Army)

JOINT BASE LEWIS-MCCHORD, Wash.  One of the largest military bases in the U.S. is conducting a massive housecleaning of redundant and outdated military gear and hardware.

Old Humvees and field radios, older M-16 rifles, trucks and ammunition boxes, camouflage netting, generators, computers, outdated nuclear-biological-chemical protection gear, light tactical vehicles, towed trailers, and older night vision goggles are all on the list for removal at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash.

The plan is to pick it up and move it out to units that can still use the gear. Called Rapid Removal of Excess, or R2E, the collection of weapons, materials and equipment aims to streamline and modernize Army units.

The R2E program has already been completed for XVIII Airborne Corps at Fort Stewart, Ga., Fort Liberty, N.C., and the 101st Airborne Division at Fort Campbell, Ky. After I Corps and Lewis-McChord, the Army wants to take the program to III Corps at Fort Cavazos, Texas.

Since the cleanup began at Lewis-McChord, 44,000 soldiers including I Corps, the 7th Division, and a collection of tenant units, including Special Forces detachments at the Pacific Northwest base, have turned in a growing cache of materials.

To date, more than 33,000 pieces of equipment worth an estimated $418 million have been processed through the program. The final total could reach 60,000 items when the program is completed later in the summer.

Soldiers with the 1st Ranger Battalion, 3rd Infantry Division, inspect their radios during the Rapid Removal of Excess Program at Fort Stewart, Ga., in November 2023. The Army is moving into a new era and by getting rid of excess equipment, the service is creating space for more modernized weapons, according to Gen. Randy George, the service chief of staff. (Rebeca Soria/U.S. Army)

Col. Jamison Smith, the support operations officer for the 593rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command at the base, said the goal is to be lighter and less encumbered while using the best equipment available.

As U.S. military strategy shifts more emphasis to the Indo-Pacific region to check Chinas expansion and influence, units would be asked to fight in larger formations over longer distances than in the operations against terrorists in the Middle East and Africa.

The end state the Army wants is more agile units, ready to answer the call when they are told to go, with the equipment they need for a near-peer fight that will require them to move constantly and stay more static, Smith said.

Capt. Colin Wiener, commander of the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, said the troops appreciate getting rid of obsolete equipment.

Im very pleased with this  it took four pages off our property books, saved days of inventorying what we dont use, saves time  soldiers time that can be used for training, he said. And it saves the Army a ton of money by not having to maintain things we dont use anymore and getting them where they are wanted.

Gen. Randy George, the Army chief of staff, directed the Army Materiel Command to develop a pilot program to find and reduce surplus equipment and move it to units that can put it to use.

Warrant Officer Nicolas Fajardo, the 16th CABs property book officer, said the program will get surplus moved up and out from where it has sat unused, in some cases, for years.

The idea is not about getting rid of accountability, he said. Property does not grow legs and run away. It sits and takes away space and time.

As the Armys command for the increasingly crucial Indo-Pacific region, I Corps was one of the early adopters of a plan that will extend across the service.

Two key actions were taken ahead of the mass turn-in to spur the work.

Commanders laid out a specific window in the spring for cataloging and removing the equipment instead of an ongoing process that could allow other priorities to delay it throughout the year.

Military vehicles from the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade, 7th Infantry Division, are staged in a line before undergoing the Armys Rapid Removal of Excess program at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Wash., on June 18, 2024. The program allows units to receive immediate property accountability relief for excess equipment, enabling them to focus on new equipment fielding without the burden of obsolete material. (Effie Mahugh/U.S. Army)

The program also shifted the responsibility for ensuring the equipment meets Army standards from units that have the equipment and dont want it to units that want the equipment and dont have it.

Previously, the units with the surplus materials had to ensure the equipment met the Army standard of cleanliness and repair, with missing parts requisitioned and restored before handing it over for transfer.

Under the R2E program, that job shifts to the receiving units. The material is shipped with less maintenance and sent to its next location as is. Its up to the units that want the equipment to then do the work to make the weapons, gear, and equipment mission-capable. The receiving units are aided by the Materiel Command.

Other equipment could go to the Defense Logistics Agency for distribution, sent to overseas allies, or declared surplus and sold or donated to the public.

Lightening the bureaucratic load while eliminating equipment from before they were born is satisfying for soldiers.

The Army is saying, lets update everything we can, get rid of the old, and get you the new, said Sgt. Diva Arauz, whose property book with the 16th Combat Aviation Brigade at Lewis-McChord has become noticeably lighter. Really, some of this stuff hasnt been used since Vietnam.
Dozens of family members gathered Friday, July 12, 2024, at Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., to welcome home four Virginia Beach-based fighter jet squadrons. The squadrons returned to the U.S. after nearly nine months on deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (Caitlyn Burchett/Stars and Stripes)

VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.  Who is going to run the fastest to Daddy? Lynn Moreno asked her two daughters, 2-year-old Olivia and 4-year-old Anna.

The girls, in their matching Navy blue- and white-striped dresses, were among the people gathered Friday at Naval Air Station Oceana to welcome home four Virginia Beach-based fighter jet squadrons.

Anna Moreno, 4, plays with an American flag on Friday, July 12, 2024, while waiting for her father and F-18 pilot Cmdr. Jaime Moreno to return home. ( Caitlyn Burchett/Stars and Stripes)

A group of about 50 family members and friends erupted into cheers and vigorously waved American flags as the fighter jets  each unit in a V formation  appeared over the horizon.

The squadrons returned to the U.S. after nearly nine months on deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group in the Middle East and Eastern Mediterranean Sea. Most of the time was spent in and near the Red Sea defending commercial and military vessels against Houthi drones and missiles launched from Yemen.

Capt. Marvin Scott, commander of the air wing, said the air wing and strike group responded precisely and, when required, violently to Houthi attacks on merchant vessels and military ships. The Houthi rebels are using adapted low-tech kits as one-way attack drones and anti-ship ballistic and cruise missiles to attack ships, he said.

It was very dynamic. It was something we really have not seen  for the carrier strike group to be that close to that kind of fight  since World War II. It has been a constant evolution, Scott said.

Lt. Mike Buck is greeted by his wife, Kristina, and children, 3-year-old twins Luke and Emma and 9-month-old Sofia. His unit, Strike Fighter Squadron 83 Rampagers, was one of four fighter jet squadrons returning from a nearly nine-month deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (Caitlyn Burchett/Stars and Stripes)

Many of the aircraft returning to the air station Friday wore victory marks to showcase how many Houthi assets they had shot down during what several pilots described as an intense deployment. One jet from the Wildcats of Strike Fighter Squadron 131 had 11 missiles and two other munitions stenciled on its fuselage.

The groups air wing expended 60 air-to-air missiles and released 420 air-to-surface weapons. All told, the strike group completed more than 13,800 flights totaling about 31,500 hours.

The numbers and varieties of weapon expenditures are for the most part unprecedented, especially from the surface ships, Rear Adm. Kavon Hakimzadeh, commander of Carrier Strike Group 2, said earlier this week.

He said the air wing numbers were about 1.5 times those expected during a full deployment.

That hasnt happened before, Hakimzadeh said.

For the families back home, news headlines and limited contact with their loved ones brought worry each day.

Dozens of family members gathered Friday, July 12, 2024, at Naval Air Station Oceana, Va., to welcome home four Virginia Beach-based fighter jet squadrons. The squadrons returned to the U.S. after nearly nine months on deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (Caitlyn Burchett/Stars and Stripes)

It has been frightening  him being part of it all, Molly Girard said as she adjusted 1-year-old daughter Evie on her hip. Maggie Ruth, 3, clung to her mothers dress as they waited to greet father and husband Lt. Cmdr. Britton Girard.

With two young children, Molly Girard said it was important that the stress of the deployment not impact the children. The family worked to communicate as often as possible, utilizing the ships Wi-Fi.

We just had to wake up and take each day as it came, she said.

Down the flight line, Cmdr. Andrew Stoner hugged his wife, Loren, and greeted fellow aviators. Stoner joined the deployment in April as the executive officer for Strike Fighter Squadron 131. He said because he arrived late to the fight, the deployment and overall mission was less intense for him.

From what everyone said at the beginning, the intensity was mostly due to the fact that there were a lot of unknowns, he said.

When Stoner arrived in April, the crew had already adjusted to the feverish pace.

By the time I got there, everyone was used to it. Everyone knew what to expect and what to do, Stoner said.

The Eisenhower received a combat action ribbon in April for performance under fire, among other awards. Six other Navy ships, including strike group members USS Philippine Sea, USS Gravely and USS Mason, also earned the ribbon.

Though the Eisenhower returned to the U.S., the threat continues. The USS Theodore Roosevelt, a West Coast-based aircraft carrier, will replace the Eisenhower carrier strike group in the Red Sea.

A carrier strike group is the answer to these kinds of problems. It was very much a Navy fight, Scott said.

Friday at the air station, Cmdr. Jaime Moreno dropped to the ground to wrap his two daughters in an embrace. He looked up at his wife, puckering his lips to give her a kiss for the first time in nearly nine months.

Cmdr. Jaime Moreno dropped to the ground to wrap his arms around his two daughters, 4-year-old Anna and 2-year-old Olivia, as his wife and their mother Lynn Moreno kneeled at their sides. Moreno, an F-18 pilot with Strike Fighter Squadron 83 Rampagers returned Friday, July 12, 2024, from a nearly nine-month deployment with the USS Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group. (Caitlyn Burchett/Stars and Stripes)

It was a very long deployment, but we are incredibly proud of these guys and everything they have done for us and our country. We are thrilled to be able to welcome them home today, his wife Lynn said.

The homecoming concludes what Moreno said was the most intense deployment he has experienced.

But it was probably the most fulfilling deployment of my career, he said. When the call was placed, we were there to answer it.

Stars and Stripes reporter Alison Bath contributed to this report.
The amphibious assault ship USS Wasp steams in the Mediterranean Sea on June 30, 2024. The ship made a July 8 port call at Souda Bay, Greece, ahead of a deterrence mission in the eastern Mediterranean Sea and Middle East. (Nicholas Rodriguez/Navy)

NAPLES, Italy  The amphibious assault ship USS Wasp made its first port call in Europe this week to allow sailors and Marines some rest ahead of a busy deployment, as the Pentagon works to deter a wider conflict in the Middle East.

Wasps visit to Naval Support Activity Souda Bay on the Greek island of Crete comes more than a month after it began its deployment, and shortly after it relieved the Dwight D. Eisenhower Carrier Strike Group in the eastern Mediterranean Sea earlier this month.

After months of cross-border conflict, fears are increasing of a war between Israel and the Lebanon-based militant group Hezbollah. Israel has warned that the time for a diplomatic solution is short as it prepares for escalation.

Marines with the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit and sailors assigned to the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp conduct weapons drills on the flight deck while in the Mediterranean Sea on June 27, 2024. Wasp pulled into Souda Bay, Greece, on July 8. (Elton Taylor/Marine Corps)

In announcing the Wasp Amphibious Ready Groups deployment to the region last month, Pentagon spokesman Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder said it would serve as a deterrent and enable the military to respond to a multitude of contingencies.

The Defense Department has mostly kept a carrier strike group or amphibious ready group in the eastern Mediterranean since Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7.

The Wasp group, which includes the amphibious transport dock ship USS New York and dock landing ship USS Oak Hill along with elements of the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit, arrived in the Mediterranean late last month.

A tugboat positioned in front of the ships forecastle assists in maneuvering the amphibious assault ship USS Wasp into Souda Bay, Greece, July 8, 2024, for a port call. (Soren Quinata/Navy)

It has more than 4,500 sailors and Marines, and flies the MV-22 Osprey and AV-8B Harrier, among other aircraft. The Wasp also is capable of supporting the F-35 fighter jet.

Meanwhile, the Theodore Roosevelt Carrier Strike Group entered the U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations on Friday, U.S. Central Command said in a post to its X account.

The strike group includes the cruiser USS Lake Erie and the destroyers USS John S. McCain, USS Halsey and USS Daniel Inouye, USNI News reported on Monday.

Petty Officer 3rd Class Connor Hall mans a gun mount as USS Wasp pulls in to Souda Bay, Greece, July 8, 2024, for a port call. ( Sydney Milligan/Navy)

Earlier this month, the U.S.-led Joint Maritime Information Center reported the second-highest monthly number of Houthi attacks on ships in the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab el Mandeb since November, according to the centers report for the week ending July 6.

There were 17 attacks on vessels in the region in June, including a missile and surface drone attack on a cargo ship in the Red Sea that ultimately sank the vessel.

On June 13, three Houthi missiles targeted another vessel in the Gulf of Aden, causing a fire and requiring rescue of the crew, the Joint Maritime Information Center said.

By comparison, there were six and four attacks, respectively, in April and May, according to the report. The center, part of the 44-nation Combined Maritime Forces based at Naval Support Activity Bahrain, recorded 19 attacks in December.

June reached levels not seen since December of 2023, the center said.

All told, there have been at least 74 incidents, including attempted attacks and hijackings, since the Houthis began their campaign on Nov 19. Those attacks have killed four mariners and severely injured two others, according to the report. Two ships have sunk.

The numbers do not include engagements with coalition forces, the center said.

Analysts also have noted an increase in the Iran-backed groups use of unmanned explosive-laden boats like those employed by Ukraine in its attacks on Russian warships in the Black Sea. Without a traditional navy, Ukraine has sidelined nearly one-third of the Russian Black Sea Fleet.

On Thursday, CENTCOM announced that U.S. forces had destroyed five Houthi surface drones in the Red Sea.

Since June 30, U.S. forces have destroyed 13 surface drones and eight aerial drones launched by Houthi militants and destroyed four of the groups radar sites in Yemen. Two other Houthi aerial drones were destroyed by partner forces, according to CENTCOM.

The Houthi maritime campaign has been well-planned, said Washington Institute senior fellow Noam Raydon in a Wednesday post to her X account. This campaign has become more lethal, and different weapons have been used, with a notable increase in the use of (unmanned surface vehicles) since June 5, 2024.

The Wasp Amphibious Ready Group began deployment operations in the Atlantic Ocean on June 1.
The commander of the 439th Maintenance Group at Westover Reserve Base, Col. Jordan Murphy, said the base has contnued its role as a major airlift hub since World War II, one of the reasons the B-17 that crashed was attempting to land there in 1946. (Dave Canton/TNS)

HOLYOKE, Mass. (Tribune News Service)  Saturday morning broke hot and muggy, not unlike the day 78 years ago when 25 men climbed about a converted B-17 bomber to fly from Greenland to New York after the end of World War II. But the plane never made it.

Fast forward 78 years and nearly 100 people, including family members who never met those killed, sat at a memorial on that side of Mount Tom, the exact place where that plane crashed, just to remember.

B-17 crews in World War II were often incredibly young, said Holyoke Mayor Joshua A. Garcia Saturday morning. They were mostly between the ages of 18 to 24. The pilot was 24 and his copilot was 23. The navigator was only 20 years old. They used to say that you grew up early in a B-17.

Garcia said he thought of how those on board the plane must have felt as they prepared to land in Chicopee.

I can only think as that plane entered Massachusetts airspace, their spirits were extremely high. They came from all over, but they were united in their service to the country. They were united in their eagerness to get home to their families, In the end, they are united in tragedy. We here today are united in gratitude. Also, in the firm resolve that the service and sacrifice of those young men will not be forgotten.

On the night of July 9, 1946, that plane carrying 25 people was making its approach to Westover Field when crashed into the side of Mount Tom, killing all aboard. They were coming home after serving at Coast Guard and Air Corps facilities that made it safe for wartime flights to Europe over the North Atlantic Ocean. The plane was to make a stop at Chicopee before flying on. Their job was done and the men on board thought they were going home, finally. At about 10:21 p.m., they became more casualties of a long war. Most of them were barely out of their teens  some werent.

A large crown, including the elderly to toddlers, packed the memorial site on Mount Tom to remember the 25 men killed in 1946 when B-17 crashed into the side of the mountain. (Dave Canton/TNS)

Over the years, stories about the crash faded into local folklore. Few were sure where the plane crashed or how many people were in it. Some completely forgot about the crash altogether.

Fast forward 50 years and a group of area veterans put together a fundraising effort to place a memorial at the site of the crash. In 1996, the memorial stone was dedicated and a small site carved out from the rock and brush of the mountainside along an access road.

Each year, the Mount Tom Memorial Committee holds a special service to remember those killed. An ever-growing crowd of people, most shuttled up the side of the mountain in Civil Air Patrol vans, some walking the old roadway, take up their places in the small memorial site on a day close to the July 9 anniversary, something Army Reserve Major and State Sen. John Velis, D-Westfield, said he appreciates that people take the time to remember.

I dont think we dont talk about it enough in the commonwealth or as a nation, we need to talk about sacrifice more, he said. As crazy as the world is right now  and its crazy  what allows me to go to sleep at night is that young men and young women are still raising their hands to serve their country.

Velis said he knew how those men on the B-17 felt that night. He has flown in some of those return flights after he served two tours in Afghanistan.

I can tell you that your mind is, I cant wait to see my family. I cant wait to do those things I havent done in so long. And the fact that they were so close, he said, holding his fingers apart just a fraction of an inch. The young wives, young kids at Westover waiting for them, moms and dads. Those are the sacrifices we honor here today.

Nearly 100 people made their way up the side of Mount Tom to pay respects to the 25 servicemen killed when a B-17 crashed into he side of the mountain in 1946. (Dave Canton/TNS)

Former Northampton Veterans Services Coordinator Bob Cahillane is one of the original veterans who started the memorial fundraising, and now at 87 years old, he said he appreciates that more and more people come to the ceremony each year.

It makes me feel patriotic, he said Saturday. People make the effort to come here and it is not an easy place to get to. It takes a lot of gumption, to not only remember these men in this terrible plane crash but also the men and women who are serving today. I think that is the other half of the coin, that people need to be reminded about those serving today. What we honor here today could happen at any time.

At Saturdays memorial were representatives of Westover, now called Reserve Base, and its role in the 1946 tragedy. Col. Jordan Murphy is the commander of the Westover 439th Airlift Maintenance Group. He said the role of the Westover of 1946 is not unlike the role it plays now.

(This memorial) recalls the importance of what Westover has done over the 80 years. The planned stop-over at the base was only one of several events planned that day for Westover, trying to get our folks home from the war in Europe immediately following the end of the war, he said. Westover was ... a major strategic airlift hub for moving passengers and cargoes outside the United States. Today, our mighty C-5Ms deploy all over the world anywhere you think a large airplane could well go, and we will get what needs to be there doing what we call rapid global mobility.

2024 Advance Local Media LLC.

Visit masslive.com.

Distributed by Tribune Content Agency, LLC.
(Russ Rizzo/Stars and Stripes)

Livorno, Italy, April 8, 2005: U.S. Army trucks from previous wars are stored outdoors at Field Support Battalion-Livorno, Italy, until they are sold to other governments.
Russian President Vladimir Putin, right, and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands during their meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, July 3, 2024. (Sergey Guneyev, Sputnik, Kremlin Pool Photo via AP)

BEIJING  China and Russias naval forces on Sunday kicked off a joint exercise at a military port in southern China on Sunday, official news agency Xinhua reported, days after NATO allies called Beijing a decisive enabler of the war in Ukraine.

The Chinese defense ministry said in a brief statement forces from both sides recently patrolled the western and northern Pacific Ocean and that the operation had nothing to do with international and regional situations and didnt target any third party.

The exercise, which began in Guangdong province on Sunday and is expected to last until mid-July, aimed to demonstrate the capabilities of the navies in addressing security threats and preserving peace and stability globally and regionally, state broadcaster CCTV reported Saturday, adding it would include anti-missile exercises, sea strikes and air defense.

Xinhua News Agency reported the Chinese and Russian naval forces carried out on-map military simulation and tactical coordination exercises after the opening ceremony in the city of Zhanjiang.

The joint drills came on the heels of Chinas latest tensions with NATO allies last week.

The sternly worded final communique, approved by the 32 NATO members at their summit in Washington, made clear that China is becoming a focus of the military alliance, calling Beijing a decisive enabler of Russias war against Ukraine. The European and North American members and their partners in the Indo-Pacific increasingly see shared security concerns coming from Russia and its Asian supporters, especially China.

In response, China accused NATO of seeking security at the expense of others and told the alliance not to bring the same chaos to Asia. Its foreign ministry maintained that China has a fair and objective stance on the war in Ukraine.

Last week, a U.S. Coast Guard cutter on routine patrol in the Bering Sea also came across several Chinese military ships in international waters but within the U.S. exclusive economic zone, American officials said. Its crew detected three vessels approximately 124 miles (200 kilometers) north of the Amchitka Pass in the Aleutian Islands, which mark a separation and linkage between the North Pacific and the Bering Sea.

Later, a fourth ship was spotted approximately 84 miles (135 kilometers) north of the Amukta Pass.

The U.S. side said the Chinese naval vessels operated within international rules and norms.
Russian President Vladimir Putin gestures while speaking at a news conference at the Kremlin in Moscowin December 2022. (Sergei Guneyev/Kremlin pool photo via AP)

TALLINN, Estonia  When Maksim Kolkers phone rang at 6 a.m., and the voice on the other end said his father had been arrested, he thought it was a scam to extort money. A day earlier, he had taken his father, prominent Russian physicist Dmitry Kolker, to the hospital in his native Novosibirsk, when his advanced pancreatic cancer had suddenly worsened.

The phone kept ringing and Kolker kept hanging up until finally his father called to confirm the grim news. The elder Kolker had been charged with treason, the family later learned, a crime that is probed and prosecuted in absolute secrecy in Russia and punished with long prison terms.

Treason cases have been rare in Russia in the last 30 years, with a handful annually. But since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, they have skyrocketed, along with espionage prosecutions, ensnaring citizens and foreigners alike, regardless of their politics.

That has brought comparisons to the show trials under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s.

The more recent victims range from Kremlin critics and independent journalists to veteran scientists working with countries that Moscow considers friendly.

These cases stand out from the crackdown on dissent that has reached unprecedented levels under President Vladimir Putin. They are investigated almost exclusively by the powerful Federal Security Service, or FSB, with specific charges and evidence not always revealed.

The accused are often held in strict isolation in Moscows notorious Lefortovo Prison, tried behind closed doors, and almost always convicted, with long prison sentences.

In 2022, Putin urged the security services to harshly suppress the actions of foreign intelligence services, promptly identify traitors, spies and saboteurs.

The First Department, a rights group that specializes in such prosecutions and takes its name from a division of the security service, counted over 100 known treason cases in 2023, lawyer Evgeny Smirnov told The Associated Press. He added there probably were another 100 that nobody knows about.

The longer the war goes on, the more traitors the authorities want to round up, Smirnov said.

Treason cases began growing after 2014, when Russia illegally annexed Crimea from Ukraine, threw its weight behind a separatist insurgency in the eastern part of the country and fell out with the West for the first time since the Cold War.

Two years earlier, the legal definition of treason was expanded to include providing vaguely defined assistance to foreign countries or organizations, effectively exposing to prosecution anyone in contact with foreigners.

The move followed mass anti-government protests in 2011-12 in Moscow that officials claimed were instigated by the West. Those changes to the law were heavily criticized by rights advocates, including those in the Presidential Human Rights Council.

Faced with that criticism at the time, Putin promised to look into the amended law and agreed there shouldnt be any broad interpretation of what high treason is.

And yet, thats exactly what began happening.

In 2015, authorities arrested Svetlana Davydova, a mother of seven in the western region of Smolensk, on treason charges in accordance with the new, expanded definition of the offense.

She was charged over contacting the Ukrainian Embassy in Moscow in 2014 to warn officials there that she thought Russia was sending troops into eastern Ukraine, where the separatist insurgency against Kyiv was unfolding.

The case drew national attention and public outrage. Russia at the time denied its troops were involved in eastern Ukraine, and many pointed out that the case against Davydova contradicted that narrative. The charges against her were eventually dropped.

That outcome was a rare exception to the multiplying treason and espionage cases in subsequent years that consistently ended in convictions and prison terms.

Paul Whelan, a United States corporate security executive who traveled to Moscow to attend a wedding, was arrested in 2018 and convicted of espionage two years later, and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He denied the charges.

Ivan Safronov, an adviser to the Roscosmos space agency and a former military affairs journalist, was convicted of treason in 2022 and sentenced to 22 years in prison. His prosecution was widely seen as retaliation for his reporting exposing military incidents and shady arms deals.

Its a very good cautionary tale case for them that journalists shouldnt write anything about the defense sector, his fiancee and fellow reporter Ksenia Mironova told AP.

The FSB also went after scientists who study aerodynamics, hypersonics and other fields that could be used in weapons development.

Such arrests swelled after 2018, when Putin in his annual state-of-the-nation address touted new and unique hypersonic weapons that Russia was developing, according to Smirnov, the lawyer.

In his view, it was the security services way of showing the Kremlin that Russian scientific advances, especially those used to develop weapons, are so valuable that all foreign intelligence services in the world are after it.

He stressed that all the arrested scientists were civilians, and that they practically never go after military scientists.

Many of the scientists denied the charges. Their families and colleagues insisted they were implicated over something as benign as giving lectures abroad or working with foreign scientists on joint projects.

Kolker, the son of the detained Novosibirsk physicist, said that when the FSB searched his fathers apartment, they looked for several presentations he had used in lectures given in China.

The elder Kolker, who had studied light waves, gave presentations that were cleared for use abroad and also were given inside Russia, and any student could understand that he wasnt revealing anything (secret) in them, Maksim Kolker said.

Nevertheless, FSB officers yanked the 54-year-old physicist from his hospital bed in 2022 and flew him to Moscow, to the Lefortovo Prison, his son said.

The ailing scientist called his family from the plane to say goodbye, knowing he was unlikely to survive prison, the son said. Within days, the family received a telegram informing them he had died in a hospital.

Other cases were similar. Valery Golubkin, a 71-year-old Moscow physicist specializing in aerodynamics, was convicted of treason in 2023. His state-run research institute was working on an international project of a hypersonic civilian aircraft, and he was asked by his employer to help with reports on the project.

Smirnov of the First Department group, which was involved in his defense, says the reports were vetted before they were sent abroad and didnt contain state secrets.

Golubkins daughter, Lyudmila, said the 2021 arrest came as a shock.

He is not guilty of anything, she said. His 12-year sentence was upheld despite appeals, and his family now hopes he will be released on parole.

Other scientists working on hypersonics, a field with important applications for missile development, also were arrested on treason charges in recent years. One of them, Anatoly Maslov, 77, was convicted and sentenced to 14 years in prison in May.

The Institute of Theoretical and Applied Mechanics in Novosibirsk wrote a letter supporting Maslov and two other physicists implicated over making presentations at international seminars and conferences, publishing articles in highly rated journals (and) participation in international scientific projects. Such activities, the letter said, are an obligatory component of conscientious and high-quality scientific activity, both in Russia and elsewhere.

Two other recent high-profile cases involved a prominent opposition politician and a journalist.

Vladimir Kara-Murza, a journalist who became an activist, was charged with treason in 2022 after giving speeches in the West that were critical of Russia. After surviving what he believed were attempts to poison him in 2015 and 2017, Kara-Murza was convicted and sentenced to 25 years in prison, where his family fears for his deteriorating health.

In his closing statement at trial, Kara-Murza alluded to the USSRs dark legacy of prosecutions, saying the country has gone all the way back to the 1930s.

The Wall Street Journals Evan Gershkovich was arrested in 2023 on espionage charges, the first American reporter detained on such charges since the Cold War. Gershkovich, who went on trial in June, denies the charges, and the U.S. government has declared him to be wrongfully detained.

Russians reportedly have been charged with treason  or the less-severe charges of preparing for treason  for acts including donating money to Ukrainian charities or groups fighting alongside Kyivs forces, setting military enlistment offices in Russia on fire, and even private phone conversations with friends in Ukraine about moving there.

Ksenia Khavana, 33, was arrested in Yekaterinburg in February on treason charges, accused of collecting money for Ukraines military. The dual Russian-U.S. citizen had returned from Los Angeles to visit family, and the First Department said the charges stem from a $51 donation to a U.S.-based charity that helps Ukraine.

Several factors are motivating authorities to pursue more treason cases, experts say.

One is that it sends a clear message that the unwritten rules have changed, and that conferences abroad or work with foreign peers is no longer something scientists should do, says Andrei Soldatov, an investigative journalist and expert on the security services.

Its also easier to get higher authorities to allocate resources to a treason case, like surveillance or wiretaps, he says.

According to Smirnov, the spike in prosecutions came after the FSB allowed its regional branches in 2022 to pursue certain kinds of treason, and officials in those branches sought to curry favor with their superiors to advance their careers.

Above all, Soldatov said, is the FSBs genuine and widespread belief of the fragility of the regime at a time of a political turmoil  either from mass protests, as in 2011-12, or now during the war with Ukraine.

They sincerely believe that it can break, he said, even if its really not the case.

Mironova, the fiancee of the imprisoned journalist Safronov, echoed that sentiment.

FSB investigators think theyre catching traitors and enemies of the motherland, even when they know they dont have evidence against them, she said.
by Martina Fuchs

MONTREUX, Switzerland, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The third edition of the Montreux Jazz Festival China is set to take place in the Chinese city of Suzhou in late October in a bid to connect East and West, and foster more exchanges between international and Chinese musicians, its CEO told Xinhua in a recent interview.

The internationally renowned Montreux Jazz Festival, created in Switzerland in 1967 by Claude Nobs and directed by Mathieu Jaton since 2013, traditionally lasts two weeks every summer. Nearly 250,000 spectators attend the festival every year, enjoying a breathtaking setting, concerts with renowned acoustics and free stages.

In 2021, the festival traveled to China for the first time, choosing the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hangzhou in Zhejiang province as its inaugural location. This year, the festival will travel to China for the third time and take place in Suzhou, east China's Jiangsu province, from October 25 to 27 under the Montreux Jazz Festival China's theme "When West Meets East".

"Over three days, we will have three stages and almost 100 international musicians will come to Suzhou," CEO Joyce Peng Peng said.

"Ninety percent are international artists who will come to China and 10 percent are from China. We will represent all musical genres including jazz, rock, blues, R&B, folk, indie, and electronic, and we will even have meditation and sound healing courses."

"It's like Montreux, we carry DNA 100 percent from Switzerland," she said.

FESTIVAL ON A MISSION

Peng emphasized the significance of fostering cultural connections between China and the global community as her primary objective. "It's very important because, after difficult times, China is now totally opening up. They welcome a lot of international musicians to come to China."

"We are like a window to the world. Through us, you can see China, and the Chinese people can see the world through us."

Over the course of its nearly six-decade history, the quaint Swiss town of Montreux has played host to legendary performances by some of the biggest names in music. Icons such as Miles Davis, Aretha Franklin, Ella Fitzgerald, Marvin Gaye, Elton John, and Stevie Wonder have graced the stages of Montreux, leaving an indelible mark on the festival's illustrious legacy.

Since the late 1970s, the Montreux Jazz Festival has extended its reach beyond its Swiss origins, sharing its expertise, heritage, and unique ambiance with cities across the globe. The festival has successfully held editions in diverse locations such as Sao Paulo, Detroit, Atlanta, Singapore, Tokyo, and Rio de Janeiro.

"We want to expand to Hong Kong and even Macau. We also want to bring as many international musicians as possible to China and bring Chinese musicians to Montreux and the rest of the world."

"China has so many good musicians but not too many people outside of China know them. It's our mission to introduce them to the world," she said. 
A Department of Veterans Affairs official testified at a House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing that the agency will not comply with proposed legislation that directs the agency to rescind the names of veterans flagged to lose their gun rights after being found unfit to manage their VA benefits. (Joshua J. Seybert/U.S. Air Force)

WASHINGTON  House lawmakers and the Department of Veterans Affairs appear to be in a standoff on whether the agency should continue to ban veterans from owning guns when they are appointed fiduciaries to manage their benefits.

A VA official said this week at a House Veterans Affairs Committee hearing that the agency will not comply with proposed legislation that directs the agency to notify the attorney general that it acted improperly by seeking to end veterans gun rights when they were determined unable to manage their VA benefits.

We are being requested to go back and tell the [Department of Justice] that the names we reported, we reported in error, which we dont believe, Kevin Friel, VA deputy director for pension and fiduciary service, said Wednesday at the hearing.

At issue is legislation called the Veterans 2nd Amendment Restoration Act that would direct the VA secretary to issue a formal notice that it acted without authority or court determination that the veterans posed a danger to themselves or others when submitting their names to the FBIs National Instant Criminal Background Check System.

The national background check system is a database identifying individuals barred from legally owning or possessing firearms.

Friel and other VA leaders were testifying before the committees subpanel on disability assistance and memorial affairs about 18 bills that propose changes in the delivery of benefits for veterans.

But Friels statements that the VA would not abide by the Veterans 2nd Amendment Restoration Act, if enacted into law, prompted outrage and anger from lawmakers and later a request by Rep. Morgan Luttrell, R-Texas, the subcommittee chairman, to speak with him one-on-one during a break in the 2 -hour hearing.

The legislation would stop the VA from continuing its practice of identifying veterans as mentally incompetent and unfit to own or possess firearms in cases where the agency determined that they needed a fiduciary, or outside party, to manage their VA compensation.

The VA also opposed a similar bill called the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act that would stop the agency from identifying veterans to the national background check system when they are appointed fiduciaries, unless there is a court finding the veterans pose a danger to themselves or others.

Friel, upon questioning by lawmakers, repeated several times that the VA would defy the Veterans 2nd Amendment Restoration Act and similar legislation.

Friel said he was following the direction of VA Secretary Denis McDonough in his responses.

You are putting the VA secretary in a bad position. You sit here and tell us you are not going to comply with the law, said Rep. Keith Self, R-Texas. This is a cause for concern.

Friel responded: The issue we have is with the [proposed] law. We are being asked to remove everyone whos being reported.

Rep. Matt Rosendale, R-Mont., also asked Friel whether the VA would follow the terms of the law.

Is it your position that you will not comply with an act of law passed by Congress? he asked.

Friel responded: Yes, sir.

That you would not comply? Rosendale asked, expressing disbelief.

Yes, sir. It is in our testimony that we would have trouble complying with the law, Friel said.

He said the VA does not do a background check or review health records for veterans before seeking to take away their gun rights. The determination is based on their need for a fiduciary when seeking VA benefits.

Veterans who require fiduciaries are determined to be mentally incompetent and therefore denied gun rights, Friel said.

Rep. Eli Crane, R-Ariz., a retired Navy SEAL, said he believes the VA is overstepping the constitutional rights of veterans for due process.

But Friel said the proactive approach to taking a veterans firearms underscores the agencys concerns about suicide risks among former service members. Most suicides among veterans involve firearms, he said.

But Crane fired back: Do you have any evidence you can cite that shows veterans are more at risk of firearm suicide if they are simply unable to balance their checkbooks and therefore need a fiduciary to manage their finances?

Friel said financial stress can lead to depression and hardship.

Rosendale asked Friel whether the VA considered how veterans would respond to being judged by the VA as mentally incompetent when they are just having problems managing their finances.

Do you think referring to veterans who need a fiduciary as mentally incompetent fulfills this mission or makes veterans less likely to pursue health care at the VA? Rosendale asked.

I do not believe that it sways them in any way because the decision is based on the benefit, Friel said.

He said under the VAs interpretation of the Brady Handgun Violence Prevention Act, the agency can legally remove gun rights from veterans requiring a fiduciary based on a determination of incompetency.

Rosendale again asked: So is it your position that you will not comply with an act of law passed by Congress?

Yes, Friel said.
The judge said Kelly, who is currently serving a separate sentence, has a long history of offending with 160 previous convictions,

Two men on a drugs binge who robbed 27,000 worth of sunglasses from the Ray-Ban store in Dublin city centre had taken everything from tablets to crack cocaine, a court has heard.

Jason Kelly (53) and an unnamed accomplice used a steel stanchion they found nearby to smash through the front door of the Grafton Street eyewear store at half two in the morning.

They stole 170 pairs of designer sunglasses and eyeglasses, which they then stuffed into a sleeping bag and dragged away, in an incident captured entirely on CCTV.

Kelly, of Lower Oriel Street, Dublin 1, pleaded guilty to robbing the opticians on July 12 last year.

He was sentenced to three years in prison at a sitting of Dublin Circuit Criminal Court.

In his ruling, Judge Martin Nolan said he assumed the pair had sold the glasses on, to which counsel replied that any monies made would have gone straight to drugs.

Judge Nolan acknowledged the premises had been unoccupied at the time and that Kelly had been under the influence but said it was a serious enough burglary, noting the pair had caused over 4,000 of damage to the doors.

The judge said Kelly, who is currently serving a separate sentence, has a long history of offending with 160 previous convictions, mostly from the District Court.

He does quite well in prison, but does he have the internal fortitude to change his life? That's up to him, said Judge Nolan.

Garda Will McCarthy told the court that CCTV footage gathered from Grafton Street showed the two men taking it in turns to lift a heavy iron implement and smash the shop door, which was made of reinforced glass.

They were seen taking the sunglasses and filling the sleeping bag full before dragging it away.

Kelly was arrested but said nothing of evidential value in interview.

Ray-Ban gave gardai a glossary of stock taken, listed as 170 pairs of glasses valued at 27,089.

Derek Cooney BL, defending Kelly, described the robbery as a hare-brained idea by two people who got it into their heads that this would be an easy crime to fund their drug lifestyle.

He said Kelly had met up with the co-accused on the day and gone on a binge, taking everything from tablets to crack.

Mr Cooney said Kelly had witnessed domestic abuse in the home from an early age and had suffered violence at the hands of his father.

Kelly is the father of three, adult, pro-social daughters, said counsel, describing him as the black sheep of the family.

The court heard Kelly has been in and out of prison since serving his first sentence at the age of 16 and had developed a heroin addiction over the last 20 years, which he struggled to contain.

Kelly also suffered a brain injury when he was the victim of an assault, counsel said.

Mr Cooney said his client is doing well in prison, where he is on an enhanced regime and wants to start studying some educational courses in September.

Kelly has numerous health difficulties and has had two minor heart attacks. His spleen has been removed, and he suffers from depression, high blood pressure and fits, the court heard.

Kelly told his counsel that his urines are clean and that he intends to commence treatment to address his drug addiction.

This is an escalation of any of his previous offences; he doesn't know what came over him. He had been consuming drugs all day long, Mr Cooney said of his client.
The 62-year-old farmer opened fire at the van after he had earlier discovered two burglars ransacking his home

Gardai have launched a manhunt for two members of a Co Mayo burglary gang after a farmer fired two shots at their getaway van.

This photograph shows how a bullet hole was left in the bonnet of the silver Volkswagen van after the enraged man opened fire on Thursday afternoon.

The 62-year-old farmer fired two shots at the van after he had earlier discovered two burglars ransacking his home.

He is said to have proclaimed enough is enough after criminals repeatedly raided his home three times in the space of a year.

Following the shooting, gardai called to the farmers home and seized a shotgun and ammunition as part of the investigation.

However, the Sunday World can reveal that gardai have also launched a hunt for the burglars and have identified two suspects, who are both from Co Mayo and are well-known to gardai. They and have both appeared before the courts in recent years.

The duo  who are related  are believed to have staked out several homes before breaking into the farmers property.

After the farmer opened fire, the two men abandoned the grey van and were seen fleeing across fields near the farmers home.

The suspects had been at the back of the van when the shots were fired, where they were trying to load chainsaws, pots and other stolen items.

They were not injured when the shots were fired.

Earlier, the farmer had noticed one of the suspects at the side of the property in which his late father previously lived.

He saw the suspect had broken into the house and was standing beside items that had been taken.

The farmers associate said: He then went into his home, which is beside that property, and got his shotgun and loaded it up as he felt that transportation was on the way to retrieve the items.

He then hid in bushes for about an hour before the van arrived to take the stuff away. When it was being loaded into it, he fired off the two shots  it was never his intention to harm the criminals.

After this happened, he made an emergency phone call and told the operator that he had discharged his firearm, which led to a major response from armed gardai who rushed to the scene and were there within 25 minutes.

In the meantime, the van had been abandoned after it broke down about a kilometre away.

Bizarrely, one of the suspects called a garda station in Co. Mayo using his own name to report the vehicle as stolen before he and his accomplice fled.

The farmer lives on his own and is said to be sick and tired, as well as frightened of criminals targeting his property.

In recent weeks and months, rural parts of Mayo and Galway have been completely fleeced by burglary gangs.

While the suspects in relation to this attempted burglary are from Mayo, they are suspected of having family links to some members of the west Dublin burglary gangs.

A number of people, including local politicians, who spoke to the Irish Independent, expressed sympathy for and solidarity with the farmer.

This is a very private individual who lives on his own in a relatively isolated area and he obviously felt that he had enough of being targeted, said a local person who asked not to be named.
He is expected to be arrested here and questioned over the murder of Carberry  gunned down in 2019 outside his home in Co Meath  following his extradition

A Dubliner facing extradition from Spain over the murder of Iranian criminal Hamid Sanambar in Dublin in 2019 is also wanted for questioning over the killing of gang boss Richie Carberry.

The man, in his 30s, is wanted over the shooting of Sanambar and appeared in court in Spain in recent days.

He is expected to be arrested here and questioned over the murder of Carberry  gunned down in 2019 outside his home in Co Meath  following his extradition.

Detectives believe they have evidence to connect the man to the gang bosss murder after he left a personal item in the getaway car.

Carberrys killing was ordered by the north Dublin criminal known as Mr Big. He and Carberry were rivals from the same part of north Dublin. Mr Big was motivated to become involved in a feud in Drogheda in order to have his rival shot dead.

The Irish fugitive was arrested last Tuesday over a minor and unrelated crime in the Calahonda area of the Costa del Sol. Local police then learnt he was the subject of a European arrest warrant issued in Ireland. They alerted authorities here and the man was detained.

According to Spanish newspaper El Confidencial, he was brought to court on Wednesday and it was not necessary for him to be transferred to Madrid to appear before the National Court because he gave his statement by video link.

Hamid Sanambar. Photo: Damien Eagers

Sanambar (34), who also went by the name Mohammad Ali Khorram, was shot dead outside the home of Sean Little on Kilbarron Avenue, Coolock, on May 28, 2019.

He had called to pay his respects to the family of 22-year-old Little, who had been found shot dead next to a burnt-out vehicle in Walshestown, near Balbriggan, seven days earlier.

Little and Sanambar are believed to have been killed as part of a feud between criminal gangs in the Coolock area. Sanambar was shot after Littles associates blamed him for double-crossing his friend.

Gardai believe Sanambar had also been involved in other feud attacks involving firearms.

He arrived in Ireland as an asylum-seeker before being granted permission to remain and had lived in several places including Longford, Cork and Priorswood in Dublin.

Sanambar received a three-year suspended sentence in 2015 for his role in a violent robbery by several men of two women working in a brothel in Cork in 2012.

Littles murder came at the height of the Coolock feud involving the mob boss known as Mr Flashy.

The dead mans associates blamed Kinahan cartel-linked gunman Caolan Smyth for his murder. The following day, his friend Jordan Davis (22) was shot in the head by a gunman as he pushed his baby son in a pram near his home in Darndale, north Dublin.
Nathan Kinsella was transferred from Portlaoise jail to the Midlands over fears he was a target of Kinahan gunman Eamon Cumberton who was held on the same wing

Real IRA man Nathan Kinsella has been transferred out of Portlaoise Prison because a violent Kinahan hitman was discovered to be plotting to attack him and later refused to share a wing with him.

Kinsella, who has been jailed for one year for failing to pay taxes on hundreds of thousands of euros he claims were a gift from a millionaire friend, has been moved to the Midlands facility after prison bosses decided he couldnt be held in the same jail as gunman Eamon Cumberton.

Cumberton is serving a life sentence for shooting dead Michael Barr, a Republican killed during the Kinahan-Hutch feud, and was being held on the C1 wing where Kinsella was placed after he handed himself up to jailers earlier this month.

Nathan Kinsella was moved out of Portlaoise Prison

However, within hours of Kinsellas arrival, Cumberton made it clear that he had beef with the Real IRA man, who he has accused of attacking his mothers north inner city home on the night Barr was killed at the Sunset House bar.

Eamon Cumberton

Barr had previously pleaded guilty to handling stolen electrical equipment at the Jim Mansfield- owned Finnstown House Hotel in 2014 and was due to be sentenced the day after his killing.

Kinsella was one of several Real IRA men involved with Jim Mansfield Jnrs security at that time.

Prison bosses assessed the situation and moved Cumberton to a separate block as they made plans overnight to move Kinsella out of the prison altogether. The following day he was transferred to the Midlands.

Nathan Kinsella with Jim Mansfield Jnr

Kinsella was at the heart of events on Mansfield properties several years ago and which were detailed during Jim Mansfield Jnrs trial for kidnap.

A court heard that Kinsella, at one point, used Mansfields family home, Tasaggart House, as an office and along with his slain Real IRA colleague Alan Ryan was being paid thousands to protect the shamed millionaire from gangs and criminals who claimed that he owed them money.

The complex relationship between a number of dissident groupings who converged on the Mansfield properties was detailed in the Special Criminal Court. Mansfield Jnr was found not guilty of kidnap but guilty of impeding the course of an investigation and spent 18 months in prison.

Michael Barr

Mansfield Jnr, the court heard, had employed members of an INLA group to protect him and his property and later hired Ryan and his sidekick, Kinsella. But he then brought in a third terror grouping, including Border Fox, Dessie OHare and Declan Whacker Duffy to clear out the old order and take over the role.

That hostile takeover led to the kidnap of his fathers former security chief Martin Byrne, who went on Witness Protection to give evidence about his ordeal.

Some years later, Cumberton was hired by the Kinahan Cartel to murder Michael Barr, who it decided had had a role in the Regency attack. He became the sixth victim of the feud, but gunman Cumberton later claimed that Kinsella had attacked his mothers home.

Those grievances came back to haunt prison chiefs in recent weeks when Kinsella was returned to prison for another sentence.

Gardai at Sunset House

He handed himself over to staff at Portlaoise Prison on July 3, to serve a one year sentence. However, by the following morning he was moved to the Midlands after Cumberton left prison bosses under no illusion about his issues with him.

Kinsella has been living a charmed existence since his last prison sentence for membership of an illegal organisation.

He has been residing in a million euro property in Blackrock with his partner Jennifer Dunne.

At a hearing earlier this year, Dominic McGinn SC for the Director of Public Prosecutions, said his guilty pleas related to failures to pay Capital Acquisitions Tax for the years 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Mr McGinn said that during the period under investigation a total of 230,000 had been lodged into three accounts, two controlled by Kinsellas partner and one by Kinsella himself. Kinsella admitted to gardai he had no taxable income for that period and had been on unemployment payments.

Nathan Kinsellas house in Blackrock

Kinsella told gardai in voluntary interviews that he had lived with a friend, a multi-millionaire, who would loan or gift money to him.

Mr Justice MacGrath noted that Kinsella told gardai he lived with this man from 2016 to 2019, that he did not pay rent and when he needed money, he would ask for it and his friend would provide it.

Jailing him at the Special Criminal Court, Mr Justice Michael MacGrath said the court had concerns about the explanations Kinsella gave of receiving money.

The court, on receipt of medical records, agreed to defer the sentence to allow Kinsellas doctors to liaise with prison medical staff to ensure that he has access to medication while in prison.
The family has been left homeless after fleeing in middle of the night when their house was torched

These are the shocking images that show the damage after a home was targeted in a petrol bomb attack in south Dublin.

A man was badly injured in the incident on a house in Drimnagh, in the south of the city last night.

The man was rushed to hospital with serious injuries, according to gardai, who said his condition has been described as stable.

It follows what one local councillor said was a shocking incident in the deliberate targeting of the house that has left a family homeless.

Cllr Daithi Doolan of Sinn Fein, who is himself a local resident, said the family had fled in fear after the frightening attack on their home overnight.

"This attack is unacceptable and should never have taken place, Cllr Doolan said.

The family had to flee in the middle of the night and find shelter elsewhere. It was a terrible incident and has left local people in fear.

This was very shocking for the family and local residents in what has been a quiet area.

People are quite terrified this morning. Obviously fires can be uncontrollable and can spread to neighbouring houses. So, people are very nervous.

Cllr Doolan pointed out last nights attack was just the latest in a number of very violent incidents in the area in recent months.

Weve had a fatal shooting, weve had a gun attack and now a firebomb attack that has effectively left a family homeless.

This latest attack is an attack on the whole community in Drimnagh, he added. And those behind it, those who organised and carried it out need to face the full rigours of the law.

They will not succeed in intimidating us. This is a strong community and we won't be easily scared.

"But our community deserves better than this. We urgently need more gardai. Unfortunately the Minister for Justice Helen McEntee has failed to provide adequate Gardai to protect residents in our communities.

"I would strongly urge anyone with any information, no matter how small or insignificant you may feel it is, to please contact the gardai. It is essential those who organised this attack are arrested and face justice."

Gardai said they were investigating an incident of criminal damage by fire at a house in Drimnagh, Dublin 12 in the early hours of Saturday morning.

One male was taken to hospital with serious injuries; his condition is described as stable, gardai said.

Gardai in Sundrive Road are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

Any person who was in the vicinity of Dromard Road in Drimnagh in the early hours of Saturday morning between 3am and 3.45am and who may have camera footage (including dash cam) is asked to make this available to gardai.

Anyone with information is asked to contact Sundrive Road Garda Station 01 666 6600, the Garda Confidential Line on 1800 666 111 or any Garda station.

Gardai added that investigations are ongoing.
Maisie passed away on July 8 from a rare neurometabolic disorder called Leigh Syndrome

A toddler who tragically died in Australia this week from a fatal condition will be laid to rest in Ireland.

Maisie, who lived in Sydney with her parents Conor Kehoe, originally from Co Limerick and Danielle OSullivan, originally from Co Meath, passed away on July 8 from a rare neurometabolic disorder called Leigh Syndrome.

The tot had an unexpected seizure on the morning of Friday, July 5, while Danielle was getting ready for work and was quickly rushed to hospital in an ambulance.

The 17-month-old's condition worsened and after fighting bravely all weekend, she lost her battle on Monday evening.

Doctors initially suspected that Maisie had been struck with meningitis but have since confirmed that she had Leigh Syndrome.

Friends of the family later set up a GoFundMe page to help ease some of the financial pressure on them during this incredibly difficult time.

We all know the costs associated with such situations can be overwhelming. Even raising enough funds to cover their rent during this period would make a massive difference, fundraiser organiser Sean OMahony wrote.

He said that losing Maisie has been absolutely devastating for Conor and Danielle, adding that they face a long road to recovery.

Conor and Danielle also want to express their heartfelt thanks to the amazing doctors and nurses at Sydney Children's Hospital in Randwick and the Kevin Bell trust fund, who couldn't have been more helpful.

So far, the fundraiser has received $248,478 Australian Dollars (154,000) in donations from more than 1,400 patrons.

In an update, Danielle and Conor announced their little girls funeral arrangements, sharing that a mass will be held for Maisie in St Andrews Catholic Parish, Malabar, Sydney on Tuesday, 16 July at 7pm before she makes her final journey to Ireland.

On behalf of Danielle and Conor they would like to express their heartfelt thanks and appreciation on the overwhelming support that they have received during this terrible time. They also wish to invite you to celebrate the short and happy life of their precious baby girl Maisie, they added.

To find out more or to make a donation, visit the Supporting Conor and Danielle through their loss GoFundMe page here.
GAZA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Hamas on Sunday claimed that its fighters killed and wounded some Israeli soldiers who were trying to infiltrate Rafah City in the southern Gaza Strip.

"Our fighters monitored a private Israeli force hiding inside a truck loaded with humanitarian aid ... then the soldiers entered a local Palestinian house and hid inside it," al-Qassam Brigades, the armed wing of Hamas, said in a press statement.

Al-Qassam said "our fighters clashed with the soldiers, attacking them with home-made shells, killing and wounding all of them."

The Israeli army has not commented on the incident yet.

Israel has been waging a large-scale offensive against Hamas in the Gaza Strip to retaliate against a Hamas rampage through the southern Israeli border on Oct. 7, 2023, during which about 1,200 people were killed and more than 250 others were taken hostage. 
We have got her home but she is left bearing not only scars of abuse but also the heavy burden of credit card and car loan debt.

The family of an Irish woman who had been under a travel ban in Dubai after being charged with attempted suicide have set up a GoFundMe page for her.

The travel ban against Tori Towey, a 28-year-old flight attendant from Co Roscommon, was lifted and the charges dropped on Wednesday.

Her cousin, Nicole McElroy, set up a GoFundMe to help Tori cope with the trauma she endured in Dubai by clearing the heavy burden of her credit card and car loan debt.

The post reads: We are the family of Tori Towey.

What started out as a hopeful journey for Tori has turned out to be a living nightmare. She fell victim to physical and psychological abuse and financial control.

We have got her home but she is left bearing not only scars of abuse, but also the heavy burden of credit card and car loan debt. She lost her car along with many other possessions.

We will help Tori through the trauma. We are asking for help in clearing the debt Tori unjustly finds herself in.

Any remaining funds will go to DIVAS and Radha Stirling from Detained in Dubai.

To date, the fundraiser has raised almost 5,000 from 95 donors.

Ms Towey arrived home on Thursday and said she was relieved and delighted to be back home in Ireland.

Speaking on a live discussion on the social media site X, she said she attended a dinner at her cousin's house after arriving back home.

"There was a time where I didn't think it was even possible that I was going to be able to come back at all," she said.

"So I'm just relieved and I suppose over the next few weeks, I'm just going to rest and spend time with family and friends and then just go from there."

Ms Towey thanked Detained in Dubai founder Radha Stirling for her help with her case, as well as Sinn Fein TD for Roscommon-Galway Claire Kerrane, who raised the case with her party leader, Mary Lou McDonald.

"Mary Lou, within minutes, was on the phone to me and so I told her my story. She said 'Look, I'm going to take it to the Dail, I think, in one hour'," Ms Towey said.

"So then we were watching the Oireachtas live and she brought it to the Dail and then Simon Harris called me after they had a private meeting and they were straight on it.

"They kept in touch with us. Any time there was an update, they were phoning us, I know Micheal Martin was doing a lot behind the scenes as well.

"They all just worked as a team and they were amazing. I'm so grateful to all of them."

She said once the Irish Government got involved, embassy officials worked "day and night" on the case and were updating her constantly, sometimes at night.
Fr Gabriel Burke said he would not give the TD communion because of his support for abortion

A Fine Gael TD who was refused communion at a funeral mass in Co Cork on Friday has said he wants clarification on the incident from local Bishop William Crean.

Deputy Colm Burke, a TD for Cork North Central, said he had attended the funeral of a man he had known for over three decades when he was informed that he had been excommunicated.

I recently attended a funeral mass in Whitechurch of a person who I knew for over 35 years, he was a longstanding member of Fine Gael and Party supporter, Mr Burke said.

According to Mr Burke, the priest who refused to give him communion, Fr Gabriel Burke, told him he had been excommunicated.

An incident occurred during the ceremony involving Fr Burke where he refused to give me Holy Communion. He further advised that you have been excommunicated, Mr Burke said.

Speaking to the Irish Times, Fr Gabriel Burke said he would not give the TD communion because of his support for abortion.

Colm Burke voted for abortion and he knows the teaching of the [Catholic] Church that any politician who voted abortion cannot receive communion  Archbishop Eamon Martin made that very clear before the vote on abortion in 2013, Fr Burke told the Irish Times.

However, Mr Burke said he was not aware that he would not be given communion for this reason.

I wasnt aware and it wasnt mentioned to me when the exchange took place. He is also alleging that there were two previous incidents. Thats not correct.

My recollection is there was one previous incident, and I understood the reason why he refused to give me Holy Communion was he had an issue with people in masks at church, as I understand it, Mr Burke said.

I dont know the full extent of it but I did advise a priest in the Cloyne diocese of what occurred on that occasion," Mr Burke added.

If there had been a second incident, I would certainly have been on to the diocesan office, he said.

Mr Burke said he has contacted the diocese about what happened.

I have been in contact with the Cloyne Diocesan Office and I intend writing to Bishop Crean seeking clarification as to my status in attending future Church ceremonies in the Diocese, Mr Burke said.

Fr Jim Moore, secretary for the Cloyne Diocese, confirmed that Mr Burke had been in contact, to speak with Bishop Crean but that the Bishop was indisposed.

The bishop will make contact with him in the early days of next week, Fr Moore said.

Asked if Fr Burke was correct in interpreting what Archbishop Martin said before the Dail vote on abortion, Fr Moore said they had not looked into it yet and believed the Bishop wanted to speak with Mr Burke first.

The Cork North Central TD said he did not want the incident to deflect from the purpose of the funeral mass on Friday.

What is of importance is that there was a family grieving, including his sister, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends, Mr Burke said.

The incident that occurred must not deflect from the purpose of the funeral Mass- to support the family of the person who died, to celebrate the persons achievements and the valuable contribution he made to both his immediate family and the wider local community of Whitechurch throughout his life, he added.

Fr Gabriel Burke has been contacted for comment.
Outreach worker says homeless men had moved closer to the water because of barriers in area

Gardai at the Grand Canal near Charlemont Street where the two bodies were discovered. Photo: Collins

The last time homeless outreach worker Keira Gill met Donal Scanlon, he challenged her to a dance-off in Dublin city centre.

Donal loved a dance-off. He asked me to put on a Nick Minaj song. I did and we had a bit of a bop at the top of Fleet Street. That was Donal all over  fun, bubbly and great craic. Alex was with him. He was more quiet and reserved, like he always was, said Ms Gill, founder and director of homeless outreach service, A Lending Hand.

That was about two weeks ago, the last time I saw them both. We went our separate ways, they were heading back to their tent on the canal. Theyd been living there for years.

Protesters attend scene as gardai disband migrant camp on Grand Canal

Last weekend, Donal Scanlon (49), from Ballybunion, Co Kerry, and Alex Warnick (42), who was originally from the United States, were found dead in the Grand Canal in Dublin.

It is believed that one of the men possibly fell in, then got into difficulty, and the other entered the water to try to save his friend. That this could happen was of no surprise to anyone who knew the men, as they were inseparable friends, Ms Gill said.

Their tents should never have been so near the water. They were forced back because of the erection of the barriers

She regularly came into contact with both men while delivering food and supplies to the homeless community in the capital.

They were very different. Alex was very quiet but very gentle too, she said. Its unusual for an American to end up homeless in Dublin and I asked him once: What are you doing in Ireland? He just shrugged and said: Ah, you know yourself.

Gardai at the Grand Canal near Charlemont Street where the two bodies were discovered. Photo: Collins

Donal was the opposite  full of chat and just so kind. He would never take more than he needed. Donal was gay and a real queen, he was very camp. Just a lovely fella who was great fun. Everyone knew the pair of them, and everyone now is broken-hearted. The homeless are a very tight community, and these two men were well known and liked. They never caused trouble for anyone.

Donal had a partner who has been left devastated by his boyfriends sudden death, Ms Gill added.

The pair had been living along the Grand Canal in tents for a number of years. Recently, they moved their tents closer to the water because of the erection of barriers to try to prevent asylum-seekers without accommodation from pitching their tents in the vicinity.

Flowers near the area where the two men died. Photo: Sam Boal / Collins Photos

Thats the real tragedy of this. Their tents should never have been so near the water. They were forced back because of the erection of the barriers. Their deaths were preventable, in my view, Ms Gill said.

The Government just doesnt understand the lives of the homeless people, our pals. They say they pump so much money into homeless services  but we dont see it because its being spent incorrectly. People like Donal and Alex and many others, they wont stay in the hostels because they are too dangerous. They are safer in their tents, or they should be.

It feels like the Government doesnt care. I want to sit down with them and make them care, added Ms Gill, who is currently in the process of applying for charity status for A Lending Hand.

I hope Donal and Alex are dancing and singing in heaven together. As Desmond Tutu said: There comes a point where we need to stop just pulling people out of the river. We need to go upstream and find out why theyre falling in.

Last Saturday morning, emergency services responded to reports of a body in the canal at 8.15am. Two bodies were recovered a short time later, and both men were pronounced dead at the scene.

No foul play is suspected by gardai and no wounds were found on either man.

Gardai at the canal after the two bodies were discovered. Photo: Sam Boal / Collins Photos

Donal had been living in Dublin for several years and would regularly travel down to his native Kerry. He left Ballybunion about 20 years ago to work in Dublin but was a regular visitor to the north Kerry town to visit his father, who died recently.

His death is the second tragedy to hit the family. In 2016, a search took place for his 54-year-old uncle William Mulvihill who was last seen at a roundabout near Tralee after attending the Rose of Tralee festival. Despite ongoing appeals, he has never been located.

Less is known about the background of Alex Warnick, other than he had been living in Ireland for a number of years.

One woman who got to know Alex while living on the streets said he had a passion for making music and enjoyed a brothership with a close-knit group of friends who were also homeless, who would do anything for one another.

Alex was such a lovely guy. He would go above any beyond for his friends. They were more like family than friends, she said.

He loved music and used to create his own sounds which everyone thought were great. He was just an all-round decent guy and hell be sorely missed.

Another woman, who got to know Alex through outreach work described the American as a selfless person.

He was always helping Donal. He thought about everyone rather than himself. Kind, very polite, with a heart of gold, she said.

A security source said there is nothing to suggest that the death of the two men is anything other than a tragic accident.
It is quite alarming the rise that we're seeing in political violence across the world

Taoiseach Simon Harris has described the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump as truly shocking and said the rise of political violence internationally was alarming.

The Taoiseach joined international leaders including newly-elected UK Prime Minister Keir Stamer in condemning the attack at the political rally, which saw one attendee killed and two others seriously injured.

In an interview with BBC Northern Ireland this morning, the Taoiseach gave his reaction to the attack.

What we've seen happen in Butler, Pennsylvania has been truly shocking. I'm relieved that President Trump is secure and well, and of course, my thoughts are with all of those who've been injured, most particularly with the innocent spectator who has been killed, Taoiseach Simon Harris said.

Mr Harris also described the attack as a chilling and spoke about the rise of political violence in the world.

Political violence must always be condemned, always be called out. And I must say, it is quite alarming the rise that we're seeing in political violence across the world.

It's only weeks since my Slovakian counterpart had an attempt on his life as well, he said.

The Taoiseach said there was a glimmer of hope that came after the attack when US President Joe Biden and former President Trump spoke to one another.

"I think one glimmer of hope we saw last night, in what were very, very chilling moments, was the fact that two fierce political rivals, President Biden and former President Trump, did speak.

The attempted assassination

It's so important that that happened. It's so important that political violence is condemned. And of course, I want to send former President Trump our very best wishes and his family and all of those who were caught up with this horrific heinous criminal act last night, the Taoiseach said.

Asked if he was concerned that yesterdays shooting could have the potential to add to the toxicity of the US presidential race, Mr Harris said politics needed real leadership to deal with toxicity in politics.

I do think the situation around political toxicity is something that absolutely needs real leadership now. Real leadership in the United States, real leadership in Europe, real leadership here on this island as well.

We must dial down the rhetoric when it comes to demonising political opponents. It is so important that we work out a way of engaging and robustly debating issues without dehumanising people, the Taoiseach said.

UK Prime Minister Keir Stamer said he was appalled by what happened and said he thoughts were also with the victims of the attack.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes, the Prime Minister said on X.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, he added.

President of the European Commission Ursula Von Der Leyen also took to social media to express her shock at what happened.

I am deeply shocked by the shooting that took place during former President Trumps campaign rally, Ms Von Der Leyen said on X.

I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim. Political violence has no place in a democracy, she added.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was very upset after the attempted assassination of Mr Trump in Pennsylvania.

Mr Farage has been a long-time supporter of the former US President and spoke at a number of Mr Trumps rallies during his 2016 presidential campaign.

"I was very upset and I'm still upset, Mr Farage told BBC's Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg.

"I'm obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but he's got away with it.

"But one person is dead. Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so it's an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow I'm not shocked by it, he added.
UDA members batter Ryan Buster Johnston outside Belfast city centre pub on Twelfth

Death threat loyalist Ryan Buster Johnston was left in a bloody heap after being battered by UDA men in a drunken Twelfth brawl.

The 30-year-old, who was forced to flee his Newtownards home last year after being targeted by the UVF and UDA, was recorded lying dazed on a road outside a pub in Belfast.

Johnstons face was left caked in his own blood after he was attacked by a UDA gang from the nearby Sandy Row area.

His dad, notorious Real UFF leader Adrian Price, is also under threat from the UVF and UDA.

The PSNI said: Shortly before 3.45pm on July 12, we received a report that a man had been assaulted during a brawl involving a number of people outside a licensed premises in the Bedford Street area.

Johnston with dad Adrian Price

Officers attended and the man was taken to hospital for treatment to injuries to his head.

The man, aged in his 30s, was arrested on suspicion of disorderly behaviour, assault on police and resisting police. He has since been released on bail to be reported to the Public Prosecution Service.

Loyalist sources told Sunday Life Johnston was set upon after the UDA realised his identity.

They kicked the absolute s**t out of him and warned him not to go anywhere near Sandy Row, said an insider.

Johnston is on bail over charges, which he denies, connected to last years loyalist feud in Newtownards.

He is accused of affray, assault on a man at Ards shopping centre and of making a threat to kill a man in Donaghadee. Police have publicly linked these incidents to a fallout between rival loyalist paramilitaries.

One on side of the dispute is the UVF and UDA, and on the other is a small faction styling itself the Real UFF, made up of former South East Antrim UDA members. Since being exiled from Newtownards under threat from the UDA and UVF, Price has been living a nomadic lifestyle, with his last known whereabouts being in the Carryduff area.

His son Buster has also been moving about to avoid attack, but loyalists say he is finding it harder to keep his head down.

Buster likes to party and be seen out and about, so hes much more likely to find himself in trouble like he did on the Twelfth, explained a source. You have to remember this is a fella who used to cruise about the place in a top-of-the-range Maserati.

The PSNI previously impounded Johnstons mega-bucks Maserati Quattro amid suspicions it was bought with the proceeds of crime, but were forced to hand the vehicle back after the loyalist mounted a successful court case against its seizure.
The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by guards during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Donald Trump has said a bullet "pierced" part of his ear when he was shot at a campaign rally in the US. Images showed the bloodied former president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after the assassination attempt.

Here is what we know so far:

- What happened to former President Donald Trump?

Mr Trump was addressing a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

He was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time.

The ex-president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of head, before blood appeared on his face.

He quickly ducked as Secret Service agents rushed the stage to surround him.

There were screams from audience members as the bangs continued.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist before he was taken to his motorcade. Police evacuated the site shortly after Mr Trump left the stage.

One rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an "elevated position" outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

The FBI has taken over the investigation.

- Is Mr Trump okay?

Pictures showed blood on the former president's right ear and part of his face.

Writing on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump said he was "shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear".

Spokesman Steven Cheung said Mr Trump is "fine", while the former president's eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, said his father "is in great spirits".

- What has Mr Trump said?

Mr Trump wrote: "I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania.

"Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country."

He added: "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

"Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

- Where did Mr Trump go afterwards? He was checked out at a local medical facility before flying to New Jersey.

- Who is the suspected gunman? The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman. State voter records show that Crooks was a registered Republican. The upcoming November 5 election would have been the first time Crooks had been old enough to vote in a presidential race.

- What was his motivation? A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

- What has US President Joe Biden said? President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed. He called the shooting "sick", adding: "There's no place in America for this type of violence."

- What was the reaction across the globe?

Leaders across the world have described the assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania as a "tragedy for democracy" as they condemned political violence.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he was "appalled" by the shooting, which saw Mr Trump sustain an injury to his ear and resulted in the death of one audience member and left two others "critically injured", according to the Secret Service.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who recently returned from Washington DC for the 75th anniversary of Nato, said he hopes the US "emerges stronger" from the shooting.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world," he continued in a post to X, formerly Twitter.

"Never should violence prevail.

"I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery.

"My condolences go out to the close ones of this attack's victim, a rally attendee.

"I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this."

European Council president Charles Michel also "strongly condemned" the attack, adding in his post to X: "Political violence is absolutely unacceptable in a democracy."

French president Emmanuel Macron struck a similar tone, describing the attempt on Mr Trump's life as "a tragedy for our democracies".
Donald Trump has been rushed off the stage at a rally in Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd.

Mr Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out.

The ex-president could be seen reaching with his right hand towards his neck and there appeared to be blood on his face.

Donald Trump was helped off by bodyguards (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

He quickly ducked as agents from his protective detail rushed the stage and screams rang out from the crowd. The bangs continued as agents tended to him.

His motorcade has left the venue. His condition was not immediately known.

Police began vacating the site in Butler shortly after Mr Trump left the stage.

Leaving Mass in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, President Joe Biden responded no, when asked if he had been briefed about the incident.

Trump's former Vice President Mike Pence was the first to issue a statement on the shooting, saying on X: Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us.

The U.S. Secret Service also issued a statement saying the ex-President is safe and protective measures have been implemented around him.

"This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," the Secret Service said in a post on X

Speaker Mike Johnson posted on X that he is praying for President Trump, moments after the former president was taken offstage after he was injured in an incident at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

House GOP Conference Chair Elise Stefanik also posted on the platform, saying, Please pray for President Trump, his family, and all of the patriots at todays rally in Pennsylvania.

More to follow..
The attacker was thought to be a hunter, according to the report, which did not specify how the victims were killed.

Several people were killed and others injured in an attack in Lautlingen today, a town in the German state of Baden-Wuerttemberg, according to a report by Germany's Bild newspaper.

The attacker was thought to be a hunter, according to the report, which did not specify how the victims were killed.

Police confirmed there were several people dead without specifying. The general public was not at risk, a spokesperson said.

More to follow
A controlled fire on land in the lower Kaimai range is raising concerns amongst motorists driving along State Highway 29 on Sunday afternoon.

Coming up the Kaimais from Waikato, [theres] heaps of smoke, says a SunLive reader, who is concerned it may be a bush or house fire.

Smoke can be seen billowing up from the farmland in the lower Kaimai range on the eastern side of SH29.

Fire and Emergency NZ Northern communications manager Mark Richards says the vegetation fire is a controlled burn on a farm property.

"We have a fire truck from Tauranga station attending, says Mark.

"There's an area of land that has a controlled burn."
There are fears police and councils could lose access to New Zealands network of more than 1000 highway CCTV cameras  a move one mayor says could have disastrous consequences.

New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi says it is reviewing how it shares personal information from its cameras with third parties for privacy reasons, but no decisions have been made and it is listening to feedback.

Rotorua Mayor Tania Tapsell says revoking access would be unreasonable and wants the Government to exempt the city or help pay an estimated $675,000 to replace its 19 NZTA cameras, which were used for community safety purposes.

Rotorua Lakes councillor Don Paterson tells Local Democracy Reporting he was told the cameras will be checked after he was involved in a collision on Te Ngae Rd/State Highway 30 last month.

He's concerned losing access to the network will impact police investigations, community safety plans and even insurance claims.

Safety is a priority. Peoples lives are at stake.

Rotorua Lakes councillor Don Paterson at a July meeting. Photo / Laura Smith.

Paterson raised his crash experience at a Community and District Development Committee meeting on Wednesday, and asked if the council would try and stop access being revoked.

Jean-Paul Gaston, community and district development group manager, said nationally there were a range of conversations on maintaining access to the agencys cameras.

It was led by police but the council was interested in the outcome.

Tapsell said she wrote to the ministers of transport and police, as well as the chairman of the agency with the councils concerns.

[Revoking access] will have a serious impact.

She said she was yet to get a satisfactory answer but would keep advocating to retain access.

Disastrous consequences feared

In the April letter to police minister Mark Mitchell, Tapsell said the councils CCTV network provided 24/7 surveillance of the city and included 19 NZTA cameras.

We have recently learnt that following a Privacy Impact Assessment, [NZTA] will be resuming full operation of these cameras which means our Community Safety Team will no longer be able to access them or freely obtain footage from them to assist Police, she said.

On many occasions our team has been able to provide CCTV footage to local police to assist with investigations and prosecutions, ensuring those who choose to commit crimes are held accountable.

Tapsell said it would cost about $675,000 to replace the local cameras and fill the large gap in the councils network, and requested funding support for this.

In the May letter to NZTA board chairman Simon Bridges, Tapsell requested an exemption allowing the council to keep accessing the 19 cameras or that NZTA helped fund replacements.

Tapsell told Local Democracy Reporting CCTV was a crucial crime-fighting tool and she wrote the letters to advise of the disastrous consequences of revoking access.

Replacing and duplicating them would be a massive and unnecessary cost to ratepayers.

She said the council used them only to track vehicles that have been involved in crime or are registered as stolen.

We strongly urge ministers to ensure our local access to these cameras is maintained.

Rotorua mayor Tania Tapsell at a July meeting. Photo / Laura Smith.

An NZTA spokesperson said police and a number of councils had access to its CCTV camera network and council access was through its regional Transport Operations Centres.

NZTA is reviewing how we share personal information from CCTV cameras with other agencies in accordance with our obligations under the Privacy Act 2020.

We understand the importance of access to these cameras for councils and Police to enforce the law. We are listening carefully to feedback from councils and Police, and no final decisions have been made on potential changes to third-party access to our cameras.

The number of cameras in its network was changing constantly as cameras were installed, retired or transferred from police to NZTA. As at May 31 there were 1148 cameras on its network.

The agencys website stated its cameras were used for managing operational land transport services, improving services, improving the network, and providing a safer land transport system.

Examples included identifying and managing events related to road emergencies and motor vehicle crashes, dangerous behaviour, destructive behaviour such as vandalism, the functionality of its assets and the correct use of transit lanes.

Both ministers and police were approached for comment.

LDR is local body journalism co-funded by RNZ and NZ On Air.
WASHINGTON, July 13 (Xinhua) -- U.S. President Joe Biden on Saturday spoke with former U.S. President Donald Trump on phone after the latter was injured in a shooting incident at a campaign rally in Butler in the state of Pennsylvania, media reported. 
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Syracuse, N.Y.  Three people were seriously injured after a head-on collision on Interstate 690 West early Sunday morning.

Around 6 a.m., Jimmy Brown, 35, was driving eastbound on I-690 near the fairgrounds in a Chevrolet Malibu when he lost control and crossed over the highways median, according to an Onondaga County Sheriffs Office release.

The vehicle collided head-on with a Kia Sorento driven by Robert McNamara, 80.

Around 6 a.m., two cars collided head-on on I-690 near the fairgrounds injuring 3 people on Sunday, July 14, 2024.courtesy of Solvay Fire Department

The Chevy landed on its roof after the collision, deputies said. Brown and his passenger, 32-year-old Shaniqua Campbell, were trapped in the upside-down vehicle, deputies said.

Brown, Campbell and McNamara were rushed to Upstate University Hospital.

Brown is in critical condition. Campbell and McNamara are both listed in serious condition.

I-690 West was closed for nearly six hours Sunday after the crash. The road reopened around noon.

Onondaga County Sheriff's deputies are blocking both lanes of I-690 Westbound at Exit 7 after a two-car crash on Sunday, July 14, 2024.Courtesy of DOT

Staff writer Anne Hayes covers breaking news, crime and public safety. Have a tip, a story idea, a question or a comment? You can reach her at ahayes@syracuse.com.
Calls for President Joe Biden to stand down as a candidate for reelection  and Bidens resolve to remain in the race  are the chief topics of this weeks editorial cartoon gallery.

Walt Handelsman leads things off with Democrats urging Biden to pass the torch ... and the president using it to set the message on fire.

Bill Bramhall draws the president up to his neck in the sand, saying, Im not going anywhere. Joel Petts idea of Biden stepping down involves him face-planting from the stairs of Air Force One. Dana Summers refers to Bidens mixups during his hourlong press conference at the conclusion of the NATO summit. Nick Anderson contrasts Democrats debates over the fitness of their candidate with silence from Republicans about candidate Donald Trumps fitness to serve.

On the Trump front, editorial cartoonists focus on Project 2025, a blueprint for a second Trump administration calling for elimination of some federal agencies and consolidation of power in the executive branch. The former president sought to distance himself from it, even as many of its contributors worked in his first administration. Mike Luckovich sees Trumps fingerprints all over it. Bramhall depicts the product of the Heritage Foundation think tank as a shell aimed at democracy. Drew Sheneman critiques the lack of coverage by mainstream media until Project 2025 began trending on social media.

Among other topics in this weeks gallery: Hurricane Beryls destruction in Texas, the heat wave gripping the nation and crowded national parks.

Cartoons were drawn by Jack Ohman, Nick Anderson, Bill Bramhall, Dana Summers, Drew Sheneman, Walt Handelsman, David Horsey, Joel Pett and Joey Weatherford of Tribune Content Agency; and Mike Luckovich, Steve Breen and Michael Ramirez of Creators Syndicate.
Detroit  A massive pipe organ that underscored the drama and comedy of silent movies with live music in Detroits ornate Hollywood Theatre nearly a century ago was dismantled into thousands of pieces and stashed away.

The Barton Opus, built in 1927, spent four decades stored in a garage, attic and basement in suburban Detroit. But the towering musical curiosity is being lovingly restored in Indianapolis and eventually will be trucked, piece by piece, to the Rochester Institute of Technology in western New York, to be reassembled and rehoused in a theater specifically designed to accommodate it.

In its heyday, the Barton Opus was able to recreate the sounds of many instruments, including strings, flutes and tubas, says Carlton Smith, who has been restoring the organ since 2020. It also contained real percussion instruments such as a piano, xylophone, glockenspiel, cymbals and drums and could produce sound effects including steamboat and bird whistles, Smith says.

For many moviegoers, the organs  and the organists  were the stars.

One guy could do it all, Smith says. In the big cities, they were literally filling the theaters thousands of seats multiple times during the day. They were showing live shows along with the films. It was a big production.

The Barton Opus enjoyed good acoustics at the Hollywood Theatre, according to the Detroit Theatre Organ Society. The theaters in Detroit at that time, the golden age of the citys auto industry, were as glamorous as any in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco, according to John Lauter, an organist and organ technician.

We were such a rich market for moviegoers that the theater owners built these palatial places, Lauter says. There were no plain Jane movie houses back then.

Lauter, who also is the director of the Detroit Theatre Organ Society and president of the Motor City Theatre Organ Society, says the Hollywood Theatre organ was one of the largest made by the Bartola Musical Instrument Co. of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Only three were sold, while the other two were installed in the Highland Theatre in Chicago and the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois.

Of the three, this is the last one left that hasnt been altered, Smith says.

In the decades that followed, televisions began to appear in living rooms across the nation and silent movie houses fell out of favor. The Hollywood Theatre closed in the 1950s, its fixtures were sold and its famed Barton Opus was on the verge of being lost to history.

But in the early 1960s, Lauters friend, Henry Przybylski, bought it at auction for about $3,500. Przybylski scrambled to remove the massive instrument, parts of which stood two stories tall, before the theater was demolished.

He pulled together all of his friends in the winter of 1963, Lauter says. The building had no electricity and no heat. They came in with Coleman lanterns and block and tackle.

They took the organ apart and Przybylski  an engineer and organ buff  transported the thousands of pieces back to his Dearborn Heights home where it would remain, unassembled, for about 40 years.

He never heard or played that instrument ever, Lauter says. He lived a majority of his life owning that thing. Hed roll up the garage door and there would be that console in there. He made it known it was the very best there was.

Przybylski died in 2000, but that did not spell the end of the Barton Opus odyssey.

Steven Ball, a professional organist who taught at the University of Michigans Organ Department, asked Przbylskis widow in 2003 if the pipe organ was for sale.

I came up with every last bit of cash I could, Ball says.

But he also put the pipe organ straight into storage.

This whole project was to see this organ through to safety, until I could find an institution to restore it to what it was, Ball says, adding that he had always hoped the Barton Opus would end up in a theater mirroring its original home.

In 2019, Rochester Institute of Technology President David C. Munson reached out to Ball, whom he had known since Munson served as the dean of engineering at the University of Michigan years earlier.

I contacted Steven and asked where we could acquire the best theater organ, Munson says. Steven said, Well that would be mine.

Ball will donate his Barton Opus to the school, where it will be the centerpiece of the new performing arts center. The theater that will house the organ is expected to open by January 2026. Restoration work on the organ is a little over two-thirds complete, according to Smith.

The theater is designed to accommodate exactly this organ, Munson says, adding that the architect, Michael Maltzan, designed the pipe chambers to have the same dimension as in the Hollywood Theatre. We have all the original plans for that organ and how the pipes were laid out.

The exact cost of the work hasnt yet been determined, Munson says, adding, Its an investment were making, but I think the results are going to be remarkable.
NEW YORK, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The shooter at former U.S. President Donald Trump's rally was killed by Secret Service personnel, the U.S. Secret Service said in a statement, adding that one spectator was killed in the incident, while another two were critically injured. 
The worlds population is projected to grow by more than 2 billion people in the coming decades, reaching a peak around the 2080s at approximately 10.3 billion, marking a significant departure from previous projections, Azernews reports citing a new report from the United Nations cited by AP.

John Wilmoth, head of the U.N. Population Division, highlighted that there is an 80% probability that the global population will peak within this century, a notable increase from earlier estimates. This shift reflects declining fertility rates in major countries, particularly in China, where the population is expected to decline sharply from 1.4 billion in 2024 to 633 million by 2100.

The report, released on World Population Day, underscores that global fertility rates have decreased, with women on average having one fewer child than in 1990. Over half of all countries now have fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, signaling a potential decline in population absent significant migration.

Navid Hanif, U.N. Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, emphasized that the anticipated lower global population in 2100 compared to previous projections has profound policy implications for sustainability.

Already, population has peaked in 63 countries including China, Germany, Japan, and Russia, with a projected 14% decline over the next 30 years. Another 48 countries, including Brazil, Iran, Turkey, and Vietnam, are expected to reach peak population between 2025 and 2054.

Looking ahead, the report predicts diverse demographic trajectories among countries, with some experiencing rapid population growth while others face decline. Wilmoth highlighted that these differences are rooted in varying stages of demographic transition towards longer life expectancy and smaller family sizes.

Key findings from the report also note that global life expectancy is rebounding post-COVID-19, with older populations projected to outnumber children by 2080. Migration is anticipated to be a primary driver of population growth in certain countries, while gender equality and womens empowerment are seen as critical in managing population dynamics.

The worlds population has surged from 2.6 billion in 1950 to 8 billion in 2022, with future growth patterns poised to reshape global demographics profoundly. As countries prepare for these shifts, the report calls for innovative policies to address economic, social, and environmental challenges associated with rapid population changes.

Kathleen Mogelgaard, president of the Population Institute, highlighted the growing demographic disparities worldwide, emphasizing the need for concerted global efforts to address poverty, hunger, and ensure sustainable development.

Looking forward to 2100, projections indicate that India will remain the worlds most populous country, followed by China, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Congo, reflecting ongoing demographic shifts reshaping the global landscape.

Wilmoth concluded by emphasizing that while population dynamics are crucial, future outcomes will be shaped significantly by societal choices and behaviors, underscoring the importance of informed policymaking and international cooperation in navigating demographic transitions.
MAZAR-I-SHARIF, Afghanistan, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Police have seized a variety of arms and ammunition from across north Afghanistan's Balkh province over the past four months, provincial police spokesperson Mohammad Eisa Wasiq said Sunday.

The counter-terrorism police have collected 29 pieces of different types of arms and ammunition during a series of operations in different districts of the province, Wasiq said.

Calling upon Afghans to help police in recovering arms and ammunition from the illegal possession of any person, the official added that the police are trying to recover and register any arms illegally kept by individuals over the past 20 years.

The Afghan caretaker government has recovered a lot of arms and ammunition including battle tanks and missiles since taking over power following the withdrawal of the U.S.-led forces from the war-ravaged Asian country in August 2021. 
Nepal retrieves more bodies from buses swept away by landslide



Kathmandu, July 14 (AFP) Jul 14, 2024



Nepali search teams retrieved more bodies on Sunday of the roughly 50 people missing after a landslide triggered by torrential rains swept two buses into a fast-flowing river.

Over 300 officers, including divers, were scouring the river for passengers and the two buses themselves, said Kumar Neupane, spokesperson for Nepal's armed police unit.

Other teams on boats were using sensor equipment to search the murky water.

Grieving relatives waited on the banks in shock.

"It's been three days I have been here, but my grandparents' bodies have not been found," said Khurseed Alam, aged 23.

The force of Friday's landslide in central Chitwan district pushed the vehicles over concrete crash barriers and down a steep embankment, at least 30 metres (100 feet) from the road.

"One body has been found about 25 kilometres (15 miles) from the accident site," police spokesman Dan Bahadur Karki told AFP.

In total, five bodies have been retrieved, Karki said. One was an Indian citizen.

District official Khimananda Bhusal told AFP that roughly 50 people were swept away on the buses, revising down the number from the 63 initially reported by authorities.

Fierce currents, made worse by this week's torrential downpours, have hampered search efforts.

Chitwan district government chief Indra Dev Yadav said water was flowing fast, making it difficult for the teams.

"The river is deep and narrow", he added.

Road travel becomes deadlier during the annual monsoon season as rains trigger landslides and floods across the mountainous country.

Monsoon rains across South Asia from June to September offer respite from the summer heat and are crucial to replenishing water supplies, but also bring widespread death and destruction.

The rainfall is hard to forecast and varies considerably, but scientists say climate change is making the monsoon stronger and more erratic.

Deadly crashes, meanwhile, are common in Nepal because of poorly constructed roads, badly maintained vehicles and reckless driving.

Nearly 2,400 people lost their lives on the Himalayan republic's roads in the 12 months to April, according to government figures.
GAZA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- At least 12 Palestinians were killed and dozens of others wounded in an Israeli air raid on a school housing displaced people in the central Gaza Strip, said Palestinian security and medical sources on Sunday.

Israeli aircraft bombed a school in the Nuseirat refugee camp run by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) with at least one missile, security sources told Xinhua.

Some video footage circulated on social networks shows the moment the school was bombed, parts of which were destroyed.

There was no immediate comment from the Israeli army on the raid.

UNRWA condemned the Israeli raid, stressing that there is no safe place in Gaza.

"The UN agency sends the coordinates of its facilities on a daily basis to the Israeli army, yet the army insists on targeting it and the United Nations headquarters," the UN agency advisor Adnan Abu Hasna told Xinhua.

The attack came a day after Israeli warplanes bombed the tents of displaced people in the Mawasi area in Khan Younis, killing at least 90 Palestinians and wounding 300 others, most of them women and children, according to the health authorities in Gaza. 
TOKYO, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Three people have been confirmed dead after they were trapped in a landslide in the early hours of Friday in western Japanese prefecture of Ehime, according to local authorities.

Firefighters and police searched the disaster-hit area in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, and found two men and one woman on Saturday afternoon. They were later confirmed to be members of a family who had been reported missing since the landslide.

The victims were a man in his 90s, a woman in her 80s and their son in his 40s, who were living in a wooden house that collapsed due to the landslide.

At around 4 a.m. local time on Friday, a slope measuring around 50 meters wide and 100 meters high collapsed from a mountain, with mud flowing into nearby homes and apartments. Local authorities had been searching for the three missing people after the disaster.

There were no further reports of anybody missing and the search was called off at the landslide site.

The landslide occurred as the country's weather agency warned of heavy rain mainly in western Japan, urging people to be on high alert for landslides and flooding in low-lying areas. 
Men, right, gather outside the New Orleans Mission as Nathaniel Fields, left, director of the city's Office of Homeless Services and Strategy, delivers water and other supplies on Wednesday, August 16, 2023. ((Photo by Chris Granger, The Times-Picayune)
What happens when 24 cartoonists and a poet walk into a Sydney artists studio together and drink lots of beer?

It sounds like the start of a bad joke. But it was the beginning of the first association of newspaper artists in the world: the Society of Australian Black and White Artists Club, which formed exactly a century ago, on July 17, 1924.

This group portrait of members of the Australian Society of Black and White Artists in 1924 by founding president Cecil Hartt, featuring then PM Billy Hughes, is in the new State Library display. Credit: Cecil Hartt

At that first gathering they elected Cecil Hartt, the first staff artist at Smiths Weekly, as founding president. Hartt, like his cartooning contemporaries, was considered to be as handy with a glass as he was with a pencil, which may be why The Bulletin writer Henry Lawson called the collective Beerhemians.

On Wednesday, the Australian Cartoonists Association, as it is now known, will celebrate a century to the day since its formation in a display of more than 70 works at the State Library of NSW.
The Bear is basically Seinfeld in a kitchen, and Beef is a Trojan horse, say the creators of two of Hollywoods most successful streaming hits of recent years, who are in Australia to share the secrets of making elevated drama for the global market.

The Bear is like a workplace comedy, says Joanna Calo, co-writer/producer/director of the Disney+ hit.

Towering talents: Lee Sung Jin and Joanna Calo at the Sofitel in Melbourne. Credit: Penny Stephens

It really is, agrees Beef creator Lee Sung Jin, known to all as Sonny. There are archetypes you revisit every episode, you know exactly how each character is going to be. You know Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) is gonna be really upset and anxious, and then Neil (Matty Matheson) is gonna come in and say something funny.

There is a sort of Seinfeldian construct to it, he observes. But it feels new because of the themes youre talking about  alcoholism, familial trauma, and all of that. So it is taking the old and remixing it.
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Eating outRestaurant news George Calombaris Sydney expansion plans fall over after only five months The celebrity chef will step aside as a new operator takes the reins at Alpha, while his predecessor at the same venue, Greek food pioneer Peter Conistis, opens his mammoth waterfront venture at Brighton-le-Sands. Scott Bolles July 15, 2024 Save Log in , register or subscribe to save recipes for later. You have reached your maximum number of saved items. Remove items from your saved list to add more. Save this article for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them anytime. Got it Share

Back in March, former MasterChef judge George Calombaris was announced as creative partner at glam Sydney Greek restaurant Alpha, replacing Alphas founding chef, Peter Conistis. Fast-forward five months, and Alpha has changed operators, while on Friday, July 12, Conistis opens the doors at mammoth waterfront restaurant Ammos. Calombaris was the prized signing by Public Hospitality, which ran Alpha up until last month, when it lost the tender. Alphas new operator, Con Dedes, explains Calombaris dishes will disappear from the menu in coming weeks. Chef George Calombaris dishes will disappear from Alphas menu. Steven Woodburn I had conversations with George [about staying on after the change in operator] but we agreed mutually not to join forces. To Georges credit, he lightened up the menu, which is the direction were taking, Dedes says. Calombaris describes Dedes as a brilliant operator but says the new situation just didnt match.

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I love Sydney, and I loved my time at Alpha, Calombaris told the Herald on the phone from Greece. But I feel like Ive been teased. I wouldnt say I was upset, I was saddened [that the Alpha stint was brief]. But it did open up other opportunities. Sydney is definitely on my agenda. Calombaris didnt expand with any details on the new opportunities, nor did he rule out being involved at another venue in the Public portfolio. The expansive dining room at Alpha. Supplied Public Hospitalitys portfolio shrunk last Friday when Maybe Group, the operator of award-winning Sydney CBD cocktail bar Maybe Sammy, Paddington tequila bar El Primo Sanchez and Randwick pizzeria Maybe Frank, decided to split from Jon Adgemis Public. Last year Public also split with the Love Tilly Group, which operates venues including Fabbricaand Ragazzi. At Alpha, Dedes is backing head chef Alessandro Mandelli, who has worked under both Conistis and Calombaris, to chart Alphas new direction. He says the Alpha menu will keep one eye on Greek classics and another on modern dishes and plenty of seafood.

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As for Conistis, he now looks back on his departure from Alpha, after an 11-year run, in a positive light. It was the perfect time for me to move on, he says on the eve of opening the sprawling Ammos. I have all of level three, Conistis says, hunkered down in the sprawling new Brighton-le-Sands site, ripe with water views. In September, well open a bistro, my take on a taverna. Plans also include a whiskey room, with a food menu of Greek caviar and lobster rolls also part of the plans. But first, theres the launch this week of the Paul Papadopoulos-designed Ammos restaurant in the space. The 160-seat restaurant has its own saganaki station, from which staff will direct flaming dishes to customers. Im doing six different lamb dishes, Conistis says. Theyll include a Sovereign Lamb tomahawk with celeriac skordalia and lemon, and a pot-roasted lamb neck with moussaka flavours.

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1 / 9 Conistis at Ammos on level 3 at the new five-star Novotel tower in Brighton-Le-Sands. Louie Douvis 2 / 9 Cobia plaki (baked fish) with fennel, tomatoes and alliums. Jason Loucas 3 / 9 House-cured sardines with fennel and blood orange salad. Jason Loucas 4 / 9 Spanakorizo with spinach rice, leeks, dill and galotyri. Jason Loucas 5 / 9 Horiatiki with tomato, cucumber, feta, olives and radishes. Jason Loucas 6 / 9 Hellenic sweet bites. Jason Loucas 7 / 9 Baklava, dried summer fruit, walnut, guanaja, metaxa and pear. Jason Loucas 8 / 9 Moussaka, eggplant, sea scallops and taramosalata. Jason Loucas 9 / 9 Fried gavros (Greek anchovies) and ouzo mayonnaise. Jason Loucas Previous Slide Next Slide A fire-roasted lobster with a la grecque butter is on the opening menu, along with quail avgolemono soup and loukoumades with spiced honey and halva ice-cream. The chef also wants to rekindle some once popular dishes in Greece that have lost favour. Theres a polenta dish Id like to [bring back]. Ammos has a seasoned senior team. Executive chef James Roberts is the former head chef at Ploos restaurant at The Rocks, while venue manager Kosta Lambroglou previously worked at Felix and Mr Wong. Conistis will also give a nod to his mother, Eleni, who he describes as his biggest inspiration for his cooking and respect for Greek food. Ill do a dinner with her here, he says. Open lunch and dinner Wed-Sun

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Making an early run for a gold medal in the category of Olympics superfan is Hollywood superstar Nicole Kidman, who is heading to France to see our beloved Matildas battle Germany in one of the Games first events.

Kidman will jet into the French port city of Marseille for the womens soccer match on July 25 in the Stade de Marseille, just ahead of the Olympics opening ceremony in Paris on July 26, we think as a guest of official timekeeper Omega. No doubt the Matildas, who lost their final friendly match 1-2 to defending gold medallists Canada on the weekend, will hope Kidmans gold medal-winning track record (an Oscar in 2003 for playing Virginia Woolf in The Hours) will inspire them.

Jessica Mauboy (left) and Nicole Kidman are ready for some Aussie gold. Credit: Joe Benke

Also attending the Matildas match is singer Jessica Mauboy, who has recorded Higher, the official song of the Australian Olympic team. The track,written by Shannon Busch, known professionally as Wilsn and producer Stephen Mowat, received input from chef de mission Anna Meares and four-time Olympian and AOC Athletes Commission chair Cate Campbell, who rates the track as a killer.

Mauboy will also be in the stands for some Hockeyroos games. Turns out she was a keen hockey player back in Darwin before her life turned a corner when she was 16 thanks to Australian Idol. Who knew? The Australian Olympic Committee evidently did.
This article is part of a months-long series investigating misconduct in the CFMEU.

Labors federal executive is set to ban donations from the Victorian branch of the CFMEU to cauterise the political damage over revelations of underworld infiltration into the scandal-plagued construction union, as pressure increases on the Albanese government to intervene.

Senior ALP sources, who were unable to speak publicly as details of the ban were being finalised, said the party was preparing to announce the measure in the coming days.

Workplace Relations Minister Tony Burke is weighing up federal interventions including deregistering the CFMEUs construction division or appointing an external administrator. Credit: Alex Ellinghausen

It comes after Victorian Premier Jacinta Allan said on Monday she would cut off donations from the union, while South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas asked for the CFMEUs construction division to be suspended from his states branch of the party.

Labors national executive will meet on Wednesday, the same day as the ACTU, which is bracing for conflict after the CFMEUs national leadership declined to stand down its NSW boss despite the peak union bodys ultimatum to remove from positions of power any official facing criminal allegations.
Khan Younis: Israel said it targeted Hamas shadowy military commander in a massive strike that killed at least 90 people including children, according to local health officials.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said there still isnt absolute certainty that Mohammed Deif and a second Hamas commander, Rafa Salama, were killed.

Palestinians evacuate from a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis, southern Gaza Strip on July 13. Credit: AP

Hamas rejected the claim that Deif was in the area, saying these false claims are merely a cover-up for the scale of the horrific massacre. The strike took place in an area Israels military had designated as safe for hundreds of thousands of Palestinians.

Deif and Hamas top official in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, are believed by Israel to be the chief architects of the October 7 attack that killed some 1200 people in southern Israel and triggered the Israel-Hamas war. Not seen in public for years, Deif has long topped Israels most-wanted list and is believed to have escaped multiple Israeli assassination attempts. On October 7, Hamas issued a rare voice recording of Deif announcing the Al Aqsa Flood operation.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size The gunshots were high-pitched pops, slight and hollow in the open air. Donald Trump, the former president set to accept the Republican nomination in five days, was less than 10 minutes into his speech in Butler, Pennsylvania, to a crowd of tens of thousands. A kilometres-long line of cars had crawled for hours to pass through metal detectors and bag inspections, just as at any Trump event, until these green fairgrounds became a sea of red hats. Before the chaos, supporters wait for Donald Trump to take the stage. Credit: AP Trump was almost an hour late, and his supporters waited impatiently under the blazing sun and thumping music. In the middle of the crowd, opposite the stage, a platform of TV cameras pointed at the podium, with reporters huddled underneath for shade. Finally, Trump walked out, as usual, to chants of USA and marvelled: This is a big crowd. This is a big, big, beautiful crowd. A bright red MAGA cap shaded his eyes, and his white shirt was open-collared in the heat as he leaned his arms on the lectern. He launched into his speech but quickly got bored with the prepared script. He offered to invite the Republican Senate candidate, Dave McCormick, to speak, but McCormick wasnt ready. Trump arrives for the campaign rally. Credit: AP

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You dont mind if I go off teleprompter, do you? Trump teased. Because these teleprompters are so damn boring. He asked to show that chart that I love so much, showing border crossings during his and Joe Bidens presidencies, and acted amazed that his producers obliged, projecting it onto the giant screens to either side. Wow, you guys are getting better with time. He was pointing to one of the screens, narrating the increase in immigration since he left office in 2021. Look what happened to our country! The pops came in pairs, a burst of five or six total. Trump swatted his ear, as if he heard a mosquito. Then he hunched his shoulders and ducked. Get down, get down, get down! Secret Service agents shouted as they rushed up onto the stage and surrounded him. Secret Service agents move to cover the former president. Credit: AP The crowd screamed. Another burst of popping noises. More screaming. The people in the bleachers behind Trump shuffled, unsure where to go. The people in chairs or standing crouched or leapt to the ground. A dense cloud of smoke hung to the right of the stage, then dispersed quickly.

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One more solitary shot. More Secret Service agents in suits rushed the stage, then black-clad men wearing body armour and helmets, and carrying assault rifles. The crowd shouted in confusion. Are we good? one of the officers said, audible from the podium microphone. Shooters down, another answered. Secret Service agents rush to the stage. Credit: AP Were good to move. Are we clear?

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Were clear! Let me get my shoes on, Trump said, as the agents lifted him. I got you, sir. Hold on, your head is bloody. Let me get my shoes on, he said again, as the agents formed a ring around him. The crowd, seeing him standing, started to cheer. Wait, Trump said, and thrust up a fist. Fight! he said. Fight!

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Then the people roared and chanted again: USA! We gotta move, an agent said. Leaning on the guards for assistance, Trump kept his fist raised as he hobbled off the stage, down the stairs and into his black SUV. One black dress shoe remained on the red-carpeted stage. Trump is helped off the stage after the apparent attempt on his life. Credit: AP Officers  Secret Service, county sheriff, state troopers, US Department of Homeland Security  started telling the crowd to evacuate, calling the site an active crime scene. The rallygoers walked out, calling and texting family and friends, and recording videos. People were shocked but calm. As people passed the media risers elevating the cameras, some took out their anger on the press. Youre not safe. Its your fault. You wanted political violence, now you got it. Hope youre all f---ing happy.

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NEW YORK, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Former U.S. President Donald Trump is "fine" and being checked out at a local medical facility after the shooting incident during a rally, his campaign said in a statement.

Trump was rushed off the stage at a rally in Butler in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania on Saturday after gunshots rang out through the crowd.

Blood could be seen on the side of his head and his ear as he was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents, video footage showed.

The suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed, local media reported, quoting Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger.

Popping sounds rang out over the rally a few minutes after Trump began his speech.

Screams could be heard in the crowd, and Trump held up his fist to the crowd while he was escorted away from his rally and into a vehicle.

"The former president is safe," Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement posted on X.

"An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," the statement said.

U.S. President Joe Biden, who is in Delaware for the weekend, has been briefed on the situation, reports said.

The incident occurred only two days before the Republican National Convention, scheduled to kick off in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday, during which Trump is expected to be formally nominated as the party's presidential candidate for the Nov. 5 election. 
They took him out with one shot right between the eyes, he said. They did a fantastic job. Its surreal for all of us. Biden ordered a review of all security protocols at the Republican National Convention, where Trump will be formally announced as the partys nominee in Milwaukee this week. As tensions escalated across the country, Biden condemned the attack as contrary to everything we stand for, but urged people not to make assumptions about the political motivations of Crooks, as they were not yet known. There is no place in America for this kind of violence, for any violence ever. Period. No exceptions. We cant allow this violence to be normalised, Biden said in a televised national address. The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. Its time to cool it down.

Biden and Trump spoke to each other after the shooting. First Lady Jill Biden also spoke with former first lady Melania Trump on Sunday afternoon, said a White House official. The comments came as the man who was killed in the crossfire was identified as Corey Comperatore, a former firefighter, father and avid Trump supporter who dived on his family to protect them as the shots were fired. Corey Comperatore (centre, pictured with family members) was killed in the crossfire of the Trump shooting. The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most, his sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, wrote on Facebook, describing him as a hero. The FBI said that the AR-15-type semiautomatic rifle found next to the gunmans body was legally purchased by his father. Two explosive devices were found in the gunmans car and a possible third at his residence.

And after months of being noticeably absent at Trumps court cases and on the campaign trail, Melania Trump made a rare and powerful statement, sharing how she realised her life was on the brink of devastating change as she watched as a violent bullet from a monster came perilously close to killing her husband. A monster who recognised my husband as an inhumane political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration, she wrote, in an unusual public declaration of affection for the man she married in 2005. The facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times. The shooting took place minutes after Trump took the stage at an open-air rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 55 kilometres north of Pittsburgh.

Crooks, from the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, was shot dead by Secret Service agents moments after he opened fire from the top of a shed about 130 metres from the stage where Trump was only minutes into his speech. Loading Crooks was a registered Republican who had also donated to Democrats, through the partys aligned progressive fundraising organisation ActBlue, in 2021. This election would have been the first in which he was old enough to vote. But his ability to get within shooting range of the former president has put the spotlight on the Secret Service, whose job is not only to protect the president, but also to sweep and secure every venue where he appears. Trump had been on stage for only a few minutes when shots rang out, narrowly missing him but ultimately killing Comperatore and injuring two others.

Trump grabbed his ear and dived for cover as chaos ensued, before standing up with a bloodied face to pump his fist in the air, in what immediately became one of the most iconic images in US political history. T-shirts with the defiant former president are now selling online, in some cases for $US21.99. The now-iconic image of a defiant Donald Trump in the moments after the attack. Credit: AP With four months before the election, both sides of politics have called for calm, but Republicans are also demanding answers as to how the incident occurred, despite federal and local law enforcement being present and witnesses reportedly alerting police about suspicious activity. House Speaker Mike Johnson said the chamber would conduct a full investigation, writing on X: The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

The shocking event has upended campaigning for the election because one of the central themes for Democrats is to portray Trump as a threat to democracy. Loading Biden has now postponed a trip to Texas planned for Monday (US time), partly designed to reassure Democrats he is mentally and physically fit to take on Trump and win another term. Vice President Kamala Harris has also postponed a planned trip to Florida, while Attorney-General Merrick Garland postponed a number of state trips to oversee the FBI probe into security measures. Trump, meanwhile, posted on social media that he had considered delaying his trip to Milwaukee by two days but would not allow the incident to change his plans. Instead, he will fly to the convention on Sunday (US time) ahead of its official start on Monday.
SINGAPORE, July 12, 2024 -- VinFast Auto Ltd. ("VinFast" or the "Company"), a pure-play electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone, delivered 21,747 electric vehicles in the first half of 2024, a significant 92% increase over the same period in 2023.

For the second quarter of 2024, VinFast delivered 12,058 vehicles, representing an increase of 24% quarter-over-quarter and an increase of 26% compared to the same period of last year.

While the second-quarter delivery results were encouraging, ongoing economic headwinds and uncertainties in different macro-economies and global EV landscape necessitate a more prudent outlook for the rest of the year. The Company now anticipates delivering approximately 80,000 electric vehicles in 2024, compared to 34,855 vehicles delivered in 2023, or 2.3x year-over-year growth.

As the global macro-economy and EV landscape continue to evolve, VinFast has decided to adopt a prudent and realistically strategized approach. This approach focuses on seizing near-term opportunities in a more selective group of potential markets, allowing for optimal capital and resource management, and minimizing risks more effectively.

Recognizing the rapid transition from gasoline vehicles to electric vehicles in Vietnam, VinFast will leverage its strong foundation in the domestic market to capitalize on this growth momentum.

The Company's advantages in Vietnam include a comprehensive charging station system, a diverse product portfolio catering to different customer needs, a flexible battery subscription policy, and excellent after-sales service that builds trust and customer loyalty.

In addition, as part of its prudent expansion plan, VinFast has made the strategic decision to adjust the timeline for the launch of its North Carolina manufacturing facility, which is now expected to begin production in 2028.

This decision will allow the Company to optimize its capital allocation and manage its short-term spending more effectively, focusing more resources on supporting near-term growth targets and strengthening existing operations.

Madam Thuy Le, Chairwoman of the Board of Directors, stated, "We have adopted a more prudent outlook that is carefully calibrated to near-term headwinds, taking into full consideration the realities of market volatility and potential challenges. Our robust long-term strategy and proven execution capabilities position us well to meet the evolving needs of the dynamic global EV market."

The adjustment doesn't change VinFast's fundamental growth strategy and key operating targets. The Company anticipates strong sales growth in the second half of this year, driven by a diverse product range with competitive pricing targeting a larger customer base and a rapidly expanding global distribution network in key regions, including new markets in Asia and existing markets adopting a dealership model.

The Company's strong first half performance set the stage for this growth. VinFast opened pre-orders for the mini-SUV VF 3 model domestically, achieving record deposit numbers. In Indonesia, VinFast opened dealer stores and began selling the VF e34 and VF 5 models within a few months.

VinFast also expanded its global footprint by entering Thailand and the Philippines, officially began deliveries in Europe backed by a well-developed customer care network, established a presence in the Middle East, broke ground on its first manufacturing facility in India, and expanded its global sales network.

The Company also announced that it will release its 2Q24 financial results before the market opens on August 15th, 2024.

About VinFast Auto Ltd.

VinFast , a subsidiary of Vingroup JSC, one of Vietnam's largest conglomerates, is a pure-play electric vehicle ("EV") manufacturer with the mission of making EVs accessible to everyone. VinFast's product lineup today includes a wide range of electric SUVs, e-scooters, and e-buses. VinFast is currently embarking on its next growth phase through rapid expansion of its distribution and dealership network globally and increasing its manufacturing capacities with a focus on key markets across North America, Europe and Asia. Learn more at https://vinfast.com/
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- China's Ministry of Civil Affairs has called for efforts to explore an "internet plus" monitoring mode as well as the application of other new technologies to enhance elderly care services.

With the rapid development of the elderly care industry, new challenges have emerged, necessitating more efforts to push monitoring in elderly care onto another level, the ministry noted at a work meeting on Saturday.

Risks should be prevented and eliminated in key areas such as elderly care funds, operations and emergency response, with enhanced ethics and professional skills education for practitioners to further standardize, normalize and professionalize elderly care services.

The ministry also stressed efforts to improve the rule of law in elderly care by gradually shoring up weaknesses in the system, especially in key areas and emerging business forms.

As of the end of 2023, China had over 217 million people aged 65 and above. 
Got heaps of clothes to donate? Here's how to do it for free without leaving your house
J&K LG gets more powers





NEW DELHI

Home Ministry amends rules issued under the Home Ministry amends rules issued under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019

IN A significant move, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has amended the rules of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 enhancing some powers of the Lieutenant Governor of the erstwhile State. President Droupadi Murmu has given her approval to the amendments in the rule exercising the powers conferred by section 55 of the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019, (34 of 2019) read with the Proclamation dated 31st October 2019 issued under section 73 of the Act, a notification issued by MHA mentions.

The President made the rules further to amend the Transaction of Business of the Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir Rules, 2019. These rules may be called the Transaction of Business of the Government of Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir (Second Amendment) Rules, 2024, reads the notification. The amendments shall come into force on July 12, the date of the publication in the Official Gazette-- a move in anticipationofthe speculated Assembly elections in Jammu and Kashmir. In the Transaction of BusinessoftheGovernment ofUnionTerritory of Jammu and Kashmir Rules, 2019 (hereinafterreferredtoasthe principal rules), some rules have been inserted.

As per the inserted subrule(2A),Noproposalwhich requires previous concurrence of the Finance Department with regard to Police, Public Order, All India Service and Anti Corruption Bureau to exercise the discretion of the Lieutenant Governor under theAct shallbe concurredor rejected unless it has been placedbeforetheLieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary. Intheprincipalrules,after rule 42, rule 42A has been inserted pointing, Department of Law, Justice and Parliamentary Affairs shall submit theproposalfor appointment of AdvocateGeneral and other Law Officers to assist the Advocate-General in the court proceedings, for approval of the Lieutenant Governor through the Chief Secretary and the Chief Minister.
Union Minister Shivraj Chouhanreviews research work at CIRCOT





 Business Reporter :

SHIVRAJ Singh Chouhan, Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers Welfare & Rural Development, and the President of the Indian Council of Agricultural Research visited ICAR-Central Institute for Research on Cotton Technology (CIRCOT ), Mumbai recently to review the ongoing research and development programmes. Earlier, Dr S K Shukla, Director, ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai welcomed the minister and presented the overall achievements of the institute. A booklet on Glimpses of ICAR-CIRCOT 2024 was also released on this occasion.

Dr K Narsaiah, Assistant Director General (Process Engineering), ICAR, New Delhi briefed about the contribution of ICAR-CIRCOT, Mumbai. Dr C N Ravishankar, Director, ICARCIFE, Mumbai and Dr P L Patil, Vice Chancellor, UAS, Dharward and other dignitaries graced the occasion.
This photo taken on July 14, 2024 shows the aftermath of an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

Smoke rises following an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

This photo taken on July 14, 2024 shows rescue vehicles in the street after an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

This photo taken on July 14, 2024 shows the aftermath of an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

People check the scene of an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

This photo taken on July 14, 2024 shows the aftermath of an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

A man walks past the scene of an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)

Charred and destroyed cars are pictured after an Israeli missile attack in Damascus, Syria, July 14, 2024. A series of Israeli attacks hit targets in the Syrian capital after midnight Sunday, causing explosions to reverberate across the city.

The defense ministry said a military personnel was killed, and three others were injured as a result of the Israeli attack. (Photo by Ammar Safarjalani/Xinhua)
The scorching summer rays in SW China make it the perfect spot to explore China's refreshing traditional tea culture. Join a group of American university students as they explore the allure of Chinese tea in Chengdu, the capital city of Sichuan Province.

Produced by Xinhua Global Service
YANGON, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Seven construction workers were missing following a water barrier breaching at a construction site near the bank of Ayeyarwady River in central Myanmar's Mandalay region on Sunday, said an official from the Myanmar Rescue Organization.

The incident occurred in Amarapura township of Mandalay around 8.30 a.m. local time.

When the water barrier broke and river water flooded the construction site, seven workers went missing as a result, he told Xinhua.

The river water only overflowed the construction site and did not reach the villages, he added.

Search and rescue efforts are underway with the Myanmar Rescue Organization and Myanmar Fire Services Department working together, the official said. 
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Chinese enterprises' innovation capability is a major investment bright spot in the Chinese economy, a Temasek company official said in Beijing recently.

Wu Yibing, the head of China for Singapore's state investment company, said that the company has continued to invest in China over the past year.

According to Temasek's latest annual review, China accounted for 19 percent of its global portfolio as of the end of March this year.

"Simply put, our investment direction is the comparative advantage of the Chinese economy," Wu said. "Today, the comparative advantage has developed to be represented by innovative research and development."

With world-class manufacturing efficiency and intellectual property advantages in a variety of new industries, Chinese enterprises have increasingly moved upstream in the industrial value chain, Wu said, adding that this comparative advantage is still emerging.

For instance, Wu said that China is at the forefront of energy transformation, not only in terms of lithium batteries, photovoltaic batteries and electric vehicles, but also in downstream power grid and environmental protection industries. 
MANILA, July 14 (Xinhua) -- At least one person died and two others were missing after flooding hit parts of the southern Philippines over the weekend, a government agency monitoring disasters said Sunday.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said that the lone fatality was due to drowning, reported in Davao Occidental province on Friday.

The two missing people were reportedly swept away by a strong current while crossing a river in Bukidnon province.

The agency said the flooding affected nearly 39,000 people in four regions. Around 10,000 displaced villagers of the affected population have stayed in evacuation centers while waiting for the flood to subside.

The agency recorded at least eight landslides triggered by incessant rains in Davao region and Zamboanga Peninsula.

The floods have damaged at least 47 houses in two regions, 40 roads, and two bridges in four regions of the Southeast Asian country. 
In the first five months of 2024, trade between Uzbekistan and the US surged to $386.2 million, marking a 50.1% increase compared to the same period last year, Azernews reports citing Uzbekistan's Statistics Agency.

The US ranked ninth among Uzbekistan's top trading partners. Uzbekistan's exports to the US totaled $110.2 million, up 53.2% from January to May 2023. Meanwhile, imports from the US reached $276 million, a 48.9% increase year-on-year.

Overall, Uzbekistan's total foreign trade turnover reached $26.7 billion in the first five months of 2024, showing a 3% growth from the previous year's $25.9 billion. Exports amounted to $10.8 billion, while imports totaled $15.9 billion during this period.
PHNOM PENH, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia's Ministry of National Defense said on Sunday that two people were aboard a missing military helicopter as search and rescue operations are going on amid poor weather conditions.

The chopper lost contact with the Air Force headquarters while flying over the densely forested Cardamon mountain range in Pursat and Koh Kong provinces during a regular training flight on Friday, the ministry said in a statement.

Bad weather was blamed for the incident.

"There were two persons: a captain and a pilot aboard the helicopter," the statement said.

Search and rescue operations are underway despite poor weather conditions and foggy forest, the statement added. 
SYDNEY, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Australia recorded a second fatal boating incident over the weekend as one man was found deceased alongside his vessel on a lake in Queensland state on Sunday.

The boat was reported missing in the morning. A search and rescue operation then kicked off at Lake Somerset, about 70 km northwest of Queensland state's capital Brisbane, involving joint efforts by water police, specialist officers, aerial assets, and multiple other agencies.

At 4:00 p.m. local time, police located the vessel in the water and the body of the 45-year-old man. Investigations into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing by Queensland Police.

The Somerset lake incident occurred only a day after one man died and another survived while crossing the Tweed River bar in New South Wales' far north.

At around 6:00 a.m. on Saturday, police attended the scene at the north wall of the Tweed River, where two people were seen clinging to the upturned hull of a 6.5-meter half-cabin runabout boat.

One of them was taken to a nearby hospital for a precautionary examination, while the other couldn't be revived and was declared dead at Duranbah Beach. 
Why is PM not meeting Manipur leaders ? This is the core question

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It was nearly a year ago, August 15, 2023 to be precise, that Prime Minister Narendra Modi said that the entire Nation is with Manipur and added with good effect that the Centre and the State Government are making every effort to find a solution and will continue to do so. This reference to Manipur has also been stressed by Chief Minister N Biren to neutralise the criticisms that the Prime Minister has not opened his mouth on the more than 14 months turmoil in Manipur. Back in August last year the Prime Minister had asserted that situation was improving and this same line was maintained when he spoke on the Manipur issue in the Rajya Sabha just some time back. In short the claim of the Chief Minister can be understood in the backdrop of the growing criticism against the perceived indifference of the Prime Minister and obviously to blunt the impact that Rahul Gandhi has had amongst the people with his third visit to the State just some days back. The impact of Rahul Gandhi should also be understood in the backdrop of the fact that the Congress candidate whipped the BJP candidate in the recently held Lok Sabha election in the Inner Parliamentary Constituency while in the Outer, the Congress bested the NPF candidate, backed by the BJP, convincingly. The position of the Chief Minister may be understood in the context of what has been happening and in the face of the growing criticism against the failure of the BJP Government, both at Delhi and at Imphal, to resolve the issue which has been dragging on for more than 14 months now. That Manipur continues to burn would be an understatement and far from violence subsiding another CRPF personnel has been shot dead by Kuki militants at Jiribam while two policemen have been injured. Imphal would do well to acknowledge that something, somewhere is horribly wrong and come face to face with the fact that even after more than 14 months of the violence erupting, the Prime Minister is yet to grant an audience to anyone from Manipur to discuss the issue. Why has this not been acknowledged or at least taken cognizance of and accordingly act ? Or should Manipur be satisfied with just the statement that the Union Home Minister is briefing the Prime Minister on all important developments in the State ? It is up to the people to respond to this reality and for the good of the saffron party in Manipur, it would be best if the present leadership at Imphal acknowledges the reality and let the people know that they do know the reality. Such a gesture will go a long way in kindling a kind of trust and confidence in the political leadership of Manipur.

On the three occasions that the Prime Minister referred to the violence in Manipur, one concerned a particular episode, the nude parade of two young girls by a mob in the early days of the violence. The other two statements on Manipur were off the mark by a long way for Manipur is nowhere near normal. These are facts which cannot be dismissed and even as this is being written, one CRPF personnel has lost his life, becoming yet another figure in the list of those killed in the line of duty. It is unacceptable that even after more than 14 months of the violence erupting, New Delhi and Imphal still seem to be groping in the dark or the reports sent to Delhi from here are deliberately or otherwise being fudged to give a totally wrong impression. Has the fact that no Meitei can dare cross Kangpokpi to go by road either to Dimapur or Guwahati blown over the heads of those who have been crowing about situation normalising here ? Or that no Kuki will dare to return to Imphal or any of the other valley districts ? These are the bare facts and it is astounding that Delhi does not seem to have taken cognizance of this reality. This is where one would like to question what steps have been taken to bring the two warring sides to the negotiating table ? Delhi and Imphal are still fumbling and groping in the dark and the least these two entities can do is not to spin out yarns to suit their own narratives. Humility is perhaps what the doctor would recommend for Imphal and Delhi.
Goa to Munich: Growing call for 100-100-100 to end TB and end AIDS before 2030

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Shobha Shukla, Bobby RamakantCNS

Over 1500 people from 73 countries are unequivocally demanding that all people with HIV or TB must have access to full cascade of standard health services and social support in people-centred, rights-based and gender transfor- mative ways. Unless best of WHO recommended prevention, diagnostics, treatment, care and support reaches everyone in need globally, we cannot end TB or AIDS.

Call for 100-100-100 to end TB and end AIDS by 2030 or earlier

This call for 100-100-100 was given at the AIDS 2024 (25th International AIDS Conference, Munich, Germany) Affiliated Independent Event organised on 4th of July 2024 in a special session where Goa Declaration was launched (read about Goa Declaration below). Goa Declaration calls for accelerated response to meet SDG target of #endTB, we must find all TB, treat all TB, and prevent all TB through people- centred and rights-based approaches.

Leave no one behind mantra

If we are to end AIDS, we must ensure that along with 100-100-100 (100% of people with HIV knows their status, 100% of people with HIV are on lifesaving antiretroviral therapy, and 100% of them are virally suppressed), we also have to ensure that no one suffers or dies of TB. According to WHO, people living with HIV who have an undetectable viral load using any WHO-approved test and continue taking medication as prescribed have 'zero risk' of transmitting HIV to their sexual partner(s). Undetectable equals untransmittable (#Uequals-U) must become a reality for everyone with HIV.

We must ensure that 100% people with HIV know their TB status (on an ongoing basis), 100% of those with active TB disease are treated with medicines that work on them, and 100% of them are using a full range of appropriate combination prevention options to stop further spread of TB and HIV infections.

Also, 100% of those people with HIV who do not have active TB disease, must be offered TB preventive therapy (to reduce the risk of latent TB to convert into active disease).

Treatment is also prevention (in case of both TB and HIV) as it stops the spread of infection soon after initiation of treatment with effective medicines. Latest HIV and TB treatment regimens and prevention op- tions must be accessible to all.

Additionally, we must advance stronger action towards #endHunger, #endTobacco, #endAlcohol, #preventDiabetes, #NCDs, and other risk factors associated with TB.

People-centred, rights-based and gender transformative approaches remain the bedrock to advance health programmes  including those for TB and HIV. Zero catastrophic cost, zero HIV and TB stigma (and self-stigma) and discrimination must be a reality for all.

This 14-hour hybrid AIDS 2024 Affiliated Independent Event was jointly co-hosted by 35 organisations worldwide and engaged over 1400 people from 73 countries. Co-hosts included: AVAC, UNAIDS Asia Pacific, International Community of Women Living with HIV (ICW), Global Network of People living with HIV (GNP Plus), Y+ Global, Y-PEER Asia Pacific, Society for AIDS in Africa (SAA  official secretariat of International Conference on AIDS and STIs in Africa - ICASA), APCOM, Zimbabwe National Network of People living with HIV (ZNNP+), Prevention Access Campaign, National Coalition of People living with HIV in India (NCPI Plus), AIDS Society of India (ASI), Ivorian Network of People living with HIV (RIP+ in Cote d'Ivoire), Cheyutha, Botswana Network on Ethics, Law and HIV/AIDS (BONELA), National Empowerment Network of People living with HIV/AIDS in Kenya (NEPHAK), MPLUS Foundation Thailand, KHANA (Khmer HIV/AIDS NGOs Alliance) Cambodia, Americas TB Coalition, TB People (Global), TB People (Nepal), TB People (Zimbabwe), TB People (India), TB People (Botswana), Humana People to People India, Rekat Peduli Foundation Indonesia, Pahal Foundation, Peoples Health Organisation (PHO), Health TV Online Nepal, Asia Pacific Cities Alliance for Health and Development (APCAT), Asia Pacific Media Alliance for Health and Development (APCAT Media), Union South East Asia Trust (USEA Trust), Global AMR Media Alliance (GAMA), and CNS.

Goa Declaration

To meet SDG target of #endTB, we must find all TB, treat all TB, and prevent all TB through people-centred and rights-based approaches

Goa declaration has been endorsed by 107 people from the following 38 countries worldwide (as of 13 July 2024): Bangladesh, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC), Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, India, Cote dIvoire, Jordan, Kenya, Kyrgyzstan, Malawi, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Peru, Philippines, South Africa, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Chad, Togo, Uganda (To be contd)


State Alabama Alaska Arizona Arkansas California Colorado Connecticut Delaware Florida Georgia Hawaii Idaho Illinois Indiana Iowa Kansas Kentucky Louisiana Maine Maryland Massachusetts Michigan Minnesota Mississippi Missouri Montana Nebraska Nevada New Hampshire New Jersey New Mexico New York North Carolina North Dakota Ohio Oklahoma Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island South Carolina South Dakota Tennessee Texas Utah Vermont Virginia Washington Washington D.C. West Virginia Wisconsin Wyoming Puerto Rico US Virgin Islands Armed Forces Americas Armed Forces Pacific Armed Forces Europe Northern Mariana Islands Marshall Islands American Samoa Federated States of Micronesia Guam Palau Alberta, Canada British Columbia, Canada Manitoba, Canada New Brunswick, Canada Newfoundland, Canada Nova Scotia, Canada Northwest Territories, Canada Nunavut, Canada Ontario, Canada Prince Edward Island, Canada Quebec, Canada Saskatchewan, Canada Yukon Territory, Canada

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Many people, including politicians, in the Siliguri, Darjeeling, Kalimpong, and Sikkim region celebrated the 210th Bhanu Jayanti with great enthusiasm.

Bhanubhakta Acharya was a highly talented poet during his era. His efforts were instrumental in bringing Nepali literature out of obscurity and into the spotlight.

He is considered the father of Nepali literature, working tirelessly to raise its standards and give it a reputable position.

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His impact on the genre is of utmost historical significance, not only for his pioneering role in making Nepali a thriving language, but also for his impeccable success in prose-poetry writing.

The mayor of Siliguri, Goutam Deb, participated in various events organized by the Nepali-speaking community in the Municipal Corporation area.

The Gorkhaland Territorial Administration (GTA) also celebrated the occasion with vibrancy.

Anit Thapa, the chief executive of GTA, announced that they will start honouring literary figures from the Hills. Meanwhile, Darjeeling MP Raju Bista attended cultural programmes to commemorate Bhanu Jayanti in different locations.

In Gangtok, Sikkim Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya officially attended the event.

Chief minister Prem Singh Tamang extended his warmest congratulations and best wishes to all people of Sikkim on this occasion.

Mr Tamang also expressed his hope that festivals related to tradition, caste, intellectuality, and devotion would further strengthen unity and harmony among the people.

CM Tamang stated that through Adi Kavi Bhanubhakta Acharyajis main work  a simplified version of Ramayana  we can draw inspiration from characters such as Sri Ramjis devotion to duty, Mother Sitajis dedication, Bharatjis brotherly love and respect, Raghuvanshis determination and sacrifice of the entire army, as well as Mahabali Hanumanjis devotion and selflessness.

Chief minister believes that by following these examples, we can achieve success in life. The biography of Adikavi Bhanubhakta Acharya serves as a source of inspiration for all of us. Despite facing challenges during his time, he never neglected his duty.

CM Tamang urged everyone to continue on their path of duty and strive for the welfare of others with all their might.
From family disputes to election battles, Madhurparna, a member of the Thakur family and daughter of Trinamul Congress Rajya Sabha MP Mamata Bala Thakur, hit bulls eye in her first political innings today by securing her win from Bagdah Assembly constituency.

After 13 years TMC has managed a win here. Madhurparna is cousin of senior BJP leader and Union minister of state for ports, shipping and waterways Shantanu Thakur.

The newly-elected candidate will be the youngest MLA in the West Bengal Legislative Assembly. Bagdah in North 24-Parganas is synonymous with the Matua community. BJP candidate Biswajit Das had won in the last Assembly election. This by-election was necessitated due to his subsequent defection to Trinamul. Not just the last Assembly election, BJP was ahead in Bagdah in the last Lok Sabha election as well, with a margin of over 20,000 votes. So, it was a challenge for the ruling party to reclaim this seat.

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Special attention was given to candidate selection and Madhurparna was chosen. A greenhorn in politics, Madhurparna left BJP behind as soon as she entered the fray, said political observers. Trinamul was ahead in Bagdah right from the start of counting. By the end of the sixth round, the margin stood at over 14,000 votes, and it continued to increase over time. Finally, Madhurparna won by defeating BJP candidate Dr Binay Kumar Biswas by 33,000 votes. As soon as she was declared victorious, the leaders and workers celebrated outside the counting station.

Madhurparna expressed her happiness by saying that she was grateful for the trust placed on her by the people of the area. MLA Narayan Goswami said, People have understood that we are not in favour of wrongdoing and corruption. That is why they chose us. The entire picture is clear to the people. However, a month ago, Trinamul was trailing in this seat. On this, the MLA said, There were some problems, no denying that. But we overcame them. The people are with us. Trinamul Congress candidate Madhurparna Thakur received 107,577 votes, while BJP candidate Dr Binay Biswas received 74,109 votes, a margin of 33,468 votes. Madhurparna is 25 years old and will be the youngest MLA in the Assembly. Subrata Mukherjee became an MLA at the age of 26. In the parliamentary election, BJPs Shantanu Thakur once again won from the Bongaon Lok Sabha constituency, securing a large portion of the Matua votes. There was uncertainty until the last moment about whether these votes would swing towards Trinamul. However, in the end, it was Shantanus cousin, Madhurparna of the Trinamul, who had the last laugh.

Trinamul workers and supporters are happy to have regained the Matua stronghold after a long time. The youngest MLA expressed that their victory is due to the peoples support. Even before Lok Sabha polls, differences between BJP leader and the Union minister and her aunt, Trinamul Congress RS MP Mamata Bala Thakur have come out in the open at Thakurnagar, the headquarters of All India Matua Mahasangha.

Madhuparna had staged a dharna in front of Baramas temple, as the lock of the temple and residence of Barama Binapani Devi was allegedly broken by Shantanu for taking possession.
PUL-E-KHUMRI, Afghanistan, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Six commuters have been confirmed dead and five others sustained injury in a road accident in north Afghanistan's Baghlan province, said a statement from the provincial police office on Saturday.

The deadly road crash on Saturday occurred in the province's Dand Ghouri district when a military vehicle collided with a passenger car, killing six travelers including a woman, and injuring five others, the statement added.

Similarly, a motorcyclist was killed when his motorbike hit a vehicle in Hussainkhail region, Pul-E-Khumri city, the provincial capital of the province late on Saturday.

Road accidents are prevalent in Afghanistan due to poor road conditions, reckless driving, difficult terrains, overloading, overtaking, and overspeeding. 
In the first half of July, foreign investors infused Rs 15,352 crore into Indian equities driven by the governments commitment to ongoing reforms, low US Federal rates, and strong domestic demand.

As per the data with the depositories, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have made a net inflow of Rs 15,352 crore in equities this till July 12.

This came following an inflow of Rs 26,565 crore in equities in June on the back of political stability and a sharp rebound in markets.

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In May, FPIs withdrew Rs 25,586 crore on poll jitters and over Rs 8,700 crore in April on concerns over a tweak in Indias tax treaty with Mauritius and a sustained rise in US bond yields.

Apart from equities, FPIs invested Rs 8,484 crore in the debt market during the period under review pushing the debt tally to Rs 77,109 crore this year so far.

The key characteristic of institutional equity flows into the Indian market is the unpredictable nature of FPI flows compared to the consistent growth of domestic institutional investors (DIIs) including mutual funds flow.

DIIs have been consistent buyers every month in 2024, while FPIs have fluctuated between buying and selling.

FPIs sold a cumulative amount of Rs 60,000 crore in January, April, and May but bought Rs 63,200 crore in February, March, and June together.
Reacting to a shootout inside the GTB Hospital in Delhi in which was shot dead by an unidentified assailant, Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj assured that the culprit behind the act wont be spared.

The minister said such negligence at the hospital wont be tolerated, and a security review of all the hospitals will be done.

Bharadwaj, taking a dig at LG V K Saxena, said the law and order situation has been deteriorating in the city after he took charge. Such are taking place because criminals are not scared of the law.

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He pointed out that a man was allegedly killed inside Tihar jail and in another incident near a court, an advocate was shot.

A senior police official, speaking to a news agency, said a call about the incident came at around 4:20 pm. The informer said someone shot a patient dead before fleeing the spot.

A police team rushed to the spot, where they found the victim dead. He was identified as Riyazuddin, a resident of Khajuri Khas. According to an official, five empty bullet shells were found on the spot, and legal proceedings are underway.

The police are trying to find out whether there was any angle of rivalry or not, behind what happened.

The process was underway to identify the accused persons by analysing CCTVs, while a case is being registered under relevant sections of law.
Hina Khan, the talented actress known for her roles in popular television series, has been open about her battle with cancer, sharing her journey on social media. Recently, she took to Instagram to post a heartfelt tribute to her mother, featuring four touching images that capture the moment she received her diagnosis.

In these photos, Hina is seen wearing a lavender t-shirt and white shorts, with her hair neatly tied back. Her mother, dressed in a pink salwar suit with a dupatta draped over her head, offers an embrace that speaks volumes about their bond. Accompanying the images, Hina wrote a poignant message that highlights a mothers unwavering support in times of hardship. A mothers heart can consume an ocean of sorrow and pain to provide shelter, love, and comfort to her children, she expressed. Reflecting on that difficult day, Hina shared how her mothers instinct to comfort her overshadowed her own anguish. Even as her world crumbled, she found a way to shelter me and give me strength.

Advertisement View this post on Instagram A post shared by (@realhinakhan)

In a previous post, Hina touched on the physical and emotional scars that accompany her journey. She posed the question, What do you see in this picture? The scars on my body or the hope in my eyes? For Hina, the scars are a symbol of progress, embraced with love. I can almost see the light at the end of the tunnel, she added, conveying her determination to heal and manifest positivity.

Hina also opened up about the deeply personal moments surrounding her diagnosis. She recalled hearing her mothers Kashmiri wailsa blend of blessing and sorrowas her family prepared for the unimaginable. Not all of us have the same tools to manage heartbreaking emotions, she noted, reminding her followers that the path through cancer is uniquely challenging for everyone.

Addressing her fellow warriors in the fight against cancer, Hina acknowledged the emotional toll of losing ones hair, often seen as a symbol of beauty and pride. If you want to win, youve got to take some tough decisions. And I choose to win, she declared. In an act of empowerment, she made the courageous decision to cut her hair before it began to fall out due to treatment, understanding that her true strength lies in her spirit.

Hina Khan has also decided to repurpose her hair into a wig for herself during this difficult phase, a symbolic gesture of resilience. Hair will grow back, eyebrows will return, scars will fade, but the spirit must remain whole, she affirmed. Through sharing her story, Hina aims to inspire others facing similar battles, emphasizing that every step taken toward self-acceptance is worthwhile.

Her candid posts not only document her personal experiences but also serve as a beacon of hope for others enduring similar struggles. Hinas commitment to transparency in her journey speaks volumes about her character, reminding her audience that they are not alone in their challenges. She concludes with a heartfelt promise: If my story can make even one day of this heartwarming yet excruciating experience better for someone, its worth it.
The upcoming black-comedy drama Knock-off is already making waves as it brings together Queen of Tears star Kim Soo Hyun and Destined with You star Jo Bo Ah. Recent reports reveal that actress Kwon Nara has been offered a role in the series. The addition of the Itaewon Class actress will elevate the already star-studded cast.

On July 12, Korean media outlet Star News reported that Kwon Nara has received an offer to play a pivotal role in the upcoming drama Knock-off. She has been approached to portray Moon Yoo Bin, a young woman who starts making and selling counterfeit goods with her brother.

Her character becomes the mentee of Kim Sung Joon (Kim Soo Hyun), who helps her experience the delectable taste of money. Moon Yoo Bin is the kind of woman who consistently works toward achieving her dreams and believes in the power of positive thoughts and a strong work ethic. As of now, Naras agency hasnt revealed her decision regarding the upcoming drama.

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The upcoming black-comedy drama Knock-off is set to provide a realistic portrayal of the 1997 financial crisis in South Korea, also known as the IMF crisis. The drama will be spearheaded by Kim Soo Hyun, renowned for his work in the recent superhit dramas Queen of Tears and Its Okay to Not Be Okay. He will play Kim Sung Joon, a strong-headed man who enters the counterfeit market during the financial crisis of the 20th century. Leveraging the situation, he soon rises to become the king of the counterfeit goods market.

On the other hand, Jo Bo Ah will portray Kim Sung Joons first love. She works as a customs officer and will add a touch of drama to the series. Other cast members include Kim Si Eun, Lee Jung Eun, Yoo Jae Myung, Jo Woo Jin, Kim Hye Eun, Kang Mal Geum, Go Kyu Pil, Choi Gyu Ri, and more.

Knock-off is being helmed by director Park Hyun Suk, acclaimed for directing Song of the Bandits, Stranger Season 2, and Uncontrollably Fond. The script has been penned by Han Jung Hoon, known for writing Vampire Prosecutor and Song of the Bandits, among others. The show will be backed by SLL and Arc Media.

Kwon Nara last appeared in the ENA drama The Midnight Studio alongside Joo Won, Yoo In Soo, and Eum Moon Suk.
Popular K-pop girl group NEWJEANS has another accolade to add to their list. As the members continue to reach new heights of fame and success, they have now been awarded a plaque by Korean Tourism as honorary ambassadors.

On July 11, 2024, the South Korean Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism announced the K-pop girl band as the Honorary Ambassador for Korean Tourism in 2024. They received a plaque, recognizing their contributions to the country. They were chosen for this title to target the global 2030 generation and inspire them to visit and experience Korean culture.

#NewJeans as the new Korean Tourism Ambassadors Advertisement The Korean tourism advertisement starring NewJeans will be released online for the first time on the Korean tourism YouTube channel. Then, starting with Times Square in New York, it will also be broadcasted on billboards in 12 pic.twitter.com/wcR6aCWVak  NEWJEANS NEWS (@newjeansnews_) July 11, 2024

Expressing her excitement and gratitude, band member Minji said, We are very happy to be ambassadors to promote South Korean tourism today. She further added that it would be a great joy for the group to promote their country. On the other hand, Culture Minister Yu In-chon noted that tourism numbers have recovered to about 90 percent of pre-pandemic levels. With NewJeans as tourism ambassadors, he expects even more people from around the world to visit Korea.

Last year, more than 11 million tourists visited South Korea, marking a 245 percent increase compared to 2022. Among them, 35.6 percent of global visitors to Korea were younger than 30, with 84 percent traveling independently. Notably, the top factor (32.1 percent) behind their interest in visiting the country was exposure to Korean Wave content.

The group members will serve as ambassadors without actual diplomatic responsibilities for a year, succeeding previous representatives such as Squid Game star and Emmy-winner Lee Jung Jae and K-pop sensation BTS.

Members of the group shared their personal recommendations for visitors, including eating gimbap dipped in tteokbokki sauce and taking a photo a day, which is an unspoken rule among young Korean generations. Haerin suggested that tourists visit a hanok, or traditional Korean house, while Hanni urged visitors to embrace popular Korean cuisine. She said, You have to eat Korean food when you come to Korea, and since its summer and the weather is hot, if you eat food like samgyetang (ginseng chicken soup) or mul-naengmyeon (cold buckwheat noodles), youll be able to enjoy it a lot.

NEWJEANS is the creation of the label ADOR and consists of five members: Minji, Hanni, Danielle, Haerin, and Hyein. They debuted on July 22, 2022, with the single Attention, which instantly became a viral hit. In January 2023, the group released their first single album, OMG, which garnered significant commercial success.
Union Home Minister Amit Shah on Sunday urged people to plant at least one tree and also pledge to protect it to ensure the conservation of environment and keep Mother Earth green and flourishing.

Mr Shah planted a sapling under the Ek Ped Maa ke Naam drive at the Pitareshwar Hanuman Dham Temple at Indore. Before the tree plantation, the Home Minister also offered worship at the Temple and prayed for the prosperity and progress of the nation.

The Home Minister planted a sapling of Peepal tree in memory of his late mother Kusumben Shah.

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MP Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav planted a sapling of Bargad tree in memory of his mother late Leela Poonamchand Yadav.

MP Urban Administration Minister Kailash Vijayvargiya also planted a sapling of Bargad tree in memory of his mother late Ayodhyadevi Vijayvargiya on the occasion.
Accusing the BJP of conspiring to kill Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal by not providing him proper medical care in the jail, Delhi Cabinet minister Atishi said on Sunday that the saffron party would be held responsible if anything happens to the AAP chief.

Addressing a press conference here, Atishi alleged that it is not just a conspiracy to put Arvind Kejriwal behind bars but to target his health. It is a conspiracy to kill Arvind Kejriwal, she added.

The Delhi Cabinet minister said it is not the first time that a dictator puts his rivals behind bars to worsen their health (and) kill them. CM Kejriwal who has been a diabetic patient for 30 years was not allowed by the BJP-led Central government to take insulin or talk to a doctor until the courts intervention.

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The BJP will be held responsible if anything untoward happens with Kejriwal, she warned.

Atishi said as state governments led by the BJP could not match the welfare works being done by Kejriwal, it implicated him in false cases and put him behind bars.

The AAP leader said as soon as CM Kejriwal got bail from a trial court in the ED case, the BJP moved the Delhi High Court to get his bail cancelled and later got him arrested by the CBI.

Atishi claimed during Kejriwals incarceration, his sugar level dropped significantly. Anything can happen to him due to low sugar level his weight has reduced by 8.5 kg, Atishi added.

Two doctors present at the press conference, elaborated on the dangers of hypoglycemia  a medical condition where blood sugar levels drop to dangerously low levels, potentially leading to a coma. The doctors stressed the importance of improved medical care for Kejriwal.

On Saturday, senior AAP leader Sanjay Singh said the BJP and Prime Minister Narendra Modi are conspiring to keep the Delhi Chief Minister in jail as well as play with his health.

Singh, who is AAPs Rajya Sabha MP, also claimed that Kejriwal lost 8.5 kg weight in jail and added that is a sign of serious illness.

Addressing a press conference, he said, We have been saying from day one that on one hand, BJPs aim is to harass Arvind Kejriwal, to keep him in jail. On the other hand, the aim of the BJP and the Modi government is to play with Kejriwals life. A conspiracy is being hatched by the BJP and its central government to make him suffer from the most serious disease, for an incident to take place with him in jail, to have some serious health problem.
BJP President J.P. Nadda will preside over the State Executive meeting of the party in Lucknow on Sunday, a party spokesman said.

This is the first executive meeting time after the BJPs poor show in the 2024 Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh.

According to the BJP spokesman, closed-door sessions will be held in which party lawmakers will place their views before the National President and the state leadership of the party.

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Around 3,000-3,600 delegates from across the state will attend the meeting at the Ram Manohar Lohia National Law University auditorium.

Along with the partys sitting MLAs and MPs, all Lok Sabha candidates who lost the poll have been invited.

Besides, MLCs, Zila Panchayat chairpersons, Nagar Palika adhyakshas (municipal heads), district presidents, and all office bearers of the party will attend the meeting.

Usually, 300 to 400 delegates attend the State Executive meeting of the BJP. But this time around 3,000- 3,600 delegates will attend the meeting, said Hero Bajpai, State BJP Spokesperson.

After winning only 33 of the 80 Lok Sabha seats in the state, the BJP had constituted 40 teams with two members each to visit 78 Lok Sabha constituencies to figure out reasons for the partys poor show and submitted their reports to the State BJP President Bhupendra Singh Chaudhary. They received feedback from party workers.

These issues could come up before BJP President Nadda at the State Executive meeting on Sunday.

Earlier, BJP National General Secretary (Organisation) B.L. Santhosh was in the state capital on a two-day visit on July 6-7.

B.L. Santhosh met Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, Deputy Chief Ministers Keshav Prasad Maurya and Brajesh Pathak and regional heads of the party to discuss several issues along with the partys performance in the state in the Lok Sabha poll and the by-election to 10 Assembly seats to be held later this year.

Meanwhile, on Saturday, Badlapur BJP Legislator Ramesh Mishra stoked controversy by stating that the BJP would lose the 2027 Uttar Pradesh elections if Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath is not removed from office.

This statement comes amid growing discontent, with some leaders, including ministers, claiming their pre-election warnings about anti-incumbency and other issues were ignored.

However, hours later Mishra retracted his video statement saying it was read out of context.

Union Minister and Apna Dal leader Anupriya Patel had also raised concerns about irregularities in government appointments, particularly affecting OBC, SC, and ST candidates as damaging the partys prospects.
A day after INDIA bloc secured 10 of the 13 seats in the recently held Assembly bypolls across seven states, the Opposition Congress on Sunday predicted a BJP downfall, claiming the saffron party has a multiple organ failure and it is headed to an ICU.

Right after the Lok Sabha elections, we have won 12-13 seats in 4-5 states, clearly indicating that the BJPs graph has been falling. Had the Lok Sabha elections been organised after 6-8 months, BJP would not have won more than 120 seats, senior Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said.

For the first time, NDA parties are performing better than BJP in their respective states and BJP is absolutely relying on them BJP has a multiple organ failure and is failing in multiple states. It is soon headed to an ICU, he added.

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His remarks came after the Opposition parties on Saturday won 10 out of the 13 seats in the assembly bypolls which were held across seven states in a first direct face-off between Congress-led INDIA bloc and the BJP-led NDA.

Congress, TMC, AAP and DMK, which are the constituents of the Oppositions INDIA bloc at the national level dominated in the assembly bypolls by collectively winning 10 seats. The BJP bagged two seats while an Independent won the remaining seat.

The bypolls were held in West Bengal (4 seats), Himachal Pradesh (3 seats), Uttarakhand (2 seats), Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Bihar, and Punjab (1 seat each).

The two seats the BJP won  Amarwara in Madhya Pradesh and Hamirpur in Himachal Pradesh  had Congress turncoats as its candidate and won with a relatively very low margin of votes.

Congress candidate and Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhus wife, Kamlesh Thakur, has won the assembly by-election from the Dehra constituency by defeating Hoshyar Singh of the BJP.

This was the first time since the Lok Sabha elections that the Congress-led INDIA bloc and the BJP-led NDA were in direct contest with each other.

Meanwhile, BJP leaders have called for a review of the results.

There are different situations. In a democracy, the decision lies with the people. It (result) needs to be reviewed, said Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai.
Delhi BJP President Virendra Sachdeva announced protest demonstrations by party workers power on Monday at power discom offices in all 14 districts against the imposition of a power purchase adjustment charge (PPAC).

Hitting out at the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) Government for the hike in electricity rates for domestic consumers in the national capital, Sachdeva said the decision to increase the power tariff proved a double whammy for the people of Delhi. On one hand, they are grappling with the extremely humid monsoon weather while on the other; they are forced to pay up hefty electricity bills.

At a press conference on Sunday, Sachdeva released a copy of the letter he wrote to Chairman of Delhi Electricity Regulatory Commission Justice Jayant Nath seeking his intervention on the issue of hefty PPAC, Pension Surcharge, Meter Charges, Load Surcharge, etc. all of which put enormous burden on the consumers.

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The electricity bills are too hefty to bear not because of summer consumption but due to the imposition of an exorbitant PPAC and other charges, he said.

Sachdeva said since April-May, there has been a public outcry against the bill amounts prompting a BJP team to study it in tandem with some power charges.

The combined study has revealed that PPAC, included in the electricity bills, has become a cause of concern for the consumers, especially those from the lower and upper middle class, he said.

Letter to the DERC chairman says the present electricity tariff is sufficient to keep power Discoms in profit if they do their business planning properly, the Delhi BJP president contended.

Unfortunately, the discoms do not plan to meet the excessive summer or humid weather demand or the demand of deep winters. The result of this is that Delhi suddenly faces a power supply crisis around mid-April and then the Delhi government & the power discoms wake up to buy extra power needed from the power grids or surplus states which obviously comes at a premium, he said.

He pointed out that 1.5% PPAC was first levied from the consumers in Delhi in 2011 illegally by the then Congress government. The PPAC was withdrawn in 2014 after a BJP-led delegation met the then Power Minister Piyush Goel who made the Power Discoms withdraw it. The charges were not imposed on the consumers between August 2014 and September 2015, Sachdeva said.

The letter says in 2015 when the Arvind Kejriwal Government came to power in Delhi, it supported the power discoms demand for re-imposition of PPAC & Pension Surcharge, the Delhi BJP President said.

Soon PPAC became legal with the Delhi government not filing any objection with the DERC on the PPAC, a component in the approved Business Regulatory Plan for Discoms. Since 2015, every winter and summer the PPAC is raised for the concerned quarter of the year and is never withdrawn after the end of the quarter, he said.

Slowly but steadily the quarterly PPAC kept accumulating and the PPAC, which was 1.5 per cent in 2015, rose to almost 37.5 per cent while an additional 8.75 per cent more is likely to be imposed soon as announced by the BSES Rajdhani in its letter to the DERC secretary dated 25th April 2024, the Delhi BJP President said.

Sachdeva said the PPAC was never a part of the approved Business Regulatory Plan for Power Discoms till 2015 but today, It is part of big kickbacks, thanks to the connivance of the Arvind Kejriwal Government with the power discoms. We demand a judicial inquiry into the matter.

The Delhi BJP president urged the D.E.R.C. chairman to order an inquiry into imposition of the increased PPAC, Pension Surcharge, Meter Rent, Load Surcharge etc despite the fact that power discoms are in profit at prevailing per unit charges itself.

Delhi BJP Media Head Praveen Shankar Kapoor, who coordinated the press conference, said, Power Discoms and the Delhi government share a mutual relationship to loot the common man and share kickbacks.

Talking to a news agency, Sachdeva said, The Delhi government is looting the people of Delhi. The common man is grappling with the hike in electricity bills. Every person, who pays the electricity bill honestly, is being looted.

He said in February this year, the Delhi government revised the PPAC by the discoms leading to a 6 to 8 per cent rise in the electricity bills of domestic consumers.

Sachdeva alleged money is being collected illegally in the name of PPAC surcharges and pension surcharges and the Delhi government and power companies are enjoying this money.

Tomorrow, we will protest at 14 electricity offices until the PPAC and pension surcharge are withdrawn. We have written to the chairman of the DERC and demanded an inquiry into how the Delhi government and power companies are doing a scam, he said.
Retro tram drivers greet people during a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

People take photos with a retro tram during a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

People take photos during a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

Retro cars and trams take part in a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

A woman poses for a photo in a retro tram during a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)

People take photos with a retro tram during a parade of retro vehicles in Moscow, Russia, July 13, 2024. Tram parade and vintage vehicle exhibition were held on Saturday to celebrate the Moscow Transport Day. (Photo by Alexander Zemlianichenko Jr/Xinhua)
Seeking cooperation from people in development, Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh on Sunday said that regardless of political affiliations, everybody should contribute to achieving national-level developmental projects.

Addressing a public meeting in Udhampur, Dr Jitendra Singh said that the developmental projects introduced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi do not belong to a particular leader or party; rather, they are aimed at benefitting all sections of society.

After being felicitated for winning the Udhampur-Kathua-Doda Parliamentary constituency for the third time, he said, Prime Minister Modi has followed the policy of equitable distribution of resources, rising above vote-bank politics.

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He further urged everyone to provide suggestions and inputs for the improvement and execution of these projects. If any input holds merit, the administration will be instructed to make the necessary rectifications, he said.

Dr Jitendra Singh appealed to the gathering that the developmental projects, including the Devika River Rejuvenation project, belong to every section of society and the benefits will reach every child.

Talking about the famous Kaladi product of the Udhampur district, the Union Minister informed that the milk-made consumable has already been identified for promotion under the One District One Product scheme of the government. Branding of Kaladi is necessary to increase its acceptability and value, he noted, urging the local Chamber of Commerce to play its part in this endeavour.

Dr Jitendra Singh pitched for harnessing the lavender and informed the gathering that its cultivation has already commenced in the Dudu-Basantgarh area of the district. The Aroma Mission, which began in Bhaderwah tehsil of the Doda district, has reached Udhampur, he said, adding that start-ups born from the Purple and White Revolutions have emerged as the new avenues of self-employment and sources of sustainable livelihoods.

Udhampur is home to numerous milk products which can be converted into brands in the New Industrial Estate coming up here, the Minister suggested. He appealed both to the media and society to create awareness about lavender cultivation and milk products of the area. Underlining that the natural resources of Udhampur have not been fully explored, the Union Minister stated that these resources will add value to Indias economy as it rises.

Later in a review meeting, Dr Jitendra Singh stressed that the Udhampur administration and local bodies must leave no stone unturned to ensure timely and seamless delivery of public amenities.

Making a strong case for promoting lavender cultivation in the district in a big way, he said start-ups engaged in this new industry have become avenues of employment for the local youth. He reiterated that it is not possible for the government to provide jobs to everyone and advised the youth to explore other lucrative avenues of employment to earn a living.
After remaining locked up for as many as 46 years, the Ratna Bhandar (treasure trove) of the 12th century Puri Jagannath temple was reopened for conservation work of the medieval era structure and inventory of valuables on Sunday afternoon under the stewardship of a 16-member committee headed by former judge of Orissa High Court, Justice Biswanath Rath.

The Bhandar was last opened for inspection and inventorisation of valuables in 1978. A huge controversy had erupted as the key of the inner chamber was found to be missing in 2018 when the Orissa High Court ordered an inspection. However the new BJP Government had reconstituted the committee headed by the retired High Court Judge Justice Rath.

The BJD Government on 29 February last year had constituted a 12-member committee headed by retired Supreme Court judge Justice Arijit Pasayat for supervision of inventorisation of the valuables including jewelleries stored in the Ratna Bhandar.

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The members of the committee reconstituted by the Odisha government made their way to the revered shrine. As the doors of the Bhandar could not be reopened by the available key, the lock was broken in the presence of committee members.

The previous BJD government had ordered a judicial inquiry into the non-availability of keys of the Ratna Bhandar on June 5, 2018 as the mysterious disappearance of treasure keys had triggered a furore. The inquiry commission report was however, kept under the wraps by the previous government. The missing key controversy was capitalised by the BJP in Odisha to put the previous government on back foot in 2024 Assembly and Lok Sabha polls.

On the wish of Lord Jagannath, the Odia community, with the identity of Odia Asmita, has started making efforts to move forward, the Chief Ministers Office (CMO) said in a post on X platform.

On your wish, the four gates of the Jagannath temples were earlier opened. Today, on your wish, the Ratna Bhandar was opened after 46 years for a greater purpose, stated the CMO in the post, which was shared at 1.28 pm, the auspicious moment decided to reopen the treasury.

The reopening of the temple treasure trove will pave the way for maintenance and repair work of the structure by the Archaeological Survey of India. Besides, the inventory of the treasures will be done.

The Ratna Bhandar comprises outer and inner chambers. While the outer chamber is used for storage of the day-to-day ornaments of the deities  Jagannath, Subhadra and Balabhadra, the inner chamber is earmarked for storage of precious gold jewelry, gems, pearls and rare diamonds apart from silver and other decorative items of the temples three presiding deities which are not used for deities daily rituals.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump, saying that violence has no place in politics and democracies.

In a post on X, the Prime Minister said, Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, Modi added.

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On Saturday, the former US President was shot at an election rally in western Pennsylvania in a possible assassination attempt just a day before the Republican Party is scheduled to begin its convention to formally declare him its nominee for the White House.

The shooting incident, which occurred on Saturday during the rally being held by Donald Trump in Pennsylvanias Butler, claimed one life and left the former US President injured.

The Secret Service has implemented protective measures, and the former President is safe, said Anthony Guglielmi, the Chief of Communications for the Secret Service, in a statement.

The former US President is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility, Trump Communications Director Steven Cheung said in a statement.

Leader of the Opposition in the Lok Sabha Rahul Gandhi and Congress President Mallikarjun Kharge also condemned the attack on the former US President Donald Trump.

In a post on X, Rahul Gandhi wrote: I am deeply concerned by the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump.

Such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Wishing him a swift and complete recovery, the Congress leader added.

Condemning the attack on the former US President, Kharge, in a post on X, said, Deeply appalled by the attack on former US President Donald Trump. I strongly condemn this heinous act.

The Congress President also offered his condolences to the family of the deceased.

Such violence has no place in any democracy and civilised society. As India stands with the American people, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased, he added.

In a statement, the US Secret Service said a suspected shooter fired multiple shots towards the stage from an elevated position outside the rally venue during Trumps campaign rally in Butler on July 13 at 6:15 pm (local time).

The US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now dead. According to the statement, one spectator was killed and another critically injured. The incident is being investigated.
More than 33 hours after a sanitation worker was swept away while cleaning the Amayizhanchan canal in Thiruvananthapuram, search and rescue operations are still continuing.

Around 100 personnel from the state fire and rescue services and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) are engaged in the rescue operations. Two Bandicoot robots, used to clean clogged drains, are also being deployed to remove the large amounts of waste. The feed from the robots camera revealed a massive pile of plastic and other waste material inside the drain, necessitating the removal of the garbage before continuing the daunting task.

The sanitation worker, Joy (42) from Marayamuttom was swept away at 11 am on Saturday in the waste-filled Amayizhanjan canal when he entered the canal, which passes through the railway property under the rails. Even though other workers accompanying him tried to give him a rope, he could not hold it. It is suspected that he got stuck in a garbage pile. It remains unknown whether the person is trapped or washed away to another point in the water stretch .The waste pile, which has formed like a rock inside the canal, has been hindering the search operations.

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On Sunday, scuba divers could only access around 40 metres of the 170-metre tunnel underneath the railway tracks. The huge pile of waste and poor lighting hindered the rescue efforts. Efforts were also being made to access the drain from the other side of the canal. During the search on Sunday using a robotic camera inside the tunnel, a foot-like object was found. On verification, the scuba team confirmed it was not a human body part.

As there is no promising signal, the authorities have also sought the services of the Navy in the search and safety operations. State Revenue Minister K Rajan informed that the Navys highly-skilled diving team will participate in the search operations. The team will reach the capital from Kochi in the evening.

General Education Minister V Sivankutty, Mayor Arya Rajendran, Thiruvananthapuram District Collector Geromic George, and other officials are at the site to oversee the rescue efforts.

Opposition leader VD Satheesan blamed the government for the canal mishap, saying that it happened due to the failure of the government to carry out the pre-monsoon sanitation works in a time-bound manner.

When the Opposition pointed out in the assembly that the government has failed to carry out the pre-monsoon sanitation works, the Local Self-Governance Minister ridiculed us. We would like to ask the minister what he was doing all these days, Satheesan told media persons in Kochi.

It is said that there was a dispute between the Thiruvananthapuram Corporation and the Railways over cleaning the canal. If at all there was such a dispute, wasnt the government supposed to resolve it? The government should have taken the initiative to call the two parties for a discussion and find a solution. The government did not do that, he added.

Thiruvananthapuram MP Sashi Tharoor blamed the City Corporation for the mishap. Thiruvananthapuram Corporations incompetence and irresponsibility resulted in the mishap, he said.

The municipal authorities are fully responsible for the timely maintenance and cleaning of canals, Tharoor added.
Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, while asking BJP cadre not to be on the back foot after the Lok Sabha debacle, said the opponents were successful in conspiring against the party in the run-up to the elections.

He asked the party cadre to pull up their socks to win the 2027 assembly polls in the state. We had failed them in every election, but this time. we could not reach out to the people with our achievements. However, there is no need to come on the back foot under any circumstances as you people have proved your mettle, he added.

He said, Due to shifting of votes and overconfidence, we have gone wrong somewhere this time. Henceforth, party leaders and workers should keep an eye on what is going on in social media and make sure whether we can convey our achievements to the people or not.

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The CM said the opponents spread lies during the elections as part of a conspiracy. We were not successful in countering their propaganda.

CM Yogi said under previous governments, roads used to become deserted in the name of Muharram, but now no one knows how Muharram is going. Lohia had said that India is India when there is Ram, Krishna, and Shiva. Todays India belongs to them, he said.

The chief minister was addressing the BJP State Working Committee meeting here on Sunday. BJP national president JP Nadda also attended the meeting.

He said now that UP has been freed from the mafia with the help of BJP workers there is a safe environment in the state.

We built Ram temple after 500 years. Earlier during Moharram, houses were demolished in the name of tajiya, but now nobodys whims are tolerated. We did not discriminate in the name of caste and religion, he said.
In the serene embrace of dawn, amidst the gentle rustling of leaves and the melodious chirping of birds, a group of dedicated individuals gathers in the Tikona Park, Shahdara every morning. Their mission is to rejuvenate their bodies and minds through the ancient practice of yoga. Led by experienced instructors, these enthusiasts begin their day with deep breaths, stretching their limbs in sync with the rising sun. Each posture, from the calming mountain pose to the energizing warrior pose, is a step toward inner peace and physical well-being.

As the cool morning breeze caresses their skin, they immerse themselves in the tranquility of the moment. They leave behind the stresses of daily life. With each sun salutation and meditation session, they find solace and harmony within themselves.

The Tikona park transforms into a haven of positivity and vitality as these dedicated yogis move through their sequences with grace and determination. Passersby are drawn to the scene, inspired by the dedication and discipline on display.

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Manoj, a yoga expert, shares that they have held these sessions in the same park since 2000. For over two decades, they have served as a source of healing for many individuals. Their main focus is on pranayama and spiritual learning, as the age group of participants is generally over 50. It is not advisable to teach intense exercises or cardiovascular poses to this demographic.

One participant, Pooja, is a 70-year-old woman whose lungs were 80% damaged by this age. After a diagnosis and four months of treatment that brought no improvement, she turned to yoga as a last resort. Amazingly, after two months, her lungs were functioning well, revitalized to a state akin to those of a 30-year-old.

For these early risers, yoga isnt just a physical exercise; its a holistic journey toward a balanced and harmonious life. As the sun climbs higher in the sky, they conclude their practice with a sense of accomplishment and inner peace, ready to embrace the day with renewed energy and positivity.
In the whirlwind of American politics, moments of slip-ups and missteps by leaders often become pivotal points in assessing their capability and readiness for office. President Joe Bidens confusion between Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump, alongside other verbal gaffes including reference to the Ukrainian head of state as President Putin, has ignited a storm of debate about his fitness for the presidency as he gears up for a re-election bid.

Critics argue that these instances of confusion are not just lapses in memory but symptomatic of larger concerns about Mr Bidens mental acuity and ability to lead effectively. Such doubts have only been amplified by internal pressures within his own party, with some Democrats openly questioning whether he should continue his campaign. For them, the stakes are high, especially with the memory of his lackluster debate performance against Mr Trump still fresh. Supporters, on the other hand, contend that Mr Bidens long career in politics, marked by resilience and experience, outweighs occasional verbal miscues. They highlight his successes on the international stage, such as rallying support for Ukraine amid Russian aggression and navigating complex geopolitical tensions with finesse. To them, Mr Bidens ability to steer global alliances and tackle pressing issues like the IsraelGaza conflict underscore his competence despite verbal slip-ups.

The broader implications of Mr Bidens situation extend beyond personal critique. They reflect deeper concerns about the US presidency itself ~ its demands, its pressures, and the toll it takes on those who occupy the Oval Office. The presidency is a grueling role that demands unwavering focus and mental agility, qualities that voters rightly scrutinise in their leaders. Mr Bidens slip-ups raise legitimate questions about whether he can meet these demanding standards over another four-year term. In assessing Mr Bidens candidacy, it is crucial to differentiate between policy substance and personal performance. While verbal mistakes can be jarring, they do not necessarily equate to incompetence in governance. The presidency requires a complex balance of leadership, diplomacy, and decision-making, qualities that Mr Biden has displayed throughout his career.

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Looking ahead, the road to re-election for Mr Biden appears fraught with challenges. Internal dissent and mixed polling results suggest a turbulent path forward. Yet, political fortunes can shift rapidly, especially in the unpredictable landscape of American elections. Mr Bidens campaign strategy, focusing on key battleground states where his electoral success hinges, underscores a calculated approach to secure victory despite the current uncertainties. Ultimately, the decision lies with the electorate. American voters must weigh Mr Bidens decades of experience, his policy achievements, and his capacity to navigate global crises against concerns about his verbal stumbles. The outcome will not only determine the next four years of US leadership but also shape perceptions of presidential fitness and the standards by which future candidates are judged. In the end, while Mr Bidens recent slip-ups have sparked debate and introspection, they should prompt a deeper conversation about what qualities Americans prioritise in their presidents.
Last week, the summit between Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin aimed to strengthen the longstanding partnership between India and Russia. Russias Charge daffaires Roman Babushkin described it as historic and gamechanging amid a turbulent geopolitical environment. The summit highlighted Modis adept management of relationships with two influential nations, Russia and the United States. Despite Russias war with Ukraine, the warmth displayed by both leaders during their meetings underscores the strategic importance of Modis visit to Russia.

Modi has visited Russia six times in the last ten years and met Putin at least 17 times. During this visit, the talks over dinner at Putins private residence lasted four and a half hours, while the one-to-one talks were for two and a half hours. This enabled the two leaders to discuss issues. The present trip highlighted the lasting relationship between India and Russia. It also involves China and the domestic political situation. The summit posed a problem for U.S.-India relations. It took place at an inconvenient time even as the conflict in Ukraine continued.

The impact of the meeting was to show that India could manage relations with Russia and the US. Modis bear hug with Putin and the latter calling the Indian leader his best friend may have raised eyebrows in the US and the West. CNN said, The optics of Vladimir Putin personally driving Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi around in a mini electric car at his residence show just how chummy the two leaders have become. The visit further solidified the bilateral relationship between India and Russia. It paved the way for new agreements, including in science, trade, and climate change initiatives. India and Russia aim to increase bilateral trade to $100 billion by 2030, using their national currencies to bypass Western sanctions. Indias energy future was promising, including the proposed new nuclear reactors.

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The way New Delhi could bypass Western sanctions on Russia provided a sense of optimism. At the same time, the Biden administrations confirmation of Indias crucial partnership with the United States is reassuring. It underscores the strength and stability of the growing U.S.-India relationship. Many American officials confirmed this. For instance, the Pentagon press secretary Major General Pat Ryder stated that the US views India as a strategic partner and will continue to engage in robust dialogue. This dialogue includes discussions about Indias relationship with Russia and other key issues such as regional security, trade, and climate change.

US State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller stated that the US continues encouraging India to support efforts for lasting peace in Ukraine. He emphasised the importance of Indias support in achieving a just and enduring peace in Ukraine. India has reduced its reliance on Russian weapons in recent years. Despite Russia being Indias primary source of weapons, New Delhi has started buying more weapons from the United States and also from France and Israel. It is expanding its options for the purchase of its guns. During Modis visit, no new weapons deals were announced. However, experts are analysing the recent speech of US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, who stated that while the India-US relationship is strong, it should not be taken for granted. He also noted that Indias strategic autonomy may need to be revised during conflict. India and Russia are taking different paths in global politics. India is moving closer to the West by increasing security cooperation with the United States and adopting its IndoPacific strategy. On the other hand, Russia is aligning itself more closely with China, Indias leading strategic competitor.

Additionally, Russia aims to play a more significant role in groupings such as BRICS. India is part of BRICS, SCO, and the Indo-Pacific Quad. Its goal is to bridge the gap between the global south and the developed world. In contrast, Russia is increasingly involved in Ukraine and is facing isolation from the West. New Delhi has not criticised the Ukraine war but has asked for it to stop. Modi said this to Putin again. According to Reuters, Modi indirectly criticised Putin on Tuesday, the day after a deadly attack on a childrens hospital in the Ukrainian capital, Kyiv. Modi told Putin that the deaths of innocent children were painful and scary. The India-Russia alliance helps balance Russias increasing relationship with China.

It is a concern for both the United States and India. Even though Russia depends increasingly on China for economic and defence support, it must also consider its longstanding trade and defence ties with India. India has become ambitious and aims to be a significant player globally. New Delhi intends to maintain a balance between the West and Russia to achieve this goal. Also, the recent summit has sent a strong message to the West, confirming Indias commitment to safeguarding its national interests. Modis third term has begun with a good start and indicates how his foreign policy would go.
Last year was certainly the hottest summer ever, according to the Scientific American. This summer is not yet over, but it certainly feels like it will break last years record. My air conditioning bill has gone up because the nights are hotter. Malaysia is having floods and landslides. India has a record heat wave with a stunning temperature of 52.3 degrees Celsius measured in the outskirts of New Delhi in May.

Flying into Ulaanbaatar, capital of Mongolia this week, amidst the blue skies and lush green grasslands, I was made aware that the land-locked country suffered a 2.25 degrees Celsius increase in average temperature in the last 80 years, double the global average. Moreover, the number of natural disasters per year had risen from 2,400 per year during the period 1996- 2010 to 4,300 per year since 2010, a 1.8 fold increase. Climate warming is affecting Mongolia with the decline in precipitation causing drought, desertification and soil erosion or degradation. For a country of 3.3 million that accounted cumulatively for only 0.04 per cent of global carbon emission in 2022, it is suffering from global warming through external, rather than internal factors.

The severe current dzud or extreme cold and heat is estimated to have killed 5.2 million heads of livestock or 8.1 per cent of the total livestock in the country. You would have thought there would be some form of global insurance or aid for small countries that suffer from global warming through no fault of their own. The answer is that the multilateral agencies such as the World Bank or Asian Development Bank are trying their best, but according to the NGO International Budget Partnership, the constraints of Mongolia in meeting its UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is purely due to its budgetary factors.

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In 2022, 27.1 per cent of Mongolias population is living below the poverty line (ADB data). The country needs external aid to deal with climate change beyond its own control. The United Nations recently estimated that by 2023, only 16 per cent of its SDGs to deal with global poverty and climate change by 2030 had been met. The funding gap for achieving SDGs has been estimated at between $2.5 trillion to $4 trillion annually. Global official development aid (ODA) to developing countries was only $211 billion in 2022.

The rich countries have been promising to give $100 billion for the developing countries to help them achieve NetZero, but so far that has not yet been fully pledged. The Mongolian government launched a Billion Tree Fund in 2022 to try to increase its forest coverage, which was only 7 per cent in 2018, compared with 72.8 per cent of pasture land. Reforestation would help to slow desertification, capture carbon, retain water and conserve biodiversity. Climate warming is hitting different countries differently, with the poorer populations taking the brunt of natural disasters.

Since the richer countries were responsible historically for most of the carbon emission, you would have thought that they would be willing to fund the path to NetZero. Not bloody likely. I was with a crowd of central bankers who insisted that they should not be directly involved in funding climate action, because it was not in their mandate. They feared that moving out of their mandate to deliver price stability, financial stability and or employment would hurt their independence.

Few were willing to accept that central banks may be independent within government, but they are not independent of government or the people. As the Austrian-Hungarian philosopher Karl Polanyi argued against the free market ideologue Hayek, the market is not independent of the economy, which is embedded in society, and society is embedded in the planet. Since advanced country G10 central bankers expanded their balance sheets by a remarkable $11 trillion during the pandemic (Feb 2020-May 2021), why cant they provide some funding for climate action? The central banks will not enter into direct funding of global climate action, because they feel that is the remit of their national governments.

National governments cant agree on fighting global climate change due to geopolitical considerations. The good news is that the governments agreed to increase the Special Drawing Rights (liability issued by the International Monetary Fund which increases the foreign exchange reserves of the member central banks) by $650 billion in 2021 as part of the effort to fight the pandemic economic shock. Since SDRs are distributed to countries in proportion to their quota shares in the IMF, about US$275 billion was allocated to the emerging and developing countries (EMDEs), of which low-income countries will receive about US$21 billion.

These are totally inadequate to the funding needed to deal with climate warming. It would have been much more effective if the surplus countries (namely rich or larger shareholders of the IMF) would be willing to donate their SDRs to increase the capital of the Multilateral Development Banks (MDBs), like Asian Development Bank or World Bank. By increasing the MDB capital and allowing more leverage (increase debt to equity ratio) to say 8 (like a commercial bank), $650 billion in new capital would yield $5.2 trillion funding to EMDEs to deal with SDG goals in alleviating poverty and tackling NetZero. That would be serious money.

With such resources deployed, there would be some hope that we would avoid global recession and make some serious effort to cut down carbon emissions and deploy more alternative energies. Since the majority shareholders of the IMF are mainly in North America and Europe, the chances of any agreement to be so generous or altruistic are low. They are fully preoccupied with their dysfunctional politics and protectionist moods. Migration, which is one of their most contentious issues, is largely driven by the poor from the global South seeking cooler climates and jobs in the richer North.

Helping these countries increase their local jobs and help fight desertification and regenerating soil, food and water resources, would slow down migration and make the world a more peaceful place to live in. The default solution to current disasters is to print more money. When the weather gets hot, the rich pay more to stay cool, but the poor die. Who said the world is fair?

(The writer, a former Central banker, is a Distinguished Fellow of Asia Global Institute, University of Hong Kong.)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the suspected gunman who made an attempt on former US President Donald Trumps life as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Crooks, 20, shot at Trump, the Republican presidential candidate, while the former US president was delivering a speech during a rally in Buttler, Pennsylvania.

Trump sustained minor injuries as one of the bullets Crooks fired, pierced through the upper part of his right ear. One rally attendee was killed and two others were critically wounded.

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The FBI said that Crooks was from Bethel Park, a Pennsylvania twon some 70 km from Butler, the site of Trumps rally.

The alleged gunman was shot dead by secret service agents deployed in Trumps security detail.

In a press briefing, the FBI identified the alleged shooter but didnt confirm whether he acted as a lone wolf or if it was part of any organisation.

The FBI refrained from identifying the shooter immediately after the attack and waited for DNA results to formally confirm his identity.

The investigation agency has said that the investigation into the incident remains active and ongoing and sought information from the public that may assist them.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online, the agency said in a statement.
Healthcare never sleeps. There is always demand for medical services, regardless of the state of the economy. Companies that offer these necessary goods and are innovative enough to keep up with the changing trends in the sector tend to last. That describes Johnson & Johnson (NYSE: JNJ) and Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) well. Both are among the largest healthcare companies in the world, have proven innovative abilities, and have long track records of success. And despite their failure to keep pace with the market this year, Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic are still worth investing in. Let's discuss why.

1. Johnson & Johnson

Johnson & Johnson's business spans the pharmaceutical and medical device industries. It is one of the more prominent players in both. Its portfolio of products across these businesses is vast, comprehensive, and diversified. Within pharmaceuticals, Johnson & Johnson develops drugs in the fields of oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, neuroscience, and more. It boasts more than 10 blockbuster medicines, too. Its medical device segment operates across vision, surgery, orthopedics, and an interventional solutions franchise.

The company's revenue and earnings are generally predictable. In other words, Johnson & Johnson's business looks like a picture of stability, at least on paper. That hasn't been the case in recent years, though. Various troubles, especially legal and regulatory ones, have harmed its business and image. That includes the thousands of lawsuits it faces regarding its talc powder -- plaintiffs allege it gave them cancer -- and a new law in the U.S. that will allow Medicare to negotiate the price of some medicines.

However, these headwinds won't sink Johnson & Johnson. Among its recent moves to improve its prospects include its decision to spin off its consumer health unit into a stand-alone company. This should help boost revenue growth in the mid-term given consumer health was the weakest segment on that front. Johnson & Johnson also strengthened its medtech business with the acquisition of Abiomed, which focuses on developing products to improve patients' cardiac health, in a transaction that cost a bit under $17 billion. While these are some of J&J's latest moves, it's essential to also point out its long history of navigating the highly regulated healthcare industry. The past isn't a guarantee, but Johnson & Johnson has demonstrated a culture of innovation and a business flexible enough to adapt to the changing demands and challenges of various regulatory rules and guidelines.

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Lastly, Johnson & Johnson's dividend history speaks for itself. The company has raised its payouts for the past 62 consecutive years, which makes it a Dividend King, a feat that requires an incredibly robust business. Investors can trust that Johnson & Johnson will deliver solid returns and growing payouts for a long time.

The stock is trading at a forward price-to-earnings (P/E) of 13.8. The average for the healthcare industry is 18.5, and that of the S&P 500 is 21.4 (as of July 5). Johnson & Johnson looks reasonably valued at current levels.

2. Medtronic

Medtronic, a behemoth in its own right, is a medical device specialist with a firm foothold in more than 150 countries worldwide and a portfolio of products that routinely earns new approvals or label expansions. Though business wasn't good during the depths of the pandemic, the company has bounced back somewhat, although revenue growth remains slow. Medtronic is still looking for a solution to its top-line growth problems. The company had plans to separate its patient monitoring and respiratory intervention business, which it ended up rolling back.

Fortunately, Medtronic can benefit from several growth opportunities, though they might take time to materialize. One of them is artificial intelligence, which it is implementing across various business lines and products to increase productivity and the performance of some of its devices. Another key growth area for Medtronic is robotic-assisted surgery (RAS). The company has been developing an RAS machine for years to compete with the leader in the field, Intuitive Surgical. Though Medtronic's device, the Hugo system, has yet to earn approval in the U.S., it is working toward that goal. The RAS market is severely underpenetrated, according to Medtronic's estimates. Last year, the healthcare giant found that just 5% of surgeries that could be performed robotically currently are.

Another key growth area for Medtronic is diabetes care. The number of people who have diabetes has increased in recent decades. The company develops innovative insulin pumps to help diabetics better manage this chronic health condition. The business has a major opportunity in serving expanding populations of diabetics in regions with less access to healthcare. Medtronic should take advantage of these (and other) growth opportunities and provide consistent financial results, just as it has in the past.

Furthermore, Medtronic also has an excellent dividend track record. It is getting close to Dividend King status, with an active streak of 47 consecutive payout increases. That makes it an excellent stock for income seekers, especially while its forward P/E is a reasonable 14.2.

Should you invest $1,000 in Johnson & Johnson right now?

Before you buy stock in Johnson & Johnson, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Johnson & Johnson wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $791,929!*

Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than quadrupled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.

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*Stock Advisor returns as of July 8, 2024

Prosper Junior Bakiny has positions in Intuitive Surgical and Johnson & Johnson. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Intuitive Surgical. The Motley Fool recommends Johnson & Johnson and Medtronic and recommends the following options: long January 2026 $75 calls on Medtronic and short January 2026 $85 calls on Medtronic. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

2 Healthcare Stocks to Buy Hand Over Fist This Month was originally published by The Motley Fool


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I had a Hindu-Muslim wedding more than 20 years ago. I remember we had blessings, but not the attendance of family members from either side. I was in my early 20s, and was distraught that I would be alone thanks to the families thanks but no thanks attitude. We were blessed by the truly liberating Special Marriage Act, and the kindness of my mothers favourite fashion designer Pallavi Jaikishan, who agreed to make me the most beautifully embroidered gold sari with golden roses, and refused the meagre pennies that I could pay for her generosity.

Apologies for how flippant it sounds, but that lavish sari saved me a lot of pain. I felt precious by looking precious. There were a lot of tears, for sure, but I am smiling and beautiful in all my photos.

More than 20 years later, my heart goes out to Sonakshi Sinha. Little has changed for Hindu-Muslim unions in India and elsewhere (she married her steady date of seven years, Zaheer Iqbal). It seems she didnt have her familys blessings, and then she did. But the daily coverage of who said what and who did not attend is something the internet wont let her forget.

Sonakshi Sinha and Zaheer Iqbal at their wedding reception | Courtesy: Instagram@raw_mango

I really wish for a world where all that mattered was that a bride giggled her way through her ceremoniesreligious or civil. I really wish for a world where all brides could wear the most beautiful outfits, and look and feel like the queens they deserve to look and feel like. I am glad the grooms take the effort to dress up in expensive clothes and wear jewellery, too, these days, but honestly they are so incidental on a wedding day: all eyes are always on the bride.

On the other hand, the Ambani nuptials are here already. The wedding and pre-wedding festivities of Radhika Merchant and her groom Anant Ambani have paled a couture week anywhere in the world, thanks to their gorgeous parade of expensive designer outfits. The brides clothes, mother-in-law Nita Ambanis brick-size emeralds, sisters-in-law Isha Ambani Piramal and Shloka Ambanis ice-size diamonds, the movie-star guestlist and the international pop icon performances have taken over. It is all so thrilling, and such tantalising eye candy. But I wonder if the nation would be celebrating or ogling as much if it were an inter-community union. Maybe not, albeit the subjects may be the richest family in India.

Marriages are so many mixed emotions at once. The couple (more often than not the bride) is leaving all that is familiar and comfortable and starting a life built (more often than not) on love and a leap of faith. There is joy, there is pain, there is love, and there is worry, too. Regardless, should all of these be anybodys business except the couple in question? How is the families dynamic any concern for the country at large?

Id prefer to remember Sonakshis wedding for that gorgeous chand-buta (crescent moon shaped) sari the brilliant Sanjay Garg of Raw Mango made for her. Id prefer to remember her wedding for the little squeal she let out when signing the civil union papers, or that oh-so-sexy couples jig on Chaiyya Chaiyya at a wedding party. I suspect so would she.

I would also prefer to remember Sonakshi for her excellent outing as the queen-bee courtesan Fareedan in Heeramandi and, by contrast, as a caste-ridden policewoman Anjali Bhaati covered in dust and blood in last years Dahaad.

Women are much more than their wedding days and their marriages, their fantastic saris are their fantasies for the day.
IT giant Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) made the most gains among Top 10 companies in the country last week, with its shares soaring around 7 per cent on Friday. Boosted by Q1 results, which reported an 8.9 per cent surge in its net profit during the quarter ended in June, TCS saw its market valuation jump by Rs 62,393.92 crore to touch Rs 15,14,133.45 crore.



The other companies that increased their valuation included ITC, Infosys, Hindustan Unilever, LIC, Reliance Industries and Bharti Airtel. Together, these seven companies saw their market capitalisation climbing by Rs 1,72,225.62 crore last week.

FMCG stocks in Top 10 such as ITC zoomed by Rs 31,858.83 crore to reach a market capital of Rs 5,73,258.78 crore while the valuation of Hindustan Unilever climbed Rs 17,668.92 crore to Rs 6,16,156.81 crore.

Another IT giant in the Top 10 basket, Infosys, leaped by Rs 26,905.14 crore to Rs 7,10,827.27 crore valuation. It is scheduled to announce its quarterly earnings this week. Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC) rallied Rs 22,422.12 crore to record a market capital of Rs 6,64,947.01 crore.

Mukesh Ambani's Reliance Industries, which will also release its quarterly results this week, surged Rs 9,066.19 crore to Rs 21,60,628.75 crore. Its telecom rival Bharti Airtel also increased its market capitalisation, which by Rs 1,910.5 crore to Rs 8,15,705.36 crore.

The biggest market heavyweight to see its market capital eroding last week was the HDFC Bank, whose valuation dipped by Rs 18,069.29 crore to Rs 12,35,825.35 crore. The largest public lender, State Bank of India, also plunged by Rs 356.99 crore to Rs 7,67,204.26 crore. ICICI Bank, the second largest private lender after HDFC Bank, plummeted by Rs 210.5 crore to Rs 8,67,668.16 crore.

In terms of market valuation, Reliance Industries is the most valued Indian company followed by TCS, HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, Bharti Airtel, State Bank of India, Infosys, LIC, Hindustan Unilever and ITC.
The Tamil Nadu Police said on Sunday that a key accused in the murder of BSP Tamil Nadu chief K Armstrong was killed in a police encounter. K Thiruvengadam was one of the 11 accused taken into custody by the police in the murder of Armstrong.

The incident happened near Madhavaram. According to the police, Thiruvengadam was taken by the investigating officials to a location in north Chennai as part of evidence collection. When the officials were trying to find weapons concealed in a spot, Thiruvengadam tried to escape after assaulting a policeman. He was then shot during the encounter.



Though he was taken to a hospital, doctors declared him dead. Thiruvengadam, in his thirties, is one of the 11 accused arrested in the Armstrong murder case and is a history sheeter. A couple of days ago, a court here had granted police five-day custody of the accused persons.



However, AIADMK general secretary and Leader of Opposition Edappadi K. Palaniswami condemned the encounter death and said the police version of the events looked suspicious. He questioned whether the police failed to take adequate security measures before taking a murder accused to his possible hideout.



Meanwhile, the police released CCTV visuals of Armstrong's murder, aiming to dispel rumours that those arrested were not the actual suspects.



The video shows the accused men approaching Armstrong dressed as food delivery personnel. The video shows the accused, all clad in red t-shirts, arriving at a spot, a construction site, separately before jointly attacking Armstrong. The BSP leader who was overseeing the construction work was fatally stabbed, after which the accused men fled in the two-wheelers.



According to the police, Armstrong was killed to avenge for the murder of notorious criminal Arcot Suresh, in August 2023. Sureshs brother Ponnai Balu and other gang members believed Armstrong had a role in Sureshs killing.


A patient who was admitted to Delhi's government-run Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital was shot dead by a teenager on Sunday, reports said. The victim was identified as Riyazuddin, a resident of Khajoori Khas in northeast Delhi.

According to news reports, the shooter is at large following the murder. 32-year-old Riyazuddin was admitted to Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital on June 23 after he sought treatment for stomach ache, NDTV said in a report. He was admitted to the Surgery Ward on June 22 and operated on June 24 for perforation peritonitis.

It was around 4:00 pm in the afternoon that the assailant, reportedly 18 years old, shot Riyazuddin who was admitted at the third floor of the hospital.

The accused fired three to four rounds before fleeing the scene, the news report said. The police have yet to find out the reason for the murder.

CCTV footage in and around the hospital complex was being analysed to gather information about the accused.

Meanwhile, the hospital's Residents' Doctors Association declared an indefinite strike citing safety concerns. "Our repeated appeals for enhanced security have been ignored, culminating in this tragic event. Until the Delhi Government ensures a secure environment for everyone within the hospital, we cannot continue our duties," an RDA spokesperson said in the statement.

"The strike will continue until fundamental security improvements are effectively implemented and communicated," the statement said.

Doctors said the emergency services will remain operational during the strike.

Delhi Health Minister Saurabh Bharadwaj said, "a security review of all hospitals will be carried out and no negligence will be tolerated."

More details are awaited
At 1.28 pm on Sunday, the officials entrusted by the Odisha government will open the 'Ratna Bhandar', the secret vault of the 12th-century Jagannath temple in Puri, after a long 46 years.

As part of the ceremonies before reopening the vault, an 'Agnya' ritual was held in the morning, which involved seeking approval for the reopening of the Ratna Bhandar. Following this, the members of the committee formed by the state government to supervise the inventory of valuables in the treasury entered the shrine at 12 pm.

"Before reopening the treasury, we will seek the approval of Goddess Bimala, Goddess Laxmi, who is the owner of the treasury, and lastly Lord Lokanath, who is its caretaker," committee chairman Justice Biswanath Rath told reporters.

He and other panel members offered prayers before Lord Jagannath and his siblings at the Gundicha temple for the smooth completion of the works. Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) have been made for the entire process. The place where the valuables will be kept temporarily has also been identified.

STORY | Puri temple's Ratna Bhandar to be reopened at 1.28 pm



READ: https://t.co/zE8Aeemwja



VIDEO | As per the governments order, Ratna Bhandar will be opened today after 1 pm. High-level committee chairman Justice Bishwanath Rath and the chief administrator have briefed pic.twitter.com/NPSP12jXyi  Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) July 14, 2024 #WATCH | Puri, Odisha: Special boxes brought to Shri Jagannath Temple ahead of the re-opening of Ratna Bhandar.



The Ratna Bhandar of the Shri Jagannath Temple is to be opened today following Standard Operating Procedure issued by the state government. pic.twitter.com/xwRdtQe0Ml  ANI (@ANI) July 14, 2024

Gold, diamonds and snakes

Ever since Odisha Law Minister Prithiviraj Harichandan declared that the authorities will repair the vault and count the ornaments inside, speculations are rife on what's inside the revered treasury.

It is said that the vault's inner chamber 'Bhitara Bhandar' (last opened in 1985) holds crowns of kings to chests full of treasures. The inner chamber reportedly stores the rarest jewellery pieces, including diamonds, gold and precious gems. Many of these have been donated over centuries by devotees and kings to the deity. Legends have it that these include stone-studded crowns and ornaments the kings brought with them after defeating other states in battles.

As per local media, in 1805 the then Puri collector Charles Grome made a list of the ornaments stored in the inner chamber, which included 1,333 items, including 74 types of ornaments. There are also rumours that the chambers hold 128 gold coins, 1297 silver coins, 106 copper coins and 24 ancient gold coins.

The last inventory, done in 1978, reportedly revealed that the treasure trove had 454 types of gold ornaments weighing 12,883 bhari and 293 types of silver ornaments weighing 22,153 bhari.

According to the Odisha Review magazine, the inner chamber also contains 180 types of ornaments, including 74 varieties of pure gold ornaments. Some of these weigh over 1.2 kilograms.

"The inventory work will not start today. It will be done after getting approval from the government on the engagement of valuers, goldsmiths and other experts," a panel member said. The government has decided to prepare a digital catalogue of the valuables with details such as their weight and make.

Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) Superintendent DB Gadanayak said structural engineers, mechanical engineers and civil engineers will inspect the Ratna Bhandar for the repair work.

Meanwhile, there are also fears that there would be snakes inside the vault. The government has deployed snake catchers, along with Odisha Disaster Rapid Action Force (ODRAF) personnel at the spot.

The ODRAF men were seen entering the temple premises with lights that will be installed inside the Ratna Bhandar.

Snake Helpline member Subhendu Mallick said, "We have come here on the instruction of the state government. There will be two teams of snake catchers -- one inside and another outside the temple. We will follow all instructions of the administration."
On Saturday night, Mongbung village in Manipur's Jiribam district had witnessed firing by militants. When the security personnel launched counter measures on Sunday morning, they were reportedly attacked by militants armed with sophisticated weapons and an encounter followed, A CRPF jawan lost his life in the gunfight and two Manipur Police personnel suffered injuries.



As violence returns to haunt ethnic unrest-torn Manipur, here are five things we know so far about the Jiribam district encounter that claimed a CRPF jawan's life:

1. Around 9:00 am on Sunday, personnel of Manipur Police and CRPF were engaged in area domination activity when they were ambushed reportedly by Kuki militants.

2. They were fired upon from multiple locations by the extremists who were reportedly armed with modern weapons. The security personnel returned fire -- resulting in an encounter that lasted about 20 minutes.

3. During the gunfight, CRPF personnel Ajay Kumar Jha, 43, received bullet injuries to the head, news agency PTI reported. He was shifted to a hospital where he breathed his last. A resident of Bihar's Madhubani, Ajay Kumar Jha was a driver in the Central Armed Police Force.

4. Two officers of the Manipur Police also suffered injuries in the incident. Sub-Inspector K. Romendro and Rifleman Robindro, sustained splinter injuries in the attack, reported India Today. Their condition is said to be stable.

5. After reinforcements reached the spot, the troops quickly launched combing operations to find the militants who retreated to the forests. Additional security forces have been deployed at Mongbung from adjacent hill areas following Sunday's attack, another official said.
Great stocks can be found in any market environment, even if share prices fluctuate with time. However, solid businesses with great financials and durable growth pathways will typically reflect that with relatively steady share price increases over time. If you're looking for top stocks to buy and hold for the long term, here are two companies to consider adding to the mix.

1. Eli Lilly

Shares of Eli Lilly (NYSE: LLY) have had a tremendous 106% run-up over the past 12 months. The company's expansion into the diabetes and weight loss drug markets has been a notable factor here. Both its diabetes drug Mounjaro and its weight loss drug Zepbound contain the same active ingredient -- the GLP-1 (glucagon-like peptide 1) receptor agonist tirzepatide.

Eli Lilly shares the GLP-1 market with Novo Nordisk, which markets its agonist, semaglutide, under the name Ozempic for diabetes and Wegovy for weight loss. Together, they are expected to dominate that space for some time. A recent report by J.P. Morgan estimates the global GLP-1 drug market will hit a valuation of about $71 billion by 2032, and forecasts that Eli Lilly and Novo Nordisk will each control approximately 45% of sales in the space.

As icing on the cake, Eli Lilly just clocked another huge win when the Food and Drug Administration delivered its long-awaited approval of Kisunla for the treatment of early symptomatic Alzheimer's disease. Analysts are broadly expecting it to be another blockbuster, with peak sales potential of $5 billion or more annually.

Mounjaro brought in total sales of $1.8 billion in the first quarter of 2024 alone, and another blockbuster, cancer drug Verzenio, added $1.1 billion to the pharmaceutical giant's top line. Zepbound was only approved in November, but already is bringing in more than $500 million in quarterly revenue for the company. Eli Lilly's total revenue for Q1 came to $8.8 billion, a 26% increase from one year ago, and net income soared 67% to $2.2 billion.

The company has been a reliable dividend payer with a solid track record of elevating its payouts. Its stellar stock performance has compressed its yield to a modest 0.6%, but Eli Lilly maintains a payout ratio of approximately 69% of earnings. For long-term healthcare investors, this stock looks like a no-brainer choice to buy and hold for the long run.

2. Dutch Bros

Drive-thru coffee chain Dutch Bros (NYSE: BROS) started out as a pushcart by railroad tracks in 1992. Now, the company has 876 locations in 17 states and is a top brand in the quick-service beverage industry. Shares are up about 35% from 12 months ago, and up 26% from the start of this year.

There is certainly no shortage of fast-casual coffee chains in the U.S., though Starbucks remains a dominant force in this space. However, Dutch Bros has managed to differentiate itself through methodical, steady growth. It also stopped franchising locations in the last few years, so all new shops are company-owned.

In the first quarter, Dutch Bros opened 45 new shops across 14 states, while total revenues rose 40% year over year to $275 million. Company-operated shop revenues grew 43% to $248 million, while company-operated shop gross profit nearly doubled to $54 million.

The company wasn't profitable on a GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) basis in Q1, but over its past four reported quarters, it pulled in profits of about $12.6 million and raked in $178 million in operating cash flow.

Management intends to expand its footprint to more than 4,000 shops over the next decade and beyond. It has opened 30 or more shops every quarter for the past 11 quarters, and began beta testing a mobile order and pay app in Q1. The company plans to have mobile ordering capabilities in most of its shops by the end of 2024.

Dutch Bros' simple business model revolves around a proven source of consumer spending. Investors interested in smaller chains with ample growth opportunities might find this coffee shop stock an appealing place to park some cash.

Should you invest $1,000 in Eli Lilly right now?

Before you buy stock in Eli Lilly, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Eli Lilly wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $791,929!*

Stock Advisor provides investors with an easy-to-follow blueprint for success, including guidance on building a portfolio, regular updates from analysts, and two new stock picks each month. The Stock Advisor service has more than quadrupled the return of S&P 500 since 2002*.

See the 10 stocks 

*Stock Advisor returns as of July 8, 2024

JPMorgan Chase is an advertising partner of The Ascent, a Motley Fool company. Rachel Warren has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends JPMorgan Chase and Starbucks. The Motley Fool recommends Novo Nordisk. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

2 High-Flying Growth Stocks You Can Buy Right Now Before They Surge Even Higher was originally published by The Motley Fool
Prime Minister Narendra Modi and other world leaders condemned the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump on Saturday during a election rally in Pennsylvania's Butler. The bullet grazed the former president's ear, following which the Secret Service neutralised thesuspect. The suspect was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, who hails from Bethel Park, 40 miles from the location of the shooting. The motive was yet to be confirmed. Police are looking at multiple angles and whether anyone else is involved in the attack.

Modi posted on X that violence has no place in politics and democracies and wished Trump speedy recovery. Strongly condemning the incident, the PM said, Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump... Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people.

ALSO READ: Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks? Trump shooter, 20, was a registered Republican, show records

US President Joe Biden said theres no place for this kind of violence in America, adding that the nation should stand together to condemn such acts. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally... Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety, he added.

Former US President Barack Obama echoed Biden's words, saying there is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. We should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics, he said, adding that Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery. Michelle Obama also reposted his post.

Newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer expressed his shock, saying, I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. He added that political violence in any form has no place in our societies.

ALSO READ: Trump shot: Chilling photo shows bullet flying past ex-president's head after piercing his ear

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu posted on X, saying he and his wife are praying for Trump's safety and recovery. Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. he added.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he is sickened by the shooting in the neighbouring country. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans, he posted.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed his shock and said he is relieved that Trump is safe. He added that he is saddened by the loss of life and injuries during the shooting. This inexcusable act goes against our democratic values, he said, echoing other world leaders.

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni expressed solidarity with Trump and wished him speedy recovery, hoping that the next few months of the electoral campaign will see dialogue and responsibility prevail over hatred and violence. "I am following with apprehension the updates from Pennsylvania, where the 45th President of the United States was shot during a rally," she said.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the shooting was unacceptable and that the attack against former President Donald Trump must be vehemently repudiated by all defenders of democracy and dialogue in politics.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida prayed for Trump's speedy recovery, saying we must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy. I pray for former President Trumps speedy recovery.
The FBI had identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park as the suspect in the assassination attempt on former United States President Donald Trump on Saturday during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The suspect was shot dead by the Secret Service after several rounds of shots were fired at the Trump rally venue. However, the motive behind the act is still unknown.

Also Read | Trump assassination bid: Secret Service in spot for biggest lapse; security beefed up for political campaigns

One person was killed and two others were injured in the shooting at the rally. The bullet pierced through the upper part of Trumps ear. Was it just an act of hatred? Or was he hired by someone to assassinate the former US president? The FBI is questioning his family members to connect the dots behind the shooting. The perimeter of the suspects residence was guarded on Sunday by yellow police caution tape.

Crooks' parents were licensed behavioural care counsellors. His public records show no mention of any criminal acts or traffic violations. It seemed he belonged to an affluent family with no major financial issues.

Crook's early school life shows him with no political leanings. Crooks was a junior at the school when he donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project, a political action committee aligned with the presidents Democratic party. Later in his senior year, he registered to vote as a Republican. He had voted in the November 2022 midterm elections. It was in the same year Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School. Reportedly, he received a $500 "star award" from the National Math and Science Initiative as well.

Also Read | Trump was just minutes into his speech when shots rang. How the assassination bid unfolded | Photos



Several Trump supporters had gathered to hear the former US president's speech in Butler, Pennsylvania when Crooks attempted to assassinate him using an AR-style rifle.

According to officials, Crooks did not carry any identification to the site of the shooting.

Several shots were fired towards the stage, where Trump was speaking before he was shot by the Secret Service. According to a spokesperson for the Secret Service, agents returned fire at Crooks and killed him.
At a rally at Pennsylvania's Bethel Park, former US President and Republican leader Donald Trump survived an assassination bid on Saturday. He was targeted by a 20-year-old youth identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was gunned down by Secret Service moments after the attack. While Trump survived the shooting by suffering just a trivial injury on his ear, another man lost his life while two others were critically hurt.



ALSO READ | Trump shooting: Viral footage appears to show Secret Service agent spotting shooter but failing to engage

According to reports, Thomas Matthew Crooks used a semi-automatic AR-15 rifle to target Trump. The gun was bought by his father at least six months ago, investigators believe.

For the unversed, the AR-15 is a popular gun among the American public. The Guardian labelled the semi-automatic rifle to be "one of Americas most popular, recognisable and notorious weapons." Here are five things to know about the gun that is also popular in video games and action movies.

1. What makes the AR-15, a design originally created for military use, a popular model among America's gun-wielding sects? Last year, NBC News in a report mentioned that it is the rifle's versatility and cachet that made it popular in the United States.

2. The relatively easy-to-use features and customisation options also add to its popularity. They have comparatively little recoil and can be customized with accessories, such as optics, scopes and pistol grips that improve comfort and accuracy, NBC News said.

ALSO READ | PM Modi to Israel's Herzog, top 10 reactions by world leaders after Donald Trump attacked

3. Not very distinct from the fully automatic M-16 rifles supplied for the military, the AR-15 is manufactured by US-based COLT. AR in AR-15 stands for "ArmaLite Rifle", a small arms engineering company, formed in the 1950s, in Hollywood, California. The ArmaLite reportedly sold the AR-15 design and trademark to Colt's Manufacturing Company in 1959.

While it was also originally designed and created for the Army, it was soon copied by numerous manufacturers under different names -- further aiding its popularity and sales.

4. The AR-15 was the go-to weapon of many mass shooters who shocked the US in the past decade. In May 2022, a former student used an AR-15 to shoot dead nineteen children and two teachers at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas. Similarly, the weapon was also used in October 2017 in Las Vegas, where a gunman massacred 60 people at a music festival, reported AFP. In other words, the AR-15 claimed hundreds of innocent lives across the US.

As of 2023, nine US states including Washington and Illinois have banned semi-automatic rifles including the AR-15.

WATCH | Donald Trump is not the first! A timeline of assassinations/ attempts against US Presidents

5. Compared to handguns, AR-15s inflict much more damage to human tissue. The bullets are fired at tremendous speed and the projectiles disembark as they pass through the victim's body, inflicting further damage. Compared to handguns, this feature makes AR-15 more lethal as victims may die not just due to severe injuries but also blood loss, NBC News pointed out.

What happened at Donald Trump's rally?

Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally, days before he was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time. A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV as he pumped his fist in a show of defiance.

Trumps campaign said the presumptive GOP nominee was doing fine after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, he wrote on his social media site.

ALSO READ | Trump urges Americans to stand united after assassination bid; motive still unknown

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The agency said the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, the agency said.

One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.
DONALD TRUMP RALLY SHOOTING LATEST UPDATES: Here is an interactive that takes a look at some of the assassinations and attempts that have occurred since the founding of the United States of America in 1776:



Your browser does not support the video tag.

(THE WEEK INTERACTIVE GUIDE: Touch on "enter" to start the slide show; Tap/Click on the "^" and "v" buttons on the right side of the interactive to toggle between slised. Tap/Click on the "+" option on the top-left to read more; use the "X" option to exit the slide.)

(This is a phone-friendly interactive. PC users have to CLICK on the full-screen button on the bottom right for better experience.)

If you think Donald Trump was the first United States Presidential hopeful to face an assassination attempt, you got it wrong. Many others have survived attempts to take their lives during the run to enter the White House. Yet others were not so lucky and lost their lives to violence.

Over the years, many US Presidents and presidential candidates have faced attempts to claim their lives. Here is a timeline of such attempts dating back to the demise of Abraham Lincoln, whose feelings for the rights of Black Americans, cost him dearly. To name a few episodes of political violence targeting US Presidents:

JOHN F KENNEDY:

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin as he visited Dallas with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

ROBERT F KENNEDY:

John's borther Robert was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

President Gerald Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

President Ronald Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, DC, and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr.

ALSO READ | Did The Simpsons actually predict Trump shooting? Truth about viral memes on assassination bid

GEORGE BUSH:

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

(WATCH THE INTERACTIVE VIDEO ON TOP FOR DETAILED LIST)

What happened at Donald Trump's rally?

Former US President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally, days before he was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time. A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV as he pumped his fist in a show of defiance.

Trumps campaign said the presumptive GOP nominee was doing fine after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, he wrote on his social media site.

ALSO READ | Trump shot: Chilling photo shows bullet flying past ex-president's head after piercing his ear

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The agency said the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, the agency said.

One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.

(All data/inputs via The Associated Press)
The assassination attempt on former United States President Donald Trump has raised concerns and questions about the security lapses. According to experts, the assassination bid is seen as a "fundamental security failure".

The oversight committee in the Republican-led House of Representatives demanded answers from the Secret Service for its utter failure. The panel said it would call Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle to testify at a hearing on 22 July. This is a biggest security lapse, said the committee.

Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump, the panel said in a statement.

Since the attempted assassination of Republican President Ronald Reagan in 1981, this is the first incident of shooting a US president.

ALSO READ | Trump shooting: Viral footage appears to show Secret Service agent spotting shooter but failing to engage

Experts pointed out the lapses in the pre-event research and real-time monitoring of places.

An eyewitness had told BBC that he saw a man armed with a rifle crawling up a roof near the event. He also said that he tried to alert security, pointing at the man.

"It is shocking how a gunman was able to occupy a raised position within rifle range of the rally site," Retired Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) agent Jim Cavanaugh told Skynews.

The AR-15, the weapon used by the shooter can hit targets 600 feet away. Reportedly, Trump's rally site was about 444 feet from the rooftop where the shooter was shot dead.

ALSO READ | AR-15 rifle: Darling of US civilians and mass shooters alike, what you need to know about gun used to target Donald Trump at Pennsylvania

There were also rumours that Trumps team had requested additional security resources at the rally, which was turned down. The spokesperson of the Secret Service had refuted such claims.

"There's an untrue assertion that a member of the former president's team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed," said Anthony Guglielmi on X.

"This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo," he added.

However, Former Secret Service agent Evy Poumpouras said it is impossible to eliminate every potential threat at a rally.

ALSO READ | Trump urges Americans to stand united after assassination bid; motive still unknown

Security ramped up

In the wake of the incident, the officials are planning to ramp up security across the US amid election campaigns.

Ahead of the Republican convention, Wisconsin governor, Tony Evers, said, My staff and I are in contact with those coordinating security planning for the RNC and will continue to be in close communication as we learn more about this situation.

According to the Secret Service, firearms will not be allowed inside the main event space of the Fiserv Forum or other buildings where RNC events are set to take place, or in the so-called hard perimeter around the convention where credentials are required for entry.

In New York, police increased security at Trump Tower in Manhattan. Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD is surging officers to certain sites across the five boroughs, New York City Mayor Eric Adams wrote on X.

The Biden campaign will also similarly be on high alert.
As the FBI, investigating the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at an election rally in Pennsylvania, expresses surprise at how the shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks found a location to fire shots against Trump, footage going viral on social media shows a Secret Service Agent spotting the assailant just seconds before the shots were fired.

However, he failed to engage the shooter as the bullets from Crooks grazed through Trump in the next second.

Also going viral is the video of Crooks perched on the roof of a nearby building, opening fire. Though FBI officials did not confirm the authenticity of the video, NBC quoted sources which confirmed it as being from the scene of the shooting. Visuals of him dead, with a bullet wound on his head too surfaced later. He appeared to be wearing a grey T-shirt with an American flag on the sleeve with block lettering that is partly obscured.

Video footage shows that Donald Trump's sniper detail spotted the shooter just seconds before shots were fired. pic.twitter.com/XrW46iGUe4  Evil Jordan (@Eviljordanx) July 14, 2024

Ironically, the T-shirt appeared to be matching the ones on sale on the website of the firearms YouTube channel Demolition Ranch. Demolition Ranch has over 11 million subscribers on YouTube, where the channel frequently posts videos about various types of firearms.

ALSO READ: Trump was just minutes into his speech when shots rang. How the assassination bid unfolded | Photos

FBI Special Agent Kevin Rojek, who runs the Pittsburgh office said it was surprising how Crooks managed to get on to the spot. "It is surprising, but again to get all the details of that will come out later in the investigation," he told reporters.

Law enforcement officials said Crooks fired the shot about 148 yards from where Trump was speaking. The area was outside the perimeter, according to Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens, who added that the Secret Service had a difficult challenge to lock down the entire rally location against any possible threat. "It is incredibly difficult to have a venue open to the public and to secure that against any possible threat against a very determined attacker," Bivens told reporters. "Thats a huge lift to try to do."

However, Jim Cavanaugh, a retired special agent in charge with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives who has been on Secret Service details, told NBC that the norm is that every high ground will be taken by security detail.

Expressing surprise that the shooter was able to occupy an elevated position within rifle range of the rally site, he added: "Whenever Ive been with them, every single high ground is taken by them or the local SWAT police," Cavanaugh said. "Theres nobody allowed walking on rooftops. They command the high ground."

Meanwhile, a new video shows Trump walking down the steps of his plane unassisted at an airport in Newark.
Within milliseconds of former US President Donald Trump getting shot in his right ear during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a photographer was able to capture the bullet flying past his head.

The image captured by New York Times photojournalist Doug Mills on Saturday show a silver streak behind Trump's head after it grazed his right ear during an assassination attempt. Another photo taken by Mills show Trump touching his right ear after getting shot and a subsequent one that showed him removing his hand with blood on it.

ALSO READ: Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks? Trump shooter, 20, was a registered Republican, show records

After being shot, Trump was seen dropping to the ground along with rest of the spectators as the Secret Service came to his rescue. Later, Trump said he got shot in the ear, adding that he heard a "whizzing sound" and felt like a "bullet ripping through skin".

A remarkable photo captured by my former White House Press Corps colleague Doug Mills.



Zoom in right above President Trumps shoulder and youll see a bullet flying in the air to the right of President Trumps head following an attempted assassination. pic.twitter.com/FqmLBCytoW  Haraz N. Ghanbari (@HarazGhanbari) July 14, 2024

The Secret Service, which termed the attack an assassination attempt, said the male suspect was shot dead. One man in the audience was also fatally shot by the suspect while two other men were critically injured, according to officials.

The FBI said it was unaware of the suspect on the roof until the shots were fired. The suspect was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, who hails from Bethel Park, 40 miles from the location of the shooting. The motive was yet to be confirmed. Police are looking at multiple angles and whether anyone else is involved in the attack.

Trump's daughter Ivanka Trump thanked the Secret Service for saving her father in an X post. "I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country," she said. "I love you Dad, today and always."
After the assassination attempt at the Pennsylvania rally, former United States President Donald Trump thanked everyone for their support and prayers. Trump issued a second statement on his social media platform Truth Social urging Americans to stay united.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening...We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families, he said.

Also Read | 'Bullet pierced upper part of my ear': Trump reacts after escaping assassination bid

We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed, Trump said. He also added that he is looking forward to attending the Republican National Convention to be held in Wisconsin this week. He will be receiving his party's formal nomination at the convention.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win...I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin, he added.

The Republicans' convention will take place from July 15-18 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Also Read | Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks? Trump shooter, 20, was a registered Republican, show records

The bullet had pierced through the upper part of Trumps ear when the attacker opened fire during a rally in Pennsylvania. The FBI had identified the attacker, shot dead by the Secret Service, as Thomas Matthew Crooks. The officials are currently investigating the motive behind the attack.

According to state voter records, the suspect was a registered Republican. He had made a donation of $15 to a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, reported Reuters.

Thomas Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School. Reportedly, he received a $500 "star award" from the National Math and Science Initiative.

According to officials, Crooks did not carry any identification to the site of the shooting.

The assassination attempt on Trump enraged his supporters, paused the Democratic campaign and raised fears of further political violence in the run-up to November's election as well. It is also likely to boost the Milwaukee campaign.

Republican allies termed Trump as a hero and capturing the image of his ear bloodied and fist raised, they chanted "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The Trump campaigners had already sent out a text asking the voters to contribute to the campaign. They're not after me, they're after you, the text read.

Elon Musk and Bill Ackman swiftly came to the forefront endorsing Trump ahead of the convention. "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," said Musk.
Hours after the suspect who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump was shot dead by the Secret Service, the FBI has identified the male adult as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Crooks allegedly fired at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, from the roof of a manufacturing plant near the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump was addressing the crowd.

ALSO READ: Chilling photo shows bullet flying past ex-president's head after piercing his ear

Who was Thomas Matthew Crooks?

Thomas Matthew Crooks was a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania's Bethel Park, which is 40 miles south of the rally venue. Bethel Park is a predominantly white neighbourhood and is part of greater Pittsburgh.

An AR-style rifle was recovered from him. FBI confirmed that he was the "subject involved". State voter records revealed that he was a registered Republican.

ALSO READ: 'My President is bulletproof': Trump T-shirts sell like hot cakes after assassination bid

FBI has not confirmed if Crooks acted alone in carrying out the attack. They are yet to find out his motive and are following multiple leads.

Trump was shot as he was minutes into his speech. A photo captured by NYT photographer Doug Mills showed a bullet whizzing past Trump's head after piercing his right ear.

The Secret Service's counter snipers immediately shot Crooks dead. One of the spectators was fatally shot by the attacker while two others were injured severely.
Core values of Indian and Chinese civilisations such as morality, communality, spirituality, peoples centrality, harmony, filial piety, benevolence, righteousness, wisdom, honesty and loyalty are essentially oriental values that are omnipresent in all Asian civilisations. It is around these values that both India and China are building their soft power discourse.

The Chinese media has spread its wings across the globe, and has challenged the supremacy of the western media. The Xinhua news agency has 180 news bureaus globally.

If India has evoked Vasudhaiva Kutumbakam (the world is one) from its civilisational roots that calls for collective responsibility of the humankind towards their shared future, the larger framework of Chinas diplomacy is rooted in Chinese traditional philosophy of the world is one family (Tianxia Yijia). The concept upholds that since interests, aspirations and destinies of mankind are intertwined, the challenges are common and require common solutions.

Despite the similarities, the approaches towards realising the goals differ. China has pronounced traditional Chinese culture as the mainstay of culturally advanced China, but since Chinas path, system and theory remain essentially socialist, it may not be too appealing to democracies, especially in the present geopolitical contest between the US and China.

China has established over 500 Confucius Institutes and over 1,000 Confucius Classrooms all over the world. The Chinese media has spread its wings across the globe, and has challenged the supremacy of the western media. The Xinhua news agency has 180 news bureaus globally; China Central Television (CCTV) has over 70 foreign bureaus, broadcasting to 171 countries and regions in six UN official languages; China Radio International, the worlds second biggest radio station after the BBC, broadcasts in 64 languages from 32 foreign bureaus; and major Chinese newspapers such as the Peoples Daily and the China Daily have considerable reach.

China offers thousands of scholarships to foreign students. The state intervention is clearly discernible, although it has come under scrutiny recently in the west. China has been blamed of taking advantage of the openness of democratic systems even as it denies the same space to others inside China.

Though India lacks Chinas economic muscle, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations has increased its activities. It runs Indian cultural centres in 37 countries, and has been engaged in promoting Indian culture in the form of organising cultural festivals, deputing chairs of Indian studies abroad and providing scholarships to foreign scholars to study in India.

Nonetheless, it is Indian spirituality that has greater appeal across the globe. It is estimated that there are 300 million yoga practitioners worldwide. In China alone, between 2017 and 2021, there were 42,000 yoga studios, according to a China Daily report. Besides, Indian classical dance, Bollywood movies, Indian cuisine and Indian diaspora have become important carriers of Indias soft power and furthering Indias influence globally.
Sabrina Gordon / Getty Images

A lot of real estate attention gets placed on large cities, such as those that have benefited from pandemic-era migration trends or bustling job markets. Yet some people still prefer to search for homes in small towns, which can be more affordable than some major cities and offer a slower pace of life.

Check Out: Housing Market 2024: Home Prices Are Plummeting in 10 Formerly Overpriced Housing Markets

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However, with the sheer quantity of small towns across the country, it can be difficult to know where to look. One approach is to talk to real estate experts who may have local insights or at least general knowledge that can potentially foreshadow price movements in certain areas.

Here, well examine three of these recommendations. Note that none are technically designated as towns, but for all intents and purposes, based on factors like population, these can be considered small towns to consider buying property in the next five years:

Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them.

1. Morganton, North Carolina

As a whole, many real estate experts have their eyes on North Carolina as a growth area, but thats not just limited to popular places like Raleigh and Durham. Some smaller towns could also be good places to buy in the coming years.



I would look at towns that are receiving major investments into infrastructure, research, industrial, etc., suggested Frank Rohde, CEO at Ownify. In North Carolina, that includes places like Morganton, which is located in the western part of the state and has a population under 20,000.



Part of Rohdes rationale is that some areas of North Carolina are receiving major grants from the U.S. National Science Foundation (NSF). One of those grants is for the North Carolina Sustainable Textiles Innovation Engine, which is set to receive up to $160 million in NSF funding over the next 10 years.

The grants for this NSF Engine will go toward supporting the textile industry in parts of North Carolina, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia. While Morganton isnt the center of this funding, it could benefit considering it has a strong textile footprint, such as being home to the Carolina Textile District co-op.

Shelbyville, Tennessee

While Nashville has been booming over the past few years, some towns and small cities in Middle Tennessee are poised to capture some of this growth too.

As the rising prices in Nashville drive the more budget-conscious home buyers further out, I expect these locations to be an excellent place to park your real estate dollars over the next few years, said Joe Hafner, broker and owner at Hafner Real Estate.

Story continues

One place in particular to consider is Shelbyville, which has a population of roughly 25,000. Its about 60 miles from Nashville and 25 miles from Murfreesboro.

As the growing population moves south past Murfreesboro, Shelbyville is next in line for an influx of new people and still has a nice supply of affordable homes available, said Hafner.



Shelbyville is known for hosting the annual Tennessee National Walking Horse Celebration, but its becoming more of a destination for reasons other than horses, he added.



The recently established Nearest Green Distillery sits on more than 300 acres on Highway 231 between Murfreesboro and downtown Shelbyville and represents millions of dollars of investment into the area. For home buyers who seek less expensive property than whats available in Murfreesboro, Shelbyville has become their primary destination, said Hafner.

Accord, New York

Accord is technically a hamlet, which is part of the town of Rochester (different than the city of Rochester), located within the Rondout Valley of New York, roughly between New York City and Albany.



Rondout Valley areas like Accord offer rural charm with scenic views of the Shawangunk Mountains. Residents enjoy a close-knit community atmosphere, complete with local farmers markets, artisanal shops, and a serious foodie scene, said Angelica Ferguson VonDrak associate broker at Four Seasons Sothebys International Realty.



Plus, you can get a mix of the old and the new.



Rondout Valley areas like Accord are ideal for those seeking a tranquil countryside lifestyle with a rich history. Additionally, Accord is home to the new hospitality hotspot Inness, she said.

Finding the Right Spot for You

Whether you decide you want to buy property in one of these towns or somewhere else, its important to do your due diligence first.



Be sure to look at the local laws, regulations, and policies, because that drives economic conditions in an area. You want to make sure youre moving into an area that will continue to grow, otherwise you could be stuck there for longer than youd like, said Dr. David Phelps, CEO of Freedom Founders.

Plus, its important to be mindful of chasing trends.

Some of the hot markets are too hot, and so you cant get the return you want, even though youve seen values go up, unless you caught that streaming star early and rode with it. If youre looking at some of these places now, youre kind of catching them by the tail, and unfortunately, we dont know how much of that tail is going to be left, he said.

And not everyone has the same real estate goals. Some might be looking for a quick ROI on a second home later in life, for example, while others want to buy their first home to raise a family in an area that looks poised for growth.

The bottom line is that youve got to find affordability, but youve also got to find an area that will support your situation and goals, said Phelps.

Learn More: 10 Dangerous Cities You Shouldnt Buy a Home in No Matter the Price

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Small Towns To Buy Property in the Next 5 Years, According to Real Estate Experts
China aspires to replace the United States in the global order. India, a rising geopolitical and economic power, has drawn closer to the US amid Chinese assertions, especially in South Asia. India seeks to maintain foreign policy autonomy, but strategic concerns have placed it at odds with China.

Some experts have argued that China could not have achieved high growth without authoritarian governance. So, a question that is relevant to India, arises. Can rapid economic development and democratic politics coexist in a developing country of 1.4 billion people? Activists have long alleged that Chinas development has come at a cost: human freedoms. Historically, civil liberties have been fragile in China.

The neighbours across the Himalayas are the worlds only population billionaires. Trade and cultural links go back centuries. Yet, a modern-day reality is the decades-long border dispute that last killed soldiers on both sides in 2020. The differences run deep. China is a one-party autocracy. India is a multiparty democracy.

The BJP and the Communist Party of China (CPC) claim to be the worlds largest political outfits by membership. Both are nationalistic and cadre-based, but their politics vary.

This cover package looks at the complexities of Sino-Indian diplomacy; the two armed forces, from training to technology; the growth of bilateral commerce and the need for a bold trade deal with China; the state of civil liberties in China and the lessons for India; the interconnectedness of ancient Sino-Indian history, and the soft power the countries wield in the modern world; and compares the advances they have made in science, technology and innovation.

China and India offer contrasting examples of demographic transition towards longer lives and smaller families, a 2023 UN report said. The average life span in China has increased. But it is an ageing society, a fallout from the past one-child policy. While India is the most populous country, with a youthful population, the workforce will need to grow and train to take on Chinas manufacturing prowess in the future, aside from setting up the infrastructure.

Learning from the past: Prime Minister Narendra Modi at emperor Qinshihuangs mausoleum museum in Xian, capital of Shaanxi province, during a visit to China | AP

In China, there are many more women in factories and on farms, and as drivers of public transport and in corporate boardrooms. India has more women in leadership roles in politics and government (a result of the independence movement), although the number is small compared with the European Union. The CPC has never had a woman on the standing committee, its top decision-making body.

Same-sex marriage is not legal in China or India. Transgender is recognised as a gender identity in Indian government documents, such as passports. The LGBTQ+ community is invisible in popular culture in China, although the country decriminalised homosexuality two decades ahead of India. Society in China is conservative in some ways, liberal in others. Both countries are deeply patriarchal.

Future perfect: Visitors interact with a robot at the Mobile World Congress in Shanghai on June 26, 2024 | AFP

Over 40 years, China relentlessly built infrastructure. Tunnels were dug through mountains and under the sea; there are highways over land and water; ports and airports even in remote areas; and roads nearly everywhere. Alongside sprouted ghost townsempty buildings, a byproduct of the real estate boom before crisis hit the sector.

China has the worlds largest high-speed rail network (more than 40,000 kilometres). Even if flights are delayed, the high-speed trains are almost always on the dot. The country has modernised agriculture and makes nearly every item of use, from toothbrushes to rockets. But now it needs to move from export-oriented manufacturing to high-value services, and from investment to consumption. It has overcapacity in steel and iron, and, like India, uses a lot of coal, but has invested much more in renewable energy. China has the most digital citizens, followed by India. But the Chinese internet has greater speed and reach.

China has the largest number of movie screens (80,000 in 2021). The mainlands newer films tend to be patriotic, not the old cinematic fare of directors such as Zhang Yimou. The country still produces world-class musicians and wins big at the Olympics. Elderly Chinese women and men still like to go square-dancing after dinner.

The CPC is many things, an iron-fisted ruler over seven decades at home, a wolf warrior or a tai chi master on the world stage, depending on your view, and even paternalistic in formulating policy. But its centralised, top-down approach was put to good use in ending absolute poverty in 2020, according to some experts who also said, local governments deliver public services more efficiently in China. But state governments enjoy more freedom to make decisions in India.

Despite the authoritarian stability, government debt in China has ballooned. Victor Shih, a China expert and professor of political science at the University of California, San Diego, said local governments had accumulated huge amounts of debt, estimated to be 90-110 per cent of the GDP, both because of a massive amount of infrastructure spending from 2009 to 2015 and the economic downturn during the pandemic. Once debt is created, even a strong state would find it challenging to digest it over time, especially given the lower growth trajectory. The only ways to digest the debt include inflating it away or dramatically reducing expenditures, both of which contain risks, he said.

At the end of 2023, local government debt in China was more than 40 trillion yuan ($5.5 trillion), according to official data. The central government has issued guidelines to rein in the record debt amid worries of its impact on the economy.

Some foreign proponents of Chinas development model, including expat Indians, have argued that a country as populous as China could not have achieved high growth year after year without authoritarian governance. So, a question that is relevant to India, arises. Can rapid economic development and democratic politics coexist in a developing country of 1.4 billion people?

Shih said economic development and democracy could coexist but the economic cycles were likely to be more pronounced. Chinas legacy of a large state sectorwhich India also has to an extentallows state-owned enterprises to step in with investment and employment during economic downturns. The trade-off of not allowing recessions to take place is that businesses and governments take excessive risks and borrow way beyond their means. As we see today, that has become a major challenge in China, said Shih.

Activists have long alleged that Chinas development has come at a cost: human freedoms. Historically, civil liberties have been fragile in China, from the imperial times to the Kuomintang rule to the Mao era, with a window in between, until that was tightly shut again in the past decade. Rana Mitter, a China expert and professor of US-Asia relations at Harvard University, said the room for open academic discussion was narrower today than it was 10 or 20 years ago. This matters, as China needs a lively and rich public sphere to navigate so many of the issues that will shape it in the next few yearseconomic slowdown, demographic shifts, new technology and its impacts. China has always thrived when it is at its most open, said Mitter. And at the moment, difficult topics are harder to address in the public sphere.

The author is a journalist with a decade-long experience in China.
Lieutenant General (retd) S.L. Narasimhan

The easiest way to compare the defence forces of two countries is to do the bean count of the weapons and equipment that they have. But that gives only one aspect of their capability. The numbers do make up for some strength, particularly when a war of attrition takes its toll on the weapons and equipment of a country. But that alone cannot win wars. If that was the case, the more advanced countries should be winning the wars easily. That has not been the trend. There are many imponderables like training, battle experience, technology absorption, and ability of commanders to clearly read the battle and employ forces that impact the outcome of wars. When comparing the defence forces of India and China, one should consider all these factors.

BATTLE EXPERIENCE

The Peoples Liberation Army fought its last war in 1979 against Vietnam. Therefore, many analysts feel that the PLA lacks combat experience. However, my experience of dealing with the PLA on the Line of Actual Control for many years is that the PLA learns fast, and is willing to learn from everybody. It studies the campaigns fought by other countries and takes out lessons for itself. It also tries to train hard.

In contrast, the Indian armed forces are adept in both conventional and counterinsurgency operations. The near normalcy in northeast India and the improving ground situation in Jammu and Kashmir are testimony to that. Similarly, the Kargil War in 1999 proved the mettle of Indias defence forces. India also studies the campaigns being fought by other countries and takes lessons from them. The Indian armed forces are at an advantage in this aspect.

Party committees at various levels were increasingly becoming involved in assessing the training of units and formations they are associated with. These issues revealed a lack of confidence in the training being carried out by the PLA.

TRAINING

Since the military reforms of 2015-16, PLAs training for joint operations has increased tremendously. However, President Xi Jinping exhorted the PLA to overcome the peace disease. The two inabilities (the armys inability to fight modern wars and the officers inability to command) and five incapables (some commanders cannot judge situations, understand superiors intent, make operational decisions, deploy troops and deal with unexpected situations) cast a shadow on the ability of the PLA.

Post the reforms, Xi started issuing mobilisation orders, from 2018 till 2022, on the new year, and the entire PLA mobilised for a few days to exercise. Party committees at various levels were increasingly becoming involved in assessing the training of units and formations they are associated with. These issues revealed a lack of confidence in the training being carried out by the PLA. All these indicate that the PLA forces have a long way to go in achieving the desired combat efficiency. The PLA trains with very few foreign armies. Mostly, the training missions are with the SCO (Shanghai Cooperation Organisation) countries, except India. It learns about western tactics in its exercises with Pakistan.

In contrast, the Indian armed forces have always proven themselves in all the exercises they have taken part in. However, the reforms that they are trying to implement are getting delayed. For example, theaterisation has been a long time coming. Deliberations on joint operations and training for them have started but there is some distance to go. The Indian armed forces train with many foreign armed forces. Their scale and level are higher. That experience serves them well in absorbing modern techniques in warfare. On the training front, one can say both are equal.

DEFENCE BUDGET

Chinas defence budget is three times Indias. Moreover, China produces almost all its weapons and equipment indigenously. This gives it the ability to get more value for money. Chinas defence budget is opaque. By some estimates, its actual defence budget is far more than what is announced, as China does not include expenditures on its space and counter-space capabilities and expenditure on research and development. As per the SIPRI (Stockholm Institute of Peace Research) report published in April 2024, China spent $296 billion on defence in 2023. China used to follow the principle of defence budget growing in sync with economic growth. However, for the last few years, Chinas defence budget has grown more than the rate of its economic growth. This trend will continue.

Indias defence budget this year is approximately $75 billion as given in the interim budget. It is likely to remain the same in the budget that will be presented by the new government shortly. India has been increasingly resorting to indigenous procurement. A record 75 per cent of capital procurement has been allocated for this purpose in 2023-24. However, India is still dependent on imports for many equipment and spares. This reduces the quantity that it can add to its inventory. India has taken many measures to increase the indigenous production capability and it will take a few years to become fully atmanirbhar (self-reliant). In this aspect, China has an advantage, but India is catching up fast.

TECHNOLOGY ABSORPTION

The armed forces that absorb technology will have an upper hand in a war. On April 19, 2024, China dissolved its Strategic Support Force (SSF) and created three independent arms: Aerospace Force, Cyberspace Force and the Information Support Force. Analysts have attributed many reasons for this. I feel that it is the process of adaptability that China has been good at. The SSF was established in 2016. After analysing the shortcomings of that force, China has created three new arms. A reason for that is also the changes the US is making in its forces.

The SSF had invested heavily in AI innovation, leveraging public-private partnerships to gain new technologies for intelligence; surveillance and reconnaissance; autonomous vehicles; information and electronic warfare; simulation and training; predictive maintenance; and target recognition. China has also made advances in robotics, exoskeletons (power armour), swarm drones, hypersonic weapons and unmanned systems. It has made good progress in quantum technologies in the military domain, too.

Not to be left behind, India has declared 2024 as technology absorption year. India has also made advances in exoskeletons, employment of drones and unmanned systems, and has carried out trials on quantum technologies and hypersonic weapons. It can be said that China is ahead of India in this aspect at the moment.

The author is adjunct distinguished fellow, Gateway House, Mumbai and adjunct professor, National Institute of Advanced Studies, Bengaluru.
B.R. Deepak

CULTURE

The interconnected history of India and China and the circulatory movement of ideas, people, technologies and commodities are well recorded in the textual as well as oral traditions of both countries. Its footprints could be found throughout the geographical landscapes of present-day India, China and beyond, whether it was the birth of Chinese Buddhism or the dissemination of ancient Indias astronomy, literature, music and languages into China, or technologies such as sugar making, paper manufacturing and silk production coming from China to India and other countries. All of it enriched knowledge systems across the world. The translation industry in China, for example, had people from India and many Central Asian polities supporting it, along with hundreds of Chinese scholar monks. Even today, there are 35,000 Sanskrit words in the Chinese language. The Dai, a minority nationality in the Yunnan province, had its own version of the Ramayana.

It was during the colonial period that contemporary images of India and China found their foundations. As Qing China (1636-1912) became apprehensive of the threat from British India, it sent officials to study the decline of the Indian civilisation and the intentions of the British in the Himalayan states. Qing officials such as Huang Maocai, Ma Jianzhong, Wu Guangpei and Kang Youwei lamented the decline of Indian civilisation. Indians were called people of a lost century and no more than slaves. Lu Xun, one of the greatest modern Chinese writers, despised Rabindranath Tagore as a poisonous datura and Indian people as inferior slaves. In his opinion, colonised India had become a defeated country and, therefore, it was impossible for it to produce great writers and works any longer.

British deployment of Sikh policemen in places like Hong Kong, Shanghai and Hankou and their involvement in some of the massacres generated further hatred for Indians. Notwithstanding such negativity, there were also stories of camaraderie, such as Indian soldiers stationed in China switching over to support the Taiping rebels; the memoirs such as Cheen Mein Terah Maas (Thirteen Months in China) by Gadadhar Singh (1902), and Indian and Chinese nationalists supporting each other during their anti-imperialist struggles in Japan and China between 1905 and 1940. Gandhi, Nehru and Tagore made the bonds of friendship even stronger when they supported China during Japanese aggression.

As new nation states, India and China were bound to tread the path of confrontation as both had inherited imperial and colonial legacies. The first confrontation happened during the Asian Relations Conference held in Delhi in early 1947 when the Chinese delegation objected to the map in the conference hall that showed Tibet not as part of China.

Star next door: A group of Chinese women take a selfie with a poster of the Hindi movie Dangal on display at a cinema in Beijing | AP

As the nationalist government retreated to Taiwan, there was a decade of bonhomie between India and the Peoples Republic. In October 1951, Ding Xiling, vice minister of cultural affairs, led a delegation of 15 people that included scholars like Ji Xianlin from Peking University and Feng Youlan from Tsinghua University, and writers like Zhen Zhengduo amidst the Korean War, which created a political headache for India.

During their six-week stay in India, the delegation avoided all political references and harped on Indias civilisational greatness and Sino-Indian friendship. The sensitivities of the political relationship came to the fore once again, when the delegation cancelled its visit to Kashmir on account of some Kazakhs from Xinjiang entering Ladakh.

When the Chinese delegation was still in India, an unofficial Indian delegation led by Pandit Sunderlal of the Sino-Indian Friendship Association visited China. Unlike the Chinese, who kept silent on political questions, Sunderlal drew ire when he made political statements pertaining to Korea and Vietnam, much to the embarrassment of the Indian leadership. The visit, however, resulted in increased enthusiasm about China and the translation of its popular writers and leaders, including Mao Zedong.

Eating up the big apple: A dragon-shaped balloon in New York City to mark the lunar new year | Shutterstock

Reciprocating Chinas state interventionist cultural diplomacy, India sent its first ever official cultural delegation under Vijaya Lakshmi Pandit on April 26, 1952 that was meticulously briefed at the highest level. There was a flurry of exchanges after the signing the Panchsheel Agreement in 1954. Delegations representing women, youth, economists, agriculturists, jurists, doctors, musicians, trade unionists and students were exchanged.

The climax of these exchanges came in 1955 after the Bandung conference when an Indian film festival was held across China. A delegation led by Prithviraj Kapoor and B.N. Sircar visited China and had an audience with Mao. On September 11, 1955, Beijing celebrated the 1,500th anniversary of the Ajanta cave painting; among the Indian guests were archaeologist N.P. Chakravarti and D.K. Deb Barman, dean of the Academy of Arts of Visva Bharati University. In May 1956, the great Indian classical poet Kalidasa was commemorated in China and in the following year, his play Shakuntala was produced there.

The political objectives of Chinese cultural diplomacy were to win Indias support for China in many international forums and, at the most, secure its neutrality; the idea of pan-Asianism was equally high on the agenda. Economically, the aim was to project China as a development model for developing countries with large populations. Culturally, it played out the interconnectedness between Indian and Chinese civilisations. One of its manifestations was Chinas overt support to communists in India and their open support for China on its internal and external affairs of the times. The role of the India-China Friendship Association exerting a pro-China influence in India could be seen in this context.

The political objectives played out very differently for India. Owing to the nature of the social system and political control in China, Indias cultural diplomacy was limited to setting an example of good neighbourliness and peaceful coexistence that was shattered by hostilities along the border, the Dalai Lamas flight to India in the aftermath of the Tibetan uprising in 1959, and Indias refusal to renew the 1954 agreement on Tibet in 1962. These events led to a brief armed conflict over the Himalayas in 1962 and then a deep freeze for almost three decades.

During the period of equilibrium (1988-2014), cultural diplomacy was resumed, but without the hype of the 1950s. In December 1988 and March 1991, the two countries signed protocols for implementing cultural exchange programmes. These exchanges were renewed every three years. Since then, bilateral exchanges in the fields of culture, art, education, sports, health, information and broadcast grew steadily. The first China Cultural Festival was held in India from December 1992 to January 1993. Chinese opera, film, acrobatics and puppet shows were held in big Indian cities. Painting, handicraft and photo exhibitions were also organised throughout India.

The Indian Cultural Festival was held in China in May-June 1994. Both nations moved towards a detente and concluded many agreements. An agreement to compile an Encyclopaedia of India-China Cultural Contacts was signed during premier Wen Jiabaos visit to India in 2010, and an agreement on Cooperation in mutual translation and publication of classic and contemporary works was signed during premier Li Keqiangs visit in May 2013. Subsequently, the two countries agreed to publish 25 classics and modern works of either country in Hindi and Chinese. But the Galwan hostilities have seriously affected the realisation of the agreements.

Indias decision not to pursue cultural diplomacy is unwarranted, for it is extremely important to understand the psyche and the domestic undercurrents of a society through the prism of literary discourse. It must be acknowledged that China has continued the fine tradition of Buddhist sutra translations. The translation and publication of the Bhagvad Gita in the 1940s, the Upanishads in the 1950s, Kalidasas works in the 1950s and 1960s, the Valmiki Ramayana in the 1980s, Ramcharitmanas in 1988, Tagores works in 2000, the Mahabharata in 2005, various editions of the Manusmriti; Sursagar and Kabir Granthavali in 2018-19 bear testimony to this. Apart from the scattered translation of the Vedas, it could be said that China has translated almost the entire repository of mainstream Indian literature and philosophy including the Panchatantra, Kathasagar, six philosophical schools of India and the Shankaracharya.

Besides, Chinese scholarship on India has rendered the works of Indian writers such as Bharatendu Harishchandra, Premchand, Yashpal, Mirza Ghalib, Mohamed Iqbal, Krishan Chander, Jai Shankar Prasad, Jainedra Kumar, Phanishwar Nath Renu, Bankim Chandra Chatterjee, Aurobindo, Osho, Subramania Bharati, and it may not be possible to list them all here. Chinese scholars have also studied and translated Indian writings in English. The works of Mulk Raj Anand, R.K. Narayan, Raja Rao, Bhabani Bhattacharya, Manohar Malgonkar, Arun Joshi, Khushwant Singh, Vikram Seth and Anita Desai have been extensively translated and studied. Even though the import of Indian films in China is limited, the translation and dubbing of Indian films, from Raj Kapoors Awaara to Aamir Khans Dangal, have gone unstopped.

The translation and research of Chinese classics and authors in India remain pathetic. We need to take a leaf out of Chinese cultural diplomacy and strengthen research on China. The trade only and nothing else paradigm of the Indian diplomacy with China does not augur well for Indias rise and its cultural confidence.

The author is professor of Chinese Studies, Jawaharlal Nehru University, New Delhi.
UNITED KINGDOM:

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X that he was appalled by the shocking scenes," and sent his best wishes to Trump and his family. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, he said. | REUTERS
Conservative groups are systematically attempting to challenge the legitimacy of large numbers of voter registrations across the country before the presidential election.

The strategy is part of a wider effort raising questions about the integrity of this years election as former President Donald Trump repeatedly claims without evidence that his opponents are trying to cheat.

The voter roll tactics include mass door-knocking campaigns, using special software designed to identify voters whose eligibility could be challenged and a crush of lawsuits. Some of those have been brought by the Republican National Committee, which hosts the GOPs national convention this coming week.

Several Republican secretaries of state are combing through voter lists on their own, including in Ohio and Tennessee, or to comply with aggressive new state voting laws.

Those behind the reviews cast them as good government endeavors intended to help local election offices clean up the rolls. Voting rights groups and Democrats believe the effort aims to shake faith in the results of the 2024 election and lay the legal groundwork to challenge the results.

Here is a look at whats happening around voter roll challenges:

States already must maintain their rolls

Soles to the Rolls in Michigan, whose name echoes the Souls to the Polls get-out-the-vote efforts of Black churches, and Nevadas Pigpen Project are among state-level initiatives in which volunteers are trying to find flaws in state voter rolls.

Their findings can sound ominous: dead people or non-U.S. citizens registered, or people listed at addresses where they no longer live, suggesting the potential for double-voting. Conservative activists identify the suspect records, then deliver them to local or state election offices for possible removal.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, a Democrat, earlier this year told a suburban Detroit clerk to reinstate the registrations of about 1,000 people who had been removed through such an effort, after the purge was reported by The New York Times.

Amy Cohen, executive director of the National Association of State Election Directors, said information from member states suggests the efforts are happening nationwide. She said many of the challenges ignore or misunderstand the complexity and legal requirements around maintaining voter rolls.

The National Voter Registration Act already requires states to take steps to maintain accurate and current voter registration lists. Just because someone finds an outdated registration doesnt mean election officials are unaware of it, Cohen said.

Voter registration lists are living, breathing databases, she said. Thats part of the challenge, because people move and die and change their names and just exist every single day, and when you get a list, youre purchasing a moment in time. Registration activities and voter registration list maintenance activities are happening on an ongoing basis.

The fight for voter data

Conservative groups behind the voter roll reviews have filed hundreds of public records requests across the country to gain access to voter files. In almost a quarter of states, the disputes have landed in the courts. One of their goals is to create public databases for anyone to search and question whether certain voters should be allowed on a states rolls.

The Public Interest Legal Foundation, led by conservative attorney Cleta Mitchell, is behind challenges in Colorado, Hawaii, Michigan, Minnesota, South Carolina and Wisconsin. Mitchell is perhaps best known for participating in Trumps call asking Georgias secretary of state to find the votes he needed to win the state in 2020. Arizona, California, Maryland and Pennsylvania face lawsuits by other groups.

In Georgia, an Associated Press survey of the states 40 largest counties found that more than 18,000 voters had been challenged over the past two years, even though local election offices had rejected most of them.

Many of the volunteer groups have received encouragement to mine the voter lists at workshops led by MyPillow CEO Mike Lindell, a Trump ally and leading voice promoting election conspiracy theories. They also sometimes employ tools such as EagleAI Network, a data-matching software program developed for Mitchells Election Integrity Network that creates voter lists from change-of-address forms, criminal justice records and property tax data.

The Public Interest Legal Foundation also sued the Electronic Registration Information Center, a voluntary system in which states share data to maintain accurate voter lists. Its lawsuit sought access to information the member states had agreed to keep private when they joined.

The foundations president and general counsel, J. Christian Adams, who previously worked in the Justice Departments Voting Section, said not a single eligible voter has been removed from the rolls as a result of his groups efforts. He called the movements critics paranoid.

Fraud, I dont care about, he said. Accuracy is what I care about. He said correct voter lists are especially important in states that mail ballots to every registration on their lists.

At least nine Republican-led states have abandoned the voluntary network, known as ERIC, after it became embroiled in election conspiracy theories, weakening its ability to cross-check voter records across state lines. Supporters of the system noted the paradox of the Republican states leaving because its the only national system that helps states identify voters who are not eligible to cast a ballot.

Cleaning the rolls or sowing distrust?

The Republican National Committee, newly reconstituted under Trump, also is involved in efforts to challenge voter rolls before the November election.

Michigans voter rolls have been targeted in numerous lawsuits over the past four years by the RNC and others. A Nevada lawsuit filed by the RNC in March alleges the state is violating the National Voter Registration Act by failing to keep voter registration records accurate and updated. RNC Chair Michael Whatley at the time cited the need for clean voter rolls.

Experts say the federal law actually errs on the side of enfranchising voters. To prevent eligible voters from being disenrolled, it requires outdated records to remain in the system for some years after theyre flagged as a potential concern. Its a technicality that can explain questions often raised by conservative groups, such as the number of voter registrations exceeding a jurisdictions population.

Its like comparing apples to orangutans, Nevadas Democratic attorney general said in faulting the data RNC cited in its analysis. In its brief, the Democratic National Committee cast the RNC lawsuits as building ammunition for a 2024 election challenge.

This lawsuit is little more than political theater, designed less to address any real (much less substantial) issue with Nevadas voter registration lists, than to sow public distrust in the security and integrity of our electoral systems, the filing said. It is no more than a continuation of Republicans 2020 efforts to undermine public confidence in our elections.

Casting suspicions on voting

Trump ally Ken Blackwell, who leads election efforts at the America First Policy Institute, has said legitimate voters run the risk of having their hard-won right to vote diluted by unlawfully cast ballots if voter roll glitches arent addressed.

However, election law experts say the problem that such efforts aim to fix  ineligible voters casting ballots  remains exceptionally rare.

Why? Because its common sense that one person voting when theyre not eligible is not going to swing an election, and is going to expose himself to criminal penalties, said Alice Clapman, senior counsel with the Brennan Center for Justices democracy program. So, even if someone were inclined to do this, its very high risk and very low reward.

Clapman said the disinformation around voter rolls is eroding trust in election officials, who already face pressure and threats, and is undermining faith in the proud civic activity of voting.

Whats so insidious about it is voting used to be a unifying national activity, she said. Its now become this object of suspicion, and thats really corrosive of our democracy.

(AP)
European allies in NATO are stepping up their military spending, just as Donald Trump wanted. Theyre pointing to common interests, such as concerns over China. Theyre creating American jobs by buying U.S. weapons.

In words, deeds and arms deals, leaders of the United States partners in NATO are making the case for the military alliance in ways likely to appeal to the presumptive Republican presidential nominee. Even if their actions arent necessarily directly tied to Trumps prodding, the allies are casting them in terms he would approve of  and maybe take credit for.

Its not clear what Trump would do about U.S. participation in NATO if elected. Hes shrugged off questions from reporters even as President Joe Biden has cast him as a threat to the 75-year-old Western military alliance.

But European leaders are worried. With Russia intensifying missile attacks on cities in Ukraine, a democracy in the heart of Europe, the battle to keep the U.S. in NATO is far more than gamesmanship for European partners. For some, its existential.

If Ukraine loses, my countrys next. Thats clear, Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis said during the NATO summit in Washington this past week.

His government is raising taxes to keep up with an urgent push, shared by the majority of European NATO members, to strengthen military capability in response to Russias war in Ukraine.

At the summit, NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg made a point of saying that allies had gotten Trumps message, with a record 23 of the 32 now spending at least the agreed-upon 2% of their gross domestic product on their militaries.

The United States has been understood. Allies have acted, Stoltenberg declared in response to one of many questions about a possible Trump withdrawal from NATO.

Stoltenberg and most others had previously said that it was largely Russias 2022 invasion of Ukraine that had unleashed security spending by NATO members in Europe. Indeed, in 2021, only six allies had met the spending target.

The message from Europe, as it makes the case for the country with the biggest military and economy to stay engaged: The U.S. is good for European allies and NATO. And NATO and European allies are good for the U.S. And a Europe thats safe and stable is a great market for the U.S.

This defense of Europe is not only defense tied with values  it is, its the alliance, its democracy, its values. But you know, its business, Jacek Siewiera, the head of Polands national security bureau, said in an interview with The Associated Press before the summit.

Lithuanian Defense Minister Laurynas Kasciunas ticked off the priorities that his country would share with Trump if he returns to the White House  making European defense more self-reliant, buying more U.S. weapons and thus generating more business for the U.S. arms industry, confronting perceived security threats to the West from China, and sanctioning Iran.

Hes a deal-maker, Kasciunas said during a panel discussion at the summit. I think we should sit, calm down, and if he will win  find a deal.

With the U.S. election in turmoil following Bidens poor debate performance and struggles since to prove hes capable of serving another four years, European officials need to maintain a delicate balance. They stress publicly that they will work with whoever wins Novembers elections, not wanting to be seen as weighing in on U.S. politics by saying they are worried about Trump or offending Biden by overtly preparing for another Trump presidency.

Trump has caused alarm by speaking admiringly of Russian President Vladimir Putin, even calling his invasion of Ukraine genius, and disparaging NATO, a mutual-defense pact signed in 1949 as the West confronted the Soviet Union in the Cold War.

U.S. presidents and lawmakers, including Biden, have warned Europe for decades, especially as European military spending sagged after the 1991 collapse of the Soviet Union, that it had to do more to share the financial and military responsibilities of NATO.

But Trump has warned more often and more loudly  and during the current campaign he has threatened to invite Russia to attack NATO allies that are not spending enough on their militaries.

I just want them to pay their bills. Were protecting Europe. They take advantage of us very badly, he told Fox News Radio last week as Biden and NATO leaders gathered in Washington. He acknowledged that European defense spending was, in fact, up sharply.

Although not as openly as Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, who visited Trump at Mar-a-Lago after the NATO summit, European officials have been working to build relationships with the Trump camp, former diplomats say.

European officials make a point of visiting the factories in U.S. cities and towns that make the weapons their countries are buying or drop mention of them into their conversations, stressing the contribution to the U.S. economy.

Siewiera, the Polish security official, remembers Trumps first term as prosperous for Poland. It was then that his government began investing heavily in U.S. arms including HIMARS rocket-launcher systems, Patriot air defense systems, F-35 fighter jets and Abrams tanks.

President Trump was right when he harangued us, Poland Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski said at an event at a Washington think-tank on Friday. So credit where credit is due. Partly.

Ultimately, said Daniel Fried, a former U.S. ambassador to Poland, now at the Atlantic Council research center, Trump likes to be a winner.

If Trump claims credit and thereby continues U.S. support for NATO because he saved it, thats a narrative I would encourage Europeans to accept, Fried said.

(AP)
Israeli politicians responded to the attempted assassination of US presidential candidate Donald Trump on Motzei Shabbos by saying that the unprecedented incitement against Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu could easily lead to the same results, chalilah.

Diaspora Minister Amichai Chikli said on Reshet Bet: An alarming incident that is the result of wild incitement. The exact same incitement is occurring in Israel, including from former IDF generals. Words have significance. We saw proof of this in the US and it would be very worthwhile if the law enforcement system in Israel will start to act.

Chikli later wrote on X: The attempted assassination of Trump is the direct result of a disturbing incitement and delegitimization campaign against him. A horrifyingly identical incitement campaign is being carried out in Israel against Prime Minister Netanyahu and receives full immunity from the attorney-general and the law enforcement system only because its coming from the right direction. Shameful.

The head of the Knessets Law Committe, MK Simcha Rothman, told Radio Kol Chai: The view of [Attorney-General] Gali Maharav-Biara is that anything that harms the right, the prime minister, it definitely an option  its legitimate. Shes prepared to accept it but shes not prepared to accept incitement against the left.

Settlement Minister Orit Strook told Kol BRamah: The assassination attempt against the former president, and bezrat Hashem, the future president, is very concerning. There is zero enforcement against threats to the prime minister. If it was the othere way around, there would be arrests and headines. I requested a discussion in the Knesset with a detailed report.

Communication Minister Shlomo Karhi said: The attempted assassination of Trump comes after nonstop incitement against him in the US. The situation in Israel is much much worse. The severe incitement against the prime minister, his wife and son is closer to realization than ever before  all under the protection of the attorney general and the state prosecutor who continue to coddle the inciters with complicit silence. You wont be able to wash your hands clean!

Energy Minister Eli Cohen said: The attempted assassination is a bright warning sign for those who incite againt Prime Minister Netanyahu and those who remain silent about it.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
Four Israelis were injured in a ramming-shooting attack at the Nir Tzvi junction near the Tzifrin army base in central Israel early Sunday afternoon.

The victims were evacuated to Assaf HaRofeh Hospital, one in critical condition, one in serious condition, one in moderate condition and one in light condition.

The terrorist rammed his car into passersby at a bus stop and then turned his car around and crashed into another bus stop before being neutralized by Border Police officers stationed nearby.

The terrorist was later identified as an Israeli-Arab from east Jerusalem.

(YWN Israel Desk  Jerusalem)
The IDF and Shin Bet have officially confirmed the killing of Rafaa Salameh, commander of Hamass Khan Younis Brigade, in a strike in the southern Gaza Strip yesterday. Salameh was a close associate of Muhammad Deif, the chief of Hamass military wing, and a key mastermind behind the October 7 massacre.

According to the IDF, Salamehs killing is a significant blow to Hamass military capabilities. He joined Hamas in the early 1990s and played a significant role in several notable attacks, including the abduction of IDF soldier Gilad Shalit in 2006 and the 2014 war. Salameh also commanded Hamass combat support and defensive plans during the 2014 war and was in charge of two attack tunnels struck during the May 2021 war.

The IDF has yet to confirm whether Deif was also killed in the attack, although he was present at the targeted site. Thus far, officials believe he was killed, but are still waiting for conclusive evidence of such.

(YWN World Headquarters  NYC)
Image source: Upsplash/The Motley Fool

Costco is famous for going out of its way to satisfy members. Everything, from sample stations throughout the store to its generous return policy, is meant to keep customers happy. However, that's not to say that members can do whatever they want. Specific actions just may get a membership canceled.

And once a Costco membership has been canceled by the warehouse giant, it's not easy to purchase a new one. Even if you would never take any of these actions, it's interesting to know what others are up to.

1. Getting creative with the store's return policy

For a few Costco members, protecting their personal finances means taking advantage of the store's return policy. Most items purchased at Costco can be returned at any time, while products like televisions and computers have a (still) generous 90-day return window.

RELATED: The #1 Strategy for Saving Money at Costco

Unfortunately, Costco employees are sometimes faced with dealing with shoppers who routinely make questionable returns. For example, on a Costco employee Reddit board, someone calling themselves dyzlexiK told the story of two customers who apparently had more nerve than common sense.

As dyzlexiK told it, "Years ago, we had a GM that was very aggressive with return abusers. I mean like bad abusers, not just people who return a lot. So these guys come in to return two TVs. This is their 7th and 8th returned TVs in 90 days, always just before the 90-day mark."

DyzelexiK went on to say that it had become obvious that the gentlemen were going to continue buying and returning televisions before the 90 days expired, so they would never actually have to pay for them.

DyzlexiK continued, "GM comes out to accept the return and say, 'Well, I guess the quality of our product isn't up to your standards, so we hope you find somewhere that fits your needs.'"

The general manager laid the men's $55 membership fee on the counter and wished them a good day. One has to wonder how long it took them to realize their membership had just been canceled and their days of watching a new television every 90 days were over.

2. Abusing an employee

If it seems like people are becoming bolder about showing their ugly side in public, you're absolutely right. According to the National Retail Federation  the world's largest retail trade association  nearly four out of five companies have seen a rise in guest-on-associate violence.

The impact on employees can be dramatic, leading to emotional and psychological distress, decreased job satisfaction, reduced productivity, and higher turnover rates. That doesn't even begin to account for the danger to an employee's physical well-being when a customer gets carried away.

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Verbally assault or touch a Costco employee, and you can expect to have your membership immediately revoked.

3. Theft

Whether a member hides a package of lightbulbs under their coat, slips on a new pair of boots and leaves their old boots in the store, or takes the price tag off an inexpensive cut of meat and puts it on a more expensive cut, it's theft.

There's no doubt that sticking to a budget can be tough, but stealing from any retailer will bring trouble. At Costco, it can also lead to revocation of membership and a permanent ban from the retailer.

4. "Timing" your membership

Another Costco employee on Reddit  this one with the handle CostcoPanda  shared the story of a very bold former member who went to the customer service desk asking to cancel their membership. The man had used about 10 months of the 12 months he originally paid for. Once the man received his refunded membership fee, he handed it back to CostcoPanda and said, "Just take that and sign me up again."

The creative member went on to admit that he makes the same move every year because he doesn't believe in membership fees. After checking the customer's membership history, CostcoPanda realized that the man had canceled and immediately renewed his membership once a year.

It would be interesting to see the expression on the member's face when he was told that his membership was being deactivated for violating Costco's membership policy.

The easiest way to avoid a membership cancellation may be to remember the Golden Rule. Treat others (even multinational corporations) the way you want to be treated.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

If youre shopping with a debit card, you could be missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. These versatile credit cards offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco, and are rated the best cards of 2024 by our experts because they offer hefty sign-up bonuses and outstanding cash rewards. Plus, youll save on credit card interest because all of these recommendations include a competitive 0% interest period.

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We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.Dana George has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

4 Actions Sure to Get Your Costco Membership Canceled was originally published by The Motley Fool
We asked Barclays what protections are in place for those with dementia

The former PCSO was initially sceptical - but the scammer's tactics were clever

A former police community support officer living with dementia has told how fraudsters persuaded him to hand over nearly 2,000 - despite being clued up on the methods used by scammers.

Peter Middleton, 70, who was diagnosed with dementia in 2019, was contacted by scammers who rang his home phone claiming to be from the fraud department at his bank, Barclays.

After some back and forth, they said that Mr Middleton had received a new bank card within the last two days, which he had, and provided the last four digits.

Peter Middleton, 70, has dementia and was targeted by scammers claiming to be from his bank

They explained that while they were members of the fraud team, they were investigating an internal fraud by members of the team and that they'd need Mr Middleton's help.

Still unhappy with the call's legitimacy, Mr Middleton said he would call back from another phone.

'I know that if I put the phone down and phone again on the same phone, there is a chance that if I hadn't ended the call properly they could take over any other call I make,' he told This is Money.

Scammers can forward calls by rerouting all calls intended for the victim's phone, or the ones they make, to their number. However, it seems the scammers managed to intercept Mr Middleton's call on this occasion.

'They slowly unfolded a story about somebody from the fraud department who was based overseas, who was trying to transfer money from my account. They said two attempts had been made over the last couple of days but they had been blocked,' he explains.

'They asked me to go through with completing one of those transactions in order to find out where the money was going. I thought, that sounds reasonable, how do I go about doing that?'

They spent nearly an hour and a half talking to me and grooming me. I was taken in

Mr Middleton, who was a police community support officer for the last 12 years of his working life and previously worked in IT, says he wanted to help them 'as a good citizen.'

The scammers told the pensioner to transfer money from his current account to what they claimed was the fraud department manager's bank account.

He was warned that Barclays would query the payment but to wave it through, saying it was to a relative.

'Looking back on it, I was a fool, but they were so convincing. They spent nearly an hour and a half talking to me and grooming me and I was taken in.'

Mr Middleton handed over the 1,800 in his current account and when Barclays got in touch to ask about the payment, he said it was being made to an aunt.

It was only when Mr Middleton mentioned the interaction to his wife he realised that it could have been a scam.

Convincing: The scammers were able to allay Mr Middleton's concerns and persuade him to hand over 1,800, even though he has experience dealing with fraud victims as a PCSO

'I've been involved in helping victims of fraud many, many times, but I'd never heard of a fraud of this nature and this cleverness,' he told This Is Money.

'The person was really solicitous and really good at what they did. They took me in hook, line and sinker, and they played on the fact that I wanted to help.

'It all made me feel comfortable, and they kept telling me how helpful it was because it was a major fraud and there were vulnerable people out there becoming victims. I wanted to help.'

Even now, Mr Middleton is at a loss as to how the scammers managed to find out his information and target him. 'I'm very careful to shred any information I get from the bank before I dispose of it. I'm security-minded,' he says.

Those with dementia at 'greater risk' of scams

Fraud is the most common crime in the UK and one of the most common types is Authorised Push Payment (APP) fraud, when scammers trick victims into transferring money from their accounts.

The Alzheimer's Society says those suffering with dementia are at increased risk of scams because they find managing money and assessing risk harder.

Dr Tim Beanland, head of knowledge and learning at the charity, said: 'Anyone can fall victim to a scam, but for the nearly one million people living with dementia in the UK today, this can leave them at greater risk of financial abuse.

'Dementia can impact people's confidence around managing their money, make them less able to judge risk and some symptoms can also result in lower literacy or numeracy skills.

'Tricking vulnerable people for financial gain is deplorable, but sadly it is something that criminals do daily using high-pressure or increasingly sophisticated tactics, as in Peter's case, where he genuinely believed he was speaking to his bank's fraud department.

'This is why it is incredibly important for people like Peter to share their personal experiences of financial abuse - to highlight its prevalence and variety, how to stay safe, as well as the support and services available to anyone who believes they have been scammed.'

The part of me that wanted to do my civic duty overrode the part of me that was cautious

Mr Middleton says: 'When you have dementia you know that you're on a path of cognitive decline and every now and then you come across things that throw that into sharp highlight. That was one of those occasions, it was very difficult to come to terms with.

'I think part of me all along, even during the phone call, I had a feeling of, what if it's not legitimate? But the part of me that wanted to do my civic duty overrode the part of me that was cautious. I felt, and still feel, awful. I feel like a complete clown'.

Thankfully for Mr Middleton, Barclays refunded the 1,800 sent to the scammers.

However, there are broader questions about what protections are put in place by banks for those living with illnesses and disabilities.

How can dementia sufferers and banks avoid fraud?

We asked Barclays what it had in place to protect those suffering from cognitive decline.

Have you been scammed? Do you or a relative live with dementia and been a victim of a scam? How did your bank protect you? Get in touch: editor@thisismoney.co.uk

It said it always encourages customers to contact it if they have any illness or disability that might 'impact their ability to use banking services or make them more vulnerable.'

Barclays says there are also options to grant family members and carers access to accounts, either directly or by informing the bank that they have a legal authority such as power of attorney.

Power of attorney is a document that gives someone the authority to make decisions about someone's finances and property on someone else's behalf. You can apply on the Government website.

A power of attorney isn't like a joint bank account, and an attorney can only help manage the person's account in the way they want them to. Crucially, they don't have any legal claim to any money.

If someone no longer has the mental capacity to make their own financial decisions, and therefore cannot request power of attorney, the Court of Protection can appoint a deputy to act on their behalf.

Barclays also gives its customers the option to invite someone to be an additional cardholder or account supervisor, although they will need to be a Barclays customer themselves.

An account supervisor can set controls like maximum spending, transaction and withdrawal limits, and controls on where spending can happen.

Memory issues can reduce awareness or understanding that a crime has taken place, or make it difficult to recall details and therefore report the issue.

We also asked Barclays what processes are in place for vulnerable victims of fraud specifically, especially those suffering from cognitive decline, but it did not respond to that request.

Further advice on spotting scams and what people should do if tricked by fraudsters is available from the Alzheimer's Society's Dementia Support Line (0333 150 3456).
The biggest oil producer in the North Sea has ditched plans to sell its Vietnamese arm to a local company for 65million.

Harbour Energy announced the deal with Vietnamese group Big Energy last year and expected to complete it by this summer.

But the FTSE 250-listed group has pulled out and The Mail on Sunday understands it is seeking a higher price.

Ditched: Harbour Energy announced the deal with Vietnamese group Big Energy last year

Harbour is keen to quit Vietnam and boss Linda Cook last year said it would like to focus on other countries. It also works in Norway, Indonesia and Mexico.

It is the biggest oil and gas producer in the North Sea, but it began pinning its hopes on overseas projects after the last government imposed a windfall tax on UK energy company profits.

The levy was brought in after Russias invasion of Ukraine sent oil and gas prices soaring, hitting households with higher bills.

Labour said in its manifesto it would bring in a further crackdown on North Sea producers by raising the total tax burden from 75 to 78 per cent and removing investment allowances.

Last year Harbour saw the bulk of its profit wiped out by taxes.

On the Vietnam deal, in a prospectus for investors, Harbour said it exercised its right to terminate the initial sale deal on May 13, adding: Harbour intends to reassess its options with regards to realising the best value from its Vietnam business.
Shein may be heading for a London-listing

Anyone wandering into the lobby of the Peninsula, one of Londons swankiest hotels, last week might have spotted a stylish 42-year-old in a blue designer boiler suit and flowery shirt tucking into a dish of Indonesian noodles.

The unassuming figure, with the Silicon Valley-style chatter, is thought to be a huge fan of the UK capital.

So much so that he favours the City over New York and over his companys headquarters in Singapore for the initial public offering of the immense global online fashion brand Shein.

Donald Tang, Sheins charismatic executive chairman, took the precaution of winning buy-in for a flotation  which could value his company at more than 50billion  from Labours front bench when it was in opposition.

It seems no accident that he was in London again last week, though members of the new Labour administration, busy enjoying the first flush of power, were otherwise engaged.

Since it was first disclosed on these pages that the fashion group might be heading to London, in a public offering organised by Goldman Sachs, there has been intense scrutiny of its operations.

The London Stock Exchange, and one suspects the new Labour Government, is desperate to show it is a friend of the Square Mile and the City can thrive under its stewardship.

Thats why the Financial Conduct Authority finally issued its go-ahead for a Big Bank 2.0 this week, easing conditions for London listings, with the imprimatur of Chancellor Rachel Reeves.

She views the easing of regulation and disclosure as a critical element of her growth agenda.

Range: Shein sells everything from childrens apparel to pet ware and household items

But the Government is the least of Sheins problems. After the initial excitement of the possibility of a blockbuster British float, the focus shifted to Sheins suppliers and frequent allegations that its low prices are only achieved by the use of Chinese manufacturers using child and slave labourers.

Meanwhile, bricks and mortar retailers across Europe argue Shein is a tax dodger, like other overseas online companies, as the small parcels it sells direct to consumer largely fall below the 135 threshold at which VAT is paid.

This mountain of publicity is thought to have had repercussions in Beijing  some 90 per cent of production currently is in China  which doesnt much appreciate focus on human rights failings.

Shein is adamant that if bad players have infiltrated its supply chain  and it works with thousands of factories  it will cancel them. It axed 58 suppliers in 2022 and cut another 15 more recently.

As part of the clean-up it is focusing on forced labour, child labour and suppliers who refuse to be audited or seek to bribe auditors.

Tangs broader goal is to diversify its supply chain away from Peoples Republic so it is closer to its market. A third of sales are in the US, a third in Britain and the Continent, and a third in South America and the Middle East.

The goal is to find suppliers in Mexico for the US market, Turkey probably for Europe, and so on. It doesnt make sense now to be wholly dependent on China.

Shein sells everything from childrens apparel to pet ware and household items. It says it has no direct rivals on the High Street. Its model is embedded in sophisticated technology and AI.

It views itself as a streaming service where buyers decide what they want and the suppliers are matched online. The model is that of Uber and Netflix rather than Primark or Walmart.

Thus the valuation of the company is that of tech innovator. British and global funds and retail investors may soon have the chance to make up their own minds on that.
The Government is in talks with unions over increasing investment in Tata Steels smaller Welsh factories as the future of its flagship plant in Port Talbot hangs in the balance.

Labour is working to seal a deal  potentially within weeks  allowing Tata to stop traditional steelmaking while protecting as many jobs as possible.

Tata, an Indian multinational group which bought Port Talbot in 2007, plans to shut its final furnace, which makes steel using coal and iron, in September.

Talks: The Government is in talks with unions over increasing investment in Tata Steels smaller Welsh factories

It will replace it with an electric furnace that uses recycled materials. The Tory government signed off on plans to give Tata 500million for the transition  even though it puts 2,800 jobs at risk.

Tata claims this is necessary because it is running Port Talbot at a loss of 1million a day.

Critics have said switching off the blast furnace makes the UK the only major economy that cannot make steel from scratch and is a threat to national security.

But Tata says its customers are crying out for green steel and that it is already dependent on importing raw materials.

Labour has long criticised the plans but has to strike terms and take a pragmatic approach to retain Welsh steelmaking.

Previously it was thought Labour might urge Tata to keep the furnace open  but Business Secretary Jonathan Reynolds last week said Tata was unmovable and acknowledged is unlikely to push back the closure.

Talks with unions  which will need to sign off on the plans  are considering whether there are other parts of the business where further investment could help secure long-term jobs and get the deal over the line.

It is not clear whether it is the Government or the company would commit funding. An industry source said investing in infrastructure at Tatas Llanwern plant in Newport, which supplies the car industry, could extend the factorys life.

Other areas of potential investment include a site that makes food tins at Trostre, near Llanelli. A voluntary redundancy plan started last week.

Unions said they welcomed that the Government has made securing the future of Port Talbot and the other businesses a priority.

Labour has committed to spending 2.5billion to support the steel industrys transition to a greener model, on top of the already agreed 500million with Tata.

Reynolds said: Steel is vital for a vibrant, secure economy. Our steel sector needs a government working in partnership with trade unions and business to secure a green steel transition thats both right for the workforce and delivers economic growth.
Former Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust manager James Anderson

A top tech investor has said chipmaker Nvidia could reach a nearly 40trillion valuation within a decade.

That would make it worth more than the combined market value of the S&P 500, an index of the biggest US-listed firms.

Shares in Nvidia have soared 162 per cent since the start of the year, giving it a valuation of more than 2trillion.

The stock hit an all-time high last month as it cashes in on the AI craze which experts predict will continue.

Investor James Anderson told the Financial Times: 'The potential scale of Nvidia in the most optimistic outcome is both way higher than I've ever seen before and could lead to a market cap of double-digit trillions.'

An Nvidia share may be worth around 15,750 in ten years, which would mean a market cap of 39trillion, he said.

Boom: Nvidia hit an all-time high last month as it cashes in on the AI craze which experts predict will continue

Anderson is best known for running Baillie Gifford's Scottish Mortgage Investment Trust for more than two decades which first bought Nvidia in 2016.

He was renowned for making a series of successful bets in the tech sector, including Tesla and Amazon, before leaving in 2022.

Scottish Mortgage shares have fallen more than 40 per cent since their peak in late-2021, as higher interest rates triggered a sell-off in growth stocks but the trust then failed to fully benefit from the Magnificent Seven-driven bounce back.

However, the trust has been boosted by its holding in Nvidia, which is its biggest allocation at 9.4 per cent of the portfolio.

Nvidia became the first chipmaker with a market valuation of $1trillion (787billion) last May.

Andersons thoughts chime with those of fund manager Stephen Yiu, whose Blue Whale Growth fund has the chipmaker among its top 10 holdings.

Yiu recently told the Mail on Sunday: 'We have for some time thought Nvidia would become the most valuable company in the world in overtaking Microsoft, it has now achieved that remarkable milestone.'
Royal Mail is facing a mounting backlash over its plan to stop transporting post by rail.

This newspaper revealed last week the postal service will sell its last freight trains after nearly 200 years of delivering mail on the railways.

The move sparked fierce opposition from unions, politicians and freight industry leaders over concerns about jobs.

Postal bosses were last night facing calls to meet with MPs, as the railway workers union said the move must be reviewed.

It comes as the Government prepares to scrutinise the takeover of the service by Czech billionaire Daniel Kretinsky.

Backlash: Royal Mail will sell its last freight trains after nearly 200 years of delivering mail on the railways

Post was first moved on to the tracks in 1830. Royal Mail is now under pressure to meet with MPs over the plans to axe its trains in October.

Conservative MP for Daventry Stuart Andrew said it was a 'very worrying development'.

Royal Mail's Midlands 'super hub' at Daventry International Rail Freight Terminal opened in his constituency last year.

'I will be writing to Royal Mail to seek clarification of the potential impact for those jobs and to request to meet with them to discuss it,' he told the Mail.

Train drivers union Aslef said the decision 'must be reviewed'.

A spokesman said: 'There will also be implications for jobs on the railway.'

Sarah Hall, the Labour MP for Warrington South, said she was 'concerned' by the plans. Her constituency houses the depot in Crewe where logistics giant DB Cargo maintains the trains.

Hall said: 'Royal Mail should be bolstering its network to ensure regular mail deliveries can continue.'

Ministers from the Department for Transport are expected to meet with industry leaders in the coming weeks after settling into their new roles.

Royal Mail said it plans to use commercial rail services to transport some post but has not provided further details.

It added it is difficult and expensive to maintain and run the 30-year-old trains.

There are no postal service job losses expected, and affected staff will be redeployed. The move is also set to create 30 full-time driving jobs.
Rawpixel / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Buying a home is an exciting time, but youll likely want to make a few upgrades unless its a custom new build. However, no matter how handy you are or how much HGTV you watch, some things are better left untouched. While we all have great ideas on how to update our space, often, they turn out to be costly and not worth the headache.

Check Out: 7 Appliances Frugal Homeowners Steer Clear Of

Read Next: 6 Unusual Ways To Make Extra Money (That Actually Work)

According to real estate experts GOBankingRates spoke with, here are six common home upgrade regrets and budget-friendly fixes.

Over-the-Top AV Setups

Nothing beats being in the comfort of your home, kicking back and watching the latest release in your home theater. Still, Yawar Charlie, senior real estate agent, director of Aaron Kirman Groups estates division, and a cast member of CNBCs Listing Impossible, said thats a costly mistake.

That state-of-the-art home theater system with all the bells and whistles might have seemed impressive, but it can be overly complicated and pricey, Charlie said. And lets face it, smart homes arent always so smart when they dont work right. Simplify your life with a quality soundbar and a smart TV. Youll still get great audio and video without the headache (or the hefty price tag).

Learn More: 5 Unnecessary Bills You Should Stop Paying in 2024

Trendy Fixtures and Finishes

Everyone wants the latest finishes and fixtures, but what you like now will probably change later.

Those bold, trendy fixtures might look chic now, but they can quickly become dated. Instead, opt for timeless designs. He added, If youre already stuck with them, a fresh coat of paint or some new hardware can make a world of difference without breaking the bank.

Taking Down a Wall

Open floor plans have many benefits, like improved energy efficiency, more natural light, and easier hosting and entertaining guests. However, Lauren Hurwitz, a licensed realtor with Compass in Westchester County, New York, and owner/CEO of MediaHouse, said to think twice before tearing down a wall.

If you remove walls, especially load-bearing walls, and later regret it, it is very inexpensive to put up new sheetrock and divide the rooms once again.

She explained that you would not only hear more sound, but depending on your HVAC system, this could also affect the rooms temperature.

An easy and inexpensive fix is to add a fan for cooling or a space heater for heating.

Wall-to-Wall Carpeting

A carpet can offer a quieter space because it absorbs sound. It can also provide warmth and comfort, but Charlie only recommends a carpet in some rooms.

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Carpeting throughout the house can feel cozy, but its a magnet for stains and allergens. Consider replacing it with affordable engineered hardwood flooring. Its durable, stylish, and much easier to clean.

Luxury Bathrooms

Relaxing at the end of a long day in a Jacuzzi tub sounds wonderful, but Charlie said if its rarely used, it just takes up space.

A cost-effective remodel with a sleek, modern shower can save water and energy and still provide a spa-like feel, he said.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 5 Home Upgrades You Probably Regret Making  and Cheap Ways To Fix Them




Image source: Getty Images

Costco membership is an easy call for big families. A basic Gold Star membership currently costs $60 per year, and you can save money on tons of products, ranging from gift cards to travel packages to gas and electronics.

But for those who are single with no kids, the question isn't always so clear cut. After all, even if you did eat enough Nutella to justify buying a 6.6 pound tub of it, would you even have the cabinet space to store the comically large portions of things that Costco sells?

Truth be told, you don't need to buy food in bulk to get the best value out of Costco. While it's certainly not for everyone, a Costco membership can still be worth it if you're single without kids. Here's how.

1. Take advantage of Costco services

When single people ask me why they would ever consider a Costco membership, my answer always begins with "Costco services." Costco members get significant discounts on a variety of essential services, even when they're outsourced to a third party. These services include]:

Bottled water delivery

Budget truck rental

Car buying

Costco travel packages

Home improvement

Insurance (auto, home, pet, and life)

Optical

Pharmacy

Virtual primary care and therapy

The savings on these services alone could justify having a Costco membership. For example, Costco claims that members who switch to its car insurance provider (CONNECT) save an average of $596 in their first year. If you saved that much on car insurance, you would cover almost 10 years of Gold Star membership dues.

2. Fill up at the pump

Costco Kirkland Gasoline is often significantly cheaper than other gas stations. While you might have to wait in line -- especially in New Jersey where self-service gas pumping is illegal -- the savings at Costco could very well help cover your membership dues.

Costco also sells TOP TIER gasoline, which, according to AAA research, is supposedly cleaner and more efficient.

3. Stock up on gift cards

Costco sells cheap gift cards. While the savings aren't life-changing, you can save about 10% to 30% on face value just by purchasing a gift card at Costco.

One of my favorite gift cards right now is for Uber. Costco members can get two $50 Uber gift cards for $79.99. Essentially, you're spending $80 to get $100 of Uber value. These cards are valid for Uber rides and Uber Eats orders and can be used to purchase Costco groceries through the Uber Eats app.

There's usually a limit on how many gift cards you can buy per membership. For instance, members can purchase two Uber gift cards, but are limited to one transaction of them. In other words, you would need to buy both Uber gift cards in a single transaction to get the maximum value ($200 for $160).

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4. Save on household essentials

Regardless of your marriage status or number of dependents, your house will need some basic supplies, like toilet paper, dish soap, laundry detergent, trash bags, paper towels -- and rotisserie chicken. Likewise, you'll also need pantry staples, like oil, sugar, and flour. These are all items you can purchase in bulk at cheaper per-unit prices than most other retailers.

Let's look at Costco's trash bags. Costco's Kirkland Kitchen Trash Bags come in a pack of 200 and cost $19.99, which comes out to about $0.10 a bag. Meanwhile, at Walmart, you can purchase 120 of the same kind of trash bag on sale for $16.73, or about $0.13 per bag. You'd pay more money at Walmart and get fewer trash bags per package than at Costco.

The per-unit savings don't always work in Costco's favor -- olive oil is often cheaper elsewhere, for instance -- but more often than not, shopping at Costco will help your budget.

5. Shop for your pets

Even if you're the only human in your home, you might have pets to take care of. In this case, Costco's bulk pet food is cheap, and its flea and tick treatments also cost less than at other stores. Costco sells eight doses of Frontline Plus Flea & Tick Treatment for Large Dogs (45 to 88 pounds) for $79.99. Meanwhile, Petco and Petsmart sell eight doses of the same treatment for $96.99.

Costco may not have the same variety of pet supplies as other stores, but for basic pet essentials, it's hard to beat it.

Even if you're not sure a Costco membership is right for you, it doesn't hurt to try one out. Costco will refund your membership dues if you decide it's not for you. Give it a shot and see if Costco is selling something that could make paying $60 for an annual membership worth it for you.

Top credit card to use at Costco (and everywhere else!)

If youre shopping with a debit card, you could be missing out on hundreds or even thousands of dollars each year. These versatile credit cards offer huge rewards everywhere, including Costco, and are rated the best cards of 2024 by our experts because they offer hefty sign-up bonuses and outstanding cash rewards. Plus, youll save on credit card interest because all of these recommendations include a competitive 0% interest period.

Click here to read our expert recommendations for free!

We're firm believers in the Golden Rule, which is why editorial opinions are ours alone and have not been previously reviewed, approved, or endorsed by included advertisers. The Ascent does not cover all offers on the market. Editorial content from The Ascent is separate from The Motley Fool editorial content and is created by a different analyst team.The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Costco Wholesale, Uber Technologies, and Walmart. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

5 Reasons a Costco Membership Is Worth It for a Single Person With No Kids was originally published by The Motley Fool
There's really only one thing to talk about tonight and we want to know what our readers in Kansas City think about it.

FORMER PREZ TRUMP SURVIVES GUNFIRE AT TODAY'S RALLY AND THRUSTS HIS DEFIANT FIST IN THE AIR AFTERWARDS!!!

Like it or not, this is history in the making and probably a sign that this election season will be the most tumultuous we've seen in generations.

Our takeaways . . .

- This reminds us of Teddy Roosevelt nearly getting clipped  Afterwards, he got back up, finished his speech to the crowd and secured his legend following an assassination plot.

- Sorry for Democratic Party loyalists . . . The raised fist in front of the flag reaction is "the most American" thing we've seen in our lives and probably secures the presidency for the Don if he can make it to the vote.

- Talkers like Tucker Carlson and others have openly feared that the former Prez is a marked man. Today's shooting spree speaks to those suspicions.



Again . . . This post is merely to gauge the opinion of our readership and direct locals to better sources. Here are the basics and better reporting:



A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead. The Secret Service said two spectators were critically injured.



Posting on his Truth Social media site about two and a half hours after the shooting, Trump said a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.



I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said in the post. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Read more via www.TonysKansasCity.com links . . .

Trump rushed off stage by Secret Service as bangs heard at Pennsylvania rally Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage during a disturbance at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Trump is safe, Secret Service says after shots ring out at rally Donald Trump was safe, the U.S. Secret Service said on Saturday after multiple shots rang out at a rally by the Republican presidential candidate in Pennsylvania as video showed Trump grimacing and raising his right hand to his right.

Donald Trump whisked off stage in Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd Donald Trump was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd.

Trump seen possibly bleeding following apparent gunshots during PA rally Former President Trump held a rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania. Fox News Digital is reporting updates on the incident in real time.

Developing . . .


The ancient city of Gordion and Aslanhane Mosque in Ankara have been granted UNESCO World Heritage certificates, Azernews reports citing report on the Ankara Metropolitan Municipality's announcement.

Mayor Mansur Yavas accepted the certificates for Gordion ancient city and Aslanhane Mosque's inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Permanent List from Prof. M. Ocal Oguz, president of the Executive Board of the Turkish National Commission for UNESCO.

These designations recognize Gordion and Aslanhane Mosque as cultural and natural assets of global significance, highlighting their importance for humanity's heritage.

Gordion marks Ankara's first UNESCO World Heritage site and Turkiye's 20th overall, while Aslanhane Mosque, dating back to the 13th century and constructed from wooden materials, is the second cultural treasure from the capital to receive this prestigious recognition.

The decision to inscribe these landmarks on the UNESCO World Heritage List was finalized during the Extended 45th Session of the World Heritage Committee held in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, in September 2023.
Lucid (NASDAQ: LCID) stock has had quite a ride since its debut. It peaked at around $58 per share in 2021, before production of the company's EVs got underway in earnest. And while the company's Air luxury sedan has received rave reviews, its sales have been underwhelming -- and like many other electric vehicle stocks, its share price has fallen over 90% from those lofty 2021 heights.

But where do things stand for Lucid now, in 2024? If you like the car (I do), and you've thought about buying the stock while it's cheap, there are some things you should know. Here are five.

The Lucid Air, an electric luxury sedan with thrilling performance, has impressed critics since its debut. But high prices and a market turn away from sedans has limited its sales. Image source: Lucid.

How does Lucid's EV technology compare with that of its rivals?

Simply put, Lucid stacks up well against the competition.

The company claims to offer the lowest-cost battery pack per mile of range in the business. It's a fair claim: Even the most basic $70,000 version of the Air comes with 410 miles of EPA-estimated range, more than Tesla offers in its similarly sized Model S.

Move up to the Air Grand Touring, starting around $109,000, and you'll get an estimated 516 miles of range -- along with a whopping 819 horsepower and a ton of high-tech luxury features. And all versions of the Air can add 200 miles of range in less than 20 minutes at a 350-kilowatt fast charger.

Reviewers love the Air's ride and handling, too.

Who is Lucid's biggest investor?

Lucid's biggest investor by far is Saudi Arabia's sovereign wealth fund, called the Public Investment Fund or PIF. PIF has invested a total of $6.4 billion in Lucid since 2018, including $1 billion in March. It currently owns about 60% of the automaker.

The Saudi government has supported Lucid in other ways. In 2022, its Ministry of Finance agreed to buy at least 50,000, and possibly as many as 100,000, vehicles from Lucid over the following 10 years -- with deliveries expected to ramp up significantly in 2025.

How much demand has there been for the Lucid Air?

Lucid's sales have consistently fallen short of expectations. The Air is a superb EV, but the market for six-figure sedans, electric or otherwise, is pretty thin, and sales haven't materialized in the numbers that Lucid and its early investors hoped to see.

Consider: Lucid had originally expected to build 20,000 Airs in 2022, but it ended up building just 3,493. In 2023, Lucid produced 8,428 vehicles and delivered 6,001 -- better, but still nowhere near its original expectations. It's hoping to build about 9,000 in 2024.

Lucid's next model, a big luxury SUV called Gravity, is expected to launch before the end of 2024. The Gravity should help boost Lucid's deliveries to some extent once production ramps up early next year.

Story continues

Lucid's next model will be the Gravity, a big electric luxury SUV. Production is expected to begin by the end of 2024. Image source: Lucid.

But what Lucid really needs to get to profitability is a lower-priced midsize model. That won't arrive until late 2026 at the earliest, Lucid said in May.

All of that raises an important question: Does Lucid have enough cash to get to profitability?

Lucid needs more cash

At the moment, the answer is no.

Lucid had $5 billion on hand as of the end of March. It said in May that should be enough to launch the Gravity and keep the lights on into the second quarter of 2025. But there's not much chance Lucid will turn a profit before production of the future midsize model ramps up -- and that won't happen before 2027, even if we're optimistic.

Clearly, Lucid will need more cash. That has been a theme throughout its history: As I mentioned, it has already raised $1 billion in 2024, on top of the $3 billion it raised in May 2023, the $1.5 billion it raised in December 2022, and on and on.

PIF was a major participant in all of those funding rounds, but even the most optimistic investors have to ask: How much more will PIF be willing to invest?

Is Lucid stock a buy?

On one hand, Lucid stock is cheap. Its market cap is around $6.1 billion as I write this, not much more than its cash hoard. Lucid's product is excellent, and there's a reasonable plan to expand the lineup in a cost-effective way.

But on the other hand, it's cheap for a reason.

It's true that Lucid is a much more complete business than now-bankrupt rival Fisker ever was. Lucid owns a factory, its cars have groundbreaking technology developed in-house, and it has a base of thousands of happy owners.

But automakers need scale to survive and profit. Even if all goes well, Lucid won't get to sustainable scale for at least a few more years -- and it'll burn billions of dollars between now and then, much of which it has yet to raise.

If you love the Lucid Air and understand the company's situation, I won't argue if you decide to take a small position in the stock. You'll need to be patient, but it could pay off nicely in time.

Just keep in mind that the risks are significant, and profitability is still a long way off.

Should you invest $1,000 in Lucid Group right now?

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Hi, my name is Scott C. Waring and I wrote a few books and am currently a ESL School Owner in Taiwan. I have had my own UFO sighting up close and personal, but that's how it works right? A non believer becomes a believer when they experience their first sighting. You witnessed it, your perceptual field changes, so now you need to share it.





I created this site to help the UFO community get a little bit organized. I noticed that there was a lot of chaos when searching for UFO sighting reports, so I hope this site helps. I wanted to support those eyewitnesses who have tried to tell others about what they have seen, yet were laughed at by even closest of friends.





More and more each day the governments of the world leak bits and pieces of UFO information to the public. They have a trickle down theory in hopes of slowly getting citizens use to the idea that we are not alone in universe and never have been. The truth is being leaked drop by drop until one day we look around and find ourselves neck high in it.





The discovery of alien species in existence is the most monumental scientific event in human history, suppression of that information is a crime against humanity.





About me:

I live in Taiwan. I OWN MY OWN ENGLISH SCHOOL, AND ONCE HAD 5 SCHOOLS.

Am Former USAF at SAC base (flight line).

Age: 42

Educ: BA in Elem ed. Masters in Counseling ed.





I had two UFO sightings, (30+bus size orbs) in military and in 2012 personally saw the UFO over Taipei 101 building on New Years Day (and recored it).
Ukraine is satisfied with the results of the NATO summit in Washington and the concept of a bridge to the country's membership of the Alliance.

Deputy Head of the Presidents Office Ihor Zhovkva said this in an interview with the Voice of America, Ukrinform reports.

"The summit was definitely better than that in Vilnius. Last year, we hoped for more practical results from the summit. And this year in Washington, we got them. In particular, in formulating the final declaration of the summit regarding Ukraine's irreversible path to NATO, this was important for us, and the allies reached an agreement on this. And this paves the way for the next step  an invitation to the Alliance, which I am sure we will receive sooner or later," Zhovkva said.

According to the official, among other practical results, first of all, were clear statements by several partners on the first day of the summit about the transfer of five air defense systems to Ukraine immediately and more by the end of the year.

"Secondly, important statements about the F-16... We tried to push our partners to speed up the provision of these fighters to Ukraine and also asked - and this was included in the final declaration - to increase the scope of F-16 pilot and maintenance crew training as we need more qualified personnel, and our partners agreed," he said.

Zhovkva also noted the new NATO security mission in Ukraine, which will help better and more efficiently coordinate the supply of weapons to Ukraine and the process of acquiring operational interoperability of the Armed Forces of Ukraine with the Allied forces. In addition, he noted the provision of $40 billion for the next year for Ukraines military needs.

No less important, according to the deputy head of the Office, is the Ukraine Compact, which was signed after the Ukraine-NATO Council was concluded. "It summarizes what has been done over the past year, but also lays groundwork for the future of security. We need this new security architecture. We are building it not only in Ukraine, but also on the entire continent. And it is very important to understand and remember that this is being done on our way to NATO membership," he said.

Regarding strikes by American weapons deeper into the Russian territory, Zhovkva hopes there will be progress on the issue. He emphasized that the Ukrainian side continues to work with American partners and hopes that a relevant decision will be made in the near future.

"The arguments are very simple  we need to protect ourselves. And everyone knows where the threat comes from: missiles are launched from specific locations... All important decisions that the U.S. made before were made very quietly, and this time it will be the same," Zhovkva said.

Without going into the details of the talks, the official said there is an understanding between the American and Ukrainian sides as to why Ukraine needs this permission.

Answering the question whether this is one of those situations where the U.S. says no until they say yes, Zhovkva answered that there will definitely be progress in the matter. "Just as it has been in the past on other issues that we have discussed with the administration," the official added.

As reported, the 75th anniversary NATO summit took place in Washington this week, where increasing military aid to Ukraine and strengthening the deterrence and defense system of the Alliance itself were on top agenda.
Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, BAE Systems' stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

A total of 10 investors have a majority stake in the company with 51% ownership

Using data from analyst forecasts alongside ownership research, one can better assess the future performance of a company

Every investor in BAE Systems plc (LON:BA.) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. And the group that holds the biggest piece of the pie are institutions with 85% ownership. Put another way, the group faces the maximum upside potential (or downside risk).

Given the vast amount of money and research capacities at their disposal, institutional ownership tends to carry a lot of weight, especially with individual investors. Therefore, a good portion of institutional money invested in the company is usually a huge vote of confidence on its future.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about BAE Systems.

Check out our latest analysis for BAE Systems

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About BAE Systems?

Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index.

As you can see, institutional investors have a fair amount of stake in BAE Systems. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of BAE Systems, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. We note that hedge funds don't have a meaningful investment in BAE Systems. Capital Research and Management Company is currently the largest shareholder, with 17% of shares outstanding. BlackRock, Inc. is the second largest shareholder owning 8.2% of common stock, and FMR LLC holds about 4.9% of the company stock.

On further inspection, we found that more than half the company's shares are owned by the top 10 shareholders, suggesting that the interests of the larger shareholders are balanced out to an extent by the smaller ones.

While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

Story continues

Insider Ownership Of BAE Systems

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO.

I generally consider insider ownership to be a good thing. However, on some occasions it makes it more difficult for other shareholders to hold the board accountable for decisions.

Our information suggests that BAE Systems plc insiders own under 1% of the company. Being so large, we would not expect insiders to own a large proportion of the stock. Collectively, they own UK25m of stock. It is always good to see at least some insider ownership, but it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 11% stake in BAE Systems. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too.

Many find it useful to take an in depth look at how a company has performed in the past. You can access this detailed graph of past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

But ultimately it is the future, not the past, that will determine how well the owners of this business will do. Therefore we think it advisable to take a look at this free report showing whether analysts are predicting a brighter future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Berkeley Group Holdings' stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

A total of 11 investors have a majority stake in the company with 52% ownership

Recent sales by insiders

A look at the shareholders of The Berkeley Group Holdings plc (LON:BKG) can tell us which group is most powerful. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 86% ownership. That is, the group stands to benefit the most if the stock rises (or lose the most if there is a downturn).

Because institutional owners have a huge pool of resources and liquidity, their investing decisions tend to carry a great deal of weight, especially with individual investors. As a result, a sizeable amount of institutional money invested in a firm is generally viewed as a positive attribute.

Let's delve deeper into each type of owner of Berkeley Group Holdings, beginning with the chart below.

View our latest analysis for Berkeley Group Holdings

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Berkeley Group Holdings?

Institutional investors commonly compare their own returns to the returns of a commonly followed index. So they generally do consider buying larger companies that are included in the relevant benchmark index.

We can see that Berkeley Group Holdings does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This suggests some credibility amongst professional investors. But we can't rely on that fact alone since institutions make bad investments sometimes, just like everyone does. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Berkeley Group Holdings, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. Berkeley Group Holdings is not owned by hedge funds. Looking at our data, we can see that the largest shareholder is First Eagle Investment Management, LLC with 12% of shares outstanding. For context, the second largest shareholder holds about 9.6% of the shares outstanding, followed by an ownership of 7.7% by the third-largest shareholder. Additionally, the company's CEO Rob Perrins directly holds 1.3% of the total shares outstanding.

A closer look at our ownership figures suggests that the top 11 shareholders have a combined ownership of 52% implying that no single shareholder has a majority.

Story continues

While it makes sense to study institutional ownership data for a company, it also makes sense to study analyst sentiments to know which way the wind is blowing. Quite a few analysts cover the stock, so you could look into forecast growth quite easily.

Insider Ownership Of Berkeley Group Holdings

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. Management ultimately answers to the board. However, it is not uncommon for managers to be executive board members, especially if they are a founder or the CEO.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Shareholders would probably be interested to learn that insiders own shares in The Berkeley Group Holdings plc. It is a pretty big company, so it is generally a positive to see some potentially meaningful alignment. In this case, they own around UK78m worth of shares (at current prices). Most would say this shows alignment of interests between shareholders and the board. Still, it might be worth checking if those insiders have been selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 12% stake in Berkeley Group Holdings. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

While it is well worth considering the different groups that own a company, there are other factors that are even more important. To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Berkeley Group Holdings .

If you are like me, you may want to think about whether this company will grow or shrink. Luckily, you can check this free report showing analyst forecasts for its future.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Former U.S. President Donald Trump was shot in his right ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania Saturday in what the nations top law enforcement agency said it is investigating as an assassination attempt.

"This evening, we had what we are calling an assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. It's still an active crime scene," Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said during a press conference.

The shooter is dead, one rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were injured, according to a statement from the Secret Service.

Rojek said the investigation into what happened could take months.

The shooting happened just after Trump took the stage at 6 p.m. local time at a rally in the town of Butler.

We will continue to support this investigation with the full resources of the FBI, alongside our partners at the U.S. Secret Service and state and local law enforcement, the FBI said earlier in a statement.

The event prompted President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Barack Obama to issue strong statements condemning political violence.

Late Saturday, the White House said Biden had spoken to Trump  though they did not immediately give details of the conversation  and also to Pennsylvanias governor and Butlers mayor. The administration also said he was returning to the White House in the early hours of Sunday, instead of remaining at his Delaware home as planned.

The incident threatens to further intensify and complicate an already tough presidential race and inflame rhetoric around an already tense national debate.

On Saturday, in a statement on social media site X, the Republican National Committee said that Trump still intended to appear at the partys convention in Milwaukee on Monday.

Trump also confirmed, in a statement on his social media site, that the shooter was killed, and that one spectator at the rally was killed and another wounded. In a statement published on X, the Secret Service said two people attending the rally were wounded, not one.

[[https://x.com/SecretSvcSpox/status/1812288378596982908]]

Trump also thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement for their work.

Most importantly, he said, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, he continued. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

[[https://truthsocial.com/@realDonaldTrump/112782066045321247]]

He gave no further details on his condition or whether the act was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

In a statement published on X, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi did not use the term assassination, saying only the incident is currently under investigation.

Shortly after the event, Biden released a statement saying, Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally. He continued: Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Vice President Harris also issued a statement wishing Trump well and saying, We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Minutes later, Biden spoke to reporters.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence, he said. It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

The Biden campaign also said, in a statement, that it is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible.

When asked if the events constituted an assassination attempt, Biden demurred.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, he replied.

Former President Barack Obama echoed Bidens concerns.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, his statement read. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Analysts say this is a historic event.

Today the world changed, said Professor Casey Burgat of the George Washington University. The attempted assassination of former President Trump will not only have profound consequences on this election but also on the broader state of American politics.

The incident will further deepen partisan divides while also sparking a critical dialogue on the nature of political discourse and violence in modern American politics, he added.

There will be partisan finger-pointing about how and why this happened, but across the political spectrum, we will rightfully hear a unified rejection of all political violence. I can only hope the latter wins out.

The shooting took place shortly after Trump took to the stage. The crowd heard several small pops similar to small-arms fire before the former president reached for the side of his face and ducked. He was immediately swarmed by his Secret Service detail and could be heard saying let me get my shoes, before he stood back up, a ring of agents surrounding him tightly.

Then, bleeding from his right ear, he said, repeatedly, wait. He then raised his right fist and gestured angrily at a spot in the middle distance and repeated the same one-syllable word three times. It appeared to be fight, fight, fight.

Trumps Republican supporters quickly reacted.

Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio  considered a front-runner choice to be Trumps vice president  tweeted: Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok.

Another VP contender, Senator Marco Rubio of Florida, tweeted God protected President Trump.

World leaders also began to react.

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump, said Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.

In Milwaukee, where delegates, candidates and media were preparing to descend come Monday for the convention where Trump is expected to be officially named as his partys presidential nominee, those in the thick of things sounded their frustration at the bitter state of American politics.

I think that we need to lower the rhetoric, and the anger, said Laura Baiger, an alternate delegate from Tennessee. Why can't we just talk to each other? There's so much of everybody ramping and amping it up, it's just crazy. And there's no reason for it. We need unity. We need to start talking to each other. Speaking with each other, listening to each other."

Katherine Gypson, Steve Herman, Mykhailo Komadovsky, Sayed Aziz Rahman, Jeff Seldin and Patsy Widakuswara contributed to this report from Washington. Jorge Agobian contributed from Milwaukee.
Confidence in higher education among Americans is declining, according to a recent poll that found 36% of adults expressed a "great deal" or "quite a lot" of confidence in higher education, down from 57% in 2015.

The Gallup and the Lumina Foundation poll also revealed that more than two-thirds (68%) of adults feel the U.S. higher education system is heading in the wrong direction vs. 31% of those respondents saying it is going in the right direction.

The poll, conducted June 3-23, surveyed 1,005 Americans aged 18 and older.

Declining enrollment mirrors concerns voiced by some Americans about colleges focusing on political agendas, neglecting relevant skills and being overly expensive.

Nathan Wyand, a software engineer in Charlottesville, Virginia, told VOA News he chose not to attend college due to high costs and the challenging curriculum.

The mode of learning was very stressful. Every month and a half, I would break down in tears, Wyand said, adding, I didnt want to deal with the debt and lack of freedom in choosing what to learn.

Post-high school, Wyand said he explored different jobs before pursuing software development through a 10-month data science bootcamp at Flatiron School in New York.

I took online courses at Flatiron, learning about software development. In my current role, I have practical experience, though less theoretical knowledge than peers with computer science degrees, Wyand noted.

Wyand valued freedom in learning over being told what to learn in a structured classroom.

I didn't want other people to tell me what I was going to learn, I was tired of that and ready to take charge of my education, he said.

While costs influenced Wyands decision against college, he advises against dismissing it solely due to expenses.

Dont avoid college because youre lazy or because its expensive. Avoid college if you feel that there is something better or more interesting to you that you can pursue instead. Its important to have an objective, he said.

The survey conducted last month reaffirms that 36% of adults maintain strong confidence in higher education, unchanged from the previous year.

At a time where the U.S. needs more skilled Americans to fulfill our labor market needs of today and tomorrow it is concerning to see that they are losing confidence that higher education can deliver what they need, Courtney Brown, vice president at Lumina, an education nonprofit, told VOA News.

Researchers are concerned by fewer Americans expressing some confidence and more reporting of very little or none.

This years findings show a notable increase in those with little to no confidence, now at 32%, compared to 10% in 2015. This trend is alarming and must be reversed, Brown said.

Brown stressed the need to address concerns about perceived political influences and lack of relevant skills in higher education.

Society must tackle college costs directly. Many find college unaffordable, leading to crippling debt. I do believe higher ed can transform and ensure it meets the needs of students, but to do so we must pay attention to these data and address these concerns head on  the stakes of not doing so are far too great for individuals, communities and our nation, Brown added.

John Pollock, a recent graduate of Columbia College Chicago, told VOA he agrees with the polls findings.

College is a business, not a guarantee for jobs or debt repayment. Many our age see multiple paths to success, Pollock said. He added that networking opportunities are one value that colleges offer.

Of the roughly one-third of Americans who expressed a great deal/quite a lot of confidence in higher education, 27% said it is important for individuals and society to be educated.

Of the roughly one-third of Americans who said their confidence in higher education was very little/none, 41% cited colleges as being too liberal, or trying to indoctrinate or brainwash students as reasons for their replies.

Overall, 68% of respondents believe higher education is on the wrong track, contrasting with 31% who see it heading in the right direction.

Some information for this report came from The Associated Press.
President Joe Biden on Sunday summoned the full gravitas of the Oval Office to entreat Americans to unify and shun political violence after a stunning attempt on the life of rival Donald Trump a day earlier  amid fears that more political troubles are ahead as the nation hurtles toward the November presidential election.

Trump is in Milwaukee ahead of the Republican National Convention, where he is expected to clinch the Republican presidential nomination. He made similar calls.

Trump stood up seconds after a shooter attempted to take his life at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. But as Biden acknowledged Sunday, in a live address to the nation from behind the massive desk that has come to symbolize American power, this is no mere flesh wound. He urged unity and reminded Americans that their power comes through the ballot  not the bullet.

My fellow Americans, he began, I want to speak to you tonight about the need for us to lower the temperature in our politics and to remember, while we may disagree, we're not enemies. We're neighbors, we're friends, coworkers, citizens, and most importantly, were fellow Americans, we must stand together. Yesterdays shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania calls on all of us to take a step back. Take stock of where we are, and how we go forward from here.

Earlier in the day, speaking from another room of the White House, he urged Americans to not jump to conclusions as law enforcement investigates the shooting.

I urge everyone  everyone  please don't make assumptions about his motive or his affiliations, Biden said.

Also Sunday, the White House announced that Biden would not travel Monday to Texas, as previously planned. The campaign had said Saturday that they were working to temporarily suspend campaign messaging and take down ads.

Biden had abruptly returned to Washington early Sunday to receive briefings on the event and its aftermath. He and Vice President Kamala Harris spent much of the morning in the White House Situation Room with Homeland Security and law enforcement officials, according to a White House photo.

Earlier in the day, Biden said Trump is doing well and recovering and that he had taken steps to direct the Secret Service to provide Trump with every resource, capability and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.

Biden said that he instructed the elite law enforcement agency to review all security measures  all security measures, he repeated for emphasis  as the Republican National Convention begins.

Trump has also called for unity.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win, he posted on his social media site, Truth Social, on Sunday.

And on Sunday, former first lady Melania Trump issued a plea for Americans to ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence.

Analysts say that Trumps defiance in the face of death  seen in widely circulated images of him rising just seconds after dropping down, and angrily waving his fist in the air as blood ran from his right ear while his bodyguards attempted to shield him  will have an effect.

It will have a huge impact on this election, and on our politics more broadly, said Casey Burgat, director of legislative affairs at the George Washington University.

History suggests we're likely to see a rally-around-the-Trump effect, where those that were in his camp will be even more in his camp. And then those who just can't stomach the political violence, for those who face a reality check of just how dangerous our political rhetoric has become and sees this manifestation of violence play out before our very eyes, it's going to have an impact on this election.

Trumps backers say the grim scene may have taught the nation something important.

It was both a really terrible day for American democracy, but in a lot of ways it was also a great day, said Alex Gray, chief of staff in Trump's White House National Security Council, saying it shows the strength and the frailty of American institutions I think whether you support President Trump or you don't support President Trump, I think what everyone should take away from that is that American democracy is a lot bigger and a lot more resilient than too many people give it credit for.

Some analysts say they fear more trouble as the two major parties hold conventions this summer. Chicago hosts the Democratic National Convention in August.

I have argued elsewhere that we are very likely to see political violence across the spectrum in this election cycle, said Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. Obviously, this is the most serious incident so far. But I don't think there's any, any reason to believe that this will be the last violence that we see.

VOAs Katherine Gypson and Marko Protic contributed to this report from Washington. Bill Gallo reported from Seoul.
NATO and China's efforts to deepen cooperation with like-minded countries in the Indo-Pacific and Europe are viewed by some analysts as part of the growing competition between major powers, especially between the United States and China.

"[The latest development] is a standard major power competition," said Ian Chong, a political scientist at the National University of Singapore.

These efforts are aimed at "finding out where are their friends and who can support their efforts," he said. "[But] it's pretty clear that the competition between major powers is intensifying," he told VOA by phone.

During its annual summit in Washington, NATO announced it would launch four new joint projects with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. The projects will focus on deepening cooperation with the four Indo-Pacific countries on Ukraine, artificial intelligence, disinformation, and cybersecurity.

U.S. national security adviser Jake Sullivan said the goal is to "harness the unique strengths" of democracies to address shared global challenges. In response, the Chinese government accused NATO of "inciting bloc confrontation and hyping up regional tensions" by engaging with countries in the Indo-Pacific region.

Instead of expanding its footprint to the Indo-Pacific region through these joint projects, some experts say NATO is trying to involve more like-minded countries in the process of building up competencies in critical areas of competition.

"These are core areas that will shape military and other forms of competition moving forward so NATO wants to establish more cooperation with like-minded democracies," said Stephen Nagy, a regional security expert at the International Christian University in Japan.

Since NATO has labeled China as "the decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, Nagy said the alliance is trying to show Beijing that it won't back out of the global competition in key areas.

"NATO is signaling to China that they can be part of the solution, or they would be part of the problem," he told VOA by phone.

In an interview with VOA's Mandarin Service, Japan's Foreign Press Secretary Maki Kobayashi said that while Tokyo has been working closely with NATO member states, these efforts shouldn't be viewed as an attempt to establish a NATO in Asia.

China's attempt to counter NATO

While the U.S. and its NATO allies aimed to strengthen cooperation with Indo-Pacific countries through the summit in Washington, China is also beefing up military cooperation with Belarus and Russia.

On Monday, China initiated an 11-day joint military exercise near the border of Poland with Belarus, the newest member of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. While the Chinese Foreign Ministry insisted that the exercise wasn't targeting any country, some analysts told VOA that the move is Beijing's response to NATO's growing interest in Asia.

In addition to the military exercise with Belarus in Europe, China also announced Friday a joint naval exercise with Russia in waters near the southern city of Zhanjiang.

The Chinese defense ministry characterized the drills, which will take place near the disputed South China Sea, as attempts for Beijing and Moscow to demonstrate their resolve and capabilities to address "maritime security threats and preserving global and regional peace and stability."

Nagy in Japan said Beijing is trying to show its displeasure toward NATO's efforts to strengthen ties with Indo-Pacific countries.

"China is signaling to NATO member states that they can cause headaches for them in their region or regions that matter to them," he told VOA.

Apart from closely aligning the dates of the two military exercises with the NATO Summit, China also used last week's SCO Summit in Kazakhstan to uphold its "no limits partnership" with Russia and promote the alternative world order that it has been championing in recent years.

While the SCO isn't an alliance with a common goal, some experts say China will still try to use it as a platform to "build its own blocs" to counter NATO and dilute Western influence.

"China is strengthening these arrangements through bilateral agreements and strategic partnership, which often include security," Sari Arho Havren, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute, told VOA by phone.

But since the SCO includes member states such as India, which is also part of the quadrilateral security dialogue with Australia, Japan, and the U.S., Nagy thinks New Delhi is unlikely to back any efforts to transform SCO into a counterweight of NATO.

And while China might engage in some security cooperation with other authoritarian states like Russia or Iran  such as the joint military exercise the three countries conducted in March  Nagy said the differences in the three countries' tolerance for risk and their visions for these partnerships will make it difficult for them to form a formal alliance.

In his view, Russia has a higher tolerance for risk while China is concerned about how the war in Ukraine may affect stability around the world.

"In the North Korea front, China is not happy about Putin's recent trip to Pyongyang while Beijing wants a stable relationship with Iran, which adds limits to their cooperation," Nagy told VOA.

"The idea that these countries can converge to form an alliance to combat the so-called Western containment is not feasible, but they may align themselves so they can coordinate the supply of resources," he added.

Despite some limitations in reality, Arho Havren said China and NATO's latest efforts to deepen partnerships show that a bloc competition may be emerging.

"Both sides are more assertive and clear about their messaging and recent developments may accelerate this trend," she told VOA.
At least 25 cases of a dangerous new strain of mpox spreading through the Democratic Republic of Congo have been detected in the eastern city of Goma, mostly in camps housing people fleeing a surrounding conflict, health authorities said Wednesday.

Congo has seen 20,000 cases and more than 1,000 deaths from mpox, mainly among children, since the start of 2023. Over 11,000 cases, including 443 deaths, have been reported so far this year.

Authorities recently approved the use of vaccines to tackle the upsurge, but none are currently available outside of clinical trials in the country.

The head of the national response team against the mpox epidemic, Cris Kacita, said in an interview that most of the new reported cases were in displaced people camps.

He said cases were infected with a new strain of the virus that is spreading in South Kivu province. Goma is the capital and largest city of the neighboring North Kivu province.

The World Health Organization (WHO) and scientists raised the alarm last month about the mpox situation in Congo, including the spread of a new strain of mpox spreading in South Kivu.

Mpox has been endemic in Congo for decades but a new variant of the clade I of the virus emerged last year. It is a viral infection that spreads through close contact, causing flu-like symptoms and pus-filled lesions. Most cases are mild, but it can kill.

A different, less severe form of mpox - clade IIb - spread globally in 2022, largely through sexual contact among men who have sex with men. This prompted the WHO to declare a public health emergency that has now ended, although there are still cases and the agency has said mpox remains a public health threat.

"The national biomedical research institute in Goma has sequenced the virus and this proves that the virus has been circulating for a long time in the city of Goma," Kacita said.

"The risk here is the promiscuity in the camps and the speed with which the epidemic is spreading," he warned.

Hundreds of thousands of people who fled conflict in Congo's insurgent-hit east are staying in overcrowded camps in and around Goma.

The number of displaced has increased since a rebel group known as the M23 launched a major offensive in 2022, prompting national and regional military responses that have struggled to stem the militia's advance.
The FBI said Sunday it has identified a suspect but has not yet established a motive for Saturdays assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump, one of the highest-profile acts of U.S. political violence in decades.

The law enforcement agency said 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was the subject involved in the shooting, which occurred during a political rally in the nearby Pittsburgh suburbs.

Crooks was a registered Republican but had also made a recent $15 political donation to a liberal group, according to public voter records cited by several media outlets.

At least one spectator was killed and two others were critically injured in the shooting, which occurred in a large, uncovered outdoor space in a rural area.

About six minutes after Trump took the stage, several gunshots rang out  prompting the former president to reach for his right ear and then duck behind a riser before being surrounded by Secret Service agents.

In a social media post, Trump said he was fine after being shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear. He was released from the hospital late Saturday.

On Sunday morning, in another post, Trump said, Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness.

Trump said he looked forward to speaking to the country on Thursday at the Republican National Convention from the midwestern city of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, as he is formally nominated for president for the third straight election cycle.

According to witness accounts and videos posted online, the shooter was seen holding a rifle and crawling up the roof of a nearby building moments before the shooting began. Several bystanders can be heard yelling in an attempt to get the attention of police, who later shot and killed the suspect.

The incident is raising questions about the level of Secret Service protection provided to Trump.

Republican leaders in the House of Representatives said they will launch a full investigation into the incident and asked Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle to attend a hearing on the matter.

In a letter posted late Saturday on social media site X, formerly Twitter, the Republican-led House Committee said Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump.

Alex Gray, a former official in Trumps National Security Council, said the shooting shows that Trumps Secret Service protection was paltry compared to the threats he was facing.

They need to immediately upgrade his detail to the fullest level possible that is befitting of a president  and not a former president, but a current president, Gray said.

Earlier Saturday, Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh field office, told reporters that it is surprising that the gunman fired four or five times before he was shot dead.

Trump, who later traveled back to his home in New Jersey, has said little about the assassination attempt, other than that it is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

Late Saturday, the White House said Biden had spoken to Trump  though it did not immediately give details of the conversation. The administration also said he was returning to the White House in the early hours of Sunday, instead of remaining at his Delaware home as planned.

'It's sick'

Shortly after the incident, Biden spoke to reporters, calling the incident sick.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence, he said. It's sick. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

The Biden campaign also said, in a statement, that it is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible.

Analysts warned the assassination attempt could upend a fiercely fought presidential campaign, intensify heated political rhetoric, and further divide American society.

This is an exceptionally dark day in America  an exceptionally dark day in our democracy. Possibly the most serious act of political violence we've seen since 9/11 at least, said Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.

We are talking about a serious credible assassination threat on the former leader of the free world who is actively campaigning for the presidency ... its really scary and frightening to think about what the next steps are in this story, he told VOA.

Today the world changed, said George Washington University professor Casey Burgat.

The attempted assassination of former President Trump will not only have profound consequences on this election but also on the broader state of American politics.

The incident will further deepen partisan divides while also sparking a critical dialogue on the nature of political discourse and violence in modern American politics, he added.

There will be partisan finger-pointing about how and why this happened, but across the political spectrum, we will rightfully hear a unified rejection of all political violence. I can only hope the latter wins out.

VOA's Katherine Gypson and VOA Serbian Service contributed to this story.
The U.S. Republican Party is expected to formally nominate Donald Trump for president this week, days after he survived an assassination attempt at a political rally. Already tight security is expected to be heightened in Milwaukee, which is hosting the Republican National Convention. VOAs Jorge Agobian and William Gallo spoke with convention delegates and Milwaukee residents, who are concerned about the possibility of more unrest.
Before Saturdays apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting U.S. presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

A look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred since the nations founding in 1776:

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president

Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington.

Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theater for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning. His support for Black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing.

Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

Lincoln was succeeded by Vice President Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot and killed on April 26, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

James Garfield, the 20th president

Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a train station in Washington on July 2, 1881, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfields chest using a device he designed specifically for the president. The mortally wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Garfield was succeeded by Vice President Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

William McKinley, the 25th president

McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Doctors had expected McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds.

McKinley died on Sept. 14, 1901, six months after opening his second term.

He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an unemployed, 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted to the shooting. Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on Oct. 29, 1901.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd president

Roosevelt, at the time the president-elect, had just given a speech in Miami from the back of an open car when gunshots rang out.

Roosevelt was not injured in the February 1933 shooting that killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak.

Guiseppe Zangara was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to death.

Harry S. Truman, the 33rd president

Truman was staying at Blair House, across the street from the White House, in November 1950 when two gunmen broke in.

Truman was not injured, but a White House policeman and one of the assailants were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House policemen were wounded.

Oscar Callazo was arrested and sentenced to death. In 1952, Truman commuted the sentence to life in prison. He was released from prison in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter.

John F. Kennedy, the 35th president

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

He was succeeded by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room aboard Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an airplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a snipers perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

Gerald Ford, the 38th president

Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Ford was on his way to a meeting with Californias governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at Ford. The gun wasnt fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

Ronald Reagan, the 40th president

Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

George W. Bush, the 43rd president

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Theodore Roosevelt, presidential candidate

The former president was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

Roosevelt had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in Roosevelts pocket apparently blunted the bullets impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the remainder of his life in mental hospitals.

Robert F. Kennedy, presidential candidate

Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

George C. Wallace, presidential candidate

Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.
Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif has become a master at eluding Israeli attempts on his life and he may have made it seven out of seven when artillery and fighter jets pounded a suspected hideout Saturday.

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu acknowledged hours after an attack in southern Gaza that there was "no certainty" that Deif and one of his deputies, Rafa Salama, had been killed.

The health ministry in the Hamas-run territory said at least 90 people were killed and 300 injured in a strike on a displaced persons camp in Al-Mawasi. Hamas said claims that Deif had been targeted were "false news."

The head of the Ezzedine al-Qassam Brigades, Hamas's armed wing, has been among Israel's most wanted for nearly three decades and on a U.S. list of "international terrorists" since 2015. He has survived at least six previous attempts on his life.

In announcing Saturday's deadly bombing raid, Israel said Deif was one of the "masterminds" of the October 7 Hamas attacks that set off the Gaza war. Israel insisted after the incursion that Deif and Hamas' political leader in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, would be killed if found.

Deif was born in the Khan Younis refugee camp in 1965. His real name is Mohammed Diab al-Masri.

Deif means "visitor" or "guest," and some say this is because he is always on the move with Israeli hunters on his trail.

He reportedly never spends more than one night in the same place and few photographs of him are known to exist. In January, Israel announced a new photo of Deif had been found, without specifying when it was taken.

In videos, Deif normally appears masked or shown in a silhouette.

Enemies have dubbed him the "cat with nine lives" because of his many close calls with death. The attempts on his life started around the time he was named Hamas' military head in 2002. His predecessor, Salah Shehade, was killed in an Israeli raid.

Wife and son killed

Shortly after, Israel launched an attack in Gaza to kill Deif, leaving him severely wounded instead. Unconfirmed reports suggested he lost an eye and possibly his legs.

In 2014, Israel launched an airstrike on Gaza, killing Deif's wife and a seven-month-old son.

The attacks have not dented the influence of the man considered the Hamas "chief of staff." Deif announced the start of the Hamas attack on Israel dubbed "Al-Aqsa Flood" in an audio message on October 7.

In the recording, Deif is heard saying that "the positions and fortifications of the enemy have been targeted by 5,000 rockets and shells during the first 20 minutes" of the attack. "The rage of our people and our nation is exploding," he said.

Deif has been involved in Hamas since the 1980s when he was a student at the Gaza Islamic University and changed his name. He left with a degree in biology but turned to engineering and is said to have played a key role in the huge network of tunnels built beneath Gaza.

He is also said to have taken part in many Hamas operations, including the abduction of Israeli soldiers and the planning of suicide bombings.

He was detained by Israel around 1989 and spent about two years in a prison run by Yasser Arafat's Palestinian Authority. He was released or escaped, reports say.

Deif went to the top of Israel's wanted list in 1995, accused of killing Israeli soldiers and civilians.

In May, the chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court requested a warrant for his arrest, alongside Sinwar and Qatar-based Hamas chief Ismail Haniyeh for war crimes and crimes against humanity.

The ICC prosecutor also applied for warrants against Netanyahu and Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant.

The war in Gaza started with Hamas' October 7 attack on southern Israel which resulted in the deaths of 1,200 people, mostly civilians.

The militants also seized 251 hostages, 116 of whom remain in Gaza, including 42 the military says are dead.

Israel responded with a military offensive that has killed more than 38,000 people in Gaza, also mostly civilians, according to a toll from the Hamas-run Gaza health ministry issued Saturday afternoon.
If this is the summer to finally sell your house, Archway Homes may be able to help. This hometown real estate company, owned by husband and wife team Jon and Stacy Bichelmeyer, has more than 20 years of experience buying homes in all conditions and does it quickly without the often painful and stressful selling process.

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One of the advantages of working with us is selling as is, said Jon. That means you dont have to do any extensive and expensive renovations to make your home appeal to todays buyers or have it ready to show at a moments notice, wait for the right buyer, wait for it to close, and then pay a real estate agents commission or sellers closing costs.

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A labor union in Iran has denounced Sharifeh Mohammadi's death sentence from the Islamic Revolutionary Court of Rasht as a governmental tactic to instill fear in society to deter collective organizing efforts.



In its statement Saturday, the Iranian Teachers' Trade Association condemned the jailed labor activist's sentence, citing the association's mission to defend the rights of social activists and express solidarity with other unions and civil organizations. The union characterized the sentence as "inhumane and unjust."



Mohammadi reportedly has been subjected to physical and torture at the hands of intelligence interrogators during her detention and was placed for several months in solitary confinement, according to her family.



Human rights, labor, and trade union activists and organizations in Iran, alongside global human rights organizations and labor unions, have joined Iranian activists like Masih Alinejad and Hamed Esmaeilion in condemning the death sentence.



Retirees in several Iranian cities and Iranian protesters in Europe and Canada have held demonstrations, highlighting the imperative to overturn the death sentence and secure her release. There also have been widespread protests on social media against the death sentence.



Esmail Abdi, a teachers' union activist who himself was arrested and imprisoned on security charges, posted on social media platform X, "Nearly all union activists, independent civil activists, intellectuals, writers, syndicates, and grassroots groups have condemned and protested against the fabricated charges and unjust death sentence imposed on Sharifeh Mohammadi. This widespread support underscores the credibility of this labor activist. She should be released immediately and unconditionally."



The Iranian Teachers' Trade Association based in Tehran said that "the formation of unions and engagement in activities related to livelihood and public demands are fundamental human rights as articulated in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights."



The association described Mohammadi's action as consistent with the pursuit of the fundamental right, unless proven otherwise in a fair judicial process that includes a public trial, jury participation, and legal representation for the accused.

The association said in reference to security and judicial crackdowns on union activists over the past four decades, "despite hundreds of judicial rulings against teachers, workers, retirees, and students, the demands of social movements have persisted unabated."



The statement continues, "The imposition of a death sentence on this labor activist will not deter these movements from pursuing their societal objectives, as evidenced by the unified solidarity among trade unions, civil and political activists, and associations representing teachers, workers, women's rights advocates, retirees, and students in condemning this inhumane verdict."



In this statement, emphasis is placed on the Woman, Life, Freedom movement as one of the foremost movements in contemporary Iranian history, achieving notable milestones such as women and girls taking leadership roles in demanding rights from the government.



The Iranian Teachers' Trade Association underscored that "the recent rise in security and judicial actions against active women across various social sectors can be understood and analyzed from this standpoint."



The Iranian Teachers' Trade Association based in Tehran also stated: "The detention of trade union, civil, and political activists and the imposition of severe judicial sentences, which escalated following the Mahsa/Jina movement, underscore a widening divide between the populace and the government, reaching its apex in recent years."



They continued: "Reversing death sentences for political and civil activists, particularly the one imposed on Sharifeh Mohammadi, and releasing all labor, trade union, political activists, and advocates for women's rights, could represent an initial step by the government in narrowing this gap. However, a clear path toward achieving this remains elusive."



Mohammadi, a former member of the Coordinating Committee to Form Workers' Organizations, was detained in December 2023 and sentenced to death on July 4 by the Revolutionary Court on charges of "rebellion."



The sentence is based on accusations by the Ministry of Intelligence of the Islamic Republic that Mohammadi was a member of the armed Kurdistan-based Komala Party, an accusation Mohammadi, her husband, Sirous Fathi, and Komala have strongly denied.



Additionally, the Coordinating Committee to Form Workers' Organizations, of which Mohammadi was a member in the 2000s, has also refuted the charges against her.
Israel's national Holocaust museum opened a new conservation facility in Jerusalem on Monday that will preserve, restore and store its more than 45,000 artifacts and works of art in a vast new building, including five floors of underground storage.

Yad Vashem, the World Holocaust Remembrance Center, serves as both a museum and a research institution. It welcomes nearly a million visitors each year, leads the country's annual Holocaust memorial day and hosts nearly all foreign dignitaries visiting Israel.

"Before we opened this building, it was very difficult to exhibit our treasures that were kept in our vaults. They were kind of secret," said Yad Vashem chairman Dani Dayan. "Now there's a state-of-the-art installation (that) will help us to exhibit them."

The David and Fela Shapell Family Collections Center, located at the Yad Vashem museum in Jerusalem, will also provide organization and storage for the museum's 225 million pages of documents and half a million photographs.

Dayan said the materials will now be kept in a facility that preserves them in optimal temperatures and conditions.

"Yad Vashem has the largest collections in the world of materials related to the Holocaust," Dayan said. "We will make sure that these treasures are kept for eternity."

The new facility includes advanced, high-tech labs for conservation, enabling experts to revisit some of the museum's trickier items, such as a film canister that a family who fled Austria in 1939 brought with them. It was donated to the museum but arrived in an advanced state of decay.

"The film arrived in the worst state it could. It smelled really bad," said Reut Ilan-Shafik, a photography conservator at Yad Vashem. Over the years, the film had congealed into a solid piece of plastic, making it impossible to be scanned.

Using organic solvents, conservators were able to restore some of the film's flexibility, allowing them to carefully unravel pieces of it. Using a microscope, Ilan-Shafik was able to see a few frames in their entirety, including one showing a couple kissing on a bench in a park and other snapshots of Europe before World War II.

"It is unbelievable to know that the images of the film that we otherwise thought lost to time" have been recovered, said Orit Feldberg, granddaughter of Hans and Klara Lebel, the couple featured in the photo.

Feldberg's mother donated the film canister, one of the few things the Lebels were able to take with them when they fled Austria.

"These photographs not only tell their unique story but also keep their memory vibrantly alive," Feldberg said.

Conservation of items from the Holocaust is an expensive, painstaking process that has taken on greater importance as the number of survivors dwindles.

Last month, the Auschwitz Memorial announced it had finished a half-million-dollar project to conserve 3,000 of the 8,000 pairs of children's shoes that are on display at the Nazi concentration camp in Poland.
Israel launched a large airstrike Saturday on the southern Gaza Strip that it said targeted the commander of Hamas' military wing, Mohammed Deif. Hamas said at least 90 Palestinians were killed and more than 300 wounded, while senior Hamas official Khalil al-Haya told Al-Jazeera that Deif had not been killed.



"We say to [Prime Minister Benjamin] Netanyahu that Mohammad Deif is listening to you right now and mocking your lies," al-Hayya told Al-Jazeera.



At a news conference, Netanyahu said that Israel will eventually get to all of Hamas' military leaders and said that Deif, whom Israel has repeatedly tried to assassinate, was responsible for the deaths of many Israelis.



"His hands are steeped in the blood of many Israelis," Netanyahu said. "At the beginning of the campaign, I laid down a rule: The Hamas murderers are dead men, from the first to the last."



Hamas officials said the strike hit inside a strip of land on the Mediterranean Sea known as al-Mawasi, where Israel said Palestinians would be safe if they evacuated other areas of Gaza according to Israeli demands.



Hamas said in a statement that Israel's statement about targeting Hamas leader is false.

"The Israeli allegations are nonsense, and they aim to justify the horrifying massacre. All the martyrs are civilians and what happened was a grave escalation of the war of genocide, backed by the American support and world silence," Sami Abu Zuhri told Reuters. He also said the strike showed Israel is not interested in reaching a cease-fire agreement.



The Israeli airstrike came amid reports of progress in the cease-fire talks that would lead to freedom for the remaining Israeli hostages in Gaza in exchange for a prolonged cease-fire in Gaza and freedom for thousands of Palestinian prisoners.



Weekly demonstrations in Israel calling on the government to accept the cease-fire have grown in both numbers and intensity. At a demonstration Saturday night, protester Ayala Metzger said she hoped the attack on Deif would not derail the hostage negotiations.



"I don't know about Mohammed Deif," she said. "I know that keeping the war is bad for all of us. It needs to be stopped, and we need to bring the hostages back. I think Netanyahu, if he killed Mohammed Deif, so he now has his picture of victory? So, bring them back now  that's it."



There are 120 Israeli hostages still in Gaza, although at least 43 of them have been declared dead. Israeli officials say time is running out for those who are still alive and are pressing for Israel to accept the U.S.-backed deal on the table for a three-phase cease-fire.



Israeli analysts say that if Deif was killed in the airstrike, Hamas could suspend the cease-fire talks in response. The Israeli army also told Israelis to prepare for possible rocket strikes by Hamas. In the early weeks of the war, Hamas fired thousands of rockets into Israel, but that rocket fire has diminished considerably since then.



Israel says the shadowy Deif was one of the architects of the October 7 terror attacks that sent thousands of Hamas fighters into Israel and killed about 1,200 Israelis, as well as taking some 250 hostages, about 100 of whom were returned in a November cease-fire deal.

In response, Israel's counteroffensive in Gaza has killed more than 38,200 Palestinians, according to the territory's health ministry, which does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count. In May, Israel estimated the death toll at 30,000, and said that most of the dead are combatants.



Close to three-quarters of Gaza's 2.3 million population is displaced, and nearly the entire population is at risk of famine, according to the United Nations.
As federal investigators try to piece together a motive for 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, the man identified as the would-be assassin of former President Donald Trump, they are finding more questions than answers.

FBI officials cautioned Sunday the investigation is still in the early stages but said that the information they have so far been able to uncover has failed to turn up any reason Crooks decided to take aim from a rooftop overlooking the campaign rally.

We do have some limited insights into recent communications that he's made texts and phone call detail information that thus far has not revealed anything with regard to motive for the involvement or knowledge of anyone else in this, FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate told reporters.

Other officials say it appears Crooks was acting alone. And they said while they have yet to crack the password and gain access to his mobile phone, his social media activity gives little indication of any ideology.

Discord, a social media platform popular with gamers, said Sunday it had discovered an account that appears to be linked to Crooks, and appeared to back the FBIs conclusions.

It was rarely utilized, has not been used in months, a Discord spokesperson confirmed in a statement to VOA. We have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence, or discuss his political views.

In the meantime, some of those who knew Crooks have started speaking out.

Jason Kohler told reporters Sunday that he attended high school with Crooks in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, describing him as a loner and an outcast.

He was, like a kid that was always alone. He was always bullied, Kohler told reporters Sunday. He was bullied so much.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, according to a statement from the school district to a local media outlet. Local media reports show he was given a $500 award for math and science.

Kohler said he never had much interaction with Crooks, who noted would sit alone during lunch and often was targeted by other kids for the way he often wore hunting outfits or how he continued to wear a mask after COVID mask mandates ended.

You could look at him and you would be like, 'something's a little off, Kohler observed.

The description is just part of the picture that is starting to emerge of Crooks, who was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service agents after climbing to the roof of a building and firing five to six shots at Trump during a campaign rally Saturday in nearby Butler, Pennsylvania.

Law enforcement officials said Sunday they found a rudimentary bomb in Crookss car and home, and that the AR-style rifle he used in the shooting had been purchased by his father.

Crookss father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN late Sunday he was trying to find out what the hell is going on but would wait until I talk to law enforcement before saying anything more.

Public records show Thomas Crooks had no prior convictions and was a registered Republican, like Trump.

And FBI officials said prior to the attempted assassination, Crooks had never been brough to the attention of law enforcement.

Officials also said they have so far not found any indications Crooks suffered from mental health issues.

Meanwhile, the Pentagon said Sunday it determined Crooks had no connection to the U.S. military.

We've confirmed with each of the military service branches that there is no military service affiliation for the suspect with that name or date of birth in any branch, active or reserve component in their respective databases," according to a statement from the Pentagon press secretary, Major General Pat Ryder.

Some information for this article came from The Associated Press and Reuters.
An appeals court in Pakistan on Saturday acquitted former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his wife of charges their 2018 marriage was in breach of Islamic law, a crime for which both had been serving seven-year sentences.

However, authorities promptly re-arrested Khan, the 71-year-old most popular Pakistani politician, and his third wife, Bushra Bibi, citing new charges against them, including corruption and inciting violence against the powerful military and other state institutions.

The two were found guilty in February of allegedly breaking Islamic law by failing to observe the mandated three-month interval between Bibi's divorce from a previous marriage and their marriage.

The federal court ruled Saturday that the prosecution had failed to prove its case, and "consequently, both the appellants are acquitted of the charge." It added, "They are directed to be released forthwith if not required to be detained in any other case."

But Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) political party said that following the acquittal verdict, authorities issued new arrest warrants and prevented the couple from leaving the prison near the capital, Islamabad.

Khan was initially convicted and sentenced on corruption charges last August. He received three back-to-back convictions, including the one related to his marriage, and long prison terms as well as disqualification from politics just days before the February 8 national election.

The rapid judicial actions prompted the former prime minister and his party to accuse Pakistan's powerful military of influencing court proceedings to block Khan from running again and undermine PTI campaigning.

Despite repeated convictions and a nationwide state crackdown on PTI supporters, Khan-backed candidates won 93 of 266 seats in the National Assembly, the lower house of Parliament. All of Khan's sentences have since been overturned or suspended, and he was supposed to walk out of jail on Saturday.

"Mr. Khan has been arrested in 3 more cases. Yet another gimmick to keep the illegal imprisonment prolonged," a PTI statement said, rejecting as baseless new charges of anti-state violence and corruption against Khan and his wife.

The PTI warned that the political turmoil gripping Pakistan since the former prime minister was removed from power in 2022 through a parliamentary vote of no confidence would only worsen by keeping Khan in jail despite his acquittals.

Saturday's ruling came a day after Pakistan's Supreme Court declared that the PTI was unconstitutionally denied at least 20 seats in the National Assembly, citing pre-poll manipulation by the country's election commission. That verdict dealt a critical blow to the country's ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, who is believed to be backed by the military.

Friday's top court verdict would further enhance the PTI's strength and turn it into the largest parliamentary party. However, observers say it does not immediately threaten Sharif's coalition government, which came to power after the highly contentious February vote.

"It is now hoped that this judgment will preclude the kind of blatant engineering that defined this last general election," Pakistan's prominent English-language DAWN newspaper wrote in an editorial Saturday. "The government and establishment must not stand in the way of its implementation," the paper said.

The reference to establishment collectively refers to the military and spy agencies it leads. The military has staged several coups against elected governments and governed Pakistan for more than three decades since it gained independence in 1947.

Politicians, including Khan, have publicly claimed that generals influence national political affairs even when not in power, charges the army denies.
Russia took advantage of the assassination attempt on former U.S. President Donald Trump to attack American liberal values, describing what it called a suicide of democracy, and predicting a civil war and the dissolution of the United States.

Kremlin press secretary Dmitry Peskov said U.S. President Joe Biden and the Democratic Party have put Trumps life in obvious danger and provoked his assassination attempt by trying but failing to remove him from the presidential race, using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate.

The FBI said Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was the suspect in the attempted assassination of Trump. Biden said Sunday, the shooting was contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, everything. Its not who we are as a nation. Its not American. And we cannot allow this to happen.

Contrary to the Kremlins claims, the separation of powers concept is not merely a paragraph in the U.S. Constitution but a working system, and President Biden has no control over the judiciary or the legislative branch of the government.

An array of top Russian lawmakers, diplomats and newsmakers pushed a narrative that the attempt on Trumps life confirmed the American type of democracy is wrong, and deeply corroded.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said the attempt on Trumps life was all about the American democracy, which the liberals brought to the verge of suicide. The dissolution of the United States does not look like such an impossible prophesy any longer, Zakharova said.

Russias state news agency, RIA Novosti, featured the analysis from its top propagandist, Piotr Akopov.

Akopov played around Trumps 2016 election promise to drain the Washington swamp to claim that the swampers have been biting at their elbows and regretting they did not kill him before November 2016.

The Democratic Party did not plot to kill Trump, but the attack was the result of an atmosphere of hatred they have been nurturing for the last eight years, Akopov wrote.

He then speculated that it came as no surprise that the Secret Service only saw the shooter after he made eight shots, because with Trumps rising popularity, killing him has become a scenario with no alternative for the deep state Washington swamp.

Akopov repeated the conspiracy theory about killing Trump being the only option five times in his 600-word piece.

While Akopovs analysis is merely a hybrid of propaganda, disinformation and conspiracy theories, he is an essential player in the Kremlins domestic messaging. Thousands of local news agencies and websites republish RIA Novosti publications across Russia and the countries of the former Soviet Union in Central Asia and Eastern Europe.

For foreign audiences, Russia utilizes the social media platforms like X, formerly Twitter, and a network of 270+ accounts of the Russian embassies and consulates worldwide, all boosting the Kremlins narratives in many different languages.

The Russia Embassy in South Africa is one of the most prominent propaganda superspreaders on X.

To a photograph of Trumps bloodied face, the diplomatic mission added a commentary accusing the Democrats of being incapable of tolerance but capable of perpetrating any crime for the sake of their 'ultimate goal.'

X users reminded the embassy in South Africa of the death of Alexey Navalny, Russian President Vladimir Putins fiercest opponent, in prison earlier this year.

Navalnys widow, Yulia Navalnaya, and numerous international institutions and governments accused Putin of ordering Navalnys assassination. Germany and the United Nations Organization for the Prohibition of Chemical Weapons said the Russian FSB poisoned Navalny with military-grade nerve agent Novichok in 2020.

Rights watchdogs say that during the two decades of Putins rule, Russia has seen a systematic oppression of political and civil liberties and the erosion of human rights and press freedom.
Rwandan President Paul Kagame wrapped up his reelection campaign Saturday, two days before voting takes place on Monday. The incumbent faces two opponents who say he has overstayed. Kagame tells reporters that his supporters want him to run for another term.

At a news conference following his last campaign rally, Rwandan President Paul Kagame told reporters that his priorities for the country hes been leading since 2000 will not change.

Priority No. 1 after weve gone through all of this is to continue to make as much progress as we can in the area of security and stability for our country, socio-economic development progress  we are building our country, growing it toward prosperity, he said.

This will be his fourth term if he wins reelection next week. Kagame faces two other candidates including the Democratic Green Partys Frank Habineza, who ran against him in 2017 and says the president has stayed around for way too long. Habineza told VOA hes successfully campaigned in most of the 30 districts across the country recently, and voters have been more enthusiastic this time around.

I am giving them hope that after 30 years, we really need to see a different way of living, different political programs, different thinking, and a different vision. We are not going to destroy the good things that have been done before, but we want to give them better hope and a better future, he said.

Kagame joked at the news conference that he never wanted to be president, saying that it was his party that insisted he get into the race in 2000. Decades later, his supporters tell him they want him to run for another term.

Every day I am being asked when are you leaving, when are you going? These people who made me president are telling me they still want me to be president. Somebody else somewhere says no you are here too long. I really get confused. I think this is not fair, he said.

The 66-year-old leader is expected to cruise to an easy victory. One reason, according to critics, is that he has stifled dissent. But another, analysts say, is the way hes been able to guide the East African country toward internal peace since the 1994 genocide, when an estimated 800,000 Tutsis and moderate Hutus were killed by Hutu extremists.

Eric Ndushabandi is a political science and international relations professor at the University of Rwanda, and an associate researcher at the Louvain University in Brussels. He said Kagames support has been there because of his efforts to address Rwandans need for stability after the genocide.

The language, practice and success around stabilization and security, mainly in internal politics, is joining the expectations and aspirations of many Rwandans after this tragic and historical background, he said.

Ndushabandi also said there is a big gap between the presidential candidates in terms of popularity, ideology, means, and capacity.

Other candidates were barred from the race by the National Electoral Commission for various reasons. One was a fierce Kagame critic, Diane Rwigara, who the commission said did not provide a criminal record statement and did not collect the minimum number of supporters signatures.
Gunshots that shattered the air during a campaign rally  part of an attempt to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump  are putting a new focus on an already fraught threat landscape that has put national security officials on edge for more than three years.

New York Mayor Eric Adams announced late Saturday he is surging police to certain areas out of an abundance of caution, following the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, that killed one person, and which saw Trump leave the stage with blood on his face.

The events that unfolded at todays rally in Pennsylvania are horrific, Adams posted on the X social media platform. Political violence has no place in this country.

The possibility of political violence has been a major concern for the U.S. Homeland Security Department as far back as January 2021, when it issued a bulletin warning that emboldened domestic extremists could mobilize following the breach of the U.S. Capitol earlier that month.

The most recent Homeland Security assessment, in September, warned of a high risk from a potential attack, pointing to lone offenders or small group attacks that occur with little warning.

It further warned the 2024 elections could be in their crosshairs, and that attacks could be directed at "government officials, voters, and electionsrelated personnel and infrastructure, including polling places, ballot drop box locations, voter registration sites, campaign events, political party offices, and vote counting sites."

It is not surprising at all to see this, Colin Clarke, director of research at the global intelligence firm The Soufan Group, told VOA.

Tensions have been building on both sides of the political spectrum and extremists have taken root, he said, cautioning that the shooting could make the coming days and weeks more dangerous.

Rachel Kleinfeld, a senior fellow at the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace and an expert on political violence, told VOA the potential for violence could impact lesser-known politicians and more local races.

America has been facing skyrocketing threats of political violence for a number of years against politicians and candidates at every level, from school board to, now President, she said.

Kleinfeld said it will take more than increased security to keep additional violence at bay.

Political leaders should also be making statements condemning all political violence, which has no place in a democracy, she said. We know that leaders' statements matter.

FBI Director Christopher Wray told lawmakers in June the threat environment remained perilous.

We view the domestic terrorist threat as being persistent, I should say, and significant," Wray said.

There have also been repeated warnings about continuing attempts by Russia and Iran, especially, to poison the U.S. social media landscape and inflame tensions.

An assessment from the U.S. Office of the Director of National Intelligence, issued Tuesday, accused Moscow of seeking to amplify domestic divisions ahead of the November presidential election.

It further accused Tehran of acting as a chaos agent, seeking to stoke social divisions and undermine confidence in U.S. democratic institutions.

Whether and how these factors played a role in the shooting at the Trump rally Saturday is still under investigation, but some analysts say it was likely only a matter of time before anger turned into action.

There is so much we don't know about what happened, so there is nothing but speculation, Clarke said.

My main concern, he said, is that this could lead to a spiral of violence and could come to characterize the remainder of the election season.
The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed Sunday to respond to what she called a fresh South Korean civilian leafleting campaign, signaling North Korea would soon resume flying trash-carrying balloons across the border.

Since late May, North Korea has floated numerous balloons carrying waste paper, scraps of cloth, cigarette butts and even manure toward South Korea on a series of late-night launch events, saying they were a tit-for-tat action against South Korean activists scattering political leaflets via their own balloons. No hazardous materials have been found. South Korea responded by suspending a 2018 tension-reduction deal with North Korea and resumed live-fire drills at border areas.

In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said that "dirty leaflets and things of (the South Korean) scum" were found again in border and other areas in North Korea on Sunday morning.

"Despite the repeated warnings of (North Korea), the (South Korean) scum are not stopping this crude and dirty play," she said.

"We have fully introduced our countermeasure in such situation. The (South Korean) clans will be tired from suffering a bitter embarrassment and must be ready for paying a very high price for their dirty play," Kim Yo Jong said.

North Korea last sent rubbish-carrying balloons toward South Korea in late July. It wasn't immediately known if, and from which activists' group in South Korea, balloons were sent to North Korea recently. For years, groups led by North Korean defectors have floated huge balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets, USB sticks containing K-pop songs and South Korean drama, and U.S. dollar bills toward North Korea.

Experts say North Korea views such balloons campaigns as a grave provocation that can threaten its leadership because it bans official access to foreign news for most of its 26 million people.

On June 9, South Korea redeployed gigantic loudspeakers along the border for the first time in six years, and resumed anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts.

South Korean officials say they don't restrict activists from flying leaflets to North Korea, in line with a 2023 constitutional court ruling that struck down a contentious law criminalizing such leafleting, calling it a violation of free speech.

Kim Yo Jong's statement came a day after North Korea's Defense Ministry threatened to bolster its nuclear capability and make the U.S. and South Korea pay "an unimaginably harsh price" as it slammed its rivals' new defense guidelines that it says reveal an intention to invade the North.
Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan and Syrian President Bashar Assad have recently signaled that they are interested in restoring diplomatic ties that have been ruptured for more than a decade.

Erdogan has said that he hopes to arrange a meeting with Assad soon for the first time since the countries broke off relations in 2011 as mass anti-government protests and a brutal crackdown by security forces in Syria spiraled into a still-ongoing civil war.

Speaking at a NATO summit in Washington on Thursday, Erdogan said he had called on Assad two weeks ago to either come to Turkey for the meeting or to hold it in a third country, and that he had assigned Turkey's foreign minister to follow up.

Turkey backed Syrian insurgent groups seeking to overthrow Assad and still maintains forces in the opposition-held northwest, a sore point for Damascus.

This is not the first time that there have been attempts to normalize relations between the two countries, but previous attempts failed to gain traction.

Here's a look at what might happen this time around:

What happened at their last talks

Russia, which is one of the strongest backers of Assad's government but also has close ties with Turkey, has been pushing for a return to diplomatic relations.

In December 2022, the Turkish, Syrian and Russian defense ministers held talks in Moscow, the first ministerial level meeting between rivals Turkey and Syria since 2011. Russia also brokered meetings between Syrian and Turkish officials last year.

However, the talks fizzled, and Syrian officials publicly continued to blast Turkey's presence in northwest Syria. Assad said in an interview with Sky News Arabia last August that the objective of Erdogan's overtures was "to legitimize the Turkish occupation in Syria."

What's different now

Russia appears to once again be promoting the talks, but this time around, Iraq  which shares a border with both Turkey and Syria  has also offered to mediate, as it previously did between regional arch-rivals Saudi Arabia and Iran.

Aron Lund, a fellow with the Century International think tank, said Iraq may have taken the initiative as a way to deflect pressure from Turkey to crack down on the Kurdistan Workers' Party, or PKK, a Kurdish separatist group that has waged an insurgency against Turkey since the 1980s and has bases in northern Iraq.

By pushing rapprochement with Syria, Baghdad may be trying to "create some form of positive engagement with the Turks, kick the can down the road, and deflect the threat of an intervention," Lund said.

The geopolitical situation in the region has also changed with the war in Gaza and fears of a wider regional conflict. Ozgur Unluhisarcikli, an analyst on Turkey and director of the German Marshall Fund in Ankara, said that both countries may be feeling insecure and seeking new alliances in the face of the war's potential regional ripple effects.

What Turkey and Syria want

From Erdogan's side, Unluhisarcikli said, the attempt to engage is likely driven in part by the increasing anti-Syrian sentiment in Turkey. Erdogan is likely hoping for a deal that could pave the way for the return of many of the 3.6 million Syrian refugees living in his country.

From the Syrian side, a return to relations with Turkey would be another step toward ending Assad's political isolation in the region after more than a decade as a pariah due to his government's brutal crackdown on protesters in 2011 and alleged war crimes afterward.

And despite their differences over Turkey's presence in northwest Syria, Damascus and Ankara both have an interest in curtailing the autonomy of Kurdish groups in northeast Syria.

Turkey may be concerned that the security situation in northeast Syria could deteriorate in the event that the U.S. withdraws troops it currently has stationed there as part of a coalition against the Islamic State militant group, Unluhisarcikli said. That could require Turkey to "cooperate or at least coordinate with Syria, to manage the aftermath of the U.S. withdrawal," he said.

Joseph Daher, a Swiss-Syrian researcher and visiting professor at the European University Institute in Florence, said the two governments likely hope for modest "economic gains" in a rapprochement. While trade never completely stopped, it currently goes through intermediaries, he said, while restoring diplomatic relations would allow official commerce to resume and make trade more fluid.

The prospects for an agreement

Analysts agreed that the talks are unlikely to bring about the full Turkish withdrawal from northwest Syria that Damascus has called for or any other major shift in conditions on the ground in the near term.

Although the two countries' interests "actually overlap to a large degree," Lund said, "there are also major disagreements" and "a lot of bad blood and bitterness" that could impede even "lower-level dealmaking." Both Erdogan and Assad may also want to wait for the outcome of U.S. elections, which could determine the future American footprint in the region, before making a major deal, he said.

In the long run, Lund said, "The logic of the situation dictates Turkish-Syrian collaboration in some form. ... They're neighbors. They're stuck with each other and the current stalemate does them no good."

Unluhisarcikli agreed that a "grand bargain" is unlikely to come out of the present talks, but the increased dialogue could lead to "some confidence building measures," he said.

Daher said the most probable outcome of the talks is some "security agreements" between the two sides, but not a full Turkish withdrawal from Syria in the short term, particularly since the Syrian government army is too weak to control northwest Syria by itself.

"On its own, it's not able to take back the whole of the northwest  it needs to deal with Turkey," he said.

How people in Turkey and Syria view a potential agreement

In Turkey and in government-controlled Syria, many view the prospects of a rapprochement positively. In northwest Syria, on the other hand, protests have broken out against the prospect of a normalization of relations between Ankara  which had previously positioned itself as a protector of the Syrian opposition  and Damascus.

Kurds in Syria have also viewed the potential rapprochement with apprehension. The Kurdish-led authority in northeast Syria said in a statement that the prospective reconciliation would be a "conspiracy against the Syrian people" and a "clear legitimization of the Turkish occupation" of previously Kurdish-majority areas that were seized by Turkish-backed forces.
One of America's largest financial institutions is on a hot streak on Wall Street. Shares of Bank of America (NYSE: BAC) returned an impressive 18% between January and June, exceeding the S&P 500's 15% return.

The megabank is a household name and the second-largest holding in the portfolio of investing legend Warren Buffett. It shows that great stock ideas don't necessarily need to come out of nowhere.

But the timing of when you buy a stock can matter a lot, so it's fair to question whether Bank of America still has strong return potential over the latter half of 2024.

Management's vote of confidence

Bank of America is the country's second-largest bank, with more than $3.2 trillion in total assets. And given that it's a pillar of the U.S. financial system, it's important that it remain in tip-top financial shape. It recently passed its annual stress test, a mandatory annual evaluation established after the Great Recession to ensure that systemically important U.S. banks remain sufficiently capitalized to withstand a severe economic downturn.

Based on the test results, Bank of America's minimum Tier 1 Capital Ratio will be boosted from its current mandated 10% to 10.7% starting Oct. 1. Its ratio as of March 31 was 11.9% -- well in excess of both figures. In other words, Bank of America is doing more than the regulatory minimum to cushion itself from potential economic trouble.

In late June, management also announced plans for an 8% dividend hike that will take effect in Q3. While it won't deliver its Q2 earnings results until mid-July, such a solid hike announced in advance seems like a vote of confidence from management that things are going well.

Interest rate cuts could benefit Bank of America

In 2022, the Federal Open Market Committee began aggressively raising the federal funds rate -- the interest rate banks charge each other for overnight loans -- to cool surging inflation. High inflation is like the grease fire in your grill on July Fourth. Left unchecked, rampant inflation hurts consumers. Rate hikes are the metaphorical fire extinguisher; ideally, they slow the economy enough that inflation decreases to a healthy low-single-digit percentage rate.

It has been almost a year since the last of the Fed's rate hikes, and the economic data are showing their impact. Unemployment is creeping higher, the housing market has slowed, and inflation has dropped dramatically.

US Existing Home Sales Chart

These trends have fueled speculation that the Fed will begin cutting rates in the fall. Why cut rates? The central bank's goal is to tame the fire, not put it out. Keeping rates high for too long risks dragging the economy into recession. All banks are exposed to broad economic conditions -- recessions take a toll on their businesses and their stock prices.

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Rate cuts could reduce Bank of America's net interest income (the loan interest it receives minus the interest it pays on deposits). However, lower rates could boost economic activity enough to offset those lost profits -- for example, by loosening up the housing market and boosting mortgage volumes.

Additionally, the Fed's rate hikes pushed the value of bonds lower. As a result, Bank of America is now sitting on unrealized losses of more than $100 billion in its bond portfolio. Although it can avoid taking those losses simply by holding all those bonds to maturity -- and it plans to -- it would be less painful if they regained some of their value due to rate cuts. So overall, rate cuts could prove a net positive for Bank of America.

Is the stock a buy today?

Nobody can know for sure if or when a recession might occur, nor can anyone reliably predict such an event's severity. That's why investors shouldn't buy or sell Bank of America stock based on speculation. Instead, they should pay attention to management's commentary during earnings and look for signs of confidence, such as when a company announces a dividend hike ahead of its usual schedule.

Assuming the U.S. economy remains stable, is Bank of America a buy today?

Investors can value the company based on its earnings and tangible book value. During the past decade, shares have averaged a price-to-earnings ratio of about 15 and a price-to-tangible-book-value ratio of 1.4, and their valuations are on par with those averages today. Additionally, analysts believe Bank of America's earnings will grow by more than 8% annually for the next three to five years.

BAC PE Ratio Chart

Based on management's confident dividend raise, a fairly valued stock, healthy earnings estimates, and the potential for rate cuts in the second half of the year, shares still look like a buy.

If the stock sticks near its long-term valuation averages, investors could see total annual returns of 10% to 11% from earnings growth and dividend yield. That wouldn't be as impressive as the shares' performance during the past six months, but the stock could still be a strong contributor to your portfolio.

Should you invest $1,000 in Bank of America right now?

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Former U.S. President Donald Trumps Republican Party opens its nominating convention Monday, with Trump set to be officially anointed the partys presidential candidate later this week, as federal authorities work to unravel unanswered questions about a shooter who tried to kill Trump at a Saturday rally.

Security is sharply in focus for the convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, but federal law enforcement agencies say they are not planning any changes to their already extensive security measures.

We are confident in the security plans for this event and we are ready to go, Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the U.S. Secret Service's coordinator for the convention, said at a televised briefing Sunday. We are not anticipating any security changes.

Trump told The Washington Examiner newspaper that his address at the convention Thursday was set to be really tough and focus on U.S. President Joe Bidens policies but will now include calls for national unity.

This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together. The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago, Trump told the newspaper.

Biden said Sunday the shooting was contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, everything. Its not who we are as a nation. Its not American. And we cannot allow this to happen.

He pledged that the Secret Service would give Trump every resource capability and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.

Biden also said he expects Republicans this week to criticize his record, while offering their own vision for the country, and that he will be using his own events this week to promote his administrations work.

I'll continue to speak out strongly for our democracy, stand up for our Constitution and the rule of law, to call for action at the ballot box, no violence on our streets, Biden said. That's how democracy should work.

Suspect

The FBI said it has identified a suspect but had not yet established a motive for Saturdays assassination attempt at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The law enforcement agency said 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was the subject involved in the shooting. Bystanders outside the security perimeter of the area where Trump was speaking said they yelled at police to no avail when they spotted the gunman crawling up the roof of a nearby building with a weapon.

The gunman was able to fire multiple shots, hitting Trump in his right ear, killing one spectator at the rally and critically wounding two others before a Secret Service sniper killed the suspect. An AR-15-style rifle was found near the suspects body.

Crooks, who graduated from high school two years ago, had been working as a dietary aide at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

He was a registered Republican. But when he was 17, Crooks also made a $15 political donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing.

Trumps wife, former first lady Melania Trump, who was not at the rally, said in a social media post Sunday: A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine.

She added, For those of you who cry in support, I thank you. I commend those of you who have reached out beyond the political divide  thank you for remembering that every single politician is a man or a woman with a loving family.

In a social media post, Trump said he was fine. He was released from the hospital late Saturday.

The shooting incident immediately raised questions about the level of Secret Service protection provided to Trump, although the security agency rejected as absolutely false an assertion by some Trump supporters that the Secret Service turned down a request for more security for Trump.

"In fact, recently the U.S. Secret Service added protective resources and capabilities to the former presidents security detail, an agency spokesperson said.

Andrew McCabe, a former deputy director of the Federal Bureau of Investigation, told CNN that authorities, in planning for the outdoor rally, had failed to eliminate sightlines to the stage where Trump spoke, either by positioning a physical barrier between the building from where the gunman fired and the rally stage or by posting law enforcement personnel nearby to block any access to the rooftop.

Republican leaders in the House of Representatives said they will launch an investigation into the incident and asked Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to attend a hearing on the matter. A hearing is scheduled for July 22.

Analysts warned the assassination attempt could upend a fiercely fought presidential campaign and further divide American society.

This is an exceptionally dark day in America  an exceptionally dark day in our democracy. Possibly the most serious act of political violence we've seen since 9/11 at least, said Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations.

Today the world changed, said George Washington University professor Casey Burgat.

There will be partisan finger-pointing about how and why this happened, but across the political spectrum, we will rightfully hear a unified rejection of all political violence. I can only hope the latter wins out, Burgat said.

VOA's Serbian Service, Katherine Gypson and Ken Bredemeier contributed to this story. Some information for this story was provided by The Associated Press, Agence France-Presse and Reuters
The shooting of presumptive Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump at a rally Saturday drew swift condemnation from U.S. lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," House Speaker Mike Johnson said.

Within moments of Trump being rushed off stage to safety in Butler, Pennsylvania, many congressional Republicans posted on social media platform X, formerly Twitter, an Associated Press photo of the former president visibly bloodied but still standing, raising his fist in the air as he was surrounded by his Secret Service detail.

One of the front-runners to become Trump's choice for vice president, Republican Senator Marco Rubio posted the AP photo to X, writing "God protected President Trump."

Republican Senator Ted Cruz also posted the photo to X, calling Trump's response "Extraordinary. God bless President Trump."

Senate and House Democratic leadership swiftly condemned political violence.

"I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said on X.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries wrote on X, "America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable."

The former president was addressing a crowd of supporters ahead of the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week. Trump is set to officially become his party's nominee at the convention, where security has been extremely tight.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell said, "Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics."

Democratic Representative Jared Huffman, who launched a group in opposition to Project 2025, a set of conservative policy proposals for a second Trump administration, wrote on X, "All of us, regardless of our politics, must condemn and work to end the scourge of political violence. It is NEVER justified. NEVER OK."

The shooter and one person attending the rally were reported dead, while another attendee is reportedly in critical condition.
More than 24 hours after a lone gunman tried to assassinate former U.S. President Donald Trump, the shooters motivations remain a mystery.

FBI agents have descended on Butler, a small city in a rural part of western Pennsylvania trying to piece together why 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks climbed to the top of a roof overlooking a Trump campaign rally and fired multiple shots, injuring the former president, while killing one spectator and critically injuring two more.

Officials said late Sunday they are treating Saturdays shooting both as an attempted assassination and as a domestic terrorism incident, adding that while investigators have been able to gain limited insights into Crooks recent communications, the calls and texts have yet to shed light on why he chose to act.

Our number one goal here is to identify the motive of the subject and determine whether he had any other associates or anyone else that was involved at this point, FBI Special Agent-in-Charge Kevin Rojek told reporters during a phone briefing Sunday.

It appears that he was a lone actor, Rojek said. We have not identified an ideology associated with the subject, but I want to remind everyone that we're still very early in this investigation.

Looking for insight into the shooter

Secret Service agents killed Crooks at the scene, but law enforcement officials are hoping they may be able to get additional insights soon.

Along with an AR-style rifle recovered alongside Crooks body, they recovered a mobile phone during a search of Crooks vehicle. The phone has been sent to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia, for analysis.

Officials are optimistic they will be able to access the contents, perhaps revealing more about Crooks mindset.

We are working hard to determine the sequence of events related to the subject and his movements and the hours, days and weeks prior to the shooting, Rojek said.

The phones contents might help shed light on what officials described as a rudimentary explosive device, found in Crooks car, and additional explosive material found at his home.

The FBI said Crooks family has been cooperating, including the father, who legally purchased the gun used in the attempted assassination.

We do not know specifically how he accessed the weapon and whether he took it without his father's knowledge, Rojek told reporters, adding the FBI is trying to understand the shooters affinity for weapons and how much, if any, times he went to the range.

Officials said they scoured Crooks social media account, which so far has shown no indications of threatening language. Crooks had not previously been brought to the FBIs attention and there are no indications he suffered from any mental health issues.

Ongoing probe

U.S. President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the investigation earlier Sunday.

"There is no place in America for this kind of violence," Biden said, briefly addressing reporters at the White House Sunday afternoon, adding the attempted assassination is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation.

"I've instructed that this investigation be thorough and swift, and that the investigators will have every resource they need to get this done," Biden added.

FBI Director Christopher Wray, speaking separately, called the Trump assassination attempt absolutely despicable.

The men and women of the FBI are working tirelessly to get to the bottom of what happened, Wray told reporters. We will leave no stone unturned.

In addition to the ongoing examination of the site of the shooting, the FBI has been encouraging anyone who has information or may have been at the rally and took photos or video to contact them.

Officials said they have received more than 2,000 tips, which are all being analyzed.

Threat landscape

The FBI warned Sunday that while the shooter acted alone, the threat landscape has become more perilous than before.

Although the rhetoric regarding threats of violence has already increased online, we're seeing that tick up in the aftermath of this event, said FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate, who warned some individuals have gone on social media, fanning tensions by pretending to be the shooter.

Abbate said the FBI is watching for additional streams or chatter which could indicate threats to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week or the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month.

We're also focused on the continuing efforts, which were already substantial given that their national special security events, on the upcoming conventions in Chicago and Milwaukee to work with Secret Service in the lead to play our part in protecting the people and the facilities and the events there, as well, he said.

Watch related report by Arash Arabasadi:

Apparent security lapses

Meanwhile, President Biden has ordered a separate investigation into the apparent security lapses that allowed a would-be assassin to get within shooting range of a former president.

According to witness accounts and videos posted online, the shooter was seen holding a rifle and crawling up the roof of a nearby building moments before the shots rang out. Several bystanders could be heard yelling to get the attention of nearby police.

Some officials also expressed concern that the shooter fired five to six times before being stopped.



Key lawmakers Sunday labeled the attempted assassination as a security failure and said they are seeking answers.

How is it that someone could get on a roof with a superior position, with a weapon, and attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump? It's just unthinkable, unfathomable said Representative Mike Turner, the Republican chairman of the House Intelligence Committee.

We need to know, is this a protocol failure? Is this a resources issue? Or is this just a failure of those who were on site that day? Turner told CNN, adding his committee had yet to be briefed on the developments.

Turner also raised concerns about the threat landscape going forwarI am with Director Wray of the FBI, where he said we're at the highest level, threat level, that we have had since 9/11, said Turner. I believe that the threat is continuing. It's not just this one individual's assassin's attempt.

The House Homeland Security Committee chairman, Republican Representative Mark Green, spoke late Sunday with U.S. Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle, a committee source told VOA.

The source said Cheatle committed to providing requested documents to the Committee promptly, and plans to brief the entire committee Monday.

Green "continues to seek answers to the many questions the American people deserve to know," the spokesperson said.

Green also sent a letter to the Department of Homeland Security, asking for documents related to the security plan and screening procedures for the rally and what sort of additional protective measures had been asked for, or given to, the Trump campaign.
Presidents, prime ministers and international organizations worldwide condemned the political violence and assassination attempt targeting former U.S. President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

U.S. authorities are still investigating the shooting.

U.S. President Joe Biden said he spoke with Trump Saturday night in what Biden described as a short and good conversation. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, Biden told reporters Sunday.

The State Department declined to comment on private diplomatic conversations between Secretary of State Antony Blinken and his counterparts. Blinken posted on X, formerly Twitter, that he was "shocked and saddened" by the shooting at former President Trumps rally and grateful that he is safe.

Argentina

Argentine President Javier Milei said in a post on X that the apparent assassination attempt showed the "desperation of the international left" and its willingness to destabilize democracies and promote violence to screw itself into power."

Australia

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the "inexcusable attack" on democratic values.

He told reporters at the Australian Parliament House, "In Australia, as in the United States, the essence and the purpose of our democracies is that we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully.

Bangladesh

The prime minister of Bangladesh, Sheikh Hasina, condemned the attempt on Trumps life. Speaking at a news conference in Dhaka, Hasina described the attack as "truly tragic." "The United States, as a torchbearer for democracy in the world, how could such a thing happen there?" she asked.

Brazil

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, in a pinned social media post, said that the shooting during the campaign rally is unacceptable and must be "vehemently repudiated" by all defenders of democracy.

His predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, a close ally of Trump, expressed solidarity with what he called the world's greatest leader of the moment." Bolsonaro was stabbed in the abdomen at a campaign event ahead of the 2018 presidential election, which he won.

Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau expressed his dismay at the shooting, saying his thoughts were with Trump, those at the event and all Americans.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable," he wrote on X.

China

The Chinese foreign ministry said in a statement that President Xi Jinping has expressed sympathies to Trump and that China is following the shooting incident.

Djibouti

Djibouti President Ismail Omar Guelleh vehemently denounced the reprehensible and alarming assassination attempt on Trump. He wrote on X, Political violence is a grave threat to global stability, must be unequivocally condemned and outlawed.

Egypt

Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi emphasized his country's condemnation of the attack in a statement and wished for the U.S. election campaigns to resume peacefully.

Ethiopia

Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed said he was deeply shocked by the attack targeting Trump. Abiy wrote on X that he wished the American people a peaceful and democratic election season.

The European Commission



European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on X she was deeply shocked by the shooting, adding that political violence has no place in democracy.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron sent his wishes to Trump for a speedy recovery. It is a tragedy for our democracies. France shares the shock and indignation of the American people, he posted on X.

Germany

In a post on X, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said the attack was "despicable" and such acts of violence threaten democracy. He said his thoughts are with all those who were affected.

Greece

Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis expressed his shock at the attack on Trump. "Political violence is unacceptable in our democratic societies," he wrote on X.

Gulf Cooperation Council

Jasem Al-Budaiwi, secretary-general of the Gulf Cooperation Council, condemned the attempted assassination of Trump. In a statement, Al-Budaiwi said that under no circumstances are terror and violence acceptable, adding that the incident goes against human values, morals, and standards.

Hungary

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said on X that his thoughts and prayers were with Trump "in these dark hours."

India

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he was deeply concerned by "the attack on my friend." "Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies," he wrote on X.

Iraq

Masrour Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, condemned the attack "in the strongest terms," saying on X his thoughts are with the victims of "this senseless act of terrorism."

Israel

Shortly after the shooting, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu wrote on X that he and his wife were "shocked by the apparent attack" on Trump and prayed for Trumps safety and speedy recovery.

At the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Netanyahu said he watched "in horror," adding that the attack was also an assassination attempt on American democracy."

Italy

Italian President Sergio Mattarella said in a statement the attack was a cause for serious alarm and "a disconcerting symptom of the deterioration of the civil fabric and of the dangerous refusal of confrontation, dialogue and respect for democratic life."

Meanwhile, Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni wished Trump a quick recovery.

Japan

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on X that he prayed for Trumps speedy recovery, adding, We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy.

On April 15,2023, Kishida was safely evacuated after a man appeared to throw an explosive device in his direction at a campaign event Wakayama, in western Japan. This after former Prime Minister of Japan Shinzo Abe was killed in April 2023 after being shot twice during a campaign speech near Nara, Japan.

Lithuania

Lithuanian President Gitanas Nauseda strongly condemned the act of political violence. "It has no place in democracy," he wrote on X.

Mexico

Mexico's outgoing president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, denounced the attack on X and said, "Violence is irrational and inhumane."

NATO

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg condemned the attempted assassination on Trump. On X, Stoltenberg said, Political violence has no place in our democracies and that the Atlantic alliance stands together to defend freedom and values.

Nigeria

Nigerian President Bola Ahmed Tinubu said the attack was distasteful and went beyond the pale of democratic norms.

Violence has no place in democracy, he wrote on X, and said, Nigeria stands in solidarity with the United States of America at this time.

Organization of American States

Luis Almagro, secretary-general of the Organization of American States, said he condemned "in the strongest terms" the attack against Trump. "Violence has absolutely no place in an election, in politics or in our societies," he wrote on X.

Pakistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif described the shooting as a "shocking development," condemning all forms of political violence and wishing Trump a swift recovery and good health.

Imprisoned Pakistani opposition leader and former Prime Minister Imran Khan, who was shot and injured at a rally in November 2022, wished Trump a full recovery. "Political violence is a tool of cowards and has no place in a democracy," he said on X.

Philippines

Philippine President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. wrote on X, It is with great relief that we receive the news that former President Donald Trump is fine and well after the attempt to assassinate him.

Together with all democracy loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme, Marcos added.

Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin currently has no plans to call Trump, according to Kremlin spokesperson Dmitry Peskov.

On Sunday, the Kremlin said it did not believe the current U.S. administration was responsible for Saturday's assassination attempt on Trump, but it criticized the "atmosphere created" by the current U.S. administration "during the political struggle."

Saudi Arabia

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia expresses its condemnation and denunciation of the attempt on the life of Trump and its complete solidarity with the U.S., the former President, and his family, Saudi's Foreign Ministry said in a statement, adding that the Kingdom rejects "all forms of violence."

Singapore

The prime minister of Singapore, Lawrence Wong, said he was relieved to hear reports that Trump is safe and recovering well. Wong wrote on X, We should never resort to violence regardless of any differences of views.

South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa wrote on X that the attempted assassination "is a stark reminder of the dangers of political extremism and intolerance."

Ramaphosa also voiced his hope that "the citizens and leaders of America will have the fortitude and sagacity to reject violence and seek peaceful solutions."

South Korea

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol said he was appalled by the hideous act of political violence. The people of Korea stand in solidarity with the people of America, he wrote on X.

Slovakia

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who survived an assassination attempt in May, condemned the shooting. In a Facebook post, Fico drew a direct comparison between the two incidents and suggested that the attack on Trump was "scripted like through a copybook," implying it was orchestrated by Trump's political opponents.

Taiwan

Taiwan's president, Lai Ching-te, said on X his thoughts and prayers are with Trump. Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims affected by the attack.

Turkey

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the assassination attempt and expressed solidarity. "I believe that the investigation into the attack will be conducted most effectively to ensure there is no shadow over the U.S. elections and global stability, Erdogan wrote on X.

Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was relieved to learn that Trump is now safe.

I am appalled to learn about the shooting, Zelenskyy wrote on X. Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail.

United Nations

Secretary-General Antonio Guterres unequivocally condemned this act of political violence and sent his best wishes to Trump for a speedy recovery, U.N. spokesperson Stephane Dujarric said.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack, describing it as "a criminal and extremist act."

United Kingdom

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X that he was appalled by the "shocking scenes," and sent his best wishes to Trump and his family.

"Political violence in any form has no place in our societies," he said.

British lawmaker Nigel Farage, who is a friend of Trump, sought to place much of the blame on the "mainstream media, which he claimed opposed the former U.S. president. Speaking to the BBC, he described the incident as "horrendous," although he said he was not entirely surprised by it.

Uzbekistan

President Shavkat Mirziyoyev of Uzbekistan, in a post on Telegram, strongly condemned the attack and the act of violence. He wished Trump a speedy recovery.

The Vatican

The Vatican press office released a statement on Sunday expressing concern about the violence, which it said, "wounds people and democracy, causing suffering and death." The statement added that the Holy See is "united in the prayer of the U.S. bishops for America, for the victims, and for peace in the country, so that the motives of the violent may never prevail."

Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the attack during a campaign event in the town of Guacara. "We have been adversaries, but I wish President Trump health and [a] long life, and I repudiate the attack," Maduro added.



Some information for this report came from The Associated Press and Agence France-Presse.
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Zimbabwe's opposition Movement for Democratic Change's communications director Chengetai Guta has described as unacceptable an attempt by an American to assassinate former US President Donald Trump, who was addressing an election rally yesterday.l (VOA)
Dining chat: A waiter gave our anniversary bubbly to the table next to us. What should we have done?
A Munster Technological University-led project, 'Springwool', which focuses on removing obstacles and providing a springboard for innovation in the Irish-grown wool sector, has received 574,683 from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine.

The project is being run in collaboration with Atlantic Technological University, Technological University of the Shannon and University College Dublin.

Pictured from left: Dr. Tim Yeomans, MTU; Dr. Emma Murphy, TUS; Minister Martin Heydon; and Leo Murray, ATU.

The funding was announced as part of 22.3 million the Department is providing for 21 new research projects.

Minister of State with special responsibility for Research and Development at the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine, Martin Heydon TD, announced the funding at an event at Farmleigh Estate, marking the official launch of the successful tranche II projects from the 2023 Thematic Research Call.

The funding comes at a time when farmers are getting little in return for their wool; it costs farmers about 3.50 to shear a sheep with a return of roughly 20 cent/kg for the fleece.

This funding will go towards key research to help create a brighter future for Irish-grown wool.

The different strands of research show the great potential of Irish wool. One application involves treating wastewater from scouring wool. Another examines repurposing waste wool to create compost.

There are also uses in cosmetics, medical device and healthcare through the extraction of ceramides and keratin from the wool.

Speaking at the event, Minister Heydon said, This investment will help equip the Irish agriculture, food, forest and bioeconomy sectors with the science and technology they need to become even more sustainable and competitive into the future.

Dr Tim Yeomans, Centre Manager, Shannon Applied Biotechnology Centre (MTU), said, We are delighted to receive this funding from the Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine to support the Irish-grown wool sector.

"This is the most significant amount of funding ever allocated to wool research in Ireland and was driven by the publishing of the Wool Feasibility Study in 2022, and with the support of the Irish Grown Wool Council and the Wool Research Hub.

"Given the opportunities for Irish-grown wool, we feel it will be the first of many projects that will help to support and develop this sector and provide a fair return to farmers for what should be a valuable resource.
A sisterhood of clean beauty Renfrew had already started and sold one company  a wedding e-commerce site  before becoming obsessed with the chemicals in skin care products, she told The New York Times in 2018. Beautycounter, which she founded in 2011 and is based in Santa Monica, California, helped popularise the idea of clean beauty  promising never to use an extensive list of additives, including formaldehyde and synthetic fragrances. She called on a community of ardent promoters, most of them women, to sell to their families, friends and neighbours. Not only did they hawk sugar scrubs, cleansers and creams, but they also sold the idea of selling by recruiting others. And they got a cut of all the sales in their networks. The brand took off. At one point, Beautycounter counted 60,000 sellers, first referred to as consultants and, after Carlyle bought the brand, as advocates. Renee Hill, who lives outside Nashville, Tennessee, started selling Beautycounter products in 2016, just a few weeks before the birth of her fifth child. She introduced her mother and close friends to the brand. Over time, she personally recruited about 40 people, who then brought in others and expanded her network to 400 sellers, giving her a yearly income in the low six figures.

Hill had been approached about other multilevel marketing gigs in the past but had turned them down. Beautycounters clean beauty promise felt different, she said. It made it really easy as well to not feel slimy about offering somebody a network marketing opportunity, she said, because I felt so passionately about what we were doing and how we were doing it. Renfrew treated the independent sellers as a crucial part of her team, sharing details about the business and personal ones about herself, too. They even joined Renfrew on trips to Washington, where they lobbied for more regulation in the personal care industry. The sellers were motivated: In 2020, the company, which became profitable the previous year, hit $US395 million in sales, according to two people familiar with the financials. Going mainstream Almost as soon as Carlyle bought the brand, however, sellers started to leave, and Beautycounter sales started to drop. It was a shocking reversal for the company, which had seen sales grow sharply month after month for years.

The board, which was controlled by Carlyle and included Renfrew, grew concerned and decided to bring on a new chief executive with expertise in the mainstream beauty industry. Marc Rey, who had held senior roles at LOreal USA and Shiseido, took over in February 2022. He split his time between Miami and the Santa Monica headquarters, where Renfrew, who was given the title of chief brand officer, was based. Renee Hill, a former Beautycounter seller, shows her remaining Beautycounter products at a table inside her home in Tennessee. Credit: NYT A few months into Reys tenure, the company dropped a bomb: Top sellers would be subject to a new compensation system that drastically reduced their commissions. In multilevel marketing companies, a big chunk of the profits goes to sellers rather than to investors or back into the company. Ahead of the sale to Carlyle, to make Beautycounter more profitable, Renfrew outlined a plan to change the compensation structure by no longer giving sellers a commission from their recruits personal purchases, three people familiar with the discussions said. That structure was not unusual for multilevel marketers.

Renfrew wanted to tell the sellers and give them a year before the plan went into effect. But the company announced the change in April 2022, and it took effect two months later. Loading When Hill, the seller in Tennessee, received her monthly cheque in June, it was more than 60 per cent less than the previous months. She spent the next few days calling around to people in her network and was distressed to hear that some of them, too, were being hit. Its one thing when youre impacted, Hill said. Its another thing when you bring your entire network of people that have looked to you and trusted you for leadership to see them impacted. That July, Rey held a Zoom call with sellers who collectively brought in tens of millions of dollars. He told them that he would go to bat for them, according to a lawsuit against Beautycounter, Carlyle and Renfrew that was later filed in Minnesota by sellers.

Still, according to the lawsuit and three people on the call, Rey took a dismissive tone, telling the sellers not to overreact to the changes. Sellers sent one another texts with messages like WTF, as they tried to keep the shock from showing on their faces. Even more alarming to sellers, according to the lawsuit, Rey attacked the founding ethos of the company. The sellers, he said, should stop emphasising clean beauty because it was no longer sexy or a clear differentiator in the beauty industry. Instead, Rey said, the new sexy was the environment. (Rey was not named as a defendant in the suit.) Jennifer Shawgo, a plaintiff in the suit whose network of more than 1000 sellers had generated $US35 million in sales over the years, was shocked. Were like, But thats why were all here, she said. Rey denied saying the sellers were overreacting. Nor did he say the company should stop emphasising clean beauty, he added, but rather he said it should differentiate the brand in other ways as well. At a time when a lot of brands claimed that they were clean, Rey wrote in an emailed statement, I did state that it was important for us, as a brand, to also explain that the company tested for safety and was socially conscious.

The pressure from the independent sellers pushed the company to drop the new compensation plan. But in the meantime, some sellers tried to make up for lost income by working with other multilevel marketers. They were stunned when Beautycounter sent them warnings that a nonsolicitation agreement prevented them from recruiting any of the people they had brought to Beautycounter, according to interviews and another suit filed by sellers against Beautycounter in California. Jay Sammons ran Carlyles consumer products business when the company invested in Beautycounter. He has since moved on and founded SKKY Partners with Kim Kardashian in 2022. Credit: Dominic Lorrimer In the California suit, plaintiffs said these agreements had been included in policies and procedures that they could see only after agreeing to the terms and conditions to enroll. They argued that the sellers do not sign them, have no opportunity to negotiate them and, in many cases, have never even seen them until Beautycounter attempts to use the nonsolicitation restriction against the consultants. At the top of the company, things began to spiral. In July 2022, Sammons, who had been Renfrews closest contact inside Carlyle, left the firm. (He eventually started a private equity firm with Kim Kardashian.) By the end of that year, Renfrew left the business and resigned from the board. Carlyle put in an additional $US65 million in late 2022 and early 2023.

With Carlyles blessing, Rey spent more than $US10 million upgrading the companys outdated technology and hired consultants. He made a deal with Ulta, one of the largest beauty retailers, to sell Beautycounter products. Still, even though sales of prestige beauty products in general rose 14 per cent in 2022, sales at Beautycounter continued to fall. In May 2023, Rey was asked to resign, too. Mindy Mackenzie, a Carlyle executive and Beautycounter board member, stepped in as interim chief executive and started cutting staff and external consultants. With a burst of hope for the holiday season, the company rolled out a new website in October 2023. It was the culmination of the millions that Carlyle had spent to upgrade the technology. But even that effort was troubled. The site often crashed, and its once user-friendly parts  like the way it would repopulate addresses and loyalty rewards information  stopped working. The companys demise

In January, Beautycounters top salespeople attended a conference at the Four Seasons Resort Oahu at Ko Olina in Hawaii. The mood was darkened by the website meltdowns and the stream of departures; Beautycounter had roughly 35,000 sellers, almost half as many as when Carlyle bought the brand, one person familiar with the companys financials said. But then Renfrew surprised the gathering by announcing that she had returned to run the company. Carlyle had wooed her back to boost sales and morale. The audience cheered. What they didnt know as they celebrated was that Carlyle would soon walk away from the business. Carlyle had been looking for a buyer since August. In mid-March, Carlyle handed the business over to its lenders, Bank of America and JPMorgan Chase, which would be in charge of selling what was left. For Carlyle, that meant effectively giving up on a $US700 million investment, valuing it at zero. In April, the company went into foreclosure, and Renfrew bought the rights to the Beautycounter name and other assets from its lenders for several million dollars. A few weeks later, she stunned the sellers when she announced that it would take months to restart the company. She and a team are working to resuscitate the clean beauty brand by the end of the year. But even if she revives the company, she might not be able to count on a loyal and enthusiastic sales force. Some former sellers blame her as well as Carlyle for the demise of the company  and their livelihoods.

Hill, who is a plaintiff in the California suit, stopped selling Beautycounter products in July 2022. Soon after, a letter from the company warned her not to recruit sellers in her network to new multilevel marketing companies. She acquiesced to that demand and has struggled to build a business with two other direct selling companies. Loading At Beautycounter, she was her familys main breadwinner, bringing home $US177,000 a year; shes now earning $US19,000, according to the suit. Theres a lot of damage that has been done, Hill said. I dont believe I could ever step back into that space. Carlyle is getting out of the space, too. In addition to exiting Beautycounter, Carlyle, under a new chief executive, said it would no longer invest in US consumer and retail companies.
At some restaurants, the table-clearing process is similar to an ace team of mechanics swooping on a grand-prix car when it pulls into the pit. But we dont always make it easy for waitstaff.

This story is part of the July 13 edition of Good Weekend. See all stories .

One of the things I always appreciate about dining out is the way the table is cleared at the end of the meal. When empty plates disappear without you even realising, youre in good hands. When theyre stacked and scraped in front of you, youre probably not.

Its a joy to watch a hospitality professional do the job well  one who can hold two plates with the fingers of one hand, balance a third securely on the forearm and take a fourth in the other hand, without even a clink.

Photo: Illustration by Simon Letch

The technique changes depending on the level of dining, and its particular heritage and culture.

At the traditional Singaporean diner, Temasek, in Parramatta, the process is similar to an ace team of mechanics swooping on a grand-prix car when it pulls into the pit. Three staff members bearing a huge stainless-steel bowl will descend on a large table covered with masses of dishes, piling the small dishes inside and slotting the large ones around the edge. The whole thing is wiped clean and reset in less than a minute.
Yet when I shared this story, it was often met with shock and awe that my father would be interested in anything beyond baking a welcome cake for the Grim Reaper. Although many believe that octogenarians are frail, dotty and ready to call it a day, this perception is slowly changing, explains Dr Anne Ring, author of Engaging with Ageing . One of the interesting things about living longer and healthier lives is that women  and men, of course  have the time to explore opportunities that perhaps werent possible when they were younger, Ring says. This might mean embarking on a new career theyd always had their heart set on, or investing in a new hobby, because this is a time when you lose a lot of that fear that held you back previously; ageing is very freeing.

My father was 83 when he discovered the joy of snorkelling. On holiday together in New Caledonia, I can still remember the joy on his face when he emerged from the water and whipped off his mask, marvelling at the brilliant pops of coral and fish that hed only ever seen on a screen. All these years wasted, he cried. How did I not know this existed?

By this age, youre in a comfortable space about yourself and who you are Credit: Rolfe De Guzman

I have lived many lives within my 80 years, from school teacher and mother raising four children on a farm in rural Victoria, to travelling the world extensively with my husband back when he was a member for the International Olympic Committee; we campaigned for Sydney to become the host city for the year 2000. There were careers in various industries between those two points, too  everything from tourism to running a John Farnham concert, but this is a roundabout way of explaining that Ive always been a big believer in seizing every opportunity that comes your way.

I didnt expect to become a model at my age. When my daughter convinced me to sign up with Silverfox Mgmt [a modelling agency representing talent over 30], I didnt think Id be suitable and only did it to humour her. The team at the agency, however, were very encouraging, so I auditioned for several campaigns and within a few months, I had been chosen to appear in the Mothers Day campaigns for both Paspaley and Country Road. Of course, when youre my age, its difficult to stand side-by-side with the beautiful young models, but the shoots were so much fun and the outcomes were incredible. I couldnt believe it when I walked into a Country Road store and there I was on a huge screen.

Ive never felt invisible because  ironically  visibility is something I never looked for. True, women my age have traditionally been overlooked in mainstream media, but thats all beginning to change now that brands are recognising that were the ones with the spending power. Why not advertise to our age group using people who look like us, wrinkles and all? There were many older women walking the catwalk at the Melbourne and Australian Fashion Weeks and thats no happy accident. Its nice to flip the script on the way some sections of our society view what they call the blue-rinse brigade.

There are challenges that come with modelling in your 80s. The technology, all those file transfers, halo lights and other tools when youre trying to arrange auditions can be a nightmare, but life in general is wonderful. By this age, youre in a comfortable space about yourself and who you are; youve seen interesting things so youve got great stories, but youve also got time to create more. Recently, I went on a backpacking adventure to Italy with my daughter, and were going to the Olympics in Paris. Ive had a very fortunate journey so far and Im looking forward to whats next.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size This story is part of the July 14 edition of Sunday Life. See all 14 stories . In a storied and quite diverse career, actor Natalie Portman has taken a grand jete from roles like Nina Sayers in Black Swan and the regal, Empire-challenging Queen Amidala in the Star Wars franchise, to a more elegant iteration of the hammer-wielding Thor in the Marvel movies. Trying to assign a box-office value to her body of work got us to $8 billion with the big-ticket stuff, and not enough time to tally up the rest. Shes not a woman of a million faces, yet the 43-year-old finds the girl in the mirror as challenging as she is compelling. I like to think I have quite a strict boundary between who I play and who I am, and that work is an opportunity for me to act out behaviours that are very different from my life, Portman says. Because why do anything that I could actually just do in real life? I always wanted to be an astronaut or a rock star or a woman whos really ruthlessly ambitious, things I dont identify with, where you get the opportunity to dip your toe in another life and live another life for a moment. The elaborate make-up and costumes worn by Queen Amidala created a reflection in the mirror quite different to the one Portman usually sees. But a role such as Maddie Schwartz in the new Apple TV+ series, Lady in the Lake, creates a reflection that maintains its familiarity. Inevitably you bring yourself and your soul to that, and theres some kind of connection that draws you through it that you have to also incorporate, Portman says. Thats why you have to be careful about what you do, because you can absorb things unconsciously. Its definitely a tug between two extremes: one, that theres a strict boundary between the role and oneself, and two, that theres a meshing of role and self. Id say its a tug of war between the two.

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Lady in the Lake is based on the novel of the same name by Laura Lippman, about Maddie Schwartz, a Jewish housewife living in Baltimore in the 1960s. Maddie leaves her family to become an investigative journalist after a series of shocking murders, including that of an 11-year-old girl and a young woman, Cleo Sherwood, whose life is unexpectedly connected to Maddies own. For a story thats largely about two women trying to get free, to have women writing that experience is pretty crucial. NATALIE PORTMAN Portman was first approached for the role by the late director, Jean-Marc Vallee, and his producing partner, Nathan Ross. One of Hollywoods most gifted directors, Vallees television work includes two critically acclaimed HBO series, Big Little Lies (2017) and Sharp Objects (2018). Vallees death from cardiac arrhythmia at 58, just prior to the start of filming, was a shock to Hollywood as the Quebecois filmmaker had been instrumental in the reshaping and elevation of limited series on television. Many of the jigsaw pieces that make Lady in the Lake work  that its an adaptation of a powerfully authentic literary work, and that it has a writers room almost entirely powered by women  are hallmarks of Vallees approach. In this case, the writing team was led by Alma Harel, who also directed the series. Writers can bring their own experience and their own perspective on the world into the writing, Portman says. So, for a story thats largely about two women trying to get free, to have women writing that experience is pretty crucial. Obviously writers should be able to write about things far outside their experience, but I think there is a special knowledge that a very deep understanding of the lived experience brings. Portman says her acting choices are based on knowing she will have an interesting experience. Credit: Jess Ruby James/Trunk Archive/Snapper The series includes scenes which, in 2024, seem extraordinary. In one, Maddie is unable to sell her car without her husbands signature. It is really shocking and almost begs to be fact-checked, Portman says. Youre like, no, thats not possible.

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But this was not Portmans first encounter with Americas dated gender dynamics. She had been offered, but ultimately turned down, the lead role in Mimi Leders 2018 biography On the Basis of Sex, about the life and early cases of trailblazing American litigator Ruth Bader Ginsburg. One of the details [in that story] was that while Ginsburg was a law professor and fighting in the Supreme Court against discrimination on the basis of gender, she went to interview one of her prospective clients, and couldnt rent a car without her husbands signature, Portman says. Portman was born in Jerusalem in 1981, but by the age of nine was living in Long Island, New York. She studied ballet and modern dance at the American Theatre Dance Workshop and, at the age of 11, landed a role in the musical Ruthless!, about a girl willing to kill to land the lead in the school play. By her own admission, the real Natalie is not that ambitious. It also set her on course towards Australia. Baz Luhrmann cast her as Juliet in his 1996 masterpiece Romeo + Juliet but she didnt stay in the role because she was too young for the weight of the material. She finally made it Down Under to film the second and third Star Wars episodes, Attack of the Clones and Revenge of the Sith, which were shot in Sydney. I dont have any way of predicting whether something will be lasting, even something like Star Wars. NATALIE PORTMAN It was a complicated period in her life  finishing high school, then turning 21 while filming the Star Wars films, then beginning an academic life at Harvard University. Portman lived in Australia again in 2020/21 while filming Thor: Love and Thunder, this time with her then-husband, Benjamin Millepied (the couple split in 2023), and her two children, son Aleph and daughter Amalia. Her acting choices, she says, are based on knowing she will have an interesting experience, because thats the only thing I can really count on. And then its just a beautiful surprise if something actually is meaningful. Its usually a very belated surprise because you only know after 20 years or so if its something that people care about.

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The process, she says, is very mysterious. [Even] after 30 years of doing this, I dont have any way of predicting whether something will be lasting, even something like Star Wars, which was already an important cultural touchstone when I became part of it. We got such bad reviews when we came out that it felt like, oh god, this might be completely forgotten and discarded, Portman adds. And then [it was so pleasing] to see it re-embraced 20 years later, especially by people who were kids when it first came out. How her other work will endure is hard to measure. Black Swan remains a masterpiece, and it gave Portman an Academy Award for best actress, not to mention a BAFTA, a Golden Globe and a Screen Actors Guild award. Other work, such as A Tale of Love and Darkness, which Portman wrote and directed, matter simply because of the depth of her emotional investment. Loading And a work such as Lady in the Lake speaks to such potent themes  complex shifts in gender equality, antisemitism and racial prejudice in mid-20th century America  that it is easy to feel its impact. Portman took the role because she was drawn to the way it explored the connections between Baltimores black and Jewish communities. Cities like Baltimore, which were once quite prosperous, then later experienced troubles as industries left  I dont want to paint too bleak a portrait, but its US history in microcosm to explore that story. There is also a personal connection. Portmans grandmother, Bernice Hurwitz, was born in Baltimore. For my mothers 70th birthday I did a huge family ancestry project and so much of our family roots were in Baltimore. Thats where my great-grandparents migrated to from Eastern Europe, and they are buried there.

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Mary Kostakidis, a respected former newsreader and public face of the national multicultural broadcaster, SBS, is accused of misusing her public standing and social media following to share extreme and hateful speech against Jews.

In a complaint to be filed with the Australian Human Rights Commission, Zionist Federation of Australia chief executive Alon Cassuto alleges that Kostakidis breached racial discrimination laws by promoting a speech by Hezbollah secretary-general Hassan Nasrallah, in which he said there was no place for Jews in Israel and the occupied territories.

Former SBS newsreader Mary Kostakidis, pictured in 2008, is accused of spreading hate speech. Credit: Adam Hollingworth

In his speech, Nasrallah said that if Jewish people wanted to feel secure, they should go to the United States or Britain. Here, you dont have a future. From the river to the sea, the land of Palestine is for the Palestinian people and the Palestinian people only.

Sharing a link to the speech on her social media account on January 4, Kostakidis declared: The Israeli govt getting some of its own medicine. Israel has started something it cant finish with this genocide.
Washington: Ive been to more Donald Trump rallies than I can count, and every time Ive been in the crowd, I have feared that something as awful as this would happen.

Knowing how divided the US is, Ive often wondered: is it only a matter of time?

Supporters wait for Donald Trump to take the stage ahead of the chaos. Credit: AP

I reported, for example, on that chilling night in 2022 when a far-right conspiracy theorist broke into the home of the then House speaker, Nancy Pelosi, and bludgeoned her husband with a hammer, hoping to take Pelosi hostage if she had been there at the time.

I was around too, in the aftermath of the US Supreme Court decision to overturn abortion rights in America, when an armed man went to the home of conservative justice Brett Kavanaugh, hoping to assassinate him.
Washington: Donald Trump has suggested taking a joint cognitive test with US President Joe Biden for the good of the country as they edge closer to an election rematch most Americans say they dont want.

One day after Biden held a solo news conference hoping to stop the defections in his ranks, Trump challenged his rival to prove he was capable of being president and suggested that cognitive tests should be compulsory for everyone vying for the White House.

President Joe Biden at a campaign event in Detroit on Friday. Credit: AP

Joe should immediately take a cognitive test, and I will go with him, and take one also, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. For the first time well be a team, and do it for the good of the country.

And from now on, all presidential candidates should be mandated to take a cognitive test and aptitude test, regardless of their age!!!
Apple's (NASDAQ: AAPL) stock has popped 18% in the last month. Various factors have driven growth, such as a first look at its artificial intelligence (AI) platform Apple Intelligence, reports of increased product sales, and expectations that the Federal Reserve could soon lower interest rates (which would allow for lower borrowing costs).

AAPL Chart

The rally is a welcome change after dismal growth for much of the first half of 2024. The chart above shows that up until June, Apple's stock had actually declined, underperforming when compared to some of its "Big Tech" rivals. Apple's lack of growth primarily stemmed from concerns over revenue declines in its products business and its lack of a position in AI.

However, the iPhone company appears to be turning things around with changes in its product strategy. Meanwhile, Apple has market trends on its side, with a bull market sending the S&P 500 up 56% since October 2022.

The tech giant appears to be on a growth path. Here are two reasons to buy Apple stock like there's no tomorrow during this bull market.

Earnings season is right around the corner

Apple's second-quarter results (posted May 2) were fairly positive, despite revenue dipping 4% year over year. Net sales of $91 billion beat Wall Street expectations by $190 million. Meanwhile, earnings per share (EPS) of $1.53 rose above forecasts by about $0.03. After significant growth in its digital-services division, the company enjoyed an overall rise in gross profit margins, hitting 47%.

However, Apple could be in for an even better Q3 2024 (which it will report Aug. 1), with expected boosts in its Mac and iPhone segments.

Data from IDC shows a PC market recovery has continued into the second quarter, rising 3% year over year. Lenovo, HP, and Acer experienced increases between 2% and 14% during the period. However, Apple delivered the most growth, with sales in its Mac segment soaring 21%.

Moreover, recent reports indicate a significant boost to iPhone sales in China, Apple's third largest market. According to Bloomberg, iPhone shipments in the East Asian country jumped 40% in May after rising 50% in April. Sales in China have been a sore point for Apple this year, declining 8% year over year in Q2 2024 amid rising competition from domestic brands like Huawei.

Apple has responded to the declines with heavy discounts on its products, which appear to be paying off. Discounts can sometimes be a short-term solution to a problem. However, consumers' tendency to rarely switch operating systems when it comes to smartphones could play in Apple's favor as the sales potentially create long-term customers.

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The coming iPhone release will likely unveil Apple's next push into AI

Like clockwork, Apple unveils its latest iPhone lineup every September, and 2024 is no different. However, this year's iPhone launch could be one of its most crucial to date, with the company expected to extend its push into AI.

iPhone sales decreased 10% year over year in Q2 2024, alongside declines in other product segments. As the highest-earning part of Apple's business, the smartphone division appeared to be in need of an overhaul. As a result, Apple is strategically using its AI expansion to boost iPhone and other product sales.

In June, the company announced Apple Intelligence, an AI platform created to enhance user experience across its lineup. Tools such as image and language generation, significant upgrades to Siri that will allow access to OpenAI's ChatGPT, and more are meant to simplify everyday tasks with AI.

During the presentation, Apple revealed only iPhone 15 Pros and higher will be able to access Apple Intelligence. Meanwhile, Mac and iPad users will need devices equipped with the company's M1 through M4 chips to enjoy the features.

Apple Intelligence is slated for a fall release, just in time for the launch of the iPhone 16. It's unknown what other features the new smartphone will include, but it will be the first iPhone explicitly designed with AI in mind. As a result, the smartphone could boost sales in the coming months and encourage shoppers to upgrade to other products in the lineup that have access to Apple Intelligence.

Bloomberg reported on July 10 that Apple has told suppliers it's targeting about 10% growth in iPhone 16 shipments after iPhone 15 sales hit 81 million in the second half of 2023.

Potentially worth its premium price tag

Apple's stock is trading at about 35 times its forward earnings, which means it doesn't offer the best value. However, its proven ability to increase profit margins and cash flow could make it worth its premium price.

Boosts in product sales will likely lead to further growth in its digital-services segment as users take advantage of the new AI features. The company's AI push has opened the door to countless growth opportunities and ways to monetize its offerings in the coming years.

In addition to hitting $102 billion in free cash flow this year, Apple remains an attractive long-term buy that could be on the brink of a rally.

Should you invest $1,000 in Apple right now?

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John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fool's board of directors. Dani Cook has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Alphabet, Amazon, Apple, HP, and Microsoft. The Motley Fool recommends the following options: long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

A Bull Market Is Here. 2 Reasons to Buy Apple Stock Like There's No Tomorrow. was originally published by The Motley Fool
Chinese start-ups with global ambitions still make attractive investment targets, according to the founder of Shanghai-based venture capital firm 01VC, which is gearing up to invest between US$2 million and US$3 million in each of up to 10 companies in the next two years.

Despite challenges ranging from an economic slowdown to a protracted property slump, China's economy still grew 5.2 per cent last year, while accounting for 30 per cent of global manufacturing, making its companies well-positioned for global expansion, Ian Goh, founding partner at 01VC, said in an interview.

"The trend of Chinese companies going abroad is becoming more and more apparent in recent years," he said. "Onshoring, where Chinese companies build their factories in places like Vietnam or Mexico, bringing their automation technology and selling their products in those countries, is creating a great opportunity for investors like us."

Do you have questions about the biggest topics and trends from around the world? Get the answers with SCMP Knowledge, our new platform of curated content with explainers, FAQs, analyses and infographics brought to you by our award-winning team.

Focusing on robotics, consumer electronics, and business-to-business products and platforms, the VC firm is looking to invest in around 10 companies over the next two years out of a US$65 million fund that it closed at the end of 2023, he said, adding that 01VC's average ticket size is US$2 million to US$3 million.

The low valuations of Chinese companies, coupled with a shift towards caution among global investors, are creating a "buyer's market" for fund managers, Goh said.

"Globally, venture capital has raised too much money over the last few years," he said. "But now, there is no more capital investing for the sake of growth, ignoring fundamentals, and this creates a great opportunity for us to buy and invest."

Traditionally a backer of early stage, pre-revenue companies, 01VC increasingly finds itself investing in companies that are generating solid cash flow, as valuations in China have fallen to one to two times sales, from five to eight times previously. The firm now invests in rounds ranging from pre-A to Series B, Goh said.

"This is the environment that we're living in," he said. "You have to be brave to be a contrarian, and we're being a contrarian because we are still deploying money."

01VC manages four US-dollar funds and one yuan-denominated fund, totalling US$300 million in assets under management, Goh said, adding that the firm is in the planning stages of another yuan fund.

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The dollar funds are primarily backed by institutional investors, including family offices, funds of funds and foundations in Asia and the US, he said.

Ian Goh, founding partner at 01VC. Photo: Handout alt=Ian Goh, founding partner at 01VC. Photo: Handout>

A notable company in 01VC's portfolio is Hong Kong-based logistics company Lalamove, which announced plans last March to list on the city's stock exchange. This followed its confidential filing in the US two years earlier to raise at least US$1 billion through a public share sale.

Tymo, a start-up specialising in beauty electronics and fashion retail, and Hezhong Enterprise Cloud, a firm focused on cloud computing and database solutions, are among 01VC's most recent investments, according to Crunchbase.

This article originally appeared in the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the most authoritative voice reporting on China and Asia for more than a century. For more SCMP stories, please explore the SCMP app or visit the SCMP's Facebook and Twitter pages. Copyright  2024 South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.

Copyright (c) 2024. South China Morning Post Publishers Ltd. All rights reserved.
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE:CMG) shareholders have seen the share price descend 12% over the month. But that doesn't change the fact that the returns over the last five years have been very strong. In fact, the share price is 286% higher today. We think it's more important to dwell on the long term returns than the short term returns. The more important question is whether the stock is too cheap or too expensive today.

Although Chipotle Mexican Grill has shed US$7.0b from its market cap this week, let's take a look at its longer term fundamental trends and see if they've driven returns.

View our latest analysis for Chipotle Mexican Grill

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. By comparing earnings per share (EPS) and share price changes over time, we can get a feel for how investor attitudes to a company have morphed over time.

During five years of share price growth, Chipotle Mexican Grill achieved compound earnings per share (EPS) growth of 45% per year. The EPS growth is more impressive than the yearly share price gain of 31% over the same period. So it seems the market isn't so enthusiastic about the stock these days. Of course, with a P/E ratio of 61.09, the market remains optimistic.

You can see below how EPS has changed over time (discover the exact values by clicking on the image).

We like that insiders have been buying shares in the last twelve months. Even so, future earnings will be far more important to whether current shareholders make money. This free interactive report on Chipotle Mexican Grill's earnings, revenue and cash flow is a great place to start, if you want to investigate the stock further.

A Different Perspective

It's nice to see that Chipotle Mexican Grill shareholders have received a total shareholder return of 40% over the last year. That gain is better than the annual TSR over five years, which is 31%. Therefore it seems like sentiment around the company has been positive lately. Given the share price momentum remains strong, it might be worth taking a closer look at the stock, lest you miss an opportunity. While it is well worth considering the different impacts that market conditions can have on the share price, there are other factors that are even more important. For instance, we've identified 1 warning sign for Chipotle Mexican Grill that you should be aware of.

Chipotle Mexican Grill is not the only stock that insiders are buying. For those who like to find lesser know companies this free list of growing companies with recent insider purchasing, could be just the ticket.

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Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on American exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
James Cox

On Thursday, July 18th, Taoiseach Simon Harris will have completed 100 days in office.

Mr Harris was labelled the 'TikTok Taoiseach' by critics after he succeeded Leo Varadkar, but he has matched his prolific social media presence with a huge work rate.

'New energy'

When Mr Harris took over, he promised he would bring a "new energy" to the office.

While this may seem like a typical politicians' promise, he has lived up to that billing.

He starts his days most days by 7am and regularly works late into the evening, while hopping all over the country to meet colleagues, constituents and attend official events.

Taking ownership of migration issue

While Mr Varadkar was at the forefront of most issues in his first term, some had accused him of distancing himself from difficult areas like migration towards the end of his tenure.

Mr Harris moved immediately to take hold of the migration issue as Taoiseach.

The clearing of the tent encampment outside the International Protection Office on Dublin's Mount Street was only a quick fix as tents sprang back up along the Grand Canal.

The steel barriers in place along the Canal show the issue is far from handled.

However, opinion polls which show a slump in support for Sinn Fein, with many citing inconsistencies in their policy on migration, appears people are more satisfied with the Government's attempts to handle the issue now.

Simon Harris has lived up to his promise to bring a 'new energy' to the Taoiseach's Office. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Images

Recognition of Palestine

The Taoiseach was at the centre of Ireland's recognition of Palestinian statehood, which made international news.

While a lot of the work in the process had already been done by his predecessor Varadkar and Coalition partner, Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Mr Harris still deserves a lot of credit.

Defence Forces comments

Mr Harris "threw the Defence Forces under the bus" with his comments after a serving soldier was sentenced for the assault of a woman in Limerick, according to an employment lawyer and former army officer.

Cathal Crotty pleaded guilty to assaulting Natasha OBrien in 2022, and was handed a fully suspended sentence, prompting public outcry.

Following the case, the Taoiseach said: There are people in the Defence Forces who clearly knew this was happening, why did they do nothing? These are very serious questions and as Taoiseach I am not satisfied in relation to this, I am not satisfied at all.

Barry Crushell is an employment law solicitor and former army officer, who served with the United Nations on multiple deployments.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Mr Crushell pointed out that regulations prevent the Defence Forces from taking action against an individual before the criminal/civil courts before a case has concluded.

With this in mind, he argued that the criticism from Mr Harris and other politicians was unfair.

"The outcry, in particular from Harris, has not gone down well within the Defence Forces or among its former members. It feels as if Harris deliberately threw the Defence Forces under the bus.

"He will be well aware the Defence Forces has no power to suspend Crotty. The Defence Forces could not intervene at an earlier stage because to do so might have prejudiced the criminal case."

Anglo-Irish relations

Mr Harris stood firm when former UK prime minister Rishi Sunak claimed an influx of migrants crossing into the Republic from Northern Ireland was a sign of the infamous Rwanda deportation scheme working.

After Labour's landslide victory in the UK general election the scheme has been scrapped.

Mr Harris is due to travel to Downing Street to meet the new prime minister Keir Starmer soon, and he has expressed hopes of improved Anglo-Irish relations.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tanaiste Micheal Martin have formed a good working relationship. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Images

Coalition tensions

Some sources have indicated Fianna Fail TDs are unhappy at what they perceive to be Mr Harris taking credit for all of Government's achievements, but this is inevitable in a three-party coalition government.

However, Mr Harris' relationship with Mr Martin is understood to be solid.

General election timing?

While Mr Harris and Mr Martin continue to insist the Government will serve its full term to March 2025, this is unlikely.

This would mean fighting five by-elections, which would give Sinn Fein a chance to regain momentum.

Behind the scenes, the Government holding its own in the local and European elections, and Sinn Fein underperforming, is understood to have shifted thinking on an autumn general election.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, former minister for agriculture Ivan Yates suggested November 15th as the most likely general election date.

Mr Harris' decision, which will be made with Mr Martin and new Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman, could be the defining moment in his leadership.

Past taoisigh have not recovered after choosing the wrong time, while Mr Harris could end up in power again if he plays his cards wisely.
Local representatives have welcomed the announcement last week that the price ceiling for the First Home Scheme has been increased by 25,000 in County Mayo, to 350,000, which will result in more First-Time Buyers qualifying for the scheme.

The First Home Scheme provides 480 million of financial support to borrowers and facilitates them in purchasing a new home (or building their own home) that they could not otherwise do after combining their available mortgage and deposit.

By bridging the gap between the available mortgage, deposit and the price of the new home, the scheme will make the prospect of home ownership possible for many for the first time.

The changes, which take effect immediately, will allow additional first-time buyers to qualify for the scheme in Mayo. These people would have been ineligible for the scheme until now if the price of their chosen home was above the price ceiling for their local authority area, explained Fine Gael TD Michael Ring.

The new price ceilings mean that every new house in Mayo valued at 350,000 or less will be eligible for the scheme.

I am pleased that the changes made will make it easier for people in Mayo to avail of the scheme, which can help make home ownership in Mayo an achievable goal for more people, Deputy Ring continued.

Fianna Fail senator Lisa Chambers has also welcomed the improved conditions of the scheme and said it was further evidence that the governments Housing for All plan, which she described as the most ambitious housing plan in the history of the state, was taking hold.

From June 2023 to May 2024, 51,935 housing units commenced construction and the pace of new housing growth in Ireland is the fastest in Europe when measured on a per-population basis, Senator Chambers outlined.

Housing continues to be a top priority of Fianna Fail in Government.

With the First Home Scheme our aim is to make home ownership achievable for thousands of individuals and families by bridging the gap between their deposit and mortgage and the price of their new home.

The raising of the First Home Scheme ceiling with immediate effect in Mayo is hugely welcome news.

We will continue to support first-time buyers as a priority with tax rebates and other financial supports to help them get on the property ladder, Senator Chambers concluded.
There was a time in the Ox Mountain region when the Pine Marten was unheard of, its Irish home largely confined to the woods around Killarney and the worn limestone walls of the Burren in County Clare. However, the pine marten is here now and, it would appear, is here to stay.

It seems likely that the increase of afforestation in recent times, as well as the lack of any natural predator, has led to a spread in the hunting grounds of our new chocolate and cream friend. However, some would argue that this boyo is more foe than friend.

Tree cat

Mustelids are a group of creatures that include the weasel, stoat, mink and polecat. The European pine marten (Martes martes) is also a mustelid and one that is native to  and widespread  in most of Europe. The Vincent Wildlife Trust, a mammal conservation charity, provides some background on the decline and resurgence of the pine marten in Ireland.

The pine marten is native to Ireland and is one of our rarest mammals. Once common throughout the country, by the 20th century this species had become extinct from the majority of the island, surviving only in a few isolated and fragmented populations. This decline was the result of hunting of martens for their fur, loss of habitat and both direct and indirect poisoning and persecution. Following the introduction of legal protection in 1976, numbers built up slowly in its refuges in the west and south. From there, facilitated to some extent by the expansion of forestry, it has spread into the midlands and the north-west.

The marten, as its Irish name (cat crainn) suggests, spends most of its time in trees. It is the only mustelid with semi-retractable claws. This enables them to lead a life of climbing or running on tree branches. They are mainly active at night  but more about that later. They have small, rounded, highly sensitive ears and sharp teeth adapted for eating small mammals, birds, insects, frogs, and carrion. They have also been known to eat berries, fruits, birds' eggs, nuts and honey. The pine marten is territorial; you will only ever have one breeding pair in your woods neck.

Friend or foe?

The pine marten has been present in Ireland for thousands of years. Niall MacCoitir in his book, Irelands Animals  Myths, Legends and Folklore, makes many references to the pine marten, including possible links to place names such as Carrickacat (Carraig an Chait  rock of the cat) in Co. Mayo.

MacCoitir also describes references to the pine marten in stories about Fionn MacCumhaill, the mythical hunter-warrior, and his band of Irish warriors known as the Fianna. In fact, Fionns first heroic act, as an infant, involves a pine marten that had approached the camp where Fionn lay sleeping, attracted by the smell of wild pig meat. Fionn strangled the marten and then wore its pelt as a blanket. Queen Meadhbh of Connacht is reputed to have worm the pelt of a pine marten around her shoulders.

The recovery of the pine marten in Ireland has been linked with them reducing the population of invasive grey squirrels. Where the range of the expanding pine marten population met that of the grey squirrel, the population of the grey squirrels quickly fell and encouragingly, the population of the red squirrel recovered. On the face of it, this seemed like a win/win situation. The trouble is that the pine marten doesnt just prey on grey squirrels, it preys on a lot of other stuff as well.

Contrary to popular opinion, it is said the pine marten does not kill for fun - even if it doesn't eat all its prey.

Killing for fun

My own first experience of a pine marten was when one arrived in the dead of night and killed every living thing in my hen house. More and more poultry keepers are encountering that deafening silence as they approach their hen house of a morning. It is that stillness that tells you, even before you open the door, that all within is dead. The pine marten will revisit the scene of his crime and that is how you know that he is the one responsible.

And so, the debate begins; is the pine marten a friend or a foe? There is no doubt that their cull of the grey squirrel a good thing. The grey squirrel is invasive and preys on our native red squirrel. As tree animals, they destroy countless wild bird nests and newly hatched fledglings. The larger their population becomes, the more destruction we will encounter. However, they are territorial and so overpopulation, when full population is reached, will not be a problem.

Many fanciers who experience a pine martin massacre in their hen coop are presented with a pile of slaughtered hens. It seems the pine marten just kills for fun; such a small animal couldnt possibly consume so much bounty  not even by returning a day later for second helpings. Despite all this, it is safe to say that the pine marten does NOT kill for fun. Thinking so, is an emotional human interpretation of an animal situation. What happens is that the pine marten sees the whole flock as one beast and he will continue to do what he does best until his battle is won, until there is silence. In a hen house of twelve birds, that means only one thing.

Our anger therefore needs to be tempered and best directed to achieve lasting results that does not involve doing to the pine marten what pine marten did to your flock of hens. Our weakness is that we have a houseful of defenceless hens, often kept in a way that allows the wily pine marten easy access. A person with only the most basic knowledge of pine martens would quickly point out that we have sown the seeds of an inevitable disaster. So, is there a way to have domestic poultry, and all the joy that goes with them, in a world where pine marten numbers are growing? The answer, happily for all parties concerned, is yes!

Good fences

The old saying, good fences make good neighbours fits well here. Pine martens only strike at night. By way of protection, what keeps your hens in will not necessarily keep a pine marten out. If hen houses are properly closed and fastidiously secured, all should be well.

To guide us in this regard, the Vincent Wildlife Trust and the National Parks and Wildlife Service have jointly produced a leaflet How to exclude pine martens from game and poultry pens. The leaflet provides practical steps that can be taken to protect game and domestic fowl from pine martens. Copies of this leaflet are downloadable from the website https://mammals-in-ireland.ie. Pine martens are protected in Ireland by both national and international legislation. Under the Irish Wildlife Acts it is an offence, except under licence, to capture or kill a pine marten, or to destroy or disturb its resting places.

A pine marten will gain access through the smallest hole in your armour so be painstaking in your work. A fine metal mesh over every conceivable opening is the only way. As the pine marten population continues to grow, your attention to detail becomes more critical. Your poultry need to be perfectly secure and if they are, you have greatly enhanced your chances of never hearing that eerie silence as you lift the latch on your hen house door.
Weather Alert

Bulletin: ...FROST ADVISORY IN EFFECT FROM 2 AM TO 9 AM EDT FRIDAY... * WHAT...Temperatures as low as 33 degrees will result in frost formation. * WHERE...A portion of central Pennsylvania, including the Middle Susquehanna Valley. * WHEN...From 2 AM to 9 AM EDT Friday. * IMPACTS...Frost could harm sensitive outdoor vegetation. Sensitive outdoor plants may be killed if left uncovered. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS... Take steps now to protect tender plants and vegetation from the cold. Potted plants should be brought inside. The frost will occur mainly in valley locations. &&

Info:

Type: Frost Advisory

start_time_local: 2024-10-11T02:00:00-04:00

end_time_local: 2024-10-11T09:00:00-04:00

county_name:

state: PA

headline: Frost Advisory from FRI 2:00 AM EDT until FRI 9:00 AM EDT

county_fips:

category: Met

url:

urgency: Expected

severity: Minor

certainty: Likely

geographicname: Schuylkill County

state_name: Pennsylvania
Investors are consistently bullish on Chipotle Mexican Grill (NYSE: CMG) stock, but it picked up some extra hype recently with its attention-grabbing 50-for-1 stock split on June 26.

Since then, the hype has calmed down, and shares have pulled back from their year-to-date highs. But even so, Chipotle stock is up a market-beating 26% so far this year. Can it go even higher before the end of 2024?

Why Chipotle stock is surging

The stock-split hype certainly had a lot to do with Chipotle stock's popularity this year. Management first announced the transaction in mid-March, becoming another high-profile stock split for 2024. Shares gained 17% between the announcement and the split.

Stock splits can only happen with years of share-price growth and a bullish outlook, and there's a lot to be bullish about here. Chipotle is already the leader in the fast-casual dining category. Its fresh and healthy concept at an affordable price attracts a loyal crowd. It boasts strong, consistent comparable-sales growth at a time when many competing restaurant chains are struggling. It's also highly profitable with expanding margins despite rising food and labor expenses.

The company continues to expand at a rapid pace too; it's already opened 47 stores in the first quarter, and it plans to open about 300 total in 2024 (up from 271 last year). Management has set a long-term goal of expanding its store count from about 3,500 to over 7,000.

Is Chipotle too expensive?

A common concern from investors, however, is Chipotle's valuation. The stock trades at a price-to-earnings (P/E) ratio of 62 as of this writing. That's a premium valuation, but believe it or not, it's trading at a discount to its five-year average multiple of 76.

Chipotle commands a premium valuation because of its reliable track record, but it's still a high premium for a company reporting low double-digit revenue growth. Nvidia, by comparison, trades at a P/E ratio of 75 while reporting triple-digit growth.

Chipotle has fallen 12% since its stock split. Much of restaurant sector has retreated in reaction to analysts' calls for a slow summer season, but investors need to keep track of long-term developments, not short-term volatility. A great business will bounce back from temporary headwinds.

Even trading below its historical average, Chipotle stock isn't a bargain, so the question is: Can Chipotle sustain this valuation?

Current momentum suggests the stock can end the year with market-beating gains. But that's a short-term outlook. Looking further out, Chipotle has an ambitious expansion plan, and long-term investors will likely thank themselves for buying Chipotle stock today.

Story continues

Should you invest $1,000 in Chipotle Mexican Grill right now?

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Chipotle Stock Is Up 26% so far in 2024. How High Can It Go in the Second Half? was originally published by The Motley Fool
Many investors are still learning about the various metrics that can be useful when analysing a stock. This article is for those who would like to learn about Return On Equity (ROE). We'll use ROE to examine Northrop Grumman Corporation (NYSE:NOC), by way of a worked example.

Return on equity or ROE is a key measure used to assess how efficiently a company's management is utilizing the company's capital. In other words, it is a profitability ratio which measures the rate of return on the capital provided by the company's shareholders.

Check out our latest analysis for Northrop Grumman

How Is ROE Calculated?

The formula for return on equity is:

Return on Equity = Net Profit (from continuing operations)  Shareholders' Equity

So, based on the above formula, the ROE for Northrop Grumman is:

15% = US$2.2b  US$14b (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2024).

The 'return' is the yearly profit. One way to conceptualize this is that for each $1 of shareholders' capital it has, the company made $0.15 in profit.

Does Northrop Grumman Have A Good Return On Equity?

One simple way to determine if a company has a good return on equity is to compare it to the average for its industry. The limitation of this approach is that some companies are quite different from others, even within the same industry classification. If you look at the image below, you can see Northrop Grumman has a similar ROE to the average in the Aerospace & Defense industry classification (14%).

roe

That's neither particularly good, nor bad. Even if the ROE is respectable when compared to the industry, its worth checking if the firm's ROE is being aided by high debt levels. If true, then it is more an indication of risk than the potential. Our risks dashboardshould have the 2 risks we have identified for Northrop Grumman.

The Importance Of Debt To Return On Equity

Virtually all companies need money to invest in the business, to grow profits. That cash can come from retained earnings, issuing new shares (equity), or debt. In the first two cases, the ROE will capture this use of capital to grow. In the latter case, the debt used for growth will improve returns, but won't affect the total equity. Thus the use of debt can improve ROE, albeit along with extra risk in the case of stormy weather, metaphorically speaking.

Northrop Grumman's Debt And Its 15% ROE

Northrop Grumman clearly uses a high amount of debt to boost returns, as it has a debt to equity ratio of 1.15. While its ROE is respectable, it is worth keeping in mind that there is usually a limit as to how much debt a company can use. Debt increases risk and reduces options for the company in the future, so you generally want to see some good returns from using it.

Story continues

Conclusion

Return on equity is a useful indicator of the ability of a business to generate profits and return them to shareholders. A company that can achieve a high return on equity without debt could be considered a high quality business. All else being equal, a higher ROE is better.

But when a business is high quality, the market often bids it up to a price that reflects this. The rate at which profits are likely to grow, relative to the expectations of profit growth reflected in the current price, must be considered, too. So you might want to take a peek at this data-rich interactive graph of forecasts for the company.

But note: Northrop Grumman may not be the best stock to buy. So take a peek at this free list of interesting companies with high ROE and low debt.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Key Insights

The considerable ownership by individual investors in FBR indicates that they collectively have a greater say in management and business strategy

44% of the business is held by the top 24 shareholders

Insiders own 13% of FBR

Every investor in FBR Limited (ASX:FBR) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. The group holding the most number of shares in the company, around 56% to be precise, is individual investors. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company.

Clearly, individual investors benefitted the most after the company's market cap rose by AU$93m last week.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about FBR.

Check out our latest analysis for FBR

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About FBR?

Many institutions measure their performance against an index that approximates the local market. So they usually pay more attention to companies that are included in major indices.

We can see that FBR does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of FBR, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Hedge funds don't have many shares in FBR. Horsley Park Holdings Pty Ltd is currently the largest shareholder, with 15% of shares outstanding. In comparison, the second and third largest shareholders hold about 11% and 8.1% of the stock. Mark Pivac, who is the third-largest shareholder, also happens to hold the title of Member of the Board of Directors. In addition, we found that Michael Pivac, the CEO has 3.4% of the shares allocated to their name.

Our studies suggest that the top 24 shareholders collectively control less than half of the company's shares, meaning that the company's shares are widely disseminated and there is no dominant shareholder.

While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. While there is some analyst coverage, the company is probably not widely covered. So it could gain more attention, down the track.

Story continues

Insider Ownership Of FBR

While the precise definition of an insider can be subjective, almost everyone considers board members to be insiders. The company management answer to the board and the latter should represent the interests of shareholders. Notably, sometimes top-level managers are on the board themselves.

Most consider insider ownership a positive because it can indicate the board is well aligned with other shareholders. However, on some occasions too much power is concentrated within this group.

It seems insiders own a significant proportion of FBR Limited. It has a market capitalization of just AU$235m, and insiders have AU$30m worth of shares in their own names. We would say this shows alignment with shareholders, but it is worth noting that the company is still quite small; some insiders may have founded the business. You can click here to see if those insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a substantial 56% stake in FBR, suggesting it is a fairly popular stock. With this amount of ownership, retail investors can collectively play a role in decisions that affect shareholder returns, such as dividend policies and the appointment of directors. They can also exercise the power to vote on acquisitions or mergers that may not improve profitability.

Private Company Ownership

Our data indicates that Private Companies hold 16%, of the company's shares. It's hard to draw any conclusions from this fact alone, so its worth looking into who owns those private companies. Sometimes insiders or other related parties have an interest in shares in a public company through a separate private company.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. Take risks for example - FBR has 4 warning signs we think you should be aware of.

Ultimately the future is most important. You can access this free report on analyst forecasts for the company.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Financially Free But Feeling Like A Failure: The Ramsey Show's Surprising Advice To A 33-Year-Old

Hillary, a 33-year-old from Salt Lake City, UT, called into The Ramsey Show disheartened that everyone around her is going on lavish vacations, buying nice cars, and ultimately having it all together. However, while discouraged, this caller doesn't seem to be doing too bad herself. She is single, making $60,000 per year, and is debt-free aside from the $140,000 balance left on her mortgage.

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"I see a lot of people my age or younger bragging and boasting about their nice cars, houses, and vacations, and I just feel like Im losing at life," Hillary says. "I live a pretty humble lifestyle, but what am I doing wrong? How do I afford that?"

Dave Ramsey and co-host Dr. John Delony assure Hillary that she is doing everything right and that those around her may not be doing as well as they portray their lives online and in conversation. Ramsey shares that comparing ourselves to others has been a much greater struggle for millennials with the evolution of social media. He expresses that youre comparing yourself to perceived perfection when you dont know everything thats going on behind the scenes.

On top of that, Hillary revealed later in the call that she recently paid cash for her master's degree. "So all that money that I had saved," she said, referencing her education fund, "Im just like, that could have been a vacation or a car. I shouldnt have done that."

Delony remarked, "You just put an investment in yourself for the next 50 years of your life," while Ramsey said that a master's degree is much more expensive than going to the Bahamas.

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Hillary isn't alone in her feelings, though. According to an Edelman Financial Engines study, about 25% of people feel less satisfied with their money because of social media. Feeling that sense of "keeping up with the Joneses" can quickly become discouraging, and it can feel like you're not enjoying the other pleasures that people share online.

However, what people post on social media isn't usually all it's cracked up to be. Many consumers who take extravagant vacations or purchase fancy cars are taking out serious debts to do so. Bankrate found that 36% of Americans are willing to go into debt for a vacation this year.

Story continues

Near the end of their call, Delony asked Hillary an interesting question that resulted in some surprising advice to her original question. He asked, "How much of these videos youre seeing, these pictures youre seeing of these trips, are reinforcing a sense of loneliness?"

Trending: Warren Buffett flipped his neighbor's $67,000 life savings into a $50 million fortune  How much is that worth today?

She told him that a lot of it probably reinforced her own loneliness, so he told her to focus on that rather than what she could or couldn't buy. "I want you to start creating opportunities to have friends and community and connection and laughter right where you live," Delony said. "Start cultivating that, and its just going to make the other shiny stuff  its just going to not be that big of a deal. Youre right where you need to be."

Hillarys story reminds us that financial success isnt always about flashy purchases or extravagant vacations but about making wise decisions that secure long-term stability. If you are uncertain about your financial journey or need personalized advice, consulting a financial advisor can provide valuable insights and help you align your financial goals with your values.

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Rory McIlroys mansion in Florida is worth $22 million today, doubling from 2017  heres how to get started investing in real estate with just $100

Boomers and Gen Z agree they need a salary of around $125,000 a year to be happy, but millennials say they need how much?

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This article Financially Free But Feeling Like A Failure: The Ramsey Show's Surprising Advice To A 33-Year-Old originally appeared on Benzinga.com

 2024 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.
Losing a job is difficult enough, but its another cruel blow to lose the extra legroom in business class. Ousted American Airlines Chief Commercial Officer Vasu Raja wont have to worry about that, at least not yet.

The former executive, 47, negotiated a separation deal with the airline that allows unlimited reserved travel in any class for Raja and his spouse or companion and children, according to the company. Hell also get AAdvantage Executive Platinum status and entry to Admirals Club lounges at his leisure. According to the program, that means free upgrades, comped food and drink, three free checked bags, and a dedicated line for flight changes and reservations. This is all on Americans dime, a spokesperson confirmed.

Raja, who joined the companys predecessor airline in 2004 as an analyst, will also collect $1.4 million in payments under the terms of the agreement, plus career transition services. Raja had been Americans chief commercial officer since 2022, and previously served as its chief revenue officer. His 2023 compensation was valued at $12.2 million, including yearly salary, cash bonus, stock, and perquisites.

In February 2025, the separation agreement also says Raja will be demoted to the companys 65-point travel plan for retirees with a minimum of 10 years of active service who pay taxes and fees for their tickets but are allowed to fly for free.

Raja did not respond to a message on LinkedIn. American Airlines declined to comment further.

American announced on May 28 that Raja would depart in June and that it would search for a new chief commercial officer to replace him. CEO Robert Isom said at a conference the next day that the company needed to improve on executing its long-range plans and attending to the marketplace.

I admire his creative thinking, his passion. Hes an innovator, a disruptor. Hes a good friend. But sometimes we need a reset, and in this case, we do, said Isom, according to Aviation Week Network.

Bloomberg reported that Raja was the subject of constructive feedback from consulting firm Bain & Co., which found the executive had overseen a new booking system that directed companies away from booking agencies and toward Americans website and app. The move resulted in cuts to the sales department and infuriated corporate clients and travel management companies, which also criticized the airline for having poor tech.

In conjunction with Americans May announcement that Raja was leaving, it cut its profit outlook for the year. The stock price is down 20% year to date.

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
(Reuters) -Goldman Sachs has lodged an appeal with the U.S. Federal Reserve challenging its result in the regulator's most recent "stress test," which is set to force the bank to hold a greater amount of capital, the Financial Times reported on Sunday, citing people familiar with the matter.

The Federal Reserve's annual "stress test" exercise showed last month that the biggest U.S. banks would have enough capital to withstand severe economic and market turmoil but firms faced steeper hypothetical losses this year due to riskier portfolios.

The tested banks overall saw losses of 17.6% to existing loan balances on credit cards and among them Goldman Sachs recorded 25.4% in losses.

Goldman had one of the biggest increases in stress capital buffers (SCB) at 94 basis points.

How well a bank performs on the stress tests dictates the size of its stress capital buffer (SCB) - an extra cushion of capital the Fed requires banks to hold to weather a hypothetical economic downturn.

The Federal Reserve and Goldman Sachs declined to comment on the Financial Times report.

Goldman has said it will engage with the regulator to better understand why its SCB jumped.

"This increase does not seem to reflect the strategic evolution of our business and the continuous progress we've made to reduce our stress loss intensity," CEO David Solomon said in a statement last month.

(Reporting by Akanksha Khushi in Bengaluru; Editing by David Evans and Will Dunham)
Photo by Smith Collection/Gado/Getty Images





Key Takeaways

The Wall Street Journal is reporting Google's parent company, Alphabet, is in talks with a cybersecurity startup to acquire it in a deal worth roughly $23 billion.

The startup is called Wiz and provides cybersecurity software for cloud computing.

If the deal goes through, this would be the largest acquisition the tech giant has ever made.







Google parent Alphabet (GOOG) is reportedly gearing up for $23 billion acquisition, the largest in the company's history.

Alphabet is near to a deal with Wiz, a cybersecurity software provider for cloud computing, according to the Wall Street Journal, which cited anonymous sources close to the deal Sunday. The deal would shore up Alphabet's presence in the cyber security and cloud computing space.

The tech giant has spent big money to catch up to its peers in that sector. If the deal goes through, Wiz would join Mandiant in Alphabet's cybersecurity business. The Mandiant deal was another record-breaking deal for the tech giant, clocking in at $5.4 billion and second only to Alphabet's purchase of Motorola Mobility for $12.5 billion.

Alphabet's cloud business accounted for $9.5 billion of revenue in its first fiscal quarter and CEO Sundar Pichai said the company's cloud business is "now widely seen as the leader in cybersecurity."

The company will report earnings for the second quarter on July 23.

Read the original article on Investopedia.
BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua)  President Xi Jinping has articulately used adages, idioms and metaphors to discuss a new round of reform to drive the development of the world's second-largest economy since 2012.

In a distinct fashion, Xi, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee and chairman of the Central Military Commission, vividly communicates the country's reform goals and methods to audiences both at home and abroad.

The following are some examples.

Venturing into the Mountain Despite Knowing There Are Tigers

In April 2014, Xi delivered a speech at the College of Europe during his state visit to Belgium.

China needs to "venture into the mountain despite knowing there are tigers," as its reform has entered a "deep water zone" where tough challenges must be addressed, Xi said.

Ahead of a visit to Latin America about three months later, Xi once again invoked the expression to proclaim to the world China's unwavering determination and courage in furthering reform.

"We will advance reform with the political courage and wisdom of 'venturing into the mountain despite knowing there are tigers,' and with great dedication to working hard and achieving tangible results," he said.

Playing the Piano with All 10 Fingers

In an interview with a Russian TV station in February 2014, Xi said that Chinese leaders must "play the piano with all 10 fingers," emphasizing the need to plan for the bigger picture while keeping all moving parts in play.

Since assuming the Party's top post in November 2012, Xi has made "coordination" a keyword in the CPC's endeavors to deepen reform so as to improve and develop socialism with Chinese characteristics and modernize China's system and capacity for governance.

Amid changes in the domestic and global landscapes, China's reform is confronting challenges on an unprecedented scale, involving a wide range of complex issues.

"It is crucial to enhance the coordination and mutual support among reform measures, ensuring that reforms across different fields and sectors align and synergize to maximize overall effectiveness," Xi said in his inspection tour of east China's Shandong Province in May this year.

Clearing the Cage for New Birds

During his tenure as Party chief of Zhejiang Province, Xi put forward the expression "clearing the cage for new birds" to shed light on the transformation of a relatively extensive model of growth in the eastern province, which boasts a strong private sector.

Since he became general secretary of the CPC Central Committee in 2012, Xi has made use of this expression on multiple occasions. In March 2014, when taking part in deliberation in the annual national legislative session with lawmakers from Guangdong Province, China's economic powerhouse and a pioneer in reform and opening up, Xi used the expression to stress the importance of deepening reform in all areas and promoting structural adjustments.

Xi called for efforts to advance industrial upgrading, give full play to the role of innovation in propelling progress, and embrace green development.

Three years later, also during the annual national legislative session, Xi mentioned the phrase again in a discussion with lawmakers from Liaoning Province, one of China's earliest major industrial bases, emphasizing the necessity of replacing old industries with new ones amid the country's economic transformation drive.

Two Wings of A Bird, Two Wheels of a Cart

Xi referred to the roles of reform and the rule of law in propelling China's development as "two wings of a bird or two wheels of a cart" while addressing senior officials during a meeting in February 2015.

"Reform should be promoted under the rule of law and the rule of law should be enhanced in the process of reform. This is why we refer to them as 'two wheels,'" Xi stressed.

Engine Igniter

"If innovation is the new engine for China's development, reform is the indispensable igniter," Xi said in his address at the APEC CEO Summit held in Beijing in November 2014.

"To comprehensively deepen reform, we need to broaden the path for innovation," Xi stressed in his address, pledging to enable the engine of innovation to run with full power.

China has reformed its talent evaluation system for years to boost creativity among sci-tech professionals. Provinces including Anhui, Shandong and Sichuan have introduced pilot programs to shift away from overemphasizing academic papers, professional titles, degrees and awards.

"In a new round of global growth, only reformers can advance, only innovators can thrive, and only those who reform and innovate will prevail," Xi said.

A Fair Share of a Bigger Pie

Addressing the G20 Hangzhou Summit in 2016, Xi used the metaphor "a bigger pie" to describe China's development and stressed the necessity of "ensuring that people get a fair share of it."

This is an answer to the question "for whom the reform was conducted."

"We will resolve the most pressing problems affecting the immediate interests of the people to their satisfaction," he said.

Achieving common prosperity is a basic requirement of socialism and an important feature of the Chinese path to modernization. Making "the pie" bigger while dividing it well has enriched both the theory and practice of common prosperity.

(Source: Xinhua)

Editor: Teng Ge
Photo taken on June 29, 2020 shows the third volume of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" in both Chinese and English. [Xinhua/Li He]

"President Xi Jinping's work has put forward many new ideas, new insights and conclusions, which have important practical value for countries around the world in an era of globalization," said Matlubakhon Sattoriyan, Tajikistan's Minister of Culture.

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua)  A readers' seminar on Chinese President Xi Jinping's books on governance was successfully held in late June at the national library in Dushanbe, the capital of Tajikistan, as the works have aroused enthusiastic response among local readers.

"This work is of great significance for us to learn from China's reform and opening-up experience and promote Tajikistan's reform and development," said Rashid Alimov, former secretary-general of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Titled "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China," the work concentrates on Xi's in-depth thinking on China's national governance and global governance issues, drawing worldwide readers since the debut of its first volume ten years ago.

"President Xi Jinping's work has put forward many new ideas, new insights and conclusions, which have important practical value for countries around the world in an era of globalization," said Matlubakhon Sattoriyan, Tajikistan's Minister of Culture.

Over the past decade, a series of essential works by Xi, including "Up and Out of Poverty," "The Belt and Road Initiative," "On Building a Human Community with a Shared Future," and a compilation of excerpts from discourses on Chinese modernization, have been translated into over 40 languages and published in around 180 countries and regions. These have provided a "window of thought" to understand China's reform efforts and distinctive path to economic success.

Secret to China's Reform & Development

Continuing reform on all fronts is a recurring theme throughout Xi's series of four books on governance. The Chinese president elaborates on his vision of deepening reforms in these volumes, offering valuable insights and judgments such as "reform and opening up is always an ongoing task and will never end" and "as reform goes deeper, it is more necessary to shoulder responsibilities."

For Wirun Phichaiwongphakdee, director of the Thailand-China Research Center of the Belt and Road Initiative, this book is like the "secret to successfully governing a country." He calls it "a valuable treasure for developing countries."

"Every time I read 'Xi Jinping: The Governance of China,' I feel like I'm seeking wisdom from a learned sage, experiencing the Chinese leader's love for his family and country through his down-to-earth words," said Phichaiwongphakdee.

"Most importantly, it allows the world to experience the remarkable course of China's reform and development through the macro perspective of the Chinese leader," the expert added.

"Through this book, I see President Xi's firm determination to continue deepening reforms, which sets an example for our development in Cambodia," said Chea Munyrith, president of the Cambodian Chinese Evolution Researcher Association.

Simon Lichtenberg, a Danish entrepreneur who has lived in Shanghai for over three decades, is not only a witness to China's reform and opening up but also a beneficiary of a series of China's policies, such as the development and opening up of Pudong and the Shanghai pilot free trade zone.

This aerial photo taken on Sept. 10, 2023 shows a view of Zhangjiang area of the China (Shanghai) Pilot Free Trade Zone in east China's Shanghai. [Xinhua/Fang Zhe]

In his view, the strong leadership of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and the courage of self-revolution are the fundamental guarantees for the success of reform and opening up and the "secret" for China to efficiently further reforms on all fronts.

In Western countries, Lichtenberg said, if the government is not working well, the most common scenario is to change the ruling party or the government.

"But in China's case, the party has been able to evolve and live up to new times, new challenges and new world orders, still keeping the same fundamentals of the country and putting the people at the center while modernizing and reforming the industry, infrastructure, health, education, technology ... so many areas where China has moved very, very fast," he added.

This has avoided short-term behavior caused by changes in political parties and ensured the consistency and efficiency of reform and development plans, he said.

"President Xi has taken Marxism and Chinese history and married them. It is a huge undertaking," said Stephen Perry, honorary president of Britain's 48 Group Club. "Few in the world understand what a mission it is and how effective he is."

Chinese Ambassador to Greece Zou Xiaoli (R) presents the book "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" to representative of Greek National Library Andreas Vyridis in Athens, Greece, May 12, 2016. [Xinhua/Marios Lolos]

The Well-Being of Billions

"Maintaining good governance in a country is to make its people prosperous," Xi once quoted an ancient Chinese political and philosophical text. The old writings were named after Guan Zhong, a philosopher and statesman in China's Spring and Autumn period who focused on how to enrich the country and strengthen the people.

In China's fight against extreme poverty, almost 100 million people have been lifted out of absolute poverty. The victory has been hailed as a miracle in human history, achieving the poverty reduction target outlined in the United Nations' 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development ten years ahead of schedule. Developing countries worldwide see China's war on poverty inspirational.

When the Uzbek edition of Xi's book on poverty relief, "Up and Out of Poverty," was published in November 2023, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev wrote a foreword for the book. "This book by President Xi Jinping has rich political, economic and philosophical connotations, and reflects his profound thinking on poverty alleviation and the well-being of the people," he wrote.

Children learn paper-cutting at a relocation site for poverty alleviation in Xingye County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, Jan. 18, 2022. [Xinhua/Cao Yiming]

"After reading works such as 'Xi Jinping: The Governance of China' and 'The Belt and Road Initiative,' what impressed me the most was that President Xi's thoughts and viewpoints are all aimed at achieving, in various ways, the development and well-being of the Chinese people and people around the world," said Tamara Berro, a member of the Cairo-based Arab Association of Political Science.

President Xi has been leading China towards implementing comprehensive, deeper-level reforms, which have not only removed many obstacles to China's modernization but also offered profound lessons for countries seeking to learn from China's experience, Berro said.

In Xi's eyes, one of the five unique features of Chinese modernization is a harmonious coexistence between humanity and nature. For him, ecological and environmental protection is a century-long plan for the benefit of the people.

"Some environmentalists in Western countries believe that protecting the natural environment must come at the expense of human development," said Jean Delvigne, a senior expert on French at the Institute of Party History and Literature of the Central Committee of the CPC.

"However, China's successful practices have made Westerners realize that ecological and environmental protection, as well as economic development, both serve people's pursuit of a better life. They are not contradictory and can be achieved simultaneously," Delvigne added.

Last year, the UN Environment Program honored China's Blue Circle environmental initiative with the 2023 Champions of the Earth award  the UN's most prestigious environmental recognition  for its innovative marine plastic treatment technology.

The initiative, launched in east China's Zhejiang Province, uses blockchain technology and the Internet of Things to monitor the entire lifecycle of plastic pollution, encompassing collection, regeneration, re-manufacturing and re-sale.

In Delvigne's view, achieving harmonious coexistence between humans and nature is a significant feature and important accomplishment of Chinese modernization.

The philosophy that "lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets," put forward by President Xi, is worth learning from for all countries, he said.

An aerial drone photo taken on early July 5, 2024 shows a view of the Saihanba National Forest Park in Chengde City, north China's Hebei Province. [Photo by Liu Mancang/Xinhua]

Proposals for Solving Global Challenges

President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan has long kept an Arabic version of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" signed by President Xi himself.

He said Xi's governance philosophy aims to bring happiness to the Chinese people and benefit populations worldwide. This philosophy could be a guiding principle and benchmark for all global leaders.

"Xi's book is itself the latest contribution in a millennia-long line of Chinese reflections on the relations of human beings with nature and with each other," says Martin Albrow, a fellow of the British Academy of Social Sciences.

"China's unique history and culture have prepared it for adopting a global leadership role in advancing peaceful cooperation between all peoples while joining in the economic progress of each and every one," he added.

A drone photo taken on June 26, 2024 shows a view of the China-Kazakhstan (Lianyungang) Logistics Cooperation Base in Lianyungang, east China's Jiangsu Province. [Xinhua/Ji Chunpeng]

Since the 18th National Congress of the CPC, Xi has put forward a series of Chinese proposals and initiatives, such as the building of a community with a shared future for humankind, the Belt and Road Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative. These initiatives offer Chinese solutions to improving global governance and resolving challenges in human development.

Berro said these initiatives constitute a new framework for international relations, helping to shape a fairer and more just international order, promoting equal treatment among different countries, strengthening international security and stability, and advancing global common development.

China, through its intellectual capacity, can create balance "in a world in full change, in full imbalance," said French writer and sinologist Lea Bessis.

"This is what I hope to find in this new book. As its title suggests, China must show us a new mode of governance," Bessis added, referring to the book "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China."

Workers work at the Great Wall Motors (GWM) manufacturing plant in Rayong, Thailand, Jan. 12, 2024. [Xinhua/Wang Teng]

President Xi's efforts to develop new quality productive forces and promote Chinese modernization aim to transform China into a high-quality economy, Bessis said.

The expert believed that these efforts could benefit regional and global development, offering numerous opportunities to French and international companies.

"China has, through its history, become the guarantor of global stability," Bessis said.

(Source: Xinhua)

Editor: Teng Ge
GP Industries Limited (SGX:G20) will pay a dividend of SGD0.01 on the 22nd of August. However, the dividend yield of 4.0% is still a decent boost to shareholder returns.

Check out our latest analysis for GP Industries

GP Industries Might Find It Hard To Continue The Dividend

While it is great to have a strong dividend yield, we should also consider whether the payment is sustainable. GP Industries isn't generating any profits, and it is paying out a very high proportion of the cash it is earning. This is quite a strong warning sign that the dividend may not be sustainable.

Recent, EPS has fallen by 23.2%, so this could continue over the next year. This will push the company into unprofitability, which means the managers will have to choose between suspending the dividend, or paying it out of cash reserves.

Dividend Volatility

The company has a long dividend track record, but it doesn't look great with cuts in the past. Since 2014, the dividend has gone from SGD0.032 total annually to SGD0.02. Doing the maths, this is a decline of about 4.6% per year. Generally, we don't like to see a dividend that has been declining over time as this can degrade shareholders' returns and indicate that the company may be running into problems.

The Dividend Has Limited Growth Potential

With a relatively unstable dividend, it's even more important to evaluate if earnings per share is growing, which could point to a growing dividend in the future. GP Industries' EPS has fallen by approximately 23% per year during the past five years. This steep decline can indicate that the business is going through a tough time, which could constrain its ability to pay a larger dividend each year in the future.

We're Not Big Fans Of GP Industries' Dividend

Overall, the dividend looks like it may have been a bit high, which explains why it has now been cut. The company seems to be stretching itself a bit to make such big payments, but it doesn't appear they can be consistent over time. Overall, the dividend is not reliable enough to make this a good income stock.

Investors generally tend to favour companies with a consistent, stable dividend policy as opposed to those operating an irregular one. Still, investors need to consider a host of other factors, apart from dividend payments, when analysing a company. For example, we've picked out 3 warning signs for GP Industries that investors should know about before committing capital to this stock. Looking for more high-yielding dividend ideas? Try our collection of strong dividend payers.

Story continues

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Environmental cleanup removes derelict boats from Dee Estuary

This article is old - Published: Sunday, Jul 14th, 2024

A number of derelict boats have been cleared from the Dee Estuary as part of an effort by Natural Resources Wales (NRW) officers to remove potentially hazardous materials from the environment.

The clean-up is a crucial part of NRWs Marine Litter and Derelict Vessel Prevention Project aimed at restoring the health of the Dee Estuary.

By removing these derelict boats and debris, NRW says it is supporting the ongoing work to protect the delicate ecosystem that supports a diverse range of wildlife in the area.

The operation was completed by NRW officers as part of their annual Environmental Volunteering Day.

It saw the team successfully clear three RIB boats, half a fibreglass boat, and several other badly damaged vessels.

The clean-up extended beyond boats, removing various items such as mattresses, microwaves, general rubbish, and fishing nets, which pose significant risks to wildlife and the local environment.

NRW said derelict and abandoned boats around the Welsh coast cause extensive problems in marine protected areas, creating issues such as loss of habitat, as well as releasing microplastics and pollutants from oil, diesel, and paint.

Joanna Soanes, NRW Marine Litter and Derelict Vessel Prevention Project Manager, said, We are glad to have removed these hazardous items as it is vital for the health of the Dee Estuary, and the safety of the wildlife that depend on it. Each clean-up effort brings us one step closer to a healthier estuary.

Were proud to see NRW colleagues using their annual Environmental Volunteering Days to support this effort and help make a tangible difference to our natural surroundings.

While significant progress has been made, NRW has said the clean-up is far from complete.

Further clearance operations have been planned for the coming weeks and months, with future efforts focusing on the larger derelict vessels scattered throughout the Dee Estuary.
Madness go One Step Beyond to close Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod

This article is old - Published: Sunday, Jul 14th, 2024

Pops nutty boys went One Step Beyond as they headlined the final show of the summer at Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod.

Rounding off a month that has seen 11 global rock, pop and classical stars headline the iconic pavilion in North Wales, British pop giants Madness were in town as part of their UK tour in celebration of their 13th studio album Theatre Of The Absurd Presents Cest La Vie debuting at number 1 in the UK charts.

And Llangollen Pavilion became the Theatre of The Absurd as Suggs and co-performed hit after hit.

Kicking off with One Step Beyond and Embarrassment, fans were treated to a real House of Fun with favourites on the night including My Girl, Wings of a Dove, Shut Up, Mr Apples, Baggy Trousers, Our House, and It Must Be Love before ending the night in that ever so Madness way with Night Boat to Cairo.

Addressing the packed crowd, Suggs said: Isnt it nice to be out and about.

Were all shapes and sizes but were still alive, and its nice to see some young people here!

Supporting Madness was pop rockers The Hoosiers.

The headlining show from Madness marked the end of a summer of live music at Llangollen Pavilion which kicked off in June with Canadian rock legend Bryan Adams followed by Simple Minds, Paloma Faith, Manic Street Preachers and Suede, Kaiser Chiefs, Tom Jones, Gregory Porter, Katherine Jenkins OBE, Nile Rodgers & CHIC and Jess Glynne.

Pictures: CUFFE & TAYLOR
Wales first fully funded Construction Degree Apprenticeships launched in Wrexham

This article is old - Published: Sunday, Jul 14th, 2024

The first fully funded Construction Degree Apprenticeships in Wales have been launched at Wrexham University.

In partnership with Coleg Cambria, these four-year programmes will offer students the chance to earn a degree while gaining hands-on experience.

Starting in September 2024, they are designed to meet the knowledge, skills and behaviours set out in the Welsh Government Framework, alongside the requirements of the professional bodies.

In addition, the new Degree Apprenticeship will provide valuable access to a more diverse cohort of students studying for professional qualifications.

A special event was held at the Universitys Plas Coch campus in Wrexham to celebrate the introduction of the first Welsh Government fully funded Construction Degree Apprenticeships in Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management and Quantity Surveying.

Professor Maria Hinfelaar, Vice-Chancellor at Wrexham University, said: We are delighted to have launched our Construction Degree Apprenticeships  in partnership with Coleg Cambria  in Building Surveying, Civil Engineering, Construction Management and Quantity Surveying, which are the first to be fully funded by the Welsh Government.

As a University, we continuously review our portfolio and learning pathways across all levels to meet the needs of learners and employers  and the Construction Degree Apprenticeships are a tremendous example of meeting those needs. From engagement with employers in the region, we know that they are excited that these are launching here in Wrexham.

Id like to take this opportunity to thank Welsh Government, for providing financial backing, as well as our partner bodies, organisations and employers from across Wales. None of this would have been possible without everyones shared vision and engagement.

Karl Jackson, Site Lead at Coleg Cambria Bersham Road and Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology: We are delighted to collaborate with Wrexham University on the new Degree Apprenticeship qualifications, a suite of programmes that will further enhance our existing Higher Education Construction courses.

The Degree Apprenticeships offer a great opportunity for students to gain practical experience while earning their degree and will provide them with valuable skills and knowledge, combining academic learning with on-the-job training.

This approach not only helps learners understand the theoretical aspects of construction but also allows them to apply what theyve learned in real-world situations, making them highly competent and employable.

Dr Janet Young, Director General of the Institution of Civil Engineers (ICE), said: This new Degree Apprenticeship will play a key role in inspiring and creating a new and diverse generation of engineers for Wales and the wider UK. It also contributes to the ambition and implementation of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals that will benefit current and future generations.

Gareth Williams, Standards and Qualifications Manager (Wales) for the Construction Industry Training Board, said: People wanting to work in construction need clear career pathways into the industry and these new Construction Degree Apprenticeships are a significant milestone towards achieving this.

The launch of these apprenticeships also demonstrates a sector pulling together in a shared direction to overcome industry and broader challenges. We look forward to seeing the first cohort of people sign up for these apprenticeships.

Jeremy Miles, Cabinet Secretary for the Economy, Energy, and Welsh Language, added: These programmes not only prepare individuals for high-demand jobs and higher wage occupations, but will also ensure a skilled, resilient and forward-looking workforce to drive economic growth and provide innovative solutions to social and climate challenges.

The launch of this pathway is the result of strong co-operation and engagement over the past two years with all the relevant bodies and representatives in Wales including:
Key Insights

Given the large stake in the stock by institutions, Magna International's stock price might be vulnerable to their trading decisions

A total of 24 investors have a majority stake in the company with 51% ownership

Ownership research along with analyst forecasts data help provide a good understanding of opportunities in a stock

Every investor in Magna International Inc. (TSE:MG) should be aware of the most powerful shareholder groups. We can see that institutions own the lion's share in the company with 74% ownership. In other words, the group stands to gain the most (or lose the most) from their investment into the company.

After a year of 20% losses, last weeks 5.1% gain would be welcomed by institutional investors as a possible sign that returns might start trending higher.

Let's take a closer look to see what the different types of shareholders can tell us about Magna International.

Check out our latest analysis for Magna International

What Does The Institutional Ownership Tell Us About Magna International?

Institutions typically measure themselves against a benchmark when reporting to their own investors, so they often become more enthusiastic about a stock once it's included in a major index. We would expect most companies to have some institutions on the register, especially if they are growing.

We can see that Magna International does have institutional investors; and they hold a good portion of the company's stock. This implies the analysts working for those institutions have looked at the stock and they like it. But just like anyone else, they could be wrong. It is not uncommon to see a big share price drop if two large institutional investors try to sell out of a stock at the same time. So it is worth checking the past earnings trajectory of Magna International, (below). Of course, keep in mind that there are other factors to consider, too.

Since institutional investors own more than half the issued stock, the board will likely have to pay attention to their preferences. Hedge funds don't have many shares in Magna International. Our data shows that Pzena Investment Management, Inc. is the largest shareholder with 6.3% of shares outstanding. Meanwhile, the second and third largest shareholders, hold 4.5% and 3.7%, of the shares outstanding, respectively.

Looking at the shareholder registry, we can see that 51% of the ownership is controlled by the top 24 shareholders, meaning that no single shareholder has a majority interest in the ownership.

While studying institutional ownership for a company can add value to your research, it is also a good practice to research analyst recommendations to get a deeper understand of a stock's expected performance. There are plenty of analysts covering the stock, so it might be worth seeing what they are forecasting, too.

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Insider Ownership Of Magna International

The definition of an insider can differ slightly between different countries, but members of the board of directors always count. Company management run the business, but the CEO will answer to the board, even if he or she is a member of it.

Insider ownership is positive when it signals leadership are thinking like the true owners of the company. However, high insider ownership can also give immense power to a small group within the company. This can be negative in some circumstances.

Our most recent data indicates that insiders own less than 1% of Magna International Inc.. It is a very large company, so it would be surprising to see insiders own a large proportion of the company. Though their holding amounts to less than 1%, we can see that board members collectively own CA$23m worth of shares (at current prices). Arguably recent buying and selling is just as important to consider. You can click here to see if insiders have been buying or selling.

General Public Ownership

The general public, who are usually individual investors, hold a 25% stake in Magna International. While this size of ownership may not be enough to sway a policy decision in their favour, they can still make a collective impact on company policies.

Next Steps:

I find it very interesting to look at who exactly owns a company. But to truly gain insight, we need to consider other information, too. To that end, you should be aware of the 1 warning sign we've spotted with Magna International .

If you would prefer discover what analysts are predicting in terms of future growth, do not miss this free report on analyst forecasts.

NB: Figures in this article are calculated using data from the last twelve months, which refer to the 12-month period ending on the last date of the month the financial statement is dated. This may not be consistent with full year annual report figures.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
90 Day Fiance stars Emily Bieberly and Kobe Blaise are officially homeowners! In Touch can exclusively confirm the TLC couple purchased their first property together in Salina, Kansas, in November 2023.

Emily took out a $249,200 loan for a five-bedroom, three-bathroom home on November 20, 2023, according to public records viewed by In Touch. The sale price is listed as $311,500, and her husband is also recorded to be living at the residence.

The 1,510-square-foot house spans four levels and includes a spacious living room, an updated kitchen, and a large dining area. The house also features a basement, which can be used as a gaming space or laundry area.

Emily and Kobe's living situation has been a major storyline throughout their appearances on the 90 Day Fiance franchise. The couple, who made their debut on season 9 in April 2022, documented Kobes overseas move from China to Emily's small hometown in Kansas. At the time, Emily lived with her parents, with the couples young son, Koban.

Upon the Cameroon natives arrival, Emilys parents warned her not to get pregnant again as they were financially backing the couple until Kobe was able to work in the United States.

Im supporting everyone for six months, right? her father lectured her prior to Kobes arrival during an April 2022 episode. One thing for sure, you better not get pregnant.

90 Day Fiances Emily Bieberly and Kobe Blaise Buy Kansas House 2

However, Emily's parents were valid to have their concerns as Emily and Kobe discovered they were pregnant before the 90 days on their visa expired.

Being pregnant right now is not a good thing for us, the former underwear model told producers following the tests positive result. Its not the right timing, Emily cut in. Were still figuring out our relationship, our parenting skills together  Were in my parents house and its the one thing they told us not to do.

Emily gave birth to baby No. 2, a daughter named Scarlett in October 2021. More than two years later, Emily revealed in November 2023 that they were officially expecting baby No. 3. The TLC personalities welcomed their son, Atem, only four months later.

The home purchase proves the couple are creating permanent roots in the United States. The international duo showcased their recent family trip to Cameroon on season 8 of 90 Day Fiance: Happily Ever After? After a successful meshing of the pairs families, Kobe considered moving his family to Africa for a few years.

I mean, its easier with the money we have saved, we can even rent, we can even build, if we wanna build a house, the former underwear model told his wife during the July 7 episode of the spinoff. We can equally do that with the amount of money we have saved already. Its just that, okay, in America, life is expensive. Like having a house, with the money we have, its not gonna equate to anything.

Emily was surprised to hear her husband talk about moving overseas. "I completely love your culture and tradition, but we're also very fortunate to live in America, where our kids get to grow up," she told him, adding that her answer was "No."
A bitter presidential campaign took a turn for the violent Saturday afternoon when former President Donald Trump was rushed off a stage after a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump's ear and face appeared bloody when the Secret Service led him offstage. It was a surreal moment, to say the least. While broadcast and cable networks don't generally cover Trump rallies anymore, there were enough journalists in Butler, Pennsylvania, where the rally was held, to paint a compelling and dramatic picture of the incident.

"Just chaotic, intense moments that played out here," Rachel Scott of ABC News said, speaking even as authorities escorted her out of the outdoor venue, "and just the sense of panic that we heard, screams from people that were hearing these popping sounds and then ultimately got down for cover."

What was perhaps even more impressive was what journalists didn't do  they didn't jump to conclusions, whether about exactly what happened, about Trump's condition or about motives. Being first is important in breaking news, but not as important as being right, and most networks hewed to that Saturday.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump reacts as multiple shots rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

What news reporters got right

"Let's remember, its important at these moments, these crossroads in American history, especially those that involve violence, to not make guesses about what happened," Bob Costa said on CBS News.

That doesn't mean reporters were sitting around waiting for information. Or shy about describing the incident as a security nightmare.

"This was a catastrophic security failure in the eyes of many of my sources already," Costa said. Other reporters echoed that sentiment. How could this happen?

We have become used to instant opinions and analysis; coverage of true breaking news of this nature is, thankfully, rare. In this case, nobody really knew anything for quite a while. Details trickled in throughout the afternoon. A Trump spokesman said the former president was "fine and being checked out at a local medical facility." The shooter was reported to be dead, as was a bystander  possibly a second bystander, as well. President Joe Biden made an on-camera statement, saying, "There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick."

'We all need to take a deep breath'

Social media lit up with theories, some crackpot, some not. You expect that. But the networks, for the most part, stuck to facts. Fox News contributor Jason Chaffetz, a former Republican member of Congress, went about as far as anyone, at least early on, in trying to assign political motive in his defense of Trump.

"They tried to incarcerate him, theyve now had an assassination attempt on the president," Chaffetz said. "The temperature in this country, we all need to take a deep breath. But at the same time, you know what this country we have got to make sure that we can have free fair elections. ..."

Whether by coincidence or wise decision-making, the network drowned him out with a replay of the incident. Good.

Media contextualized the rally shooting with historic examples, but anchors used restraint

Eventually we'll learn the motive, and there will be plenty of time to talk about that. In the moment, facts are what matter, and they're often slow to come by.

We haven't seen something like this in a long time.

"It has echoes of what happened to President Reagan when he was shot by John Hinckley at the Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C.," Costa said on CBS News, "the ducking into the limousine, the rushing to the hospital."

There are more outlets and more competition for viewers than when that happened in 1981. That made the restraint all the more admirable.

Calls to 'calm things down' ahead of Republican National Convention

Now the attention turns to the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday, July 15, in Milwaukee. On Saturday, at least, attention turned to what security will be like there.

Pierre Thomas of ABC News said that the Secret Service and those in law enforcement were actively preparing for something like this to happen, given the temperature of the political rhetoric in the country.

"This has not been something in theory that they've been worried about," Thomas said. "This has been an actual concern. And now that this has happened, law enforcement  which was already on a hair trigger  will now be at a threat level we havent seen in quite some time."

Max Boot, appearing on MSNBC, called for political restraint.

"Its a reminder for all of us that we need to dial it back," he said. "We need to calm things down. We need to resort to our normal democratic process."

Whether even something like this can put that into motion remains to be seen.

NATO press conference gaffes: Biden's NATO news conference was actually fine, 'Vice President Trump' aside

Reach Goodykoontz at bill.goodykoontz@arizonarepublic.com. Facebook: facebook.com/GoodyOnFilm. X: @goodyk. Subscribe to the weekly movies newsletter.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How Fox News, CNN reacted to 'catastrophic' Trump rally shooting
King Charles and Queen Camilla Set for Tour to Australia and Samoa in the Fall amid Charles' Cancer Recovery

This will be the first tour to Commonwealth countries of Charles' reign

Millie Pilkington Australian portrait of King Charles and Queen Camilla released July 14, 2024

King Charles and Queen Camilla are preparing to say Gday to Australia.

Buckingham Palace confirmed on Sunday, July 14, that Charles, 75, and Camilla, 76, are heading to Australia and Samoa in the fall.

The tour has been mooted for some time, as the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting is at the Pacific Island nation of Samoa this year and Charles was expected to attend the gathering of 56 nations. But, as he continues his cancer treatment, aides have been cautious about his plans.

This will be the first time Charles has been to Australia  a senior member of the Commonwealth  since he became monarch in September 2022.

To mark the news, new portraits of the couple wearing their Australian and, separately, New Zealand decorations/insignia  taken in the White Drawing Room at Buckingham Palace by Millie Pilkington  were also released on Sunday.

Millie Pilkington Australian portrait of King Charles and Queen Camilla released July 14, 2024

Related: King Charles Shouts Out Prince William in Wales After Son Took on Monarch's Former Title

Buckingham Palace said the visit to Australia was at the request of that countrys government. The couple will attend engagements across the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales.

During their time in Samoa, they will celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the Pacific Island nation and the U.K.

Millie Pilkington Australian portrait of King Charles released July 14, 2024

Related: King Charles Steps Out for First Public Outing Since His Cancer Diagnosis Alongside Queen Camilla

He and Camilla would usually visit neighboring New Zealand as well on any long-distance trip like this, but that has been ruled out due to medical advice. A spokesperson explained that the Kings doctors have advised that such an extended program should be avoided at this time, to prioritize His Majestys continued recovery.

In close consultation with the Australian and New Zealand Prime Ministers, and with due regard for the pressures of time and logistics, it has therefore been agreed to limit the visit to Samoa and Australia only, the spokesperson added.

Buckingham Palace added that the couple send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding.



Millie Pilkington Australian portrait of Queen Camilla released July 14, 2024

The tour of Australia is relatively limited compared to previous visits. The palace spokesperson explained that this is also due to Charles ongoing recovery.

The Kings doctors have advised that a further extension to Their Majesties trip should be avoided at this time, to prioritize His Majestys continued recovery," the spokesperson said. "As with all His Majestys recent engagements, his program in both countries will be subject to doctors advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds.

Can't get enough of PEOPLE's Royals coverage? Sign up for our free Royals newsletter to get the latest updates on Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle and more!

Jane Barlow - WPA Pool/Getty King Charles and Queen Camilla in Scotland on July 3, 2024

Charles made a return to public-facing royal duties in late April after revealing his cancer diagnosis in February.



The dates for Charles and Camillas trip will be revealed nearer the time. The Commonwealth Heads of Government gathering begins Oct. 21.

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Read the original article on People.
While the goal of having a job is to keep it, sometimes it doesn't always work that way. So when Reddit user u/eminems_shadow asked: "What's the quickest you've ever seen a new coworker get fired?" over ten thousand people shared their experience. Here's what some of them said below.

1."A guy refusing to wear safety gear/PPE on his first day. He flat-out said no to the supervisor, who then fired him. He didn't even make it to the first coffee break. If he was that adamant about not wearing safety gear, it wasn't a good sign."

u/Ill-Organization-719 "Nope, just nope. I can't tell you how many times I've had some debris thump off my safety glasses or face shield at high velocity. So fast, you're actually blinking/reacting after the actual thump. Not wearing PPE is a great way to lose eyeballs." u/IntheCompanyofOgres Fcafotodigital / Getty Images

2."A kid came in on his first day thinking he could boss everyone around since he just finished culinary school, strike one. They caught him later that day vaping in the prep area of the kitchen, strike two. He asked on his second day if he could leave for 30 minutes to make a drug deal. Needless to say, that was strike three."

u/Thethrasher488

3."Back in the mid-1990s, I had hired a guy for a senior Unix systems administration role. It was made quite clear in the posted job description, the interview process, and on his first day that this role would require him to be on call a few nights per month on a rotating basis with the other Unix admins. The salary reflected that as well; this was a six-figure position. He was issued a company laptop and a cellphone for his on-call work, which could be done from home. As part of the onboarding process, our Unix lead admin wanted this guy to shadow him on his on-call evening so that he could see how processes differed in the off-hours. It was his second day on the job."

"That evening, I happened to be working a bit late, and the helpdesk called me saying they had an issue that needed to be escalated to the Unix team and asking if they got the right number for the new guy because it was just ringing and going to a default voicemail mailbox. I told them to call the lead admin to get him working on the issue and that I'd contact the new guy myself. I call. Same thing, voicemail. Multiple times. I fish out his employment documents, which are all still sitting on my desk, and find his home phone number. I call and get about three words out of my mouth when he responds, 'Why the fuck are you calling me at home?' and hangs up. A bit in disbelief, I look back at the paperwork and verify, yes, this *is* his phone number, and try it again, thinking maybe he'd mistaken me for someone else. I received a similar bit of vitriol and a hang-up. I contacted the lead admin and informed him he won't be having the new guy join him that night or any other. We immediately killed all of his system access and his door card, and HR was waiting for him at the reception area first thing in the morning." u/JimTheJerseyGuy Violetastoimenova / Getty Images

4."Within the first two hours of training with me, she asked where she could go and have a smoke; I told her just outside, there's a smoking area. She proceeded to walk outside in front of all the supervisors, light up the biggest blunt, and openly smoke it. She got walked out five minutes later."

u/darth_syphilis

5."I worked at a place where you couldnt be colorblind because you were reading schematics and identifying connectors of varying different colors. There were hundreds of tiny connectors in one array. Somehow, by the grace of God, this guy got hired. Either they forgot to implement the CB test, or he successfully guessed his way through it. He trained for a week and was put onto the line to build $20k cables for fucking missiles. His very first connector, he spent all day soldering and connecting and signing the paperwork and the steps and gave it to QC for inspection. It was one of 'the most fucked up examples' of a connector anyone had seen. The next day, the guy admitted he was color blind and asked whether he could keep the job. He was let go because he cost the company $20k. The connector was put on display in HR to drive home the importance of sticking to hiring procedures."

u/Cananbaum Standret / Getty Images

6."I hired my friend's sister as a hostess at our restaurant. Three hours later, she called off for her first shift, telling me that she was having a tough period. Thirty minutes into her dinner shift, she started posting pics on Instagram of her being at a party in Canada. We live in NY. I fired her via instant message. She never even worked, then tried to claim unemployment. THEN, she had her father call me and try to threaten me into rehiring her. She was 34."

u/Severe_Performer_726

7."This guy shows up; the VP is gloating about how great and brilliant he is, blah blah blah. On the first day, he doesn't come in until 10 a.m. The next day, it's the same deal, like working from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., then leaving. Meanwhile, they flew him on a business trip leaving Wednesday, and he was supposed to come back Friday. At the last second, he rebooked himself on a midnight flight. Meanwhile, on the Friday flight back, at the last second, he was like, 'Oh, I have to take a different flight,' and he just disappeared. What Mr. Mysterious didn't realize is most of us used to work at his previous employer. Someone sent us a text: 'Hey, I thought you hired blah, blah, blah, he's making copies right now!' Turns out, he was working two jobs. These are both science/tech companies with not that strict NDAs, but you can't work at a potential competitor simultaneously! He was fired from both jobs."

u/ooo-ooo-oooyea "I worked with a guy who had two different jobs in the same building. He would leave floor five for a while, head to floor seven to get some face time, and then back again. He got away with it for seven months before he got caught." u/RichCorinthian Sod Tatong / Getty Images

8."As a teenager, I worked at a bowling alley. Within an hour, a coworker was fired for dropping a ball on the foot of a complaining patron."

u/CatacombsRave

9."When I worked in data entry, there was a tricycle on our office floor. It was just added as a relaxed bit of fun by the managers, who were all very chill people. One of the women who got hired around the same time as me would, instead of working, would just ride the tricycle around the office all day, every day. When we all showed up in the morning, she wouldn't even log into her computer; she would just get right on the tricycle and ride around talking to people until she left to take her lunch break. The day she got fired, she had to be escorted out of the building because she was screaming, 'You're targeting me unfairly.' Lol."

u/Chavestvaldt Saulgranda / Getty Images

10."Orientation second day. Hes to sit in a conference room and read through binders of important information. Our boss walks out and closes the door. It has a window with blinds open to see through. Going about our day, the boss asks us why the conference doors are locked and blinds are closed. Nobody is sure, so they get security to open the door to see this fucking guy kicked back with the lights off asleep. He had closed the blinds and locked the door. Of course, he was out there that day."

u/_Goose_

11."I once saw a new coworker get fired on their first day during lunch. They loudly bragged about how they lied on their resume to get the job. Unfortunately, they didn't realize the boss was sitting right behind them. By the time we got back to the office, their desk was already cleared out. They were gone before we even finished our afternoon coffee. It is just wild how stupid some people are."

u/ShyVelvetRose Filadendron / Getty Images

12."She called the first day and said her grandmother died. She called the next day and said her car wouldnt start. She called the third day and said her blow dryer broke, so she couldnt dry her hair. She never made it to work."

u/exitzero

13."I worked a mall job in the 1990s at Electronics Boutique. Pokemon had just come out, and we got this new guy for Christmas help who was just the strangest person ever. On his first shift, he just sat behind the counter opening up packs of Pokemon cards, and when confronted, he yelled, 'I am going to pay for them! Duh!' The manager walked him out about 15 seconds later."

u/wilkc Apilarinos / Getty Images

14."I used to work as a deckhand for a tugboat company on the Mississippi River. The amount of people who would take jobs like that who were deathly afraid of water was staggering. There was a mandatory two-week training period for all new employees, but about 1/3 of them never made it past their first week. One second you're on a boat heading to your first job, and then the new guy is freaking out, telling the captain to turn the boat around and head back to the dock."

u/Sado_Hedonist

15.And finally, "I work in a kitchen, and literally just yesterday, a new guy started at 5 a.m., claimed to have 20+ years experience, got frustrated that he was struggling with some basic recipes, slammed the oven door and broke it, then walked out at 6:30 a.m. I would be lying if I said I havent witnessed this more than once at all the different places Ive cooked at."

u/falleng213 Wavebreakmedia / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Do you have a memory of a coworker getting fired right after they got hired? Tell us what happened in the comments below.
Carlton Smith, left, and Justin Nimmo pose in from of the console of the Barton Opus 234 theater organ that is undergoing restoration at Carlton Smith Pipe Organ Restorations in Indianapolis, Tuesday, July 2, 2024. The massive pipe organ built nearly a century ago for an extravagant movie house in Detroit is expected to be the centerpiece of a performing arts center at the Rochester Institute of Technology in Rochester, N.Y. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)

DETROIT (AP)  A massive pipe organ that underscored the drama and comedy of silent movies with live music in Detroit's ornate Hollywood Theatre nearly a century ago was dismantled into thousands of pieces and stashed away.

The Barton Opus, built in 1927, spent four decades stored in a garage, attic and basement in suburban Detroit. But the towering musical curiosity is being lovingly restored in Indianapolis and eventually will be trucked, piece by piece, to the Rochester Institute of Technology in western New York, to be reassembled and rehoused in a theater specifically designed to accommodate it.

In its heyday, the Barton Opus was able to recreate the sounds of many instruments, including strings, flutes and tubas, says Carlton Smith, who has been restoring the organ since 2020. It also contained real percussion instruments such as a piano, xylophone, glockenspiel, cymbals and drums and could produce sound effects including steamboat and bird whistles, Smith says.

For many moviegoers, the organs  and the organists  were the stars.

One guy could do it all, Smith says. In the big cities, they were literally filling the theaters thousands of seats multiple times during the day. They were showing live shows along with the films. It was a big production.

The Barton Opus enjoyed good acoustics at the Hollywood Theatre, according to the Detroit Theatre Organ Society. The theaters in Detroit at that time, the golden age of the city's auto industry, were as glamorous as any in New York, Chicago, Los Angeles and San Francisco, according to John Lauter, an organist and organ technician.

We were such a rich market for moviegoers that the theater owners built these palatial places, Lauter says. There were no plain Jane movie houses back then.

Lauter, who also is the director of the Detroit Theatre Organ Society and president of the Motor City Theatre Organ Society, says the Hollywood Theatre organ was one of the largest made by the Bartola Musical Instrument Co. of Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Only three were sold, while the other two were installed in the Highland Theatre in Chicago and the Rialto Square Theatre in Joliet, Illinois.

Of the three, this is the last one left that hasnt been altered," Smith says.

In the decades that followed, televisions began to appear in living rooms across the nation and silent movie houses fell out of favor. The Hollywood Theatre closed in the 1950s, its fixtures were sold and its famed Barton Opus was on the verge of being lost to history.

But in the early 1960s, Lauters friend, Henry Przybylski, bought it at auction for about $3,500. Przybylski scrambled to remove the massive instrument, parts of which stood two stories tall, before the theater was demolished.

He pulled together all of his friends in the winter of 1963, Lauter says. The building had no electricity and no heat. They came in with Coleman lanterns and block and tackle.

They took the organ apart and Przybylski  an engineer and organ buff  transported the thousands of pieces back to his Dearborn Heights home where it would remain, unassembled, for about 40 years.

He never heard or played that instrument ever, Lauter says. He lived a majority of his life owning that thing. Hed roll up the garage door and there would be that console in there. He made it known it was the very best there was.

Przybylski died in 2000, but that did not spell the end of the Barton Opus' odyssey.

Steven Ball, a professional organist who taught at the University of Michigan's Organ Department, asked Przbylski's widow in 2003 if the pipe organ was for sale.

I came up with every last bit of cash I could, Ball says.

But he also put the pipe organ straight into storage.

This whole project was to see this organ through to safety, until I could find an institution to restore it to what it was," Ball says, adding that he had always hoped the Barton Opus would end up in a theater mirroring its original home.

In 2019, Rochester Institute of Technology President David C. Munson reached out to Ball, whom he had known since Munson served as the dean of engineering at the University of Michigan years earlier.

I contacted Steven and asked where we could acquire the best theater organ, Munson says. "Steven said, Well that would be mine.

Ball will donate his Barton Opus to the school, where it will be the centerpiece of the new performing arts center. The theater that will house the organ is expected to open by January 2026. Restoration work on the organ is a little over two-thirds complete, according to Smith.

The theater is designed to accommodate exactly this organ, Munson says, adding that the architect, Michael Maltzan, "designed the pipe chambers to have the same dimension as in the Hollywood Theatre. We have all the original plans for that organ and how the pipes were laid out.

The exact cost of the work hasnt yet been determined, Munson says, adding, Its an investment were making, but I think the results are going to be remarkable.
The 5 M's of digital wellness: Tips to keep your kids from constant online scrolling

Kids are growing up in a totally digital world, so how can parents help provide balance?

Nicole Powell, clinical research specialist at Boston Children's Hospital Digital Wellness Lab, gave practical tips for parents to address problematic media use in a recent presentation at the Stark County Health Improvement Summit.

The issue, she said, doesn't have a one-size-fits-all solution, but given the prominence of media use, it is important to address.

"We live in a digitally saturated world," Powell said. "It's embedded into our lives."

She said in almost all cases of children and adolescents having unhealthy relationship with media, there is some underlying factor or condition such as ADHD, anxiety, autism, depression or other mood disorders.

More: Meet Gina Bannevich. She will oversee The Golden Key Center for Exceptional Children

While Powell encourages parents to limit and monitor children's media use, the wrong approach could make things worse.

"Parents and children often have different perspectives on what constitutes reasonable screen time," she said. "Parents' efforts to control media use can be seen as infringement on their independence."

When does media use become problematic?

Not all media use is bad.

"Media has positive and negative aspects to it," Powell said. "But I also wanted to highlight some of the opportunities that it has as well because I think sometimes the conversation is skewed a little bit more negative."

First, phones keep us connected.

"Teens are more driven towards peer relationships, and this can be an opportunity for social interaction," Powell said.

Additionally, an online platform can be a space for self expression and identity.

The internet also has a plethora of knowledge and easily accessible information.

There are several ways media use becomes problematic such as when it is prolonged, used as a distraction, used as a means of emotional coping or keeping you from sleep or other responsibilities.

Why are young people drawn to media?

There are psychological, social and environmental factors that draw young people to media.

As far as psychological factors, social media platforms are often designed to keep users online through things like notifications, pull to refresh and infinite scroll.

"Adolescents are particularly sensitive to these reward systems," Powell said. "Immediate gratification and frequent rewards provided by gaming and social media platforms can lead to a dopamine release, reinforcing usage patterns and potentially contributing to these addictive behaviors."

It is also a coping mechanism and escape from stress in the real world.

Social factors such as peer pressure also keep young people online.

"We use this term a lot in the lab, which is FOMO or FOBLO. Which is 'Fear Of Missing Out' or 'Fear Of Being Left Out,'" Powell said. "This is what we see all the time."

Social factors can also be at play in family dynamics. When parents are modeling excessive media use, kids may emulate it.

In addition, when parents and children's opinions clash on media use, it could create a deeper problem. These conflicts can increase stress and become a dangerous cycle.

Widespread availability and constant exposure to media can be an environmental driver of problematic use.

How can I promote digital wellness?

Powell said the best strategies to address excessive media use should be based in open communication, clear and consistent rules, encouraging balance and mitigating pathways to harm.

That can all be summed up in the 5 M's of digital wellness: model, mentor, monitor, memories and mastery.

Model: Demonstrate the behavior you want to see in your children. Do not use devices during family time or when a child is seeking your attention. Set boundaries for yourself.

Mentor: Guide your children to understand the power and potential of digital tools. Teach responsible use. Discuss appropriate versus inappropriate use. Have conversations about and seek to understand new technology and apps as your child is introduced to them. In other words, take an interest in what they are doing.

Monitor: Keep track of children's digital activities and have access to their accounts, but do not be overly intrusive. Having random checks encourages more appropriate behavior.

Memories: Prioritize creating offline memories that strengthen family bonds.

Mastery: Help your child master the digital environment, teach them to understand media and think critically about content they consume. Teach them to use technology to help solve problems, create content and achieve goals. Promote digital literacy.

A parent's experience practicing digital wellness

Patti Fetzer, director of prevention for the Stark County Educational Service Center, has two kids and three grandkids.

Her mother started setting boundaries early for the whole family when it came to cell phone use during family time.

"For family dinner, she had all of us put our cell phones in a basket inside the door so that we would be focused on conversations at the dinner table versus our phone," Fetzer said.

She said her family learned to respect the rule because everyone participated.

"If my mom would have taken our phones away, but yet, she kept her phone and she was on her phone at the dinner table, the respect wouldn't have been there, but all the adults were modeling that same behavior at the same time," Fetzer said. "I think it's teaching, giving that structure and having those conversations about when do we use the phone and when do we put it away."

In her experience with her kids and grandkids, the most important ways to promote digital wellness have been using modeling and communicating clear rules and the reasons behind them.

When her daughter was in her teens, Fetzer took away her phone overnight.

"She recognized that she needed that boundary because she would have friends that would text her in the middle of the night," she said. "As long as you're having the conversations and you're talking to them about the why. With my daughter it was that it's really not a good idea that you're getting these calls or texts at night, you need to focus on your sleep and not worry about your friends in the middle of the night."

A screenshot of Patti Fetzer's Facebook, where she shares interactions over FaceTime with her granddaughters.

Fetzer also recognizes how technology can lead to social connection. She lives states away from her grandchildren in Connecticut and Tennessee, and they like to connect over Facetime.

"It's having those times when we have conversation and activity and maybe singing songs together. I've even read books over FaceTime with them," Fetzer said. "Make it interactive just like if you're in person with them."

Reach Grace at 330-580-8364 or gspringer@gannett.com. Follow her on X @GraceSpringer16.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Tips to encourage digital wellness in kids
Editor's note: Events are subject to change, and contacting your church ahead of time is recommended. Churches may send updates to worship services, events or schedules via email to kwood@lubbockonline.com. Please note that this is a partial compilation of local religious congregrations, and listings are sorted below by newest information.

Newest updates:

Of note: Father Ed Sweeney, one of four Permanent Deacons ordained for the Catholic Diocese of Amarillo who were later ordained to the priesthood, died July 9. He was 94. Funeral arrangements were pending as of press time, an announcement from the Catholic Diocese said on its website. Sweeney was born Feb. 10, 1930 in McCurtain, Okla. He was ordained to the priesthood on June 11, 1988 at St. Laurence Cathedral. Following his ordination, Sweeney was appointed Administrator of Holy Name of Jesus Church, Happy. He was also named director of the Permanent Diaconate for the Diocese of Amarillo, which he served as director until July 1, 1996. He also served with St. Teresa of Jesus Church, Friona, and St. Anns Church, Bovina. He retired from active ministry on July 1, 2005.

 First Presbyterian Church of Amarillo  1100 S. Harrison St. The summer worship schedule continues. Starting July 14, there will be two Sunday services at 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m in the Fellowship Center. Identical services will rotate through three music styles, including traditional, gospel and contemporary. The 8:30 a.m. service is livestreamed. Sunday school begins at 10 a.m. for children, youth and adults. For more information, call the church office at 806-373-4242 or visit our website at firstpres.com. Check website for changes in worship times.

 First Church of Christ Scientist Amarillo  2701 Julian Blvd. Are you seeking a place for spiritual growth and inspiration? The First Church of Christ, Scientist Amarillo welcomes all to our Sunday Service at 10:30 a.m. Sunday School for children and teens meets at the same time. Join us for our weekly testimonial meetings on Wednesdays from 7 p.m. to 8 p.m. for more inspiration and fellowship. See our Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/First-Church-of-Christ-Scientist-Amarillo-104483494978237 or our website at https://www.cschurchamarillo.com/ for more details.

Previous listings:

 Accelerate Church, 4400 S Crockett, and Accelerate North Campus, 1300 E Central.

 Amarillo First Nazarene Church, 5201 Soncy Road; 806-374-2242, https://onenaz.org/ .

 Amarillo Unitarian Universalist Fellowship  4109 Cornell St. Fellowship at Sunday at 11 a.m. Our services are in-person and also live-streamed on our YouTube and Facebook pages. For more information about AUUF, see our website at uuamarillo.org.

 Amarillo United Methodist Church  3001 Bell St. (meeting at the St. Luke Presbyterian Church site). An inclusive and only United Methodist Church in Amarillo. Our Sunday morning traditional, Wesleyan worship service begins at 9 a.m. with Chancel Choir and Childrens Moment. Summer schedule features guest preachers, including Rev. Margie McNeir, Rev. Lane Boyd, Rev. Todd Dyess, and Rev. Lynn Brack. Worship is followed by fellowship time with plenty of donuts and coffee, surrounded by community Christian seekers just like you. Church School for adults, youth, and children meets from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Open hearts-Open Minds-Open Doors. Thats the people of the United Methodist Church. Contact us: www.Amarilloumc.org or Facebook, Amarillo United Methodist Church; 806-670-4142.

 Amazing Grace Amarillo (Lutheran Church - WELS) - Join us for worship at 10:30 a.m. at 8700 Clinton Glenn Dr. Amarillo, TX 79119. We've moved! We also offer children's Bible school at 9:15 a.m. along with our teen/adult Bible study on Sundays. You can stream our services at AmazingGraceAmarillo.com and join us for Bible Study on Wednesdays at 6 p.m. Message our pastor at pastorhans@amazinggraceamarillo.com .

 Anna Street Church of Christ  2310 Anna St., across from Olsen Park Elementary. Sunday: 9:45 a.m.  classes; 10:30 a.m.  Morning Worship. Wednesday: 6:45 p.m.  Song Practice; 7:35 p.m.  Evening Teaching. Visit http://www.annastreetchurch.org/ for more information.

 Arden Road Baptist Church  Sunday School, children's ministries and nurseries. Service times: Sundays, 9:30 a.m., Sunday school, 10:30 a.m., 6:30 p.m., Wednesdays, 7 p.m.

 Beautiful Savior Lutheran Church of Amarillo  worship/communion service is at 9:30 a.m. each Sunday. The service is also available on the churchs website on Sunday evenings at https://www.beautifulsavioramarillo.org.videos.

 Bell Avenue Church of Christ Amarillo  1600 Bell St. For more information, please contact the Bell Avenue Church of Christ at 806-355-2351 or visit our website, www.bellavenue.org .

 Bible Believers Baptist Church, 12,200 W Rockwell Rd. Services at 10 a.m.; Bible Study at 11 a.m. Preaching and Worship at 7 p.m. On Wednesday at 7 p.m., prayer meeting and Bible Study. On Friday at 7 p.m., Youth Night. Services streamed on our website biblebelieversbaptist.com . Call 806-499-3231 for more information.

 Central Church of ChristJoin us on Sundays for class at 9 a.m. and worship at 10:15 a.m. Youll find us in person at 1401 S. Madison St. and online at www.amarillocentral.org.

 Christ Covenant Presbyterian Church  Morning and evening worship services.

 Christian Heritage Church - 900 S Nelson St. Service times are Sunday at 9:45 a.m. and Wednesday at 7 p.m. For more, email info@chcamarillo.com .

 The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints  2101 N. Coulter St.

 The Colonies Church of Christ  4500 Wesley Road, Amarillo, TX 79119. Please join us Sundays for Bible class at 9:30 a.m. and worship service at 10:30 a.m. Any questions, call 806-355-7303. For more information visit our website at: thecolonies.org

 Coulter Road Baptist Church  4108 S. Coulter St. Sunday school at 9:15 a.m. and worship at 10:30 a.m. Sunday worship is streamed on our website, www.coulterbc.com. Contact info: 806-352-5278.

 Covenant Presbyterian Church, 1400 Wolflin Ave., Amarillo, TX 79109. We invite visitors to join us each Sunday morning. Sunday School begins at 9 a.m., and our worship service begins at 10 a.m. We gather to give praise to the only true and living God, revealed to us as One God in Three Persons - Father, Son and Holy Spirit. Our goal is to rejoice before the Lord as we begin a new week with prayer, singing and hearing the Word read and proclaimed. With the help of God, we support one another in prayer and come together in times of joy and suffering. We challenge one another to live as children of God in our daily lives and reach out to the world beyond our doors. We believe the Christian life is the most rewarding, demanding, and fulfilling life possible. During worship, we have devices that assist in one hearing the service. Please join us! We are home to two other congregations - Cross Timbers and Grace Communion International. We also house "The Word at Work" - a mission to Belize. You can call us at 806-376-5244.

 "The Cross" in Groom, Texas  Information: Cross Ministry  Jason Eugea, 806-248-9006.

 First Baptist Church  Gathering at 12th and Tyler. Sunday morning worship service times are 8:30 and 11 a.m., with Bible study for all ages at 9:45 a.m. Sunday evening worship meets at 6 p.m. in the sanctuary.

 First Christian Church  3001 Wolflin Ave. Sunday school at 9 a.m. and worship service at 10 a.m. FCC Facebook page: facebook.com/FirstChristianAmarillo , FCC YouTube channel: youtube.com/channel/UCkyDAlGKrx82S5qCbiBlS_g

 Grace Church  Grace Church was founded by Pastor Bill Gehm, his wife, and a small group of believers in 1985, and has grown over the past few decades into a much larger and diverse group of believers in Christ. We are Making Disciples verse by verse at the corner of Plains and Western (4111 Plains Blvd.) in an old grocery store, on the radio at 88.7FM with the Radio by Grace network, and online at GraceAmarillo.com. Service times are 9 & 11am on Sundays and 7pm on Wednesdays.

 Grace Communion International (GCI Amarillo), 1400 Wolflin (Covenant Presbyterian)  Please join us in 2024! Saturdays 2:30 p.m. (weather permitting). Fellowship Group gathering for worship music, prayer, Bible story, Bible study, and seasonal messages. Multi-generational meeting. New participants of all ages welcome. Refreshments following and potluck on the 1st Saturdays. For information and schedule confirmation, call 806-473-8753 or 806-340-4704.

 Hillside Christian Churches  www.hillsideonline.com.

 Jenkins Chapel Baptist Church, 1801 N. Hughes St. For more info, please call 806 373 2576.

 Life.Church Amarillo  Located on the northwest corner of I-27 and Hollywood Road; services held at 10 and 11:30 a.m. Life.Church is made up of people from different backgrounds linked together by a common mission: leading people to become fully devoted followers of Christ. For more, see www.life.church/amarillo.

 The Loft Church  4400 S. Georgia. Services at 9:30 a.m. and 11:15 a.m.

 Messiahs House  6901 Bell St. Sunday morning services at 9 a.m. and 11 a.m. For more information, visit their website at https://mh.church .

 North Beacon Church of the Nazarene, 1601 N. Nelson St., 806-367-8544

 Olsen Park Church of Christ  invites you to visit our worship services and Bible studies at 4700 Andrews Ave., Amarillo, TX 79106, Sunday: 9 a.m. (short service), 9:30 a.m. (Bible class), 10:30 a.m. (worship); Wednesday: 7 p.m. (Bible class). For more information, go to www.olsenpark.com and Olsen Park Church of Christ on Facebook, or call 806-352-2809.

 Paramount Baptist Church  3801 S. Western St. in Amarillo. Sunday school is at 9 a.m. with worship at 10:15 a.m. We also have a Spanish speaking service at 10:15 a.m. Visit www.paramount.org for more information.

 Pathpoint Fellowship Church, 6215 Canyon Drive, Amarillo, 79110, 806-463-7284.

 Pleasant Valley Methodist Church  316 Valley Ave. Everyone is welcome at our Sunday worship service. Visit with us in person at 10 a.m.; Sunday School is at 9 a.m. From Bible class Wednesday at 5 p.m. to food cupboard, AISD ministry and outreach to the impoverished, there is a place for you. If youd like more information, go to Pleasant Valley Methodist Church (Amarillo) on Facebook, or call (806) 383-3342. Mail us: info@yourpvumc.org .

 Polk Street Methodist Church  Please worship with us in person at 8:30 and 10:55 a.m. in our historic sanctuary at 1401 S. Polk St., or worship online with us at 10:55 a.m. at www.polkstreet.org or on our Facebook page. From Bible studies and small groups to exercise classes and outreach to the impoverished, there is a place for you. If you would like more information, please visit www.polkstreet.org and either email us or complete a contact form.

 Power Church  8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. (bilingual) Sunday service. Also Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

 Pray the City is a 501 (c)3 organization consisting of Christ followers from many denominations that meets monthly to pray scripturally over issues in Amarillo.

 Redeemer Presbyterian Church  7603 77th Ave. Sunday school at 9:30 am, followed by worship service at 10:30 and evening worship service at 5 p.m. We offer live streaming on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHc6sCADFHQ6xD91jMxktfQ. Please visit our website at http://redeemeramarillo.com/ for more information.

 St. Luke Presbyterian Church  3001 Bell St. The phone number of the church office is 806-355-6253, or visit the churchs website at stlukeamarillo.com for a link to the bulletin and live streaming videos.

 Sandell Drive In Theater, Clarendon  Sunday service at 10 a.m. Add in a beautiful Sunday drive out to Clarendon and experience church.

 Second Baptist Church  419 N. Buchanan St. Sunday mornings at 9:30 a.m. for worship followed by Sunday School at 10:45 a.m. For more information please visit sbcama.org or call the church at 806-373-1737. Also, our sermons are broadcast on KAMR channel 4 every Sunday morning at 8 a.m.

 South Georgia Baptist Church  5209 S. Georgia St. You're invited to join us each Sunday morning at 9 a.m. for small group Bible study and at 10:30 a.m. for our morning worship service. Our 10:30 a.m. service streams live at sgbc.co/watch. Visit sgbc.co for more information.

 Southwest Church of Christ  Come see us Sunday for Bible class at 9:30 a.m. and for Worship at 10:30 a.m. A list of current classes can be found on our website: www.southwest.org.

 Trinity Fellowship  Family Worship and Prophetic Nights: Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Visit TFC.org/Sundays. Church online at 9 and 11 a.m. on all viewing platforms.

 Triumphant Truth Church, 1701 S Manhattan St.

 Valleyview Church of the Nazarene, 7601 S. Western St., 806-358-8829, https://www.facebook.com/vvnazarene/ , http://www.vvnaz.org/

 Washington Avenue Christian Church, 3800 S Washington St. Real people. Real grace. Real growth. Sunday services at 9:30 and 11 a.m. Phone: (806) 352-1442. Visit their website, wacconline.org for more information.

 Westminster Presbyterian Church  Sundays at 10:30 a.m.; available to watch from the churchs website at wpcama.com, click on Sermons. Church is located at 2525 Wimberly Road.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo faith calendar for July 14, 2024
In L.A.'s Koreatown, perched on a sunny corner across the street from a coin laundry, stands a wonder of modern architecture. A large white cylinder of a building, flanked by bright red metal blades, crowned by a cockily-angled red cube adorned with Colonel Sanders' face. That's right, this architectural gem is a Kentucky Fried Chicken franchise.

The eye-catching Koreatown KFC has become something of a fast-food Rorschach test among Los Angeles residents since its construction was completed in 1990. Is it a fried chicken bucket? Is it an actual chicken? Honestly, I can see both interpretations, but bucket seems to be the consensus. Yet the design was never meant to evoke a fast food container or fowl. It was simply intended to be a structurally dynamic, constructivist building  any resemblance to a bucket and/or chicken "wasn't a self-conscious thing," Jeffrey Daniels, one of the building's architects, told Los Angeles Magazine in 2018.

Read more: 10 Weeknight Meals To Make With A Rotisserie Chicken

The History Of The Bucket-Shaped KFC

KFC bucket with chicken - Siarhei Kuranets/Shutterstock

Architecturally-inclined KFC franchisee Jack Wilke commissioned the firm Grinstein/Daniels Inc. to design a two-story KFC in LA's Koreatown in 1989, and construction was completed in 1990. The design draws from constructivist architecture, blending interesting shapes and modern materials to create a sense of opposition and scale. It was also inspired by Googie-style architecture, which uses dramatic geometric shapes and eye-catching materials to draw attention to businesses.

The Koreatown KFC is certainly eye-catching when viewed from the street, but the funky space-age design doesn't stop at the doors. The interior reveals a statement stairwell, 16-foot tall windows, massive skylights, and a (no longer functioning) dumbwaiter. The dining room encompasses the entire second floor, and patrons can even take their KFC saucy nuggets outside and dine on the patio. There's no denying that its unique design makes for good advertising  there are two other KFCs in Koreatown, but the bucket-shaped building is undoubtedly the most well-known. And of course, it's been featured in countless articles (such as this one).

An Enduring Legacy

KFC drive-thru sign - Rapideye/Getty Images

Koreatown's bucket-shaped KFC is more than a little divisive  it has been called one of the ugliest buildings in LA by some critics. But other architecture buffs revere it as an eye-catching postmodern masterpiece, a refreshing break from the boxy boringness of most fast-food architecture. Even non-architects can appreciate that it's just plain fun. "People get a kick out of it," Jeffrey Daniels told the Christian Science Monitor in 1990, and Wilke added that sales had been excellent, so far. Considering that the building is still a functioning KFC over 30 years later, it's probably fair to call it a success.

Regardless of how you feel about its aesthetic appeal, it's clear that LA's bucket-shaped KFC has some staying power. After being heavily damaged in a 2017 fire, it was fully repaired and has since received a fresh red-and-white paint job which, in my opinion, makes it look even more like a fried chicken bucket, or perhaps a chicken. Some have suggested that the futuristic fast-food building is simply ahead of its time  who knows, perhaps in 10 or 20 years it will be normal to eat Taco Bell beef in a giant bell and dine on quesadillas at a burrito-shaped Chipotle. We can only hope.

For more food and drink goodness, join The Takeout's newsletter. Get taste tests, food & drink news, deals from your favorite chains, recipes, cooking tips, and more!

Read the original article on The Takeout.
Cruise lines and ports are banking on shore power. What does that mean?

Carnival Conquest was the first cruise ship to plug into landside electrical power at the cruise capital of the world, PortMiami.

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Shore power has become a major focus of the cruise industrys sustainability efforts.

Technology enabling ships to connect to landside electrical power has been added to many new and existing vessels in recent years. PortMiami, the worlds busiest cruise port, launched shore power in mid-June, with Carnival Cruise Lines Carnival Conquest being the first ship to plug in there.

The Port of Seattle also announced earlier last month that all cruise ships homeported in the city must have and use shore power capability by 2027. While shore power can help ships reduce pollution, its not always as clean as it may seem.

Heres what to know.

What is shore power?

Shore power allows cruise ships to run on the electrical grid on land while docked, rather than running their own engines to produce electricity.

When cruise ships use shore power, they can switch off their engines, which reduces the local air pollution caused by exhaust emissions.

Most modern cruise ships have diesel-electric propulsion, using large engines to turn electric generators, according to Matthew Collette, a professor of naval architecture and marine engineering at the University of Michigan.

Some of the power goes toward spinning propellers to move a ship through the water, but a large percentage  sometimes more than half  is used for lighting, air conditioning and other features for passenger comfort. The latter stay on while ships are in port.

So, there needs to be the provision of a large amount of power, and it either has to be generated on board by the ship, or we can take it from the shore power grid, he said.

How many cruise ships can use shore power?

The number of cruise ships able to connect to onshore power among member lines of the Cruise Lines International Association  the industrys leading trade organization  has increased more than twofold over the past five years.

Today 120 ships are equipped to connect to shoreside electricity, a cruise line association spokesperson told USA TODAY in an emailed statement following the Port of Seattles announcement. By 2028, more than 210 ships will be sailing (with) the ability to plug in at port  representing 72% of all CLIA-cruise line member ships.

But just because a ship can connect doesnt mean a port has the capability. Less than 3% of ports worldwide currently offer onshore power.

The industry will continue to work with its port partners as they evolve their shoreside sustainability offerings, the spokesperson added. Collette said the technology can be a substantial undertaking.

A cruise ship could be running five, 10, maybe even sometimes 20 megawatts of power in shore, so it's not a small load, he said. So you need to have the infrastructure to get the power to the pier, which is an investment from the port side, and your power grid has to have the ability to take on this extra load.

The cruise lines association maintains a map of ports that have at least one cruise berth with Onshore Power Supply, and passengers can contact cruise lines to inquire about their fleets' capabilities.

Is shore power better for the environment?

Holland America Line's Koningsdam ship using shore power at the Port of San Diego.

Its complicated. Shore power allows cruise ships  which primarily use diesel fuel  to turn off their engines, eliminating the local air pollution they would be generating through exhaust.

Locally, probably always, yes, said Collette. For the people who are living and working around the port, getting rid of that point pollution coming out of the ship is a good thing.

Can we have eco-friendly cruising?: What to know about zero-emission ships

On a global scale, the question is whether the energy a ship gets from shore is lower carbon than what it was generating on board. That depends a lot on the power grid it plugs into.

Norway, for instance, uses hydropower for much of its energy production. So, that's a case where if you plugged into the Norwegian grid, you're probably doing really well in terms of reducing the global carbon dioxide emissions, as well as the local emissions around the ship, he said.

Plugging into a grid that uses coal power, however, doesnt necessarily reap the same benefits in the aggregate. That said, Collette noted that shore power is not a gimmick.

There's some things you see out there where you're like, Thats just there for marketing. This is one where there's real local air quality improvements when you use shore power. In places like Norway and as the grids get greener, there will be carbon reductions by doing this.

Nathan Diller is a consumer reporter for USA TODAY based in Nashville. You can reach him at ndiller@usatoday.com.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Is shore power for cruise ships better for the environment?
The board of KeyCorp (NYSE:KEY) has announced that it will pay a dividend on the 13th of September, with investors receiving $0.205 per share. This makes the dividend yield 5.4%, which will augment investor returns quite nicely.

See our latest analysis for KeyCorp

KeyCorp's Dividend Forecasted To Be Well Covered By Earnings

We like to see robust dividend yields, but that doesn't matter if the payment isn't sustainable.

Having distributed dividends for at least 10 years, KeyCorp has a long history of paying out a part of its earnings to shareholders. Despite this history however, the company's latest earnings report actually shows that it didn't have enough earnings to cover its dividends. This is an alarming sign for the sustainability of its dividends, as it may mean that KeyCorpis pulling cash from elsewhere to keep its shareholders happy.

Over the next 3 years, EPS is forecast to expand by 131.8%. Despite the current payout ratio being slightly elevated, analysts estimate the future payout ratio will be 50% over the same time period, which would make us comfortable with the sustainability of the dividend.

KeyCorp Has A Solid Track Record

Even over a long history of paying dividends, the company's distributions have been remarkably stable. Since 2014, the annual payment back then was $0.22, compared to the most recent full-year payment of $0.82. This works out to be a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 14% a year over that time. We can see that payments have shown some very nice upward momentum without faltering, which provides some reassurance that future payments will also be reliable.

The Dividend Has Limited Growth Potential

Investors could be attracted to the stock based on the quality of its payment history. Unfortunately things aren't as good as they seem. KeyCorp's EPS has fallen by approximately 15% per year during the past five years. A sharp decline in earnings per share is not great from from a dividend perspective. Even conservative payout ratios can come under pressure if earnings fall far enough. Over the next year, however, earnings are actually predicted to rise, but we would still be cautious until a track record of earnings growth can be built.

In Summary

In summary, while it's good to see that the dividend hasn't been cut, we are a bit cautious about KeyCorp's payments, as there could be some issues with sustaining them into the future. In the past the payments have been stable, but we think the company is paying out too much for this to continue for the long term. We would be a touch cautious of relying on this stock primarily for the dividend income.

Story continues

Companies possessing a stable dividend policy will likely enjoy greater investor interest than those suffering from a more inconsistent approach. Still, investors need to consider a host of other factors, apart from dividend payments, when analysing a company. As an example, we've identified 2 warning signs for KeyCorp that you should be aware of before investing. Is KeyCorp not quite the opportunity you were looking for? Why not check out our selection of top dividend stocks.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Billie is a one-year-old Siamese mix available for adoption in Lane County.

Greenhill Humane Society

Billie is a one-year-old Siamese mix who is extremely smart and active. He is looking for a family who will keep him entertained physically and mentally.

After a short time playing with his wand toy or eating his breakfast in a puzzle toy, he takes a hard cat nap on his cat tree. He also loves hanging out in his outdoor enclosed patio and watching the birds go by.

Billie is looking to be the only cat in your home and should have a slow introduction period to any dog friends. He needs enough stimulation to keep him entertained and happy.

He is also neutered, microchipped and up to date on vaccines.

Greenhill Humane Society is open seven days a week, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. at 88530 Green Hill Rd in Eugene. For more information call (541) 689.1503 or visit www.green-hill.org.

Oregon Coast Humane Society

Stallone is a six-year-old French Bulldog available for adoption in Lane County.

Stallone is a French Bulldog who arrived at the shelter after being abandoned on the beach in Florence.

"I cannot believe that Stallone doesn't have a pending adoption," said Elizabeth Thompson, executive director at Oregon Coast Humane Society. "Literally the team passes him around and holds him like a baby whenever we can."

He is six years old and a staff favorite at the Humane Society. Stallone will make a great cuddle buddy and doesn't require a lot of exercise.

To meet Stallone, stop by the shelter at 2840 Rhododendron Drive in Florence, or apply online at oregoncoasthumanesociety.org. Shelter hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily.

Cat Rescue and Adoption Network

Lemonade is a two-year-old Calico Manx Cat available for adoption in Lane County.

Lemonade is a young and fluffy two-year-old Calico Manx cat described as friendly, affectionate, and playful.

She was born with spina bifida and had an operation on her spine to correct the condition.

Lemonade will do best as the only cat in your home and because of her health condition, will need to be monitored throughout her life.

Her adopter should be experienced with long-haired cats. She has been spayed, vaccinated, microchipped, and is negative for FIV & FeLV.

Are you that special someone who will provide a forever home for this beautiful and sweet little lady?

To meet Lemonade, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org for more info.

Haleigh Kochanski is a breaking news and public safety reporter for The Register-Guard. You may reach her at HKochanski@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Register-Guard: Lane County Pets to adopt: French bulldog, Siamese mix, Calico
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va. (WAVY)  A FUNdraising community day is underway at Mount Trashmore.

Frogmans Party Rentals presents the first annual Dash for Cash run series and community day.

Over 100 adults registered for the 5K run and about 20 kids registered for the 1 Mile Family Dash, this morning.

The community day is from 10 a.m.  5 p.m., kids can enjoy access to inflatables with a donation of $10.

DJ Julian Rivera along with food trucks are part of the day of events:

8 a.m.  Dash for Cash 5k Run

10 a.m.  1 Mile Family Dash for Cash

Noon  VB kids fit workout session

1:30 p.m.  12:15 p.m. Abbi Jean first performance

1 p.m.- Suffolk Skydive drop

2 p.m.  Virginia Beach Fire demonstration

2 p.m.- 2:30 p.m.  VB Kids workout session 2

2:30 p.m.  3:15 p.m. Abbi Jean second performance

3 p.m.  3:30 p.m.- King Tiger Martial Arts demonstration

5 p.m.  Community Day ends

The event will help raise money for the Virginia Beach Education Foundation. Proceeds will directly benefit the teachers and students in Virginia Beach City Public Schools.

We bring in community support, to raise money for students and teachers at a grassroots level, things that maybe the school division isnt able to fund. Teachers can apply to us to get funding, said Debbie Hughes, Virginia Beach Education Foundation Coordinator for VBCPS. We want to make sure that the community knows we exist.

The proceeds will help fund the Adopt A+ Grants.

We do it on a blind review. It is a Google form for teachers with four questions, and we were giving up to $20,000 [for the School + Community Super] Grant. Last year, we gave over $230,000. We make it simple for teachers to do this it could be [for] art, math, it could be history. It could be technology, it could be a collaboration of several things, said Hughes. It could be music theater, working with history. It could be STEM related, it could be anything.

Michael Schwarting, the owner of Frogmans Party Rentals, organized the event.

My wife was a teacher [with] the Virginia Beach school system. [Rachel] was Superintendents pick two years ago and then she was Teacher of the Year this year, said Schwarting. Teachers all have the right heart. Often theyre spending their own money, theyre getting supplies for something that was missed out.

The plan is to get more adults and kids to come out next year.

We want to do it during the school year. I think itll be a little bit better, and maybe not as hot as it is today, said Schwarting.

Learn more about Virginia Beach Education Foundation  vbef.org.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
The two types of rice you're likely to encounter at Thai restaurants  jasmine rice and sticky rice  couldn't be more different in texture and aroma. Jasmine rice, which you might enjoy on the side with your dinner, has distinct, firm grains when cooked. It's fluffy with a slightly soft bite and savory aroma. Then there's sticky (aka glutinous) rice that's sometimes served in a little woven basket. It clings fiercely together in clumps, making it perfect for sliding across your plate to get every last saucy bit of flavor from a dish. You've likely also seen sticky rice in the sweet Thai dessert coconut rice with mango. What causes these two types of rice to be so different when cooked turns out to be the kind of starch that's found in the grains.

You already know that rice is a starchy carbohydrate food, but there are many types of starch in foods. Rice can be divided into two big subspecies categories: japonica and indica. Japonica rice varieties are usually shorter grains that contain a high percentage of a very sticky starch called amylopectin. That makes japonica rice varieties (like Thai sticky rice) hold together after cooking. Jasmine rice is an example of the indica variety of rice. Indica has longer grains and less amylopectin starch. Less of that gluey starch helps the individual rice grains stay separate and loose, which translates into that pile of fluffy jasmine rice on the plate.

Read more: 25 Delicious Ways To Use Up Leftover Rice

What Is Jasmine Rice?

jasmine rice in wood bowl - Jumoobo/Getty Images

Jasmine rice is native to Thailand. The variety was a natural hybrid of local indica rice discovered by a farmer, Mr. Jaroon Tanthawut, in 1945. The new rice grains were exceptionally white, like the jasmine flowers they're named for, with a deliciously savory aroma when cooked, like popcorn or pandan leaves. By the late 1950s, jasmine rice (called hom mali in Thai) had become the predominant rice grown in Thailand thanks to its superior flavor, favorable growing characteristics, and long grains that become tender when cooked.

As an indica family rice, you can expect that it will maintain a fluffy, separate grain structure when it's cooked properly. Most recipes call for a ratio of 1 cup white jasmine rice to 1  or 1  cups of water for stovetop cooking, depending on how soft you prefer your rice. Your rice cooker is perfect for preparing jasmine rice, too. You'll also find brown jasmine rice if that's your preference. It takes a little more water (about 1 cup rice to 2 cups water) and a longer simmer time due to the hull, but you will still get aromatic, perfectly distinct grains.

What Is Sticky Rice?

sticky rice in woven basket - Bonchan/Getty Images

Hailing from the northern area of Thailand, aptly named sticky rice clumps so well historians have discovered it's partially responsible for holding the Great Wall of China together. Food scientists think the variety was an early offshoot of the original rice plants from thousands of years ago based on genetics; it's been a staple food in Laos and northern Thailand for most of that time. Sticky rice, which is also known as sweet rice and glutinous rice, contains almost 100% amylopectin starch, far more than other cousins in the japonica family, which typically have around 80%.

Because amylopectin starch dissolves in water so well, the best (and most traditional) way to cook sticky rice is by steaming the soaked grains, not boiling them which can dissolve the grains. Soaking takes several hours and the steaming requires another 30 to 45 minutes, so this won't be the fastest way to get rice ready for dinner  but the reward of chewy, flavorful rice that you can pinch and wipe across your plate is well worth the wait. Be sure to make enough sticky rice for dessert, too!

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Only a small handful of years ago, homemade banana bread saw a resurgence in popularity. This return to home-baking coincided with the beginning of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Google searches for banana bread recipes increased exponentially during the early weeks of the nationwide period of lockdown. Relatively simple to bake, banana bread gives you an excellent way to utilize leftover produce in the form of a conveniently loaf-shaped sweet treat.

If you want to shake things up, our frosted hummingbird bread offers a new twist on this sweet bread. The recipe is inspired by the hummingbird cake, a delightful confection with roots leading back to 1960s Jamaica. Appropriated by southern American states and popularized as a "classic" of the culture, hummingbird cake is a rich and flavorful dessert featuring bright tropical flavors in tribute to its island roots.

Albeit texturally different from more traditionally dense Jamaican baked goods, hummingbird cake, also known as "Dr. Bird cake," is named for the national bird of Jamaica. The recipe was created and distributed by the Jamaica Tourist board around the late 1960s in an effort to share information about the island's tropical fruits. It prominently features popular produce of the islands (specifically banana and pineapple), along with chopped walnuts or pecans, and a generous portion of warming spices and flavors such as cinnamon, nutmeg and vanilla. The light and spongy dessert is topped off with a decadent cream cheese frosting. All together, it's a delicious mixture of tastes and textures, which can be easily translated into a banana bread-style loaf cake.

Read more: 30 Types Of Cake, Explained

Hummingbird Bread Will Set Your Dessert Abuzz

hummingbird bread - Jessica Morone/Tasting Table

There are many simple tips for making the best banana bread, and giving your loaf the Dr. Bird cake treatment is an impressive way to elevate the classic sweet treat. In fact, it's even easier than making a full-sized hummingbird cake. As with any standard banana bread, making a frosted hummingbird bread is a matter of gathering the ingredients  mixing the dry and wet separately  and then combining everything together before folding in the chopped nuts and shredded coconut, and spreading the batter into a pan to bake in the oven. The main notes of a hummingbird cake that distinguish it are the tropical fruits, nuts, and spices, all of which allow you to draw inspiration from the islands to liven up any standard banana bread recipe.

Simply adding pineapple and coconut to banana bread creates a great combination of tropical fruit flavors. Similarly, you can start with a fluffy sweet potato banana bread recipe and add nutmeg and vanilla alongside the requisite cinnamon to draw upon the spice blend of the Jamaican treat. Consider dressing your hummingbird loaf cake with a lighter vanilla glaze if you want to skip the heavier cream cheese frosting. Choosing your favorite elements of a hummingbird cake to combine with your best banana bread recipe is a wonderful upgrade to a classic dessert.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
Part of the allure of traveling abroad is the opportunity to try new things. Whether that's a new activity or trying a food that's exotic to you, you'll do something out of your comfort zone. Maybe one night you'll even go out on the town. If you're in Hungary and out for a few drinks be careful to avoid toasting with beer. But why?

To answer this, we have to go back to 1848 when Hungary was still a part of the Austrian Empire. During the Hungarian Revolution of 1848, rebels against the monarchy demanded independence. Due to several reasons, including in-fighting between different ethnic groups in Hungary, Russia was brought in and, with the Austrians, put an end to the revolution.

Russia made a deal with the leader of the Hungarian Revolution to surrender the rebel army, then Russia gave the army to Austria. Austria, in a move distasteful even to Russia, hanged, shot, and otherwise killed 16 generals, soldiers, and others involved in the revolution. The first 13 are the most well known, and are colloquially called the "13 Martyrs of Arad." Legend has it that while the Martyrs were being killed, the executing Austrians were clinking beer, being jovial, and generally showing disrespect to the dead. Because of this, Hungary made a vow, to be in place for 150 years, to never toast with beer.

Read more: 13 Liquors Your Home Bar Should Have

Discrepancies In History And What That Means For You

Several clear shots being toasted - I Love Takeing Photos And I Think That Is A Really Great Opportunity For Me To Share Them/Getty Images

Although the custom is based in history, there seems to be no direct evidence of the hostile toasting, and some believe it was just a way to show disdain for the Austrians who killed the revolutionaries. The 150-year ban on toasting with beer also appears to be arbitrary, and ended in 1999. Some speculate that the tradition has nothing to do with the Revolution of 1848, and instead posit that wineries were responsible, as they were trying to bring wine to the forefront of peoples' drinking.

Because the Hungarian Revolution of 1848 is lauded as an important step in Hungarian liberation, many Hungarians still believe in the custom and follow it. As a tourist, you'll probably just get a history lesson out of accidentally toasting with beer. So what should you do instead? First of all, you can toast with any drink besides beer. Wine, cocktails, "Palinka" (fruity brandy/spirit), or any alcoholic beverages are all fine options. Also make sure you also know what to say: Egeszsegedre (eg-eh-shay-guh-druh), which translates to "to your health," or more generally "cheers" or "bless you." Finally, be sure to make and keep eye contact with whomever you are clinking glasses. This is a custom across many countries in Europe, and failing to do it supposedly leads to seven years of bad luck.

Read the original article on Tasting Table.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Attention Washingtonians: if you have yet to experience The Caniac Combo, your time is almost here.

On Tuesday, July 16, Raising Canes Chicken Fingers will debut in Washington with a fast food joint in Vancouver. The Louisiana-founded companys newest restaurant will be located at 12601 SE 2nd Circle, near McGraths Fish House and Applebees Bar and Grill.

Pac-12s postseason bowl agreements remain for Oregon State and Washington State

In addition to being the chicken chains first Washington location, the new spot will also be the second in the Pacific Northwest. The region currently holds just one Raising Canes that is found in Downtown Portlands Pioneer Place.

However, multiple reports show the chain plans to continue its expansion through Washington with potential locations in Seattle, Lynnwood and Spokane.

The company is hosting a major grand opening celebration. Between 7:30 a.m. and 8:30 a.m., customers over the age of 13 will enter for a chance to win free meals for a year.

PHOTOS: Cow Valley fire in Malheur County expands rapidly, over 73,000 acres burned

Additionally, the first 100 customers who buy a Box Combo will win a Raising Canes hat and a coupon for another free combo. Attendees will also have the chance to win merchandise like bike lights, totes, and stickers.

The fast food joints regular hours are 9 a.m. to 1 a.m. from Sunday through Thursday, and 9 a.m. to 2 a.m. on the remaining days.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
These warm, well  hot days of summer won't last, and soon we'll look back wishing that we didn't waste them by hanging out in an air conditioned auditorium watching a movie. But none of us should be too hard on ourselves if we just want to relax for a while doing essentially nothing.

We can only take so many vacations or go to the beach or pool so often. The Red Sox is always an option but that darn Boston traffic, especially with a tunnel closed, isn't much fun. I can attest to that.

So, what to do?

Here I mention a few books from my bookshelf that locals will find entertaining, informative, and even personal because readers may know those in them.

Jim Splaine

"Legendary Locals of Portsmouth," written by Charles McMahon, 2013, Arcadia Publishing. McMahon was a journalist for the Portsmouth Herald, and he uses his unique viewpoint and inside knowledge of Portsmouth as he presents short stories of dozens of Portsmouth people and places, past and present. In his effort, he gives a wide overview of Portsmouth's history.

Read about Mayors Eileen Foley and Bob Lister, Assistant Mayors Paul McEachern and Evelyn Marconi, state Sens. Ruth Griffin and Martha Fuller Clark. That's just a sampling. Learn about Tom Bergeron, Ray Brighton, Thomas Bailey Aldrich, and the incredible Macy Morse. And J. Dennis Robinson, a great local writer of history whose books can fill four seasons on their own.

"Portsmouth Women, Madams & Matriarchs Who Shaped New Hampshire's Port City," edited by Laura Pope, with various authors, 2013, The History Press. In her compilation of stories written by several local authors, Pope reminds us that strong women made this city. She presents a fascinating story of Mayor Mary Carey Dondero, elected in the 1940s as the city's first woman mayor.

Other stories tell of Alta Roberts, the "Black Mystery of Portsmouth" who always wore black. She operated a brothel. Then there's tavern keeper Allice Shannon Hight and Rose Rizza Fiandaca, whose story paints a long lost picture of life in Portsmouth's old North End, where she lived for many years after immigrating from Sicily.

"Cover-Up, One Man's Pursuit of the Truth Amid the Government's Failure to End a Ponzi Scheme," by Mark Connolly, 2011, White Whale Press. Mark, who lived in New Castle, had been New Hampshire's director of securities regulation, but resigned to tell the behind-the-scenes coverup within state government of a Ponzi scheme that stole millions from investors. Readers will learn what to watch for, and while his story reads like a mystery novel it's a real-life warning of what can still happen.

"The Lost Boys of Sudan, An American Story of Refugee Experience," by Mark Bixler, 2005, The University of Georgia Press. This book is relevant for the times we live in by putting young faces into the dialogue of why America should be a welcoming nation for those who seek a life of safety and purpose. It also tells the story of one of Portsmouth's heroes, Michael O'Keefe.

A Portsmouth native, Mike graduated from local schools, then UNH, joined the Air Force, and served in the N.H. Legislature in the 1970s. He taught high school, then joined the U.S. Department of State. In 1997 he became a refugee assistant officer for the Horn of Africa, and traveled to Ethiopia, Kenya, Botswana, and Somalia to create refugee projects.

The book explores how Mike was credited with saving thousands of lives in Africa. It tells a timely story of immigration and how Mike was a driving force to help the U.S. welcome many of the "Lost Boys of the Sudan" when they were displaced by civil wars.

All these books and so many others about Portsmouth are locally available, or online. I'll be pleased to lend my copies, complete with personal notes. Footnote: Mike O'Keefe, Mark Connolly, and I were lifelong friends since the 1970s. Mike passed in 2017, Mark in 2018. They left too young, and would tell us to help one another every day as we appreciate the sunrises and sunsets that we are given.

Next time: Is high-speed Maglev rail in our future?

Variously since 1969, Jim Splaine has been New Hampshire state senator for six years, representative for 24 years, Police Commission and School Board member, Portsmouth assistant mayor for 12 years and city councilor for 18 years. He can be reached at jimsplaineportsmouthnh@gmail.com (this is a new email address).

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Splaine: Fun books by Seacoast authors to read on a summer day
JONESBOROUGH, Tenn. (WJHL)  One lucky lottery player in Jonesborough has won $100,000.

According to a news release from the Tennessee Lottery on Sunday, the winning $100,000 ticket was sold at Tri-City Wholesale Tobacco, located at 104 East Jackson Boulevard.

UT announces new Volunteer State Smokey Grey uniforms

The winner matched four numbers plus the Powerball and used the Power Play option, according to the lottery.

The Tennessee Lottery said that no additional details will be available until the prize is claimed.

The next Powerball drawing takes place Monday night. The jackpot as of Sunday was $64 million.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
In American history, four out of 45 US presidents have been assassinated.

Other presidents, including Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush, escaped attempts on their lives.

Donald Trump has survived two assassination attempts, one in which he was wounded by a shooter.

Four out of 45 US presidents have been assassinated over the course of American history.

Many more chief executives escaped assassination attempts thanks to heroic bystanders, diligent guards, misfiring pistols, and sheer luck.

Most recently, former President Donald Trump survived two assassination attempts in a matter of months. He was wounded during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, in July after a shooter opened fire from a nearby rooftop. A spokesperson said Trump was "fine" following the incident. The FBI said they are investigating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

Then, in September, a man with a gun was spotted on Trump's golf course in Florida within 500 yards of the former president. The suspect fled after a Secret Service agent shot at him, and he was later arrested and charged with two federal firearm offenses. The FBI said it was investigating "what appears to be an attempted assassination."

Two presidents who were assassinated escaped previous attempts on their lives.

On a hot August night in 1864, a sniper shot Lincoln's hat off his head  missing his skull by inches  as he took a solo ride on his favorite horse "Old Abe," according to "1864: Lincoln at the Gates of History." Lincoln was later shot and killed by Confederate sympathizer John Wilkes Booth, just five days after the surrender of Robert E. Lee.

Almost a century later, in 1960, retired postal worker Richard Paul Pavlick crammed his car with dynamite and plotted to ram the vehicle into then-President-Elect John F. Kennedy's limo in Palm Beach, Florida, Smithsonian magazine reported. He was motivated by his intense hatred of Catholics and the Kennedy family, but backed off when he saw that the president was with his wife and young children. Pavlick was later arrested and institutionalized until 1966, three years after Kennedy was assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald while visiting Dallas, Texas.

These 13 other presidents all experienced serious assassination threats and ultimately survived, and these are only the most dramatic, most-publicized instances. Undoubtedly, the Secret Service has thwarted many more over the years.

Here are 13 presidents who escaped attempts on their lives.

President Andrew Jackson survived an assassination attempt in 1835 when the shooter's gun misfired.

A sketch of Andrew Jackson being confronted by a gunman outside the Capitol in 1835. CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

On a misty January day in 1835, Richard Lawrence, an out-of-work house painter who believed he was the 15th-century English king Richard III, walked into the US Capitol Building.

President Andrew Jackson was leaving the funeral of a House representative when the English national confronted him in the East Portico, brandishing a pistol.

He raised the gun at Andrew Jackson and pulled the trigger. Nothing happened.

"Let me alone! Let me alone!" Jackson yelled at Lawrence, Smithsonian magazine reported. "I know where this came from."

Lawrence discarded the weapon, produced a second pistol, and aimed the new gun at Jackson. It also misfired.

According to legend, Jackson subsequently flew at the man and thrashed him with his cane. Whether or not that's true, Lawrence's assassination attempt was unsuccessful. Smithsonian magazine reported that national anthem lyricist Francis Scott Key prosecuted his trial, where he was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Lawrence spent the rest of his life institutionalized.

Time reported that the chance that both perfectly functional pistols would misfire was about one in 125,000. Jackson's survival may have depended on the dampness in the air that day.

President Theodore Roosevelt was saved by the length of his speech after an assassin shot him in the chest with a .38-caliber revolver in 1912.

President Theodore Roosevelt greeted supporters in 1912 shortly before surviving an assassination attempt. PhotoQuest/Getty Images

In 1912, Roosevelt was running for the presidency on the Bull and Moose ticket. Saloon-owner John Schrank had begun stalking the former president after having an unusual dream.

According to "Killing the President: Assassinations, Attempts, and Rumored Attempts on U.S. Commanders-in-Chief," Schrank wrote: "In a dream I saw President McKinley sit up in his coffin pointing at a man in a monk's attire in whom I recognized Theodore Roosevelt. The dead President said, 'This is my murderer  avenge my death.'"

Fortunately, Roosevelt had his notes with him when he was shot on October 14 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin  50 pages of them, folded in his breast pocket next to his metal glasses case. These objects slowed the bullet and saved Roosevelt's life.

The ex-president continued to speak after letting his audience know he'd been shot, according to the Theodore Roosevelt Association.

"I don't know whether you fully understand that I have just been shot; but it takes more than that to kill a Bull Moose," he said in his speech.

He continued: "The bullet is in me now, so that I cannot make a very long speech, but I will try my best."

He finished the rest of his speech with a bullet in his ribs, where it remained until his death in 1919.

In 1928, President Herbert Hoover was nearly killed while visiting the Andes.

President Herbert Hoover in 1928. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images

In 1928, President Herbert Hoover was nearly killed while visiting the Andes.

Argentine anarchists attempted to blow up his train, but the would-be assassin was seized before he could plant the bombs on the tracks.

After learning of the thwarted plot, Hoover tore the front page story from the newspaper so his wife Lou Henry Hoover wouldn't worry, according to the Herbert Hoover Presidential Library and Museum. The 31st president is said to have quipped that while he was unconcerned, "it's just as well that Lou shouldn't see it."

President Franklin D. Roosevelt survived a shooting in Miami in 1933.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt greeted crowds moments before a gunman shot at him in 1933. Bettmann/Contributor/Getty Images

Seventeen days before Franklin D. Roosevelt's first presidential inauguration, the president-elect disembarked from his yacht and made a short speech in Miami, Florida, on February 15, 1933. The Chicago Tribune reported that Chicago mayor Anton Cermak then approached Roosevelt for a short chat afterwards.

At that moment, anarchist Giuseppe Zangara opened fire. Roosevelt emerged from the attack unscathed, but Cermak was mortally wounded, along with onlooker Mabel Gill.

It's unclear who Zangara intended to assassinate. He was arrested and went to the electric chair after 10 days on death row.

Ten years later, Soviet officials claimed to have uncovered a Nazi plan to murder Roosevelt and other world leaders at the Tehran Conference, according to "Eureka Summit: Agreement in Principle and the Big Three at Tehran, 1943."

President Harry S. Truman evaded two attempts on his life.

President Harry Truman in 1945. MPI/Getty

Harry Truman's daughter, Margaret Truman Daniel, alleged in her father's biography that a Zionist gang had sent him and several other White House officials mail bombs in 1947, The New York Times reported. The alleged incident was never publicized and apparently ended with the Secret Service defusing the explosives.

The more famous attempt on Truman's life came about on November 1, 1950. Puerto Rican nationalists Oscar Collazo and Griselio Torresola attempted to storm the Blair House, where Truman lived while the White House was being renovated, according to the Harry S. Truman Library.

Torresola and White House police officer Leslie Coffelt died in the attack. Truman commuted Collazo's death sentence to life, which was then commuted to time served by Jimmy Carter in 1979.

A man targeted President Richard Nixon in 1974 by attempting to crash a plane into the White House.

President Richard Nixon. Wikimedia

Arthur Bremer, who ultimately shot and paralyzed Alabama governor George Wallace, first considered targeting President Richard Nixon, The Washington Post reported.

A more high-profile Nixon assassination attempt came about on February 22, 1974. Samuel Byck shot and killed a police officer at the Baltimore-Washington International Airport, raced through the security checkpoint, and broke onto a Delta flight to Atlanta, The New York Times reported. Hours earlier, he had mailed a tape to the Washington Post detailing his plan to hijack an airliner and crash it into the White House, in order to kill Nixon.

Once on board the aircraft, he shot both pilots, killing one, after he was told that they could not take off. Police shot Byck through the plane's window, and he killed himself before he could be arrested.

President Gerald Ford survived two back-to-back assassination attempts in California in September 1975.

Police and Secret Service officers ran to protect President Gerald Ford during an assassination attempt in 1975. CORBIS/Corbis via Getty Images

At a packed park in Sacramento, California, on September 5, 1975, Manson Family member Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme drew a gun after Ford reached into the crowd to shake her hand.

There was no round in the firing chamber, so the gun misfired, NBC News reported. Fromme was grabbed by the Secret Service. After receiving a life sentence, Fromme was released from prison in 2009, 2 1/2 years after Ford's natural death.

Only a few days later, self-proclaimed radical Sara Jane Moore shot a revolver at Ford in San Francisco on September 22. The shot missed thanks to the efforts of ex-Marine and bystander Oliver Sipple, who grabbed Moore's arm, the San Francisco Chronicle reported. Moore was paroled in 2007, a year after Ford died.

Police arrested a man who sought to assassinate President Jimmy Carter in 1979.

President Jimmy Carter in 1979. Universal History Archive/Universal Images Group via Getty Images

On May 5, 1979, police arrested drifter Raymond Lee Harvey outside the Civic Center Mall in LA, 10 minutes before Jimmy Carter was scheduled to give a speech there.

Harvey had a starter pistol with several blank rounds, The Atlantic reported. Harvey claimed to be part of a cell that sought to assassinate Carter, but due to his history of mental illness, the men he named as co-conspirators were later released.

John Hinckley Jr., who would later attempt to assassinate Ronald Reagan, also considered shooting Carter in 1980, but backed out, the Dayton Daily News reported.

President Ronald Reagan came close to losing his life in an assassination attempt on March 30, 1981.

President Ronald Reagan was photographed moments before an assassination attempt in 1981. Michael Evans/Keystone/CNP/Getty Images

The New York Times reported that John Hinckley Jr. opened fire as the president walked to his limousine from the Washington Hilton around 2:30 p.m. on March 30, 1981. Press secretary James Brady suffered brain damage from the attack and eventually succumbed to his injuries years later, and Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy and DC police officer Thomas Delahanty were also wounded.

Reagan was shot once in the chest and suffered serious internal bleeding and a punctured lung. He received emergency surgery at George Washington University Hospital, where he remained for several weeks.

After the attack, Reagan famously retained his sense of humor. He's quoted as telling his wife, "Honey, I forgot to duck" and jokingly asking whether the surgeons due to operate on him were Republicans.

Hinckley claimed to have carried out the attack to impress actress Jodie Foster, whom he was stalking. He was institutionalized and released in 2016, after being deemed to no longer pose a threat to others.

President Bill Clinton was the subject of several assassination plots during his stint in the White House.

President Bill Clinton. Wikimedia Commons

Three assassination attempts alone occurred in 1994. Ronald Gene Barbour sought to kill Clinton on his daily jog through the National Mall, The New York Times reported.

Later that year, Frank Eugene Corder rammed a red-and-white single-engine airplane onto the White House lawn in an attempt to kill Clinton, The New York Times reported. Corder died in the crash, while the Clintons were unharmed.

A month later in October, Francisco Martin Duran slipped a suicide note into his pocket and fired numerous shots at the north lawn, the Los Angeles Times reported. A group of tourists ultimately tackled Duran and he was arrested.

An assassination attempt later took place abroad during Clinton's visit to Manila in 1996. A bomb was discovered under a bridge that the president's motorcade was scheduled to travel over. The bomb plot was the work of al Qaeda, Reuters reported.

A grenade was thrown near the stage where President George W. Bush and Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili spoke in 2005.

President George W. Bush and Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili delivered a speech where a grenade was thrown near the stage. Wikimedia Commons

Robert Pickett, an ex-IRS employee with a history of mental illness, fired several bullets at the White House in February 2001, before a Secret Service agent shot him in the knee, The New York Times reported. President George W. Bush was exercising in the residential area of the White House at the time. Pickett was treated in a Bureau of Prisons psychological institution for two years following the incident.

A few years later, in 2005, Bush had a closer call while traveling abroad.

Bush and then-Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili appeared at a 2006 rally in Tbilisi, Georgia. During the event, Georgian national Vladimir Arutyunian tied a red handkerchief around a live hand grenade and threw it at the presidents and other officials, The Washington Post reported.

However, the explosive didn't detonate. The handkerchief had blocked the grenade's safety lever. Arutyunian escaped from the rally, and later killed a Georgian agent during his arrest. He was sentenced to life in prison for the assassination attempt.

President Barack Obama was the target of several assassination attempts during his presidency.

President Barack Obama. Wikimedia Commons

While Barack Obama was still a presidential candidate in 2008, two white supremacists named Paul Schlesselman and Daniel Cowart conspired to murder 102 African American men  while driving around in a getaway car with the words "Honk if you love Hitler" scrawled on it.

CBS News reported that their conspiracy would culminate with planning the assassination of Obama, but police uncovered the detailed plot and arrested the duo long before they were close to launching their cross-country murder spree.

Later, in 2011, Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez opened fire on the White House after claiming that Obama was the anti-Christ, The Washington Post reported. He crashed his car while escaping, and was later arrested and sentenced to 27 1/2 years in jail. The Obamas were not in the White House at the time of the shooting.

In April 2013, a letter addressed to Obama tested positive for ricin, a deadly poison. James Everett Dutschke was sentenced to 25 years in jail for the ricin mailing plot, Politico reported.

Then, in 2015, CNN reported that three men  Abror Habibov, Abdurasul Juraboev, and Akhror Saidakhmetov  had been arrested after plotting to kill Obama and bomb Coney Island in their efforts to join ISIS.

Former President Donald Trump survived two assassination attempts in the span of three months.

Former President Donald Trump was rushed offstage after shots rang out at a Pennsylvania rally. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Former President Donald Trump was wounded in an assassination attempt when a shooter opened fire during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024. He was photographed raising his fist in the air with blood smeared on his face.

Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social that he was shot by "a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear." The FBI confirmed that Trump had been struck by a bullet, "whether whole or fragmented into smaller pieces." One bystander died and two others were critically injured in the shooting, which is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

Then, on September 15, the Secret Service opened fire at a suspect with a rifle within 300 to 500 yards of where Trump was playing golf at his club in West Palm Beach, Florida. The suspect did not fire at Trump, and the former president was evacuated safely. Officials said that the suspect may have hidden on Trump's golf course for 12 hours before he was spotted by authorities, citing phone location data. The FBI is investigating "what appears to be an attempted assassination."

There were earlier attempts on Trump's life, as well. At a 2016 campaign rally in a Las Vegas strip hotel casino, Michael Steven Sandford attempted to grab a police officer's gun. As he was taken into custody, the British national told officers that he was hoping to assassinate then-presidential candidate Donald Trump.

The Guardian reported that Sandford has a history of mental illness, which Judge James Mahan acknowledged in his hearing, saying that Sandford needed help and wasn't a "hardened criminal"  or even intent on assassinating Trump.

"I know saying sorry is not enough," Sandford told the court, the Guardian reported. "I really do feel awful about what I did. I wish there was some way to make things better. I have cost taxpayers so much money. I feel terrible."

In May 2017, KYT 24 reported that Sandford had been deported to the UK, after being in US custody for about 11 months.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Any ideas on where to look for low down-payment options for someone in my situation? (Photo subject is a model.) - Getty Images/iStockphoto

Dear Big Move,

Im 55 and gave up my home in my divorce settlement.

I plan to work for another eight to 10 years, make over $500,000 per year, and I am just finishing paying a $7,000-per-month spousal support payment. I have $1.5 million in retirement accounts, but just $160,000 in savings. I currently pay $4,000 in rent.

Most Read from MarketWatch

However, I dont have 20% down for a $1.7 million to a $2 million home, which is realistically what I will spend. Any ideas on where to look for low down-payment options for someone in my situation? Any other suggestions are also welcome

Aspiring Homeowner

Dear Aspiring,

You may be facing one of the most expensive periods in U.S. history to buy a house, but that doesnt mean youre priced out. Whats more, if you put down less than 20%, you need to pay for private mortgage insurance.

Given that youre potentially buying a $2 million house, and make an annual income of $500,000, you might not qualify for the plethora of low- and zero-down-payment options. You either make too much money to qualify, or exceed the price limit.

For instance, a Federal Housing Administration loan would allow you to put down as little as 3.5% on a house, but that means that you need to buy a single-family home in the King-Tacoma-Bellevue metro area under $977,500, according to federal guidelines in 2024.

And you know how hard that is to achieve in areas you find desirable: The value of a typical home in Bellevue, a city near Seattle, Wash., is $1.44 million, according to an estimate from real-estate company Zillow Z. In Kirkland, home values average at $1.2 million.

One option you have is to go for a jumbo loan, Scott Ward, a Birmingham, Ala.-based certified financial planner and a CFP board ambassador, told MarketWatch. Jumbo loans refer to a mortgage that exceeds the FHA limit.

In 2024, a home loan above the $766,550 conforming loan limit in most counties, qualifies as a jumbo loan. [And] to qualify for a low down payment between 5% to 10% for a jumbo loan, youll likely need a 700 credit score and a debt-to-income ratio of around 38 to 43%, Ward said.

Story continues

With a down payment of 10% and an annual income of $500,000, you can potentially purchase a house for $1.47 million, according to an estimate by this housing-affordability calculator. And that requires a down payment of $147,000, which you have in savings.

Loan rates for jumbo mortgages

Bear in mind that jumbo loan mortgage rates differ from your conventional 30-year loan. The average contract rate for a 30-year mortgage for a conventional loan was 7% as of July 5, but the 30-year jumbo rate was 7.13%, according to data from the Mortgage Bankers Association.

One other idea is to tap into your retirement savings. This is typically not recommended for most people, but since you make $500,000 a year, it might be a strategy that could work in your favor, if you can pay off the loan promptly.

If you participate in a workplace retirement plan, like a 401(k) or 403(b) plan, a loan of up to $50,000 (or 50% of your balance, whichever is less) could bridge any gap on the down payment, Ward said. They also carry low application costs, he added.

Most economists expect rates to decline slightly next year or later this year; during that time, competition will certainly heat up as there will be more buyers ready to jump. However, housing supply is already rising so its smart to be patient.

Seattle was one of the metro areas in the U.S. that saw the largest year-on-year growth in new listings last June, according to monthly data from real-estate platform Realtor.com. New listings rose about 31% from last year, and 15.6% of homes had their prices slashed.

To sum up: Yes, you can buy a home with a 10% down payment. Dont put too much pressure on yourself to buy as soon as possible, just to beat the competition. You need to find the house that works for you, and a financing arrangement that youre comfortable with.

(Realtor.com is operated by News Corp. NWSA subsidiary Move Inc. MarketWatch publisher Dow Jones is also a subsidiary of News Corp.)

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19-year-old dies in car crash near Hartselle, ALEA says

MORGAN COUNTY, Ala. (WHNT)  A 19-year-old was killed in a single-vehicle wreck Saturday afternoon in Morgan County.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) says 19-year-old Brandon R. Gonzalez of Hartselle was killed after the car he was driving went off the road, struck a tree and caught on fire. ALEA says Gonzalez was pronounced dead at the scene.

ALEA says the accident happened on Asbery Lane, about three miles east of Hartselle.

Troopers with ALEA say they will continue to investigate.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHNT.com.
Two Atlanta women have pleaded guilty to stealing over a quarter of a million dollars in social security benefits.

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In March 2023, the Social Security Administration interviewed Teresa Carter, 66, of Atlanta.

The interview stems from when Carter was the recipient of her fathers social security benefits. As the recipient, Carter was required to spend all of her fathers monthly benefits on his behalf and submit annual reporting statements to the SSA.

Carters father died on July 17, 2006.

As Carter was supposed to document any changes in condition, such as reporting his death, she continued to submit annual reporting statements to the SSA in which she lied about her father still being alive.

During the interview, Carter admitted to investigators that her father had died and that she submitted fake statements to receive the benefits, the Department of Justice said.

She claimed that a social security employee told her to lie on the reporting form so that she could continue to receive the benefits which she falsely claimed were pension benefits from a private pension fund.

Carter stole more than $130,000 in government funds, according to the DOJ.

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Sharon R. Crowder, 55, of Atlanta, acted as the recipient of her brothers social security benefits. Her brother died on September 10, 2009.

Like Carter, Crowder did not report her brothers death to the SSA. Instead, she submitted annual reporting statements to the SSA in which she claimed that her brother was still alive.

In August 2023, investigators confronted Crowder and she later admitted that she submitted the fake statements to the SSA and spent the funds knowing that she was not entitled to receive them.

The DOJ said Crowder stole more than $139,000 in government benefits.

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Carter pleaded guilty to theft of theft of government funds on March 7. She was sentenced to two years of probation with the first 90 days to be served in home confinement. She was also ordered to pay $130,182.90.

Crowder pleaded guilty to theft of government funds on March 12. She was sentenced to four years of probation with the first six months to be served in home confinement. She was also ordered to pay $139,656.

The defendants prosecution and sentence should place others on notice that stealing money from the government and taxpayers is a serious offense, said U.S. Attorney Ryan K. Buchanan.

IN OTHER NEWS:
BUFFALO, N.Y. (WIVB)  Two people were shot and one was stabbed during an incident at the Golden Nugget on Fillmore Avenue early Sunday morning, according to Buffalo police.

Police responded to the bar just after 2 a.m., where detectives said two men were shot inside. A third man was stabbed during the same incident.

All three were transported to local hospitals to be treated for non-life threatening injuries.

The incident is still under investigation. Anyone with information is asked to call or text the confidential TIPCALL line at 716-847-2255.

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Aidan Joly joined the News 4 staff in 2022. He is a graduate of Canisius College. You can see more of his work here.

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The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump has thoroughly altered the stakes and tone of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which kicks off Monday, just two days after a shooter opened fire at the former president's Pennsylvania rally, grazing Trump's ear and leading to a spectator's death.

Trump arrived in Milwaukee Sunday afternoon, ahead of the RNC's start on Monday. In a social media post Sunday, Trump indicated that he was going to delay his trip, but decided he wouldn't allow a "shooter" to change his scheduled plans to head to the RNC.

U.S. Secret Service and other officials said Sunday there are no plans to expand the security perimeter and that there are no known threats.

Ahead of the shooting at his rally, the GOP convention was gearing up to be an extravagant event centered around symbolic, Trump-era Republican ideas and party unity, sealed on Thursday with the third nomination of the former president.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump arrives on Trump Force One in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, July 14, 2024. (@DanScavino/X)

MORE: Trump shooting live updates: Apparent explosives in suspect's car, sources say

Now, the gathering of more than 50,000 attendees -- including an expected 2,400 Republican delegates -- is slated to maintain its original programming with a high-stakes atmospheric adjustment. The convention will now be seen as a time to reunite the Republican Party as energized delegates, party leaders and rising stars converge on Milwaukee.

"Unite America!" Trump wrote on social media on Sunday afternoon.

PHOTO: Singers practice performing the U.S. national anthem on stage inside the Fiserv Forum ahead of 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wis., July 14, 2024. (Mike Segar/Reuters)

On Saturday evening, in the wake of the shooting, the Trump campaign indicated that they'd proceed with the convention as scheduled in attempts to move forward from the tragic event.

"President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again," the Trump campaign said in a statement.

The RNC comes at a crucial time when stakes are high. Once Trump is nominated on Thursday, locking him in as the Republican candidate, he is set to take on President Joe Biden as the Democratic Party grapples with whether Biden should remain at the top of the ticket following his debate performance.

In another sign of Republican unity, Trump's former competitor Nikki Haley received an 11th hour invitation to speak at the convention. Haley is slated to speak Tuesday night, a source confirmed to ABC News.

The convention will focus on themes regarding national security, immigration and the economy -- three key issues for voters in 2024. Both Trump and Biden will be looking to make their case to Americans on these issues in what's expected to be a close contest in November.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Following the shooting at Trump's rally, Republican National Committee chair Michael Whatley stressed the fortified security perimeter around the Fiserv Forum, the location of RNC events, during a Fox News interview on Sunday.

"The arena's set, the security is here and we feel very comfortable that we're working with the Secret Service," Whatley said. "We're working with 40 different law enforcement agencies in terms of what that security is going to look like, and this is going to be a facility where we're going to be able to have 50,000 delegates and alternates and guests and members of the media who are going to be here and who are going to be safe. That's very critical for us," Whatley said.

And while the political stakes have no doubt been altered, Whatley emphasized that any impact was secondary, and clearly not the priority.

"I think right now, we need to be praying for these families that have been affected. I think we need to be grateful that President Trump is alive and is actually going to be here. And certainly we look forward to him being here in Milwaukee, and I think it's going to be tremendously important for him to be here and to deliver that message to America."

MORE: How to watch, what to know about the 2024 RNC

And underneath the impacts of the consequential event over the weekend, the GOP still has party business to attend to: finalization of platform, rules and committee proposals that were adopted last week by RNC members at their summer meeting in Milwaukee.

With the ousting of former committee chair Ronna McDaniel earlier this year, the RNC underwent a total leadership metamorphosis and the two new incoming co-chairs were handpicked by Trump: staunch ally Whatley and Lara Trump, the former president's daughter in law.

With that new leadership came the ushering in of refreshed priorities, chief of which was the creation of a new party platform and rules, which took firm shape at the group's summer meeting, just a week before the convention, also in Milwaukee.

PHOTO: A person walks past a 'Make America Great Once Again!' poster ahead of the 2024 Republican Convention (RNC) at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wis. on July 14, 2024. (Angela Weiss/AFP via Getty Images)

There, sub-committees crafted proposals rubber stamped by Trump to the chagrin of some RNC members. The overhaul of the party's platform reframed where the party stood to align with many of Trump's current policy positions.

Language changes especially around abortion, notably the lack of backing a ban on the procedure, motivated members to file minority reports to wedge firmer anti-abortion language back into the platform. Even Trump's former vice president, Mike Pence, called the changes "a profound disappointment."

A group of members will likely attempt to challenge the changes at the full committee meeting on Monday afternoon, though Whatley told ABC News earlier in the week that he expects the platform to pass.

MORE: After Trump assassination attempt, Biden campaign pauses ads, events, attacks

PHOTO: A worker places an American flag in the Fiserv Forum in preparation for the Republican National Convention, July 14, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

Even with the intra-committee dust ups, the unique splitscreen the GOP has inherited -- of their party in lock-step behind one nominee while the Democratic Party continues to grapple with growing dissent at Biden is not going unmentioned.

"The Democratic Party right now is a party in panic. The Democrats are in disarray. We've all seen that play out in the last several weeks and that continues. I will tell you, we know who our nominee is going to be. It's gonna be Donald Trump and you cannot say the same for the Democrats right now," Wisconsin GOP chair Brian Schimming said Thursday.

There is a strategic opportunity in having the RNC in Milwaukee. Wisconsin is a crucial battleground state that both Trump and President Joe Biden are looking to win in November.

"Hosting the 2024 Republican National Convention in Wisconsin is both an honor and a testament to the importance of this state in November. Wisconsin is critical for Republicans to win back control of the White House and United States Senate. I am confident that by the time this convention ends, President Trump and all Republicans will leave energized," Schimming said in a statement to ABC News.

2024 RNC, recast by Trump assassination attempt, kicks off Monday originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
375-pound loggerhead sea turtle returns to Atlantic after 3 months of rehab in Florida

375-pound loggerhead sea turtle returns to Atlantic after 3 months of rehab in Florida

Video above: Florida deputies rescue distressed baby sea turtles from sewage drain

COCOA BEACH, Fla. (AP)  A 375-pound (170-kilogram) sea turtle has been released back into the Atlantic Ocean after three months of rehabilitation in Florida.

Officials with the Brevard Zoo released a male loggerhead named Bubba Wednesday afternoon in Cocoa Beach.

Only in Florida: Kayak around lush animal exhibits at this zoo

Biologists with Inwater Research found Bubba in St. Lucie County on April 10, officials said. After noticing injuries to both front flippers, they used a crane to pull him out of the water and into a carrier in their pickup truck to bring him to the zoo.

In this undated photo provided by the Brevard Zoo, Bubba, a 375-plus-pound loggerhead sea turtle, receives medical treatment at the Sea Turtle Healing Center at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Fla. (Brevard Zoo via AP)

In this undated photo provided by the Brevard Zoo, Bubba, a 375-plus-pound loggerhead sea turtle, receives medical treatment at the Sea Turtle Healing Center at the Brevard Zoo in Melbourne, Fla. (Brevard Zoo via AP)

In this photo provided by the Brevard Zoo, Bubba, a 375-plus-pound loggerhead sea turtle, is released back into the Atlantic Ocean at Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach, Fla., Wednesday, July 10, 2024. (Brevard Zoo via AP)

In this photo provided by the Brevard Zoo, Bubba, a 375-plus-pound loggerhead sea turtle, is released back into the Atlantic Ocean at Lori Wilson Park in Cocoa Beach, Fla., Wednesday, July 10, 2024. (Brevard Zoo via AP)

A preliminary exam found that Bubba had likely been injured in a predator attack. The sea turtle was also dealing with an intensive infestation of marine leeches, which were causing anemia.

Biologists estimate Bubba is 60 to 75 years old.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
4 of the Worlds Most Endangered Wolf Pups Born at the St. Louis Zoo: 'Each Birth Is an Achievement'

The pups were "healthy and thriving" following their first checkups in late June, the zoo said

Photo courtesy of Sara Burran An endangered wolf pup born in 2024

The St. Louis Zoo has expanded its animal family by four!

Earlier this year, four American red wolf pups were born at the destination's Sears Lehmann Jr. Wildlife Reserve, the zoos property in Franklin County that is "dedicated to conserving the most endangered wolf species in the world," per a press release.

A female pup named Otter was born April 26 to parents Lava and Tyke. Three others  Molly, a female, and Finn and Obi, both males  were born May 4 to first-time parents Ladybird and Wilber.

All four pups were "healthy and thriving" following their first checkups in late June, the zoo said.

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Photo courtesy of Sara Burran An endangered wolf pup born in 2024

Related: St. Louis Zoo Finds Missing Pet Cat Near Antelope Exhibit and Reunites Feline with Her Owner

They will remain with their parents for at least two years, according to the zoo. They may, however, be sent to other Saving Animals from Extinction (SAFE) Program institutions to start their own packs, and there is also a chance they could be "selected for release into the wild in a location designated by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service," the release added.

In a statement, Sabarras George, the director of the Saint Louis Zoo WildCare Park, said, "When you consider how few red wolves remain, each birth is an achievement."

I am incredibly proud of the team who have worked for years to reach this milestone," George, who oversees the Wildlife Reserve, added.

According to the press release, there are only around 20 red wolves remaining in the wild.

The species is now solely found in the wild in North Carolina, while an additional 290 red wolves live in human care as of May 2024.

The Wildlife Reserve is not open to visitors at the Missouri-based attraction in an effort to give the red wolves privacy, "allowing them to maintain natural behaviors and survival skills with limited human interaction," the zoo said.



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IBERIA PARISH, La. (KLFY)  A 75-year-old New Iberia man was fatally struck by a vehicle Saturday night when setting up traffic cones on Louisiana Highway 83, Louisiana State Police said.

According to an announcement from state police, Francis Firmin was setting up triangular traffic cones in the southbound lane of LA 83, south of Highway 14, in an attempt to recover his vehicle that was stuck in a ditch. At around 10 p.m., a 2002 Ford Mustang that was traveling on LA 14 struck Firmin.

Firmin was severely injured, police said. Firmin was taken to a nearby hospital where he later died.

State police said the driver of the Ford was properly restrained and was not injured in the crash.

Although impairment is not suspected, state police said they collected standard toxicology samples from all parties and submitted them for analysis.

The crash remains under investigation.

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Abandoned restaurant in Koreatown bursts into flames

Firefighters battled a fire at an abandoned restaurant in Los Angeles Koreatown neighborhood early Sunday morning.

According to an alert put out by the Los Angeles Fire Department, a fire was first reported at the building, located at 3455 West 8th Street, at 8:23 a.m.

The one-story structure was heavily involved with fire when crews arrived.

Firefighter injured after blaze torches stacked pallets, vehicles, trucks and trailers

Crews on scene transitioned to a defensive posture, removing personnel from the interior and the roof due to concerns regarding structural integrity, LAFD said.

A fire broke out at an abandoned restaurant in L.A.s Koreatown neighborhood on July 14, 2024. (KTLA)

A fire broke out at an abandoned restaurant in L.A.s Koreatown neighborhood on July 14, 2024. (KTLA)

A fire broke out at an abandoned restaurant in L.A.s Koreatown neighborhood on July 14, 2024. (KTLA)

Footage from outside the restaurant shows fire crews dousing the flames as a plume of black smoke rose into the morning sky.

The structure was eventually declared a knockdown after 134 firefighters took 53 minutes to extinguish the fire.

No injuries were reported, and what caused the fire was not immediately known.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTLA.
From left, front row: Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, Gov. Greg Abbott, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale hold a press conference at Gallery Furniture in Houston to address the restoration of power in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl, on Sunday, July 14, 2024. Credit: Douglas Sweet Jr. for The Texas Tribune

Gov. Greg Abbott on Sunday slammed utility CenterPoint Energy, which has yet to restore power to hundreds of thousands of customers in the Houston area, and ordered the company to take steps to improve power reliability.

In his first public appearance since returning from a pre-planned economic development trip to Asia, the governor asked CenterPoint to send his office a detailed plan by the end of the month outlining how it will prepare differently for future hurricanes this season. Abbott said the plan must include better preparation for linemen, increasing the number of workers to restore power and trimming trees that could fall on power lines.

[Beryl power outage updates: More than 98,000 Texas electricity customers remain without power a week after Beryl]

If CenterPoint fails to comply with his request, the governor said he will issue an executive order imposing his own requirements on the company. And he said that if the utility is unable to fix its ongoing problems, the state would have to reconsider the breadth of the territory it serves. CenterPoint maintains the wires, poles and electric infrastructure serving more than 2.6 million customers in Texas across the greater Houston area and some coastal communities like Galveston.

Maybe they have too large of an area for them to be able to manage adequately, Abbott said. Its time to reevaluate whether or not CenterPoint should have such a large territory.

The governor on Sunday also sent a letter to Thomas Gleeson, chair of the Public Utility Commission of Texas, ordering him to launch an investigation into CenterPoint and deliver a report on its findings by Dec. 1. He said allegations that CenterPoint was penny-pinching and cutting corners must be investigated. Was CenterPoint protecting Texans, or was it protecting its own pocketbook? Abbott said at the press conference.

On Monday, Gleeson said he had directed the PUC to initiate an investigation into CenterPoint. Regular updates on the findings will be provided to the public, Gleeson said, with an open PUC meeting scheduled for July 25. The commission will also share recommendations with the governor and state legislators on statutory changes they can make to prevent future power outages, Gleeson said.

During a second press conference in Houston  this one held inside of NRG Stadium, a makeshift field hospital in Beryl's aftermath  Abbott reiterated his message to CenterPoint. He also threatened to argue against the company recovering any profits if they fail to come up with a new plan for hurricane preparation. CenterPoint has a rate case before the PUC, where the commission will determine in October whether certain costs are passed onto customers or not.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who leads the Texas Senate, said the chamber will also hold hearings beginning in August to ask CenterPoint questions about its business. Following the press conference, Patrick shared on social media ten questions he plans to ask company officials, including: Are Houston and surrounding areas still IMPORTANT to CenterPoint? Are their customers their number one priority in their mission statement and future planning?

These are fair and legitimate questions, Patrick said.

The company has faced mounting criticism since Hurricane Beryl hit the Gulf Coast and knocked out power for nearly 3 million Texans. Both the public and elected officials say CenterPoint has failed to communicate clearly with customers and restore power efficiently. For days after the storm left Texas, the company did not offer a clear timeline for when power would be restored. Houstonians say a map showing when they will get power back is unreliable and riddled with errors.

The communications component of CenterPoint is unacceptable, Abbott told reporters. Corrections are coming, whether they like it or not.

In a Sunday evening statement, the company acknowledged customer complaints and said it expected 90% of all impacted customers to have power restored on Monday.

"We have heard and understand our customers frustrations, and we are committed to working together with the State, local government, regulators, and community leaders both to help the Greater Houston area recover from Hurricane Beryl and to improve for the future," the statement said. "We are committed to doing a thorough review of our response to support our customers and our communities, especially when they need us most. We know they are counting on us, and we are committed to being there for them."

Customer frustration towards CenterPoint mounted over the weekend, with some people turning violent against CenterPoint workers. Abbott sharply rebuked that behavior and said the state would not tolerate it. Patrick said the Texas Legislature would consider laws that increase the penalty for crimes against people working to restore power.

[Get back up and go: CenterPoint linemen take on a broken grid as Houstonians seethe]

Who is going to come to Texas and help Houstonians if Houstonians are shooting at them? Patrick said. That must stop.

The Sunday press conference came one day after former President Donald Trump survived gunshots that the FBI is investigating as an assassination attempt. Abbott condemned that act of violence and praised the former president, calling him the mightiest warrior that we have in the United States of America.

This unfortunately is not an isolated incident, Abbott said, noting that a Harris County sheriffs deputy was shot and killed earlier this week. That is completely unacceptable. The attack on public officials is an outrage.

Sundays briefing was held inside Gallery Furniture, which store owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale opened as a shelter Monday for people who needed food, water or a place to charge their cellphones.

The press conference marked Abbotts first public briefing since the storm made landfall in Matagorda County on Monday. The governor spent the past week visiting politicians and business leaders in South Korea, Taiwan and Japan. Patrick acted as governor while Abbott was abroad, requesting a disaster declaration from President Joe Biden and holding briefings throughout southeast Texas in the aftermath of the storm.

Abbott emphasized that lawmakers will work together to craft laws during the next legislative session to improve power reliability but that action must be taken now since more hurricanes could be looming. Hurricane season runs from June 1 to Nov. 30 and federal forecasters predict the highest number of storms ever for the 2024 season.

Abbott asked that CenterPoint remove vegetation around power lines no later than Aug. 31. CenterPoint officials said during a meeting before the PUC this week that damaged trees were a leading cause of infrastructure damage and outages after Beryl.

Abbott also cited reports that CenterPoint may have been caught off guard by Beryls magnitude and the level of devastation it caused in Houston. The storm was originally forecast to have the greatest impact in South Texas but it turned northeastward and ended up hitting areas further north.

By the end of the month, the company must specify how they will pre-stage sufficient workers to immediately respond to future power outages, Abbott said.

In its Sunday statement, CenterPoint said it had been tracking Beryl and preparing for its impact starting nine days before the storm landed in Texas.

CenterPoint secured and readied 3,000 crew members and coordinated with other utilities to make sure resources would be available to the region, according to the company press release.

Patrick said CenterPoint may have a flawed business model if it requires multiple days to train workers and a day to conduct assessments before getting power back to most customers.

Disclosure: CenterPoint Energy has been a financial supporter of The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan news organization that is funded in part by donations from members, foundations and corporate sponsors. Financial supporters play no role in the Tribune's journalism. Find a complete list of them here.

Big news: director and screenwriter Richard Linklater; NPR President and CEO Katherine Maher; U.S. Rep. Pete Aguilar, D-California; and Luci Baines Johnson will take the stage at The Texas Tribune Festival, Sept. 57 in downtown Austin. Buy tickets today!
NEW YORK (PIX11)  A day after an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania that left former President Donald Trump bloody, New York Citys Mayor Eric Adams and Rev. Al Sharpton addressed the city.

More Local News

The NYPD increased security at a number of potential hot spots in New York City, officials said. Videos posted to social media show people gathering outside Trump Tower in New York City and a police presence.

Out of an abundance of caution, the NYPD will be increasing its presence across the city, including at Trump Tower, 40 Wall Street, Foley Square, & City Hall, Deputy Mayor for Communications Fabien Levy said Saturday evening.

Mayor Eric Adams on Saturday responded to the shooting.

More on Trump rally shooting

No one should be the victim of gun violence, Adams said. Today, in Pennsylvania, we witnessed once again the danger of guns in the hands of violent extremists. We must do better for all Americans.

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.

Jonathan Rizk is a digital journalist who has covered local news in New York City and Washington, D.C. He has been with PIX11 since August 2022. See more of his work here, and follow him on X and Facebook @OfficialRizk. Get in touch at jonathan.rizk@pix11.com.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
TrongNguyen / Getty Images/iStockphoto

COVID-19 had a major impact on the U.S. housing market, as a rise in remote work led many urban Americans to relocate to less expensive suburban markets in Sunbelt states. This in turn created pandemic boomtowns that saw a rapid rise in demand and a spike in home prices. But today, many boomtowns could see their fortunes turn in the other direction.

Discover More: 10 Dangerous Cities You Shouldnt Buy a Home in No Matter the Price

Find Out: Become a Real Estate Investor for Just $1K Using This Bezos-Backed Startup

Housing prices in certain markets escalated very quickly during the pandemic, according to Nikki Beauchamp, an associate broker at Sothebys International Realty in New York City. Competitive bidding priced many locals out of the market. Meanwhile, Americans with the money bought second homes in other markets for remote working situations, which drove prices up even further.

Many of my [New York] clients purchased homes in other parts of the country  but did NOT sell their NYC residences, Beauchamp told GOBankingRates. I had other clients who were not sure that they would be permitted to indefinitely work remotely, and some who thought they might, only to lose their jobs during layoffs.

Post-pandemic, housing dynamics have shifted again. Remote work in many cities has been replaced by hybrid work situations where you must head to the office at least a couple of times a week, forcing many Americans to move closer to where offices are located. In other cases, boomtown prices became so inflated that many house hunters stopped looking there altogether.

One result is that some former pandemic boomtowns have become overvalued and could see prices head south in the future.

I would be most keen to keep an eye on western states and the southeast, Beauchamp said. A member of my family decided in 2020 they would buy a home in North Carolina. They closed in 2021 and I believe as of now the value of their home has increased at least 35%.

In a June 2024 blog shared with GBR, CoreLogic Real Estate Economist Thom Malone warned against suggesting that boomtowns could soon see their prices crash. He wrote that many of these markets were hot even before the pandemic and currently have strong fundamentals for continued price appreciation over the long run.

However, other experts have a less optimistic view. A recent article in Fortune noted that the allure of pandemic boomtowns is either fading fast or simply a correction of pandemic trends. Fortune cited comments from Nicholas Gerli, chief executive of Reventure Consulting, a provider of housing data and analytics.

Story continues

These pandemic boomtowns, they just got way too expensive over the last two or three years, Gerli said in an interview with CNBC. Theyre 20%, 30%, maybe even 40% overvalued in some cases, and now that were seeing the inventory levels spike and the number of price cuts on the market spike, thats the signal for you all out there that the market is shifting down, particularly in Texas and Florida. Those are the two markets right now where were seeing the biggest downturn.

Here are eight boomtown markets that could see prices falter in coming months, along with the latest median home listing and sales prices from Realtor.com.

RoschetzkyIstockPhoto / iStock/Getty Images

Austin, Texas

Median home listing price : $639,900

Median home sold price: $536,800

Read Next: 3 Florida Cities Where You Can Buy Homes For $100,000 or Less

Learn More: 10 Housing Markets That Will Plummet in Value Before the End of 2024

Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them.

christiannafzger / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Boise, Idaho

Median home listing price : $570,000

Median home sold price: $494,700

For You: Cheapest Places To Buy a Home in Every State

TriggerPhoto / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Cape Coral, Florida

Median home listing price : $455,000

Median home sold price: $380,000

benedek / Getty Images

Dallas, Texas

Median home listing price : $475,000

Median home sold price: $387,100

bobbyuzda / iStock.com

Orlando, Florida

Median home listing price : $399,900

Median home sold price: $459,000

Try This: Barbara Corcoran: 3 Cities To Invest In Real Estate Now Before Prices Skyrocket

Art Wager / iStock.com

Phoenix, Arizona

Median home listing price : $515,000

Median home sold price: $575,000

f11photo / Getty Images/iStockphoto

Salt Lake City, Utah

Median home listing price : $600,000

Median home sold price: $555,500

Michael Warren / Getty Images

Tampa, Florida

Median home listing price : $475,000

Median home sold price: $430,000

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Im a Real Estate Expert: 8 Overvalued Pandemic Boomtowns That Could Soon Plummet in Value
Ahead of Biden's visit, look back at past US presidents that have visited Austin

President Joe Biden will visit Austin on Monday to deliver a speech on civil rights and democracy at the LBJ Presidential Library. He'll also be interviewed by NBC News host Lester Holt for a prime-time special that will air at 8 p.m. CT that night.

Portions of the interview will first air on Holt's show, NBC Nightly News, at 5:30 p.m. Monday. The unedited interview will air in its entirety in a primetime special at 8 p.m. on NBC and via streaming on NBC News Now at the same time, the network announced Wednesday afternoon.

It's not the first time Austin or the library has welcomed a president. Take a look back at presidents who have visited Austin:

President Trump's visit to Austin in 2019

Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton, left, greets then-President Donald Trump at the foot of Air Force One at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in 2019. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick is on the right.

Then-President Donald Trump joined Apple's CEO Tim Cook in Austin and visited the Apple facility in northwest Austin after the tech giant announced its expansion in the city.

Obama and former Presidents Bush, Clinton and Carter at the LBJ Library in 2014.

From left, LBJ Presidential Library Director Mark Updegrove, President Barack Obama, first lady Michelle Obama and Rep. John Lewis, D-Ga., arrive in the Great Hall at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas, Thursday, April 10, 2014, to attend a Civil Rights Summit to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act. (RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN- STATESMAN)

Accompanied by First Lady Michelle Obama, then-President Obama and former Presidents George W. Bush, Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter visited the LBJ Library and attended a three-day summit to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act.

Former President George W. Bush addresses a private gathering in the LBJ Library Atrium Thursday evening April 10, 2014 on the last day of the Civil Rights Summit in Austin, TX. RALPH BARRERA / AMERICAN-STATESMAN

Vice President Biden visits Austin in 2013

Then-Vice President Biden visited the National Domestic Violence Hotline in Austin to announce a $500,000 grant from the Office of Violence Against Women to continue support of the National Dating Abuse Helpline, according to the official website of the United States Government.

In this 2013 file photo, Vice President Joe Biden, right, and actress Mariska Hargitay, left, visit the Austin headquarters of the National Domestic Violence Hotline. In September, the Hotline's board of directors voted unanimously to appoint a new chair, Catrina Wilson of Corpus Christi. EARLIER: In his third visit to the National Domestic Violence Hotline, Vice President Joe Biden said Wednesday that it was inexcusable that Congress has not adequately funded the work of the hotline, which, while it has answered more than 3 million calls, dropped more 52,000 calls for lack of sufficient resources. Vice President Joe Biden, right, and actress Mariska Hargitay, left, visit the headquarters of the National Domestic Violence Hotline to help commemorate National Domestic Violence Awareness Month, Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2013, in West Lake Hills, Texas. (RICARDO B. BRAZZIELL / AMERICAN- STATESMAN)

President Obama on UT campus in 2010

Then-President Obama gave a speech at UT Austin's Gregory Gym on August 9, 2010. In his speech, he addressed higher education and the need to become more globally competitive, according to a UT News report.

Ricardo B. Brazziell AMERICAN-STATESMAN 8/9/10 President Barack Obama addresses a large crowd on the University of Texas at Austin campus inside the Gregory Gymnasium to talk about higher education. He was warmly received and spoke passionately about sending more Americans to college. Obama waves to the crowd before making his way through the audience for handshakes.

See more photos of U.S. presidents visting Austin

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: A look at past US presidents that have visited Austin
Up in the Air

By now, you're probably well aware of the staggering energy and resource costs of generative AI. But even if the whole industry is a bubble ready to burst, chances are that the environmental toll we're hearing about now is only going to get worse  because AI's appetite is absolutely insatiable.

Consider the obscene amounts of water that's needed just to cool the data centers that train and host generative AI models, which is somewhere in the millions of gallons per year. Internal estimates from Microsoft about its data facility in Goodyear, Arizona, for example, show that it's set to annually consume 56 million gallons of drinking water  which is more than a drop in the ocean for such a water-scarce region.

But as Wired reports, the way data centers waste water is even worse than how households would waste it by leaving the tap running.

"The water that is available for people to use is very limited," Shaolei Ren, a responsible AI researcher at UC Riverside, told the magazine. "It's just the fresh surface water and groundwater. Those data centers, they're just evaporating water into the air."

"When we get the water from the utility, and then we discharge the water back to the sewage immediately, we are just withdrawing water  we're not consuming water," Ren continued. "A data center takes the water from this utility, and they evaporate the water into the sky, into the atmosphere."

And once evaporated, that water doesn't come back to Earth for another year.

Down the Drain

What do we get for all this consumption? The technology has many applications, ranging from chatbots to image generators. But for the average internet user, it's probably Google's dubious AI search summaries, which are so advanced that they'll recommend that you add glue to pizza.

Call wacky hallucinations like that an outlier, but it's not unreasonable to say that the AI summaries offer no significant benefits over conventional search results other than concision at the cost of accuracy, while having clear and enormous drawbacks in efficiency.

"In the back end, these algorithms that need to be running for any generative AI model are fundamentally very, very different from the traditional kind of Google Search or email," Sajjad Moazeni, an AI researcher at the University of Washington, told Wired.

"For basic services, those were very light in terms of the amount of data that needed to go back and forth between the processors," he said, estimating that these generative AI applications are 100 to 1,000 more times intensive. Other estimates put Google's AI search in the ballpark of consuming ten times as much energy than a regular one.

It's more important than ever, then, to be scrutinizing these costs. Google, as star-struck by AI as every other tech leader, has cynically stopped pretending to be a carbon neutral company so it can keep shoving chatbots in everyone's faces. If that's any indication of how the rest of the industry's attitude towards the problem, it augurs ill.

More on AI: Washington Post Launches AI to Answer Climate Questions, But It Won't Say Whether AI Is Bad for the Climate
Critical services

Police spend $50 million on wellness via gyms, breath work, (sacbee.com, July 9)

It was disappointing to read this article which appeared to criticize significant money allocation for the purpose of officer wellness. Having treated many law enforcement professionals over my career as a therapist, I can say that any money spent on helping officers reduce stress is worth it. Going on a ride along partially opened my eyes about what they deal with everyday.

Breath work is an evidenced-based treatment that works. Stress is real and an everyday occurrence for officers.Working out in a healthy, modern environment is essential to good health and stress reduction. Any assistance that helps them reduce stress and maintain their physical and emotional health is critical for officers to serve our community effectively.

Marian L Sheppard

Sacramento

Pseudoscience

Police spend $50 million on wellness via gyms, breath work, (sacbee.com, July 9)

Its alarming that while the Sacramento Sheriffs Department deems red light cameras  a proven method to reduce crashes  expendable, they are spending significant funds on pseudoscience wellness treatments. Sacramento, with the highest per capita traffic injuries and deaths in California, should prioritize public safety measures that have demonstrated effectiveness.

Instead, the department invests in dubious health treatments for personnel, which is both irresponsible and a disservice to our community. Our focus should be on protecting all citizens, including those in law enforcement, with evidence-based safety measures.

Isaac Gonzalez

Founder, Slow Down Sacramento

Opinion

Protecting unhoused neighbors

After Supreme Courts contentious homelessness ruling, whats next for California cities? (sacbee.com, July 3)

Where does the Supreme Court ruling leave people struggling without a home? We must ask our representatives at all levels of government to step in and end this tragic situation in the worlds richest country.

Nationally, Congress could renew the expanded child tax credit that cut child poverty in half, enact a renter tax credit so those in poverty are able to stay housed by not paying over 30% of their income for rent and expand the SNAP program so people dont have to choose between rent and food.

At the state and local levels, our leaders can make sure there are enough shelters and needed programs to help those in need. This will only happen if we ask for it. After all, we elect them, so lets speak up for all Americans struggling to be housed!

Willie Dickerson

Snohomish, Wash.

Newsoms choice

Sacramento County stops delivering water to homeless as heat wave starts. Heres why, (sacbee.com, July 4)

I would like to graciously extend an invitation to Gov. Gavin Newsom to spend the next week sleeping in his backyard (or in his car in his driveway). I have been in this position, staying in my car for more than five years. Some people say its a choice, but, in my case, its been all I could afford.

California is in the midst of an extreme and deadly heatwave. Newsom has left the option of emergency heat shelters up to the counties of this great state. And that is a mistake. I would prefer to live in a state where a governor takes personal responsibility for this weather crisis by declaring a state of emergency. This would ideally include shelters or hotel vouchers for homeless individuals.

Newsom holds many lives in his hands. He can choose to act, or do nothing.

Lyndi Duckworth

Roseville

Correcting the record

Pool still closed despite Sacramento having funds to fix it, (sacbee.com, July 2)

Sacramento Councilmember Katie Valenzuela suggests that the Southside Park pool was not repaired because home builders arent paying higher park fees. This is factually inaccurate on two levels.

As the headline makes clear, the city received funding after Asm. Kevin McCarty secured $500,000 in state funds to fix the pool a year ago. Valenzuela also ignores the fact that park fees from new housing can only be used for new parks within two miles of that same new housing.

Timothy Murphy

President, CEO, North State Building Industry Association

Roseville
FILE - Greek Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis speaks next to Fredis Beleris, left, during his visit to the ethnic Greek minority of Albania, in Himare, on Thursday Dec. 22, 2022. Fredis Beleris, an ethnic Greek politician jailed in Albania for vote-buying, says he hopes his election this month to the European Parliament will help boost the rule of law in Albania. Beleris told The Associated Press in an interview from prison that he would have preferred to serve as mayor of the southern Albania community he was elected to lead last year, before his arrest and conviction. His case has soured relations between Balkan neighbors Greece and Albania. (Dimitris Papamitsos/Greek Prime Minister's Office via AP, File)

TIRANA, Albania (AP)  Albanias prison department Sunday granted a five-day leave to an ethnic Greek minority former mayor to attend the opening session of the new European Parliament in Strasbourg.

The prison departments statement said Fredis Beleris, 51, was granted leave July 15-20. He must stay in contact with police and return to serve the remaining time on his two-year prison sentence.

Beleris, who has dual Greek and Albanian citizenship, is a member of the European Parliament. He won a Greek seat in the EU legislature in elections last month, representing the governing conservative New Democracy party.

Albania, a former communist country and a current NATO member, has a historically tense relationship with Greece, largely over issues of Greek minority rights and the sizable Albanian community in Greece.

Beleris was convicted of offering 40,000 Albanian leks (360 euros at the time) to buy eight votes in last years municipal election. Beleris was elected mayor of the town of Himare, 240 kilometers (150 miles) south of the capital, Tirana, after being arrested two days before the vote. He was never sworn in because he was under arrest. He was later sentenced to prison.

Beleris has denied the charges against him.

European Parliament lawmakers enjoy substantial legal immunity from prosecution, even if the allegations relate to crimes committed prior to their election. In the case of Beleris, that rule is unlikely to affect the outcome, as he is serving time for a crime committed in a non-EU member country.

After the appeals court verdict, Albanian election authorities stripped Beleris of his post as Himaras mayor and a new election will be held Aug. 4.

Beleris case has strained ties between Tirana and Athens, with Greece saying the case could harm Albanias application to join the European Union. Albania, a candidate country, is in the process of negotiating full membership.

Albanias government said it could do nothing while the case was in court.
NEW MEXICO (KRQE)  Albertsons has kicked off a statewide donation drive to benefit two local charities.

As part of the Donate at the Register Campaign, Albertsons and Market Street shoppers will be able to add any dollar amount to their grocery bill when they check out.

Albertsons, Kroger set to sell nine New Mexico stores

Albertsons will give that money to the Roadrunner Food Bank and the Food Depot.

The charities say drives like this are a huge help. The donation drive will run through July 24.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRQE NEWS 13 - Breaking News, Albuquerque News, New Mexico News, Weather, and Videos.
A South Side alderman says she wants an explanation for the Chicago Police Departments low arrest rates in cases where women are stalked and harassed on social media.

Ald. Nicole Lee, 11th, who heads the City Councils womens caucus, raised the issue this week in response to a Tribune investigation that found Chicago police made arrests in only 2% of the domestic-related electronic harassment and cyberstalking complaints received in the past 10 years. The arrest rate last year was about 1%.

I certainly want to have a conversation with CPD about it, to just better understand what their processes are and what the challenges are, Lee said. I know that weve got challenges across the city.  I think theres a lot that needs to be done to better understand how we can support the police in providing more resources to address these issues. It seems like weve got the right laws on the books, but enforcement is key in terms of the actions that are taken.

To demonstrate her concern, Lee attended a recent news conference and stood behind Dominique Ward, a Chicago woman who has filed multiple electronic harassment complaints that never resulted in criminal charges. Court documents and other records reviewed by the Tribune detail how her childrens father  a computer whiz with a significant social media following  has offered to pay his social media followers for photographs and videos of the girls.

The father, Micah Berkley, previously told the Tribune he believed he had a First Amendment right to solicit the pictures and has paid about $6,000 for images in the past two years. He described it as technological warfare to fight back against custody and child support rulings that didnt go his way.

Berkley declined to comment Friday, saying he wouldnt speak to the Tribune any further without his lawyer.

He has said authorities never questioned him about his social media postings. Unrelated to the fathers Facebook activity, a Cook County judge issued a body attachment for Berkley earlier this year, allowing for his detainment in light of more than $50,000 in unpaid child support, records show. Such orders are similar to bench warrants, though they are rarely executed in civil cases where the subjects live out of state.

A Tribune analysis found the Chicago Police Department receives thousands of electronic harassment and cyberstalking complaints each year, more than a third of which are categorized as domestic-related. In 2023, for example, more than 2,400 people reported being electronically harassed or cyberstalked in Chicago  with more than 800 of them saying the abuse was perpetrated by someone with whom they have a familial or intimate relationship.

Of those 824 domestic-related complaints last year, only nine  slightly more than 1%  resulted in an arrest.

Its an arrest rate more than 15 times lower than other domestic crimes in 2023, including battery and order of protection violations. Of more commonly reported crimes, only those involving deception  such as pickpocketing, unauthorized credit card use and confidence games  have lower arrest rates.

A 2023 Rand study concluded authorities can find electronic harassment and cyberstalking difficult to investigate because the cases often involve tech-savvy offenders who are deft at hiding their tracks and it is sometimes hard to prove the suspect actually wrote the offending message. In a statement to the Tribune, the Chicago Police Department hinted at some of those same obstacles.

The Chicago Police Department takes domestic violence cases, including electronic harassment and cyberstalking cases, seriously, CPD said in a statement. These investigations are complex and difficult based on the evidence available. As we work to seek justice in these cases, we also are working to support the victims and connect them with resources specifically focused on those who have experienced the trauma of domestic violence.

In urging police to take electronic harassment more seriously, Ward also called on Meta  Facebooks parent company  to make it easier to report and remove problematic accounts. Despite Wards frequent requests to have Berkleys pages removed, the social media company did not deactivate his account until Gov. J.B. Pritzkers office intervened and demanded the pages be taken down.

Victims, in general, arent able to access the governors office, Ward said. So we need Meta to enforce their own policies and law enforcement, at all levels, to enforce the law.

A Meta spokesman said the company could not discuss specific cases but stated that Facebook responds to requests from law enforcement to remove posts.

Domestic violence experts have applauded Ward for raising awareness about electronic harassment, but they also have criticized the system that made speaking out one of the few remaining options.

No survivor should have to risk their safety and the safety of their children by going public with their story to get the attention of law enforcement or large corporations like Meta, said Darci Flynn, former director of gender-based violence strategy & policy for Mayor Lori Lightfoot and principal consultant at Brave Path Strategies. There are tools and technology used by law enforcement every single day to investigate cyber crimes. The fact that law enforcement is claiming there are no solutions in this case  a case where the person causing harm brazenly and unapologetically publicly admits to the tactics he is using  is disgraceful.
I knew right away, as soon as I heard the pop, that it was gunfire.

Former Bristol County Sheriff Thomas Hodgson said he was watching the rally being held by former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday afternoon when shots rang out.

According to USA Today reports, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee was injured in the ear after a rooftop sniper opened fire on the rally with an AR-15-style rifle. The Secret Service said one spectator was killed and two others critically injured. Images of the aftermath showed Trump bleeding from the right side of his head.

Hodgson, a longtime Trump supporter, is the chairman of the Trump 2024 campaign in Massachusetts. He spoke by phone while traveling to this week's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. While he was shocked by the violence, he said, he was inspired by Trumps demeanor after the attack.

What an amazing guy," Hodgson said. He gets shot, he goes down, he comes back up and hes telling the Secret Service to pause because he wants people to know that were going to persevere.

Secret Service protect: 'Somebody dropped the ball'

Hodgson said Trump has issued calls to reinstate the rule of law. In campaign speeches, Trump frequently invokes the specter of violent crime.

"Ironically, he along with the poor gentleman who was killed, and the two people who were critically injured, became victim to the very thing that hes trying to stop in this country," Hodgson said.

Trump is famous for hosting large campaign-style rallies, even while in office. Hodgson said at future rallies, the Trump team and the Secret Service will have to undertake a careful review of the incident, including security, noting that the incident raises serious questions about what went wrong.

"Where were the mistakes made? The Secret Service on the ground did a phenomenal job protecting him. But somewhere at the management level, the decision-making level; somebody dropped the ball, Hodgson said.

It could have been a much different story if the president had not turned his head when the bullet grazed his ear.

Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by Secret Service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024.

Calls for political rhetoric to cool after attack

Secret Service agents shot and killed the gunman, later identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021. Federal Election Commission records show that in January 2021, Crooks made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project, a group working to increase voter turnout for Democrats.

His motive is not yet known, though Hodgson said, "I think its pretty clear theres a mental health problem in the country.

A 2020 high school yearbook shows the photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks, named by the FBI as the "subject involved" in the attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, U.S. July 14, 2024.

Hodgson called for a cooling down of hot political tempers in the 2024 campaign. Still, he cited examples of rhetorical attacks from the political left.

"When you get people riled up by saying somebodys a dictator, or somebodys going to steal your democracy, or theyre a Nazi, youre playing in dangerous territory with people who maybe arent altogether there, stable, who are going to seek that opportunity to hurt anybody, somebody  particularly people in public life, Hodgson said.

This kind of rhetorics got to stop. Weve got to get back to red, white and blue and stop with this just red and blue.

Will Massachusetts support Trump in 2024? Hodgson says yes

The partys convention lasts from Monday to Thursday, in which Trump is expected to formally be nominated as the Republican candidate for president. It is unknown if the convention will make any changes in reaction to the attack.

Hodgson said Trumps Massachusetts campaign has been successful so far, saying he has frequent conversations with voters who express their support for the former president.

Reagan was the last one to win Massachusetts, and he did it twice," Hodgson said. We are on target in Massachusetts to win this time with President Trump.

Material from USA Today writers Kenny Jacoby, Christopher Cann, Emily Le Coz and Suhail Bhat was used in this report.

Dan Medeiros can be reached at dmedeiros@heraldnews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Trump assassination attempt: MA Trump campaign chair speaks out
U.S. Rep. James Comer is calling for a hearing on the shooting at a rally held by former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania Saturday.

I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing, Comer, a Kentucky Republican and chairman of the House Committee on Oversight and Accountability, said in a post on the social media platform X Saturday night.

The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Trump was rushed off the stage by Secret Service agents after a bullet hit him in the ear at a Pennsylvania rally. A rally attendee and the suspected shooter were dead following the incident, and two other people were injured.

My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at todays rally in Pennsylvania, Comer wrote.

I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped others who were hurt. Political violence in all forms is un-American and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers.

The FBI, according to media reports late Saturday night, is to lead the investigation into the botched assassination attempt.

Comer represents Kentuckys 1st Congressional District in Congress. Originally elected in 2016, his district covers 35 counties from the Mississippi River to Central Kentucky.

He portrays himself as a conservative Republican leading some of the most consequential congressional investigations in American history and aggressively advocates for reducing government waste, fraud and abuse as Oversight Committee chairman.

On July 11, Comer issued a statement demanding that three top White House aides appear before his panel later this month to discuss President Joe Bidens mental fitness.

He has issued subpoenas to Anthony Bernal, a top adviser to first lady Jill Biden; Annie Tomasini, White House deputy chief of staff; and Ashley Williams, a senior adviser to the president requesting they sit for depositions.

In letters sent to the three staff members, the GOP committee chair claimed that the aides may be running interference on behalf of the President and perhaps doing some of the Presidents job for him.

A White House spokesperson lashed out at Comer.

Like everything Congressman Comer has done over the past year, these subpoenas are a baseless political stunt intended for him to get media attention instead of engage in legitimate oversight.

A few days earlier, Comer requested that Bidens physician appear before lawmakers for an interview about the presidents health.

Comer drew national attention for his failed efforts to link President Biden to alleged illegal activities by his son, Hunter.

Numerous hearings were held, but they went nowhere.

Kentucky Republicans, Gov. Beshear: Violence has no place in our country





I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.



My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the  Rep. James Comer (@RepJamesComer) July 14, 2024
By James Oliphant, Gram Slattery

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -In a country already on edge, the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has enraged his supporters, paused the Democratic campaign and raised fears of further political violence in the run-up to November's election.

Trump's Republican allies painted him as a hero on Saturday, seizing on the image of him with his ear bloodied and fist raised, appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

Whereas Trump has regularly used violent language with his followers, advisers and allies of the former president flipped the script on his Democratic opponent President Joe Biden, saying it was the demonization of the Republican presidential candidate that led to the assassination attempt.

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," U.S. Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, a top candidate to be Trump's running mate, said on X.

Biden moved quickly to try to defuse the situation, denouncing the attack as unacceptable political violence and pulling election ads attacking Trump.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Biden told reporters.

The motivation of the shooter is not yet known. The suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was a registered Republican, according to state voter records. He previously made a $15 donation to a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians.

In the short term, the attack will likely boost Trump's appearances in Milwaukee this week at the Republican National Convention as he accepts his party's presidential nomination, fortifying the sense of grievance and estrangement his supporters already feel toward the nation's political class.

Within hours of the shooting, Trump's campaign sent out a text asking voters to contribute to the campaign. "They're not after me, they're after you," the message read.

Billionaires Elon Musk and Bill Ackman also swiftly endorsed Trump. "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk said on X, the social media site he owns.

Chris LaCivita, the co-manager of Trump's campaign, said on X that "for years and even today, leftist activists, Democrat donors and now even Joe Biden have made disgusting remarks and descriptions of shooting Donald Trump ... it's high time they be held accountable for it ... the best way is through the ballot box."

LaCivita was apparently referring to recent remarks by Biden made in the context of asking his supporters to focus on beating Trump rather than his own performance. "So, we're done talking about the debate, it's time to put Trump in a bullseye," said Biden, who has always condemned any political violence.

POLITICAL ATTACKS

The U.S. is grappling with the biggest and most sustained increase in political violence since the 1970s. Of 14 fatal political attacks since supporters of Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, in which the perpetrator or suspect had a clear partisan leaning, 13 were right-wing assailants. One was on the left.

Despite being a former president, Trump has campaigned as an outsider insurgent, complaining that he has long been targeted by the federal "deep state" and Biden's administration to prevent him from reclaiming power.

He has typically employed violent, degrading and even apocalyptic rhetoric while doing so, warning of a "bloodbath" if he is not elected and saying immigrants in the United States illegally are "poisoning the blood of our country".

Some Republicans were already agitated by his continued stoking of the fire.

"If the country wasn't a powder keg before, it is now," said Chip Felkel, a Republican operative in South Carolina who has opposed Trump.

Brad Bannon, a Democratic strategist, said the shooting could benefit Trump politically because it feeds into his campaign narrative that the country is off-track.

"The attempted assassination creates sympathy for Trump," Bannon said. "It also confirms the idea to voters that something is fundamentally wrong in this nation, which is an idea that drives support for him."

Trump in May was found guilty of engaging in a scheme to cover up an affair with a porn star, a conviction that did little to alter the race and suggested supporters of both sides remain entrenched in their positions.

Biden has dealt with a debate within his own party over whether he should step down as the Democratic candidate because of concerns that he is no longer fit for the job. He says his doctors have told him he is in good shape. Trump has benefited in some polls from Biden's disastrous debate performance last month, but others show the race to be even.

Many voters have already been alienated by both Biden and Trump. The chaos that surrounds the candidates may contribute to voters feeling that the nation's problems are unfixable and the gulf between the parties cannot be bridged.

U.S. Representative Steve Scalise, a Republican who was shot by a gunman in 2017, told Fox News that violent election rhetoric needed to stop.

"All it takes is one person who is just unhinged to hear that and go out and act on it and think that's their signal to go take somebody out," he said.

(Reporting by James Oliphant and Gram Slattery; editing by Colleen Jenkins and Philippa Fletcher)
Is the monetary bail system fair or does it further discriminate against low-income defendants who remain in jail before trial regardless of risk level, while higher income defendants afford bond and go free until trial?

For example, two people commit the same crime (misdemeanor or felony). One who has financial resources pays bail and walks free until trial. The low-income person, without financial resources, languishes in jail for an indefinite amount of time awaiting trial; added punishment for being poor.

Research validates that in Potter, Randall, and Lubbock counties if you cannot fork over cash bail you will be held in our overcrowded jails for weeks, months and sometimes years awaiting a trial. In Potter, Randall and Lubbock counties, the number of jailed individuals awaiting trial slightly exceeds 50% of total inmates, based on data from the first three months of 2023 furnished by the jails.

These percentages include those charged with both misdemeanor and felony offenses. Some argue that those alleged to have committed a felony should not be let out of jail. But remember, unless an extremely high bond has been set for a heinous crime, people charged with a misdemeanor or felony can be set free as long as they post monetary bail. Money to post bail allows the accused to avoid pretrial detention and avoid being held in jail and be able to continue on with life.

Personal Recognizance (PR) bonds, whereby the accused swears in writing to return for trial, could be used; however local judges are wary of this practice for fear the accused will not return for trial. This is ironic given the person who posts bail is free until trial on his/her honor. Studies indicate those released on PR bonds are as likely to return as those who post bond. For the small percentage who do not return for trial, a bench warrant is issued for their arrest. The simple PR bond option would significantly benefit low-income individuals and further uphold lawful rights of being presumed innocent until proven guilty, ensure due process, and eliminate experts conclusions of cruel and unusual punishment.

Discriminating against low-income defendants who cannot be released on a PR Bond also contributes to overcrowding at the Potter County jail. Potter County is now forced to "farm out its inmates to other counties, and the Sheriff is suggesting yet another new jail may be needed. Should we as taxpayers pay for another jail and/or for farming out inmates when other, more constitutional options are available? It costs around $76 per day to house an inmate in the Potter County jail. If we take only 50% of their average jail population of 1,500 inmates, or 750 times $76 per day per inmate, times 30 days, we are talking about $1,710,000 per month!

The Appleseed Foundation, which serves as the administrative hub for the nonprofit Appleseed Network, a social justice network center in the US and Mexico, provides these factual findings:

Longer pretrial detention makes it more likely low-risk defendants will lose their employment, lose their housing, and encounter family dislocation, thus increasing the likelihood of future criminal activity.

Low-risk, low-income defendants remain in jail for no other reason than they cannot afford bail, and detaining these individuals actually makes it more likely they will reoffend in the future. Meanwhile, higher-risk individuals with higher incomes can buy their release through cash and surety bonds.

Defendants detained pretrial have worse outcomes and receive lengthier sentences compared to otherwise identical defendants released on bond.

Jailing low-risk defendants before trial has a negative impact on public safety, making it more likely they will commit a new crime in the short term and the long term.

Bringing this closer to home, a study in Wichita County, Texas, (Wichita Falls) by Texas A&Ms Public Policy Research Institute showed that poverty was the primary determining factor in whether a defendant bonded out  NOT the seriousness of the current charge or criminal history.

Texas Harris (Houston) and Travis (Austin) County jurisdictions have successfully moved away from money bail for misdemeanors without suffering decreased court appearances rates or pretrial rearrest rates.

Harris County bail reforms have not led to an increase in crime or recidivism rates (according to a recent federal report officially known as the O'Donnell consent decree) despite concerns about a rise in violent crime. The number of misdemeanor cases filed in Harris County declined from 62,000 per year in 2015 to 49,828 in 2021  a drop of nearly 20%.

Travis County developed a list of exceptions to pre-trial release which any county looking at no cash bail could consider. I would offer that instead of continuing to violate the constitutional rights of the accused, having overcrowded jails and incurring costs of holding so many low-risk people in jail, shouldnt Potter County appoint a committee to research the problem and develop legally acceptable policies?

A research-based, validated risk assessment tool would allow Potter, Randall, and Lubbock counties to assign each defendant a risk level and make informed decisions about bond amount, pretrial release and pretrial supervision based upon the assigned risk level. This risk assessment tool, used in combination with increased PR bonds, would not only increase public safety, but save millions of dollars that are currently spent on jailing lowrisk defendants.

Harris County complied with federal court orders to release misdemeanor defendants and Travis County followed suit by appointing a committee to study the issue and amend pre- trial detention. Our communities should do the same and I implore us to address, rather than dismiss this matter, particularly to level the playing field and eliminate financial disparities for the accused.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Another View: With money, you walk
Perrin March V knew how he wanted to die.

First, hed enter a Jewish synagogue and chain the doors. Then, hed kill the rabbi, detonate explosives, shoot the congregants and get shot to death by police.

In an April 2022 online chat, March called this his dream death.

The Bellevue, Kentucky, man, who posted and chatted on Telegram under the alias Pale Face, later expressed disappointment that no one wanted to attack a synagogue with him.

When FBI agents raided Marchs home May 13, 2022, they found a gun, bullets, Nazi references and 8 pounds of a chemical that can be used to make explosives.

The scene had all the ingredients of a mass shooting, a prosecutor later said in court.

Perrin March V posted a photo of an AK-47 pistol, one of the many items discovered by the FBI during a raid on his home in May of 2022. The image originates from a Telegram post March made using his social media alias Pale Face.

But March, the 29-year-old scion of a prominent and wealthy Cincinnati family, did not face terrorism charges. Instead, he pleaded guilty to illegal possession of a firearm and was sentenced to two years and eight months in prison, which was later reduced by two months.

His attorney, Eric Eckes, told The Enquirer in an email: "The family does not wish to speak with you under any circumstances." Eckes also declined to be interviewed.

The Enquirer successfully fought for access to court records after they were sealed, blocking most documents from public view.

"Sealing is very unusual," said attorney Jack Greiner, who represented The Enquirer. "Court documents are presumed open to public inspection so the public can oversee the operations of the criminal justice system. Mr. March argued that his privacy interests justified the sealing. The court rejected that argument."

The records show March has a violent past  stabbing someone in the chest in 2016 and threatening to kill his girlfriend and unborn child in 2021.

They also hint at the extent of March's involvement in online discussions about mass violence, antisemitism and Nazi ideology.

The case raises a number of questions: Why was his court record sealed? Why was an earlier stabbing charge against him removed from records? And how did the heir of one of Greater Cincinnati's prominent families fall into the realm of white supremacy?

Meanwhile, March was released from federal custody June 28 after living at a halfway house.

Who is Perrin March V?

March is the oldest of four children raised by Diane and Perrin March IV, members of a Cincinnati family that has been active in the city's industrial, philanthropic and society circles for more than a century. They're both luxury real estate agents.

The March family has owned Cincinnati Incorporated, a machine tool manufacturer, for over a century. It was founded by Perrin G. March as the Cincinnati Shaper Company in 1898. It's currently run by Perrin March V's aunt at a 500,000-square-foot plant outside the city in Harrison, Ohio.

March grew up with his parents, who own a home in Hyde Park, one of Cincinnati's more affluent neighborhoods. He loved animals, Lego, and Harry Potter, his mother wrote in a letter to the court.

The Summit Country Day School in Cincinnati's Hyde Park neighborhood, where Perrin March V attended school.

He was enrolled at the Summit Country Day School, a private, K-12 Catholic school whose alumni include former Ohio State Sen. Eric Kearney and Cincinnati Reds president Phil Castellini.

When contacted by The Enquirer, Summit Country Day confirmed March was a student there for middle school but didn't graduate from its upper-level school.

March was diagnosed with ADHD in middle school, and he struggled with organization, completing tasks, sleep issues and other symptoms of the disorder, his mother said in a letter to the court.

They sent him to a Christian summer camp in 2006 and 2007, hoping the nature-centric programming would help him. But things got worse for March.

His mother wrote that in the following years, she and her husband sent him to a wilderness camp for troubled teens, addiction treatment, a boarding school and therapy.

"By this time, we were very confused and at a loss," she wrote about that time.

Perrin March V is pictured on a page from the Summit Country Day School 2013 yearbook.

A stabbing and domestic violence

In 2016, March got into an argument with a man at his parents' Hyde Park home and stabbed him in the chest. Customs and Border Protection officer David Emberton mentioned the stabbing during a detention hearing days after the FBI raided Perrin March V's home.

Emberton was assigned to an FBI joint terrorism task force at the time of the hearing.

"So he was held in jail until, kind of, the victim got out of the woods, so to speak, from chances of passing away," Emberton said.

He said it was his understanding that any charges related to the stabbing were expunged, as were other previous instances of drug-related charges.

Diane March wrote that her son was convicted of a misdemeanor for the stabbing and served time in jail.

Samuel Heller, a Hamilton County public defender, told The Enquirer its not uncommon for the records of some assaults to be sealed and expunged. But a misdemeanor charge for such a seemingly violent crime seems unusual.

If someone causes an injury while using a potentially deadly weapon like a knife, that action could certainly be looked at as a felonious assault, which is far more serious than a misdemeanor assault, he said.

Without more information about the attack, its not possible to know why March faced a misdemeanor charge or if he received unusual treatment from the courts.

When contacted by The Enquirer, the Cincinnati Police Department and Hamilton County Sheriff's Office said they did not have documents related to the stabbing.

'A few rounds in her ... stomach'

In 2021, March stalked and threatened to murder his pregnant girlfriend during a custody dispute.

In text messages to a friend, he said hed "kill her and then myself," and that "no ones (sic) taking my kid from me but me." He threatened to put "a few rounds in her f---ing stomach."

March was convicted of harassing communications later that year. Part of his sentence included a domestic violence order that barred him from possessing a gun, among other restrictions.

March later wrote on Telegram, an encrypted messaging service: "Due to a certain charge im not 'legally allowed to possess fire arms' for another 3 years  but also i wasn't required to claim ownership of any or to turn any in to anyone. Laws are weird and vague sometimes here."

Perrin March V posted two photos online on April 26, 2022, with the message: "OMW (on my way) to bomb shaloms."

'Pale Face' on an encrypted chat app

He used Telegram to communicate with people about his hateful views and violent thoughts.

He went by the alias Pale Face on a Telegram channel called Black DC's Hate Crime Time.

Its where he posted and chatted about his desire to kill people who are Jewish, nonwhite, LGBTQ and those he deemed to be race traitors. He encouraged others to also commit similarly motivated acts of violence.

And its where he wrote about his dream death.

The domestic violence order set him up to serve jail time for illegally possessing a firearm after the FBI executed a search warrant at his Northern Kentucky home May 13, 2022.

There, the FBI found an AK-47 pistol, 400 rounds of ammunition, a bullet with white power written on it and materials that can be used to make bombs. March also told an officer he had an AR rifle, a shotgun, and perhaps a .22-caliber rifle stored at his parents' house.

Items the FBI found at Perrin March V's Northern Kentucky home.

How Falling Creek Camp changed Perrin March V's life

In 2007, Perrin March V told his parents he wanted to come home early from his second stay at Falling Creek Camp, a nondenominational Christian summer camp near Tuxedo, North Carolina.

"We told him to stay bc we thought he would regret 'giving up,' " his mother wrote to the court.

When he came back from camp, he was different.

"For the next several years, we had behavioral issues with Perrin that we couldn't explain, and we had no idea how to address them," his dad told the court in a letter.

They sent March back to the camp in 2008. He was kicked out and his mental state continued to decline.

His mother said he spiraled downward for the rest of his teenage years.

March threatened suicide multiple times, spent time in substance abuse treatment programs, was shipped off to a therapeutic teen wilderness program in Utah, and got sent to a therapeutic boarding school to finish his education.

Hed been using heroin since he was 12 or 13, his former attorney, Edward Metzger, wrote in a sentencing memorandum. He also added March has been diagnosed with PTSD, bipolar disorder and other mental health issues.

Years later, during a tearful phone call, he told his parents he was sexually abused at the camp.

"Imagine now knowing that you sent your son back for another year because you had no idea," March's father wrote to the court. "No wonder he found a way to get out."

Court documents included news articles about former camp counselor Paul Clifton Canally, a man who was convicted of more than three dozen felonies involving sex crimes against minors and abusing boys who attended a school where he was a science teacher, according to March's parents and other news reporting.

Canally was sentenced to roughly 50 to 60 years in prison.

The documents also include a letter Falling Creek Camp sent to parents in 2012 confirming Canally worked at the camp in the summer of 2007  the year March asked his parents to pick him up early.

"I have never felt guilt, anger, sadness, shame, and grief like that before," Diane March wrote.

Why wasn't March V charged with other crimes?

Online posts about wanting to bomb a synagogue, allegedly testing homemade bombs and calling for the general death of people are often considered protected free speech, said H. Louis Sirkin, a Cincinnati attorney who specializes in First Amendment cases.

He reviewed some of the court documents in March's case at The Enquirer's request.

"It's an evil thought, but you don't punish somebody for an evil thought. I think you've got to have the evil thought and then youve got to make a movement, a substantial movement, in the course of committing that evil thought," said Sirkin, who is Jewish.

If prosecutors had taken March to court on terrorism-related charges, for instance, it would have been difficult for them to prove he intended to follow through with his threats, Sirkin said. An argument could be made that March was just blowing off steam or joking online and never intended to commit the crimes, which is the argument his former attorney made in court.

Cincinnati-based H. Louis Sirkin has been a First Amendment lawyer for decades. He said it would have been difficult for prosecutors to prove Perrin March V intended to follow through with his threats.

It's more concrete to charge March with illegal possession of a firearm and have the circumstances of his arrest considered during sentencing.

Prosecutors on the case, Assistant U.S. Attorneys Emily Greenfield and Andrew Boone, told The Enquirer in an email they cannot comment on the case aside from what's already public record.

Mark Pitcavage, senior research fellow with the Anti-Defamation Leagues Center on Extremism, said March's charge is common. He has studied extremism for more than 30 years.

There are a lot of (white extremism cases) where there may have been other potential crimes  perhaps a plot or something like that, but they're actually just prosecuted on weapons-related crimes, simply because those are so much easier to prove, he said.

Why do young men fall into the 'alt-right' pipeline?

Perrin March V changed his Facebook profile photo to one of him firing an AK-47 in May 2022.

Ideas espoused by Perrin March V are common in cases of convicted extremists.

Mass shooters who've killed people  in Buffalo, New York; Christchurch, New Zealand; El Paso, Texas; Oxford, Michigan, among other places  have displayed Nazi and neo-Nazi symbols at their homes, on their guns and on their clothing. Some have white supremacy tattoos and others have live-streamed their massacres.

Online algorithms target people with more and more content of what someone is already interested in, said Heidi Beirich, co-founder and chief strategy officer at the Global Project Against Hate and Extremism.

"You don't get shown a diversity of views, and you end up in a curated world where everything you see is hate," she said.

Hate groups use those algorithms to recruit young white men, who've been called "foot soldiers of the movement," said Paul Becker, an associate professor of sociology at the University of Dayton and extremism expert.

Becker said antisemitic and racist sentiments have moved from the fringe to mainstream in the past few years as political figures and pundits repeat them.

A conspiracy theory called the Great Replacement Theory, for example, refers to the fabricated notion that unspecified elites are attempting to replace the white populations of their countries with nonwhite immigrants.

Beirich said, "If you're just a 16-year-old white kid, and you didn't know anything about anything, you might look it up."

How did March become radicalized?

Pitcavage said it can be difficult to pinpoint exactly how a person becomes radicalized, and that includes March.

I've seen so many different ways that people have radicalized ... that it's really difficult to generalize and I would hesitate to speculate here, he said.

Diane March, wrote a letter to the court in which she shared a text message she attributes to her son, explaining some of his experiences.

Perrin March V said he lived with all-consuming trauma after what happened to him at Falling Creek Camp in summer 2007. It led him to being untrusting, aggressive and suicidal.

The second I found out drugs made the pain go away and the terror to stop, I decided they had to come first if I was going to survive, he said in the text.

Perrin March V wrote online that his "dream death" was to be killed by police during a mass shooting at a synagogue.

Over the years, nearly all his friends were ones he made while he was addicted to and buying drugs.

He was reportedly sober at the time of his arrest, but he said he learned prejudices from associating with those kinds of people.

Theres still a lot I have to learn and unlearn," he said. "But Ive made a lot of serious progress but still have a lot to keep healing from."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Perrin March V: The Cincinnati antisemitic attack that didn't happen
A view shows the entrance of the Trump Tower after Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump was injured when shots were fired during a campaign rally held in Butler, in New York, U.S., July 14, 2024. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz

Central Massachusetts lawmakers are joining others across the state and nation in expressing shock and concern over the assassination attempt on former President Donald J. Trump Saturday in Pennsylvania.

Shocking, senseless, appalling  so many emotions come to mind, state Sen. Ryan Fattman, R-Sutton, told the Telegram & Gazette Sunday.

The violence that unfolded today at a political rally should never, ever happen in America, state Rep. Peter J. Durant, R-Spencer, said in a news release Saturday night.

Spencer, the assistant minority leader for House Republicans, said while differences of opinions exist, political candidates should be able to gather with their supporters without fear that those who disagree with them will resort to actions like we saw (Saturday).

State Rep. Peter Durant

State Rep. Joseph D. McKenna, R-Webster, said in a statement that the shooting highlights the bizarre and scary world in which we are living.

There is no place for violence in our politics and this attempt on former President Trump's life is horrifying, McKenna wrote. As an American, I am grateful for Trump's well-being and pray for his recovery, as well as for all attendees impacted.

Both representatives said they are praying for the one innocent person confirmed dead and their family, and thankful to the Secret Service and law enforcement for acting quickly to prevent further loss of life.

I can't imagine fearing to be in a public setting or to show support for a political candidate for fear of losing your life  that simply is not American, McKenna wrote. I am sad for the state of American politics, but am hopeful that this tragedy will remind people that we are part of one country that needs to come together to heal and unify, not be divided.

Fattman, in a phone interview with the T&G Sunday, agreed.

We all have to do our very best to take the temperature down and treat each other with respect, he said.

Fattman was in a pool with his kids when a friend asked if he had "heard the news." He said his first thought was Trump had announced a running mate; when his friend replied Trump had been shot, he said, he didnt believe it.

I was stunned, he said, adding that such political turmoil is usually associated with less stable countries.

Fattman noted the video seems to suggest that if Trumps head had just been turned a little differently, he would be dead and the situation the country is facing much darker.

BOSTON - Stephanie Fattman listens to her husband, Ryan.

Fattman said he hopes people take a moment to reflect on what happened and to focus on the importance of uniting to prevent future political violence.

Fattman said a personal reminder of the stakes came for him Saturday night, when one of his children came up to him and asked, Daddy, are you safe when you speak at events?

Fattman said the message sent yesterday, reverberates across this country, to all different ages and its very scary.

Asked how Americans should go about deescalating the rancorous environment, Fattman called that the "million-dollar question.

Theres a lot of hyperbole in our politics and its got to go, he said. Thats how I feel.

Fattman said he will be praying for the family that lost a loved one in the shooting, as well as those seriously injured, and urged people to pray for the nation rather than spread division.

Pray for the country  that the relative peace weve had domestically for a long time continues, he said.

The Republican minority leaders in the House and Senate, Rep. Bradley H. Jones Jr. of North Reading and Sen. Bruce E. Tarr of Gloucester, also offered prayers for the innocent life lost and thanked law enforcement in a joint statement Saturday night.

Police officers stand guard at Trump Tower after Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump was injured when shots were fired during a campaign rally held in Butler, in New York, U.S., July 14, 2024. REUTERS/Eduardo Munoz

We are appalled and sickened by the shooting that took place at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania today and relieved he is safe, they wrote. We condemn this senseless act of violence which has no place in our political discourse or our democracy.

The men added they are calling for unity in the face of this violent attack, which threatens our democracy and the foundational principle of free speech.

The Massachusetts Republican Party, in a statement Saturday, emphasized the importance of unity, saying Americans must not become so entrenched in division that we forget we are all brothers and sisters under the American flag.

Whether Democrat or Republican, despite our differences, we all desire peace and prosperity for our nation, the GOP wrote. Political violence is intolerable, and we must unify as a nation to condemn this horrible incident.

Senate President Karen E. Spilka, D-Ashland, in a statement Saturday night, wrote: Im praying for our country today. My own family sought refuge in the United States to escape political violence.

There is no place for that type of violence in America. We must come together to condemn it, to see the humanity in each other, and to remember that we are all Americans who can disagree in our political discourse without wishing harm on each other.

U.S. Rep. James P. McGovern, D-Worcester, in a post to X (formerly Twitter) shortly after the shooting Saturday, wrote: "There is no place for violence in our country or in our politics, against any political leader or political party. It is always unacceptable and wrong. Praying that everyone is okay."

State Sen. Jamie Eldridge, D-Acton, wrote on Facebook Saturday night that "all violence is unacceptable and is to be condemned, including political violence.

"Im relieved to hear that Donald Trump is safe. Im thinking of him and his family, and the individuals at the rally who were also injured, and their families."

As of 11 a.m. Sunday, most members of Worcester's legislative delegation, all of whom are Democrats, had yet to post about the shooting on social media.

State Rep. David LeBoeuf, D-Worcester, wrote in a Facebook post: Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. Wishing all those injured, including the former president, a speedy recovery and healing for the families of the victims.

This article originally appeared on Telegram & Gazette: Central Mass. legislators respond to Trump shooting Saturday
Just days before the Republican National Convention kicks off in Milwaukee, former President Donald Trump was rushed from a stage in Pennsylvania Saturday evening after gunshots rang out as he was speaking to supporters.

He left the stage with blood on his ear and cheek but was confirmed to be "fine" by a Trump spokesperson.

The FBI is investigating the shooting as an attempted assassination.

The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage. The shooter was "neutralized" by the Secret Service and died. A spectator was also killed and two other spectators are in critical condition, according to the agency.

Trump is scheduled to formally accept the nomination to run for a second term in the White House during the RNC on Thursday evening at Fiserv Forum.

Whether there will be any changes to schedules or security for the RNC, which officially begins Monday in downtown Milwaukee, was not clear Saturday evening.

The Trump campaign released a statement late Saturday saying: "President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again."

A spokesperson for the RNC's host committee told the Journal Sentinel there were "no changes planned at this time" for the committee's convention welcome party scheduled for Sunday at the Summerfest grounds at Henry Maier Festival Park.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the host committee, said in a statement that "President Trump is in my prayers after surviving this assassination attempt, and noted that "guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week."

Gunshots at Trump rally raise questions for RNC Security

Milwaukee city and police officials did not immediately respond or did not have information early Saturday evening about how shooting would impact RNC security.

Milwaukee police referred questions to the Secret Service.

A spokesperson for the Secret Service couldn't be reached for comment.

Republican National Convention spokespeople did not answer their phones Saturday evening but directed a reporter to a statement from Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung, which was also posted on X by Republican National Committee Chairman Michael Whatley.

The statement said: "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow."

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers said he and his staff were in contact with those coordinating security for the RNC and "will continue to be in close communication as we learn more about this situation."

Extremism expert weighs in on shooting ahead of RNC

Jon Lewis, a research fellow for George Washington University's extremism program, says the incident will likely inflame Trump supporters on the far right.

An Associated Press photo from the shooting shows a bloodied Trump, his fist in the air.

You cannot overstate how powerful this imagery is, Lewis said.

The right-wing online ecosystem is already calling this a Democratic attack on Trump, saying that their followers need to be ready to fight, he said.

Internet personality and founder of Turning Point USA Charlie Kirks post on X said the shooting was "the end result" of rhetoric from the left. GOP Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene also took to X to blame the Democrats and the media for Saturdays events, also while calling supporters to action.

Lewis said its too early to know exactly how the RNC will be affected.

But the call to fight is a message that these right-wing groups will respond to in their local communities and within their states, even if not at the national level, Lewis said.

Wisconsin, Milwaukee officials condemn shooting at Trump rally

Evers and Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, both Democrats, condemned the shooting at Trump's rally.

In a post on X, Evers wrote, "My thoughts are with President Trump and all of the folks attending todays rally in Pennsylvania. Thank you to the first responders who acted quickly, putting themselves and their safety at risk in order to respond to a horrific act of violence and keep people safe."

Evers also posted: "We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kindthat is not who we are as Americans."

Johnson said in a statement that "Theres no space, absolutely none, for this sort of violence in America. ... We must demand peace, whether it is in the political sphere or in homes and neighborhoods everywhere."

Delegates in town for RNC, locals react to shooting

Damaris Perez and Melanie Collette were eating at Carsons Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue, and told the staff to turn on the TV when they heard there'd been a shooting at Trump's rally.

Im so upset right now, said Collette, a Cape May County Commissioner in New Jersey and delegate at the convention.

(Right) Melanie Collette, Cape May County Commissioner in New Jersey and delegate at the RNC, and her friend (left) Damaris Perez, from Franksville in Racine County, discuss their feelings on former President Trump on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue in Milwaukee, Wis.

Perez said she was shocked this kind of incident would happen in America.

We should have different opinions, different political affiliations but it should never resort to violence, said Perez, a resident of Franksville in Racine County.

Perez and Collette feel that the rhetoric associated with this election has gotten dangerous.

If you continue to say that Donald Trump is an existential threat to democracy, somebody might want to put him out, Perez said. If you keep saying this guy is a threat to our very way of life, maybe someone want to put him out because of that, and this goes to all news media.

Perez said she would feel the same way if it was Biden.

I dont want my adversaries dead or shot at, Perez said. I just want a fair place where we can debate ideas. We dont want people killed. This is America.

Collette said security at the convention might be increased.

"If there is a way to make this (area) more secure, theyre going to," Collette said. "I cant imagine what more they can do, to be honest... security is extremely tight. Its run by the Secret Service."

Katie Larson, manager of Carsons, said she is horrified that someone would try to do something so publicly.

Especially since it happened to a former president, Larson said. It makes me nervous. Definitely. Its scary that someone would do that.

Carsons is right on the edge of the credentials-only hard security zone and although Larson doesnt know how the shooting would impact security at the convention she is expecting some changes.

The hard security zone might extend a bit which makes us unhappy, we dont want that. We want our guests to come in, Lason said.

This story will be updated.

Lawrence Andrea of the Journal Sentinel staff contributed to this story.

Alison Dirr can be reached at adirr@jrn.com. Mary Spicuzza can be reached at mary.spicuzza@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Trump 'looks forward' to RNC after assassination attempt
At least one attendee and the suspected shooter have died after gunshots rang out at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said.

Goldinger told CNNs Anderson Cooper that one additional spectator was injured and taken to a local hospital. A statement from the Secret Service shortly after said two attendees at the rally were critically wounded.

The Secret Service also said in the statement that the suspect fired multiple shots toward the stage where Trump was from an elevated position outside the venue.

I think thats something that were going to have to figure out how he got there, Goldinger said.

Live updates: Suspected shooter reported dead after Trump rushed off stage

The Secret Services statement said the situation is under investigation and the agency has notified the FBI.

Secret Service agents rushed Trump off stage after sounds that resembled gunshots were heard shortly after his rally began. He was escorted away by agents who surrounded his entire body while leading him off the outdoor stage. He was seen with blood above his right ear and was pumping his fists toward the crowd as he was being led to his SUV.

Goldinger said he did not yet have any information about the shooter and described the scene as chaos.

Updated at 9:14 p.m.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) Some area politicians have released statements on the attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump in Butler County.

Mayor Paige Cognetti (D), Governor Shapiro (D), and Congressman Meuser are among those who have released statements regarding the shooting that has left two people dead and the former president injured.

Senator John Fetterman (D): I am appalled and condemn in the strongest terms this violence in Butler. I extend my condolences to those injured and wish a speedy and full recovery for Mr. Trump.

Senator Bob Casey (D): I am monitoring the situation at President Trumps rally in Butler and Ive reached out the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement.

Mayor Paige Cognetti (D): Political violence should never happen in our country or any other. We will keep former President Trump and his family in our thoughts and hope he has a quick and full recovery.

Governor Josh Shapiro (D):  Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States. I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice

are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners.

Congressman Dan Meuser (R): Please join me in praying for President Trump and all at the Butler Rally. God bless the USA.

Congressman Matt Cartwright (D): The violence we saw in Butler today is horrifying, and has no place in our democracy. Marion and I are grateful to the courageous law enforcement officers and first responders who acted immediately to keep President Trump safe. Were thinking of his family and extend our wishes for a quick recovery. We also want to express our heartfelt condolences to the loved ones of all those killed or injured in the crowd today by this repugnant act of political violence.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  Saturday afternoon, former President Trump was was rushed off stage at his rally in Pennsylvania with blood on his face after sounds that resembled gunshots.

Though officials with the Secret Service said that the former president is safe, leaders from throughout the Natural State have taken to X, formerly known as Twitter, to offer their prayers.

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

President Trump wont be stopped. America cant be broken. Pray for our country, Arkansas Governor and former Trump administration Press Secretary Sarah Huckabee Sanders stated.

Arkansas Senator Tom Cotton also sent out prayers to Trump and his supporters.

Please join Anna and me in praying for President Trump, his agents, and all his supporters at the rally in Butler. Cotton stated.

Trump allies react to apparent shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Senator John Boozman also took to X and asked for prayer for Trump and those in attendance at the rally.

Please join me in praying for President Trump as well as those in attendance at todays rally and our entire country. Boozman posted.

Representative Steve Womack posted that he is praying for Trump and everyone at the rally.

Praying for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our nation. Womack stated.

Biden grateful Trump safe after apparent shooting: No place for this kind of violence

Arkansas Lieutenant Governor Leslie Rutledge also took to X to express prayers for Trump and the law enforcement officers involved.

Pray for President Trump and pray for America. God bless our law enforcement officers. Rutledge said.

Representative Rick Crawford said his prayers are with the nation.

My prayers are with President Trump, his family, and our nation during this time. Crawford stated.

Obama condemns apparent shooting at Trump rally, wishes former president quick recovery

Representative French Hill issued a thanks to the Secret Service for their help in the situation.

Prayers for former president @realDonaldTrump and thanks to our @SecretService and for his health care providers. Hill posted.

Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin called the attack horrifying.

The attack against President Trump in Pennsylvania is horrifying. Please join me in praying for President Trump, the Secret Service agents, and the bystanders at the rally. There is never a place for political violence in our nation. Lets all pray for our nation at this hour. Griffin stated.

Apparent shooter at Trump rally, one attendee dead: Reports

In a statement, the Democratic Party of Arkansas condemned the attack.

The Democratic Party of Arkansas condemns political violence. What happened in Pennsylvania is far too common in communities around our country. Our prayers are with everyone victimized today, including the former President. the statement read.

Former Arkansas Gov. Asa Hutchinson posted on X that his prayers are with Trump and the others impacted.

The assassination attempt on former President Trump is an attack on democracy. My prayers are with President Trump and others impacted I am grateful for all the first responders investigating this act of terror. Hutchinson posted.

Pennsylvania Republican describes panic and mayhem at Trump rally

Former President and Arkansas Gov. Bill Clinton spoke out against the shooting saying that violence has no place in America.

Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service. Clinton said.

Arkansas Auditor of State Dennis Milligan said that he is outraged by the shooting and is glad Trump is safe.

I am outraged by todays assassination attempt of President Trump, but I am glad to hear that he is safe. While we wait for additional information, I continue to pray for his health and safety during his race for president. Milligan stated.

Trump rally incident a rare type of event

Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston also extended his prayer to Trump and his family.

I ask you to join me in prayer for President Trump, the victims and other attendees, and the United States Secret Service who put their lives on the line during this tragic shooting. Thurston posted.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Arkansas leaders are sending prayers for former President Donald Trump after he was rushed off stage by U.S. Secret Service Saturday following multiple shots fired- one of which grazed the candidate's head as he was speaking at a rally broadcast from Butler County, Pennsylvania.

At least six shot were heard while the Republican candidate is on stage - some as he stands behind a podium and after he appears to crouch down behind the podium after the first bang.

Video showed Trump being removed from the site by Secret Service, with his fist raised and blood on his ear and cheek, after the shots.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told USA TODAY Trump was grazed by gunfire but is safe. One audience member was killed. Another person also shot was in serious condition, the prosecutor said.

The gunman was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, outside Pittsburgh. Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents moments after gunfire erupted at the former president's rally.

Here's how local leaders are reacting:

Former president and governor of Arkansas Bill Clinton:

The former president and governor condemned the violence while praising the Secret Service.

"Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service."

Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.  Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) July 14, 2024

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders:

The Arkansas governor and former press secretary during Trump's presidency took a strong stance on X:

"President Trump wont be stopped. America cant be broken. Pray for our country."

President Trump wont be stopped.

America cant be broken.

Pray for our country. pic.twitter.com/PBHvM1yICk  Sarah Huckabee Sanders (@SarahHuckabee) July 13, 2024

The US House Representatives and Senators

"Praying for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our nation." Representative Steve Womack

" Please join me in praying for President Trump as well as those in attendance at todays rally and our entire country, Senator John Boozeman via X

"Please join Anna and me in praying for President Trump, his agents, and all his supporters at the rally in Butler." Senator Tom Cotton via X

This article originally appeared on Shreveport Times: Arkansas leaders-react-to-apparent-shots-fired-at-former-president-trump
The 2024-2025 school year comes with a big change on the Space Coast: Certain Brevard Public Schools employees will be armed with guns.

You won't know who they are, what schools they serve at or how many there are, with the district citing safety concerns as the reason for keeping their identity private.

These armed employees are volunteer participants in Florida's guardian program, a program established in response to the 2018 Parkland shooting with the goal of helping to prevent additional school shootings. Brevard is one of 53 counties participating in the program, according to the state department of education.

There are numerous ways a district can be part of the program. Prior to this year, Brevard used security specialists, or civilians with a background in security, law enforcement or the military. But this year, they'll expand the program to allow employees who are not assigned to classrooms to go through training by Brevard County Sheriff's Office and volunteer.

The change comes after the idea was initially broached by Board Chair Megan Wright in October of last year. While it was ultimately approved 4-1 by the board, with Jennifer Jenkins dissenting, community members have spoken out against its expansion, raising questions and concerns about potential harm that could come to students and employees by having additional firearms in schools.

"I believe security is best left in the hands of individuals whose sole responsibility and focus is on security," Jenkins said.

However, the rest of the board and the district as a whole have remained steadfast in their pursuit of its expansion.

The guardian program wasn't on the agenda for a Brevard school board meeting in December. However, multiple members of the public spoke out against its expansion.

"Its critical that we take every available step to prevent a tragedy like this one from ever happening again," said Janet Murnaghan, spokesperson for Brevard Public Schools, referencing the Parkland shooting. "By training trusted staff members to assist School Resource Officers during an active shooting we will keep students safer by increasing on-site personnel who can respond to an active threat."

FLORIDA TODAY reached out to the district and all board members to clarify how the program will be implemented in Brevard. Wright, Board Vice Chair Gene Trent and board member Matt Susin did not respond to multiple requests for comment on the program.

Program eligibility requirements, training

With Brevard's expansion, only existing school employees are eligible to volunteer, and teachers/employees assigned to a classroom are not allowed to participate. The district and sheriff's office work together to select the best candidates from those interested in volunteering, said Murnaghan. She added that candidates undergo numerous evaluations, including oral interviews, background evaluations, drug screenings and psychological evaluations before participating in the training program.

"The evaluations continue while in training to ensure the right candidate has been chosen," Murnaghan said. "We will only choose candidates that meet these criteria."

Public comment: 'If something happens ... we're coming for you': Community decries Brevard guardian program

BPS isn't seeking a specific number of volunteers, though they are looking especially for employees with backgrounds in law enforcement, military training and corrections. The district did not specify exactly how many employees had volunteered for the program, and they are not specifying which schools will have guardians.

As for the actual training volunteers undergo, Ivey's program involves 176 hours of training, Murnaghan said  32 hours more than the state-mandated 144 hours of training for guardians. The training touches on topics such as marksmanship, active assailant response, defense tactics, de-escalation strategies and more. For every year that they volunteer, guardians will be required to participate in additional training.

The Florida Department of Education provides grants for any sheriff's office participating in the program, according to the department's website, with funding going toward candidate screening, training-related costs and a one-time $500 stipend for each guardian. The website did not say how much money each sheriff's office is allocated, though a total of $6,500,000 has been made available per funding period for all participating sheriffs' offices since 2021.

The guardian program wasn't on the agenda for a Brevard school board meeting in December. With Brevard's expansion, only existing school employees are eligible to volunteer, and teachers/employees assigned to a classroom are not allowed to participate.

District officials initially said training for guardians would begin in July, though a more specific date has not been set. Once trained, the guardians will provide "an additional layer of protection alongside our School Resource Officers and School Security Specialists" during the upcoming school year, Murnaghan said.

"This is an extension of a very successful program that has been in place for many years," she said. "Dr. Rendell and the School Board are committed to providing safe, secure schools alongside all of our law enforcement partners."

District, board members address community concerns

Since the idea of the program was initially raised in October, teachers, parents, students and other members of the community have spoken out as being staunchly opposed to it, raising concerns ranging from a dislike of more guns in schools to a fear of potential accidents.

But the district hasn't swayed from their position in expanding the program.

"We are serious about protecting our students and keeping our schools safe," Superintendent Mark Rendell said via email to FLORIDA TODAY. "Every child deserves a safe school."

Jenkins  the sole opposing vote on the memorandum of understanding with Brevard County Sheriff's Office that allowed the program to be expanded  had a different perspective, saying that just because guardians won't be assigned to classrooms, it doesn't mean they won't interact with children.

"To state that these personnel don't have classrooms mischaracterizes how many staff members are around, interact with, and/or are responsible for more students a day than a traditional classroom teacher," she said. "Just because they aren't 'assigned' to them doesn't mean they (aren't) interacting with them."

Board approves program expansion: Brevard school board gives OK to trained staff carrying guns after promising no vote this week

Board member Katye Campbell, who was first elected in 2018  when Brevard initially began considering the guardian program and ultimately opted for security specialists rather than armed employees  said she felt that enough time had passed since the program's inception to witness its implementation in other locations.

While members of the public have spoken out at meetings, Campbell said she's gotten significantly less pushback than she did in 2018, and that multiple principals have told her they're on board with the program, as long as candidates are well-vetted.

"The training for the new Guardians is the same training as for the Security Specialists; the main difference is that they will be unknown to all but the essential personnel," she said. "And Lord willing, they will never have to put the training they receive into practice. Any potential bad actors wont know how many we have or where they are, but they will know that we have them. And that should be a deterrent."

Corporal Jeremy Flake, pictured in May 2019, describes the interactive training system used as part of the training for Brevard's guardians. Those using the MILO Range are armed with simulated handguns, and immersed in a 300 degree video simulating an active shooting situation in a school, office and other locations. It's not clear if this training system is currently part of the training program used for armed guardians.

A point of concern raised throughout months of consideration given the program was why the board wasn't considering alternatives to the guardian program. Campbell said it's not an "either/or situation but a both/and situation."

"We are also adding metal detectors this coming year," she said. "Not every security solution is feasible, practical or affordable, but we need to do everything we can to keep our students and staff safe. Expanding the Guardian program in Brevard adds another layer of security, building on the success weve already had with the security specialists who go through the same exact guardian training."

While Campbell said there weren't many negative reactions from employees, and the outrage from the public was largely due to a misconception that there aren't already weapons on campuses or that teachers would be armed, Jenkins had a different point of view, saying that staff was not surveyed about their feelings.

"We don't know exactly because we didn't survey staff," Jenkins said. "I said it publicly, if we were confident it's what they wanted, why didn't we ask them? In fact, some felt so strongly against it they expressed it in the volunteer survey that had nothing to do with it."

Program's implementation varies by county

Through Brevard is one of 53 counties in the guardian program, how the program is implemented in each district can vary widely, based on a survey conducted late last year by BPS' Chief Operating Officer Rachad Wilson.

Of the districts surveyed  Suwannee, Lake, Sumter, Lee, Volusia, Pinellas, Miami-Dade and Osceola  Suwannee is the only district where teachers are armed, according to Wilson's survey. It also arms administrators, as do Lake and Sumter counties. Lee County allows employees to participate in the program, though Wilson didn't specify which employees could or couldn't participate apart from saying teachers couldn't become guardians.

Volusia's and Pinellas' guardians are not school-based employees.

Miami-Dade and Osceola participate in the program in some capacity, according to the state department of education. However, they do not use armed guardians, according to Wilson's survey, with Miami-Dade opting for an internal police department and Osceola using school resource officers at their public schools and contracted security at their charter schools.

"We have had more school shootings since 2018 and people see the critical difference that mere minutes can make," Campbell said. "Programs like this have been instituted across the country without incident, and it is less scary than it seemed six years ago."

While it's true that time has passed without many incidents, a district employee in Palm Beach County accidentally shot themself during training to become a guardian in June, according to the district and sheriff's office. Their injuries were not life-threatening.

It's also not clear whether the program has deterred school shootings, as there is no data on the state department of education's website citing the program as having prevented any incidents.

"Remember, in 2018, we didnt even have SROs on every campus," Campbell said. "Back then, some people didnt want to have armed personnel on every campus at all."

Finch Walker is the education reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Walker at321-290-4744 or fwalker@floridatoday.com. X: @_finchwalker.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Armed guardians in Brevard schools: Why did district expand program?
Yahoo Finance

After China announced broad measures to rescue its economy, Chinese stocks surged, our Chart of the Week shows. It's not the first time the country has attempted to get out of the recent doldrums, but the market's reaction says this time might be different.
UnitedHealth Group (NYSE: UNH) stock hasn't performed well this year so far, but there's a consolation prize for long-term investors. Every three months, UnitedHealth Group distributes a cash payout to anyone who's a shareholder of record on the ex-dividend date.

That's great news for income-oriented investors, but it shouldn't be your sole focus. It's essential to conduct your due diligence on the company itself, especially since UnitedHealth Group has at least one imminent event that could impact the share price.

How much will UnitedHealth Group pay in dividends?

Not long ago, UnitedHealth Group increased its quarterly dividend distribution 12% to $2.10 per share. The company has typically raised its dividend distributions every year, but shareholders should anticipate payments of $2.10 per share per quarter for the next year.

This would equate to $2.10 x 3, or $6.30 per share for the remainder of 2024, or $2.10 x 4, or $8.40 per share for the next 12 months. That's a decent dividend, since UnitedHealth Group's forward annual dividend yield is 1.59% versus the healthcare sector's average dividend yield of around 1.5%.

Look out for earnings and a possible acquisition

While watching for UnitedHealth Group's quarterly dividend payments, investors should also anticipate the release of the company's second-quarter earnings report on the morning of July 16. Analysts expect UnitedHealth Group to have earned $6.71 per share during the quarter. Fortunately for the company and shareholders, UnitedHealth Group has an outstanding track record of quarterly earnings beats.

Additionally, investors should prepare for updates on UnitedHealth Group's proposed acquisition of Amedisys, a provider of home health and hospice services. Both companies may end up having to divest assets, including clinics, in order to avoid interference from the Department of Justice. So, even if you're gung-ho about collecting those juicy dividend payouts from UnitedHealth Group, the health of your portfolio may depend on keeping up with UnitedHealth Group's ongoing financial and operational developments.

Should you invest $1,000 in UnitedHealth Group right now?

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David Moadel has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool recommends UnitedHealth Group. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

How Much Will UnitedHealth Group Pay Out in Dividends This Year? was originally published by The Motley Fool
After Assassination Attempt, Republicans Say Its Out Of Bounds To Call Donald Trump A Threat To Democracy

After Assassination Attempt, Republicans Say Its Out Of Bounds To Call Donald Trump A Threat To Democracy

High-profile Republicans have immediately blamed Donald Trumps near-assassination on Democrats calling him a threat to democracy.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said on Sunday that when the message goes out constantly that the election of Donald Trump would be a threat to democracy and that the republic would end, it heats up the environment.

Other Republicans were more explicit. Shortly after the shooting at Trumps Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) said on social media that President Joe Bidens rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination, while Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) said in his own social media post, This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse.

As of Sunday afternoon, the motives of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old man who tried to shoot Trump, remain unknown. But its clear Republicans want to shut down Bidens core campaign message. Biden has repeatedly called Trump a threat to democracy, citing, among other things, his encouragement of mob rioters who attacked Congress as part of his efforts to overturn the 2020 presidential election. (During their debate last month, Trump refused to say he would accept the results of the coming election if he lost.)

The choice in this election is simple, Biden said in June. Donald Trump will destroy our democracy. I will defend it.

In a TV ad that Bidens campaign released earlier this month, a narrator warned that the Supreme Courts recent ruling that Trump cant be prosecuted for official acts done during his presidency would allow him to rule like a king if he wins a second term.

Hes already led an insurrection and threatened to be a dictator on day one, the narrator said. Donald Trump can never hold this office again.

After Saturdays shooting, the Biden campaign paused its ads and events, though it didnt offer a public rationale for the pause. A spokesperson for the campaign declined to elaborate on Sunday. Biden has called the shooting sick and echoed lawmakers of both parties whove decried political violence.

Trump and Republicans, meanwhile, have for the past year described Biden as a banana republic dictator who has weaponized the government against his political opponents, all because the Justice Department has been pursuing criminal cases against Trump related to his 2020 election schemes and his hoarding of classified documents after leaving the White House.

Hes been weaponizing government against his political opponents like a Third World political tyrant, Trump said at a rally in December. Joe Biden is not the defender of American democracy, Joe Biden is the destroyer of American democracy.

Republicans have claimed Biden orchestrated the New York City criminal case against Trump and even made an outlandish accusation that the Justice Department had a plan to assassinate Trump at his Mar-a-Lago club in Florida.

In an email just last week, the Trump campaign used the exact wording Republicans are now decrying in the wake of the assassination attempt: Biden is a threat to democracy.

On Sunday, Johnson condemned Bidens threat to democracy rhetoric but also suggested that both Biden and Trump should tone down their language.

Weve got to turn the rhetoric down. Weve got to turn the temperature down in this country, Johnson said. We need leaders of all parties, on both sides, to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have.

Related...
Sprite or Coke?

A photograph taken by NASA astronaut Matthew Dominick from the International Space Station shows mysterious blue orbs far below the station and dotting the air off the coast of South Africa. Among them are tiny red sparks of light  best seen in the full-resolution version  which only add to the image's unusual ambiance.

As the space agency explained in a recent blog post, the big blue lights and dancing orbs are definitely not signs of an incoming alien invasion. Instead, the red dots are the result of an extremely rare weather event called "red sprites," while the much larger blue orbs are lightning strikes  a marvelous show put on by Mother Nature.

Spritacular

While they still remain "less understood," according to NASA, scientists believe red sprites are related to powerful lightning events and usually appear in the mesosphere, the third highest layer of the atmosphere which is home to "noctilucent" or "night shining" clouds.

From space, transient luminous events (TLEs) like red sprites usually become visible in timelapses taken with a wide lens.

In 2022, NASA launched a "citizen science project" called "Spritacular" in an effort to crowdsource images of sprites.

TLEs were first documented in 1989 by University of Minnesota researchers, who captured them by "sheer accident," according to NASA, while they were testing a low-light TV camera for an upcoming rocket launch.

Photographed from the ground, red sprites appear like massive, jellyfish-like strands of red light.

Their red color is caused by the presence of nitrogen in the atmosphere reacting to the electrical charges of lightning storms.

In fact, they're not even exclusive to Earth's atmosphere. Scientists have observed them on Jupiter as well, where they appear blue, not red, due to the abundant hydrogen reacting with electrical charges in the planet's atmosphere.

Updated to remove mistaken reference to gravity waves.

More on sprites: NASA Crowdsourcing Investigation of Otherworldly "Sprites"
How Attacks on Presidents and Candidates Have Shaped US History

(Bloomberg) -- The shooting of former President Donald Trump Saturday was only the most recent act of political violence that has often shaped US history.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Trump said he was fine after a bullet grazed his ear during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The attacker was killed by Secret Service agents, and one other person at the event died. Authorities are investigating Saturdays attack as an assassination attempt.

The killings of Abraham Lincoln, James Garfield and William McKinley eventually led to Secret Service protection, and the assassination of John F. Kennedy shocked the nation and resulted in even tighter security around the president.

Still, Gerald Ford was the target of two high-profile attempts on his life in the span of 18 days, and Ronald Reagan was seriously wounded by a gunmans bullet early in his presidency in 1981.

Nearly every modern president has been targeted. The Secret Service has foiled nearly all of those attempts, few of which resulted in injury.

Political violence has taken the lives of leaders around the world, as well, including Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme.

Even before Saturdays incident, polls showed voters worried about possible violence surrounding this years presidential election. A Bloomberg News/Morning Consult poll of swing states in May found half harbored those fears, including roughly equal shares of Democrats and Republicans. And theyre even more common among independents, the poll found.

Heres a look at some previous attempts on US presidents and presidential candidates lives:

Donald Trump

During Trumps 2016 campaign, a 20-year-old British man attempted to grab a gun from a Las Vegas police officer at a Trump rally there. He later told police he was trying to kill Trump, and pleaded guilty to federal firearms and disruption offenses.

Ronald Reagan

On March 30, 1981, John Hinckley Jr. fired six shots at the president in Washington, hitting Reagan and three others. The president was seriously wounded but recovered after emergency surgery. The other three victims also survived. Hinckley was immediately arrested and kept in institutional psychiatric care until 2016, 12 years after Reagans death.

Gerald Ford

Lynette Squeaky Fromme, a follower of cult leader Charles Manson, attempted to shoot Ford in Sacramento, California on Sept. 5, 1975. Three weeks later, Sara Jane Moore fired a shot at Ford in San Francisco, making the two women the most prominent female would-be assassins in US history.

Robert F. Kennedy

Sirhan Sirhan shot and killed Kennedy, then a candidate in the Democratic primaries, in Los Angeles on June 5, 1968, less than five years after the assassination of his elder brother. Sirhan was sentenced to life in prison. Kennedys son, Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is running as an independent presidential candidate in 2024.

John F. Kennedy

On Nov. 22, 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald shot and killed the president in Dallas. The assassination continues to spark debates about whether Oswald acted alone, after Oswald was killed by restaurateur Jack Ruby two days later.

Theodore Roosevelt

Roosevelt was a former president campaigning to return to the White House when he was shot giving a speech in Milwaukee on Oct. 14, 1912. Protected by the 50-page text of his speech and a glasses case in his pocket, he continued his address and recovered, eventually losing to Woodrow Wilson. Would-be assassin John Schrank was found legally insane and institutionalized until his death.

William McKinley

McKinley was shot in Buffalo, New York on Sept. 6, 1901, and later died from his wounds, elevating Vice President Roosevelt to the presidency. Anarchist Leon Czolgosz was convicted of the assassination and put to death.

James Garfield

Garfield was shot in Washington on July 2, 1881. He died from complications from the wounds two months later. Writer and lawyer Charles Guiteau was convicted of the crime and sentenced to death.

Abraham Lincoln

Lincoln was shot and killed in Washington on April 14, 1865, by John Wilkes Booth, a well-known actor and Confederate sympathizer, who was killed after a manhunt that lasted nearly two weeks.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Attention, Bay County drivers: Traffic/construction advisories for week of July 14, 2024

BAY COUNTY  The Florida Department of Transportation has issued another traffic advisory in Bay County, alerting motorists to ongoing and upcoming road projects.

Bay County drivers will experience the following traffic disruptions, according to a news release from the FDOT:

U.S. 98 west of Tyndall Drive-Airey Avenue to east of Louisiana Avenue

Expect some lane closures through August.

U.S. 98 widening from Mandy Lane to east of Nautilus Street

U.S. 98 drivers will encounter lane closures between Pier Park Drive and Nautilus Street between 8 p.m. and 6 a.m. July 14-18.

State Road 390 Bridge over Mill Bayou

Expect lane closures between Brook Forest Drive and Cato Road, July 14-20.

Hutchison Boulevard drainage project

Drivers will encounter lane closures 7:30 p.m.-7:30 a.m. July 14-18 between Richard Jackson Boulevard and Clara Avenue.

A chance to cool off: Jeremiahs Italian Ice set for grand opening celebration in Panama City Beach

U.S. 98 (Panama City Beach Parkway) resurfacing from Walton County Line to Heather Drive

Drivers will encounter nighttime lane closures July 14-18 for asphalt paving activities.

Gulf Coast Parkway construction from U.S. 98 (Tyndall Parkway) to Star Avenue

U.S. 98 (Tyndall Parkway) drivers will encounter a lane closure from East 11th Street to Tram Road 6 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 15-20 for turn lane construction.

This article originally appeared on The News Herald: Bay County Florida roads: Check out these traffic advisories
Richard Moore, 59, was 19 when Madeline Garcia was killed. He was arrested in Los Angeles on June 27 and was arraigned on murder, kidnapping and rape charges this week. (Placer County district attorney via KTLA)

A 59-year-old man was arrested in Los Angeles and charged with murder in a brutal 1984 slaying in the Sacramento Valley.

The Placer County district attorneys office announced this week that 59-year-old Richard Raymond Moore had been apprehended and charged with the murder of 69-year-old Madeline Garcia.

In 1984, Garcia was attacked, dragged into the alley and killed in the 300 block of Atlantic Street in Roseville, according to the district attorney's office.

A decades-long investigation led authorities to Moore in Los Angeles. On June 27, Moore was arrested by Los Angeles Police Department officers and FBI agents, and taken to Placer County.

Moore has pleaded not guilty and is being held in jail without bail. He is expected to appear in court July 22.

Sign up for Essential California for news, features and recommendations from the L.A. Times and beyond in your inbox six days a week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Democrats have made reproductive rights a centerpiece of their campaign message, but the effort has been drowned out these past two weeks amid mounting concerns about President Bidens ability to run for reelection and calls for him to step aside.

Advocates argue the more time and energy that goes into deciding whether Biden should stay in the race or step aside is less time that could be used to show voters the threat from former President Trump and a Republican-controlled government.

I do think that this conversation has sucked the air out of what we are for, what we are fighting for, said Nourbese Flint, president of All* Above All and its affiliated political fund, which focuses on abortion justice.

Flint and other progressives have been pressing the Biden campaign to be stronger on its reproductive rights messaging, but right now she and other progressives said the campaign feels stuck.

The base is split. I think that folks are really confused, said Rachel OLeary Carmona, executive director of Womens March. And I think that there is a really big need for the party to demonstrate leadership and to make a clear move to run a strong campaign and to refocus attention back on to the issues and to whats at stake.

Flint said Democrats need to send out their best gladiator because the election is so consequential. But she admitted she doesnt know who that person is.

Abortion was a winning issue in 2022, and Democrats had high hopes it would also carry them in 2024.

Every time a state passed an abortion ban, or a court ruled to uphold one, Democrats condemned it, and the Biden campaign was quick to blame Trump, who has repeatedly boasted about appointing justices who overturned Roe v. Wade.

Democratic candidates and abortion advocacy groups have been sounding the alarm about what a Trump administration would potentially mean for reproductive rights, and polls showed the message was hitting home.

A record percentage of Americans are now declaring themselves single-issue voters on abortion rights, according to a June Gallup poll. The numbers were strongest among Black voters, Democrats, women and those ages 18 to 29.

But then the presidential debate happened, where Biden stumbled over his words, appeared to lose his train of thought and gave a rambling and at times incoherent answer when asked about abortion  a topic that most thought would be a layup given its outsized importance for the campaign.

The showing prompted calls within the party for Biden to step aside, which have only grown since.

Strategists and abortion-rights activists are frustrated that a winning policy issue is being overshadowed amid the drama.

There is a simple test for every campaign. Are you talking about the issues you want to talk about or the ones your opponent wants you to talk about? If the topic of conversation is reproductive rights, that is a winning day for Democrats. If the predominant conversation is the presidents age, that is a winning day for Republicans, said Jim Kessler, co-founder of the centrist Democratic think tank Third Way.

At the national level, lawmakers are trying to keep abortion at the forefront of voters minds.

In the Senate, Democrats brought up four bills this past week focused on access to reproductive health care, including expressing support for reinstituting Roe v. Wades abortion protections.

It was part of a strategy that began before the July Fourth holiday recess with votes on access to contraception and in vitro fertilization. Democrats forced Republicans to go on the record, trying to put them in a bind between the wishes of their conservative base and the majority of the U.S.

Republicans blocked all the bills.

Supporting a womans right to make her own health care decisions should have been one of the easiest yes votes we have taken all year. By voting no, Republicans told every woman in America your body, our choice, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said on the Senate floor after Republicans blocked consideration of the bill to support Roe.

But in the 24 hours following the vote, about a dozen Democratic lawmakers called on Biden to drop out of the 2024 race. More have since joined in, though others have circled the wagons around Biden.

Biden himself has never been the most forceful messenger on abortion rights, and his personal views on the issue are famously complicated.

Vice President Harris has been a strong surrogate, so when Biden botched the abortion question during the debate, it fueled further questions about whether he should step aside for a more effective messenger like Harris.

Its the easiest issue to message on. Its their top strength. Its Trumps top weakness. Its just a simple message. And there was an incoherent response. So I see why abortion rights activists are concerned, said Tresa Undem, a Democratic pollster who specializes in abortion topics.

Amy Hagstrom Miller, founder, president, and CEO of Whole Womans Health, a network of abortion clinics, said she finds Harris to be authentic and a good listener.

That credibility and that ability to listen and be attentive to real heartbreaking stories without sort of politicizing them. I think shes doing really well with it, has been really effective at talking about abortion, Hagstrom Miller said.

But she pushed back strongly at the idea that Harris would be a more effective candidate and said those conversations are a distraction.

Im worried about Trump, Hagstrom Miller said. I dont see [Harriss] strength as meaning [Biden] has a weakness  the Biden-Harris administration is on the ticket. Theres stability there, there is very much leadership in the reproductive rights, health and justice lane from the Biden-Harris administration.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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The situation near the front-line city of Toretsk in Donetsk Oblast is "tense," while the heaviest fighting is concentrated near Pokrovsk, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported in an operational update on July 14.

The Toretsk sector in Donetsk Oblast has become another hotspot in recent weeks, with Ukraine's Commander-in-Chief Oleksandr Syrskyi reporting that heavy fighting near Toretsk and Pokrovsk has expanded the active Russia-Ukraine front line.

"The situation in the Toretsk sector is tense," the General Staff said on July 14.

"Fighting continues in three locations near Pivnichne and Niu-York, and 12 attacks have already been repelled."

Toretsk and Niu York have suffered from war since Russia first invaded Ukraine in 2014. In the first two years of Russia's full-scale invasion, they were relatively calmer sectors of the front.

Russian forces increased their attacks near Toretsk in June.

The General Staff also reported that the "hottest" situation currently lies in Pokrovsk, where Russian forces attacked Ukrainian positions 35 times.

"Our troops repelled 29 attacks. The situation remains tense near Novooleksandrivka, Novoselivka Persha, and Prohres, where six firefights are still ongoing," the General Staff said.

Ukrainian troops fought off Russian advances near Kharkiv, Kupiansk, Lyman, Siversk, and Kramatorsk, according to the update.

Read also: Russias advance toward key eastern highway threatens Ukraines grip of Donetsk Oblast

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
The bear has been relocated to a Scottish zoo in early 2024. Photo: Five Sisters Zoo

An Asiatic black bear called Yampil, who was rescued by Ukrainian soldiers under Russian attacks in October 2022, has died in his new home in Scotland.

Source: Five Sisters Zoo in Scotland, where Yampil had lived since January 2024

Details: The zoo's staff explained that the bear did not survive the anaesthesia used during the treatment.

"It is with profound sadness that we share the heartbreaking passing of Yampil, our beloved Asiatic black bear.

Prior to the move to his new enclosure this morning [13 July  ed.], Yampil was anaesthetised for further treatment for his health problems which were worrying the team.

Sadly, anaesthetising animals always carries risks, and Yampil did not recover from the procedure and despite the best efforts from our veterinary team, we were unable to resuscitate him," the zoo said.

The Bila Skelia Bear Shelter, where the bear nicknamed Yampil lived for a while after being rescued from Donetsk Oblast, expressed condolences over his death.

"Yampil-Borya went to the rainbow in his new home in distant Scotland. He survived the destruction of the menagerie in Ukraine twice due to war  in 2014 and 2022.

These two years he was surrounded by care and we are grateful to everyone for their efforts and love. This is a painful story, but it is a story about love," the shelter staff said.

Background: The Asiatic black bear was discovered by Ukrainian soldiers in a private shelter in the village of Yampil, Donetsk Oblast, under Russian bombardment. The bear was in an abandoned private zoo, where nearly all of the 200 animals had died from starvation or attacks by that time.

It turned out that Yampil had been injured when a shell exploded near his cage.

Ukrainian soldiers turned to animal volunteers for help to take the bear out of the war zone.

UAnimals activists helped to transport the sick bear to the Lutsk Zoo for rehabilitation, and later, he was transferred to Poland and then to Belgium.

Eventually, Yampil found a permanent home in the Five Sisters Zoo in Scotland in January 2024.

"When we were made aware of the awful treatment and conditions Yampil was subjected to, our hearts broke; we were just so amazed he was still alive and well.

We have the best team on hand to care for him and help make this transition as peaceful and calm for him as possible," said Brian Curran, the owner of Five Sisters Zoo.

Support UP or become our patron!
A Saturday Facebook post associated with a staff member of Mississippi's Democratic U.S. House Rep. Bennie Thompson seemed to support an assassination attempt on Former President Donald Trump.

The post has since been deleted but has drawn rapid ire from Mississippi Republicans.

On Saturday, as Trump was delivering a speech during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, several shots rang out through the crowd. One of those would wound the former president in the ear, one would kill an attendee and two others were severely wounded.

Following the attack, Thompson's Case Manager and Field Director Jacqueline Marsaw's Facebook page had the following post:

"I don't condone violence but please get you some shooting lessons so you don't miss next time oops that wasn't me saying that," the post read.

Shown is a screenshot of Bennie Thompson employee Jacqueline Marsaw's Facebook page with a post supporting an assassination of Former President Donald Trump.

Bennie Thompson proposed change: Trump Secret Service protection could be removed under Bennie Thompson proposed legislation

About an hour later, the posted was deleted. Whether Marsaw actually posted that herself or if someone accessed her account to do it, it did not stop a flurry of backlash from other Facebook users and even the Mississippi GOP.

In a post made to X, formerly Twitter, the Mississippi Republican Party demanded her removed from Thompson's payroll.

"Bennie Thompson should fire his field director for condoning the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump," the post read.

More on rally attack Trump shot in ear in apparent assassination attempt at rally; 1 attendee dead, 2 seriously injured

.

Following the attack, USA Today reported Trump had been injured but is not seriously hurt, and that a shooter was now dead. It was the first shooting of a U.S. presidential candidate since Ronald Raegan in 1981.

Despite the seemingly harsh words from Marsaw, Thompson posted to X following the assassination attempt that he was appalled by the attack.

"There is no room in American democracy for political violence," he wrote. "I am grateful for law enforcements fast response to this incident. I am glad the former President is safe, and my thoughts and prayers go out to everyone involved."

Read other state officials responses Donald Trump offered prayers, support from MS leaders following rally shooting

Thompson's Press Secretary of Director of Communications Yasmine Brown did not respond to calls for comment on whether Marsaw was the one to issue her statement on her Facebook page, if someone had asked her account, or if there would be any repercussions.

Grant McLaughlin covers state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Thompson staffer page posts, deletes words supporting Trump shooting
Bethel Park community shocked that one of their neighbors is suspected as Trump rally gunman

Through the overnight hours and for much of the day Sunday, police sat outside of the home of the man suspected of opening fire at former President Donald Trumps rally Saturday.

>>> Trump injured in assassination attempt at rally in Butler; 1 attendee, suspected shooter killed

Neighbors told Channel 11s Andrew Havranek theyre stunned someone in their community is the person accused.

This is very shocking to me, said Cindy Angelo.

Angelo didnt know who the suspected gunman was until she got home this morning to find roads closed and police all around.

I really thought there was an accident [and] thats why the road was blocked off, Angelo said. When he [police] told me that I was like, What?! I couldnt even imagine that. I couldnt imagine that someone living on my street would do that.

The FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

>>> What we know about Bethel Park man suspected of attempted assassination at Trump rally in Butler

Angelos family showed us a Bethel Park High School yearbook from 2020, which has a photo of Crooks when he was a sophomore. He graduated from Bethel Park in 2022.

20 years old. What a wasted life, Angelo said. For who? For what?

Despite identifying Crooks as the shooter overnight, the FBI didnt immediately release much about him.

PHOTOS: Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage after shots fired at rally

According to online records, Crooks didnt have any criminal history in Pennsylvania.

We did find voter registration records showing Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Allegheny County.

But, we also found federal campaign finance records showing he donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project through ActBlue, a Democratic donation website. That was made in 2021 when he was 17.

I honestly feel if you feel that strongly about politics, get into politics and make a change, Angelo said. Thats the way I feel.

STATEMENTS: Local, national officials condemn violence following shooting at Trump rally

Angelo said she feels for those who were hurt, for the former president, and for Crooks parents.

Please dont blame yourself, she said. It was not your fault.

The FBI is asking the public for help in this investigation. If you were at the rally and have any videos or saw anything that led to this shooting, youre asked to give them a call at 1-800-CALL-FBI or leave a tip at FBI.gov/butler.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW

TRENDING NOW:

Trump injured in assassination attempt at rally in Butler; 1 attendee, suspected shooter killed FBI seeking information, digital media from shooting at Trump rally in Butler County STATEMENTS: Local, national officials condemn violence following shooting at Trump rally VIDEO: Shots fired at Trump Rally, Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
It's common for many investors, especially those who are inexperienced, to buy shares in companies with a good story even if these companies are loss-making. Sometimes these stories can cloud the minds of investors, leading them to invest with their emotions rather than on the merit of good company fundamentals. Loss making companies can act like a sponge for capital - so investors should be cautious that they're not throwing good money after bad.

Despite being in the age of tech-stock blue-sky investing, many investors still adopt a more traditional strategy; buying shares in profitable companies like Acsion (JSE:ACS). While this doesn't necessarily speak to whether it's undervalued, the profitability of the business is enough to warrant some appreciation - especially if its growing.

See our latest analysis for Acsion

How Fast Is Acsion Growing Its Earnings Per Share?

Acsion has undergone a massive growth in earnings per share over the last three years. So much so that this three year growth rate wouldn't be a fair assessment of the company's future. As a result, we'll zoom in on growth over the last year, instead. It's good to see that Acsion's EPS has grown from R2.31 to R2.70 over twelve months. There's little doubt shareholders would be happy with that 17% gain.

Top-line growth is a great indicator that growth is sustainable, and combined with a high earnings before interest and taxation (EBIT) margin, it's a great way for a company to maintain a competitive advantage in the market. Our analysis has highlighted that Acsion's revenue from operations did not account for all of their revenue in the previous 12 months, so our analysis of its margins might not accurately reflect the underlying business. While Acsion did well to grow revenue over the last year, EBIT margins were dampened at the same time. So it seems the future may hold further growth, especially if EBIT margins can remain steady.

The chart below shows how the company's bottom and top lines have progressed over time. For finer detail, click on the image.

Acsion isn't a huge company, given its market capitalisation of R2.2b. That makes it extra important to check on its balance sheet strength.

Are Acsion Insiders Aligned With All Shareholders?

It's said that there's no smoke without fire. For investors, insider buying is often the smoke that indicates which stocks could set the market alight. That's because insider buying often indicates that those closest to the company have confidence that the share price will perform well. However, insiders are sometimes wrong, and we don't know the exact thinking behind their acquisitions.

The first bit of good news is that no Acsion insiders reported share sales in the last twelve months. But the important part is that CEO & Executive Director Kiriakos Anastasiadis spent R9.6m buying stock, at an average price of R5.60. Purchases like this can offer an insight into the faith of the company's management - and it seems to be all positive.

Recent insider purchases of Acsion stock is not the only way management has kept the interests of the general public shareholders in mind. Specifically, the CEO is paid quite reasonably for a company of this size. For companies with market capitalisations under R3.6b, like Acsion, the median CEO pay is around R6.4m.

Acsion's CEO took home a total compensation package of R2.9m in the year prior to February 2023. That looks like a modest pay packet, and may hint at a certain respect for the interests of shareholders. While the level of CEO compensation shouldn't be the biggest factor in how the company is viewed, modest remuneration is a positive, because it suggests that the board keeps shareholder interests in mind. It can also be a sign of a culture of integrity, in a broader sense.

Does Acsion Deserve A Spot On Your Watchlist?

One important encouraging feature of Acsion is that it is growing profits. And there's more to Acsion, with the insider buying and modest CEO pay being a great look for those with an eye on the company. If these factors aren't enough to secure Acsion a spot on the watchlist, then it certainly warrants a closer look at the very least. Before you take the next step you should know about the 3 warning signs for Acsion (1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) that we have uncovered.

The good news is that Acsion is not the only stock with insider buying. Here's a list of small cap, undervalued companies in ZA with insider buying in the last three months!

Please note the insider transactions discussed in this article refer to reportable transactions in the relevant jurisdiction.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
President Joe Biden is speaking out after the shooting at a Trump rally on Saturday in Butler, Pa.

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania, Biden said in a statement. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

More from Variety

Biden continued, Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

After gunshot sounds were heard at the rally, Secret Service agents covered Trump, who appeared to have blood on his face, as they headed to his motorcade.

Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the U.S. Secret Service, posted a statement on X/Twitter: An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

The shooter is dead, Butler County district attorney told the Associated Press, and a rally attendee has been killed at the Trump event in Pennsylvania.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung added in a separate statement that the former President is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

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US President Joe Biden (Front L) takes part in the working session at the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) Summit. Kay Nietfeld/dpa

US President Joe Biden says he will make a special address the nation later on Sunday and called for unity in the wake of the assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump.

"We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are," Biden said at the White House, ahead of a planned address from the Oval Office later on Sunday.

Such national speeches from the President's office in the White House are typically reserved for moments of crisis and major turning points in the country.

Biden once again strongly condemned the shooting of former President and current Republican presidential candidate Trump, who was shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.
REHOBOTH, DELPresident Biden was briefed on Saturday on the apparent shooting at former President Trumps Pennsylvania rally, according to the White House.

The president received an initial briefing as of 6:45 p.m. As of 7:10 p.m., he received an updated briefing from Kimberly Cheatle, director of the United States Secretary Service, Homeland Security Sec. Alejandro Mayorkas, and Liz Sherwood-Randall, Homeland Security adviser.

The presidents chief of staff Jeff Zients, counselor Steve Ricchetti, and deputy chief of staff Annie Tomasini also participated in the briefing.

Vice President Harris, who held a campaign event in Philadelphia on Saturday, has also received an initial briefing on the incident at Trumps rally.

Live updates: Trump reported safe after apparent shooting at rally

Biden is at his beach house in Rehoboth, Del., for the weekend. When the news of the apparent shots at the Pennsylvania rally broke, he was attending 5:30 p.m. mass at St. Edmonds Catholic Church.

Trump hustled off stage after apparent shooting at rally

He left the church at 6:19 p.m., and while he was walking out, reporters traveling with the president asked if he had been briefed on the shooting at the Trump rally. He responded, No.

Secret Service shared on X that it implemented protective measures and the former President is safe, calling it an active investigation.

Trumps campaign has released a statement saying that the former president is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

Gov. Josh Shapiro (D-Pa.) also said on X that he was briefed on the situation in his home state and said that state police are on the scene and working with federal and local partners.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Biden and Trump speak after he says 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

President Joe Biden spoke with former President Donald Trump on Saturday night, just hours after a possible assassination attempt on him at his rally in Pennsylvania.

"Ive been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now," Biden told reporters and the nation earlier in hastily assembled remarks carried on live TV. "I have tried to get a hold of Donald, hes with his doctors. Apparently, he's doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly."

"Look, there's no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick," Biden said. "Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country."

MORE: Trump rally shooting live updates: Apparent assassination attempt at rally

"We cannot allow for this to be happening," Biden continued. "We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this."

Biden went on to thank the Secret Service and all the law enforcement agencies involved in responding to the shooting.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks after his Republican opponent Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at an election rally in Pennsylvania, at the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, July 13, 2024. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

President Biden was in Delaware attending church when the shooting occurred. He was briefed by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall.

In his remarks, Biden said he would keep the public informed as he receives more details about what transpired. A schedule update said plans had changed and Biden would return to the White House Saturday night.

"But the bottom line is, the -- the Trump rally was a rally that he shouldve been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem," Biden said. "But the idea, the idea that there's political violence or violence in America like this, is just unheard of, its just not appropriate."

"We -- everybody, everybody must condemn it," Biden said. "Everybody."

Shortly after Trump started his campaign event in Pennsylvania in the 6 p.m. ET hour, Secret Service agents rushed onto the stage after loud pops were heard. Trump, who had ducked behind the lectern when the noises began, was seen with what appeared to be blood on the side of his head and face and was escorted away.

MORE: Trump Rally Shooting: Slideshow

A Trump spokesperson said the former president is "fine" and was "being checked out at a local medical facility." The Secret Service said Trump is "safe" and that it was actively investigating the incident.

Reaction from lawmakers began pouring in on social media who said they were sending prayers to Trump and condemning any violence.

"Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene," House Speaker Mike Johnson. R-La., said in a statement. "I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned."

Later, Johnson put out a statement demanding to "know the truth" about what happened.

"THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY," he posted on X, using capital letters. "The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP."

"Praying for President Donald Trump. There is never any place for political violence," said House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, a California Republican.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., wrote on X: "I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said he was briefed on the situation and the Pennsylvania State Police are on the scene working with federal and local partners.

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable," Shapiro said. "It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States."

MORE: Trump rushed off stage after possible assassination attempt at Pennsylvania rally; former president 'fine,' spokesperson says

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi posted a statement posted X: "As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former President's rally today are unharmed."

Nancy Pelosis husband Paul Pelosi was a victim of political violence when he was attacked at their home in San Francisco.

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy," former President Barack Obama posted on X. "Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

A Biden campaign official said, "The Biden campaign is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was "appalled" by the assassination attempt.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world," he said as part of longer statement posted on social platform X. "Never should violence prevail."

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson's said Sunday that the country's leaders were following the aftermath of the shooting.

"President Xi Jinping has expressed sympathies to former President Trump," the spokesperson said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

ABC News' Lauren Peller, Gabriella Abdul-Hakim, Fritz Farrow, Allison Pecorin, Chris Boccia and Karson Yiu contributed to this report.

Biden and Trump speak after he says 'no place in America for this kind of violence' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
President Joe Biden delivers an address to the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sunday night. Pool Photo by Erin Shaff/UPI

July 14 (UPI) -- President Joe Biden spoke directly to the nation Sunday night, a day after the failed assassination attempt of Donald Trump, and called for a cooling to the nation's political rhetoric, stating "politics should never be a literal battlefield or, God forbid, a killing field."

Speaking from the Oval Office behind the Resolute Desk, Biden made the case that politics have been heating up in the United States for sometime but that there is no place in the country's democracy for violence.

He said members of Congress have been targeted and shot at. Election workers harassed and threatened. The Capitol attacked. The spouse of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi bludgeoned. Gov. Gretchen Whitmer of Michigan targeted for kidnapping. And now, a former president and the presumptive Republican nominee has been shot at.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence, or any violence ever. Period. No exceptions," he said. "We can't allow this violence to be normalized."

He called on the nation to cool down its "very heated" political rhetoric and told the nation that "we all have a responsibility to do that."

President Joe Biden delivers remarks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sunday, a day after former President Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at an election rally in Pennsylvania. The attack on Saturday killed one spectator at the scene and left two others critically injured. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

As the political stakes raise, the more fervent passions become, he said, stating that with so much on the line in November the added burden is placed on the American public to ensure "that no matter how strong our convictions, we must never descend into violence."

"I believe politics ought to be an arena for peaceful debate, to pursue justice, to make decisions guided by the declaration of independence and our Constitution," he said. "We stand for an America not of extremism and fury but of decency and grace."

Vice President Kamala Harris, Attorney General Merrick Garland and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas look on as President Joe Biden delivers remarks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sunday after former President Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at a Saturday election rally in Pennsylvania. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

Tomorrow, the Republican Convention opens, and Biden said he expects his record and vision for the country to be attacked, just like he plans to defend both next week, but the place to settle the differences is at the ballot box.

"That's how democracy should work," he said. "We debate and disagree. We compare and contrast the character of the candidates, the records, the issues, the agendas, the visions for America. But in America, we resolve our differences at the ballot box. That's how we do it, at the ballot box, not with bullets.

President Joe Biden delivers remarks in the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, D.C., on Sunday after former President Donald Trump was injured following a shooting Saturday at an election rally in Pennsylvania. Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

"The power to change America should always rest in the hands of the people, not the hands of a would be assassin. Not through acts of violence" he said.

Biden spoke for about 6 1/2 minutes Sunday night after calling for unity earlier in the day.

He said earlier Sunday that he had spoken with Trump and that he was "grateful that he's doing well."

He describe the conversation he had with the former president as "short but good."

Biden said nothing is more important in America now than unity, and that "we'll debate and we'll disagree. "

"That's not going to change, but we're not going to lose sight of who we are as Americans. We must unite as one nation and demonstrate who we are."

As a former president and presumptive Republican nominee for 2024, Trump receives a heightened level of security from the Secret Service and that will continue, Biden said.

The president said he has directed the Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, scheduled to kick off Monday in Milwaukee, and called for an independent review of security at the Pennsylvania rally Saturday, where Trump was shot and wounded during his speech, a rally attendee was killed and two others were injured.

Trump on his Truth Social social media platform said Sunday that a bullet had "pierced" the upper part of his right year.

The Secret Service posted video on social media of Trump walking down the steps of his campaign plane with no assistance.

World leaders, including newly elected Prime Minister Keir Starmer of Britain, condemned the violence and hoped for Trump's speedy recovery.

"Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack," Starmer wrote on X.

The shooter, who has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, is believed to have acted alone, the FBI said Sunday.
Biden campaign put on hold in wake of Trump shooting. Will Austin visit be affected?

Update: President Joe Biden's visit to Austin, originally planned for Monday, will be rescheduled after a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday. A new date in July will be announced this week, the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum said.

After a shooter attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally Saturday, the Biden campaign said it would immediately pause all communications and that it was working to take down television ads.

However, it is not yet clear how the attack  which is being investigated by the FBI as an assassination attempt and resulted in the death of the shooter  will impact events that Biden has scheduled in his official capacity. Trump, who was shot in the ear in a near-miss, is safe, per his spokesperson.

Austin residents may be wondering whether Biden will still travel to Austin Monday, where he is expected to deliver a major speech on civil rights and democracy at the Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum. Democratic Congress members and members of the Texas Legislature are expected to attend the speech and Austin Mayor Kirk Watson is slated to greet the president at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Monday morning.

Biden had also planned to participate in a rare one-on-one interview with NBC News' Lester Holt from Texas' capital city that day.

The American-Statesman reached out to event organizers as well as the White House Saturday night for more information.

More: President Biden's visit to Austin on Monday comes amid continued Democratic uncertainty

U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks following a shooting at a campaign rally for former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, U.S., July 13, 2024. Tom Brenner via REUTERS

In brief, televised remarks delivered more than 90 minutes after the shooting Saturday night, Biden condemned the attack.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Biden said, speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. "It's sick. It's one of the reasons we have to unite the country."

The president  who will likely face Trump in the 2024 presidential race  spoke with Trump after the attack. No details of the call were released.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Is Biden still coming to Austin after deadly Trump rally shooting?
UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer (L) looks on as US President Joe Biden speaks, where he introduced Ukrainian president Volodymyr Zelensky as "President Putin" during the closing ceremony, at the Nato 75th anniversary summit at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center, in Washington. Stefan Rousseau/PA Wire/dpa

US President Joe Biden has returned to Washington and will not be travelling to Texas on Monday as planned, the White House has announced.

Biden had been spending the weekend at his retreat in Delaware when the news of the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump came through, after which he returned to Washington.
Russia blamed Joe Bidens administration for creating the atmosphere that led to the assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

While most nations limited themselves to expressing sympathy for the former president and shock at the attack, the Kremlin was more pointed in casting blame on the White House.

We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities, Dmitry Peskov, the Kremlin spokesman, told reporters, suggesting even in the denial that it was a possibility.

But the atmosphere around candidate Trump ... provoked what America is confronting today.

After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena - using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate - it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger, Mr Peskov said.

He added that there were no plans for Putin to call Trump in light of the incident.

Joe Biden earlier condemned the sick attack on his rival as news of the attempt on Trumps life sent shockwaves through US political circles and prompted most world leaders to react with horror.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, the US president said during a snap press conference shortly after Trump was injured at his election rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening.

Its sick, he said. Its sick.

Mr Biden was attending church near his beach house in Delaware when news of the attempted assassination broke. He left the service early to be briefed by security chiefs and later called Trump who had by that time been driven under guard to a doctors surgery in Butler County.

In a written statement from the White House, the president said he was grateful to hear that Trump was safe and doing well.

The statement added: Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

It said the President and Jill Biden, the First Lady, were grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety, stressing that we must unite as one nation to condemn this kind of violence.

Trump, 78, confirmed shortly after the attack that he had suffered a wound to the ear but was otherwise fine.

I will never surrender, he declared in a subsequent social media post.

Secret Service agents ushered Trump to safety after shots were fired - Rebecca Droke

Trump also thanked the Secret Service agents who protected him and paid condolences to the rally attendee who was killed.

One person was confirmed to have died in the shooting and two others were critically injured.

The suspected shooter, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was killed by secret service agents within a minute of the first shots ringing out at Trumps rally.

Sir Keir: I am appalled

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer was among the first leaders to express shock and send messages of support to Trump.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, Sir Keir said.

Anthony Albanese, the Australian Prime Minister, called the incident concerning and confronting as he expressed relief that Trump had survived.

There was no place for violence in the democratic process, Mr Albanese said.

Benjamin Netanyahu said he and his wife Sara were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the Israeli PM added.

Canadas prime minister, Justin Trudeau, who has had a rocky relationship with Trump, said on X that he was sickened by the shooting.

It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable, Mr Trudeau said.

Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said he was appalled to learn about the shooting, adding that such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world.

Never should violence prevail, Mr Zelensky said. I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador called the violence irrational and inhuman.

Fumio Kishida, the leader of Japan, where former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe was assassinated at a political event two years ago said that we must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy.

Security was increased outside Trump Tower in New York on Saturday night - Getty

Narendra Modi, Indias prime minister said he was deeply concerned by the attack on my friend.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people, he said.

The recently elected President of Taiwan, Lai Ching-te, offered his thoughts and prayers to Trump as well as his sincere condolences to the victims affected by the attack.

There was no immediate reaction from Chinas President Xi Jinping, who had a complicated relationship with Trump when he was in office. Mr Xi rarely makes direct comments on global events.

Chinese state media outlet the Global Times offered its analysis, quoting an expert as noting that the current level of chaos in the US somewhat resembles that of the early 1970s, adding that this incident could potentially strengthen Trumps campaign advantage.

Former presidents and rivals among well-wishes

Barack Obama was among former presidents quickly lining up to condemn the violence.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics, he said in a social media post. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Bill Clinton, whose wife Hillary ran against Trump in the 2016 election, said violence has no place in America, especially in our political process.

He added: Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.

The Biden team said it would temporarily suspend its campaign communications and that Mr Biden would travel back to the White House early.

Joe Biden boarded Air Force One at Dover to return to the White House - AP Photo

The President had been planning to spend the entire weekend at his holiday home in Rehoboth, a beachside city, following some of the most difficult days of his leadership in which some fellow Democrats called on him to quit the 2024 presidential race.

The Biden campaign is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible, campaign spokesman Kevin Munoz told reporters on Saturday night.

Senior Republicans are concerned, outraged and defiant

Mitch McConnell, the Senate majority leader said that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

Mike Rogers, a former senior member of Congress who is currently running for Senate said, This is a somber moment for our nation. We are praying for President Trump and all Americans today.

Trump supporters gathered at Trump Tower and at Mar-a-Lago to show their support after the shooting - Anadolu

Michael McCaul, chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, asked people to pray for President Trump, his secret service members, and everyone at todays rally.

Doug Burgam, Governor of North Dakota wrote on X: We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it.

Left accused of encouraging violence

One of Trumps shortlist picks for Vice President, Ohio senator J.D. Vance, commented soon after the attack asking everyone to join me in praying for Trumps recovery and the other victims.

He also appeared to lay the blame for the incident on rhetoric from the Biden campaign, without providing evidence. The motives of the shooter are not yet known.

Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Mr Vance said on X.

That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination, he continued.

Trump held a fist in the air and yelled 'fight, fight, fight' - Rebecca Droke

The Conservative Political Action Conference also alleged that the left was responsible for the shot on Trumps life as a last resort to keep him from winning the 2024 election.

For years the Left and the media lied and demonized President Trump, the group said in a statement.

When they failed, they tried to lock him up. Today, we have witnessed the horrific end to the Lefts dangerous rhetoric.

Donald Trump Jr. said he had spoken to his father on Saturday and that he was in great spirits, adding, He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him.

Ivanka Trump said I love you dad, today and always as she thanked all those who had prayed for the victims of the senseless violence.

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FILE PHOTO: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers remarks following the incident that occurred at a campaign rally for former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Rehoboth Beach

By Jarrett Renshaw and Nandita Bose

REHOBOTH BEACH, Delaware (Reuters) - U.S. President Joe Biden called for an end to political violence after Republican challenger Donald Trump was shot in the right ear during a rally on Saturday, and Biden's campaign suspended all political communication, including ads attacking Trump.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Biden said, adding he had been thoroughly briefed on the matter and planned to talk to Trump. "Everybody must condemn it," Biden said.

The shooter's name, political leanings and motivation are not known.

The president, 81, was at a church in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, when the shooting occurred and later headed to his residence. After releasing a written statement, Biden left the Delaware beach house in his motorcade and headed to a local police department to speak on camera about the issue.

Asked whether he thought the shooting was an assassination attempt, Biden said, "I have an opinion, but I don't have all the facts."

Biden later spoke to Trump, 78, by phone the White House said, but it did not elaborate on the call.

A Biden campaign official, who declined to be named due to the sensitivity of the matter, said the team was "working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible," in response to the seriousness of the moment. The official did not offer more details.

Biden's political future has been in doubt since his shaky June 27 debate against Trump sparked calls by his own party to step aside and let a younger candidate run in November.

In recent weeks, the Biden campaign began its most aggressive effort to brand Trump a felon, with the introduction of a new television advertisement that focused on Trump's criminal conviction.

The advertisement was part of a $50 million investment in battleground states, and marked a change in strategy after an initial reluctance to weigh in on the issue, to avoid engaging with Trump's legal woes.

Trump was convicted by a New York jury on May 30 of 34 felony counts for falsifying business records related to covering up a payment to silence a porn star ahead of the 2016 election.

After the shooting, Senator J.D. Vance, a leading contender to be Trump's running mate, criticized the Biden campaign for portraying Trump as an authoritarian who "must be stopped at all costs," suggesting the rhetoric led to the attack.

The Republican former president's rhetoric on the campaign trail has repeatedly raised concerns he might flout democratic norms by using the power of the state to target perceived enemies if elected.

Political violence is on the rise in the United States, with most of the deadly attacks coming from the right, experts say.

In April, Trump shared a video on social media that included an image of Biden bound and restrained in the back of a pickup truck.

(Reporting by Jarrett Renshaw, Nandita Bose, Rami Ayyub and Susan Heavey; Editing by Heather Timmons and Jamie Freed)
During these long dog days of summer, its tempting to fall back on the old reliable stocks, the large-cap market leaders that have driven so much of the growth weve seen over the past 18 months. As Oppenheimers equity research team notes, Its tough to argue with the action in large-cap growth.

But  those same stock experts are also pointing out that there are plenty of opportunities further down the market food chain, where investors can get into the small- and mid-cap stocks. For the professional analysts at Oppenheimer, several smidcaps represent some of their favorite summer picks, shares that are showing solid potential for substantial near- to mid-term gains.

We can find the financial services firms view of these stocks laid out clearly in its recent thematic research note. Discussing smidcaps as an option, the firms equity research team writes: Given Oppenheimers historical thought-leadership and strength in smidcaps and the rotation that appears to be under way in the market, we asked Oppenheimer Research analysts for their high-conviction best smidcap ideas for 2024. Eligible smidcaps have a market cap of $1B to $10B. Our best smidcap ideas provide exposure to many innovators that stand to benefit from high-growth themes.

Following Oppenheimers lead, weve opened the TipRanks database and pulled the latest details on two of the firms smidcap picks. Both also have Strong Buy ratings from the Streets consensus, yet Oppenheimer sees even more upside than the Street allows. Heres a closer look.

Genius Sports, Ltd. (GENI)

Well start in the world of online sports betting, with Genius Sports. This is mainly a tech company, focusing on data collection and collation from the major professional and collegiate sports leagues. The company, which was first founded in 2001, reaches out to sports audiences through iGaming services, offering sports fans a combination of immersive viewing experiences and data-driven content through widely-known brands in the world of online sports betting.

Genius Sports uses its software and data store, powered by AI and machine learning systems, to create real-time digital connections across the sports ecosystem, to back up the best in online sports betting. The company has the most up-to-date data, at every level from the teams on the playing fields to the leagues to the fans in their living rooms cheering and looking to put some skin in the game. Genius Sports supports the betting venues and makes it possible for them to support their customers.

Sports betting is big business, giving Genius Sports a large business niche for operations. The companys tech is available in 150 countries, and it works with over 400 sports partners. Genius Sports partners include such major leagues as the NFL, the English Premier League, and the PGA Tour.

Story continues

In the most recently reported quarter, 1Q24, Genius Sports reported a top line of $120 million. This figure was well above the published guidance of $117 million, was up more than 23% year-over-year, and beat the forecast by $2.68 million. At the bottom line, the company ran a net loss, with the GAAP EPS coming in at ($0.11), a penny below the estimates. Genius Sports currently has a market cap of $1.37 billion, squarely in the small-cap category.

Turning to the Oppenheimer view, we find analyst Jed Kelly writing up an optimistic take on GENI shares, saying of the company, We believe Genius Sports, a top-two online sports betting (OSB) data provider, is the best option for small-cap investors to gain exposure to the exponential growth in US sports betting. GENI is firmly entrenched as a main player in the US OSB landscape after extending its National Football League and Football DataCo partnerships into 2028 and 2029, respectively.

Additionally, Kelly further adds it is not exposed to the rapid online market share consolidation from Draftkings and Fanduel that is weighing on the multiple of smaller operators under $5B market capitalization, such as PENN Entertainment/Rush Street Interactive.

Kelly goes on to put an Outperform (Buy) rating on these shares, with a price target of $10 suggesting a one-year upside of 67.5%. (To watch Kellys track record, click here.)

This stock has a Strong Buy rating from the Streets analysts, based on Buys only  7 in total. The stock is priced at $5.97, and its $8.83 average target price implies it will gain 48% in the year ahead. (See Genius Sports stock forecast.)

iRhythm Technologies (IRTC)

The heart is our most vital organ; even our language reflects this, as we get to the heart of a matter. And our next stock, iRhythm, does just that. The company is a medical device firm and digital healthcare company, focused on creating wearable biosensors that are smaller, lighter, and easier to use than legacy sensor devices. iRhythms devices monitor individual patients and create a database of aggregated data, making it possible for physicians to diagnose and treat conditions, particularly heart conditions such as arrhythmias, with greater precision.

The companys flagship platform is Zio, a monitoring system that has been cleared by the FDA for use as an ambulatory cardiac monitor. The monitor sensor is described as a small, discreet, and wearable patch, affixed to the patients chest over the heart. The Zio patch can be worn during ordinary daily activities, such as exercise, showering, and sleeping. The smaller size and greater comfort of use leads to higher patient compliance, up to 99%. The monitor has gathered more than one billion hours of heartbeat data.

This company reported $131.9 million in revenue during 1Q24, a total that was up more than 18% year-over-year and beat the forecast by over $3.5 million.

iRhythms bottom line, like many cutting-edge medical tech companies, runs at net loss. In the first quarter of this year, the last period reported, the companys non-GAAP EPS was reported as a negative $1.23, some 24 cents per share lower than had been anticipated.

We should note here that iRhythm has a market cap of $3 billion, putting the company in the mid-cap category.

For Suraj Kalia, covering this stock for Oppenheimer, the key points are the quality of the firms heart monitor  as demonstrated by ease of use  and the large addressable market. He says of iRhythm, The ease of use of the Zio-XT, combined with IRTCs unique service model has allowed it to capture ~70% share in the extended Holter monitoring market. National reimbursement rates are ~30% lower than 2020, and the company is readjusting its logistics chain to optimize topline and margins. Part of this realignment includes moving some operations to the Philippines and higher use of its San Francisco independent diagnostic testing facility which enjoys a geographic premium to national rates Targeting OUS markets and primary care provider channels in the US are additional strategic endeavors in the works.

Kalia follows these comments with an Outperform (Buy) along with a $165 price target, implying a 71.5% upside potential in the next 12 months. (To watch Kalias track record, click here.)

The 9 recent analyst reviews on iRhythm are unanimous, and positive, giving the stock its Strong Buy consensus rating. The shares are trading for $96.19 and have a $134.63 average price target, pointing toward a one-year gain of 40%. (See iRhythms stock forecast.)

To find good ideas for stocks trading at attractive valuations, visit TipRanks Best Stocks to Buy, a tool that unites all of TipRanks equity insights.

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the featured analysts. The content is intended to be used for informational purposes only. It is very important to do your own analysis before making any investment.
President Joe Biden on Sunday condemned the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump as contrary to everything we stand for as a nation and pledged a review of security measures for this weeks Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, Biden said in the Roosevelt Room, flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Well debate, and well disagree. Thats not going to change. But were going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans, he said.

Biden said he ordered an independent review of what occurred at the Trump rally and that the FBI investigation will be thorough and swift. The president also said he would address the country at greater length at 8 p.m. ET from the Oval Office.

Trump was on stage for a rally in Burke, Pennsylvania, Saturday evening when a shooter opened fire, killing one attendee and injuring others, including the former president. Trump said he is safe, but that a bullet struck his ear.

Hours later, the president returned to the White House from his home in Rehoboth, Delaware. Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris received an updated briefing Sunday morning from top homeland security and law enforcement officials in the White House Situation Room.

Biden said he spoke to Trump Saturday evening after the attack and was sincerely grateful that he was doing well. He also offered his condolences to the family of Corey Comperatore, the man who was killed at the rally, while urging the country to not jump to conclusions about the suspected shooters motives while the FBI conducts its investigation.



The president said Trump, as a former president and the Republican nominee, already receives a heightened level of security, and that he has consistently directed the Secret Service to provide Trump and his team with the necessary resources to ensure his continued safety.

Ive directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to start tomorrow, Biden said.

The shooting has temporarily frozen an intensifying reelection campaign for the president. Biden, who has been battling concerns about his age and viability, was expected to use next week on the campaign trail to counter Trumps message at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

But now those plans are on hold. The White House said Bidens planned trip to Austin, Texas, on Monday to commemorate the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act had been canceled. Harris team also announced it would postpone a Tuesday campaign event on abortion rights in Palm Beach County, Florida  Trumps home base.

Biden is now forced to return to a role hes had to play many times before  a unifier in chief.

This is time to be president, not candidate. The campaign will resume at the right moment, said a senior Biden campaign official, granted anonymity to discuss the delicate situation. But he has to speak to all Americans now, especially those who wont vote for him.

In the hours after the attack, the Biden campaign said it was working to pull down its television ads as quickly as possible. The president was also scheduled to travel early next week to Nevada and was expected to participate in media interviews, including a sit-down with NBCs Lester Holt on Monday. Holts interview with Biden will go on as scheduled, but it will be conducted at the White House, NBC News announced.

Jonathan Lemire contributed to this report.
The BET Media Group announced that President Biden will sit down for an interview with BET Newss Ed Gordon set to air on Wednesday, July 17, to speak directly to Black Americans on issues impacting the community.

The conversation will focus on critical issues impacting our community and discuss why Black Americans should continue to support his candidacy amidst growing public concerns and calls for him to withdraw, according to BETs release on the interview.

This is the presidents third scheduled sit-down interview with a TV network since his disastrous debate performance on June 27, which has led to 19 Congressional Democrats and other party leaders calling on him to step down as the partys nominee.

After the debate, Bidens first live interviews were with two Black hosts, one based out of Milwaukee and the other in Wisconsin. Those interviews also became topics of controversy after the two hosts, WURD Radio Host Andrea Lawful Sanders and Earl Ingram, revealed that the Biden campaign had provided a list of pre-approved questions that the hosts chose from for the interview.

Philadelphia-based WURD Radio announced earlier this week that it was mutually parting ways with Sanders after she revealed that she had been provided questions.

Agreeing to a pre-determined set of questions jeopardizes that trust and is not a practice that WURD Radio engages in or endorses as a matter of practice or official policy, WURD Radio wrote in its statement announcing the end of its contract with Sanders.

On Thursday, Wisconsin-based Civic Media, which houses Ingrams show, also revealed that it had edited Bidens interview with Ingram at the request of the Biden campaign.

Bidens interview with BET is part of a larger campaign push to demonstrate that he has the ability to speak unscripted and is up to the demands of a campaign and the presidency.

Last week, Biden sat down for an interview with ABCs George Stephanopoulos, and on Monday NBCs Lester Holt will sit down for an interview with Biden.

The strategy has had mixed success until now. After the ABC interview last week and a press conference at the end of the NATO summit on Wednesday, more Democrats in Congress and across the country have come out calling for Biden to step down.

In its release, BET said that the interview will be 30 minutes long, will be produced by Jason Samuels, and that they will release clips, photos and the interview transcript of Black America Votes: The Biden Interview at a later date.

At this crucial moment, it is imperative for President Biden to directly address the concerns of Black voters and articulate his vision for the future, BET wrote in a statement. This exclusive half-hour special will discuss the growing concern over President Bidens fitness for office, the state of the economy for Black families, the Project 2025 conservative policy agenda, and the fight to engage Black voters.

Black voters are critical to the presidents reelection push. Without them turning out in states like Wisconsin, Michigan, Pennsylvania and Arizona, it is highly unlikely that Biden will win.

Black leaders in Congress have stayed behind the president, and not a single person in Congress who has called for Biden to stand down is Black.

A recent New York Times/Siena College poll found a large percentage of Black voters feel that Biden is too old for the job. However, the also survey found that 73 percent of Black voters plan on voting for Biden.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Bidens efforts to calm critics arent ending calls for him to step aside. Is it too late?

Since his disastrous debate, President Biden has sat down with ABC News George Stephanopoulos, held an unscripted live news conference and appeared at several campaign rallies  all in an attempt to quiet the voices calling for him to step down from the White House race.

By most accounts, Biden has held his own, though his stumbles and gaffes since the debate have drawn more scrutiny than they might otherwise have.

Despite his best efforts, the hits have kept coming for Biden, with no end in sight.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi suggested he should reconsider his decision to stay in the race, even though he has insisted the die is cast. Hollywood superstar George Clooney, a major Democratic donor, openly called on Biden to step aside.

Rep. Hakeem Jeffries Thursday night made what may be the first of many pilgrimages to the White House to huddle with Biden behind closed doors.

Given all that, the question swirling around Biden right now is whether theres anything he can do to bring his party fully behind him as he heads into a crucial stretch of the campaign.

The 81-year-old leader will surely keep grinding it out on the campaign trail and doing more interviews even though that strategy hasnt shut down his critics.

Bidens best ally may be time  and the realities of the political calendar.

The Republican National Convention is looming this coming week. After that is done, there are just three weeks before Democrats gather in Chicago to nominate their own standard bearer.

Despite all the whispers and the growing list of doubters, the tight timeline could be a big reason to stick with Biden.

Democrats cant (continue) with this level of uncertainty swirling around their presumptive nominee. The time crunch to make a decisive move to stick with or replace Biden has financial and political implications, said Democratic strategist Basil Smikle, a Columbia University professor. All the while, Republicans are keeping their powder dry and moving to gather support from independents.

So if Biden can prevent the dam of his support from breaking for a few more days, he is likely to experience a rally-round-our-guy effect from both the RNC and from the realization that the time to change horses may have passed.

The RNC in particular couldnt come at a better time for Biden.

After two weeks of relentless Democratic debate, the news cycle will be dominated for several days by the RNC, including the unveiling of Trumps vice presidential running mate and his triumphant acceptance speech.

Trumps return to center stage is sure to unify Democrats and may remind tens of millions of apolitical Americans why they voted against him twice already.

Democratic strategist Tom Watson predicted the sight of Trump will instantly galvanize Democrats and also tamp down the opposition to Biden.

The convention will stop Democratic hysteria cold and refocus our party on the real threat, Watson said.

Biden has logged a series of workmanlike appearances in the two weeks since many Americans were stunned by his disjointed and often incoherent performance at the debate with Trump.

He came out swinging at several campaign rallies, including energetic appearances at a Black church in Philadelphia and in the Democratic stronghold of Madison, Wisc.

On Friday evening, he again put in a decent showing at an hourlong mostly unscripted press conference at the end of a NATO summit.

He did slip up by mistakenly referring to Vice President Kamala Harris as Vice President Trump, and called Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy President Putin.

He otherwise got good grades for a forceful performance, which capped what most analysts called a successful summit.

Biden supporters note that Trump regularly makes similar slip-ups and has mixed up Nancy Pelosi and Nikki Haley and confused Joe Biden and Barack Obama.

The former president, who is 78, also often makes bizarre rambling remarks, including his oft-repeated campaign riff praising fictional movie serial killer Hannibal Lecter and musing about being attacked by killer sharks.

Polls have painted a mixed picture of the race, with most showing Trump opening up a small but significant lead since the debate. Most battleground state surveys show the GOP candidate with an edge.

So what happens next?

As the GOP gathers to crown Trump, Biden is planning to give a speech Monday marking the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act at the Lyndon Baines Johnson presidential library in Austin, Texas.

He will do a sit-down interview with NBCs Lester Holt, which the network says it will air unedited and in full that evening.

After that, Biden heads to Las Vegas, where he will address conventions of the NAACP and Unidos, a major Latino coalition. He also plans interviews with Black and Hispanic media outlets.

Then the countdown will start to the Democratic National Convention in mid-August, where the party will officially nominate Biden, or dump him in favor of Vice President Kamala Harris or someone else.

After the DNC, it would become nearly impossible to switch candidates.

Despite all the naysayers, Biden holds the vast majority of the pledged delegates to the Democratic National Convention and therefore has the power to claim the nomination unless he decides otherwise.

If Biden were to step aside, most analysts expect him to back Harris, who would be a strong favorite to win the nomination, perhaps by acclamation.

But nothing would be guaranteed, and some party insiders believe there could be a fierce fight for the nomination if Biden pulls out.

_____
President Biden condemned the apparent shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania and said he was grateful that his political rival was safe.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well, Biden said in a statement shortly after he was briefed on the incident. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety, Biden added. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Some Biden critics had complained about the time it took for the president to publicly weigh in on the shooting at the Trump rally, noting former President Barack Obama and former President George W. Bush had put out statements before Biden.

Trump was on stage for just a short time at a rally in Butler, Pa., before apparent gun shots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage. Trumps ear was bloodied, and some blood had run onto his face.

The former president pumped his first toward the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement.

The Trump campaign said in a statement that the former president is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The suspected shooter is dead and a rally attendee was killed, the Butler County District Attorney told The Associated Press.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Biden and Trump had brief respectful phone call after assassination attempt at rally

Biden and Trump had brief respectful phone call after assassination attempt at rally

Joe Biden and Donald Trump had a brief respectful phone call following the assassination attempt against the former president at a campaign rally on Saturday.

The political rivals spoke by phone after Trump was injured in the shooting but no details were provided, according to the Wall Street Journal.

Addressing the nation about two hours after the shooting from Delaware, Biden said he was relieved that Trump is reportedly doing well.

He said he had been unable to reach Trump before his remarks, but the White House said he did speak to Trump several hours later.

The president said every American must condemn political violence after the shooting. Its sick, Biden said. Its sick.

President Joe Biden speaks on Saturday in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware after shots were fired Donald Trump's Pennsylvania campaign rally, leaving him injured (AP)

The former president was rushed from the stage after shots were fired on Saturday, with blood running down his face. His Secret Service detail who bundled him into a waiting motorcade.

Trumps campaign said that is he fine and was checked out a local medical facility. He later flew to New Jersey to spend the night at his golf club in the state.

One spectator was killed and two critically injured in the assassination attempt, before the suspected shooter  later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks  was killed by a Secret Service agent on the scene.

The motive for the attack remains unclear.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident, was a registered Republican voter, but also donated $15 to a Democratic-aligned PAC, according to online records.

Speaking from a convention center at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden said he has been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government on the situation.

Biden said the incident at the rally demonstrates one of the reasons why we have to united this country and said Americans cannot allow for this to be happening.

We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he said.

Former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania (Getty Images)

The bottom line is that the Trump rally was a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully, without any problem ... the idea that there's political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. It's just not appropriate. And we, everybody, everybody must condemn it, the president said.

Bidens remarks came not long after he and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the shooting.

According to a White House official, Biden received a briefing from Kimberly Cheatle, director of the US Secret Service, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and his Homeland Security Adviser, Elizabeth Sherwood-Randall.

Biden was at his beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on Saturday and received an initial briefing on the shooting shortly after leaving Mass at St. Edmonds Roman Catholic Church. He has returned to the White House and is being briefed further by security officials.

Separately, the Office of the Vice President said Harris received what they described as an initial briefing at her official residence in Washington, shortly after she returned from a campaign stop in Philadelphia.

In a statement, Harris said that she and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff are relieved that Trump was not seriously injured.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said.

Harris added that she and Emhoff were grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action and said violent acts such as the shooting at the Trump rally have no place in our nation.

The former president was just moments into speech at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally venue when loud pops were heard to the left of the stage.

Trump turned his head in the direction of the sound and appeared to have been struck by something near his ear. He then quickly dropped to the ground as the crowd began screaming and running.

Within seconds, Secret Service agents tackled the former president to the ground and formed a barricade around him, shuffling off stage to safety. He was bundled into a waiting SUV by his security detail, with his fist raised. His motorcade left the rally venue at speed.

Steven Cheung, communications director for Trumps presidential campaign, said in a statement that Trump is fine and being checked out a local medical facility after he was tackled, then hustled off stage at the rally by members of his Secret Service detail after gunshots rang out while he was speaking.

Cheung added that Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act.
REHOBOTH, DEL.  President Biden held a tense call with centrist House lawmakers on Saturday as he struggles to stop the flow of lawmakers calling for him to step aside from the 2024 ticket.

A source on the Zoom call with members of the centrist New Democrat Coalition described it as tense, and said lawmakers felt really dismayed with the presidents presentation and lack of strategy, and felt he was not prepared for questions he was asked. The source characterized Bidens answers to questions as rambling.

The source said the most notable exchange occurred when Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.) referenced voter concerns about Biden being at the helm when they go to sleep at night. At that point, the source added, Biden ripped him.

The exchange with Jason Crow was hard to watch, the source said.

A source familiar with the call characterized Bidens response as tense and defensive.

The Hill obtained a transcript of Crows full question to the president, which focused on national security concerns among voters.

National security is a major issue in this campaign. Americans want a commander in chief who can project strength, vigor, and inspire confidence at home and abroad. They need to feel that you have the helm when they go to bed each night, Crow said, according to the transcript. Despite your many successes and the dangers of Trump, we are seeing overwhelming evidence in our districts that many voters are losing confidence you can do this in a second term. Its not fair, but its true.

The group on this zoom have run the toughest races in the country and many of us know without a major change we are facing a lose in November, he continued. The status quo wont work. Focusing just on Trump wont work. Focusing on our accomplishments wont work. What major change to your campaign do you propose?

Rep. Chrissy Houlahan (D-Pa.) asked a question after Crow, the source said, which Biden interrupted at one point. The president then told members he had to go to mass at roughly 5:02 p.m.

The president held the calls with lawmakers from his beach house in Rehoboth, Del. The mass the president attended in Rehoboth was at 5:30 p.m. and he left his house at 5:36 p.m. to attend.

Rep. Ann McLane Kuster (D-N.H.), the chair of the New Democrat Coalition, which is composed of roughly 100 lawmakers, said the group had a candid, respectful and productive conversation with the President about how to win over disaffected voters and boost turn out in swing districts.

As the majority makers, we are united around our goal of winning back the House and asked the President to focus on the future and reassure voters about Democrats ability to win in November, Kuster said in a statement.

Moving forward we expect President Biden to do everything in his power to demonstrate to the American people that Democrats will keep the White House and flip the House in November, she added.

Bidens call with the New Democrat Coalition was one of a string of conversations he has had with groups of lawmakers on Capitol Hill as he tries to drum up support for his re-election campaign after last months lackluster debate performance.

Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) traveled to Rehoboth to meet with Biden on Saturday, the senator said in a statement. Schumer described the meeting as good.

Also, ahead of the call with the New Democrats Coalition, Biden spoke with members of the Congressional Progressive Caucus. He asked them for help and advice and teased that he has a major Supreme Court reform policy coming, according to a source familiar.

Eighteen House Democrats have publicly called on Biden to step aside as the nominee, while several others have expressed concerns about his ability to beat Trump in November.

He spoke on Friday with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) in meetings arranged through each groups campaign arm. And, he spoke with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) Thursday night.

Updated: 6:58 p.m. on July 14

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
President Joe Biden spoke with Donald Trump late Saturday after a shooter opened fire at the former presidents campaign rally in Western Pennsylvania, according to a White House official.

The president then left Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, to return to Washington, hours after he called for unity and denounced political violence in a quickly arranged appearance on camera Saturday night, condemning the violence at Trumps campaign event.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick, Biden said in comments to reporters. He called for unit[ing] this country, adding that we cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

He said that the Trump rally shouldve been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem, and the idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate.

Everybody must condemn it, Biden said. Everybody.

The president gave remarks at the emergency briefing room at a police station in Rehoboth Beach roughly two hours after a fatal shooting at Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The president, who had been attending Mass Saturday evening, learned of the incident and wanted to address the nation as soon as he was fully briefed, said a source familiar with the presidents movements. Biden left Rehoboth late Saturday night to return to the White House.

The former president was on stage when a gunman opened fire, as people in the crowd screamed and ducked for cover. Trump, who had blood on his face, was rushed off the stage. He is fine, his campaign said, and was taken to a local medical facility to be examined.

One attendee was killed, as was the shooter. Two other people were critically injured, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Biden, who has decried political violence and ran on a message to restore the soul of the nation in 2020, must now face an election in which shots were fired at his opponents campaign rally.

Vice President Kamala Harris, who was also briefed on the shooting, said she is praying for Trump, his family and others impacted by the senseless violence.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris said. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Bidens campaign will be pausing all outbound communications and is working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible, a campaign official said.

When asked by reporters if he thinks it was a political assassination, Biden said that he doesnt know enough about the incident to be sure.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden continued. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make any more comments.

After Bidens remarks, he received an updated briefing from several of his top homeland security and law enforcement officials, including Secret Service director Kim Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Attorney General Merrick Garland, FBI Director Christopher Wray, Homeland Security advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall and National Security adviser Jake Sullivan. He will receive another briefing at the White House Sunday morning.

In a separate statement released immediately before his on-camera appearance, Biden said he and First Lady Jill Biden were praying for [Trump] and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

The statement, released more than 90 minutes after the incident, continued: Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Several prominent Democrats came out to denounce political violence, including former President Barack Obama and Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, who posted statements on X within an hour of the incident.
Embattled President Biden will be the Democratic Partys nominee in November, ex-New York Gov. David Paterson says.

Paterson made the prediction despite growing calls for the 81-year-old president to step aside over mounting concerns about his mental and physical fitness and ability to defeat Republican rival Donald Trump.

The former govs interview with 770 WABC radios The Cats Roundtable program, which aired Sunday morning, also was taped before the assassination attempt on former President Trump, a horrific event that some pundits believe could help tip the scales even more toward Bidens GOP challenger.

Despite call for Joe Biden to step aside from the presidential election, ex-NY governor David Paterson predicts he will be the nominee. AFP via Getty Images

I think that President Biden will be the candidate and that some of the party elders like President Obama and Nancy Pelosi  its interesting that we havent heard much from Bill Clinton here  that they will sort of lead the party back together, Paterson told the program.

That will probably occur at the Democratic National Convention. Prediction for whos going to win in November? I think its a dead heat, the former gov added.

He acknowledged there isnt wild enthusiasm about Biden. But Democrats will have to fall into line if Biden refuses to back down and wants to run.

We Democrats are so afraid of what would happen if President Trump got a second four years that were going to vote for Biden even if we have to carry him to office, Paterson quipped to WABC host John Catsimatidis.

Thats not really the best reason to support someone The election, oddly enough, is still close, Paterson said.

The ex-governor noted Bidens disastrous debate performance last month.

David Paterson is the former governor of New York Patrick McMullan via Getty Images

The president performed somewhat better during last weeks NATO press conference, though he still made gaffes  such as mistaking Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for Russian President Vladimir Putin before correcting himself.

He also later slipped and referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as Vice President Trump.

The former governor remarked on Joe Bidens performance at the debate with Donald Trump. AFP via Getty Images

At least 20 Congressional Democrats have publicly called on Biden to step aside in favor of another candidate at the top of ticket, while others, including members of the Black and Hispanic Caucus have stood with him.
Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc. (NYSE:BHLB) shareholders should be happy to see the share price up 16% in the last quarter. But that doesn't change the fact that the returns over the last five years have been less than pleasing. After all, the share price is down 21% in that time, significantly under-performing the market.

While the last five years has been tough for Berkshire Hills Bancorp shareholders, this past week has shown signs of promise. So let's look at the longer term fundamentals and see if they've been the driver of the negative returns.

View our latest analysis for Berkshire Hills Bancorp

To paraphrase Benjamin Graham: Over the short term the market is a voting machine, but over the long term it's a weighing machine. One way to examine how market sentiment has changed over time is to look at the interaction between a company's share price and its earnings per share (EPS).

During five years of share price growth, Berkshire Hills Bancorp moved from a loss to profitability. Most would consider that to be a good thing, so it's counter-intuitive to see the share price declining. Other metrics may better explain the share price move.

In contrast to the share price, revenue has actually increased by 0.6% a year in the five year period. So it seems one might have to take closer look at the fundamentals to understand why the share price languishes. After all, there may be an opportunity.

The graphic below depicts how earnings and revenue have changed over time (unveil the exact values by clicking on the image).

We consider it positive that insiders have made significant purchases in the last year. Having said that, most people consider earnings and revenue growth trends to be a more meaningful guide to the business. So we recommend checking out this free report showing consensus forecasts

What About Dividends?

It is important to consider the total shareholder return, as well as the share price return, for any given stock. The TSR is a return calculation that accounts for the value of cash dividends (assuming that any dividend received was reinvested) and the calculated value of any discounted capital raisings and spin-offs. So for companies that pay a generous dividend, the TSR is often a lot higher than the share price return. As it happens, Berkshire Hills Bancorp's TSR for the last 5 years was -8.8%, which exceeds the share price return mentioned earlier. And there's no prize for guessing that the dividend payments largely explain the divergence!

A Different Perspective

Berkshire Hills Bancorp provided a TSR of 13% over the last twelve months. Unfortunately this falls short of the market return. On the bright side, that's still a gain, and it is certainly better than the yearly loss of about 1.7% endured over half a decade. So this might be a sign the business has turned its fortunes around. It's always interesting to track share price performance over the longer term. But to understand Berkshire Hills Bancorp better, we need to consider many other factors. Consider for instance, the ever-present spectre of investment risk. We've identified 3 warning signs with Berkshire Hills Bancorp , and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of undervalued small cap companies that insiders are buying.

Please note, the market returns quoted in this article reflect the market weighted average returns of stocks that currently trade on American exchanges.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
President Joe Biden addressed the nation for a second time after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, stressing the importance of unity and announcing he has called for an independent review of security procedures at the rally where the shooting took place.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter, Biden said from the White House on Sunday afternoon. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything. Its not who we are as a nation, and we cannot allow this to happen. Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now: unity.

The president said he was extremely grateful that Trump is doing well and recovering, and added, Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers.

Trump and Biden spoke by phone on Saturday, just hours after the attempted assassination attempt. Biden said the call was a short but good conversation.

Biden: "There is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything." pic.twitter.com/jtyBXMvQmI  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 14, 2024

Biden offered his deepest condolences to family of former fire chief Corey Comperatore, who died when he was shot while shielding his family from the gunfire. He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired. And he lost his life. God love him. Biden added that he is praying for the full recovery of those who were injured. He also thanked the Secret Service for their actions.

Biden has directed an independent review of national security measures taken at yesterdays rally to uncover how the shooting happened. He and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on the incident and investigation by the director of the FBI, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, Attorney General Merrick Garland, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood, and National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan.

The president emphasized that the investigation is still in its early stages but will be thorough and swift. He stressed that law enforcement does not yet know the shooters motives, although he has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Pennsylvania. Biden asked Americans not to speculate on Crooks motives. I urge everyone  everyone please  dont make assumptions about his motives or affiliations, Biden said. Let the FBI and their partner agencies do their job.

Biden: We don't yet have any information about the motive of this shooter. I urge everybody to please don't make assumptions about his motive or affiliations. Let the FBI do their job pic.twitter.com/vOY1bkjvmZ  Acyn (@Acyn) July 14, 2024

Republicans, many of whom downplayed the political violence that took place during the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, have attempted to blame Biden  as well as the Democrats writ large, the media, critical race theory, identity politics, and the head of the Secret Service (who one GOP congressman called a DEI person on Sunday)  for the shooting.

While the investigation continues, Biden vowed that Trump will continue to have every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety

Since the shooting, the Secret Service has been scrutinized for the potential gaps in its protection of Trump, and House Republicans on the Oversight Committee have already asked Cheatle to voluntarily testify about the shooting. There are many questions and Americans demand answers, Republican Oversight Chair Rep. James Comer wrote in a letter to Cheatle.

This was a catastrophic failure. It should never have been a remote possibility, Jason Chaffetz, former House Oversight chair, told The Washington Post. Chaffetz oversaw a wide-ranging 2015 investigative report on the agencys failures. We did all these investigations and did an extensive report so this would never happen again. Its as if they paid no attention to the bipartisan recommendations.

Retired Secret Service agent Jeff James during a Fox & Friends appearance on Sunday explained the particular challenges of securing an outdoor rally. When you look at these outdoor events [and] the reasons the candidates love the outdoor events  if they were in Pittsburgh they can get 18,000 people. These outdoor events, they can get 30,000 people. Theres so many more faces. But you have to say theres a stopping point, and when you get beyond that, its tough to secure this unending amount of land regardless of how big the outdoor event is.

Secret Service Spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi dispelled rumors that the agency declined to provide additional protection for Trump. There is an untrue assertion that a member of the former Presidents team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed, Guglielmi wrote on X, formerly Twitter. This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.

The president said that he has instructed Cheatle and the Secret Service to review all security procedures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention is planned to go ahead as scheduled. Trump said Sunday morning that he look[s] forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

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Biden calls on Americans to 'lower the temperature in our politics' in wake of Trump assassination attempt

In an Oval Office address to the nation Sunday night, President Joe Biden repeated calls for unity that he's made since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump Saturday evening.

"My fellow Americans, I want to speak to you tonight about the need for us to lower the temperature in our politics and to remember, while we may disagree, we are not enemies, were neighbors, were friends, co-workers, citizens, and most importantly, we are fellow Americans. We must stand together," he said, in only the third such speech in his presidency.

"Yesterday's shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania calls on all of us to take a step back, take stock of where we are, how are we go forward from here. Thankfully, former Trump is not seriously injured," he continued.

"Tonight, I want to speak to what we do know: a former president was shot, an American citizen killed, while simply exercising his freedom to support the candidate of his choosing," referring to the spectator killed. "We cannot, we must not go down this road in America," he said.

"Violence has never been the answer," he said, "whether it's with members of Congress of both parties being targeted and shot, or a violent mob attacking the Capitol on January 6th or a brutal attack on the spouse of the former Speaker of the House, Nancy Pelosi, or information and intimidation and election officials or the kidnapping plot against a sitting governor, or an attempted assassination on Donald Trump."

PHOTO: President Joe Biden delivers a nationally televised address from the Oval Office of the White House, July 14, 2024, in Washington. (Erin Schaff/ Pool via Getty Images)

He continued, saying, "in America, we resolve our differences at the ballot box. You know, that's how we do it at the battle box, not with bullets. The power to change America should always rest in the hands of the people, not in the hands of a would-be assassin."

Earlier Sunday, Biden said, "Last night I spoke with Donald Trump. I am sincerely grateful that hes doing well, and recovering. We had a short but good conversation. Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers," he said, speaking about the assassination aftermath before reporters gathered the White House Roosevelt Room.

"An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as -- as a nation, everything. It's not who we are as a nation. It's not American. And we cannot allow this to happen," he continued.

PHOTO: U.S. President Joe Biden delivers a statement a day after Republican challenger Donald Trump was shot at a campaign rally, during brief remarks at the White House in Washington, July 14, 2024. (Nathan Howard/Reuters)

"Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is important than that right now, unity. Well debate and well disagree, it's not-- that's not going to change. But it's going to -- we're going to not lose sight of the fact who we are as Americans," he said.

He cautioned against speculation about the shooter's motive, saying it wasn't yet known.

And he said he had ordered an independent review of how security was handled at the political rally in Pennsylvania amid congressional Republican demands for investigative hearings.

He ended by saying he would speak to the nation Sunday night and the White House said afterward his address from the Oval Office would take place at 8 p.m. ET.

Biden, who was flanked by Garland, Mayorkas and Vice President Kamala Harris, did not take questions.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks from the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, July 14, 2024, about the apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. (Susan Walsh/AP)

MORE: Biden and Trump speak after he says 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

He had been briefed shortly before in the White House Situation Room by Attorney General Merrick Garland. Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, FBI director Christopher Wray, national security adviser Jake Sullivan and Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle.

The White House posted a photo of the briefing on X.

This morning, President Biden and Vice President Harris received an updated briefing in the White House Situation Room from homeland security and law enforcement officials. pic.twitter.com/TiEpc94DHM  The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 14, 2024

Biden has had to tread carefully since news of the Trump shooting first broke because not only is he president -- but also a candidate and Donald Trump's political opponent.

He must show he's in command of the crisis as well amid growing questions about his mental and physical fitness for the job.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks after his Republican opponent Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at an election rally in Pennsylvania, at the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, July 13, 2024. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

MORE: Trump shooting live updates: Gun traced to suspect's father, was legally purchased

Informed shortly after the shooting happened, he initially put out a statement -- after some basic facts became known -- saying he was "grateful" that Trump was "safe."

He then made hastily arranged remarks to reporters and the nation on live television -- saying he had tried to phone the former president -- whom he notably called "Donald" -- condemning the attack and calling for unity.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country," he said.

"But the idea, the idea that there's political violence or violence in America like this, is just unheard of, its just not appropriate. We  everybody, everybody must condemn it," he said.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden deboards from Air Force One as he arrives at Joint Base Andrews in Md., July 14, 2024. (Tom Brenner/Reuters)

He then quickly changed plans and flew back from Delaware to the White House.

When he arrived at Joint Base Andrews, it was notable how close Bidens top Secret Service agent was to him as he stepped off Air Force One, staying just a few steps away as the president walked down the steps.

Typically, Biden makes it to the bottom of those steps before his security detail steps off the plane.

Lafayette Park, directly in front of the White House, remained closed Sunday morning as the Secret Service posture was notably heightened around the White House.

Sunday afternoon, the White House said said Biden was rescheduling his planned Monday trip to Austin, Texas, where he was set to deliver the keynote address at a commemoration for the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act at the LBJ Presidential Library.

Biden calls on Americans to 'lower the temperature in our politics' in wake of Trump assassination attempt originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden | Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

The post Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

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Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Congressional reaction

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

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Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

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Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

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Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE
When a single insider purchases stock, it is typically not a major deal. However, when multiple insiders purchase stock, like in Advance Metals Limited's (ASX:AVM) instance, it's good news for shareholders.

While insider transactions are not the most important thing when it comes to long-term investing, logic dictates you should pay some attention to whether insiders are buying or selling shares.

Check out our latest analysis for Advance Metals

Advance Metals Insider Transactions Over The Last Year

In the last twelve months, the biggest single purchase by an insider was when insider Patrick Volpe bought AU$200k worth of shares at a price of AU$0.026 per share. That means that an insider was happy to buy shares at above the current price of AU$0.025. While their view may have changed since the purchase was made, this does at least suggest they have had confidence in the company's future. We always take careful note of the price insiders pay when purchasing shares. It is generally more encouraging if they paid above the current price, as it suggests they saw value, even at higher levels.

While Advance Metals insiders bought shares during the last year, they didn't sell. The chart below shows insider transactions (by companies and individuals) over the last year. If you want to know exactly who sold, for how much, and when, simply click on the graph below!

There are plenty of other companies that have insiders buying up shares. You probably do not want to miss this free list of undervalued small cap companies that insiders are buying.

Insiders At Advance Metals Have Bought Stock Recently

Over the last quarter, Advance Metals insiders have spent a meaningful amount on shares. In total, insiders bought AU$208k worth of shares in that time, and we didn't record any sales whatsoever. That shows some optimism about the company's future.

Does Advance Metals Boast High Insider Ownership?

For a common shareholder, it is worth checking how many shares are held by company insiders. We usually like to see fairly high levels of insider ownership. Advance Metals insiders own about AU$413k worth of shares. That equates to 24% of the company. This level of insider ownership is good but just short of being particularly stand-out. It certainly does suggest a reasonable degree of alignment.

So What Does This Data Suggest About Advance Metals Insiders?

The recent insider purchases are heartening. And an analysis of the transactions over the last year also gives us confidence. But on the other hand, the company made a loss during the last year, which makes us a little cautious. Given that insiders also own a fair bit of Advance Metals we think they are probably pretty confident of a bright future. In addition to knowing about insider transactions going on, it's beneficial to identify the risks facing Advance Metals. In terms of investment risks, we've identified 5 warning signs with Advance Metals and understanding them should be part of your investment process.

If you would prefer to check out another company -- one with potentially superior financials -- then do not miss this free list of interesting companies, that have HIGH return on equity and low debt.

For the purposes of this article, insiders are those individuals who report their transactions to the relevant regulatory body. We currently account for open market transactions and private dispositions of direct interests only, but not derivative transactions or indirect interests.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

The post Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

One spectator was killed and two more were critically injured, according to a statement on X posted by the Secret Service. A suspected shooter who fired from an elevated position outside of the rally venue has died.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

The post Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

The post Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

SUPPORT NEWS YOU TRUST. DONATE
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Photo: screenshot from White House livestream.

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Nevada elected officials issued statements echoing the condemnations of political violence:

Gov. Joe Lombardo: Donna and I thank God that former President Trump is safe and unharmed after being shot at during a rally in Pennsylvania. We are waiting for more information from the Secret Service. In the meantime, we are praying for calm and civility around the country.

Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto: Political violence like this is an attack on our democracy and must never be tolerated. Im grateful former President Trump is safe and my thoughts are with all those affected. Thank you to the law enforcement and first responders who were on the scene.

Sen. Jacky Rosen: Im keeping former President Trump and all those attending his rally in my thoughts. I condemn this despicable act of political violence in the strongest possible terms. Ill continue monitoring the situation as we learn more.

Rep. Dina Titus: Gun violence has no place in our society. I am relieved that President Trump is okay and my thoughts are with him and the other victims of todays horrific act. I commend the Secret Service on its swift response today and have full faith that they will bring to justice all.

Rep. Susie Lee: Political violence of any kind can never be tolerated in America. I am grateful to hear that the former president is safe and for the Secret Service officers who threw themselves in harms way. I am praying for everyone in Butler, PA.

Rep. Steven Horsford: Political violence does not have a place in our democracy. Period. Our differences are resolved at the ballot box and never through violence. My thoughts are with the former President and everyone who was at the rally. No one in this country should have to experience that kind of trauma. I will be following the situation closely and applaud the swift action of law enforcement.

Attorney General Aaron Ford: This is not who we are as a country. Political violence from any side of the political spectrum should be met with the appropriate consequences. Grateful to the law enforcement that stepped in, and hoping for justice to prevail. Glad to see that former President Trump is safe.

Hugh Jackson contributed to this report.
One of the biggest catalysts in the artificial intelligence (AI) movement is semiconductors. Highly specialized chips called graphics processing units (GPUs) are used for a variety of AI-powered applications including training large language models and autonomous driving.

Nvidia has emerged as the de facto leader in generative AI chips thanks to its A100, H100, and new Blackwell series GPUs. Since the beginning of the year, the company has added nearly $2 trillion in market cap  making it one of the most valuable businesses in the world.

Smart investors understand that when it comes to semiconductors, Nvidia isn't the only lucrative opportunity.

One company that should be on your radar is Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing (NYSE: TSM).

About a week ago, Taiwan Semiconductor's market cap briefly eclipsed the coveted $1 trillion milestone. However, shares have since retreated and as of this writing the company boasts a market cap of roughly $982 billion.

Let's dig into how the company plays an important role in the development of semiconductors and assess why I see it as the next chip stock to sustain a trillion-dollar valuation.

An important role in the chip space

While businesses such as Nvidia, AMD, and Intel design leading chips used by some of the world's largest AI companies, Taiwan Semiconductor plays a key role behind the scenes.

Many chip companies outsource manufacturing services. Taiwan Semiconductor's fabrication facilities are where many leading chip designs actually come to life.

Per the company's filings, Taiwan Semiconductor manufactures chips for Nvidia, AMD, Broadcom, Intel, Qualcomm, and many more.

Image source: Getty Images.

Why Taiwan Semiconductor's growth may be just beginning

According to Precedence Research, the global AI chip market is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 30% from 2023 to 2032  ultimately reaching a size of $227 billion.

Many of the companies referenced above stand to benefit from this growth. However, I'd argue that Taiwan Semiconductor may be in the most lucrative position of all.

Competition among chip designers will likely continue to intensify in the coming years. Over time, it will be increasingly difficult for chip designers to gain market share as more products are introduced.

For example, Nvidia's growth will likely eventually peak and its pricing power should begin to normalize as more chip designs enter the market. This means that Nvidia investors should be keenly monitoring the competition while also looking at the company's growth rates across the top and bottom lines. Should Nvidia begin to show some deceleration, it could mean that competition is gaining momentum.

Story continues

While this dynamic might make it difficult to discern investment opportunities among some of the chip stocks explored above, I think that Taiwan Semiconductor's prospects look bright regardless.

Taiwan Semiconductor actually stands to benefit from rising competition as it theoretically leads to more demand for its fabrication and manufacturing services.

Is now a good time to buy Taiwan Semiconductor stock?

Considering Taiwan Semiconductor was already briefly valued at a $1 trillion, and its recent market cap was a stone's throw away from the milestone, I think the bigger question is how the company can sustain a trillion-dollar valuation.

The table below illustrates a preview of Taiwan Semiconductor's second-quarter revenue trends:

Category Q2 Management Forecast (Midpoint) Q2 Revenue Difference Revenue $20 billion $20.9 billion $0.9 billion

Data source: Taiwan Semiconductor Investor Relations.

While management had initially forecast second-quarter revenue to be in the range of $19.6 billion to $20.4 billion, the company's monthly flash reports indicate that second quarter revenue actually came in nearly $1 billion ahead of guidance.

Although this is encouraging, investors should be on the lookout for trends in Taiwan Semiconductor's gross margin and cash flow. While overachieving its sales goals is nice to see, it's also not entirely surprising given how much demand there is for AI chips.

The path to achieving and sustaining a trillion-dollar valuation should be reached if Taiwan Semiconductor can prove that it can fulfill its customer demand while also compounding its earnings power.

In other words, if the company accelerates both revenue and profits, investors likely will come to see that Taiwan Semiconductor is building just as strong a business as its cohorts and deserves a premium valuation.

Given the long-term secular trends fueling the AI chip space combined with Taiwan Semiconductor's unique position in the chip realm, I think the growth narrative is just beginning. Now looks like a great time to scoop up some shares as a position in the trillion-dollar club looks within reach.

Should you invest $1,000 in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing right now?

Before you buy stock in Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing, consider this:

The Motley Fool Stock Advisor analyst team just identified what they believe are the 10 best stocks for investors to buy now and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing wasnt one of them. The 10 stocks that made the cut could produce monster returns in the coming years.

Consider when Nvidia made this list on April 15, 2005... if you invested $1,000 at the time of our recommendation, youd have $791,929!*

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Adam Spatacco has positions in Nvidia. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Nvidia, Qualcomm, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. The Motley Fool recommends Broadcom and Intel and recommends the following options: long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel and short August 2024 $35 calls on Intel. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Prediction: This Spectacular Semiconductor Stock Will Be Next to Join Nvidia in the Trillion-Dollar Club was originally published by The Motley Fool
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

President Joe Biden gives brief remarks from Rehoboth Beach, Del., on Saturday, July 13, 2024, on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. (Screenshot from White House livestream)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

 President Joe Biden

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.
Biden says no place for this kind of violence in America after shooting at Trump rally

President Joe Biden (Official White House Photo by Adam Schultz)

WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden denounced political violence during brief remarks Saturday night after a shooting abruptly ended a campaign rally that Donald Trump was holding in Pennsylvania and injured the former president.

Biden declined to say if the incident, which is under investigation by the Secret Service, was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts, Biden said, speaking from the Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, police department, near his vacation home there. So I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make some comment.

Biden said he hadnt spoken to Trump yet, but that he hoped to talk with him by phone soon.

I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well, Biden said. I plan on talking to him shortly. I hope when I get back to the telephone.

Trump on social media

Trump posted on social media after Bidens remarks concluded that he wanted to offer condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country, Trump wrote. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

Trump added that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

We cannot condone this

Biden said during his public comments the type of violence that took place during the rally was unacceptable and should never happen.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Trump, he said, should have been able to have the rally without any violence.

The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its just not appropriate, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice President Kamala Harris also issued a statement saying she had been briefed on the incident.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said of Trump.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation, Harris wrote. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.
Biden to speak again following attempt on Trump

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

US President Joe Biden is to speak again about the attempted assassination of Donald Trump at 1.30 pm Sunday (1730 GMT), the White House has announced.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are being updated by justice and security officials following the attempt, with FBI Director Christopher Wray, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Secret Service Director Kim Cheatle present.

The US Secret Service has responsibility for protecting presidents and past presidents, along with other political leaders.
REHOBOTH, DEL President Biden spoke with progressive lawmakers on Saturday, asking them for help and advice as he works to shore up support for his reelection bid amid growing calls for him to drop out.

Ill be in Las Vegas next week, and Im going to need your help to and advice on how we should be doing what Im going to be doing there. Want to make sure we have a closer working relationship, because were in this together, Biden said during his virtual meeting with the Congressional Progressive Caucus (CPC), according to a source familiar with the call.

The source added that the president shared with the CPC that he has a major Supreme Court reform policy coming.

I mean, if this guy wins, hes not, and now, especially with that Supreme Court giving him the kind of breadth of  I dont need to get into the Supreme Court right now  anyway, but I need your help, he said to the CPC, referring to former President Trump. I need your advice, and I want to make sure we have a closer working relationship, because were in this together. Youve always been the ones who stepped up.

He then took questions from the group. The president is in Rehoboth, Del., for the weekend and held the calls with lawmakers from his beach house.

CPC chair Pramila Jayapal (Wash.) said after the meeting that the conversation was productive and engaging and that the members of the caucus shared their concerns with the president.

The President has been a champion for working people and families across the country and throughout his time in office and we have been proud to partner with him in passing major legislation to cut costs and raise wages. We spoke frankly to the President about our concerns and asked tough questions about the path forward, she said in a statement.

Jayapal added that the members appreciated Bidens  willingness to thoughtfully answer and address questions.

As a caucus, we will continue working to do everything in our power to defeat Donald Trump and promote our Proposition Agenda  a slate of day one, popular and populist policies to deliver for the people, she said.

Following that call, Biden spoke with members of the New Democrat Coalition, a centrist group of lawmakers that includes multiple members who have called on Biden to step aside as the nominee.

Eighteen Democrats in Congress have publicly called on Biden to step aside as the nominee, while several others have expressed concerns about his ability to beat Trump in November.

He spoke on Friday with members of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (CHC) and the Congressional Asian Pacific American Caucus (CAPAC) in meetings arranged through each groups campaign arm. And, he spoke with House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) Thursday night.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
US President Joe Biden speaks at the celebrations for the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO). Kay Nietfeld/dpa

US President Joe Biden says he will make a special address to the nation later on Sunday in the wake of the assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump.

"We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are," Biden said in brief remarks at the White House, announcing a formal Oval Office address, a format typically reserved for moments of crisis and major turning points in the country.

Biden once again strongly condemned the shooting of former president and presumptive Republican presidential nominee Trump, who was shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

"An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation, everything. Its not who we are as a nation," Biden said in a a statement to the press. "Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that."

At a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday a shooter was able to climb to an elevated position with an assault rifle and fire a number of shots at Trump, causing panic to break out in the audience.

Trump was hit on the ear by a bullet and later seen bleeding, while a firefighter watching the rally was killed and two others seriously injured.

FBI officials later said the perpetrator, killed by Secret Service agents, was a 20-year-old man from the region.
President Joe Biden spoke Saturday hours after former President Donald Trump was wounded in a shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, saying everybody must condemn political violence.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, its sick, its sick, Biden said.

At the time of his remarks, Biden said he hadnt gotten ahold of Trump because the former president was with his doctors and apparently hes doing well. Biden did speak with Trump later Saturday night, according to the White House.

The president said Trump should have been able to conduct a political rally peacefully, and said the idea of political violence in America is just unheard of and inappropriate.

We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, Biden said.

In a statement released earlier Saturday, Biden said we must unite as one nation to condemn violence like the rally incident. Other leaders, including former President Barack Obama, released similar statements urging respect and a rejection of political violence.

An official with Bidens campaign said the team was working on pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible in light of the rally shooting.

According to The Associated Press, law enforcement officials say the shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

Biden was in Delaware when the shooting occurred and was scheduled to stay there though the weekend, but is now returning to the White House, where he will receive updated briefings on the shooting.
President Biden tried to lower the temperature in the country on Sunday by urging Americans not to speculate about why a shooter opened fire on Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania.

Speaking from the White House, Biden said the FBI doesnt yet have information about the motive of the shooter and urged Americans to let the FBI do their job. He said he told the FBI to make the investigation thorough and swift and has directed every resource to investigators. As to why the gunman pulled the trigger, Biden said, I urge everyone -- everyone, please, dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations.

Bidens remarks come as unproven theories circulate about why a gunman fired on Trump at the Butler, Pa. rally, lacerating Trumps ear, killing one of the rally attendees and wounding others. The FBI says that the shooter was 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of nearby Bethel Park.

Almost immediately after the shooting, prominent Trump allies began publicly spreading unfounded accusations that Democrats and Biden were either behind the shooting or recklessly encouraged it. Democrats wanted this to happen. Theyve wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Green wrote Saturday night on X.

Joe Biden sent the orders, wrote Republican Congressman Mike Collins of Georgia on X.

In the aftermath of the shooting, Republicans have accused Biden of having previously used incendiary language directed at Trump. During a closed-door call with major donors on July 8, Biden told his campaigns national finance committee he was going to step up criticism of Trump, saying, Its time to put Trump in the bullseye. Trump and his campaign have repeatedly used inflammatory phrases in messages to his supporters, including claims that Biden was actively working to steal the election and was corruptly orchestrating multiple criminal prosecutions against Trump.

The Secret Service is under harsh scrutiny about the security measures at Trumps rally, given that the gunman was able to fire shots from the roof of a building within line of sight from where Trump was speaking. Biden said that Trump, as a former president and nominee of the Republican Party, already receives a heightened level of security and he said, I have been consistent in my direction to the Secret Service to provide him with every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety.

The Republican National Convention kicks off on Monday in Milwaukee. The weeklong event is expected to go on as planned, with Trump announcing his running mate as soon as Monday. Biden said he ordered the head of the United States Secret Service to review all security measures for the convention. He also launched an independent review of the security at Trumps rally.

Bidens remarks Sunday afternoon were his second since the shooting. He reiterated that he had a good conversation with Trump on Saturday night, and hes sincerely grateful Trump is doing well.

Biden said he plans to address the nation for a third time Sunday evening at 8 p.m.a rare televised address from the Oval Office. In those remarks, he said, he will go into more depth about how the U.S. can come together. Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right nowunity, Biden said. Well debate, and well disagree. Thats not, thats not going to change. But its going to  were going to not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
CRISTOBAL HERRERA-ULASHKEVICH/EPA-EFE / Shutterstock

Former President Donald Trump has been inconsistent with his messaging around Social Security and his ideas for the plans future. During a March interview with CNBC, Trump said that cutting could keep the Social Security program for retirement-age folks solvent.

So first of all, there is a lot you can do in terms of entitlements, in terms of cutting, Trump told CNBC. And in terms of, also, the theft and the bad management of entitlements  tremendous bad management of entitlements  theres tremendous amounts of things and numbers of things you can do.

Shortly after the CNBC interview, Trump told Breitbart that he had no plans to make cuts to Social Security.

For You: Im an Investor: Im Making These Money Moves Immediately If Trump Wins

See More: 9 Easy Ways To Build Wealth That Will Last Through Retirement

I will never do anything that will jeopardize or hurt Social Security or Medicare, Trump told the news outlet. Well have to do it elsewhere. But were not going to do anything to hurt them.

Although Trump did not outline a plan to keep the Social Security program solvent, he did promise to look for ways to cut expenses elsewhere instead of making cuts to these benefits.

Theres so many things we can do, Trump told Breitbart. Theres so much cutting and so much waste in so many other areas, but Ill never do anything to hurt Social Security.

Lets examine some of his other takes on the program.

Earning passive income doesn't need to be difficult. You can start this week.

Trump Has Been Critical of Social Security in the Past

Before becoming president, Trump called the Social Security program a Ponzi scheme.

The truth is undeniable, the workers of America have been forced to invest a sixth of our wages into a huge Ponzi scheme, Trump wrote in the 2000 book The America We Deserve. The solution to the Great Social Security Crisis couldnt be more obvious: Allow every American to dedicate some portion of their payroll taxes to a personal Social Security account that they could own and invest in stocks and bonds.

In the book, Trump also advocated for raising the Social Security retirement age. We can also raise the age for receipt of full Social Security benefits to 70, he wrote.

Read Next: Trump Wants To Eliminate Income Taxes: How Would That Impact You If You Are Retired?

Trump Proposed Cuts To Social Security During His Presidency

Trumps proposed fiscal 2021 budget endorsed cuts to the Social Security program, specifically disability benefits.

His budget advocated for a $75 billion decrease in spending for the two federal disability programs  Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI)  over the next decade.

Story continues

Trumps Latest Promise

During a recent campaign appearance in Doral, Florida, Trump promised that he would not cut Social Security benefits or raise the retirement age.

I will not cut one penny from Social Security or Medicare, he said. And I will not raise the retirement age by one day.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: Here Are All the Promises Trump Has Made About Social Security If Hes Reelected
When is Biden's Oval Office address regarding the Trump rally shooting? How to watch.

President Joe Biden speaks from the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on July 14, 2024, one day after former president Donald Trump survived an apparent assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden will deliver an address from the Oval Office on Sunday night regarding the shooting that happened during Donald Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

During a news conference Sunday afternoon, Biden said he would speak at greater lengths about the shooting Sunday evening. His afternoon news conference lasted about three minutes. Biden gave sympathy to the family of firefighter Corey Comperatore who was a victim in the shooting, while calling for unity.

Biden did not take any questions from the media at his afternoon news conference. Information about the motive of the shooter is still unknown, but that hasn't stopped false news from spreading on social media. Biden asked for the public to stop posting inaccurate information.

Transcripts: See what Joe Biden has said about the shooting of Donald Trump

"Don't make assumptions about his motive or his affiliations," Biden said during the news conference. "Let the FBI do their job... I am instructed that this investigation be thorough and swift, and the investigators will have every resource they need to get this done."

When is President Joe Biden's Oval Office address about the Donald Trump shooting?

Biden said he would address the nation from the Oval Office and speak about the situation at great length at 8 p.m. Eastern on Sunday.

"As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence, or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything. It's not who we are as a nation. It's not American, and we can't allow this to happen," Biden said.

Where can I watch President Biden's second news conference regarding the Trump rally shooting?

USA TODAY will livestream Biden's Oval Office address on YouTube.

Historically, the video feed of Oval Office addresses is made available to all major media outlets. You will find the Oval Office address on major broadcast networks, on some streaming apps and news websites like USA TODAY.

What will President Biden talk about during his news conference Sunday evening?

Biden did not go into details about what he would say on Sunday evening, but he did say he would talk at greater lengths about unity.

"I will be speaking about this at greater lengths tonight from the Oval Office," Biden said. "We must unite as one nation, and demonstrate who we are," Biden said.

How many Oval Office addresses have there been?

Oval Office addresses are not the average run-of-the-mill speeches. This space is usually used for addresses on issues of national importance. This will be Biden's third Oval Office address since taking office.

Biden's most recent Oval Office address was Oct. 19, 2023, when he called for more aid for Israel and Ukraine. His first time speaking to the public from the Oval Office was June 2, 2023. He spoke after former U.S. House Speaker Kevin McCarthy helped negotiate an end to a debt limit crisis.

Trump gave two Oval Office addresses during his time in office. The first one was regarding the government shutdown and border patrol on Jan. 8, 2019, and the second was March 11, 2020, regarding the coronavirus pandemic.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on Des Moines Register: When is Biden's Oval Office address about the Trump shooting?
BIG COUNTRY, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  In this weeks episode of Big Country Politics, District 71 Texas House Representative Stan Lambert discusses hot topics in the state, including school vouchers, rural healthcare, monopolies, as well as Abbotts endorsements against those who challenged vouchers.

Lambert shared that they are planning the next four to five months in anticipation of the general election in November.

Were not waiting any longer to begin working on our agenda as far as legislation that we would like to see brought forward in the next legislative session. So were having meetings, were talking with constituents, were talking with different groups about water, broadband, health care, and school funding, which is a major topic bordering security. Of course, were just trying to make the rounds and visit with as many people as we can all, Lambert shared.

Trump says he felt bullet ripping through the skin in possible assassination attempt

Of the 21 Republicans who challenged Governor Greg Abbott and voted against school vouchers, 14 representatives will not return. Seven incumbents voted against these vouchers, including Lambert and Representative Drew Darby from the Concho Valley, and nine incumbent candidates who were against vouchers. The last five incumbents did not run; pro-voucher-endorsed candidates filled their seats.

Lambert mentioned that it is difficult to predict the makeup of school vouchers in legislation at this point.

Its really hard to start counting until you really get past November and know kind of what that makeup is going to be, how many Republicans, how many Democrats, and then which ones have publicly said they were supporting vouchers or not supporting vouchers. A little bit more time is gonna have to pass before we can kind of really settle on where we met, Lambert explained. We need to try to address some issues there. Still, I think some of them are undecided. They may have voted for vouchers, but they also represent rural areas of the state. And there may be opportunities to circle back with some of those representatives and talk some more about the pros and cons and see if their constituents are telling them something different than during the last session whenever they voted for a voucher.

He mentioned that Abbotts plan to eliminate opponents of vouchers was effective, and he is curious to see how politics in Austin will evolve.

Certainly, the governors plan and his intentions to reduce the number of anti-voucher representatives worked pretty well. He was successful in removing some of these rural Republicans from the House. So, theres a difference between campaigning and governing. Even some of the ones that were elected that campaigned on the pro-voucher issue, itd be interesting to see just when they get to Austin and they start hearing from their constituents, and just what their feedback is going to be and just where their position finally ends up. So we probably know earlier in January, kind of where that issue is going to go. If it looks like its a landslide, or if it looks like its still going to be very, very, very marginal in terms of either side, Lambert shared.

However, Lambert added that he has received positive feedback from the residents of the Big Country.

Ive not heard anyone locally say you took the wrong position. Ive heard mostly from folks who said, We appreciate the position you took. It was a hard stance to take, particularly when you saw just how much opposition came against you in terms of outside influence and outside money, the endorsements that my opponent received. So it makes me feel like we were on the right side of the issue as far as rural Texas and rural America and we will continue to fight that fight. But its gonna be a lot harder because the numbers have certainly decreased since the primary, Lambert said.

Rep. Arrington discusses legislation to breakup healthcare monopolies & bill to fund Dyess AFB

Just last month, District 19 U.S. Congressman Jodey Arrington appeared on Big Country Politics to discuss his initiative to break up healthcare monopolies (House Bill 3301). Lambert shared that the bill was basically restricted to nine counties in the state of Texas that have two or fewer hospitals under a Copa Certificate of Public Advantage.

What it does is it allows one health care provider to merge or to acquire another health care provider in that same county. It does so under the premise that no services or programs will be cut. There will be no rate increases other than just under normal conditions, cost of living, and so forth, and they will be under a lot of scrutiny if they go this route. But it gives the public a lot of confidence and knowing that they are under more scrutiny, supervision, and regulation by the state of Texas now than they would have been if they had emerged without the Coppa legislation being approved, Lambert explained.

He mentioned that there were many misconceptions about Hendricks acquisition of Abilene Regional.

Theres a lot of theres a lot of myths out there about how Hendrick was able to acquire Abilene Regional; Abilene Regional was on the brink of failure, basically their own back company in Franklin, Tennessee, that owed $16 billion in debt. They were trying to shed assets in order to create liquidity to pay off their debt. So thats why they were in the business of trying to sell Abilene Regional; Abilene Regional had not been investing any of their excess profit into the hospital; they were decreasing all their services, staff, and everything else. Technology was not being reinvested. So this seemed like a natural thing to do to keep our healthcare system in Abilene strong, Lambert shared. Once you see the numbers and what Hendrick has done since the merger occurred, you will see that theyve invested over $30 million in Abilene Regional. Since then, supposedly, Abilene Regional was only investing about a million dollars of their profit back into the hospital. Hendricks has increased the number of employees overall, now theyre up to about 5300. Theyre the largest private employer in Taylor County and in the Big Country. They continue to expand programs and services; they continue to find ways to keep healthcare cost-efficient, affordable, accessible, and high quality.

He shared that his concern throughout the process was to ensure that Big Country residents had good quality health care. He added that he believes its the opposite of monopolization.

Tom Green County was using it in Shannon Hospital, acquiring the other hospital there. So, with similar goals and requirements as far as supervision and regulation are concerned, they cant raise rates without going through HHSC [The Texas Health and Human Services Commission} and asking for a rate increase. Those arent just rubber stamps; they are looked at very specifically, and they have a lot of scrutiny in terms of whether they can approve those rate increases. So its totally the opposite of monopolization, in terms of what Congressman Arrington is talking about, because I think what hes looking at is from a much broader perspective, in terms of the large healthcare issues that are going on across our nation, that has to do with Big Pharma, big pharmacy companies that are making billions of dollars with our insurance providers that are making billions of dollars, Lambert said. Weve got large hospital systems that continue to apply for grants when they should not be able to apply for grants. I think hes looking at it more from his position as budget director in the US House of Representatives: how do we balance the US budget? What areas are we going to be able to find resources in order to make to make the numbers work? So I think hes looking at it from a much higher level. How do we address the bigger problems? Not so much the issues that were dealing with locally.

District 71 House candidates respond to rumors & burning questions in candidate forum

Lambert mentioned that although this bill may not have a large local impact, he will need to review the details before discussing it further.

I think, in general, federal legislation always out trumps state legislation, but when youve got let state legislation already in place, there could be some grandfathering that occurs that would not really change the dynamic of that. It might only apply to any new applications for a COPPA-type situation in one of these other seven counties that have not utilized the Coppa bill yet. So I dont think it would have any really major effect in terms of what were doing here locally in terms of what, what transpired three or four years ago when one hospital acquired the other hospitals. So, again, havent seen the details yet, exactly what Congressman Arrington is proposing. Until I do, I think its probably safe for me to say, lets wait and see exactly what his details say. Maybe well talk about the implications on 3301, Lambert said.

He said that healthcare options are important and competition is good, its not realistic in smaller communities.

When you talk about rural health care, youve got to look at the numbers and the dynamics of whats actually happening. There arent many people moving to the smaller communities, weve had over 25 rural hospitals close in the last 10 or 14 years. In Texas, weve got 40 or more now that are at risk of being closed. The population is not growing in those small counties, so the numbers dont justify having a full-blown hospital operation in some of those smaller rural counties, Lambert explained.  Then you add on things like workforce shortages, reimbursement rates from Medicare and Medicaid, and many of those populations in smaller rural counties or aged populations are on Medicare and Medicaid. And so those hospitals when they treat those patients, theyre not getting getting reimbursed enough just to cover their cost.

He mentioned that its also a workforce shortage issue, but expanding telemedicine and telehealth could be beneficial.

I think telemedicine and telehealth if we will continue to expand and look at ways in which we can bring those types of services to the table. We could have a registered nurse living in a small rural community who could be talking to a doctor in Abilene or San Angelo or Midland or Odessa. It could provide the health care necessary for that person in that small rural community if we have telemedicine and broadband capabilities and accessibility, Lambert shared.

He shared that another area to consider is improving broadband access and recruiting more people into healthcare.

Broadband access and expansion is very important; telehealth/telemedicine continues to look at ways to expand that and then funding the programs that are necessary to make sure that we dont continue with this workforce shortage in the future. To me, thats the most important thing we can do right now: continue to invest money in grants and scholarships in ways in which we can get more of our young people to look at healthcare as a long-term career and a profession that they would be interested in going into, Lambert said. COVID just knocked the socks out of our workforce. Were still trying to recover from that and its going to be its going to take some time to do that. Thats where the state can step in and thats where the state can do more in terms of making sure that we have those that funding available.

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Governments spend a lot of money on things that are subject to popular opinion, but everybody can usually agree if the public is getting what its paying for  like it or not.

Thats not always true about funding of arts and cultural programs. No two taxpayers will agree on the artistic significance or cultural value of every festival, exhibit, concert, or pageant that draws some subsidy, big or small, from taxpayers.

The Tallahassee Symphony Orchestra rehearses in Ruby Diamond Auditorium on Tuesday, March 21, 2023.

And some people will insist the arts should never get a farthing from the public treasury. Let Bill Gates or Andrew Carnegie underwrite the museums, theaters and galleries. Our tax money should go for things with immediate, tangible benefit.

One such skeptic is Gov. Ron DeSantis, who vetoed $32 million in arts funding last month as he signed the new state budget. He red-lined nearly $1 billion in items he believed the state could do without, but the arts and culture vetoes sparked the most outcry.

Its barely a blip in a budget of $116.5 billion, but thats not a consideration likely to sway conservative Republicans. Therell be no attempt at overriding the governors decisions.

Throwing hundreds of arts and cultural alliances into a fiscal panic will probably cost DeSantis up to 15, maybe even 20, votes if he runs for something again. Thats the first factor governors look for in line-item vetoes. Voters who are upset by the arts ax wouldnt vote for DeSantis, or probably any other Trump-supporting Republican, at gunpoint.

So politically, the vetoes are a cant-lose situation for DeSantis. They irritated people who already dont like him and appealed to folks like the parents who objected to photos of Michelangelos David at a Tallahassee school last year.

Wasteful spending, like beauty, is in the eye of the beholder.

When the Florida Highway Patrol buys big Dodge Challengers instead of Ford Mustangs, you and I can disagree about the choice. But theres no denying that those things are, in fact, cars.

Its the same when the state builds a school, buys some wetlands or gets an airplane  we may think its a good deal or a waste of money, but we know whatever is being acquired is what it purports to be.

Shakespeare's "Twelfth Night" is performed by the Southern Shakespeare Company during the final night of the company's 2021 annual festival at Cascades Park Sunday, May 9, 2021.

Not so with art or cultural events. An exhibit of my culture, history and societal contributions is educational. Celebrating yours is pandering to some ethnic, gender or artistic niche.

When workers dug the vast foundation for Floridas 22-story state Capitol 50 years ago, they had to fence off the huge hole. So, the state invited all 67 counties to take an expanse of plywood fencing and draw murals of their cities, beaches, farmlands and wilderness. Some paintings were beautiful, and some were hideous, and none of it improved with a couple of years of wind, rain and frequent bumping by bulldozers and trucks. But nobody wanted to say, Get that mess out of here. Elected politicians make poor curators.

A couple of weeks after signing this years budget, DeSantis was asked about vetoing the arts money. He cited some Fringe Festival funding among all the regular culture goodies.

We didnt have control over how it was being given, he said. So, youre having your tax dollars being given in grants to things like the Fringe Festival, which is like a sexual festival where theyre doing all this stuff.

How many of you think your tax dollars should go to fund that? Not very many people would do that.

The USA Today Network-Florida reported the state has four Fringe Festivals, which sometimes include adult themes and drag performances. Thats out of 577 arts and cultural programs, including 33 community theaters, museums, and other activities, affected by the budget vetoes.

Politico Florida noted that grants are made from a ranked list, and a $150,000 item for the Orlando Fringe Festival and $15,000 for one in Tampa were ranked low on that roster  probably not making the cut this year.

But anything with drag on the agenda reaches DeSantis desk with a heavy presumption against it. And if its a choice between funding something thats a matter of taste, or adding another $32 million to the veto total, you can pretty much predict what hell do.

Bill Cotterell is a retired Capitol reporter for United Press International and the Tallahassee Democrat. He writes a weekly column for The News Service of Florida and City & State Florida. He can be reached at wrcott43@aol.com.

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FILE PHOTO: Bill Ackman, chief executive officer and portfolio manager at Pershing Square Capital Management, speaks during the SALT conference in Las Vegas

(Reuters) -Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman endorsed U.S. former President Donald Trump on Saturday in the Republican's rematch race against President Joe Biden, shortly after Trump was shot in the ear at a campaign rally.

"I am going to formally endorse @realDonaldTrump," Ackman posted on social media platform X. "I assure you that I have made this decision carefully, rationally, and by relying on as much empirical data as possible".

Ackman followed Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who endorsed Trump and expressed "hope for his rapid recovery" from the shooting, in which Trump was hit in the upper right ear but said by his campaign to be doing fine.

Ackman's endorsement marks a change from 2021. After the attack by Trump supporters on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, Ackman posted that Trump should "resign and apologize to all Americans."

The chief executive and portfolio manager of Pershing Square Capital Management said he had recently spent a few hours with Trump but did not explain the reasoning behind his endorsement.

He said it would take another long-form post to lay out his thinking. "I just haven't had the time nor felt the urgency to write the post as we are still a few months from the election," he said.

Ackman's endorsement did not mention Saturday's shooting. He alluded to it in a later post: "We are in the midst of a perilous moment for our democracy."

"I came to this decision some time ago as many X followers have already understood from my supportive posts of Trump and my criticisms of Biden," Ackman said. He has 1.3 million followers on X.

Ackman had considered endorsing Trump as recently as May, and had planned to announce his support on X, Reuters and other media outlets reported.

(Reporting by Nilutpal Timsina in Bengaluru and Carolina Mandl in New York; Editing by William Mallard, Lananh Nguyen and Jamie Freed)
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally - Image: Anna Moneymaker (Getty Images)

As the shooting at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania continues to be investigated as an assassination attempt on the former president, political leaders around the world are speaking out to condemn political violence of all kinds. Black leaders mostly called for a thorough investigation into the shooting and promised hearings and press conferences in response to the event.

Vice President Kamala Harris took to X shortly after the initial violence to say We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.



Former President Obama also tweeted ...we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

Georgia Sen. Reverend Raphael Warnock told Americans that We are better than this in a recent tweet.

Overall, statements were filled with relief for Trumps safety and concern about gun violence flooded the internet. But there were others who expressed their hesitant emotions about Trumps incendiary role in it all, with some like Tenn. Sen. Antonio Parkinson even suggesting the shooting was planned.

I certainly hope this is not a staged act. But... Sen. Parkinson first tweeted. After receiving much backlash, Parkinson then wrote as part of a series of tweets Regardless of what side of the isle youre on, all acts of violence and those perpetrating them should be denounced emphatically.

Regardless of what side of the isle you're on, all acts of violence and those perpetrating them should be denounced emphatically.  State Representative Antonio Parkinson (@TNRepParkinson) July 14, 2024

After offering his condolences to the victims family, Parkinson told Americans We have to do better as a nation and I truly believe we can do better.

Another senator from Tenn., London Lamar, saw the shooting as an opportunity to call for gun reform. On X, she wrote Gun violence is too rampant in our country and I hope this situation changes the minds of his [Trump] followers and Republican lawmakers.



Why did you delete this statement?? pic.twitter.com/cR2oxpYhAh  Rosie B. (@RosieB08) July 14, 2024

She continued by giving her condolences to the by-stander killed, and in true Democrat fashion, urging voters to head to the polls in November. Many, however, noticed in a now deleted tweet, Lamar blamed Trump and his MAGA movement for inciting yesterdays violence.

While some Democrats blamed Trump for inciting violence in the past, Republican leaders are also pointing fingers at President Biden, calling him indirectly responsible for the attack on the GOP nominee. In a tweet, S.C. Sen. Tim Scott said For years, Democrats and their allies in the media have recklessly stoked fears, calling President Trump and other conservatives threats to democracy. He continued saying Their inflammatory rhetoric puts lives at risk.

Scott, who recently talked to the Root about his support of Trump, is hoping to become Trumps running mate for the former presidents reelection bid. All eyes have been on Trump to make a decision about his VP selection, and he was predicted to announce his decision during the Republican National Convention, which starts on Monday. It has not been confirmed if the attempt on his life will effect upcoming Trump campaign plans.

As a Christian, I pray for brother Trump and his precious family!

As presidential candidates, we all must renounce any language and acts of hatred and violence against anyone, including Black People, Immigrants, Palestinians, Jews, Muslims#TruthJusticeLove  Cornel West (@CornelWest) July 13, 2024

In reaction to the fatal shooting, Independent presidential candidate Cornel West called for peace against all acts of hatred around the world in a tweet. As presidential candidates, we all must renounce any language and acts of hatred and violence against anyone, including Black People, Immigrants, Palestinians, Jews, Muslims

The public is still waiting to hear from other prominent Black politicians like former Ga. Rep. Stacey Abrams and Calif. Rep. Maxine Waters, who is known to be critical of the former president.

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(Bloomberg) -- Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old gunman who shot and injured former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally, briefly appeared in an advertisement for BlackRock Inc., the company said on Sunday.

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Crooks was one of several students who appeared in the background of the 2022 ad and was unpaid, BlackRock, the worlds largest money manager, said in a statement. The ad was filmed at Bethel Park High School, where Crooks graduated in 2022, and featured a teacher, the company said.

The company did not describe the content of the ad but said footage will be made available to the authorities and that it will be removed from circulation. It also condemned the attack on Saturday that left one attendee dead and two others critically wounded.

The assassination attempt on former President Trump is abhorrent. Were thankful former President Trump wasnt seriously injured, and thinking about all the innocent bystanders and victims of this awful act, especially the person who was killed, the statement said.

BlackRock reports earnings on Monday. The company has in the past come under scrutiny after shootings in the US because some of its index funds own shares in gunmakers.

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Donald Trump forged his political identity from multiple strains of white-hot emotional politics: The grievance and anger of his political base. The anxiety and uncertainty of a divided nation. And perhaps above all, his own aura of brazenness and raw strength.

That identity was on vivid display on a somber evening in Butler, Pennsylvania, where Trump emerged physically bloodied and politically triumphant from a shooting that ripped through the 2024 presidential campaign.

The shooting killed one member of the crowd and injured two others, officials said. Also dead was the gunman, who was described by the Secret Service as aiming at the stage.

The former presidents precise physical condition was still unknown when Republicans began sharing an Associated Press photograph of Trump  blood splattered on his right cheek  pumping his fist beneath an off-kilter American flag after gunshots singed the air. His political allies and admirers in the United States and abroad cheered for his resilience, while Democrats uniformly denounced the violence as un-American.



In the eyes of his political movement, this was a moment that showed Trump at his most defiant.

"President Trump was the epitome of courage under fire, said Simone Ledeen, a former senior Trump Department of Defense official. The iconic photos of him being beamed across the world show the true American spirit.



It remains to be seen whether the shooting might shift the tenor of a presidential campaign defined by bitter attacks, mutual contempt between the candidates and broad public discontent with all their options. The country is so deeply polarized that other explosive events have barely shifted the polls.

But coming as Republicans prepare to gather in Milwaukee for their nominating convention, the shooting instantly seemed certain to define Trumps image even more vividly in the eyes of his supporters.

More than ever Donald Trump is Americas president, Rep. Jim Banks of Indiana, a top Trump ally who is slated to speak in primetime Tuesday from Milwaukee  and who himself weathered threats on his life and the lives of his daughters  told POLITICO. I know he never backs down and Im confident this will only embolden him to do even more to win and save America.



Vivek Ramaswamy, who is also scheduled to speak at the RNC, captured Trumps political arc in terms that are likely to resonate  and echo  in Milwaukee: First they sued him, he said on X. Then they prosecuted him. Then they tried to take him off the ballot. The only thing more tragic than what just happened is that, if were being honest, it wasnt totally a shock.

Democrats broadly condemned the attack. President Joe Bidens reelection campaign paused all outbound communications and worked to pull down his television ads as quickly as possible.

But in parts of the country, the normal, humdrum activities of democracy continued. In Indiana, Democrats were tabulating votes at their state convention for statewide offices when the convention chair interrupted the proceedings: Violence has no place in our democratic process and those who advocate for it might want to take a reflective look, said Robin Winston, a former state party chair. This is wrong.

Former President Barack Obama said on X that Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer posted on X, This is not how we solve our differences, while

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro wrote: Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable.

For Republicans, the violent episode offered fresh cause to rally around their candidate. They seized on comments Biden made just days ago, when he said on a private donor call that Trump should be in the campaigns bullseye, making the remark as he discussed moving on from his debate performance.

Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.), on X shared the Biden quote and wrote that Joe Biden sent the orders, while Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.) suggested an assassination attempt against President Trump could be linked to what Biden said.

Bidens campaign did not immediately respond to requests for comment about the comment. Biden, speaking to reporters, called for unity and denounced political violence, saying, Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick.



Bill White, a Republican donor and longtime friend of Trump, told POLITICO that Biden should be forced to resign immediately because of his remarks Monday.

He called for President Trumps death by saying, Put a bullseye on Donald Trump, White said.

White said Trump will almost certainly still appear on stage at next weeks GOP convention in Milwaukee, though security concerns must be addressed.

One hundred percent, White said of Trump still taking the stage at the convention. He didnt want to be taken off that stage. They had to take him off that stage because its a crime scene.

When he left, he said Fight, fight, fight. He could have said a whole bunch of other things, and the fact hes telling people to fight means get out the vote for Donald Trump, and send Joe Biden packing.

White wasnt alone. We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, a potential Trump vice presidential pick, wrote on X.

For his part, Trumps initial tone was not as jubilant as some of his supporters. In a post, he thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement for their response, extended condolences to the family of the person killed in the crowd and said it is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country.

Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead, Trump wrote. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Later in the evening, his campaign sent a fundraising email that didn't mention the shooting explicitly, saying, "I WILL NEVER SURRENDER!"

Already on Saturday, there seemed to be some concrete fallout in Trumps favor. Billionaire Elon Musk appeared to use the moment to officially endorse the former president after Bloomberg reported earlier Saturday that he had donated to a pro-Trump super PAC.

Paul Helmke, the former president and CEO of the Brady Center/Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, which gained prominence after press secretary Jim Brady suffered a bullet to the head during the 1981 Ronald Reagan assassination attempt, compared the moment to 1968.

"You really wondered, 'Will the country survive this?' and we did, Helmke said. But this year seems a lot like that year in terms of the polarization, the antipathy that people have toward one toward each other, the blatant calls for violence

He trailed off.

Matt Berg contributed to this report.
Bloodied, defiant Trump with raised fist: An enduring image that likely will fuel his campaign

Former President Trump raises his fist as he is surrounded by security agents after Saturday's assassination attempt. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

Former President Trump was blanketed by Secret Service agents, blood on his ear, when he raised his fist and appeared to say "fight" three times, creating what is likely to become the most enduring image of a life that has been built on them.

The defiant gesture during his Saturday night rally in Pennsylvania, after narrowly escaping an assassination attempt, showed Trump's instinctual understanding that a visual show of strength is likely to fuel the rest of his presidential campaign.

He didnt miss a beat. I can't believe he had such self-awareness and consciousness to continue to campaign while he's being hauled off," said Joan Hoff, a Montana State University history professor and former director of the Center for the Study of the Presidency in New York.

It's too early to calculate the full political impact of the moment. But it is already energizing Trump's base and, for some voters not sold on the former president, could overtake uglier images such as his Jan. 6 speech that whipped up supporters who stormed the Capitol, his ambivalent response to the race-based violence in Charlottesville, Va., or any number of events during and after his presidency that have prompted concerns about his fitness for office.

It also carved another mark on 2024 as one of the most unusual and unpredictable campaign seasons in recent history.

Read more: New videos, witness accounts of Trump assassination attempt raise questions about security

Trump, despite multiple indictments, an eventual conviction, two impeachments and the attempt to overturn the 2020 election, ran away with his party's nominating contest.

President Biden, the oldest president in history at 81, is pushing back against calls in his party to drop out of the race after a debate performance that set off alarm bells, and which some see as his decline.

Trump is already leading in national polls and in key battleground states. Any boost could be crucial.

Party conventions, usually drama-free and prepackaged in the modern era, will now take on new significance. The Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee, is likely to be dominated by the shooting. The campaign announced within hours of Saturday's assassination attempt  which wounded Trump's ear and left the shooter and one other person dead  that Trump would be in attendance to accept the nomination.

The whole crowd will rise in unity and shout USA! with their fists up, predicted Douglas Brinkley, a Rice University historian and expert on the presidency. He will be assuming a role like a folk hero or a martyr because he survived a near-death ordeal.

The Democratic convention in Chicago, scheduled to begin Aug. 19, promises a different sort of drama. If Biden decides to step out of the race, Democrats will have to pick a replacement in a process that has still not been defined. If he continues to resist such calls, the party will try to show unity and convince voters that Biden is capable of winning reelection, despite daunting polls, and performing the job for another four years.

Trump was still en route to the hospital when supporters began turning images of the former president emerging from the shooting into heroic online memes, extensions of the strongman persona that he began cultivating during his television career.

They also began blaming Biden and other Democrats who warned that Trump is a danger to democracy, even when the shooter's identity and motives were unknown. Sunday morning, the FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old registered Republican.

"Today is not just some isolated incident," U.S. Sen. J.D. Vance, an Ohio Republican who is on the short list to be Trump's running mate, wrote on the X social media platform on Saturday night. "The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

One Republican lawmaker, Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia, was the author of the evidence-free theory that "Joe Biden sent the orders" on his X account, one of many to promote unfounded so-called deep-state conspiracies on social media.

Trump has long encouraged violence at his rallies and mocked Paul Pelosi, the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco), when he was the victim of a political attack. But Democrats were not in a position to fight back immediately, given the public sympathy Trump is generating. Most, including Nancy Pelosi, released statements of prayer and concern.

Read more: Trump shooting is a historic moment echoing past political violence in America

The current House speaker, Republican Mike Johnson of Louisiana, called on everyone to "turn the rhetoric down" on the "Today" show Sunday.

"We need leaders of all parties, on both sides, to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have, he said.

David Gergen, who served in the Reagan White House when the president was shot in 1981, recalled "the outpouring of support" as he was transformed into "a martyr."

There was just a wave of sympathy for Reagan and I think you're going to see that this time," he said.

Gergen, who served four presidents in both parties for decades, believes sympathy for Trump could sway undecided voters and that "a significant number will go further  seeing their president nearly murdered." But the dramatic event could also stir Biden "to transform himself and his team."

But even many of Trump's harshest political critics fear Biden, who is increasingly defined by his age, will have little hope of overcoming Trump's show of resiliency in the face of an attempt on his life.

"The split-screen effect is of one man tripping on public stages versus another man of approximately the same age whos defiant in the face of a shooting," said Steve Schmidt, a former top political aide to the late Republican Sen. John McCain who has campaigned hard against Trump. "That type of contrast is not survivable for a presidential candidate.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Donald Trump defiantly salutes to the crowd before being rushed from the stage by Secret Service agents - EVAN VUCCI/AP

Donald Trump has described how a bullet ripped through his skin at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night, after a gunman fired a volley of bullets at him from a nearby roof.

The Republican nominee, 78, dropped to the ground amid the sound of shots and screaming a few minutes into his address to thousands of supporters.

A bullet appeared to have grazed his ear, and blood dripped down his face as he was led away by US Secret Service agents with one arm lifted defiantly in the air.

Witnesses reported that a man armed with a rifle had climbed on a nearby roof as the former president delivered remarks at his last rally before the Republican National Convention on Monday.

One audience member was killed in the attack, and two others were injured.

The gunman, who was identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania, was shot dead by Secret Service snipers moments after he opened fire.

The former president fell to the ground for cover after the attack - ANNA MONEYMAKER/GETTY IMAGES

The FBI confirmed that the incident was an assassination attempt against Trump.

The former president, who was assessed by doctors at a nearby medical centre, said he had been hit but not seriously hurt.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, he wrote on Truth Social, his online platform.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

As he was ushered away, he said: Fight! Fight!

Donald Trump was carried away by agents and driven from the scene in an armoured car - GENE J PUSKAR/AP

Joe Biden, the US president, spoke to Trump by phone on Saturday evening and gave a brief statement from his home state of Delaware, where he had been spending the weekend.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, he said, describing the attack as sick.

Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added.

A Secret Service spokesman said an immediate investigation had been launched, and the Butler Farm Show Grounds near Pittsburgh, where the assassination attempt took place, has been designated a crime scene.

Graphic images circulating on social media show the apparent shooter lying dead on the roof of a nearby building. The New York Times reported that he appeared to have been carrying an AR15-style assault rifle.

Wearing a red Make America Great Again cap, the former president was discussing a chart detailing border crossing numbers when gunshots were heard.

Trump appeared to grab his ear amid the sound of bangs and screams from audience members.

He was then seen ducking behind the podium as terrified audience members scrambled to the ground behind him.

Secret Service agents instantly swarmed around him, while officers carrying rifles stalked the stage.

Officers could be heard shouting shooters down, were good to move before Trump was helped up to his feet, his hair dishevelled.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired - AP

Armed officers leapt onto the stage to protect Donald Trump - AP

Sir Keir Starmer joined world leaders in condemning the attack.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at president Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes, the Prime Minister said.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Barack Obama called for civility and respect in US politics, and said he and his wife Michelle wished Trump a quick recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, he said.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former president Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

However, some Republicans immediately blamed Mr Biden for the attack, accusing him of whipping up opposition to his political rival.

JD Vance, who is one of the front-runners to be Trumps running mate, said the fatal shooting was not just some isolated incident.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that president Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to president Trumps attempted assassination, he said.

Mike Collins, a GOP congressman from Georgia, called for Mr Biden to be prosecuted.

The incident came ahead of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Monday, where Trump will formally receive the partys nomination for the 2024 presidential race.

Donald Trump Jr, Trumps eldest son, posted a photo on X, formerly Twitter, of Trump, his fist raised and his face bloody in front of an American flag, with the words: Hell never stop fighting to Save America.

He'll never stop fighting to Save America  pic.twitter.com/qT4Vd0sVTm  Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) July 13, 2024

Eric Trump, another of the former presidents sons, posted the same image, remarking: This is the fighter America needs!

The incident raised immediate questions about the security protocols at the event.

As a former president, Trump is entitled to protection from the US Secret Service, and all attendees at his rallies are screened with metal detectors.

However, eyewitnesses said the shooter was stationed on a nearby roof, outside of the security perimeter.

Video footage of the shooting appears to show that Secret Service snipers noticed the gunman only after he had fired the first shots.

One witness, who was not inside the rally, told the BBC he had tried to alert police officers to the shooter for several minutes before he opened fire.

We noticed a guy bear crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50ft away from us, he said.

Donald Trump clutched his right ear moments after the shots were heard - REUTERS

Donald Trump was quickly surrounded by his security team - GENE J PUSKAR/AP

He said he was 100 per cent sure the shot had come from the man on the roof who was then killed by Secret Service agents.

They crawled up on the roof, they had their guns pointed at him [and] made sure he was dead. He was dead, and that was it, it was over, he said.

Mike Johnson, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, said he would hold an evidence session for officials responsible for Trumps security to brief Congress.

They include Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the Secret Service, and other officials from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI.

Ms Cheatle was among the officials that briefed Mr Biden on the incident on Saturday night.

People were seen hugging each other in support following the attack - GENE J PUSKAR/AP

The White House said that the president would return to Washington in light of the attempt on Trumps life, while the Biden-Harris campaign said they would pull all political ads immediately.

Trump received an outpouring of support in the hours after the attack, including from Elon Musk, the billionaire Tesla chief executive, who used the moment to officially endorse him for the first time.

Sharing a video of the moment Trump pumped his fist on the air, he wrote: I fully endorse president Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.

The incident is expected to have a major impact on the 2024 election, after weeks of national polls that show Trump is narrowly ahead of Mr Biden in terms of public support.

Following his shooting in 1981, shortly after taking office, Ronald Reagan received a poll boost of eight percentage points.

A US Secret Service spokesman said: An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former president is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

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China's top legislator pays official goodwill visit to Russia, attends meeting on parliamentary cooperation

Xinhua) 09:23, July 14, 2024

Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, Russia, July 11, 2024. At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, Zhao paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

ST. PETERSBURG, July 13 (Xinhua) -- At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, China's top legislator Zhao Leji paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13.

During the visit, Zhao, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, and held talks with Matviyenko and Volodin respectively in Moscow. He also attended the 9th meeting of the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation in Moscow on Wednesday.

Zhao conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and good wishes to President Putin.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Russia, Zhao said under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has developed at a high level and in high quality, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples.

Recalling that a few days ago, Xi and Putin met again in Astana and reached a series of strategic consensus, Zhao said that the NPC of China is willing to work with the Russian Federal Assembly to implement the important consensus of the two heads of state at the legislative level and contribute to consolidating political mutual trust, deepening practical cooperation and enhancing friendship between the two peoples.

Putin asked Zhao to convey his cordial greetings to Xi. He said he and Xi recently had a successful meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, during which they exchanged in-depth views on important issues of bilateral cooperation and reached important consensus.

The legislative bodies of Russia and China have always maintained a high level of cooperation, which helps to advance the priority issues of bilateral cooperation at the legislative level and create a favorable economic, cultural and legal environment for the achievement of various goals, Putin said.

He pointed out that strengthening the work of the Russia-China committee for parliamentary cooperation is not only conducive to exchange of experience, mutual learning and understanding, and promotion of cooperation at the legislative and sub-national levels and in other fields between the two countries, but is also conducive to the enhancement of friendship between the two peoples.

In talks with Matviyenko and Volodin, Zhao said that the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is the biggest political advantage of China-Russia relations.

The two sides should follow the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain strategic focus, strengthen confidence in their path, and firmly support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests, he said.

Over the years, the NPC of China has maintained close exchanges and cooperation with the Federation Council and the State Duma of Russia, constantly enriching the connotation of bilateral strategic coordination, Zhao said, calling on the legislative bodies of the two sides to base themselves on their functions and responsibilities, make good use of mechanisms and platforms such as the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation and the bilateral friendship group, deepen exchanges and cooperation at multiple levels, in multiple fields and through multiple channels, and learn from each other's legislative experience so as to provide a rule of law guarantee for practical cooperation.

The two sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral platforms such as the BRICS Cooperation mechanism, the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the SCO to jointly safeguard international equity and justice, he added.

For her part, Matviyenko said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has been operating at a high level, adding that developing relations with China is widely recognized and supported by the Russian society.

She called on the legislatures of the two countries to strengthen legislative cooperation, promote exchanges between legislatures at the sub-national level, young lawmakers and deputies of the NPC, and promote bilateral cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade and people-to-people exchanges.

Volodin said that different parties in the Russian State Duma are highly consistent in developing relations with China. Russia firmly abides by the one-China principle and opposes any external interference in China's internal affairs, he added.

He called on the two countries to innovate and improve the new model of cooperation between the legislative bodies and continuously upgrade the level of cooperation.

When addressing the 9th meeting of the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation, Zhao said that the committee is an important platform for exchanges and cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, which reflects the high level and particularity of China-Russia relations.

He urged the legislatures of the two countries to cement strategic coordination to serve the overall development of China-Russia relations, exchange governance experience to help their respective countries develop and revitalize, give full play to the functions of legislative bodies to promote practical cooperation through the rule of law, carry forward traditional friendship to consolidate the social and public support for state-to-state relations, and enhance multilateral coordination to unite and strengthen the Global South at the legislature level.

During the visit, Zhao laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow.

Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, meets with Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, in Moscow, Russia, July 10, 2024. At the invitation of Volodin and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, Zhao paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, delivers a speech while attending the 9th meeting of the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation in Moscow, Russia, July 10, 2024. At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, Zhao paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, meets with Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko in Moscow, Russia, July 9, 2024. At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Matviyenko, Zhao paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13. (Xinhua/Zhang Ling)

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images/iStockphoto

For many Americans, becoming a millionaire  or even a multi-millionaire  is a dream come true. As for those who want to retire early, its also a bit of a necessity, given the high cost of living and longer time spent in retirement.

If youre on the outside looking in, you might not know the best ways to build your wealth and retire early. But while everyones path and pursuits are going to be different, there are some relatively simple tricks you can employ to get rich and retire sooner.

Learn More: Heres How Much You Need Saved To Retire Rich in Americas Largest Cities

Check Out: The Surprising Way You Can Get Guaranteed Retirement Income for Life

Heres some advice from three people who retired millionaires in their 40s  a good two or more decades before the typical retirement age. Even these tips they dont all work for you, they could help you get on track with your own wealth-building and retirement goals.

Wealthy people know the best money secrets. Learn how to copy them.

Keep Costs Low  Like, Really Low

You might have heard the old adage, Spend money to make money. But if youre going to spend, it should be strategic. Otherwise, your best bet is to keep costs as low as possible so that you have more cash flow for other ventures that can actually make you rich.

I retired at age 42 after selling my real estate investment company. I had spent over 15 years building the business through purchasing, renovating and selling/renting houses, said Daniel Cabrera of Sell My House Fast San Antonio TX. By reinvesting profits and using leverage from private lenders, I was able to build a sizable portfolio of income-producing properties.

Despite his sizable portfolio, Cabrera and his wife still strived to keep costs low. They lived in a modest home, drove used cars and avoided certain unnecessary expenses  like luxury vacations.

Be Aware: 4 Reasons Retired Women Need More Money Than Men  And What To Do About it

Save and Invest the Rest

As you keep costs low, youll start to find that you have more money for other things  like savings and investments. It can take some time to get a substantial amount of cash, but its worth it when you get to retire early.

My wife and I saved over 60% of our income for the first decade of our careers, said Cabrera. We invested in index funds and real estate.

Set Goals and Run the Numbers

Becoming rich is a great starting goal, but youre going to need an actual plan for how to get there  and that often starts with running the numbers.

My advice is to calculate how much you need to save to retire early, develop a detailed plan and stay focused, said Cabrera. It will likely require sacrifices, but you can achieve it. Save as much as possible, look for ways to increase income and invest for solid returns.

Story continues

Build Passive Income

This isnt shocking advice, but its still sound. The thing about building passive income is that it can be as complicated or as simple as you want  it all depends on which types of income streams you decide to build.

For Cabrera, his primary income streams  beyond his regular job  include rental income, capital gains and side business revenues. All of these, he chose to reinvest to continue building wealth.

You can do the same, but the main goal is to get that passive income going.

Once your passive income covers expenses and you have ample savings, youll have the confidence to retire early, said Cabrera. It took constant discipline, but retiring in my early 40s was well worth the effort.

Choose an Investment  Or Two  That Generate Income

There are plenty of investment options out there, so youll want to choose the one  or ones  that most appeal to you. Maybe you want to be more active in your investments. Or perhaps youd prefer something more passive. Whatever the case may be, take some time to choose your preferred ones and go from there.

Nick Disney, a multi-millionaire whos planning to retire next year at the age of 44, said his top strategy is to invest in real estate. It might not be the easiest way of becoming rich, at least not right away, but over time, it can really pay off.

[Investing in real estate] will help you create wealth and provide monthly cash flow that can replace your salary, so you can retire when you are ready. I like this strategy, because almost anyone can do it, you can scale it up to fit your needs, and it is one of the most tried and true methods to create wealth in history, said Disney.

Listen to Other Millionaires (And Five More Tricks)

If you want to get rich and possibly retire early, theres no one better to learn from than the experts. Thats what Brenda Christensen, CEO of Stellar Public Relations, Inc., did.

I abide by Warren Buffets template of being frugal. Also, Im a big fan of Mark Cuban, who I also worked with on another startup, she said.

Christensen had five simple tricks to help you build wealth, too:

Be frugal. Forgo pricey restaurants, hair salons and overpriced anything, including coffee cafes and other flash items/lifestyles, she said.

Invest in your passion  and yourself. Education and training are essential to getting ahead. Ive made a fortune in flipping beach real estate and exotic/antique cars, because I love them both, she said.

Avoid debt at all costs. Only buy the things you love that you can afford and that will bring you true long-term value.

Get those tax deductions. I rarely go out to restaurants, and if I do, its a business expense, she said. Same with other big-ticket items like automobiles and the like. All tax deductible.

And last but not least, dont retire  at least not officially.

Im a big proponent of continuing to work for your mental and physical health, said Christensen. Whether it be your passion business project or charity, keep active and engaged.

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: I Retired a Millionaire in My 40s: 11 Way Too Easy Tricks To Help You Get Rich
Bloodied face, fist raised in defiance: how this image may win Trump the US presidency

Defiant: Donald Trump survives an attempt on his life during a campaign rally - Evan Vucci/AP

The Stars and Stripes flutters in the background as a bloody-faced Donald Trump raises a fist in defiance and calls on his supporters to fight on.

The image of Trump seconds after surviving an assassination attempt is one of those photographs of obvious and immediate power.

He could not have looked more like an American hero if he tried. If he wins the election in November, it will likely be considered one of a handful of photographs that altered the course of the countrys history.

It is a product of world-class photojournalism  and also, perhaps, of Trumps innate political instincts.

About a minute after Trump took cover from a gunmans bullets, the Secret Service agents shielding his body decided to move him to safety. Were clear, lets move, they were heard saying before raising the former president to his feet.

But Trump told them to wait. Before being ushered away, he turned to the crowd, raised his fist and mouthed what looked, to lip readers, like the word fight.

A bullet whistles towards Trump's ear - DOUG MILLS/NEW YORK TIMES

Trump, of course, is a showman. Those who know him describe how he is constantly thinking about how he will appear at a given moment. Whether he was acting on pure instinct, or he had time in those 60 seconds on the ground to actually think through a photo opportunity, it paid off.

The Telegraph ran with a shot by the APs Evan Vucci, standing below Trump. But there are no shortage of variations on the theme. Anna Money of Getty and Brendan McDermid of Reuters captured the moment from other angles.

The New York Times Doug Mills even captured what appears to be the bullet in flight after it clipped Trumps right ear.

Trump is rushed offstage after being shot - ANNA MONEY/GETTY

By Sunday afternoon, Chinese entrepreneurs had already started selling souvenir T-shirts emblazoned with the photograph

We put the T-shirts on Taobao as soon as we saw the news about the shooting, though we hadnt even printed them, and within three hours we saw more than 2,000 orders from both China and the US, Li Jinwei, one of the online sellers to start selling such T-shirts on the Taobao e-commerce platform, told the South China Morning Post.

Mr Vucci, an AP veteran who memorably photographed a protester throwing a shoe at George W Bush in Iraq, described how experience as a war photographer helped him in capturing the historic moment on Saturday.

Over my left shoulder, I heard pops, and I knew immediately what it was, and I just kind of went into work mode, he told Kasie Hunt on CNN This Morning.

That experience does help, trying to stay calm and understand you have a job to do.

As a still photographer, I dont get a second chance, he said.

It is too early to tell how their images will change the campaign. But they will certainly be compared to a handful of other iconic American photographs.

The obvious historic parallel should be the blurry image of Jackie Kennedy clambering out of the back of the presidential limousine after her husband, John F Kennedy, had been shot dead next to her in November 1963. Or the gaggle of suited secret servicemen leaping on John Hinckley after he shot Ronald Reagan in 1981.

But it is another image that instantly springs to mind.

US Marines raise the Stars and Stripes over Iwo Jima in 1945 - JOE ROSENTHAL/AP

The Secret Service agents, braced against Trump as they try to usher him away while shielding him, bear an unmistakable resemblance in posture, movement, and unity of purpose as the six US Marines who raised the Stars and Stripes over Iwo Jima in 1945.

Joe Rosenthals famous picture is, like Mr Vuccis from Saturday, an action shot capturing both a split second of frantic activity and a major moment in history. And of course there is the flag itself, fluttering in proud defiance of an attack on American democracy.

It is quite literally the broad stripes and bright stars still gallantly streaming. There could not be anything more American.

The outcome of the Second World War was not in doubt when Iwo Jima fell. But other photographs have been credited with changing the course of events.

Harrowing: the image of nine-year old Phan Thi Kim Phuc - NICK UT/AP

Perhaps the most famous came in June 1972, when the New York Times published on its front page a black and white photograph of a naked Vietnamese girl fleeing an air strike that mistakenly hit civilians.

Nick Uts photograph of nine-year old Phan Thi Kim Phuc was such an indictment of the use of napalm that President Richard Nixon even mused privately whether it had been staged to turn opinion against the war. It had not.

Muhammad Ali stands triumphant after beating Sonny Liston - NEIL LEIFIER/GETTY

It is unclear whether that picture did help end the war, which ran on for another three years. The American public had already largely turned against the conflict by the time it appeared. But it is considered one of the most politically consequential photographs to date.

Because America is so young, much of its history has been caught on camera: Neil Armstrongs photograph of Buzz Aldrin walking on the moon in 1969; Muhammad Ali standing over a defeated Sonny Liston; Tommie Smith and John Carlos making the Black Power salute at the Mexico City Olympics.

Neil Armstrong's photograph of Buzz Aldrin walking on the moon - NASA/PA

The Twin Towers billowing smoke on September 11, the plethora of images from the rubble after they fell, and three firefighters raising the flag at ground zero afterwards, a hooded prisoner in Abu Ghraib prison, Barack Obama watching the killing of Osama bin Laden.

The image of Trump is so perfectly formed that some, like president Nixon or conspiracy theorists who believe the moon landings were faked, might be tempted to wonder if it is genuine.

Barack Obama, the former US president, and his national security team in the White House Situation Room - PETE SOUZA/AFP

But that would be to misunderstand the nature of photojournalism in moments of chaos and danger.

As Rosenthal, who nearly missed the moment on Iwo Jima, and had to press the shutter without time to look through the viewfinder, put it: When you take a picture like that, you dont come away saying you got a great shot. You dont know.

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Honey, I forgot to duck: How Reagan turned his gun attack into electoral gold dust

Ronald Reagan falls to the ground following the 1981 shooting outside the Hilton Hotel in Washington DC as security men in grey attend to him - Michael Evans/Hutton Archive

There is a storied and bloody history of US presidential assassination attempts, and Donald Trump on Saturday joined a long list of former holders of the office who were threatened with violence, wounded or died as a result.

Four presidents were assassinated  Abraham Lincoln, James A Garfield, William McKinley and John F Kennedy.

Three more, including Trump, were injured in attacks.

Before Trump, in March 1981, Ronald Reagan was the last US president to have been injured in an assassination attempt.

He was shot outside a hotel in Washington DC shortly after taking office.

Reagan was wounded when one of the several bullets fired ricocheted off of the limousine, striking him under the left armpit.

Ronald Reagan is shoved into a car by security following the attempt on his life in 1981 - Ron Edmonds/AP

Shooter John Hinckley Jr, a fantasist, later said that he believed his attempt would impress young actress Jodie Foster, with whom he was infatuated with from her role as a child prostitute in Taxi Driver, ironically a film portraying a political assassination attempt.

John Hinckley Jr, seen on his way to a court hearing in 1987, said he believed the shooting would impress Taxi Driver actress Jodie Foster - Charles Tasnadi/AP

Reagan responded, as he did to so many things, by cracking a joke.

Before he went into surgery to remove a bullet lodged near his heart, he said to his wife Nancy: Honey, I forgot to duck.

Years later, realising what sounded like a gunshot at the Republican National Convention was actually a balloon popping, he remarked: You missed me.

The American public loved Reagans gift for humour, and his approval rating soared in the aftermath of the attack  helped in no small part by weeks of coverage focusing on the attack and his recovery.

It also had direct policy implications. In the immediate aftermath of the attack, Reagans daughter Maureen called for tighter gun control laws.

Reagan did not push the issue hard as president. But on the 10th anniversary of the attack, after he had retired, he wrote in The New York Times that this nightmare might never have happened if a bill to enforce background checks on owners of handguns then before congress had been in place.

The Brady Act, named after White House secretary Jim Brady, who was shot in the head and paralysed in the attack, finally passed by Congress and signed into law by Bill Clinton in 1993.

Trump is not a natural joker like Reagan was, but he is also likely to enjoy a polls bounce from the next few weeks of coverage of the attack, his own recovery and the heroism or possible blunders of the Secret Service, which will dominate the media reporting.

A Republican candidate backing current or new gun controls seems unthinkable in todays political climate in America.

But campaigners have long called for restrictions on the kind of AR-15 type rifle his would be assassin was using.

If he were to win the White House in November and were so minded, Trump would probably have a unique opportunity to push such legislation through.

Reagan and Trump were lucky: both dodged death by millimetres.

Other presidents have not been so fortunate.

John F Kennedy was killed in Dallas in probably the most famous assassination in history - Bettmann

In perhaps the most famous assassination of all time, John F Kennedy was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald while travelling through Dallas, Texas, in an open-topped car with his wife Jackie in 1963.

Like Trump, Kennedy was targeted by a sniper.

But Oswald, a former US marine, did not miss: the president was struck by two bullets in the head and back, and pronounced dead half an hour later at a nearby hospital.

First lady Jackie cradles her husband seconds after he is fatally shot - AP

Kennedys assassination had a lasting impact on American culture, with the grassy knoll phenomenon taking hold in the popular psyche.

Although an official investigation found that Oswald acted alone, a poll last year found that a majority of Americans believe he was part of a wider conspiracy.

Senator Robert F. Kennedy lies mortally wounded on the floor of the Ambassador hotel in Los Angeles - Richard Drew/Pasadena Star News via AP

In June 5 1968, JFKs brother Robert, a would-be president, was killed when he was shot at the Ambassador hotel in Los Angeles.

Abraham Lincoln was fatally wounded in this box at Ford's Theatre - AP

An illustration of the assassination of Lincoln by John Wilkes Booth - Universal History Archive/Universal Images/Getty

Abraham Lincoln, whose assassination at Fords Theatre in Washington DC on April 14 1865 is one of the most famous stories in American political history.

Lincoln was killed by John Wilkes Booth, an actor and supporter of the Confederacy who was incensed with the then-presidents suggestion that voting rights should be extended to black Americans.

An illustration of James A Garfield being shot by Charles Guiteau on July 2 1881 - Bettmann

James A Garfield was shot in a railway station in Washington DC on July 2 1881 by a disturbed man called Charles J Guiteau who was angry at not having been appointed ambassador to France.

He died 11 weeks later from an infection.

Portrait of the 25th US president, William McKinley, assassinated in 1901 - Time Life Pictures/Mansell/Getty

Illustration from Italian newspaper La Domenica del Corriere of the assassination of McKinley by an anarchist in Buffalo - Dea/A. Dagli Orti/De Agostini via Getty

Two decades later, Republican president William McKinley was shot in the stomach at a fair in New York state on Sept 6 1901 by anarchist Leon Czolgosz. The president died eight days later from gangrene.

After McKinleys death, the Secret Service was directed to begin round-the-clock security for sitting presidents.

George HW Bush was the subject of an assassination plot by a group of Kuwaiti and Iraqi assailants believed to have been working for Saddam Hussein, the Iraqi dictator.

They intended to kill him in January 1993, after he had left office, with a car bomb.

Bill Clinton, Bushs successor, launched a missile at an Iraqi intelligence installation in response to the unsuccessful plot.

A subsequent investigation by the CIA ruled that the plot may have been invented by Kuwaiti officials.

Bill and Hillary Clinton, seen in 1998, were the subject of several assassination bids - AP

At least five people have attempted to kill Mr Clinton, including with a pipe bomb addressed to his wife, Hillary, and by firing long-distance rounds at the White House.

George W Bush was the target of an assassination plot in May 2022, when an Iraqi citizen was arrested for putting together a team of IS sympathisers to kill the architect of the War on Terror.

He said the plot was motivated by anger about the Iraq war.

Barack Obama, Americas first black president, was the target of several assassination plots by white supremacists and far-Right groups.

In 2013, an Elvis impersonator from Mississippi was arrested after letters laced with the poison ricin were sent to Mr Obama, but was later released after police admitted he had nothing to do with the case.

He later said: I dont even like rice.

US actress Shannon Guess Richardson got 18 years in prison for sending the letters to Mr Obama, then-New York mayor Michael Bloomberg and a gun control activist.

Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez got 25 years' jail in 2011 for firing rounds intended to kill Barack Obama at the White House

Oscar Ramiro Ortega-Hernandez, a 21-year-old conspiracy theorist, was sentenced to 25 years in prison in 2011 for firing rounds at the White House that were intended to kill Mr Obama.

In May 2023, when Joe Biden was president, a 19-year-old man was arrested after driving a rented van into a White House barrier.

He later said that he was a Nazi sympathiser and was prepared to kill the president and seize power.

He pleaded guilty to a charge of destroying federal property and faces 10 years in prison. He has not yet been sentenced.

Craig Deleeuw Robertson, 75, who threatened to assassinate Joe Biden in Utah was shot dead when special agents raided his home

In August 2023, a man who threatened to assassinate Mr Biden in Utah was shot dead by the FBI hours before the president arrived in the state.

Craig Deleeuw Robertson, 75, died when special agents raided his home to arrest him in Provo, a city south of Salt Lake City.

Trump has faced several attempts on his life, including in an incident at a rally for his 2016 presidential campaign in Paradise, Nevada, when Briton Michael Sandford attempted to grab the gun of a police officer providing security for the event.

Sandford claimed that he had wished to kill Trump to prevent him from becoming president. He got a year in jail but was released and deported to the UK after 11 months in custody.

Hard questions are already being asked about security in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Trump, like Reagan, will probably benefit politically from being at the centre of the next few weeks media coverage and the natural sympathy of voters for someone who has survived an attempted murder.

And in the radically polarised atmosphere of contemporary America, it would be surprising if conspiracy theories do not being to spread  no matter how well the true course of events is established.

Wilkes Booth and Czolgosz had political motives.

But the men who attacked Garfield and Reagan were delusional. Lee Harvey Oswalds case remains a hotly debated mystery.

With that in mind, it is too early to say what exactly motivated the man who tried to kill Trump.

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All ten boat ramps at Blackpoint Marina in south Miami-Dade County were thoroughfares of trucks backing in trailered vessels Sunday morning as anglers were eager to get out into Biscayne Bay to hunt for spiny lobster for the first time since the recreational and commercial season ended for the Florida delicacy in March.

Before the season starts back up in August, there is always a miniseason for the clawless crustaceans on the last consecutive Wednesday and Thursday in July. This year, however, Gov. Ron DeSantis designated Sunday as an extra day of preseason lobster fishing for Florida residents only.

Bryce Jessee grabs the biggest lobster he caught to clean it and break off the tail, on the dock during the extra day of lobster miniseason on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at Black Point Marina in Homestead, Fla.

I think its great for the residents that were getting the extra day, said 19-year-old Lucas Bonell, who, with his girlfriend Samantha Windsor, 19, and his parents Michelle and Milton Bonell, prepped their boat to head out to the bay.

Hopefully, we can get our spot before its too late, Lucas said as he noticed all of the trucks lining up to put boats in the water.

To catch the lobsters, anglers either scuba dive or snorkel for them, usually using a tickle stick to coax them into hand-held nets. At night, anglers use a bully net that is lowered down to the ocean floor while standing on the deck of their boat.

The Bonells intended on putting their boat in the water at Matheson Hammock Park and Marina nearer to their Palmetto Bay home, but the ramp there was so busy, police moved people on from the entrance on Old Cutler Road, said Michelle Bonell.

Lucas Bonell, left, and Samantha Windsor tie up the lines after pushing their boat off the dock during the extra day of lobster miniseason on Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Black Point Marina in Homestead, Fla.

Still, they were excited they found a ramp at Blackpoint Marina.

Its all brand new. Brand new day, said Milton Bonell. Were looking forward to it.

Michelle Bonell, Milton Bonell, Lucas Bonell and Samantha Windsor take their boat out for lobstering during the extra day of lobster miniseason on Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Black Point Marina in Homestead, Fla.

Brian Garcia, 26, his girlfriend Vanessa Chavez, 26, and their friend Bryce Jessee, 33, returned from their expedition around 11 a.m. as the other boats were going out. They departed the marina at 5:30 a.m.

We were trying to avoid all of this, Garcia said, noting the lines for the boat ramps.

Getting an early start paid off for the friends. They hit their bag limit of six lobsters per person, per boat, even if it meant first waiting out some nasty weather.

It was raining in the morning, but once we got past the thunderstorms, we were good, Jessee said.

Bryce Jessee tosses out the carapace of a lobster after cleaning it for the tail on the dock during the extra day of lobster miniseason on Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Black Point Marina in Homestead, Fla.

The trip was Chavezs first time hunting for spiny lobster.

I was a little nervous about it at first, but overall, it was really good, she said.

Alex Lage, 21, Marlon Gonzalez, 22, and Darien Gonzalez, 20, got out to their spot outside of Boca Chita around 7:30 a.m., which proved to be an opportune time for lobster fishing.

We limited out by 9:30 a.m., so it was good, Lage said.

Marlon Gonzalez, Alex Lage, and Darien Gonzalez hold up their catch after pulling the boat out of the water during the extra day of lobster miniseason on Sunday, July 14, 2024, at Black Point Marina in Homestead, Fla.

Others came back to the dock empty handed.

Dito Valdes and his friends got into the water only to find the unfortunate downside to lobster fishing  the bay bottom littered with lobster carapaces, basically the heads of the lobsters after theyve been detached from their tails, which is illegal.

Lobsters must be brought back to shore alive and in one piece.

We just saw a bunch of broken tails, but that was about it, brother, Valdes told the Herald as he hooked his boat trailer back onto his truck.

During regular miniseason, the Florida Keys is usually the desired destination for people looking to fill their coolers with spiny lobster. Police agencies in the Keys were worried that the extra day might stretch their officers thin as they prepare for the annual miniseason in less than two weeks.

As the afternoon moved along, however, that had not happened, Capt. David Dipre with the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission, told the Herald.

Overall, this miniseason is working good so far. There seems to be plenty of locals taking advantage of it. Were not inundated like we usually are in regular miniseason, and we havent found anyone who isnt a Florida resident trying to get in on the harvest, Dipre said.
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  Here is reaction after a shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 14 left the suspected shooter and at least one attendee dead.

Trump was whisked off stage and a statement from the former president says he is fine.

Law enforcement officials in Pennsylvania are now saying the incident is being investigated as an apparent assassination attempt on the former presidents life.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott from his personal X account

They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitiable.

Red, white and blue. LEGEND.

U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-Texas via X

Any kind of political violence in America is absolutely unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement and praying that no one  including the former president  was seriously injured.

New Mexico Senate Republican Leader Greg Baca (R-Belen), Senate Republican Whip Craig Brandt (R-Rio Rancho), and Senate Republican Caucus Chair Mark Moores (R-Albuquerque) issued the following joint statement:

We are deeply shocked and outraged to learn about the assassination attempt of President Trump. This senseless act of violence is an attack not only on our President, but on the very fabric of our democracy.

This fraught moment in American history warrants solidarity. We must stand united against violence lest we degrade into a third world country.

We must let the law enforcement agencies do their work to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of our nation. Now more than ever, it is crucial for us to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and the rule of law.

U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-Texas via X

I pray President Trump has a speedy recovery.

Michael Apodaca, chair of the El Paso County Democratic Party

There is never room for violence in our political discourse. Our nations founding documents call for freedom of speech and free, fair, and safe elections. We are committed to upholding these principles, solving our political issues through the ballot box, not by bullets.

As we continue to gather more information about this ongoing situation, our thoughts are with former President Trump and the affected families.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser

Senseless acts of violence have no place in our country. We may not all agree ideologically, but this country was founded on that freedom. Whether you support the former President or not, I think all of us can agree that these types of violent acts should be condemned. I am glad to hear that former President Trump is safe, and as we learn more, I encourage our community to pray for anyone affected by the senseless shooting today.

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego

I am praying for the safety and healing of our Former President, the brave Secret Service members that acted quickly, and everyone who was in attendance today. El Pasoans know the impact of an event like this better than most, unfortunately. Any such event is devastating and shocking, but also brings a unique opportunity for unity and clarity.

Violence has no place in our democracy nor our communities. I ask everyone to remember that we have far more in common than we often realize. This Novembers elections should not be based on the events of today or political parties, but should be focused on how we move our country forward to be the best that we can be.

We have a responsibility to treat each other with respect and kindness, today and everyday. Let us not allow fear and division to overshadow our shared values and aspirations.

NM Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham

Im horrified by todays shooting in Butler, Pa. that resulted in the death of a spectator at a political rally and injuries to others, including former President Donald Trump. I condemn in the strongest possible terms political violence of any kind.

I extend my deepest condolences to the family of the victim who lost their life today, and I pray for the full recovery of former President Trump and others who were hurt by this reprehensible act of gun violence.

Americans must reject and denounce any attempt to resolve our political differences with bloodshed instead of democracy. With a presidential election looming, we must redouble our commitment to respectful and constructive discourse, regardless of political affiliation. New Mexico will do its part to ensure the safety and security of all and to uphold the values of democracy, justice, and civility.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
Boston Police seek publics help in finding missing 9-year-old boy

**UPDATE:**

Boston police say Camron Shavers has been found.

===================================

**ORIGINAL STORY BELOW**

Boston Police are seeking the publics help in finding a missing 9-year-old boy from Dorchester.

Camron Shavers was last seen around 10:47 p.m. on Saturday, July 13 leaving 12 Standish St on his blue and black bike.

Shavers was last seen wearing a black t-shirt with designs, green shorts, and white sneakers.

Anyone with information regarding his whereabouts is advised to contact 911 or District B-3 Detectives at 617-343-4712.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
Kentucky Republicans and Gov. Andy Beshear offered and asked for prayers for former President Donald Trump Saturday, after he was whisked off stage following a failed assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally, Sen. Mitch McConnell said in a post on X.com, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

Sen. Rand Paul added, Please keep Trump and everyone at the rally in your thoughts and prayers right now.

Beshear, a Democrat and rumored to be a potential vice-president candidate should President Biden decide to leave the presidential campaign, said Britainy and I are praying for the safety and health of the former president. Violence is never the answer. Never.

Federal officials said the incident is being investigated as a failed assassination attempt.

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa, on Saturday, July, 13, 2024. Trump was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents and into his motorcade just minutes into his rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, after a series of pops that sounded like gunshots rang out.

Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams echoed Beshears sentiment, saying in a social media post, May God protect the former President and all at this rally. Political violence, from the right or left, is never the answer.

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman said he is praying for President Trump, his family and the top-tier professionals of the U.S. Secret Service. No matter your beliefs, political violence has no place in our country.

U.S. Rep. James Comer also asked for prayers, saying in a post on X, Please pray for President Trump, those at the rally and our nation.

Trump injured when shots fired at Pennsylvania rally; gunman killed by Secret Service

Please join me in praying for @realDonaldTrump & all who were impacted by the cowardly attack at the rally in PA., U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers said in a post on X. I am grateful to know that President Trump was protected by the quick action of the Secret Service. Let us unite against all political violence & pray for peace.

Praying for Trump and others who might have been shot, U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie said in a post in which he shared a photo of a bloody-faced Trump with an upraised fist.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected, U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey, a Louisville Democrat, said. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response. America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.

I am praying for President Trump and our nation following the terrible events this afternoon, Rep. Brett Guthrie said in a post.

Please join us in praying for President Trump and anyone who was hurt by this cowardly act of violence, the Republican Party of Kentucky posted on X.

Blood could be seen on the side of Trumps face as he was being ushered away by Secret Service agents.

A Trump campaign spokesman said the former president is fine.

In a statement about two hours after the incident, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The former president shared that post on his social media site Truth Social Saturday night.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility, Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. More details will follow.

A shooter was dead, as well as at least one bystander in what is being investigated as a possible assassination attempt, ABC News reported. A second attendee is said to be in serious condition.

Trump expressed condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when loud pops or explosions could be heard, and Trump went to the ground.

Screams could be heard from the crowd as security personnel covered the former president before helping him to his feet and rushing him off the stage, video of the incident shared by CNN shows.

President Joe Biden was briefed in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on the shooting, the White House told CNN.

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall are part of the team briefing the president.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, President Joe Biden issued a statement posted on X. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

The Carter Center, founded at Atlantas Emory University by former President Jimmy Carter and the late Rosalynn Carter, issued a statement condemning the violence.

While we dont know all the facts, we do know that all Americans should be able to gather peaceably without fear of violence, the statement read. Our thoughts are with President Trump and all those affected by this horrific act., and we call on all Americans to embrace civility in our democratic processes.

Britainy and I are praying for the safety and health of the former president. Violence is never the answer. Never.  Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump, his family and the top-tier professionals of the U.S. Secret Service.



No matter your beliefs, political violence has no place in our country.  Attorney General Russell Coleman (@kyoag) July 13, 2024

May God protect the former President and all at this rally. Political violence, from the right or left, is never the answer. https://t.co/y7a5STyESN  Michael Adams, KY Secretary of State (@KYSecState) July 13, 2024

Please join me in praying for @realDonaldTrump & all who were impacted by the cowardly attack at the rally in PA. I am grateful to know that President Trump was protected by the quick action of the Secret Service. Let us unite against all political violence & pray for peace. https://t.co/6Xa4Nd4yb3  Hal Rogers (@RepHalRogers) July 14, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.  Leader McConnell (@LeaderMcConnell) July 13, 2024

Please keep Trump and everyone at the rally in your thoughts and prayers right now. https://t.co/1v8DBR8Xg3  Rand Paul (@RandPaul) July 13, 2024

Praying for Trump and others who might have been shot. pic.twitter.com/tGkIwl9ibH  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) July 13, 2024

Please pray for President Trump, those at the rally and our nation.  Rep. James Comer (@RepJamesComer) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

I am praying for President Trump and our nation following the terrible events this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/92Spp0Itz7  Rep. Brett Guthrie (@RepGuthrie) July 13, 2024

Please join us in praying for President Trump and anyone who was hurt by this cowardly act of violence.  Republican Party of Kentucky (@KYGOP) July 13, 2024

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024
Pastors at several Columbus churches, preaching for the first time since the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump that occurred Saturday evening, reflected on the role of faith in U.S. political life and called for prayers for an ailing nation Sunday.

Executive pastor Todd Marrah, preaching at the nondenominational Rock City Church in Hilliard, called for God to unite the nation that was "this far away from civil war," he said, using his fingers to mark "about one inch" of distance.

The former president was injured in his right ear when a sniper, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, opened fire on a Trump rally in Butler Pennsylvania Saturday, wounding Trump along with seriously injuring two people and killing one. Secret Service agents killed Crooks shortly after he opened fire.

Trump said in a Truth Social post that he was "shot with a bullet that pierced the upper right part of my ear."

Marrah ascribed Trump's survival to God during his sermon Sunday, which The Dispatch watched via livestream.

"Father, I thank you for your protection over President Trump. I think you must have somehow, in ways I couldn't see, supernaturally intervened," he said.

According to a March 2024 Pew poll, 67% of white evangelical Protestants had a favorable view of the former president. When it comes to Protestants in general, 48% said they had a favorable view of Trump.

Pastor Dean Fulks of Lifepoint Church in Lewis Center asked his congregation to pray for U.S. leaders, first responders and the Secret Service agents who protected Trump by shielding him with their bodies. He said their selflessness is a reminder of the Bible's teachings.

"God, will you remind us that we are light in the middle of darkness, that evil is at work in the world, but God, we have the opportunity, we know truth, we have answers, we have hope," Fulks said in his sermon, which The Dispatch watched via livestream.

The Rev. Jack Sullivan Jr., the executive director of the Ohio Council of Churches, a cross-denominational partnership composed of 4,000 congregations and two million members, said faith provides guidance when national events leave believers shaken.

"(Faith) helps us to gain clarity concerning the values and the vision of God for humanity, which has to do with flourishing and abundant living and does not include any acceptance of violence," he told The Dispatch. "And so, people should be able to express their perspectives and their views on politics and life in general without violence and intimidation. And that goes for everybody."

At World Harvest Church in Columbus, Ashton Parsley, the daughter of pastor Rod Parsley, filled in for her father while he rested his voice. She said the church condemns "any and all acts of violence, period, but political violence in particular."

She then asked the congregation to create a "prayer covering" for the U.S. and those affected by the assassination attempt.

"As intercessors and believers as the body of Christ, we are called to pray," she said in the sermon, which The Dispatch watched via livestream.

Pastor Eric Pickerill at Vineyard Columbus called the assassination attempt "heartbreaking" during his sermon.

"I just am heartbroken for my own kids and the young generation and what they're witnessing right now in our country," he said.

He also called for his congregation to resist the "angry and hateful rhetoric on the left and the right" and to commit themselves to peace.

"We, as followers of Jesus, are peacemakers. That is the gospel that Jesus brought, the gospel of peace. Jesus is the ultimate peacemaker, and he calls us to be peacemakers. And what that means is that as followers of Jesus, we condemn all forms of violence all the time. Violent speech and violent action," he said in his sermon, which The Dispatch watched via livestream.

Catholics make up a less sizable chunk of Trump's base, with only 42% of them saying they have a favorable view of the former president. Bishop Earl Fernandes of the Diocese of Columbus asked Columbus Catholics to pray for those affected by the shooting in a post on X, the site formerly known as Twitter.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, let us join together in prayer for our beloved country after the violence today at a rally with former president Donald J. Trump. Let us pray for those who were involved as well as those who would attempt to terrorize others with violence.  Bishop Earl K. Fernandes (@bishopfernandes) July 14, 2024

The FBI is still searching for a motive for the shooting Sunday. Crooks' father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN Saturday evening that he was trying to figure out "what the hell is going on" and would "wait until I talk to enforcement" before sharing details about his son, USA TODAY previously reported.

NHart@dispatch.com

@NathanRHart

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Trump shooting: Columbus church leaders call for unity, fear civil war
District Attorney Keith Higgins announced that Ricky Ricardo Easterling, 52, of Brunswick, Georgia, has entered a negotiated guilty plea in Glynn County Superior Court on July 1.

Easterling pleaded guilty to Malice Murder, two counts of Felony Murder, and two counts of Possession of a Firearm by a Convicted Felon in connection with a 2023 shooting.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

The incident reportedly occurred on May 20, 2023, around 1:00 am near Nazzaros restaurant at Retreat Village on St. Simons Island. Glynn County Police Department (GCPD) officers responded to reports of gunshots and found Dawn Newbauer, 53, of Brunswick, deceased. She had sustained two gunshot wounds to her head and was discovered lying across the trunk and rear windshield of her vehicle.

Video footage from a nearby business captured a Tan Ford Sport Trac leaving the scene about 45 seconds after the shots were fired. This vehicle was later stopped by Brunswick Police for a traffic violation, with Easterling as the driver and sole occupant. The vehicle was towed, and Easterling was cited and released. It was later identified as the suspect vehicle involved in the homicide.

Following a be on the lookout (BOLO) alert, GCPD investigators learned from Brunswick Police that the same vehicle had been stopped earlier and was tracked to the Concord Suites, where it had been towed. Surveillance footage showed Easterling carrying two bags from his truck into his room and then placing them in his girlfriends vehicles trunk. A search of the vehicle revealed two firearms, a shotgun, and a handgun.

The investigation revealed that Easterling and Newbauer had previously been involved in an intimate relationship. Easterlings fingerprints were found inside Newbauers vehicle, and the GBI confirmed the handgun collected from his girlfriends vehicle to be the firearm used in the murder.

Easterlings plea was accepted by Chief Judge Stephen G. Scarlett, Sr., resulting in a life sentence with the possibility of parole as part of the negotiated plea resolution. Assistant District Attorney Leland McElveen prosecuted the case, with the investigation led by GCPD Detective Anthony Clark.

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Former President Trump is helped off stage at a campaign event Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

California leaders condemned an apparent assassination attempt of former President Trump at a campaign rally Saturday in Pennsylvania.

"Violence has NO place in our democracy," Gov. Gavin Newsom tweeted. "My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today."

While speaking at a rally outside Pittsburgh, Trump grabbed the side of his head and ducked after loud bangs. Secret Service agents rushed to surround Trump, who appeared to be bleeding from around his ear as he pumped a fist in the air and was rushed from the stage.

In a statement, the Secret Service said that a shooter had fired from "an elevated position outside of the rally venue" before being killed by agents. One spectator was killed and two were "critically injured" in the shooting, the statement said.

In his own statement, Trump said he had been "shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."

Secret Service agents help former President Trump off stage at a rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

Trump thanked the Secret Service and extended his condolences to the rally attendees who were killed and injured.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-San Francisco) wrote on the social media platform X that such violence "has no place in our society."

Secret Service agents cover former President Trump at the rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

"As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe," Pelosi wrote.

Her husband was attacked in their San Francisco home in 2022. Pelosi wrote that she hoped attendees of the rally were safe.

President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris also condemned the violence.

Its sick. Its sick, Biden said during a news briefing.

President Biden speaks on the shooting Saturday from Rehoboth Beach, Del. (Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press)

Harris said she and Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff were "relieved" that Trump was not seriously injured.

"We are praying for him, his family and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting," Harris said. "We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders and local authorities for their immediate action.

"Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence."

Sen. Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) wrote that there "is no place in our democracy for political violence" and that he was "keeping the former President and those attending his rally in my thoughts."

"Grateful for law enforcement's quick action to protect those in attendance," he wrote.

Sen. Laphonza Butler (D-Calif.), appointed by Newsom to serve out the remainder of the late Sen. Dianne Feinstein's term, wrote that her "thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and his family as well as all the Americans who were present at the rally. We must not allow political violence to become acceptable in our democracy."

People hug after former President Trump was taken to safety at the campaign rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

Rep. Adam B. Schiff (D-Burbank), who is running to fill Butler's seat as Californias next U.S. senator, also issued a statement.

"Horrified by this apparent assassination attempt," Schiff wrote. "There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Absolutely none. Grateful for the swift response by law enforcement and Secret Service. Wishing President Trump a swift recovery."

Schiff's Republican opponent in the Senate race, former Dodgers star Steve Garvey, wrote on X that his "thoughts and prayers are with President Trump for a speedy recovery and with the families of the innocent rally supporters who were tragically affected."

He also praised "the bravery of the Secret Service members who courageously protected the former president and everyone present."

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
If we want to find a potential multi-bagger, often there are underlying trends that can provide clues. One common approach is to try and find a company with returns on capital employed (ROCE) that are increasing, in conjunction with a growing amount of capital employed. This shows us that it's a compounding machine, able to continually reinvest its earnings back into the business and generate higher returns. So when we looked at Brisbane Broncos (ASX:BBL) and its trend of ROCE, we really liked what we saw.

Understanding Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)

For those who don't know, ROCE is a measure of a company's yearly pre-tax profit (its return), relative to the capital employed in the business. To calculate this metric for Brisbane Broncos, this is the formula:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.16 = AU$7.4m  (AU$58m - AU$12m) (Based on the trailing twelve months to December 2023).

So, Brisbane Broncos has an ROCE of 16%. In absolute terms, that's a satisfactory return, but compared to the Entertainment industry average of 8.5% it's much better.

View our latest analysis for Brisbane Broncos

roce

While the past is not representative of the future, it can be helpful to know how a company has performed historically, which is why we have this chart above. If you're interested in investigating Brisbane Broncos' past further, check out this free graph covering Brisbane Broncos' past earnings, revenue and cash flow.

So How Is Brisbane Broncos' ROCE Trending?

We like the trends that we're seeing from Brisbane Broncos. The data shows that returns on capital have increased substantially over the last five years to 16%. The company is effectively making more money per dollar of capital used, and it's worth noting that the amount of capital has increased too, by 22%. The increasing returns on a growing amount of capital is common amongst multi-baggers and that's why we're impressed.

The Bottom Line On Brisbane Broncos' ROCE

To sum it up, Brisbane Broncos has proven it can reinvest in the business and generate higher returns on that capital employed, which is terrific. And a remarkable 145% total return over the last five years tells us that investors are expecting more good things to come in the future. In light of that, we think it's worth looking further into this stock because if Brisbane Broncos can keep these trends up, it could have a bright future ahead.

One more thing, we've spotted 1 warning sign facing Brisbane Broncos that you might find interesting.

Story continues

While Brisbane Broncos may not currently earn the highest returns, we've compiled a list of companies that currently earn more than 25% return on equity. Check out this free list here.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Gov. Gavin Newsom, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and other Democrats joined Republicans as California leaders Saturday evening prayed for President Donald Trump after he fell to the ground, injured as gun shots rang out during a rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump issued a lengthy statement describing what he experienced. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, he said.

Reactions came in swiftly from Californias political world.

Violence has no place in our democracy, Newsom said in a tweet.

Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.  Gavin Newsom (@GavinNewsom) July 13, 2024

Pelosi, whose husband was attacked by an intruder in his San Francisco home in 2022, recalled that incident.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, she said.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.



As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those  Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 13, 2024

Republicans also reacted with horror at the shooting, which came two days before the GOP gathers for its national convention in Milwaukee. Trump is scheduled to be formally nominated at the convention.

Rep. David Valadao, R-Hanford, said he was horrified at the shooting.

Im horrified to see the violent attack on former President Trump today. Political violence is never acceptable, and those responsible must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law.



My prayers are with President Trump, his family, and our country during this time.  Rep. David Valadao (@RepDavidValadao) July 13, 2024

Rep. John Duarte, R-Modesto, said This was clearly an assassination attempt on a presidential candidate. 

I am shocked by the news of a shooting at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania today. This was clearly an assassination attempt on a presidential candidate. Political violence is unacceptable, senseless, and un-American.



My thoughts are with former President Trump,  Rep. John Duarte (CA-13) (@RepDuarteCA13) July 13, 2024

Rep. Tom McClintock, R-Elk Grove, saw a higher power at work as Trump appeared to be in good spirits.

At critical moments in our history the hand of Providence has intervened to protect our country, and I believe we witnessed that today, he said.

At critical moments in our history the hand of Providence has intervened to protect our country, and I believe we witnessed that today. This should awaken every American to the dangerous and violent lunatic fringe that is stirring in our country and we must ALL unite against it.  Tom McClintock (@RepMcClintock) July 14, 2024

Vice President Kamala Harris, a former California attorney general and U.S. senator, said she had been briefed on the incident and that she and her husband are relieved that he is not seriously injured.

I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania.



Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.



We are grateful to  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 14, 2024

Former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy, a Bakersfield Republican, said he was praying for Trump.

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me.  Kevin McCarthy (@SpeakerMcCarthy) July 13, 2024

California Democrats and Republicans alike condemned the attack.

Pray for President Trump. I know he will be undaunted.  Rep. Doug LaMalfa (@RepLaMalfa) July 13, 2024

Political violence has absolutely no place in our democracy.



I am relieved to hear former President Trump is not seriously injured. My prayers are with him, his family and all those impacted by the horrific violence today.  Rep. Doris Matsui (@DorisMatsui) July 14, 2024

Political violence has no place in our country period.



I condemn this cowardly act in the strongest terms. I am relieved that the former president is safe and I am praying for all those who were hurt at tonights rally.  Ami Bera, M.D. (@RepBera) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump for a speedy recovery and with the families of the innocent rally supporters who were tragically affected.



We must also appreciate and thank the bravery of the Secret Service members who courageously protected the former  Steve Garvey (@SteveyGarvey6) July 14, 2024

Horrified by this apparent assassination attempt.



There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Absolutely none.



Grateful for the swift response by law enforcement and Secret Service.



Wishing President Trump a swift recovery.  Adam Schiff (@RepAdamSchiff) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and his family as well as all the Americans who were present at the rally. We must not allow political violence to become acceptable in our democracy.  Laphonza Butler (@LaphonzaB) July 13, 2024

There is no place in our democracy for political violence.



I am keeping the former President and those attending his rally in my thoughts. Grateful for law enforcements quick action to protect those in attendance.  Senator Alex Padilla (@SenAlexPadilla) July 13, 2024

Political violence has no place in our country. My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump, the victims who were killed, and their families.  Rep. Jim Costa (@RepJimCosta) July 14, 2024

Please join me and Amanda in keeping President Trump in your prayers.  Vince Fong (@vfong) July 13, 2024

Please join Heather and I in praying for President Trump and all those in attendance at the rally.  Rep. Jay Obernolte (@JayObernolte) July 13, 2024

Political violence is NEVER the answer. Ever. Ever. Ever.



What happened today is absolutely despicable.  Rep. Eric Swalwell (@RepSwalwell) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump and for our country.  Kevin Kiley (@KevinKileyCA) July 13, 2024

Gun violence of any kind is unacceptable. See below for my statement on the apparent shots fired at former President Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania today. pic.twitter.com/lrOjidGpUO  Rep. Mike Thompson (@RepThompson) July 14, 2024

There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Pam and I are praying for former President Donald Trump and everyone effected by tonights attack. Thank you to the swift action from the Secret Service and local law enforcement.  Rep. Josh Harder (@RepJoshHarder) July 14, 2024

My prayers are with former President Donald Trump and the others injured by this afternoons shooting in Pennsylvania. I join Americans across the country in unequivocally condemning political violence. This act of cowardice has no place in a free democracy.  Jessica Morse (@Morse4America) July 13, 2024

Our thoughts and prayers are with President Donald J. Trump and his family following the recent shooting in Pennsylvania. We extend our heartfelt support to him and his loved ones during this challenging time. May they find strength, comfort, and a swift recovery in the  Kevin Lincoln (@KevinLincolnCD9) July 13, 2024

I wish the former President a speedy recovery. There is no justification for political violence and it should never be tolerated. Im thankful for the swift response by law enforcement.  Rudy Salas for Congress (@RudySalasCA) July 13, 2024

My thoughts are with former President Trump and all the families impacted by todays senseless act. Violence has no place in our democracy. We should all stand together in support of civility and respect in our politics.  Adam C. Gray (@AdamGrayCA) July 14, 2024

This horrifying violence can never be part of our democratic process. My thoughts are with President Trump, his family and everyone at the rally, and Im grateful for Secret Service, local law enforcement and first responders.  Speaker Robert Rivas (@CASpeakerRivas) July 13, 2024

Thank God he is safe! Im getting ready to travel to Wisconsin for the RNC convention and we will not be deterred from nominating Donald J. Trump to be the next President of the United States. https://t.co/03wSuIbIOZ  Bill Essayli (@billessayli) July 13, 2024

Horrific scenes out of Pennsylvania with shots fired @ former President Trumps rally.



Violence has no place in our country, and no place in politics. Full stop.



Truly grateful for the work and immediate response of law enforcement. Thoughts are with Mr. Trump, his family and  Mike McGuire (@ilike_mike) July 13, 2024

In America, violence has no place in politics. Political disagreements, even arguments, should exist in our democracy. And without democracy, there is no free nation. I am praying for the Trump Family and the families of the attendees who were shot as well as loved ones who were  Brian W. Jones (@SenBrianJones) July 14, 2024

Todays senseless attack was a shocking and horrific act.



We must completely shut down those who would use violence to snuff out their political opponents.



Janna and I are praying for President Trump and everyone impacted by this violence.  James Gallagher (@J_GallagherAD3) July 13, 2024

It doesnt matter ones politics. Violence of any kind is abhorrent and unacceptable. I am sickened by what occurred today in Pennsylvania.  @mayor_Steinberg (@Mayor_Steinberg) July 14, 2024





I am sickened by the loss of life and relieved that former President Trump was not seriously injured. This is a democracy, and we must fight through the power of our votes and not violence.  @mayor_Steinberg (@Mayor_Steinberg) July 14, 2024
(FOX40.COM)  Some California government representatives are speaking out after an assassination attempt against former president Donald Trump at his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

Around 4 p.m., several gunshots rang out in Butler, Pennsylvania, as Trump spoke at a podium. Video footage shows Trump seemingly holding his ear with blood dripping down his face.

Trump allies react to apparent shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today, Governor Gavin Newsom said on X.

AP reported that at least one attendee and a gunman are dead.

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

I condemn this cowardly act in the strongest terms, said U.S. Representative Ami Bera. I am relieved that the former president is safe and I am praying for all those who were hurt at tonights rally.

Chilling screams could be heard in the crowd as shots rang out.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump for a speedy recovery and with the families of the innocent rally supporters who were tragically affected, said Steve Garvey who is currently running for U.S Senate.

U.S. Representative for Californias 30th congressional district Adam Schiff shared similar sentiments.

(Im) horrified by this apparent assassination attempt. There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Absolutely none, Schiff said. Grateful for the swift response by law enforcement and Secret Service. Wishing President Trump a swift recovery.

Around 5:45 p.m., the X account for Trumps Campaign wrote, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

AP confirmed the shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
Calls for independent presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr. to get Secret Service protection were renewed Saturday following the attempted assassination of former President Trump at a weekend rally in Pennsylvania.

Kennedy, who is running for president against former President Trump and President Biden, said last year his request for Secret Service protection had been denied.

Repeatedly pointing to the assassination of his father  former Attorney General Robert Kennedy, the independent presidential candidate has argued he has an increased risk because of his family history. He is also the nephew of former President Kennedy, who was assassinated in 1963.

Shortly after the shooting at Trumps rally in Butler, Pa., where the former president was injured and one attendee was killed, political figures from both sides of the aisle emphasized the need for Kennedy to receive Secret Service protection.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis (D) on Saturday night called on the Biden administration to grant Kennedys request for protection.

I encourage @POTUS to immediately provide secret service protection for@RobertKennedyJr, Polis wrote on the social platform X.

The Secret Service is authorized to protect major presidential and vice presidential candidates and their spouses within 120 days of a general presidential election. The Homeland Security secretary, in consultation with an advisory committee of House and Senate leadership, determines which candidates are in that major category.

Conservative activist Charlie Kirk called it unacceptable that Kennedys requests have been denied.

Reminder, RFK Jr. needs Secret Service protection. ASAP. Its completely unacceptable that it has been withheld, especially given his family history, he wrote Saturday on X.

Former White House spokesman Ari Fleischer issued a similar statement, writing on X that the Biden administration should have provided Secret Service protection to Kennedy a long time ago.

In the wake of the shooting, Kennedy called on Americans to put aside political differences and pray for Trump.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, he said in a post on X.

Shots were fired Saturday night at Trumps rally in Pennsylvania, during which the former president said a bullet pierced his ear. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks by the FBI, and one spectator at the rally were killed. Two other attendees were critically injured, the U.S. Secret Service said.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in Pittsburgh, said authorities have not yet identified a motive for the shooting.

In the hours that followed the shooting, Trump thanked the Secret Service and other law enforcement authorities for their rapid response on the shooting. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the individuals who were killed or injured in the incident.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A Michigan Trump supporter's headgear. The former president has been a loser for the Republican Party, but at its convention this week, the GOP will be all in for Trumpism. (Emily Elconin / Getty Images)

This week in Milwaukee, the Republican Party will officially nominate for president a man of damnable firsts  first president to be impeached twice, first to deny his defeat, first to resist the peaceful transfer of power and first to be criminally convicted. Then the voters will decide.

For the partys own good, Americans should vote against all of its candidates, from Donald Trump down to dogcatcher, and do so whether Joe Biden or someone else is atop the Democrats ticket. To save the once-Grand Old Party, voters must destroy it.

Call it the burn it down project, with apologies to longtime Republican strategist Stuart Stevens. Four years ago he said of his radicalized former party on CNN : Just burn it down and start over.

Voters lit a match in 2020 and early 2021, ousting Trump from the White House and then Republicans from control of the Senate. In the 2022 midterm elections, Republicans did win a House majority but barely; the predicted red wave was a trickle, and Trump got the blame. In recent years, under Trumps extremist MAGA banner  because of his banner  party candidates have lost numerous local and state elections they were favored to win.

Yet at every level of government, too many of Trumps enablers remain in office. Republicans haven't broken with Trumpism, and Trump himself has improbably emerged from the infamy of insurrection to become the partys standard-bearer for a third time.

And his revival comes as he has been criminally indicted four times; convicted once (of 34 New York state felonies); found civilly liable for financial fraud, sexual abuse and defamation (twice); and fined nearly a half-billion dollars. None of it matters in a party turned personality cult, built on Trumps grievances and his followers. His legal woes just stoke the pity party.

Read more: Editorial: One candidate is patently unfit for the White House. It's not Biden

So here we are, with a convicted felon and congenital liar bent on retribution trying to move back into the White House, and his pliant party trying to recapture the Senate and hold the House. The dissident Stevens, among others, has re-upped and expanded upon his call to beat em all.

You know, pain is the best teacher in politics, arguably maybe the only teacher, he said on PBS in April. And what needs to happen is, Republicans need to lose, and they need to lose again and again. And then out of some sense of survival, you could see a sane party emerging.

Historically, parties have responded to electoral repudiation by looking within, warring over new platforms and elevating fresh leaders. Thats what Republicans did after their Watergate-era wipeouts a half-century ago, and Democrats after their Reagan-era shellackings.

Read more: Opinion: The force propping up Trump that we still don't talk about

Yet Trump defies political norms, and so far hes defied the one that says parties wont stand by losers. Clearly, more blowouts are needed to shake the party back to moderation, to sanity, from the grassroots up. As Stevens suggests, a party cant survive repeated routs; it would have no choice but to reform.

Stevens doesnt think a more traditional center-right Republican Party can come about before 2032. And its fantasy to think it will ever go back completely to what it was: a small-government rather than anti-government party that favors free trade, immigration and international engagement, opposes tyranny and is fiscally conservative but at peace with a government-administered safety net. Accommodations with the far right will have to be made.

That said, the nation needs a healthy conservative party for the good of our democracy. Todays Republican Party is neither healthy nor conservative. Its extremist.

As Stevens described it to me, the party whose candidates he helped to elect for decades has gone from being the nations beating heart of anti-communist opposition to being unabashedly pro-Putin. Its at war with the modern world. And losing. He cited Republicans culture wars with U.S. corporations, iconic brands and celebrities, including Nike, Disney, NASCAR and Taylor Swift.

Read more: As Kamala Harris rises, Gavin Newsoms presidential prospects fall  at least in the short term

Republicans still claim to be the party of law and order, and yet, Stevens noted, their hostility to the FBI has supplanted their antagonism toward extremist left-wing groups, and they back Trumps promise to pardon thugs who attacked police officers defending the Capitol. The party is so anti-government that it opposes mandatory vaccines in school, prompting Stevens to lament, Are there really that many people out there who miss polio?

Stevens isn't alone among current and former Republicans in being driven to his burn-it-all-down position. George Will, long the favorite columnist of traditional Republicans, four years ago urged voters to reject the party across the board, from Trump to his congressional enablers, especially the senators who still gambol around his ankles with a canine hunger for petting. Such rejection, Will wrote, would be condign punishment for their Vichyite collaboration.

Republican senators have only become more puppy-like, slavering for Trumps favor  and more deserving of defeat. The same goes for House Republicans, whove long been Trumps lapdogs, and impediments to good governance.

Read more: With Biden faltering, can Trump finally win Orange County?

Liz Cheney, once Republican Party royalty, began campaigning for its candidates defeats in 2022. We can survive bad policy, shes said, to justify her support for Democrats, even those with whom she has strong disagreements. We cant survive a leader whos going to torch the Constitution.

Her Republican partner in courage on the House Jan. 6 committee, former Illinois Rep. Adam Kinzinger, last month joined another Republican, former Georgia Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan, to announce their support for Biden. Kinzinger three years ago founded Country First to help defeat election-denying toxic partisans.

Big losses in 2024  mainly Trumps  would only be a start at compelling the Republican Party to rethink what its become, and to re-form. But it would be a big step.

Get the (new) party started.

@jackiekcalmes

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
A few weeks ago, I shared a story with you about the heroism of Cape Cod mariners who risked their lives in stormy seas to rescue sailors from stranded and sinking ships. In the early 1900s, about 50,000 ships rounded Cape Cod in a typical year, averaging about two shipwrecks each month. If only there was a canal for shipping to pass safely from the head of Buzzards Bay up towards Boston.

Native Americans had long known about a shortcut. If we think of Cape Cod as an arm jutting out from the seacoast, curled up flexing its bicep, the Scusset River flowed north and the Manomet River flowed south to pretty much where the armpit of the Cape would be. Between the two was a three-mile gap with an elevation only 30 feet above sea level. Original occupants had been portaging their canoes over the gap for thousands of years.

When the Pilgrims arrived, Myles Standish realized that a canal would be hugely useful. He just had no way to dig one. In September 1880, 500 mostly Italian workers were hired from New York to dig a canal the old-fashioned way, with shovels and wheelbarrows. After all, some of the great earth-moving projects of antiquity were equally low-tech. But the workers weren't being paid. They kidnapped the son of the contractor, but larceny wasn't really in them. They released the boy, gave up, and wandered into Sandwich looking for work. The locals treated them hospitably and finally arranged for their return to New York.

Enter an entrepreneur named Lockwood in 1883. He dug 7,000 feet of canal and then the project collapsed. The locals refer to it as Lockwoods private ditch.

The torch passed to August Perry Belmont from New York. Money wasn't going to be a problem for Mr. Belmont. (The Belmont Stakes horse race was named after him.)

First, he built a breakwater in Sandwich to block the waves from filling his new canal with sand. Then he started dredging the canal towards the highland at the middle of the route. He planned to excavate a ditch across the central highland and then dredge a canal from there to Buzzards Bay.

To pull this off, Belmont had two floating steam shovels built, larger even than the ones used to dig the Panama Canal. These enormous dredges were built to carry the diggings away. Bulkheads divided the interiors into smaller sections so the heavy cargo couldn't shift and possibly capsize the barges. The operator lived onboard in a small cabin.

(You will find a new exhibit on the canal and its bridges at the Cape Cod Maritime Museum, complete with models of the dredges and barges custom made by Doctor Keith Richards, set into a spectacular diorama built by Don Stucke, the museum's former curator.)

Let's take a brief detour for a moment and talk about the geology of Cape Cod. Our peninsula was bulldozed into place by the last great Ice Age glacier. When the glacier reached its maximum extent, and then melted, it left behind what geologists call a terminal moraine  essentially a pile of rocks, some of them massive. Cape Codders today are living on a glacial trash pile. I'm only bringing this up because the first set of dredges designed to dig the canal couldn't handle some of these enormous boulders they kept finding hence the massive dredges Belmont eventually built.

Of course, if you were going to dig a canal across the entrance to Cape Cod, you would need bridges for pedestrian traffic and a railroad bridge as well. Rather than span the Cape in a high arch  not possible for the railroad anyway  these were drawbridges that would lift out of the way when boat traffic came through. This was an enormous project at its time, but the resulting canal was only 140 feet across and, as it turned out, not quite deep enough for many of the ships that wanted to go through it.

As incredible an accomplishment as the Belmont canal was, it ended up too narrow, the tolls were too high, and currents in the narrow canal reached up to six knots, more than some ships could handle. It was also too shallow, so by 1922, 80% of shipping was still going outside around the Cape. In 1928, The US government purchased Belmonts canal for $11.5 million. (Belmont lost $5 million on the deal.)

The canal was widened to 500 feet and deepened. But then, we needed all new bridges. Once completed in 1935, our railroad lift bridge was the longest in the world. (It's still the second.) By 2017, 21,000 vessels were transiting the canal every year, carrying around 7 million tons.

Our bridges have served us well, but theyll turn 90 years old next year. Thirty-eight million crossings per year, almost as many as Californias Golden Gate Bridge. Understand, our population of 229,000 doubles in the summertime  so new bridges are needed. But thats a whole new story for another Sunday.

Lawrence Brown is a columnist for the Cape Cod Times. Email him at columnresponse@gmail.com.

Thanks to our subscribers, who help make this coverage possible. If you are not a subscriber, please consider supporting quality local journalism with a Cape Cod Times subscription. Here are our subscription plans.

This article originally appeared on Cape Cod Times: After private contractors failed, the feds jumped into canal building
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The states top lawyer has had his hands full in recent weeks.

Capitol View host Roby Brock talked with Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin about recent lawsuits, a new cold case unit and an upcoming cyber security summit.

Roby then talks with Arkansas Democrat-Gazette senior editor Rex Nelson about iconic former Pulaski County sheriff and U.S. Congressman Tommy Robinson after his recent death.

Capitol View airs on Sundays at 8:30 a.m.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KARK.
Rep. Mike Turner (R-Ohio), chair of the House Intelligence Committee, called the shooting at former President Trumps Pennsylvania rally a security failure.

How is it that someone could get on a roof with a superior position, with a weapon, and attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump? Turner said Sunday on CNNs State of the Union. Its just unthinkable, unfathomable.

Members of Congress are already beginning to arrange for probes into the security at the Trump rally. The House Oversight Committee, led by Chair James Comer (R-Ky.), has called Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify in front of the committee on Monday. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) has promised a congressional investigation into the incident.

We do have an extreme role, Turner said of Congresss ability to investigate. Both the resources that are utilized and the protocols that are utilized, we have oversight, scrutiny, and responsibility for.

Turner told CNNs Jake Tapper that members of the House Intelligence Committee have not yet been briefed on the shooting.

The gunman shot into the rally from a nearby rooftop, and one of the bullets, Trump said, pierced his ear. According to the FBI, the shooter and one attendee are dead, and two other attendees were critically injured.

The shooter has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa. Some civilians close to the scene have reported witnessing Crooks scale the building before he shot into the crowd. They allege that law enforcement did not respond to their signaling of the shooters position.

Our democracy dodged a bullet yesterday, Turner said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The city of Clovis has grown and diversified over the past decade. This growth, and resulting changes in the community, are reflected in the school districts student body.

As Clovis Unified undergoes significant changes  expansion in enrollment and four board seats up for election this November  it appears to be more frequently at odds with or challenged by some in the community it serves, based on some of The Bees recent coverage.

Throughout the 2023-2024 school year, Clovis Unified seems to be trying to catch up with the needs of its increasingly diverse community. Situations like the questioning of students identities and culture on school grounds  sometimes by school staff  have shown that Clovis Unified might be struggling to keep up with the times.

For its part, Clovis schools said it will follow federal and state law related to teacher performance, student gender issues or involvement of parents in the education process, among other issues.

Heres a review of continuing challenges and potentially controversial issues for Clovis schools this year, and the districts perspective on them.

1. Diversity, Equity and Inclusion

In multiple stories, The Bee highlighted several issues in the district related to religion, culture and LGBTQ+ issues and the districts positions.

Community concerns for LGBTQ+ student outing

The Bee reported about the districts request for parental consent if a student wants to change their name, pronouns and/or gender identity on their student record.

Challenge : LGBTQ+ advocates say this practice can potentially out students to their parents and might compromise their safety at home. Other school districts in the state are facing similar issues, but no changes have been made to state or federal law. The unresolved issue is likely to come up again for the district.

Districts perspective: Clovis Unified will continue to use the Student Site Plan, the form that requires parental consent if a student wants to change their gender identity at school. District spokesperson Kelly Avants said Clovis schools will follow the laws as they stand now, but if a student wishes to change their identity presentation informally  not filling out a Student Site Plan  they can verbally ask their friends and teachers to identify them by a different name and/or gender if they want to since California law allows for students to use facilities based on their preferred gender identity.

Pronoun stickers are laid out for students and staff in the Academic Center at Clovis Community College in Clovis following a ceremony to recognize June as Pride Month at the campus on June 1, 2023.

Facility use by outside groups and religious meetings at schools

The Bee reported that rather than allow a parent, who leads an LGBTQ+ group, to host an inclusive reading hour at the elementary school their child attended, the district canceled access to facilities for all outside groups before and after school hours.

Challenge: Before canceling all reservations for the 2023-2024 school year, the district had already approved the reservations for two religious groups. Some months later, after reservations were canceled, The Bee also investigated how some parents believed a religious group on campus appeared to be luring students into recruitment meetings using free pizza at lunch.

Districts perspective: So far, the board can still decide if theyll either approve or deny facility reservation requests for outside groups before or after school hours for the 2024-2025 school year during their future meetings. The district points out that the Fellowship of Christian Athletes, which offered the free pizza in exchange for listening to a pitch about Christianity, was present in schools because it has affiliated student clubs  established by students  across the district. Thats the same as other culture and identity clubs, such as Latino, Pride and hobby-oriented student groups. The FCA and other groups will continue to meet during the 2024-2025 school year as long as students form the clubs and continue with their activities.

Balloons are formed into the shape of a Christian cross at a Fellowship of Christian Athletes event in Oakhurst.

Language, Cultural Heritage, and Native American Students Rights

The districts Cultural Proficiency Department is in charge of organizing multicultural student conferences. The district deems these as a successful way to bring students closer to their heritage. This past school year, Clovis Unified hosted its first-ever Native American Student Conference on Nov. 1 and served more than 500 Native American students during the 2023-2024 school year, according to the districts website. Clovis also received more than $148,000, for attending to these students education, through the Department of Educations Title VI Indian Education Formula Grants Program.

Challenge : The district initially denied Clovis North student Jennie Rocha from wearing a stole gifted to her by the Comanche Nation. The district questioned its authenticity because of the text on it reading Graduate 2024. Eventually, Rocha did wear her stole for graduation, but Clovis Unified has denied other students this right  including Rochas brother  in the past.

Districts perspective: Going forward, Avants said the district maintains its policy for students of all backgrounds to file a request if they want to wear cultural accessories or regalia during their graduation.

The Bee also reported about the lack of a dual-language immersion program in the district, so some students might learn another language fluently.

Challenge : Clovis Unified does offer some language classes as electives for high school students, yet these change school-to-school and are not offered uniformly across the district. A few years ago, dissatisfied with the districts language offerings, parents separated from the district and created a charter school that offers a dual-immersion Spanish-English program and electives in Punjabi and Mandarin.

Districts perspective: Avants said the district has no active plans to roll out dual immersion programs in the next school year.

Jennie Rocha, a Clovis North senior with Indigenous heritage, poses with the stole the Comanche Nation gifted her for graduating in 2024. Clovis Unified School District initially did not allow Rocha to wear the stole, questioning if the lettering GRADUATE 2024 was related to Comanche culture. After discussing with the district and defending their rights, the Rocha family is proud Jennie will be able to attend her graduation on June 4 with her stole.

2. Election changes in 2024

This year, four Clovis Unified seats are up for election. Compared to past years, only Clovis residents in those areas will vote for one person to fill that seat, instead of everyone voting for all areas. Advocates for this new district-based election method for Clovis said voting this way can help diversify councils, boards and committees to better reflect a communitys demographics and interests.

Challenge : Going from at-large to district-based elections. Only registered voters in Areas 2, 4, 5 and 7 (represented by David DeFrank, Hugh Awtrey, Steven Fogg and Yolanda Moore respectively) will see school district representatives in their ballot. There could be confusion among Clovis residents who want to vote for board members  but do not live in these school district areas  since the district-based elections process only allows for people in a designated area to vote for their area representative.

Districts perspective: The board seats-per-area will remain the same, the new Clovis South school attendance area will not have a sole board member since district areas and attendance areas are different things, but it will overlap within the districts boundaries. Because of this, Clovis South school area is split between district Area 6, represented by Deena Combs-Flores, and 7, represented by Moore. Whoever is elected to Moores seat will help represent the families and new schools in this part of the district.

Clovis Unified Board Vice President Yolanda Moore is seen at the Clovis Unified School District board meeting Wednesday, April 3, 2024 in Clovis.

3. Attendance boundary changes and new schools

Clovis Unified School District is preparing to open three new schools in the recently formed Clovis South Area. It is enrolling students into these schools but the facilities still need to be completely built. Also, across the district, some students will have to either change schools or attendance areas for the 2025-2026 school year.

Challenge: Cloviss 35th elementary school, Hirayama Elementary, is opening this upcoming fall and then two more schools  Sanchez Intermediate and Clovis South High  will open in fall 2025. Avants said Hirayama Elementary will open with its multi-purpose room, administrative services building (the library, nurses office, school psychologist, school office, TK-1st grade classrooms and all playfields. The district expects construction to be completed toward the end of the calendar year. With ongoing construction at the same time as enrollment, there can be confusion about which families need to switch schools.

Districts perspective: As for Sanchez Intermediate and Clovis South High schools  which together form the Terry P. Bradley Education Center  the district is considering adding a bond proposal to the November 2024 ballot to continue funding facilities construction, maintenance and upgrades. Without it, district representatives said schools construction might not be done by the time they need to be open.

4. Labor and Employee Rights

Last school year began with a new, union-negotiated contract for Clovis Unifieds school psychologists and mental health providers. Yet, teachers in the school district have not unionized, some alleging the districts unlawful behavior has challenged them to organize as a union successfully. Also, after months of review, the California Public Employment Relations Board declared that Clovis Unified acted unlawfully against employees rights, ordering for the Faculty Senate (the district-financed and supported teachers group instead of a union) to disband.

Challenge: The most recent efforts to unionize have been underway since 2020. Among groups wanting to unionize, ACE  the Association of Clovis Educators, affiliated with the California Teachers Association  claimed that the district-supported Faculty Senate and the favorable financial and material resources it received directly from the district kept impeding groups from forming unions and breaking labor laws.

Districts perspective: Avants said the district will support and collaborate with its employees. This upcoming year, ACE said the psychologists and mental health practitioners will bargain for their next contract. As for teachers unionizing, the group believes that the disintegrating of the Faculty Senate will allow teachers to be better informed and join representation groups.
wavebreakmedia / Shutterstock.com

The heat wave engulfing most of the country is taking a toll on the 24.5 million Americans who are expected to face dangerous levels of heat, per to The New York Times. Heat waves are not only detrimental to your health but can take a huge toll on wallets as well. Indeed, as USA Today reported, the average cost of electricity bills in the summer has increased by 51% from $476 in 2014 to an estimated $719 in 2024.

Check Out: 6 Things the Middle Class Should Sell To Build Their Savings

Read Next: 4 Genius Things All Wealthy People Do With Their Money

In turn, finding ways to be both comfortable and not break the bank is crucial. Here are some tips experts shared with GOBankingRates.

Use Smart Home Thermostats

As Lucas Haldeman, founder and CEO of SmartRent, explained, soaring summer temperatures inevitably increase energy use as residents turn up their AC units to compensate for the heat.

But smart home devices like smart thermostats help to limit the impact on utility spending by optimizing energy usage, he said.

According to him, residents can program smart thermostats for ideal climates while theyre home and reduce AC use while theyre away from home. As they are controlled through smart phone apps, residents can also adjust their smart thermostats remotely if they forget to set or pre-program their devices.

The ability to continually monitor and dial in home climate controls creates significant energy savings opportunities, added Haldeman. At apartment communities, management companies can leverage similar smart thermostat benefits by customizing climate controls for common areas and amenity spaces  based on both weather changes and hours of operation.

Cisco DeVries, energy expert, former aide to the U.S. Secretary of Energy during the Clinton Administration and executive vice president of Renew Home, also noted that these smart thermostats  such as the Google Nest  monitor your energy use and behavior and will automatically adjust its settings to make your home as energy efficient as possible.

Smart thermostats can save you an average of 10%-12% on heating and 15% on cooling, he said. Enabling homes to be smarter will allow people to control their energy usage-and their bills.

Make Your Entire Home Smarter

Haldeman also noted that a smart home network  including smart outlets, lighting and window shades  can further mitigate utility spending during a heat wave.

For instance, he said that smart shades help to insulate homes at the most common point of exposure, limiting costly heat entry and overuse of AC systems.

Story continues

In addition, smart outlets limit energy drain through appliances and other electrical devices when they arent actively in use. Meanwhile, smart lighting, when synced with smart shades, creates a symbiotic relationship that minimizes energy use and leverages natural light, added Haldeman.

Maintain and Change your HVAC Filters Regularly

Maintaining and changing your HVAC filters regularly is crucial to saving money and energy, especially during a heat wave, according to Max Veggeberg, CEO and founder of Tetra.

A general rule of thumb is that homeowners should swap out their HVAC filters every three months to ensure they are running efficiently and not using an excess of energy to cool their homes, he said, adding that a heat wave is also an opportune time to get your AC tuned up so that it runs more efficiently.

All that said, making the switch to heat pumps is the most efficient and cost-saving way to cool your home, added Veggeberg.

Save on Energy Used To Heat Water

Consumer finance expert Kyle Enright, president of Achieve Lending recommended taking cooler showers, which help you to stay cool, as well as turning the temperature down a bit.

Try just five degrees, or if your hot water heater has just a scale, turn it down a notch, he said. In addition, if your hot water heater is situated in a cool area, consider adding an insulating jacket to help maintain water temperatures and reduce heating time. Insulate the first few feet of pipe that transport hot water from the water heater.

Beware of Light Usage

Running your AC regularly, as one might during a heat wave, increases electric bills. In turn, try saving money on your electric bill by turning out the lights when youre not in the room, upgrading to LEDs from traditional light bulbs and running appliances less frequently, said Tetras Veggeberg.

He added that this will not only help to cool your home because they give off less heat, but it can help homeowners use up to 90% less energy while lasting up to 25 times longer than traditional incandescent bulbs, leading to noticeable savings.

Be Mindful of Time-of-Use Pricing and Peak Hours

Time of use pricing is an electric plan pricing structure incentivizing customers to use electricity at less demanding times of the day, as Save On Energy explains.

In turn, during peak hours  the time when electricity is in most demand  rates are more expensive.

Avoiding using heat-generating electrical appliances  stoves, ovens, washer/dryers, dishwashers etc.  during the day and peak times can save homeowners a great deal of money during the hottest months of the year, said Haldeman.

Instead, he recommended running these appliances when the weather cools down, as it cuts down on the energy you use in the home while saving money, especially while the majority of other homeowners may blast their AC/fans during prime hours of the day.

Thats why Shawn McLaughlin, CEO of Emporia Energy, said its crucial to pay attention to how your utility rate plan works, as many utilities charge different rates at different times of the day.

Peak-hours rates are often three to four times that of off-peak rates, he said, adding its crucial to be mindful of things such as charging your electric vehicle.

Another tip is to pre-cool your home during off-peak hours before temperatures rise, according to Energy Star. Your local utility is the best source of information on when peak conditions exist, but as a rule-of-thumb, after 9 pm and before 9 am is off-peak in most situations.

Learn More: 5 Unnecessary Bills You Should Stop Paying in 2024

More From GOBankingRates

This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: How To Save Money on Your Electricity Bills and More During a Heat Wave
Chesterfield Police: One of two people stabbed at Ettrick residence has life-threatening wounds

ETTRICK  Chesterfield Police have a suspect in custody after two people were stabbed early Saturday night at a residence.

It happened around 6:15 p.m. in the 20800 block of Shaker Drive, just west of the village of Ettrick, according to a police statement. Two people, a man and a woman, were found at the residence with multiple stab wounds. The 37-year-old man was taken to an area hospital with life-threatening injuries.

Police have not released the name of the suspect nor their relationship to the victims and added there is no threat to the surrounding community. No motive was given for the incident.

Anyone with information about the stabbing is asked to call Chesterfield Police at (804) 748-1251. That info can be shared anonymously through Crime Solvers at (804) 748-0660 or the P3Tips mobile app.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Two people stabbed in Ettrick; suspect arrested
CHICAGO  A suspected shooter has died and at least one audience member was killed after gunshots rang out at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday afternoon.

Sources told the Associated Press that the incident is now being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said the suspected gunman is dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Following the attack several local and state politicians issued statements.

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson wished the former president a swift recovery.

I wish Donald Trump a swift recovery. I am grateful to the first responders and law enforcement officers on the scene who acted quickly. Let me be crystal clear: Political violence is never acceptable, Johnson said in a social media post.

I want to make it clear that political violence is never acceptable. I wish former President Trump a swift recovery. In our democracy, differences should be settled through dialogue and mutual respect, not through acts of violence, Toni Preckwinkle, the President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, said in a statement.

I am aware of the situation in Pennsylvania and while we await more information there is one thing that is clear: there is no place for violence in the political process. I am relieved the former President is okay and I hope no one else was injured in this horrific incident, Illinois Rep. Mike Quigley said in a statement on X.

Sen. Tammy Duckworth also issued a statement condemning the incident.

There is absolutely no excuseand no place whatsoeverfor violence in American politics, and those responsible for this must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I am keeping Donald Trump in my thoughts and hoping he has a swift and full recovery, Duckworth said.

Today is a terrible day for our nation. Nothing anyone says or beliefs they hold can EVER justify political violence  it is always unacceptable. My thoughts and prayers are with injured victims today, including former President Trump and his family, from todays horrific act. We must come together to condemn all violence, seek unity and work to do better as a country, State Representative Dan Ugaste said in a statement.

Senate Democratic Whip Dick Durbin also condemned the incident.

Im keeping the former president, the bystander who was tragically killed, and all who were injured or whose safety was threatened in my thoughts, Durbin said.

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker said he is closely monitoring the situation.

Violence is never the answer in our democracy. I am closely monitoring the situation and praying for former President Trumps recovery. Thankful to the Secret Service for their quick response, Pritzker said.

Will County Republican Central Committee Chairman Christina Clausen offered thought and prayers to the former president.

We are deeply shocked and saddened by the assassination attempt on President Trump. Our thoughts and prayers are with him, his family, and all those affected by this tragic event. This senseless act of violence is a direct consequence of the inflammatory rhetoric perpetuated by left-wing media and irresponsible statements made by political leaders, Clausen said in a statement.

The Illinois GOP said in a statement that it stands with the former president following the incident.

Photos: Trump reacts to injury at PA rally

Statement from Chairwoman-Elect Kathy Salvi: The Republicans of Illinois are united and stand with President Trump. We express our full support for President Trump and his family. We appreciate the prompt response by law enforcement and the Secret Service, a GOP spokesperson said in a post on X.

We are shocked and saddened by the events at the rally in PA. Political violence has no place in our society. We pray for the safety of all attendees and condemn violence in the strongest terms. Thank you to the first responders and Secret Service for their swift response, a spokesperson for the Democratic Party of Illinois said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
The News

Under the shadow of a soaring youth unemployment crisis and low business confidence, China began its third plenary session  a meeting that sets the economic agenda for the country every five or so years. The meeting, which runs until July 18 behind closed doors, could bring some relieving news for the private sector, such as the lifting of certain limits on foreign shareholding and measures to deal with real estate oversupply.

Forecasters have cautioned there will likely be no dramatic changes to the status quo. The countrys premier Li Qiang compared Chinas economy to a patient recovering from a serious illness at a recent World Economic Forum, and said according to Chinese medical theory, at this time, we cannot use strong medicine. This comment has since been censored in the news in China, however, and President Xi Jinping has signaled he would dial back red tape to encourage new quality productive forces.

The plenum will also likely announce key personnel changes, after multiple high profile firings and investigations. This includes foreign minister Qin Gang for personal indiscretion, and several military commanders for alleged corruption. The South China Morning Posts China editor, Jun Mai, commented that extreme changes are unlikely here, too, because China today does not have the same amount of political competition within the Party as previous decades.
Russia and China have started joint naval drills at a Chinese military point in Zhanjiang, the Chinese Defense Ministry reported on July 14.

"Holding such joint maritime military exercises can enhance the collaboration and professional levels of the two navies and contribute to maintaining maritime and regional security," the Chinese Defense Ministry reported, citing a Russian navy officer heading the drills from the Russian side.

The news comes days after NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg on July 11 said that alliance members agree that China is a "decisive enabler" of Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine.

A joint declaration of NATO members also mentioned that China is a threat to the interests and security of the alliance, which Stoltenberg said was "the first time that all NATO members state this so clearly in an agreed document."

China, however, immediately rejected the notion that it is supporting Russia's full-scale war against Ukraine, characterizing NATO's accusation as "provocative."

At the drill's opening ceremony on July 14, a Chinese navy officer said that "the mechanism for joint naval exercises and training between the two navies, as well as their capability to conduct joint maritime military operations, has continued to improve," according to the ministry's statement.

"Following the ceremony, the naval forces carried out on-map military simulation and tactical coordination exercises," the ministry wrote.

"The exercise is divided into three stages, including the concentration of forces, planning at the harbor, and maritime drills."

Earlier on July 8, the Belarusian Defense Ministry reported that the Chinese and Belarusian militaries were conducting joint "anti-terrorist training" at the Brestskiy training range next to the border with Ukraine and Poland.

China has positioned itself as a neutral party in Russia's full-scale war but has deepened economic ties with Moscow and has become the leading source of dual-use goods that feed the Russian defense industry.

The Chinese leadership has previously denied supporting either side of the war and claimed that its ties with Russia do not go beyond the confines of a "normal" relationship while underscoring its close partnership with Moscow.

Read also: Relations between Russia, China are at their best in history, Xi, Putin says

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

World leaders reacted with shock on Sunday after the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack on Trump as a "tragedy for our democracies." "France shares the shock and outrage of the American people," Macron wrote on the social media platform X, wishing Trump a speedy recovery.

Chinese President Xi Jinping "has expressed his condolences to Donald Trump," according to a brief statement from the Foreign Ministry in Beijing. China is "concerned about the shooting," it added.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also "unequivocally condemned" the incident as an act of political violence, according to spokesman Stephane Dujarric in New York. Guterres sent Trump his best wishes for a speedy recovery, Dujarric said.

The reaction from Moscow has been more muted.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the attempted assassination was a consequence of Washington's "policy of fomenting hatred."

The US should take stock of its policies on political opponents, countries and nations, said Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. She added that the US should focus on its internal problems instead of supplying weapons to Ukraine.
Your letters to the editor for July 14, 2024:

Voting for Trump would end the 'great experiment'

Last week was the first presidential debate. My initial reaction was that Biden lost. Biden looked like he was awoken mid-nap and Trump gave his usual rally speech. If the Thursday night debate was open mic night at the comedy club, sure, Trump won. Trump gave us his usual rambling stream-of-consciousness thoughts, which can actually be rather amusing. Biden, who usually has a zinger or two, had nothing.But in hindsight, I have come to realize that nothing has changed. The debate is not about who is the wittiest, or most charming, or most presidential; it is about what form of government they represent. Biden is old school Democrat who believes in equal rights for everyone, representative government, and building a stronger country. Trump wants to take the country in an entirely different direction. He believes in winners and losers, rewarding his loyal followers and punishing everyone else He wants to turn our government into his own tool to build a more powerful Trump.Over the last several centuries, a variety of European countries and strongmen have tried to rule the world. Their empires were short lived and they are now second and third rate powers. The USA has continued George Washington's experiment in democracy for 250 years and is the only world power. If elected, Trump would end the great experiment. Biden would try to make a more perfect form of union.

 Allen Walter, Groton, South Dakota

More: SD no longer insulated; Primaries should stay as they are: Your letters

Establishment Republicans are on thin ice in South Dakota

I wonder who really has the power in Minnehaha County government. A little research will show that those who talk down to our duly elected Minnehaha County Auditor in commission meetings and have since she defeated their hand picked auditor and serve, it would seem, to make her life miserable, actually received fewer votes when they were elected to their positions than Leah Anderson did.As a case in point Chairman Dean Karsky was recently narrowly re-elected to his position on the commission garnering a total of 3,972 votes. When Anderson was elected back in 2022 she garnered 39,485 votes. 58% of the voters chose Leah over her Democrat challenger. TEN times more people elected Leah Anderson to her current position than voted for the person chairing the commission who has found it necessary to "sneer" at Anderson as she responds to the commissions questions during meetings.In the case of the commissioner who compared Anderson to Pontius Pilate back around Easter time in a public forum, she received almost 5,000 more votes than he did in the 2022 election. So just from those numbers it would appear to the casual observer that Anderson has more grassroots support in the Republican party than those who have been antagonizing her since she was sworn in to office.It is past time that the establishment Republicans in this state and county realize they are on thin ice. Anderson is doing the right thing. Some of you commissioners may not approve of her methods. Most of you disagree with her position on the tabulators and all of you are on a path that will lead to your ouster as sitting commissioners unless and until you embrace transparency in our elections and start supporting efforts by elected officials to prove that the current methods used to tabulate votes is providing accurate representations of votes legally cast in Minnehaha County. Anderson has put in the work to renew confidence in the process that has under question. It needs to continue to guard against the liberties complacency allow. I applaud Leah for the extra work she has put herself through to renew that confidence. It is effort well invested.

 Randy Amundson, Sioux Falls

Shall we choose a president?

We are in one of those times when we Americans have the opportunity and the responsibility to give direction to our future as a healthy nation and good citizen of the world. We are about to choose our President and leader. Before we lose ourselves in political wrangling, perhaps we should review some of the responsibilities and qualifications for the office.

Do we want a president, who believes that the oath of office taken before God and the people binds the President to uphold the Constitution? To violate this oath is a grave moral and civil violation of those before whom the oath was sworn.

Do we want a president who understands that the Constitution specifies three branches of power: Legislative, Executive, Judicial? A president who is committed to the responsibilities provided for the Executive branch, and who realizes our success as a republic demands total operational respect among the three branches?

Do we want a President who recognizes that the US is a citizen of the world, and leadership which ignores or politicizes other nations is irresponsible and dangerous; a President who understands and values alliances with other nations who together aspire to build a world of peace and prosperity for all?

Do we want a President who understands the critical condition of our common home at this time; who recognizes the fact that the nation he/she leads is one of the major perpetrators whose activities and business practices created the critical condition of our mother earth? A President who is committed to working with the Legislative branch in addressing the manner in which this nation is doing business in ways that further the earths illness? A President who understands that we have taken more than our share out of the earths bread basket, often by way of predatorial business practice, and that this history carries subsequent responsibility for those made poor by these business activities?

Furthermore, do we want a president who respects every person, including those of a different mindset; a President who by his/her character and values, authentically represents the character of America on the world stage?

A President who has the competence, the command of information, and a sense of the current world order such that together nations may forward justice and peace; a President who possesses the skills and selfless dedication to discern and negotiate the means to this goal?

A President who Is dedicated to lead with transparency, integrity, and with a selfless commitment to the good of this nation, rejecting the temptation to repurpose the powers of the Presidency to forward his/her own private advancement?

The Christian and Jewish scriptures warn us of allowing our egos to plot the defeat of goodness; and to beware of using our positions in life solely to flatter ourselves in our own eyes. The Quran says, Verily the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Quran 49:13

Voting is a privilege and an obligation which has been entrusted to us by our Constitution and by our fellow citizens. Let us pray for guidance and wisdom as we discern committed and responsible leadership in all three sectors of our government, and most especially in the President.

Sister Lynn Marie Welbig, Sioux Falls

More: A nod to the fallen this Memorial Day; an ode to a firefighter's dedication: Your letters

A plea to to find out more about my grandmother

My name is Nicole Wright. I am writing to hopefully find information about my grandmother, Her name is Audrey Mae (Maye) House and she was born in South Dakota in 1932. Her parents were Rev. Clifford Earl House and Cassie House. I do not know much about her and am hoping that the amazing people of South Dakota might be able to help me learn more about my family. I have reached out to family members and have very little to no information about her. I am really needing help with this, I would appreciate any information at all.Thank you so much to everyone.

Nicole Wright, Clearlake, California

Weed oligarchy will sweep into South Dakota if weed's legalized

The Weed economy collapsed rapidly after legalization in California and Colorado. All the small businesses collapsed into each other to form an oligarchy of roughly five different groups with deep ties to the pharmaceutical industry. If legalized here, that oligarchy will sweep in, consume all competition, and take the entire market. Not one local business will benefit from legalization. All of that money will go out of state.

 Joshua Crager, Sioux Falls

How to submit a letter to the editor:

Letters need to be roughly 300 to 500 words, and will need to include first and last name, address, city and title. Addresses wont be publicized, of course, but its a way for us to make sure those who submit a letter are who they say they are.

Letters will run on Sundays in print and online as we receive them. There may be moments, however, when we don't have any as we work to solicit interest and actively rebuild this part of our coverage for readers.

You can submit those to News Director Shelly Conlon by emailing sconlon@argusleader.com or submit them through our online form here, which also is sent directly to the news director.

This article originally appeared on Sioux Falls Argus Leader: How will we choose the next president? Will a weed oligarchy come to SD?: Your letters
Cincinnati legalized accessory dwelling units last year. How popular are they now?

Cincinnati became the first city in Ohio to legalize accessory dwelling units when city council passed an ordinance in June of last year, going into effect in October.

Months after becoming an option for homeowners to add a separate dwelling place on their property, people have lagged to build them, city records show. But Mark Jeffreys, the Cincinnati city council member who spearheaded the legislation, is still convinced that accessory dwelling units can be a boon for some homeowners as awareness grows.

Its not a panacea. Its not going to solve all housing issues, but its a way for people to build more housing, Jeffreys said.

Sandy Hamilton, a 76-year-old Northside resident, experienced that advantage years before any other Cincinnatian could.

Hamiltons property comprises two lots, so she was able to build a secondary living structure long before the ordinance was implemented.

According to Hamilton County property records, she was approved to build a detached mother-in-law living area in 2015.

Before building that structure, Hamiltons mother lived a few doors down from her. As she aged, she started struggling with the stairs at her home but refused to go to a retirement living facility, Hamilton recalled.

When her friends would take her to the opera and theyd get home around 10:30 to 11 oclock at night, Id have to go down and help her  minimally  get into the house, she said.

Adding the extra living space allowed Hamilton to build a structure that accommodated her mothers needs, which she says made her life easier.

Sandy Hamilton, 76, of Northside, was able to build an accessory dwelling unit on her property long before the city legalized them, because she technically owns two lots.

Whats an accessory dwelling unit?

Accessory dwelling units are secondary living quarters developed on land that's zoned for a single-family residence.

They can take a few different forms: an attached annexation to a home, a converted basement, attic or garage, or an entirely separate structure on the land. They must have their own entrance and be furnished with the trappings of a livable home, like a kitchen, bathroom and sleeping area.

Jeffreys says the benefits of accessory dwelling units are three-pronged.

First, they provide another avenue for addressing the housing shortage by adding units to the housing stock, Jeffreys said. A 2022 study by the National Low Income Housing Coalition found that Cincinnati needs to add 49,510 rental units that are affordable to extremely low-income families to meet demand.

Second, they support an increasingly popular desire for older adults to age in place, he said. Accessory dwelling units may be an apt living configuration for older parents to live near their adult children with both sides still having the privacy of a distinct living space.

Lastly, its a way for homeowners to build wealth from their homes, Jeffreys said. Homeowners can lease their accessory dwelling units as short or long-term rentals.

How common are accessory dwelling units in Cincinnati?

Cincinnatians have been slow to build accessory dwelling units since the passage of the ordinance last year, but Jeffreys doesnt anticipate it staying that way forever.

The city has received four permit applications to build accessory dwelling units since the ordinance passed, according to city planning.

As more people become aware of accessory dwelling units and learn the permitting process, Jeffreys thinks their popularity in the city will increase.

Its not something that overnight will create more housing, but over years, itll create incremental housing units, the council member said.

Portland, Oregon, where accessory dwelling units have been legalized since 1981, showed a similar trend. In 2010, when the city lightened regulatory policies governing the housing format, the number of licenses the city doled out shot from 86 in 2010 to 615 in 2016, according to an Urban Land Institute report.

What are the drawbacks of accessory dwelling units?

When the ordinance was in the planning and discussion stages, some residents were concerned about the possibility of more short-term rentals popping up in neighborhoods, Jeffreys said. Specifically, they worried that renting them out to partiers could disturb the peace and have detrimental effects on the neighborhood, he said.

Others worried that out-of-town landlords would exploit the ordinance as a profit-boosting tool by buying up properties and building accessory dwelling units to have another unit to rent out, the councilmember said.

The ordinance combats this by mandating the land owner or a responsible person who is designated by the owner to live in one of the dwellings and manage the lot, Jeffreys explained.

This policy is enforced with a written agreement between the owner and the city and an annual registration requirement. Running afoul of the agreement is punishable with a fine.

But Julie Rimer, who serves as the secretary of the Mount Washington Community Council, differs with Jeffreys framing the provision as a safeguard to keep out-of-town landlords from building accessory dwelling units for more profits.

The provision says the responsible person must maintain a residence in either the principal or accessory structure and is charged with independently operating, maintaining and managing the lot, which includes financial responsibility.

Residence is defined as a permanent and indefinite home that is the persons only one within the city.

Those stipulations are too vague to be rightfully enforced and leave loopholes for developers to take advantage of accessory dwelling units, Rimer said. She would have liked to see a minimum length of lease requirement and clearer language to describe the responsible person included in the ordinance, she said.

Jeffreys says the "responsible party" language was hashed out with a court ruling out of New Orleans in mind. In that case, the United States Court of Appeals for the Fifth Circuit struck down a New Orleans law that required the owner of a property to occupy it to qualify for a short-term rental license.

Cincinnati opted for less restrictive language when crafting the "Occupancy by Owner or a Responsible Person" section of the ordinance to avoid similar litigation, Jefferys said.

Sandy Hamilton, 76, of Northside, built an accessory dwelling unit on her property for her aging mother to live in. Hamilton designed the unit to include multiple features that are compatible with aging.

Architecture for aging in place

Hamilton designed her Northside accessory dwelling unit with the needs of her aging mother in mind.

The design concept is open so her mother could easily get to the kitchen or bathroom in a moment of confusion, Hamilton said. The bathroom employs a "wet room" concept, with the showerhead draining straight onto the floor rather than having an enclosed shower.

The entrance ways are also aging-friendly. The main door is wide for wheelchair and scooter accessibility. Double-patio doors were incorporated in case medics ever had to transport Hamilton's mother out of the unit.

Hamiltons mother died about two years ago. Now, Hamilton uses it to house her daughters when they visit from out of town and to host company occasionally, she said.

The more people know about it, the more it is an answer to some situations, she said. "It seemed like a full-circle, natural thing for her to not have to be placed (in a retirement home)."

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: Impact of accessory dwelling units since Cincinnati legalized them
ZURICH (Reuters) - Preliminary findings in an eagerly awaited parliamentary report into the 2023 collapse of Credit Suisse have identified serious failings by Swiss regulatory authorities leading up the bank's demise, a Swiss newspaper reported on Sunday.

Citing sources inside the parliamentary committee drawing up the so-called PUK report, SonntagsZeitung said financial market regulator FINMA, the Swiss National Bank (SNB) and the finance ministry all drew fire for failing to prevent the bank crash.

Isabelle Chassot, head of the parliamentary committee, told Reuters the body was advancing with its work and had established the statement of facts. However, she underlined that the committee had not yet drawn any conclusions on the matter.

"There is therefore no assessment nor criticism from the committee at this stage," she said. "The mention in the article of a majority or a minority opinion inside the committee does not correspond to reality."

The newspaper cited findings for the PUK report, which is expected to be published later this year, saying that FINMA was too hesitant and could have intervened when it became apparent that Credit Suisse was facing major problems.

The findings also pointed to a lack of preparation and other errors by Swiss authorities including the central bank, it said.

After problems began mounting at the bank in 2022, Credit Suisse unravelled in March 2023 and was taken over by longtime rival UBS after a rescue engineered by authorities.

FINMA and the SNB did not immediately respond to requests for comment. The finance ministry had no comment.

Earlier this month, SNB chairman Thomas Jordan said Credit Suisse's management had caused the collapse and that authorities were well prepared and had prevented a wider financial crisis.

(Reporting by Noele Illien; Additional reporting by Dave Graham; editing by David Evans)
ALLEGAN, Mich. (WOOD)  Many people head to downtown Allegan to enjoy the Kalamazoo River, check out the restaurants and relax at Mahan Park, but city leaders said the almost 44-year-old park is due for some upgrades.

City Manager Joel Dye with the city of Allegan said Mahan Park was built in 1980 and the foundation of the wooden gazebo is dry-rotted. Dye said they need to replace the entire gazebo. They are also planning on creating more accessible seating and plaza as the park houses a weekly concert series called Good Times at the Gazebo. The city manager said the current park layout makes it harder for people with wheelchairs, walkers and strollers to enjoy the park. They also plan to replace the electric streetlights.

The project is expected to cost the city around $400,000. The city has already secured $260,000 in grant funding. They are asking the community for help raising $50,000 for park improvements. So far, they have raised around $30,000. Dye said if they reach the fundraiser goal in two weeks the state will match the $50,000.

This is the first time weve ventured into this arena of crowdfunding, but cities throughout West Michigan have been doing this for several years now, Dye said. The Michigan Economic Development Corporation has been encouraging cities to go this path. Its a way to stretch that public dollar a little further and also give the community members a chance to have a bigger voice, a stronger voice in how their cities look.

Dye added that if they do not reach their goal by the deadline, the city still has local funds and grants to help with the project, but they would have to take funds from either other projects or make adjustments to their general fund budget.

A map of the proposed improvements to Mahan Park in Allegan. (Courtesy of the city of Allegan)

We just dont have enough to do all the improvements we need to make and this is a very special improvement and something the community wants to get behind, so thats why we were able to identify this as a crowdsourced one, Dye said.

If the fundraising goal is reached, Dye hopes to find contractors later this summer with construction hopefully starting in the fall. You can donate to the project here or in person at the Allegan City Hall front desk. Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
NEW YORK (PIX11)  While families are on summer vacation, the New York City Council is looking for ways to ensure there are enough early education seats for the upcoming school year.

The city has invested $100 million to open more pre-k and 3-k seats, but leaders of the City Council say the issue extends beyond funding.

More Local News

We have vacancies and folks saying we cant get a seat. Instead of continuing to throw funding, weve got to fix the system, and weve created a workforce to fix the system, said New York City Council Speaker Adrienne Adams.

Watch the video player for the full interview.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
PARIS (Reuters) - A technical glitch at a U.S. climate summit cut off French President Emmanuel Macron mid-speech and left Russian President Vladimir Putin puzzled, demonstrating that virtual meetings can be as awkward for world leaders as they are for the rest of us.

Macron was just minutes into a speech about the urgency of climate action when U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken cut in, saying, "Thank you very much Mr president, I now turn the floor to the president of the Russian Federation, his Excellency Vladimir Putin".

Macron's voice continued, however, while the camera switched to the Washington meeting room where U.S. President Joe Biden, climate envoy John Kerry and Blinken were looking at Putin on a big screen.

The sound then cut as a puzzled-looking Putin could be seen consulting with an aide as he waited for his microphone to be opened.

"The floor is now to the president of the Russian Federation, Mr Vladimir Putin, Mr President," Blinken continued, inviting Putin to speak.

Putin kept waiting as Blinken could be heard saying off-screen: "We may be getting a tape, because that was a tape of Macron."

Moments later, Putin delivered his speech, after which Macron's speech started again from the beginning.

"We had some technical difficulties," Blinken said.

Macron's office confirmed that his speech had been pre-recorded, as Macron will be travelling to Chad to attend the funeral of late President Idriss Deby.

(Reporting by Geert De Clercq and Michel Rose in Paris, and Mary Milliken in Washington; editing by Richard Lough)
Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage after multiple gunshots rang out about 6:15 p.m. as he spoke to supporters at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh.

One spectator at the rally is dead, and two are in serious condition, USA TODAY reported.

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, CNN, The Associated Press and other outlets reported.

Trump reached for his ear when the noises happened. He appeared to have blood on his ear and cheek as he left the stage. Attendees at the rally began screaming as agents pushed Trump to the ground, USA TODAY reported.

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Trump was removed from the site by Secret Service, with his fist raised, after the noises. Steven Cheung, Trump's spokesperson, confirmed in a statement that the former president is "fine" but was seeing doctors at an area medical facility.

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther said in a statement shared with The Dispatch that "political violence undermines democratic principles and civil discourse."

"A peaceful and democratic society depends on the rejection and prevention of political violence in all its forms," Ginther said. "We must all work to foster a safe place for open dialogue and the exchange of ideas.

Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin

Columbus City Council President Shannon Hardin said "democracy is built on dialogue, debate, and peaceful exchange of ideas."

"Political violence, in any form and from any corner, cannot be allowed to become acceptable," Hardin said on X, formerly known as Twitter. "Everyone should be free to participate in the political process safely, and free from fear and intimidation and that includes candidates of any party who put themselves forward to serve the public."

Democracy is built on dialogue, debate, and peaceful exchange of ideas. Political violence, in any form and from any corner, cannot be allowed to become acceptable. Everyone should be free to participate in the political process safely, and free from fear and intimidation (1/2)  Shannon Hardin (@SG_Hardin) July 13, 2024

State Rep. Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington

State Rep. Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington, said on Twitter that her thoughts "are with former President Trump, his family, and the victims of todays senseless attack."

"Political violence has no place whatsoever in our democracy," Russo said. "Grateful for the bravery & quick response of the Secret Service and law enforcement."

More: Ohio officials condemn violence, offer prayers for Trump after shooting at rally

Former central Ohio police union head was at rally, '30 ft away'

Former Fraternal Order of Police Capital City Lodge No. 9 President Jeff Simpson was at the rally Saturday, he said on X. He described the scene as "mass chaos."

"My family & I are ok. Mass chaos. Grounds are being evacuated," Simpson said on X. "Sounded like small arms fire. We were 30 ft away. Smoke came from directly behind Trump's podium. One person is dead for sure. Trump is brave AF."

My family & I are ok. Mass chaos. Grounds are being evacuated. Sounded like small arms fire. We were 30 ft away. Smoke came from directly behind Trump's podium. One person is dead for sure. Trump is brave AF.  Jeff Simpson (@PastPresSimpson) July 14, 2024

Columbus residents share reactions, some unaware of what happened

On the streets of downtown Columbus, many people went about their business unaware of the shooting. Several residents declined to speak, saying they had no idea it had happened.

Anthony Green, waiting Saturday, July 13, 2024, for a bus near Main and High street, was at church when he learned of the shooting that injured former President Donald Trump.

Anthony Green, waiting for a bus near Main and High streets, was at church when he learned of the shooting. He said the pastor got a call during the service and told the congregation.

Green supports Trump for president. He said he receives less in food stamps under Biden and credits Trump with the stimulus checks he received during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Everybodys got a right to live and be free and be president again, Green said. He was a good president when he was president.

Tremaine Young, a Columbus chiropractor, said he did not know about the shooting before a Dispatch reporter approached him outside a concert at Columbus Commons. He said he was not surprised to hear shots were fired, considering previous violence in American history, such as the attempted assassination of Ronald Reagan and the assassination of Abraham Lincoln.

Young said he wondered whether security had been tight enough at the event and whether surviving the incident might give Trump beneficial publicity.

Young did not wish to speak about whom he supported for president but said he doesnt support any violence during political campaigns.

I think people get too caught up in who they think is right or wrong, Young said.

This story will be updated as new information becomes available.

@Colebehr_report

Cbehrens@dispatch.com

bagallion@dispatch.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Donald Trump shooting: Columbus residents react to rally violence
Two years after Harvard gave him the boot and three years before Congress banned LSD, Timothy Leary set out on a road trip from Millbrook, New York, in a rented station wagon. The 45-year-old psychologist and psychedelic enthusiast was accompanied by his girlfriend, Rosemary Woodruff, and his two teenaged children, Susan and Jack. They had planned a month-long family vacation in Yucatan, Mexico, after which Leary and Woodruff would stay behind to work on his newly commissioned autobiography. Leary and his companions arrived in Laredo, Texas, on the evening of December 22, 1965, and crossed the international bridge to Nuevo Laredo, Mexico.

At the customs station on the Mexican side of the bridge, Leary recalled in his 1983 memoir Flashbacks, he learned that the visa he needed would not be approved until the next day. That turned out to be the least of his troubles.

"All the grass is out of the car, right?" Leary asked as he started driving the station wagon back across the bridge. Jack had flushed his, but Woodruff said she had been unable to retrieve her "silver box" of pot from her bag because "there were two uniformed porters leaning against the car." Since trying to toss the contraband off the side of the bridge seemed inadvisable, Susan hid it in her clothing.

At the inspection point on the U.S. side, Leary explained that he "didn't enter Mexico" and had nothing to declare. After a suspicious customs agent picked up what looked like a cannabis seed from the car floor near Leary's feet, the encounter escalated into searches of the vehicle, the passengers, and their luggage. A "personal search" of Susan discovered what the U.S. Supreme Court would later describe as "a silver snuff box containing semi-refined marihuana and three partially smoked marihuana cigarettes"about half an ounce, all told.

Leary claimed ownership of the stash, which earned him a 30-year prison sentence. That astonishingly severe penalty was based on two federal charges: transportation of illegally imported marijuana and failure to pay a transfer tax on the contraband.

Those puzzling charges provide a window on the constitutionally dubious origins of federal drug prohibition, which was smuggled into the U.S. Code disguised as tax legislation. Federal gun control laws followed a similar route, expanding along with conventional conceptions of congressional power.

The Marihuana Tax Act's Double Bind

Leary said he had bought the pot in New York and did not know where it was grown. But the government claimed that he had transported marijuana "knowing the same to have been imported or brought into the United States contrary to law." How did Leary allegedly know that? At his March 1966 trial in Laredo, U.S. District Judge Ben Connally told the jurors they could convict Leary based on either of two legal theories.

Since Leary admitted driving into Mexico with the marijuana and driving back, Connally said, the jurors could conclude that he knew it was "brought into the United States contrary to law." Alternatively, the jurors could assume that the pot Leary obtained in New York was grown in Mexico and that Leary knew that. The statute under which he was charged said possession of marijuana was enough to establish knowledge of its illegal importation unless "the defendant explains his possession to the satisfaction of the jury." That presumption, Leary argued on appeal, violated his Fifth Amendment right to due process.

The other charge against Leary was even weirder. Under the Marihuana Tax Act of 1937, unregistered recipients of cannabis were required to pay, in advance, a transfer tax of $100 per ounce, which would entitle them to a government-issued stamp indicating that the tax had been paid. To complete that process, they had to fill out an "order form." The Internal Revenue Service was required to keep copies of those forms and make them available to state or local law enforcement agencies.

Those requirements put cannabis consumers in a double bind. If they failed to pay the tax, they were committing a federal felony. But if they paid the tax, they were revealing information that could be used to prosecute them under state law. That dilemma did not seem fair to Leary, who argued that the tax demand violated the Fifth Amendment by requiring him to incriminate himself.

In 1969, the Supreme Court unanimously agreed with Leary on both points. The justices overturned his conviction for transporting illegally imported marijuana, noting that it might have been based on an unconstitutional presumption of knowledge. They also threw out the Marihuana Tax Act conviction, saying it violated the Fifth Amendment's prohibition of compelled self-incrimination.

"The class of [marijuana] possessors who were both unregistered and obliged to obtain an order form constituted a 'selective group inherently suspect of criminal activities,'" Justice John Marshall Harlan II wrote in the majority opinion. "Since compliance with the transfer tax provisions would have required petitioner unmistakably to identify himself as a member of this 'selective' and 'suspect' group, we can only decide that, when read according to their terms, these provisions created a 'real and appreciable' hazard of incrimination."

Congress responded to the Court's ruling in Leary v. United States with the Controlled Substances Act of 1970, which among other things flatly prohibited marijuana possession. You might wonder why Congress did not take that straightforward approach to begin with. Why emphasize the possibly foreign provenance of marijuana or create a fanciful tax scheme that notionally required pot dealers and their customers to keep the government apprised of their illegal transactions?

Those indirect approaches were inspired by questions about the constitutionality of federal drug prohibition, questions that Congress took seriously during the first few decades of the 20th century but had stopped asking by the time it approved the Controlled Substances Act. Those doubts explain why the Marihuana Tax Actlike the Harrison Narcotics Tax Act of 1914, which in effect prohibited the nonmedical use of opiates and cocainewas framed as a revenue measure rather than a ban.

'The Guise of a Revenue Power'

Five years before the Harrison Act, Congress tried to prevent a specific form of opiate consumption by banning the importation of opium for smoking. When Congress considered the Smoking Opium Exclusion Act in 1909, Sen. Joseph W. Bailey (DTexas) strenuously objected. The bill "is upon its face an effort to suppress the practice of smoking opium," he noted, "and that is clearly a police regulation." It was an "attempt by the federal government through the custom houses to regulate and suppress a bad habit among the people." But "the federal government has no general police powers."

Bailey was not impressed by the argument that Congress was exercising its power to impose and collect duties on imported goods. "The fact that this is a part of tariff legislation could not alter the power of the federal government with respect to it," he said. "In other words, if it is a question that the federal government has the power to deal with, it may deal with it in the way of a tax or in the way of regulation; but the Government has no right to regulate through a tax a matter which it has no right to regulate directly. To levy a tax for the purpose of regulation under the guise of a revenue power is simply to abuse the taxing power of the federal government."

Bailey allowed that the measure might be defended as an exercise of the power to regulate international commerce, based on the premise that opium for smoking, like "diseased meat," is not "in a merchantable condition." But since the ban covered all smoked opium, regardless of its quality, he was skeptical of that rationale, which he suspected was a cover for the law's true aim.

"The nations of the world, which have no government like oursno divisions and subdivisions which must be respectedhave called a conference, and they want to regulate the health and morals of their people," Bailey observed, alluding to the International Opium Commission that was meeting in Shanghai as he spoke. But under the U.S. Constitution, he said, "matters relating to the health and morals of the community are committed exclusively to the states, and in no wise are subject to the control of the federal government."

When Sen. Henry Cabot Lodge (RMass.) defended the bill as "a measure of hygiene and protection," Bailey thought that comment proved his point. "If it is a matter of health," he said, "it is not within the jurisdiction of the federal government, and I must object to the consideration of the bill."

Although Bailey's complaint failed to persuade his colleagues, it was grounded in a widely shared understanding of congressional power. "In the early twentieth century," University of Cincinnati historian Isaac Campos notes in an online essay, "drug prohibitions (including alcohol [prohibition]) were understood as being a quite radical intrusion by the state into the personal affairs of Americans. On the federal level such laws were clearly understood to be unconstitutional. This is why the federal laws were tax lawsrather than explicit prohibitions, and this is why alcohol prohibition required a constitutional amendment."

Eventually, thanks to the Supreme Court, the power to "regulate commerce with foreign nations" and "among the several states" would become an all-purpose excuse for pretty much anything Congress wanted to do. But that transformation had barely begun in 1909, when even the legislators who thought the opium bill was constitutional felt a need to dress it up as a tariff measure.

Six years earlier, the Supreme Court had narrowly approved a federal ban on interstate distribution of lottery tickets. Bailey did not think much of that decision, joining the dissenters in viewing the law as an exercise of the police power reserved to the states. Four years after Congress approved the Smoking Opium Exclusion Act, the justices upheld the Mann Act, which made it a felony to "knowingly transport" a woman or girl "in interstate or foreign commerce" for "the purpose of prostitution or debauchery, or for any other immoral purpose."

Both of those cases, however, involved interstate activity. The Supreme Court had yet to read the Commerce Clause broadly enough to allow an outright ban on drug-related conduct that never crossed state lines.

"There are no Federal laws on the growth or use of marijuana, the plant being grown so easily that there is almost no interstate commerce in it," The New York Times noted in 1931. Even Federal Bureau of Narcotics Commissioner Harry Anslinger, who at the time was urging states to ban marijuana cultivation, "said the [federal] government under the Constitution cannot dictate what may be grown within individual States," as the Times put it. And when Anslinger later lobbied for a federal marijuana lawthe same law that tripped up Timothy Leary in 1965it was based on the tax-power rationale that was popular at the time, despite the objections of skeptics such as Bailey.

The Supreme Court had blessed that rationale in the 1928 case Nigro v. United States, which involved a challenge to the Harrison Act. The justices acknowledged that "merely calling an Act a taxing act can not make it a legitimate exercise of taxing power" when "the words of the act show clearly its real purpose is otherwise." But they rejected the argument that the Harrison Act was a transparent cover for exercising police powers that Congress was never granted, deeming the law's official rationale and the "substantial revenue" it raised enough to make it constitutional. That stretch, University of Cincinnati law professor A. Christopher Bryant argued in a 2012 Nevada Law Journal article, qualified as "the most disingenuous Supreme Court opinion, ever."

The Supreme Court's evolving understanding of the Commerce Clause would later render such subterfuge obsolete. That evolution reached a new peak in a 1942 case that involved a crop much more mundane than opium or marijuana.

Too Much Wheat

In 1941, an Ohio farmer named Roscoe Filburn violated federal law by growing too much wheat. Specifically, Filburn sowed 23 acres of winter wheat, a dozen more acres than he had been allotted under the Agricultural Adjustment Act of 1938. The penalty was 49 cents for each of 239 unauthorized bushels, totaling $117.11 (about $2,500 in current dollars).

Filburn refused to pay. The recalcitrant farmer argued that Congress had exceeded its constitutional authority by telling him how much wheat he could grow, especially for his own use on his own property. Since he used the extra wheat to feed his family and his livestock, he said, it never left his farm and therefore was never part of interstate commerce.

According to the Supreme Court, that didn't matter. Five years before, the justices had narrowly upheld the National Labor Relations Act of 1935, ruling that the Commerce Clause reached economic activities, such as hiring and firing practices, that were "intrastate in character when separately considered" if they had "such a close and substantial relation to interstate commerce that their control is essential or appropriate to protect that commerce from burdens and obstructions." The Court extended that logic in the wheat case, Wickard v. Filburn.

When farmers grow wheat for their own consumption, the justices reasoned, their conduct collectively has "a substantial influence" on the interstate "price and market conditions" that Congress sought to regulate. "Even if appellee's activity be local and though it may not be regarded as commerce," Justice Robert H. Jackson wrote for the unanimous Court in 1942, "it may still, whatever its nature, be reached by Congress if it exerts a substantial economic effect on interstate commerce."

That "substantial effects" test was a breathtakingly broad license for federal action, and during the ensuing decades Congress repeatedly invoked it to justify legislation that otherwise would have been blatantly unconstitutional, including the Controlled Substances Act. "A major portion of the traffic in controlled substances flows through interstate and foreign commerce," Congress noted when it passed that law. But even "incidents of the traffic which are not an integral part of the interstate or foreign flow, such as manufacture, local distribution, and possession," it said, "nonetheless have a substantial and direct effect upon interstate commerce."

How so? "After manufacture, many controlled substances are transported in interstate commerce," Congress said. It added that "controlled substances distributed locally usually have been transported in interstate commerce immediately before their distribution"; that "controlled substances possessed [locally] commonly flow through interstate commerce immediately prior to such possession"; that "local distribution and possession of controlled substances contribute to swelling the interstate traffic in such substances"; that "substances manufactured and distributed intrastate cannot be differentiated from controlled substances manufactured and distributed interstate"; and that "federal control of the intrastate incidents of the traffic in controlled substances is essential to the effective control of the interstate incidents of such traffic."

Through the magic of "substantial effects," Congress transformed conduct that was neither interstate nor commercial, including mere possession of illegal drugs, into federal crimes. It no longer had to pretend that it was collecting taxes, and it no longer had to aver that people caught with illegal drugs were knowingly transporting contraband that had been imported from another country.

A 2005 case involving medical marijuana vividly illustrated how far the super-elastic Commerce Clause invented by the Supreme Court could be stretched. The plaintiffs were Angel Raich and Diane Monson, two patients who used marijuana for symptom relief in compliance with California law. Monson grew her own marijuana, while Raich relied on two caregivers who grew it for her. Raich and Monson argued that Congress exceeded its power to regulate interstate commerce when it purported to ban noncommercial production and possession of homegrown cannabis that always remained within a single state.

"Our case law firmly establishes Congress' power to regulate purely local activities that are part of an economic 'class of activities' that have a substantial effect on interstate commerce," Justice John Paul Stevens wrote for the majority in Gonzales v. Raich. He said Wickard "establishes that Congress can regulate purely intrastate activity that is not itself 'commercial,' in that [the commodity] is not produced for sale, if it concludes that failure to regulate that class of activity would undercut the regulation of the interstate market in that commodity."

Like Roscoe Filburn, Raich and Monson "are cultivating, for home consumption, a fungible commodity for which there is an established, albeit illegal, interstate market," Stevens wrote. He perceived a "likelihood" that marijuana produced for medical use in California would be diverted to the interstate market, thereby evading the "closed regulatory system" that the Controlled Substances Act had established.

"While the diversion of homegrown wheat tended to frustrate the federal interest in stabilizing prices by regulating the volume of commercial transactions in the interstate market, the diversion of homegrown marijuana tends to frustrate the federal interest in eliminating commercial transactions in the interstate market in their entirety," Stevens wrote. "In both cases, the regulation is squarely within Congress' commerce power because production of the commodity meant for home consumption, be it wheat or marijuana, has a substantial effect on supply and demand in the national market for that commodity."

Justice Clarence Thomas was dismayed by the majority's reasoning. "Diane Monson and Angel Raich use marijuana that has never been bought or sold, that has never crossed state lines, and that has had no demonstrable effect on the national market for marijuana," Thomas wrote in his dissent. "If Congress can regulate this under the Commerce Clause, then it can regulate virtually anythingand the Federal Government is no longer one of limited and enumerated powers."

'We Will Tax the Machine Gun'

Federal gun control raised similar issues and inspired a similar solution. The National Firearms Act of 1934, the first significant attempt at federal gun regulation, was enacted as part of the Internal Revenue Code. Like the early federal drug laws, it ostensibly was all about raising money for the government and, toward that end, imposed registration and tax requirements, violation of which triggered criminal penalties.

The National Firearms Act was aimed at restricting access to weapons and accessories that Congress viewed as especially dangerous: machine guns, short-barreled rifles and shotguns, and "muffler[s] or silencer[s]." Despite the bill's public safety motivation, it was framed as a revenue measure rather than a crime-control law: an act "to provide for the taxation of manufacturers, importers, and dealers in certain firearms and machine guns," "to tax the sale or other disposal of such weapons," and, in service of those goals, "to restrict importation and regulate interstate transportation thereof."

The law required suppliers of the covered products to register with the local "collector of internal revenue" and pay an annual occupational tax. It also imposed a $200 tax on transfers, which was designed to be prohibitive, amounting to more than $4,600 in current dollars. To facilitate collection of that tax, the National Firearms Act required current owners to register with the Bureau of Internal Revenue and report any subsequent transfers. The law made it a federal offense to carry a covered weapon across state lines unless it was registered.

During House hearings on the bill in the spring of 1934, legislators and witnesses repeatedly invoked John Dillinger, the machine-gun-wielding bank robber who would be killed by federal agents at Chicago's Biograph Theater a few months later. Attorney General Homer S. Cummings also expressed concern about the availability of bulletproof vests to criminals such as Dillinger and wondered "if that could be made a matter of prohibition under some theory that permits the federal government to handle it."

But "of course," Cummings added, "we have no inherent police powers to go into certain localities and deal with local crime. It is only when we can reach those things under the interstate commerce provision, or under the use of the mails, or by the power of taxation, that we can act."

Cummings explained how "the power of taxation" worked in this context: "If we made a statute absolutely forbidding any human being to have a machine gun, you might say there is some constitutional question involved. But when you say, 'We will tax the machine gun,' and when you say that the absence of a license showing payment of the tax has been made indicates that a crime has been perpetrated, you are easily within the law."

Four years later, Congress dispensed with the tax pretense. The Federal Firearms Act of 1938 explicitly sought to "regulate commerce in firearms," and not just incidentally. It created a licensing system for gun manufacturers, importers, and dealers, making it illegal to "transport, ship, or receive any firearm or ammunition in interstate or foreign commerce" without a federal license. The law also relied on the Commerce Clause in a more dubious way, making it illegal for anyone who was "a fugitive from justice" or had been convicted of "a crime of violence" to "receive any firearm or ammunition which has been shipped or transported in interstate or foreign commerce." It treated possession as "presumptive evidence" of receipt.

That provision, which Congress expanded in 1961 to cover nonviolent crimes punishable by more than a year in prison, created a precedent for the broad categories of "prohibited persons" established by the Gun Control Act of 1968, which were further expanded by subsequent legislation. The official aim of the 1968 law was to "provide for better control of the interstate traffic in firearms" and thereby "provide support to Federal, State, and local law enforcement officials in their fight against crime and violence."

The law retained the language about receiving a gun supplied through interstate commerce, which on its face would not include a firearm that never crossed state lines. But in 1986, Congress changed that provision to cover possession (not just receipt) of a gun "in or affecting commerce," further straining the already tenuous connection to an enumerated power.

You might think an essentially meaningless phrase like that has no real import. But according to federal courts, such boilerplate is constitutionally crucial.

Magic Words

In the 1995 case United States v. Lopez, the Supreme Court ruled that Congress had exceeded its power to regulate interstate commerce when it passed the Gun-Free School Zones Act of 1990, which made it a felony to possess a firearm within 1,000 feet of a school. "The Act neither regulates a commercial activity nor contains a requirement that the possession be connected in any way to interstate commerce," Chief Justice William Rehnquist wrote in the majority opinion. "If we were to accept the Government's arguments, we are hard pressed to posit any activity by an individual that Congress is without power to regulate." Rehnquist also noted that the law "contains no jurisdictional element which would ensure, through case-by-case inquiry, that the firearm possession in question affects interstate commerce."

The following year, Congress responded by amending the law, adding "findings" that described "crime involving drugs and guns" as "a pervasive, nationwide problem." It averred that "crime at the local level is exacerbated by the interstate movement of drugs, guns, and criminal gangs"; that "firearms and ammunition move easily in interstate commerce and have been found in increasing numbers in and around schools"; that "ordinary citizens and foreign visitors may fear to travel to or through certain parts of the country due to concern about violent crime and gun violence, and parents may decline to send their children to school for the same reason"; and that "violent crime in school zones has resulted in a decline in the quality of education," which "has an adverse impact" on interstate and foreign commerce.

The new version of the law also specified that its restrictions applied only to "a firearm that has moved in or that otherwise affects interstate or foreign commerce." As Congress saw it, however, even a gun that is made and sold in the same state where it is possessed "affects interstate or foreign commerce," given the cumulative impact that bringing guns into school zones has on "a pervasive, nationwide problem."

The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 8th Circuit thought Congress had cured the problem identified by Rehnquist. Because the law "contains language that ensures, on a case-by-case basis, that the firearm in question affects interstate commerce," the appeals court ruled in 1999, it is "a constitutional exercise of Congress's Commerce Clause power." The U.S. Court of Appeals for the 9th Circuit concurred in 2005, noting that "incorporating a jurisdictional element into the offense has traditionally saved statutes from Commerce Clause challenges."

Congress, in short, initially forgot that it was supposed to be regulating "interstate or foreign commerce." But after the Supreme Court reminded it, the invocation of that phrase was enough to fix the law, even though nothing of substance had changed.

As a pretext for federal legislation, the Commerce Clause has proven much more flexible than the Taxing Clause. The current understanding of it has soothed the misgivings that members of Congress once felt about exceeding their constitutional constraints. They have learned to stop worrying and love that balm.

The post Congress 'Can Regulate Virtually Anything' appeared first on Reason.com.
Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), who was in attendance at Saturdays rally where former President Trump survived an assassination attempt, is calling for Americans to start taking personal responsibility for their rhetoric in a bid to lower the political temperature.

Physically, Im fine. Mentally, Im fine. But  This has got to stop. This has absolutely got to stop, Kelly told The Hill in a phone interview on Sunday.

Its a time to  take a deep dive into what happened to America. This is certainly not the America that I grew up in, and that my parents had gone through the Great Depression, World War II to make sure we had a future. But thats what we are right now, as we are right now, like a third-world country, Kelly said. Its not the United States of America anymore. Its the divided states of America  and too radical.

Kelly  who represents Butler, Pa., where the rally was held  attended the event with his wife, grandchildren, and other family members. Much of his staff was in attendance as well. All were unharmed.

He said it was surreal when Trump was shot, with a quick pop pop pop pop, Trump going down to the ground, and then people screaming and looking up to see people in the bleachers with blood on their shirts.

The reality of it all is you have to be responsible for what it is you say, and I think we need to start taking personal responsibility for that, Kelly added. Its not any one party, its not any one group of people.

Trump said in a statement that a bullet had pierced his right ear. One rally attendee died, and two others were seriously injured. The suspected shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was also killed.

In wake of the shooting, Republicans have launched investigations into the security posture at the rally, with the House Oversight Committee asking Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing and the House Homeland Security Committee requesting numerous documents and information from the Department of Homeland Security.

Asked about concerns other Republicans are voicing about the security posture, Kelly said that it is too early to start pointing fingers.

The question is, Why did this young man decide that on that day he had to kill a candidate for the presidency? Kelly said I dont know that the Secret Service could have done anything about any type of law enforcement to do that. That starts in the hearts and minds of men and women.

Kelly also praised the Secret Service agents that he watched rush to drape themselves over the former president.

Its time for the whole country  the whole country  to wake up, Kelly said. This has gotten to the point that thats just no longer tolerable.

Kelly also suggested that people start by examining their own statements in an effort to take down the temperature in political rhetoric.

If you want to know how to fix the country, please find a mirror and go take a look at it and say, So am I also responsible for this in one way or another? Maybe some of the things that Ive texted out, there are some things Ive said to people? Kelly said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Jay Slater was last seen in Masca, a small mountain village, walking up a steep road

Conspiracy theorists are hindering the search for Jay Slater, his mother has said as the one-month anniversary of the teenagers disappearance approaches.

The 19-year-old apprentice bricklayer left a music festival in Playa de las Americas in Spain with two British men before he vanished on June 17.

The teenager was last seen in Masca, a small mountain village nearly 20 miles away, walking up a steep road.

The Guardia Civil scoured the nearby Rural de Teno national park for 13 days before calling the search off at the end of last month.

In a statement, Debbie Duncan, Mr Slaters mother, said awful comments and conspiracy theories on social media are very distressing for the family to read.

Ms Duncan also said the family had been inundated with requests for interviews, documentaries and even a movie but stressed that she and her relatives were just a normal family from Lancashire desperate to find our beautiful boy.

A volunteer with a search dog surveys the scene ahead of the search in the mountains close to where Jay Slater was last seen - Jamie Lorriman

In a statement released through British overseas missing persons charity LBT Global, Ms Duncan said: As we approach four weeks of our beautiful Jays disappearance, we cannot put into words the heartache we are suffering as a family.

Jay is a typical young man who loves life with a bright future ahead of him.

This month will mark the end of his three-year apprenticeship with the world at his feet.

She added: We would also like to say that we are aware of the awful comments and conspiracy theories that are filling social media.

These theories are hindering the people trying to help us in their investigations here in Tenerife and are vile to see as a family.

Ms Duncan went on to say: He is a loving son, brother, grandson, nephew, cousin and friend to so many.

He is such a popular boy and this is very distressing for us all to read.

Just a normal family from Lancashire

Addressing the scale of media interest in her sons story, Ms Duncan said: We have been inundated with requests for interviews, documentaries and even as far as a movie.

In reality we are just a normal family from Lancashire desperate to find our beautiful boy.

It comes as his family said a Dutch rescue team had been drafted in to help the search effort.

Ms Duncan said on the GoFundMe page set up after he disappeared: We have been actively working with search-and-rescue teams and we can now confirm that we have a team of experts flying in over the weekend from the Netherlands, who will carry on the search with their specialist dogs.

We are only able to fund this with the generosity of all those who donated.

A spokesman for the Guardia Civil previously said the force is continuing with its lines of investigation, but could not give out any information as to what lines are being considered in the case.

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These convicted sex offenders recently registered to live in Tacoma. Here are details

The following convicted sex offenders recently registered to live in Pierce County.

Each is categorized as a Level 3 sex offender  those considered most likely to commit similar crimes. None is wanted by law enforcement officers at this time.

All convicted sex offenders registered to live in Tacoma and Pierce County are listed on the Pierce County Sheriffs Departments website at piercesheriff.org.

Richard Leseman

Richard Leseman

Age: 66

Description: 5-foot-8 and 230 pounds, with brown hair and blue eyes.

Registered address: 1900 block of Milwaukee Way Street, Tacoma

Criminal history: Convicted in 1996 for first-degree child molestation in Cowlitz County for sexually assaulting a 7-year-old girl multiple times. In 1990, Leseman was convicted of first-degree attempted statutory rape and first-degree child molestation for sexually assaulting a 7-year-old and 8-year-old child multiple times in Lewis County.

Sex offender treatment: Leseman has not participated in a sex offender treatment program.

For more information: Call detectives Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476.

Poy Puth

Poy Puth

Age: 50

Description: 5-foot-8 and 179 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Registered address: 2500 block of South M Street, Tacoma

Criminal history: Convicted in 2004 for second-degree rape of a child in Pierce County. Puth reportedly sexually assaulted a 12-year-old multiple times for two years when he was 27-years-old. Puth disclosed additional juvenile victims over several years.

Sex offender treatment: Puth has participated in a sex offender treatment program.

For more information: Call detectives Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476.

George Hancock

Age: 59

Description: 6-foot-1 and 230 pounds, with brown hair and hazel eyes.

Registered address: 1400 block of East 31st Street, Tacoma

Criminal history: Convicted in 2000 for first-degree rape of a child in Kitsap County for sexually assaulting a 7-year-old child when he was 33-years-old. In 1988, Hancock was convicted of lewd and lascivious acts on a child under the age of 14 in San Joaquin, California. Hancock sexually assaulted three girls, a 7-year-old and five-year-old twins. An 11-year-old and 9-year-old also disclosed being molested by Hancock. Hancock also has sex offense convictions as a juvenile and has admitted to numerous victims both male and female. Hancock was admitted to the Special Commitment Center in 2014 and is considered a sexually violent predator.

Sex offender treatment: Hancock has participated in a sex offender treatment program.

For more information: Call detectives Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476.

Zachary Gililung

Zachary Gililung

Age: 36

Description: 5-foot-10 and 145 pounds, with brown hair and brown eyes.

Registered address: 7300 block of South Wilkeson Street, Tacoma

Criminal history: In 2022, Gililung was convicted of attempted commercial sexual abuse of a minor and communication with a minor for immoral purposes in Pierce County. Gililung communicated in a sexual manner and attempted to sexually assault whom he believed to be a 16-year-old girl as part of a police sting operation.

Sex offender treatment: Gililung has not participated in a sex offender treatment program.

For more information: Call detectives Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476.

Rithy Tem

Rithy Tem

Age: 39

Description: 5-foot-6 and 150 pounds, with black hair and brown eyes.

Registered address: 3200 block of South 45th Street, Tacoma

Criminal history: In 2005, Rithy was convicted of indecent liberties in Pierce County. Rithy sexually assaulted an woman who he did not know.

Sex offender treatment: Rithy has not participated in a sex offender treatment program.

For more information: Call detectives Christie Yglesias at 253-591-5869 or Nicole Faivre at 253-591-5476.
Donald Trump spent the night at his home in New Jersey Saturday after narrowly surviving an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania that took the 2024 presidential election to another level of tension and drama.

The former president received hospital treatment for an ear wound after being grazed by a bullet fired from a rooftop around 130 yards away. Trump was quickly bundled to the ground by Secret Service agents, but raised his fist in defiance, shouting Fight! Fight! Fight! to the crowd as he was led away shortly afterward.

The FBI confirmed the attempted assassination and named the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, from Bethel Park, an affluent, predominantly white suburb about 40 miles away.

Tonight we had what were calling an assassination attempt on our former President Donald Trump, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI Pittsburgh field office, told the press conference.

The shots, from an AR-15-style rifle, rang out in two bursts minutes into Trumps appearance on the stage. Analysis of video footage suggested that the bullet that grazed Trumps ear could well have killed him had he not turned his head to the right a split-second before.

The Secret Service confirmed that the shooter had been neutralized. One other person, apparently a rally-goer, was killed and two people left seriously wounded.

Speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, about two hours after the shooting, President Joe Biden said, Theres no place in America for this kind of violence.

Its sick, he added.

It is the first shooting of an American president since Ronald Reagan was shot in March 1981, two months into his first term in office, and left America feeling more divided than ever.

Robert F Kennedy Jr., the independent presdential candidate whose father was shot in June 1968 as he ran for the Democratic nomination, expressed his sympathies with Trump. I was with my dad when he died in Los Angeles. I understand the implications that this has for our country, probably as well as anybody does, he told NewsNation.

Gunman Crawled Up on Nearby Roof Before Shooting at Trump, Witnesses Say

Witnesses at the Butler rally told how they saw the shooter bear-climb his way over a nearby rooftopand tried unsuccessfully to get police and Secret Service agents to pay attention to him. If confirmed, that could suggest a huge failure on the part of the agency dedicated to protecting American presidents and former presidents.

Authorities initially said they were not prepared to publicly identify the shooter, who was not carrying identification, Rojek said, with the agency looking at photographs right now, and were trying to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation.

Shortly afterward, came a statement: The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania. This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

At the press conference, Rojek said, We do not currently have an identified motive, adding the FBI had received no threats alluding to the events at the Saturday rally.

State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens confirmed police have identified the victimsone attendee who died and two critically injuredbut were also not prepared to release names, Bivens said.

FBI: "This evening we had what we're calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump." pic.twitter.com/rM9SHLLpYL  CSPAN (@cspan) July 14, 2024

When asked if it was a lone wolf attack, Bivens said, We have one shooter tentatively identified, but were not stopping there. Were following up on a lot of information. It will be some time before we can conclusively answer that question. However, authorities believe there is no active threat.

Bivens concluded law enforcement was unaware of the shooters whereabouts until he began to fire. That is our assessment at this time, Bivens said, while adding all the details of that will come out later in the investigation.

When asked how the shooter was able to make the assassination attempt, FBI Special Agent: "There's going to be a long investigation...It is surprisingthe Secret Service needs to answer that question." pic.twitter.com/I2oimfIfFr  CSPAN (@cspan) July 14, 2024

Bivens said officials have a good idea of what the weapon was, but would not go into further detail, claiming it was still under investigation.

It was a chaotic scene, law enforcement I believe acted heroically, quickly identifying and neutralizing the threat as well as responding to the various victims, Bivens said.

Ripping Though My Skin: Trump Speaks Out After Assassination Attempt

Witnesses had earlier described seeing the shooter, who was not attending the rally, get into position.

One man, identified only as Greg, told the BBC that he was having a party outside the rally when five minutes into Trumps speech, We noticed a guy bear-crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50 feet away from us.

Bivens said law enforcement was aware of the witness reports, adding, Were following up on those.

Meanwhile, Trump left the Butler area late Saturday, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) confirmed on X, adding the former president was under the protection of US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police.

Taking to Truth Social, the former president said, I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Rebecca Cox is a teacher working different jobs this summer. Courtesy of Rebecca Cox

Rebecca Cox is working side jobs this summer after her first year as a full-time teacher.

She's working at a restaurant and as a nanny, and did a short gig with an organizing business.

Many teachers are financially stressed, and it could be pushing some into summer work.

Rebecca Cox, 27, hoped to take a summer break following her first year as a full-time fifth-grade teacher in Kentucky.

"It just drained me and wiped me out because I was learning so much and figuring things out as I went," Cox told Business Insider.

Instead of taking a vacation, Cox has been working different gigs this summer, attending trainings, and decorating her classroom. She spends some evenings as a restaurant hostess, making $18 an hour. Cox also earns money as a nanny for a family. She cares for their dogs and children as needed, including during the school year.

She also did a short stint earlier this month at a business owned by a friend of the family whose kids she takes care of with a pay of $30 an hour, unpacking and organizing homes for people. While that job was short-term, she said the other two are more consistent for this summer.

"I feel like I haven't stopped even since school's been out," she said. "Yes, it's summer break, but I have not sat down. I keep working."

Other young teachers like Cox take on summer jobs. A Pew Research Center analysis of federal education data found that as of 2015, "teachers younger than 30 are more likely to hold summer jobs than their older colleagues," and public school teachers with a year or less of experience were most likely to have a non-school second job.

A recent survey of 366 teachers from We Are Teachers found around half said they would be working a second job in the summer. The survey found many would be doing jobs related to education; 37% said they would be teaching summer school and a quarter said tutoring.

Plus, teachers are generally underpaid, and that could be pushing some educators to take on extra work when they should be resting up for the next school year. A Census Bureau analysis published in 2022 stated, "Although teachers are among the nation's most educated workers, they earn far less on average than most other highly educated workers and their earnings have declined since 2010."

Cox is putting the money from her summer jobs toward savings and classroom items. The summer gigs are also helpful for Cox as a soon-to-be bride. "Once I figured out that I was getting married and I started to see how much these things cost, I was like, there's no way that I'm even going to be able to even, one, save money in general regularly, but now on top of that, pay for some of the expenses for the things we need."

Story continues

Cox said she wished teachers didn't have to take on summer gigs.

"Even if we're not working per se, a lot of us are spending our time getting new things created for the new kids that are coming in or organizing things or getting ready with curriculum or going to professional development over summer on our own terms," Cox said.

She still gets paid over the summer as a teacher, receiving around $1,300 every two weeks after deductions and taxes.

Cox said it was a good thing she started the organizing business job when she did because she suddenly needed car repairs. "Now I can pay for it because if I didn't have extra money from working over the summer, I don't know that I would be able to pay to get it fixed," she said.

The money will also be helpful for her classroom. She said she does receive several hundred dollars from her district to use for supplies, but it can feel like nothing when taking into account how many children she teaches. "I want them to have all the resources that they need. So on top of my own expenses, I do take on some expenses from my classroom as well," she said.

Teachers can end up spending thousands of dollars on classroom supplies during their teaching career. One teacher who wanted her room "to feel homey" previously noted to BI she would spend a lot of money on books. Teachers may also get donations to help fill their classrooms with supplies.

"We don't ask other professions to try to do their job without the materials they need," another teacher previously told BI. "I feel like a lot of teachers are expected to do their job without materials that they have or that they need."

Cox finds the nanny job her favorite among the summer gigs. "Yes, it's work, but it also is a little more enjoyable because I get to take them to do fun things  if they just need to go out to do stuff or if they want to go to the movies," she said.

Cox loves being a teacher and said she's not in it for the money, but does find the relatively low pay a challenge. "It was kind of just the realization of is this really what I'm going to be making every two weeks because honestly, I wouldn't be able to afford to live on my own. My fiance's actually a teacher as well, so if I was by myself, I would not be able to pay all my bills," she said.

"I feel like to even make a livable, reasonable salary as a teacher, I'm going to have to get my master's," she said. "So, I plan on doing that next year. But it's like in order for me to make more money, I have to go spend more money to even get there."

What does your pay look like as a teacher, or are you working multiple jobs as a teacher or in a different job? Reach out to this reporter to share at mhoff@businessinsider.com.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Former President Trump arrives Saturday for a campaign rally in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

The attempt to assassinate former President Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday raised questions about security protocols and how a gunman could open fire so close to the presumptive GOP nominee.

For several minutes, witnesses pointed toward a nondescript roof just outside the venue where Trump was speaking in Butler, Pa. Multiple people shouted at law enforcement that a man with a rifle was taking aim at Trump.

In videos shared on social media, attendees pleaded and shouted, "He's got a gun." The shots rang out from the would-be assassin, and in return, the Secret Service sharpshooters opened fire.

The former president clapped his hand to the side of his face and ducked, with Secret Service agents quickly surrounding him and whisking him away as blood dripped near his right ear.

The crowd reacts as former President Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

The shooting, which left one spectator dead and injured Trump and two others, stunned operatives of both political parties who have seen firsthand the level of precision, care and detail the Secret Service takes in safeguarding its charges. American presidents and former presidents are among the most protected politicians in the world, with multiple layers of security  some visible to the public and others covert.

Read more: Trump shooting is a historic moment echoing past political violence in America

President Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed by Homeland Security, the FBI, Secret Service and the attorney general's office Sunday about the assassination attempt and the shooter  identified by authorities as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pa.  but a motive has not been revealed.

Biden said he has ordered a "thorough and swift investigation" of the shooting.

"There is no place in America for this kind of violence, or any violence," Biden said during a news conference. "For that matter, an assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation."

Biden said he has been consistent in his direction for the Secret Service to provide Trump with "every resource capability and protective measure necessary to ensure his continued safety."

The president also directed the Secret Service to review its security measures for the Republican National Convention, and said he's ordered an independent review of security at the Pennsylvania rally, which will be shared publicly.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) joined a growing chorus of politicians asking how the shooting could have happened.

On the "Today" show, Johnson said that Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas could not answer whether drones were being used to spot potential security threats.

"How could an individual be at that elevation that was seen by apparently bystanders on the ground? How could that not be noticed by Secret Service?" Johnson said Sunday morning. "Lots more questions than answers this morning."

Former President Trump's ear is covered in blood after being shot at a campaign rally. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

Democrat Bill Burton saw the intricate level of protection while accompanying then-Sen. Barack Obama during his 2008 campaign and then as a member of his White House administration.

In the political world, people often ignore the humanity on the other side, but ultimately, former President Trump came within an inch of losing his life today, Burton said after watching the story unfold live on television monitors during a layover at John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York. And regardless of what these next months and years hold, I dont think any of us want to live in a country where that is a reality for our leaders.

At campaign rallies and official White House events, the level of security for spectators is greater than at an airport checkpoint. Items as innocuous as umbrellas are often confiscated. For reporters and others in close proximity to the president or a prominent candidate, the security is even more in-depth, with background checks and trained dogs smelling bags and equipment.

In addition to such publicly visible efforts, agents are often perched on rooftops with long guns when a protectee appears in public. Motorcades are guarded by federal, state and local law enforcement. Buildings and event sites are screened and safeguarded in advance, and intelligence about potential threats is vetted.

But attendees at Saturday's rally say not all structures around the venue were covered by the Secret Service.

Greg Smith told the BBC that he had seen the shooter crawling on a nearby rooftop before shots rang out. Smith said he and others tried to alert police or the Secret Service to his presence.

"We're pointing at the guy," Smith told the BBC. "He had a rifle. We could clearly see him with a rifle."

Read more: Trump shooting: Attendees describe chaotic scene as shots rang out at Pennsylvania rally

Smith suspects that law enforcement could not see the man because of the slope of the roof where he was positioned. Other eyewitness photos shared on social media show the suspect lying on his stomach with a rifle. A video shared on the social media platform X showed a chaotic scene of people shouting, "He's got a gun!"

Trump continued to speak onstage as the scene unfolded, according to witnesses.

Smith said, "I'm thinking to myself, 'Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage?' "

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi on Sunday addressed criticism over a lapse in security in a statement posted to X. Guglielmi said it was not true that Trump's camp had "requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed."

"In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo," Guglielmi said.

A law enforcement source said the rooftop was beyond the security net set up by the Secret Service, adding that is now part of the investigation.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while former President Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa. (Gene J. Puskar / Associated Press)

The range from which the weapon was fired and the clothing worn by the gunman led to early speculation that the shooter had military experience. However, all the branches of the military searched their records Sunday and said they had no records of Crooks serving.

Weve confirmed with each of the military service branches that there is no military service affiliation for the suspect with that name or date of birth in any branch, Maj. Gen. Pat Ryder, the Pentagon press secretary, said Sunday.

Crooks fired from about 430 feet from the stage where Trump was speaking. Given some training and practice, it would not be a difficult shot to make with an AR-style rifle  which was what Crooks used  said retired Los Angeles Police Department special weapons team officer and sniper Steve Gordon.

"That type of rifle is standard issue to the police/military, and that is not a difficult shot to make with that weapon system, Gordon said.

Even without seeing the Pennsylvania venue, Gordon said that "it's nearly impossible, if not completely impossible, to cover every window, rooftop, tree, bush and person."

"Had they spotted him seconds earlier, they could have shot him immediately based on the circumstances," he said. "But based on what I've seen so far, I believe the counter-sniper team did a tremendous job.

He questioned whether the Secret Service had all the resources needed for the security detail.

Guglielmi told the Washington Post that the agency relied on local police at the rally. Those officers performed vital tasks usually carried out by specialized agents, including the heavily armed counter-assault team who provided cover to Trump as he was escorted out of the venue and counter-sniper teams who spotted and killed the shooter.

Read more: FBI identifies gunman in Trump assassination attempt

The assassination attempt took place on the eve of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which starts Monday, with Trump expected to accept his party's nomination on Thursday.

Security during such events is extraordinarily tight and is certain to grow stricter after what occurred Saturday.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, said he and his staff are communicating with the agencies coordinating security for the event.

"We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind  that is not who we are as Americans," Evers said on X.

The last publicly known assassination attempt of a president or former president occurred in 1981 when Ronald Reagan was shot and seriously injured as he left a hotel in Washington.

Butler County Dist. Atty. Richard A. Goldinger told CNN on Saturday that the gunman was outside the grounds where Trump was speaking.

Quite frankly, I dont know how he would have gotten to the location where he was, Goldinger said. And I think thats something that were gonna have to figure out how he got there."

Law enforcement officers gather at an emptied campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Trump. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

Law enforcement consultant Roy Taylor, who has decades of experience coordinating security details for political events, said securing elevated positions around a venue is key to ensuring a protectee's safety.

Taylor, who was not involved in Trump's security detail in Pennsylvania, said the Secret Service acted quickly once they were alerted to Crooks' position. But he questions why the rooftop was left open in the first place.

"Everybody needs to be taken out of the building, or officers need to be put into the building," he said. "We need to make sure it's secured because obviously it's easier to fire down on somebody than it is for people to fire up, because that gives you a platform of superiority."

It's unclear what the situation was like for the security detail on the ground, Taylor said, adding they may have been inundated with information from rally attendees, radio chatter and Trump's nearby speech.

As a former president, Trump already has a Secret Service detail, but that will probably increase when he accepts the nomination to be the Republican candidate, Taylor said.

Taylor was involved in coordinating the security detail for the 2020 Republican National Convention in Charlotte, N.C. For a year leading up to the convention, security met regularly to coordinate all aspects of the event.

But a security detail on the campaign trail does not have that luxury, he said, noting they are working on a quicker timeline and coordinating with local law enforcement.

"It would be difficult for them to do a full security assessment and cover every single base with the resources they're given," Taylor said.

Read more: FBI says it has not determined a motive for assassination attempt on former President Trump

Multiple politicians have called for scrutiny of the Secret Service in the wake of the shooting. Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), who chairs the House Oversight Committee, invited Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify at a hearing on July 22.

"The tremendous bravery of the individual United States Secret Service agents who protected President Trump, eliminated the gunman, and possibly averted more loss of life cannot be overstated enough," Comer said in his invitation letter. In a post to X, Comer wrote, "Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump."

An armed officer stands guard while Secret Service agents surround former President Trump. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

An advisor to 2012 GOP presidential nominee Mitt Romney said the danger grows exponentially at outdoor events, which he described as the most difficult.

So many ways to get a weapon in. Could have been tossed over a fence. Dug into the ground and placed earlier. Who knows? said the advisor, asking not to be identified to speak candidly about the situation.

Burton said that while the Secret Service offers the best protection in the world  any security official would tell you that it is nearly impossible to stop a committed lone wolf who is willing to die for his cause.

Obama received Secret Service protection earlier than any presidential candidate in history because of the level of threats against him.

I was absolutely shocked and immediately saddened, Burton said of Saturday's violence.

The Secret Service was charged with protecting presidents in 1902 after the assassination of President McKinley the previous year. Its duties  safeguarding the nations leaders and their families  have grown over the years, most significantly after the assassination of President Kennedy in 1963.

Get the L.A. Times Politics newsletter. Deeply reported insights into legislation, politics and policy from Sacramento, Washington and beyond, in your inbox three times per week.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Due to the amount of rain received last evening in northern Illinois, Lee County Sheriff Clay Whelan is placing the No Wake ordinance into effect. The Lee County Sheriffs Office has been in contact with the Ogle County Sheriffs Office and the Winnebago County Sheriffs Office. They have also instituted the No Wake ordinance in their respective counties.

The ordinance can be put into effect when flooding or other adverse weather conditions on the Rock River necessitate it for safety purposes. No person shall operate a motorboat at a speed exceeding five (5) miles per hour while traveling in a no wake area.
Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Barack Obama joined members of both parties in condemning the shooting at President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, which injured Trump and killed one attendee.

Bush said he and former first lady Laura Bush are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life and praised Secret Service for their speedy response to the shooting.

Obama said in a post on social media platform X that Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, Obama wrote, adding he and former first lady Michelle Obama were wishing Trump a quick recovery.

Clinton said in a post on X that Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process.

Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service, he wrote.

President Biden said in a statement that he had received a briefing on the shooting and was grateful to hear that [Trump is] safe and doing well.

Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said in the statement. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

The president later told reporters he tried to get ahold of Trump and said everybody must condemn the shooting.

Political leaders from both parties offered well wishes and prayers for Trump while condemning violence after gunshots rang out shortly into Trumps speech at his rally in Butler, Pa.

Live updates: Trump reported safe after apparent shooting at rally

After gunshots started, Trump reached for his head and dropped to the ground as Secret Service agents crowded around him on stage for several seconds.

Trump hustled off stage after apparent shooting at rally

Moments later, Trump and the agents stood back up, with blood visible on the right side of his face near his ear.

The Secret Service later said Trump was safe and his campaign said he was fine and being checked at a local medical facility.

The local district attorney said one attendee was killed and another was injured, while the suspected shooter was dead.

Updated: 8:44 p.m.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
One day after horrific political violence, lets pray for peace and seek answers | Opinion

On Saturday night, a 20-year-old gunman tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump.

On Sunday morning and the days to come, we must come together as a nation to pray for Trump, the people killed and wounded at his rally, and for this country.

Today, we must abhor blame and finger-pointing.

Today, we must turn down the rhetoric and political temperature of all political parties.

And in the shock of the moment, we also must ask this imperative question: How did this happen?

We salute the FBI and to Kentucky Rep. James Comer, who chairs the House Oversight Committee, for quickly pledging to investigate the unfathomable situation that unfolded on live TV shortly after 6 p.m. Saturday.

Just hours after the images of a blood-splattered Trump being rushed off the stage in Pennsylvania flashed across the country, the Kentucky Republican was spot-on in his Saturday night statement: Americans demand answers.

Tough questions must be asked. Explanations must be given in full transparency, with no obfuscation.

When we know better what happened, we can calmly assess the next steps forward.

Undoubtedly, the nation, even the entire world, must learn how a gunman armed with an AR-15-type semiautomatic weapon set up his firing line from a rooftop about 100 yards from where a former president was speaking to supporters.

Less helpful is social media chatter about what might have prompted this horrific event.

Little is yet known about the alleged shooter. Early Sunday reports indicated he was a registered Republican, just two years out of high school with no criminal record. In January 2021, he apparently gave a $15 political donation to a to a liberal voter turnout group called the Progressive Turnout Project.

But what is certain is this: Political violence is a problem for all Americans.

It has plagued this nation since its early years and it is up to all of us to tamp down the passion and channel the pragmatism and compassion that makes this country great.

The Republican National Convention begins Monday in Milwaukee. Lets hope that amid this shock and anger, Trump will use his leadership to calm his followers as we move into the final four months of the presidential campaign.

Equally important was President Bidens statement Saturday night: Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

In a country that trumpets its patriotism and in Kentucky, with its United we stand, divided we fall motto, Americans have become too quick to anger and divisiveness.

Lets use this near-tragedy, the attempted assassination of a former American president who could potentially ascend to the White House again, to embrace what brings us together.

As former President Barack Obama said in a statement late Saturday, let us use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Civility and respect. They are two words that for nearly a decade have been missing from Americas political scene.

Let us as Kentuckians and Americans recognize the collective horror at this moment  and then pursue a more civil future in which we dont work out our problems with guns.
Emergency workers rush to attend to victims after an Israeli air strike on the Al-Mawasi camp for the displaced Palestinians. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

Palestinian medics reported that at least 90 people were killed and hundreds were injured in an Israeli airstrike on a refugee camp in southern Gaza as Israel sought to kill a leader from Palestinian Islamist Hamas.

The health authorities in Gaza controlled by the Palestinian Islamist Hamas movement said that at least 300 people were injured in the attack on the al-Mawasi camp when tents for displaced people were hit. Many were severely wounded and are in danger of dying, according to medical sources in the Gaza Strip.

Israeli media reported that the target of the strike was Mohammed Deif, the leader of Hamas' military wing in Gaza.

The Haaretz newspaper said army sources believed Deif was killed in the attack, though later, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said this was not certain, speaking to a press conference in Tel Aviv.

A senior Hamas official said Deif was well and had not been killed in the airstrike.

"He is continuing in commanding the resistance against the Israeli enemy," Ali Barakeh, the official who lives in Beirut, told dpa.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said the strike targeted Deif, along with Hamas' military leader in the central city of Khan Younis, Rafa Salama, as both are considered "masterminds of the massacre on October 7."

One of Israel's central aims in the current conflict is to capture or kill Deif and the Hamas leader in the Gaza Strip, Yehya al-Sinwar. The third most senior Hamas leader in Gaza, Marwan Issa, was reportedly killed in March.

The IDF said the strike "was carried out in a fenced-in area controlled by Hamas and where, according to [IDF] information, only Hamas terrorists and no civilians were present."

"It was a precise attack. It is estimated that most of the victims were also terrorists who were with Deif and Salama," it added.

The army had extremely reliable intelligence information that Deif and Salama were in the base at the time of the attack, a senior military representative said in an online briefing for journalists.

The IDF said the target zone was an open area surrounded by trees, several buildings and barracks, with no tents nearby, though Palestinian reports said the strike hit tents housing displaced people.

The Israeli Foreign Ministry said it was investigating the airstrike and added that, "in view of the developments in Gaza," Defence Minister Yoav Gallant conducted an assessment of the operational situation along with military and intelligence chiefs.

There were several major attacks in Gaza early on Saturday, according to the WAFA Palestinian news agency.

Staff at the Nasser Hospital reported a shortage of beds to accommodate the large number of injured following the attacks.

The Israeli military said on Saturday that operations were continuing throughout the Gaza Strip, including in Gaza City.

Report: Two killed in Israeli drone strike in Lebanon

Meanwhile fighting continues between Israel and Lebanon, with two civilians killed by an Israeli drone strike in southern Lebanon, the official Lebanese news agency NNA reported on Saturday.

The two were found dead inside a vehicle in the town of al-Khardly after they were targeted by a missile fired from the drone, the agency added.

One fatality was identified as Mussa Sulaiman, a member of the Shiite Amal group, an ally of the Lebanese Iranian-aligned Hezbollah movement.

The IDF said it struck at what it called "two Hezbollah terrorists" preparing to launch projectiles from southern Lebanon toward Israel.

There are fears that the conflict could spread to Lebanon as Israel and the Iranian-backed Hezbollah have been fighting almost daily since the beginning of the Gaza war.

Argentina classifies Hamas as terrorist group

Argentina has classified Hamas as a terrorist organization.

"Hamas has claimed responsibility for the atrocities committed during the attack on Israel on October 7. These are part of a long history of terrorist attacks in the name of Hamas," the office of President Javier Milei announced on Friday evening.

The United States, Canada and the European Union listed Hamas as a terrorist organization long ago. But Argentina is one of the few countries to have taken this step in Latin America, along with Paraguay and Costa Rica.

Other countries such as Colombia and Bolivia broke off their relations with Israel due to its offensive in the Gaza Strip.

Milei is seen as a staunch ally of Israel and unreservedly supports the policy of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's government in the war in Gaza.

The Jewish community in the Argentinian capital Buenos Aires is one of the largest outside Israel.

Emergency workers rush to attend to victims after an Israeli air strike on the Al-Mawasi camp for the displaced Palestinians. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

Bodies of the Palestinian children who were killed in an Israeli attack that hit the house belonging to the Al-Raii family, are brought to the Al-Aqsa Martyrs Hospital in Deir al-Balah. Omar Ashtawy/APA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
In the terminal of Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport Sunday morning, Jennifer Friend stood near the airport information booth in her white and gold Make America Great Again hat.

Signs throughout the terminal welcomed visitors to the city for the Republican National Convention and Friend, an alternate delegate from Florida, said she was excited and "a little bit nervous," for her visit to Milwaukee.

Less than 24 hours earlier, Friend turned on her television in her Alachua County, Florida home and saw the news Saturday night that an assassination attempt had been made against former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. Friend, who has been to Trump rallies before, said she couldnt believe what she saw.

I just got tears in my eyes, she said.

But like Friend, other Republican National Convention attendees that spoke with the USA Today Network at the Milwaukee Mitchell Airport Sunday morning said they were excited to arrive in the Wisconsin city for the convention and were not worried about safety in Milwaukee after the shooting at the Pennsylvania rally. Most delegates said they were grateful that Trump was not further injured and looked forward to hearing from the former president later in the week.

Im not apprehensive at all, said Clif Vicars, an alternate delegate from Johnson City, Tennessee.

Friend said she was excited to learn of Trumps pick for vice president. Her only safety concern was potential protesters in Milwaukee, she said.

Im feeling good, Friend said. I dont really get scared. I keep to myself.

Jennifer Friend, an alternate delegate from Florida, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Daren Struiksma traveled to Milwaukee Sunday morning from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for his first Republican National Convention. He said he was excited to be in Milwaukee, but had nearly collapsed when he heard the news of the assassination attempt against Trump Saturday evening.

I didnt think this would ever [happen], he said, but its the world we live in now.

Clif Vicars, an alternate delegate from Tennessee, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

More: This election was already shattering norms. Then the Trump rally shooting happened.

Rachel Gunther, a long-time Trump supporter, was packing for her flight to Milwaukee when she learned the news.

Fear, shock," and "sadness, was going through her head, she told USA TODAY.

Gunther sported a shirt bedazzled in rhinestones spelling out the introduction to the U.S. Constitution along with a red, white and blue straw hat.

The delegate from Long Beach, California said her excitement for the RNC isnt muted by Saturdays events. This will be her third convention and Gunther said it will be history-making.

This is going to be the last time President Trump will be accepting the nomination, she said.

More: Trump survives assassination attempt, when was the last one on a presidential candidate?

A U.S. president hasnt been the victim of an assassination attempt more than 40, let alone held a party convention just days after surviving one. Gunther said she wanted to hear from Trump directly how he felt after the rally in Pennsylvania.

The 67-year-old said that shes glad she heard about the news before watching the widely circulated video depicting the attack, fearing that her reaction wouldve been more emotional.

The graphic imagery shows blood coming from the right side of the former presidents head and him pumping his fist in the air before being taken down the stairs by Secret Service.

California delegate Lindsey Stetson told the USA TODAY Network that she's grateful Trump is okay and the RNC is still underway.

"Coming into the convention, I think we're all appreciative of being here today," she said. "I think we're still very excited to nominate the [former] president, and I think we will be even more excited to see him step on stage in public after what happened."

Jose Julio Diaz, a delegate from Puerto Rico, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Jose Diaz, who traveled to Milwaukee from Puerto Rico, said he also became emotional when he heard the news from the rally in Pennsylvania.

It was a matter of inches, he said with tears in his eyes Sunday morning. The possibility, its horrible. Thank God nothing happened.

On her flight from Washington state into Milwaukee Sunday morning, Brenda Milewski thought of the song Let there be peace on Earth, a tune she remembers singing in fourth grade.

The song popped in her head as she was thinking about her upcoming week at the RNC and the assassination attempt on Trump yesterday in Pennsylvania.

Like other delegates that arrived at the airport Sunday morning, Milewski, 64, said she was not worried about security in Milwaukee for the convention. Even after the shooting at the Pennsylvania rally, Milewski said she was confident and excited going into the RNC knowing Trump is the partys nominee.

Were excited that somebodys willing to fight the good fight, Milewski said. Were excited that somebody who got shot in the ear somewhere, we dont know where exactly, but he is still determined to stand up and fight.

 Ricardo Torres of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel contributed to this reporting. Brittany Carloni covers state government and politics for IndyStar. Sam Woodward is an election reporting fellow for USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: RNC delegates arrive in Milwaukee, grateful for Trump's safety
Top Democrats quickly condemned the apparent shooting that took place at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

The apparent gunshots rang out as Trump was rallying voters in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump appeared to grab his ear before he dropped behind the lectern, and Secret Service agents swarmed on top of them. They surrounded him as he stood up, and he put a fist up to the crowd as they led him off stage. Blood could be seen on his ear.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung in a statement said Trump was fine and being checked out at a local medical facility.

I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) said in a statement. Political violence has no place in our country.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) echoed in a statement on X. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, former Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.) wrote on X. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Live updates: Trump reported safe after apparent shooting at rally

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) said he was briefed on the incident and that Pennsylvania State Police are on the scene in Butler County, Pa., and are working with federal and local partners.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro added in a post on X. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer (D) said she was horrified by the news of the apparent shooting.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences, she added in a post on X. I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.

Trump hustled off stage after apparent shooting at rally

Rep. Pete Aguilar (Calif.), the chair of the House Democratic Caucus, wrote on X that Political violence is unacceptable and un-American.

Grateful that the former President is safe. Our thoughts are with him and everyone in attendance at the rally, he added.

The Secret Service in a statement on Saturday said Trump was safe and that the incident was being investigated. Police, meanwhile, would not immediately confirm the nature of the incident.

President Biden has been briefed on the incident, the White House said Saturday.

Top Republicans on Capitol Hill also condemned the apparent shooting. Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) said he was praying for Trump and the other rally attendees, adding we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, he said in a post on X. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) said in a statement on X.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Senior Democrats have condemned political violence after Donald Trump was rushed off stage at a rally in Pennsylvania (REUTERS)

Senior Democrats both past and present have sent their thoughts and prayers to Donald Trump after the attempted assassination at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night.

Senate Majority leader Chuck Schumer, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and Barack Obama were among those denouncing political violence after 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire at the rally, grazing Trump with a bullet just minutes into his speech.

Trump dropped behind the podium and clutched his bloody head before being swarmed by Secret Service and escorted off the stage. Crooks was killed by Secret Service just after the attack, which left a spectator dead and two others injured.

Pennsylvania Democratic Senator Bob Casey said that violence was never acceptable and urged those on the ground at the rally to listen to law enforcement.

I am monitoring the situation at President Trumps rally in Butler and Ive reached out to the State Police to offer support, he wrote on X. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement.

Vice President Kamala Harris quickly released a statement that she  along with President Joe Biden  had been briefed on the shooting, describing the incident as an abhorrent act.

Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured, she said.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action.

Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer wrote on X: I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.

House Minority leader Jeffries echoed Schumers sentiments, writing: My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, he wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Obama said that the shocking incident should be a moment for people to recommit ourselves to civility and wished the former president a quick recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Pelosi said she knows firsthand the horrors of political violence after her husband, Paul Pelosi, was attacked with a hammer at their San Francisco home just days before the 2022 midterm elections.

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, she wrote. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Trump was rushed to the floor by secret service agents and was later seen with blood trickling down his face (Getty Images)

California Governor Gavin Newsom, a well-known face in the Democratic party, wrote: Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.

Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg called it a horrible moment.

An entire nation must speak with one voice today to completely and unequivocally reject all political violence, he said.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.  Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) July 13, 2024

Political violence is absolutely unacceptable, added Senator Bernie Sanders. I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.

(AP)

Meanwhile, Chris Murphy, a Democratic senator for Connecticut, wrote: There is no room in America for political violence. We should all condemn what happened today and I am hoping for the health of the former president and everyone else at the rally.

As well as Democrats, Trumps other political rival Robert F Kennedy Jr  who is running for president as an independent candidate  also called for US citizens to renounce all violence.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, he wrote.

Kennedys father, the US attorney general and senator Robert F Kennedy was assasinated in June 1968, when he was running for the Democratic presidential nomination.

His uncle, former president John F Kennedy, was also assassinated in 1963.
Democratic leaders tabled their harsh criticism of Donald Trump and pulled their negative political attack ads in the wake of a deadly shooting that left the former president injured at a MAGA campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence, President Joe Biden told reporters in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Its sick, its sick.

As Biden spoke, his campaign officials announced that they were pulling their attack ads targeting Trump after chaos rained down on the event and potentially changed the trajectory of the presidential campaign.

The Biden campaign is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible, a spokesperson said.

Later in the evening, the White House said President Biden had spoken to former President Trump.

From Biden down, Democrats expressed their thoughts and prayers for Trump in the wake of the apparent assassination attempt. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety, Biden said in a statement on X earlier. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he was horrified by what happened at the rally, where Trumpeven as blood appeared to pool around his right ear and streak down his cheekpumped his fist at his followers and appeared to say fight, fight, fight as Secret Service agents escorted him to his waiting motorcade.

House Democratic leader Hakeem Jeffries echoed that he was thankful to federal law-enforcement agents for protecting the former president and 2024 GOP presidential aspirant. My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump, Jeffries said, adding that political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Joe Biden Condemns Shooting at Trump Rally, Calling it Sick

The shooter was dead after being neutralized by Secret Service personnel, the agency confirmed in a statement, adding the shooter had fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position.

The incident is being treated as a possible assassination attempt on the former president and current GOP presidential candidate, who is scheduled to accept his partys formal nomination next week at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Sen. Bernie Sanders (I-VT) also said, Political violence is absolutely unacceptable. I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.

Political violence is absolutely unacceptable.



I wish Donald Trump, and anyone else who may have been hurt, a speedy recovery.  Bernie Sanders (@BernieSanders) July 13, 2024

Biden, in his brief appearance before the media in Delaware, said gun violence that erupted at Trumps rally is just unheard of.

Former President Barack Obama tweeted, Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Rep. Nancy Pelosi (D-CA), former speaker of the House, whose husband was bludgeoned in an attack that was intended for her, tweeted, As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.

Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, former President Bill Clinton said on X.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is one of the hottest industries for investors right now. Semiconductor darling and data center specialist Nvidia (NASDAQ: NVDA) is considered by many on Wall Street to be a lucrative opportunity for AI enthusiasts.

With shares of Nvidia up over 170% so far in 2024, some investors may think they've missed the boat.

Let's take a look at what is going on at Nvidia, and assess if now is still a reasonable time to scoop up some shares.

Nvidia's hot start to 2024

2023 marked a new age for the technology industry. Behemoths such as Microsoft, Alphabet, and Amazon all made a series of splashy investments revolving around AI applications.

Some of the bigger investments these tech giants made were buying AI-powered semiconductor chips, as well as ramping up data center services. Considering Nvidia has an estimated 80% share of the AI chip market, these moves by big tech undoubtedly served as a big boost to the company.

The strong momentum from last year's AI euphoria carried into 2024, and Nvidia investors haven't stopped buying up the stock. To put this into context, shares of Nvidia have increased almost 800% since January 2023.

This unprecedented run briefly catapulted Nvidia over Microsoft as the world's most valuable company by market cap. Moreover, as shares continued to eclipse new heights, Nvidia's management finally decided to implement a 10-for-1 stock split last month.

Image source: Getty Images.

Nvidia is more than just a chip opportunity

What's incredible is that much of the narrative surrounding Nvidia deals with the company's chip business. Indeed, its H100 and A100 graphics processing units (GPUs) are used by companies all around the world -- including Meta Platforms and Tesla.

Moreover, Nvidia is continuing to lead the innovation front in the GPU realm with the introduction of its new Blackwell and Rubin chips.

With that said, it's important to understand that Nvidia makes money from other products and services as well. In fact, one of its lesser-known growth opportunities is outside of hardware.

Nvidia's compute unified device architecture (CUDA) software platform is already proving to be a lucrative business. Essentially, CUDA is a programming tool that is meant to be used in parallel with Nvidia's GPUs. So, in a sense, the company is attempting to build out an end-to-end AI ecosystem encompassing both hardware and software.

One of the big reasons CUDA is going to be important for Nvidia is due to competition in the chip space. Companies such as AMD, Intel, and even Amazon and Meta are all working on competing GPUs to that of Nvidia.

Story continues

Although it's too early to get a sense of how these competing products will impact Nvidia, I think it's reasonably safe to say that the company will eventually lose some of its pricing power in the chip space. As a result, Nvidia's profit margins are likely to take a hit at some point in the future. However, some of this margin deterioration should be mitigated so long as CUDA continues to thrive. The reason is because software products tend to carry much higher margins than hardware.

Is now a good time to invest in Nvidia stock?

The chart below illustrates Nvidia's price-to-earnings (P/E) and price-to-free-cash-flow (P/FCF) multiples over the last 12 months. While a P/E of 75.9 and a P/FCF of 82.2 may look pricey, there are a couple of ideas to explore here.

NVDA PE Ratio Chart

First, both Nvidia's P/E and P/FCF multiples are lower than they were a year ago. In other words, despite the rapid ascent of the stock price, Nvidia's earnings and cash flow are accelerating at a faster rate -- therefore, Nvidia stock is technically less expensive today than it was 12 months ago.

Moreover, Nvidia's commanding lead in the chip space and its under-the-radar software services should be analyzed further. The company is an investor in Databricks, one of the most valuable AI start-ups in the world. Nvidia is also an investor in Figure AI -- a developer of humanoid robotics.

I do not think that opportunities in robotics and AI software are priced into Nvidia stock yet. I think many of these applications are currently overshadowed by the performance of the chip business, and many investors are discounting the potential Nvidia has in other areas in the AI arena.

Long-term investors have an opportunity to gain exposure to many different aspects of AI simply through Nvidia. Despite the meteoric rise in share price, the valuation analysis above, as well as some of the other growth opportunities explored make a compelling case that Nvidia stock is a good buy right now and significant upside could very much be in store.

Should you invest $1,000 in Nvidia right now?

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The News

The assassination attempt on Donald Trump paused the political conversation among Democrats just as they were simultaneously preparing to rebut his convention and debating whether to replace their nominee.

Folks are not discussing that, one Democratic leadership aide said. At the moment, everyone is grateful that the former president is stable and safe.

Several other lawmakers and staff in Washington echoed those comments: Democrats were taking their time to gather information before assessing the political fallout and their chief concern was about the security implications.

Members are still mostly talking about what happened, who the shooter was, and keeping themselves safe, one Democratic House member said.

The Biden campaign has similarly pulled its political ads and Congress is already planning to investigate how the US Secret Service failed to prevent a gunman from getting in position to fire from a rooftop. President Joe Biden postponed a stop in Texas scheduled for Monday during which he was supposed to mark the 60th anniversary of the signing of the Civil Rights Act.

Its also spilling into down-ballot races. The Democratic and Republican Senate campaign arms paused their digital fundraising. A spokesperson for Virginia Sen. Tim Kaines reelection campaign told Semafor that his campaign stops were canceled for Sunday, and they were making decisions on future events day by day.

But with just weeks left to settle their own internal party questions, its unlikely to stay that way for long. And behind the scenes, speculation continued to brew about how the shooting might impact the general election and whether it would cut off  or accelerate  internal efforts to oust Biden.

I think the President heard our message very clearly, Rep. Jason Crow, D-Colo., said on CBS Face the Nation on Sunday in response to a question about a tense phone call he and other Democrats had with Biden over the weekend before the shooting. And in fact, he promised to come back to us with more information to address our concerns and to answer our questions. And thats the process were going through right now, in the coming days is answering those questions.

Know More

Not every Democrat we spoke to was convinced the reaction would play out predictably, or that the incident would have a durable effect on a polarized race against Trump, especially with so many months remaining.

I found it so bizarre that many people on my side are firmly in the camp of he cant win, said one party strategist who does not work for the Biden campaign. That has to be a vibes analysis, because I have not seen a rational basis for that. I think the vote choice consolidation for Biden is very much there if we get into October.

But others were more pessimistic, fearing the image of a bloodied Trump rising with his fist pumped would energize Republicans and give him a new way to appeal to voters outside of the typical political conversation.

Thats the whole fucking election, one Democratic member supportive of Bidens nomination told Semafor. Every image from that is iconic and couldnt have been created on a Hollywood movie.

Even as they predicted a Biden loss, though, the same member bitterly suggested the move would slow momentum for a replacement: All of the thirsty and self-absorbed, ambitious, and think theyre fancy pants Dems with their measured words on Biden would-be replacing will run away and keep powder dry for 2028.

On the other end of the spectrum, some Democrats wondered if a Trump bump would further fuel concerns about Bidens ability to navigate an even more difficult political environment, eventually building pressure again to drop out.

One senior Democratic Senate aide noted that the Biden campaign plan relied heavily on promising normalcy and denouncing Trump as a chaotic and dangerous figure, something that may now be harder to do as the nation grapples with the shooting.

He was already on track to win and the fact that he is now a victim of political violence rather than the perpetrator undermines Bidens core appeal, the aide said.

The aide added the situation might boost interest in options beyond Kamala Harris as well, as it might give the party a way to more dramatically reset the race, unburdened by what has occurred in the Biden-Trump wars. Democrats only hope is to nominate a fresh face who can turn the page on this entire era, call for lowering the temperature and position Democrats as the party of the future not the past, the aide said.

But the baseline scenario might be Biden benefiting from a rally-around-the-flag effect as Democrats grow wary of confronting him during a national crisis. Losing several days of news cycles that would otherwise feature prominent debates over his standing could also help him by simple inertia. Some Democrats are antsy about extending their intramural debates beyond the Republican convention without some decisive resolution, regardless of where it ends up.

Democrats who spoke to Semafor insisted they did not see party leaders jumping off the assassination news to squash discussions around Biden; or Bidens opponents rushing to reassert themselves in response to the situation. Things simply remained too new and too sensitive.

Im not hearing any of this at this moment, Rep. Norma Torres of California said. Folks are saying to stop with the political rhetoric.

Notable

A new round of separate polls from CBS News, Fox News, and NBC News on Sunday showed Biden narrowly trailing Trump nationally and in key swing states, but with little movement since their debate.
Indiana Democrats formally nominated former state Rep. Terry Goodin and Destiny Wells, alongside their gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick, to take on Indiana Republicans in November's election.

After a contested Indiana Democratic Party convention on Saturday attended by nearly 2,000 people from across the state, Goodin easily secured his partys nomination to be McCormicks lieutenant governor candidate, with 1,209 votes. No other lieutenant governor candidate got more than 175 votes. Micah Beckwith is Goodin's Republican counterpart.

"Just getting along is not good enough for a great state like Indiana," Goodin said. "Indiana can do better, folks."

It was a much tighter race between Wells and Beth White, who were vying for Democrats' nomination for attorney general to take on incumbent Todd Rokita. Wells clinched 1,057 votes to secure the Democratic attorney general nomination, besting White who received 475 votes from delegates.

"It is my honor to continue this journey to the AG's office," Wells said after the votes came in. "Its up to each of us now."

Wells said she would "sprint" from tomorrow through November in trying to appeal to a bipartisan group of voters.

"Go split your ticket," Wells said after her victory.

More: Dems want to beat Todd Rokita in November. Will a contested AG race hurt their chances?

Voting kicked off around 5 p.m. at the Indiana Convention Center in downtown Indianapolis and lasted more than two hours.

Results werent tallied until after 7:30 p.m. Delegates were still voting when news came out that former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage at his rally in Pennsylvania, with blood dripping from his ear in what is being investigated as an assassination attempt. Convention chair Robin Winston called for delegates to stay in line and said violence has no place in American politics.

This is wrong, Winston said. Thats not how we do elections. We are not a third-world country.

More: Donald Trump rushed from stage at rally, appeared to be injured and have blood on his face

While the lieutenant governors race was technically contested, it was clear before the convention started that Goodin had the overwhelming support he needed to clinch the official nomination. Also running for the lieutenant governor spot were Bob Kern, Clif Marsiglio and Tamie Dixon-Tatum.

State Sen. J.D. Ford gave a speech to officially nominate Goodin as the lieutenant governor, a signal to delegates that the party had unified behind McCormicks choice, despite that Goodin previously has caught flak from Ford and other Democrats about his past votes against LGBTQ+ rights and abortion. Ford was the first openly LGBTQ+ member elected to the Indiana General Assembly.

Ford said Goodin has made assurances that he will be a force for progress and justice.

I know Dr. Goodin is up to doing this job, Ford said. I have spoken to him personally. I mean the actual job, and not the dangerous fantasy land that Micah Beckwith lives in.

The attorney generals race was the real fight Saturday.

Before the vote, White said she was cautiously optimistic about her chances of being selected. In a speech to the Indiana African American Caucus, people chanted her name after her short speech; meanwhile, Wells received more measured applause from that group.

I called every delegate individually, White said. Personal interaction makes a difference. Now its up to them.

Wells camp, meanwhile, cast the attorney generals race as a race between the past and the future of the Democratic party.

Two of the Indiana Democratic Partys rising stars, state Sen. Andrea Hunley of Indianapolis and Terre Haute Mayor Brandon Sakbun, nominated Wells and spoke on her behalf.

Both of our candidates are incredible strong women, Hunley said. Its not about  who we like more. Its about so much more than that. Today is about our shared vision, our shared strategic vision for the future of the Indiana Democratic Party.

Meanwhile, former state lawmaker Vi Simpson, who served in the Statehouse from 1984 to 2012, and third-term Boonville Mayor Charlie Wyatt, nominated White.

Its time to chase this MAGA-loving ambulance chaser out of that office, Simpson said, referring to Rokita. I think I know just the person to do the job.  Because she will lead with integrity and fairness and use her years of experience to restore trust in that office.

After Wells was selected as the Democrats' nominee, Rokita adviser Brent Littlefield sent a statement by calling her a "cheerlead(er) for the Biden-Harris agenda."

"Destiny Wells was rejected by the voters of Indiana less than 24 months ago due to her radical and extreme views," Littlefield said in a statement.

More: For Indiana Democrats these days, every year is a rebuilding year

State Democratic Party Chairman Mike Schmuhl called for Democrats to come together after the convention to defeat what he described as the MAGA starting lineup in November.

We need to stop them, Schmuhl said. I think we can do it if we work together. You can only go so far to the right before you start to crack from within.  Lets be unified behind our full ticket, OK? Lets take the fight to the Republicans.

However, Schmuhl alluded to the hard path ahead of them. Democrats have not won a statewide race since 2012 and theres disagreement with some in the party about the path to start winning again.

I know its not easy sometimes to be a Democrat in our state, but I am fully, fully in the belief that our brightest days are still ahead, Schmuhl said.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Democrats select Terry Goodin, Destiny Wells for November ballot
The front page of the Deseret News on July 14, 1987. On this day, Lt. Col. Oliver North ended six days of testimony before Congress.

A look back at local, national and world events through Deseret News archives.

Does anyone remember Lt. Col. Oliver North?

On this day in 1987, North, a career military operative, wrapped up six days of congressional testimony about his role in the Iran-Contra events.

The images of North, ramrod straight in his military uniform as he was sworn in to testify, or gesturing as he answered heated questions from lawmakers, havent dimmed with the years.

Feelings about the whole episode are also still strong.

In July 1987, North was summoned to testify before televised hearings of a joint congressional committee that was formed to investigate the IranContra scandal. During the hearings, North admitted that he had misled Congress, for which, along with other actions, he was later charged.

A defiant North  in a sort of You cant handle the truth! moment  said he viewed the Contras as freedom fighters.

In 1988, North was indicted on 16 felonies. In his 1989 trial, he was convicted of three of those charges and sentenced to a suspended prison term, probation, fines and community service.

However, on appeal, his convictions were reversed, and all the charges were dismissed in 1991.

Here are stories from Deseret News archives related to Oliver North:

North says White House used him as a scapegoat to protect Reagan

Panel probes for perjury in testimony on Iran-Contra

Jury still debating role of North in Iran-Contra affair

Oliver North: Still accountable

Iran-Contra mustnt be duplicated

Reagan role in Iran-Contra shrouded by memory lapses

North wont rule out a run for Congress

Reagan says North lies about Iran-Contra issue

Fawn Hall says Congress should keep its nose out of nations foreign policy

North deserves pardon, Hatch tells TV audience

Why not finally bury Iran-Contra?
Detroit police are continuing to crack down on illegal block parties across the city, an initiative announced in the aftermath of a mass block party shooting July 7, police department officials said during a news conference Saturday.

The department's neighborhood response team was dispatched to 18 illegal street parties Friday night, investigating about 60 individuals and 40 vehicles, issuing 10 citations, recovering four illegal weapons, and making four felony arrests, police said. The team said it planned to continue its patrols Saturday night.

During a traffic stop involving a black Dodge Ram near Chicago and Braile Street about 1 a.m. Saturday, officers with the department's 6th Precinct confiscated an illegal weapon, said Cmdr. Ryan Connor. The AR-15 style-pistol was equipped with 60 rounds and a 30-round magazine, Connor said.

More: Detroit police announce block party crackdown after shooting that kills 2, injures 19

 GUN SEIZURE @DPD6Pct special operations officers seized this firearm at an illegal block party.



Detroit, this is why were cracking down on illegal street parties. We want to keep our residents safe especially our most vulnerable pic.twitter.com/JCWrS2wFWX  Detroit Police Department (@detroitpolice) July 13, 2024

"Having the Detroit Police Department stepping up in the way they are, taking these weapons off the street before any type of mass casualty incident happens, it's important and significant," Connor said.

An image of an illegal firearm confiscated by Detroit Police while cracking down on illegal block parties in July 2024.

Detroit police are looking to shut down unlawful block parties before issues arise, Connor said. Police encouraged residents to socialize safely, warning of the risks of combining weapons, alcohol and late-night gatherings.

More: Community unites around call to end gun violence in wake of block party mass shooting

"The goal is to get to the parties early, as they're forming, to disrupt these parties, talk to the organizers, talk with the community," Connor said. "If you see something, please say something, let us know, let us know early."

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Police make arrests, confiscate weapons in block party crackdowns
Its been the question on everyones mind since Donald Trump narrowly escaped death in an assassination attempt Saturday night: How, exactly, was a 20-year-old rifleman able to perch himself on a rooftop just 150 yards away from the former president during a rally?

It turns out, the Secret Services over reliance on Pennsylvania cops may be partially to blame, with a report from The Washington Post revealing Sunday the agency punted the responsibility of surveying and securing some nearby structures to local officers.

Anthony Guglielmi, a spokesperson for the Secret Service, conceded that the agency relied on local law enforcement to fill in significant parts of its typical array of specialized protective units, the Post reported.

Thomas Crooks was just 150 yards away from Donald Trump when he opened fire. The Daily Beast/Google Earth

Guglielmi said Trumps security detail called on at least six members of Butler Countys tactical units for these jobs. That included the counter sniper teams that spotted and killed the shooter, Thomas Crooks, just moments after he fired a semiautomatic in Trumps direction.

Citing sources, the Associated Press reported that it was also a local officer who spotted Crooks on the roof before he opened fire, but that cop was unable to engage him because he was clinging to a ledge and trying to pull himself up. The report said the officer couldnt draw his weapon and ultimately let go of the ledge after Crooks pointed his rifle at him.

Its not abnormal for the Secret Service to rely on local cops for additional security at events, but, with the agency now under a magnifying glass, many lawmakersfrom both partiesare questioning whether the Secret Service should have had more of its own agents on the ground.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL) was among the lawmakers demanding answers from the Secret Service and calling for heads to roll inside the agency. The Secret Service was placed under official review on Sunday, and its director, Kimberly Cheatle, may soon find herself testifying on Capitol Hill to account for one of the worst disasters in her agencys 159-year history.

To put in perspective just how egregious it was that Crooks made it within 150 yards, or about 450 feet, from Trumpthats roughly the distance U.S. Army recruits must hit a human-sized silhouette from in order to qualify for the M16 assault rifle in basic training. That suggests that even the newest of U.S. infantrymen likely could have landed the shotespecially considering the rifle used by Crooks is a semiautomatic civilian version of the the military M16.

Secret Service agents rushed to shield Donald Trump with their bodies and rush him off stage. Reuters/Brendan McDermid

Kevin Rojek, the FBI Special Agent in Charge, said at the scene of the shooting that it was surprising the gunman was able to ever get a shot off at Trumpespecially from so close.

The Secret Service has not said how many agents it had at the Trump rally, but its staffing struggles have been well documented in recent years.

Jason Chaffetz, who was chair of the House Oversight Committee in 2015 when it penned an investigative report on Secret Service security failures, has long called for the Secret Service to hire more agents. On Sunday, he said the Trump rally a catastrophic failure in security.

He told the Post that his 2015 report called for significant changes to the Secret Servicespecifically, beefing up its personnel countthat were never implemented. That inaction may have nearly cost Trump his life.

We did all these investigations and did an extensive report so this would never happen again, he told the Post. Its as if they paid no attention to the bipartisan recommendations.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Who is the director of the Secret Service? Kimberly Cheatle has led agency since 2022

A House Republican leader is planning for an oversight hearing with the U.S. Secret Service after President Donald Trump was shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening.

Sunday morning the FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as the gunman who opened fire at Trump's rally. The Secret Service reported that the shooter and one rally attendee are dead. Two spectators are critically injured following the shooting.

House Committee on Oversight and Accountability Chairman James Comer, R-Kentucky, made the request for a briefing with the Secret Service and said he would call Kimberly Cheatle, the agency's director, to testify at a hearing.

"My prayers are with President Trump and the victims of the assassination attempt at todays rally in Pennsylvania. I thank the brave Secret Service members who put their lives at risk to protect President Trump and for the American patriots in the audience who helped innocent victims," Comer said in a news release Saturday. "Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers. I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.

So who is Kimberly Cheatle?

Who is in charge of the Secret Service?

Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the Secret Service, poses for a portrait at the agency's headquarters in Washington D.C. on Mar. 21, 2023.

Kimberly Cheatle was sworn in as the 27th director of the U.S. Secret Service in September 2022. She was selected by President Joe Biden in August 2022.

Cheatle has served more than 25 years with distinction for the United States Secret Service across a number of leadership roles. She worked on the Vice Presidential Protective Division, and in 2021, Biden awarded Cheatle with a Presidential Rank Award.

What does the director of the Secret Service do?

In Cheatle's role as director of the U.S. Secret Service, she is in charge of executing protection and investigations for the agency.

The workforce is composed of multiple divisions within the Secret Service including Special Agents, Uniformed Division Officers, Technical Law Enforcement Officers and Administrative, Professional and Technical personnel, according to the Secret Service's website.

What did Kimberly Cheatle do before the Secret Service?

Prior to becoming the Secret Service director, Cheatle worked for PepsiCo as the senior director in Global Security, according to her biography with the Secret Service. There, Cheatle oversaw and directed security protocols for the company's facilities in North America.

Cheatle was the agency's assistant director of the Office of Protective Details, prior to joining PepsiCo. She also served as the Special Agent in Charge of the Secret Service's Atlanta Field Office. In that position, she provided oversight for all missions related to investigation, protective intelligence and protective visits in the state of Georgia.

When will the director of the Secret Service testify?

BREAKING@RepJamesComer has invited U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify at a hearing on Monday, July 22.



Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump. pic.twitter.com/zKia2oIxCf  Oversight Committee (@GOPoversight) July 14, 2024

The hearing is expected to take place July 22, 2024, according to a letter from the Committee on Oversight and Accountability.

When was the Secret Service created?

Established in 1865, the U.S. Secret Service is one of the country's oldest federal law enforcement agencies. The U.S. Secret Service Uniformed Division protects the White House Complex and Naval Observatory, according to the Secret Service's website.

One of the newest expansions of the Secret Service's protective missions includes the issuance of Presidential Decision Directives. This established the agency as the lead for coordinating the development and implementation of security plans for National Special Security Events. This covers presidential inaugurations, State of the Union Addresses and other events of national significance.

Kate Kealey is a general assignment reporter for the Des Moines Register. Reach her at kkealey@registermedia.com or follow her on Twitter at @Kkealey17.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Who is Kimberly Cheatle, director of the U.S. Secret Service?
(Bloomberg) -- Moments after former President Donald Trump was escorted off the stage after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, unfounded claims about the event swirled on major social media platforms.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The posts, including some written by US politicians holding elected office, claimed without proof that President Joe Biden had ordered an apparent shooting at the rally. Others baselessly stated that the incident was staged, or circulated posts misidentifying the shooter.

In the aftermath of major news, the facts of an event are not always immediately clear. Law enforcement, including the Secret Service, the FBI, Pennsylvania state police and the Justice Department have said they are continuing to investigate the shooting, including the possibility it was an assassination attempt.

Experts urged caution before sharing unsubstantiated information.

In any fast developing event, there is inevitably a high influx of false or unverified information, especially on social media, said Graham Brookie, senior director of the Atlantic Councils Digital Forensic Research Lab, which studies social media misinformation.

On X, several politicians accused Biden or his campaign of being directly behind the apparent shooting, without providing evidence.

Georgia Representative Mike Collins posted simply, Joe Biden sent the orders, while Ohio Senator J.D. Vance, a top contender for Trumps vice-presidential running mate, wrote on X that the Biden campaigns rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Texas Representative Ronny Jackson pointed to unnamed figures on the left whom he accused of being directly responsible for the events at Trumps campaign rally.

Collins, Vance and Jackson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Their posts on X altogether garnered more than 7.3 million views on Saturday evening, according to data from the social media platform.

As of late Saturday evening, the shooters name had not been released to the public though NBC News said authorities have tentatively identified the man as approximately 20 years old and from Pennsylvania.

Earlier posts on X, Telegram and Gab, forums favored by many on the far-right, misidentified the shooter as a man called Mark Violets, calling him a known Antifa extremist which refers to the loosely organized leftist movement. According to NBC News, the misidentified person circulated in posts that included a photo was Marco Violi, an Italian YouTuber who has denied any involvement in the shooting.

Immediately after the shooting, hundreds of thousands of posts reaching millions of views circulated on X claiming the shooting at the Pennsylvania rally was staged, according to data from the social media platform  without offering any evidence. Despite being quickly debunked, many of the posts remained live on the platform.

In the past year, content moderation efforts on major social media platforms have been weakened, as social media analysis tools have been shelved by Meta Platforms Inc. and others, and efforts from academic teams tracking misinformation, such as the Stanford Internet Observatory, have wound down.

--With assistance from Daniel Zuidijk.

Most Read from Bloomberg Businessweek

2024 Bloomberg L.P.
What dismissal of Alec Baldwins Rust case could mean for convicted film armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed

The dramatic dismissal of the involuntary manslaughter case against actor Alec Baldwin over withheld evidence could mean the release of convicted Rust movie armorer Hannah Gutierrez Reed from a New Mexico state prison, legal experts say.

Hannah Gutierrez Reed was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter and sentenced to 18 months in prison in March for the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins, who was killed by a live round fired from a prop gun that Baldwin held on the set of the western film in 2021. Shes appealing her conviction.

But the Baldwin case imploded on Friday  just two days after the trial began  with the sudden and shocking twists and turns of a nail-biting legal thriller.

A judge ruled prosecutors did not properly turn over evidence to the defense. The ruling was in response to a motion to dismiss by the actors attorneys, who argued the state did not share with them that a man had delivered to investigators a batch of unexamined ammunition purportedly connected to the case.

Given the egregious misconduct that led to the dismissal of Alec Baldwins case, it is abundantly clear that Hannah Gutierrez-Reeds case must also be dismissed, New York defense lawyer Duncan Levin said via email.

The intentional withholding of crucial evidence by the state has compromised the integrity of the entire judicial process. Justice demands that Hannahs wrongful conviction be overturned immediately, ensuring that the legal system does not perpetuate this grave injustice.

Immediately after the trials stunning end, Gutierrez Reeds attorney said he planned to file a motion for her release.

I fully expect Hannah Gutierrez Reed to make the same argument for her conviction to be overturned, Neama Rahmani, a former federal prosecutor, told CNN. I think this case wasnt won by Alec Baldwin as much as it was lost by the prosecution.  This evidence is more exculpatory and exonerates Gutierrez Reed even more than Baldwin.

The evidence in question first came to light on Thursday. A crime scene technician testified that a man had delivered a box of ammunition to the Santa Fe County Sheriffs Office after Gutierrez Reeds conviction. Troy Teske, a retired cop and friend of the armorers father, told investigators he believed the ammunition could be associated with the Rust case, according to testimony by crime scene tech Marissa Poppell.

But, Poppell told the jury, the bullets were catalogued separately from Baldwins case and were not included in the Rust case inventory or tested to see if they matched the lethal round.

Baldwins defense team argued prosecutors buried this evidence.

His attorneys claimed in a motion the state unilaterally withheld evidence that could be favorable at his trial  a violation of the Brady rule, named after the 1963 Brady v. Maryland case. The rule requires prosecutors to disclose material, exculpatory information in the governments possession to the defense, according to Cornell Law School.

On Friday, the case crumbled: The judge sent the jury home early, presided over a chaotic hours-long hearing in which the lead prosecutor went from grilling witnesses to taking the stand herself and saw a co-special prosecutor abruptly resign. Finally, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer dismissed the case with prejudice  meaning it cannot be brought again. She called the withholding of evidence intentional and deliberate.

The jury has been sworn, jeopardy has attached, and this disclosure during the course of trial is so late that it undermines the defendants preparation for trial, Marlowe Sommer said. There is no way for the court to right this wrong.

The 30 Rock and Hunt for Red October star  who had pleaded not guilty and could have faced up to 18 months in prison  cried as the decision was announced. He later hugged his wife Hilaria as court was excused for the day.

On October 21, 2021, Baldwin was on the movie set practicing a cross draw  pulling a gun from a holster on the opposite side of his body from his draw hand  with a prop gun when it fired a live round, killing Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

Jason Bowles, Gutierrez Reeds attorney, told CNN Friday that he will seek freedom for his client.

The judge found intentional misconduct and we also have had the same failures in Hannahs case by the state. We will be moving for dismissal of Hannahs case, Bowles said.

Sommer was also the judge in the armorers trial.

Her ruling regarding the failure to disclose the ammunition should carry significant weight in the Gutierrez Reed case, CNN legal analyst Joey Jackson said.

I think what youre going to see is a motion from her attorney giving the indication that when she was on trial, she did not have this information, Jackson said.

Clearly, it was in the prosecutions control. Clearly, it was brought to the prosecutors attention. And prosecutors dont get to make a unilateral decision as to whether somethings relevant or important in the case. Its shared and then assessed and analyzed.

Rahmani, referring to Gutierrez Reed, said: I fully expect either the trial court or the appellate court to overturn that conviction. It wont just be Alec Baldwin whos a free man. Hannah Gutierrez Reed will go free as well. And its really a tragedy to the victims in this case.

CNNs John Campbell. Cheri Mossberg, Julia Vargas Jones, Jack Hannah and Eric Levenson contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The Rev. Rodney Newman poses for a photo with Jeannie and Blair Schoeb in the sanctuary of New Hope United Methodist Church in Oklahoma City, where Newman is senior pastor.

An Oklahoma City couple couldn't imagine leaving the church where they had been members for 40 years.

Blair and Jeannie Schoeb met at Church of the Servant while they were both students at Oklahoma City University, one of the church's ministers officiated at their wedding and their two children grew up in the Oklahoma City church at 14343 N MacArthur  but then the unimaginable occurred.

The Schoebs left Church of the Servant as debates over disaffiliation from the United Methodist Church began to ramp up.

But, the pair chose to remain United Methodist.

More: After mass exodus, can the United Methodist Church in Oklahoma rebuild? What's next

The two are among more than 200 people who have become members of more than 50 other United Methodist churches after being displaced when their congregations cut ties with the United Methodist denomination, or at least considered it.

The wave of Oklahoma churches opting to disaffiliate in 2022 and 2023 was part of a schism in the international denomination due to disagreements over same-sex marriage, gay clergy ordination and other issues. In Oklahoma, 127 churches ultimately disaffiliated.

The Schoebs' newfound contentment at another United Methodist church  New Hope United Methodist  was highlighted in a video shown in the spring during the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference's 2024 annual meeting.

"For me and my wife, we need church to be a sanctuary, a safe zone and we need to go in on a Sunday or whenever we're there with a sense of peace, and we need to leave with a sense of peace, and I think there are a lot of churches who lost that," Blair Schoeb, 67, said in a recent interview.

The Rev. Roger Parker said he was excited to share the Schoebs' story and that of other United Methodists who found new church homes in a painful season of disaffiliations.

Parker is the pastor of The Gathering, which conference leaders created in 2023 as disaffiliations began in earnest. Disaffiliating churches were required to submit to the conference the names of congregation members who wished to remain United Methodist.

More: Oklahomans waiting decades for change celebrate United Methodist vote on same-sex marriage

Parker said about 80% of the people whose names were given to the conference have remained United Methodist and 350 of them began attending or joining "lighthouse churches" over time. He said lighthouse churches, which can be found throughout Oklahoma, are congregations that agreed to be intentionally supportive of displaced United Methodists as they transitioned out of their previous churches and began visiting other congregations.

Parker delivers a sermon each week during The Gathering's virtual worship service. He said the virtual community has been a safe space for grieving United Methodists who felt isolated after their churches decided to disaffiliate. He said many were seeking healing and purpose and some chose to seek the connections that come with in-person church services, and that's why lighthouse congregations like New Hope, 11600 N Council, have been important.

'Gauntlet of hugs'

The Schoebs said the Rev. Rodney Newman, New Hope's senior pastor, and his congregation embraced them and other displaced United Methodists right from the start.

"I'm amazed at how quickly we made friends and how quickly we've gotten to know people. So, Sunday morning, you walk in the door and you run a gauntlet of hugs," he said.

"I love it and that's the way, in my mind at least, a church is supposed to be."

Blair Schoeb said they became disenchanted with Church of the Servant shortly after they returned to in-person worship services once the COVID-19 pandemic began to wane. He said the nature of the church and its leadership began to change.

More: Why we stay: Preachers explain why they won't cut United Methodist ties

"Quite possibly, we were moving in a different direction and the leadership there just didn't cut it for us," he said. "We're at the age, honestly, where we didn't feel like we had a lot of time for the church either to right itself, or for a change in leadership. We needed to get on down the road."

Jeannie Schoeb agreed.

"It wasn't the (Church of the) Servant that we had been part of for so very long," she said.

Blair Schoeb said they appreciated that Newman and New Hope were not considering disaffiliation at all. Church of the Servant held an unsuccessful disaffiliation vote and then took the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference to district court when conference leaders denied the church a second vote on the issue.

The case ultimately went to the Oklahoma Supreme Court, which ruled in the conference's favor, saying that courts lacked jurisdiction over the matter. Due to the ruling, the church did not get a second vote to consider severing denominational ties and it remains a part of the United Methodist denomination.

Oklahoma United Methodist Bishop Jimmy Nunn appointed a new minister to lead the congregation and the new leader began serving the northwest Oklahoma City church in June.

Blair Schoeb said he and his wife had no interest in taking up the disaffiliation debate, "particularly when we could see in so many different directions how disturbing it was to the health of other churches."

The Rev. Rodney Newman, senior pastor of New Hope United Methodist Church, talks about the welcoming atmosphere at his church.

"Some churches handled the disaffiliation with an amazing amount of grace and did it well, but others just ended up in open warfare and acting in manners that churches should not act like," he said.

He said the New Hope congregation was extremely welcoming and they quickly began to help the couple find places to serve and activities to be involved in. Currently, the Schoebs are on New Hope's pastoral care team and they are involved in a Sunday school class. Blair Schoeb said he is also on the church's staff relations committee.

Jeannie Schoeb said she was especially grateful when Newman held what she described as "grieving sessions" for those who had left their previous churches when the disaffiliation trend gained momentum.

"He invited people who wanted to come and talk about what that was like to leave your faith ... and come to a new place," she said. "It's been very welcoming, very warm. They are very mission-oriented, and very kid-oriented."

The couple said they have no regrets.

"You know, there's a sadness that comes from leaving behind some friends, but there's the joy that cometh in the morning  all these new people and new opportunities to serve," Blair Schoeb said.

More: New virtual ministry aims to connect displaced Oklahoma United Methodists with a new 'home'

A 'lighthouse congregation'

Newman said New Hope had always seen itself as a place of healing and offered Christian fellowship and grace to those who had undergone some sort of emotional or spiritual trauma, even before disaffiliations began to occur, sending people from other United Methodist churches to their door.

"This church has a history long before disaffiliation of welcoming people from different churches, who left for whatever reason," he said. "So, when they started coming as a result of disaffiliation, it wasn't unusual for us to do that."

Newman said he decided to host the sessions for the incoming United Methodists like the Schoebs because he knew they were grieving. The minister said he knew they needed someone to simply listen to them.

"We're all about grace, and so I just find that a lot of people need to hear that, not just people who are coming from churches that are troubled, but just people in general," he said. "There's so much anxiety in the world and people experience personal trauma that I feel like the church should be a place where they can hear words of peace, where they can be received in a fellowship, and where they can find healing."

Rev. Laura Merrill

What's next for Oklahoma United Methodists?

September will bring another change for Oklahoma United Methodists  the next bishop for the area will be the first woman elected to the position.

The Rev. Laura Merrill, the current bishop of the Arkansas United Methodist Conference, was elected to lead the Oklahoma United Methodist Conference and Oklahoman Indian Missionary Conference on June 10 at a meeting of the Southwest Jurisdictional Conference of the United Methodist Church.

The Rev. Rodney Newman poses for a photo with Jeannie and Blair Schoeb in the sanctuary of New Hope United Methodist Church, where Newman is senior pastor.

Merrill will become the first female bishop in Oklahoma United Methodist Conference history when she takes the helm of the conference after the retirement of current bishop Jimmy Nunn in August. Nunn has presided over both Oklahoma conferences since 2016.

Merrill has been Arkansas bishop since she was elected to the position in 2022. She will continue to preside over the Arkansas conference while adding both Oklahoma conferences to her responsibilities on Sept. 1.

The South Central Jurisdictional Conference presides over regional conferences in Arkansas, Louisiana, Texas, Oklahoma, New Mexico, Kansas and Missouri. Six bishops will preside over the 12 conferences in the South Central Jurisdictional Conference.

This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Displaced Oklahoma United Methodists find new churches in denomination
Donald Trump appears to be fine following a shooting at a campaign rally Saturday, but American democracy is not, according to Ian Bremmer, president of political risk research and consulting firm Eurasia Group.

The apparent assassination attempt occurred as the country was already deeply polarized, with many Americans convinced that their political opponents are determined to destroy U.S. democracy, he said in a video posted to X.

"This is the worst sort of event that can happen in that environment, and I deeply worry that this presages much more political violence and social instability to come," he added.

When similar events have occurred in other countries in the past, they frequently didn't end well, Bremmer warned.

In the short term, he said the image of Trump raising his fist in the air with blood streaked across his face while Secret Service agents carry him to safety will contrast dramatically with President Joe Biden.

Trump's Democratic opponent has been fighting off calls to exit the race after a disastrous debate performance last month, when he appeared frail and confused, reinforcing existing concerns about his age.

"It makes it more likely that Trump wins," Bremmer said Saturday, as Trump's reaction to the shooting "is the opposite of frail."

Indeed, Tesla CEO Elon Musk announced minutes after the shooting that he was endorsing Trump, saying the "Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt.

Ideally, America's political leadership will unite to denounce political violence with lawmakers gathering in a joint session of Congress and committing to a peaceful transition, Bremmer said.

But he has serious doubts that will happen. Instead, Americans should be prepared for more violence across the political spectrum, he warned, pointing out that guns are more available in the U.S. than any other G7 country.

While immediate parallels were drawn to the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan in 1981, other political observers have highlighted more recent examples, such as Jan. 6, 2021, when Trump supporters stormed the Capitol to disrupt the process of finalizing Biden's 2020 election win. Others include the shootings of Republican Rep. Steve Scalise in 2017 and then-Democratic Rep. Gabby Giffords in 2011.

Meanwhile, political extremism and disinformation have been weaponized, particularly via social media, and U.S. adversaries like Russia, Iran, and North Korea are keen to stoke more violence and instability, Bremmer said.

With Americans perceiving existential threats to democracy, he said the willingness to use violence could get higher than at any point since 1968, when Martin Luther King Jr. and Robert Kennedy were assassinated, and perhaps since the Civil War.

Story continues

Elsewhere in the world, free and fair elections have taken place recently in France, the United Kingdom, India, Mexico. But the U.S. is the only major democracy that's in serious crisis, Bremmer said.

"This is going to require people to recognize that U.S. political institutions are in danger and that they require our protection together as citizens to uphold the values that we believe in," he added. "Further devolution into blamesmanship, into polarization, into the weaponization of politics is the way you lose your democracy."

This story was originally featured on Fortune.com
Does Barron Trump get Secret Service protection? What the rules are

The attempted assassination of Donald Trump on Saturday has drawn attention to the security detail assigned to protect the president, their family and other high-profile figures.

Trump, whose right ear was pierced by a bullet while he spoke at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, was quickly attended to by his Secret Service detail while other agents neutralized the shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks.

As a former president, Trump receives lifetime Secret Service protection, an essential precaution given hes remained active after his first term and is now the presumptive nominee for the Republican Party heading into Novembers election. (Major presidential candidates and their spouses are placed under Secret Service protection for several months ahead of the election.)

Does Barron Trump get Secret Service protection?

As Donald Trump left office after his first-term in 2021, he extended Secret Sevice protections for his four adult children, Donald Jr., Ivanka, Eric and Tiffany.

His wife, Melania Trump also receives lifetime protection as the spouse of a former president.

Barron Trump, Donald Trumps youngest child, was 14 when the Trump family left the White House. Under Homeland Security rules, Barron Trump was kept under Secret Service protection until his 16th birthday, March 20, 2022.

Barron Trump is now 18 and not automatically under protection by the Secret Service.

However, the U.S. code regulating Secret Service duties, the Department of Homeland Security may assign coverage to family members as warranted.

Its not known yet if Barron Trump, who will soon attend college, has been placed under continuing protection by a Secret Service detail.

This article originally appeared on Cherry Hill Courier-Post: Barron Trump: Does Secret Service protect Donald Trumps youngest?
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  The Dog Tag Brigade veteran motorcycle club hosted a charity bike ride in Johnson City to benefit the Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands on Saturday.

The group met at Tulips Grub and Pub, and each person participating donated $20 to the Honor Flight organization, which works to send veterans to Washington D.C. for free on an honorable vacation.

Lee Carmichael, president of Dog Tag Brigade, said hes seen first hand how the Honor Flight supports local veterans. He said he hoped to see 50 to 60 bikes attend the event.

Tennessee families making median income spend more than 40% of it on childcare, report shows

Its a big deal, he said. We had one of our buddies, he took his pops up there and it was, he was a Vietnam Marine and it was a big, kind of a healing time for him. And its [a] time for those guys to get camaraderie, get back together. You know, some of them are never able to go up there (Washington D.C.).

Carmichael said the Dog Tag Brigade is largely made up of veterans.

Were a 95% veteran club. Being a combat veteran myself, it means a lot for these other veterans to go up and see the monuments that are dedicated to them and their sacrifice to their brothers that they may have lost in combat, or the ones who, you know, never went to combat, doesnt matter.

More information on the Dog Tag Brigade veteran motorcycle club can be found on its Facebook group page. More information on the Honor Flight of the Appalachian Highlands can be found at Honorflightah.org.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Donald Trump assassination attempt: A list of all attempts on US presidents

It's hard to believe there's a more dangerous job than president of the United States.

On Saturday, former president Donald Trump was shot and grazed during an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. It certainly wasn't the first time someone tried to kill a U.S. president.

Here are all of the assassination attempts over the years.

Abraham Lincoln

The 16th president of the United States was killed in Washington, D.C. while watching a play with his wife in 1865.

James Garfield

The 20th president was shot while walking to the train station in Washington, D.C. He died a few weeks later.

William McKinley

The 25th president of the United States was shot in New York after giving a speech. He died of gangrene a week after the shooting.

Theodore Roosevelt

The 26nd president was shot in the chest in Milwaukee while he was running for president. He survived the attack.

Franklin Roosevelt

The 32nd president was shot at, but not hit, during an assassination attempt in Miami. Roosevelt wasn't injured.

John F. Kennedy

The 35th president of the United States was shot and killed in Dallas while riding his motorcade. He was taken to the hospital and died later that day.

Gerald Ford

The 38th president of the United States survived two assassination attempts, both in California.

Ronald Reagan

The 40th president of the United States was shot by a bullet that just missed his heart and struck his lung, but he survived the 1981 attack.

Bill Clinton

The 42nd president of the United States survived an attack where a man fired a shot at the White House, while Clinton was inside.

George W. Bush

The 43rd president of the United States was the first to see a grenade used in his attempted assassination. The attack happened in Tbilisi, but the grenade didn't go off, and nobody was hurt.

Donald Trump

The 45th president of the United States was shot at during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. He was struck in the ear, but survived the attempt.

This article originally appeared on Asbury Park Press: President of the United States is a dangerous job. Here's why
Donald Trump is an autocrat, and the Heritage Foundation is doing his bidding | Opinion

Readers ought to know

Donald Trump Reveals His Views on Project 2025, (modbee.com, July 5)

The Modesto Bee often runs articles in its Opinion Section from writers affiliated with the Heritage Foundation. Readers ought to know some information about this organization.

The Foundation has produced a document, Project 2025, meant to serve as a blueprint for a second Donald Trump administration should he win the election. According to an article in the New York Times, entitled Heritage Foundation Makes Plans to Staff Next G.O.P. Administration, a new president typically replaces around 4,000 political appointees who are above the federal workforce. Below these individuals is a group of government workers who for the most part are apolitical bureaucrats.

Trump has said he wants to demolish career civil service  or, what he calls pejoratively, the deep state. One of the major tenets of Project 2025 is to fire far more than the 4,000 government employees typically let go (some estimates are up to 50,000 career government officials) and replace them with Trump loyalists.

This is the vision of an autocrat, and the Heritage Foundation is doing his bidding.

Kent Mitchell

Riverbank

Opinion

Your vote matters

With Supreme Courts historic Trump immunity decision, how did California Democrats react? (sacbee.com, July 1)

Why vote? No matter who we elect, nothing changes. Government has little impact on my life. Meanwhile, Republicans have packed the courts, handcuffed government regulatory agencies and given corporations special benefits.

The Supreme Court is packed with unelected political activists. Theyve reversed Roe and they will ban contraception and undo gay rights. Theyve gutted voting rights, allowed extreme gerrymandering, rejected gun safety laws and enabled big money to buy elections. Now, theyve created presidential immunity, reversing the foundation of our country.

Theyve enabled Dictator Donald Trump. MAGA Republicans want a return to the 50s. They want women, Black people, Latinos and the LGBTQ+ community to be considered second-class citizens.

Take back our government, before its too late. Vote!

Marvin Keshner

Sonora

Protecting unhoused neighbors

After Supreme Courts contentious homelessness ruling, whats next for California cities? (sacbee.com, July 3)

Where does the Supreme Court ruling leave people struggling without a home? We must ask our representatives at all levels of government to step in and end this tragic situation in the worlds richest country.

Nationally, Congress could renew the expanded child tax credit that cut child poverty in half, enact a renter tax credit so those in poverty are able to stay housed by not paying over 30% of their income for rent and expand the SNAP program so people dont have to choose between rent and food.

At the state and local levels, our leaders can make sure there are enough shelters and needed programs to help those in need. This will only happen if we ask for it. After all, we elect them, so lets speak up for all Americans struggling to be housed!

Willie Dickerson

Snohomish, Wash.

Newsoms choice

Sacramento County stops delivering water to homeless as heat wave starts. Heres why, (sacbee.com, July 4)

I would like to graciously extend an invitation to Gov. Gavin Newsom to spend the next week sleeping in his backyard (or in his car in his driveway). I have been in this position, staying in my car for more than five years. Some people say its a choice, but, in my case, its been all I could afford.

California is in the midst of an extreme and deadly heatwave. Newsom has left the option of emergency heat shelters up to the counties of this great state. And that is a mistake. I would prefer to live in a state where a governor takes personal responsibility for this weather crisis by declaring a state of emergency. This would ideally include shelters or hotel vouchers for homeless individuals.

Newsom holds many lives in his hands. He can choose to act, or do nothing.

Lyndi Duckworth

Roseville
Donald Trump on Sunday called for Americans to stand united after surviving an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania the day before, an incident that has shocked the political system and recalled the countrys long, dark past of political violence.

In a post on his social media account, Truth Social, Trump wrote, Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

More from Deadline

First Lady Melania Trump also released a lengthy statement, writing that when I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of a devastating change.

RELATED: Elon Musk Fully Endorses Donald Trump For President; Says Secret Service Must Resign

She wrote that a monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music and inspiration. The core facts of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been through the best of times and the worst of times.

Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, but his campaign said that he was fine after being taken to a hospital nearby the rally site. After popping sounds were heard and Trump plunged to the ground, he was surrounded by Secret Service agents. He then got up and raised his fist in the air, blood running from the side of his face, as he was whisked away.

One rally attendee was killed and two others were critically injured.

Trump is scheduled to accept the GOP nomination at the Republican National Convention on Thursday. He traveled to Newark, NJ early Sunday morning.

The convention, scheduled to start Monday in Milwaukee, will have increased security, adding to an already robust perimeter around the Fiserv Forum.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, PA. He was shot and killed by counter-snipers after he opened fire at the rally. Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive, although after his identity was revealed, it set off a frenzy of speculation on social media. That included a record showing that he had registered as a Republican in 2021, but earlier in the year made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project.

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Donald Trump Confirms He Will Attend Republican National Convention on Monday: I Will Be Leaving for Milwaukee, as Scheduled

Donald Trump is expected to leave for the Republican National Convention on Sunday.

Trump confirmed the news via his social media platform Truth Social. He wrote, Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else. Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3:30 P.M. TODAY. Thank you! DJT.

More from Variety

Trump was struck in the ear by a bullet at a rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, after a gunman opened fire outside the venue, the U.S. Secret Service said.

Previously, Trump described what happened to him and said, I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Following the shooting and assassination attempt, The Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is dead, agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. One person in the crowd was killed by the gunfire, and two were critically injured, Guglielmi added.

On Sunday, President Joe Biden addressed the nation and confirmed he had spoken with the former President. He said, Last night, I spoke with Donald Trump, Biden said from the White House. Im sincerely grateful that hes doing well and recovering. Biden added, As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation  everything. Its not who we are as a nation. Its not American and we cannot allow this to happen.

Trump is expected to officially accept the nomination in a speech on Thursday.

Best of Variety

Sign up for Varietys Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Donald Trump confirmed he will speak at this weeks Republican National Convention following the assumed assassination attempt that occurred at the former presidents rally on Saturday. Trump also called for Americans to stand united following the incident.

I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin, he said in a Sunday post on his Truth Social media network. The convention is set to begin Monday in Milwaukee.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

The former presidents campaign said Trump was fine after being rushed off a Pennsylvania stage when gunfire erupted on Saturday. The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination on Trump, law enforcement officials told the Associated Press. A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman, who the FBI later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, and at least one attendee are dead.

In another post on Sunday, Trump thanked everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness, he added, and said hes praying for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, he wrote.

In a separate memo obtained by The Associated Press, Trumps campaign advisers thanked the Secret Service and all first responders for their efforts, and also told staff in Washington and West Palm Beach, Florida to stay away from the office as they assess those locations. The memo also directs staff to not comment publicly on the situation, and that dangerous rhetoric on social media wont be tolerated.

First Lady Melania Trump also released a statement on social media on Sunday, writing that when I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of a devastating change.

She added that a monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music and inspiration. The core facts of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been through the best of times and the worst of times.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter
Donald Trump escorted off stage as gunshots heard at campaign rally

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US president Donald Trump has been escorted to safety by Secret Service agents after gunshots were heard during a rally in the north-eastern state of Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Videos from the scene showed Trump lifting his fist as he was escorted off stage with a bloody ear.

Trump had only just begun his speech in the town of Butler when the incident occurred. TV footage showed panic breaking out in the front ranks of the rally after a series of loud bangs.

Trump is campaigning to return to the White House in November's presidential election against incumbent President Joe Biden.

It was initially unclear whether Trump was injured in the incident. The area around the stage was cordoned off with yellow tape and a helicopter landed nearby.

The Republican National Convention, where Trump is set to be officially nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election, is due to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday.

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Donald Trump was wounded in an assassination attempt during his Pennsylvania rally

Former President Donald Trump was wounded at a rally Saturday in what is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Trump was seen with blood on his face as he clutched his ear in front of the screaming crowd.

Trump was whisked to safety by the Secret Service. President Joe Biden later spoke with the ex-president.

Former President Donald Trump was wounded during a Saturday campaign rally in Pennsylvania, in an incident that is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

Trump was speaking to supporters at the Butler, Pennsylvania, rally when gunshots rang out, and he was subsequently seen with blood on his face. He was then seen defiantly raising his fist before being whisked off stage by Secret Service agents.

The Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter opened fire toward the stage from an "elevated position" outside the venue where Trump was holding his rally.

A representative for the FBI confirmed to Business Insider early on Sunday that the shooting suspect is Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Kevin Rojek, a spokesperson for the FBI, in a press briefing shortly after midnight on Sunday morning, said the agency had deemed the incident an attempted assassination of the former president.

Rojek and other FBI officials said in a briefing on Sunday afternoon that they are also assessing the incident as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

"We are investigating this as an assassination attempt but also looking at it as a potential domestic terrorism act. So our counterterrorism division and our criminal divisions are working, working jointly together to determine the motive," said Robert Wells, the Assistant Director of the Counterterrorism Division.

A bystander at the rally died in the shooting, the Secret Service said, while two others were critically injured. The Secret Service said its agents killed the gunman.

The victim killed at the rally was identified as Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old former fire chief of the Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company in Pennsylvania.

In a Truth Social message posted several hours after the shooting, Trump thanked the Secret Service "and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania."

"Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead."

Trump wrote that he was shot with "a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear."

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin," Trump wrote. "Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

A Trump spokesperson called the shooting a "heinous act" but said the former president and presumptive GOP nominee was "fine."

NBC News correspondent Darren Botelho reported security at the event could be heard saying, "The shooter is down," following the incident.

David McCormick, the Republican nominee for Senate in Pennsylvania, had been seated in the front row of the rally and told Politico it appeared a member of the crowd behind him had been shot.

"All the sudden shots started to crack, someone behind me appears to have been shot," McCormick told Politico. "There's lots of blood, and then the Secret Service were all over President Trump."

Politicians from across the ideological spectrum were quick to condemn political violence and wish Trump a speedy recovery.

House Speaker Mike Johnson is calling for the parties to "turn the temperature down" following the Trump rally shooting in Pennsylvania. Tom Williams-Pool/Getty Images

In a statement issued following the shooting, President Joe Biden said he was "grateful to hear" that Trump is safe and doing well.

"I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally as we await further information," Biden's statement continued. "Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Biden later addressed the nation, saying the shooting was "sick" and calling on Americans to stop political violence.

"It's one of the reasons we have to unite this country," Biden said. "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this."

The Biden campaign later said it was pulling down TV ads in the wake of the shooting. The president spoke directly with Trump on Saturday, later adding that he had a "short but good conversation" with the former president.

Biden is set to address the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday evening.

House Speaker Mike Johnson of Louisiana vowed in a post on X that the House would probe the "tragic events" that occurred at the rally.

"The American people deserve to know the truth," Johnson wrote. "We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP."

Johnson also weighed in on the shooting during a Sunday appearance on NBC's "Today," denouncing political violence and urging leaders to help "turn the rhetoric down" in the US.

"We need leaders of all parties, on both sides, to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have," he said.

With the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee set to begin this week, the GOP over the past few days had been largely focused on the event as a showcase for their party. Trump so far has not changed his plans regarding his appearances at the convention.

But the shooting incident threatens to upend an already tumultuous presidential contest with the general election now less than four months away.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Former President Donald Trump sustained minor injuries after being shot at during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday (July 13). Shots rang out while the ex-Commander in Chief was delivering remarks before the crowd gathered at the Butler Farm Show Grounds.

Trending

Video captured him reaching for his right ear as he dove to the ground. Secret Service agents were also observed hastily running to cover him. Soon after, Trump stood to his feet and raised his fist into the air as he bled from the minor wound.

In a post shared on Truth Social, the platform he launched after being banned from both Facebook and Twitter, Trump stated he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear and that he felt the bullet ripping through the skin. The FBI identified the suspected shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, a registered Republican voter. He was killed by Secret Service agents who found him perched on the roof of a nearby building. One attendee was killed, and two others were critically injured during the shooting.

https://x.com/TODAYshow/status/1812464391553437785

The last attempted assassination that left a president injured occurred on March 30, 1981, when newly elected Ronald Reagan was shot after a speaking engagement at the Hilton Hotel in Washington, D.C. He underwent emergency surgery and spent 12 days in the hospital before returning to the White House.

Moments after news broke of Trump being targeted, both President Biden and former President Barack Obama swiftly condemned the act.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, Obama tweeted. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics, he added.

President Bidens sentiments echoed those of his predecessor, expressing gratitude to learn his Republican opponent was safe and well following the shooting. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden wrote in a statement shared on Twitter.

The public expressed an array of reactions across social media. Some people leaned into comedy, making light of the incident. Others questioned if the shooting was staged, pointing out Trumps non-frenzied actions immediately after the gunfire. And then there is the outpour of those reminded of the children who have been injured and killed when gunmen opened fire on campuses across the nation.

In February 2024, Trump spoke at the National Rifle Associations Presidential Forum in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, where he vowed to undo all gun reform efforts posed by the Biden administration. Every single Biden attack on gun owners and manufacturers will be terminated on my very first week back in office, perhaps my first day, Trump told attendees, as reported by Politico.

A month prior to his gun law remarks, 17-year-old Dylan Butler used a pump action shotgun and pistol to carry out a mass shooting at Perry High School in Perry, Iowa. Among his victims was a sixth grader who was fatally wounded and five others who suffered non-life-threatening injuries. Butler turned the gun on himself before authorities reached him.

Three days after the tragedy, Trump held a rally where he told supporters, Its just horrible, so surprising to see it here. But have to get over it, we have to move forward.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ggC007-9AxE

The callous commentary resurfaced in tweets posted after his near brush with death. "If you keep talking about the assassination attempt, dont you dare tell the kids who survive school shootings and their families to Just get over it. What happened today is unacceptable, and what happens every day to kids who arent the president and dont survive isnt either, one user wrote.

You know WHO really didnt deserve to get shot? The hundreds of children killed and injured in school shootings, another individual tweeted. Trump survived, but 40,000 Americans every year don't. As of March 2023, the NRA has donated $27,413,008 to 'pro-gun' members of the US Congress. Bullets don't have names or party affiliations. This isn't a 'left' issue. America's gun problem came knocking on your door today, a third person commented.

The New York businessman announced his re-election campaign in November 2022 and Biden followed suit in April 2023. Trump held the Oval Office for four years after defeating Democratic candidate Hillary Clinton in the 2016 presidential election.

His efforts to secure a second term were upset by Bidens victory in the 2020 presidential election. In May, the former reality TV personality was found guilty of 34 felony convictions in connection to hush money paid to adult film star Stormy Daniels in 2016. He remains under investigation for his alleged role in inciting the insurrection in the nations capital on January 6, 2021.

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Finding a business that has the potential to grow substantially is not easy, but it is possible if we look at a few key financial metrics. Typically, we'll want to notice a trend of growing return on capital employed (ROCE) and alongside that, an expanding base of capital employed. Basically this means that a company has profitable initiatives that it can continue to reinvest in, which is a trait of a compounding machine. Speaking of which, we noticed some great changes in Sonic Automotive's (NYSE:SAH) returns on capital, so let's have a look.

What Is Return On Capital Employed (ROCE)?

If you haven't worked with ROCE before, it measures the 'return' (pre-tax profit) a company generates from capital employed in its business. Analysts use this formula to calculate it for Sonic Automotive:

Return on Capital Employed = Earnings Before Interest and Tax (EBIT)  (Total Assets - Current Liabilities)

0.17 = US$514m  (US$5.4b - US$2.3b) (Based on the trailing twelve months to March 2024).

Thus, Sonic Automotive has an ROCE of 17%. On its own, that's a standard return, however it's much better than the 12% generated by the Specialty Retail industry.

See our latest analysis for Sonic Automotive

roce

Above you can see how the current ROCE for Sonic Automotive compares to its prior returns on capital, but there's only so much you can tell from the past. If you're interested, you can view the analysts predictions in our free analyst report for Sonic Automotive .

How Are Returns Trending?

The trends we've noticed at Sonic Automotive are quite reassuring. The numbers show that in the last five years, the returns generated on capital employed have grown considerably to 17%. The company is effectively making more money per dollar of capital used, and it's worth noting that the amount of capital has increased too, by 43%. So we're very much inspired by what we're seeing at Sonic Automotive thanks to its ability to profitably reinvest capital.

On a side note, Sonic Automotive's current liabilities are still rather high at 43% of total assets. This effectively means that suppliers (or short-term creditors) are funding a large portion of the business, so just be aware that this can introduce some elements of risk. Ideally we'd like to see this reduce as that would mean fewer obligations bearing risks.

The Bottom Line On Sonic Automotive's ROCE

All in all, it's terrific to see that Sonic Automotive is reaping the rewards from prior investments and is growing its capital base. And with the stock having performed exceptionally well over the last five years, these patterns are being accounted for by investors. Therefore, we think it would be worth your time to check if these trends are going to continue.

Story continues

On a final note, we found 2 warning signs for Sonic Automotive (1 is potentially serious) you should be aware of.

While Sonic Automotive isn't earning the highest return, check out this free list of companies that are earning high returns on equity with solid balance sheets.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
Donald Trump 'fine' after being whisked off stage as gunshots heard

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US president Donald Trump is "fine" after he was whisked off stage by Secret Service agents after gunshots were heard during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, his campaign said.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow," Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.

Trump had only just begun his speech in the town of Butler when the incident occurred. TV footage showed panic breaking out in the front ranks of the rally after a series of loud bangs.

Trump is campaigning to return to the White House in November's presidential election against incumbent President Joe Biden.

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

A general view of a statement on Donald Trump's official X account after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Former President Trump said he will arrive in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention on Sunday, less than a day after he was wounded in an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump on Truth Social Sunday afternoon said he will be leaving for Milwaukee at 3:30 p.m. EST "as scheduled," despite originally planning to delay his arrival at the presidential nominating convention following the shooting on Saturday that killed a rally attendee and left Trump bloodied near his right ear.

"Based on yesterday's terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days," he wrote, "but have just decided that I cannot allow a 'shooter,' or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else."

The Trump campaign Saturday night said Trump still planned to attend the convention following the incident, but the timing of his arrival had been uncertain.

The former president said he was "shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear" after the shooter, identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired shots toward Trump during a campaign speech in Butler, Pennsylvania. Secret Service agents killed Crooks moments after he opened fire.

One rally spectator, identified as Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed in the shooting. Two others, both adult men, were hurt.

Just how the assassination attempt will impact convention programming was not immediately clear by early Sunday afternoon, though Republicans have vowed to move on with the event. The RNC host committee told the Journal Sentinel it still planned to hold its welcome party, set for Sunday, without changes.

Earlier in the day, President Joe Biden said he asked the Secret Service to "review all security measures" for the RNC in Milwaukee.

"As I said last night, there's no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter," Biden said Sunday. "An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation."

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Donald Trump headed to Milwaukee following assassination attempt
Donald Trump plans to trek to Milwaukee today after surviving an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, PA.

Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else, he wrote on Truth Social. Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3:30 P.M. TODAY. Thank you! DJT

More from Deadline

Trumps arrival in Milwaukee is driving speculation that he will make some sort of appearance at the convention on Monday night.

He also has not yet announced his running mate, and had signaled last week that he was open to doing so during the convention, something that is rarely done in the modern political age. Before the assassination attempt, there were reports that Trump had met recently with three potential picks, Sen. Marco Rubio (R-FL), Sen. J.D. Vance (R-OH) and North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum.

The rally shooting has shaken up the political race and will underscore much of the coverage of the convention this week. Nikki Haley, Trumps main rival for the nomination, reportedly will now speak some time during the week. She was not on the list of scheduled speakers distributed by the campaign Saturday afternoon.

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Assassination attempt on Donald Trump is tragic. This is not what America stands for.

American politics should never be violent.

America learned that lesson long ago from the deaths of Presidents Lincoln, Kennedy, Garfield and McKinley. Historic figures such as Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy gave their lives serving America.

Other politicians have been injured by violence in recent history such as President Ronald Reagan, Gabby Giffords and Steve Scalise. Others have paid in blood for their service to this nation.

The assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, at his rally near Pittsburgh was un-American.

As the details unfold, Americans must pause and reflect on the dire position we find ourselves in as a nation as we move toward Election Day.

Is this what we want? We pray not.

We must unequivocally reject the idea that this is what this nation has become.

That is not what we the people want. It is not what we the people need. This is not who we are.

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is assisted by guards during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

The attack on Donald Trump is appalling and should be denounced by every freedom-loving American. Yes, we realize many blame him for the vitriol in our politics today. But violence is never the answer.

It flies in the face of the fair election principles this nation holds true. Those principles have held this union solid for generations.

Our democracy will not hold if such abhorrent behavior becomes the norm. We will not become the "shining city upon a hill" as President Reagan said, but a beacon for political violence.

We must reject such political vengeance and barbarism far too common around the world as not who America is.

No matter how you feel about former President Donald Trump or President Joe Biden, this is not what the United States of America stands for.

This must not be the future of America.

This piece was written by Dispatch Opinion Editor Amelia Robinson on behalf of the editorial boards of the Columbus Dispatch and The Enquirer. Editorials are fact-based assessments of issues of importance to the communities we serve. These are not the opinions of our reporting staff members, who strive for neutrality in their reporting.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Trump rally shooting tragic. This is not who we are as a nation
Donald Trump Rushed Off Stage After Being Injured at Campaign Rally, Shooter and One Attendee Reported Dead

The former president was seen with blood running down the side of his face after shots rang out at his rally on Saturday, July 13

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump with blood on his face on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

Donald Trump was rushed off a stage with blood on his face after being injured amid a shooting during an evening campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, July 13.

Richard Goldinger, the District Attorney of Butler County  where the rally took place  told PEOPLE that Trump was "grazed" by gunfire. Goldinger said that both the shooter and one audience member are dead. Two additional people are injured, according to the Secret Service.

Trump, 78, issued a statement on Truth Social saying, "I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

Trump, 78, was mid-speech when popping, gunshot-like sounds could be heard. Footage taken at the event and shared on social media show the former president turn toward the noise and briefly grab his ear before Secret Service agents rushed the stage and surrounded him.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump with blood on his face on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

Trump was then rushed off the stage as what appeared to be blood was seen running down the side of his face. Before leaving, Trump told his Secret Service agents, "wait, wait," and stood and raised his fist in a defiant gesture, yelling "Fight! Fight!"

In the footage, Secret Service agents can be heard saying, "the shooter is down."

In a statement given to PEOPLE, the Trump campaign said, "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow."



Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump and Secret Service agents on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

CBS News reports that a senior government official also offered the following statement: "The former president is safe. We have implemented protective security measures. This is being investigated further."

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump on July 13 in Butler, Penn.

In a statement posted to Facebook, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro wrote that he had been briefed on the situation and that police remained on the scene and are "working with our federal and local partners."

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States," Shapiro said in the statement, adding: "Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene."

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer.

In a statement, President Joe Biden said he had been briefed on the shooting, adding, "Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information."

"Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," Biden added,

This is a breaking news story. Please check back for updates.



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Read the original article on People.
The News

Former US President Donald Trump was safe following what investigators said was an attempted assassination at a campaign rally, a shooting in which at least one other person died and two others were badly wounded.

Officials said the gunman was also killed. The motive for the shooting was not immediately clear.

The incident will likely have significant implications for Novembers US presidential election  President Joe Biden condemned the shooting and spoke with Trump via telephone, the White House said  in a country where polls show growing divisions between rival camps.

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Trump had been in the midst of his speech in Butler, Pennsylvania, when shots rang out. The former president put his hand to his right ear, ducked down, and was quickly covered by Secret Service agents. When he got up shortly thereafter, he was surrounded by security, pumped his fist and mouthed Fight! Fight! Fight!

Video showed Trump on the ground for a few seconds and an agent was heard saying Hawkeyes here, referring to the codename of the former presidents counter assault team. Another voice was heard saying, Shooters down, were good to move.

In a Truth Social post, Trump recounted that a bullet pierced part of his ear and much bleeding occurred. He extended his condolences to the family of the rally attendee who died. Officials later said the Republican candidate left the hospital and had returned home.

The White House said late Saturday that Biden had spoken to Trump. In an earlier statement, Biden said he was grateful to hear that [Trump was] safe and doing well. In a televised speech, Biden said this kind of violence was sick, adding: We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

A Biden campaign official said they were pausing all outbound communications and working to pull their television ads as quickly as possible.

The shooting marked the first attempted assassination of a US president or major party candidate since 1981, when a gunman fired upon President Ronald Reagan. More recently, the US lawmaker Gabrielle Giffords was shot at a 2011 constituent meeting and Congressman Steve Scalise was seriously wounded in a 2017 mass shooting at a baseball field.

As a result, it is expected to lead to questions for the Secret Service: The New York Times cited two law-enforcement officials to report that a semiautomatic rifle was recovered at the scene of the shooting, despite attendees at Trump campaign events being subject to security screenings and searches.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

The View From US politicians

Top Democrats, including former President Barack Obama, former House of Representatives Speaker Nancy Pelosi  whose husband survived a politically-motivated attack in 2022  and Bidens Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg were quick to condemn the incident as political violence.

Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson and Scalise, also reacted to the incident. Johnson in particular said that the House would conduct an investigation into the shooting, and get the head of the Secret Service, as well as Homeland Security and FBI officials, to testify before lawmakers.

The View From Trumps inner circle

Saturdays attack confirmed longstanding fears that the former president would at some point be an assassination target, with a close Trump confidant telling Semafors Shelby Talcott that such an incident was inevitable  a matter not of if, but of when. The idea among many close to Trump is this: That the opposing sides hatred of him is so strong that it would spur on an attempt against his life.

Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson crystallized this point of view last year: We are speeding towards assassination, obviously. No one will say that, but I dont know how you cant reach this conclusion, he said.

Read Shelbys story on the long-held fears among Trump aides and supporters.

The former presidents wife, Melania Trump, released a rare statement on Sunday condemning the attack and the idea of Trump as an inhuman political machine, and calling for unity.

The View From Abroad

World leaders expressed a mixture of horror at the incident and questions about the state of US democracy.

Trumps admirers on the global right were among the first to react: Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban  who recently met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago  said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump during these dark hours, while Dutch politician Geert Wilders posted simply, #prayfortrump. The leader of the French far-right National Rally party, Jordan Bardella, reacted by saying, Violence is the poison of any democracy.

Beijing expressed condolences in a brief statement issued by the foreign ministry, but speculation proliferated on the messaging platform WeChat over the motives for the attack, as well as its implications for this years election.

Russia, meanwhile, called on the US to take stock of its policies of incitement to hatred, and linked the shooting to Washingtons support for Kyivs efforts to repel Moscows full-scale invasion.
Former President Donald Trump released a statement via his social media platform Truth Social after the shooting at his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

He described feeling a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

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In his post, Trump said, I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

He continued, It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Trump was escorted off stage at a rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday after gunshots rang through the crowd. Secret Service agents covered Trump, who appeared to have blood on his face, as they headed to his motorcade and left the venue.

Butler County district attorney told the Associated Press that the shooter is dead and a rally attendee has been killed at the Trump event in Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden addressed the shooting, saying he had tried to connect with Trump, who was receiving treatment. Biden said he would try to talk with him later on in the evening.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence  its sick, its sick. The bottom line is, the Trump rally is a rally that should have been able to have been conducted peacefully without any problem. Biden said in a statement. The idea  the idea  that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of, its not appropriate. Everybody  everybody  must condemn it. Everybody.

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Trump says he felt bullet ripping through the skin in possible assassination attempt

BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  Donald Trump appeared to be the target of an assassination attempt as he spoke during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, law enforcement officials said. The former president, his ear covered in blood from what he said was a gunshot, was quickly pulled away by Secret Service agents and his campaign said he was fine.

A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead. The Secret Service said two spectators were critically injured.

Posting on his Truth Social media site about two and a half hours after the shooting, Trump said a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.

What happens if a presidential candidate is killed before an election?

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said in the post. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The attack, by a shooter who law enforcement officials say was then killed by the Secret Service, was the first attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It comes amid a deeply polarized political atmosphere, just four months from the presidential elections and days before Trump is to be officially named the Republican nominee at his partys convention.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service said the suspected shooter, who is not being identified yet, fired from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. Authorities say theyre working to determine a possible motive for the attack.

Biden on Trump rally shooting: Everybody must condemn it

Theres no place in America for this type of violence, President Joe Biden, who is running against Trump as the presumptive Democratic nominee, said in remarks. Its sick. Its sick.

Two officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation. They said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

The officials said the shooter was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

Its still not clear yet whether Trump was struck directly by the gunfire or was injured in another way.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed  at this time, authorities are not publicly identifying the victims. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, according to a person familiar with the matter. The person was not authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

In a press conference late Saturday night, FBI and Secret Service officials asked members of the public who may have information to report it to the FBI online or by phone at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

The vehicle carrying Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

People hug after Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump reacts as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

A rally disrupted by gunfire

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the apparent shots began just after 6:10 p.m.

It took two minutes from the moment of the first shot for Trump to be placed in a waiting SUV.

As Trump was talking, a popping sound was heard, and the former president put his right hand up to his right ear, as people in the stands behind him appeared to be shocked.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard and he crouched down. More shots are heard then.

Someone could be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents tackled the former president. They piled atop him to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. A woman is heard screaming louder than the rest. Afterward, voices were heard saying shooters down several times, before someone asks are we good to move? and are we clear? Then, someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump allies react to apparent shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Trump could be heard on the video saying at least twice, Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes, with another voice heard saying, Ive got you sir.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word Fight twice his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of USA. USA. USA.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

His motorcade left the venue moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he is put into a vehicle.

Reporters covering the rally heard five or six shots ring out and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables.

After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled, but not panicked. An AP reporter at the scene reported the noise sounded like firecrackers at first or perhaps a car backfiring.

But then there were more shots. Panic set in as people realized what was happening. Shouts of Get down! rang through the crowd.

Trump says bullet pierced his ear, recounts whizzing sound, shots

When it was clear the situation had been contained and that Trump would not be returning to speak, attendees started filing out of the venue. One man in an electric wheelchair got stuck on the field when his chairs battery died. Others tried to help him move.

Police soon told the people remaining to leave the venue and U.S. Secret Service agents told reporters to get out now. This is a live crime scene.

Two firefighters from nearby Steubenville, Ohio, who were at the rally told the AP that they helped people who appeared injured and heard bullets hitting broadcast speakers.

The bullets rattled around the grandstand, one hit the speaker tower and then chaos broke. We hit the ground and then the police converged into the grandstands, said Chris Takach.

The first thing I heard is a couple of cracks, Dave Sullivan said.

Sullivan said he saw one of the speakers get hit and bullets rattling and, we hit the deck.

He said once Secret Service and other authorities converged on Trump, he and Takach assisted two people who may have been shot in the grandstand and cleared a path to get them out of the way.

Just a sad day for America, Sullivan said.

Trump in great spirits after shooting, son says

After we heard the shots got fired, then the hydraulic line was spraying all around, you could see the hydraulic fluid coming out of it. And then the speaker tower started to fall down, Sullivan said. Then we heard another shot that, you could hear, you knew something was, it was bullets. It wasnt firecrackers.

They werent super loud shots, he said.

You could hear it landing, ammunition landing, on metal, Takach added.

Then they took cover behind a farm tractor.

Sullivan said they were concerned for Trump and saw him stand up.

He got up and he gave a motion he was OK, Sullivan said, raising a fist as Trump had.

Political violence again shakes America

The perils of campaigning took on a new urgency after the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy in California in 1968, and again in 1972 when Arthur Bremer shot and seriously hurt George Wallace, who was running as an independent on a campaign platform that has sometimes been compared to Trumps. That led to increased protection of candidates, even as the threats persisted, notably against Jesse Jackson in 1988 and Barack Obama in 2008.

Presidents, particularly after the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, have even greater layers of security. Trump is a rarity as both a former president and a current candidate.

Biden was briefed on the incident, the White House said. He received an updated briefing from Kimberly Cheatle, the director of the United States Secretary Service, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and White House homeland security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall.

The White House confirmed that Biden and Trump spoke on the phone later in the evening.

Trump, Biden speak after shooting at rally

After the shooting at Trumps rally the Biden campaign was pausing all messaging to supporters and is working to pull down all of its television ads as quickly as possible, the campaign said.

Donald Trump Jr. posted a photo on X of Trump, his fist raised and his face bloody in front of an American flag, with the words: Hell never stop fighting to Save America.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the three men on Trumps shortlist for vice president, all quickly sent out statements expressing concern for the former president, with Rubio sharing an image taken as Trump was escorted off stage with his fist in the air and a streak of blood on his face along with the words God protected President Trump.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said in a statement on X that he had been briefed on the situation and Pennsylvania state police were on hand at the rally site.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, he said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
Donald Trump clutched his ear following the sound of gunshots - Getty/Trump Campaign Office

Donald Trump was left bloodied after multiple shots were fired in the former presidents direction at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

He was immediately bundled offstage to his motorcade by Secret Service agents, with blood visible around his right ear and streaking across his face.

Trump was taken to a nearby hospital, and declared safe by the Secret Service.

One spectator was killed and two others critically injured in the shooting, later described by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as an assassination attempt that could be considered an act of domestic terrorism.

The Secret Service said its personnel had killed the man identified as the shooter, with authorities still investigating his motives.

Here is everything we know so far.

What happened?

Trump was speaking at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, around 34 miles north of Pittsburgh.

The former president had been showing his supporters a chart about border crossings just minutes into his speech on the grounds of the Butler Farm Show when the gunshots rang out, at around 6.15pm local time on Saturday evening.

He quickly ducked after the volley of bullets interrupted the campaign speech, and before Secret Service agents could rush onto the stage to form a protective mass around the former president.

Seconds later, Trump was hauled up by his security detail, raising his right fist in a defiant salute to the crowd, shouting: Fight!

Trump bleeding from the ear

Blood was visible at the top of his right ear, with two streaks headed towards his mouth, as he was hurried to his motorcade and taken to a hospital.

Analysis of footage and testimonies from witnesses suggested at least seven or eight shots were fired in two bursts.

As the hail of gunfire was unleashed in the direction of the former president, the audience watching on screamed, get down, get down and shots fired.

The Secret Service quickly hurried to evacuate the area, with mobile phones and even an electric wheelchair being left behind in the confusion.

Some supporters held hands in prayer, while others chanted: USA!

Is Donald Trump hurt?

On Saturday night, an aide to Trump shared footage on social media that showed him walking unaided down stairs from his private jet, closely flanked by two security guards.

He waved in the direction of the camera but his injured right ear was not on display throughout the short video clip.

The Trump presidential campaign and the Republican National Committee said he would attend the Republican convention in Milwaukee, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, when Trump is formally expected to accept his partys nomination for president.

The campaign said that he still looks forward to joining [supporters] at the convention.

Trump campaign advisers said he was in great spirits and doing well, in a memo to staff on Sunday obtained by AP.

Who were the other casualties?

A former fireman was killed while shielding his family from bullets as a gunman opened fire at a Donald Trump rally on Saturday.

Corey Comperatore, 50, dived in front of his wife and daughter to shield them.

Allyson Comperatore said that her real-life superhero father had saved her life, calling him the best dad a girl could ask for.

He threw my mom and I to the ground he shielded my body from the bullet that came at us. He loved his family, she wrote on social media.

He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us. And I want nothing more than to cry on him and tell him thank you.

I want nothing more than to wake up and for this to not be reality for me and my family.

The two other victims who were shot and critically injured have been named as 57-year-old David Dutch and 74-year-old James Copenhaver.

They were flown by helicopter to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Dan Laurent, the hospital spokesman, said.

Who is the gunman?

The FBI identified him as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania.

Former classmates have described him as a loner and an outcast who during his school years was teased about his appearance.

The Secret Service said the gunman had fired from an elevated position outside of the rally venue using an AR-15-type semi automatic rifle which was recovered at the scene.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks

The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said it was attempting to track the weapon against its national firearms database. The firearm was legally purchased by the gunmans father, investigators said.

Crooks was a registered Republican, the Associated Press reported. The New York Times, however, reported that federal campaign finance records show he donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project, a liberal voter group, through the Democratic donation platform AceBlue in January 2021.

Crooks acted alone and was attempting to assassinate the former president, the FBI said.

Police searched his home, in the small post-industrial town of Bethel Park where locals said they were shocked and did not want one bad person to taint the image of their community.

Bomb-making equipment was found on the property and officers also discovered explosives inside Crooks car which was found parked near the rally site.

The Secret Service said its personnel had killed the gunman, but did not go into detail about how he was neutralised.

Video captured at the scene showed a mans lifeless body on a shed rooftop.

Witnesses said they had reported his presence to both the police and Secret Service before the shooting started.

We noticed a guy army-crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof, an eyewitness told the BBC. You can clearly see him with a rifle.

Open source intelligence reports suggested the gunman was less than 150 yards away, with a direct line of sight to the stage.

What has Trump said?

Trump confirmed in a post on Truth Social that he had been shot and thanked law enforcement for protecting him.

I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response [to] the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania, he said.

Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. God bless America!

What has the US President said?

Joe Biden, who spoke to Trump late on Saturday, described the incident as sick and a reason why we have to unite this country.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Mr Biden added.

He later said that the shooting calls on all of us to take a step back and to lower the temperature of political debate.

We cant allow this violence to be normalised, Mr Biden said on Sunday night.

The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. Its time to cool it down. We all have a responsibility to do this.

He said that in the US we resolve our differences at the ballot box rather than with bullets, adding that the power to change in America should always rest in the hands of the people, not in the hands of a would-be assassin.

Security around the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee would be reviewed, he confirmed.

Kamala Harris, the vice-president, said she was relieved that Trump was not seriously hurt and said she was praying for him.

How has the world reacted?

The shooting drew condemnation from leaders across the world and the US political spectrum, including those largely critical of Trump.

Barack Obama, the former president, said he and his wife, Michelle, wished Trump a speedy recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, he said.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former president Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

George W Bush, former president, called it a cowardly attack.

International leaders also moved to denounce the assassination attempt, with Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, saying he was appalled by the shocking scenes at president Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, Sir Keir added.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said she was deeply shocked.

Emmanuel Macron, the French president, said the shooting was a tragedy for our democracies.

Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail, Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said.

I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery.

Jens Stoltenberg, Natos secretary-general, wrote: I am shocked by the attempted assassination on former president Trump. I wish him a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with those affected. I condemn this attack. Political violence has no place in our democracies. Nato allies stand together to defend our freedom and values.

This story is being kept up to date with the latest information

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There's a reason so many people rush to claim Social Security at age 62. That's the earliest age you can sign up to collect those monthly benefits. And for many people, filing for Social Security at 62 could be the ticket to a much-desired fairly early retirement.

But what if you've filed for Social Security at age 62 and aren't happy with your monthly check? Of course, it shouldn't come as a surprise that claiming benefits before full retirement age reduces them substantially. But you may be learning as you go that living on a much smaller Social Security benefit isn't as easy as you expected it to be, especially with stubbornly high inflation continuing to drive living costs upward.

Image source: Getty Images.

If you already regret claiming Social Security at 62 and locking in a lower monthly benefit as a result, here's some good news: You're not automatically stuck with that smaller monthly check. But you'll need to act quickly if you want that number to change.

A lesser-known Social Security rule gives you a second chance

One thing many people don't know about Social Security is that filers get a single do-over in their lifetime in the context of claiming benefits. Simply put, if you're unhappy with your monthly Social Security check at age 62, you can withdraw your application for benefits, repay the money you received from Social Security to date, and file again at a later point in time.

The do-over option must be acted on within a year of claiming benefits. But if you're still 62, it means you're within that year.

So if you haven't spent all of the money Social Security paid you, you have the option to undo your filing and sign up at a later age for a larger monthly check. It's an option worth considering if you can't imagine being limited to your current monthly benefit for the rest of your life -- but you'll need to plan for that do-over carefully.

You need a plan if you'll be giving up your Social Security checks

Undoing your Social Security claim could be a smart move. But you may need to make a big lifestyle change if you're no longer going to be receiving Social Security for the foreseeable future.

This assumes, of course, that you don't have a large nest egg to fall back on. If you feel you jumped the gun on Social Security at 62 but have a $1.5 million IRA, you may be just fine to undo your filing and live off of your savings for a while instead.

But many people who claim Social Security at 62 don't have large savings to fall back on. So if you're in that boat, you'll need to think about how you'll make up for those missing monthly payments.

One option is of course to go back to work. But don't assume that's a given. You may be surprised at how tough it is to break back into your former field once you've made your retirement official. A good bet is to put out feelers before you undo your Social Security claim and make sure there are some viable opportunities out there.

Of course, another option may be to work part-time, or even full-time, through the gig economy. This gives you a lot more freedom in your schedule. And it may be an easier option to cope with if you've already been retired for a few months and are no longer used to the daily grind.

Social Security is more flexible than you might think in that you're allowed to undo an early filing you regret. Going this route could set you up with more monthly income and fewer financial worries later on in retirement. But do make sure to think things through before giving up that monthly benefit.

The $ 22,924 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook

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Unhappy With Your Monthly Social Security Check at 62? Here's a Lesser-Known Way to Boost It was originally published by The Motley Fool
Donald Trump shot in ear as gunshots ring out at campaign rally

A general view of the official White House portrait of Former President Donald Trump in front of an American flag after an assassination attempt was made on his life at a 2024 US Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US president Donald Trump said he was shot in the ear during a political rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Trump was escorted to safety by Secret Service agents after gunshots were heard during the rally. Videos from the scene showed Trump lifting his fist as he was escorted off stage with a bloody ear.

The attack is being treated as an "assassination attempt," the FBI said in a press conference.

"This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former president Donald Trump. Its still an active crime scene," special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office Kevin Rojek said.

Authorities were working to identify the suspected shooter and their motive, he said.

Writing on his social media site Truth Social after the incident, Trump said a bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening," he wrote.

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country," he added.

Two dead, including suspected shooter

A rally attendee had died and two were critically injured in the incident, the US Secret Service said.

The suspected shooter had also died, US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement.

"A suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue," Guglielmi said.

"U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased."

Agents had "quickly responded with protective measures" and Trump was safe, Guglielmi said.

"One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured."

He said the incident was under investigation and the Secret Service had notified the FBI.

Biden condemns political violence

Trump is campaigning to return to the White House in November's presidential election against President Joe Biden.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris had been briefed on Saturday's incident, the White House said.

Biden said there was no place in America for political violence.

"We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," he said.

"The bottom line is, the Trump rally is a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem," Biden said.

"But the idea, the idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it."

Republican National Convention going ahead

Trump was looking forward to the Republican National Convention next week despite the apparent shooting, his advisors said.

The Republican National Convention (RNC), where Trump is set to be officially nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election, is due to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday.

A statement from the Trump campaign and the RNC said Trump was doing well following Saturday's incident.

"President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States," the statement said.

"As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again."

A general view of a statement on Donald Trump's official X account after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, with footage showing the former US president defiantly raising his fist with blood on his face as he was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents.

The shooting in the town of Butler, north of Pittsburgh, is likely to cause political shockwaves in the United States just months ahead of Trump's rematch with President Joe Biden in November's elections.

A shooter was able to climb onto the roof of a nearby building and fire a number of bullets at Trump with an assault rifle, causing panic to break out in the audience as loud bangs and screams were heard.

One rally attendee was killed and two others seriously injured in the incident, according to the Secret Service.

Trump said on his social media site Truth Social that a bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening," he wrote.

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The man was killed by Secret Service agents moments after he fired at Trump.

The man's motive for the shooting is not yet clear, with the FBI's investigation ongoing.

Nevertheless, the attack is being treated as an "assassination attempt," the FBI said in a press conference.

"This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former president Donald Trump. Its still an active crime scene," said Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office.

Secret Service kills shooter

US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that agents killed the shooter in a statement.

"A suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue," Guglielmi said.

"U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased."

Agents had "quickly responded with protective measures" and Trump was safe, Guglielmi said.

He said the incident was under investigation and the Secret Service had notified the FBI.

Biden and US leaders condemn political violence

Trump is campaigning to return to the White House in November's presidential election against President Joe Biden.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed on Saturday's incident, the White House said.

Biden said there was no place in America for political violence. "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," he said.

"The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it."

The Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said he has also been briefed about the incident.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," he wrote on X.

Former US president Barack Obama said there was "absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy," in a post on X.

"Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics."

Republican National Convention going ahead

Trump was looking forward to the Republican National Convention next week despite the apparent shooting, his advisors said.

The Republican National Convention (RNC), where Trump is set to be officially nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election, is due to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday.

A statement from the Trump campaign and the RNC said Trump was doing well following Saturday's incident.

"President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States," the statement said.

"As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again."

A general view of the official White House portrait of Former President Donald Trump in front of an American flag after an assassination attempt was made on his life at a 2024 US Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Yampil, a bear that was evacuated from a zoo in Donetsk Oblast in 2022, has died after not waking up from anesthesia, Five Sisters Zoo in Scotland announced on July 13.

The Asian black bear was rescued from an abandoned zoo on the outskirts of the village of Yampil in Donetsk Oblast, when Ukrainian forces liberated the village in October 2022.

Yampil was one of the only animals left alive in the park and was found starving, filthy, and close to death.

He was initially housed at a wildlife refuge in Belgium and was then rehomed to Five Sisters Zoo in January 2024.

Five Sisters Zoo said in a statement that a "wonderful new habitat had just been completed for him."

"Prior to the move to his new enclosure this morning, Yampil was anesthetized for further treatment for his health problems, which were worrying the team."

"Sadly, anesthetizing animals always carries risks, and Yampil did not recover from the procedure, and despite the best efforts from our veterinary team, we were unable to resuscitate him," Five Sisters Zoo said.

Five Sisters Zoo has previously rehomed animals from circuses, including lions and European brown bears.

Read also: How volunteers risk their lives to rescue abandoned animals amid war

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Out of the Frying Pan

A brutal heat wave that swept across the United States this week is estimated to have killed at least 28 people, The Washington Post reports, with that figure expected to climb as official investigations into the deaths continue.

So far, this is based solely on preliminary reports from just three states  California, Oregon, and Arizona  according to WaPo. The heat wave also scourged major east coast hubs like New York City, where it got so hot that a swing bridge got stuck open, but the broader extent of heat-related casualties on this side of the country is unclear.

California has accounted for most of the known death toll, with an ongoing heatwave seeing multiple records smashed as temperatures in several cities soared past 110 degrees Fahrenheit.

Most of the alarming headlines over the past week have come from either the Golden State and neighboring Arizona. Authorities are investigating the death of an infant who died after her parents took her boating on a 120 degree day; a motorcyclist dropped dead in the middle of riding through Death Valley; and 'ALF' star Benji Gregory reportedly died in his car due to heatstroke.

Some of these deaths are extreme cases  but not even folks who stayed inside were spared. In one county, at least eight apparently heat-related deaths were from people found in their homes  a dire portrait of how difficult this threat is to escape.

Casualty Count

As grim as this already sounds, experts stress that we're still not getting the full picture because of the complicated nature of judging whether a death was heat-related. According to WaPo, they often can be misclassified as deaths due to heart failure, so the actual death toll is likely much higher.

In 2023, which was the hottest year ever recorded, the US reached over 2,300 heat-related deaths, the most ever in a single year. That's up from 1,700 deaths the year before.

These deaths have been steadily climbing, WaPo notes. But scientists warn that we could see a catastrophic surge in the death toll as the heat  and the corresponding demand in AC  puts the power grid under stress, too.

One study found that a blackout during a nasty heat wave in Arizona alone could kill over 13,000 people. Shoring up our infrastructure against these threats will be important, but if we're going to wake up people to the threat now, the need to accurately gauge heat deaths shouldn't be overlooked.

"The extreme nature of the heat last summer and this summer has meant it's in the forefront of everyone's mind, including those in charge of classifying health outcomes and deaths," Ashley Ward, director of the Heat Policy Innovation Hub at Duke University, told WaPo. "Awareness plays a critical role in this equation."

More on extreme heat: It's Getting So Hot That Medical Choppers Can't Fly to Rescue People Dying From Heat
People take part in the traditional 'encierro' (bull run) of the San Fermin Festival. The bull-running fiesta is held annually from 06 to 14 July to commemorate the city's patron saint. Eduardo Sanz/EUROPA PRESS/dpa

The renowned San Fermin festival drew to a close in the northern Spanish city of Pamplona on Sunday, with seven further people receiving injuries during the traditional running of the bulls.

The eight and final bull run of the festival, which begins every year on July 7, saw seven people suffer minor injuries such as bruises and concussions, the TV station RTVE reported.

In total, 36 runners were hospitalized in this year's festival, including an Australian and a US citizen.

The final bull run started at 8 am (0600 GMT) with fireworks being set off before six bulls were released into the streets, filled with thousands of spectators running towards the bullring more than 800 metres away.

The festivities can prove fatal when runners are caught on the bulls' deadly horns. Since 1924, 16 fatalities have been recorded at the festival, with the last coming in 2009.

Most injuries during the event occur when runners collide when trying to avoid the bulls.

The La Vanguardia newspaper described the "emotion of the running of the bulls, where you really pray and run like never before."

The bull runs the central act of the annual festival in honour of the city's saint, San Fermin. Despite heavy criticism from animal right activists, the festival - which first took place in 1591 - continues to attract tens of thousands of tourists from Spain and all over the world.

Activists say that the runs, as well as Spain's traditional bullfighting, is an act of cruelty for the animals, who are forced to flee in panic through crowds.

People take part in the traditional 'encierro' (bull run) of the San Fermin Festival. The bull-running fiesta is held annually from 06 to 14 July to commemorate the city's patron saint. Eduardo Sanz/EUROPA PRESS/dpa

People take part in the traditional 'encierro' (bull run) of the San Fermin Festival. The bull-running fiesta is held annually from 06 to 14 July to commemorate the city's patron saint. Eduardo Sanz/EUROPA PRESS/dpa
Drownings for children under 5, expected to surpass 11-year average

More children under five years old have drowned this year in Maricopa and Pinal counties than last year, with child drownings in Phoenix doubled.

The first half of 2024 has seen 13 drownings for children under the age of five, known as pediatric drownings, according to Children's Safety Zone, which monitors drowning incidents.

In 2023, Maricopa and Pinal counties saw 12 pediatric drownings, and 57 drownings among all age groups.

The number of pediatric drownings in the first seven months of 2024 are projected to surpass the average number of drownings in the last 11 years, which sits at 13.

In Phoenix, pediatric drownings have doubled from the previous year, with four deaths in 2023 and eight deaths in 2024.

Water Safety: Do you plan to spend time at the pool or lake? What to know

Where did the drownings occur?

In 2024, the City of Phoenix has experienced a majority of pediatric drownings around the Valley. Here's a breakdown of where the incidents happened:

Phoenix: 8

Avondale: 2

Glendale: 1

Mesa: 1

Peoria: 1

Read more: Authorities ID 2 toddlers who died in separate drownings within hours of each other

How to keep your child safe in the pool

Phoenix Fire officials provided some tips on how to keep children safe near the water:

Install an approved barrier to separate a pool from the rest of the residence.

Maintain lifesaving devices like a hook, pole or floatation device nearby.

Never leave children unattended around water or a pool.

Take steps to ensure an enclosed pool cannot be accessed with chairs, tables or ladders.

Do not allow children to play in the pool area.

Store toys far away from any water.

Keeping a barrier around a pool is an important factor for child safety. Homeowners within the City of Phoenix are required to have a fence or wall around the pool that is at least five feet tall and self-latching, with some pools requiring an interior barrier as well.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: 13 pediatric drownings in 2024. Here's how to stay safe
In the Netherlands, construction equipment supplier Dieseko Group B.V. was fined nearly 1.8 million euros ($1.9 million) for its involvement in the illegal construction of the Crimean bridge, violating international trade sanctions.

From 2015 to 2016, the company sold equipment and provided technical support for the bridge project, despite EU sanctions imposed in 2014 against Russia over the occupation of Crimea.

The company pleaded guilty, paid the settlement, and pledged to avoid such violations in the future.

The settlement included a fine of 180,000 euros ($196,000) and then the seizure of 1.6 million euros ($1.7 million) in illegal gains.

The Honorary Consul of Ukraine in the Netherlands noted that seven Dutch companies participated in the bridge's construction.

The bridge, also called the Kerch Bridge, connects the Russian mainland with the Russian-occupied Crimea peninsula, and has long been a crucial supply route for the Russian military in Ukraine.

Construction on the 19-kilometer-long bridge began after the illegal 2014 annexation and occupation of Crimea, and was completed in 2018.

Read also: Polands Sejm recognizes Soviet deportation of Crimean Tatars as genocide

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
TYLER, Texas (KETK)  Reactions are pouring in from East Texas elected officials in support of former President Donald Trump, who was whisked off the stage at a rally after a reported shooting on Saturday.

Trump says he felt bullet ripping through the skin in possible assassination attempt

Former President Trump was holding a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday ahead of the upcoming Republican National Convention when shots rang out. According to the Associated Press, a reported gunman and at least one other person are dead.

Former US President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents during a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, US, on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Former President Donald Trump is being evaluated at a medical facility but is fine after an incident where he was rushed off stage during rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, his campaign said. Photographer: Joe Appel/Bloomberg via Getty Images

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA  JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA  JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Republican candidate Donald Trump was evacuated from the stage at todays rally after what sounded like shots rang out at the event in Pennsylvania, according to AFP. The former US president was seen with blood on his right ear as he was surrounded by security agents, who hustled him off the stage as he pumped his first to the crowd. Trump was bundled into an SUV and driven away. (Photo by Rebecca DROKE / AFP) (Photo by REBECCA DROKE/AFP via Getty Images)

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA  JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA  JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Photos show former President Trump with blood on his face and ear as he was being led off the stage. Trump is reportedly safe and the U.S. Secret Service is investigating, according to a Secret Service statement.

Several East Texas Representatives and other officials have come out with the following statements of support in wake of the shooting:

Praying for President Trump, his family, and our country after this horrific act. May God be with President Trump and with our nation, Congressman Nathaniel Moran of Tyler said.

State Senator Bryan Hughes, who represents Mineola, asked for the public to pray for Trump after what he called a failed assassination attempt.

Today at a rally in Pennsylvania, there was a failed assassination attempt on President Trump. Please pray for President Trump and all those who may have been injured, said Hughes.

Our country came an inch from civil unrest. God help us, said Texas State Representative Matt Schaefer of Tyler.

If you wish harm to any American President then you hate America and everything she stands for. Our country is in shambles. Total chaos will be the result of such an evil act. We are witnessing a major event that will trigger a very large movement in this country and its going to be a horrible event for everyone, said Trinity County Sheriff Woody Wallace.

Pray for President Trump, said Texas State Rep. for Mt. Pleasant and Lindale, Cole Hefner.

East Texas politicians react to Trumps guilty verdict in hush money trial

Pray for President Trump. Pray for America, said U.S Congressman for Mineola, Athens and Terrell, Lance Gooden said.

This is horrific & wrong & evil. Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured. Heidi & I are lifting President Trump up in prayer right now, said U.S. Senator for Texas, Ted Cruz.

They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable, said Texas Governor Greg Abbott.

Todays incident will be remembered as a sad commentary on the state of our

Nation. Weve seen four Presidents assassinated while in office with the last one being the shooting of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963, almost 61 years ago. We remember the attempted assassination of President Reagan in 1981. As a nation, we must be better than this and those involved in this must be brought to justice. We live in a time of political vitriol and polarization that has caused our Country to be as divided as weve seen in recent history. We must pray for President Trumps health and safety and that of all elected officials who serve our Nation. As a Republican, I am saddened to see the deterioration of our traditional values as a people and ask all who believe as I do to join with me to be successful on November 5. Weve watched as a group of people in current power have hidden the current danger of a compromised current President and must hold them accountable. David Stein, Smith County Republican Party Chair

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery. Former President Barack Obama

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it. President Joe Biden

Former President Trump gave a statement on Truth Social on Saturday following the shooting. In the following statement he said he was hit with a bullet and immediately new something was wrong:

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA! Former President Donald Trump

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KETK.com | FOX51.com.
From the editor: Do you have questions? We have answers.

When we introduced our reimagined Sunday StarNews back in December, we also re-launched MyReporter  a feature that allows readers to ask us questions and well try to get answers.

Weve answered more than 30 questions so far on a variety of topics, including updates on development projects, how to protect sea turtles along the coast and how to request a traffic light at a busy intersection.

More: Find the answers to all your questions in one place with MyReporter

Todays MyReporter story is something Ive always wondered about. What is the difference between a city and a town in North Carolina? How can somewhere like Southport, with about 3,800 residents, be a city yet Leland, with a population of roughly 23,000, be a town?

I always thought cities were larger metropolitan areas in the state. Turns out, thats not the case at all. Our community engagement editor, Renee Spencer, explains it all in todays MyReporter story.

Do you have a question you want us to look into? Send an email to myreporter@starnewsonline.com. The best questions are ones you and your neighbors have been wondering about. Also, if weve already answered it, well let you know.

More: What's the difference between a city and a town in North Carolina? | MyReporter

More: Pender County oyster farm adds chef, wine dinners and more for seasonal restaurant

Id also like to point you toward our dining feature in the Sunday newspaper. Each week, reporter Allison Ballard features a local restaurant. Some of these stories have focused on long-time favorites, such as Caprice Bistro and Hieronymus Seafood Restaurant & Oyster Bar, while others take you inside new spots.

Thats the case with this weeks story, which looks at what Conor and Alyssa MacNair are doing at their Pender County oyster farm. After starting N. Sea Oyster Co. in Hampstead, theyve since added the Oyster Barn to the headquarters.

Theyve added a chef, wine dinners and more for at their seasonal restaurant. It sounds like a great experience and something worth adding to my summer bucket list.

Sherry Jones is the StarNews executive editor. You can reach her at sjones1@gannett.com.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: StarNews journalists answer reader questions about Wilmington, NC
Former President Trump is rushed offstage by Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images)

The attempted assassination of former President Trump on Saturday during a campaign rally was a shocking moment for America, though thankfully he wasn't seriously wounded.

Since the nation's founding, both U.S. presidents and presidential candidates have been killed or injured in acts of political violence, but it has been more than 40 years since such an attack, when Ronald Reagan was shot outside a Washington hotel in 1981. Hours after Saturday's shooting, Trump wrote on his Truth Social site, "It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country."

Read more: Trump shooting is a historic moment echoing past political violence in America

Sadly, it is all too easy to believe something like this would happen. Mass shootings and acts of political violence have become horrifyingly frequent in the United States. No place is safe from bullets  not schools, churches, grocery stores nor Fourth of July parades  and no individual is. Members of Congress have been shot in a parking lot and at a ballfield. And not even one of the most protected people in the world, a former president with a Secret Service detail, is immune.

Candidates for office from school boards to Congress are regularly threatened with harm and death. Two years ago, the husband of Democrat Nancy Pelosi was seriously injured when a deranged person broke into their San Francisco home looking for the then-House Speaker. And on Jan. 6, 2021, armed assailants, some chanting "Hang Mike Pence," stormed the Capitol building intent on overturning the results of the presidential election

Read more: FBI says it has not determined a motive for assassination attempt on former President Trump

This should be a moment for unity  as both President Biden and Trump called for  to condemn violence and mourn the victims with one voice. Trump was grazed by a bullet and three other people at the rally were hit. One attendee died and two others were badly hurt and in stable condition Sunday.

Instead the incident threatens to divide this deeply polarized nation further and spur more violence. In a nation with more guns than people, that should concern every American.

It doesn't have to be that way. The example set by political leaders in the next few days is crucial to how the rest of the campaign season plays out. This is neither a moment for victim-blaming nor demonization.

Read more: Editorial: There's no place like America for gun violence

Biden and other Democratic leaders have rushed to condemn the violence, as is appropriate. And the president has wisely called for an independent review of security measures at the rally, with the findings reported to the public. But some on the right have used the incident to double down on irresponsible claims. A number of Republican elected officials have gone so far as to blame Biden and Democrats for the shooting. That is unfortunate.

We still don't know the motive of the shooter, identified as a 20-year-old man armed with an AR-15, the weapon of choice for mass shooters. The FBI says the shooter had bomb devices in his car. But what we do know is that, whether this was a politically motivated shooting or not, it was undoubtedly an act that has shaken America. Yes, this country is deeply divided over our shared future. But political violence is anathema to a democracy, where governance is decided at the ballot box.

Trump and Republican leaders meeting at the GOP National Convention in Milwaukee this week have a particular responsibility to not use the shooting as a tool to rile up their base. They must recognize that the U.S. is a powder keg right now, and tamp down the heated rhetoric before it can spark. By now, they must realize that violence, once unleashed, is nonpartisan.

If its in the news right now, the L.A. Times Opinion section covers it. Sign up for our weekly opinion newsletter.

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Elon Musk has endorsed Donald Trump for president, after the former POTUS was shot in an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

Musk, owner of X (formerly Twitter), used the platform Saturday to tell his 189 million followers:

More from Deadline

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.

I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery pic.twitter.com/ZdxkF63EqF  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 13, 2024

He then reposted a report from a man claiming to be a eyewitness, who told BBC News that he had informed police and Secret Service about a man on the roof with a rifle.

Musk wrote:

The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign.

He also reposted another message from someone asking how such an apparent line of sight between the roof and Trumps position on the platform had not been secured, and Musk added:

Extreme incompetence or it was deliberate. Either way, the SS leadership must resign.

This was the first time Musk had endorsed Trump. Previously asked about the election during an interview at the Cannes Lions Festival last month, he said only: Its going to be interesting.

Trump was shot in the ear as he was addressing the crowd on stage. The FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, PA. Authorities said that they were still trying to determine a motive.

The gunman was killed by counter-snipers after he fired shots from the rooftop of a nearby building, according to eyewitness accounts.

More updates here.

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Energy situation should improve after July 20, Shmyhal says

The energy situation in Ukraine should improve after July 20 as the government works to decentralize energy production, Prime Minister Denys Shmyhal said on July 14.

The government has been providing support to a wide spectrum of consumers, ranging from individual households to businesses, to facilitate additional energy generation, Shmyhal said.

The government is utilizing alternate forms of energy, including solar panels and wind turbines, as well as disbursing grants and preferential loans.

In recent months, Russia has intensified its attacks against Ukraine's critical infrastructure in a renewed assault against the country's energy grid.

Due to dwindling energy supplies caused by Russian attacks, Ukraine's largest privately-owned energy provider, DTEK, has warned that Ukrainians may only have electricity for 6-7 hours per day in the upcoming winter.

In a "worst-case" scenario in which Ukraine is unable to repair damaged energy facilities and prevent future attacks, Ukrainians could experience up to 20 hours of blackouts a day, DTEK Executive Director Dmytro Sakharuk told the Kyiv Independent in an interview in June.

Read also: Kyiv restored two-thirds of its generating capacities after Russian missile attacks, official says

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Ben Stimson is using Telegram to help any new recruits join the Russian army in Ukraine - YouTube

The Russian military has introduced training for English speakers who want to fight for Moscow in Ukraine, according to a Manchester man serving in the Kremlins army.

Ben Stimson, 48, who has fought for pro-Russian forces in Ukraine since 2015, said English-speaking instructors are available, but warned that it was better to learn Russian for when combat starts and the other soldiers switch back to their mother tongue.

He made the claims in a new Telegram channel to start encouraging more people to follow in his footsteps, claiming anyone under 60 can sign up.

Russia has allowed foreigners to join its armed forces since 2010, however strict language and age requirements were in place until the invasion of Ukraine in 2022, when the Kremlin began to relax military enlistment rules.

Videos posted on Russian Telegram channels show Russian army recruits, who are described as coming from Nepal and Africa, being trained by men who were speaking broken English.

As well as recruiting globally, Russia has suffered so many casualties in Ukraine that officials have turned to convicted criminals to keep up momentum on the front lines for little territorial gain.

In what he calls a guide on volunteering with Russian forces, Stimson gives information on avoiding detention at UK airports when flying to Russia, finding recruitment centres and what to expect after enlisting.

Usually after signing [up] you are sent right away to basic training, Stimson said, while adding that the training usually lasts one month.

Responding to comments from people expressing interest in joining up, Stimson said that as long as you dont turn up drunk/on drugs and are reasonably healthy youll get in if youre under 60.

Stimson said that he himself does not serve in an assault unit, but one that guards a defensive line.

The 48 year-old was convicted of a terrorism offence in 2017 for fighting alongside pro-Russian separatists in the Donbas region of Ukraine, but he has insisted he was not a terrorist and described his motivation for serving Moscow as ideological.

Referring to the Euromaidan revolution of 2014 in Ukraine, when Viktor Yanukovych, the pro-Russian Ukrainian president, was overthrown by protestors after choosing closer ties to the Kremlin instead of the European Union, Stimson said that he felt it was an undemocratic coup organised by the European Union.

On his channel, Stimson said he comes from a Left-wing family and described Jeremy Corbyn, the MP for Islington North, as a good man, but not a great leader.

Ben Stimson (centre) with fellow recruits recovering in a hospital behind Russian lines

He also said he held admiration for George Galloway, leader of the Workers Party of Great Britain, who has expressed anti-Nato views, but would vote for Nigel Farage and Reform UK if Mr Galloways party was not on the ballot paper.

One of his posts shows the gravestone of a man who Stimson said was from Northern Ireland and had Russian roots.

According to Stimson, the man previously served in the British Army but turned to Russia after being traumatised by his service in Iraq.

Stimson says he was killed in the opening weeks of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. His gravestone is inscribed with his likeliness alongside the word Irlandetz, which means Irishman in Russian.

Another image shows Stimson posing with men in Russian army uniforms who, he says, are from Morocco.

Good luck to my Moroccan brothers Saeed and Mahmood, the caption states. God/Allah be with you guys, it adds.

Stimson could not be contacted for comment.

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Evan Wright - Credit: Jason Merritt/FilmMagic

Evan Wright, the National Magazine Award-winning journalist and longtime Rolling Stone contributor whose reporting on the Iraq War served as the basis for the book and television series Generation Kill, has died at the age of 59. Wrights wife confirmed his death to Rolling Stone. The cause of death was suicide.

As a writer for Rolling Stone, Wright journeyed to war zones like Afghanistan and Iraq, delivering harrowing first-person reporting from the battlefields. Wrights series of articles on Iraq  where he was embedded with a U.S. Marine Corps. battalion  was serialized for a series of Rolling Stone articles titled The Killer Elite, which earned him a National Magazine Award for Excellence in Reporting in 2004.

More from Rolling Stone

That same year, Wright expanded on his Killer Elite reporting for his book Generation Kill, which was later adapted into an HBO miniseries by The Wire creator David Simon in 2008; Wright served as a writer on the miniseries alongside Simon and Ed Burns, and was portrayed in the show by actor Lee Tergesen.

Weve lost a fine journalist and storyteller. Evans contributions to the scripting and filming of Generation Kill were elemental, David Simon wrote via social media on Sunday. He was charming, funny and not a little bit feral, as many reporters are. So many moments writing in Baltimore and on set in Africa to remember.

I knew Evan as a good and gentle guy in a place that was neither good nor gentle, Lt. Nathan Fick, who was featured prominently in The Killer Elite, wrote in a statement. He wasnt a Marine, but many of us who spent March and April 2003 alongside him have thought of Evan for the past two decades as one of us. Rest in peace, brother.

In 2002, Rolling Stone published Wrights true crime article Mad Dogs & Lawyers, a story that weaved together murder, illegal dog breeding, and the California penal system. The article was later included in the following years edition of The Best American Crime Writing for true crime.

During Wrights time at Rolling Stone, he also penned features on Shakira, Quentin Tarantino, and female boxer Lucia Rijker, investigated the secret life of sorority girls at Ohio State University, reported from the anarchist underground, and detailed the little-known circumstances behind Jimi Hendrixs mob kidnapping; the latter was an excerpt from the book American Desperado, which Wright co-wrote with drug trafficker Jon Roberts.

In addition to his time at Rolling Stone, Wright also contributed articles to Time and Vanity Fair, as well as an early career stint at Hustler, where he was that magazines main pornographic film reviewer. His books also include 2009s Hella Nation and 2012s How to Get Away With Murder in America. Most recently, Wright was featured in the HBO docuseries Teen Torture Inc., where he revisited the Seed juvenile delinquent center he was sent to in his youth; that experience was also captured in Wrights book The Seed: A Memoir.

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Evan Alan Wright, whose visceral book about the Iraq war Generation Kill became the HBO miniseries by the same name, has died by suicide. He was 59 years old.

Wrights death was confirmed by his sister, Nora Wright, who told TheWrap that he suffered from post-traumatic stress disorder from his teenage years and said, People need to talk about whats hurting them.

His nephew Jacob Goldin told TheWrap, We didnt always see eye to eye, but the past couple of weeks I was in close contact with him. He was talking to me a lot about [his trauma] specifically, and that he wanted to come see me. He truly felt unhinged to a certain degree and was not acting himself. He was not communicating the way he usually communicates. This sense that I got was that he was almost running from something. I didnt think he was in crisis to this extent.

Wright traveled to war zones in Afghanistan and Iraq to report for Rolling Stone. He earned a National Magazine Award for Excellence in Reporting in 2004 for his articles written for the outlet  titled The Killer Elite  while he was embedded with the U.S. Marine Corps. He also wrote an expose about a top CIA officer who allegedly worked as a Mafia hitman, How to Get Away With Murder in America.

Generation Kill, about the young soldiers of the video game generation who were sent to war in Iraq, was adapted into an HBO miniseries from The Wire creator David Simon in 2008. Wright served as a writer on the miniseries alongside Simon and Ed Burns, and was portrayed in the show by actor Lee Tergesen.

He also was a writer on Homeland.

His 2002 true crime article Mad Dogs & Lawyers was included in The Best American Crime Writing for true crime.

Wright was also known for his extensive reporting for Rolling Stone, Time and Vanity Fair. He compiled his best work for the outlets in 2009s Hella Nation.

Wright was featured in the just-released the Max docuseries Teen Torture Inc. and also wrote about his experience at The Seed juvenile delinquent center in his book The Seed: A Memoir. He had long referenced The Seed as a violent, abusive experience that led to severe PTSD in his life.

I was a 13 year old kid tryna escape a really abusive, alcoholic home and instead  as is really common in America  I was branded a mentally-troubled criminal, threatened with incarceration and sent to a place of total horror and abuse that was funded by the government. pic.twitter.com/YRLe8LNTFb  Evan Wright (@evanscribe) July 3, 2024

Wright described the reality of life at Seed as a grab bag of all these different programs based on the idea that no matter what it takes, were gonna make these kids follow the rules because what theyre doing is so dangerous, it will destroy their lives.

Whenever I see victims of these programs speak out, I always think, "that's my brother or sister." I feel a bond with anyone who went through this. Then I saw Paris Hilton's testimony & I realized, "Oh, shit she's my sister, too?" But yes, it's a big, messed up family of us.  Evan Wright (@evanscribe) July 11, 2024

In recent days, he had been tweeting frequently about the program he was sent to as a teen, and revisiting those traumas. On July 10, Wright wrote, Anyone who sees the documentary Im in this week could reasonably conclude that Ive probably done a lot of work on my mental health ever since those experiences I had And its true, but Im still searching for a support group for Adult Children of Alcoholic Lawyers.

The following day he referenced Paris Hiltons testimony about her own experience at a center for teens. Whenever I see victims of these programs speak out, I always think, thats my brother or sister,' Wright tweeted. I feel a bond with anyone who went through this. Then I saw Paris Hiltons testimony & I realized, Oh, st shes my sister, too? But yes, its a big, messed up family of us.

His 2011 book American Desperado told the story of Mafia soldier and well-known cocaine smuggler Jon Roberts. In a 2011 interview with Cleveland.com, Wright explained, The whole book is structured around Jon learning this proposition from his father and then testing it the rest of his life. By the time he has a son in the end, he  for reasons not even he understands  abandons it. He gains empathy for his son. That is something I observed and is real, so far as I can tell.

Wright explained his affinity for the darker sides of humanity in the same interview. I try to see things as they are, not as they ought to be. Its not like theres some weird, little, small underbelly part of America that requires a passport and vaccinations to get to, he said.

In my experience, probably a third of all people in public life  from county politicians, to celebrities, to self-proclaimed business gurus, etc.  are liars, crooks, sociopaths of some sort. I think most average people are good and trusting, and want to see the best in others. And the irony is this goodness is what allows all the people I write about to succeed, or achieve public acclaim, Wright added.

To detox, he said, I spend as much time as I can in nature  forest, desert, oceanside. Closest thing I know of to going to church.

Wright was from Cleveland, Ohio. He attended Vassar College and graduated with a degree in medieval and Renaissance studies. His first job with a steady paycheck and a dental plan was reviewing pornography for Hustler. Prior to that job, his first interview was with Chief Mangosuthu Buthelezi, a political opponent of the African National Conference in South Africa. Wright interviewed Buthelezi in exchange for two free copies of a small magazine.

Journalism was a natural calling born of necessity, he told Cleveland.com. I failed at everything else, Wright said. I was optimistic. It was a refuge for rogues and miscreants. So far, it has exceeded my expectations.

He is survived by his wife Kelli, sons Carter and Evan Jr. and daughter Kennedy. Survivors also include his sister, Nora Wright, and two nephews, Jacob and Matthew Goldin.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline 988 is a free, 24/7 confidential service that can provide people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress, or those around them, with support, information and local resources.

The post Evan Wright, Generation Kill Journalist and TV Writer, Dies at 59 appeared first on TheWrap.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  The suspect accused of killing a man and woman in two separate incidents, and fleeing from deputies in Tampa on Saturday has been arrested, the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office announced.

Shortly after 2 p.m., the sheriffs office was dispatched after a dead body was found on the 4800 block of Alvarado Drive in Tampa.

Person hospitalized after falling into 10-foot-deep hole that opened up in Safety Harbor

When deputies arrived, they found the victim, and mother of a 5-year-old, Lianet Santos Sosa, 31, with upper body trauma. She was pronounced dead at the scene.

During the investigation, deputies learned the suspect, 35-year-old Silvio Ramon Franco Peralta fled the scene in the womans vehicle.

Franco Peralta then entered the City of Tampa, where he got into an altercation with a man at 8710 North Packwood Avenue. The altercation escalated, resulting in Franco Peralta killing the man, deputies said.

According to HCSO, deputies issued an alert for the vehicle and within minutes, found the suspect. Franco Peralta attempted to flee the scene but was arrested after a brief foot pursuit.

Photo courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office

Photo courtesy of the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office

It is devastating to know that a 5-year-old child will grow up without their mother because of the senseless violence of this evil man. His complete disregard for human life has forever altered the lives of two families, Hillsborough County Sheriff Chad Chronister said in a statement. I am proud of our deputies for their swift actions. They used their training to stop this dangerous man from causing any more harm to our community and have ensured that these families will get the justice they deserve.

This is what we live for: Morgan Wallen concert canceled, Jelly Roll performs at Dallas Bull

Franco Peralta is facing several charges, including premeditated murder in the first degree with a weapon, armed burglary of a dwelling with an assault or battery, grand theft motor vehicle, aggravated fleeing to elude, driving with a canceled, suspended or revoked license, and resisting an officer without violence.

More charges may also be coming from the Tampa Police Department. The investigation is ongoing.

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A former 6th grade teacher at Bessie Owens Elementary School has pleaded no contest to possessing child pornography, according to court records.

Matthew Carl Ambrose entered the no contest plea on Thursday. A charge of distributing child porn was dismissed, records show.

A sentencing hearing is scheduled next month.

Ambrose was 59 and working at the school at the time of his arrest in May of last year. Hundreds of files with child pornographic titles were found on a computer at Ambroses home after an investigation linked him to sharing illegal files online, according to a warrant filed by Bakersfield police.

Rancho Fire burns east of Mettler, evacuation order issued: Cal Fire

Police said at the time of the arrest there was no indication the material involved local children.

Ambrose was hired as a substitute teacher at Bakersfield City School District in 1996. He became a full-time teacher the following year.

Other schools he taught at include Munsey and Pauly Elementary and Owens Intermediate (formerly known as Lincoln Jr. High,) according to BCSD.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
Ex-NATO chief says alliance is strongest its ever been after DC summit

James Stavridis, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander, said that the alliance is the strongest in its history following a recent summit in Washington, D.C., in an interview that aired Sunday.

Id say this is the strongest NATOs ever been, Stavridis said to radio host John Catsimatidis on The Cats Roundtable.

My evidence would be, its gone from 12 nations when it was founded, to 32 nations today, Stavridis added. Those 32 nations represent half of the worlds gross domestic product, weve got 3 million young men and women, almost all volunteers, under arms, weve got 800  you know the admirals say this  800 major warships at sea, weve got 15,000 combat aircraft. Huge, huge capability.

The NATO summit ended on Thursday, with President Biden stating in a press conference on the final day, For those who thought NATOs time had passed, they got a rude awakening when [Russian President] Putin invaded Ukraine.

Some of the oldest and deepest fears in Europe roared back to life because, once again, a murderous madman was on the march, the president continued.

In his interview with Catsimatidis, Stavridis said the current NATO is standing up to Vladimir Putin as he tries to conquer a country in Europe, the first time weve seen a massive invasion like that since the Second World War.

For one, Im glad that NATO exists and were standing up to Putin, Stavridis continued.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Native Vote 2024. Former President Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president, was hit with a bullet that grazed his ear at an outside rally in rural Butler, Pennsylvania shortly at 6 pm on Saturday. The FBI is calling the incident an attempted assassination that left one rally-goer dead and two others critically injured.

The former president was about five minutes into his speech when shots were heard and he was seen reaching for his right ear. U.S. Secret Service agents immediately surrounded Trump and pushed him to the floor and shielded him with their bodies until it was determined it was safe to remove him from the stage. He was then rushed to a local hospital to determine his well-being.

Television video showed blood streaming from Trumps right ear and down the right side of his face,

Within an hour, the Secret Service issued a statement that read: An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available,

The FBI is now involved in the investigation of th assassination attempt.

This evening we had what we are calling an assassination attempt against our former president, Donald Trump, Kevin Rojek, a special agent at the Federal Bureau of Investigation, said later into the evening during a news conference at the Butler Township Police Department.

The shooter, who was discovered on top of a nearby warehouse roof, was killed by secret service snipers within minutes of the shooting. The FBI identified him as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pa., a small town about 35 miles from the rally location. Crooks was registered as a Republican, but made a $15 donaton to a progressive political action committee in 2021 while still in high school His motive to kill the ex-president is not yet known

President Joe Biden, Trumps opponent in the upcoming presidential election, was apprised of the attempted assassination while at his vacation home in Rehoboth, Delaware. The president called the incident sick and called for unity in the country.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Biden spoke with Trump later in the evening.

"As we await additional information, we are praying for President Trump, his family, our brave law enforcement, and our country," Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK), a citizen of the Cherokee Nation and only Native American serving in the U.S. Senate, posted Saturday early evening.

Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK), a citizen of the Chickasaw Nation and longest Native American to ever serve in the U.S. Congress, said in a post: "My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump."

Former Navajo Nation Vice President Myron Lizer, who was a Trump delegate to the 2020 Republican Natonal Convention and who spoke at the virtual convention, said to Native News Online:

"As First Nations People, our Creator set us here on this continent. We are still here. Our First Nations prayers are powerful! Please join me in praying for President Trump, the assailant's family, and the great nation. It's in our being reconciled back to the One who created us that we are made right again; thus we can be reconciled to one another."

Late Saturday night, Trumps campaign released a video of the ex-president exiting his plane in Newark, N.J. President Biden left his vacation home a day early and arrived at the White House after midnight so that he could assess the situation with top federal officials on Sunday morning.

The assassination attempt came within less than 48 hours of the beginning of the Republican National Convention that kick off at 2 pm on Monday afternoon. Republican national party officials said the convention will continue as planned. The former president is expected to make his acceptance speech on Thursday night.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
We're over six months into 2024, an excellent time to reassess your portfolio and consider what moves might be best for the year's second half and beyond. The stock market has seemed to be in a frenzy recently, with the S&P 500 briefly c

rossing the 5,600 mark for the first time. The index was boosted by growth from countless tech stocks that have risen alongside the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) and the prospect that a reduction in interest rates could be just around the corner.

During the rally, two stocks stood out as exciting investment opportunities: Intel (NASDAQ: INTC) and Alphabet (NASDAQ: GOOG) (NASDAQ: GOOGL). Over the last month, Intel's stock is up 13%, while Alphabet jumped 10%, both beating the S&P 500's increase of 5%.

Yet, despite recent growth, Intel and Alphabet are potentially some of the biggest bargains in tech. Data in the chart shows these companies have lower price-to-earnings ratios (P/E) than some of the most prominent names in the industry.

NVDA PE Ratio Chart

P/E is a helpful valuation metric calculated by dividing a company's stock by its earnings per share. The lower the P/E, the better the value.

Meanwhile, Intel and Alphabet have exciting prospects that could see them keep beating the market over the next decade. Intel has made a crucial shift in its business model that will see it prioritize expanding its role in the foundry market. Meanwhile, Alphabet is leveraging the popularity of its services to make headway in AI.

So want to get richer? Here are the two best stocks to buy in 2024 and hold forever.

1. Intel

A rally for Intel over the last month is a welcome change from the declines its stock has endured in recent years. Wall Street appears to be increasingly convinced of the company's plan to turn things around with new chip releases and its manufacturing expansion.

Toward the end of June, news broke that Intel has plans to launch a new graphics processing unit (GPU), its Battlemage "Xe2" Arc GPU. The new chip is expected to be 50% more powerful than its predecessor, equipped with Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing's 4nm node platform. The upcoming GPU will launch in 2025 and be geared toward the gaming community.

Intel's Battlemage GPU is just the latest in a line of new chip launches, many of which have been centered around AI. Earlier this year, the company unveiled Gaudi 2 and Gaudi 3 AI accelerators, which are meant to go head-to-head with similar offerings from Nvidia. Intel has priced these chips significantly lower than its competitors, hoping to gain market traction.

Story continues

However, the biggest news from Intel's camp has been its restructured focus on manufacturing. The company is building chip fabs throughout the U.S. and abroad as it works to steal market share from companies like TSMC and Samsung, just as chip demand is rising across tech.

Intel cut spending in different areas of its business to fund the costly venture that could significantly pay off in the coming years. Intel has said it expects the shift to manufacturing to save it between $8 billion to $10 billion by 2025 and see it "achieve non-GAAP (generally accepted accounting principles) gross margins of 60%."

INTC PS Ratio Chart

Moreover, Intel is one of the best-valued chip stocks. with a lower price-to-sales ratio (P/S) than Nvidia and Advanced Micro Devices. And while its rival's P/S ratios have seen erratic changes over the last five years, Intel's more steady movement suggests it could be the more reliable investment in 2024.

2. Alphabet

Alphabet has been a stock to watch this year after a glowing earnings release and heavy investment in AI. Initially, the company appeared behind in the sector with the third-largest market share in the AI-driven cloud industry (after Amazon and Microsoft). However, recent earnings show Alphabet is on track to catch up to its AI rivals. It has the brand power and financial resources to continue delivering significant gains.

In the first quarter, Alphabet's revenue increased by 15% from a year ago. The company profited from a 14% rise in its Google Services segment, which includes income from ad sales. However, its most impressive growth came from Google Cloud, where revenue spiked 28% and operating income nearly quadrupled. The cloud platform beat Microsoft Azure's revenue growth of 21% and Amazon Web Services' 17% increase in the same quarter.

In-house brands like Google, Android, and YouTube made Alphabet a tech behemoth. These platforms draw billions of users, which the company leveraged to become a leader in digital advertising. However, the company now has the chance to employ a similar method to get its AI technology into consumers' hands by integrating generative features across its product lineup.

Alphabet hit $69 billion in free cash flow this year, indicating it has the financial ability to keep investing in its business and retain its potent position in tech. In addition to a lower P/E than many of its peers, Alphabet's stock is one you can buy now and hold indefinitely.

Should you invest $1,000 in Intel right now?

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John Mackey, former CEO of Whole Foods Market, an Amazon subsidiary, is a member of The Motley Fools board of directors. Suzanne Frey, an executive at Alphabet, is a member of The Motley Fools board of directors. Dani Cook has no position in any of the stocks mentioned. The Motley Fool has positions in and recommends Advanced Micro Devices, Alphabet, Amazon, Microsoft, Nvidia, and Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing. The Motley Fool recommends Intel and recommends the following options: long January 2025 $45 calls on Intel, long January 2026 $395 calls on Microsoft, short August 2024 $35 calls on Intel, and short January 2026 $405 calls on Microsoft. The Motley Fool has a disclosure policy.

Want to Get Richer? 2 Best Stocks to Buy in 2024 and Hold Forever. was originally published by The Motley Fool
Experts advocate for consuming invasive fish species threatening local ecosystems: 'They have spread to all parts of our lake'

Lake Sampaloc in the Philippines is experiencing something of a gold rush because of an invasive species.

The sight of golden-specked cichlids is increasingly common in the water after the fish  which is typically found in South America  established themselves in the lake's ecosystem.

The appropriately named Midas cichlids are a popular aquarium fish because of their distinct coloring. Some entered the lake after the unauthorized release of unwanted pet fish, while others found their way to Sampaloc after damage to a local fishbreeder's facilities following a powerful storm.

"Ten years later, they have spread to all parts of our lake," fish farmer Jepolo Austria told The Fish Site. "Look anywhere and you'll see a bit of gold."

Midas cichlids remain a popular aquarium fish, so fishermen are trying to catch and sell the invasive species  which overcompete for food and take up oxygen and space, making life hard for the creatures that historically call Lake Sampaloc home.

But another removal method is gaining traction: eating them.

According to The Fish Site, Midas cichlids taste like "buttery tilapia," which sounds like an appetizing dinner.

Similar schemes have found success in the United States, with invasive green crabs being eaten in the Northeast and lionfish popping up on menus in Florida. It's not just animals, either, with suburban foragers making the most of invasive plants such as oxalis, dandelions, and black mustard.

Like animals, invasive plants compete with native plants for resources, crowding them out and leading to decreased populations. Both native plants and animals protect their local ecosystems, and upsetting the balance with species that don't belong there can have far-reaching negative environmental impacts  such as decreasing opportunities for pollination or causing coastal erosion.

But catching and eating invasives can be a win-win solution. Not only are you helping to restore the natural order, but you can also create delicious meals that can be significantly cheaper than store-bought produce. In the Philippines, the practice is also helping fishers turn a profit.

"Catching and selling these invasives might be a good option to rid Lake Sampaloc of these Midas cichlids, which have also started colonizing Taal Lake, about 35 kilometers away," said Maria Rowena Eguia, associate professor at De La Salle University in Manila.

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Explosive devices have reportedly been discovered inside the car of the suspected shooter who tried to assassinate Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday  using a gun believed to have been purchased by the 20-year-olds father just six months earlier.

In a harrowing day for America coming just four months before the nation heads to the polls, the former president survived a surreal attempt on his life when shots were fired towards the stage mere minutes into his rally speech in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Trumps ear was grazed by a bullet but he escaped largely unscathed, while a 50-year-old rallygoer died and two other spectators were critically injured in the attack.

With the nation reeling and questions mounting about the actions taken by Secret Service at the event, new details are beginning to emerge about the gunman and his potential motive.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania native, had parked his vehicle close to the rally in Butler on Saturday, before he climbed on top of the roof of a nearby building with a vantage point of the stage, according to authorities.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Just after 6 p.m., about 15 minutes after Trump began his speech, the gunman opened fire.

Shots rang out and screams filled the air as the former president ducked for cover behind the podium and Secret Service agents leaped on stage to protect him.

Donald Trump raises his fist as he is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents (AP)

Secret Service agents shot the suspect dead moments later, and Trump was swiftly rushed off stage and driven off in his motorcade.

In a historic image that has already been plastered across unofficial merchandise, the former president was seen defiantly raising his fist in the air to supporters while blood streamed down his face.

Sources told The Washington Post that Crooks vehicle was later recovered by investigators and explosives were discovered inside.

The insiders also revealed that the AR-style rifle used by the 20-year-old in the attack had been legally bought by his father six months earlier, according to an urgent trace conducted by the ATF.

For now, the motive for the attack remains a mystery, though online records reveal that Crooks had been registered to vote as a Republican.

That said, federal campaign finance reports show that he had also made a $15 contribution to a Democratic-aligned political action committee called Progressive Turnout Project on January 20, 2021.

For Crooks family members, the motive for the horrific attack also remains unclear.

The gunmans uncle, Mark Crooks, told The Independent on Sunday morning that he had no idea what might have motivated the shooting.

I dont know what to say, he said.

Former fire chief identified as Trump rally shooting victim (Dawn Schafer / Facebook)

While he lives just 20 miles from Crooks hometown of Bethel Park, Mark said he hadnt had any contact with his nephew for years.

I havent seen the kid since he was little, Mark Crooks said. He never wanted to bother [with maintaining a relationship], so we dont see him.

The identities of the shooting victims are also coming to light, with the man killed in the attack being named by his family and the Pennsylvania governor as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore.

The former fire chief died protecting his family members from the attack, the governor said.

Comperatores heartbroken sister Dawn Comperatore Schafer posted a devastating tribute on Facebook where she spoke of the terrible nightmare the family is now faced with.

The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most, she wrote on Facebook.

He was a hero that shielded his daughters. His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable.

My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality.

Supporters of former president Donald Trump pray outside of Mar-a-Lago on July 13 (Getty Images)

A GoFundMe campaign authorized by Trump to support the victims of this brutal and horrific assassination attempt had topped $1 million as of late morning on Sunday.

The conditions of the other two victims, who have not been named, remain unclear.

Republican lawmaker Ronny Jackson revealed that his nephew was also injured in the attack, as his family sat close to the front of the crowd when the shooting unfolded.

His nephew, who was not identified, was grazed in the neck by a bullet but thankfully his injury was not serious and he is doing well, the Texas rep said.

The former president has now called for Americans to stand United following the assassination attempt as he said that God alone had prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness, he wrote in a Truth Social post on Sunday morning.

Map shows how the shooting unfolded (Google Earth/The Independent)

His comments were also echoed by former first lady Melania Trump who thanked people from all across the political aisle for coming together in condemning the violence.

In a rare moment of solidarity between the longtime foes, President Joe Biden and Trump spoke on Saturday night after the former president was released from the hospital.

The president, who is fighting to remain in the 2024 race this November, is expected to address the nation from the White House on Sunday.

Questions are now being asked about the precautions and safety measures taken by Secret Service prior to the shooting.

The gunman was located just 150 yards away from the stage and witnesses have claimed that they spotted him bear crawling on the roof prior to the shooting and tried to alert law enforcement and Secret Service agents.

Im standing there pointing at him for two to three minutes, a witness named Greg told the BBC.

With criticism building, House Republicans are launching an investigation and demanding answers from the agencys Director Kimberley Cheatle at an emergency hearing on July 22.
Multiple explosive devices were found during a search of the suspected gunmans home and vehicle after Saturdays attempt on Donald Trumps life, according to The New York Times.

The FBI identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the suspected shooter early Sunday morning.

The Times reports that agents from the FBI and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives searched Crooks home Sunday with prosecutors from three U.S. attorneys offices in Pennsylvania.

Two explosive devices were said to have been found in Crooks car, and authorities suspect a third may have been found at his home, the Times reports.

Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents after firing at the former president from the top of a building outside Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, according to authorities.

Law enforcement officers block a street in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, that they say had a residence of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected shooter in the attack on former President Donald Trump. via Associated Press

Law enforcement who spoke to the Washington Post said an AR-style rifle was was found near the shooter, who was about 500 feet from Trumps podium at the event.

Federal authorities are working to determine how Crooks was able to get close enough to the rally to be within range of shooting the former president.

Speculation that Crooks had previously military experience was dispelled by U.S. service records on Sunday.

Police tape blocks a street in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Explosive materials were reportedly found in Crooks' vehicle and residence. via Associated Press

As authorities investigate Crooks motive, the Times reports that senior F.B.I. officials told reporters they believe the shooter acted alone.

There are currently no public safety concerns at present, Kevin P. Rojek, the lead agent on the investigation, said during a conference call with journalists.

Trump addressed the shooting in a statement on his social media platform, Truth Social, after reportedly being released from the hospital.

The Republican presidential candidate said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear after hearing a whizzing sound, along with gunfire.

Trump said he immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin and that much bleeding took place.

Related...
Multiple reports say explosives were found in the car of Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was identified by the FBI as the man who opened fire at the July 13 rally

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump after the shooting at the July 13 campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the man alleged by the FBI to have attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally on July 13, had explosives in his car and home according to multiple new reports.

The Wall Street Journal , CNN , the New York Times and the Associated Press reported the news, citing unnamed law enforcement sources.

The Secret Service previously said that Crooks had been "neutralized" and was dead in the aftermath of the shooting, which took place in Butler, Penn.

One bystander, whose identity has not been released, was killed. Two others were critically injured, according to a spokesperson at Allegheny General Hospital.

The AP, Reuters and The New York Times all reported that Crooks was a registered Republican. In 2021 he donated $15 to a political action committee supporting Democratic politicians.

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump after the shooting at a campaign rally on July 13 in Pennsylvania.

The Associated Press reports that the military has no records of Crooks ever serving.

Related: Donald Trump Says He Was Shot in Ear, 'Felt the Bullet Ripping Through the Skin' at Campaign Rally

Crooks was not carrying identification, so he was identified with DNA, the FBI said, according to CBS.

At a press briefing late on Saturday, July 13, Kevin Rojek, Special Agent in Charge, FBI Field Office in Pittsburgh, said authorities do not know the shooter's motive.

CNN reports that the outlet briefly spoke to Crooks father, Matthew Crooks, late on July 13. Matthew Crooks said he was still trying to find out what the hell is going on, and declined to talk about his son until he spoke with law enforcement.

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Former President Donald Trump was hustled offstage by Secret Service agents after a shooting incident Saturday at a campaign event in Butler, Pa.

Trump was speaking at the rally at about 6:15 p.m. when a series of loud pops rang out. The former President grabbed his right ear before diving to the ground. Agents rushed the stage, covering Trump, before ushering him into a waiting vehicle.

Trump attacked TIME magazine cover 240805 Evan VucciAP

Trump said in a post on Truth Social that he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through my skin, Trump wrote. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Photos taken on scene showed the former President with an injury to his right ear and blood on his face. He pumped his fist and yelled "Fight!" to supporters as he was led away, prompting cheers from the crowd.

The suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position that was outside of the rally venue, according to Anthony Guglielmi, a Secret Service spokesman. One attendee was killed, and two others were critically injured, Guglielmi said in a statement. The suspected shooter was neutralized by a Secret Service agent and later died, Guglielmi said.

In his post on Truth Social, Trump said that nothing was known yet about the shooter. A video shared with TIME showed officers removing a body from the scene.

James Sweetland, a retired emergency room physician, told TIME at the scene that he performed CPR on a man who had been shot in the head and had blood coming out of his mouth. He wasn't breathing, said Sweetland, 70, whose shirt was stained with blood. I got other people to help me get him on one of the benches, and we got CPR going on him. I could not feel a pulse. It was unclear if the man survived.

Scott Sosso, 47, was sitting in the bleachers with his son Luka, 18, when the shots rang out. You hear pop, pop, pop, Sosso said. Ten seconds later, you hear Someone is shot!' Next thing you know, everybody got down in our section.

Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13 in Butler, Pa. Anna MoneymakerGetty Images

Darrin Mohney, 36, said the shooting sounded like fireworks. Everybody just kind of froze, and the next thing you know, after the second round and the third shot, everybody just started hitting the deck, he said.

Speaking to news cameras Saturday evening from Rehoboth, Del., President Biden said he had been thoroughly briefed by Secret Service and Homeland Security officials. I have tried to get a hold of Donald. He was with his doctors. I plan on talking to him shortly

Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons weve got to unite the country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

When a reporter asked if he thought it was an assassination attempt, Biden said, I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts.

The Biden campaign said it was pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible, according to a campaign official.

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris in Butler, Pa. on July 13. Evan VucciAP

Former President George W. Bush expressed gratitude that Trump was safe following the cowardly attack on his life.

Many at the scene were filled with disbelief and outrage at the massive security failure that allowed an armed individual to fire at a former President.

Im shocked that someone was able to get a shot off, but not that they attempted to do it, says Danny Altmire, 56.

House Oversight Chairman James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, said he had contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and called on the agency's director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. In a separate statement, he condemned what he called an "assassination attempt."

Republican Senator J.D. Vance of Ohio, a finalist to be Trumps running mate, suggested in a post on X that the Biden campaigns rhetoric led to the incident.

Today is not just some isolated incident, Vance wrote. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all cost. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Donald Trump Jr. told TIME in a text message that his father was in great spirits. He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him.

With reporting by Brian Bennett and Vera Bergengruen/Washington

Contact us at letters@time.com.
Fact Check: About Helen Keller Allegedly Saying, 'Never Bend Your Head. Always Hold It High. Look the World Straight in the Eye'

Claim:

Helen Keller said, Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye.

Rating:

Rating: Mostly True

Context:

The 1955 newspaper article in which the quote was originally published confirms the authenticity of most of the quote, with one notable exception: The final word was "face," not "eye."

For years, social media posts have shared a quote attributed to author and disability rights activist Helen Keller that reads, "Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the eye."

(X user @EriscoOfficial)

The quote has popped up frequently on social media sites, including on X in March 2024. It also has appeared in blogs, on quote meme websites and on Reddit. In some instances, commenters have questioned the authenticity of the quote, noting the apparent irony of Keller, who was blind and deaf, advising anyone to "look the world straight in the eye."

(Reddit)

Snopes was able to track down the first appearance of the quote in print to an Associated Press news wire story dated May 30, 1955. The story was printed in many newspapers, including the Opelika-Auburn (Alabama) News, the specific paper in which the clipping below appeared:

(Newspapers.com)

The story gives a heartwarming account of a blind 5-year-old girl, the daughter of an American army major stationed in Japan, meeting Keller, who visited Tokyo in 1955. According to the story, Keller, then 75, shared some words of advice with the girl, Dorothy Ann Ciccoli: "Never bend your head. Always hold it high. Look the world straight in the face."

This newspaper story confirms the authenticity of most of the quote, with one notable exception: The final word of the quote in its original form was "face," not "eye." For this reason, we have rated this claim as "Mostly True."

Even though it contains an error, the version of the quote that ends with "Look the world straight in the eye" has become the more commonly quoted version by far, although the correct version ending with "Look the world straight in the face" does pop up from time to time on Reddit, Facebook and elsewhere on the internet.

Based on full-text searches in the databases of the Internet Archive and Google Books, the earliest confirmed appearance of the incorrect "eye" version of the quote appears to have been "Simpson's Contemporary Quotations," a quote anthology first published in 1988. Since then, the "eye" version has worked its way into a number of other quote anthologies, self-help books and even books about Keller.

Snopes previously investigated whether Keller ever flew a plane.

Sources:

Dapcevich, Madison. "Did Helen Keller Fly a Plane?" Snopes, 26 Dec. 2020, https://www.snopes.com//fact-check/helen-keller-fly-plane/.

Newspapers.com, The Opelika-Auburn News, May 30, 1955, https://newscomwc.newspapers.com/article/the-opelika-auburn-news/151061083/

philosiblog. "Never Bend Your Head. Always Hold It High. Look the World Straight in the Eye." Philosiblog, 10 Jan. 2013, https://philosiblog.com/2013/01/10/never-bend-your-head-always-hold-it-high-look-the-world-straight-in-the-eye/.

Reiman, Cindi. Soft Skills For Dummies. John Wiley & Sons, 2022.

Schedule for Helen Keller's Visit to Japan. 1955. https://www.afb.org/HelenKellerArchive?a=d&d=A-HK01-02-B042-F13-026. Accessed 10 July 2024.

Simpson, James Beasley. Simpson's Contemporary Quotations. Boston : Houghton Mifflin, 1988. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/simpsonscontempo0000simp.

Sullivan, George. Helen Keller : Her Life in Pictures. New York : Scholastic Nonfiction, 2007. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/helenkellerherli00sull.

Turkington, Carol. The Quotable Woman : Words of Wisdom from Mother Teresa, Edith Wharton, Virginia Woolf, Eleanor Roosevelt, Katharine Hepburn, and More. New York : McGraw-Hill, 2000. Internet Archive, http://archive.org/details/quotablewomanwor0000turk.
Factbox-Latest Trump shooting incident a reminder of past assassination attempts against US leaders

By Kanishka Singh

WASHINGTON (Reuters) -The FBI is investigating what it said was another assassination attempt on Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump.

The incident occurred Sunday at the Trump International Golf Club West Palm Beach in Florida where Trump, the former president, was golfing.

Law enforcement officials said Secret Service saw a man with a rifle in the bushes and shot at the suspected assassin.

The suspect fled the bushes and was later apprehended on a highway, according to law enforcement.

PREVIOUS ATTEMPT ON TRUMP

In July, Trump was shot by a gunman during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania in what the FBI said was an attempted assassination. The former president was wounded in the ear.

The Congressional Research Service says direct assaults against presidents, presidents-elect, and candidates have occurred on at least 15 separate occasions, with five resulting in death.

Below is a list of other previous attempts on the lives of American leaders, successful or not.

ASSASSINATIONS

Four U.S. presidents were assassinated while in office.

Abraham Lincoln: Killed in 1865 by John Wilkes Booth at Ford's Theatre in Washington.

James Garfield: Shot in 1881 in Washington at a train station and died of his wounds two and a half months later.

William McKinley: Assassinated in 1901 by an anarchist in Buffalo, New York.

John F. Kennedy: Assassinated by Lee Harvey Oswald in 1963 in Dallas, Texas, as the president rode in a motorcade.

LEADERS WHO SURVIVED ASSASSINATION ATTEMPTS

Four presidents were wounded but survived assassination attempts, while in office or afterwards.

Donald Trump: Trump had just started a campaign speech in Pennsylvania on July 13 when shots rang out. Trump was shot in the ear. He was rushed by security officials to a black SUV.

Ronald Reagan: He was shot in 1981 outside the Hilton Hotel in Washington. Reagan was wounded when one of the bullets ricocheted off a limousine and struck him under the left armpit.

President Gerald Ford: Survived two attempts on his life in less than three weeks in 1975 without being hurt.

Theodore Roosevelt: He was shot in the chest in 1912 while campaigning for election in Milwaukee, but insisted on delivering his speech to supporters before being taken to a hospital.

ASSASSINATION ATTEMPTS ON OTHER U.S. LEADERS

Robert F. Kennedy: A U.S. presidential candidate, and a U.S. senator, Kennedy was assassinated in 1968 by a gunman in the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles.

Alabama Governor George C. Wallace: A candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination, he was shot in 1972 and became paralyzed from the waist down.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Mike Stone in Washington; Editing by Bernadette Baum, Lincoln Feast and Leslie Adler)
Famous artist created iconic mural just off Sacramento freeway. Youll want to take a detour

Uniquely is a Sacramento Bee series that covers the moments, landmarks and personalities that define what makes living in the Sacramento area so special.

When Gioia Fonda cruises down the Highway 50, she often catches a glimpse of the Sacramento Municipal Utility District building.

But its the mural wrapping around SMUD headquarters that draws her in. The walls burst with bold, floating shapes of vibrant orange, yellow and blue hues against a white background.

It resembles a torn paper collage, said Fonda, an art professor at Sacramento City College. Even from a distance, zipping down the freeway, the mural sparkles.

You can see that theres forms and reflections, but you cant actually make out what the forms are, she said. Its no specific piece of architecture or boat or anything. Its just suggested.

A SMUD employee walks past Water City, an abstract mosaic mural by Wayne Thiebaud, at the historic SMUD headquarters building in Sacramento in August 2019, after the mural was cleaned and restored as part of the renovation of the iconic building.

One day, Fonda decided to get up close, swapping out her car for her bike. When she neared the building, she discovered it wasnt just any mural, it was mosaic, composed of glass tiles.

Later, she learned another fact that astonished her: the mural was made by internationally renowned artist Wayne Thiebaud. He spent much of his career in the Sacramento area, and like Fonda, also taught at Sacramento City College.

Thiebaud completed the mural, titled Water City, in 1959. The SMUD building, at 6201 S Street, is also listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

Sacramento-based firm Dreyfuss + Blackford Architecture designed the SMUD headquarters building and asked Thiebaud to create a mural.

But the mural didnt immediately strike Fonda as a Thiebaud artwork.

Hes known for his stilllifes of cakes, pies and candies, and often spoke of representing American-culture in his work. The artist famously painted with a knife, as if he was spreading frosting.

On the other hand, Water City is abstract, just on the edge of being representational, Fonda said, showcasing Thiebauds artistic range.

It shows what he was experimenting with before his other work caught on, which I think is an interesting moment in an artists career, she said.

Thiebaud died on Christmas Day in 2021 at his Land Park home. He was 101. In his early years, he apprenticed as an animator for Walt Disney before his long and distinguished career as one of the most popular American artists since World War II, The Bee wrote following his death.

How abstract mural found a home on SMUD building

At 38 years old, Thiebaud, then teaching at Sacramento City College, was commissioned to paint the mural. Its the artists largest public art installation, coming in at 15 feet high by 250 feet wide.

The late Leonard Blackford, founder of Sacramento-based firm Dreyfuss + Blackford Architecture, was friends with Thiebaud and reached out to him. Originally, architects planned to wrap the building in white marble, but Blackford was itchy about the idea, according to Peter Saucerman, a former partner at the firm.

Blackford calculated that a glass mural would be cheaper than marble. Plus, the building would have artwork personal to the area.

That made it a no brainer, Saucerman said in an interview with The Bee in June. It was a great idea, and it saved a little bit of money. It was a win-win all around.

When Thiebauds mock-up got the green light, he enlarged the copy of it. In a large hall and in the Sacramento City College auditorium, he projected the sketch and outlined each unit of color, according to The Bees archives.

Then, in Italy, a manufacturing firm matched detailed tiles to a color palette Thiebaud approved. The firm sent the tiles to Sacramento.

Since their arrival this fall, the patterned sheets have been mortared under the watchful eyes of Thiebaud and the architects, according to a Bee story from 1959.

The original watercolor sketch has stayed in SMUDs lobby, where visitors can still admire it.

Artist Wayne Thiebaud, who died in 2021, holds a framed image of Water City, in front of the actual mural on the old SMUD headquarters building in East Sacramento.

The mural is a noticeable, iconic part of the Sacramento art scene, said Gamaliel Ortiz, a spokesperson for SMUD. Hes in all these great museums. SMUD is proud to have his artwork as a very visible piece of SMUDs own iconic building.

Water City wasnt Thiebauds first mural  or his first displayed in the capital city. For the 1954 California State Fair, Thiebaud created a light hearted, cock eyed mural near the entrance of the Arts Building in the fairgrounds, on Stockton Boulevard at the time, according to The Bee archives.

During the 1950s, Thiebaud experimented with abstraction, said Fred Dalkey, a friend of Thiebauds who also worked at Sacramento City College. Thiebaud would have been influenced by notable abstract painters, like Franz Kline and Willem de Kooning, Dalkey told The Bee last month.

The mural underwent a restoration in 2019.

That was part of an extensive $72 million renovation of the SMUD building. Workers cleaned tiles and replaced cracks to bring it back to its original self, Ortiz said.

Even Thiebaud came by and inspected it. He was 98 years old, and he praised how well SMUD did in restoring his artwork, Ortiz said.

Sacramento residents see themselves represented in the mural

As an artist, Fonda related to Thiebauds story. In her own work, she has gravitated toward more public art in recent years.

At the start of his career, Thiebaud was rejected by several galleries before he found one to represent his work. Since Sacramento has a smaller market for paintings than a bigger city, public art presented an opportunity, Fonda said.

I imagine that was a pretty significant commission for him to get at that time, she said.

In 1959, The Bee described the mural as an artistic accomplishment, but only another step in what appears to be a promising career for Thiebaud.

Artist Wayne Theibaud inspects his mosiac mural for the new Sacramento Municipal Utility District building in 1959.

Fonda also has an artwork in the SMUD building, titled Energy Scrolls, completed in 2022  over 60 years after Thiebaud completed his mural. For the piece, she was inspired by Water City and the buildings architecture.

Energy Scrolls consists of colorful suspended sculptures that incorporate paper cutting traditions.

Ortiz, a Sacramento native, said Water City reminds him of home. In the colorful forms, he sees buildings, people and water.

Its very reflective of the region in Sacramento, which adds to that connection we have to this artist who produced incredible work, Ortiz said.

The next step? Hit the printing press, some say.

I dont know why we dont see more postcards of it for sale, Fonda said.

But seeing Water City on paper wont match experiencing it live. Like Fonda, if you ever find yourself on Highway 50, try taking a detour to see it up close.

To appreciate the murals beauty, you need to almost put your hands on it, Dalkey said.
Fatal shooting of 14-year-old by another teen in Kentucky ruled accidental, police say

The fatal shooting of a teen in Estill County by a 13-year-old was accidental, according to Kentucky State Police.

On July 12, KSP Post 7 in Richmond were contacted around 1:30 p.m. by the Estill County Sheriffs Office requesting assistance of an accidental shooting on Clark Road in Estill County.

Their initial investigation indicates a 14-year-old was accidentally shot by a 13-year-old outside of the residence, according to state police. Investigators did not publicly identify the victim.

Life-saving measures were attempted on scene but the teen died, according to Estill County Coroner, Jimmy Wise. Foul play is not suspected.

The investigation is being conducted by Detective David Hobbs. He was assisted on scene by KSP personnel, Estill County Sheriffs Office, Estill County EMS and Estill County Coroner.
The News

As the fallout from the apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday continues, law enforcement have yet to reveal a motive for the attack.

The FBI has identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, a town located about 50 miles south of where the rally was held. He was identified using DNA, according to law enforcement, as he carried no ID. Crooks was a registered Republican, according to media reports, but had also previously donated to a liberal voter group. He had no criminal history according to Pennsylvania public court records.

Secret Service agents shot and killed Crooks at the scene.

Crooks killed one attendee and critically injured two spectators, officials said. The rally-goer who was killed was identified by officials on Sunday as Corey Comperatore, a firefighter and father-of-two who dove on his family to protect them from gunfire.

Trump said a bullet grazed his right ear and caused him to bleed, but he was otherwise fine. In a post Sunday, Trump said, In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United.

It is unclear if anyone else was involved in the shootings planning or execution. A preliminary FBI search of the shooters phone has not revealed a motive, either, an official said Monday.

Know More

Investigators are working to figure out how Crooks obtained what has been reported to be a weapon like an AR-15-style rifle, why he targeted the former president, and how such an attack could even happen given the tight layers of security that typically surrounds any appearance by a former or current president.

Officials found two explosive devices in Crooks car, and possibly a third at his home, The New York Times reported. The rifle was purchased by a family member, according to authorities, and some reports suggested it belonged to his father.

The View From Milwaukee

The shooting  the closest the US has come to a potential presidential assassination in 43 years  came hours before the Republican National Convention kicks off on Monday in Milwaukee.

Trump has confirmed he will still speak at the convention.

Corey Lewandowski, a GOP convention adviser, said the event is going to be bigger than ever, NBC News reported.

When he [Trump] walks in that arena for the first time, the decibel level will be so high it will be almost unmeasurable, he said.

The Wisconsin Republican Party chairman said in an interview with a local TV station that he was confident the convention can proceed as planned, but said it remains to be seen what security changes will need to be put in place.

We felt confident about where we were  all the cooperation between the Secret Service, the city, the county, dozens of law enforcement agencies, he said. Im sure theres some folks getting another look today just to make sure.
Warren Buffett and Barack Obama. Mark Reinstein/Shutterstock; Frederic Legrand/COMEO/Shutterstock

Warren Buffett met with Barack Obama years before he became President.

The billionaire said the rich should pay more tax, and flagged wealth inequality as a big problem.

Buffett attributed a chunk of his success to luck and defended inheritance taxes.

Warren Buffett called for higher taxes on the rich, bemoaned wealth inequality, and credited a big part of his success to luck in a conversation with Barack Obama long before he became president.

The billionaire investor and Berkshire Hathaway CEO also blasted generational wealth and complained about his unfairly low tax rate while speaking to the then-Illinois senator.

Obama recounted his meeting with the billionaire at Berkshire's headquarters in Omaha, Nebraska in his 2006 book: "The Audacity of Hope: Thoughts on Reclaiming the American Dream."

Here are Buffett's six best quotes to Obama:

"Though I've never used tax shelters or had a tax planner, after including the payroll taxes we each pay, I'll pay a lower effective tax rate this year than my receptionist. In fact, I'm pretty sure I pay a lower rate than the average American. And if the president has his way, I'll be paying even less." "The free market's the best mechanism ever devised to put resources to their most efficient and productive use. The government isn't particularly good at that. But the market isn't so good at making sure that the wealth that's produced is being distributed fairly or wisely. "Some of that wealth has to be plowed back into education, so that the next generation has a fair chance, and to maintain our infrastructure, and provide some sort of safety net for those who lose out in a market economy. And it just makes sense that those of us who've benefited most from the market should pay a bigger share." "When you get rid of the estate tax, you're basically handing over command of the country's resources to people who didn't earn it. It's like choosing the 2020 Olympic team by picking the children of all the winners at the 2000 Games." Obama asked how many billionaires agreed with Buffett about raising taxes on the rich. Buffett responded: "I'll tell you, not very many. They have this idea that it's 'their money' and they deserve to keep every penny of it. What they don't factor in is all the public investment that lets us live the way we do." "I happen to have a talent for allocating capital. But my ability to use that talent is completely dependent on the society I was born into. If I'd been born into a tribe of hunters, this talent of mine would be pretty worthless. I can't run very fast. I'm not particularly strong. I'd probably end up as some wild animal's dinner." "I was lucky enough to be born in a time and place where society values my talent, and gave me a good education to develop that talent, and set up the laws and the financial system to let me do what I love doing  and make a lot of money doing it. The least I can do is help pay for all that."

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The Federal Bureau of Investigation has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa., as the man who attempted to kill Donald Trump at a Saturday rally in Butler, Pa., according to multiple news outlets.

Crooks was killed by law enforcement at the scene. One other attendee was killed as well, and at least two others are in critical condition.

Crooks used a semiautomatic rifle to shoot at the former president and current Republican presidential nominee, several sources report. Trump was wounded in the ear and is recovering. Authorities have not stated a motive for the shooting.

Crooks was a registered Republican, according to voter records viewed by The New York Times. However, he donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project, a liberal voter turnout group, through the Democratic donation platform ActBlue in January 2021, the Times reports.

He graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022 and won a $500 award from the National Math and Science Initiative. Bethel Park is an affluent, largely white suburb of Pittsburgh. Law enforcement has shut down all streets and roads leading to Crookss home.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, said a statement from the FBI.

Story developing
A campaign rally site for former President Trump is littered with debris Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

As the FBI works to uncover the motive behind the assassination attempt of former President Trump at a campaign rally, agency officials said Sunday that they believed the shooter  who wounded two others and left one dead  acted alone.

Gunfire broke out at the event Saturday night in Butler, Pa., setting off a wave of panic among attendees. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee said the upper part of his right ear was pierced in the shooting.

The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. In a Sunday briefing, officials said they had yet to identify "an ideology associated" with Crooks.

Kevin Rojek, the FBI's Pittsburgh special agent in charge, said the gun used was an AR-style 556 rifle, which law enforcement officials believe was purchased legally by Crooks' father. Authorities said it's unclear how the young man gained access to the weapon.

During the search of the shooter's car, Rojek said, agents found "a suspicious device," which was inspected by bomb technicians and rendered safe. Officials said they are investigating the shooting as an assassination attempt, and they are also looking at it as a "potential domestic terrorism act."

Rojek said there are no indications yet that the shooter had mental health issues.

Soon after the shooting, Trump issued a call for unity. Writing on his social media site, Truth Social: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win."

The Pennsylvania State Police identified the man fatally shot as Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, Pa. They identified the other two victims as David Dutch, 57, and James Copenhaver, 74, who are listed as stable.

In a Sunday news conference, Gov. Josh Shapiro said Comperatore's wife asked Shapiro to share that her husband "dove on his family to protect them." The governor called the assassination attempt "absolutely unacceptable and tragic."

"My message to all Pennsylvanians, my message to all Americans, is to be firm in your beliefs, to believe what you believe, to advocate for what you believe and to be engaged in the political and civic process, but to always do so peacefully, to remember that while we may be Democrats or Republicans, above all else, we are Americans," Shapiro said.

President Biden addressed the shooting in a prime-time national address Sunday from the Oval Office, saying, "We are not enemies. ... We can't, we must not go down" the road of political violence. Biden said political passions can run high, but "we must never descend into violence."

Earlier Sunday, the president renewed his call for the highest level of security for Trump. The president said he would have the Secret Service review safety measures for the upcoming Republican National Convention.

Read more: New videos, witness accounts of Trump assassination attempt raise questions about security

"An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation," Biden said. "It's not who we are as a nation, it's not America, and we cannot allow this to happen."

President Biden speaks from the Roosevelt Room of the White House on Sunday about the assassination attempt against former President Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Listening are Vice President Kamala Harris and Atty. Gen. Merrick Garland. (Susan Walsh / Associated Press)

We must, Biden said, "unite as one nation."

About a quarter of a mile from the 100-acre Butler Farm Show Grounds, where the rally took place, scores of Trump 2024 signs dotted the lawns of Whitestown Road, a quiet residential street lined with dozens of houses.

Robert Runyan, 34, who lives on Whitestown near the rally site with his fiancee and their four children, was sitting five to 10 rows from the podium when the gunshots went off. The people sitting in the center and right rows immediately dropped to the ground, but Runyan initially thought the noises were fireworks.

Jessica Lynch and fiance Robert Runyan. Runyan was near the front of former President Trump's rally when gunshots rang out Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Noah Goldberg / Los Angeles Times)

Then, he said he heard more shots in rapid succession. He noticed elderly people, a man with an oxygen tank and a woman in a wheelchair nearby. He tried to shield them as best as he could, and after the gunfire stopped, he told The Times, he started helping them back up.

He noticed Trump stand and heard the crowd start cheering for him, but Runyan said he wasn't celebrating with everyone else. He was more focused on a man in the bleachers who had been injured by the gunfire. Three people nearby were trying to help him. One woman let out a "blood-curdling" scream, which Runyan said would "stick with him forever."

"In a few seconds, you grasped that [Trump's] fine, but then you notice the magnitude of whats going on," he said. "Youre looking at Secret Service, and you're looking at the reactions of everyone around you."

Read more: Trump shooting: California leaders condemn apparent assassination attempt at campaign rally

Runyan's fiancee, Jessica Lynch, 34, didn't attend the rally because she said she had a "weird intuition" that something might happen. When she dropped off her 15-year-old son at the show grounds about 11 a.m., she said she told him to duck or run if he heard gunshots.

"There's too many Trump haters," she told The Times. "And I had a bad feeling the place was gonna get shot up."

Former President Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at the campaign rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci / Associated Press)

Lynch was at home painting when she saw the news of the shooting on TV. She got a text from Runyan saying Trump had been shot. Then his phone went quiet. Lynch started panicking and crying in her driveway before getting into her car and heading to the rally. She was relieved to see Runyan, uninjured, in his bright yellow shirt.

"You're not allowed to go anymore," she told Runyan. "There are so many dynamics that you have to think about. You're fine physically, but what if our son ended up leaving early because he was so hot? What if our 10-year-old son went with him? What if there were shots at the crowd?"

Runyan is grappling with the trauma of what he witnessed.

Although he wasn't an ardent Trump supporter like his 10-year-old son, Runyan said he voted for him in the 2016 election because he didn't want to support Hillary Clinton. This time around, he said he doesn't plan on voting for either Biden or Trump. He said he's always been a "standing on the line" type of person and hopes a balance can be found between the left and the right.

Runyan sees the moment Trump got back up and pumped his fist in the air as potentially changing the course of the election for some voters.

"The people who knew what was going on, that was such a strong a moment for them," he said. "If they were ever on the fence, theyre not anymore."

Joseph Meyn, 51, waited hours at the rally for Trump to speak around 6 p.m. Meyn said he alternated between watching a nearby Jumbotron  which contained a bar graph of rates of illegal immigration over the last several years  and Trump speaking at the podium.

At some point, he told The Times, he heard seven gunshots in quick succession, all in a little over a second. Meyn, who owns an AR-15, said he is familiar with guns and knows what the high-powered weapon sounds like.

"I immediately see vapor trails heading to the podium," he said.

As Meyn turned to fully look at the podium, he said, he noticed a man get hit in the back of the head by gunfire, "and he's immediately killed." When Meyn looked at Trump, who he said had just turned his head to the left, "that's when I noticed the bullet slice the top portion of his ear."

It was pandemonium," he said. "People were screaming, crying. Everyone around me dropped to the ground."

Meyn, who is a doctor, rushed to help, making for the stands to the left of him, jumping a steel barrier and encountering State Police troopers and a medic.

"I walked up and said: 'Im a surgeon. I can help.'"

That mans dead, said the medic of the person shot in the head.

Meyn said the man's family appeared to be in the bleachers with him. One woman in her 20s or 30s asked if her loved one was going to be OK.

"Someone said, 'No hes dead.' She immediately burst into hysterical tears, couldnt breathe. You could physically watch her soul get crushed like it was an empty aluminum can," Meyn said. "I will go to my grave with that etched in my mind.

Had Trump not turned his head, Meyn said, "he would be dead. He would be assassinated."

Meyn said he's always liked Trump and described him as a "person who can take a more pragmatic approach to problems." But he added that "in this incredibly polarized political climate," he was shocked this hadn't happened earlier.

The people that participate in our political process in this country, at the end of every election cycle  everyone walks away from the zero-sum political game as if it's the end of the world; you won everything, or you lost everything," Meyn said.

"Our country as a society is very sick, and its not getting any better," he said. "We have to have some major changes in our society and our discourse, or this is just going to get worse."

Matthew Ammann II, 26, drove an hour from Niles, Ohio, to attend the rally with his cousin, his cousin's girlfriend and his friends. Ammann wore a black Trump 2024 shirt, red shorts and a Make America Great Again hat.

Ammann said he witnessed the moment when Trump raised his fist.

"My favorite part, to be honest, was when after he got shot he sticks his fist in the air and just lets everybody know: 'This isn't over. This is just the beginning,'" Ammann said.

It changed my whole perspective on Trump," he said. "If I could afford it, I would travel to every Trump rally in the country and fist pump the whole way."

Goldberg and Lin reported from Butler, Pa. Mejia and Orellana Hernandez reported from Los Angeles.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
WASHINGTON  The FBI will be the "lead federal law enforcement agency" in the investigation of the shooting at former President Donald Trump's Pennsylvania political rally, the bureau said in a statement late Saturday.

Special agents from the FBI's Pittsburgh field office responded immediately to the incident, including members of its crisis response team as well as evidence response technicians, the statement said.

More: Watch live as assassination investigation unfolds after shooting at Trump rally Saturday

The former president is safe after a shooting at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday evening. Trump was rushed off stage with blood dripping from his ear after several gunshots rang out. The incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024.

Trump's spokesperson, Steven Cheung, confirmed that Trump is "fine" but saw doctors at a nearby medical facility. The shooting comes less than two days before Republicans convene in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, during which Trump will be formally nominated as the party's nominee.

The FBI asked anyone with information that could help the investigation to call its tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

House Speaker Mike Johnson and the House Oversight and Homeland Security Committees announced Saturday that they would conduct an investigation into the shooting. Both committees will summon Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other officials from the FBI and the Department of Homeland Security to speak about how the event unfolded.

"The American people deserve to know the truth," Johnson said in a statement.

Contributing: Aysha Bagchi

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: FBI will lead investigation into Trump rally shooting
Biden says America 'must not go down this road' after Trump assassination attempt

Editor's Note: This page is a summary of news on the assassination attempt on Donald Trump for Sunday, July 14. For the latest updates, see our file for Monday, July 15.

BETHEL PARK, Pa.  President Joe Biden called on Americans to cool the partisan fervor in the wake of the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, encouraging peaceful debate but decrying any form of political violence in his Sunday evening address to the nation.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence, ever, period, no exceptions," Biden said. "We can't allow this violence to be normalized."

Trump said Sunday that "God alone" had spared him from Saturday's brazen assassination attempt, the likes of which America had not seen since President Ronald Reagan was shot and wounded 43 years ago. Trump, who was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire, traveled to Milwaukee on Sunday for this week's GOP convention.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured when bullets rained down from an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside Trump's campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania.

More: Trump assassination attempt: Graphics, maps show you what happened

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, outside Pittsburgh. Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents moments after gunfire erupted at the rally.

The Crooks home in Bethel Park, PA, Monday, July, 15.

Biden referenced the victims of Crooks' assault and mentioned other prominent instances of political violence in the U.S. in recent years, such as the Jan. 6, 2021 insurrection at the Capitol in Washington and the brutal attack on the husband of former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

"We cannot, we must not go down this road in America," Biden said. "The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. It's time to cool it down. We all have a responsibility to do that."

Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania: Trump wounded in assassination attempt. Biden calls it 'sick': Here's what we know

Developments:

 Trump told an interviewer, Im not supposed to be here, Im supposed to be dead.

 A Secret Service spokesman denied social media reports claiming the agency had directed resources away from Trumps Saturday campaign rally in Pennsylvania to protect first lady Jill Biden.

 House Speaker Mike Johnson said on the "TODAY" show Sunday that the country has to "turn the temperature down" in the political discourse, and he promised Congress will investigate the incident "to determine where there were lapses in security and anything else that the American people need to know."

Lisa Burke of New Vernon holds a Trump flag near the intersection of Route 206 and Lamington Road on July 14, 2024, in Bedminster, New Jersey.

Trump: 'I'm supposed to be dead'

Former President Donald Trump marveled over his brush with assassination on Sunday, telling an interviewer, Im not supposed to be here, Im supposed to be dead.

He then repeated the line. "Im supposed to be dead.

Speaking to New York Post columnist Michael Goodwin as his private jet headed for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Trump called Saturday's assassination attempt a very surreal experience.

Trump wore a large, white bandage over his right ear, Goodwin said. The presumptive GOP presidential nominee's staff wouldn't allow him to be photographed.

Dan Morrison

More: Nursing aide turned sniper: Thomas Crooks' mysterious plot to kill Trump

Secret Service: Agents were not diverted from Trump to protect Jill Biden

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi rejected social media reports claiming the agency had directed resources away from Trumps Saturday campaign rally in Pennsylvania to protect first lady Jill Biden.

"This is very wrong," Guglielmi said of the reporting in a post on X Sunday night. "We did not divert resources from FPOTUS Trump & protection models don't work that way."

FPOTUS is an acronym for a former president of the United States.

Guglielmi also clarified that the Secret Service "field office teams" protecting Trump were part of operations "added during election years for the heavy travel tempo," in response to reports that they were not part of the former president's regular detail.

Karissa Waddick and Rachel Barber

More: What went wrong? How did Secret Service allow shooter to get so close to Trump?

Trump rewrites RNC speech after assassination attempt

In an interview with the Washington Examiner on Sunday, Trump said he rewrote his Republican National Convention speech to include a call for national unity.

The Republican presidential candidate said Saturdays assassination attempt against him provided a "chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together" and that his "speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago," noting that his previous draft focused heavily on Bidens policies.

Trump also said during the interview that he is still processing Saturdays events.

"That reality is just setting in," he said. "I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we?"

Trump will make an appearance Monday at the RNC, said committee member David Bossie in an interview with WISN-TV.

"The welcome that he's going to get here, I think, is going to be a very emotional and overwhelming thing," Bossie told the television station.

 Joey Garrison and Karissa Waddick, USA TODAY; Genevieve Redsten, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Biden: 'We must unite as a nation' after assassination attempt

After calling for national unity earlier in the day, Biden strongly urged Americans to "take a step back" from overheated politics and refrain from violence in a national address from the Oval Office.

Though he reiterated his belief that the November election pitting him against Trump will shape the future of America and the world, Biden nonetheless insisted political differences must be settled peacefully.

"Politics must never be a literal battlefield, or God forbid, a killing field," Biden said. "I believe politics are an arena for peaceful debate, to pursue justice, to make decisions guided by the Declaration of Independence and our constitution."

Early in the afternoon, Biden said that he'd spoken with Trump on Saturday night and was "sincerely grateful" his political rival was recovering well from Saturday's shooting.

"Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now," Biden said, adding, "We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are."

 Rebecca Morin

Trump's motorcade arrives at Milwaukee hotel

A day after being the subject of an assassination attempt, Trumps plane landed in Milwaukee at Mitchell International Airport as a small crowd waited for his arrival.

"Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a 'shooter,' or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else," Trump said on his Truth Social account.Some filmed or photographed the plane landing on their phones. Onlookers in four cars waited for the former presidents arrival, some standing outside their cars and looking up at the sky.

Trumps motorcade later arrived at the Pfister Hotel, where many expect he will stay for the Republican National Convention. A crowd of spectators  some with boxes of popcorn  peered through the fence to catch a glimpse of the former president, just 24 hours after he survived an attempted assassination.

Secret Service agents lined the perimeter and eyed the surrounding rooftops as dozens of SUVs pulled up to the storied hotel. Trump, however, could not be spotted exiting his vehicle.

A tent waited outside the entrance, and security quickly shut the curtains.

 David Jackson, USA TODAY; Claire Reed and Genevieve Redsten; Milwaukee Journal Sentinel

Victims of rally shooting identified

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro identified the man killed in the shooting at Trump's Butler rally as Corey Comperatore. Shapiro said he spoke with Comperatores family, who described him as a father of two girls, a firefighter, a faithful churchgoer, and an avid supporter of the former president.

"Corey died a hero," Shapiro said. "Corey dove on his family to protect them last night at this rally. Corey was the very best of us. May his memory be a blessing."

Pennsylvania State Police identified the other two attendees who were shot at the rally as state residents David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township. Both are hospitalized and listed in stable condition. Shapiro said he spoke with the family of one victim and received a message from the other.

Flags will be flown at half-staff in memory of Compertore, Shapiro said. He added that he spoke with members of Trumps team and got a call from Biden, whom he lauded for reaching out to Trump.

"All leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists in search of a better, brighter future for this nation," Shapiro said.

 Sheridan Hendrix

Biden keeps NBC interview, cancels trip to Texas

Biden plans to go forward with a Monday afternoon sit-down with NBC host Lester Holt. The interview was previously scheduled for Texas and will now take place in Washington, the White House said Sunday.

An address Biden was supposed to deliver at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, Texas, was postponed following the attempt on Trump's life Saturday. The White House said it will reschedule the visit.

Biden will resume his travel schedule Monday evening. He'll depart Washington for Las Vegas and appear at the NAACP National Convention on Tuesday and the UnidosUS Annual Conference on Wednesday.

 Francesca Chambers

Shooter used AR-style rifle, had 'suspicious device' in car, FBI says

The gunman in Saturday's assassination attempt used an AR-style rifle using 5.56mm ammunition that was purchased legally and found next to Crooks at the scene where he was shot dead, FBI special agent Kevin Rojek told reporters on a call Sunday.

He also said a "suspicious device" was found in Crooks' vehicle and that bomb technicians inspected it and rendered it safe.

"I'm not in a position to provide any expertise on the specific components of any potential bombs or suspicious packages," Rojek said, adding that the device was sent to an FBI lab for further analysis, as was the shooter's cell phone and other evidence as authorities search for a motive.

Rojek also said the gunman appears to have acted alone and there is no ongoing threat to the public.

 Aysha Bagchi

Fateful events leave family near Butler shaken

Shirley and Jim Iman, of nearby Franklin Township, were thrilled when the Trump campaign announced a rally would be held in Butler. "It was just so exciting that we had something of that magnitude here," Shirley Iman said.

Having never seen Trump before, they immediately got tickets. When Jim couldn't go, Shirley took her adult daughter. Now they both are shaken, Shirley Iman said, and her daughter couldn't stop crying.

Shirley Iman said they had been standing in the heat "all day" just beyond a barricade line that divided those with seats from those standing. She said she could only see Trump on the screen, but decided she needed to sit down just minutes into the rally to avoid fainting.

As soon as she did, she heard "pop, pop, pop."

"It was silent, and then everyone started screaming," Shirley Iman said. They asked themselves over and over again, "'Seriously? Is this really happening?'" A man near them prayed.

Still, Shirley Iman said they didn't know at the time Trump had been injured. Her husband texted her that news as they walked out with the crowd.

"I started telling people, 'Trump was hit,'" she said. "Nobody knew."

 Jennifer Pignolet, Akron Beacon Journal

Congressional Democrats to pause fundraising, ads

The Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee will pause its fundraising activities and advertisements, according to a source familiar with the plans, following the assassination attempt on Trump.

The Biden campaign announced Saturday it was pausing all outbound communications and pulled down television ads following the shooting.

 Rebecca Morin

Neighbors who knew Crooks stunned by the shooting

Jason Kohler attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks and said he sat alone at lunch and was "bullied almost every day." Kids picked on Crooks for wearing camouflage to class and for his quiet demeanor, said Kohler, 21.Since hearing Crooks was named as the shooter, Kohler has been speaking with classmates who knew him, most of whom are stunned by the news. "Its really hard to comprehend," he said.

In Bethel Park, Dean Sierka, 52, said he has known Crooks and his parents for years. The neighbors were separated by only a few houses and Sierkas daughter, Lily, attended elementary, middle, and high school with Crooks. She remembers him as quiet and shy.

Later on, they would see Crooks at least once a week, often walking to work. "You wouldnt have expected this," Dean Sierka told USA TODAY. "The parents and the family are all really nice people. Its crazy.

 Christopher Cann

'Boom, boom, boom, then screams': Neighbors watched from nearby homes

The streets around the Butler fairgrounds were bustling Sunday morning with law enforcement agents blocking entry to the site of the shooting. Pat English told USA TODAY he was at the Saturday rally but left when his grandson got overheated.

"We watched it from my deck," English said, pointing to his backyard bordering the fairgrounds. "I heard a boom, boom, boom, and then screams. I could see people running and the police run in."A few doors down, Lonnie and Kelli Rensel thought they heard fireworks. But then came the screams. "Thats when we knew something was wrong," Kelli Rensel said.Lonnie Rensel, who viewed the rally from his childhood home bordering the grounds, saw a cloud of dust rise from the site.A stray bullet must have hit the speakers hanging by a lift because they collapsed, he said.

Bryce Buyakie

Melania Trump urges Americans to 'ascend above the hate'

Former first lady Melania Trump called on Americans in a statement Sunday to ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence after an assassination attempt on her husband.

She thanked the Secret Service agents for protecting the former president and offered her sympathy to the victims were shot at the rally.

When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and (son) Barron's life, were on the brink of devastating change, she wrote in the statement.

The former first lady went on to criticize the monster who attempted the assassination, adding that Donald Trump has been labeled an inhuman political machine.

Trump called on Americans to transcend politics and emphasized that "love, compassion, kindness and empathy are necessities."

 Rebecca Morin

Maps, graphics show how the Trump shooting unfolded

As the investigation into the shooting at Trumps rally continues, maps, graphics and a timeline by USA TODAY show how the incident unfolded.

At 6:11 p.m., while Trump is speaking, multiple shots are fired toward the stage, and less than a minute later, Secret Service agents jump on top of the former president and escort him off stage. At 6:14 p.m., his motorcade leaves the fairgrounds.

Explore the full timeline and graphics here.

 Sudiksha Kochi

Officials: Trump campaign to tighten security

Top officials at the Donald Trump campaign told staff members that they are re-doubling security measures at their offices in light of Saturday's assassination attempt.

We are enhancing the armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site," said a staff memo signed by senior campaign officials Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita. "Additional assessments will be in place. Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe."

The officials urged employees to stay away from offices in Washington, D.C., and West Palm Beach, Fla., on Sunday "as we assess both locations."

Wiles and LaCivita also asked campaign employees not to comment on Saturday's shooting. "We condemn all forms of violence," they said, "and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media."

The memo also said the Republican convention would go on as scheduled.

 David Jackson

Democrats also adjusting security measures

Chicago Alderman Brian Hopkins, chairman of the citys Public Safety Committee, said the assassination attempt on Trump "will have an impact on everything we do" for securing the upcoming Democratic National Convention in August.

"Its a reminder that having an effective security plan is not good enough if its not executed perfectly," Hopkins said Sunday. "If theres any vulnerability or weak link, it can be exploited, which clearly played a role in yesterdays events."

The longtime city council member did not anticipate any concrete changes in plans to protect Biden, since he isnt expected to speak outside the convention hall. But Hopkins expected adjustments to security measures around the convention hall, where protest groups have sued the city for permission to picket outside.

"They want unfettered access to everything and this is a reminder of why that simply cant be allowed," he said. "We cant have radical protest groups who often engage in inflammatory rhetoric, we cant have them on the sidewalk outside the convention center. It simply isnt possible."

The Secret Service plans to release the finalized security perimeter for the event on July 25, Hopkins said.

 Michael Loria

Trump's top finance person launches GoFundMe for rally shooting victims

A high-profile political fundraiser from Florida has launched a "President Trump Authorized" GoFundMe aiming to raise $1 million for those "wounded or killed" in Saturday's attempt on the former president's life.

Meredith O'Rourke of Tallahassee, also Trump's top finance person, is listed as the organizer of the online fundraiser, which as of 10 a.m. Sunday listed over $600,000 in donations, including $50,000 from musician Kid Rock, a major Trump backer.

Other top donations so far include $30,000 from former Republican challenger Vivek Ramaswamy and $25,000 from investor and entrepreneur John Shahidi, a Southern California native behind several companies, among them Shots Studios, described as "an entertainment company that uses data to create the next digital stars."

Also donating were conservative commentator Ben Shapiro ($15,000), Florida Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson ($10,000) and Trump's daughter Ivanka and husband Jared Kushner ($10,000).

 Jim Rosica

What we know about the weapon used by the shooter

Joseph Price, special agent in charge of the ATF in Pittsburgh, said the rifle Crooks used "was nothing special.''Price said investigators are still determining how many shots the gunman fired.  Stephanie Warsmith

White House says Biden call with Trump 'respectful'

The president spoke with Trump on Saturday night after Trump was targeted by a sniper at a rally in Pennsylvania

Biden told reporters when he initially tried to call Trump, the former president was with his doctors. A White House official said later Saturday that Biden had spoken with Trump, Shapiro and Bob Dandoy, the mayor of Butler.

Bidens phone call Saturday night with Trump was "good, respectful and brief," according to a White House official who spoke on the condition of anonymity saying it was a private discussion.

 Michael Collins and Joey Garrison

Secret Service pushed Trump to the stage, eyewitness says

Erin Autenreith, who sat in the middle of the front row at Trumps rally, said on the TODAY show Sunday that she heard pop, pop, pop sounds and watched as Secret Service men quickly pushed the former president down on stage for a couple of minutes.

They started saying Clear right, clear left. OK on three stand him up. So one, two, three - they stood him up. He was facing me and his eyes were bright. I knew that he was OK. But there was a little bit of blood coming, Autenreith said.

She said the interesting part was that nobody in that first row even took cover. It seemed everybody was just - wanted to protect the president and I think we all knew that that's what the shooter was after.

Sudiksha Kochi

Texas Rep. Ronny Jackson says nephew injured at Trump rally

Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Texas, said Saturday on X, formerly Twitter, that his nephew was among those injured at Trumps rally in Butler.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking. They heard shots ringing out  my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck, he wrote.

On Fox News Saturday, Jackson told host Sean Hannity that a bullet had grazed his nephews neck. He noted on X that his nephew is doing well and that his injury was not serious.

He was treated by the providers in the medical tent. Thank you to all those that have reached out to check on him, Jackson wrote.

 Sudiksha Kochi

Trump urges supporters to 'stay united'

Trump told supporters Sunday that he would still attend this week's Republican convention in Milwaukee. The shooting will almost certainly lead to a drastic ramp-up in security for the more than 50,000 GOP politicians, delegates, and media personnel expected to flow into Milwaukee for the convention over the next 36 hours.

"Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening," Trump said in an early morning post on Truth Social.

Trump added that "we will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness." Urging people to stay united and to "show our True Character as Americans," Trump said: "I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin."

David Jackson, Sarah D. Wire, Sam Woodward, and Alison Dirr

No word on shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks' motive

Little is known about Crooks beyond the fact that he lived in a home with his parents in Bethel Park.

Crooks was 20 years old, registered as a Republican, and had an active voting status, meaning he had voted in recent elections. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

Crooks carried no identification and his body had to be identified using other techniques, said Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, at the late-night news conference in Butler. The methods included DNA and biometric confirmation, Rojek said.

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after opening fire.

Political rally shooter identified: Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as Trump shooter at Pennsylvania political rally

'It feels like something out of a movie'

The streets surrounding Crooks home were swarming with reporters and curious locals who ventured out to get a look at the scene and sizable police presence early Sunday morning. The home sits along a winding suburban road in Bethel Park, about 42 miles south of Butler.

Cathy Caplan, 45, extended her morning walk about a quarter mile to glimpse what was happening outside Crooks home.It came on the morning news and I was like I know that street, she said.The local school district employee said she was still in disbelief about the shooting and that it feels like something out of a movie.

Wes Morgan and his four children were at Panera Bread on Sunday morning when he found out he lived within a mile of Crooks. After breakfast, Morgan and the kids, ages 6-9, parked among dozens of reporters and other residents and walked up to the police perimeter, around the corner from Crooks home.It was rare in this sleepy suburb of Bethel Park to have any sustained and visible police presence, he said. The 42-year-old said he hopes the investigation progresses smoothly so the neighborhood can return to normalWeve never had anything even close to this before, Morgan said. We ride bikes down this road all the time, and to see this today  its just a shame.

 Christopher Cann

'It's insanity that anyone would do this'

Around 1:30 a.m. Sunday, dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside Crooks' residence listed on his voter registration record. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence.

Neighbors standing outside the home where the gunman lived said they were in disbelief. Dan Maloney, 30, said he saw the shooters name on social media and then discovered he lived down the road.

Its insanity that anyone would do this, Maloney said, adding that he at one point had planned on attending the rally.

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Scott Graham, who lives in the Bethel Park neighborhood, was riding his bike Sunday morning. He said he doesnt know the shooter but was shaken by the incident. It hits so close to home. I had two kids who graduated from Bethel Park High School. My kids graduated in 2016 and 2018.

 Christopher Cann, Aysha Bagchi, Andrew Dolph

How the chaotic scene erupted: Video captures moment when Trump reportedly shot on stage at rally

Attack harkens back to dark years of violence

The most recent attempt on a presidential candidate was on March 30, 1981, when Republican President Ronald Reagan was shot by John Hinckley Jr. after a speaking engagement just two months after taking office. The then 70-year-old was seriously injured and underwent emergency surgery before being released after almost two weeks in the hospital.

Reagan suffered a punctured lung, a broken rib, and internal bleeding.

On June 5, 1968, the younger brother of President John F. Kennedy, Senator Robert F. Kennedy, D-N.Y., was shot and killed by a Palestinian activist for his support of Israel during the Israeli-Arab conflict. Kennedy was campaigning in California for the presidency and lived just one day after being hit twice, once in the neck and the armpit. He was 42.

President John F. Kennedy was riding in a motorcade with First Lady Jackie Kennedy in downtown Dallas on November 22, 1963, when he was shot in the neck and head by Lee Harvey Oswald. The 46-year-old had yet to announce his re-election campaign and was riding with then-Texas Democratic Gov. John Connally, who also was shot.

Kennedy was pronounced dead and Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson was sworn in as the 36th president.

Elizabeth Weise

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump rally shooting live updates: Biden decries political violence
FBI seeking information, digital media from shooting at Trump rally in Butler County

The FBI in Pittsburgh is seeking information and images from the public concerning the shooting at the Trump rally in Butler County on Saturday.

Former President Donald Trump was injured and two other people were killed, including the suspected shooter. Two other people were critically injured.

The FBI is asking for any digital media, including photos, video recordings or audio recordings, related to the shooting. You can submit those here.

Anyone wishing to report any other information related to the shooting should call 1-800-CALL-FBI or submit a tip online at tips.fbi.gov

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Channel 11 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch WPXI NOW
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  At 6:02 pm Saturday, to the strains of God Bless the U.S.A., former President Donald Trump took the stage at fairgrounds in Butler, Pennsylvania, waving at the cheering crowd and settling into his regular rally speech under a scorching midsummer sun.

A few short minutes later, Trump pointed to a projection of a chart that showed a spike in illegal border crossings under the man he's running against, President Joe Biden. That chart's a couple of months old, Trump told the crowd. And if you want to see something really sad 

That's when the shots rang out, at least five. Trump clutched his ear as dark-suited Secret Service agents dashed toward him. He dropped to the ground as the agents yelled, Get down! The thousands of rallygoers packed into the field in front of him moved as one, dropping down as silence spread across the grass, punctuated only by an occasional scream.

Moments later, Trump stood as the Secret Service agents crowded around him, covering his body with their own. They tried to usher the former president offstage to his left as blood trickled from his ear. Wait, wait, wait, Trump said. He pumped his fist as the crowd cheered, and seemed to mouth the word fight before agents hustled him down the stairs and to a waiting black SUV. Trump pumped his fist one more time before getting inside.

The local district attorney said the shooter and one rallygoer were dead. The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

In a statement issued shortly after the attack, which officials say was an apparent assassination attempt, Trump's campaign said he was fine.

There were no hints of the horror to come as rallygoers assembled outside the secure Secret Service perimeter earlier that afternoon. Butler is a city of 13,000 located 33 miles north of Pittsburgh in western Pennsylvania, firmly in Trump country. It's the sort of rural Rust Belt area that helped make Trump president in 2016 and almost kept him in office in 2020  Trump won Butler County by 32 percentage points.

The green grass of the field was slowly covered by a sea of red Make America Great Again hats as the temperature climbed to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Local politicians occasionally spoke as rallygoers patiently waited hours, occasionally breaking into chants of Trump! Trump! Trump! At one point, a giant American flag hanging above the stage became tangled, prompting chants of fix the flag! until it was correctly unfurled.

Outside the perimeter, there were stands selling food, beverages and Trump paraphernalia, as is common at the rallies. Behind the stage, separated from the field by waist-high metal barriers, another field stretched out, dotted with distant buildings. The crowd perked up when Trump's favorite playlist began, kicking off with The Village People's YMCA. Then Trump walked out toward the stage, wearing his familiar red hat, a black suit, white shirt unbuttoned at the neck and no tie.

He smiled and pointed at the crowd as they cheered him, waiting for the Lee Greenwood song to conclude before starting his remarks. This is a big crowd, Trump said. This is a big, big beautiful crowd.

After name-checking David McCormick, the Republican running against Pennsylvania's Democratic Sen. Bob Casey, and promising to bring him on stage later in the rally, Trump turned to one of his favorite themes. We have millions and millions of people in our country who should not be here, he said. Dangerous people.

Then he directed the audience to the projected chart of border crossings.

After the shots rang out and Trump was hustled offstage, agents in black uniforms carrying rifles, the agency's Counter-Assault team, flooded the stage. The crowd stayed down with the exception of one clutch of people standing near the left edge of the perimeter, near the sounds of gunfire.

Rico Elmore, vice chairman of the Beaver County Republican Party, was sitting in a section for special guests, facing Trump, when he heard what sounded like firecrackers. So, everyone hesitated  and it was like, no, these are actual shots," he said in an interview. "So I yelled, Get down!

Elmore heard someone from his left calling for a medic. While Elmore isnt a medic, he knows first aid and CPR from his time in the military. He jumped a barricade, but when he reached the person, Elmore saw he had been shot in the head. Elmore said he held the victims head, but it was too late.

"I mean, it was a horror, Elmore said.

The victim has not been identified.

Even as Trump was driven off, rallygoers stayed low. Some had heard the bullets ricocheting off the grandstand, severing a hydraulic line connecting to the speakers, which began to topple. Others quickly called family or looked on their phones to find out what had happened to the former president.

Is he all right? people began to ask. Is he OK?

Eventually, people began to trickle out. A small group of about a half-dozen stopped at the fenced area holding the media. It's all your fault! they yelled.

Police and then the Secret Service ushered everyone out. An hour after the shooting the vast field was declared a crime scene, littered with empty plastic water bottles and soggy cardboard containers that once held cheese fries.

___

Associated Press writer Nicholas Riccardi in Denver and Leah Askarinam in Washington contributed to this report.
A fire burned two acres just south of Port Angeles early Saturday morning before multiple responding fire crews were able to knock it down.

Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue was dispatched to reports of smoke and possible fire at 3:49 a.m. on Saturday. Just before they were dispatched, the Port Angeles Fire Department was also notified of a potential fire, with their crew observing a fire up on the hilltop south of Port Angeles.

The on-duty crew of two Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue firefighters responded immediately and requested additional volunteer and off-duty firefighters for assistance, including the Port Angeles Fire Department and Washington State Department of Natural Resources.

Initial crews arriving at Black Diamond Road reported seeing the glow and smoke column of a fire near the ridge south of Port Angeles, and firefighters reportedly had to try various DNR roads before they eventually found the fire burning along the ridgetop in the area known as the Six Pack.

Upon the arrival of the first unit, the fire was burning approximately 1.5 acres in forest slash, extending into the tree line. The fire grew to 2 acres as it caught along the lower canopy of trees.

Crews deployed hose lines along recreational trails along the eastern, western, and southern flanks of the fire to stop the spread of fire in those directions as the fire was burning slower to the north along the tree line.

Once Washington State DNR crews arrived, fire management was transitioned over to them. A bulldozer was brought in to place a containment line and a helicopter was called in to assist with suppression along the northern part of the fire.

At around 10 a.m., Fire District and Port Angeles crews were released from the fire, except for one Clallam 2 Fire-Rescue water tender which stayed to help supply water for final extinguishment.

The fire was contained with no injuries reported, and DNR crews will be investigating the cause of the fire. Crews warned that there may be some residual smoke in the area as the hot spots were mopped up.
SAN DIEGO (FOX 5/KUSI)  The National Weather Service issued a flash flood warning Saturday afternoon for southeastern San Diego County.

The warning was issued at 4:10 p.m. for the following areas as thunderstorms are expected to bring heavy rain:

Boulevard

Jacumba

Interstate 8 between Boulevard and Imperial County Line

Interstate 8 between Pine Valley and Boulevard

The warning is in effect until 6:45 p.m.

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Residents in impacted areas are advised to move to higher ground and avoid walking or driving through floodwaters.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
A new-look Sunoco Gas Station and Food Mart has reopened on West Market Street in Akron's Wallhaven neighborhood.

Akron's Wallhaven neighborhood is teeming with development that's returning two familiar brands to the business district and bringing a new grocery to the scene.

A refurbished Sunoco on West Market Street opened under new ownership at the end of June. Meanwhile, construction of a Kentucky Fried Chicken is underway in a lot neighboring the Sunoco. And an Aldi grocery store is planned at Akron's West Market Plaza.

They're part of a wave of change that has included the ongoing relocation of Akron Fire Station No. 12 from 1852 W. Market St. to 112 S. Hawkins Ave. and Los Cabos Mexican Restaurant taking over the former El Rancho Mexican Restaurant space at 1666 W. Exchange St.

Sunoco reopens across from Hardesty Park

The Sunoco gas station and food mart at 1550 W. Market St. reopened the last week of June, said station and store operator Majdi Abdalla. The location, a neighborhood staple previously owned by Steven Catsoulakis and known as Steve's Sunoco, was built in 1950, according to Summit County property tax records.

Abdalla also owns two self-service car washes in Cleveland. He said he worked at gas stations in the early 2010s.

Now, he leases from the property owner of 1550 W. Market St., Mahmoud Sabti of MMS Petroleum. MMS Petroleum owns multiple other gas stations that it leases to business operators, Abdalla said.

"I told him, 'The next opportunity  if you can run it by me, I'm interested.' And that was years ago," Abdalla said. "And finally, we landed one."

Majdi Abdalla, the new proprietor of the Sunoco gas station and store on West Market Street, stands outside the Wallhaven shop July 5 in Akron.

The Summit County Fiscal Office records show that Catsoulakis sold the property to MMS Petroleum for $200,000 in March 2023.

Abdalla, who has two employees at the Sunoco, said he orders gas from a supplier that is an intermediary between him and the larger Sunoco business.

He said the store sells snacks, cold beverages, hot coffee, cappuccino and tobacco products. There are no lottery ticket or alcohol sales to allow customers to have a quicker experience compared to other gas station stores, he said.

"Some people think that doesn't make sense, but actually ... it's a different business model," Abdalla said. "You focus on the gas and the product you have."

The construction footprint for a soon-to-open Kentucky Fried Chicken is seen just beyond the newly reopened Wallhaven Sunoco station on West Market Street July 5 in Akron.

KFC is coming back to Wallhaven

A Kentucky Fried Chicken will arise at a former banking site at 1546 W. Market St. A KFC spokesperson said the company expects the restaurant to open this November.

County fiscal office records show the property was sold from National City Bank to Mastic, LLC, for $550,000 in May 2022. Mastic, LLC, was incorporated by an agent in Canton, according to Ohio Secretary of State records.

Story continues

In 2008, Pittsburgh-based PNC acquired Cleveland-based National City Bank, and the 1546 W. Market St. storefront was a PNC branch before the property sale.

The KFC spokesperson said job candidates can apply at kfc.com/careers. According to the KFC website, that location is looking for a general manager, an assistant restaurant manager and a team member.

KFC previously operated a Wallhaven restaurant at 1883 W. Market St. in a spot that is now Imperial Wok.

The footprint of a future KFC location is seen July 5 at the site of a razed PNC Bank location on West Market Street in Akron.

Aldi coming to Wallhaven's West Market Plaza

Wallhaven's West Market Plaza will see an Aldi at some point. The grocery store is listed as "coming soon" on developer Select Strategies Realty's website.

The Aldi will be just under 21,000 square feet, according to a site plan on the realtor's website.

The plaza also houses Gabe's, Big Lots and Essence Beauty. A separate space just under 11,000 square feet is also available for lease there, according to Select Strategies' website. A Krazy Bins store that opened at the site in 2021 following craft store Pat Catan's exit closed its doors in June 2023.

Select Strategies Executive Vice President Frank Dascenzo, listed as a contact for the plaza, declined to provide comment to the Beacon Journal about the project.

The Beacon could not reach Aldi management for comment.

The plaza was last sold in 2016, according to county fiscal office records. That year, Garrison Central West Market LLC sold the plaza to Select West Market Plaza LLC for $4.8 million.

City of Akron spokeswoman Stephanie Marsh said via email that based on "permits pulled, construction is tentatively scheduled to begin in September." Marsh said the city does not have final permits to share, as the Summit County Division of Building Standards issues them.

Representatives from the Summit County Division of Building Standards and a Summit County spokeswoman were not available for comment on Thursday.

Patrick Williams covers growth and development for the Akron Beacon Journal. He can be reached by email at pwilliams@gannett.com or on X, formerly known as Twitter, @pwilliamsOH.

This article originally appeared on Akron Beacon Journal: Sunoco returns, with new KFC and Aldi planned for Akron Wallhaven area
Around the Kansas City, Kansas Police Department, where he spent 25 years, Michael Lee Kobe was known as T.F. Kobe, short for That F---ing Kobe. So what did he do to deserve this charming tag?

So much, including actually ordering the arrest of a detective who had been holding his wife and kids hostage until his son snuck out of the house and called 911. He also warned that an officer later fired for attacking a suspect was unfit to serve. Another officer who hed argued was too violent to protect anybody wound up being convicted of rape. And in 2005 or 2006, Kobe told his commander that hed overheard a bunch of detectives laughing that one of them had walked in on Capt. Roger Golubski having oral sex in his office.

It would not be accurate to say that nothing came of any of these efforts. But time and again, says Kobe, who retired in 2010, hes the one who was castigated and threatened with dismissal. For doing the right thing, as I see it, though he says it was never quite that simple: At that time in KCK, the right thing and the wrong thing were blurred. In fact, he only agreed to go on the record if Id promise not to portray him as some great guy coming forward to battle everybody.

I could have done more, he says, to stop Golubski, who is now awaiting a December trial on federal charges that he repeatedly raped two women, one of them beginning when she was only 13. He has also been charged with being part of a sex trafficking conspiracy. Doing more would have entailed a great deal of risk, Kobe told me. Id already tried, and it didnt look like I was going to get any assistance from anybody.

Michael Kobes experience in the KCKPD is more than a history lesson because a couple of those he accuses of protecting bad guys with badges, both in a 2021 deposition and in a long recent interview in his East Texas home, are still in positions of authority in the community.

One of those who Kobe says did not want to hear about two specific instances of misconduct is former Police Chief Rick Armstrong, now president of the Kansas City Metropolitan Crime Commission. Kobe says Armstrong threatened to fire him for reporting one officers criminal behavior and ignored his report of wrongdoing by a second.

Ill go into the particulars below, but in a phone interview, Armstrong said that in his 35 1/2 years on the force, he neither protected anyone from discipline nor ever heard of a single problem involving an officer that he himself did not run to ground. He said police officers are required to live an exemplary life, off-duty as well as on, and are quickly disciplined if they fall short. I did not associate with people who engaged in any questionable conduct, he said, even if it wasnt expressly prohibited. Armstrong described Kobe as someone who didnt get along.

In one of the instances I asked Armstrong about, he said: I dont have a specific memory of what misconduct he was reporting. What I can tell you is that I disagreed with Mike Kobe frequently. Capt. Kobe had his own ideas about how he thought things should be.

Further, Armstrong said that despite being deeply connected in the community, he never heard so much as a whisper about Golubski being involved in anything illegal or inappropriate. And if Michael Kobe did, he said, well then hes the one at fault.

Capt. Kobe has a responsibility. If he knows information, he has the authority to act on it. I find it so disingenuous that 25 years or 30 years after something is alleged to have occurred, if anyone knew about it and they didnt report it, the onus is on them. They have the responsibility and they also have the liability that they didnt act on it.

Even now, Kobes report is turned back on him.

Roger and I are in a race to the cemetery

Ive been in occasional email contact with Kobe since 2021, but until recently hed always turned down my interview requests. In May, he told me in one such message, Im haunted by the fact I could (should) have done more. I havent heard or seen any police commander express the same regret in their depositions or public comments.

Then again, you cant regret something that you insist never happened.

Kobe also revealed that he has Stage 4 lung cancer, and with Golubski in renal failure, it seems Roger and I are in a race to the cemetery. Thats not why he decided to talk to me, he says, and was if anything more of a point against it, since I dont want to be in my bed dying getting nasty phone calls.

One morning in late June, I arrived at his home in Texas, where he moved after he retired, not knowing what to expect. At 76, he does not look like a man who is on hospice, but he is, and his doctors at one point told him he wouldnt live to see July. Still, he greeted me by joking that he wished he could count on the newspaper arriving as right on schedule as I had. Then we sat at his dining room table for about three hours while he told me about his life at the KCKPD.

His father, John Kobe, fought in France and Germany during World War II, and Michael had already served in the Army, too, and had also been in the grocery business for years, before he joined the force in October of 1985.

He was 38 at that point, considerably older than most cadets, with a family of his own and a military sense of rectitude. I wanted to help people, he told me, and broaden my insights. He is not someone who has turned against the system.

That much is obvious on the first page of his 2021 deposition in a civil suit against the Unified Government. It was brought by Lamonte McIntyre, who was wrongly convicted and then spent 23 years in prison after Golubski and others made him the fall guy for a 1994 double murder that has officially never been solved.

Michael Kobes father John fought in France and Germany during World War II.

Im here to tell the truth

Right away, Kobe says in that deposition that he is appearing because he was subpoenaed, and has rejected even the possibility of the counsel that might have been provided by the UG: I believe that whether that turns out to be a good decision or a bad decision, it is the right decision.

He also wants it on the record that he is donating the mandatory $60 fee hell receive for that 2021 appearance to charity, and that he is neither backing nor opposing McIntyres suit: In my conversations with Mr. (Michael) Abrams, one of McIntyres attorneys, I told him that I was not on his side; Im not on anybodys side. Im here to tell the truth and I believe in the system.

When I finally met Kobe, he told me that hed seen the fact that he was being deposed on May 12 of 2021 as confirmation of his duty to show up and tell the truth, since Gen. Douglas MacArthurs famous Duty, Honor, Country speech at West Point had been delivered on May 12 of 1962.

From the very beginning of Kobes time on the force, the insights he broadened at the KCKPD were nothing like what hed expected: It was an eye-opener, he said, when I met some very violent people who wore badges.

The first of those was one Richard Gorham, known as Dickie. I was still on probation and he was a long-serving officer  someone I had numerous confrontations with on calls they answered together.

Suspect threw his head into the flashlight

Gorham was often called to internal affairs. One time he came back and was laughing, saying that he had been accused of beating someone with his flashlight.  He told us at the roll call that the suspect threw his head into the flashlight! That was his explanation to internal affairs, and that floated.

Kobe pulled Gorham off of one suspect, he says, and on another occasion was told by a man staggering on the street in KCKs Armourdale neighborhood that Gorham had beaten him, too. Yet in 1986 or 1987, when he reported Gorham for beating someone else with a flashlight, the response from Kobes sergeant, Clarence Epson, was this, he says: Dickie is twice the policeman youll ever be. You should try to be more like Dickie.

Epson, who is 81, doesnt remember that, he told me. But I probably had so many discussions, I dont remember them all. And none of us were perfect. He does, he said, remember that he and Kobe had a little problem now and then. He also remembers some of the trouble with Gorham, and that he always tried to correct him.

In 1990, Richard Gorham was accused of raping a woman, and of injuring her so badly that she had to be hospitalized. And in 1992, he was convicted of raping her and was sent to prison. I was so sad when that attack happened, Kobe said in his deposition, because it was all avoidable. It was very sad.

Later, around 2000, when Kobe was the senior sergeant on the afternoon shift at South Patrol, he says, he would answer calls after his officers were already on the scene, and learn how they were handling calls, and changed (their behavior) when I arrived.

One patrolman he was supervising struck him as prone to violence, not because hed ever seen him use excessive force, but because hed come up on him out on calls being rude, aggressive and coiled as if ready to strike.

Yet when Kobe gave this man a harshly negative review, based on example after example of worrying behavior, he said his supervisor, then-Capt. Gary Wohlforth, called both him and the patrolman into a meeting  and yelled at Kobe. He also ordered him to change his evaluation, and to remove the comment that the patrolmans prospects at the department were grim. Kobe told him hed have to receive the order to change that evaluation in writing, and that order never came.

Later, after the patrolman had been fired for attacking a suspect for no reason, Kobe says Wohlforth told him that OK, hed been right that one time. But Kobe had never given him any documentation, he recalls Wohlforth telling him, so what could he have done? Only, what was a review, Kobe asked, if not documentation?

No response to report of sex in police HQ

It was one day in 2005 or 2006 that Kobe says he rounded the corner to his office in police headquarters and heard a bunch of guys who worked assaults laughing about someone having walked in on Golubski getting oral sex in his office. This, too, he reported to now Maj. Wohlforth, whose response, Kobe says, was this: Nothing. Not a word. He had the blankest look on his face.

When I called Wohlforth, his wife answered, and said she did not think her husband would be interested in responding. Still, I sent everything Kobe said that had to do with Wohlforth to him, via the email his wife gave me, and this was his answer: I reported everything. I did nothing wrong. I have nothing further to say.

Kobe did not report what he had heard about Golubski being caught having sex in his office to internal affairs, and in his deposition, he said thats because the police department is predicated on being a paramilitary operation and the chain of command is considered very important to the success of that agency, and I believe in the chain of command and I utilized the chain of command.

But he was troubled by Golubskis apparent army of confidential informants, most of whom as it turned out were vulnerable Black women hed met as victims, witnesses or suspects. Kobe did not realize that, but did wonder how it was that we have African American officers who work or were born in the urban milieu, who went to school there, who have family and friends there and yet not one of them had a network like that, Kobe said in his deposition.

Because of the military sense of rectitude he learned as a young Army officer during the Vietnam War, Michael Kobe wanted to help people.

They hate him because he knows who they are

How could a white, overweight detective be so successful at gathering together this vast network of informants who provided such vital information to so many cases? He was also uncomfortable, he said, that I had no idea how he did it becausewe were not allowed to know.

Former Police Chief Terry Zeigler, who resigned in 2019 not long after a police cadet alleged in a lawsuit that Zeigler had fired her for exaggerated cause after she pressed sexual battery charges against her supervisor, was asked in his 2021 deposition in the McIntyre civil case about Kobes allegations.

He said he had never heard anything that concerned him about his former partner Golubski, either, even though yes, he had heard rumors that a certain detective had walked in on him, just as Kobe had reported. Now, nobody ever came to internal affairs to file a complaint. There is rumors all the time.

Zeigler did want to put it on the record, though, that Kobe simply failed to understand how confidential informants worked, because he had come up as a sergeant rather than as a detective.

Former KCKPD Detective Max Seifert, who also paid a high price for doing the right thing, defended his former colleague in an interview: Kobe was an outstanding police officer. They hate him because he knows who they are. He never fit in because the more trustworthy you are, the more youre considered untrustworthy.

He was still a loyal cop

For a time, Kobe was the public information officer for the department, and so knew a lot of reporters, too. Former Kansas City Star reporter Mark Weibe told me he thought of Kobe as a stand-up guy  ethical. Every once in a while, hed tip you in a direction toward a truth the department might not have wanted known, but he was still a loyal cop. I respected him.

Loyal, yes, but someone who challenged police brass as he thought necessary pretty much throughout his career. In 1996, Kobe ordered the arrest of that detective whose child had called 911 to say he was holding his family hostage. Then, as he remembers it, Maj. George Trzok, who died in 2018, angrily told him, You dont arrest a fine KCKPD detective! Whats the matter with you? He stepped into the hallway to say that, too, so everyone could hear him. And you asked me why I didnt report Golubski more urgently?

After that, the department instituted something informally called the Kobe Rule, which said that no one could arrest a fellow officer without the permission of a commander. Our understanding of domestic violence has come a long way since then, Kobe notes, and that surely would not happen today.

That was the total investigation

Some time in 2006, Kobe said, then-Chief Sam Breshears replaced him as commander over homicide. And who was his replacement? Why, one Roger Golubski, who as one former UG official told me was celebrated for getting a lot of convictions. As Kobe noted in his deposition, policing is the easiest job in the world if you dont play by the rules. Whats hard, he said, is doing that work while also following the law.

Around 2008, Kobe said, both Breshears and Armstrong protected Maj. John Cosgrove after Kobe reported that Cosgrove had called Detective Bill Michael to complain that wed solved a homicide that he wanted left unsolved. According to Kobe, Breshears said, We asked Cosgrove and he denied it. That was the total investigation.

When I reached Breshears by phone, and told him this story was about all the times Michael Kobe got in trouble for reporting misconduct, he said, Im really not interested in what he had to say. I asked if he at least wanted to hear what Kobe had said that involved him. No, he said.

Armstrong said what is and is not considered a solved homicide is defined by federal guidelines, and he doesnt remember anything like that ever happening.

Cosgrove said he doesnt, either: Im not aware of that,  he told me on the phone. Im not sure what youre talking about. Im not going to talk to you about this.

He was also the lead investigator of the KCK murder for which John Keith Calvin was almost certainly wrongly convicted in 2002. He died in prison last year, though the actual triggerman had said publicly for years that Calvin was innocent. Calvin had always said that police coerced his statement. Theres no question this is a Golubski case. A Golubski-Cosgrove case, Calvins lawyer, Cheryl Pilate, told me in 2022.

Former Chief Zeigler said in his 2021 deposition that Cosgrove had at one point been disciplined for a civil rights violation  he kept interviewing a murder suspect after that suspect asked for a lawyer  and in 2014 was fired for dishonesty by then-Chief Ellen Hanson.

Why isnt there a semen sample?

The year both Kobe and Golubski retired, 2010, Armstrong threatened to fire Kobe, he says, for reporting misconduct by a different police captain. The accusations involved following and trying to intimidate a female officer he didnt like.

Armstrong, who rightly got a lot of credit for calling in the FBI to investigate and ultimately arrest members of his own SWAT team who were stealing, says he remembers the captain but not the allegation, and never would have done any such thing.

He does recall one time a different officer was in trouble, though. When Armstrong was Kobes sergeant, he said, Kobe had been involved in a third negligent accident in a single year and knew that he could be fired for that. He was very nervous that he might lose his job, and I said, Mike, I dont know why you keep banging on the chiefs door about how you think he should do things, because your career is now in his hands. 

Again, Armstrong said he never heard Golubski accused of any wrongdoing, though. He believes he would have, had any criminal behavior ever occurred, and says that to suggest that the police command staff allowed someone to behave criminally is shockingly unfair, unjust, untrue.

So what does Armstrong make of the federal charges against the former detective, then?

Golubskis lawyers have always said that hes innocent of all allegations, and his superiors have said that if he did do anything wrong, they certainly never knew about it.

What I find to be difficult, Armstrong said, if an individual is involved in behavior  hard evidence, thats whats required. Were innocent until proven guilty. If theres evidence, why hasnt someone come forward? Why isnt there a semen sample, why isnt there a blood sample, why isnt there a fingerprint?

Few sexual assault cases that are reported years after the fact, for reasons that by now we should all recognize, involve semen or blood samples or fingerprints. Harvey Weinsteins and Larry Nassars victims didnt have those, either. For many victims, it would not prove lack of consent even if they did. And legally speaking, testimony is evidence.

I believe in due process, Armstrong said, and if a jury finds Golubski guilty, then hell accept that and believe that the system has worked the way its supposed to. But meanwhile, Ive never heard any facts that support that Roger Golubski has engaged in criminal misconduct. However, I certainly know that people, individuals, have asserted, either through stories of other people, or stories that are heard or street conversations that say that things happened.

Those I know who have come forward, despite having been threatened and told they would not be believed, are not repeating stories that happened to other people or something they heard on the street. They are talking about their own lives. Like a lot of victims, even when the perp is not a powerful person with a badge and a gun, it took them a long time to report to authorities, though some told loved ones about these events long ago.

They didnt take my complaint

Armstrong says he has a big heart for victims, but if none of what they describe happened, then they are all lying.

If anything like what Golubski has been charged with actually did happen, Armstrong also asks, then where are all the internal affairs reports of complaints against him?

There were some complaints  or at least, attempted complaints  that I know about: Lamonte McIntyres mother Rosie McIntyre has talked under oath about her unsuccessful efforts to report that Golubski had sexually assaulted her at police headquarters in the late 80s. Those she spoke to in internal affairs, she said in a 2021 deposition, said they dont believe their officers do that, and they didnt take my complaint.

Ive written before about a report by former KCKPD Sgt. Tim Hausback: In the mid to late 1970s, Hausback said in a 2022 deposition, also in the McIntyre civil case, I discovered that one of my fellow KCKPD officers, Roger Golubski, was taking advantage of some of the women who worked as prostitutes. He reported this all the way up the line and to internal affairs, too, he said, but nothing ever came of it.

When the victim in the federal case who was 13 when she says Golubski started raping her finally told her aunt what was going on  according to her deposition, which I wrote about two years ago  the girls aunt went straight to the police station to report Golubski. But she came back to the car convinced it was her niece who had been telling lies. It couldnt be true, she said her aunt told her, because hed been on duty the times I said.

Ive also talked to and written about Tina Peterson, who worked for the Joyce H. Williams Center for domestic abuse victims in the late 1980s. In a deposition, she said that when women working on the street described the abuse they suffered, one name came up repeatedly: Roger Golubski. She called internal affairs twice to report him, she said, each time leaving all of her contact information and explaining exactly why she was calling. Someone would get back to her, she was told. But no one ever did.

So there were reports. But Id like to know why there werent more, too, and wonder what happened to the others.

Truth was just as obvious 30 years ago

I dont see how the blurred lines between right and wrong that Kobe talks about can ever be brought into focus without the kind of reckoning that would have to include a complete review of all cases touched by Golubski.

After all this time, that review still hasnt happened, though the Unified Government approved $1.7 million for that purpose in 2022. Hows that going, I asked Wyandotte County District Attorney Mark Dupree, and got no response. As things stand, we dont even know how many other people were wrongly convicted, as McIntyre was, and Im not sure we ever will.

Duprees conviction integrity unit only has one young part-time attorney attached to it, according to another attorney in his office. But Dupree has brought in a nationally respected outside consultant, Patricia Cummings, to advise him on innocence case procedures. And his office does finally seem to be getting ready to move forward with the first such case in the four years since KCK mailman Pete Coones was exonerated.

After serving 12 years for a murder he did not commit, on the basis of coerced testimony from a mentally ill jailhouse snitch, Coones was released in 2020. He died 108 days later, of cancer that had gone undiagnosed in Lansing.

The new innocence case involves Ahmon Mann, who is serving a life sentence for a 2000 murder investigated by Golubski and Zeigler, based on the now recanted testimony of a witness who says he was coerced, too.

For Mann and who knows how many others who may today be serving prison time for crimes they did not commit, what happened during the years Michael Kobe describes is not in the past at all.

As long as hes breathing, T.F. Kobe will continue to be a pain in the preferred narrative. There are a lot of people who need to be investigated, not just Golubski, he says. There are a lot of people they convicted wrongfully and the truth was just as obvious 30 years ago as it is today.

This is still not the most popular message, and never will be. But why would Michael Kobe start going along to get along now?
What former President Jimmy Carter has said about his faith

Former President Jimmy Carter teaches Sunday School class at Maranatha Baptist Church in his hometown, Aug. 23, 2015, in Plains, Ga. In the year since Carter first entered home hospice care, the 39th president has celebrated his 99th birthday, enjoyed tributes to his legacy and outlived his wife of 77 years. Rosalynn Carter, who died in November 2023 after suffering from dementia, spent just a few days under hospice. | David Goldman

Former President Jimmy Carter has spent more than a year in hospice care, per Northeastern Global News. His end-of-life experience has been quite different than what most hospice patients experience, just like his life has been quite different than how most Americans live.

Carters long, illustrious career encompassed major historic events, memorable peacemaking initiatives and important political moves.

Throughout it, he often leaned on his religion for strength and comfort. Lets dive into the faith of the former president.

How is Jimmy Carter doing?

Carter entered end-of-life care in February 2023, and his wife, former first lady Rosalynn Carter, died in November 2023, according to Northeastern Global News.

While statistics show that most end-of-life care patients usually pass away within the first six months of their stay, the former president has defied the odds.

This past February, he celebrated one year in hospice care, and hes now three months away from his 100th birthday.

President Carter continues to be at home with his family, his family stated in February. The family is pleased that his decision last year to enter hospice care has sparked so many family discussions across the country on an important subject.

Carters time in hospice follows an unusually long and active career that includes farming, politics and human rights.

What does Jimmy Carter believe about God?

Carter is a devout Christian who has even served as a Sunday School teacher, according to WRBL. His faith journey gained national attention in 1976, when The New York Times labeled him a a deeply committed evangelical Christian, per Gallup. Some called him Americas Evangelical-in-Chief.

However, Carters beliefs do not entirely align with the beliefs that are generally associated with evangelicals today, per Gallup. Among other things, he believes that women should be able to be ordained and that homosexuality is not a sin.

Carter distanced himself from the Southern Baptist Convention in 2000 as the denomination grew more politically and theologically conservative.

Im familiar with the verses they have quoted about wives being subjugated to their husbands, he told reporters, per ABC. In my opinion, this is a distortion of the meaning of scripture.  I personally feel the Bible says all people are equal in the eyes of God. I personally feel that women should play an absolutely equal role in service of Christ in the church.

Carter strongly emphasized his equal partnership with his wife, Rosalynn, throughout his career.

Rosalynn was my equal partner in everything I ever accomplished, Carter said in a statement on Rosalynn Carters death, according to the National Catholic Reporter. She gave me wise guidance and encouragement when I needed it.

The Carters worshipped together at Maranatha Baptist Church in Plains, Georgia, where they contributed to humanitarian, teaching and worship efforts.

How did faith play into Jimmy Carters career?

Carter took faith seriously not just in private but also in public, according to The Conversation. He was especially direct when he announced his candidacy in 1974, describing himself to the media as a farmer, an engineer, a businessman, a planner, a scientist, a governor, and a Christian.

Christianity played a large role in his behind-the-scenes work. He cited scripture in interviews and speeches and drew strength from prayers while making important decisions.

The most fervent and constant prayers of mine were while I was in the White House because I knew there was enormous responsibility on my shoulders, and we faced some very difficult decisions, too, concerning the lives of tens of thousands of people, he said in an interview with WRBL. So I prayed for wisdom and for Gods guidance that I wouldnt make a mistake, that I could keep my country at peace and still preserve its integrity and security. Those are the kinds of things for which I prayed.

His moral values played a role in some of his major initiatives, including the Camp David Accords, the transfer of Panama Canal ownership back to Panama and his ongoing support for Habitat for Humanity, per The Conversation.

He tried to put human rights at the center of foreign policy, said historian David Greenberg, per Rutgers.

Many of Carters decisions reflected his faith-based commitment to service and to the welfare of the people around him.

My faith demands that I do whatever I can, wherever I am, whenever I can, for as long as I can, with whatever I have, to try to make a difference, Carter once said, according to WRBL.

Correction: The article originally stated that former President Jimmy Carter turned 100 in February. His birthday is on Oct. 1, and hes currently 99.
Trump shot in assassination attempt at Pennsylvania rally: What we know

Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage Saturday evening after being shot in the right ear during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump, a Republican, is campaigning against Democratic President Joe Biden as each vies for the presidency.

Here's what we know so far about the shooting so far, believed to be the first assassination attempt of a president, sitting or former, since a hand grenade was thrown at former President George W. Bush at a rally in Tbilisi, Georgia in 2005.

Trump campaign says he's fine after shooting

As shots rang out, Trump could be seen grabbing his ear before Secret Service agents told him to "get down." Moments later, as Trump rose to his feet, his ear was visibly bloodied.

Secret Service agents crowded around Trump, who raised his fist toward a crowd of supporters in Butler, Pennsylvania, which is about a 45-minute drive north of Pittsburgh.

Trump was "fine" after the shooting his campaign said, and was checked out at a local medical facility.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," said Steven Cheung, a Trump campaign spokesperson, in a statement after the shooting.

On social media platform Truth Social, Trump said "(i)t is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country."

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote. "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening."

An FBI spokesperson said the bureau was treating the shooting as an assassination attempt. One person in the crowd at the rally was killed, and two others were injured, according to the Secret Service.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Shooter killed by Secret Service, identified by FBI

The man who shot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania political rally has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

"The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania," the Bureau said in a statement. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after he opened fire.

Biden decries political violence

Speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden denounced the attack.

There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden told reporters.

Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

A White House official said later Biden had spoken to Trump and local officials.

In Michigan, leaders condemn shooting

Leaders in Michigan, from both the Republican and Democratic parties, were also quick to condemn the assassination attempt Saturday.

Mike Rogers, a Trump-endorsed former Republican congressman running for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat this fall, said on social media the assassination attempt sparked "a somber moment for our nation."

"We are praying for President Trump and all Americans today," Rogers said.

Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Holland, also decried the shooting and said political violence "must never be tolerated."

"I am thankful that President Trump is ok," he said. "I hope you will join me in praying for the family of the innocent life lost as well as the families of those critically wounded in this heinous attack. We settle our differences through debate and at the ballot box."

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also denounced the shooting.

"There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences," Whitmer wrote on X. "I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately."

The road ahead for law enforcement

Following the assassination attempt, law enforcement officials will investigate whether the shooting was an isolated event or part of a broader scheme, said a former federal prosecutor.

This is an act of domestic terrorism," Matthew Schneider, a former United States attorney in Michigan and now a partner at the Honigman law firm, told the Free Press.

Things like telephone records, employment history and more will be part of the investigation into the shooter, Schneider said.

Schneider also said an investigation into whether the security for the event was adequate is also likely to take place.

USA Today contributed.

Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Trump shot in assassination attempt: What we know
Former President Trump targeted in assassination attempt at campaign rally: What we know

Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage Saturday evening after being shot in the right ear during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump, a Republican, is campaigning against Democratic President Joe Biden as each vies for the presidency.

Here's what we know so far about the shooting so far, believed to be the first assassination attempt of a president, sitting or former, since a hand grenade was thrown at former President George W. Bush at a rally in Tbilisi, Georgia in 2005.

Trump campaign says he's fine after shooting

As shots rang out, Trump could be seen grabbing his ear before Secret Service agents told him to "get down." Moments later, as Trump rose to his feet, his ear was visibly bloodied.

Secret Service agents crowded around Trump, who raised his fist toward a crowd of supporters in Butler, Pennsylvania, which is about a 45-minute drive north of Pittsburgh.

Trump was "fine" after the shooting his campaign said, and was checked out at a local medical facility.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," said Steven Cheung, a Trump campaign spokesperson, in a statement after the shooting.

On social media platform Truth Social, Trump said "(i)t is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country."

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote. "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening."

An FBI spokesperson said the bureau was treating the shooting as an assassination attempt. One person in the crowd at the rally was killed, and two others were injured, according to the Secret Service.

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Shooter killed by Secret Service, identified by FBI

The man who shot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania political rally has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

"The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania," the Bureau said in a statement. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after he opened fire.

Biden decries political violence

Speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden denounced the attack.

There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden told reporters.

Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

A White House official said later Biden had spoken to Trump and local officials.

In Michigan, leaders condemn shooting

Leaders in Michigan, from both the Republican and Democratic parties, were also quick to condemn the assassination attempt Saturday.

Mike Rogers, a Trump-endorsed former Republican congressman running for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat this fall, said on social media the assassination attempt sparked "a somber moment for our nation."

"We are praying for President Trump and all Americans today," Rogers said.

Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Holland, also decried the shooting and said political violence "must never be tolerated."

"I am thankful that President Trump is ok," he said. "I hope you will join me in praying for the family of the innocent life lost as well as the families of those critically wounded in this heinous attack. We settle our differences through debate and at the ballot box."

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also denounced the shooting.

"There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences," Whitmer wrote on X. "I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately."

The road ahead for law enforcement

Following the assassination attempt, law enforcement officials will investigate whether the shooting was an isolated event or part of a broader scheme, said a former federal prosecutor.

This is an act of domestic terrorism," Matthew Schneider, a former United States attorney in Michigan and now a partner at the Honigman law firm, told the Free Press.

Things like telephone records, employment history and more will be part of the investigation into the shooter, Schneider said.

Schneider also said an investigation into whether the security for the event was adequate is also likely to take place.

USA Today contributed.

Contact Arpan Lobo: alobo@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Former President Trump shot in assassination attempt: What we know
Sen. Ron Johnson (R-Wis.), the former chair of the Senate Homeland Security Committee, joined calls for a congressional probe into security at the Saturday Pennsylvania Trump rally.

It was a failure, Johnson told CNNs Jake Tapper Sunday on State of the Union. There absolutely have to be congressional oversight hearings.

A gunman fired shots into the rally, where Trump was speaking to supporters. The former president said a bullet hit his ear. According to the FBI, the shooter and one rally goer are dead, and two other attendees were critically injured.

Reports indicate that the shooter, now identified by the F.B.I. as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa., aimed from a nearby roof top approximately 140 yards away from where the president was speaking. Some civilians close to the scene have reported witnessing the shooter scale the building and signaling to law enforcement.

Obviously, that roof should not have been a place where somebody with a rifle should have been able to go, Johnson said. The Department of Justice, Secret Service, and FBI need to be completely transparent.

The House Oversight Committee, led by Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.), has called Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to testify in front of the committee on Monday. Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-La.) has pledged to launch investigations into the rally shooting.

Sen. Johnson also lauded the former president for his calls for national unity following the assassination attempt on his life.

Trump knew exactly the risks he was taking running for reelection. he knew hed be vilified, Sen. Johnson added. He realized his life would be at risk, but he did it anyway.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former US attorney: Here's where investigators will look after Trump rally shooting

The shooting Saturday during former President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania will be thoroughly investigated now by law enforcement to determine whether an attempted assassination is part of a broader plot or plan that could put others at risk.

This is an act of domestic terrorism," said Matthew Schneider, a former United States attorney in Detroit and now a partner at the Honigman law firm.

Law enforcement initially establishes its command post, with the U.S. Secret Service in charge of that, he said, and FBI likely will take part in that investigation.

More: How many US presidents have been shot? A look back at history

More: 'Praying,' 'Horrified': Michiganders react to shooting at Pennsylvania Trump rally

"Right now, they are probably on their way to the shooter's house," Schneider said Saturday evening.

"They're obtaining search warrants. They're trying to identify whether or not this is a larger conspiracy and whether or not other people are involved."

Think employment records. Telephone records. Finding out all the details about the shooter's life. "They'll be up all night for days trying to get to the bottom of that," Schneider said.

Matthew Schneider, a former United States attorney in Detroit, views the Trump rally shooting as an "act of domestic terrorism." File: U.S. Attorney General William Barr, middle, talks with Schneider, left and Detroit Police Chief James Craig in Detroit in 2020.

As of Saturday evening, Schneider said, it would be impossible to know whether the suspected shooter acted alone. Officials confirmed the shooter is dead.

"They're still trying to determine to make sure that this threat from this person is the end of it," Schneider said.

Barbara McQuade, also a former U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan and a current University of Michigan law professor, tweeted: "One thing I learned about crisis response  there is a lot of conflicting information that spills out. Important to await accurate facts and avoid falling for misinformation."

For law enforcement, Schneider said, it is always key to rule out other potential threats.

Schneider referenced the incident in Detroit involving an attempted Christmas Day bombing of Northwest Flight 253 in 2009 when he said law enforcement acted quickly to investigate if it was a bigger plot.

And he said that has to be the mindset of law enforcement right now during a presidential election where President Joe Biden and Trump and others are likely to continue doing campaign events. "They want to make sure no one else is at risk as well," Schneider said.

Law enforcement needs to identify all the potential threats, he said, and make sure those aren't real threats.

"Is this a lone wolf? Is this a solo actor?" Schneider said. "Or are there other conspirators involved? If there are, who are those people and where are they?"

Schneider served on the legal staff of President George W. Bush as senior advisor and assistant general counsel in the White House Budget Office. He also served in the Trump administration as U.S. attorney for the Eastern District of Michigan.

Schneider said he was in northern Michigan when he heard news of the shooting and thought it was awful. "I would hope that would be the same thought that every American had whether they are Republicans or Democrats."

Many Americans wonder how such a horrific shooting could take place at a campaign event. But Schneider said he's been aware of so many plots to murder federal officials that were foiled that he's surprised it took this long for shooting like this to take place.

"It's a good thing that it hasn't happened until now," Schneider said.

When he was U.S. attorney from 2018-2021, Schneider took part in investigating the plot to kidnap Gov. Gretchen Whitmer and worked on that case early on. "That's another example of a plot to kill and do harm to an elected official. That one was stopped before it happened."

In a highly charged election, some Trump supporters might be tempted to blame the Biden administration for falling short somehow, not picking up on some clues. But Schneider said people shouldn't go that route or think that way.

"This shooter is a lunatic," Schneider said. "That's the person to blame. I wouldn't blame anyone else."

A thorough Congressional investigation, he said, is likely to determine what mistakes, if any, might have been made. The key area to be investigated, he said, is whether the rings of security around Trump were wide enough for adequate protection.

Trump rallies and Biden campaign events, he said, aren't likely to end.

Its probably not going to stop people from going to Trump rallies," Schneider said. "In fact, people might be encouraged to go to show that theyre not afraid of intimidation.

Should people change the way they support their candidate? Take extra care wearing T-shirts or hats? Putting up lawn signs? Are individuals at more risk? Should we start looking at our lives differently?

After the Sept. 11 attacks, Schneider noted, then President Bush famously told the country that people needed to continue to live their lives. And he said the same would apply now when it comes to going about our routines and activities.

"If we change our lives dramatically, then we've scored a win for the terrorists who did this to us," Schneider said.

Contact Susan Tompor: stompor@freepress.com. Follow her on X (Twitter) @tompor.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Former US attorney: Whats next in Trump rally shooting probe
Sanctuary on the Green is a 212-unit, 41-acre residential development proposed by Solitaire Homes East LLC and Solitaire Homes LLC for northwest Fort Collins, north of Laporte Avenue and west of Taft Hill Road.

A Fort Collins-based group that successfully sued Fort Collins City Council over its approval of a new housing development is now suing the Colorado attorney general over a new law that would require groups like them to pay for local governments' legal costs if they lose their court cases.

The Sanctuary Field Neighborhood Network and five other plaintiffs allege the new law violates the First Amendment because it threatens would-be plaintiffs with "a potentially ruinous fee" if they choose to sue but lose.

House Bill 24-1107, now signed into law, is about court cases involving local land use decisions for residential developments of five units or more. Under that law, if a government entity is challenged in court about a land use decision  like the one City Council made to approve the Sanctuary on the Green development  then the plaintiff will have to pay the government entity's "reasonable" attorney fees. However, the law doesn't require a developer that loses a court challenge to pay attorney fees.

The Sanctuary Field Neighborhood Network prevailed in court when it challenged the council's decision, and a judge ordered a new hearing for the project, which has yet to occur.

But "Sanctuary Field Neighborhood Network is likely to face the decision of bringing (an) action if the same legal issues are not properly addressed again by the hearing officer," the lawsuit states.

Earlier this month, the group filed a lawsuit alongside Sanctuary Field spokesperson Miranda Spindel; Michael Wemple; Westside Watch; Integrity Matters; and The Daniels Welchester Neighborhood Association. Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser is named as a defendant, along with the city of Colorado Springs, because of an ongoing case there.

The lawsuit said the law's "evident purpose is to deter and obstruct access to federal and state court" and "targets a particular class of speech, which is antigovernment dissent speech."

"The act of filing a claim against a government land use decision is highly protected anti-government dissent speech that provides oversight of local government actions, even when not successful," the lawsuit states.

The law also violates the equal protection clause of the 14th Amendment, the lawsuit says, because while it imposes a burden on some who would seek to petition the government, it doesn't put the same burden on everyone, specifically a land use applicant who might challenge a government's rejection of their proposal.

The lawsuit says the legislation disproportionately affects low-income and BIPOC citizens because they have fewer means to hire an attorney or pay attorney fees and are more likely to be dissuaded from taking legal action.

The plaintiffs say any claims that the law is protecting the state's interest is a sham because Colorado already has a law awarding attorney fees for frivolous action in state court, and that includes land use claims.

The Coloradoan contacted the Colorado Attorney General's Office for a response about the lawsuit. The office does not comment on ongoing litigation, said Lawrence Pacheco, chief communications officer.

Sanctuary on the Green rehearing is Monday

The proposed Sanctuary on the Green development, which prompted Sanctuary Field's first case, isn't fully resolved because the rehearing the judge ordered hasn't happened yet.

That hearing has been postponed for months and is now set to occur at 5:30 p.m. Monday, July 15, at City Hall, 300 W. Laporte Ave., with a remote option.

Sanctuary on the Green is a 212-unit, 41-acre residential development proposed by Solitaire Homes East LLC and Solitaire Homes LLC for northwest Fort Collins, north of Laporte Avenue and west of Taft Hill Road.

Sanctuary Field network said the development went against the Northwest Subarea Plan, while a hearing officer and City Council said the city's land use code was the pertinent document. Judge Stephen Jouard ordered a new hearing in which both would be considered.

The project's plans call for a mix of modern farmhouse, midcentury modern and Craftsman-style homes of two to three stories. The project has been revamped a few times and is now in its fourth iteration. It was first proposed 15 years ago with 400 homes.

This article originally appeared on Fort Collins Coloradoan: Fort Collins Sanctuary Field network sues over Colorado land use bill
RAMLE, Israel (Reuters) - Four people were wounded, one critically, when a suspected attacker rammed into a bus stop in central Israel on Sunday, Israeli authorities said.

The suspect, who police said they believe to be a resident of east Jerusalem, was shot and "neutralized" by security forces at the scene, according to Avi Biton, the police central district commander.

"The terrorist, traveling east to west, ran over a number of Israelis at a bus stop - continued a few hundred meters, did a u-turn, and carried out another ramming attack at a bus stop," Biton said.

Police said they were searching the area, near the city of Ramle, for possible accomplices.

Violence has increased in Israel over the course of its military campaign in Gaza against Hamas which rampaged through southern Israel on Oct. 7.

(Reporting by Rami Amichay and Ari Rabinovitch; editing by Philippa Fletcher)
We recently compiled a detailed report on the 30 Wealthiest People in Switzerland. But in this article, we will look at the wealthiest person in Switzerland and take an overview of the countrys economy.

Overview of Switzerlands Economy

Switzerland ranks among the top economies by GDP per capita ranking in the world, standing at $92,000 as of 2022. The country remained resilient during the uncertainties of the pandemic, geopolitical tensions, and shifts in the energy marks across the globe. Inflation and unemployment in the country are low, with its residents boasting some of the highest living standards among OECD countries. This is primarily due to the countrys skilled workforce and market-based economy.

According to estimates by the International Monetary Fund (IMF)s World Economic Outlook released in April 2024, the countrys real GDP growth per annum stands at 1.3% as of 2024, with a GDP of $938.46 billion. With a 1.5% inflation rate and a 2.3% unemployment rate, Switzerland ranks among some of the most prosperous nations in the world. According to the latest OECD Economic Survey of Switzerland, the gross domestic product growth in the country is expected to remain moderate in 2024 at 0.9%, before eventually increasing to 1.4% in 2025.

Although inflation is presently down in the country, especially when compared to 2022 levels, it is anticipated to rise during 2024, driven primarily due to hikes in electricity and rent prices, along with fluctuations in value-added tax rates. However, inflation is expected to decline in early 2025 after this temporary hike. Switzerlands fiscal position is also strong, driven by its strong fiscal framework. The country has a public debt-to-GDP ratio of 37% as of 2023, which is low when compared to international standards. You can also look at 12 Cheapest Places to Retire in Switzerland.

Switzerland's Banking and Finance Sector

Switzerlands banking and finance sector makes it a leader in the domain. According to the latest study by BAK Economics, the financial sector makes up for 5.4% of the total jobs in the country, which translates to around 234,600 positions. It also accounts for 9.3% of the gross value added in the country, coming up to around CHF 70.9 billion. 7.6% of Switzerlands public revenue comes from banks and insurers, which translates to approximately CHF 7.8 billion. Several other industries also benefit from Switzerlands banking sector, primarily due to its demand for upstream services such as consulting, employee consumer spending, and IT. The industry employed around 213,600 employees from industries outside the financial sector, bringing in CHF 30.2 billion in additional value. This comes up to around 91 extra employment positions in other industries for every 100 jobs in the financial sector. All in all, the industry resulted in a gross value addition of CHF 101.1 billion in 2022, driven by a total workforce of around 448,200 people.

Estimates by the Swiss Banking Outlook survey published by the Swiss Bankers Association (SBA) show positive and improving economic circumstances for Swiss banks in 2024. The survey predicts a growth of 1.5% in 2024, with inflation standing at 1.6%. The interest margins and stock markets are also likely to exhibit positive trends. These positive trends are driven by prosperous banks in the country, such as UBS Group AG (NYSE:UBS), which is one of the largest banks in Switzerland. Headquartered in Zurich, the institution boasts a prominent position in all the major financial centers across the globe and is considered the largest private bank in the world.

UBS Group AG (NYSE:UBS) recently digested one of the largest acquisitions in the banking industry with its takeover of Credit Suisse AG, in 2023. The historic deal gave the bank a balance sheet two times larger than the size of the Swiss economy, quickly obliterating one of the two domestic giants in the Swiss banking industry. While numerous technical challenges related to the acquisition remain, UBS has successfully completed the initial stages of the merger, allowing the banks stock price to recover. Although the bank's IT integration process is underway, the acquisition has made history in the country's finance and banking industry.

Apart from this acquisition, UBS Group AG (NYSE:UBS) has also been integrating Artificial Intelligence into its services to remain on top of the changing industry trends. The bank went live with its pilot for instant credit in 2023, focusing on small and mid-sized companies that often require urgent liquidity. This AI-infused pilot holds the power to traditional credit officers, expediting and streamlining the otherwise tedious process for standard credit products. According to the Swiss bank, this pilot is only the first of the many AI-integrated advancements under focus by the bank.

UBS Group AG (NYSE:UBS) also releases annual wealth reports, highlighting global wealth trends. In the annual UBS Global Wealth Report 2023, Switzerland held the top spot with the average wealth of a Swiss adult coming up to $709,612. The report also showed that global wealth grew by 4.2% in US dollar terms across all wealth segments around the world in 2023. It fell by 3% in 2022, primarily because of dollar strength and volatile currency effects. The changed 2024 trend arose amid declining inflation, with experts at the Swiss bank expecting a continuing trend of the rise of individuals into higher wealth brackets across the globe in the long term.

Now that we have taken an overview of the Swiss economy, lets look at the wealthiest person in Switzerland. You can also look at 30 Wealthiest People in Australia and 30 Wealthiest People in Brazil.

The Wealthiest Person in Switzerland

Pixabay/Public Domain

Our Methodology

In order to compile a list of the 30 wealthiest people in Switzerland, we utilized the real-time billionaires data from Forbes and ranked the wealthiest people in Switzerland in ascending order of their real-time net worths as of 10th July, 2024.

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The Wealthiest Person in Switzerland

1. Gianluigi Aponte

Real Time Net Worth as of 10th July, 2024: $35.2 billion

Gianluigi Aponte ranks first on our list of the 30 wealthiest people in Switzerland with a net worth of $35.2 billion as of 10th July, 2024. He is the founder, owner, and chairman of the Mediterranean Shipping Company (MSC), the largest shipping line in the world. He and his wife Rafaela Aponte each own a 50% stake in the company. Gianluigi Aponte entered the shipping industry hand in hand with his wife when the duo purchased a single vessel shipping cargo between Africa and Europe. The company expanded over the years, eventually becoming the largest in the world. Based in Geneva, the Mediterranean Shipping Company operates a giant fleet of around 700 vessels.

Interested in learning which other people are considered the richest in Switzerland? Read our detailed report on 30 Wealthiest People in Switzerland to find out.

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A look at the history of presidential assassination attempts in America

FILE - President John F. Kennedy waves from his car in a motorcade approximately one minute before he was shot, Nov. 22, 1963, in Dallas. Riding with President Kennedy are first lady Jacqueline Kennedy, right, Nellie Connally, second from left, and her husband, Texas Gov. John Connally, far left. (AP Photo/Jim Altgens, File)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Before Saturdays attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting U.S. presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

A look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred over the decades:

ABRAHAM LINCOLN, the 16th president

Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington.

Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theater for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning. His support for Black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing.

Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

Lincoln was succeeded by Vice President Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot and killed on April 26, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

JAMES GARFIELD, the 20th president

Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a train station in Washington on July 2, 1881, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfields chest using a device he designed specifically for the president. The mortally wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Garfield was succeeded by Vice President Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

WILLIAM McKINLEY, the 25th president

McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Doctors had expected McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds.

McKinley died on Sept. 14, 1901, six months after opening his second term.

He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an unemployed, 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted to the shooting. Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on Oct. 29, 1901.

FRANKLIN D. ROOSEVELT, the 32nd president

Roosevelt, at the time the president-elect, had just given a speech in Miami from the back of an open car when gunshots rang out.

Roosevelt was not injured in the February 1933 shooting that killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak.

Guiseppe Zangara was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to death.

HARRY S. TRUMAN, the 33rd president

Truman was staying at Blair House, across the street from the White House, in November 1950 when two gunmen broke in.

Truman was not injured, but a White House policeman and one of the assailants were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House policemen were wounded.

Oscar Callazo was arrested and sentenced to death. In 1952, Truman commuted the sentence to life in prison. He was released from prison in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter.

JOHN F. KENNEDY, the 35th president

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

He was succeeded by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room aboard Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an airplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a snipers perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

GERALD FORD, the 38th president

Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Ford was on his way to a meeting with Californias governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at Ford. The gun wasnt fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

RONALD REAGAN, the 40th president

Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

GEORGE W. BUSH, the 43rd president

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

THEODORE ROOSEVELT, presidential candidate

The former president was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

Roosevelt had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in Roosevelts pocket apparently blunted the bullets impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the remainder of his life in mental hospitals.

ROBERT F. KENNEDY, presidential candidate

Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

GEORGE C. WALLACE, presidential candidate

Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.
Fresnos economy cannot thrive on agriculture and distribution centers alone.

The missing component is tech and in particular semiconductors, those tiny integrated circuits (sometimes referred to as microchips) that serve as the electronic brains of virtually all modern electronics.

The semiconductor industry directly employs more than 200,000 people in the United States, while also creating several times that many jobs through the multiplier effect.

But so far, practically none of those jobs, or the economic benefits they bring, have found their way to the San Joaquin Valley.

Opinion

Last week, during a semiconductor industry trade show in San Francisco, the cities of Fresno and Clovis, Fresno State and the Fresno County Economic Development Corporation took a significant step toward altering that narrative. Leaders signed a memorandum of understanding between themselves and two key industry players: SEMI, a global semiconductor manufacturing association; and Silicon Farms, an Atherton-based tech consultant group co-managed by a Fresno State alum.

The formal agreements goal, according to a media release, is to leverage the strengths of partners to bring new business and career opportunities to the Fresno region.

We need jobs but not just any jobs, Fresno City Councilmember Nelson Esparza said. We need jobs that pay a living wage, jobs that raise the median wage in the city and the region. Thats good for everybody. There are people who will never be involved with the semiconductor industry in this city that would benefit from the economic impact.

Each party has a role to play. The two cities and the Fresno County EDC agreed to support and enhance the development of high-tech business parks. Clovis already has a designated Research and Technology Park along Highway 168, while Fresno (at Esparzas urging) in 2023 adopted an incentive package designed to lure high-tech businesses built off the federal CHIPS and Science Act.

Fresno State pledged to review curriculum and course offerings at the Lyles College of Engineering to ensure they are aligned with the needs of the semiconductor industry. Also to explore the feasibility of training programs in support of the effort.

Semiconductor group backs partnership

SEMI, whose membership includes more than 3,000 companies worldwide, agreed to use its network to promote the efforts of both Silicon Farms and Fresno State. Also to endorse Silicon Farms as viable agents to promote semiconductor and other high-tech activities in Fresno and Clovis.

Finally, it is up to Silicon Farms (whose co-manager Gary Peacock and his wife Marlene donated $7 million to Fresno State in 2022) to develop a business park suitable for prospective companies.

Its been a community effort with both cities and Fresno State pulling together and figuring out what we have to do to be able to compete in this space, Fresno County EDC President/CEO Will Oliver said. This collaboration will really position the region to be part of the growing semiconductor industry, driving innovation and job creation.

Oliver, whose agency acts as the primary liaison between businesses, investors and local governments, said the agreement came together following a February visit to Fresno State by SEMI President/CEO Ajit Manocha.

That meeting between Ajit and the local partners, I think he walked away very impressed and inspired by the efforts that are underway here and the best way to cement that relationship was with this MOU, Oliver said.

Because semiconductor fabrication facilities require massive amounts of pure water (think millions of gallons per day), Fresno isnt well-suited for manufacturing.

Rather, Oliver said, the aim is to attract companies that operate in other parts of the semiconductor supply chain. Examples might include firms that are involved in their design, testing, packaging and distribution.

During the convention in San Francisco, leaders touted the regions proximity to the Bay Area and Los Angeles, two international ports (Long Beach and Oakland) as well as the daily flights to Phoenix from Fresno Yosemite International Airport.

For too long, the Central Valley has been too quiet about its strengths, Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer said in a news release. This partnership is a monumental step towards ensuring that the semiconductor industry knows the advantages of the area and the support for their industry.

High unemployment a help?

Fresnos unemployment rate for May 2024 was 7.2%, well above the national (4.0%) and state averages (5.2%). Strangely, that might actually give this area an edge when it comes to recruitment.

In some regions that already have significant tech investments, there are challenges with the unemployment rate and the difficulty in finding and retaining labor, Oliver said. So with the investments Fresno State has made in the engineering school, I think that has readied the workforce. I think when those companies do relocate to Fresno County theyll find theyre a magnet for that talent.

In December, less than two months after the Fresno City Council approved the tech incentive package, the Fresno County EDC announced semiconductor company Tynergy would relocate from Wyoming to Fresno, armed with a $15 million state tax credit.

Tynergys move remains in the site selection process, Esparza said. The company promises to create 500 new jobs with a starting salary of $70,000 (above Fresnos median household income of roughly $63,000) plus benefits like childcare, according to an EDC social media post.

I think Fresno and the Valley at large have always struggled with economic identity outside of agriculture, Esparza said. Agriculture is very important and needs to continue to grow. But in terms of diversifying and strengthening the economy, we need other industries to grow at a faster pace.

Fresno as a key link in the semiconductor supply chain? If it happens, in a way that doesnt further burden disadvantaged neighborhoods, well all be better for it.
What is the future for humans on our planet?

During the 20th century, growth, coupled with industrialization, has resulted in devastating climate changes and damage to animal and plant life but has fueled growth in economies, jobs and technological advances. Estimates are the global population passed 8 billion in 2022, and could peak at 9.7 billion by 2064.

Will human population continue to explode, resulting in economic growth but increasing the dangers of famines, wars, and global destruction of nature? Or over the next century will we see plummeting and aging populations?

On July 18, the Columbia Basin Badger Club will offer a fascinating online forum on these issues with Dr. Darrell Bricker, chief executive officer of Ipsos Public Affairs, the worlds leading social and opinion research firm.

Beginning in about 1950, global fertility rates (babies per woman) fell dramatically. Statistical analysis concludes that a minimum fertility rate of 2.1 per woman is required to maintain a stable population size. Between 1950 and 2021, the global fertility rate per woman fell from 4.8 to 2.2.

Predictions are that by 2100, 183 of the 195 countries will have total fertility rates below the replacement rate of 2.1. China had a population of 1.4 billion in 2022, making it the largest country in the world. Then the population began to decline. The United Nations projects that without a major increase in fertility rates Chinas population will drop to 1.3 billion by 2050 and to only 770 million by 2100.

Japan and South Korea have even worse projections, and in the United States the fertility rate has fallen to 1.6 and the Census Bureau expects that deaths will exceed births by 2038. Without continued immigration, our population would begin to decrease by 2042.

Shrinking and aging populations lead to smaller workforces, and larger burdens on health and social support systems. Already our aging population has resulted in projections of our Social Security system going bankrupt by 2033.

Why are mothers having fewer babies today? Are there any actions governments can take to reverse the trend? China, Japan, and South Korea have spent billions trying to encourage women to have more babies through cash subsidies, childcare services and infertility treatment but without success.

What are the ramifications, pros and cons, for the United States and can anything be done to ease the economic and quality of life impacts?

In 2019, Bricker and his co-author John Ibbitson, published their book Empty Planet: The Shock of Global Population Decline. Since then, there have been an ever-increasing number of books, studies, newspaper, and magazine articles on the subject.

Prior to joining Ipsos, Bricker was director of public opinion research in the office of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He holds a Ph.D in political science from Carleton University and lives in Toronto with his wife Nina and daughter Emily.

You can register for this event, which will include a Q&A session, at columbiabasinbadgers.com to receive a confirmation and links to join the Zoom forum and a half-hour Table Talk open-mic session afterward. Cost is $5 for nonmembers, while club members can join for free.

David Larkin is a retired nuclear engineering manager and a member of the Badger Club program committee. He spent his 41-year career at N Reactor and then Energy Northwest, operator of the Columbia Generating Station at Hanford.
Following the attempt on former President Trumps life at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, Georgia politicians posted their reactions on X.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp first posted a statement at 7 p.m.

We are all praying for former President Trump, his family, and everyone at the Pennsylvania rally.  Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) July 13, 2024

A couple of hours later he followed up with another post.

All Georgians join our fellow Americans in mourning the innocent life taken today at the Pennsylvania rally and praying for the attendees still receiving care. I am deeply thankful for the Secret Services swift action to keep former President Trump and rally goers safe.



This  Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) July 14, 2024

Early Sunday morning, Marjorie Taylor Green posted a video of the shooting taking place and the response from the Secret Service.

Only by the grace of God, did President Trump survive this assassination attempt. 



Watch this video closely. The poor people in the crowd screaming in terror and then their screams turn to cheers when President Trump stands with fist in the air.



pic.twitter.com/Y1C3PrcyQX  Marjorie Taylor Greene  (@mtgreenee) July 14, 2024

And Georgia Democratic Senators Jon Ossoff and Raphael Warnock condemned the shooting.

Sen. Ossoff Statement on Shooting at Trump Campaign Event. pic.twitter.com/N6un7NAcFG  Ossoff's Office (@SenOssoff) July 14, 2024

In America, we settle our political differences democraticallynot violently. I am deeply saddened by todays events in Pennsylvania. I condemn any violence aimed at former President Trump in the strongest terms, and pray for him, his family & our nation. We are better than this.  Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@SenatorWarnock) July 13, 2024

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Saturday night, just hours after the shooting, Trump posted a statement on Truth Social, saying, I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Georgia 10th Congressional District Representative Mike Collins took to X to blame President Biden for the shooting.

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination.  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

Early Sunday the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

Crooks was shot and killed by the Secret Service on the roof of a building near the rally where he fired the shots.

One person attending the rally was shot and killed and two other shooting victims were critically injured.

Those victims have not been identified yet.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
WASHINGTON (Reuters) - U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said on Saturday that he briefed President Joe Biden on the shooting at former President Donald Trump's rally.

"We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy. The Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation," Garland said in a statement.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; Editing by Caitlin Webber)
U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a gay Democrat from New York , is among a chorus of lawmakers calling for a thorough investigation into what the Federal Bureau of Investigation called an assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The shocking event in rural Butler has raised significant concerns over security measures at political events, prompting calls for accountability and improvements by lawmakers on both sides of the aisle.

Secret Service agents took down the gunman, who reportedly killed one spectator and injured others, including Trump.

Torres issued a statement emphasizing the need to investigate the security failures that allowed the incident to occur. The security failures surrounding the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate demand an investigation, Torres said. The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them, especially when those failures have implications for the Nation.

The incident took place shortly after Trump began his speech when multiple gunshots rang out, leading to chaos among the thousands of attendees. Video footage captures Trump reaching for his ear and crouching down as the sound of gunfire filled the rally. Blood could be seen on the right side of his face and ear as Secret Service agents swiftly surrounded him and escorted him off the stage.

According to a witness at the scene who spoke with BBC, bystanders saw the alleged gunman take up his position on the roof of an adjacent building. The witness said they tried to get the attention of law enforcement to no avail.

In response to the shooting, House Republican leaders announced they would hold a hearing with the Secret Service and other federal law enforcement officials. House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, called on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear before the hearing.

President Joe Biden , who cut short a weekend in Delaware to return to the White House. He addressed the nation from Rehoboth before flying back to Washington, D.C.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. We cannot allow this to be happening, Biden said. I want to thank the Secret Service and all the agencies involved in ensuring the safety of the people. The Trump rally should have been conducted peacefully without any problem.

Trump praised the Secret Service in a post on his social media platform Truth Social.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania, he wrote, Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. He said that he was shot in the ear.

Late Saturday, the Republican National Committee announced that the GOPs national nominating convention in Milwaukee would proceed as planned. It begins on Monday.

The FBI has requested that anybody with information or digital content related to the incident contact fbi.gov/butler .
General Staff: Russia has lost 559,090 troops in Ukraine since Feb. 24, 2022

Russia has lost 559,090 troops in Ukraine since the beginning of its full-scale invasion on Feb. 24, 2022, the General Staff of Ukraine's Armed Forces reported on July 14

This number includes 1,320 casualties Russian forces suffered just over the past day.

According to the report, Russia has also lost 8206 tanks, 15811 armored fighting vehicles, 20538 vehicles and fuel tanks, 15262 artillery systems, 1,119 multiple launch rocket systems, 890 air defense systems, 361 airplanes, 326 helicopters, 12,108 drones, 28 ships and boats, and one submarine.

Read also: Russian attacks across Ukraine kill 7, injure 29 over past day

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Cops have thwarted a sinister plot concocted by an 18-year-old New Jersey man to annihilate PSE&G substations, impacting the power grid.

Andrew Takhistov began communicating online with an undercover officer in January, according to federal investigators. The East Brunswick man is accused of soliciting another individual to destroy energy facilities in North Brunswick and New Brunswick in order to advance his white supremacist ideology.

Investigators allege Takhistov had asked the undercover officer online for advice on weapons and expressed an interest in traveling overseas for paramilitary-style training.

18-year-old Andrew Takhistov is accused of plotting to destroy NJ power substations. Christopher Sadowski

Takhistov allegedly sought help targeting a pair of PSE&G substations. Christopher Sadowski

Over the course of a seven-month period, Takhistov outlined his plans to sabotage PSE&Gs electrical infrastructure, according to authorities.

He also encouraged violence against different ethnic and religious communities, referenced Adolf Hitler and praised mass shooters, investigators allege.

Takhistov was arrested Wednesday at Newark Liberty International Airport, allegedly on his way to Ukraine to join the Russian Volunteer Corps when we arrested him on charges of recruiting an individual to destroy an electrical substation here in the United States in order to advance his white supremacist ideology, US Attorney General Merrick B. Garland said.

I am grateful to the FBI and the Joint Terrorism Task Force for their exceptional work disrupting this dangerous plot.

Takhistov allegedly took the undercover employee to the two electrical substations on two separate occasions in June and July, and discussed how to conduct an attack on an electrical substation.

He also asked the cop to take photos of the substations, indicating he wanted to send them to a friend in Russia.

We allege Takhistov, who is only 18 years old, planned to travel overseas so he could learn lessons from Russians fighting in Ukraine on how to destroy power grids and other critical infrastructure. His alleged conversations and planned actions are chilling and were inspired by racially motivated violent extremism, said FBI  Newark Special Agent-in-Charge James E. Dennehy.

Representatives of the Russian Volunteer Corps (RDK) are pictured during a briefing near the border in northern Ukraine. NurPhoto via Getty Images

Takhistov is charged with soliciting another individual to engage in criminal conduct.

He remains in police custody after appearing in court Friday. Plea information was unavailable.

If found guilty, he faces a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison and a $125,000 fine.
We can readily understand why investors are attracted to unprofitable companies. For example, although software-as-a-service business Salesforce.com lost money for years while it grew recurring revenue, if you held shares since 2005, you'd have done very well indeed. But the harsh reality is that very many loss making companies burn through all their cash and go bankrupt.

So should EcoSynthetix (TSE:ECO) shareholders be worried about its cash burn? For the purpose of this article, we'll define cash burn as the amount of cash the company is spending each year to fund its growth (also called its negative free cash flow). We'll start by comparing its cash burn with its cash reserves in order to calculate its cash runway.

Check out our latest analysis for EcoSynthetix

Does EcoSynthetix Have A Long Cash Runway?

A company's cash runway is the amount of time it would take to burn through its cash reserves at its current cash burn rate. As at March 2024, EcoSynthetix had cash of US$34m and no debt. Importantly, its cash burn was US$308k over the trailing twelve months. That means it had a cash runway of very many years as of March 2024. While this is only one measure of its cash burn situation, it certainly gives us the impression that holders have nothing to worry about. You can see how its cash balance has changed over time in the image below.

How Well Is EcoSynthetix Growing?

EcoSynthetix managed to reduce its cash burn by 91% over the last twelve months, which is extremely promising, when it comes to considering its need for cash. Unfortunately, however, operating revenue dropped 20% during the same time frame. Considering the factors above, the company doesnt fare badly when it comes to assessing how it is changing over time. Of course, we've only taken a quick look at the stock's growth metrics, here. You can take a look at how EcoSynthetix has developed its business over time by checking this visualization of its revenue and earnings history.

How Easily Can EcoSynthetix Raise Cash?

There's no doubt EcoSynthetix seems to be in a fairly good position, when it comes to managing its cash burn, but even if it's only hypothetical, it's always worth asking how easily it could raise more money to fund growth. Issuing new shares, or taking on debt, are the most common ways for a listed company to raise more money for its business. One of the main advantages held by publicly listed companies is that they can sell shares to investors to raise cash and fund growth. By looking at a company's cash burn relative to its market capitalisation, we gain insight on how much shareholders would be diluted if the company needed to raise enough cash to cover another year's cash burn.

EcoSynthetix's cash burn of US$308k is about 0.2% of its US$180m market capitalisation. That means it could easily issue a few shares to fund more growth, and might well be in a position to borrow cheaply.

How Risky Is EcoSynthetix's Cash Burn Situation?

As you can probably tell by now, we're not too worried about EcoSynthetix's cash burn. In particular, we think its cash burn reduction stands out as evidence that the company is well on top of its spending. While its falling revenue wasn't great, the other factors mentioned in this article more than make up for weakness on that measure. After taking into account the various metrics mentioned in this report, we're pretty comfortable with how the company is spending its cash, as it seems on track to meet its needs over the medium term. Separately, we looked at different risks affecting the company and spotted 2 warning signs for EcoSynthetix (of which 1 makes us a bit uncomfortable!) you should know about.

Of course, you might find a fantastic investment by looking elsewhere. So take a peek at this free list of companies with significant insider holdings, and this list of stocks growth stocks (according to analyst forecasts)

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team (at) simplywallst.com.



This article by Simply Wall St is general in nature. We provide commentary based on historical data and analyst forecasts only using an unbiased methodology and our articles are not intended to be financial advice. It does not constitute a recommendation to buy or sell any stock, and does not take account of your objectives, or your financial situation. We aim to bring you long-term focused analysis driven by fundamental data. Note that our analysis may not factor in the latest price-sensitive company announcements or qualitative material. Simply Wall St has no position in any stocks mentioned.

Have feedback on this article? Concerned about the content? Get in touch with us directly. Alternatively, email editorial-team@simplywallst.com
(WJBF)  Elected officials in Georgia are sharing their reactions to the shooting incident at Saturdays Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

Former President Donald Trump was injured in what authorities are calling an assassination attempt. Investigators state that the gunman, and a rally attendee, were killed in the incident.

Timeline of Trump rally shooting

Georgia Governor Brian Kemp issued a statement reading, All Georgians join our fellow Americans in mourning the innocent life taken today at the Pennsylvania rally and praying for the attendees still receiving care. I am deeply thankful for the Secret Services swift action to keep former President Trump and rally goers safe. This attempt on former President Trumps life is horrific and contrary to everything our nation stands for. In America, we settle political disagreements peacefully at the ballot box  not through heinous acts of violence. We must stand together to condemn what happened today, and remind ourselves that regardless of how we vote or what we believe, we are all Americans.

Sen. Raphael Warnock stated on X, In America, we settle our political differences democraticallynot violently. I am deeply saddened by todays events in Pennsylvania. I condemn any violence aimed at former President Trump in the strongest terms, and pray for him, his family & our nation. We are better than this.

Sen. Jon Ossoff stated, I join all Georgian and American in condemning this despicable act of violent and pray former President Trump makes a full recovery. I thank the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response. Political violence is never acceptable and can never be tolerated.

Rep. Rick Allen stated, Join me and Robin in praying for President Trump and anyone else who may have been injured today in Pennsylvania.

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr stated, What happened today is unconscionable. Violence has no place in the American political system. None. This attack and any like it cannot be tolerated. My prayers go to former President Trump and the others who may have been harmed.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has wished Donald Trump a speedy recovery after the former US president was shot in the ear during an assassination attempt in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

"Such acts of violence threaten democracy," Scholz wrote on the social media platform X on Sunday.

He added: "The attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable. I wish him a speedy recovery. My thoughts are also with all of those who were affected by the attack."

German Justice Minister Marco Buschmann also condemned the act. "Violence is never a legitimate means of resolving a political conflict. And it is completely irrelevant whether you like a candidate's political program or not," the minister wrote on X.

"Fortunately, Donald Trump survived the assassination attempt," he added.
German police deploy in force after three dead in domestic violence

Emergency services and police stand on a street during a suspected amok alarm in Albstadt-Lautlingen. Jannik Nolke/dpa

Police and emergency services assisted by helicopters deployed in force in Albstadt to the south of the German city of Stuttgart on Sunday after an incident in which three people were confirmed killed.

A police spokeswoman said that the deaths appeared to be related to domestic violence. The area around the incident has been cordoned off. Up to 40 police vehicles were seen at the scene.

The town of Albstadt lies some 60 kilometres south of Stuttgart in the Swabian Jura mountains in the south-western state of Baden-Wurttemberg.

Emergency services and police stand on a street during a suspected amok alarm in Albstadt-Lautlingen. Jannik Nolke/dpa
Global leaders expressed concern Sunday over an assassination attempt targeting former U.S. President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania that left one attendee dead and critically injured two others.

Trumps campaign said the presumptive Republican nominee was doing fine after being whisked off the stage though the shooting pierced the upper part of his right ear.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue.

As heads of state condemned the attack, Russian foreign ministry spokeswoman said American lawmakers should use the money allocated to supply weapons to Ukraine to finance the American police so as to ensure law and order.

Australia

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the inexcusable attack on the United States and Australias shared democratic values.

In Australia, as in the United States, the essence and the purpose of our democracies is that we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully, Albanese told reporters in the Australian Parliament House.

Austria

Austrian Chancellor Karl Nehammer said on X that he was appalled by the attempt.

Political violence has no place in our society! he said.

Brazil

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the incident unacceptable on X and said the attack must be strongly repudiated by all democracy defenders.

Canada

Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was sickened by the shooting and his thoughts were with Trump, those at the event and all Americans.

It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable, he wrote on X.

China

Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement that China is concerned about the attack and President Xi Jinping has already extended his sympathies to Trump.

Egypt

Egyptian President Abdelfattah El Sissi stressed his countrys condemnation of the attack in a statement and wished the US election campaigns to resume peacefully.

El Salvador

El Salvadors presidential palace said President Nayib Bukele condemned the attack on Trump.

There is no place for violence in a democracy, the Presidents office posted on X.

Estonia

Estonian Prime Minister Kaja Kallas posted on X saying she was shocked by the shooting and that her thoughts were with the victims.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron sent his wishes to Trump for a prompt recovery. It is a drama for our democracies. France shares the indignation of the American people, he posted on X.

Germany

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted on X saying the attack was despicable and such violent acts threaten democracy. My compassionate thoughts are also with the other people who were hurt in the attack, he said.

Hungary

Hungarys Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump in these dark hours on X.

India

Indias Prime Minister Narendra Modi he was deeply concerned by the attack on my friend.

Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies, he wrote on X.

Iraq

Masrour Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, condemned the attack in the strongest terms, saying on X his thoughts are with the victims of this senseless act of terrorism.

Israel

At the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he watched in horror, adding that the attack was also an assassination attempt on American democracy.

He said everyone in Israel was sending Trump a quick recovery and return to full strength.

Italy

Italian President Sergio Mattarella said in a statement the attack was a cause for serious alarm.

The violence that has... started to manifest again in the political sphere is a disconcerting symptom of the deterioration of the civil fabric and of the dangerous refusal of confrontation, dialogue and respect for democratic life, he said

Meanwhile, Italys Premier Giorgia Meloni wished Trump a quick recovery.

Japan

We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on X.

Mexico

Mexicos president Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador denounced the attack on X and said violence is irrational and inhumane.

Pakistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the shooting a shocking development. He said he condemned all violence in politics and wished the former president a swift recovery and good health.

Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans at present to call Trump, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

We do not at all think or believe that the attempt to eliminate presidential candidate Trump was organized by the current government, but the atmosphere that this administration created during the political struggle, the atmosphere around candidate Trump provoked what America is faced with today, he added.

Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry said earlier Sunday on her Telegram channel that American lawmakers should employ the money they use to supply weapons to Ukraine to finance the American police and other services which should ensure law and order within the United States.

South Korea

South Koreas President Yoon Suk Yeol said on X that he was appalled by the hideous act of political violence. He added the people of Korea stand in solidarity with Americans.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Secret Service tend to republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump onstage after he was grazed by a bullet at a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Butler county district attorney Richard Goldinger said the shooter is dead after injuring former President Trump, killing one audience member and injuring another in the shooting. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

U.S. Secret Service agents surround the stage as other agents cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump waves from the stage as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Law enforcement officers gather at campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

People sit in a local bar near the Fiserv Forum watching news ahead of the 2024 Republican National Convention, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee. Former president Donald Trump was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd.(AP Photo/Matt Rourke)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped into a vehicle at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

People take cover as U.S. Secret Service agents surround Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Slovakia

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who survived an assassination attempt in May, condemned the shooting in a Facebook post. He drew direct parallels between the two incidents, suggesting the attack on Trump was the result of a campaign by his political opponents.

Taiwan

Taiwans president Lai Ching-te said his thoughts and prayers are with Trump on X, adding that political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies.

Turkey

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the shooting on X, offering his good wishes to Trump, his family and supporters.

He said he believed the investigation into the attack will be conducted effectively so as not to undermine the US elections.

The European Commission

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was deeply shocked by the shooting on X, adding political violence has no place in democracy.

The Philippines

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said on X he was relieved to learn that Trump is fine and condemned the attack.

The voice of the people must always remain supreme, he said

Ukraine

Also on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was appalled to learn about the shooting, saying such violence has no justification. He added he was relieved to learn that Trump is safe.

Zelenskyy extended his wishes for strength to everyone who was horrified by the event.

United Arab Emirates

The UAEs Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack on Trump, describing it as a criminal and extremist act.

United Kingdom

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X that he was appalled by the shocking scenes, and sent his best wishes to Trump and his family.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, he said.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, a close ally of Trump, said on X it was a miracle the former president survived and that the attack reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason.

British lawmaker Nigel Farage, a friend of Trumps, sought to pin much of the blame on the mainstream media that he claimed opposed the former president. He told the BBC that it was a horrendous incident but somehow he was not shocked by it.

___

Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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The News

The news of a deadly shooting during former US president Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening shocked leaders across the Americas, while Europe and Asia woke up to what will likely be a dramatically changed US political landscape.

The reaction was a mix of horror at the incident, and questions  and, at times, conspiracy theories  about the state of US democracy. And world leaders, Trumps allies and critics alike, heatedly denounced the attack.

The View From Europe

Trumps admirers on the global right were among the first to react to the shooting.

Hungarian leader Viktor Orban, who recently met with Trump at Mar-a-Lago, posted on X: My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours.

Dutch politician Geert Wilders posted simply, #prayfortrump. The leader of the French far right National Rally party, Jordan Bardella, reacted by saying, Violence is the poison of any democracy.

Elsewhere, G7 leaders voiced strong condemnation.

French President Emmanuel Macron described the shooting as a tragedy for our democracies, adding in a post on X: France shares the shock and indignation of the American people.

I express my solidarity and wishes for a speedy recovery, with the hope that the coming months of electoral campaigning see dialogue and responsibility take the upper hand against hatred and violence, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni said in a statement.

The Holy See at the Vatican expressed concern on Sunday in a statement, and said it was a violent episode which injures people and democracy, provoking suffering and death.

Newly elected UK Prime Minister Kier Starmer wrote: I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

The international editor of German newspaper, Der Spiegel, wrote simply: We are at a terrible moment in history.

The View From Asia

Beijing expressed condolences in a brief statement issued by the foreign ministry, but speculation proliferated on the messaging platform WeChat over the motives for the attack, as well as its implications for this years election. In China, the top comment on a post by the state-run Peoples Daily amplified the phrase, America the free, every day a shooting. (Some enterprising online sellers quickly began selling souvenir t-shirts about the shooting on the shopping site Taobao, the South China Morning Post reported.)

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, in a post on X, said he was deeply concerned by the attack on my friend. He continued: Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people.

Japanese leader Fumio Kishida added: We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy. I pray for former President Trumps speedy recovery.

The View From Latin America

Javier Milei, the libertarian president of Argentina, took a conspiratorial tone by resharing a post on X that suggested globalists who were desperate to bring down Trump had tried to kill him. Meanwhile the strongman president of El Salvador, Nayib Bukele, posted a single word, Democracy? to X moments after the incident.

Trumps critics on the left in the region also denounced the attack. Weve been adversaries but I wish President Trump good health and long life, said Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro. I repudiate that attack. May god bless the people of the U.S. and give them peace and calm.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva said the attack should be vehemently repudiated by defenders of democracy, and the leftist president of Chile, Gabriel Boric, expressed unqualified condemnation.

The View From The Middle East

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on X: Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.

The View From Russia

Russia called on the US to take stock of its policies of incitement to hatred, and linked the shooting to Washingtons support for Kyivs efforts to repel Moscows full-scale invasion.

Notable
Tiny Trailblazers

Life, uh, finds a way  and apparently, so does a jumble of little strings of simple code.

In an experiment that simulated what would happen if you left a bunch of random data alone for millions of generations, Google researchers say they witnessed the emergence of self-replicating digital lifeforms. And their findings, published as a yet-to-be-peer-reviewed study, could mirror  or at least shed light on  the emergence of actual biological life.

"Managing to evolve self-replicating programs from random starting points is a great achievement," Susan Stepney at the University of York, UK, who was not involved in the study, told New Scientist. "This is definitely a great step towards understanding potential routes to the origin of life, here in a medium quite removed from the standard 'wetware' of biology."

Soup de Grace

Life on Earth likely began in a "primordial soup." Over billions of years and countless more tiny interactions, a random mixture of water and organic compounds eventually brewed the first organisms. What that exactly looked like is unclear, and it's a tricky idea to wrap your head around. How did chaos give birth to order?

"I don't think anything magic happened," study co-author Ben Laurie, a software engineer at Google, told New Scientist. "Physics occurred, and it just occurred a lot over a very long time, and it gave rise to some very complicated things."

Laurie and his team's simulation is a digital primordial soup of sorts. No rules were imposed, and no impetus was given to the random data. To keep things as lean as possible, they used a funky programming language called Brainfuck, which to use the researchers' words is known for its "obscure minimalism," allowing for only two mathematical operations: adding one or subtracting one.

The long and short of it is that they modified it to only allow the random data  stand-ins for molecules  to interact with each other, "left to execute code and overwrite themselves and neighbors based on their own instructions."

And despite these austere conditions, self-replicating programs were able to form.

Not Adding Up

Laurie told New Scientist that he believes the findings show that there are "inherent mechanisms" that allow life to form. But self-replication in itself is not life  we should also be seeing an increase in the complexity of the organisms, according to experts.

"The complexity, as they measure it, goes up after the onset of the self-replicator. But it's not clear that it 'takes off' in an interesting way," Richard Watson at the University of Southampton, UK, who was not involved in the study, told New Scientist. "Self-replication is important, but it would be a mistake to believe it's a magic bullet from which everything else that's exciting about life follows automatically".

Some of that may be due to practical limitations. Laurie believes that, given enough computing power  they were already pushing it with billions of steps per second on a laptop  they would've seen more complex programs pop up. Give it another go with beefier hardware, and we could well see something more lifelike come to be.

More on life's beginnings: Scientists Say Textbooks Are Wrong About How Life Exploded on Earth
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
We recently compiled a list of the 10 Best Industrial Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds. In this article, we are going to take a look at where Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) stands against the other industrial stocks.

Industrial stocks in the United States encompass a broad range of sectors including manufacturing, transportation, aerospace, defense, and construction. These sectors form the backbone of the American economy, driving innovation, employment, and growth. Companies within this category often engage in the production of machinery, equipment, and infrastructure essential for various industries. The performance of industrial stocks is closely tied to the overall health of the economy. Economic expansion typically boosts demand for industrial goods and services, while recessions can lead to contractions in this sector.

Recently, industrial stocks have shown resilience amid global supply chain disruptions and economic uncertainty, thanks in part to technological advancements and diversified service offerings. Advancements in automation, robotics, and artificial intelligence are transforming the industrial landscape. Companies are increasingly investing in smart manufacturing technologies to enhance productivity and reduce operational costs. Environmental concerns and regulatory pressures are pushing industrial firms toward sustainable practices. Companies are adopting greener technologies and renewable energy sources to meet regulatory standards and consumer expectations. Industrial stocks play a vital role in the US economy, offering a diverse range of investment opportunities. Understanding the dynamics of different sectors, keeping abreast of market trends, and evaluating economic indicators are crucial for making informed investment decisions in this space. With continued advancements in technology and a focus on sustainable practices, the industrial sector remains a critical and evolving component of the financial market landscape. Overall, industrial stocks returned close to 10% so far in 2024.

According to Federal Reserve Industrial Production and Capacity Utilization report, most major market groups saw gains in May. Consumer goods increased by 1.3 percent, driven by rises across all components except home electronics. Business equipment edged up by 0.2 percent despite a drop in transit, buoyed by gains in information processing and industrial sectors. Defense and space equipment rose by 1.0 percent, marking a nearly 10 percent increase from a year ago. The materials market group saw a 0.8 percent increase, with non-energy durables and non-energy nondurables each up by around 1 percent, and energy materials rising by 0.6 percent. In manufacturing, overall output rose by 0.9 percent in May, slightly above last year's level. Durable manufacturing increased by 0.6 percent, nondurables by 1.1 percent, and other manufacturing (publishing and logging) by 0.2 percent. Within durable manufacturing, notable gains were seen in wood products (up 2.6 percent), machinery (up 2.3 percent), and computer/electronic products (up 0.8 percent). Furniture and related products saw the largest decline (down 2.6 percent). In nondurables, printing and support activities decreased by 1.5 percent, while other categories saw gains. Mining output rebounded with a 0.3 percent increase in May, following declines in the previous two months. Oil and gas extraction rose, offsetting decreases in other mining and support activities. Utilities output grew by 1.6 percent, surpassing last year's level by 3.9 percent. Capacity utilization for manufacturing rose to 77.1 percent in May, slightly below its long-run average. Mining's operating rate reached 92.7 percent, well above its average, while utilities remained notably below their typical operating levels despite a slight increase to 71.5 percent.

Story continues

So, what are the best industrial stocks to buy in this current environment?

Our Methodology

We leveraged Insider Monkey's comprehensive database of 920 prominent hedge funds to identify the top 10 industrial stocks with the highest level of hedge fund investment as of Q1 2024. These stocks are listed in order of increasing hedge fund ownership, providing insight into the most popular industrial stocks among elite investors.

A healthcare professional in a lab coat holding a microscope and looking at a slide under the lens.

Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR)

Number of Hedge Funds Holders: 98

Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) ranks second on our list of best industrial stocks to buy according to hedge funds. During Q1, 2024 the count of hedge funds holding positions in Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) rose to 98 from 90 in the prior quarter, as reported by Insider Monkey's database encompassing 920 hedge funds. These holdings collectively amount to around $6.96 billion. Ken Fisher's Fisher Asset Management emerged as the leading shareholder among these hedge funds during this timeframe.

Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) announced that Executive Vice President Joakim Weidemanis will step down effective July 1, and will assist with the transition until September 30. The company and Weidemanis have a Transition Agreement ensuring he retains his current salary and is eligible for a pro-rated 2024 cash incentive compensation based on his target award. If terminated without cause during the transition, Weidemanis will receive his salary and pro-rated incentive for the entire period. Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) reported strong Q1 results with $5.8 billion in revenue and $1.92 in adjusted diluted EPS, driven by growth in bioprocessing and subsidiary Cepheid. TD Cowen raised the stock target from $280 to $290, maintaining a Buy rating, reflecting confidence in Danaher's Bioproduction, Diagnostics, and Life Sciences segments. Despite an expected slight revenue decline in 2024, Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) remains optimistic about its long-term outlook.

RGA Investment Advisors stated the following regarding Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) in its first quarter 2024 investor letter:

In our Q3 2023 commentary, we featured a section on our investment in Danaher Corporation (NYSE:DHR) entitled Purity in the Crown Jewel of Bioprocessing. Specifically, we were speaking to Cytiva, Danahers bioprocessing business formed by the merger of Pall Corp and GEs bioprocessing division. We will not repeat the features that attract us to bioprocessing in general, nor the elements of timeliness, though we will emphasize that our confidence in timeliness has actually increased since writing that piece. While Danaher has performed admirably ever since, its peer Sartorius, which was referenced by labeling bioprocessing an oligopolistic market, with a small number of critical players and extremely high barriers to entry.

Overall DHR ranks 2nd on our list of the best industrial stocks stocks to buy. You can visit 10 Best Industrial Stocks to Buy According to Hedge Funds to see the other industrial stocks that are on hedge funds radar. While we acknowledge the potential of DHR as an investment, our conviction lies in the belief that some AI stocks hold greater promise for delivering higher returns, and doing so within a shorter timeframe. If you are looking for an AI stock that is more promising than DHR but that trades at less than 5 times its earnings, check out our report about the cheapest AI stock.

READ NEXT: Analyst Sees a New $25 Billion "Opportunity" for NVIDIA and 10 Best of Breed Stocks to Buy For The Third Quarter of 2024 According to Bank of America.

Disclosure: None. This article is originally published at Insider Monkey.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stressed the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an assassination attempt and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisers to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage on July 13, 2024, for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Workers prepare the stage on July 13, 2024, for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

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GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention (RNC) at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The RNC will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention. Officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention, and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, is being investigated as an attempted assassination. The FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisers to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee, and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week, and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

The post GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage on July 13, 2024, for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18

Workers prepare the stage on July 13, 2024, for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

The post GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on Saturday, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images) (This image cannot be republished unless you have a Getty subscription.)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

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In a time of high prices for groceries, a program making fresh fruit and vegetables available aims to reach more qualifying seniors.

In 2023, income limits for Virginias Farm Market Fresh program were hiked to 185% of the federal poverty level, a change that could reach 70,000 more people, according to a news release from the Healthy Generations Area Agency on Aging.

By raising the threshold, we can reach more seniors, said Neal Tidman, client services coordinator for nutrition with Healthy Generations. Prices are going up and we need to be able to help them out.

The program assists older adults in accessing affordable produce through farmers markets. Participating farmers are able to exchange their goods for vouchers similar to coupons.

Throughout the growing season, seniors may exchange their vouchers at any participating farm stand at a local farmers market. According to Tidman, this program benefits both farmers and seniors, as farmers gain exposure and sell more of their products and seniors are able to save money on groceries and access fresh and healthy produce.

To be eligible for the program, an individual must be over 60 years of age, must be a resident of a locality that participates in the program, must not be living in the same household or be an immediate family member of a participating farmer and meet the income requirements. This year, the requirements are a monthly income at or below $2,322 for one person or $3,152 for two people.

C&T Produce co-owner Lisa DeBernard explained she is a big advocate for the program, as helping others is a big reason of why she wanted to be a participating farmer.

In previous years, DeBernard realized a large amount of seniors were having trouble accessing the markets, therefore making these important coupons unusable.

I started going around on my own time to the community centers, the senior centers where theyre at, DeBernard said. They [the community centers] make sure they have as many seniors as they can there so they can get what they need ... Im just proud.

Seniors who meet eligibility requirements can apply for the program in person at their local Area Agency on Aging or on the Farm Market Fresh webpage. Additionally, Tidman said that representatives from the agency occasionally come to senior apartment complexes and communities to encourage eligible seniors to join the program and applications may be completed on site.

Its a great program, Tidman said. If we are able to move all the coupons, we can apply for more in the future.

A full list of participating farmers may be viewed on on the Farm Market Fresh webpage.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

The post GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
GOP convention to go on as planned in Milwaukee, with Trump in attendance

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
Congressional Republicans are pledging investigations into and at least one hearing about the apparent assassination attempt against former President Trump at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, with attention directed mostly at the Secret Service.

THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) wrote in a post on the social media site X.

The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP, Johnson said.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer (R-Ky.) swiftly requested that Cheatle testify at a hearing about the shooting on July 22.

The tremendous bravery of the individual United States Secret Service agents who protected President Trump, eliminated the gunman, and possibly averted more loss of life cannot be overstated, Comer said in a letter to Cheatle on Saturday night.

Comer had also requested that the committee receive a briefing from the Secret Service about the shooting. The Secret Service agreed to that, a source told The Hill.

Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers, Comer said in a statement.

The House Homeland Security Committee also said in a post on X that it had been in contact with the Secret Service and requested an official briefing for its members.

We are grateful for the bravery and quick response of the Secret Service agents. We will be conducting thorough oversight to ensure the American people receive answers, the Homeland Security committee said.

Sen. Josh Hawley (R-Mo.) is pushing for a hearing on the matter in the Democratic-controlled Senate.

The Senate Homeland Security Committee must investigate this assassination attempt and attempted mass murder and get to the bottom of how it could have happened, Hawley posted on X on Sunday.

Sen. Rick Scott (R-Fla.) also called for a hearing in the Senate  and for it to occur before the August recess.

It is a miracle that President Trump is alive and well but absolutely inexcusable that the deranged would-be assassin had a direct line of sight to the former president and the leading candidate for President of the United States, Scott said in a statement. The U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs (HSGAC) has an oversight responsibility and an obligation to the American people to demand answers from DHS and the U.S. Secret Service on how this happened and what steps are being taken to investigate this assassination attempt and make sure it never happens again.

At least one Democrat is expressing support for a congressional probe.

I support the need for an investigation, Rep. Jared Moskowitz (D-Fla.), who is a member of the Oversight panel, posted on X.

Trump said in a statement that a bullet had pierced his right ear. Video of the rally shows Secret Service protection quickly covering the former president and rushing him off stage.

Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the Secret Service, said in a statement Sunday night that the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.

US Secret Service personnel quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured, Guglielmi said.

The Secret Service did not immediately respond to The Hills request for comment about the hearing invitation and briefing requests.

The FBI said in a statement later on Sunday that it had taken the role of lead law enforcement agency in investigating the incident.

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Former President Donald Trump shakes hands with Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin at a rally in Chesapeake, June 28, 2024. (Charlotte Rene Woods/Virginia Mercury)

Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkin and Virginia lawmakers reacted to the shooting at a July 13 campaign rally in Pennsylvania  where former President Donald Trump and two others were injured and two people, including the shooter, were killed  by denouncing political violence.

Youngkin thanked God for protecting Trump, he said in a statement Sunday afternoon and condemned this evil violence.

Yesterdays attempted assassination of President Trump was an action of pure evil  an affront against our morality, an affront against our liberty, an affront against the very foundations of our great nation. If we ever deem it acceptable, then we will lose our Republic, Youngkin wrote.

My statement following the assassination attempt of Former President Donald J. Trump: https://t.co/gCsWP18VBz pic.twitter.com/SEtASEmzVQ  Governor Glenn Youngkin (@GovernorVA) July 14, 2024

This is not Cuba. An attack on a U.S. presidential candidate is an attack on American democracy itself, Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, the son of a Cuban immigrant, posted on X.

House of Delegates Speaker Don Scott, D-Chesapeake, and Minority Leader Todd Gilbert, R-Shenandoah, together released a statement Saturday evening. Both said they were shocked and alarmed to learn of the shooting, and said they were praying for Trump and the victims.

In America, we settle political differences through free and fair elections. There is no place for violence in politics. Every American has the right to gather peacefully and participate in our political system, Scott and Gilbert wrote.

Virginia Senate Finance and Appropriations Chair Louise Lucas, D-Portsmouth, posted on X that she was disgusted by the events at the rally, and offered prayers for Trump and his family after the shooting.

Political violence has absolutely no place in our democratic systems, Lucas wrote.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Surovell, D-Fairfax, posted that political violence is not how we resolve elections in America, and thanked the Secret Service for protecting Trump and rally participants.

Trump was shot shortly after he began speaking at the rally in Butler. Trump said on Truth Social that a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear. Two other men were shot and injured, according to Pennsylvania State Police. Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, Pennsylvania, was attending the rally with his family when he was killed in the shooting.

On Sunday, the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, who is now dead. The agency is investigating the incident as an assassination attempt on Trump. The Pennsylvania Capital-Star reported that Crooks was a registered Republican, according to state voter records, and a Federal Election Commission filing showed he made a $15 donation on Jan, 20, 2021 to the Progressive Turnout Project, before he would have been old enough to vote.

The deadly shooting occurred days before the Republican National Convention, which starts Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to speak at the convention and will be formally deemed the partys presidential nominee on Thursday. Officials said Sunday that the convention is expected to continue as planned.

President Joe Biden, flanked by Vice President Kamala Harris and Attorney General Merrick Garland, gave remarks from the White House on Sunday, calling the attack on Trump contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Biden, who is campaigning against Trump in an increasingly heated presidential race, appealed to the nation for unity and said there would be an independent review of the shooting.

Officials will assess exactly what happened and well share the results of that independent review with the American people as well, Biden said.

He also directed the Secret Service to review security measures ahead of the four-day Republican convention.

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DUCK, N.C. (WNCN)  A great white shark tagged and tracked by the nonprofit research organization OCEARCH recently surfaced in the Atlantic Ocean off North Carolinas Outer Banks.

According to OCEARCH data, a 12.3-foot long, 1,644 pound adult male white shark named Scot last pinged in the waters off Bodie Island at 10:56 p.m. Friday. He started pinging in the area shortly after 10:30 a.m. Friday and surfaced several times, with the last one coming late at night.

OCEARCH data showing great white shark Scots latest ping. (OCEARCH)

Prior to that, Scots last ping was around noon on April 13 offshore from St. Augustine, Florida. OCEARCH data also shows the sharks last visit to North Carolina waters was on November 25, 2023, when he surfaced southeast of Southport.

A prolific pinger, Scot has been tracked since September 8, 2021, when he was tagged off Ironbound Island, Nova Scotia. His travels over the last few years have mostly been up and down the eastern seaboard of North America with a couple of treks into the Gulf of Mexico between Florida and Cuba in 2022 and 2023.

According to OCEARCH, Scot was the first great white shark sampled during 2021s Expedition Nova Scotia and was the 74th overall that the group tagged, sampled and released in the northwest Atlantic Ocean. Scot was named by OCEARCHs partners at SeaWorld and was named after the people of Nova Scotia.

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Will guns be allowed at the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee or in the security zone? Here's what Wisconsin law says.

Just days before his expected confirmation as the Republican Party's presidential nominee in Milwaukee, former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage  his ear and face streaked with blood  after an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement that the suspected shooter, now dead, fired multiple shots toward from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.

The shooting comes two days before the Republican National Convention is set to convene in Milwaukee.

Here are the rules on guns for the event.

Will guns be allowed at the RNC?

Guns will not be allowed inside Fiserv Forum or other buildings where RNC events are set to take place, or in the "hard perimeter" around the convention, where credentials are required for entry, aside from those those possessed by working law enforcement officers, according to Secret Service spokesperson.

Most guns, however, will not be banned in the area immediately outside the RNC perimeter, known as the security "footprint," because the city is prevented by state law from enacting such a ban.

Wisconsin law prohibits Milwaukee, local governments from regulating legal firearms

Wisconsin law prevents the city of Milwaukee, and all local governments "from prohibiting the possession or carrying of legal firearms," City Attorney Evan Goyke told the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel in May.

"Municipalities cannot regulate firearm possession beyond regulations in state statute," Goyke wrote in May.

A Milwaukee alderman in the lead-up to the convention sought to ban guns within the security footprint following revelations that a city ordinance would allow most firearms but prohibit typically innocuous items in the area.

The ordinance enacted ahead of the RNC prohibits bringing into the footprint "any dangerous ordnance, weapon, or firearm that is prohibited by the laws of the state of Wisconsin under" specific statutes that reference machine guns and other weapons; short-barreled shotguns and short-barreled rifles; and silencers.

Ald. Robert Bauman argued the state law was not written with an event like the RNC in mind, but his effort failed to gain traction on the council.

Earlier this week, another Milwaukee alderman's proposals to prohibit bump stocks in the city and increase city penalties for disorderly conduct while armed with a dangerous weapon failed to move forward. The bump stock proposal was determined to be illegal under state law by the City Attorney's Office, and the disorderly conduct proposal was held in council after a lengthy and heated discussion.

REACTIONS: RNC delegates, Milwaukee residents comment on Trump assassination attempt

What are Wisconsin's laws on guns?

In Wisconsin, like under federal law, convicted felons may not own guns. People under certain types of court orders related to mental health and addiction are also banned from possessing guns here, as well as people under certain types of restraining orders related to abuse or harassment.

Background checks are required to purchase a firearm from a federal firearms licensed dealer and to apply for a concealed carry license in Wisconsin.

Carrying a concealed weapon in Wisconsin is legal for individuals over age 21 who have met the state's requirements, which include training and a background check.

OPINION: We want to hear your thoughts about the shooting at the Trump rally

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Will guns be allowed at the 2024 RNC, or Milwaukee security zone?
Hamas says it has not left ceasefire talks after Israeli attacks

Aftermath of an Israeli strike at a tent camp in Al-Mawasi area in Khan Younis

By Nidal al-Mughrabi and Maayan Lubell

CAIRO/JERUSALEM (Reuters) -A senior Hamas official said on Sunday that the Islamist group has not withdrawn from ceasefire talks with Israel after this weekend's deadly attacks in Gaza that Israel said had targeted the group's military leader Mohammed Deif.

But Izzat El-Reshiq, a member of the political office of Hamas, accused Israel of trying to derail efforts by Arab mediators and the United States to reach a ceasefire deal by stepping up its attacks in the enclave.

Saturday's strike in the Khan Younis area of Gaza, in which at least 90 Palestinians were killed, according to local health authorities, has put the ceasefire talks in doubt.

There had been increasingly hopeful signs in recent days that a deal could be reached to halt fighting and return hostages held in Gaza.

Two Egyptian security sources at ceasefire talks in Doha and Cairo said on Saturday that negotiations had been halted after three days of intense talks.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was expected to convene his close circle of ministers later on Sunday to discuss the talks.

The strike on Saturday which targeted Deif killed Rafa Salama, commander of Hamas' Khan Younis brigade, the Israeli military said on Sunday, but there was no confirmation about the fate of Deif.

"The strike in Khan Younis was a result of surgical intelligence," the head of the Shin Bet domestic security service said in a video released by the service from Rafah. He said 25 Hamas operatives who took part in the deadly Oct. 7 attack in southern Israel that triggered the war had been killed in the past week.

On Saturday, a senior Hamas official denied that Deif had been killed and the group said Israeli claims were aimed at justifying the attack.

Israel's military chief said on Sunday in a televised statement that Hamas was concealing the truth about Deif's fate, but stopped short of confirming whether he was alive or dead.

Israeli forces pressed ahead on Sunday with aerial and ground shelling of several areas across the Gaza Strip, home to 2.3 million people, most of whom have been displaced by the war.

A strike on a UN-run school in Nuseirat camp, one of Gaza's eight longstanding refugee camps, killed 15 Palestinians and wounded dozens more, Hamas media and health officials said.

The Israeli military said the site was used as a base for Hamas fighters to attack Israeli forces and said numerous steps were taken to limit the risk of harming civilians, including the use of precise munitions and intelligence.

Residents said two missiles targeted the upper floor of the school, not far from the camp's local market, usually busy with shoppers, where displaced families have also taken shelter nearby.

Earlier on Sunday, Israeli airstrikes on four houses in Gaza City killed at least 16 Palestinians and wounded dozens of others, medics said.

The Gaza health ministry said at least 38,584 Palestinians have been killed and 88,881 others injured in Israel's military offensive since Oct. 7.

It added that 141 Palestinians were killed by Israeli military strikes across the Gaza Strip in the past day, the biggest one-day death toll in many weeks.

Gaza's health ministry does not distinguish between combatants and non-combatants but officials say most of the dead throughout the war have been civilians.

Israel says it has lost 326 soldiers in Gaza and says at least a third of the Palestinian fatalities are fighters.

The war began after a Hamas-led attack inside Israel on Oct. 7, that killed 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and saw around 250 taken hostage to Gaza, according to Israeli authorities.

(Reporting by Nidal al-Mughrabi and Maayan Lubell; Editing by Hugh Lawson and Ros Russell)
(NEXSTAR)  On Saturday evening, former President Donald Trump was rushed off the stage of a campaign rally after apparent gunshots rang out and he appeared to be injured. While the Trump campaign said Trump is fine, the incident sent major shockwaves through the political world.

An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania, the U.S. Secret Service said in a statement on Saturday. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

Sanders calls on Democrats to drop calls for Biden to withdraw in NYT op-ed: Enough!

Unfortunately, the possibility of a presidential candidate being assassinated or harmed isnt new to campaigns. In 1912, former President Teddy Roosevelt was shot during a campaign speech in Milwaukee  though the bullet lodged in Roosevelts chest, the former president immediately removed a bloody 50-page speech he had tucked where the bullet entered, which he credited with his survival. He finished his speech with a bullet inside him.

A much more serious incident happened on June 6, 1968, when Democratic presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy was shot several times in Los Angeles. Kennedys gunman was captured, and Kennedy was pronounced dead the next day.

As far as presidents go, every modern president has survived potential assassination attempts and/or planned incidents, including Trump. In 2017, the Secret Service thwarted a reported plan by an Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant (ISIL) affiliate to attack Trump during the 2017 ASEAN Summits in the Philippines.

Biden briefed on apparent shooting at Trump rally

While there arent rules governing what happens if and when a presidential candidate is assassinated, there is general guidance about what happens if a candidate dies. The Brookings Institution explains that it depends on when a candidate dies or is unable to participate in their elections.

If primaries have not been held yet, a particular party might need to push back the events to allow a new pool of candidates to step into the arena. If a convention has already selected a candidate who ends up being unable to run, that particular party would then need to select someone new  and both the Republican National Committee and the Democratic National Committee have different ways of going forward.

On Saturday, Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldfinger said one rally attendee was killed and the suspected gunman was also dead, according to AP.

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The work is hot; the gear is heavy; the terrain is unforgiving. When temperatures soar, firefighters  like this U.S. Forest Service crew seen battling the Basin fire  have an even tougher job. (David Swanson / AFP via Getty Images)

When a wildfire started in the mountains of Fresno County late last month, much of California was on the cusp of a heat wave that would go on to smash records both for its intensity and duration. Over the next week and a half, as the Basin fire swelled to more than 14,000 acres and temperatures in the area reached 112 degrees, at least nine firefighters were treated for heat-related illness. Four were taken to local hospitals, three of them airlifted from the fire line.

As the heat wave stretched on, the incident management team overseeing the fire formed a working group to deal with the extreme conditions. They provided firefighters with electrolytes to add to their drinking water and cooling towels to place on their necks.

And on July 5, in what may have been a first in the state, they constructed five generator-powered, air-conditioned yurts  three out on the fire line and two at the incident command post  to be used as emergency cooling stations.

Ive been doing this for over 35 years, and I can tell you that I have never seen this done before, said Mike Lindbery of the U.S. Forest Service, public information officer on the Basin fire. The heat has caused this team, which is basically coming in to solve problems, to look at a different aspect of problem solving.

Much attention has been paid to the ways in which extreme heat ratchets up the risk of wildfire and intensifies its behavior, resulting in longer, more destructive fire seasons. But perhaps just as vexing are the challenges heat poses to the health of firefighters themselves, who already perform backbreaking work saddled with heavy equipment in unforgiving terrain.

On Tuesday, Daniel Foley, 27, a first-year Forest Service firefighter assigned to the Bly Ranger District in Oregon's Fremont-Winema National Forest, collapsed after completing a fitness test and died at a local hospital. It's not yet clear whether heat was a factor. The area was under a heat advisory, with afternoon temperatures in the mid-80s to 90s, depending on the elevation, according to the National Weather Service.

"Its one of the hottest years on record for me so far, that I can remember," said Mike Noel, assistant director of risk management for the Forest Service's Pacific Southwest Region. He has been a wildland firefighter for 38 years. "All agencies have had multiple heat-related injuries this year."

The team overseeing the Basin fire in Fresno County constructed air-conditioned yurts to be used as emergency cooling stations for firefighters earlier this month. (California Complex Incident Management Team 11)

California has seen an uptick in heat-related illness among firefighters over the last 10 days or so coinciding with the elevated temperatures, he said. Seven firefighters assigned to the Lake fire in Santa Barbara County were treated for such illnesses on Thursday alone, he said.

At least four firefighters suffered from heat-related illness while fighting the Thompson fire in Butte County on July 2, and at least one on the Sharp fire in Ventura County on July 3, according to public information officers for those fires.

This is extreme heat throughout the West, and its possible whole crews are being affected, said Timothy Ingalsbee, former wildland firefighter and executive director of nonprofit Firefighters United for Safety, Ethics, and Ecology.

Wildland firefighters wear about 50 pounds of personal protective equipment, including a helmet, safety goggles and a personal pack containing water and equipment, said David Acuna, battalion chief of communication for the southern region of the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.

They may also carry a 25-pound hose pack, as well as hand tools like chain saws or nozzles. And they often must hike to remote locations and then perform physical labor once they get there, which can include digging fire lines, putting in hose lays and taking vegetation down to bare mineral soil to stop the fire spread  all as they breathe in smoke, dust and debris.

Its claustrophobic, sometimes, because it seems like you cant escape from the heat and smoke," Acuna said.

Cal Fire firefighters typically work 24-hour shifts, followed by 24 hours off in order to rest and refuel, he said. During those 24 hours on, breaks can be elusive. If we can catch a quick cat nap in the engine, thats great, but most of the time we stay engaged, he said.

Read more: The battle to save Michael Jackson's Neverland Ranch from destructive Lake fire

Breaks were once openly frowned upon  its that tough, macho culture, said Riva Duncan, former wildland firefighter and vice president of Grassroots Wildland Firefighters, an advocacy group made up of retired and current federal firefighters.

But for many, a wake-up call came in 2011, when Bureau of Land Management firefighter Caleb Hamm, 23, died from exertional heatstroke on a fire in Texas, becoming just the second reported federal wildland firefighter to do so. A U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report with recommendations for better protecting firefighters was widely distributed.

The incident raised awareness among superintendents, crew leaders and engine captains about early indicators of heat illness, and encouraged firefighters to speak up when theyre not feeling well, Duncan said. Many crews now have EMTs who carry extra electrolytes and cooling blankets and are trained to spot the early warning signs of heat illness, which can include cramps, weakness, nausea and fatigue, she said.

Firefighters walk along a hillside with scorched ground behind them in Mariposa, Calif., on July 5. (Noah Berger / Associated Press)

Still, climate change has resulted in an ever-shifting baseline for what conditions firefighters can expect, including more intense, longer-lasting heat waves.

Were not even at the halfway mark in July, Duncan said. These extreme heat situations started early.

People need to understand that fires are behaving differently than they used to, she added. Its not easy to put them out because theyre burning under different conditions than 10, 15 years ago.

In California, as of Friday, 3,630 wildfires had burned 228,756 acres, compared with a five-year average of 3,743 fires and 111,813 acres over the same time frame, Acuna said.

The fires are much, much more aggressive, he said, attributing this to the heat and dryness, as well as the abundance of grasses and other fuels, which were stoked by two wet winters and left largely untouched by two mild fire seasons.

Read more: California's inmate firefighter crews are dwindling just as the state starts to burn

Members of the Redding Hotshots, an elite crew of Forest Service firefighters, are used to dealing with sweltering summer heat. But this season has been punishing even by their standards. They recently fought fires in both the Tahoe and Modoc national forests, where temperatures were in the 100s.

Its always hot on fires, but it seems like this year so far has definitely been about dealing with temperatures over 100, if not more, said hotshot superintendent Dan Mallia.

Forest Service fire crews typically work up to 16-hour shifts, followed by eight hours of rest that are often spent sleeping outside. Although Mallia said breaks can be hard to come by, depending on how a fire is behaving, he says he encourages his members to hydrate, eat well and find shade when they can.

He noted that crews acclimate to the heat by training in it, but that its difficult to fully prepare for such extreme conditions.

At the end of the day when you get out on a fire, its a little different, he said. There's a lot of stuff going on as far as the work, the stress, the smoke, the heat, the fire  all that stuff definitely ramps up.

Complicating matters, wildland firefighters are often sent to work in unfamiliar areas, which can make them feel the effects of extreme heat more acutely, said Max Alonzo, national business representative for the National Federation of Federal Employees and a former wildland firefighter who worked for the Forest Service for most of his career.

"I have seen people really struggle when they show up to different climates and different topography that theyre not used to, where theyre not used to the elevation, they're not used to the weather," he said. "Were a national resource, so theyre going to go all over the country."

He said that agencies could do more to proactively protect firefighters from the heat, including erecting cooldown areas on fire lines. Although he applauded the use of cooling yurts on the Basin fire, he said it's not normal practice. Normal would be, "Hey, make sure you tell people to stay hydrated," he said.

More could also be done to alternate crews  pulling firefighters off the line and letting them cool down before moving them back in, he said.

Read more: Thompson fire conjures traumatic memories for Camp fire survivor who lost everything but her life

Cal Fire has already made changes to its personal protective equipment in response to rising temperatures, including transitioning to single-layer pants and removing colored ink from wildland jackets and undershirts in response to evidence that it increased the heat levels of the firefighters wearing them.

Federal agencies and many state and municipal departments have also begun to use drones to scout ahead of a fire or ignite backfires, lessening the burden on firefighters who would otherwise have to hike in on foot.

And wildland firefighters in hotter climates sometimes work bimodal shifts  toiling in the morning hours, then pulling back during the heat of the day and getting back out as things cool down in the evening, Mallia said.

Still, some say more changes may be necessary as the planet continues to warm. That could include sending more firefighters to an incident so they can distribute the workload more evenly, or placing more emphasis on nighttime operations.

The conditions also illustrate the increasing prudence of managing some backcountry fires for ecological benefit, treating them more like controlled burns rather than trying to immediately suppress them, Duncan said. That benefits the environment, and it protects the physical health of firefighters by permitting them to focus on fires threatening people or structures, she said. The idea remains politically unpopular, she noted.

It will also be increasingly key to set more controlled fires in the spring and fall to reduce the amount of fuel on the ground come summer, Ingalsbee said.

Big picture, were going to have to be proactively managing fire during the cooler period of the year, rather than attacking all fires at the hottest period of the year, when we fail, and we surpass human physical ability for working in these kinds of conditions, he said.

One thing appears certain: These conditions are unlikely to improve.

I got a desperate call this morning from one of our members just like, When is this going to end?  he said Wednesday. The heat is not ending. Were just going to have to adapt to the new normal, whatever that is.

Read more: 'A fire year': California wildfires have burned more than 20 times as much land as last year

This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
How to help the San Carlos Apache Tribe after wildfire devastation

The Watch Fire has devastated the San Carlos Apache Tribe community, destroying at least 13 homes and leaving 75 people homeless.

A day after the fire ignited, the San Carlos Apache Tribe declared a state of emergency on July 12. They requested disaster assistance and urged those affected by the fire to evacuate to donation centers at San Carlos High School and Apache Gold Casino and Resort.

The devastation of the fire extends far beyond the reservation. In Phoenix, efforts have been underway since early Friday morning to gather and ship supplies to San Carlos. Indigenous activists and other organizers from across the state quickly mobilized to deliver water, clothing, first aid kits, food, and other essential items to the reservation.

Lending a Helping Hand

Reva Stewart, a Navajo activist and owner of Shush Dine, a Native shop on North 16th Street, showcases jewelry, books, and other items highlighting Native culture in the front of her store. However, a look into the back room reveals stashes of water, clothing, and other supplies set aside to assist people living on the streets of Phoenix.

Friday morning provided another opportunity for Reva Stewart to help those in need and support her community. She has been collaborating with Stolen People, Stolen Benefits, and other organizations to gather supplies, along with accepting individual donations. Stewart noted that the community has been eager to contribute, with some visitors to her shop on Friday having family members on the reservation.

She emphasized the importance of coming together, noting that the reservation already faces a lack of resources. The dryness of the area causes brush fires to spread quickly, and due to the remote locationabout two hours from Phoenixsome people do not have vehicles to evacuate.

Reva said her own tribe is only just starting to gain access to a 911 emergency system, and many other reservations face the same problem.

"I think if the state and tribal governments stood up and made it work, it would work," she said.

Stewart sent out a truckload of donations Friday morning, and will continue taking donations until at least Monday, depending on what more is needed, she said.

As the sun set on Friday evening, trucks from the San Carlos Apache Veteran's Association arrived to load more boxes of supplies and pallets of water. By the end of the day, approximately 150 cases of water, along with tents and portable air conditioning units, had been shipped out.

Rebuilding the damage caused by the fire will require a collective effort from the Native community, Stewart said. She pointed out that it can be difficult for people to grasp the extent of the need for assistance due to the misconception that tribes receive ample government funding. In reality, much of the revenue from Native casinos goes towards paying off interest rather than directly benefiting Native people.

"It makes it harder for people because nobody wants to help," said Stewart. "They think 'oh, well, you've got the casino, so that should help you. But that's never the case."

As volunteers finished loading the last round of shipments Friday, hugs and laughs were shared as Stewart and other volunteers reflected on the importance of teamwork. It had been a long day, but their commitment to helping their communities was steadfast.

Before the Veteran's Association left for the final trip of the day, the group came together and joined hands, saying a prayer for those who had lost everything.

How you can help: Places to donate across the Valley

The supplies most needed include cookware, non-perishable food, hygiene items, baby care supplies such as diapers and formula, portable fans, cell phone chargers and pet items. Dozens of locations in Phoenix and across the Valley are accepting donations over the weekend and into next week.

While most donation centers are accepting any items people can spare, the Office of the Chairman for the San Carlos Apache Tribe is specifically seeking campdresses, traditional garb worn by Apache women. These dresses are bright, colorful, and intricately embroidered, holding significant cultural value. Those with gently used or new campdresses can send them to the following address: Office of the Chairman San Carlos Apache Tribe PO Box 0 San Carlos, AZ 85550

Places to donate food and other items include:

Apache Gold Casino Bingo Hall: 777 Geronimo Springs Blvd., San Carlos, AZ 85550. Food and beverage donations are being directed to the bingo hall, while clothing and hygiene supplies are being taken at the hotel. Animal care items can go to the pavilion.

San Carlos High School: 860 US-70, Peridot, AZ 85542.

Burdette Hall: San Carlos Ave. & Yavapai St., San Carlos, AZ 85550.

Superstition Harley-Davidson dealer: 2910 W. Apache Trail, Apache Junction, AZ 85120.

Shush Dine: 3449 N. 16th St. Phoenix, AZ. Taking donations 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Until at least Monday, July 15.

San Carlos Apache Tribe Emergency Response Commission: Taking donations until further notice. Contact 928-475-2008; kevin.cassadore@scat-nsn.gov

Kayenta Chapter House: Accepting donations 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 15. Contact 602-718-9132

2500 E. Cooley St., Show Low, AZ 85901. Accepting baby supplies July 15 and 16.

1107 S. Maverick Ave., Whiteriver, AZ 85941. Accepting baby supplies July 15 and 16.

McNary Hondah Community Board: Accepting donations 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. until Tuesday, July 16. Contact 928-207-6434 for drop-off locations.

Chinle Flea Market: BIA-102, Navajo Nation, AZ. Taking donations 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday, July 15. Not accepting clothing donations.

Dine College Tsaile Campus: 1 Circle Drive, Route 12, Tsaile, AZ 86556. Donations accepted 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. at Spruce Hall through July 18.

San Carlos Healthcare Warehouse: 103 Medicine Way, Peridot, AZ 85542. Accepting donations 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through July 14.

Hopes Frybread: 144 S. Mesa Drive, Mesa, AZ 85210. Accepting donations 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. through July 14.

Nurd Berger Cafe: 420 S. Hill St., Globe, AZ. Taking empty box donations to organize donated products.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: How to help after damage from Watch Fire in eastern Arizona
Suspect came within inches of killing Trump, but left few clues as to why

Suspect came within inches of killing Trump, but left few clues as to why

By Gabriella Borter, Nathan Layne and Tyler Clifford

BETHEL PARK, Pennsylvania (Reuters) -The portrait pieced together so far of the 20-year-old nursing home aide who allegedly tried to assassinate Donald Trump at an election rally reveals frustratingly little about why he would make such an attempt - or how he managed to come so close to killing the former president.

The early details that have emerged about Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was shot dead by law enforcement, show a young man working an entry-level job near his hometown in Pennsylvania, where he graduated from high school in 2022 with a reputation as a bright but quiet classmate. His high school counselor described him as "respectful" and said he never knew Crooks to be political.

The FBI said on Sunday that Crooks' social media profile does not contain threatening language, nor have they found any history of mental health issues. They said he acted alone and have not identified a motive.

What is unique about Crooks - when compared to other recent shooters who opened fire at schools, churches, malls and parades - is that he came within inches of killing a presidential candidate.

On Saturday afternoon, Crooks slipped onto a rooftop location 150 yards (140 meters) from the stage where Trump was speaking in Butler, Pennsylvania. He then began firing an AR-15-style semiautomatic rifle, purchased by his father, officials said.

The gunfire killed a 50-year-old man, critically wounded two other spectators, and struck Trump's ear - an assassination attempt that has further inflamed an already bitter U.S. political divide. The FBI said it was probing the shooting as "an assassination attempt and potential domestic terrorism."

A resident of Bethel Park, about an hour away from where the shooting occurred, Crooks was a registered Republican who would have been eligible to cast his first presidential vote in the Nov. 5 election in which Trump is challenging President Joe Biden. Public records show his father is a registered Republican and his mother a registered Democrat, and that as a 17-year-old Crooks made a $15 donation to a Democratic Party cause.

The suspect was a member of a local shooting club named Clairton Sportsmen's Club, the club confirmed to the media on Sunday while condemning the shooting and calling it a "senseless act of violence."

Crooks was employed as a dietary aide at a nursing home at the time of the shooting, the home's administrator said in a statement.

"We are shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement as Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean," said Marcie Grimm, administrator of the Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center.

NEVER KNOWN TO BE POLITICAL

Two years ago, Crooks graduated from the local high school, where he showed no particular interest in politics, according to one classmate who asked not to be identified. Crooks' interests centered on building computers and playing games, the classmate said in an interview.

"He was super smart. That's what really kind of threw me off was, this was, like, a really, really smart kid, like he excelled," the classmate said. "Nothing crazy ever came up in any conversation."

Jim Knapp, who retired from his job as the school counselor at Bethel Park High School in 2022, said Crooks had always been "quiet as a churchmouse," "respectful" and kept to himself, although he did have a few friends.

He rarely came across Crooks because "he wasn't a needy type kid," Knapp said. Crooks was content to occasionally eat lunch by himself in the school cafeteria, said Knapp, who would engage such students to see if they wanted company.

"Kids weren't calling him names, kids weren't bullying him," Knapp said.

Knapp said he never knew Crooks to be political in any way, even as other kids would sometimes wear Trump or Biden attire. He added that he couldn't recall Crooks ever being disciplined in school.

"Anybody could snap, anybody could have issues," he said. "Something triggered that young man and drove him to drive up to Butler yesterday and do what he did."

Residents near the Crooks' home described feeling shocked and unsettled that an assassination attempt has been linked to a person from the sedate city of 33,000 people.

"Bethel Park is a pretty blue-collar type of area, and to think that somebody was that close is a little insane," said Wes Morgan, a 42-year-old who works at an investment management company and bikes with his children on the same street as the Crooks' residence.

A couple standing on the porch of their nearby brick ranch-style home was left processing the events and spotlight on their neighborhood.

"There's never been a gun issue. There's never been the police being called," Mary Priselac, 67, said alongside her husband. "You kind of have to wonder what didn't he get in life? What led to this extreme?"

Crooks' gun  an AR-style-5.56 caliber rifle  had been legally bought, the FBI officials said, adding that the FBI believed it had been purchased by the suspect's father. The officials said "a suspicious device" was found in the suspect's vehicle, which was inspected by bomb technicians and rendered safe.

Bruce Piendl, owner of Allegheny Arms and Gunworks in Bethel Park, said guns were part of the culture in the area. "You have to understand in western Pennsylvania we have a rich tradition of hunting and fishing and outdoor stuff," he said. "Within 10 miles (16 km) of here, there are a ton of gun clubs."

Piendl said his record show he did not sell any firearms to the shooter but declined to say whether he sold any to his family.

"That's between me and God," Piendl said.

(Reporting by Nathan Layne and Gabriella Borter in Bethel Park, Jasper Ward and Kanishka Singh in Washington; Additional reporting by Aaron Josefczyk in Bethel Park, Brendan O'Brien in Chicago, Tyler Clifford in New York, and Daniel Trotta in Carlsbad, California;Editing by Paul Thomasch, Lisa Shumaker and Lincoln Feast.)
Here's how much gas is in Arizona and where to find a deal

Gas prices in Arizona were cheaper than the national average for summertime commuters looking to hit the road on Saturday, according to data from AAA.

But not all gas stations under the hot summer sun were considered equal, with prices fluctuating between different metro areas across the state.

If you want to find a deal before fueling up, here's a look at the Arizona cities with record high-and-low gas prices for Saturday.

Arizona gas cheaper than the rest of the nation. Here's why

Arizona was expected on a downward trend of lower prices for the rest of the summer, as the average price for unleaded gas was currently 70 cents cheaper than the average price in summer 2023, according to the AAA.

After Russia invaded Ukraine, oil prices skyrocketed. Prices rebounded slowly over time and were impacted again by delayed industry maintenance for the plants that processed oil destined for the west, and Arizona alike.

"Unfortunately, a lot of those refineries supplied gas to Arizona, that's one of the main reasons gas in Arizona was just so expensive last year," Julian Paredes, AAA spokesperson for Arizona said. Once that maintenance was completed, prices in part began to decrease in Arizona, Paredes said.

Gas prices across the nation were still dropping, according to Paredes, but Arizona helped lead that trend.

This Arizona city had the most expensive gas across the state

Portions of northern and southern Arizona saw the most expensive gas prices on Saturday, according to AAA.

Flagstaff ranked as the most expensive recorded city at $3.69 per gallon of unleaded gas. Coconino County averaged $3.68 per gallon, the second highest in the state behind Graham County's average of $3.80 per gallon, according to the association.

Scottsdale saw $3.63 per gallon of unleaded gas, the highest across any city in the Phoenix metro area.

Santa Cruz County also saw a $3.63 per gallon of unleaded gas in southern Arizona, according to the association.

Here's what cities have the cheapest gas

Southern Arizona topped the automobile associations list for cheapest gas in the state, with the city of Yuma at $3.38 per gallon of unleaded gas on Saturday.

Tucson encompassing Pima County averaged the cheapest gas for any county in the state, at $3.45 per gallon of unleaded gas.

The cheapest gas in the Phoenix metro area was found in the west Valley city of Glendale, which averaged $3.44 per gallon on unleaded gas.

What were the prices for the rest of the Phoenix metro area?

Phoenix saw an average of $3.48 per gallon of unleaded gas, while nearby Mesa saw $3.51 per gallon of unleaded gas.

The east Valley saw an average of $3.53 per gallon of unleaded gas, while the west Valley saw an average of $3.44 per gallon of unleaded gas.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Here's where you can find the cheapest gas in Arizona
A pedestrian crosses Market Avenue at Second Street N in downtown Canton. Heritage Ohio has selected Canton to undergo an assessment to see if it qualifies for the nationally recognized Main Street program.

CANTON  Downtown Canton is taking its first step toward becoming Ohios next Main Street community.

Heritage Ohio, which administers the state Main Street program for Main Street America, has selected Canton and four other Ohio communities to undergo an assessment to see whether they qualify for the nationally recognized Main Street program, which helps downtowns revitalize their historic and commercial areas. The other selected communities are Girard and Niles in Trumbull County, Urbana in Champaign County and Waverly in Pike County.

More than 2,000 communities nationwide, including 52 Ohio communities, are part of the Main Street program, which was created in the late 1980s by the National Trust for Historic Preservation.

Matt Wiederhold, executive director of Heritage Ohio, said Canton's proposal stood out because it showed a commitment to downtown through the creation of the Downtown Canton Partnership in 2022 and the city's recent investments.

He said the Main Street program also could help Canton with its desire to preserve its downtown history and to attract businesses to an area with a roughly 17% vacancy rate.

"There is a very engaged community that wants to do good work and they have a lot of things going in the right direction," said Wiederhold, whose agency has administered the Ohio Main Street program since 1998.

Here are four things to know about downtown Canton's quest for the Main Street designation:

1. The Heritage Ohio application was a joint effort

The Downtown Canton Partnership and city of Canton submitted a joint application to Heritage Ohio.

Todd Herberghs, executive director of Downtown Canton Partnership, believes downtown Canton has many resources to build on, such as its location and arts, cultural and historical assets.

We believe that being a part of the Main Street program would continue to prove that the city of Canton is committed to honoring the historic preservation and beautification of downtown Canton and prioritizing the revitalization of our downtown commercial area, Herberghs said in a statement.

The organization, which receives $250,000 a year from the city under a two-year contract, oversees the marketing and promotion of downtown events and businesses, coordinates downtown events such as First Friday, awards grants to fund downtown events and organizations, and oversees the Downtown Canton Special Improvement District.

Heritage Ohio has selected Canton to undergo an assessment to see if it qualifies for the nationally recognized Main Street program.

2. Heritage Ohio will host a public meeting in Canton on Oct. 1

A Heritage Ohio team with downtown revitalization experts from around the state will visit Canton on Oct. 1 and Oct. 2.

The team will tour downtown, talk with community and business leaders and host a public meeting on Oct. 1 to better understand current conditions and to hear ideas for the future of downtown Canton.

Canton Planning Director Donn Angus hopes to discuss whether Canton should expand its existing historical district to include areas such as the Warehouse District along Walnut Avenue NE where some structures are now eligible due to their age. Expanding the historical district could allow more property owners to take advantage of state historic preservation tax credits when they make repairs or renovations, he said.

3. A new Main Street board would be created

Wiederhold said roughly 75% of the communities that undergo the assessment move forward to become a Main Street affiliate, which requires the community to appoint a full-time paid employee to oversee the Main Street program, establish a board of directors and receive financial support from the municipality.

The board typically includes representatives from the city, the downtown association, a local historian, a lawyer or banker, and community members from downtown or an adjacent neighborhood. The board would be tasked with choosing which projects to undertake first.

Heritage Ohio has selected Canton to undergo an assessment to see if it qualifies for the nationally recognized Main Street program.

4. Ohio Main Street program unlocks new funding streams

Becoming a part of the Ohio Main Street program and Main Street America would unlock new funding streams for Canton and downtown property owners.

The key for us is the ability to tap into various grant funding and other program opportunities that weve never been able to do so, Angus said.

The Main Street program also provides ongoing technical assistance and training for staff and volunteers, such as preservation planning, strategic planning and board development, special event and fundraising planning, and small business support.

Reach Repository staff writer Kelli Weir at 330-580-8339 or kelli.weir@cantonrep.com.

This article originally appeared on The Repository: Heritage Ohio picks downtown Canton for Main Street assessment
Peter G. McClennan was a 60-something retired Presbyterian minister who would not consider relinquishing the pursuit of arcane knowledge and an enlightened existence just because he no longer filled a pulpit.

So, he became a high school English teacher.

Opinion

His days were not filled with deeds of momentous significance recognized by thousands. The hero I am remembering was just a man who showed up every day. A man who did the most mundane tasks. But in his hands, the mundane became exceptional.

As the result of very good fortune that I had absolutely nothing to do with, I ended up in Mr. McClennans English class when I was a junior at Salinas High School. And then, another happy chance put me right back in that group during my senior year.

I learned to write from a master who let me know that I mattered. Without undue fanfare, he became the litmus test of what a hero is.

There were no Advanced Placement classes in 1958 and 1959, of course, but there was a group of us kept together through the efforts of counselors who knew Mr. McClennan personified something that had much more to do with wisdom than education.

During class discussions, haphazard fragments of random thoughts and ideas were cast forward. Each was nondescript and of no intrinsic beauty or value in and of itself. But with nuanced guidance from the mind of a master, these pieces and patches each contributed their own strengths and passions toward a whole  when taken together, they formed something akin to a beautiful quilt.

I remember a discussion centering on capital punishment which was occasioned by the aftermath of an execution at San Quentin Prison. Our ideas were all over the map  from the sanctity of life to government-initiated murder and then to the Bibles command: Thou shalt not kill. Somehow, in the midst of heated opinions expressed with passion, we saw and heard nuances that tempered our own sometimes self-righteous assurance that our ideas were the only valid conclusions to be had.

There could be (and often was) a brief surprised silence at the end of one of these verbal encounters as we who were rank amateurs at these mental gymnastics absorbed what had happened before our eyes: A creation was manifested of which we would have been incapable without him.

I dont remember Mr. McClennan imposing his own thinking. I dont remember him denigrating or minimizing. I remember him verbalizing that this was, in fact, our lifes work. And I feel, 65 years later, that I continue to learn from what was said, and what was left unsaid, in those class discussions with that small man who was always larger than life.

Literature? Oh, yeah. Under Mr. McClennans watching eye, I graduated from Black Beauty to Dostoyevsky. And I never looked back.

On a special shelf in my living room, I still have his copy of The Possessed. He brought it to class one day and offered it to me because he saw it as necessary to challenge my easy assumptions. As I slept that night, my little dog Micky chewed a corner off Mr. McClennans book. I quickly replaced it (thank goodness for the independent bookstore on Park Row in Salinas!) and, as a result, I have his book as a treasured memento of that especially significant relationship.

Without hesitation, this is the finest gift I received from that relationship: I learned to write while under Mr. McClennans rigorous tutelage.

He suffered no fools. He knew we were in his class because we were way beyond proficient in our mastery of the written English language. We were given the opportunity to demonstrate our creativity and ability to think critically every weekend and then hand in the resulting essay on Monday.

I vividly remember an essay he returned to me which had more red ink than usual. At first glance, I felt humiliated. Then, I read his remarks. I felt, quite possibly for the first time, that I was capable of writing something worthwhile. In his teacherly scrawl, in bright red ink, his words were, Bunny, you have the rare gift of not only assembling words but imparting to your reader the feelings that give your words power and life.

Our class also spent significant time studying poetry. Does that word automatically resonate as dull and boring? Not in Mr. McClennans hands. There was power and worth in every example of iambic pentameter when parsed by this man whose passion one could not help but grab onto and claim as ones own. My favorite, When Lifes Last Picture is Painted, by Rudyard Kipling, remains taped to a cabinet in my kitchen right here in Modesto where I see it regularly, all these years later.

When earths last picture is painted and the tubes are twisted and dried,

When the oldest colours have faded, and the youngest critic has died,

We shall rest, and faith, we shall need it!  lie down for an aeon or two,

Till the Master of All Good Workmen shall put us to work anew.

And those that were good shall be happy: they shall sit in a golden chair;

They shall splash at a ten-league canvas with brushes of comets hair.

They shall find real saints to draw from  Magdalene, Peter and Paul;

They shall work for an age at a sitting and never be tired at all!

And only the Master shall praise us, and only the Master shall blame;

And no one will work for the money, and no one shall work for the fame,

But each for the joy of the working, and each in his separate star,

Shall draw the Thing as he sees it for the God of Things as They are!

Most precious of all, Mr. McClennan let me know that I mattered to him. He extended himself when he could have done only what was necessary. He saw the potential, the imaginable, the treasure worth mining.

He was, and always will be, my hero. Just by showing up every day and being there, he made every day exceptional.

Greatness begins where necessity ends, you know.

Bunny Stevens lives in Modesto, her hometown, and has served on The Modesto Bee Community Advisory Board. She is the opening courtesy clerk at the Safeway supermarket on McHenry Avenue and an ordained minister in the Universal Life Church. She has also been known to represent the Easter Bunny and Santas Elf for children of all ages. Reach her at BunnyinModesto@gmail.com
EYEWITNESS NEWS (WBRE/WYOU) President Trumps assassination attempts makes him the 7th president to have been wounded by an assassination attempt.

The first assassination attempt was all the way back in 1863 against Andrew Jackson when a man named Richard Lawrence tried to shoot the president in the back at a funeral because he claimed Jackson was preventing him from getting from money from the Second Bank of the United States.

Luckily for Jackson, both of Lawrences pistols malfunction, and he was later placed in a mental institution for insanity.

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president, was the first president in American history to be assassinated. He was fatally shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865 at Fords Theatre. Booth then went on the run for 12 days before being shot dead in Virginia by Union soldiers.

Andrew Garfield was the next president to be assassinated after he was shot July 2, 1881 at the Baltimore and Potomac Railway Station in Washington D.C by Charles Guiteau. Guiteau claimed he did this in retaliation for being passed up for the Ambassador of France.

Garfield spent the next 11 weeks in pain after being shot in the shoulder and back before dying from an infection on September 19. He was Americas second-shortest serving president with just a 6-month term.

William McKinley was the third president to be assassinated after being shot at the Temple of Music in Buffalo on September 6,1901. Leon Czolgosz admitted to the shooting and shot the president because he believed him to be an enemy of the people, the good working people. McKinley died eight days later from gangrene.

McKinleys assassination prompted the Secret Service to be around the President 24/7.

John F. Kennedy was the last president to be assassinated after he was shot by Lee Harvey Oswald on November 22, 1963 while driving through Dallas in a motorcade. He was shot in the head and back. An official investigation that involved over 25,000 interviews determined he was acting alone.

Other president who were wounded include Ronald Reagan, who was shot in March of 1981 in Washington D.C. John Hinckley Jr., his attempted assassin thought doing this would impress famous actor Jodie Foster.

Theodore Roosevelt was shot in 1912 in Milwaukee after running as a candidate in the Progressives Party by John Schrank, a salon-keeper who had been stalking Roosevelt for weeks. Roosevelt was shot in the chest once, and had it not been for a 50-page speech called Progressive Cause Greater Than Any Individual and a metal glass case that slowed the bullet, he very well could have died.

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Home Depot to pay $750k for gift card law violations: Sonoma Co. DA

(KRON)  Sonoma County District Attorney Carla Rodriguez and district attorneys from the Counties of Los Angeles, Contra Costa and Ventura settled a civil enforcement action against Home Depot for violations of Californias gift card law.

According to the states gift card law, customers can redeem any gift card in cash whenever the gift card is valued at less than $10.

Man charged for robbing three Oakland fast food chains in one hour: DA

According to Rodriguezs office, Home Depot did not redeem gift cards under ten dollars ($10) when requested in numerous stores.

It is important the consumers understand that they have the right to receive cash payment of balances on gift cards under ten dollars, Rodriguez said.

Rodriguez said Home Depot has been cooperative with the investigation. Home Depot has since been ordered to pay $750,000 for its violations. In addition to monetary provisions, Home Depot is ordered to comply with the following:

Provide registers that automatically dispense cash for gift cards with balances less than $10.

Include notices claiming gift cards may be redeemed for cash on Home Depot gift cards, in-store, and on the companys website.

Provide employee training regarding gift card redemption.

Consumers may redeem Home Depot gift cards with a balance of under $10 in-store. Gift card balances can be checked on the Home Depot website.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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There are 26% more people living in homelessness in Yolo County than there two years ago, a new report found, but still far less than neighboring Sacramento County.

A recent federally-mandated Point in Time count found there were 942 homeless people living in shelters and on the streets in Yolo County  196 more than in 2022, according to a Yolo County news release.

Despite its proximity to downtown Sacramento, where tent encampments are common, the city of West Sacramentos homeless population stayed stable compared to 2022, the release said. The city of Davis saw its homeless population decrease, while Woodland and the more rural communities on the countys west side saw increases.

This information is critical for shaping our strategies to effectively combat homelessness and guarantee every resident access to secure and sustainable housing, Lucas Frerichs, chair of the Yolo County Board of Supervisors, said in the release.

Yolo Countys neighbor to the east, Sacramento County, saw a decrease in its homeless population, according to its most recent count. There are now an estimated 6,600 homeless people living in Sacramento County  29% fewer total homeless people than volunteers counted during the preceding count in February 2022, and 41% fewer homeless people sleeping outside.

Nonprofit Loaves & Fishes questioned the accuracy of the report, saying it served 30,000 more meals than in 2022, a 20% increase, and served 690 more total guests. The new report also used a different research firm and different method for counting than in 2022  changes that Sacramento Steps Forward, the nonprofit in charge of the count  said did not impact accuracy.

As a result of the new numbers, Sacramento could receive less state funding to address the crisis than it did in previous years, while Yolo County could get more.

Yolo County is not the only area in California where the number of unsheltered people increased. In the Bay Area, Oaklands homeless population increased about 9%, to 5,490, while San Franciscos increased 7% to 8,328.
HORNELL, N.Y. (WETM)  The Hornell Police Department will be upgrading some of its equipment thanks to state funding.

According to the City of Hornell, the Hornell Police Department recently found out that it was awarded $188,647 in grant funds from New York State. The state gives these tax funds to law enforcement agencies to support technological improvements and investments, and agencies must apply for these grants to receive them. The Hornell PD and the Hornell Mayors Office detailed the departments need for specific upgrades and how these upgrades will benefit the department and the community when applying.

Southern Tier police agencies to receive state funding

The department is going to use the newly acquired funds to buy two fully outfitted police cars that will be used for patrol and vehicle and traffic enforcement, five tasers with rechargeable batteries to replace the departments outdated tasers, and three solar feedback signs.

We receive complaints about speeding motorists at entry points to the city; whether its motorists speeding up when departing the city, or traveling at an excessive speed when entering the city, said Chief Ted Murray about the solar signs. These signs will alert motorists of their speeds, and our department will continue to closely monitor these areas.

North Hornell Police receive grants for equipment

The HPD is also going to buy two digital mobile radios, five mobile thermal printers, and new computer workstations for around the department. These upgrades will be faster and more efficient than the departments current aging systems.

The final purchase the department will make with the grant funds is two solar LED school zone signs. Murray says that the school zone signs will improve safety for crossing Seneca Street by increasing awareness for motorists, especially during the morning commute.

The Hornell Police Department is exploring more grant opportunities to make even more improvements.

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Illinois lawmakers are calling Saturday's shocking assassination attempt at a rally for former President Donald Trump "horrific" while also denouncing political violence in statements issued on social media.

Trump was recovering Sunday after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire Saturday evening with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop outside a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania.

One spectator at the rally was killed, and two are in serious condition, according to USA TODAY.

Live updates: Donald Trump rushed from stage at rally after apparent gunshots; 1 person and shooter dead

Illinois lawmakers react to Trump rally shooting

U.S. Republican Rep. Darin LaHood of Illinois' 16th District said on Facebook he was "keeping President Trump, his family, and our country in my prayers following the horrific shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. I am grateful for the secret service and law enforcement who acted quickly to keep people safe."

Eric Sorensen, a Democratic congressman from Illinois' 17th District, said on Facebook he was "deeply concerned with the incident today involving former President Trump in Pennsylvania. In the United States of America, we must always settle political differences with amicable dialogue. I denounce all political violence and wish the former President and all those affected peaceful healing."

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, whose name has become more heavily involved in national political discussions as of late, said on Twitter: "Violence is never the answer in our democracy. I am closely monitoring the situation and praying for former President Trump's recovery. Thankful to the secret service for their quick response."

Illinois Congresswoman Mary Miller, a staunch Trump ally who represents the 15th District, said on Facebook that she and her husband were "horrified" and praying for Trump and everyone at the rally.

Democratic Rep. Nikki Budzinski, who represents the Illinois 13th District, said on Twitter: "We can never allow our disagreements to devolve into political violence. I strongly condemn the attack on former President Trump and his supporters. Im grateful to law enforcement officials who responded quickly on the scene. My team and I are closely following developments."

Congressman Mike Bost, a Republican who represents the Illinois 12th District, said on Facebook, "Tracy and I are praying for President Donald Trump after shots were fired at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania. We are closely monitoring this situation. God Bless President Trump and the Secret Service officers involved."

Illinois Democrat Sen. Dick Durbin put on X: "Political violence is never acceptable. Im keeping the former president, the bystander who was tragically killed, and all who were injured or whose safety was threatened in my thoughts. Sending my deepest thanks to law enforcement for helping keep those in attendance safe."

Illinois Democrat Tammy Duckworth put a statement on X which reads: "There is absolutely no excuseand no place whatsoeverfor violence in American politics, and those responsible for this must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I am keeping Donald Trump in my thoughts and hoping he has a swift and full recovery."

Congressman Bill Foster, a Democrat from Illinois' 11th District, said on Facebook: "There is absolutely no place in America for political violence of any kind. I'm relieved that the former President is safe. As we await more information, it's clear that we owe gratitude to the secret service and law enforcement."

State lawmakers react to shooting at Trump rally

State lawmakers also issued statements of shock and denouncement of political violence in the wake of what is being investigated as an assassination attempt on Trump.

Illinois House Minority Leader, Rep. Tony McCombie of Savanna, said in a statement: "Today is a terrible day for our nation. The deepening political divide is dangerous and any political violence is unacceptable. Gunshots cannot silence our collective need for change. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and others injured in today's heinous act. We must come together to condemn violence and seek unity as a country."

Assistant Minority Leader John Cabello attacked the news media in a statement where he also encouraged people to be "respectful and civil in discourse."

I am disgusted by the assassination attempt on former President Trump. Any form of violence is unacceptable, and I urge everyone to engage in respectful and civil discourse, Cabello said. This is a very real sign our republic is at risk - when the leading presidential candidate is constantly met with fake news media lies, frivolous lawsuits, and legitimate attempts at his life.

Republican state Sen. Andrew Chesney of Freeport was critical of the "radical left" in a statement saying: "There is no place within our political debate for violence against any public official. The assassination attempt on President Trump this afternoon is proof that Trump derangement syndrome is real, and that the radical left will do anything in their power to take him out. President Trump is a fighter, and we wish him a speedy recovery.

Fellow Republican state Sen. Dave Syverson of Cherry Valley said on Facebook: "Thoughts and prayers are with everyone who was attending the Trump rally today. Our prayers are with the family of the spectator who lost his life and with the other spectator who is in critical condition. We hear President Trump was injured but is okay. Please pray. There is no place in America for any kind of violence."

Chairwoman-elect of the Illinois Republican Party Kathy Salvi issued a statement that said: "The Republicans of Illinois are united and stand with President Trump. We express our full support for President Trump and his family. We appreciate the prompt response by law enforcement and the Secret Service.

More: 'It's sick': Joe Biden condemns shooting at Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Illinois lawmakers react to shooting at Donald Trump rally
Idaho officials react to shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally. What they said

Idaho officials offered their support and reactions after a shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania.

The New York Times and other news outlets have reported that a gunman and one attendee at the Butler rally were dead, and dramatic photos from the event showed Trump surrounded by suit-clad Secret Service agents, his fist in the air and blood on his ear. A spokesman said Trump was safe, The Times reported.

America needs our candidates to be able to campaign safely, Gov. Brad Little wrote on the social media platform X. This is a sad day. Prayers for President Trump and praise for our Secret Service.

In a follow-up tweet, Little wrote that he was praying for Trump, Trumps family and our nation.

Others echoed the concern about political violence.

U.S. Rep. Mike Simpson said on X that resorting to violence is never acceptable. Words should always supersede our actions, Simpson said.

His Republican colleague U.S. Sen. Mike Crapo called the act un-American.

The other members of the Idaho congressional delegation also addressed the situation, with Rep. Russ Fulcher saying Justice will come on social media and Sen. Jim Risch calling what happened horrific.

Meridian City Council Member Luke Cavener wrote on X that political violence of any kind was unacceptable.

The perpetrators need to be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent, Cavener wrote. No mercy, no leniency.

Idaho Attorney General Raul Labrador said in an emailed statement that we cannot let our country be torn apart by political violence.

We owe it to those who have sacrificed so much for our nation, to preserve our freedoms for the next generation and generations to come, Labrador said. We must rededicate ourselves to civility even in the midst of passionate disagreement.

Ada County Republican Commissioners Rod Beck, Tom Dayley and Ryan Davidson sent a joint statement, saying, We encourage everyone to take this moment to reflect on the state of our nation and consider how we can work together to peacefully address and mend the issues within our system.

And Star Mayor Trevor Chadwick wrote on X that the behavior was inexcusable.

No one should ever be threatened or their life put on the line in any circumstances for serving in politics in our country, Chadwick wrote. We are better than this. It should not matter what political world you live in everyone should come together in prayer.

America needs our candidates to be able to campaign safely. This is a sad day. Prayers for President Trump and praise for our Secret Service.  Brad Little (@GovernorLittle) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump, his family, and our nation. pic.twitter.com/log1jOYPob  Brad Little (@GovernorLittle) July 13, 2024

Resorting to violence is never acceptable, and words should always supersede our actions.



President Trump deserves our admiration and respect. His family and our nation demand our prayers in this time of need.  Congressman Mike Simpson (@CongMikeSimpson) July 13, 2024

An apparent assassination attempt against a former President and current candidate for the President of the United States is beyond enraging and wholly un-American. I am praying for Donald Trump and hope he will recover expeditiously.  Senator Mike Crapo (@MikeCrapo) July 13, 2024

Tonight, join me in saying a prayer for President Trump and all those impacted and injured. Justice will come.  Russ Fulcher (@RussFulcher) July 13, 2024

The apparent attempt on President Trumps life in Pennsylvania is absolutely horrific. Vicki and I are praying for President Trump and all those injured in todays despicable incident.  Jim Risch (@SenatorRisch) July 13, 2024

Im praying for Donald Trump and I hope you do too. Political violence of any kind is unacceptable and the perpetrators need to be caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent. No mercy, no leniency.  Luke Cavener (@VoteCavener) July 13, 2024
I'm a mom of 3 and I prefer to vacation with each of my kids individually instead of traveling as a family

The author has three kids but prefers traveling alone with one at a time. Courtesy of the author

I am one of four siblings and we used to travel together as a family.

I have three kids of my own now, and I travel individually with each of them instead of together.

It's too expensive to fly five people, and we always need two rooms.

Growing up with three siblings, I regularly spent my summers at a beach house with cousins and spring breaks in Arizona, watching the San Francisco Giants' spring training. I always thought I'd do the same when I had my kids and spend our vacations exploring new places as a family.

Now that I have my own three kids, I've found that I don't particularly enjoy family vacations. It's expensive to fly with five people, you always need two hotel rooms, and my husband doesn't enjoy travel. I am the planner, and that role is tough when you are trying to please five different personalities, especially with teenagers in the mix.

Traveling with just 1 child is so much easier

A few years ago, I had the opportunity to travel to Florida and bring one of my kids along. While I would normally have declined the opportunity in favor of a full-family trip, I decided to take my oldest kid along. I couldn't believe how easy it was to travel with only one kid: We could visit the hotel's pool when she wanted to and enjoy a tepanyaki restaurant where her brothers would have turned up their noses.

Since then, I've sought out opportunities to travel with my kids individually, and it has become my favorite way to see a new city or country.

My middle kid could spend all day fly fishing on a river in Wyoming without a care in the world. This activity would be particularly hard for my youngest due to his ADHD. He's much happier on a food tour or doing something active like hiking.

When my daughter and I visited Costa Rica on a cruise this past spring, we spent part of our time in Quepos, visiting the many thrift stores in town. If I'd been there with all three of my kids, there's no way we could have spent as much time doing this activity that she loves.

Individual trips mean we avoid sibling drama

There's nothing worse than planning a big family vacation and having your kids fight with each other and complain the whole time. Small rental cars, hotel rooms where sharing beds is required, and early wake-up times are typical triggers. Somebody always feels they got the short end of the stick, and it's just not fun to referee sibling fights while trying to relax.

Single-kid trips allow me to accommodate teens who need more sleep with later wake-up times, and there's no fighting over who gets to sit in the front seat of the rental car.

Traveling with my kids individually lets me get to know them in a new way

My three kids are all teenagers, and they'll likely go to college in the next few years. I especially love traveling with them individually as I get to see their personalities develop.

When my middle kid and I cruised to Alaska two years ago, he was one of only a few kids on the ship. Without others his age to hang out with, we spent many afternoons in the Crow's Nest, where he taught me how to play Catan. I'm not going to say that we shared our deepest and darkest secrets, but I got to know him outside his place in our family, which was invaluable.

While we do occasionally go on whole-family trips and force Dad to accompany us, I prefer these solo-kid adventures and hope they continue. Cross your fingers that I can convince one of them to hike the Camino de Santiago with me in the future.

Read the original article on Business Insider
A property tax levy, personal income tax, business license fees and tax reform are among the recommendations the Revenue Task Force will present to the Salem City Council on Monday.

The recommendations are just that  ideas that will take council action and possible public vote before they become a reality.

The Revenue Task Force is composed of 25 council-appointed community members.

The group was convened in January to consider ways to increase revenue and address the multi-million dollar budget shortfall. The group met seven times, considered feedback from eight focus groups, three town halls and a statistically valid poll, and deliberated on revenue recommendations to the City Council.

The meetings happened in parallel to the Citizen Budget Committee, which deliberated various cuts and service reductions to contend with the disparities between revenue and expected services. Several key items such as library jobs and hours, park events, splash fountains and drinking fountains were on the chopping block until being saved by reallocating one-time funds.

The committee recommended a $724.6 million budget, and the City Council approved the budget last month.

City leaders warned, however, that next year could bring layoffs and major cuts.

City Manager Keith Stahley said the coming years will bring even more challenging budgets if the city does not find an additional source of revenue.

City leaders said the deficit is years in the making and compounded by the large amount of state-owned land in the city and Oregon's restrictive property tax system. Salem is not the only city in Oregon facing a budget deficit.

Cities like Bend, Corvallis, Eugene, Gresham, Hillsboro, Medford and Springfield are facing shortfalls. Some are considering cutting jobs, passing levies and eliminating homelessness services.

Salem's staffing level never fully recovered from the Great Recession. Public pools closed, two fire stations shuttered and the Community Services Department was eliminated. In 2022, general fund employee positions returned to 2008 levels, but by that time, the population had grown by 20%.

"The services and costs of local government services predominantly involve people," staff said in a report on the shortfall. "If residents and policymakers desire a higher level of service, the City will need more staff. If residents and policymakers accept a lower level of service, the City will need fewer staff."

The task force's 77-page recommendation packet detailed the results of the community outreach along with the city's near-, medium- and long-term options for increasing revenue. The recommendation packet emphasized the importance of finding a sustainable solution for the issue to prevent needing another task force to convene five years down the road.

Recommended options to increase revenue, address multi-million dollar shortfall in Salem

Short-term options include business license fees, franchise fee increases and freezing the base of urban renewal.

Business licenses would be a government-issued permit authorizing a person or company to conduct business in the city. The city already has a structure in place for issuing licenses to businesses such as food trucks and marijuana dispensaries. Depending on the fee levels, the licensing program could add $8,000 for a $50 fee to $4 million with a $1,000 fee. It would take an estimated one to two years to get the program going and start receiving revenue.

Franchise fee increases would apply to utility services or products in the city's right-of-way. The increase could bring in $6,685 to $6.6 million, and it would take the city six months to a year to receive the funds.

It would also take about the same amount of time to get $1 million to $3 million by having the city's Urban Renewal Agency permanently increase the frozen base, which would result in less money for the agency and more money for the General Fund. A similar approach is being planned in Eugene.

The recommendation packet also detailed the drawbacks of each option. A business license fee could lead businesses to move out of city limits or negatively impact the perceived business climate in Salem. A franchise fee increase could lead to utility operators passing costs to utility users. A frozen base could impact redevelopment and urban renewal revenue.

Medium-term options: Property tax levy, personal income tax

A local option levy, if approved by the council, could be put on the ballot in the coming months. The temporary property tax paid by all owners of taxable land within city limits could bring in anywhere from $1 million to $55 million depending on the tax level chosen.

The task force strongly recommended structuring the levy to pay for specific services important to the community, like a livability levy funding parks, libraries and the Center 50+ or a public safety levy, paying for fire and police services.

A 0.010% tax would add $17 to the annual median property tax paid by the owner and bring in just over $1 million for the city. A 0.6% tax would add $1,019 and bring in $55 million for the city.

New or additional property taxes must be approved by the majority of voters in a May or November election.

A personal income tax could either be adopted by the council or put on the ballot by the council. The tax could raise up to $92 million but take two years or longer for the city to receive funds.

Moss Adams consultants and the city developed models showing different taxes for different levels. No tax for those earning under $70,000, a 0.25% tax for those earning $70,000 to $100,000, a 0.5% tax for $100,000 to $150,000, a 0.75% for $150,000 to $200,000, 1% for $200,000 to $500,000 and 2% for more than $500,000 would raise $25.9 million.

A different model going up to 5% for the highest earners would bring in an estimated $73.7 million.

The task force also strongly urged the council to craft the tax with equity in mind and not create additional taxes for lower-income residents. They also recommended pairing the tax with overarching tax reform as a long-term solution to the budget challenges. Reform could be restructuring or eliminating taxes or fees like the Operations Fee to create an equitable tax structure.

The report noted that a higher local income tax could discourage in-migration and encourage workers to relocate.

Collaboration needed for long-term solutions

The long-term solutions recommended could take years and require collaboration with the state, counties and the federal government.

Tax reform and restructuring could improve the tax system's effectiveness, equity and revenue generation but would most likely involve intergovernmental agreements, multiple ordinances and public votes.

Another option, a payment-in-lieu-of-taxes, also requires collaboration.

Despite getting bipartisan support, a bill proposed by former Salem City Councilor and current Rep. Tom Andersen to have the state give Salem a $5 to $6 million payment-in-lieu-of-taxes died in the 2024 legislative session.

Andersen said he expects to revisit the effort next year. The county or federal government could also offer payment for the land they occupy in the city, but doing so requires further legislation.

The use of intergovernmental agreements  formal arrangements between governments to collaborate on certain issues like homelessness  could free up funds for the General Fund.

What's next?

The council is set to hear these recommendations Monday. The meeting can be viewed in council chambers at city hall or on Capital Community Media's YouTube page.

For questions, comments and news tips, email reporter Whitney Woodworth at wmwoodworth@statesmanjournal.com, call 503-910-6616 or follow on X at @wmwoodworth

This article originally appeared on Salem Statesman Journal: Income tax among suggestions to address Salem budget issues
Indiana politicians on both sides of the aisle reacted with widespread condemnation Saturday to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at his political rally in Pennsylvania.

"Pray for President Trump, his family, and our country," U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, Indiana Republicans' gubernatorial candidate, said on X, formerly known as Twitter.

Pray for President Trump, his family, and our country.  Senator Mike Braun (@SenatorBraun) July 13, 2024

"A terrifying scene at President Trumps event this afternoon," tweeted U.S. Sen. Todd Young. "Praying that he and all in attendance are ok and that calm will prevail. Violence is never the answer."

A terrifying scene at President Trumps event this afternoon. Praying that he and all in attendance are ok and that calm will prevail. Violence is never the answer.  Senator Todd Young (@SenToddYoung) July 13, 2024

U.S. Rep. Jim Banks, Republicans' candidate to replace Braun in the Senate, also posted on X that he was praying for the former president.

Praying for President Trump and everyone in Pennsylvania   Jim Banks (@RepJimBanks) July 13, 2024

Micah Beckwith, the Republican nominee for lieutenant governor, said on X that he stands with the president.

"President Trump was just shot with something at a rally in PA!" Beckwith tweeted. "Pray for the President. This picture sums up this mans life over the last decade. Hes a fighter for our nation! Hes not backing down!"

President Trump was just shot with something at a rally in PA! Pray for the President. This picture sums up this mans life over the last decade. Hes a fighter for our nation! Hes not backing down! THIS IS WHY I PROUDLY STAND WITH DONALD TRUMP! #MAGA pic.twitter.com/RLuxdPaeli  TheMicahBeckwith (@MicahBeckwith) July 13, 2024

Tweeted Carmel Mayor Sue Finkam: "Prayers for former President Trump and bystanders that were hurt in todays shooting. Grateful for the rapid and professional secret service response."

Prayers for former President Trump and bystanders that were hurt in todays shooting. Grateful for the rapid and professional secret service response. #PrayforAmerica  Sue Finkam (@SueFinkam) July 13, 2024

Democrats' responses

Democrats were also quick to speak strongly against the violence.

"In this horrible moment, encouraged to hear President Trumps team indicate that the former president is doing well," Pete Buttigieg, former South Bend mayor and current U.S. transportation secretary, posted on X. "An entire nation must speak with one voice today to completely and unequivocally reject all political violence."

In this horrible moment, encouraged to hear President Trumps team indicate that the former president is doing well.



An entire nation must speak with one voice today to completely and unequivocally reject all political violence.  Secretary Pete Buttigieg (@SecretaryPete) July 13, 2024

Nearly 2,000 Democrats were gathered in downtown Indianapolis voting at the state party's convention when news about Trump's injury came in.

Indiana Democratic gubernatorial candidate Jennifer McCormick told convention attendees that "our prayers have to be with the former president."

"There is no room, no room for violence in our political discourse," McCormick said. "No room."

Longtime Democrat Robin Winston, who was overseeing the party's convention, said "violence has no place in American politics" and said the situation reinforced the importance of democracy.

This is wrong, Winston said. Thats not how we do elections. We are not a third-world country.

Indianapolis Mayor Joe Hogsett released a statement: "The act of violence that occurred in Pennsylvania today only furthers the cycle of division that seems to be spinning out of control in our political discourse. It must stop.

"We know that information will continue to come at us very quickly over these next few hours and days," Hogsett said. "In those hours and days, we are called to ask for God's mercy. No matter our individual faith, may God help us to speak and act in ways that demonstrate the compassion and love that we are commanded to embody."

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana leaders react to Trump assassination attempt in Pennsylvania
Which Indiana politicians are attending the Republican convention, and which aren't

Indianas official delegation to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee includes several of the states top elected officials and members of Congress who have historically been enthusiastic supporters of former President Donald Trump.

U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, who is running for governor in November, is expected to serve as the chairman of Indianas delegation and speak on its behalf in roll-call votes on the convention floor.

Congressman Jim Banks, who is running for U.S. Senate, and state Attorney General Todd Rokita, who is seeking reelection, are also in Indianas official delegation.

U.S. Sen. Todd Young, who has said he would not support Trumps 2024 campaign, is not attending the convention and will be out of the country on official travel, according to his Senate office. Lame-duck Gov. Eric Holcomb, who had endorsed former Vice President Mike Pences 2024 presidential campaign, is also not planning to attend the RNC due to instate duties" but plans to watch the convention on television, according to a spokesperson from his office.

Here is what we know about Hoosier politicians and their plans for the Republican convention.

U.S. Sen. Mike Braun

Braun, of Jasper, who is running for governor, is the chairman of Indianas delegation. Former President Donald Trump has endorsed Brauns gubernatorial campaign.

U.S. Sen. Mike Braun, Republicans' candidate for Indiana governor, is leading the state delegation to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Lt. Gov. candidate Micah Beckwith

Micah Beckwith of Noblesville, selected to be Braun's running mate at the state Republican convention last month, is unable to attend the RNC due to a family wedding, a spokesperson said.

U.S. Sen. Todd Young

Young is not attending the Republican National Convention.

The Senator will be out of the country on official travel that week and will not be at the convention, a spokesperson for Youngs Senate office told IndyStar.

U.S. Rep. Jim Banks

Banks, a 3rd District congressman who is running for U.S. Senate, is part of Indianas delegation to the Republican National Convention. In fact, the Columbia City resident has a primetime speaking slot Tuesday night.

U.S. Rep. Jim Baird

Jim Baird, a Greencastle resident who is running for reelection to Indianas 4th Congressional District, is attending the RNC as part of Indianas delegation.

U.S. Rep. Victoria Spartz

Nobleville's Victoria Spartz, who is running for reelection to Indianas 5th Congressional District, is a member of Indianas delegation to the RNC, according to her office.

Incumbent Rep. Victoria Spartz speaks during a League of Women Voters forum on Thursday, April 4, 2024, at Anderson High School Auditorium in Anderson Ind. The forum included Republican and Democratic candidates running for the 5th Congressional District.

U.S. Rep. Erin Houchin

Erin Houchin, a Washington County resident who is running for reelection to Indianas 9th Congressional District, is attending the RNC in Indianas delegation.

U.S. Rep. Rudy Yakym

Rudy Yakym of Granger, who is running for reelection to Indianas 2nd Congressional District, is not planning to attend the Republican National Convention but instead will be meeting with Hoosiers in his district throughout the week, according to his office.

He also looks forward to enthusiastically supporting President Trump and his America First agenda so we can defeat Joe Biden and Make America Great Again, a spokesperson for Yakyms office told IndyStar.

U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon

U.S. Rep. Larry Bucshon is not planning to attend the Republican National Convention, according to a spokesperson.

The Evansville resident is not seeking reelection in Indianas 8th Congressional District later this year after seven terms in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Rep. Greg Pence

It is not clear if U.S. Rep. Greg Pence will attend the RNC in Milwaukee. Pences congressional office did not respond to questions from IndyStar about it.

In January, Pence announced he would not seek reelection to Congress. The Columbus resident was first elected to represent Indianas 6th Congressional District in 2016.

Gov. Eric Holcomb

Holcomb, who hasn't announced his plans once his tenure as governor ends in January, is not planning to attend the RNC, according to a spokesperson.

Although the Governors instate duties next week will prevent him from attending this years Republican National Convention, hes excited for all those who will attend, especially for first time Convention goers, the spokesperson said in an email to IndyStar. Hell forever cherish his own past great memories and will follow along from home like most other engaged Americans.

Attorney General Todd Rokita

Todd Rokita, who is seeking another term as attorney general, is attending the Republican National Convention as part of Indianas official delegation.

Secretary of State Diego Morales

Diego Morales is attending the RNC as a delegate for Indiana.

State Treasurer Daniel Elliott

Daniel Elliott is attending the RNC as a delegate for Indiana.

State Comptroller Elise Nieshalla

Elise Nieshalla is attending the RNC as a delegate for Indiana.

Contact IndyStar state government and politics reporter Brittany Carloni at brittany.carloni@indystar.com or 317-779-4468. Follow her on Twitter/X @CarloniBrittany.

This article originally appeared on Indianapolis Star: Indiana's RNC delegation includes Braun, Jim Banks, Todd Rokita
This post originally appeared in the Insider Today newsletter.

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Welcome back to our Sunday edition. The world is waking up in shock this morning after former President Trump survived a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania. Here's the latest:

Many questions will be asked in the coming hours and days: How was this allowed to happen? Will there be further political violence? What impact will this have on the election?

You can follow our latest coverage here.

In today's edition:

If this was forwarded to you, sign up here. Download Insider's app here.

Steve Granitz/FilmMagic; iStock; Rebecca Zisser/BI

Not all self-driving cars are created equal

Tesla employees say they were told to prioritize data from self-driving cars belonging to Elon Musk and other VIPs.

Current and former staffers say the result was excessive attention to routes frequented by high-profile drivers  and an uneven use of Tesla's resources.

Tesla's self-driving bias.

Tyler Le/BI

AI is ripping you off

You might be willing to pay more for an airplane seat than the person next to you  and airlines know it.

Companies are using AI to mine users' data, in order to determine and charge the highest price you're willing to pay. In a world ruled by personalized pricing, you never know if you're being ripped off.

Personalized pricing's personal hell.

Also read:

Citi; Chelsea Jia feng/BI

Citi's woes won't subside

Citi committed 12,000 employees and billions of dollars to fix its regulatory problems and outdated tech. It's going terribly.

The bank was hit with a $135.6 million fine on Wednesday for failing to shore up its problems. Even worse, the fix-it program's top executive is accused of pressuring employees to lie to regulators.

Inside the ongoing fiasco.

Also read:

Amazon CEO Andy Jassy REUTERS/Mike Blake; Chelsea Jia Feng/BI

Amazon's amazing comeback

Andy Jassy's takeover from Jeff Bezos was no smooth transition. Beset by the collapse of a pandemic boom when he took the reins in 2021, Amazon's stock plunged  and whispers swirled about bringing Bezos back.

Three years later, Jassy's leadership has pushed Amazon's value to record highs. He did it through significant strategy changes, including a renewed dedication to Amazon's investors.

How Jassy won Wall Street.

Also read:

This week's quote:

"It can prompt the candidates with the right thing to say at the right time."

 Michael Guan, CEO and cofounder of Final Round AI, whose AI "magical teleprompter" can help people ace job interviews.

More of this week's top reads:

Read the original article on Business Insider
Republicans in Iowa got everything they wanted in this legislative session.

Theyve been on a roll since taking control of both branches of the legislature and the governors mansion a few years ago.

A lot of that action is very business friendly  certainly when it comes to taxes.

One business group isnt happy. Thats the hemp industry and businesses that sell CBD products.

Host Jim Niedelman returns with former Rock Island County Republican Party Chair Bill Bloom and Democratic political consultant Porter McNeil.

I think the motive behind it is protecting our kids from something that could potentially lead them on to other, more exciting experiments, Bloom said.

The revenue  the local and state profits for Iowa businesses that could be achieved and realized  are great, McNeil said.

Click on the video to hear more from our panelists.

Local 4 News, your local election headquarters, is proud to present 4 The Record, a weekly news and public affairs program focused on the issues important to you. Its a program unlike any other here in the Quad Cities. Tune in each Sunday at 10:30 a.m. as Jim Niedelman brings you up to speed on whats happening in the political arena, from Springfield, Des Moines, Washington, D.C. and right here at home.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
The U.S. Capitol Building on June 1, 2023 in Washington, D.C. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Iowas congressional and state politicians called on people to pray for the safety of former President Donald Trump on Saturday following an apparent assassination attempt.

Shots rang out while Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after which Trump was seen with blood on his face, near his ear. Campaign officials have said the former president is fine and is receiving medical attention.

Shortly after the incident, politicians words of support poured in via social media. The entire Iowa congressional delegation posted on Twitter, now known as X, that they would be praying for Trump.

Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks called on Americans to not only pray for Trump but also for American democracy. I ask all Americans to pray for the recovery of President Trump and for the future of American Democracy, Miller-Meeks said.

Sen. Joni Ernst thanked Secret Service and local law enforcement for their actions to protect the former president.

Thankful for the swift response of Secret Service and local law enforcement. God bless Donald J. Trump. Keep praying for him and our great country.  Joni Ernst (@joniernst) July 13, 2024

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds posted about the incident on her Twitter account, as well. Like Miller-Meeks, Reynolds asked people to pray both for the country and for Trump.

Pray for Donald Trump. Pray for our country. pic.twitter.com/HDW3QRkgll  Kim Reynolds (@KimReynoldsIA) July 13, 2024

Reynolds later issued a statement calling the shooting a dark day in American history:

This assassination attempt on a former president, current nominee for president, and leader of the Republican Party marks a dark day in American history. Kevin and I are grateful that President Trump is safe and is doing well. We will continue to pray for him and his family, as well as those who were shot and the family of the individual who was killed.

As President Trump showed when he walked off the stage, we will not cower to such terror. I will be in Milwaukee this week and will proudly stand with him and our party. America will get through this, together, and President Trump will lead us into the next four years.

Iowa politicians responses included:

Rep. Zach Nunn  Twitter

Rep. Randy Feenstra  Twitter

Rep. Ashley Hinson  Twitter

Sen. Chuck Grassley  Twitter

Lt. Gov. Adam Gregg  Twitter

Attorney General Brenna Bird  Twitter

State Auditor Rob Sand  Twitter

Republican Party of Iowa  Twitter

Iowa Democrat Party Chair Rita Hart  Twitter

Candidate for Iowas 1st District Christina Bohannan  Twitter

Candidate for Iowas 4th District Ryan Melton  Twitter

Iowa House District 36 Rep. Austin Baeth  Twitter

Iowa House District 78 Rep. Sami Scheetz  Twitter

Iowa Senate District 14 Sen. Sarah Trone Garriott  Twitter

Iowa Senate District 43 Sen. Zach Wahls  Twitter

The post Iowa politicians call for prayers for Trumps safety appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Ireland is preparing the first steps towards drafting a security agreement with Ukraine, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on July 14, after meeting with Irish Taoiseach Simon Harris the day before.

Ukraine has recently signed security agreements with Poland, Luxembourg, and Romania, based on a pledge made by the Group of Seven (G7) in July 2023.

The Presidential Office is now working on agreements with Czechia, Slovenia, and Ireland, Zelensky said on Telegram.

Zelensky briefly stopped at Shannon Airport in Ireland on July 13 on his way back to Ukraine from the NATO Summit in Washington.

Harris said he had a "very good meeting" with Zelensky, and had discussed a potential bilateral agreement on demining, energy, humanitarian assistance, and food security.

Ireland has a policy of neutrality, is not a member of NATO, and has one of the lowest rates of defense spending across the EU, at around 0.2% of its GDP.

Its government has remained committed to not providing lethal military aid to Kyiv, but has recognized Russia's war against Ukraine as genocide.

The country has also taken in around 100,000 Ukrainian refugees since the start of Russia's full-scale invasion.

Read also: Czech president announces upcoming shipment of shells to Ukraine

Weve been working hard to bring you independent, locally-sourced news from Ukraine. Consider supporting the Kyiv Independent.
Irish Prime Minister Simon Harris and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy during a meeting in Ireland. Photo: Simon Harris on X (Twitter)

The Taoiseach (Irish prime minister) Simon Harris has said he hopes to visit Ukraine in the near future.

Source: The Irish Times, citing Harris; European Pravda

Details: Harris welcomed Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ireland on 13 July.

At a press briefing after the meeting with Zelenskyy, Harris confirmed that he had accepted an official invitation to visit Ukraine.

He hopes to make a visit "in the coming weeks".

The Irish premier added that he had a very good meeting with President Zelenskyy.

"Im very pleased to welcome him to Ireland," he said, adding that "it gave me an opportunity to express the condolences of the people of Ireland to the people of Ukraine, to the president of Ukraine, for the loss of life during this brutal and illegal war of Russian aggression".

Background:

Zelenskyy arrived in Ireland on Saturday and started his visit by commenting on a slip of the tongue by US President Joe Biden, who mistakenly referred to Zelenskyy as "Putin" at the NATO Summit.

Zelenskyy is expected to visit the UK next week to attend the European Political Community Summit.

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Displaced Palestinians return to their destroyed tents to inspect their belongings at the site of the Israeli bombing of Al-Mawasi camp the day before, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

Israel on Sunday said Rafa Salama, a top commander from the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas, was confirmed killed in a deadly airstrike which the Hamas-run health authorities in Gaza said hit a refugee camp, leaving at least 90 people killed.

Hamas meanwhile denied reports that negotiations on a ceasefire and the return of remaining hostages have broken down in the Qatari capital Doha in the wake of the attack.

Salama was a key target of Saturday's strike along with Mohammed Deif, the leader of Hamas' military wing in Gaza. The pair have been described by Israel as "masterminds of the massacre on October 7," which sparked the current conflict.

A statement from the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) said Salama was "eliminated" but made no mention of Deif.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously stated that there was still no absolute certainty about Deif's fate, while a Hamas representative in the Lebanese capital Beirut on Sunday said Deif was not killed.

The IDF described Salama as one of Deif's closest associates and said his death would seriously impair Hamas' military capabilities. Salama commanded the Khan Younis Brigade in southern Gaza and was responsible for numerous rocket strikes carried out against Israel in recent years, the IDF said.

Palestinian medics said the strike on Saturday killed at least 90 people and left hundreds injured after tents for displaced people in the al-Mawasi camp were hit.

The IDF said the attack "was carried out in a fenced-in area controlled by Hamas and where, according to [IDF] information, only Hamas terrorists and no civilians were present."

No breakdown in negotiations

Despite the deadly airstrike, Hamas on Sunday maintained that indirect negotiations are still ongoing.

According to Israeli media reports, the head of the Israeli foreign intelligence service, Daniel Barnea, plans to travel to the Qatari capital Doha in the coming days for another round of talks.

The negotiations, which have continued for months, centre on the exchange of the remaining hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners in Israeli jails, as well as a ceasefire in the Gaza conflict.

The indirect talks are progressing slowly, with Israel continuing to reject Hamas' demand for a permanent ceasefire.

Also on Sunday, Israeli media reported that the Netanyahu government has extended the duration of compulsory military service for Israeli men by four months due to the need for greater manpower.

New recruits will now have to serve for 36 months - a full three years - instead of the previous 32 months, according to a report on Israel's Kan Radio. The two-year conscription period for women remains unchanged.

The bill still has to be approved by the Knesset, the Israeli parliament.

A view of a damaged vehicle at the site of the Israeli bombing of Al-Mawasi camp the day before, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

A view of a damaged vehicle at the site of the Israeli bombing of Al-Mawasi camp the day before, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa

Displaced Palestinians return to their destroyed tents to inspect their belongings at the site of the Israeli bombing of Al-Mawasi camp the day before, amid the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas. Abed Rahim Khatib/dpa
(Bloomberg) -- Israeli security officials said Sunday they were pretty confident their targeted attack against Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif was successful despite the groups denial.

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The officials, speaking on condition of anonymity, said theyd been following Deifs movements for a couple of days, pinpointed his location and carried out an attack on Saturday that would have been hard to survive. Rafa Salama, a Hamas brigade commander, was killed in the attack, the Israel Defense Forces said in a statement, which didnt refer to Deif.

Hamas said some 90 people died in the assault in the Khan Younis area of the central Gaza Strip but that Deif, a founder of the group and a mastermind of the October attack that led to the current war, was alive  and had even watched Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu address a news conference on Saturday night. It didnt mention Salama.

Israeli officials say they dont know how many died, but that the majority were Hamas officials or associates.

If Deif did escape, it wouldnt be the first time. The supreme commander of Hamas Qassam Brigades, he has been such a shadowy figure that the only known picture of him dates back to when he was a teenager. Hes been on the run for two decades and has never appeared in public.

The assessment by Israeli security analysts is that his death  if confirmed  will be a major blow against Hamas and will help force the group, considered terrorists by the US and European Union, to close the deal currently being negotiated for a cease-fire to return Israeli hostages in exchange for Palestinian prisoners and bring aid to the Gaza Strip.

To many outsiders, such a claim seems counter-intuitive: a deadly attack during negotiations isnt likely to inspire flexibility. But Israeli officials are persuaded that the only way to get Hamas to close a cease-fire deal is by cornering it and eliminating its commanders.

In recent weeks, we have identified clear cracks in Hamas under the power of the blows we are raining on them. We see changes. We see weakness, Netanyahu said at his news conference.

The latest operation also contributes to this, whatever its results are. Hamas commanders are hiding in underground tunnels and are cut off from their forces in the field. The Gazan population understands more and more the magnitude of the disaster that Hamas has inflicted on it, he said.

The military said that Salama joined Hamas in the early 1990s, has headed its Khan Younis brigade since 2016 and was one of the masterminds of the Oct. 7 attacks on southern Israel. His elimination significantly impedes the groups military capabilities, it said

Other analyses are less sanguine for Israel, suggesting that Hamas daring and brutal attack won it deep loyalty among Palestinians.

Early on Sunday, AFP, the French news agency, reported that Hamas was withdrawing from the talks. One of the groups top officials later issued a denial, saying it wasnt going to allow Netanyahu to block the way to reaching an agreement that stops the aggression against our people.

Tamir Hayman, a former head of Israels military intelligence and a critic of Netanyahus, said in an online column for Channel 12 that the assassination was the right move.

The ongoing military pressure led Hamas field commanders to demand a pause in the fighting, he wrote. Add to that calls by the Palestinian public that has paid a very high price over the extended duration of the war and the mounting criticism of Hamas.

Time isnt on the side of Hamas as elections in Europe and the US divert attention from Gaza and reduce pressure on Israel to end the fighting, he said. If Donald Trump is elected, he added, his administration wont put any pressure on Israel at all, he said.

Trump escaped an assassination attempt over the weekend.

Netanyahu is due to address a joint session of the US Congress on July 24.

Hayman, like other analysts, warned Israelis against taking too much comfort from the operation, if it was indeed successful. Numerous difficulties lie ahead: getting back the hostages, returning Israelis whove been evacuated from areas in the north and south of the country to their homes, and establishing a strategic plan to ensure the nations security after the October assault.

Israels war against Hamas has so far killed some 38,000 Palestinians, according to Hamas, which doesnt distinguish between fighters and civilians. Israel says its killed some 14,000 fighters.

Deif has long been on the top of Israels most-wanted list. He survived numerous attempts on his life, one of which was believed to have left him with an unspecified disability. In 2014, Israel bombed the house where he was staying, killing his wife and 7-month-old son.

He rose to be Hamas supreme military leader after his predecessor, Salah Shehada, was killed in a massive Israeli air strike on Gaza City in 2002.

As missiles rained down on Israel and several thousand Hamas operatives killed and kidnapped soldiers and civilians last October, a prerecorded speech by Deif was broadcast.

We have decided to put an end to all of the occupations crimes, he said. The time is over for them to act without accountability. Thus, we announce the Al-Aqsa Flood operation.

Born Mohammed al-Masri, he became widely know by the surname Deif  Arabic for guest  because hes constantly on the move and perpetually housed by others. If he was killed, that would leave only Yahya Sinwar, the Hamas leader in Gaza, still running the organization inside the coastal strip. Other leaders are in exile.

--With assistance from John J. Edwards III.

(Updates with comments from military in second, 10th paragraph.)

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Ivanka Trump after rally shooting: I continue to pray for our country

Ivanka Trump says shes praying for the country after former President Trump said he was shot in the ear during a rally in Butler, Pa.

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of todays senseless violence, Trumps 42-year-old daughter said in a statement posted on social media platform X Saturday.

The Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter fired multiple shots from the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue while Trump was delivering remarks at the campaign event. The former president was safe and being evaluated.

One spectator was killed and two people were injured, according to authorities, and the incident is reportedly being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Live updates: Trump says bullet grazed his ear; suspect is dead

Ivanka Trump expressed gratitude to authorities, writing, I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today.

I continue to pray for our country, Trump, who was a senior adviser in her fathers administration, wrote.

I love you Dad, today and always, she added.

Trump hustled off stage after shooting at rally

On the same night in 2022 that her father announced he would run for president in the 2024 White House race, Ivanka Trump said she didnt plan to be involved in politics.

The mom of three said in an interview earlier this month, that she wouldnt hit the campaign trail with her father because she was opting to spend time raising her young children. There is a lot of darkness in politics, Trump said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Four of Donald Trumps children took to social media Saturday night after an assassination attempt against him at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Donald Trump Jr. was the first of Trumps offspring to post in support of the former president after an incident in which two people were killed, including the alleged shooter, and two other attendees were critically injured.

Ripping Though My Skin: Trump Speaks Out After Assassination Attempt

Trumps eldest child posted on X: Hell never stop fighting to Save America. His post was illustrated with one of the instantly iconic pictures of Trumpblood on his face, a fist aloft, Secret Service agents encircling him, and the American flag fluttering behind.

Don Jr. was followed by younger brother Eric, who posted the same image on X with the message: This is the fighter America needs!

Ivanka Trump then posted on X (using no image): Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of todays senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania. I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our country.

In her message, Tiffany Trump (using no image), wrote: The outpouring of love and support for my dad is deeply appreciated. Thank you God for keeping my father alive. Political violence is never the answer. God bless the secret service and law enforcement who fearlessly intervened. Please include the families of the victims in your prayers. As you saw today, my father is a fighter and he will continue to fight for you and the USA.

At the time of writing there were no messages or statements posted on social media by Melania Trump.

He'll never stop fighting to Save America  pic.twitter.com/qT4Vd0sVTm  Donald Trump Jr. (@DonaldJTrumpJr) July 13, 2024

This is the fighter America needs! pic.twitter.com/77xES5kBRO  Eric Trump (@EricTrump) July 14, 2024

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of today's senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania. I am grateful to the Secret Service and all the other law enforcement officers for their quick and decisive actions today. I continue to pray for our  Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) July 14, 2024

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President Joe Biden has condemned the attack on Donald Trump after he appeared to be shot at and emerged with a bloody face during a chaotic rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, the president wrote in a White House statement. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

At a 8:13 p.m. press conference in Delaware, Biden said he had attempted to speak with Trump but that the former president was busy receiving medical attention.

I have tried to get ahold of Donald. He is with his doctors. Apparently, hes been doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly, I hope when I get back to the telephone, Biden said. Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, its sick, its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening, we cannot be like this, we cannot condone this.

A statement from the White House on Saturday night confirmed Biden had been able to speak to Trump but did not disclose details of their conversation.

The bottom line is, the Trump rally is a rally that he should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem, the president said at the press conference. But the idea, the idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it.

Asked if he believed Trump was the victim of an assassination attempt, Biden said, I dont know enough I have an opinion, but I dont have any facts.

Biden went on to thank the Secret Service and other agencies. He said he would update the press with more information on those injured as it came to hand.

NOTUS reported that Biden campaign staff have been told to refrain from issuing any comments on social media or in public. They were also asked to pause any proactive campaign communications on all platforms until more is known.

According to CNN, Biden will return to the White House earlier than expected, arriving Sunday. His original schedule had him in Delaware until Monday and flying onto Texas.

Trumps campaign told The Daily Beast that the former president is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

Several high-profile Republicans released statements condemning the political violence before Biden chimed in, including Speaker Mike Johnson (R-LA), Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA), and Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN.)

The president, a devout Catholic, was reportedly attending a 5:30 p.m. mass at St. Edmonds Catholic Church near his Delaware home when the shooting broke out.

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Workers plant tree seedlings along a road across the Kubuqi desert in Hangjin Banner, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on May 29, 2024. (Xinhua/Lian Zhen)

China's remarkable strides in combating desertification have been highlighted on International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, on Friday.

Over the past two decades, the country has witnessed a significant decline in the frequency and intensity of spring sandstorms, a testament to its robust ecological initiatives.

The National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Friday revealed a substantial reduction in the number of spring sandstorms, from an average of 17 times a year between 1981 and 2010 to 9.2 times in the last decade, nosediving about 46 percent.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, the country has intensified support for key ecological projects such as the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP).

Such efforts have led to the successful management of 331 million mu (about 22 million hectares) of desertified land, with 53 percent of the treatable desertified areas now under effective control.

China, one of the nations most affected by desertification, has been grappling with the transformation of fertile lands into deserts, a phenomenon that disrupts rainfall patterns and exacerbates extreme weather events, further driving climate change.

The World Atlas of Desertification warns that 75 percent of the world's soils are already degraded, affecting 3.2 billion people globally. Projections by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are dire, with 90 percent of the planet's land surface at risk of degradation by 2050, posing significant threats to biodiversity and human life.

In stark contrast to this global outlook, China has achieved zero growth in land degradation and has successfully reduced the area of desertified and sandy lands.

A 2020 report from the Chinese Academy of Sciences indicated that China had achieved land degradation neutrality, with the net land restoration area accounting for over 18 percent of the world's total, placing it at the forefront of global efforts in this regard.

The TSFP, the world's largest afforestation project, serves as a good example. Launched in 1978 and scheduled to be completed in 2050, it has already helped safeguard the land inhabited by people in the northwest, north and northeast of China.

By 2020, the program saw the preservation of 480 million mu of forested land, the management of 1.28 billion mu of degraded grasslands, and the forest coverage rate increased from around 5 percent in 1978 to about 14 percent.

In June 2023, China proposed that the TSFP be turned into a fully functional, unbreakable "green Great Wall" and ecological security barrier in northern China.

As the International Day for the Prevention of Desertification and Land Degradation aims to galvanize a global sense of duty and urgency, China has emerged as a dynamic force in fulfilling its commitments to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

On Wednesday, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2025-2034 as the "United Nations Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms."

Introducing the text of a draft resolution on behalf of the Group of 77 developing countries and China, the representative of Uganda said sand and dust storms are an issue of international concern.

The storms increasingly threaten achievement of 11 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, he stressed, adding that the resolution aims to enhance international and regional cooperation to prevent, halt and mitigate their effects.
Joe Biden Says He Is 'Grateful' that Donald Trump Is 'Safe and Doing Well' Following Campaign Rally Shooting

Trump was seen with blood on his ear and face following a shooting at his campaign rally

Kevin Dietsch/Getty, Angela Weiss-Pool/Getty Joe Biden (left), Donald Trump

Joe Biden says he is "grateful" that Donald Trump is "safe and doing well" following a shooting at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday, July 13.

Trump, 78, was seen with blood on his face and ear following the shooting, though his campaign said in a statement he is "fine" and being evaluated at a medical facility.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told outlets including ABC News and the Associated Press that both the shooter and at least one audience member are dead.

Rebecca DROKE / AFP) (Photo by REBECCA DROKE/AFP via Getty Donald Trump with blood on his face at the rally

Related: Donald Trump Rushed Off Stage After Being Injured at Campaign Rally, Shooter and One Attendee Reported Dead

Trump was mid-speech when gunfire could be heard. After grabbing his ear, Secret Service agents rushed the stage and surrounded the former president before escorting him out of the area.

In a statement given to PEOPLE, the Trump campaign said the former president was "fine" and was "being checked out at a local medical facility."

Kevin Dietsch/Getty, Angela Weiss-Pool/Getty Joe Biden (left) and Donald Trump

In his own statement, Biden, 81, said, "I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information."

"Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety," Biden added. "Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump with blood on his face at the rally

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Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro also issued a statement, saying that he had been briefed on the situation and that police remained on the scene and are "working with our federal and local partners."

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States," Shapiro said in the statement, adding: "Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene."



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Joe Biden Calls Shooting At Donald Trump Event Sick: We Cannot Be Like This. We Cannot Condone This

UPDATE: President Joe Biden called the shooting at Donald Trumps rally, which appeared to injure the former president, sick.

Its sick, Biden told reporters in Rehoboth Beach, DE. Its sick. Its one reason we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

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Biden said that he has tried to get ahold of Trump, but he has been with his doctors. Apparently hes doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly, I hope.

Biden said that he did not yet have enough facts to say yet whether the shooting was an assassination attempt.

I have an opinion but I dont have all the facts, Biden said.

Biden said that so far it appears that Trump is doing well. He said that he was going to speak to get an updated report from federal agencies as they conduct an investigation.

PREVIOUSLY: President Joe Biden, in his first comments on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally, said said that there was no place for this kind of violence in America.

Biden said in a statement that he has been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania,

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

The Biden campaign also was suspending advertising and other campaign communication in light of the incident, according to reports.

Vice President Kamala Harris said, Doug and I are relieved that [Trump] is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.

She added, Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Trump and Bidens predecessors also released statements.

Former President George W. Bush said, Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Former President Barack Obama said, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Former President Bill Clinton said, Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.





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A federal judge on Thursday urged Lyft and advocates for the disabled to set aside the acrimony of a class-action lawsuit and find some way the ride-hailing company can expand the availability of wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

"It is a terrible shame to my mind, a terrible shame, that a company of the depth and breadth and innovation of Lyft and organizations that represent people who God has put on them the additional burden of having to live with devices to get around, it shocks my mind that there isn't some reasonable way to put the armor to the side and to come up with some kind of a solution that might be of assistance to both agendas," U.S. District Judge Philip Halpern said in White Plains federal court.

But a lawyer for Lyft, who called the issue "complicated" despite the company's efforts, said they were not interested in any further discussions.

Attorney Jeremiah Frei-Pearson, right, speaks about Westchester Disabled on the Move's class-action lawsuit against Lyft to provide wheelchair accessible vehicles as Donna Ponessa, a disabled person who wants to use the service, lawyer Michael Hellman and plaintiff Harriet Lowell look on July 3, 2024 in White Plains office.

Halpern spoke at the conclusion of testimony in the four-day trial of Harriet Lowell and Westchester Disabled on the Move v. Lyft. He said he will rule on the facts and the law sometime next month after each side submits final arguments, and insisted he had not yet made up his mind. But he expressed frustration that some middle ground couldn't be found that would help the disabled get WAV rides on the Lyft app while not overburdening the company financially.

The plaintiffs claim Lyft discriminates against the disabled in violation of the Americans with Disabilites Act and New York State Human Rights Law by limiting the availability of WAVs on its app.

They seek a ruling in favor of three classes  the disabled in Westchester, New York State and the rest of the country  that would force Lyft to make WAVs available.

Lyft provides access to WAVs in New York City and eight other municipalities in the country where it was forced to by regulators. The company insists it is focused on improving WAV service in those areas and has not expanded to other areas of the country because it expects the chances of providing reliable, cost-effective service are low and fears reputational harm if it attempts expansion and fails.

The plaintiffs contend the company can do as it does in the nine areas in other places but chooses not to because it is not required.

Halpern suggested expanding service anywhere would be more desirable than the status quo but offered that a good place to start might be in Westchester, where the plaintiffs contend that frequent drop-offs by WAV drivers from New York City prove there is availability. He even suggested the two sides sit down with the head of the Westchester Taxi and Limousine Commission, Leandra Eustache, to see if a solution could be found there.

The plaintiffs had sought to call Eustache as a witness but Halpern ruled that her testimony would not have been relevant to the issues he must decide. In an affidavit before the trial she disputed Lyft's position that the county's rules prohibited the New York City WAV drivers from picking up passengers in Westchester.

Halpern said as the trial judge it wasn't his place to direct the two sides to talk or to try to mediate a solution, but hoped they would do so on their own.

"It is my plea as one human being to another," he said. "There's got to be a way here to a have a win-win so that the animosity leaves the room and that somebody can tell somebody, 'You know what? Forget what the judge did. Who cares what the judge did. We did something. We did a good thing business-wise. We did a good thing plaintiff-wise. Yeah it wasn't perfect.' Is there any hope here?"

He specifically asked the defendants. But Jiyun Cameron Lee, one of Lyft's lawyers, said that improving WAV service "is not an easy solution anywhere" and it wasn't like Eustache could just "wave a magic wand" to make WAV service happen in her county.

"It is not that simple," she said.

"Yes I get it. So is your answer yes or no?" Halpern asked.

"It is no," Lee said.

Halpern didn't even ask the other side.

Jeremiah Frei-Pearson, a lawyer for the plaintiffs, said in a text later that they were "very willing" to negotiate a settlement that would provide some WAV service on Lyft in Westchester and elsewhere.

"We are shocked and saddened that Lyft rejected Judge Halpern's guidance that the parties attempt to reach a resolution." he said.

On Friday, a Lyft spokesperson said that the company continues to work with numerous partners to improve accessibility.

"But as the evidence presented at the trial showed, no private company or public entity has figured out how to provide on-demand transportation by wheelchair accessible vehicles at a reasonable cost today," they wrote in a statement, citing a limited supply of WAVs and their high cost.

The statement said Lyft understood the judge's question to be narrowly focused to either mediation or a discussion with the Westchester TLC.

"While we do not believe either of those options would be fruitful given the confines of litigation, Lyft remains open to discussions outside of the litigation process and we will continue to explore finding actionable solutions or partnerships to help serve this community," the statement read.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Lyft, advocates for disabled urged by judge to work toward solution
Just a day after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, Greenville GOP chairwoman Yvonne Julian said she looks forward to a great but very busy week at the 2024 Republican National Convention.

On Thursday, Trump will formally become the GOP nominee for this years general election.

In Butler, Pa. on Saturday, a sniper opened fire at a Trump rally, killing one attendee and critically injuring two others. Trump could be seen with blood on his ear and down his cheek as he was ushered off the stage. Before he exited, he raised a fist to the crowd, who erupted into cheers. The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

The FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. He was killed by Secret Service agents, according to USA TODAY.

Yvonne Julian, Greenville County GOP chair, smiles during a watch party at the GOP headquarters in Greenville, S.C., on Saturday, Feb. 24, 2024.

Julian, who arrived at the convention before the official start on Sunday, watched reports of the shooting in a Milwaukee hotel lobby with other South Carolina delegates. She described the moment when a panicked visitor rushed into the lobby, telling them shots were fired at the rally. Several people huddled around a singular cell phone to watch news reports before having a moment of prayer for the former president and attendees.

This is about the attempt to assassinate a president, but its also about safety, Julian said. How safe are you as an American?

Julian pointed to one of the themes during the packed convention week: Make America Safe Once Again. The convention is set to continue this week, where 50,000 attendees are expected to fill the FISERV Arena.

"President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, the Trump campaign and RNC said in a joint statement.

More: South Carolina leaders react as Donald Trump is rushed off rally stage in Pennsylvania

Trump said in a statement posted to the social media site Truth Social that he felt the bullet ripping through the skin. His right ear was injured, but a Trump spokesperson confirmed he was fine shortly after the shooting.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump said in a statement.

Across the political spectrum, South Carolina leaders called for prayers and well wishes for Trump and attendees. Sen. Tim Scott posted to X to join him in "praying for President Donald J. Trump and the safety of those at the Trump rally." Democrat James Clyburn (D-SC 6th District), called the events that unfolded Saturday "horrific, adding "there is no room for violence of any kind in this country."

Sen. Lindsey Graham told NBC's "Meet the Press" that "there's a lot of frustration on our side about the way President Trump has been treated, but Im just grateful today that hes alive.

Julian said she was very grateful for Trumps safety and that the South Carolina delegates shes heard from are still in good spirits, though some of the younger members were a bit shaken. Still, they look forward to casting their ballots to nominate Trump.

I think our group embodies the spirit of what people call the MAGA movement. We just want to do the right thing and get the country on track and onto the right foot, Julian said.

Savannah Moss covers politics for the Greenville News. Reach her at smoss@gannett.com or follow her on X @Savmoss.

This article originally appeared on Greenville News: SC RNC delegates shaken, grateful after assassination attempt on Trump
He just won: Republicans, pollsters and betting sites suggest assassination attempt will see Trump win

Donald Trumps chances of being elected president for a second time increased after the attempt on his life at a rally in Pennsylvania, according to an array of Republicans, pollsters and betting markets.

Images of the former president with a bloodied face, and pumping his fist in the air following the shooting on Saturday, prompted an outpouring of support from across the political spectrum. But conservative figures and GOP lawmakers pointed out the potential political impact of the shocking event.

President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election, Wisconsin Republican congressman, Derrick Van Orden, told Politico shortly after the shooting.

This will energize the base more than anything, Tim Burchett, Republican representative from Tennessee, also told Politico. With his fist in the air and he didnt want to leave. And hes yelling, fight, fight, fight. Thatll be the slogan, he added.

Those sentiments were echoed by Frank Luntz, a veteran Republican pollster, who suggested the shooting in Pennsylvania will definitely impact the final vote, guaranteeing that every Trump voter will actually vote.

That participation gap is worth at least 1% and as much as 2%. And because it happened in Pennsylvania, the impact will be highest in Pennsylvania.

This doesnt guarantee that Trump flips Pennsylvania. But the long and winding road for Joe Biden just became even longer and windier, he wrote on X.

Donald Trump walks down the steps of his plane in New Jersey on July 13, 2024 after the assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania (Margo Martin)

Investors and betting markets also appeared to move toward Trump. The election is likely to be a landslide. This probably reduces uncertainty," Nick Ferres, chief investment officer at Vantage Point Asset Management, told Reuters.

Ferres noted a surge of some 20 points in the polls for Ronald Reagan after a 1981 assassination attempt. He went on to win the 1984 election in a landslide.

Betting markets spiked in favor of Trump overnight, rising 7.5 points, according to an election betting aggregator.

In the hours after the shooting, and seemingly motivated by it, a number of high-profile figures announced their unequivocal support for Trumps re-election.

Elon Musk, CEO of Tesla and SpaceX, shared a video of Trump pumping his fist after the attack with the caption: I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania (The Associated Press)

Bill Ackman, a billionaire venture capitalist, also announced that he is going to formally endorse Trump in the hours after the shooting, while not mentioning the incident in the post.

Trump had just begun a campaign speech in Butler, Pennsylvania when shots rang out and a bullet struck his ear.

The 78-year-old was rushed off stage by members of the Secret Service, as he pumped his fists in the air shouting fight, fight, fight and blood ran down his face.

Secret Service agents killed the suspected shooter who was outside the security perimeter when the shots were fired, according to law enforcement officials. A spectator was killed, and two others have been critically injured.

The FBI has identified the gunman as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, from Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden spoke briefly from a police station in Delaware following the attack.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening, the president said. The president reported that he had called Trump following the attack.

His campaign, meanwhile, is reportedly hitting the pause button, according to ABC News, pulling ads off the airwaves and stopping political communications.

The Republican National Convention, at which Trump will formally receive the nomination of his party as the 2024 presidential candidate, begins in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Monday.
A Kansas alliance wants to make one of the most dangerous industries safer. Heres how

Imagine a 28-year-old construction worker. As his familys primary provider, he works long hours in the hot summer air, doing roofing work for a small company in western Kansas.

Then one day, he missteps off the roof and plummets 20 feet.

What happens next is that now this person is either going to die or is going to be in a very tough road to recovery, said Jorge De La Torre, director of safety for Hutton. More than likely, hes going to stop earning money. More than likely hes going to go into therapy and surgeries and all of that.

That example is hypothetical. But a new Kansas safety alliance aims to prevent real-life injuries in one of the most dangerous industries by providing education and training.

Were not sitting back going through the motions, said Mike Gibson, Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Kansas executive vice president. Were actually proactively addressing these key elements that impact companies and  at the end of the day  keep their employees safe.

With this alliance, De La Torre said, they are going to save lives, even if the results wont be evident for years to come.

Thats the challenge is like, Am I really making an impact on somebody by delivering this information? De La Torre said. I say yes, but I dont have any proof.

Starting the alliance

Discussions about the alliance began over a year ago as stakeholders recognized the prevalence of suicides and mental health struggles among construction workers, said Todd Underwood, area director for Wichitas office of the U.S. Department of Labors Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA). While mental health is a strong focus of the alliance, they also aim to improve safety and preventive measures on the job.

The alliance is made up of several local, state and national entities, including:

Associated General Contractors (AGC) of Kansas  which includes member companies such as Hutton  as well as its Kansas Construction Safety Network

OSHA

Kansas Department of Labors Industrial Safety and Health Division

Mental Health America Of South-Central Kansas

Underwood said the partners bring different expertise and interest to the alliance.

Im interested in preventing workplace injuries. Mental health advocates are obviously concerned and want to make a difference in mental health. The Associated General Contractors leader  (is) interested in bringing healthy people into the construction industry, Underwood said.

We all have a different focus, but  advocating together in this alliance, we become much stronger. Its a synergistic approach that were trying to achieve.

Addressing industry needs

In a 2022 U.S. Bureau of Labor census focused on occupational injuries, construction workers ranked second in most fatalities, 1,056, right behind transportation, with 1,620 fatal work incidents.

Falls, slips and trips were one of the largest contributing factors to these fatalities. These incidents are seen at the state level, too. In the most recent study, eight fatalities were recorded in the construction industry in 2017.

Construction  we start there because they are the ones having the biggest issue, Underwood said.

While the number of workplace fatalities and injuries is high, suicides are the more pervasive cause of death among workers. In 2015, a CDC study identified that the industry had the highest suicide rate among males, at 53.2 suicides per 100,000 workers.

Difficult working conditions and injuries can lead workers to become dependent on substances, which can contribute to mental health struggles, or vice versa, Underwood said.

Theres a lot of risk factors for the construction people, and it may include this inconsistent and seasonal work demand schedules that they have, and, you know, sometimes they get hurt at work, and many times theyre treated with opioids, Underwood said.

From here, Underwood said, a cycle could begin where individuals become addicted to substances  something he witnessed in one of his family members.

This family member was an EMT  They had a back injury that led to an over-prescription of opioids, and they got addicted, Underwood said. This individual who we love very much lost himself into this addiction.

Eventually, the family member died by suicide.

So this very much speaks to my core, that we can make a difference, Underwood said.

Providing resources

Much of the alliances approach to changing the narrative begins with educational resources.

This alliance is the first of its kind  in the state of Kansas that brings all these parties together to share resources, Gibson said. And a lot of those resources are funneled through the Kansas Construction Safety Network  And we make those resources available not only to the construction industry but the community at large.

There are only a handful of other construction safety alliances across the nation, such as those in Colorado and Maine.

Some of these resources include offering education about safety practices, support options related to substance use  such as naloxone training  and information sessions.

Toolbox Talks are another form of training emerging that aims to educate workers daily about staying safe. De La Torre explained what this could look like on a given work day.

(Its) like one piece of paper, one document, that may state safety for today would be were going to talk about ladder safety, De La Torre said. And then at the end of the page, everybody that was there signs the paper, saying we trained them; we told them some of the hazards.

De La Torre noted that Hispanic and Spanish speaking workers make up a large number of employees in the industry. A U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics publication highlighted that 30% of construction workers nationwide identified as Hispanic in 2020.

A lot of times the resources dont get all the way to the  underserved community, De La Torre said. What we are doing is everything that we produce in English, we produce in Spanish because we want to close that gap.

Gibson said the alliance, along with making workplaces safer, aims to dispel a common idea around the industry.

Theres still this perception that I dont want my son or daughter going into construction. I dont want them to be a carpenter or a welder because its very dangerous, Gibson said. But our companies are always looking for ways to improve their safety practices on a job site. And this alliance gives them additional tools in the toolbox to do so.

Looking ahead

Although the alliance was officially signed into existence two months ago, hopes for the future of it  and the industry  are high among partners.

We have to take faith that what were doing, and if were following the information provided by the authorities, that we are making a difference even though we dont see it today, Underwood said.

I just hope from the bottom of my soul that it does make a positive impact.
Despite a new Kansas law allowing information to be shared more quickly after a childs death, the state hasnt divulged anything about a Topeka boy found dead last month.

The Department for Children and Families denied a request from the Kansas City Star seeking information about Zerick I. Ozuna, the 9-year-old who was found dead in his family home on June 20. Officials with the Shawnee County Sheriffs Office said Zerick had wounds to his neck and chest.

DCF has determined that the records you seek are closed  as there is no requisite DCF finding of abuse or neglect at this time, Erin La Row, DCFs spokesperson, told The Star in an email responding to a request under the Kansas Open Records Act. DCF now considers the KORA request closed.

La Row also, at this point, declined to say whether Zericks family has been investigated by DCF for allegations of child abuse or neglect in the past.

The reason the state is still silent on Zericks death lies in the details of the new legislation itself. And the fact that his mother, who was arrested after her son was found dead, also died before she faced any charges.

The day deputies found Zerick, his mother, Shyla M. Goracke, 29, was taken into police custody and hospitalized. Four days later, on June 24, The Shawnee County Sheriffs Office reported her death.

The new law doesnt apply here because formal charges havent been filed, La Row said. DCF is waiting on information from law enforcement to complete its finding.

House Bill 2628, which went into effect July 1, requires the DCF secretary to release information related to a child death when related criminal charges are filed and the kid was involved in the child welfare system.

Without those two factors, state law still doesnt allow the child welfare agency to release information until the investigation is complete and theres a finding that the child died of abuse or neglect, DCF has said, which can take weeks or even longer.

Speaking with children is often a crucial step in determining a history of child abuse, according to police resource guides released by the United States Department of Justice. This becomes more complicated when, like Zerick, the child involved in a potential neglect investigation has died.

Even without charges, documents detailing investigations into abuse against children can legally be released to law enforcement officers, mental health professionals, social workers and court officials, according to HB2628.

However, without a conclusion to any pending charges against Goracke, its unclear when  or if  investigations into Zericks death will be complete.

Gorackes cause of death has not been publicly identified.

The Shawnee County Sheriffs Office declined to comment as to whether charges were planned against Goracke before she died.

The Sheriffs Office has also not said whether there were other suspects in Zericks death, and has not confirmed if the investigation into his death is closed.

Will be greatly missed

Goracke shared her home with husband Eli Goracke, who has also not been charged in Shawnee County court, according to property and court records.

Zerick was a rising fourth-grader at Farley Elementary in Topeka, within Auburn-Washburn United School District 437.

A third grade teacher there posted a message on Facebook on June 24 about the students death and the impact he had.

Zerick stood out of our tight-knit group of 2023-2024 third graders at Farley as a kind, curious, and creative boy, the teacher, Bobbi Hamman, wrote. He always seemed to be thinking and planning. In our small reading and writing group, Zerick would often have so many adventurous ideas that his pencil couldnt keep up with the elaborate story he wanted to share.

He also loved planning and engineering projects with his friends to go along with his tales that he was so proud of. Zerick will be greatly missed.

Goracke was the owner of MuttStaches Mobile Grooming, a mobile dog grooming business based in Topeka. She announced the closing of her business on Facebook on June 19, the day before her son was found dead.

This is a post I am making while in tears......as much as I love what I do and this business, I am unfortunately closing down MuttStaches Mobile Grooming immediately starting today due to personal reasons, she wrote. This is something I never wanted to do, especially not giving any kind of notice. I know how unprofessional that is.

It kills me to still have to go this route, but I would never do anything like this if I felt it wasnt my only option I had. At the end of the day, I have to take care of my son and myself.

Goracke had no previous criminal history, according to court documents.

Thirty-two children were killed in the state of Kansas in 2021, according to the most recent year of full data available from the Kansas State Child Death Review Board. Most were boys, and most had been previously visited by DCF  including four out of five of the homicides determined to be a direct result of child abuse.
Former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a Saturday campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Members of the Kansas congressional delegation said they were praying for Trump and denounced political violence. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a Saturday campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Members of the Kansas congressional delegation said they were praying for Trump and denounced political violence. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

TOPEKA  Members of the Kansas congressional delegation responded to the Saturday attack on former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania by invoking the power of prayer and several denounced use of violence as a political tool.

Trump said on social media he was wounded by a bullet in the right ear before rushed from a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and taken to a hospital. The Secret Service said the presumed Republican Party nominee was safe and that the suspected gunman and another person were dead.

Some members of Congress were quick to assign political motives for what was being investigated as an apparent assassination attempt, but the four U.S. House and two U.S. Senate members representing Kansas leaned into their faith and urged others to do likewise.l

Please join me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone at the rally today, said U.S. Rep. Jake LaTurner, a Republican not seeking reelection in 2024.

U.S. Sen. Jerry Moran, who is the states longest-serving member of the states delegation in Washington, said he was praying for President Trump, everyone who attended the rally and for our country.

May God bless our president, said U.S. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Republican who praised the Secret Service for delivering swift justice to the attacker. We watched in horror as an assassination attempt was made on President Trump. We, as a nation, need to pause and grasp the magnitude of this event. There is no place for this violence in civil society.

U.S. Rep. Sharice Davids, the Democrat serving the 3rd District in the Kansas City area, said she was horrified shots were fired at the former president and relieved by reports that he was okay. She commented on the penchant of some people to bring violence in the political arena.

Political violence is never acceptable, she said. Thank you to the Secret Service and law enforcement who responded and are investigating.

Prasanth Reddy, a Republican running for U.S. House in the 3rd District, said investigation of the shooting must be 100% transparent to the American people.

U.S. Rep. Tracey Mann of the 1st District put it simply: Hate and violence are not the answer. He also praised the former president and noted his admiration for the GOP standard bearer. President Trumps perseverance is second to none. God speed, Mr. President. We stand with you, Mann said.

U.S. Rep. Ron Estes, the Republican serving the 4th District around Wichita, said that he and his wife, state Rep. Susan Estes, were praying for Trump and rally attendees. He echoed the perspective of others by declaring there is no place for political violence in the United States.

Former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, who is campaigning for the GOP nomination in the 2nd District in a bid to replace LaTurner, said the shooting warranted a call to prayer for all affected by this senseless act, for law enforcement officers who put duty above self and for President Trump.

We need his leadership now more than ever, Schmidt said. The people, not violent criminals, will decide our great nations path forward.

Former U.S. Rep. Nancy Boyda, a Democrat in the 2nd District campaign, said the wounding of Trump was deeply troubling and highlighted the urgent need to reject all forms of political violence. She said violence in the political realm was a serious threat to the democratic process regardless of partisan affiliation.

Our democracy is built on the principles of dialogue and debate, not violence and intimidation. Incidents like only deepen divisions and undermine the core values of our democracy, Boyda said.
Pray that shooting of Trump will unite America to rethink our angry division

Its a nauseating day in America.

The attempted murder  and thats what it was  of Donald Trump is a jarring moment in our beloved country. One that offers all of us an opportunity to pause in our national cage fight.

To take a breath and consider the question: What the heck are we doing?

For those who immediately knee-jerked to political one-upsmanship, shame on you.

Shame on you, state Sen. Anthony Kern:

Democrats hate Trump and all who love America!, he raged. Democrats and media did this today! All they have is death!

Seizing on violence to score a dig at President Biden

Shame on you, Sen. Jake Hoffman, who now sits on the Republican National Committee.

Within minutes, assassination deniers on the left, including the Democrat mouthpieces at CNN, The Washington Post and USA Today, all immediately began disseminating misinformation about the attempted assassination, he said in a press release.

And it took hours, following the attempt on President Trumps life for Joe Biden to even comment. The behavior from Democrats in the aftermath of their heinous act is beyond disgusting.

Well, it took one hour.

I will leave it to others to decide if it was wise for President Biden to wait an hour to find out what actually happened before responding to what actually happened.

Once upon a time, we might have considered that admirable restraint.

It's actually an opportunity to pause our political fisticuff

Today, however, it apparently is all about politics, which has become a blood sport. Literally, as we saw on Saturday when one man was targeted for death and at least one of his supporters found it.

Perhaps this tragedy can (and should) be used as a turnaround moment, or at least a pause in our national fistfight over, well, everything. An opportunity to ponder a few things:

Like that fact that Republicans arent really evil and neither are Democrats. They have differing views, certainly conflicting visions of the direction in which this country needs to go.

Like the fact that its time to stop shouting at each other and perhaps spend just a moment or two listening, in the hope of finding even an inch of that rarified earth called common ground.

The attack is madness that none of us should condone

Oh, I know. That is a bridge too far in a country where the politics of the day require us to set fire to bridges.

We are a divided nation, mired in an overabundance of emotion and vitriol and an appalling lack of compassion and understanding for any point of view other than our own.

Before you say it, yes, Im as guilty as anyone.

But there is one thing upon which we can all agree tonight. The events in Butler, Pennsylvania., are the work of a madman, outrageous in every way.

It is rare that I agree with Kari Lake. Exceedingly rare.

As in, it's blizzarding-on-a triple-digit-July-day-in-Phoenix rare.

And yet, this evening, as I look out my window, Im seeing snow flurries, and so I will simply end with Lake's response to the events of this awful day.

I'm praying for Donald Trump," she wrote. " I'm praying just as much for his family, & the people in that crowd.

"And more than anything, I pray for this great Republic & that we can come together as Americans.

Reach Roberts at laurie.roberts@arizonarepublic.com. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @LaurieRoberts.

Support local journalism: Subscribe to azcentral.com today

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Pray Trump shooting helps America rethink our angry division
KANSAS CITY, Mo.  A Kansas City, Kansas man has been charged for a deadly shooting from his vehicle on Southwest Blvd. on June 29.

Richard Guerrero has been charged with 2nd degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action.

According to court records, officers were called to the scene of the shooting and found a victim in a black Acura sedan.

23-year-old man dies in Lawrence after drowning in lake

The victim was pronounced dead at the hospital. A witness said the Acura and a Chevrolet were stopped at a red light near La Bodega restaurant.

A witness also told detectives gun shots could be heard and the Acura slowly began to roll until it crashed into the wall of the restaurant.

Through surveillance video, KCPD determined the defendant was the registered owner of the Chevrolet. The defendant told a detective he fired the shot at the driver of the Acura after an altercation.

Guerrero is in custody. Prosecutors recommended the defendant continue to be held on a $200,000 cash bond.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
But for a gust of wind or a slightly better shot, wed be talking about Donald Trumps death today. Thats a moment for serious reflection about how weve talked about this man for the last decade. This is the third attempted assassination of Republican leaders in that time and it is largely luck that has kept them all alive.

There need be no apologies for judging Trump to be unfit for office. He is deserving of much of the harsh rhetoric he has invited from his political opponents.

However, Donald Trump is not Adolf Hitler, as he has been accused on the cover of The New Republic magazine, in social media posts and speeches. Nor are the Republicans like Louisiana Rep. Steve Scalise or Supreme Court Justice Brett Cavanaugh, who also faced the specter of gun violence in recent years, anything vaguely akin to Nazis.

For decades, college ethics classes have debated whether it would have been moral to kill Hitler before he tried to exterminate Europes Jews and ignited a war that killed tens of millions of other innocents. It is not a hard call. One bullet to save millions of lives.

And it is reasonable for people to worry about Trumps tendencies. It is true that Donald Trump wants to put millions in camps, and already put children in cages, but that is so he can deport them, not kill them in gas chambers. It is true that Donald Trump has targeted people for their religion, but that is to prevent them from traveling here, not as a prelude to genocide.

It is also true that Donald Trump may ignite a world war, but it is his feckless approach to the NATO alliance and his appeasement of dictators that will spark it, not the invasion of peaceful neighbors.

Moreover, Trump himself is no novice when it comes to targeting his political opponents with violence-adjacent rhetoric. It is not lost on me as I travel to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee that I have been dubbed an enemy of the people for my work in the news business. He says his political opponents are out to destroy our nation. He has falsely claimed that Democrats have undermined our nations democracy by stealing the 2020 election.

It wouldnt be a surprise if some of his followers picked up arms to defend their country from such threats. But that is not what happened Saturday night. A 20-year-old gunman of uncertain political views tried to kill our former president, perhaps spurred on by the ill-considered words of current President Joe Biden, who said It is time to put Trump in a bullseye. As much as we decried the rhetoric on Jan. 6, Biden doesnt get a pass.

We all know what Democrats and many allies in the press would say if the shoe was on the other foot  if it were Biden who was bloodied and defiant after being targeted by a would-be assassin.

There would be a rush to condemn the violent rhetoric and weeks of questions from the press, angry editorials and backpedaling by Republicans spooked at the prospect of a sympathy vote wiping them out in the November elections. All the smart people would call on both sides to cool the rhetoric and focus on what brings us together as Americans, to end the division and hatred.

Well, now those who have used the terms Nazi and fascist who have thoughtlessly invoked Hitler, must atone for their overheated rhetoric. Accountability should start with apologies and end with the judgment of the American people on Election Day.

But the one thing that cannot happen is that those principled and reasonable people who have always opposed Trump for his amoral, unaccountable and reckless ways must continue to tell the truth about this man even as he basks in the glow of national revulsion at his attempted murder.

David Mastio, a former editor and columnist for USA Today, is a regional editor for The Center Square and a regular Star Opinion correspondent. Follow him on X: @DavidMastio or email him at dmastio1@yahoo.com
One of Kentucky's wealthiest Democratic givers is joining the ranks of party mega-donors across the country who are pleading for President Joe Biden to step aside as the nominee in the 2024 election.

Philanthropist Christy Brown said she has long admired the 81-year-old incumbent, who has for weeks been resisting calls from within his party to quit the race.

But in a new op-ed released Sunday, she said Biden cannot overcome dogged questions about his age and capacity after an abysmal June 27 debate performance against former President Donald Trump.

"For sure the debate brought all of the realities to a fore for me," Brown told USA TODAY/The Courier Journal in an exclusive interview Saturday.

"To be perfectly honest, it's embarrassing I guess, as a 77-year-old, that I really had not given adequate reflection to the age question as I now realize that I should have."

Christy Brown was present Tuesday morning for the donation of $1 million dollars to the Speed Art Museum in the name of her late husband Owsley Brown II. 2/23/16

Democrats, she said, should hold a "blitz primary" should President Biden give up the nomination.

Brown, heiress to the Brown-Forman Corp. fortune, is a fundraising juggernaut, having poured millions into local, state and national Democratic campaigns along with other liberal causes.

During the 2023 gubernatorial race, for instance, Brown helped rake in more than $1 million for Gov. Andy Beshear, which shattered the state's single event record, according to Kentucky campaign finance records.

Brown's call is bound to spotlight stark contrasts within the Democratic Party over what to do with Biden's candidacy with less than 115 days until the election.

More than 4 in 10 Democrats  41%  said Biden should be replaced as its standard bearer, according to a USA TODAY/Suffolk University Poll this month.

Political observers have noted how the national intra-party war has fallen along class and racial lines with mostly white donors, strategists and pundits demanding Biden exit the race.

The president has lashed out at those critics and cast them as party "elites" while leaning into his core supporters, particularly within the African-American community.

"Have him step down because of a debate? A lot of people have messed up debates," 61-year-old Bowling Green, resident Johnalma Barnett, who is Black, said in an interview.

"I'd rather look at what he's done as president," she added. "I could care less about the debate."

Other big-name Ky. Democratic fundraisers doubting Biden

Actress and political activist Ashley Judd accepts the Kentucky Humanitarian Award during the Muhammad Ali Humanitarian Awards in 2017.

Brown isn't the only deep-pocketed Democrat with Bluegrass State roots nervous about the president's chances.

In separate op-eds this month, actors George Clooney and Ashley Judd, who were born and grew up in Kentucky respectively, have urged Biden to bow out due to trepidation at Trump returning to power.

Clooney's column went as far as to name-drop Beshear as one option the party should look toward for a potential replacement.

Brown told USA TODAY/The Courier Journal she spoke with Judd recently about other matters and hadnt communicated with Clooney, who was born in Lexington, about the nomination. She said her call for a new nominee shouldn't be looked at as an attempt to catapult Beshear into the White House either.

Director George Clooney attends a premiere for the film 'The Boys in the Boat' in Beverly Hills, California, U.S., December 11, 2023. REUTERS/Mario Anzuoni

"I really am not equipped to compare his skill sets with whoever else could be in that pool," she said.

"I would like to see him mature his skills in his home state, for sure," Brown added. "I am very pleased that he is continuing to serve as governor of Kentucky now, and I would like to see him continue that and mature his skills."

A spokesman for Beshear's PAC did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Last week, Beshear denied having conversations with the White House regarding his potential candidacy  but he has not outright rejected the possibility of stepping up to the top of the Democratic ticket.

Beshear parried questions about the prospect by saying he would only leave Kentuckys governorship if he felt like he could help the Commonwealth even more through some other opportunity.

But, asked if his wife would make a good first lady, he quipped, Wow. If she was ever asked, shed make an absolutely fantastic one because theres nothing she cant do.

A 'blitz primary' to replace Biden

Instead of backing a preferred heir to the 2024 nomination, Brown and Tod Sedgwick, a former U.S. ambassador to the Slovak Republic, who co-authored the Sunday op-ed, are endorsing the idea of a "blitz primary" at the Democratic National Committee convention in August.

The unconventional strategy  hatched by Georgetown University law professor Rosa Brooks and venture capitalist Ted Dintersmith  would involve Biden backing out this month, according to a memo shared with USA TODAY/The Courier Journal.

It would recruit "six dynamic young leaders" with weekly forums hosted by cultural icons such as Oprah, Tom Hanks and Taylor Swift. The winner, according to the memo, would be chosen by DNC delegates through ranked-choice voting before the Aug. 19 convention in Chicago.

"Democrats need a candidate who can energize America, and turn back this threat," Dintersmith said in a July 10 post on X, formerly known as Twitter.

"Quite regrettably, Joe Biden cant. A "blitz primary" will galvanize America, produce a dynamic nominee, and save our democracy."

Donald Trump will destroy our democracy. Democrats need a candidate who can energize America, and turn back this threat. Quite regrettably, Joe Biden cant. A #BlitzPrimary will galvanize America, produce a dynamic nominee, and save our democracy. @ezraklein @JamesCarville pic.twitter.com/omG2UCr7H2  ted dintersmith (@dintersmith) July 10, 2024

Brown and Sedgwick, who served with Biden in the Obama administration, said they would ultimately support the president should he stay in the race but that Democrats need to be bolder to defeat Trump.

"It's exciting how deep the bench is within the Democratic Party, and I think that we the powers to be ... all need to be looking carefully at all of those folks, and create a pool," she said.

'Loud mouths': Rank-and-file Dems back Biden

Gov. Andy Beshear, right, talks with Pres. Joe Biden as Biden toured the tornado devastation in Dawson Springs, Ky. on Wednesday evening. Dec. 15, 2021

Former U.S. Rep. John Yarmuth, who represented Louisville in Congress for almost two decades, said it's a toss-up when it comes to ditching or keeping the president as the nominee.

"Either path is risky," he said. "If you twisted my arm, I would prefer to see another candidate."

As far as a so-called blitz primary idea, Yarmuth said there are "pluses and minuses," chief among them is alienating an important part of the Democratic base if Vice President Kamala Harris is not chosen to replace Biden.

But on the pro side, Yarmuth said, "I think the excitement ... would be a huge positive and anyone who would come out of that process would have, I think, a huge positive boost."

Many who work at the party's grassroots level, however, say without a clear plan for a replacement the plans being hatched by megadonors and pundits are too risky.

"I don't think that the Democratic Party wants (Biden) to step aside. I really don't," Barnett, the Bowling Green voter and DNC delegate, said. "I think you have a few people with loud mouths, but most of the people are like, there's not enough time to put someone else in there."

Roz Welch, vice chair of the Louisville Democratic Party, is heading to Chicago next month as a DNC delegate. She thinks the proposals would thwart the party's internal democratic processes and raise thorny legal questions.

Jack Morrison, carries a fishing pole with cutouts of Joe Biden and Amy McGrath attached during an early voting rally for Kentucky Senate candidate, Amy McGrath, at Lynn Family Stadium on Tuesday. Oct. 27, 2020

"The conversation of how do we get a new nominee brings a lot of uncertainty into this race that doesn't need to be there," she said. "It only creates the division that doesn't unite us."

Welch also doesn't see any legal or procedural pathway for another candidate, even the popular Beshear, to replace Biden.

"I think (Beshear) does some great things," Welch said, adding she'd be glad to see him make a presidential run in 2028. "We're talking about four months from now."

The debate over how to handle the Biden problem reflects a huge chasm within the party, said Lyndon Pryor, president and CEO of the Louisville Urban League.

I think you know, at least from the voices that I've seen, a lot of the people who are making these calls for the president to step side, a lot of them have the luxury of wealth and whiteness, to be quite honest, he said.

But for Black people, poor people, women and others from marginalized communities, this is not a game.

"This is not something that we can afford to be tinkering around with and playing as if it is some sort of reality competition show," he said.

Even those who believe the Democratic Party needs shaking up in general, like longtime Frankfort election lawyer Anna Whites, say the party should not swap horses in the middle of the stream.

"I have real concern about the future for my children, my grandchildren, my young friends and I want to, in this situation, try very carefully to make sure we dont make a mistake, she said.

And so I would like to stick with the name people know, because I think that this is a leader people will feel confident in going out to the polls for."

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: 'Blitz primary?' Ky. Democratic megadonor says its time to ditch Biden
Kentucky Republicans and Gov. Andy Beshear offered and asked for prayers for former President Donald Trump Saturday, after he was whisked off stage following a failed assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally, Sen. Mitch McConnell said in a post on X.com, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

Sen. Rand Paul added, Please keep Trump and everyone at the rally in your thoughts and prayers right now.

Beshear, a Democrat and rumored to be a potential vice-president candidate should President Biden decide to leave the presidential campaign, said Britainy and I are praying for the safety and health of the former president. Violence is never the answer. Never.

Federal officials said the incident is being investigated as a failed assassination attempt.

Kentucky Secretary of State Michael Adams echoed Beshears sentiment, saying in a social media post, May God protect the former President and all at this rally. Political violence, from the right or left, is never the answer.

Kentucky Attorney General Russell Coleman said he is praying for President Trump, his family and the top-tier professionals of the U.S. Secret Service. No matter your beliefs, political violence has no place in our country.

U.S. Rep. James Comer also asked for prayers, saying in a post on X, Please pray for President Trump, those at the rally and our nation.

Trump fine after shots fired at stage during Pennsylvania campaign rally; 2 dead

Please join me in praying for @realDonaldTrump & all who were impacted by the cowardly attack at the rally in PA., U.S. Rep. Hal Rogers said in a post on X. I am grateful to know that President Trump was protected by the quick action of the Secret Service. Let us unite against all political violence & pray for peace.

Praying for Trump and others who might have been shot, U.S. Rep. Thomas Massie said in a post in which he shared a photo of a bloody-faced Trump with an upraised fist.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected, U.S. Rep. Morgan McGarvey, a Louisville Democrat, said. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response. America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.

I am praying for President Trump and our nation following the terrible events this afternoon, Rep. Brett Guthrie said in a post.

Please join us in praying for President Trump and anyone who was hurt by this cowardly act of violence, the Republican Party of Kentucky posted on X.

Blood could be seen on the side of Trumps face as he was being ushered away by Secret Service agents.

A Trump campaign spokesman said the former president is fine.

In a statement about two hours after the incident, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The former president shared that post on his social media site Truth Social Saturday night.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility, Trump spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. More details will follow.

A shooter was dead, as well as at least one bystander in what is being investigated as a possible assassination attempt, ABC News reported. A second attendee is said to be in serious condition.

Trump expressed condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when loud pops or explosions could be heard, and Trump went to the ground.

Screams could be heard from the crowd as security personnel covered the former president before helping him to his feet and rushing him off the stage, video of the incident shared by CNN shows.

President Joe Biden was briefed in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, on the shooting, the White House told CNN.

Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall are part of the team briefing the president.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, President Joe Biden issued a statement posted on X. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

The Carter Center, founded at Atlantas Emory University by former President Jimmy Carter and the late Rosalynn Carter, issued a statement condemning the violence.

While we dont know all the facts, we do know that all Americans should be able to gather peaceably without fear of violence, the statement read. Our thoughts are with President Trump and all those affected by this horrific act., and we call on all Americans to embrace civility in our democratic processes.

Britainy and I are praying for the safety and health of the former president. Violence is never the answer. Never.  Governor Andy Beshear (@GovAndyBeshear) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump, his family and the top-tier professionals of the U.S. Secret Service.



No matter your beliefs, political violence has no place in our country.  Attorney General Russell Coleman (@kyoag) July 13, 2024

May God protect the former President and all at this rally. Political violence, from the right or left, is never the answer. https://t.co/y7a5STyESN  Michael Adams, KY Secretary of State (@KYSecState) July 13, 2024

Please join me in praying for @realDonaldTrump & all who were impacted by the cowardly attack at the rally in PA. I am grateful to know that President Trump was protected by the quick action of the Secret Service. Let us unite against all political violence & pray for peace. https://t.co/6Xa4Nd4yb3  Hal Rogers (@RepHalRogers) July 14, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.  Leader McConnell (@LeaderMcConnell) July 13, 2024

Please keep Trump and everyone at the rally in your thoughts and prayers right now. https://t.co/1v8DBR8Xg3  Rand Paul (@RandPaul) July 13, 2024

Praying for Trump and others who might have been shot. pic.twitter.com/tGkIwl9ibH  Thomas Massie (@RepThomasMassie) July 13, 2024

Please pray for President Trump, those at the rally and our nation.  Rep. James Comer (@RepJamesComer) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and all those affected. What happened at the Trump rally today is horrible and unacceptable. Im grateful to law enforcement for their immediate response.



America is a Democracy. Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Morgan McGarvey (@RepMcGarvey) July 13, 2024

I am praying for President Trump and our nation following the terrible events this afternoon. pic.twitter.com/92Spp0Itz7  Rep. Brett Guthrie (@RepGuthrie) July 13, 2024

Please join us in praying for President Trump and anyone who was hurt by this cowardly act of violence.  Republican Party of Kentucky (@KYGOP) July 13, 2024

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  It was the shocking moment no one saw coming  an attempt on former president Donald Trumps life at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Now, notable figures here in Kern County and Bakersfield and representatives throughout California are taking to social media for commentary.

Former Speaker of the House Kevin McCarthy expressed his support on social media by posting on X, Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me.

Mike Boudreaux, former candidate for Californias 20th Congressional District, also posted on Facebook and Instagram, saying the attack and attempted assassination of President Trump is an attack on us all. Let us pray for the innocent people who were injured and for the families of those who lost their lives amid this senseless violence

Senator Shannon Grove also commented, posting on X, Facebook and Instagram, This photo says all you need to know about President Trumpa fighter for America even in the midst of being attacked. I am praying for him and anyone that has been hurt or affected by this heinous act today.

Rancho Fire burns east of Mettler, evacuation order issued: Cal Fire

And Rudy Salas, former representative for the 32nd assembly, posted on Facebook, I wish the former President a speedy recovery. There is no justification for political violence and it should never be tolerated.

The local reaction continued with officials here in Bakersfield. Mayor Karen Goh posted a picture of an American flag on X, Facebook and Instagram, saying, Praying for our country.

David Couch, Chairman of the Kern County Board of Supervisors, posted a photo of a hat depicting the violent scene on Facebook, saying, Any questions?

On the state level, Governor Gavin Newsom posted on X, Violence has NO place in our democracy. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted at the rally today.

Representative Adam Schiff, who is in the race for Californias senate, also posted on X, Horrified by this apparent assassination attempt. There is no place for political violence in our democracy. Absolutely none Wishing President Trump a swift recovery.

Steve Garvey, also in the race for the Senate, posted on X, My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump for a speedy recovery and with the families of the innocent rally supporters who were tragically affected.

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A key rule for democracy is to respect the voting choices of others

Mark Joslyn

Do people vote against their self-interest? For example, there are LGBTQ Americans that vote Republican, despite the partys track record of unfavorable policies toward the LGBTQ community.

Similarly, affluent Americans back President Biden, even though his tax policies target high-income households.

And despite Donald Trumps persistent attacks on migrants, and support for harsh immigration policies, many Latinos support him.

Writing after the reelection of George W. Bush in 2004, Kansas native Thomas Frank claimed in his bestseller, "Whats the Matter with Kansas?" that the white working class were deceived into voting against their economic interests.

Republicans convinced them that a liberal, coastal, urban elite threatened traditional American values, and it was the responsibility of heartland farmers, factory workers and waitresses to protect those values.

And so, they voted Republican.

But according to Frank, traditional values were a ploy. Republicans after all represented big business and the wealthy. What the working class received for their support was lower wages, tax cuts for the rich, business deregulations and sustained attacks on labor unions.

Frank didn't hold back.

Strip today's Kansans of their job security, and they head out to become registered Republicans. Push them off their land, and next thing you know they're protesting in front of abortion clinics. Squander their life savings on manicures for the CEO, and there's a good chance they'll join the John Birch Society. "Whats the Matter with Kansas?" (2004, 67-68).

As it turned out, Frank was wrong.

Systematic research showed the working class was not tricked. Economic issues, compared to traditional values, were the main drivers of their vote.

Moreover, the working class are not the only group to switch party allegiances  affluent voters have as well. In 1996, the highest income voters went for Republican Bob Dole by 16 points. But that margin completely disappeared by 2020. Joe Biden split the wealthy vote evenly with Trump.

This change impacted Kansas. In 1996, Johnson County went for Dole by 22 points. By 2020, Biden won by 8 points, flipping Kansass wealthiest county for the first time in decades.

Does this mean Democrats hoodwinked affluent Johnson County voters into acting against their material interests?

Of course not.

Wealthy Americans that support Democrats may do so because they believe in the values championed by the party  protecting the environment, universal health care and a larger role for government in fighting racial and economic inequalities.

Similarly, LGBTQ and Latino Americans who cast their votes for Republicans may do so because they identify with the values the party upholds  limited government, strong national defense, free markets and lower taxes.

All of this serves as a reminder that self-interest manifests in countless ways and its interpretation is entirely subjective.

Voters prioritize certain interests over others. Its ultimately a personal matter.

The strength of democracy lies in the freedom of voters to choose candidates that align with their self-interests. But when doubts are raised about what in fact those interests are, and the political choices that arise from them, democracy suffers.

Mark Joslyn is a professor of political science at the University of Kansas.

This article originally appeared on Topeka Capital-Journal: Respecting voter choices: A key rule for democracy in Kansas and U.S.
Police said it appears that the skeletal remains belonged to a person" who "was using the house as a shelter"

Highlands County Sheriff's Office The abandoned home where skeletal remains were found in Avon Park, Florida

Police in Florida have launched an investigation after children discovered skeletal remains inside of an abandoned house.

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office said in a press release posted on Facebook on Thursday, July 11, that the children had been playing inside the home  located in Avon Park in central Florida  when they came upon the remains.

Police said the children reported their discovery to a nearby adult, who called police. Officers arrived on the scene and determined that the remains had been inside the home for well over a year.

It appears the person was using the house as a shelter, the release said.

The Highlands County Sheriff's Office said its detectives were working to positively identify the person and that the medical examiner was working on determining the persons cause of death. Police did not provide any additional details about the remains or who owned the abandoned home.

The Highlands County medical examiner did not immediately respond to PEOPLEs inquiry about whether the deceased person had been identified yet.

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Alongside the release, the Highland County Sheriff's Office shared a photo of officers with the forensic and crime scene departments entering the home, which was surrounded by overgrown weeds and trees.

The home appeared to be in a dilapidated state, as hinges were missing from the roof and a piece of the roofs eaves appeared to have detached. Window shades inside the home also appeared to be askew, and the white paint of the home seemed to be peeling off.

One woman who lived nearby commented on the police departments Facebook post saying that she got a creepy vibe from the house every time that she passed it, adding, Why dont they just demolish it so this doesnt happen again and clear off the land? Its an eyesore.

Others praised the children for their courage in telling an adult what they found, including one person who commented, Scary for those kids. But [at] least they told someone [or else] this person could have never gotten discovered. Hopefully it can bring closure to [the] family of this person.

Police have asked anyone with information regarding the investigation to call 863-402-7250 or email detectives@highlandssheriff.org.

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Britains King Charles III and Queen Camilla are planning to head down under.

The royal couple will travel to Australia in October as part of a tour that will also see them visit Samoa for this years Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting, Buckingham Palace announced on Sunday.

The forthcoming visit to Australia will be the 75-year-old British monarchs first trip to a Commonwealth realm since he ascended the throne. In addition to the United Kingdom, Charles is also head of state in 14 realms including Australia, New Zealand and Canada, though his role is largely ceremonial.

Charles and Camilla are visiting the nation at the invitation of the Australian government, where their program will feature engagements in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales, the palace said.

He last visited Australia with his wife six years ago, when they traveled to the Gold Coast for the opening of the 2018 Commonwealth Games.

Commonwealth Heads of Government Meetings  or CHOGM as they are known  are held every two years, with member states taking turns as host. The theme of this years event in Samoa, Charles first as head of the organization, is One Resilient Future: Transforming Our Common Wealth, and will see delegations from the 56 member states come together.

Their majesties state visit to Samoa will celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the Pacific Island nation and the UK, the palace added.

Charles, who resumed public-facing duties in April as he continues his treatment for cancer, has had a busy calendar in recent months. Last month, he attended D-Day commemorations in France.

More recently, he appointed Keir Starmer as prime minister after the Labour Party won a landslide victory at the polls, traveled to Scotland for the annual Holyrood Week celebrating Scottish culture and on Thursday visited the Welsh parliament in Cardiff to mark 25 years since Welsh devolution. On Monday, the royal couple are headed to the Channel Islands for a two-day visit.

Further details on the king and queens tours are expected to be revealed in the coming months. However, a palace spokesperson said that similarly to all of Charless recent engagements, his program in both countries will be subject to doctors advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds.

Some may wonder why the royal couple are not going to New Zealand while they are in the region. The palace spokesperson said that decision was made in consultation with the kings medical team who advised that such an extended program should be avoided at this time in order to prioritize his continued recovery.

In close consultation with the Australian and New Zealand prime ministers, and with due regard for the pressures of time and logistics, it has therefore been agreed to limit the visit to Samoa and Australia only, the spokesperson said.

Their majesties send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding, they added.

The kings absence from undertaking any visits to any of the Commonwealth realms since his accession had raised eyebrows. There was much surprise when his first overseas tours as monarch were announced as France and Germany. Those were followed by travel to Kenya, which is a Commonwealth member but not a realm.

Charles visit to Australia will be a key test of his popularity as head of state. The nation  which was colonized by the British in 1788  has long debated whether a long-distance monarch is still needed. A 1999 referendum on the issue saw voters opt to remain a constitutional monarchy, 55% to 45%.

In other Commonwealth nations, Queen Elizabeth IIs death renewed rumblings  some louder than others  of moves to sever ties with the crown and become republics. But in Australia, despite Prime Minister Anthony Albaneses pro-republic views, there has been no immediate push in that direction.

Albanese had proposed to hold a referendum over whether the nation should become a republic if he secured a second term in 2025. However, those plans appear to have been shelved to focus on more pressing challenges at home like the cost-of-living crisis.

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(Bloomberg) -- Prime Minister Keir Starmer will use the upcoming Kings Speech to showcase his new governments efforts to spur economic growth in the UK.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The speech, due to be delivered by King Charles III on July 17, will be the first since Labour won the general elections this month in a landslide on a pledge to prioritize growth. It marks the start of the parliamentary year, during which departments will aim to introduce more than 35 bills, according to a statement from the prime ministers office.

The legislation will include a bill to strengthen the role of the Office of Budget Responsibility so that significant fiscal announcements will be properly scrutinized, according to the statement. Others include previously telegraphed plans to launch a National Wealth Fund to drive inbound investment, a Mission Control to help the UK switch to clean power by 2030, and open the recruitment of a new border security command.

The task of national renewal will not be easy, and this is just the down payment on our plans for the next five years, Starmer said. But the legislation set out at the Kings Speech will build on the momentum of our first days in office and make a difference to the lives of working people.

Since winning the elections on July 4, Starmer and his Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves have spoken of the need to grow the economy. The first 100 days will see the government roll out reforms on areas from homebuilding to reforming the National Health Service, people in the prime ministers entourage have told Bloomberg.

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Charlene Hollow Horn Bear and Keith Ryder take down a buffalo hide painted with a depiction of a white buffalo calf after a naming ceremony for a recently born calf at the Buffalo Field Campaign headquarters in West Yellowstone, Mont., on June 26, 2024.
Kinzinger says JD Vances response to shooting should disqualify him from VP consideration

Former Rep. Adam Kinzinger (R-Ill.) said Sunday Sen. JD Vances (R-Ohio) response to the attempted assassination of former President Trump should disqualify him from serving as vice president.

Vance, a contender for Trumps choice of running mate, said in a social media post on Saturday that the shooting was not some isolated incident and suggested President Bidens campaign was, at least in part, at fault.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Vance said on the social platform X. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Kinzinger  a former GOP member of Congress who became a frequent Trump critic  responded to Vances post, saying, This should absolutely disqualify @JDVance1 from VP.

Vances statement came just hours after Trump was whisked off the stage of his Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, after Trump appeared to be wounded in what authorities are calling an assassination attempt.

At the time of Vances statement, there was no public reporting on the motive of the shooter or the details surrounding the incident.

Republicans and Democrats alike have called for decreasing the temperature of political rhetoric.

President Biden ordered a full review of the security for Trumps Saturday rally and to assess security in place for the Republican National Convention this week in Milwaukee.

The Hill has reached out to Vances campaign for a response.

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What we know about Bethel Park man suspected of attempted assassination at Trump rally in Butler

The FBI has identified the suspected gunman at former President Donald Trumps rally on Saturday as a Bethel Park man.

The agency identified him as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, and said theyre considering the shooting that injured Trump and two spectators and killed another spectator as an assassination attempt.

>>> Trump injured in assassination attempt at rally in Butler; 1 attendee, suspected shooter killed

Following the identification of Crooks as the suspected gunman, police shut down a Bethel Park roadway near where he lived. Police are still present in the area Sunday morning, using Bethel Park High School as a staging area. Its unclear what the police presence is for at this time.

PHOTOS: Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage after shots fired at rally

The FBI hasnt released any other information about Crooks, but Channel 11 started digging into his background.

Weve learned Crooks has no previous criminal history, according to online court records.

STATEMENTS: Local, national officials condemn violence following shooting at Trump rally

Voter records in Allegheny County show Crooks is a registered Republican voter. However, according to federal campaign finance records, Crooks appears to have donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project through the Democratic donation platform ActBlue.

The Municipality of Bethel Park issued a statement about Crooks on Sunday saying:

The Municipality of Bethel Park would like to wish former President Donald J. Trump best wishes for a quick and full recovery as well as those harmed at the former Presidents rally in Butler, PA yesterday. Wed also like to offer sincere condolences to the family, friends and fellow first responders of Corey Comperatore, retired Butler County, Buffalo Township Fire Chief, who was killed at the event. We can confirm that Thomas Matthew Crooks was a resident of Bethel Park and a 2022 graduate of Bethel Park High School.

A spokesperson from Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center also confirmed to Channel 11 that Crook was an employee of theirs.

We are shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement as Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence, an administrator from the center said.

According to NBC News, Crooks was a member of the Clairton Sportsmens Club. The club has various shooting range, including a 200-yard rifle range as well as pistol ranges and indoor outdoor archery ranges.

In a statement shared with NBC, the club said it fully admonishes the senseless act of violence that occurred Saturday and offered its sincerest condolences to the Comperatore family and extends prayers to all of those injured including the former President.

The FBI has not yet identified a motive for the shooting. Anyone with information about Crooks is asked to call 1-800-CALL-FBI or leave a tip at FBI.gov/butler.

This is a developing story that will be updated as Channel 11 learns more.

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Is the RNC canceled? What we know, what we dont know about Trump assassination attempt, 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee

A TRUMP sign is seen covered outside of the Fiserv Forum ahead of the 2024 Republican National Convention on Saturday, July 13, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Just days before the Republican National Convention begins in Milwaukee, former President Donald Trump was rushed from a stage in Pennsylvania Saturday evening after gunshots were fired as he was speaking to supporters at a rally.

Trump left the stage with blood on his ear and cheek. The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage before being "neutralized" by the Secret Service. A spectator was also killed and two other spectators are in critical condition, according to the agency.

Here's what we know, and don't know, about how the incident will affect plans for the RNC.

When does the RNC start in Milwaukee?

The RNC is scheduled to start Monday and continue through Thursday.

Will the RNC's welcome party still take place Sunday in Milwaukee?

A spokesperson for the RNC's host committee told the Journal Sentinel there were "no changes planned at this time" for the committee's convention welcome party scheduled for Sunday at the Summerfest grounds at Henry Maier Festival Park.

Is Donald Trump still planning to come to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention?

Yes. A joint statement released by the Trump campaign and the RNC Saturday night after the shooting said that Trump "looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States."

READ MORE: RNC delegates, Milwaukee residents react to Trump assassination attempt

When is Trump expected to officially be nominated at the RNC?

Trump is scheduled to formally accept the nomination to run for a second term in the White House during the Republican National Convention on Thursday evening at Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee.

Will security perimeter change at the RNC after the shooting?

It wasn't immediately clear on Saturday night how security for the RNC may change after the shooting.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers said in a statement posted on X that, "My staff and I are in contact with those coordinating security planning for the RNC and will continue to be in close communication as we learn more about this situation."

He added, "We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kindthat is not who we are as Americans."

WHAT ARE YOUR THOUGHTS?: We want to hear from you on the assassination attempt at the Trump rally

Are guns are allowed within the security 'footprint' where demonstrations will take place?

State law prevents the city from banning most firearms, including within the security "footprint" that will surround a credentials-only "hard" zone.

Demonstrations at two locations plus a march route are planned within the footprint each day of the four-day convention.

Guns will not be allowed in the hard perimeter around the convention, aside from those possessed by working law enforcement officers, according to Secret Service spokesperson.

Will RNC protests go on as planned?

For months the Coalition to March on the RNC 2024 has been planning peaceful protests in opposition to the RNC  plans that remain unchanged Saturday, though the group did underline its "family-friendly" approach.

"The Coalition to March on the RNC reaffirms our commitment to a family-friendly march along the route we have agreed on with the city," the Coalition said in a statement. "From the very beginning of our coalition, we have been clear about two things: we stand in opposition to the racist and reactionary Republican agenda, and we are a broad coalition that is planning a family-friendly march. Our points of unity are in opposition to the entire Republican agenda, not solely one candidate or politician."

REACTIONS: 'Praying for President Trump': Wisconsin lawmakers react to shooting at rally

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Is 2024 RNC canceled? What we know after Trump assassination attempt
What to know about the growing number of treason and espionage cases in today's Russia under Putin

FILE - Russian President Vladimir Putin speaks during a meeting with the leadership of military-industrial complex enterprises in Tula, Russia, Friday, Dec. 23, 2022. Treason cases were rare in Russia 30 years ago, with only a handful brought annually. In the last decade and especially since the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine, however, the number has soared, along with espionage prosecutions. Putin in 2022 urged security services to "harshly suppress the actions of foreign intelligence services (and) promptly identify traitors, spies and saboteurs." (Russian Presidential Press Office, Sputnik Pool Photo via AP, File)

Treason cases were rare in Russia 30 years ago, with only a handful brought annually. In the past decade and especially since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine, however, the number has soared, along with espionage prosecutions.

They are ensnaring citizens and foreigners alike. Recent victims range from Kremlin critics and independent journalists to veteran scientists working with countries that Moscow considers friendly.

One rights group counted over 100 known treason cases in 2023, with probably another 100 that nobody knows about.

The prosecutions have raised comparisons to the show trials and purges under Soviet dictator Josef Stalin in the 1930s.

They are usually held in strict isolation in Moscows notorious Lefortovo Prison, their trials are held behind closed doors and almost always result in convictions and long prison terms. They are investigated almost exclusively by the powerful Federal Security Service, or FSB, with specific charges and evidence shrouded in secrecy.

These cases stand apart from the unprecedented crackdown on dissent under President Vladimir Putin, who in 2022 urged security services to harshly suppress the actions of foreign intelligence services (and) promptly identify traitors, spies and saboteurs.

Some key takeaways of this trend of prosecuting high crimes:

A law amended, a mother arrested

Mass anti-government protests erupted in Moscow in 2011-12, with officials blaming the West. The legal definition of treason was then expanded to include providing vaguely defined assistance to foreign countries or organizations, effectively exposing to prosecution anyone in contact with foreigners.

The changes to the law were heavily criticized by rights advocates, including the Presidential Human Rights Council. Putin later agreed with council members that there shouldnt be any broad interpretation of what high treason is.

But that broad interpretation was exactly what the authorities began applying  especially after 2014, when Russia illegally annexed Crimea from Ukraine, threw its weight behind a separatist insurgency in the eastern part of the country, and fell out with the West for the first time since the Cold War.

Svetlana Davydova, a mother of seven in the western region of Smolensk, contacted Ukraines Embassy in Moscow in 2014, saying she thought Russian troops from a nearby base were heading to eastern Ukraine. She was arrested in 2015 on treason charges under the law's expanded definition.

The case drew national attention and outrage. Russia at the time denied its troops were involved in eastern Ukraine, and the case against Davydova directly contradicted that narrative. The charges against her were eventually dropped in what turned out to be a rare exception to the increasing cases that in subsequent years consistently ended in convictions and prison terms.

Multiplying cases and convictions

Prosecution targets included journalists writing about Russia's military, as well as eminent scientists in fields that could have applications in weapons development. Professional groups say the scientists are punished for publishing articles in journals and participating in international projects that usually are part of their normal work.

Among them:

 Ivan Safronov, an adviser to the Roscosmos space agency and a former military affairs journalist, was convicted of treason in 2022 and was sentenced to 22 years in prison. He denied the charges, and his prosecution was widely seen as retaliation for his reporting on the military.

 Physicist Dmitry Kolker was arrested on treason charges in Novosibirsk in 2022, taken by the FSB from a hospital while suffering from advanced pancreatic cancer. Kolker, 54, had studied light waves and gave several approved lectures in China. He wasn't revealing anything (secret) in them, said his son, Maksim. Shortly after the scientist was taken to Lefortovo Prison, the family was told he had died in a hospital.

 Valery Golubkin, a physicist specializing in aerodynamics who is now 71, was arrested in 2021 and convicted of treason in 2023. His state-run research institute was working on an international project of a hypersonic civilian aircraft, and he was asked by his employer to help with reports on the project. His 12-year sentence was upheld despite appeals, and his family now can only hope for his release on parole.

 Physicist Anatoly Maslov, 77, who was working on hypersonics, was convicted of treason in May and sentenced to 14 years in prison.

Treason or espionage cases involving writers, journalists and others:

 Vladimir Kara-Murza, an opposition politician, was charged with treason in 2022 after giving speeches in the West that were critical of Russia. After surviving what he believed were attempts to poison him in 2015 and 2017, Kara-Murza was convicted last year and sentenced to 25 years in prison.

 The Wall Street Journals Evan Gershkovich was arrested in 2023 on espionage charges, the first American reporter so accused since the Cold War. Gershkovich, whose trial began in June, denies the charges, and the U.S. government has declared him wrongfully detained.

 Ksenia Khavana, 33, was arrested on treason charges in Yekaterinburg in February, accused of collecting money for Ukraines military. The dual Russian-U.S. citizen had returned from Los Angeles to visit relatives, and the charges reportedly stem from a $51 donation to a United States-based charity that helps Ukraine.

 Paul Whelan, a U.S. corporate security executive who traveled to Moscow to attend a wedding, was arrested in 2018 and convicted of espionage two years later, and sentenced to 16 years in prison. He denies the charges.

What's motivating the prosecutions?

Some cases involving scientists can probably be traced to a Putin speech in 2018, when he touted Russia's hypersonic weapons program. The security services may want to show the Kremlin that Russia's scientific advances are so impressive that foreign powers want to go after them, lawyer Evgeny Smirnov says.

If a security service wants to authorize surveillance or a wiretap on a subject, it's far easier to get authorities to approve such measures if it's for a treason case, said Andrei Soldatov, a journalist and expert on the FSB.

Smirnov says the rise in prosecutions came after the FSB allowed its regional branches in 2022 to pursue certain kinds of treason cases, and officials in those areas sought to curry favor with their superiors to advance their careers.

Above all, Soldatov said, is the FSBs genuine belief of the fragility of the regime at a time of a political turmoil  either from mass protests, as in 2011-12, or now amid the war in Ukraine.

They sincerely believe (the regime) can break, even if its really not the case, he said.
What We Know About the Shooting at a Trump Rally

Jeff Swensen/Getty Images

Former President Donald Trump is safe after being targeted in what authorities are calling an assassination attempt during a Pennsylvania rally just two days before he is set to accept the Republican presidential nomination. Trump was rushed off stage by Secret Service agents on Saturday, July 13, with blood running down the side of his face after a shooter fired multiple rounds of shots toward the stage.

One rally attendee was killed and two others were critically injured, according to Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi. The former president is fine after being treated at a local medical facility, a spokesperson from Trump's camp confirmed. Per Reuters, a bullet grazed the president's ear.

The incident is currently under investigation  here's everything we know:

Authorities are calling it an assassination attempt

TOPSHOT-US-POLITICS-VOTE REBECCA DROKE/Getty Images

Shortly after Trump was brought to safety, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's field office in Pittsburgh confirmed to reporters that the agency was investigating the incident as an assassination attempt.

This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump. Its still an active crime scene, said Rojek. We do not currently have an identified motive.

The shooting is the first assassination attempt on a president or presidential candidate since a gunman attempted to kill President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

The shooter was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks

The FBI confirmed Sunday morning that 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania was identified as the shooter involved in the attack. Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks after he opened fire from the roof of a nearby office building approximately 430 feet away from the stage Trump was standing on, the Butler County district attorney told The Washington Post. Video footage taken from an attendee showed a person on the roof following the shooting, who is presumed to be Crooks. Officials retrieved an AR-style rifle from the scene, which was reportedly purchased by his father six months ago, the Associated Press reported.

Law enforcement said on Sunday that suspicious devices were found in Crooks' car, CBS News reports.

Crooks' motives are unclear at this time.

The AP reports that he was a registered Republican in the state of Pennsylvania, though he donated $15 to a progressive political action committee on January 20, 2021  when President Joe Biden was inaugurated. Crooks has no criminal history.

Crooks' father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN on Saturday that he needed to figure out what the hell is going on and would wait until I talk to law enforcement before discussing his son with the press.

Authorities closed off the road where Crooks lived with his parents after Bethel Park Police said there was a bomb investigation involving the Crooks home, according to CBS News.

President Joe Biden spoke with Trump

President Biden made a brief on-camera statement from Delaware on Saturday evening regarding the shooting, stating that he was waiting to speak directly to Trump. The White House later confirmed that Biden had spoken briefly with the former president.

There's no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. It's sick. It's one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We can not allow for this to be happening. It can not be like this. We cannot condone it.

Lawmakers react to the rally shooting

Several lawmakers from both sides of the political spectrum reacted to the news of the shooting, condemning the act of violence. Former President Barack Obama shared a statement on X on Saturday, writing, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics," Obama continued. "Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson (R-LA) shared multiple statements on X and wrote that the House would conduct a full investigation on the day's events. GOD protected President Trump yesterday," Johnson wrote on Saturday. "Ironically, just as He miraculously protected George Washington from a gunfire ambush on July 9, 1755  also in Pennsylvania, less than 50 miles from the Trump rally stage.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY) wrote on X that he is horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi also shared a statement about Saturday's horrifying incident," recalling when her husband Paul was attacked by a man who broke into the couple's home in 2022 in an attempt to hold the former speaker hostage. As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe, Pelosi wrote.

Republicans blame Biden, Democrats for shooting

Moments after reports about an assassination attempt on Trump's life emerged, some right-wing leaders and commentators began spreading baseless conspiracy theories about the incident. Georgia Republican Rep. Mike Collins even accused President Biden of ordering the attack on Trump  writing on X, Joe Biden sent the orders. Other Trump allies like Senator J.D. Vance (R-OH) and Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-GA) also tried to blame Democrats for the attack on Trump.

Originally Appeared on Teen Vogue

News and Politics: Mid Hero
What we know about the surviving victims from the Donald Trump rally shooting in Butler County

Pennsylvania State Police have released information about the men who are recovering in a hospital after they were shot at the Donald Trump rally in Butler County on Saturday.

Click here for the latest details on the attempted assassination of Donald Trump.

Troopers say David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington was shot at the rally. He was taken to a hospital in critical condition but has since been listed in stable condition.

PHOTOS: Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage after shots fired at rally

James Copenhaver, 74, from Moon Township was also shot. At this time, he is listed in stable condition after he was taken to a hospital in critical condition.

Both men were taken to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh to be treated.

PHOTOS: Police presence heightened as Trump rally shooting victims are treated at Pittsburgh hospital

The Marine Corps League of Pennsylvania said David Dutch is a Marine. They said he was shot in the liver and chest and underwent surgery Sunday morning. They also said he was put in an induced coma. The MCL asked the public to pray for Dutch and his family.

Former fire chief Corey Comperatore from Sarvor was the third spectator shot at the Trump rally. He died at the scene.

RELATED COVERAGE >>> Former fire chief shot, killed at Trump rally

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

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Trump injured in assassination attempt at rally in Butler; 1 attendee, suspected shooter killed FBI seeking information, digital media from shooting at Trump rally in Butler County STATEMENTS: Local, national officials condemn violence following shooting at Trump rally VIDEO: Shots fired at Trump Rally, Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts




What we know about the Trump rally gunman so far

This November, Thomas Matthew Crooks was set to reach a political milestone: The first presidential election he was old enough to vote in.

A 20-year-old living in a crucial swing state, Crooks had already shown potential signs of interest in politics, making a small political donation as a teenager and registering to vote just a week after he turned 18.

But instead of casting his ballot this year, according to law enforcement, Crooks traveled an hour north of his home, climbed to the roof of a building, and opened fire on former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally  leaving him bloodied and coming inches away from killing him.

Crooks attack, which killed one spectator and critically injured two others, rocked American politics to its core, with elected officials from both sides of the aisle condemning the violence and warning of the dangers of the countrys deep polarization.

So far, investigators havent found any evidence on social media or other writings by Crooks that might help identify his motive for the attempted assassination, law enforcement officials say.

But CNN interviews with more than a half-dozen former classmates and neighbors of Crooks painted him as quiet, with classmates remembering him as a good student and something of a misfit in high school. And a review of public records suggests he may have had divergent political leanings, with Crooks registering to vote as a Republican but making a small donation to a Democratic-leaning group.

Crooks lived in the Pittsburgh suburb of Bethel Park, about an hours drive south of the Trump rally where law enforcement officials say he fired at the former president. Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, according to a local media report and a video of the schools graduation ceremony.

Jason Kohler, 21, who went to the same high school, told CNN that Crooks was bullied by other students and seemed to be a loner.

Crooks had no facial expression when he walked through the school hallways, Kohler said. He wasnt, like, with the clique, so he always had, I guess, a target on his back.

Another former student at the school, Sarah DAngelo, remembered Crooks as a quiet kid, not obviously political or violent in any way. She said the only time he spoke with her was when their class was waiting for their graduation ceremony to start.

A third classmate, who asked not to be named, said that Crooks was very smart, took honors classes, and was shy. She said that he had a group of friends who were fairly conservative, some of whom would wear Trump hats.

There was definitely chatter about him just looking a little different, the classmate said of Crooks. Almost a retro nerd vibe.

Crooks high school experience was interrupted by the pandemic, with students being out of school for months in 2020 and allowed to study remotely after that, the classmate said  and she added that she didnt recall seeing him much during their sophomore or junior years.

When she heard that Crooks was identified as the Trump rally shooter, the classmate said, I was just, like, shocked  I just couldnt believe he did something that bold, considering he was such a quiet and kept-to-himself kind of person.

Former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. - Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

FBI agents  like Crooks former classmates  were still trying to piece together his motives on Sunday. Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said the FBI was working to gain access to Crooks phone. Investigators believe he acted alone, Rojek said, adding that they had not seen any indication Crooks had mental health issues.

We are working hard to determine the sequence of events related to the subject and his movements in the hours, days and weeks prior to the shooting, Rojek said, while noting that were still very early in this investigation.

The gun Crooks used was a legally purchased AR-style weapon, Rojek confirmed. According to law enforcement officials, the gun was traced to Crooks father, which helped to determine the gunmans identity because he was not carrying identification.

When reached by CNN late Saturday night, Crooks father, Matthew Crooks, said he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but would wait until I talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son. He could not be reached again on Sunday.

Federal Election Commission records show that a donor listed as Thomas Crooks with the gunmans street address gave $15 to Progressive Turnout Project, a Democratic-aligned political action committee, on Inauguration Day in January 2021, when Crooks was 17.

A spokesperson for Progressive Turnout Project said in an email that the group had received the donation in response to an email about tuning into the inauguration and that the email address associated with the contribution only made the one contribution and was unsubscribed from our lists 2 years ago.

We unequivocally condemn political violence in all of its forms, and we denounce anyone who chooses violence over peaceful political action, the spokesperson wrote.

Later that year, a week after turning 18, Crooks registered to vote as a Republican, according to a listing in Pennsylvanias voter database that matched his name, age and address. Crooks only cast a ballot once, in the 2022 midterm general election, an Allegheny County spokesperson told CNN.

Both of Crooks parents worked as social workers, according to state license records. His father is registered to vote as a Libertarian and his mother is registered as a Democrat, state voter records show.

Crooks is seen in a video of his high school graduation ceremony in 2022. - Obtained by CNN

Crooks fired on Trump while perched on a nearby building rooftop outside the rallys security perimeter, before being killed by Secret Service agents, according to law enforcement officials.

Law enforcement descended on Crooks family home on a quiet street in Bethel Park on Saturday night. Explosive material was found in his residence, as well as in his car, law enforcement officials familiar with the investigation told CNN.

A brief video posted on Facebook by Crooks school district in 2022 showed Crooks participating in a computer coding course and explaining a coding concept to a fellow student. Crooks can also be spotted sitting at the front of an economics class in a TV ad for the investment firm BlackRock that was filmed at his high school. The teachers featured in both the videos declined to comment.

A spokesperson for the social media platform Discord said in a statement that it had identified an account that appears to be linked to Crooks. The account was rarely utilized and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident or discuss his political views, the spokesperson wrote.

Crooks worked as a dietary aide at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, a nursing home less than a mile from his familys home, according to Marcie Grimm, the centers administrator.

We are shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement as Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean, Grimm said in a statement.

A colleague who worked with Crooks at the nursing home and who asked not to be named described him in an interview as the sweetest guy. Just this week, the colleague said, the two of them worked together to find an easier way for nursing home residents to open ranch dressing packets, an act the colleague said was indicative of how caring Crooks was.

These stupid ranch packets in the kitchen  no one can ever open them, said the colleague, who also went to high school with Crooks. Earlier this week he was helping me with a bunch of sick old ladies (to) put ranch on their salads.

Crooks, the colleague said, never expressed political views at work and wasnt a radical. They added: Its hard seeing everything thats going on online because he was a really, really good person that did a really bad thing, and I just wish I knew why.

Bethel Park is a predominantly white suburb that is wealthier than the surrounding Pittsburgh metro area. Dan Grzybek, a county council representative whose district includes Bethel Park, described it as politically mixed  according to county election records, President Joe Biden won the precinct that includes the Crooks house with just 52% of the vote.

Grzybek, who lives nearby, said he had had a very pleasant conversation with the gunmans parents while canvassing for votes before he was elected last year. He described the community as incredibly safe and close-knit, and said he hoped that the shooting was not what Bethel Park is remembered for.

All things like this do is increase the already extreme political polarization we experience, and increase the risk of future violence in retaliation, Grzybek said.

Andrew Bianco, who lives two houses down the street from the Crooks family, agreed that the area was politically diverse, with some residents flying Trump flags and others displaying Biden ones.

But he said he doesnt remember ever seeing political signage outside the Crooks residence, and only saw the gunmans father when he stepped outside to mow the lawn.

If anything, youd be like, Does someone live there? Bianco said.

This story has been updated with additional reporting.

CNNs Yahya Abou-Ghazala, Audrey Ash, Scott Glover, Allison Gordon, Holmes Lybrand, Sean Lyngaas, Evan Perez and Hannah Rabinowitz contributed reporting.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
The FBI has identified the man who attempted to assassinate Donald Trump as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks. After he opened fire at Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, a Secret Service sniper shot and killed him. The FBI has identified the incident as an assassination attempt.

The shooter used an AR-style rifle to fire into the crowd from hundreds of feet away, grazing Trumps ear, killing one spectator and critically injuring two others. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) identified the person killed at the rally as firefighter Corey Comperatore. Shapiro said he spoke to Contempores wife who asked him to share that Comperatore died a hero. The governor said that Corey dove on his family to protect them last night at this rally.

Crooks reportedly purchased 50 rounds of ammunition at a local gun store hours before the attack at the Trump rally, according to CNN.

Officials told The Associated Press that they found bomb-making materials in Crooks car near the scene and in his home. Investigators told the AP that they believe the weapon Crooks used belonged to his father, Matthew Crooks, and was purchased at least six months ago. Matthew Crooks told the AP on Saturday night that he was trying to find out what the hell is going on and declined to speak about his son until he spoke with law enforcement.

Thomas Crooks lived in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, approximately an hours drive from the rally location. Law enforcement raided Crooks house late Saturday night and evacuated neighbors from their homes.

They asked us to leave our house. They told us it was a state of emergency, no warning, just a knock on the door in the middle of the night, neighbor Kelly Little told CBS News. They told us we could come back in a couple of hours, likely.

Crooks was a registered Republican and made a $15 donation to a progressive, anti-Trump PAC on the day President Joe Biden was inaugurated, according to campaign finance records. He did not have identification on him, so the FBI used DNA analysis and other means to confirm his identity. According to the Pentagon, Crooks had no affiliation with the military. He graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, the school district said in a statement to KDKA.

One of Crooks classmates told KDKA that Crooks was a loner who was often bullied. The local CBS station further reported that Crooks was rejected from his high schools rifle team in his freshman year, according to a former member of the team.

#NEW: We are hearing from the first classmate of Thomas Crooks. His Bethel Park classmate described him as a loner who was bullied relentlessly and wore hunting outfits often in class. @KDKA pic.twitter.com/mmIYwomjGJ  MEGHAN SCHILLER (@MeghanKDKA) July 14, 2024

One team member told ABC that Crooks was asked not to come back because how bad of a shot he was.

Crooks employer, Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, where he worked as a dietary aide, issued a statement. We are shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement as Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean, the statement read in part. We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time.

We do not currently have an identified motive, Kevin Rojek, FBI Pittsburgh special agent in charge, told reporters at a briefing Saturday night.

Another classmate of Crooks told The Philadelphia Inquirer that the shooter was definitely was conservative, adding: It makes me wonder why he would carry out an assassination attempt on the conservative candidate.

Crooks and his classmates at Bethel Park High School were previously featured in the background of a TV ad featuring a teacher from the school. The investment company BlackRock announced Sunday it has removed the video from circulation out of respect for the victims.

This is a breaking story and will be updated as more information is released.

More from Rolling Stone

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A 20-year-old man fired several shots at former president Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday evening. One of them appears to have grazed Trumps headafter a series of pops were heard, Trump grabbed his ear and ducked under his lectern.

The FBI, which is investigating the assassination attempt, identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. On Sunday, authorities found materials to build two explosives in the gunmans car and potentially more at his residence.

One rallygoer was killed and two others were in critical condition, Guglielmi added. Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro identified the deceased as Corey Comperatore, a Butler County husband and father.

On Saturday night, Trump was rushed off the stage to his motorcade, taken to a hospital, and discharged the same evening. His campaign said in a statement that the former president was doing well and confirmed he would appear at the RNC on Monday.

Video of the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, captured Trump pressing his hand to his right ear before ducking down, as people in the audience yelled and tried to duck. Secret Service agents ran to him, and he remained on the ground for around a minute before reemerging. When he stood back up, there was blood on his face. Photos captured Trump pumping his fist in the air. The people at the rally were subsequently evacuated.

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were both briefed on the situation shortly after the shooting, and prominent Democrats and Republicans around the country issued numerous statements asserting that violence has no place in politics, alongside well wishes to the former president.

Biden condemned the shooting in remarks Saturday night. There is no place in America for this kind of violence, he said. Its sick.

Later in the evening, Trump posted on his TruthSocial account thanking law enforcement and expressing his condolences to the families of the person killed and those hurt at the rally.
What you need to know to vote in the August primary. Tri-Cities ballots go out soon

Elections officials in the Tri-Cities will mail out 170,000 ballots next week for the Aug. 6 primary election.

Franklin County will send more than 43,000 ballots Tuesday, July 16. The next day, more than 126,000 ballots will go out to voters across Benton County.

Voters should begin seeing those ballots in their mailboxes just days later. Ballots for military service members and voters overseas went out last month.

The August primary election will feature candidates running in partisan races, mostly for state and federal offices. It does not feature races for the president or vice president.

The two candidates who receive the most votes during the primary will move on to the presidential general election on Nov. 5.

How can I register to vote?

Voters have until Monday, July 29, to update their registration or register for the very first time through the vote.wa.gov online portal. After that, the paperwork will have to be filed at your local county auditors office.

Last-minute voters have until 8 p.m. on Election Day to conduct in-person registration and voting. That must be done at your local auditors office.

Some voters who turn 18 between the August primary and November general election can register early to vote in the primary election.

More than 4.8 million voters across Washington state will weigh in on 654 primary races, according to the Washington Secretary of States office.

Rolls of I voted! stickers on it for voters to take with them after dropping off their ballot at the Benton County Voting Center in Richland.

Who is running?

Candidates running for state and federal office will appear on the Aug. 6 ballot. That includes those running for Congress and the Legislature.

One U.S. Senate seat, ten U.S. House seats and 123 seats in the state Legislature are up for reelection.

Nine state executive seats are also up, including governor, public school superintendent, commissioner of public lands, lieutenant governor and secretary of state.

 Franklin County voters will choose among 127 candidates on the ballot, including selecting their choice in two county commissioner races.

Voters will also choose whether to pass a single-year levy lid lift in Franklin County Fire District 3, which serves much of the rural land just north and east of Pasco city limits.

 Benton County voters will choose among 144 candidates.

Theyll vote in two county commissioner races as well. Voters there will also weigh in on a replacement levy in Benton County Fire District 2, which serves areas around Benton City, as well as a West Richland advisory vote about whether or not the city should lift its ban on cannabis retail sales.

In all, more than 94 local ballot measures  pushed out by cities, school districts, hospital districts and fire districts  will appear on ballots across Washington state.

Voters pamphlets will be mailed out by local elections offices in the coming days. They can currently be found online at sos.wa.gov.

When are ballots due? Where do I turn in my ballot?

Ballots must be slipped into a county-certified drop box by 8 p.m. on Election Day, Aug. 6.

Or voters can return ballots by mail  just make sure its postmarked by Election Day to count. That means send them a few days early since Tri-Cities mail goes through Spokane to be postmarked.

No postage is necessary.

Benton County has 11 boxes in Prosser, Benton City, Kennewick, Richland and West Richland where you can submit your ballot.

Franklin County has seven boxes across Pasco, Kahlotus, Mesa and Connell for voters to use.

You can verify if your ballot has been counted online by visiting vote.wa.gov.
The Kremlin accused the Biden administration of creating the environment that led to the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, Reuters reported Sunday.

Trump was shot at during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania Saturday, leaving two people, including the shooter, dead and two people critically injured. Trump was hit in the ear by a bullet but was otherwise unharmed.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20. was identified by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as the shooter and an investigation into his motives is ongoing.

"We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organized by the current authorities," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters. "But the atmosphere around candidate Trump ... provoked what America is confronting today."

The relationship between the U.S. and Russia has grown fraught in the wake of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. Trump has repeatedly called for an end to the war and has shown a willingness to weaken American ties with NATO.

Peskov's comments mirrored Republican talking points placing blame on Biden for the assassination attempt.

"After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena - using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate - it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger," Peskov said.

Other world leaders react to Trump assassination attempt

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was one of the first to respond. He said he and his wife were praying for former President Donald Trump.

"Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump," he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "We pray for his safety and speedy recovery."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban was also quick to offer his support to the former president, who he met with only a few days prior at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

"My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours," Orban wrote in a post.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned all forms of political violence following the shooting.

Starmer, in a post on X, said he was "appalled" by the assassination attempt and that he sends the former president and his family his "best wishes."

"Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack," Starmer said.

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

Trudeau said he was "sickened" by the shooting.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable," Trudeau said in a social media post. "My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

Chilean President Gabriel Boric said violence is a threat to democracy in his response on X.

"From Chile, I express our unqualified condemnation of what happened today in the United States," Boric wrote in Spanish. "We hope for the speedy recovery of former President Donald Trump, the facts are clarified and justice is served."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden blamed by Kremlin for Trump assassination attempt atmosphere
Kansas and Missouri politicians on Saturday quickly called for prayers and condemned political violence after someone shot at former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Live video footage of the rally showed Trump brush his hand by his ear before being escorted off the stage by Secret Service. Trump appeared to be bleeding from his ear as he was moved away.

The Secret Service said Trump is safe after someone fired multiple shots at the stage that killed one spectator and critically injured two more. The shooter was killed by Secret Service. An investigation into the shooting is ongoing.

Hours after the shooting, Trump posted on his social media site that a bullet grazed the upper part of his ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote on Truth Social. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Former President Donald Trump is seen with what appears to be blood on his face, surrounded by Secret Service agents, as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

Lawmakers quickly posted a call for prayers of social media and called for accountability for the shooter.

Im praying for President Trump and everyone who was in attendance at the rally, including the family and loved ones of the innocent attendee that was reportedly shot and killed, Sen. Eric Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, said in a statement.

It is an absolutely horrific scene in Pennsylvania. Secret Service should be applauded for their quick response and bravery in the face of danger. God bless President Trump and God bless the United States of America.

Rep. Mark Alford, a Missouri Republican, said the heinous act we saw committed today at a rally for President Trump is nothing short of despicable.

Political violence has no place here in the United States, the greatest country on Earth, Alford said in a statement that also praised the actions of Secret Service and law enforcement.

The shooting comes on the eve of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee where Trump is set to be nominated as the partys presidential nominee for the third time since 2016. It also comes as Democrats have spent two weeks openly debating whether their presumptive nominee  President Joe Biden  has the ability to defeat Trump and whether he is fit to serve another four years in office.

Addressing the nation on Saturday evening, Biden condemned political violence. He said he hoped to speak with Trump, but declined to call it an assassination attempt, saying he didnt have enough information.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, called for prayers for Trump and others at the rally. Please pray for our nation, Parson said.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, said the free exchange of political discourse is a bedrock of our democracy.

Todays gun violence is unacceptable and resulted in senseless loss of life. Im thankful for the quick response of law enforcement to protect all in attendance, Kelly said.

Numerous officials issued statements calling for prayers. Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran said he was praying for Trump, everyone at the rally and for our country.

Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, called on the Department of Justice to quickly release details of the shooting.

The Justice Dept needs to release the shooters ID immediately and everything known about him, Hawley said. No sweeping it under the rug.

Former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for Congress, also called prayers. His campaign called the shooting an attempted assassination.

Join me in praying for our nation, for all affected by this senseless act, for law enforcement officers who put duty above self, and for President Trump. We need his leadership now more than ever, Schmidt said. The People, not violent criminals, will decide our great nations path forward. May God bless America.

Trump appeared to stand and raise a fist with blood on the side of his face as he was escorted off the stage. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, posted a picture of Trump with a raised fist from the rally after calling for prayers.

May God Bless Our President, Marshall said.

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement that the former president thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

The shooting took place at a moment of intense political polarization as the nation prepared for a rematch of the 2020 presidential race. Kansas and Missouri Democrats condemned political violence on Saturday evening.

Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, said she was horrified by the shots fired at Trump and expressed relief that he is OK.

Political violence is never acceptable, Davids said. Thank you to the Secret Service and law enforcement who responded and are investigating.

Pransanth Reddy, a Republican running for Davids seat in Congress, said he was praying for Trump.

Political violence has absolutely no place in America, Reddy said. We must have a full investigation into what happened and how it happened. And that investigation must be 100% transparent to the American people.

Kansas state Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat, wrote on social media that he was glad to hear Trump was OK. The fabric of our society already feels thin; any action of political violence has to be rejected in the strongest possible terms, Xu said.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, a Democrat, wrote: Heartbroken by the gun violence in our country.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
Kansas and Missouri politicians on Saturday quickly called for prayers and condemned political violence after shots were fired at former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Live video footage of the rally showed Trump brush his hand by his ear before being escorted off the stage by Secret Service. Trump appeared to be bleeding from his ear as he was moved away. While the video showed loud noises and the crowd screaming, details about what occurred remained unclear.

The Secret Service said on social media that Trump is safe and there is an active investigation into what happened. The Associated Press reported that the local district attorney said a shooter was dead and a rally attendee was killed.

Lawmakers quickly posted a call for prayers of social media and called for accountability for the shooter.

Im praying for President Trump and everyone who was in attendance at the rally, including the family and loved ones of the innocent attendee that was reportedly shot and killed, Sen. Eric Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, said in a statement.

It is an absolutely horrific scene in Pennsylvania. Secret Service should be applauded for their quick response and bravery in the face of danger. God bless President Trump and God bless the United States of America.

Rep. Mark Alford, a Missouri Republican, said the heinous act we saw committed today at a rally for President Trump is nothing short of despicable.

Political violence has no place here in the United States, the greatest country on Earth, Alford said in a statement that also praised the actions of Secret Service and law enforcement.

The shooting comes on the eve of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee where Trump is set to be nominated as the partys presidential nominee for the third time since 2016. It also comes as Democrats have spent two weeks openly debating whether their presumptive nominee  President Joe Biden  has the ability to defeat Trump and whether he is fit to serve another four years in office.

Biden was at church in Delaware when the shooting occurred. The White House said the president was briefed when he returned home.

In a statement, Biden said he was grateful to hear Trump was doing well and said he was praying for him, his family and everyone at the rally.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden said.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson called for prayers for Trump and others at the rally. Please pray for our nation, Parson said.

Other Republicans, like Rep. Jason Smith of Missouri, issued similar statements calling for prayers. Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran said he was praying for Trump, everyone at the rally and for our country.

Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, called on the Department of Justice to quickly release details of the shooting.

The Justice Dept needs to release the shooters ID immediately and everything known about him, Hawley said. No sweeping it under the rug.

Former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for Congress, also called prayers. His campaign called the shooting an attempted assassination.

Join me in praying for our nation, for all affected by this senseless act, for law enforcement officers who put duty above self, and for President Trump. We need his leadership now more than ever, Schmidt said. The People, not violent criminals, will decide our great nations path forward. May God bless America.

Trump appeared to stand and raise a fist with blood on the side of his face as he was escorted off the stage. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, posted a picture of Trump with a raised fist from the rally after calling for prayers.

May God Bless Our President, Marshall said.

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement that the former president thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

The shooting took place at a moment of intense political polarization as the nation prepared for a rematch of the 2020 presidential race. Kansas and Missouri Democrats condemned political violence on Saturday evening.

Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, said she was horrified by the shots fired at Trump and expressed relief that he is OK.

Political violence is never acceptable, Davids said. Thank you to the Secret Service and law enforcement who responded and are investigating.

Kansas state Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat, wrote on social media that he was glad to hear Trump was OK. The fabric of our society already feels thin; any action of political violence has to be rejected in the strongest possible terms, Xu said.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, a Democrat, wrote: Heartbroken by the gun violence in our country.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
Kansas and Missouri politicians on Saturday quickly called for prayers and condemned political violence after shots were fired at former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Live video footage of the rally showed Trump brush his hand by his ear before being escorted off the stage by Secret Service. Trump appeared to be bleeding from his ear as he was moved away. While the video showed loud noises and the crowd screaming, details about what occurred remained unclear.

The Secret Service said on social media that Trump is safe and there is an active investigation into what happened. The Associated Press reported that the local district attorney said a shooter was dead and a rally attendee was killed.

Lawmakers quickly posted a call for prayers of social media and called for accountability for the shooter.

Im praying for President Trump and everyone who was in attendance at the rally, including the family and loved ones of the innocent attendee that was reportedly shot and killed, Sen. Eric Schmitt, a Missouri Republican, said in a statement.

It is an absolutely horrific scene in Pennsylvania. Secret Service should be applauded for their quick response and bravery in the face of danger. God bless President Trump and God bless the United States of America.

Rep. Mark Alford, a Missouri Republican, said the heinous act we saw committed today at a rally for President Trump is nothing short of despicable.

Political violence has no place here in the United States, the greatest country on Earth, Alford said in a statement that also praised the actions of Secret Service and law enforcement.

The shooting comes on the eve of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee where Trump is set to be nominated as the partys presidential nominee for the third time since 2016. It also comes as Democrats have spent two weeks openly debating whether their presumptive nominee  President Joe Biden  has the ability to defeat Trump and whether he is fit to serve another four years in office.

Addressing the nation on Saturday evening, Biden condemned political violence. He said he hoped to speak with Trump, but declined to call it an assassination attempt, saying he didnt have enough information.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Missouri Gov. Mike Parson, a Republican, called for prayers for Trump and others at the rally. Please pray for our nation, Parson said.

Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly, a Democrat, said the free exchange of political discourse is a bedrock of our democracy.

Todays gun violence is unacceptable and resulted in senseless loss of life. Im thankful for the quick response of law enforcement to protect all in attendance, Kelly said.

Numerous officials issued statements calling for prayers. Kansas Republican Sen. Jerry Moran said he was praying for Trump, everyone at the rally and for our country.

Sen. Josh Hawley, a Missouri Republican, called on the Department of Justice to quickly release details of the shooting.

The Justice Dept needs to release the shooters ID immediately and everything known about him, Hawley said. No sweeping it under the rug.

Former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, a Republican running for Congress, also called prayers. His campaign called the shooting an attempted assassination.

Join me in praying for our nation, for all affected by this senseless act, for law enforcement officers who put duty above self, and for President Trump. We need his leadership now more than ever, Schmidt said. The People, not violent criminals, will decide our great nations path forward. May God bless America.

Trump appeared to stand and raise a fist with blood on the side of his face as he was escorted off the stage. Sen. Roger Marshall, a Kansas Republican, posted a picture of Trump with a raised fist from the rally after calling for prayers.

May God Bless Our President, Marshall said.

Trump campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung said in a statement that the former president thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

The shooting took place at a moment of intense political polarization as the nation prepared for a rematch of the 2020 presidential race. Kansas and Missouri Democrats condemned political violence on Saturday evening.

Rep. Sharice Davids, a Kansas Democrat, said she was horrified by the shots fired at Trump and expressed relief that he is OK.

Political violence is never acceptable, Davids said. Thank you to the Secret Service and law enforcement who responded and are investigating.

Kansas state Rep. Rui Xu, a Westwood Democrat, wrote on social media that he was glad to hear Trump was OK. The fabric of our society already feels thin; any action of political violence has to be rejected in the strongest possible terms, Xu said.

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas, a Democrat, wrote: Heartbroken by the gun violence in our country.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
As someone who worked on countering anti-Muslim hate for more than a decade and who set up a national project to monitor this hatred, I am experienced in dealing with these issues. The work of nationally monitoring anti-Muslim hate is now being led by a determined British female leader of Palestinian heritage. Hers is a thankless task with significant risks. Anti-Muslim hate cases have significantly grown over recent years.

Given my experience, I decided to look at Labours Islamophobia Policy. This official document reads well. But it is only a matter of time before Labour comes under pressure to go further. Anti-Muslim hate is murderous and has led to the killing of three elderly men since 2013. It needs tackling.

Despite its positives, there are some glaringly obvious weaknesses in Labours document. It is written to be all things to all people. Despite the fact that the term anti-Muslim hate is more in line with legal definitions, I willingly accept the term Islamophobia, given its wider usage. It is nevertheless inaccurate and gives the impression to many that Islam is beyond question. It is easy for malign Right-wing actors to twist the term to suggest that Muslims want special protections around their faith, rather than against malign thugs.

While the policy tries to navigate its way through a range of definitions of Islamophobia, Labour adopted the All-Party Parliamentary Groups (APPG) definition when Jeremy Corbyn was still leader in March 2019.

The APPG states that Islamophobia is rooted in racism and is a type of racism that targets expressions of Muslimness or perceived Muslimness.

The problem with this definition is pretty obvious. Muslimness is such a wide term that many actions and characteristics can be caught within it.

For example, as a British Muslim, I have a real problem with polygamy in Islam. If I were to publicly criticise a fellow Muslim in Britain for practising polygamy, could he call me Islamophobic because I was attacking his perception of Muslimness  that there are means within Islam to marry more than one person?

This is just one simple example about how good intentions, allied with wide-sweeping generic terms, can lead to suppression of free speech for fellow Muslims and non-Muslims.

Labour must be extremely careful in trying to strike the right balance in this work, since these very definitions can be used by bad faith actors to smear and silence when terms such as Muslimness are so ill-defined.

The Labour Party adopted the APPG definition in principle and solidarity. Solidarity against anti-Muslim hate is much needed. But the decision felt more like Labour hedging its bets with various groups and stakeholders with different interpretations of how to tackle anti-Muslim hate.

The Labour policy feels like cooking a casserole hotpot: you just put in whatever you can access and hope that you manage to keep everyone happy.

The APPG definition has no legal basis and is not even knitted in with UK laws on hate crime.

It remains much like the take the knee campaign, a form of gesture politics nodding towards various camps with their definitions and ways of tackling anti-Muslim hate.

Labours policy document highlights a better definition by the Runnymede Trust, which is based on protecting the freedoms, and social, cultural and political rights, of Muslims. This then dovetails, somewhat, into elements of what UK laws cover on tackling anti-Muslim hatred, bigotry and prejudice.

Reading Labours Islamophobia Policy, it is easy to conclude that it is patched together with various interpretations squeezed into it, without coming up with a definition that can be used on a national basis or in line with British legal frameworks.

At some point, the issue of a workable and practical definition on anti-Muslim hatred is going to fall on the desks of civil servants in the Housing, Communities and Local Government department led by Angela Rayner.

What I urge officials and relevant ministers to do is to develop a clear definition that is relevant to the rights of individuals, their properties, their places of worship, and their employment rights.

Any definition must be practical, specific and workable, and not thrown together into a mush with a desire to please as many people and parties as possible. Any definition must make clear the dividing lines between free speech and criticism of religion and what constitutes anti-Muslim hatred.

The Labour policy has excellent examples of what constitutes anti-Muslim hatred, yet I could not read one sentence that defended free speech and the ability to criticise faith.

As more people reject and critique faith, it is important to know that  irrespective of whether one uses this right or not  it is a fundamental freedom that needs to be upheld and protected.

Fiyaz Mughal OBE has worked on interfaith and hate crime projects for over 25 years with three successive U.K. governments. He was approved to be the anti-Muslim Hate Advisor earlier in 2024, though turned down the role towards the end of the last government

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Gunfire erupted at a Donald Trump rally on Saturday, sparking panic in the crowd and spattering the Republican presidential candidate with his own blood before he emerged and pumped his fist in the air, appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The shooter was dead and the Secret Service was investigating the shooting as an assassination attempt, a source told Reuters.

In the minutes and hours after the shooting, some California politicians and Shasta County community leaders began sounding off. Here is a look at what they said, in social media statements or during interviews:

Sen. Brian Dahle: "Praying for the safety of all those who attended the Pennsylvania political rally. Violence is never acceptable."

Rep. Doug LaMalfa, R-Richvale: I am very grateful that President Trumps life was spared today. He was centimeters from being killed. The Lord looked over him today, for that we should all be grateful. The loss of life and injury of those in the crowd is heartbreaking, for families and all Americans. Knowing President Trump, he will be even stronger and undaunted after today. We saw his poise and resolute temperament to stand up and rally after just taking a gunshot to the ear."

"Media, political commentators, elected officials and activists have been calling President Trump a threat to democracy for years. Supposedly serious people have compared him to some of historys worst dictators and murderers. That same media has spent hours casting this attempted assassination as anything but what it was and thats sickening, even laying it off as loud noises disrupt the rally. Its difficult to even believe that given the level of threats towards him, that a shooter was able to scale a building within 150 meters of his speech and fire multiple rounds. A full and serious investigation needs to be launched into how this failure in security happened. Every single detail about the shooter needs to be public, now.

Madison Zimmerman, parlimentarian for the Democratic Central Commitee of Shasta County: "We do not condone violence of any kind towards any political candidate. But at the same time, we also believe that we should wait for any investigation to take place and to be completed before we draw any conclusions about the motives of the shooter."

"I think it's something that going forward we have to maintain our values in supporting democracy. That's what Democrats stand for. It's the same reason why January 6 was such an attack on our democracy. We respect whoever voters vote for in a free and fair election and that we shouldn't physically attack any candidate who is running."

Larry Olmstead, president and CEO of United Way of Northern California, based in Redding: "I am horrified and sickened at the news of the violence that occured today at former President Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. All of us, regardless of political affiliation or leanings, should be grateful Mr. Trump was not more seriously injured. I pray for all others affected in this incident that reportedly resulted in loss of life. What is saddest is that the incident is not altogether surprising, given the toxicity of our current political climate. This is a moment for all Americans and all of us in the North State, to reflect on how each of us can do our part to respect one another's right to a viewpoint and lower the temperature of our political discourse."

Jack Potter, Jr., tribal chairman for the Redding Rancheria: "I think it's a sad situation. There's no place for violence in America. There truly is no place for violence in America. This country was formed from violence  with the Native Americans, the African Americans, and so many wrongs. I believe we're at a place in time if we don't like whoever's going to (lead) the country for four years  it's four years. Just relax and live your life and do what you need to do to get past those four years. But it is a blink of an eye. Violence is not the answer."

This article originally appeared on Redding Record Searchlight: Donald Trump rally shooting: Reaction from LaMalfa, Redding
Colorado's elected leaders condemned the shooting at a campaign rally held by Donald Trump, who was whisked off the stage after the gunshots rang through the crowd.

Trump's campaign said he is "fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility." Trump said on social media that he was wounded in the ear.

The former president was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when bangs started ringing through the crowd. Officials said the gunman is dead and one attendee was killed.

The Secret Service said the shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

U.S. Reps. Lauren Boebert and Doug Lamborn said they are praying for Trump.

"I am praying for President Trump, his family, and everyone in attendance today. We all wish him a speedy recovery from any harm done to him," Lamborn said on X.

"Praying for President Trump and the people in Butler, Pennsylvania!" Boebert also said on X.

"Throughout history, those who hate God and embrace evil have joined forces with one another to oppose God, His Son, His Holy Spirit, and His people."

She added: "WE ARE ONE NATION UNDER GOD and WE WILL OVERCOME EVIL!"

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In a statement, Gov. Jared Polis said he's glad Trump is doing well and added that "violence is never acceptable."

"Im glad to hear President Trump is doing well following this terrible act of violence. Violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with President Trump and everyone impacted by this inexcusable act that I strongly condemn. I thank the members of law enforcement for their swift action to ensure the safety of the former President and people in attendance, Polis said.

n a statement released by Colorado House Republicans, Minority Leader Rose Pugliese of Colorado Springs wrote:

"Today's events are a stark reminder of the deep divisions that exist within our country. Political violence is never acceptable, and this act of aggression against a former president is a clear attack on our democratic principles.

"Our gratitude goes out to the U.S. Secret Service, law enforcement, and first responders who acted quickly to protect lives," added Assistant Minority Leader Ty Winter. "Their dedication and bravery are commendable, and they serve as a reminder of the importance of supporting those who protect our leaders and our democracy."

In Colorado Springs, the El Paso County Democratic Party released a statement that the party "unequivocally condemns any form of violence. Our thoughts are with the former president and all affected by this incident."

"Violence has no place in our democratic process. We are confident that the power of the vote will prevail over any attempts to undermine our values of freedom and justice."
Lamar Alexander: America is divided politically, but Howard Baker provides us a path to save our republic

Editors note: Former Tennessee Gov. and Sen. Lamar Alexander wrote and submitted this guest essay prior to the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump on July 13. However, the message is even more relevant in light of that event.

One of Tennessee U.S. Sen. Howard Bakers favorite words was republic.

When things looked bleak in the face of an obstinate senator, a presidential election or a war, Howard would say: The republic will survive.

He chose republic, not democracy. There is a difference.

Democracy is government by the majority, something we could do if everyone voted on the internet. A republic is government by an elected body according to a constitution, a messier operation with checks and balances.

On September 17, 1787, near the end of the Constitutional Convention, a woman asked Benjamin Franklin, Well doctor, what have we got?

A republic, if you can keep it, Franklin said.

Public service lets Americans make an impact on the lives of millions

Today, as our republic approaches its 250th birthday in 2026, we are in a new era that has driven opinions to extremes, soured relationships, demolished behavioral norms, encouraged politicians to race toward their bases, undermined treasured institutions, and damaged confidence in the future of our country.

Would Howard Baker, who passed away in 2014, still say our republic will survive?

First, I believe he would be encouraged by the example of the other Senate Majority Leader from Tennessee, Bill Frist.

Why would you give up being one of the worlds leading transplant surgeons to run for the United States Senate? I asked Frist in February 1994.

Neither Donald Trump nor any other leader deserves to be a target of political violence

Today I can fly to Chattanooga, cut out a heart, put it in a garbage bag on ice, fly back to Vanderbilt Hospital, perform an eight-hour operation, and maybe a year later Ill meet one person on the street who will thank me for saving his life. If Im a senator, maybe I can save a million lives, he said.

Dr. Frist won and, working with President George W. Bush, created PEPFAR ( Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief), investing $100 billion to combat HIV-AIDS and saving 25 million lives.

Citizens want policy changes, but they abhor government

As governor and senator, I woke up every day thinking I could do something good for my state or country and went to bed most nights thinking that I had.

Still, I have a hard time persuading friends that serving in public office is a privilege.

How could you stand to be there? How did you ever get anything done? they demand to know.

Home builder Delmar Caylor once showed me a large dead rat that he had extracted from the wall behind the commode after he had crawled under our house. The dead rat had been causing an odor.

I wouldnt want your job, I said.

I had rather have my job crawling under your house any day than the job you have up there in Washington working with Harry Reid, Delmar said.

Marianne Wanamaker, dean of the University of Tennessees Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.

Students today want to change public policy, but they dont like government, said Dr. Marianne Wanamaker, dean of the University of Tennessees Baker School of Public Policy and Public Affairs.

In naming the school, UT avoided the word government.

Students may feel that way, but Dr. Wanamaker will have to teach those who want to change things that if they want to make the greatest difference, they will have to figure out how to be elected to government or go to work for someone who has been.

U.S. is the envy of the world even as we are divided politically

In Team of Rivals, historian Doris Kearns Goodwin writes, As a young man, Lincoln worried that nothing had been left for his generation but modest ambitions. Then, the wheel of history turned.

I believe Howard Baker would see the wheel of history turning again with a new opportunity for todays generation to improve our republic.

The greatest obstacle is that we are divided.

Too much pluribus and not enough unum, filmmaker Ken Burns said when he visited Knoxville.

Tennessee Sen. Marsha Blackburn earns bipartisan win, but she's still a political bruiser

I agree, but we also have what it takes it to put things back together again.

We produce 25% of the worlds money and half its venture capital for only 5% of the worlds people.

We have the strongest military; most of the best universities, create the most advanced vaccines and cures; and lead in artificial intelligence and a hundred other technologies.

Our constitutional guarantees of liberty are the envy of the world. One of our toughest problems is what to do about the millions who want to move here. This is not a recipe for despair.

UT dedicated its new school to Howard Bakers legacy  to attract, encourage and graduate talented students who look forward to serving in public office, pulling Americans together, solving problems and keeping our country on the right track.

That is how Howard Bakers school can give meaning to his words: the republic will survive.

Lamar Alexander was Sen. Howard Bakers first legislative assistant. He served as governor, U.S. senator, U.S. education secretary and president of the University of Tennessee. He is writing a memoir, his 10th book.

The Howard H. Baker Jr. School of Public Policy and Public Affairs, which celebrated its one-year anniversary on July 1, 2024, aims to produce the next generation of skilled public problem solvers prepared to take leadership roles in their communities. Baker School students are grounded in the legacy of Howard H. Baker Jr. with curriculum and co-curricular activities focused on Bakers guiding principles including Confidence in America, Finding Common Ground and You Might Be Right. Under the umbrellas of two research centers, Baker School faculty and experts combine sound science and thoughtful policy to address challenges facing the state of Tennessee, the United States, and the world. In addition, the Baker School houses the Institute of American Civics, which is responsible for encouraging civic knowledge and participation among UT undergraduates and the state at large.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Lamar Alexander: Tennessee Sen. Howard Baker's example shows us how to save the USA
A group of 26 Republicans led by Rep. Lloyd Smucker (R-Pa.) sent a letter to Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Administrator Michael Regan expressing concerns about the impact of the proposed Clean Power Plan 2.0, which sets new emission standards for coal, oil and gas-fired generating units.

The final rule targets coal and new natural gas-fired electric generation, exacerbating concerns with the reliability of the electric grid, the members write in their letter. As such, we request answers on how your agency will ensure that residents and our constituents served by PJM do not lose access to reliable, affordable electricity.

The EPA issued the final rule in April as part of the Biden administrations efforts to reduce emissions across the U.S. Under the new rule, the EPA projects that long-term coal-fired and base-load new gas-fired plants will control 90 percent of their carbon pollution. An analysis by the EPA found that the full implementation of the rule would reduce 1.38 billion metric tons of CO2 nationwide by 2047.

During the process of proposing the rule, Regan called the rule a defining moment for his agency as it build[s] a cleaner and healthier future for all of us, according to the Associated Press.

Congressional Republicans have raised their concerns about the new project, which impacts the PJM transmission area, which is the largest transmission organization in the country, serving 65 million people in Delaware, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Tennessee, Virginia, West Virginia and the District of Columbia.

They believe that the new rule will lead to more coal-fired plants shutting down, placing stress on the system and causing power outages.

The Final Rule may work to drive premature retirement of coal units that provide essential reliability services and dissuade new gas resources from coming online. The EPA has not sufficiently reconciled its compliance dates with the need for generation to meet dramatically increasing load demands on the system, they wrote in the letter.

Smucker and the 25 Republicans, including Reps. Alex Mooney (R-W.V.), Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.), Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.), Greg Pence (R-Ind.) and Scott Perry (R-Pa.), allege that the EPAs overreach and unworkable mandates will create havoc in electricity markets, unreliability for distribution utilities, and economic hardship for businesses and families.

The letters signatories are not the only lawmakers criticizing the plan. In April, both of West Virginias senators, Joe Manchin (D) and Shelley Moore Capito (R), also criticized the rule.

Manchin accused the EPA of forcing the premature closure of coal plants and blocking new natural gas plants in April, saying that the Biden administration is more frightened by political threats from climate activists than by the warnings from our nations electricity reliability regulators and grid operators.

Electricity demand is set to skyrocket thanks in part to the EPAs own electric vehicles mandate, and unfortunately, Americans are already paying higher utility bills under President Biden. Despite all this, the administration has chosen to press ahead with its unrealistic climate agenda that threatens access to affordable, reliable energy for households and employers across the country, Capito released in a statement in April.

The Clean Power Plan 2.0 builds on the Obama-era Clean Power Plan, which aimed to cut carbon pollution from the power section by 32 percent below 2005 levels by 2030.

The rule was implemented in 2015. However, the Trump administration moved to kill the rule in 2019. The Supreme Court ruled in 2022, in West Virginia v. EPA, that the Clean Power Plan proposed by the Obama-era EPA in 2015 was unconstitutional since the EPA did not have the power to shift to cleaner energy sources.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

International leaders have condemned political violence following a shooting at a rally held by former US president Donald Trump on Saturday.

Trump was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania when several shots were fired. Writing on his social media site Truth Social after the incident, Trump said a bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear.

A rally attendee died and two were critically injured in the incident, the US Secret Service said. The suspected shooter had also died.

Josep Borrell, the European Union's top diplomat, said he was shocked and strongly condemned the attack.

"Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," he wrote on social media platform X.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply shocked" by the shooting.

"Political violence has no place in a democracy," she wrote on X.

"I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump "in these dark hours," he wrote on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his wife Sara were shocked by the attack.

"We pray for his safety and speedy recovery," he posted on X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X he was "appalled" to learn of the shooting.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail," he wrote.

"I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attacks victim, a rally attendee," Zelensky said.

"I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X that he was "sickened" by the shooting.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

In Taipei, President Lai Ching-te wished Trump a swift recovery.

"Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims affected by the attack," he wrote on X.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a statement it was with "great relief" that Trump was fine and well.

"Together with all democracy loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme."

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
At least 17 Palestinians killed in Israeli strikes on Gaza overnight, officials say

CAIRO (Reuters) - At least 17 Palestinians were killed and 50 were wounded in Israeli strikes on Gaza City in the early hours of Sunday morning, civil emergency and health officials said.

The fatalities resulted from at least four separate Israeli airstrikes on four houses in different areas of the city. Residents and Palestinian health officials said the Israeli military had stepped up aerial and ground shelling.

On Saturday an Israeli airstrike killed at least 90 Palestinians in a designated humanitarian zone in Gaza, the enclave's health ministry said. The attack was the deadliest in Gaza for weeks.

Israel said the attack targeted Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif but it was uncertain whether he had been killed. Hamas said that Israeli claims it had targeted leaders of the group were false and were aimed at justifying the attack.

(Reporting by Nidal Al-Mughrabi; Editing by David Goodman)
At least 90 Palestinians were killed in Gaza on Saturday after Israel attempted to assassinate the leader of Hamas military wing, according to local health officials.

The Israeli strike took place in southern Gaza and was targeted at Mohammed Deif, Hamas military chief who has long been wanted by Israel, the Associated Press reported.

The strike, which occurred in an Israeli-declared humanitarian zone, killed at least 90 individuals and wounded about 300 others, the Gaza Health Ministry reported.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Saturday said it was still not absolutely certain whether Deif or Rafa Salama  another targeted Hamas commander were killed, per local media reports.

Hamas pushed back against the claim that Deif was in the area, stating, these false claims are merely a cover-up for the scale of the horrific massacre, the AP reported.

Deif, along with Hamass top Gaza official, Yahya Sinwar, are believed to be the top militants behind the Oct. 7 assault on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people and kidnapped about 250 others.

Deif is believed to have escaped or survived multiple assassination attempts and has not been seen in public in years, the news wire added.

Hamass Oct. 7 assault sparked the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza, which has been ruled by Hamas since 2007. More than 38,400 people have been killed and about 88,000 others have been wounded in Gaza since early October, according to local health officials.

Saturdays attack, which was one of the wars deadliest, comes as Egypt, Qatari and U.S. mediators push for a three-phase cease-fire and hostage release deal in Gaza. The two sides have yet to come to an agreement on the deal.

The Associated Press contributed.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Legislature knows best? How Kentucky lawmakers are taking power away from cities

When Kentucky Rep. Josie Raymond announced her bid for Louisville Metro Council in November, she was excited at the prospect of a new arena: local politics.

It's where she hopes to make change as a member of a largely Democratic legislative body after serving in the General Assembly amidst a Republican super majority.

When Frankfort wouldn't pass my paid leave for state employees bill, Louisville did it for city employees. When Frankfort wouldn't pass my bill to find and mitigate the lead eating our kids' brains, Louisville did, Raymond said in a statement announcing her Metro Council bid. Help is not coming immediately from the state when it comes to crucial Louisville issues like gun violence and housing-first solutions to homelessness.

Just months after her announcement, though, the General Assembly unveiled a number of preemptive bills that would take legislative control out of local lawmakers hands, preventing them from making certain changes to their zoning codes and forcing Louisville's major elections to become nonpartisan, among other measures.

Preemption refers to a state government's ability to restrict local governmental power, like when the Kentucky legislature prohibited cities from passing their own gun control regulations in 2012. There is a deep history of preemption in the U.S., and amid an increasingly polarized and politicized environment, experts say they've begun to see a new surge of preemptive efforts nationwide.

This year, the Kentucky legislature went a step further by not only preempting local control, but overriding an already existing ordinance when it banned source of income discrimination laws passed by Louisville and Lexington.

Kentucky State Representative Josie Raymond looked intense during House proceedings on the first day of the 2024 Kentucky General Assembly in Frankfort, Ky. Jan. 2, 2024

J.D. Chaney, executive director of the Kentucky League of Cities, said it was the only time in recent memory the legislature has overridden a local ordinance already in the books.

Raymond called the bill unprecedented and alarming.

While several proposed preemptions died in the session  including bills that would overrule Louisville's pet store ordinance and change Louisville's short-term rental regulations  local leaders have been left wondering which of their powers will be stripped away next.

"Our residents vote for their local municipal leaders because they think those leaders are going to be the best able to represent them," said Christine Baker-Smith, director of research at the National League of Cities, a nonprofit that works to advance local government. "Every resident should be concerned when municipal leaders' authority is hampered, because you want your municipal leaders to be able to be responsive."

Preemption laws touch almost every part of modern life

For much of American history, local governments had to seek express authority from state legislatures for many actions.

That level of micromanagement became unsustainable for state lawmakers, though, said Nestor Davidson, a professor at Fordham University School of Law. So state and local governments agreed to delegate some authority down to the local level.

In Kentucky, the 1891 Constitution started that process, giving the state legislature the power to pass authority on to cities. The legislature in 1980 took it a step further by granting cities latitude to act without state legislative authority across a wide range of topics and functions.

The Kentucky state Senate discusses a bill on the last day of the legislative session, April 15, 2024.

That relationship has continued to work, for the most part. However, when politics between cities and states become misaligned, states have historically clawed power back, experts told The Courier Journal.

In Kentucky, that looks like a more conservative legislature trying to prevent more liberal cities from taking certain actions.

Nationwide, states have preempted local decisions that touch almost every aspect of modern life, from how people carry groceries to how much their rent can increase.

More than 40 states prohibit cities and other localities from passing gun control ordinances that are stricter than state law, with limited exceptions, according to the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. That includes Kentucky, where a 2012 law even says a local official who "violates the spirit" of the state law by passing a gun control regulation can be charged with a misdemeanor.

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg told The Courier Journal he has requested more autonomy from the General Assembly to address gun violence and gang violence in Louisville.

Louisville Fire Department Chief Brian O'Neill, Mayor Craig Greenber, and Louisville Metro Police Department Acting Chief Paul Humphrey testify before state lawmakers in Frankfort.

Housing is an especially contentious issue for states, experts say. Many states, including Kentucky, prohibit local governments from implementing rent control ordinances. States like Indiana and Tennessee also prohibit localities from adopting policies that require developments to include below-market rate units, according to the National League of Cities.

In Texas, lawmakers passed an omnibus preemption bill referred to colloquially as the Death Star in 2023. That bill, among other things, banned local requirements for heat breaks for outdoor workers. It was deemed unconstitutional but has taken effect while an appeal is pending.

In recent months, preemption in Kentucky has focused on everything from housing to zoning regulations  with the most extreme example being the override of the source of income discrimination ban.

In 2020, Louisville Metro Council passed an ordinance that prohibited landlords from refusing to rent to potential tenants based on where their money was coming from, including Section 8 housing vouchers provided by the federal government.

Lexington passed similar legislation in February. However, that same month, the state legislature passed a law stating no local government could enact such a ban. The bills sponsor, Rep. Ryan Dotson, R-Winchester, said it was meant to combat government overreach.

The bill was vetoed by Gov. Andy Beshear, who said it would harm those with disabilities, senior citizens, low-income families and our homeless veterans, but the Republican-controlled legislature quickly overrode the veto.

The legislature also changed Metro Council and mayoral elections to be nonpartisan and placed a one-year moratorium on changes to Louisvilles land development code, just as the mayor and other city leaders were attempting to rewrite housing policy to create more affordable options.

The Primary election took place at Seneca High School on Tuesday. May 21, 2024

Preemption surges nationally with increased polarization

Richard Schragger, a law professor at the University of Virginia and author of City Power: Urban Governance in a Global Age, said cities all over the country are now fighting to maintain local control.

I think we go through stages in the history of city power in the United States, and we're in a stage in which state legislatures are very hostile to city power, he said. Not in all states, but in lots of states.

There are two reasons for this, Schragger said.

One is that cities are becoming more aggressive in their attempts to address problems locally, whether its antidiscrimination laws, environmental protections or minimum wage rules.

The other is what Schragger calls a red state, blue city phenomenon.

So you have folks in urban areas or in metropolitan areas who want certain kinds of policies, and you have very hostile state legislatures who are opposed to such policies, and that creates conflict, he said.

This is furthered by increased polarization in the U.S., Schragger said.

Baker-Smith with the National League of the Cities also believes a hyper-politicized environment has contributed to the surge.

I don't just mean right versus left, blue versus red. I mean that a lot of issues that were not in the political sphere before are now, she said, pointing to topics from health and pandemic-related decisions to rent control.

The House of Representatives sit in on their last day in session on Monday, April 15, 2024.

While preemption is most often observed in Republican-majority states with Democratic cities, it also occurs in Democratic states with Republican rural areas  and in Democratic states with Democratic cities.

In Louisville, even bills with bipartisan support and championed by Republican Metro Council members faced the threat of preemption. Within the past year, council members Stuart Benson and Marilyn Parker strongly advocated for a ban on the sale of cats and dogs in retail pet stores, passed legislation locally, then faced preemption months later by the state legislature  although it ultimately did not pass.

It hits every end of the spectrum, said Baker-Smith.

Preemption can also create ideological conflicts between two competing principles.

State Rep. Kevin Bratcher is, like Raymond, attempting to move from the state level to Metro Council.

While he voted in favor of many preemptive bills during the 2024 General Assembly, he does not like the concept of the higher level of government pushing its will on the lower level, he told The Courier Journal.

Rep Kevin Bratcher asked questions about the Medical Marijuana SB 47 during House Committee on the last day of the session.March 30, 2023

However, those bills furthered policies that align more with his political philosophy as a conservative. For him, it came down to the individual issues.

I don't like the concept of them doing that, but when you get right down to the particular issues, you have to go with what you believe is right, Bratcher said.

A state legislature preempting local powers is not inherently problematic, experts emphasized.

Some of them are, you know, simply regulatory or relatively reasonable from a state level, but then there are ones that appear to be unnecessarily thwarting local authority, Baker-Smith said  adding that once a preemptive law is in place, it's unlikely to change.

Could Louisville Metro Council experience a chilling effect?

State preemptions of local control have created a "chilling effect" for city politicians, experts told The Courier Journal.

"Because there is a fear that if they act, they will be preempted, or there is a fear that if they act, there will be some sort of litigation or legal challenge against their action that could potentially financially harm the city," said Katie Belanger, the lead consultant at the Local Solutions Support Center, a national hub dedicated to combating what it views as abuses of states preemption powers.

Metro Council President Markus Winkler, however, said he does not believe this will occur in Louisville.

I don't think you can do things or not do things because you think they might be preempted, he said. I don't have any concerns there.

Still, council members have been frustrated by preemption, Winkler said. And it can create a feeling of being powerless.

Whats next? he added. Our lead-based paint ordinance, is that going to change?

Louisville Metro Council President Markus Winkler looks on as the charging documents of possible ethics violations of District 19 Representative Anthony Piagentini are read into the record during the Metro council meeting in the Louisville Metro Council chambers, Thursday, Nov. 30 2023 in Louisville Ky.

There are also implications for local democracy, several experts told The Courier Journal.

The city's citizens should have the ability to govern themselves, not for everything and not all across the board necessarily, but certainly for as much as possible to preserve local democratic control and accountability, said Schragger of the University of Virginia. The preemption phenomenon and the attack on American cities, I think, is quite dangerous for all those reasons, and I also think it's just bad for policymaking.

Chaney of the Kentucky League of Cities said the diversity among Kentucky communities is a strength that should be preserved. Local officials are also closest and most responsive to voters, he added.

They're the elected legislators that people run into at the grocery store, church," Chaney said. "If there's misguiding, the voters remedy that very quickly in local elections.

Winkler agreed, saying when decisions are made by representatives from the state, local voices get diluted.

I get to vote for a representative, but that's one out of 100, not one out of 26, and the district is also much, much larger, he said. ... The people who are closest to an issue are best able to write laws or policies based on the unique needs of that area."

Reach reporter Eleanor McCrary at EMcCrary@courier-journal.com or at @ellie_mccrary on X, formerly known as Twitter. Reach Rebecca Grapevine at rgrapevine@courier-journal.com or follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, at @RebGrapevine.

More: A new group is about to steer Louisville economic development. Everything we know

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Kentucky lawmakers join national trend of taking power from cities
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  The Washington state primary is on August 6 this year and all eyes will be on Congressional District 3. The district spans southwest Washington, including Clark, Lewis and Cowlitz counties, home to cities including Vancouver, Camas, Washougal and Battle Ground. Its also a swing district, voting for Donald Trump in 2020 by about a 4% margin.

Its currently represented by a Democrat, freshman Congresswoman and small business owner Marie Gluesenkamp Perez, who defeated Republican challenger and U.S. Special Forces veteran Joe Kent by a slim margin in 2022. Kent is running again and so is Leslie Lewallen, a city councilor in the fast-growing city of Camas. An attorney and small business owner, shes also a former prosecutor in King County, which includes Seattle.

This is a top-two primary, meaning the top two vote-getters  regardless of party  move on to the general election in November.

On this weeks Eye on Northwest Politics, Lewallen said shes running for Congress because shes a proven results winner and Republicans should have never lost the seat to begin with.

Donald Trump won the district by four points in 2020 and then Tiffany Smiley actually carried the district by eight points in 2022. So this is an R-plus-five district and we should never again have lost the seat, she said.

Lewallen added she stands a chance of being in the top two because Republicans are hungry for an alternative to Joe Kent.

Should she be elected to Congress, Lewallen cites border security, as well as law and order as her primary priorities, arguing whats occurring at the southern border affects what happens in her district.

I continue to make calls and knock on doors in this race, the number one thing that [the people of Camas] have said to me is they dont want to see Southwest Washington become like Portland, she said. They dont want the crime, the drugs and the homelessness. And our unsecured southern border is allowing crime, drugs, human trafficking to come straight up the I -5 corridor and take root in our communities.

Lewallen further detailed how her background as a Camas City Councilor and previously a prosecutor in King County prepares her for Congress.

I always ask myself two things at City Council: Is this a problem for the government to solve? And what are the unintended consequences? And then a third question that I always ask myself is how will this improve the lives of my constituents? So I think that really prepares me, she said. And as a prosecuting attorney, I think again we have a law and order crisis here, not just in Southwest Washington, but throughout the nation. And I think that gives me a unique perspective and a tool belt too when I get to Congress to approach these issues in a well thought out methodical manner.

Joe Kent has raised around $1 million, which is about double what Lewallen has for this race. Further, Gluesenkamp Perez has raised around 4 times that. Despite these numbers, Lewallen still maintains confidence, even referring to Kents campaign as a sinking ship.

We are actually on an upward momentum thats just unstoppable. Im so proud of what our campaign has done so far, she emphasized. Weve been running television ads. Ive been out throughout the community. Weve built a strong grassroots coalition. I have Republicans from every spectrum who have endorsed me and are supporting me.

Watch the full interview in the video above.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Olympia Brewery  again

The Olympia Brewery mess makes the headlines again. This derelict group of structures, once a symbol of pride, that sits adjacent to the entrance to our community and to the Salish Sea beyond  think 75,000 plus vehicles per day  deserves better.

There are 300,000 folks living in the immediate community, those 300,000 folks are organized into seven cities, one county and one port district. Some how we all expect the 26,000 folks that call Tumwater home and their seven city council members to solve this problem for the rest of us.

The brewery site is a regional asset and hence a regional responsibility. The entire brewery site with its water rights, historical structures, river frontage, wildlife habitat, railroad access, industrial space, tourist attraction and recreational opportunities could have been purchased 21 years ago for about what was eventually paid for just the water rights. The lack of community leadership decided to instead rely on private developers to lead the way.

The track record for private development of this site includes financial scams, bankruptcies, chemical spills, fires, and continued deterioration with no hope for change.

It is time for the Thurston County Commissioners, the Port of Olympia Commissioners and the city councils of Lacey, Olympia and Tumwater to recognize that the responsibility for this regional asset requires us all to work together. Other communities across the nation have worked together to solve bigger problems. Our local communities are too intertwined for any one of us to go it alone.

Rob Kirkwood, Olympia, Old Brewhouse Foundation

A blind eye to blight

When I walk or drive by the ugly scene that was once the Olympia Brewery, Im amazed anew. Here beside the lovely Deschutes River and bordered by the beautiful Brewery Park at Tumwater Falls sprawls breathtaking urban blight that just gets worse. Yet, year after year, nothing is done. Too expensive, too complicated, too hard, government inaction seems to say.

Heres a thought. Might Tumwater, Olympia, and the state of Washington, all stakeholders in the problem, get together and see it as an opportunity? A government coalition formed to write and fund a plan to raze and renew this sensitive riparian land? Maybe extend the Tumwater falls park? Recently things only got worse when the shabby, shuttered South Pacific restaurant, which abuts the charred, broken-windowed acreage, burned.

Turning a blind eye is no way to govern. Take a lesson from Detroit. With the right leadership, we can banish urban blight here too.

Hal Spencer, Olympia

Fireworks overload

I have always loved fireworks.

Unfortunately, since moving to Grand Mound, I find the need to become an advocate for stricter enforcement of fireworks restrictions.

Heres why: Somehow, my neighbors have access to bomb-like explosives that rattle and shake homes, damage ear drums, and terrify pets and livestock.

For three nights in July, then again on New Years Eve, my home is locked in what sounds and looks like a war zone, as discourteous neighbors light off round after round of these incendiary devices which are neither festive nor fun.

It would be easier to overlook if revelers limited the hours of explosions, or the number of them; unfortunately, these ear-splitting sounds go on for hours at a time.

As I said, I love firework displays, but excruciatingly loud explosives have no place in residential neighborhoods.

Virginia Schnabel, Grand Mound
To the editor: The headline of Karen Kaplans article " What if Biden were tested  clinically  should read What if Trump were tested  clinically. The media, including the Times own, greatly-admired, Steve Lopez is doing a great disservice to the country by discussing this issue with an unbalanced, predatory focus on Biden's mental fitness.

We all watched an hour and a half debate with Trump rambling on with his pathological lies and delusions. Granted, the well-intentioned and well-informed Biden had many senior moments, but he still demonstrated a keen understanding of world order and events with empathetic compassion and resolve.

The L.A. Times is featuring multiple articles about Biden's mental acuity. Instead, the media should be demanding that Trump undergo a thorough psychiatric evaluation and publish those results along with Biden's cognitive test.

The country and the world would be a lot better off with a well-intentioned grampa who might accidentally walk into a women's restroom as opposed to a convicted criminal.

Steve Pellegren, Los Angeles

..

To the editor: What criteria shall we adopt when testing a presidential candidate for office? There are various types of memory to consider, including immediate, intermediate and long recall. There are ways to test for judgment and intelligence . Of course all final candidates will be tested, wont they? Both candidates for the 2024 election raise voters questions about their competence to hold office. Let us examine test results for both, with experts showing the way.

Michael Gross, Woodland Hills

..

To the editor: My stepmother is 90 and has memory loss due to oxygen deprivation that occurred when her pacemaker failed eight years ago. She has aced the cognitive test that Trump brags about. A cognitive test is not needed to convince me that Joe Biden is eminently qualified to be president of the United States and that he can win in November with Kamala Harris as his vice president.. He demonstrates his abilities every day in performing his duties and through his relationships with voters and leaders around the world.

Deborah Mackey, Santa Clarita



..

To the editor: The current turmoil over whether President Biden should drop out of the race for the presidency is made all the more tumultuous by the fact that it is happening in a political environment clouded by emotions, loyalties, competing ideologies and political ambitions. We need the clouds to part. We need clarity, now more than ever, so that Americans can make an informed decision about our leadership over the next four years.

During the pandemic, Democrats told us to follow the science. Well, that is what we need to do now. Both Biden and Trump should undergo cognitive testing with the results made public. The leadership of both parties should demand this. The stakes are simply too high to trust the self-assessment of two old men regarding their mental fitness to lead the free world.

Michael Harrington, Laverne

..

To the editor: It is very disheartening and concerning that the American people, presumptively, are faced with a presidential contest featuring two old, impaired men. Joe Bidens disastrous debate performance turned the whispering about if he had lost a "cognitive step" into a shout. As far as Donald Trump is concerned, view any of his political rallies or listen to him speak about anything for any length of time and one will likely question his mental lucidity and coherence.

The American people have a right to know how mentally and physically healthy a candidate is before they cast their vote. It's time for Congress to address this concern and pass a law mandating that all candidates for president who are polling above some minimum level release such medical testing results to the public.

Ken Derow, Swarthmore, Pa.





This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
The Colorado Springs Pioneers museum celebrated its grand reopening Saturday with a bustling display of community on the lawn outside the newly renovated space.

By 1:30 p.m., Leah Davis Whitherow, museum curator of history, said the facility had already welcomed over 1,300 guests with still hours left in the days celebration.

For the past year, the museum has been closed to the public to update gallery space and primarily renovate the building's HVAC system bringing a much-needed break from the heat to museum guests amid the record heat wave that settled into the region through the weekend.

Whitherow said, along with the updated central air system, the museum has added three additional gallery spaces, renovated another three spaces, and added five small exhibits, or museum moments, scattered throughout the building.

Our job is to collect materials and stories and share them with the community so they feel connected to local history. It also helps them understand the present. We think history is a powerful tool in working together to consider our future, Whitherow said.

Of the new exhibits opening Saturday, Whitherow said shes personally most excited for the exhibit titled 50% of The Story, Woman Expressing Creativity, the first permanent gallery installation featuring solely female artists in the state.

We did something bold in this gallery. It's the first permanent exhibit of all woman artists in Colorado, Whitherow said.

Our goal was to bring into conversation women across time to demonstrate that women have always been creative; women have always been artistic, and women have always been artists.

The new exhibit features over 150 pieces of contemporary and historic works of art and artifacts to be added to the museum's permanent collection. According to Whitherow, only a single piece featured out of the entire collection is on loan.

These pieces all reveal stories about the artists themselves. People who make artifacts view women with memory and meaning and power and stories and we wanted to bring them all into one gallery and conversation together, Whitherow said.

Down the hall, the museum installed a new children's-only exhibit titled Camping in the Rockies. The space features a climbing wall, ball pit and interactive games to help kids learn about the great outdoors in Colorado Springs.

Mother of two Laura Orlando, who was visiting the museum for the first time since moving to the area, said she was surprised by how much the museum offered for her children ages 3 and 6.

We just moved from the South. Its a great opportunity to be able to connect with the Western aspects of the culture and the differences compared to where were from in North Carolina, Orlando said.

I didn't anticipate so much to be offered for the kids at the museum opening for free. Its quite remarkable.

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Moving upstairs, the third new space is one that has never been opened to the public since the museum moved into the old downtown courthouse in 1979.

To gain more square footage in a museum is everything, because it means we can tell more stories. We want to do endless amounts of new exhibits, but we never have enough room, because our collections grow and our buildings stay the same size, Whitherow said.

Previously used for storage and preparing exhibits, the Division 2 Courtroom is now the home to an exhibit titled Accessorize it  a curated display of fashion in the Pikes Peak region from the early 19th century through today.

We went into our storage vaults and we pulled out hundreds of objects  shoes, clothes, purses, and scarves. Every object was donated by individuals in the Pikes Peak region and these objects help to tell their stories  Who wore that? Where were they, and what was their life like? Whitherow said.

Right next door to the Division 2 courtroom is what Whitworth has deemed a museum effort to increase transparency between their work and the public: a publicly visible workspace for guests to watch staff catalog artifacts, and prepare them for exhibition.

This is a really cool part. Its more important than ever for museums to be transparent about their work. This means visitors can come in and see artifacts being catalogued, they can see them being prepared for exhibition. They can talk to staff and really see what's coming into the collection and how we care for it, Whitherow said.

Museum guests Dan and Norma Vallejo could be seen meandering the upper level of the museum, admiring the artistry of the architecture of the building.

A Colorado Springs native who has been coming to the Pioneers Museum since its days on Bijou Street, Dan Vallejo said hes loving the building updates and new exhibits offered Saturday.

Ive been coming here quite a long time, all my life. I brought my kids here when they were younger and now my grandkids, Vallejo said.

He continued, saying the couples primary reason for visiting Saturday was to see the newly renovated Colorado Springs A-Z exhibit, where his grandmothers story is featured in the letter V, for the familys last name.

According to the museum, Vallejos Family Restaurant operated along South Corona Street from 1962 through 2022. Four generations of the family worked at the establishment during its years of operation.

(The museum is) one of the few things that I think truly ties the community together. Its cohesive of our history. As somebody who has lived here all their life, being able to come here and see things that have happened here over the past hundreds of years, its a wonderful thing, Vallejo said.

Its wonderful that its right downtown, it makes it accessible. Theres a lot of community spirit here today, Its very heartwarming.
TechCrunch

To celebrate the 30th anniversary of Green Day's classic pop-punk album "Dookie," Los Angeles art studio Brain has constructed extremely lo-fi versions of the songs in various formats and is selling one-off versions of them. On the website Dookie Demastered you can also enter a drawing for $49 wireless doorbell that will play the intro of "Longview" in what sounds like tubular bells, a $39 8-bit version of "Welcome to Paradise" contained on a GameBoy cartridge, or a $49 wax cylinder version of "When I Come Around." Perhaps the best is a $99 Teddy Ruxpin doll that sings "Chump."
Librarian criticized book bans and faced a barrage of hate. She wrote a book about it

Amanda Jones life changed forever after she spoke at a public library board meeting two years ago in Livingston Parish, Louisiana.

I gave a very blanket speech about censorship. I didnt talk about any particular books, I didnt mention any titles or anything like that, Jones, a 23-year veteran of public education, explains.

In her forthcoming book, That Librarian (Bloomsbury, $29.99), Jones shares what came next: a sustained barrage of bizarre and erroneous social media posts about her, death threats, a leave of absence from her work as a school librarian, her filing of an anti-defamation lawsuit, and, ultimately, publication of the book.

One early post asked  apropos of nothing why Jones was fighting so hard to keep sexually erotic and pornographic materials in the kids [sic] section.

Social media users, friends and strangers alike, posted and reposted that and other comments until the story about her had nearly gone viral.

Jones writes in the book: As if a kid could be looking for The Very Hungry Caterpillar and whoops, theres the Joy of Sex or The Karma Sutra right next to it. Thats never the case. Libraries have collection development policies for ordering books, and appropriate books are placed in the appropriate section.

It felt impossible to understand what was happening, she recalls. At that point, shed been an educator for 21 years in the tiny town she grew up in. She was the 2020 Louisiana School Librarian of the Year, 2021 School Library Journal National Librarian of the Year and the past-president of the Louisiana Association of School Librarians.

Amanda Jones wrote That Librarian after facing backlash for speaking out against censorship.

Jones writes that this attack on her was no isolated phenomenon; across the nation, school and public librarians are being targeted, as are the books on their shelves.

She notes in That Librarian that, according to the American Library Association, Pro-censors challenged 2,571 books in 2022.  Of those titles, the vast majority were written by or about members of the LGBTQIA+ community or by and about Black people, Indigenous people, and people of color.

Every library has a system for community members to challenge a book, which triggers an objective review process. However, as Jones saw, rather than use that process, people would photograph one page of, say, a sexual health text written for teenagers  and shelved in the young adult section  and post it on social media to frighten others into calling for the books removal.

The tactic works. Limiting what books are available is along the lines of not allowing certain populations, like women and minorities, to learn to read, Jones says.

That was one reason Jones spoke at that July 2022 board meeting.

An organization called Citizens for a New Louisiana had successfully stopped voters in a neighboring town from renewing one of three property taxes, costing that library system $3.5 million per year.

Its politicians coming in with fake controversies, so that they can have a platform of saying theyre going to save the children, and theyre going to fix these problems that dont exist, Jones says. It all boils down to the basic trend of what you see in stuff like the Project 2025 is that theyre trying to defund public libraries and public schools.

In fact, she says, it all seems frighteningly similar to Margaret Atwoods The Handmaids Tale, which plays out the institution of a sweeping, Sharia-law-level censorship in the United States. Atwood will speak at the Kansas City Public Library on Sept. 24.

The TV series The Handmaids Tale, starring Elisabeth Moss, is based on Margaret Atwoods bestselling novel about a dystopian, repressive regime.

I tell people all the time I feel like Im living in The Handmaids Tale. Its the same people and the same organizations that push book banning who are also against womens rights. Theyre against abortion. Theyre against, you know, birth control. Its the same thing. Its the same world, she says.

I think if more people read The Handmaids Tale, more people would be against book banning.

Jones says shes not concerned that her book will only reach readers who agree with her.

The majority of the people in my community are Republican. Theyre going to read it because they want to know the tea. Its my hope that that will be the case in a lot of places, she says.

Jones mom has supported her through her transformation from a small-town school librarian to a national anti-censoring, First Amendment first amendment advocate  but that doesnt mean she initially agreed with her daughter any more than their neighbors did.

Now, however, her mom is on board, and this is why Jones is hopeful that others will also understand that its not OK for groups like those whove harassed her to, essentially, start scary rumors.

After her mother read three or four chapters of That Librarian and declared that shed read enough, Jones said, Please finish reading the rest of it. So, she read the rest of it, and it completely changed her mind. It opened her eyes, and she then understood what I was talking about. But she had to read the whole thing.

Anne Kniggendorf is a writer and editor for the Kansas City Public Library and is the author of Secret Kansas City and Kansas City Scavenger. Follow her @AnneKniggendorf.

Amanda Jones That Librarian is due out in August. FYI Book Club participants can get copies early.

Join the club

The Kansas City Star partners with the Kansas City Public Library to present a book-of-the-moment selection. We invite the community to read along. Kaite Mediatore Stover, the librarys director of readers services, will lead a discussion of Amanda Jones That Librarian at 6 p.m. Monday, Aug. 26, with the author briefly attending virtually. The book is due out in August; secure a copy early and sign up for the discussion by emailing Stover at kaitestover@kclibrary.org.

Meet the author

Amanda Jones will speak about That Librarian at 6 p.m. Sept. 25 at Central Library, 14 W. 10th St. Free. RSVP later at kclibrary.org.

An excerpt

Most people see what is happening, yet they dont do or say anything to stop it. Nobody wants the haters zeroing in on them, so people are hesitant to speak. They have good reasons, and fear is one of them. The alt-right ideologues are loud and quick to hurl insults. People with small businesses wont speak out for fear that their businesses could be targeted. Politicians either wont say anything or join the screamers, because they dont want their words twisted  and believe me any show of support will be twisted. Parents dont want to stand up because theyre fearful of their children being bullied. I get it, but what I dont understand is why this silent majority doesnt see their potential strength in numbers and come out swinging.

Rational people take it all with a grain of salt because the antics of the pro-censors are so over-the-top. But staying silent is a kind of complicity, and when people dont push back, censorship efforts gain traction, and one day Im afraid it will be too late. What the general public needs to know is that these people wont just stop at censoring books or ruining libraries. They will continue to wreak havoc on our public education system until it is irreversibly broken.
Even though Ohio became the 17th state in 1803, it didnt mean the area that we now call Licking County was settled. This area was part of Fairfield County and was named Licking Township.

The county as we know it wasnt established until 1808. During these early years, many land speculators tried to make money off the westward expansion. One of these men was Joseph Hardy who, in 1800, was conveyed 3,460 acres in Ohio from President John Adams. In 1807, Hardy sold the land to Jonas Stanberry for $1 an acre. Stanberry then divided the land into lots.

In 1810, Stanberry sold lot No. 9, which consisted of 73 acres, to William Robertson and his younger brother James, who were living in Zanesville at the time. The brothers were originally from Franklin County, Pennsylvania. The acres they purchased are where the present village of Utica sits.

Licking County history: Before becoming home to Velvet Ice Cream, Ye Olde Mill was an Underground Railroad stop

The brothers moved to their land in 1810. One of their first projects was building a dam on the North Fork of the Licking River to divert water to power their future sawmill and grist mill. While the brothers were digging the mill race to carry the water from the dam to the mills, they unearthed two or three bones that measured from 4 to 6 feet in length. They were thought to be the ribs of an animal and may have been the first Mastodon bones found in the county. The mill race flowed east from the North Fork, through the area where Licking County Librarys Utica branch now stands and then across modern-day Route 13, behind the current Mill Street Mill.

In January 1813, William returned to Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and married his cousin Sarah. Sometime after that, the newlyweds began their journey on horseback to their home in Ohio. They arrived in Newark on March 2 and were the guests of Judge Wilson. They stayed in town the next day and that evening were the guests of Moses Moore. On March 4, they swam their horses across the Licking River for the last part of their journey.

Veterans column: Perry Miles makes a harrowing discovery in his hat after ambush

Hills History of Licking County, published in 1881, has two versions of the story of their trip home. As the couple arrived in sight of their cabin, they began to cross the flooded river. About midstream, Sarahs horse became entangled in either wood or floating ice and fell, throwing her into the water. In one story, William jumped into the water and brought his unconscious bride to shore. The other version is that she grabbed a root near shore and held on until William could help her out. Either way, it wasnt quite the welcome home either imagined.

In 1814, William laid out the lots for a new town and filed a plat map with the court in Pittsburgh for approval. The town consisted of a 50-foot-wide street that ran north to west. On each side of that street, he set aside 10 lots, 66 feet wide and 165 feet deep. Those lots were then divided by two alleys that ran east to west that were to be 15 feet wide.

On Feb. 6, 1816, the map was approved and recorded in the court records establishing the village of Wilmington in Washington Township, Licking County, Ohio.

Doug Stout is the Licking County Library local history coordinator. You may contact him at 740.349.5571 or dstout@lickingcountylibrary.org.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: History column: Licking County settled in 1813 at present-day Utica
Tech entrepreneur Reid Hoffman has apologized for comments he made about Donald Trump on Friday at Sun Valley Allen & Company Conference. Hoffman and frequent verbal sparring partner Peter Thiel exchanged words about the latters support for Trump  which culminated with Hoffman firing off, I wish I had made him an actual martyr.

Those words were taken out of context, LinkedIn cofounder and chairman Hoffman insisted in a lengthy tweet posted on X on Sunday following the attempted assassination of Trump in Pennsylvania, which had led to extra scrutiny being placed on those remarks from the day before.

First and everything: There is no place for political violence in our society. Assassination is not only categorically wrong, but is also the assassination of democracy, Hoffman wrote. It is abhorrent that anyone has tried to assassinate President Trump. Everyone, on all sides of this election, should condemn political violence loudly and publicly. This includes President Biden, who last night said, Theres no place in America for this kind of violence.'

It also includes President Trump, he continued, turning toward a critique of the former president. Instead of calling the January 6th insurrectionists heroes whom he intends to pardon and even hire into government, he should speak out against political violence. When he warns against consequences of him losing the election, he should not predict a bloodbath in a way that might incite future protesters to violence against his political opponents. He should clearly indicate, which he never has, that political violence is evil and unacceptable  even if the perpetrators are trying to do it to benefit him.

First and everything: There is no place for political violence in our society. Assassination is not only categorically wrong, but is also the assassination of democracy. It is abhorrent that anyone has tried to assassinate President Trump. Everyone, on all sides of this  Reid Hoffman (@reidhoffman) July 14, 2024

The beauty and importance of democracies is having political conflict be only speeches and ballot boxes, Hoffman wrote. This is the importance of having a society governed by the rule of law, which holds everyone accountable to an independent judiciary and by juries of our peers. It is what I stand for, and what I advocate for everyone to stand for.

After that preamble on the news of the moment, Hoffman took to clearing up his Friday remarks.

A point of clarification on a recent comment of mine that has been reported out of context, Hoffman said. At a recent business conference, Peter Thiel said that my lawsuit work against Trump was turning a clown into a martyr. In that context, I replied that I wished that Trump would martyr himself  meaning let himself be held accountable  for his assaults on and lies about women.

Of course I meant nothing about any sort of physical harm or violence, which I categorically deplore, he added. I meant and mean accountability to the rule of law, such as unanimous guilty felony verdict by 12 jurors on 34 counts and an $84 million judgment for slander and lies about his sexual assault.

I am horrified and saddened by what happened to former President Trump and wish him a speedy recovery, Hoffman concluded.

The attempted assassination of Trump on Saturday prompted a shareholder group to revisit the exchange between Thiel and Hoffman. The group demanded that Hoffman resign his seat on the Microsoft board of directors. Ithas also called for Hoffmans removal from the Defense Innovation Board, which is currently chaired by Michael Bloomberg.

On Friday, Puck News reported that Hoffman was onstage with Palantir CEO Alex Karp during a panel moderated by Andrew Ross Sorkin when he was asked about his relationship with Thiel. Hoffman explained that the pair had a falling out over a moral issue  Thiels support of Trump. Thiel, who was seated in the audience, responded and eventually sarcastically thanked Hoffman for funding lawsuits against Trump, which he said turned the former president into a martyr.

Hoffman fired back, Yeah, I wish I had made him an actual martyr. The words soon took on a different meaning in the wake of the attempt on Trumps life.

Elon Musk joined the conversation surrounding Hoffman and Thiels exchange on Sunday. He posted a link to Pucks reporting on the verbal exchange and wrote on X, The Reid Hoffmans of the world got their dearest wish  but then the martyr lived.

The Reid Hoffmans of the world got their dearest wish  but then the martyr lived pic.twitter.com/laaRBc5yol  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

Hoffman isnt the only person whose recent comments about Trump have been reexamined. Political reporter Sahil Kapur tweeted an explanation on Sunday for a message President Biden sent donors that included the sentence, Its time to put Trump in the bullseye.

Full context of the recent Biden bullseye remark to donors thats making the rounds, per transcript obtained from a person on the private call. Source says the message was about turning the focus off Dem infighting post-debate and getting Trump to answer questions, Kapur wrote.

Full context of the recent Biden "bullseye" remark to donors that's making the rounds, per transcript obtained from a person on the private call. Source says the message was about turning the focus off Dem infighting post-debate and getting Trump to answer questions.



Biden: pic.twitter.com/dQhzZENAYq  Sahil Kapur (@sahilkapur) July 14, 2024

A number of Republican politicians, including Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene and potential vice presidential pick Sen. J.D. Vance, were among those who quickly attacked Democrats and Democratic rhetoric in the wake of Saturdays shooting.

The post LinkedIn Founder Clarifies Quip Wishing Hed Made Trump a Martyr appeared first on TheWrap.
The statuette depicts a human and a lion and was found inside a cave in Germany. . | Credit: Prisma by Dukas Presseagentur GmbH via Alamy

Name: Lion Man

What it is: An ivory statuette depicting a half-human, half-lion

Where it was found: Inside the dark chamber of a cave in Germany in 1939.

When it was made: 40,000 years ago

What it tells us about the past: Carved out of a mammoth tusk, the 12-inch-tall (31 centimeters) artifact would have been difficult to make. In fact, when researchers conducted an experiment years later using ice age tools, including pieces of flint, they determined it would have taken the artisan approximately 400 hours to complete, according to the British Museum .

Related: William the Hippo: The ancient Egyptian statuette deliberately crippled to prevent it wreaking havoc in the afterlife

Since this would have been a lot of time dedicated to creating a single piece  especially living in the harsh conditions caused by the ice age  researchers think that the carving was likely used for ceremonial purposes. That conclusion is buttressed by wear patterns found on the body, which show that the item was passed around from person to person. Therefore, the artifact is considered the oldest known evidence of religious belief in the world.

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For years, Lion Man was considered the oldest depiction of a therianthrope, or a part-human, part-animal figure. Therianthrope are "evidence for the ability to imagine the existence of a supernatural being, something that does not exist in real life," Adam Brumm , an archaeologist at Griffith University in Australia, previously told Live Science . But now, newly dated rock art in a cave in Indonesia shows an even older therianthrope, showing that humans conceived of human-animal mashups around 51,200 years old.

The cave where the Lion Man statuette was found was also littered with perforated arctic fox teeth and reindeer antlers, suggesting that the cave was used as a place to conduct rituals.
This story was originally published by Grist. Sign up for Grists weekly newsletter here.

Across America, millions of tons of toxic waste are sitting in pits next to coal plants. But whether they will get cleaned up has come down to a legal debate over the definitions of words.

In 2015, following a pair of disastrous spills at coal plants in North Carolina and Tennessee, the Environmental Protection Agency issued a rule that required power companies to dispose of toxic waste at coal plants safely. The EPAs rule required that coal ash, a byproduct of the coal power process which contains heavy metals like arsenic and mercury, cannot be left in contact with a free liquid  one that could move in and out of the ash itself  and it had to be stored in a manner that prevented infiltration by a liquid.

A group of utility companies sued the EPA and argued that rules prohibition of infiltration of a coal ash impoundment refers only to infiltration from above, by rainwater. They also claimed that the rule didnt classify groundwater as a free liquid  although they acknowledged in their opening brief that it may be true in a simplistic sense that groundwater is a liquid. By enforcing the rule using the common-sense definitions of these terms, the utilities argued, the EPA was effectively changing the rule itself.

To Gavin Kearney, an attorney at Earthjustice who argued in the case as an intervenor on the side of EPA, these arguments were preposterous. These words are clear in their meaning. A liquid is a liquid, in any sense of the word, and infiltration means water coming in from any sides, Kearney told Grist.

On June 28, the D.C. Circuit Court of Appeals agreed with him, finding no daylight between the letter of the 2015 rule and the EPAs recent enforcement actions. The judge who authored the decision, Cornelia Pillard, specifically rejected the arguments about the contested meanings of infiltration and free liquids.

Prior to 2015, the pollution of groundwater by coal ash was long underappreciated among the many and varied hazards that coal plants pose to human health and the natural environment. Following the landmark rule, if a power company wanted to shut down a coal plant, which many companies are doing because of their decreasing profitability, it would have to ensure that no coal ash is left in contact with surrounding groundwater or open to rain from above.

However, in the years immediately following the rules passage, under the Trump administration  a period during which the EPA was briefly run by a coal lobbyist  the agency didnt really enforce the rule. Power companies across the country quietly made plans to retire coal plants and in many cases simply ignored the rule banning permanent storage of coal ash in contact with groundwater. Under President Biden, the agency began enforcing the coal ash rule. There are over 100 sites nationwide where utilities plan to permanently bury coal ash where it was either in direct contact with groundwater or at imminent risk of contaminating it.

In 2019, the Georgia Environmental Protection Division received the authority to issue its own coal ash permits. The states main power company, Georgia Power, has plans to close ash ponds in contact with groundwater at a number of sites across Georgia. One is in the rural town of Juliette, Georgia, where the energy company plans to leave 16 million tons of coal ash in unlined pits at Plant Scherer, which was once the nations largest coal plant. Some of the towns residents are suing Georgia Power, alleging that the plants contamination of their drinking water was responsible for illnesses and deaths in the community. In 2022, the EPA notified Georgia regulators that their plans to approve a permit for Georgia Power to permanently store ash in contact with groundwater at its North Georgia facility Plant Hammond violated the 2015 rule.

That permit was nevertheless issued, in open defiance of the EPA  and the legal arguments the Georgia regulators cited to justify the approval mirror those of the utility industry in its federal lawsuit.

The D.C. Circuit Courts decision raises the question of whether the EPA will intervene in Georgia (as it recently did in Alabama) and revoke the states authority to issue coal ash permits. Georgia right now is a bellwether as to whether or not EPA is going to do what it needs to do to defend the viability of the entire state [coal ash] program architecture, said Chris Bowers, an attorney at the Southern Environmental Law Center.

Angela Hackel, a spokesperson for EPA, didnt answer a question about whether they would shut down Georgias coal ash permit program, but said in an email that the EPA and Georgias environmental agency were engaged in dialogue on closure strategies. The Georgia Environmental Protection Division, or EPD, for its part, is still reviewing the decision, spokesperson Sara Lips told Grist in an email.

Until the EPA does intervene, Georgia Power has no plans to alter its plans, given that its already received a go-ahead from the state at one of its plants. The power company told Grist, It is important to note that EPA has previously approved Georgias state [coal ash] program with oversight by Georgia EPD. Georgia EPD evaluated our site-specific plans at Plant Hammond and issued the final permit in November 2023.

This article originally appeared in Grist at https://grist.org/energy/what-is-a-liquid-utilities-sue-to-avoid-coal-ash-cleanup-and-lose/.

Grist is a nonprofit, independent media organization dedicated to telling stories of climate solutions and a just future. Learn more at Grist.org
The Greater Austin Reading Coalition and United Way for Greater Austin hosted the first Greater Austin Reads Together Day at the Austin Central Library on Saturday, highlighting the essential role of literacy in shaping children's futures.

Founded in 1924, United Way offers education programs and resources for families living in poverty. The Greater Austin Reading Coalition, assembled by United Way and founded in 2021, aims to support children in kindergarten through third grade to ensure they are reading on or above grade level by the fourth grade.

The event aimed to address literacy disparities in education, particularly in Title I schools  schools with a higher percentage of students living in poverty than the district average.

Here are the main things that United Way and the Greater Austin Reading Coalition want you to know.

Austin ISD School Board Trustee for District 1 Candace Hunter, left, and Austin Public Library Assistant Director Hannah Terrell read a proclamation declaring July 13 Greater Austin Reads Together Day at a ceremony following the screening of the documentary "The Right To Read" at the Austin Central Library, July 13, 2024.

What is 'The Right to Read' about?

Saturday's event included a free public screening of the documentary "The Right to Read." According to the film's website, "The Right to Read" shares the stories of an NAACP activist, a teacher and two American families who fight to provide the youngest with the most foundational indicator of lifelong success: the ability to read. The film seeks to raise awareness on the U.S. literacy crisis and to educate audiences on the science of reading.

Barriers to literacy in Central Texas, nationally

The Greater Austin Reading Coalition identified three major challenges to literacy, according to data shared by Michelle Hutson-Crawford, director of K-3 education for United Way for Greater Austin.

Just 35% of Black/African American students and 41% of Hispanic students in Central Texas met grade-level reading standards in third grade in 2023, according to the E3 Alliance, an education collaborative based in Austin. This starkly contrasts with 67% of white students and 77% of Asian students. One in 3 children lives in a low- or very low-opportunity neighborhood, according to the research site Diversity Data Kids. Low-opportunity neighborhoods are based on economic and demographic factors such as income level, educational opportunities and health environment. Children not reading at the grade level by the end of third grade are four times more likely to drop out of high school, according to the Anne E. Casey Foundation.

Michelle Hutson-Crawford, director of K-12 education at United Way for Greater Austin, takes a photo with Malakai, left, Wolfgang and Story Mathisen after a ceremony declaring July 13 Greater Austin Reads Together Day at the Austin Central Library, July 13, 2024. United Way convened the Greater Austin Reading Coalition, dedicated to ensuring Austin's children are reading at or above grade level by fourth grade. "While the work has not been easy... it's been extremely rewarding," said Hutson-Crawford.

Literacy can influence lifelong success

Candace Hunter, a trustee of the Austin school district board, cautioned that poor literacy greatly hinders one's chances for success, including access to jobs, adequate salaries, education and the ability to support a family.

"From zero to third grade, you are learning to read. From third grade to the time you graduate, you are reading to learn," Hunter told the American-Statesman. "If a student struggles with reading, they will struggle with learning."

Hunter invoked a quote from Frederick Douglass: "Once you learn to read, you will forever be free."

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: United Way for Greater Austin highlights literacy challenges for kids
Former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally. Read live updates below and watch Channel 9 Eyewitness News for continuing coverage:

9:45 p.m. Update

Trumps tells Washington Examiner he has rewritten his speech for the RNC

Former President Donald Trump told The Washington Examiner that he has rewritten the speech he was set to deliver at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Thursday after being the target of an attempted assassination at his rally Saturday.

The speech I was going to give on Thursday was going to be a humdinger, he told the news outlet in an article posted Sunday evening.

In the interview, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee says he will now call for a new effort at national unity, noting that people from different political views have called him.

This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together. The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago, he said.

Trump also reflected on the moment a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear. He said he was saved from death because he turned from the crowd to look at a screen showing off a chart he was referring to.

That reality is just setting in, he told the news outlet as he boarded his plane in Bedminster, New Jersey, for Milwaukee. I rarely look away from the crowd. Had I not done that in that moment, well, we would not be talking today, would we?

8:25 p.m. Update

In America we resolve our differences at the ballot box, Biden says

Biden says that during the Republican National Convention, he has no doubt Republicans will criticize my record and offer their own vision for this country. But he promised in campaigning to lay out our vision.

He used the address to urge all Americans not to accept an escalation in political violence as normal.

We debate and disagree, we compare and contrast ... but in America we resolve our differences at the ballot box, Biden said in his address.

He added: Politics must never be a literal battlefield. God forbid a killing field.

8:21 p.m. Update

Biden: Its time to cool it down

Biden spoke for about five minutes from the Oval Office and noted that the Republican National Convention was opening in Milwaukee on Monday, while he himself would be traveling the country to campaign for reelection.

He said passions would run high on both sides and that the stakes of the election were enormous.

But the president added, its time to cool it down and noted not just the weekend attack on Trump but also the possibility of election-year violence on multiple fronts.

8:13 p.m. Update

Biden decries political violence in address from Oval Office

President Joe Biden says we cant, we must not go down the road of political violence in American after Saturdays attempted Trump assassination.

In a prime-time national address, Biden said that political passions can run high but we must never descend into violence.

We can do this, Biden implored, saying the nation was founded on a democracy that gave reason and balance a chance to prevail over brute force. American democracy  where arguments are made in good faith. American democracy where the rule of law is respected. Where decency, dignity, fair play arent just quaint notions, theyre living, breathing realities.

7:57 p.m. Update

Minutes away: Biden expected to deliver rare Oval Office remarks

The president is planning to deliver extended remarks to the nation in an address from the Oval Office starting at 8 p.m. EDT.

His campaign said the president would touch on the need for every American to come together to end political violence in the U.S.

7:12 p.m. Update

Canadas Trudeau condemns attempted assassination of Trump

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with former President Trump on Sunday.

The Prime Minister condemned yesterdays appalling assassination attempt and reiterated theres no place for political violence. The Prime Minister wished the former President well and offered condolences to the shooting victims and to the family of Corey Comperatore, Trudeaus office said in a statement.

6:52 p.m. Update

JUST IN: Trump arrives in Milwaukee for Republican National Convention one day after attempted assassination

6:34 p.m. Update

Former fire chief who died at Trump rally used his body to shield family from gunfire

Corey Comperatores quick decision to use his body as a shield against the bullets flying toward his wife and daughter rang true to the close friends and neighbors, who loved and respected the proud 50-year-old Trump supporter.

Hes a literal hero, said Mike Morehouse, who lived next to Comperatore for the last eight years.

At least two other people were injured at the rally: David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, according to the Pennsylvania State Police. Both were listed in stable condition as of Sunday.

5:07 p.m. update

Secret Service says no changes to RNC security plan and it is confident in the security plans after Trump rally attack

4:33 p.m. update

The U.S. Secret Service is set to speak about the assassination attempt Saturday.

3:38 p.m. update

Biden and first lady extend deepest condolences to family of the man who was killed in the Trump rally shooting, AP said.

The president said Corey Comperatore was protecting him family from the bullets that were being fired and he lost his life.God love him, Biden said.

3:09 p.m. update

Trump says hell be traveling to Milwaukee for GOP convention on Sunday afternoon, AP said.

Former President Donald Trump says hell travel to Milwaukee on Sunday afternoon ahead of the Republican National Convention.

Trump said on his Truth Social platform that he was going to delay his trip after Saturdays apparent assassination attempt, but decided he cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else.





2:22 p.m. update

President Biden and Vice President received an updated briefing in the White House Situation Room from homeland security and law enforcement officials.

This morning, President Biden and Vice President Harris received an updated briefing in the White House Situation Room from homeland security and law enforcement officials. pic.twitter.com/TiEpc94DHM  The White House (@WhiteHouse) July 14, 2024

1:25 p.m. update

President Joe Biden will address the country around 1:30 p.m. ET Sunday following an updated briefing on the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, according to CNN.





12:42 p.m. update

Pennsylvania governor identifies fatal victim at Trump rally shooting as Corey Comperatore, the Associated Press said.

The man who was killed at a rally for former President Donald Trump was Corey Comperatore, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro.

Comperatore was a former fire chief from the area who loved his family, Shapiro said.

Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night, the governor said.





11:21 a.m. update

Law enforcement said bomb making materials were found in a vehicle and at the home of man suspected in Trump rally shooting, the Associated Press said.

There were also bomb-making materials found at his home.

The two officials were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity.





10:15 a.m. update

The FBI has confirmed the identity of the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The weapon used by Crooks, an AR-style rifle, was recovered at the scene.

Read: Trump assassination attempt: What we know about shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks

The U.S. Secret Service said agents fatally shot Crooks, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, the Associated Press said.

Click here to read more about the shooter.

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.





9 a.m. update

The Associated Press on Sunday obtained a Trump campaign memo in which the former presidents senior campaign advisers thanked the United States Secret Service and all first responders for their efforts.

The memo also advised staff to avoid campaign offices in Washington and West Palm Beach, Florida, as they assess those locations.

It said the armed security presence is being enhanced at those offices.

Read: Central Florida officials react to shooting at Trump rally

Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe, the memo said.

The memo also instructed staff to not publicly comment on the assassination attempt against Trump and said that dangerous rhetoric on social media will not be tolerated.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

People react during a campaign rally with Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is moved from the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

A woman buys a copy of the British Mail on Sunday newspaper at a newsagents in London, Sunday, July 14, 2024, showing the reaction to events at former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Donald Trump's campaign says he is

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

In response to the attempted assassination of Former President Donald Trump, retired U.S. Secret Service leaders from Metro Atlanta reviewed video footage to explain what viewers saw and what happens next.

Law enforcement officers gather at campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was

WATCH: Moment former President Trump whisked off stage following shooting at rally

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Law enforcement officers gather at the campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

People take cover as U.S. Secret Service agents surround Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Civiles se cubren al tiempo que agentes del Servicio Secreto de Estados Unidos rodean al expresidente Donald Trump durante un acto de campana, el sabado 13 de julio de 2024, en Butler, Pensilvania. (AP Foto/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump waves from the stage as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

U.S. Secret Service agents respond as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded on stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped into a vehicle at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

People hug after Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)





8:30 a.m. update

Former President Donald Trump posted on his social media network Sunday morning, thanking the public for their thoughts and prayers.

It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, he wrote. We will fear not but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.

Photos: Trump says he was shot in the ear during rally

Trump also said, Our love goes out to the other victims and their families, and he said that he is praying for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

Trump called for unity in the post saying, In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined and not allowing evil to win.

He said he looks forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin.

The 2024 Republican National Convention will be held Monday through Thursday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.





7:35 a.m. update

The FBI confirmed overnight the identity of the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Click here to read more about that.

Global leaders expressed concern Sunday over an assassination attempt targeting former U.S. President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania that left one attendee dead and critically injured two others.

Trumps campaign said the presumptive Republican nominee was doing fine after being whisked off the stage though the shooting pierced the upper part of his right ear.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue.

Read: TIMELINE: Trump says he was shot in the ear during rally

Brazils President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the incident unacceptable on X and said the attack must be strongly repudiated by all democracy defenders.

Canadas Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was sickened by the shooting and his thoughts were with Trump, those at the event and all Americans.

It cannot be overstated -- political violence is never acceptable, he wrote on X.

Read: Assassination attempt: Trump injured at campaign rally, gunman and bystander killed

Also on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was appalled to learn about the shooting, saying such violence has no justification. He added he was relieved to learn that Trump is safe.

Zelenskyy extended his wishes for strength to everyone who was horrified by the event.

Click here to read more reaction from leaders around the world, and click here to read reaction from local officials.
Authorities are still searching for a motive in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday.

The incident unfolded just after 6 p.m. ET as the former president was campaigning ahead of this weeks Republican National Convention, which started Monday in Milwaukee.

The Homeland Security Department and the FBI issued a bulletin on Monday night, according to ABC News, warning of possible "follow-up or retaliatory attacks" in the wake of the attack against Trump.

Authorities identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania. The shooting left rallygoer Corey Comperatore, 50, dead, and two other attendees wounded. The governor of Pennsylvania said Comperatore died while shielding his family from gunfire.

+ Read more

Pop, pop, pop, then a bloodied Trump rushed from election rally [Reuters]

Within minutes after Trump shooting, misinformation started flying. 'Everyone is just speculating' [The Associated Press]

Trump removed from stage by Secret Service after loud noises startles former president, crowd [USA Today]

Trump rushed off stage by Secret Service during Pennsylvania rally after apparent gun shots: Live updates [The Independent]

Trump rally erupts in gunfire, former president safe, officials say [Reuters]

Trump rushed off stage by Secret Service as possible shots heard at Pennsylvania rally; former president 'fine,' spokesperson says [ABC News]
A busy week in Colorados 4th Judicial District Court was headlined by the Return to Nature owners Jon and Carie Hallford opting to push back their arraignment hearing as they debate accepting a plea deal offered by prosecutors. However, progress was made in several other criminal cases in the area, including a man who shot two at a Colorado Springs bar receiving his sentence.

Santiago Dominguez and Ali Talib

Dominguez and Talib both appeared to court on Tuesday for a plea hearing where neither defendant ended up entering pleas, but instead requested continuances. The continuances, despite being requested for very different reasons from each defendant, were both granted by Judge Marcus Henson.

Read more about Dominguez and Talibs plea hearings.

Osemeke Uwadibie

Osemeke Uwadibie, the man accused of killing Charles Slabaugh, assaulting a police officer and stealing his vehicle in 2022, failed to appear to a review hearing on Wednesday morning. Judge Jessica Curtis said during the hearing that the reason why was that Uwadibie was sick.

Uwadibies case has been stalled for two years due to him being found incompetent to stand trial in the months after his arrest. Due to ongoing concerns regarding his mental health Uwadibie has yet to enter a plea on any of the 14 charges he currently faces in connection with Slabaugh's death. He is slated to return to court on Aug. 14 for another review hearing.

Uwadibie remains in custody at the El Paso County jail on a no bond hold.

Jon and Carie Hallford

The Return to Nature Funeral Home owners, only one of which appeared in court on Thursday, requested to have their arraignment hearing continued to September as the each defendant wants more time to think about the plea deal offered by the prosecution.

Read more about Jon and Carie Hallford's arraignment hearing.

Featured Local Savings

Richard McDaniel

According to court records McDaniel, who was arrested by the El Paso County Sheriff's Office in February on sexual assault charges, pleaded guilty to one count of felony sexual assault.

McDaniel will receive his sentence at a hearing on Oct. 3, according to court records. McDaniel is out of custody on a $10,000 surety bond, according to court records.

Tyrek Williams

The man accused of brutally killing another man at a Colorado Springs 7-Eleven in 2022 won't face trial until at least 2025 after attorneys informed the court on Thursday that their client's sanity evaluation won't be complete until Jan. 31, 2025.

Read more about Tyrek Williams review hearing.

Zain Aguilera-Valdez

Aguilera-Valdez was sentenced to 90 days in jail and eight years of probation at a highly contentious hearing on Thursday for shooting two in the parking lot of the New Havana Grill and Bar last year.

Read more about Aguilera-Valdez's sentencing hearing.

Nicholas Jordan

More of the history of alleged University of Colorado Colorado Springs shooter Nicholas Jordan came to light Friday in court. Jordan was present for the first part of his hearing to determine whether he is competent to stand trial. The second part of his evaluation hearing will be on Aug. 2.
Three faces of President Joe Biden speaking at Renaissance High School in Detroit on July 12, 2024. | Lucy Valeski

With former President Donald Trump being rushed off stage after shots were fired at his Pennsylvania rally, the only thing thats safe to say that nobody knows whats going to happen next in U.S. politics or the 2024 election.

The events on Saturday are tragic and police have reported that at least one attendee is dead, as is the alleged shooter. Its hard not to feel like were living through particularly unstable times.

For more than two weeks, the news has been dominated by more mundane matters, like growing calls from Democrats, donors and political observers for President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race after his shaky first debate performance last month. Theres been a steady trickle of stories about the presidents health declining and concerns whether the 81-year-old is up to the job, as well as some devastating internal polls for Dems in swing states.

Biden tried to allay those fears as he barnstormed through Northville and Detroit on Friday, joking about his age but also delivering a defiant message.

You made me the nominee, Biden declared at Renaissance High School in Detroit  where he notably held his last rally in March 2020 before winning Michigans critical Democratic primary. No one else. Not the press; not the pundits; not the insiders; not the donors. You the voters, you decided. No one else, and Im not going anywhere.

It's going to take more than lesser-known lawmakers taking a stand while bigger names fling passive-aggressive comments. It would seem to me that any real effort to get Biden to stand down would have to start with his former running mate, President Barack Obama, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), one of the few people Biden appears to consider an equal.

 Susan J. Demas

The crowd was definitely into it, waving Motown is Joetown signs and chanting, Four more years! and Dont give up!

Bidens energized performance seemed to calm the jangled nerves of some Democratic leaders and assorted critics, as did his Wednesday press conference after the NATO summit, where he continued to demonstrate his mastery of foreign affairs.

At the moment, it appears that momentum to give the president the old heave-ho from the ticket has stalled, but check back tomorrow, because it doesnt take much to get Democrats to hit the ol panic button.

But even as the dump Biden furor appeared to hit a fever pitch post-debate, Ive looked for three factors to assess if the president will be the nominee. And so far, Im not seeing the path to derail the Biden train.

First of all, Biden has made it clear that hes not leaving willingly, defiantly announcing in an ABC interview that only the Lord Almighty could make him quit.

Ive got to finish this job, he proclaimed days later at the NATO press conference. Because theres so much at stake.

If youre a Biden ally, youll probably view this as the president seeing a second term as a moral obligation to the country. Hes long cast himself as an underdog whos been counted out again and again and now hes determined to win his last fight.

If youre in the camp that believes hes stayed too late at the party, youre more likely inclined to view this as an exercise in egoism from a man more concerned about his place in history than the nation hes supposed to be fighting for. Biden has always been stubborn, but this time millions could pay the price if he falls to Trump.

Next, since Biden isnt planning to leave quietly, that means that Democrats have to have a clear plan in place to broom him from the ticket. So far, more than a dozen members of Congress (and actor George Clooney) have told Biden to withdraw, including vulnerable first-term U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids).

Dozens of other leaders have expressed their support for the president, but not-so-subtly left the door open to him dropping out.

While Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer posted on social media last week that Biden is in it to win it and Im damn proud to support him, she also said on CNN that I dont think that it would hurt if both Biden and Trump took cognitive tests. And yes, Whitmer knows how to shut down a question  nobody forced her to say that.

But its going to take more than lesser-known lawmakers taking a stand while bigger names fling passive-aggressive comments. It would seem to me that any real effort to get Biden to stand down would have to start with his former running mate, President Barack Obama, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), one of the few people Biden appears to consider an equal.

While there have been some reports of private discussions, neither Obama nor Pelosi have taken the dramatic step of making a public statement for Biden to step aside. Both are considered to be extremely measured, so it would seem that theyve yet to assess that such an effort would be successful.

Nobody knows how to count votes like Nancy Pelosi, after all.

Lastly, the anti-Biden forces have yet to unite over an alternative. Most lawmakers statements have just focused on Biden withdrawing without wading into what happens next. Theyve only proposed half a plan, which seems obscenely irresponsible, given the stakes.

The logical choice to replace Biden  and indeed, at this late hour, perhaps the only logistically viable one  is Vice President Kamala Harris. After all, shes been training for the job for the last four years and has emerged as the administrations clarion voice on Democrats best issue: reproductive rights.

Yet theres a palpable unease from pundits, who have long judged Harris as being too shallow and liberal to run the country. Theres a yearning to bypass to first female, Black American and Asian-American vice president for (white) governors with star power, like Whitmer, Californias Gavin Newsom or Illinois J.B. Pritzker.

Naturally, these analysts tend to forget that African-American women are the base of the Democratic Party.

But of course, it can get dumber.

Some analysts are hankering for an open convention that probably would result in boffo ratings, but its hard to see how the nonstop Dems in Disarray coverage of floor fights and screaming matches would help the party effectively unite around a new nominee and win in November.

Other pine for a blitz primary, which would certainly fuel the charges of rigged elections weve been hearing from extremists since 2016. In something that reads like a fantastical script rejected from the old series Scandal, the nation would turn its lonely eyes to Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Taylor Swift to moderate weekly forums with hopefuls in the runup to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month.

Yes, Im sure that wouldnt all veer wildly off the rails (and T. Swift would definitely take a break from the European leg of her stunningly successful Eras Tour to join that circus).

So as of now, Democrats find themselves in the uneasy position with a weakened nominee whos dug in, a handful of elected officials calling for him to go while party leaders assess their options, and an endless stream of backbiting, palace intrigue stories dominating the news (at least before the Trump rally shooting on Saturday).

In politics, inertia usually wins out. That could well be enough to save Bidens nomination  but it remains to be seen if he can demonstrate the forcefulness and fortitude to lead Democrats to another victory in November.

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The post How youll know Dems are serious about dumping Biden appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Three faces of President Joe Biden speaking at Renaissance High School in Detroit on July 12, 2024. (Lucy Valeski)

With former President Donald Trump being rushed off stage after shots were fired at his Pennsylvania rally, the only thing thats safe to say that nobody knows whats going to happen next in U.S. politics or the 2024 election.

The events on Saturday are tragic and police have reported that at least one attendee is dead, as is the alleged shooter. Its hard not to feel like were living through particularly unstable times.

For more than two weeks, the news has been dominated by more mundane matters, like growing calls from Democrats, donors and political observers for President Joe Biden to drop out of the presidential race after his shaky first debate performance last month. Theres been a steady trickle of stories about the presidents health declining and concerns whether the 81-year-old is up to the job, as well as some devastating internal polls for Dems in swing states.

Biden tried to allay those fears as he barnstormed through Northville and Detroit on Friday, joking about his age but also delivering a defiant message.

You made me the nominee, Biden declared at Renaissance High School in Detroit  where he notably held his last rally in March 2020 before winning Michigans critical Democratic primary. No one else. Not the press; not the pundits; not the insiders; not the donors. You the voters, you decided. No one else, and Im not going anywhere.

It's going to take more than lesser-known lawmakers taking a stand while bigger names fling passive-aggressive comments. It would seem to me that any real effort to get Biden to stand down would have to start with his former running mate, President Barack Obama, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), one of the few people Biden appears to consider an equal.

The crowd was definitely into it, waving Motown is Joetown signs and chanting, Four more years! and Dont give up!

Bidens energized performance seemed to calm the jangled nerves of some Democratic leaders and assorted critics, as did his Wednesday press conference after the NATO summit, where he continued to demonstrate his mastery of foreign affairs.

At the moment, it appears that momentum to give the president the old heave-ho from the ticket has stalled, but check back tomorrow, because it doesnt take much to get Democrats to hit the ol panic button.

But even as the dump Biden furor appeared to hit a fever pitch post-debate, Ive looked for three factors to assess if the president will be the nominee. And so far, Im not seeing the path to derail the Biden train.

First of all, Biden has made it clear that hes not leaving willingly, defiantly announcing in an ABC interview that only the Lord Almighty could make him quit.

Ive got to finish this job, he proclaimed days later at the NATO press conference. Because theres so much at stake.

If youre a Biden ally, youll probably view this as the president seeing a second term as a moral obligation to the country. Hes long cast himself as an underdog whos been counted out again and again and now hes determined to win his last fight.

If youre in the camp that believes hes stayed too late at the party, youre more likely inclined to view this as an exercise in egoism from a man more concerned about his place in history than the nation hes supposed to be fighting for. Biden has always been stubborn, but this time millions could pay the price if he falls to Trump.

Next, since Biden isnt planning to leave quietly, that means that Democrats have to have a clear plan in place to broom him from the ticket. So far, more than a dozen members of Congress (and actor George Clooney) have told Biden to withdraw, including vulnerable first-term U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten (D-Grand Rapids).

Dozens of other leaders have expressed their support for the president, but not-so-subtly left the door open to him dropping out.

While Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer posted on social media last week that Biden is in it to win it and Im damn proud to support him, she also said on CNN that I dont think that it would hurt if both Biden and Trump took cognitive tests. And yes, Whitmer knows how to shut down a question  nobody forced her to say that.

But its going to take more than lesser-known lawmakers taking a stand while bigger names fling passive-aggressive comments. It would seem to me that any real effort to get Biden to stand down would have to start with his former running mate, President Barack Obama, and former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.), one of the few people Biden appears to consider an equal.

While there have been some reports of private discussions, neither Obama nor Pelosi have taken the dramatic step of making a public statement for Biden to step aside. Both are considered to be extremely measured, so it would seem that theyve yet to assess that such an effort would be successful.

Nobody knows how to count votes like Nancy Pelosi, after all.

Lastly, the anti-Biden forces have yet to unite over an alternative. Most lawmakers statements have just focused on Biden withdrawing without wading into what happens next. Theyve only proposed half a plan, which seems obscenely irresponsible, given the stakes.

The logical choice to replace Biden  and indeed, at this late hour, perhaps the only logistically viable one  is Vice President Kamala Harris. After all, shes been training for the job for the last four years and has emerged as the administrations clarion voice on Democrats best issue: reproductive rights.

Yet theres a palpable unease from pundits, who have long judged Harris as being too shallow and liberal to run the country. Theres a yearning to bypass to first female, Black American and Asian-American vice president for (white) governors with star power, like Whitmer, Californias Gavin Newsom or Illinois J.B. Pritzker.

Naturally, these analysts tend to forget that African-American women are the base of the Democratic Party.

But of course, it can get dumber.

Some analysts are hankering for an open convention that probably would result in boffo ratings, but its hard to see how the nonstop Dems in Disarray coverage of floor fights and screaming matches would help the party effectively unite around a new nominee and win in November.

Other pine for a blitz primary, which would certainly fuel the charges of rigged elections weve been hearing from extremists since 2016. In something that reads like a fantastical script rejected from the old series Scandal, the nation would turn its lonely eyes to Michelle Obama, Oprah Winfrey and Taylor Swift to moderate weekly forums with hopefuls in the runup to the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month.

Yes, Im sure that wouldnt all veer wildly off the rails (and T. Swift would definitely take a break from the European leg of her stunningly successful Eras Tour to join that circus).

So as of now, Democrats find themselves in the uneasy position with a weakened nominee whos dug in, a handful of elected officials calling for him to go while party leaders assess their options, and an endless stream of backbiting, palace intrigue stories dominating the news (at least before the Trump rally shooting on Saturday).

In politics, inertia usually wins out. That could well be enough to save Bidens nomination  but it remains to be seen if he can demonstrate the forcefulness and fortitude to lead Democrats to another victory in November.

Michigan Advance is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Michigan Advance maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Susan J. Demas for questions: info@michiganadvance.com. Follow Michigan Advance on Facebook and X.

The post How youll know Dems are serious about dumping Biden appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  As the Cow Valley Fire in Malheur County continues to burn through tens of thousands of acres as of Saturday afternoon, one local volunteer organization is working to aid emergency responders and affected community members in the area.

Founded in 2005, the Relief Angels is a nonprofit and crisis response network which provides aid to emergency crews, as well as relief efforts for people, pets and livestock affected by natural disasters, including wildfires.

Executive Director Valerie Odai told KOIN 6 News that their volunteers have been on the ground delivering care packages to crews fighting the Cow Valley Fire, with supplies including bottled water, snacks, Gatorade, moleskin, socks and gloves.

Larch Creek Fire continues to grow, but crews make progress

We just try to support our first responders so that they can stay focused on their tasks and dont run out of the things that they need to be able to do so efficiently, she said.

Although the Relief Angels originally started in relief aid to first responders, Odai said they added to their mission when they found a gap that needed to be filled.

As we got more involved with everything, we discovered that there was also a massive gap on the civilian side, where people being evacuated or actual survivors that were burned out, they werent receiving as much help as they needed or they would fall through the cracks because they wouldnt qualify for whatever the reason may be, she said. And so we kind of stepped in just to fill the gaps and as we started doing that, we discovered the gaps were significantly larger than what we thought they were gonna be.

While Odai acknowledged the organization will need to make a better risk needs assessment to find out where the gaps are in the case of the Cow Valley Fire, she emphasized how Relief Angels tries to focus on individual needs that arent being met by the major organizations.

I-84 cleanup to highlight How beautiful Portland really is

For instance, she said the Red Cross will set up a shelter for immediate relief for people, but not necessarily focus on animals or livestock, which are oftentimes the ones that need the most help in a rural community.

Theres people that have 30 goats that have never been trailered in their life. Corralling goats is not an easy thing, Odai added. It is when you have the right equipment. It is when you have the right dogs that have the right training. If you have the right resources, its a fast, easy process. But if you dont, which most people dont, its not as simple. So its those kind of elements that we go in for and we have people that have been doing this their entire lives.

Odai also noted that, when the Cow Valley Fire first sparked Thursday afternoon, she was afraid the community and emergency response would be limited and poorly-planned, as with others shed seen in recent years, such as Canyon Creek in 2015 and various others in 2020.

I was utterly petrified, she said. I was watching a repeat of that exact setup because all of those fires had this similar scenario of perfect conditions for a fire to explode.

But when the response shifted within the first 24 hours, with Governor Tina Kotek establishing the emergency conflagration declaration on Friday, Odai called this a game changer, which saved dozens of homes and other small towns, including Vale.

If you look at it right now, the heat signature as we speak is headed straight for Vale, she added. If they didnt already have those teams there and already have the aerial resources that they need, Vale would have been gone by today. Almost guaranteed.

Should any people be permanently impacted due to their homes burning in the fire, the next step would likely involve the Relief Angels setting up donation drop-off points in neighboring towns, loading up and transporting all the goods themselves to get them directly into the hands of the community.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Local deputies sent to the RNC for reinforcements

The Orange County Sheriffs Office sent 50 OCSOs Emergency Response Team members to the Republican National Convention.

Fifty deputies have arrived in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to ensure safety and security at the RNC this week.

Were committed to supporting other agencies in times of need, the sheriffs office said.

Read: LIVE UPDATES: UNITE AMERICA! Trump heads to the Republican National Convention this afternoon

OCSO said the deputies have specialized training in crowd management and large-scale event operations.

The sheriffs office said the team is prepared to uphold the highest safety standards.

Fifty dedicated members of OCSOs Emergency Response Team (ERT) have arrived in Milwaukee, Wisconsin to ensure safety and security at the Republican National Convention this week. With specialized training in crowd management and large-scale event operations, they're prepared to pic.twitter.com/ftTKrf1mfj  Orange County Sheriff's Office (@OrangeCoSheriff) July 14, 2024

Click here to download our free news, weather and smart TV apps. And click here to stream Channel 9 Eyewitness News live.
Local lawmakers reacted to former President Trump being rushed off stage after shots rang out at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

At least one rally attendee was killed and another one was injured, according to the Butler County district attorney. The suspected shooter was also killed, he said.

Click here for live updates on that developing story.

U.S. Senate Majority Whip Dick Durbin (D-IL):

Political violence is never acceptable. Im keeping the former president, the bystander who was tragically killed, and all who were injured or whose safety was threatened in my thoughts. Sending my deepest thanks to law enforcement for helping keep those in attendance safe.

Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand:

Please join our family and all Iowans in praying for former president Donald Trump and anyone else impacted by this senseless act of violence. Political violence of any kind is unacceptable, and has no place in a democracy. Thankful for the quick action by secret service and law enforcement, who put their lives on the line each and every day in service of our country.

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Credit for photo used in Reynolds and Bird posts: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

This is a developing story. Stay tuned to Local 4, Fox 18 and OurQuadCities.com for updates. Got a news tip? Forward it to Our Quad Cities News on Twitter or Facebook or download our app on your iPhone or Android phone.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WHBF - OurQuadCities.com.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Saturday is entering the 11th hour before President Joe Bidens planned visit on Monday in Austin. As of Saturday evening, the president is still expected to be here. However, after a shooting Saturday afternoon at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, increased security measures could be in place.

The Secret Service has had multiple meetings with local police departments, including University of Texas police and the Austin Police Department, about the presidential visit. However, those meetings are behind closed doors and never made public.

While we dont know specifics, we do know its protocol for Secret Service to ask local police about any threats theyre aware of, to things as simple as planned protests. Secret Service generally also shares its knowledge with officers ahead of events.

UTPD and APD declined to comment on meetings when asked by KXAN.

Political consultant Luke Macias told KXAN there is no room for these types of actions, like what happened Saturday in Pennsylvania.

Its a very sad day for the United States of America, Macias said. It reminds us all while its very important that we not use the type of rhetoric that would encourage anyone towards violence. Thats not the way our country has governed, and its not the way we have hashed out our political differences.

The day before a huge visit, either by a sitting president or candidate, security plans are generally finalized. That means Sunday could determine whether or not Biden will still visit Austin. At the time this article was published, no plans have changed.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY)  Former President Donald Trump with blood on his face is the scary image coming out of Pennsylvania.

Saturday night, the entire country reacted to the news of gunshots going off while Trump was speaking at a rally.

Authorities said the situation is being investigated as an assassination attempt on Trumps life. A rally attendee was killed and the shooter is dead. Thats in addition to two other spectators who were critically injured.

Old Dominion University Associate Political Science Professor Benjamin Melusky spoke with 10 On Your Side about the scary situation.

Im just horrified, Melusky said. I mean, any element of political violence is uncalled for, irrespective of, you know, who you are, your party, what you might have said, whatever it is uncalled for especially in a civil, democratic society.

He went on to say that this moment speaks volumes about our countrys political atmosphere.

Its a sad, sad reality of the political situation were in, Melusky said. I mean weve really been pushing the boundaries of political polarization and very fiery rhetoric.

Trump was rushed off of the stage with blood on the side of his face, first stopping to raise his fist in the air as if to say, Im alright.

The picture has garnered a lot of attention across all social media platforms.

But does Melusky think this moment can work in Trumps favor for the upcoming election?

The reality is they [assassination attempts on former or current U.S. Presidents] are such a rare occurrence in the United States that its tough to say, would anything like this move the needle one way or the other, Melusky said.

Thankfully, Trumps campaign team released a statement saying hes fine and is being checked out at a medical facility.

Melusky also commented on what he thought would be the smartest move for President Joe Biden to make not only as Trumps political opponent, but also as the head of the country.

As the head of his party right now, it is to show an image of strength, show an image of understanding, Melusky said.

Biden released a statement saying in part, Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

House Speaker Don Scott sent 10 On Your Side a statement reading, There is no place for violence in politics. Were praying for President Trump and his family is in our thoughts and prayers.

Melusky said this scary situation is something we as citizens must learn from in order to do better for our country.

I think its teaching us that weve really pushed the boundaries of political polarization, he said. We really do have to take a step back.

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After the attempted assassination of former President Trump, X, formerly known as Twitter, lit up with reactions from political leaders across the state. Here is what they are saying:

Violence has no place in politics, ever. I hope whoever perpetrated todays attack is held to account. Our thoughts are with all who attended the former presidents event, and I join the many others who are expressing gratitude for the Secret Service and first responders.  Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) July 13, 2024

Violence is never acceptable, I dont care what your political beliefs are. We use our voices and our votes in a democracyviolence has no place in America. https://t.co/IrvcowXysT  Senator Patty Murray (@PattyMurray) July 13, 2024

There is no place for political violence in America. None.Im glad former President Trump is safe. My prayers are with everyone at the rally, and their families, who have been impacted by this violence. (1/2)  Sen. Maria Cantwell (@SenatorCantwell) July 14, 2024

I am thankful for the quick response from law enforcement & first responders in Butler, PA today & hope for the quick recovery of former President Trump & others injured.



Political violence - & violence in all its forms - has no place in our communities.  Rep. Suzan DelBene (@RepDelBene) July 13, 2024

I am concerned to hear reports of violence at former President Trump's rally today. I hope he is okay. I am thinking of... Posted by Rick Larsen on Saturday, July 13, 2024

I am praying for the safety and health of former President Trump and everyone else in Butler, and I hope the perpetrator... Posted by Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez on Saturday, July 13, 2024

Todays assassination attempt on Donald Trump is appalling and has no place in American politics. I am grateful... Posted by Dan Newhouse for Congress on Saturday, July 13, 2024

Political violence has absolutely no place in the United States of America. My prayers are with President Trump, his family, and everyone at todays event.  CathyMcMorrisRodgers (@cathymcmorris) July 13, 2024

The United States is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is completely unacceptable and I am horrified by the events in Pennsylvania today.



Praying for all those who are injured and their families.  Rep. Pramila Jayapal (@RepJayapal) July 14, 2024

Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Derek Kilmer (@RepDerekKilmer) July 13, 2024

I am horrified by the news coming out of Pennsylvania today. There is no place in this country or anywhere else for political violence. I am praying for the victims and their families, and I am deeply grateful for the swift action of the Secret Service and local law enforcement.  Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (@RepKimSchrier) July 14, 2024

Political violence is inexcusable. It must always be condemned in the strongest possible terms whenever it happens or is threatened.



My thoughts are with the former President, his family, and his staff.  Rep. Adam Smith (@RepAdamSmith) July 13, 2024

Political violence is never acceptable. A disturbing incident like this has no place in our democracy - no matter what your political beliefs are. https://t.co/idA3lvHx9f  Congresswoman Marilyn Strickland (@RepStricklandWA) July 14, 2024

Statements from candidates running for Governor:

I condemn this act of violence against former President Donald Trump in the strongest possible terms. As a nation we must come together.  Bob Ferguson (@BobFergusonAG) July 13, 2024

There is strength in unity and faith, and we, the citizens of Washington State, will demonstrate to the nation our strength when we make history this August 6th and November 5th. pic.twitter.com/DCr6xzt3AR  Semi Bird For Governor Of Washington (@bird4governor) July 14, 2024

Praying for President Trump, all in attendance, and for our country.  Dave Reichert For Governor (@reichert4gov) July 13, 2024

This is a developing story and will be updated.
Local, state leaders react after shooting at Trump rally in Pennsylvania

AUSTIN (KXAN)  Reactions from local and Texas politicians poured in after a shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday.

The Secret Service said in a statement, The former president is safe and being evaluated. One rally spectator was killed, and two others were critically injured.

Biden grateful Trump safe after apparent shooting: No place for this kind of violence

The former president was showing a chart of border crossing numbers during his rally when bangs started ringing through the crowd, according to the AP.

Gov. Greg Abbott

Gov. Greg Abbott posted on social media shortly after the news broke.

They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable. Gov. Greg Abbott

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick followed suit and posted his reaction on social media.

Incidents erupts at President Trumps Rally. Trump rushed off stage by secret service. Please everyone pray for President Trump and pray for the country.

Attorney General Ken Paxton

Attorney General Ken Paxton also posted on social media.

The world is evil. Praise God that President Trump was able to walk away on his own. Praying for complete healing and that this person is captured immediately.

Sen. Ted Cruz

Sen. Ted Cruz posted his reaction to the news on social media.

This is horrific & wrong & evil. Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured. Heidi & I are lifting President Trump up in prayer right now. #PrayingforTrump

Sen. John Cornyn

Sen. John Cornyn posted his reaction on social media.

Sending prayers for President Trump for a swift recovery. Thank you to the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly to ensure his safety. Whoever is responsible must face swift justice. May we all pray for our country tonight.

Commissioner Sid Miller

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller said he was at the event with Trump on Saturday.

I am in Butler Penn. with President @realDonaldTrump. I am shocked, but thankful that he had survived todays assassination attempt. We pray for the President and any other potential victims of the evil that has unfolded before or eyes.

Rep. Lloyd Doggett

Rep. Lloyd Doggett also posted his reaction to the news on social media.

Violence begets violence, whether directed at Trump or inspired by him. I strongly condemn all acts of violence and hope that with quick law-enforcement action, all are safe at the Trump rally and he has suffered no lasting damage. In America, we must make our voices heard by ballots, not bullets.

Rep. Michael McCaul

Rep. Michael McCaul posted his reaction to social media.

Please join me in praying for President Trump, his @SecretService members, and everyone at todays rally.

Rep. Chip Roy

Congressman Chip Roy also posted his reaction on social media.

Am told @JoeBiden will address nation tonight. For the good of the nation, please pray he will find the right words of respect for President Trump, who was targeted for assassination.

Rep. Joaquin Castro

Rep. Joaquin Castro released the following statement on social media:

Political violence is unacceptable in any form. As we wait for more information, I commend the Secret Service agents who acted quickly to protect the former president and prevent further harm to the crowd.

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell

Williamson County Judge Bill Gravell posted the following on his social media, along with a photo of Trump being whisked off the stage.

I STAND with President Trump!

Austin City Councilmember Mackenzie Kelly

Austin City Councilmember Mackenzie Kelly posted the following on social media:

Even though our country faces political differences, such actions are absolutely unacceptable. I am fervently praying for the former Presidents health and demand that the perpetrator(s) face swift and severe justice.

Austin City Councilmember Vanessa Fuentes

Austin City Councilmember Vanessa Fuentes posted her reaction to the news on social media.

Political violence is never the answer. I wish the former President a swift recovery and pray we get to the bottom of this asap.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Amid the often-polarizing debates over crime at the state Capitol, the officers and experts who actually deal with criminal cases on a daily basis argued that to judge Colorado based on whether it is soft or hard entirely misses the point.

The goal, they said, is to strike just the right balance.

Veer too far to the left, and it becomes a problem.

Veer too far to the right, and it becomes a problem.

Whats also true, they added, is that policies coming out of the Capitol have real consequences for the accused, the victims and their families, as well as for law enforcement, district attorneys and judges.

Often, people describe the policy debate in binary terms: On one side, Republicans and law enforcement leaders push for or defend laws that levy more penalties for crime, while Democrats and their progressive allies focus on rehabilitation and harm-reduction strategies.

Given their dominance in the legislature, Democrats have succeeded in moving the needle toward harm reduction, a broad concept that fundamentally accepts drug use as a reality in society and insists that the proper response is to minimize its harmful effects rather than simply ignore or condemn them.

Among the best expressions of this philosophical viewpoint is Oregons decriminalization experiment, though lawmakers in that state have since pulled back after overdose deaths there skyrocketed.

Foremost in the minds of voters, crime is also not just a matter of public safety  its also a matter of reputation, officials note.

Perception can quickly become reality without action, Aurora Mayor Mike Coffman pointed out.

Policy pendulum

District attorneys from Douglas, Adams and Denver counties emphasized there is no one-size-fits-all approach to crime. The three district attorneys said framing the states success in combating crime using the soft-or-hard analogy is a cliche revived mostly during election years.

I dont accept the premise of hard versus soft, said Brian Mason, 17th Judicial District attorney, serving Adams and Broomfield counties. When the two choices are only tough or soft, it misses the fact that you can do both in the appropriate ways.

To do that, Mason said a district attorney must aggressively prosecute violent criminals who pose a risk to society while taking a softer approach to other offenders who need help getting back on track.

District attorneys Beth McCann, a Democrat, and John Kellner, a Republican, agree.

There are cases and people where we need to be aggressive because of community safety issues, said McCann, who has decided against running for reelection as Denvers top prosecutor. But there are other cases where past trauma, substance abuse or mental health issues require a better way to make sure the person doesnt come back.

McCann said restorative justice programs for those who need help are essential to the criminal justice system.

In an email, Christie Donner, executive director of the Colorado Criminal Justice Reform Coalition, also said soft and hard are nothing more than political words and are really meaningless from a public safety impact lens.

For us, the question that should guide public safety policies, practices and funding is what works, she added. Thats a very different conversation than what usually happens, especially during an election year.

Kellner, the Republican district attorney for the 18th Judicial District, covering most of Douglas and Arapahoe counties, said the pendulum on crime should never swing too far to one side or the other.

I definitely think the people who engage in the real soft-on-crime approach need to change, he said. When the pendulum swings too far, you have to work to get it back to the middle. You have to work to be right on crime. With major crimes, there is no doubt, you have to be aggressive.

Kellner said those setting policy at the state level sometimes need to understand the importance of being tough.

Consider the following, he said:

In the 18th Judicial District, which processes up to 25,000 to 30,000 cases annually, most offenders enter the system without a criminal history.

These are the cases where they dont need to go to jail but need some help, Kellner said. Its not being soft on crime here. This is treating people based on circumstances.

Contrast that with the penalty phases for murders, he said.

Noting a recent case in Aurora, in which an Arapahoe County jury found Joseph Castorena, 22, guilty of four counts of first-degree murder, Kellner said he would be sentenced to life, just as a defendant who kills a single individual would, even though he shot and killed four people.

Urging to bring back the death penalty, Kellner said a defendant who killed multiple innocent people should face stiffer penalties.

'Useful' innovations

Coffman, the Aurora mayor, said while he believes harsher penalties are needed for a variety of crimes, he agrees the system continues to evolve to help people who need it, noting that mental health issues have been a factor for law enforcement for years.

That has led to many departments developing community response teams that accompany officers to calls involving people suffering from mental health issues.

There are innovations on the left that have been useful, he said.

However, while Coffman said there have been strides made in addressing mental health, he believes the legislature is taking the state backward when it comes to crime by chasing what proponents have called a more holistic approach.

Broadly speaking, thats the idea that crime is less a matter of personal responsibility but more the result of societal forces.

I dont think we are in a good position relative to other states, Coffman said.

In Aurora, Coffman said city leaders grew tired in 2021 and 2022 of waiting for the legislature to address car theft. In 2022, the Aurora City Council passed a measure imposing mandatory jail time for people convicted of stealing cars.

Almost a year later, at the urging of the governor, lawmakers passed a law that made all car thefts a felony, decoupling the severity of the crime from the value of the car and tying it instead to behavior so that the penalty becomes more severe with repeat offenders.

Sen. Rachel Zenzinger, an outgoing senator from Arvada who championed the legislation, said that while she knew at the time that the bill was not the silver bullet that would fix everything, something had to be done to right the ship.

Some officials have now cited the law as having had a significant effect on curbing car thefts, especially in the Denver metro area, which accounted for almost 40% of all stolen vehicles.

In 2023, the statewide data showed 38,223 car thefts, a decrease from a record high of 47,052 the year before, the peak of a three-year trend.

Battle to ballot box

Some critics said the legislation is about two years too late.

Arguing that the legislature does not act promptly to address problems, a group is pushing a couple of measures on the election ballot in November to pump money into law enforcement and to require that convicted criminals actually serve a specific time of their sentence.

Kristi Burton Brown, executive vice president of Advance Colorado, said when lawmakers dont act, its time to let the people decide which direction they want the state to go.

Advance Colorado, which claims that Colorado has turned into a testing ground for some of the most liberal policies and plans in the nation, is pushing Initiative 112 and Initiative 157.

Initiative 157 seeks to compel the state to fund public safety by allotting more than $350 million annually for law enforcement recruiting, training and death benefits. Brown insisted this is not a tax increase.

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Initiative 112 aims to keep violent criminals in prison longer.

Brown argued that parole boards are getting out of hand by effectively giving criminals who have been convicted of violent crimes, such as murder and rape, shorter sentencing. Brown noted that criminals are serving as little as 40% of a sentence and being paroled.

Under the initiative, violent criminals would be required to serve 85% of a sentence before being eligible for parole.

Brown said Advance Colorado has tried working with lawmakers to pass a measure during the legislative session, but the effort repeatedly has failed in committee.

Organizers have until Aug. 5 to gather enough signatures to qualify for the November ballot.

Colorado is not the only state in which voters are deciding.

After years of increased crime rates and frustration with their city councils inaction, San Francisco voters approved a handful of measures in the March election to set minimum police staffing levels, allow officers to chase suspects, and set up public safety cameras with facial-recognition technology.

Fighting fentanyl

State Sen. Bryon Pelton, R-Sterling, said Colorado lawmakers have become too soft and too afraid to crack down on the growing crime rates, noting that Colorado was leading most national lists for the highest car theft rates before the legislature passed the 2023 law.

Bottom line: We are not very hard on crime here, Pelton said. We dont have enough Democrats on our side to do anything.

Like car thefts, Pelton said he worries that the drug issues are going to get even worse.

Following the 2024 session, Pelton said he attended a town hall in Fort Morgan where citizens complained mostly about drug crimes. When data shows that violent crimes increase with drug use, Pelton said Colorado is putting itself in a terrible place.

Last year, the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administrations Rocky Mountain Field Division seized 2.61 million fentanyl pills in the state, setting a new record.

Nearly 1.8 million fentanyl pills have been seized by the division in 2024 so far. With four months left in the federal fiscal year, the department expects to surpass last years record.

According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, while the national average in drug overdose deaths dropped between December 2022 and December 2023, in Colorado it spiked by 3.9%.

Part of the problem, according to some, are laws passed in 2019 and 2022, in which lawmakers voted to make it a misdemeanor for those caught with fentanyl. Republicans claim their bill this year, which died in committee, would fix that problem.

In 2022, lawmakers effectively rolled back a 2019 bill that lowered the penalty for possession of less than 4 grams of Schedule II drugs, which includes fentanyl. Responding to the public outcry over drug overdoses and at the urging of Gov. Jared Polis, lawmakers passed a law that heightened the felony charges for possession of 1 to 4 grams of any substance containing fentanyl.

The criminal penalty increased above 4 grams, but under 1 gram, possession is a misdemeanor.

The legislation made nobody happy. Advocates from both sides of the debate criticized it as either too harsh or too lenient. Republicans, some district attorneys and local officials argued that no dose of fentanyl is safe and that the state should have adopted a zero-tolerance policy toward the drug, while harm-reduction advocates said the law went too far in punishing drug possession.

Rep. Mike Lynch, who introduced House Bill 1306, characterized his proposal as a follow-up to laws passed during the 2019 and 2022 sessions, which, he said, are leading to situations where too many people caught with fentanyl only face misdemeanors when they declare, as a defense, that they did not know the drugs they carried contained fentanyl.

Democrats, meanwhile, worry about increasing the possibility of sending people who need help with drug abuse to jail.

Kellner, who has opted not to run for reelection this year, said he believes possession of any amount of fentanyl should be a felony.

I know some oppose it because they say it is over-criminalizing, he said. But a felony might just incentivize someone to get treatment.

Oregon experiment

Pelton said he fears that Colorado is headed to the same situation in which has Oregon found itself.

In 2020, Oregon enacted a pioneering law decriminalizing drug use. Approved by voters, the measure directed hundreds of millions of dollars toward addiction services and gave those found possessing hard drugs a $100 citation or a health assessment. The law became effective in 2021, under which drug offenses may only be punished by a fine  no jail, supervision or any other criminal penalty.

Behind the measure is the belief that a health-based approach to addiction and overdose is more effective, humane and cost-effective than criminal punishments.

State data later showed that few opted for health assessments and paid the fine. More consequently, overdose deaths increased in Oregon, from 472 in 2020 to 738 in 2021, the year the decriminalization law took effect.

By 2022, the state saw 956 overdose deaths. Last year, Oregon recorded 628 deaths by June, which means 1,250 people were on track to die from overdoses, assuming the trend holds.

Oregons lawmakers  some of whom recounted having family members who have died of overdoses, have since decided to recriminalize drugs. Gov. Tina Kotek signed the legislation to once again make possession of small amounts of drugs a crime.

Oregon has learned a difficult lesson and paid a high price for entirely decriminalizing drug abuse, said Mason, the district attorney. Drug use is an absolutely enormous problem. We have to have prevention and health care options that include law enforcement and the justice system.

Coffman said the streets of Aurora, like most Colorado cities, are struggling with drug use, especially among the homeless population. Every new drug is more lethal and cheaper than the last, he said.

At one time, it was meth and crack, Coffman said.

Today, its fentanyl.

Perception is reality

Making national lists for high crime rates, drug use or any other negative publicity is a problem for any state.

Its also ultimately a problem for that states economy, some said.

D.J. Summers, director of policy and research at the Common Sense Institute, said perception is hard to overcome.

The public has a huge response to perception, he said. Areas perceived to have high crime rates get less foot traffic, which leads to reports of downtown businesses closing up shop.

Coffman agreed with Summers, saying thats why Aurora has taken action.

The City Council, addressing the city's high retail-theft rates, mandated that individuals face jail time for being caught with $100 in stolen goods.

Recently, U.S. News & World Report ranked Colorado the third-most-dangerous state in the U.S. in 2024. The report said the rankings were determined by factoring violent crime and property crime rates in each state using FBI data from 2022.

McCann disputed that narrative, stating that crime in Denver has decreased in almost every sector in 2024 and noting that violent crime and car thefts are down by double digits.

Summers said national rankings painting a negative picture means a business looking to relocate or open a new location may be skeptical of Colorado. That also means families moving may reconsider the Denver metro area, in particular.

The issue is not necessarily about the message being sent to the criminals, but the message being sent to the law-abiding citizens, Summer said. Public perception in Denver and Colorado has an issue with crime and safety. Businesses can see that as a problem.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  A fire in Gilliam County Oregon has burned 5,000 acres since it sparked Saturday afternoon. As a result, Level 2 Be Set evacuation notices were issued for the area as of Sunday morning, the Oregon State Fire Marshal announced.

Officials say the the fire was first reported just before 4:30 p.m. and burned about 4,200 acres by the evening.

Local crisis response nonprofit provides aid amid Cow Valley Fire

Given this, the Fire Marshal mobilized a task force from Linn County to assist the local fire agencies from Gilliam County, the Oregon Department of Forestry and the Prineville Bureau of Land Management.

Level 2 Be Set evacuations: The community of Lone Rock.

The Fire Marshal added any evacuation notices will be issued by the Gilliam County Sheriff s Office.

The cause of the fire is under investigation.

Stay with KOIN 6 News as this story develops.

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Los Angeles Failed Students With Disabilities During COVID. How to Help Them Now

When the pandemic hit, 10-year-old Luis, who has autism, quickly started to regress.

Luiss mother said the boy stopped socializing after his fourth grade class at his Los Angeles Unified school in Southeast L.A. shut down. She asked that the family not be identified in order to protect her son.

He began having behavioral issues. He fell way behind in his academics  all after not receiving his mandated services of behavior, speech, and occupational therapies or his one-on-one aid over Zoom.

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Now back in school, Luis needs two years of missed services to catch up, said his mother.

He needs these services again as soon as possible, said Luiss mother. I have no other options.

Hopefully, Luis will soon get the services he needs.

LAUSD agreed to provide these services to Luis and more than 66,000 district students with disabilities in a May resolution with the federal Office of Civil Rights after an investigation revealed students were not provided federally-mandated services during the pandemic.

The broadly-worded nine page agreement calls for the district to create a plan providing students the compensatory services, staff training and ongoing communication with parents on the plans status.

Concerned about how the districts Special Education Division will implement the services, disability rights lawyers, advocates and parents offered ideas on what LAUSD needs to provide to the students  including mental health services, more special education teachers, more staff training, better transportation to services and a bigger special education budget.

Im concerned [the resolution] is a way for the district to look compliant without fixing root issues, said Jill Rowland, Education Program Director at the Alliance for Childrens Rights, which advocates for the rights of foster care youth in schools in California.

We need transportation support to get kids to the providers at centers outside of their schools, she said. We need translation services to help students and families who dont speak fluent English. Theres also already such a shortage of staff, especially for students with disabilities.

The agreement also calls for L.A. Unified to provide compensatory services to students with disabilities, which means the district has acknowledged claims they denied a free and appropriate public education to some students during the pandemic.

L.A. special education lawyer Chris Eisenberg said the resolution is another tool for lawyers, advocates, and parents to use in holding LAUSD accountable to provide students services.

Im hoping that this admission from LAUSD will push them in a better direction, said Eisenberg With people breathing down their necks, now they will have to be held accountable to the students.

LAUSDs severe teacher shortage is particularly acute among special education teachers. The number of students with disabilities in California has been increasing since 2015 and the special education teacher shortage has gotten worse each year. As of 2021, students with disabilities make up 13% of the districts population.

Special education services are also one of the biggest costs for the district. In 2016, the cost to educate students with disabilities was over $8,000 more per student than that of a general education student.

The district has always been concerned with spending too much on special education, said Valerie Vanaman, a special education attorney who has been critical of the districts treatment of these students during the pandemic.

Advocates and parents say they want more funds allocated to special education services from the influx of money that the district received for pandemic relief.

Luis mom, who said shes been disappointed with the quality of the services provided to her son, wants aids, therapists, teachers, and tutors that understand her sons particular issues.

He deserves better services and a better life than what theyre offering, said the mom. Ive lost faith in them.

Lisa Barros Mosko, a parent who was director of Speak Up, an L.A. special education advocacy group when the nonprofit produced a survey showing many parents said their children werent getting services during the pandemic, said there had been an ongoing problem with services for years.

The pandemic really shed light on the inequities and lack of services for kids with disabilities in the district.

Advocates and parents also said they were concerned about which officials from L.A. Unified will supervise the districts work on the resolution. They are concerned that it will be the same leadership that denied their children services during the pandemic.

How can we trust the same people who neglected our childrens needs in the first place? Mosko said. I think we need completely new leadership in order to rebuild trust.

A Los Angeles Unified spokesperson said in a statement the district has agreed to critical components such as staff training and ongoing outreach to special education parents and advocates.

L.A. Unified remains dedicated to helping all students, including students with disabilities, recover from the pandemic and achieve their educational goals, the spokesperson said.
Debris sits outside of Chauvin homes after Hurricane Ida. (Photo by Rachel Mipro/Louisiana Illuminator)

Louisiana homeowners will no longer have the assurance of holding onto their longtime property insurance policies after a damaging storm. And they could start seeing increases in premiums and deductibles since the states insurance commissioner convinced lawmakers to deregulate Louisianas insurance industry.

In the past, most Louisianans who purchased homeowners insurance could not be denied coverage, face larger deductibles or be burdened with repeated rate increases if their policies had been in effect for more than three years  a law that was unique to the state.

Starting next year, insurers are allowed to cancel up to 5% of their three-year rule policies each year in Louisiana, a state that has been hit repeatedly by devastating hurricanes.

These changes  approved by the Legislature and signed by GOP Gov. Jeff Landry  come at a time when households in many parts of the country are grappling with escalating property insurance premiums attributed to increased damage from climate-fueled storms and wildfires.

Consumer advocates say lawmakers have allowed the insurance industry to use the threats posed by climate change to make it harder for policyholders to get their claims paid when they need them most. The law changes also insulate the powerful insurance lobby, which could be an influential voice in demanding change to limit greenhouse gas emissions that fuel climate change.

Critics say the changes will propel Louisiana further into crises like California and Florida are already experiencing in their insurance markets. Most lending institutions require property owners to carry insurance, and some critics predict foreclosures and even more homelessness in Louisiana when most of the changes take effect in 2025.

The states Insurance Commissioner Tim Temple pushed back on those arguments, calling his solutions the one narrow path that will bring more choices to residents and rate stability to the state.

Since taking office this year, Temple has urged Louisiana lawmakers to create a more business friendly market. His ultimate goal: To cut the number of people who use the state program that serves as an insurer of last resort.

I speak with consumers every day. Based on what Im hearing from them and based on my own experience, insurance becoming too expensive for homeowners isnt a potential future event  its the status quo and has been for quite some time, Temple said.

While he acknowledges that increased storms and natural disasters are partially to blame for the higher rates locally and nationally, Temple said severe weather doesnt fully explain why Louisianas market was doing so much worse than other states also dealing with increased weather threats.

What does explain the gap is Louisianas reputation for excessive litigation and overregulation, both of which weve begun to address since I took office in January, he said.

Insurance_rates

Insuring the insurers is costly

A recent study published by the National Bureau of Economic Research showed that, on average, annual insurance premiums have increased by 33% in the last three years  from $1,902 in 2020 to $2,530 in 2023. The sharpest increases were concentrated in ZIP codes with the highest disaster risk  many of them populated by larger nonwhite populations and lower-income individuals, the report states.

The report culled data from more than 47 million households mortgage escrow payments from 2014 to 2023. The authors say the top 5% of homeowners in areas with the highest risk of severe storms and wildfires could see their premiums increase as much as $700 by 2053 based on their conservative projections.

Study author Benjamin Keys, a professor of real estate and finance at the Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, agrees with Temple that the increased frequency and severity of weather-related damage isnt solely to blame for the insurance crisis.

Keys, who in 2023 testified in front of the U.S. Senate Budget Committee, cited other factors including the rising cost of labor and construction materials to rebuild homes and the spiking costs of reinsurance  or the insurance that insurance companies themselves need to cover the cost of riskier policies. Many of those reinsurers are in other countries where they are not subject to U.S. regulations, said Keys, adding that reinsurance rates have been doubling each year since 2017.

The insurance companies are scrambling. Theyre scrambling to figure out: Now the price of offloading that risk has gone way up. Do we continue to work with these reinsurers? Or do we find ways to bear this risk than ourselves? Or alternatively, do we just leave those markets? Keys said. Now were seeing it kind of directly affect households bottom lines with insurers passing this cost on through insurance premiums.

In his Senate testimony, Keys said rising climate-related risks coupled with escalating costs for reinsurance will continue. He said providers will continue to pass those costs onto policyholders  or exit local markets  leaving homeowners with fewer choices, less protection and more financial stress.

Insurance companies are seizing on this moment in time where people are panicking about insurance, of being able to afford it and being able to keep it to, to push for things theyve wanted for a long time: deregulation, said Amy Bach, executive director of United Policyholders, a national nonprofit consumer advocacy organization.

Bach said state leaders should adopt more mandates, not relax them, to avoid an insurance crisis like whats happening in California.

California rates shoot up

Last year, Jamie Lafollette, a 35-year-old from Santa Cruz, California received the upsetting news that State Farm was not renewing the policy she and her husband had on their home for the previous 10 years. They had never made a claim.

Aware their community had been deemed a high risk for wildfires, Lafollette said she and her neighbors spent thousands of dollars fortifying their homes with concrete siding, fire-resistant roofs and creating buffer zones around their properties. But none of that seemed to matter when it came time for her to buy a new insurance policy.

Lafollette had been paying about $2,000 a year to insure their home. When she sought a new estimate, she was confronted with annual insurance rates of more than $20,000 a year.

Lafollete said since that eye-popping quote, the cheapest rate shes seen so far was through the state-sponsored FAIR Plan at nearly $9,000 a year. Even that is too expensive, said Lafollette, who works for a nonprofit and whose husband is a disabled combat veteran.

Were panicking and were frustrated, because weve been working so hard to make our properties and our community fire safe, Lafollette said. The insurance companies dont look at individual properties. Theyre just looking at a category on a map. So it doesnt matter if youve clear-cut your property or youve done all the work to make your property safe.

Jamie Lafollette, 35, sips coffee on the porch of her home in Santa Cruz, California, a community that has been deemed a high risk for wildfires. Lafollette is facing property insurance she cant afford after her insurer for the past 10 years canceled her policy. Were panicking and were frustrated because weve been working so hard to make our properties and our community fire safe, she says. (Photo courtesy of Jamie Lafollette)

Californias insurance commissioner has proposed that insurers be allowed to charge rates based on predicted future catastrophes  but only if they write more policies in high-risk areas. Companies also would be allowed to pass along the cost of reinsurance to customers.

In return, insurers would be required to factor in wildfire mitigation efforts at the regional, community and individual levels  like those undertaken by Lafollette and her neighbors  when setting rates, which must be approved by the California Department of Insurance. The rule package is expected to be finalized later this year.

Companies flee Louisiana

In Louisiana, the home insurance market has struggled to rebound after at least a dozen insurers pulled out of the state following four major hurricanes in 2020 and 2021.

Janet Tobias, a 68-year-old New Orleans native, was among the thousands who lost coverage because her private insurer went belly up after Hurricane Ida in 2021. Fortunately, the retiree didnt have to scramble to find coverage for her home.

The states insurance commission, under the tenure of former Commissioner Jim Donelon, had another insurer lined up for Tobias. But Tobias annual premium went from $4,000 to $11,000 a year, she said.

This year they told us we can shop around, but when we shop around, they dont have anybody to shop around to because they dont have any more companies, Tobias said. So, its just a few companies, and all the prices are about the same.

Janet Tobias of New Orleans is among thousands who lost home insurance in recent years as repeated hurricanes have slammed into Louisiana, prompting some insurers to leave the state. Her home is once again insured, but her premium has nearly tripled. (Pam Radtke/Floodlight)

A survey published last year by LSUs Reilly Center for Media & Public Affairs reported that 17% of Louisiana homeowners insurance customers surveyed said their policies were canceled; 63% had premium increases between 2022 and 2023.

And under the new changes in Louisiana, insurers can enact rate increases whenever they want, unless Temple, the insurance commissioner, rejects them within a 30-day review period.

John Ford, deputy commissioner for Louisianas Department of Insurance, said Temple can still deny rate increases for any reasons allowed under the previous system within that 30-day window. Ford said the goal is to make insurance available, affordable and accountable by setting clear expectations and working with insurers to make sure policyholders are treated fairly.

He will not hesitate to take regulatory action when it is warranted, Ford said.

State-backed insurance targeted

Nearly 125,000 homeowners have been forced to take policies through Louisiana Citizens Property Insurance Corp., the states insurer of last resort, since there are so few options in the private sector. Its a huge increase since 2020, when the program had 34,373 policyholders.

But state-sponsored insurance doesnt mean cheaper rates. Citizens is mandated to write policies that are at least 10% above the highest rates within each parish. State lawmakers suspended that 10% surcharge for the next three years for the vast majority of the states population, which is south of Interstate 10 on or near the Gulf Coast.

Temple said it wont provide much relief given how unaffordable the state-backed policies already are. And Louisiana officials have been actively moving homeowners into private policies since 2008 to depopulate the state program.

We need to get people out of Citizens, and the only way to do that is to have a competitive market, Temple said. The changes we made this session on the three-year rule and the claims process are major parts of a larger reform effort that is putting us on a path toward that competitive market.

A Chauvin house lies in ruins after Hurricane Ida in August 2021. (Photo by Rachel Mipro/Louisiana Illuminator)

Local consumer advocates see a different future.

Ben Riggs, executive director of the nonprofit consumer advocacy organization Real Reform Louisiana, said the changes driven by Temple cant logically accomplish the goals he lays out.

If insurance company A drops a policy, Company B isnt going to come behind them and pick up that policy; that policy is going to move on to Citizens, he said. You cannot solve an unavailability problem by forcing more people to insure with the last resort, it makes no sense. But thats whats going to happen by repealing the three-year rule.

Riggs is predicting deregulation will mean widespread financial strain for a lot of low- and moderate-income households. Hes certain there will be homeowners forced to choose between feeding their children and insuring their homes.

Andreanecia Morris, executive director for HousingNOLA, said the changes could lead to more foreclosures or homeowners going without insurance because they cant afford it.

Were looking at construction projects grinding to a halt. Were looking at record homelessness and displacement, she said. Were looking at homes not being able to be bought or sold because people cant get insurance policies, while people are rushing to sell their houses.

Tobias, the New Orleans retiree, hopes she can pay off her home to avoid the mandate that she have insurance, which she fears will soon become unaffordable. As she is no longer working, the hope of paying off the 15 years left on her mortgage is hanging on a prayer.

Im just believing in God, Tobias said. I believe in miracles.

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Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Concern, condemnation and prayers were the reactions among elected officials from Louisiana after learning that former President Donald Trump had been wounded Saturday during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Secret Service agents surrounded Trump after several gunshots were heard, covering him on the floor and then escorting him off the stage. A Secret Service spokesperson posted on social media that the former president was safe. Photos show Trump bleeding from his right ear, where he had grasped immediately after the shots were fired.

The district attorney for Butler County told reporters the alleged shooter is dead, and a person attending the rally was killed.

Further details on this breaking story will be added here.

Louisiana officials used social media to share their reaction to events in Pennsylvania.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene. I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This  Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) July 13, 2024

For weeks Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America. Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop.  Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) July 13, 2024

Let's be clear: Today's attack on President Trump was a clear assassination attempt. Tonight we thank God he survived and for the law enforcement officers who sprang into action. Please join me in praying for the other victims and their families. pic.twitter.com/OevPPfkv22  Steve Scalise (@SteveScalise) July 14, 2024

Its a dark time in our nation. Now more than ever we need to pray for America and pray for President Trump. There is no one who stands up more for our country than @realDonaldTrump.  Governor Jeff Landry (@LAGovJeffLandry) July 13, 2024

Becky and I are praying for the family of the attendee who died this evening at Pres. Trumps rally as well as for the quick recovery of all others who are injured. Political violence has no place in America.  John Kennedy (@SenJohnKennedy) July 13, 2024

American Patriots are united behind President Trump.

The left will not stop MAGA Nation. pic.twitter.com/XpeYCbZiZ1  Rep. Clay Higgins (@RepClayHiggins) July 13, 2024

Violence has no place in political discourse, regardless of our vehement philosophical differences. We must stand united against such actions and uphold the principles of democracy and respect. #Unity #Democracy #guncontrol #sensiblecontrol  Congressman Troy A. Carter (@RepTroyCarter) July 13, 2024

My prayers are with President Trump, hes the leader this nation needs now more than ever. pic.twitter.com/Akcr2FsBwI  Congresswoman Julia Letlow (@RepJuliaLetlow) July 13, 2024

Please pray for President Trump. Republican or Democrat  this type of violence is always wrong.  Rep. Garret Graves (@RepGarretGraves) July 13, 2024

Im praying for President Trump and for our country.  Attorney General Liz Murrill (@AGLizMurrill) July 13, 2024

I am appalled and deeply saddened by the assassination attempt on former President Trump at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. This is an outright attack on our democracy and the peaceful ideals we cherish as a nation. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and all pic.twitter.com/rLLJiVqG1O  Blake Miguez (@BlakeMiguezLA) July 13, 2024

Lisa and I are in prayer for President Trump, who appears to be the victim of gunshots at his Pennsylvania rally. But I will restore you to health and heal your wounds

Jeremiah 30:17  Phillip DeVillier (@SpkrDeVillier) July 13, 2024

God bless President Trump and his family and our nation  we cant go any further in this direction pic.twitter.com/OQpzEq3Cky  Mark Wright (@WrightLouisiana) July 13, 2024

We are all praying for President Trump and his family. We are also in prayer for those injured and killed. This is an horrific senseless event. It is a sad day in our great country. Prayers for all who had to witness this evil.  Troy Romero (@TroyRom81162145) July 14, 2024

Legislative Leadership Issues Statement on Trump Shooting Read Here: https://t.co/jXrAT7i2lH#lalege pic.twitter.com/X9iU9X75Xc  Louisiana House of Representatives (@LouisianaHouse) July 14, 2024

Assassination Attempt Deniers > Election 2020 Deniers #ScreenCaptureTheseLoons #Trump  Mike Bayham (@MikeBayham) July 14, 2024

No American  regardless of party  wants a democracy ruled by violence over true American ideals. I am praying for former President Trump and victims of the incident at his campaign rally, as well as for a swift and resounding end to any violence this election cycle.  Cleo Fields (@realCleoFields) July 14, 2024

Civil discourse is a hallmark of our great democracy, however, there is absolutely no place for violence. I pray we all work toward restoring civility, decency, and respect to politics. There is far too much hate & division in our country. May God bless and heal our nation. https://t.co/FuO3ohvOUf  Jason Hughes (@RepJasonHughes) July 14, 2024

Political violence has no place in our democracy. More than ever we need unity, civility, and a recommitment to the values of democracy that we hold dear. My prayers are with former President Trump and the families of the deceased and those injured in this tragic incident.  Sharon Weston Broome (@MayorBroome) July 14, 2024

This is a shocking event. We are a democracy. Any acts of violence against elected leaders or candidates for public office should never be tolerated. My thoughts and prayers are with the former President and anyone else impacted today.  Helena Moreno (@HelenaMorenoLA) July 13, 2024

This is a developing story that will be updated.

The post Louisiana officials react to Trump rally shooting appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned."

Trump was safely whisked away after apparently being grazed by the assassin's bullet or debris.

Republican House Majority Leader Steve Scalise of Louisiana partially blamed Democrats for what he called inflammable rhetoric in recent weeks.

"For weeks Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America," Scalise said in a post on Twitter. "Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop."
After former President Donald Trump was shot in the ear Saturday evening in an apparent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally, political figures from across Texas and the South Plains quickly chimed in, offering their prayers to the presidential candidate and sharing their thoughts about the incident.

More: Texas political figures react to Trump shooting: 'They try to kill him. It will not work'

More: Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller describes scene at Trump rally when shots were fired

Here's what some Lubbock and South Plains leaders had to say.

U.S. Rep. Jodey Arrington

Disastrous day for our country. This is an attack on our entire Republic. Praying for President Trump, others in the line of fire, and our entire country. Thanks to our brave Secret Service agents, Arrington, R-Lubbock, said in a statement Saturday.

Arrington later posted on X (formerly Twitter): "President Trump has suffered unprecedented political persecution, an unrelenting assault on his character and, now, narrowly escaped an attempted assassination. This man has already sacrificed a great deal to serve our country, and I know that he remains resolute in his commitment to Make America Great Again! God bless you, President Trump! Praying for the country."

President Trump has suffered unprecedented political persecution, an unrelenting assault on his character and, now, narrowly escaped an attempted assassination.



This man has already sacrificed a great deal to serve our country, and I know that he remains resolute in his  Rep. Jodey Arrington (@RepArrington) July 14, 2024

U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson

Shortly following the shooting, Jackson, R-Amarillo, who was the physician to President Trump during his administration, posted a simple, all-caps request: "PLEASE PRAY FOR PRESIDENT TRUMP!"

In a separate post, Jackson  who represents the Panhandle and parts of the South Plains, Texoma and North Texas  blamed the political left and the media for the shooting.

He also said his nephew who was attending the rally was grazed by a bullet during the shooting.

"Thankfully his injury was not serious and he is doing well," Jackson wrote. "The President and the survivors are lucky to be alive."

More: U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson says nephew wounded in attempted Trump assassination

State Rep. Dustin Burrows

"Thank God the assassination attempt against President Trump was unsuccessful. I am praying for the families of the wounded," Burrows, R-Lubbock, said in a statement Saturday.

State Rep. Carl Tepper

Rep. Carl Tepper, R-Lubbock, gave a statement to local media Saturday.

"The hyperbole about Donald Trump has gone too far for too long. In reality, hes not a very controversial figure. Low taxes and low regulations and American values and culture. His core beliefs seem to offend some nowadays, but not most. We pray for his safety and were thankful for the agents and law enforcement that acted so quickly," Tepper wrote.

Councilwoman Jennifer Wilson

"Prayers for President Trump," Councilwoman Jennifer Wilson, who represents District 5 on the Lubbock City Council, wrote in a Facebook post. "This makes me angry as an American. I don't care which side of the aisle you are on violence is not the answer."

Prayers for President Trump. This makes me angry as an American. I don't care which side of the aisle you are on violence is not the answer. Posted by Dr. Jennifer Wilson, City Council District 5 on Saturday, July 13, 2024

This article originally appeared on Lubbock Avalanche-Journal: Lubbock, South Plains political leaders react to Trump shooting
Hes lucky the bullet hit his ear: Local residents react to assassination attempt on Trump

The City of Jacksonville is shocked after news broke out that former President Donald Trump was shot.

Read: The Latest: Trump whisked from stage following apparent assassination attempt

Jacksonville resident Melanie Hernandez said she did not expect to see a former president almost assassinated in 2024.

Hes lucky the bullet hit his ear. If it was just a couple of inches from his right or left ear that wouldve been his life, said Hernandez.

Residents told Action News Jax Shanila Kabir, despite being a Republican or Democrat, Trump does not deserve to be killed.

I dont think anybody deserves to get shot. They couldve figured out a better way to push him aside other than trying to assassinate him, I wouldnt wish that on nobody, Rick Robins, a Jacksonville resident, said.

Another resident, Vanessa Toves, agrees this type of violence should not happen in 2024. Although the gunman was shot and killed, she hopes a thorough investigation is conducted.

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Im not a Trump supporter, but hes our former president, so I think it is really important we find all the conditions connected to this, Toves said.

In a social media post, Trump said he was shot in the ear. This is currently being investigated as an assassination attempt.

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Is Lucy Letby Actually Innocent? Experts Cast Doubt on Evidence Used to Convict Nurse of Baby Murders

Several experts have expressed concern over the evidence used to convict the British neonatal nurse of murdering infants

EyePress News/Shutterstock Lucy Letby

Lucy Letby, a former British neonatal nurse, was convicted of murdering seven infants under her care. It was a case that captivated the public and attracted international media attention. Though her attempts to appeal the verdicts have been unsuccessful, several experts have since come forward expressing doubts over the evidence used to convict Letby.

Letby was found guilty of killing seven newborn infants and attempting to kill seven others over the course of two trials, PEOPLE previously reported. She was convicted on 15 of 22 possible counts. The retrial came after the initial jury failed to reach a verdict on one of the attempted murder charges.

Letby, 34, was working as a nurse at the Countess of Chester Hospital in Chester, England, at the time of the infant deaths, with the alleged crimes having spanned from 2015 to 2016. She has consistently denied any wrongdoing despite her convictions.

The former nurse was sentenced to life in prison and recently had her request for appeals rejected in court, the BBC reported.

But multiple investigative reports examining the evidence presented in Letbys months-long murder trial last year include claims that possibly cast doubt on the convictions.

Related: Lucy Letby Trial: What to Know About the Nurse Convicted of Murdering 7 Infants in U.K. Hospital

The first story was published by The New Yorker in May, while two subsequent articles published on July 9  one in The Guardian and the other in The Telegraph. All three quote experts that raise concerns about the evidence, noting that Letbys conviction stemmed from circumstantial evidence and expert testimony.

One of the key pieces of evidence prosecutors used against Letby was a chart showing that Letby was the only nurse present for the 25 suspicious cases prosecutors said were connected to Letby.

People get the wrong end of the stick with statistics, John OQuigley, a University College London professor of statistical science, told The Guardian. In my opinion there was nothing out of the ordinary statistically in the spike in deaths, and all the shift chart shows is that when Letby was on duty, Letby was on duty.

EyePress News/Shutterstock Lucy Letby

Both The Telegraph and The Guardian reported that there were other neonatal deaths during the time span, for which Letby was not charged. Those deaths were left off the chart, and Letby was not working at the time, the outlets reported.

David Wilson, a criminology professor emeritus at Birmingham City University, told The Telegraph he believes the data on the chart was cherry-picked.

During Letbys trial, prosecutors also pointed to handwritten notes found in her home, in which she wrote that she killed them on purpose and that she was evil. Medical experts also testified that the babies who were harmed either suffered an embolism resulting from being injected with air or were poisoned with insulin.

Related: Lucy Letby Loses Bid to Appeal Against Convictions for Murdering 7 Infants in British Hospital

The lead witness for the prosecution during Letbys first trial was Dr. Dewi Evans, a consultant pediatrician, according to The Guardian, who performed an analysis of the cases of the babies that Letby was accused of harming.

The outlets reported that Evans theory on air embolism was based in part on a 1989 paper that analyzed air embolisms in dozens of newborns, finding that the embolisms caused skin discoloration that was also observed in some of the babies in Evanss analysis of babies prosecutors said were connected to Letby.

But one of the doctors who co-authored the paper, Dr. Shoo Lee, who testified during Letbys appeal but not at her first trial, spoke to both The Guardian and The Telegraph, and pushed back on the prosecutions claim that the discoloration found in the babies indicated an air embolism.

Lee told The Guardian that in his opinion, the discolorations did not match discoloration caused by an air embolism.

The Guardian reported that Lees testimony was not admitted by the court of appeal, with judges ruling that Letbys attorneys could have called him during the trial and that the skin discoloration was not the only piece of evidence used by witnesses to indicate an embolism.

The New Yorker spoke to Michael Hall, a retired neonatologist, who, as a defense expert, was expecting to be called to testify during trial. Hall said he would have pointed out what he believes were flaws in the air embolism theory, and also what he says were undetected signs of illness in the babies. But he was never called to testify.

Press Association via AP Images Court artist's sketch of Lucy Letby

Letby was also convicted of trying to kill two babies by injecting them with synthetic insulin, a theory that was buoyed by blood tests showing drops in blood sugar for the two infants, both of whom survived.

The Telegraph reported that the blood sample was not tested in a forensic lab and that the sample was disposed of before the defense could re-test it, since foul play was not originally suspected.

Alan Wayne Jones, a forensic toxicologist at a Swedish university, told The New Yorker he believes the blood test used was not sufficient for prosecution.

Insulin is not an easy substance to analyze, and you would need to analyze this at a forensic laboratory, where the routines are much more stringent regarding chain of custody, using modern forensic technology, he told the magazine.

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The New Yorkers article also described hospital conditions at the time of the deaths, reporting that staff members were overworked and that sanitary conditions were poor, citing an inquest for the former claim and the testimony of a plumber for the latter one.

Letby's lawyer Benjamin Myers is declining to discuss the case with the media, his clerk tells PEOPLE.

Letby was arrested three times in connection with the deaths. Once in 2018 and then again in 2019, but she was released in both instances. Following a 2020 arrest, Letby was remanded in custody.

The key witness at Letby's second trial, prosecutors say, was a doctor who claimed he saw her standing next to an infant whose oxygen levels were dropping and doing nothing about it. The doctor intervened but the baby died three days later at a different hospital.

The Guardian reports that even though Letby has essentially exhausted the appeals process, the case could be investigated by the Criminal Cases Review Commission. The commission has the ability to refer the case back to an appeals court, the paper reports, if it finds new evidence that could have changed the verdict had the jury known about it.

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Read the original article on People.
Its only a comment. Its only a joke. Its only a milkshake. So the Left squawk each time someone drenches me with a drink, or a so-called comedian suggests people should throw battery acid at me on the BBC. Its just a joke. If youre a politician, its part of the job description, right?



Well, that is not true. The words deployed by the Left are, I believe, encouraging people. Rocks were thrown at me during the election campaign, and last night Donald Trump was shot. The favourite to be the next president mere millimetres away from death.



The be-kind brigade must now realise that their language has an impact. It has become commonplace among the media elite to view Trump as an authoritarian fascist  it is now so normal to hear that those of us on the Right, who care about our countries, are somehow authoritarian dictators. Take the last week  Biden has declared that Trump should be in a bullseye and that he is a dictator.



Its not just in the US. David Aaronovitch, the former Times columnist, once tweeted  then deleted  that if he were Biden hed have Trump murdered. He has since claimed that it was clearly satirical but deliberately misinterpreted. Yet the rot that it is somehow acceptable to demonise and marginalise elected figures, even in jest, in such inflammatory terms has become our normal  these arent words spoken by lonely men in their mothers basement but by people in serious jobs, working in national institutions.

We dont know the motives of the 20-year-old shooter. But we do know that as our political discourse becomes more febrile; and as the Left become more desperate to attack those of us who stand up for what we believe, the more violent it becomes. It shouldnt be normal to throw cement, rocks or drinks at me. And yet, for many on the Left, the language of violence has become their last resort. And were now seeing the consequences.



Which is why, next week, I will be travelling to Milwaukee to the Republican Convention. I do so to support my friend, Donald Trump, as we head into the later stages of an era-defining election. He is the favourite to win  and after todays heinous acts he will win  and I am determined to do all I can to ensure the UKs special relationship with the US is as strong as it can be.



But I do so for something bigger. To stand shoulder to shoulder with Trump and the US to stand up for democracy. To say, loud and clear, that we can disagree vehemently, that we can debate, that we can thrash out of views. But that resorting to violence is entirely unacceptable, regardless of your views.

Trump had a very, very narrow miss. It is a miracle. I implore all of those on the Left to think very carefully about how they seek to play politics. Next time, it could be very, very different.

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Im praying for him: Trump backers gather outside Mar-a-Lago to rally for ex-president after shooting

Im praying for him: Trump backers gather outside Mar-a-Lago to rally for ex-president after shooting

Supporters of Former President Donald J Trump held a vigil outside his Mar-a-Lago home hours after he survived an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

Were really shocked, just shocked, Debbie Macchia, a Boynton Beach resident told the Palm Beach Daily News, adding she wants to know who ordered the attack.

Theres no question it was a sniper, she told the outlet. This wasnt just someone that was just Looney Tunes.

A bullet from a rifle hit Trumps right ear moments after he took the stage. It was centimeters away from striking his head. When the bullet struck, Trump winced, touched his ear, saw blood and dropped to his knees before several Secret Service members threw themselves on top of him.

The 20-year-old shooter, Thomas Crooks, who managed to strike Trump with a rifle from a nearby roof, was quickly neutralized by security personnel. Shortly after Secret Service jumped onto the stage, one member could be heard saying shooters down, which was caught by the mic Trump had been speaking into.

Once given the all clear, Trump was escorted by the service members to a nearby SUV and shuttled away from the event.

Trump supporters gather outside Mar-a-Lago hours after the former president was shot at a rally in Pennsylvania (Getty Images)

Hours after the shooting, dozens of Trump supporters stopped by his Florida Mar-a-Lago compound in a show of solidarity with the former president. So many people packed the area that street parking became very limited.

Yeimmi Santa Cruz, a West Palm Beach resident, came to Mar-a-Lago to support the best president weve ever had, she told the Daily News. The woman hugged another Trump supporter who began to cry after watching footage of the president being shot.

Some people joined hands in prayer, asking for Trumps swift recovery. The former president sought medical attention at a local medical facility after he was wounded in the attack.

I just thought it was crazy. I dont- you dont want him to get assassinated. I just want a fair race and so I was like wow, thats tough. But hes OK, thats all that matters, Charlie, a West Palm Beach resident, told CBS 12.

Some people joined hands in prayer, asking for Trumps swift recovery and plenty of Trump 2024 was on display (Getty Images)

Other supporters brought US flags and flags with slogans of Trumps 2024 campaign.

Several individuals were dressed in red, white and blue clothing. A motorcycle group who stopped by Trumps residence had on vests reading Born to Ride for 45 Donald J Trump.

The same moment he got shot, the Secret Service jumped on top of him. He went up with the fist up saying fight, fight, fight, Joaquin Gutierrez, a West Palm Beach resident, told CBS 12.

Honestly, I wasnt surprised. Everything that they have done to him with the cases, the indictments, its all political. Its so political. So this, to be honest, I was expecting, Alex Gonzalez told the outlet.
Republican Rep. Nancy Mace (S.C.) on Sunday said this weeks Republican National Convention needs to present a unifying message following the assassination attempt against former President Trump at a rally Saturday.

When asked on NewsNations The Hill Sunday how the tone of the GOP convention will change given the shooting, Mace said, Well, I think it has to change.

Right now, many of us are angry. Were reeling from the shocking events last night, she said, adding later, We should have a unifying tone. I think thatll happen naturally, that well have a unifying message, not just for the Republican Party, but for a nation whos going to be hurting and need time to heal in the weeks and months to come.

Her remarks came less than a day after a shooter opened fire at a Trump rally in Butler, Pa., wounding the former president, who said a bullet pierced his ear. One spectator was killed, and two other attendees were critically injured, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks by the FBI, was killed by authorities at the scene. The FBI has yet to identify a motive for the shooting, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in Pittsburgh, said late Saturday.

What we saw last night was an attack, literallyan attack on democracy, blood everywhere, victims, a presidential nominee who was shot in the ear. It is disgusting, Mace said. We need to condemn it at all costs, but also show leadership.

Maces words echo that of Trump, who called on Americans to unite in a Sunday morning message.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

In the same post, the former president said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

The GOP convention is slated to kick off Monday in Milwaukee and Trump confirmed he is still planning to attend.

Republican National Committee Chair Michael Watley, in an interview Sunday with Fox News Sunday, predicted a change in mood for the convention, though the plans for the week remain largely unchanged.

I think unity is obviously very important. I think strength is obviously very important, but right now, this morning, I think politics is secondary, Whaltey said. I think right now we need to be praying for these families that have been affected, I think we need to be grateful that President Trump is alive and is actually going to be there.

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Some of Donald Trumps most loyal Congressional allies immediately blamed Joe Biden for Saturdays assassination bid against the former presidentwith one claiming: Biden sent the orders.

In a series of posts on social media, loyalists including Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN), Rep. Mike Collins of Georgia and Colorado Rep. Lauren Boebert sought to link the snipers attack to language used by Biden.

Blackburn posted on X, formerly Twitter, Just days ago, Biden said, Its time to put Trump in a bullseye. Today, there was an assassination attempt against President Trump. That was a reference to a report in Politico that Biden told a private call on Monday: I have one job, and thats to beat Donald Trump. Im absolutely certain Im the best person to be able to do that. So, were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

She was not alone. On X, Collins wrote, Joe Biden sent the orders. Boebert posted, Its time to put Trump in a bullseye. - Joe Biden. Shame on him.

Remember this? I do.



Kick his ass out of Congress. Absolute scumbag. https://t.co/vq7JBMVU2v  J.D. Vance (@JDVance1) July 13, 2024

And on Trumps Truth Social, Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene posted, Democrats wanted this to happen. Theyve wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen.

She went on to attack a group of Congressional Democrats who had sponsored the DISGRACED Former Protectees Bill, a piece of proposed legislation that sought to terminate Secret Service protection for those convicted of a felony. Trump has been convicted of 34 felony counts of false business records in New York.

Why would they want that? You know the reason, she wrote.

Its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

- Joe Biden



Shame on him.  Rep. Lauren Boebert (@RepBoebert) July 13, 2024

Two of Trumps reported short list for vice-presidential nominees engaged in similar rhetoric. Ohio Republican senator J.D. Vance posted on X,The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

And South Carolina Senator Tim Scott accused the radical Left and corporate media of aiding and abetting the assassination attempt. Lets be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse, he posted.

The other GOP vice presidential shortlisters, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum and Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, and Nikki Haley, Trumps defeated Republican rival, opted to issue statements of support and prayer.

Other members of Trumps wider world of supporters and media boosters were also quick to blame the left, among them Sebastian Gorka, who was a White House aide before becoming a broadcaster. He posted on X, Chuck Schumer threatened Trumps SCOTUS appointees. Maxine Waters told her supporters that they should surround and intimidate his cabinet members. Kamala Harris raised money to bail out BLM rioters. 5 days ago Biden said put President Trump in the bullseye.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Will MAGA machine roll over Sherrod Brown, other Democrats in Ohio?

Thomas Suddes is a former legislative reporter with The Plain Dealer in Cleveland and writes from Ohio University. tsuddes@gmail.com

As to Ohio, President Bidens purported strengths and purported weaknesses are beside the point. Absent the unforeseeable, Donald Trump is going to carry Ohio in November.

Ohios presidential electors will meet at the Statehouse on Dec. 17. Trumps slate might as well book its Columbus hotel rooms now.

July 1, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; The Ohio Supreme Court building, 65 S. Front St., in downtown Columbus, Ohio.

The critical question for Ohio Democrats is whether and, if yes, how a Trump victory in Ohio might hold down turnout by its Democratic voters and those independents who loathe Trump.

The future of Biden's campaign: Should Joe get out? 9 cartoons on aftermath of Biden's debate with Donald Trump

Democrats marquee Ohio race is the quest by three-term U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Cleveland Democrat, for a fourth term. Browns Republican challenger is entrepreneur Bernie Moreno.

The Brown-Moreno contest is already red hot, and sure to get hotter, because for Democrats, holding Browns seat is essential to maintaining Democrats slim U.S. Senate majority.

Be it noted that a Trump win in Ohio doesnt necessarily guarantee Browns defeat and Morenos victory.

In 1988, a Democratic U.S. senator from Ohio, Howard M. Metzenbaum, of Greater Cleveland, a full-throttle liberal, won reelection with 57% of the statewide vote, besting the GOP challenger, then-Cleveland Mayor George Voinovich.

Meanwhile, Ohioans statewide backed GOP presidential nominee George H.W. Bush, who drew 55% of Ohios vote to 44% cast for Democrat Michael Dukakis.

Ohio Supreme Court seats up for grabs

Although some bystanders might scoff at the comparison, Democrats also are waging campaigns arguably-as-critical-as-Browns in the three statewide contests for Ohio Supreme Court seats also on Novembers ballot.

The seven-justice court is now composed of four Republicans and three Democrats. On the general election ballot are the seats of two Democratic justices and an open seat held by a Republican.

Essential voter guide for Ohioans: Ohio election: See our voter guide on contested races, issues in Columbus region

One of the two Democrats seeking re-election to the high court is Justice Michael P. Donnelly, a Greater Clevelander. Donnellys GOP challenger is Hamilton County Common Pleas Judge Megan E. Shanahan.

The other Democrat seeking re-election to the state Supreme Court is Justice Melody J. Stewart, also a Greater Clevelander. Stewart is being challenged by another justice already on the court, Republican Justice Joseph T. Deters, once Hamilton Countys prosecuting attorney, earlier Ohios state treasurer, is a close ally of GOP Gov. Mike DeWine.

Thomas Suddes

(Deters challenge of Stewart is an extremely rare Ohio instance of a justice vs. justice contest. The only others that come to mind are race for chief justice between Democratic Justice Jennifer Brunner and Republican Justice Sharon L. Kennedy in 2022, which Kennedy won  with Brunner retaining her own seat because she was in midterm  and 1962s challenge by Republican then-Justice Kingsley A. Taft of Democratic then-Chief Justice Carl V. Weygandt. Taft won, retiring Weygandt from the high court after his 30 years as chief justice.)

The third Supreme Court matchup on Ohios November ballot (for the seat that Deters now holds) is between a Greater Cleveland Democrat, Judge Lisa Forbes, of the Ohio Court of Appeals (8th District), and a Columbus Republican, Judge Dan Hawkins, of Franklin County Common Pleas Court.

Ohio's Supreme Court turning Democratic can impact state

Although the Ohio Supreme Court is less visible to Ohioans than, say, the U.S. Supreme Court, Ohios highest court has an enormous role in Ohioans lives, not only in occasionally offsetting Ohios powerful executive branch, and Ohios grossly partisan General Assembly, but also because of the Supreme Courts power to rein in rate increases that the pro-utility Public Utilities Commission of Ohio sets.

The court, as noted, is 4-3 Republican. If Donnelly and Stewart win, and Forbes bests Hawkins, they along with Brunner would make the court 4-3 Democratic.

And the courts 2025 caseload could be crucial: Its likely to include challenges to Ohioans statewide 2023 vote to guarantee a right to abortion, and GOP moves to gut a voter-initiated anti-gerrymandering plan, if it makes the ballot and Ohioans pass it.

Thomas Suddes is a former legislative reporter with The Plain Dealer in Cleveland and writes from Ohio University. tsuddes@gmail.com

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Trumps MAGA machine is strong Ohio. Is Sherrod Brown toast.
One man was killed in a shooting early Sunday in the Del Paso Heights section of North Sacramento, according to the Sacramento Police Department.

Officers were called to a home just after 4 a.m. on the 3900 block of High Street for reports of shots fired, according to Officer Anthony Gamble, a spokesman for the department. He said that when officers arrived, they found an adult with at least one gunshot wound. The man was taken to a hospital where he was pronounced dead, according to Gamble.

Gamble said that homicide detectives have taken over the investigation, but no suspects or a motive have been identified.

The identity of the man who was killed, described as a man in his 20s, was expected to be released by the Sacramento County Coroners Office once relatives are notified of his death.

The Police Department encourages anyone with information about the shooting to call its dispatch center at 916-808-5471 or Sacramento Valley Crime Stoppers at 916-443-4357 (HELP). Callers can remain anonymous and may be entitled to a reward for information connected to the homicide.
Man admits to shooting someone for flirting with his girlfriend

MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man was arrested on Saturday after he told police officers that he shot a man after he tried to flirt with his girlfriend.

At approximately 10:15 a.m., officers responded to a shooting call and met with the victim at 3215 S Third, Fire Station 36.

MPD: Man stabs brother in stomach after argument

He told officers that he was shot in front of 76 Rollins. He was taken to Regional One Hospital by ambulance for his injuries.

The victim said he was outside in the middle of the street when the suspect, later identified as Darrin Price, allegedly shot him.

Officers were dispatched to the 3000 block of Redbud where Price told officers that he was responsible for shooting the victim. He was arrested and taken to Raines Station for further investigation.

Violent Crimes Unit investigators spoke with the victim at Regional One Hospital. He told them that he was confronted by a man from around the neighborhood. Three days before, he tried to talk to the mans girlfriend.

Man accused of strangling ex-girlfriend, her friend

After a brief argument, he told investigators the man shot him. He was able to positively able to identify Price in a six-person photographic lineup as the person who shot him.

Violent Crimes Investigators spoke with Price as well. He waived his rights and admitted to shooting the victim.

Price has been charged with aggravated assault and reckless endangerment with a deadly weapon. His bond was set at $50,000.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  One man is in custody after shooting a gun inside St. Lukes Hospital and assaulting a staff member Friday night, the Kansas City Police Department said.

According to KCPD, officers were dispatched to the hospital at 4401 Wornall Road at about 9:10 p.m. after a man assaulted a member of the staff.

5 motorcyclists struck in hit-and-run crash, 1 critically injured

Police said that as security attempted to arrest the man, he fired off a shot with a handgun.

The shooter was then placed in handcuffs until police arrived on the scene.

According to KCPD, there were no injuries as a result of the shot being fired.

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The Georgia Bureau of Investigation is investigating the death of a 29-year-old man.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

On Friday, the Jackson County Sheriffs Office asked the GBI to investigate the death of Antowne Shalmar Lay, 29, of Athens.

The GBI said Lay was found near the intersection of Antioch Church Road and Gus Barnett Road in Nicholson, Georgia.

According to the Historical Marker Database, the Antioch United Methodist Church is at that intersection.

TRENDING STORIES:

Officials have not said Lays cause of death. No other details were released. The investigation is ongoing.

Anyone with information is urged to contact the Jackson County Sheriffs Office at 706-367-8718 or the GBI Regional Investigative Office at 706-552-2309.

Tipsters can remain anonymous by calling 1-800-597-8477, submitting a tip online or downloading the See Something, Send Something mobile app.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
A Kansas City, Kansas, man was charged with murder after a 20-year-old was shot amid a road rage incident near a Kansas City restaurant and died days later.

Richard Guerrero was charged with second-degree murder, unlawful use of a weapon and two counts of armed criminal action in the killing of Adrian Velez-Esparza, who died days after he was shot inside a vehicle that then crashed into La Bodega, 703 Southwest Blvd.

Officers responded around 7:26 p.m. on June 29 to a shooting in the 700 block of Southwest Boulevard, where they found Velez-Esparza in the driver seat of a black Acura sedan with a gunshot wound to the back of his head, according to the probable cause statement.

Emergency medical crews transported Velez-Esparza to a hospital, where he died July 1.

Witnesses told police they were walking in the area, when they heard cars honking and saw Velez-Esparza arguing with another driver from his car. Then, witnesses said they heard what sounded like two gunshots, and the Acura slowly rolled until it crashed into a wall in the outdoor seating area of La Bodega, according to the probable cause statement.

One witness told police that he was stopped at a red light near the restaurant, when he saw the Acura make a U-turn and stop near a dark-colored Chevrolet sedan.

After the Chevrolet driver stuck his elbow out the window, the witness said he heard two gunshots. He then saw the driver flinch and the Acura roll until it crashed into the restaurant, according to the probable cause statement.

The Chevrolet fled the scene, and the witness confirmed that a Chevrolet Malibu seen on the security camera footage matched the vehicle he saw, the probable cause statement said.

Detectives obtained a search warrant for the Chevrolet but didnt find any weapons.

On July 2, detectives watched security camera footage in the area that showed the two vehicles driving at a high speed, and the Acura appeared to be chasing the Chevrolet, according to the probable cause statement.

Additional security cameras helped detectives find the route of the Chevrolet after it left the scene and its license plate number. Police found Guerrero as the registered owner of the vehicle, according to the probable cause statement.

On Friday, Johnson County sheriffs deputies and Kansas Highway Patrol troopers told police they stopped the Chevrolet, which was driving on Interstate 35 near 67th Street in Merriam. Detectives responded and confirmed the Chevrolet matched the vehicle they saw on security footage, and Guerrero was detained, the probable cause statement said.

Guerrero allegedly told detectives that he had been driving on Southwest Boulevard with his friend in the passenger seat, when an Acura pulled up next to them and Velez-Esparza yelled and gestured at Guerrero, according to the probable cause statement.

While driving, Guerrero said Velez-Esparza chased his car northbound on Southwest Boulevard and threw water bottles at his car. When they stopped at a light near La Bodega, Guerrero told detectives that Velez-Esparza threw another water bottle at his car and continued to yell at make gestures at him, the probable cause statement said.

Guerrero told detectives he felt threatened and allegedly took a 9mm handgun from his center console, fired one shot at Velez-Esparza and fled home, according to the probable cause statement.
Man charged for robbing three Oakland fast food chains in one hour: DA

(KRON)  Alameda County District Attorney Pamela Price updated the potential sentence for Clarence Esteen, 31, a previously convicted robber who allegedly robbed five victims at three different Oakland fast-food chains in one hour.

Esteen is currently facing up to 15 years in prison. Based on his prior criminal history, that sentence could be doubled to 30 years, the DA said.

Police finds significant quantities of illicit drugs in Danville home

The complaint alleges that on July 5, Esteen entered a McDonalds on the 6600 block of San Pablo Avenue and demanded money from an employee.

About 30 minutes later, Esteen allegedly entered a Papa Johns restaurant several blocks down and demanded money from employees working the cash register, the complaint said.

According to the complaint, five minutes later, Esteen entered Cassave Restaurant and Taqueria located on the same block as the Papa Johns and allegedly demanded money from the taqueria workers.

In 2009, 16-year-old Esteen was sentenced to five years for a robbery conviction in Oakland, with an additional 25 years to life for a firearm enhancement.

In May, the District Attorneys office filed a motion to reduce the 25-year gun enhancement to 10 years, and the Court reduced his sentence to 18 years. Esteen served 15 years of the original 30-year sentence and received three years credit for good behavior, the DAs office said.

The District Attorneys reentry recommendations were not mandated by the court. The key recommendations were that Mr. Esteen be required to stay in transitional housing for at least one year and engage in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy for at least six months, enroll in adult education to complete his diploma or show evidence of completion, engage in a College Technical Education or Trade School Program during the transitional housing period, and submit to drug testing for at least one year. Alameda County District Attorneys office

Esteen was released from prison on June 24, the DAs office said.

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BUTLER, Pa. (KDKA) - A spectator who was killed in the shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump on Saturday has been identified as Corey Comperatore. He was shot while attempting to shield his family from the gunfire, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said at a news conference Sunday.

"Corey was the very best of us," Shapiro said. "Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night. Corey was a 'girl dad.' Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community."



The shooting also injured Trump and critically injured two others who were rushed to the hospital.

Pennsylvania State Rep. Marci Mustello (R-Butler) released a statement on Sunday, as Comperatore was his constituent.

"It is with great sorrow I extend my deepest condolences to the family, friends and community of Corey Comperatore, who was taken from us far too soon. Corey was a devoted public servant, having served as the fire chief for Buffalo Township Fire Company, and he was a cherished member of our community in Butler County. "His commitment to his wife and two daughters, and his unwavering dedication to his role as a fire chief exemplified his remarkable character. My heart breaks for his loved ones during this incredibly difficult time, and I join the community in mourning his loss. A true American hero, Corey sacrificed his life to protect his family. "May Corey Comperatore's memory be a blessing and a reminder of the selfless service he provided to us all."

Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as the shooter

The gunman was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. The U.S. Secret Service said he was shot and killed by a Secret Service sniper.

Law enforcement has told CBS News that Crooks opened fire with a semi-automatic AR-style rifle and the ATF is currently tracing the weapon.

They also said the gun Crooks used was legally purchased and registered to his father, Mathew Crooks.

Suspicious devices were found in Crooks' vehicle. He had a piece of commercially available equipment that appeared capable of initiating those devices.

Trump released from hospital after apparent assassination attempt at rally

Officials share new details on Trump rally shooting, investigation of assassination attempt

"Mind of the Assassin" | 60 Minutes Archive
Friends and neighbors are remembering firefighter Corey Comperatore  the 50-year-old man shot and killed during the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump  as a family man who served his community and was quick to help friends in need.

Comperatore was one of the thousands of people who attended the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, part of Trumps 2024 reelection effort. He died trying to protect his family, according to Gov. Josh Shapiro. Pennsylvania State Police confirmed his identity on Sunday.

Two other spectators were seriously wounded in Saturdays attack, and the gunman was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene after the shooting. The FBI is investigating the attack as an assassination attempt, the agency said.

Shapiro, who directed flags to be flown at half-staff in Comperatores memory, said he spoke to Comperatores wife and two daughters Sunday.

An avid Trump supporter who was excited to be at the rally, Comperatore dove on his family to protect them from the gunfire, Shapiro said.

Corey was a girl dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community. Most especially, Corey loved his family, said Shapiro.

In an interview with the New York Post on Monday, Helen Comperatore, the widow of Corey Comperatore, shared her husbands last words, spoken as he shielded his family from bullets that ultimately took his life.

Hes my hero, Helen Comperatore said. He just said, Get down! That was the last thing he said.

Comperatore also is survived by daughters Allyson and Kaylee, his mother, two sisters and a stepbrother, according to an obituary posted by Redmond Funeral Home in Freeport, Pennsylvania.

Mike Morehouse, who lived next to Comperatore for years, told The Associated Press he counts Comperatore as a hero and intends to vote in the upcoming election in his memory.

As soon as I heard what happened and then learned that it was to Corey, I went upstairs as soon as I got home and I registered to vote, Morehouse told the AP. This is the first time Ive ever voted and I think it will be in his memory.

Other victims are stable at a hospital

The two rallygoers who were wounded  David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania  are stable, state police said Sunday in a news release.

Copenhavers family released a statement Tuesday through Allegheny General Hospital, saying he was in critical condition but stable. They denounced the shooting as a horrible, senseless, and unnecessary act of violence.

Copenhaver was praying for a safe and speedy recovery for the other victims, their families and the former president, the family statement reads.

The Marine Corps League of Pennsylvania, Inc. identified Dutch as a commandant in their organizations location in Westmoreland County. Vice Commandant Matt Popovich said on Facebook Dutch underwent two surgeries after being shot in the liver and chest.

These victims and their families are certainly in our thoughts today, said state police commissioner Col. Christopher Paris. The Pennsylvania State Police continue to work tirelessly alongside our federal, state and local partners as this investigation continues.

The former president was shot in his right ear, he said on social media, leaving his face streaked with blood.

A GoFundMe campaign for the victims families, verified by the fundraising platform, had raised more than $5 million as of Tuesday evening, more than triple its initial goal. More than 63,000 donations have poured in, according to the website.

A separate GoFundMe campaign for Comperatores family, also verified by the platform, collected more than $1.1 million by Tuesday evening. That campaign, organized by a man who described himself as a neighbor and friend, had an initial goal of $7,000.

It was going to be a nice day with family, widow tells paper

Helen Comperatore told the New York Post she and Corey were childhood sweethearts and about to celebrate their 29th wedding anniversary when the family headed to the rally to support Trump.

Me and the kids were all there as a family, she said. He was just excited. It was going to be a nice day with the family.

Describing her late husband to the newspaper as a simple man, Helen Comperatore said he put his wife and kids first all the time.

I didnt lift a finger, she said. He did everything.

His obituary said his life was guided by his faith, and he inspired others to live with purpose and grace.

Coreys legacy is not just in the major milestones he achieved but in the small acts of kindness that marked his everyday life, the obituary says. He was quick to help those in need, never expecting anything in return, and his impact on the lives he touched was profound.

Trump has spoken with Helen Comperatore, she said on her private Facebook page Tuesday, according to the New York Post. CNN has reached out to the Comperatore family to verify the post.

President Trump called me to share his condolences, the post reportedly said. He was very kind and said he would continue to call me in the days and weeks ahead.

I told him the same thing I told everyone else. He left this world a hero and God welcome him in. He did not die in vain that day, she added, according to the New York Post.

When Trump was asked by the New York Post this weekend whether he was considering attending Comperatores funeral, he said yes. The funeral home obituary said details of that event are private.

Trumps call comes after the widow told the New York Post on Monday that President Joe Biden did try to call her after the shooting, but she doesnt want to speak to him. My husband was a devout Republican, and he would not have wanted me to talk to him.

However, Helen Comperatore added she does not hold the current president responsible for what happened to her family.

I dont have any ill-will towards Joe Biden, she said. Im not one of those people that gets involved in politics. I support Trump, thats who Im voting for, but I dont have ill-will towards Biden.

He didnt do anything to my husband. A 20-year-old despicable kid did, she continued.

Speaking Sunday afternoon, Biden expressed his condolences to Comperatores family.

We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed, the president said. He was a father; he was protecting his family from the bullets being fired when he lost his life. God love him. We are also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured.

A community in mourning

The Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company hung Comperatores uniform outside the fire station Sunday in a memorial to his life.

Our company is dealing with a tragic loss that not only is affecting our members, but this community and Coreys family and friends, the fire company said on Facebook, also calling Comperatore a brother, son, husband, father and friend.

The Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire Company is honoring the memory of Comperatore, who was "a lifetime volunteer firefighter within our company," the department said. - Buffalo Township Volunteer Fire

Matthew Achilles, who lived near Comperatore, told CNN affiliate WTAE, He was a real good guy. He really was. You hear stories all the time that its always the good ones that end up getting taken out, and unfortunately, thats what happened.

He helped us out when I was real sick a couple years ago. I was in the hospital and almost died. Corey was one of the first people to message me and say Hey, how can I help you, Achilles said.

Bishop David Zubik of the Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh said in a statement, Comperatores selfless act in the face of danger speaks to his strength of character, deep faith, and dedication to serving others.

Let us also take this moment to pray for unity and an end to violence and inflammatory rhetoric in our community and across our nation, he said.

In the outpouring of sympathy, many have highlighted Comperatores dedication to the community he served.

Corey Comperatore died a hero, the way he lived, shielding his family from gunfire. He was a former fire chief, a proud father and loving husband. We will pray for his family. May he rest in peace, Robert Brooks, president of the Pennsylvania Professional Fire Fighters Association, told CNN in a statement Sunday.

The Buffalo Township Board of Supervisors condemned political violence in a statement to CNN Sunday.

Corey was a dedicated husband, father, friend, and volunteer to the community, and will be sorely missed, the statement said.

This story has been updated with additional information.

CNNs Kate Sullivan, Jamiel Lynch, Rebekah Riess, Chris Boyette, Bob Ortega, Sara Smart, Andrew Millman and Andy Rose contributed to this report.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Clifton Suspension Bridge suspect shouts my boss is really bad before fleeing the scene

The suspect was pursued by an onlooker filming on a bike

The suspect in the suitcase murder investigation ran from the scene shouting my boss is really bad before human remains were found.

The man was pursued by an onlooker on a bike from Bristols Clifton Suspension Bridge and made the comment in Spanish before apparently trying to stop the person filming.

In the early hours of Thursday morning police found the remains of two men in suitcases nearby. Further remains were found at a flat in West London on Friday while a manhunt was underway.

On Saturday, armed police detained a 34-year-old man at Bristols Temple Meads railway station who is understood to be undergoing questioning in London.

Metropolitan Police officers had earlier said that they wanted to speak to 34-year-old Colombian national Yostin Andres Mosquera.

The Sun published a video of the suspect running away from the Clifton Suspension Bridge, where it is understood he had been challenged by witnesses who thought they saw blood leaking from the luggage he was carrying.

The video shows him being pursued by a person on a bike before he appears to say mi jefe es muy malo, Spanish for my boss is really bad.

Human remains connected

Detectives have confirmed that human remains found at a flat in Shepherds Bush belong to the same two men whose remains were found in Bristol.

It has been reported that the victims lived together and one had recently travelled to Colombia. They have not yet been identified.

A neighbour told the Mail on Sunday that one of them had been on holiday in Colombia... they were quite well travelled and had a villa on the border of Spain and France too. Theyd lived here for a couple of years.

It is believed that one of the men may have worked as a concierge for Harrods Estate, the property company, before retiring in 2019.

On Saturday, investigators in blue forensic suits, wearing masks and gloves, could be seen working behind a cordon outside the property in Scotts Road.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police are leading the investigation and are working with their counterparts in Avon and Somerset Police.

Dept Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, of Scotland Yard, said of the arrest: This is a significant development in our investigation, and I would like to thank the public for their support.

We understand the concerns of local communities in both Bristol and London, and officers will remain in the Clifton and Shepherds Bush areas over the coming days to reassure those affected by this tragic incident. Anyone with any concerns is encouraged to speak with them.

The suspect is believed to have travelled to Bristol from London in a vehicle in which he was not the driver. He was picked up in a taxi outside a pub in Clifton, an affluent area in the west of the city.

It is thought he then made a short journey from outside the pub to the other side of the bridge, which connects Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.

The manhunt began at 11.57pm on Wednesday, when police received reports of a man seen acting suspiciously near the Bristol bridge.

Officers arrived within 10 minutes but the man had left the scene, leaving a suitcase behind. A second suitcase was found nearby a short time later and both contained body parts.

A 36-year-old man who was arrested in Greenwich on Friday in connection with the investigation has since been released without charge.

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MANTEO  The recently released autopsy for a Manteo man who died Oct. 2 after a Dare County Sheriffs Office deputy shot him lists the cause of his death as a stab wound.

Sylvester Demetrius Selbys manner of death was a homicide due to a stab wound of the anterior left chest by a 3-inch folding pocketknife, with two gunshot wounds to the torso listed as contributing conditions, according to the four-page report of investigation by the North Carolina Office of the Chief Medical Examiner (OCME).

A .40-caliber handgun and a pocketknife are both listed as the means of death in that report.

The OCMEs autopsy report  a separate, 12-page document  lists the stab wound as Selbys cause of death. It lists two gunshot wounds of the torso and recent cocaine and methamphetamine use as other significant conditions.

Selbys family disagrees with the conclusion of the autopsy records.

It feels like its planted, Selbys sister, Ebony Selby, said in a text message. Because in the video we saw, he walked out of the apartment normal and speaking. He did not stop movement or breathing until the 3rd shot was fired. So none of us believe the knife wound was the cause of death.

She said both Deputy Edward Francis Glaser III and John Simms, the man who stabbed him [Demetrius Selby] in our families homeshould be charged and locked up right now!

Deputy Glasers bullets killed Sylvester Demetrius Selby, not the knife, a July 5 statement from the familys attorneys asserted. The body camera video of the shooting speaks for itself. The Dare County Sheriffs Office could put this argument to rest right now by releasing it.

While immediate family members viewed the law enforcement video footage of the incident, the Dare County Sheriffs Office has not publicly released its video footage. In North Carolina, the media and members of the public can only obtain law enforcement video footage with a judges order.

The familys and law enforcements accounts of the incident differ greatly.

After seeing the footage, Selbys family filed a $5 million-plus federal lawsuit on Dec. 7 naming Glaser and Dare County Sheriff Doug Doughtie as defendants and requesting a trial by jury.

A court date has not been set for the case, nor has any ruling taken place as of press deadline, according to the online case information.

Christopher Geis, a Winston-Salem based attorney representing both Glaser and Doughtie in the case, said he filed the autopsy report with the court this week.

Cause of death is pretty important in a wrongful death case, Geis said.

Doughtie did not respond by press deadline to questions The Pilot sent Tuesday by email, including if there were plans to release the footage or if charges had been filed against Simms or anyone else in the case since the autopsy reported Selbys death was a homicide by pocketknife.

___

The autopsy

The autopsy details that Selbys stab wound was 3 to 4 inches deep in the direction of front to back with minimal right-to-left or vertical deviation and caused six types of injuries, including to the heart and left lung.

The autopsy details injuries from three gunshot wounds, one of which is described as penetrating and two of which are described as perforating. It also lists two graze gunshot wounds as additional traumatic injuries.

Entrances and exits are listed for each of the three detailed gunshot wounds, but only one bullet was listed as recovered.

The penetrating gunshot wound was described as entering in Selbys left upper back and exiting his anterior left chest.

Injuries from that shot included lacerations of his left lung lobes left posterior 5th rib with fracture, left anterior 5th rib, among others.

Recovered: One large-caliber, deformed, copper-jacketed projectile, the autopsy said for that gunshot wound.

___

Much unknown

The OCME publicly released documents pertaining to Selbys death on July 3, nearly nine months after the Oct. 10-dated autopsy exam took place in Greenville. A medical doctor with a different name from the medical examiner digitally signed that the facts stated herein are correct to the best of my knowledge and belief on the autopsy exam report April 11.

The report of investigation by the medical examiner was dated Oct. 7.

It is unclear why the dates differ and why two different dates are listed on the autopsy report.

The special prosecutor assigned to the case cited the autopsy in his February decision, but his statement seemed to attribute Selbys death to Glasers bullets.

Glaser will not face charges for shooting Selby, Charles Chuck Spahos, a Cary-based prosecutor assigned to the case, announced on Feb. 21.

Deputy Glaser was justified under North Carolina law in that it appeared that it was necessary to kill in order to save himself or others from death or great bodily harm, Spahos said in the statement.

The same release also noted that the autopsy performed in Greenville discovered that Mr. Selby also had a knife wound to his chest that contributed to his death.

The only surviving witnesses of the incident were Glaser, Sgt. DuWayne Gibbs and John Simms, the resident of the trailer outside of which Selby was killed, according to the prosecutors release.

According to an Oct. 3 Sheriffs Office press release, two deputies were responding to a trespassing in progress call when Selby came at them with a knife.

A deputy fired their weapon and struck the individual, who died on scene, according to the release.

In the account shared by Selbys familys attorneys in December, Selby was bleeding from a chest wound and stumbling in the opposite direction when Glaser first shot him, then was unarmed on his hands and knees the second and third times Glaser shot him.

Deputies could see the blood dripping from Selbys wound and the fact that he was holding a kitchen knife in one hand, in a nonthreatening manner, and an apple in the other as he was exiting the home, according to a Dec. 8 press release from the Law Offices of Harry M. Daniels, LLC, announcing the familys lawsuit filing.

Two knives and three .40-caliber shell casings from the deputys weapon were found on the scene, according to the medical examiners four-page investigative report.

One knife was a 4-inch kitchen knife and one was a three-inch folding knife, which was noted to have blood on the blade, the report said.

In the July 5 statement pushing back on the autopsys conclusion, the attorneys said Selby even after being stabbed was able to follow the deputys orders to exit the house and put his hands up.

In fact, Mr Selby was so coherent even after Deputy Glaser shot him once, that he felt the need to shoot him two more times and it was only then that Mr. Selby died laying on the ground choking on his own blood, the release from Daniels office said.

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In the redacted 911 call transcript the Sheriffs Office released Oct. 16, the caller asked for an ambulance and confirmed three times that an ambulance was needed before asking for both ambulance and police.
Editor's note: This story was updated on Sunday, July 14, 2024

Trump supporter Maria Alexander shows her support Sunday for former President Donald Trump, who was shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night. The supporters gathered near his home at Mar-a- Lago.

Angela Rotella, left, holds a bouquet of flowers for former President Donald Trump near his Mar-a-Lago home on Sunday.

A Trump supporter wears patriotic clothing Sunday outside Mar-a-Lago, a day after former President Donald Trump was injured in an apparent assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.

PALM BEACH  Supporters of former President Donald Trump flocked to his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach on Saturday night after the former president was wounded in an apparent assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.

A small number of people were out showing support for the former president Sunday morning, and a caravan of Trump supporters from Miami was due to arrive at Mar-a-Lago later that afternoon.

A gunman opened fire Saturday evening as Trump was speaking at a rally in Butler, Pa. The shooter, a 20-year-old man from suburban Pittsburgh, was killed by Secret Service agents. One person attending the rally was killed, and two others were critically injured, the Secret Service said Sunday.

Dozens of people lined the Southern Boulevard causeway between West Palm Beach and Palm Beach on Saturday night. Some carried U.S. flags and large flags bearing slogans of Trump's 2024 campaign.

Others carried signs showing their support for Trump. Many were dressed in red, white and blue attire. One group wore motorcycle vests that said, "Born to Ride for 45 Donald J. Trump."

In Palm Beach, parking lots along the causeway were packed with Trump supporters' vehicles, and Palm Beach Police officers stood guard next to Mar-a-Lago, a National Historic Landmark in which the former president has his primary residence.

More: Florida Republicans, Dems offer prayers and defiance after Trump 'assassination' attempt

So many people packed the area that cars parked along Flagler Drive, where there is no on-street parking. Some left their vehicles along the road for the walk across the Intracoastal Waterway toward Mar-a-Lago. Supporters got as close as they could to Mar-a-Lago, waving their signs and flags as many passing vehicles honked.

"We're really shocked, just shocked," said Boynton Beach resident Debbie Macchia.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump line Southern Boulevard near his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach on Saturday, July 13, following a shooting in which Trump was injured at his rally in Pennsylvania earlier in the day.

The FBI is investigating the shooting, but has not disclosed the gunman's motive. Macchia said she wanted to know "who ordered it." Others along the causeway shared her sentiments.

"There's no question it was a sniper," Macchia said. "This wasn't just someone that was just looney tunes."

Yeimmi Santa Cruz of West Palm Beach said she traveled to Mar-a-Lago on Saturday night "to support the best president we've ever had."

Dina Coury, center, cries on the shoulder of Yammi Santa Cruz, who stands next to Veronica Woshida, after the three watched a video of former President Donald Trump being shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The supporters gathered Saturday night across the bridge from Mar-a-Lago, Trump's residence.

Later, Santa Cruz embraced another of Trump's supporters who was crying after watching a video of Trump being shot.

Trump was recovering Sunday after being hit in the upper part of his right ear by a bullet. He later posted on his Truth Social account: "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening."

Trump supporter Joaquin Gutierrez waves a flag Saturday night across the bridge from Mar-a-Lago in a show of support for former President Donald Trump, who was slightly injured in a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania earlier in the day.

He thanked the Secret Service and law enforcement for their quick response and shared condolences for the families of the audience member who was killed and the others injured.

Donald J. Trump (@realDonaldTrump)

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country," he wrote.

Video from C-SPAN showed the chaos following the sound of several pops that echoed through the crowd just minutes after Trump began speaking at the rally, which was attended by thousands of people, including his supporters, local and regional officials and the press.

Trump grabbed his right ear after one of the pops, just before Secret Service agents pushed him to the ground. Photos show several agents covering the former president with their bodies.

Possible gunshots at former President Trump's rally in Butler, PA. Secret Service escort Trump off the stage. pic.twitter.com/ckqyjF3S97  CSPAN (@cspan) July 13, 2024

The microphone into which Trump had just been speaking picked up the Secret Service agents' voices as they declared, "Shooter is down," before helping Trump to his feet and quickly moving him to a waiting black, armored SUV.

As Trump stood, his trademark red ballcap knocked from his head, he asked for time to put on his shoes before looking to the crowd and raising his right fist in the air, with blood on his right ear and smeared across his right cheek.

Trump's campaign said the former president still planned to attend the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

At his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach on Saturday morning, Trump had conducted business as usual.

That included an interview with Fox News anchor and host Harris Faulkner, where, according to a tweet from Faulkner, Trump told the journalist the sit-down would be a "ratings grabber."

He later boarded his Trump-branded Boeing 757 to fly from Palm Beach International Airport to Pennsylvania.

Im in West Palm Beach, Florida.Spent the day at Mar a Lago with President Trump. Was with him minutes before he left for Pennsylvania. He was so excited to go see voters in Butler, PA. He joked and told me our extended interview will be a ratings grabber please play it for the pic.twitter.com/pAtw5kXAQt  HARRISFAULKNER (@HARRISFAULKNER) July 13, 2024

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Daily News: Shooting at Trump rally: Supporters flock to Mar-a-Lago in Florida
Police stand near the stage of a campaign rally for former President Donald Trump on Saturday, after an assassination attempt that injured Trump, wounded two and killed two, including the suspected gunman. Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

By Imani Agbionu, Emily Condon, James Matheson, Caley Fox Shannon, Daniel Stein and Katharine Wilson

MILWAUKEE  Maryland officials on both sides of the aisle are expressing support for victims and outrage at the act of political violence after the shooting Saturday that injured former President Donald Trump and left two dead, including the suspected gunman.

I condemn in the strongest possible terms what has happened in Pennsylvania today to President Trump, Maryland Gov. Wes Moore (D), said in a statement. Political violence is never acceptable. Ever.

Minutes into a Trumps appearance at a rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening, gunshots rang out through the crowd. Trump, speaking at the podium, suddenly put his hand up to his right ear before crouching to the ground as gunfire continued. Secret Service agents rushed to create a protective barrier before quickly escorting Trump offstage and into a vehicle.

Trump was pronounced safe shortly after the incident. He said in a Truth Social post Saturday evening that a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear.

Two people at the rally were injured in the shooting and one was killed. He was identified as Corey Comperatore, a local firefighter who was at the rally with his family.

Secret Service agents killed the gunman, who had opened fire with a rifle from a rooftop about 130 yards from the stage. The FBI has identified the suspected shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The FBI, which has taken over investigation of the attack, has declared the shooting an assassination attempt, but did not release any other motive.

Former Maryland Gov. Larry Hogan, the current Republican nominee for the U.S. Senate, said on X: We are praying that President Trump and all in attendance are safe. Political violence must be universally condemned. America is a tinderbox right now. This must stop.

Hogan, an outspoken critic of Trump, confirmed last month that he will skip the partys national convention, as he did in 2016.

Signs like these dot Milwaukee as the city prepares to host the 2024 Republican National Committee. Photo by James Matheson/Capital News Service

The Republican National Convention is scheduled to begin Monday in Milwaukee  a fact referenced by Trump moments before the shooting began, when he said, Five days from now we will officially accept the Republican nomination for president of the United States. Despite the shooting, he is expected to attend the convention as scheduled.

Nicole Beus Harris, Maryland Republican Party chairwoman and wife of Rep. Andy Harris (R-1st), wrote on Facebook that her party stands with Trump and wishes him a speedy recovery. Of the Secret Service and law enforcement that responded on the scene, Beus Harris said, We support them and thank them for the difficult job they do.

Del. Kathy Szeliga (R-Baltimore County), who is representing the states first congressional district as a delegate to the convention, wrote on X Saturday evening: Prayers for Pres Trump. They say he will be fine. Thank GOD. Someone tried to assassinate him! Hopefully, no one else was hurt and Trump will be 100%. Cant wait to see him on Thursday!

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a statement that guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week.

Prince Georges County Executive Angela Alsobrooks, the Democrat who is running against Hogan for Senate, said on X that the nation must come together to condemn this kind of political violence.

Maryland Democratic Sens. Ben Cardin and Chris Van Hollen both condemned all acts of political violence shortly after the news broke Saturday through social media posts.

There is no place for political violence or violence of any kind in our nation, Van Hollen said on X.

Maryland Senate President Bill Ferguson, a Democrat, said his thoughts are with Trump and other victims of the attack, according to a statement provided through a spokesperson.

This is not the country I want. This is not who we want to be as Americans for the rest of the world to see, Ferguson said.

Rep. Kweisi Mfume, D-Maryland, took the incident as a chance to point to the larger conversation of gun laws in the country.

Despite our extremely different ideological beliefs, fortunately former President Donald Trump survived todays sniper attempt, Mfume said. Political violence underscores again the need to get guns and semi automatic rifles off the streets of America.

 Capital News Service reporters Joey Barke, Sapna Bansil, Angel Gingras and Kiersten Hacker contributed to this report.

The post Maryland politicians across spectrum decry violence after Trump shooting appeared first on Maryland Matters.
Maryland weather: Baltimore issues Code Red as heat index is forecast to rise as high as 109 this week

City health officials Sunday issued a Code Red extreme heat alert as triple-digit temperatures and an excessive heat watch are in the forecast this week in the Baltimore area, according to the National Weather Service.

Baltimore City Health Departments Code Red, which will be in effect through Wednesday, asks residents to take precautions to stay cool and makes cooling centers available throughout the city.

Sundays high of 95 will feel more like 103 due to a heat index. The day will remain sunny with isolated showers and thunderstorms after 2 p.m.

Conditions will remain mostly clear with a low of 76 at night.

6 heat-related deaths reported in Maryland this year; heres where to go to stay cool

An excessive heat watch will go into effect Monday at 11 a.m. and is set to expire at 8 p.m. The heat watch is a result of Mondays high nearing 100 with a heat index valuing 109. Monday will remain sunny and hot with a chance of storms after 2 p.m.

Monday night will have a low near 76 and a 30% chance of precipitation.

High temperatures and sunny conditions will continue into Tuesday with the high expected to near 100. Winds ranging from 5-9 mph are expected Tuesday morning.

Tuesday night will have a slight chance of thunderstorms before 2 a.m. and a low around 79.

Wednesday will be mostly sunny with a 60% chance of rain. The high will be near 97.

Showers will remain likely before 8 p.m. Wednesday night when conditions shift to mostly cloudy with a low of 74.

The heat index is a measure of how hot it really feels when relative humidity is factored in with the actual air temperature, according to the NWS website.
Massachusetts State Police are increasing police presence across the Commonwealth after a shooting at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

There is no known connection or direct threat to Massachusetts at this time, MSP said in a statement. Colonel John Mawn has been briefed by the MSPs Commonwealth Fusion Center intelligence analysts and will continue to provide situational updates to Governor Maura Healey and the Executive Office of Public Safety and Security as needed. Furthermore, the Fusion Center is engaged in constant communication with intelligence units nationwide, the statement continued to say.

Trump calls for unity after apparent assassination attempt

State police say they are working in close collaboration with federal, state, and local partners.

The FBI identified the shooter who fired at former President Donald Trump as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

State police are reminding the public to remain vigilant and report anything suspicious or out of the ordinary to the MSP Fusion Center at 1-508-820-2233 or email fusion@pol.state.ma.us.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

Follow Boston 25 News on Facebook and Twitter. | Watch Boston 25 News NOW
China's Ministry of Civil Affairs has called for efforts to explore an "internet plus" monitoring mode as well as the application of other new technologies to enhance elderly care services.

With the rapid development of the elderly care industry, new challenges have emerged, necessitating more efforts to push monitoring in elderly care onto another level, the ministry noted at a work meeting on Saturday.

Risks should be prevented and eliminated in key areas such as elderly care funds, operations and emergency response, with enhanced ethics and professional skills education for practitioners to further standardize, normalize and professionalize elderly care services.

The ministry also stressed efforts to improve the rule of law in elderly care by gradually shoring up weaknesses in the system, especially in key areas and emerging business forms.

As of the end of 2023, China had over 217 million people aged 65 and above.
The attempted assassination of Donald Trump represents a glaring failure by the Secret Service, which left the former president exposed to gunfire in a breach of security that will likely haunt a long-idealized agency that has been repeatedly tarnished by scandal in recent years.

Important questions about the shooting remain unresolved, but the fact that the 20-year-old gunman managed to scale a roof about 200 yards from where Trump was speaking has already prompted calls for a searching investigation of the Secret Service.

Those responsible for the planning, approving and executing of this clearly insufficient security plan need to testify before Congress and be held accountable, said Rep. Ruben Gallego, a Democrat and former Marine running for Senate in Arizona.

The inevitable formal inquiries into the shooting, which left an attendee at the rally dead and wounded Trump, will raise fundamental questions about how the U.S. can protect dignitaries at a time of bitter polarization and widespread access to firearms.



Immediate questions about the attack will land Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle under the microscope of congressional investigators as the FBI investigates the shooting.

In the hours that followed Saturdays shooting, lawmakers from both parties and law enforcement experts have pointed to a series of glaring oversights or errors that appear to have contributed to the tragedy and to the possibility that the country came within millimeters of a political catastrophe.

The gunman identified by the FBI on Sunday, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead by a Secret Service sniper team after he opened fire from a building overlooking the rally. His ability to reach that rooftop, where he had a direct shot at Trump, is among the most immediate areas of review.

There should never have been a clear line of sight on the former president. My Marine Corps training taught me that, Gallego, an Iraq veteran, said in a statement.

The vantage point Crooks managed to acquire immediately calls to mind one of the greatest disasters in U.S. political history: the assassination of President John F. Kennedy by Lee Harvey Oswald from a 6th-floor perch in the Texas School Book Depository. Its been six decades since Kennedy was shot in his open-top limo on Dealey Plaza, but the lessons remain central to Secret Service planning  or are supposed to.

Investigators will seek to interview agents who did advance preparations for the Trump rally and surveyed the area with local law enforcement and campaign staff. They are expected to explore if access to the rooftops was discussed and whether anyone suggested doing anything to hinder it.

Witnesses have put the distance between the building where the gunmans body was recovered and the podium at between 150 and 250 yards, leading some experts to express surprise that a roof with a clear view of the stage would not have been secured.

Speaking on CNN Sunday, Rep. Cory Mills (R-Fla.) said it wouldnt take much for someone with a high-powered rifle to hit a target from that range.

There was no one on that building. ... This is a massive security breach, in my opinion, said Mills, an Army veteran who also worked for State Department security contractor Dyncorp in Afghanistan and Iraq.



The timeliness of the Secret Services response and its coordination with local law enforcement was also thrown into question by witnesses who said they alerted authorities about what was happening.

We noticed the guy bear-crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50 feet away," rallygoer Greg Smith told the BBC at the scene. "He had a rifle, we could clearly see a rifle. ... We're pointing at him, the police are down there running around on the ground, we're like 'Hey man, there's a guy on the roof with a rifle'... and the police did not know what was going on."

"Why is there not Secret Service on all of these roofs here?" asked Smith, who described trying to alert authorities for three to four minutes. "This is not a big place. ... Security failure  100 percent security failure."

As investigators dig into those accounts, it will be vital to scour radio traffic from local and state police as well as the Secret Service. How much time elapsed from the first reports until word reached the agents? Was there a communications breakdown?

The last time the Secret Services handling of a high-profile situation drew as much scrutiny came after Jan. 6, 2021, when a security sweep overlooked a pipe bomb planted outside the Democratic National Committee headquarters as then Vice President-elect Kamala Harris entered the area. The agency drew bipartisan fury after congressional investigators discovered that the phones of dozens of high-level officials and agents were wiped in the weeks after the attack.

The Jan. 6 select committee also obtained Secret Service radio recordings to determine how agents moved then-Vice President Mike Pence to safety amid the chaos.

In the attempted assassination this weekend, questions are also swirling about whether the counter-sniper team moved quickly enough to locate the shooter and open fire. Audio of the event and witness accounts suggest the suspect may have gotten off as many as seven shots before he was killed. At a press conference late Saturday, the FBI special-agent-in-charge of the investigation, Kevin Rojek, called it surprising that so many shots could be fired at a highly secured presidential event.

Relatedly, there are questions about whether Trumps Secret Service detail moved fast enough to secure him and if they followed correct procedure.

After the shooting, agents quickly covered Trump behind what experts say appeared to be a ballistic barrier. That's what's called for by the Service's long-established cover and evacuate protocol. But as the agents began to evacuate Trump, they twice exposed his chest and body to the crowd. That may have been an error considering the possibility of multiple shooters.

Clearly USSS failed at the basics of a secure perimeter and once shots were fired their extraction was clumsy and left DJT highly exposed to follow on attacks, said former Navy SEAL and founder of the Blackwater security firm Erik Prince in a post on X.

Another certain area of focus for investigators will be whether Crooks had any prior encounters with law enforcement.

After nearly every high-profile shooting or terrorism incident, FBI leaders now brace for word on whether its databases reflect any encounters or tips about the suspect, fearing it will mean recriminations for the agency if it failed to sufficiently follow up. During a briefing for journalists on Sunday, officials said they had found no contacts with Crooks or reports about him.

Social media is also awash in wild speculation about the shooter's motive. Trumps allies have been quick to suggest a link between Joe Bidens rhetoric and Saturdays violence. But, as yet, theres been no evidence publicly unearthed to shed insight into the attack.

We dont yet have any information about the motive of the shooter, Biden said during a White House appearance. I urge everyone  everyone, please: Dont make assumptions about his motives or affiliations. Let the FBI do their job.

Precisely, how far-ranging the FBI investigation will be was unclear from the briefing Sunday. Rojek, the top FBI agent in Pittsburgh, said his agency is zeroing in on the shooting itself and not broader issues of security tactics or procedures.

The focus of our investigation will be the actions associated with the attack on the former president. And so the questions that we're asking [Secret Service agents] now are related to that. They're not necessarily focused on the security of the event, and the grounds, Rojek said.

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate, however, suggested the investigation would be somewhat broader. We do plan a full-scope investigation to encompass the entire timeline of the events leading up to this, as well, he said.

Biden also said hes launching an independent review of the national security at yesterdays rally to assess exactly what happened.

Details of that review were not immediately clear, but it seems likely to examine whether the overall security was sufficient given the threat environment and the Republican National Convention two days away.

Some on the right have also surfaced reports that the Trump campaign sought greater security from the Secret Service in recent months and was rebuffed. Those claims prompted a broad denial from Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi.

This is absolutely false, Guglielmi wrote on X. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.
Every day, it seems there's another breach  unauthorized access and vulnerability to your personal or financial information. The latest: AT&T's data breach, which exposed nearly all of its cellular customers' call and text message records. It seems many of us have even become a bit numb to hearing about them, barely even opening the routine emails and letters that come offering a year of free identity protection. But don't tune it out.

This particular breach is more of a worry for national security, and not necessarily for consumers in their day-to-day lives, two experts said. Still, the incident is a good reminder for consumers to be proactive in protecting themselves from fake or spoofed phone or text messages, which could lead to scams, the experts said.

What happened in the AT&T breach?

The telecom giant on Friday said in a filing with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission it learned in April that customer data was illegally downloaded "from our workspace on a third-party cloud platform."

According to the company, the compromised data includes files containing AT&T records of all calls and texts of nearly all of AT&T's cellular customers and AT&T landline customers who interacted with those cellular numbers between May 1, 2022 and Oct. 31, 2022. The compromised data also includes records from Jan. 2, 2023, for a"very small number of customers."

AT&T said the call and text message records of most of its cellular customers has been exposed.

"The data does not contain the content of the calls or texts, or personal information such as Social Security numbers, dates of birth, or other personally identifiable information," the news release said. It also does not include details such as a time stamp, the company said.

The company said at this time, it did not believe the breached data is publicly available. However, the company said that while the compromised data did not include customer names, there are ways of using publicly available tools to find a name associated with a specific telephone number.

What should a consumer do after this breach?

Consumers do not need to do anything due to this particular breach because it did not have to do specifically with consumer information, Chris Pierson, CEO of BlackCloak, an Orlando, Florida-based cybersecurity firm, told USA TODAY.

"This is a nation state intelligence issue," said Pierson. The group that has the most to lose with this breach are intelligence agents whose identities could potentially be exposed or linked based on phone records, he said.

Cybersecurity: 10 billion passwords have been leaked on a hacker site. Are you at risk?

The breached AT&T data has not shown up "in the wild" or sold on any identity marketplace yet, which is a good thing, but also could be a telltale sign that the breach was by another nation state, said James. E. Lee, chief operating officer for the San Diego-based Identity Theft Resource Center.

"Whoever bought this information from or accessed this information is not selling it. They intend on using it," Lee told USA TODAY. "It could show up later, after they're done with it, but for right now, it's not the usual telltale locations of somebody who's using this to make money," he said.

This breach is the latest news of compromised data and is a reminder to consumers to be proactive about interactions on your phone and online, said Lee. Be wary of messages or calls that come from unknown numbers and cybercriminals can fake or spoof real numbers to trick consumers, too, he said.

The AT&T news also comes on the heels of news that 10 billion passwords were leaked on a hacking site. Consumers have been urged to change their passwords, not to use the same passwords on multiple sites and to utilize multi-factor authentication tools.

Betty Lin-Fisher is a consumer reporter for USA TODAY. Reach her at blinfisher@USATODAY.com or follow her on X, Facebook or Instagram @blinfisher. Sign up for our free The Daily Money newsletter, which will include consumer news on Fridays,here.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Affected by the massive AT&T data breach? Here's what you need to do.
For Matthew McConaughey, a dream deferred is not necessarily a dream denied.

The actor took part in a panel discussion on Friday at the National Governors Association with Utah Gov. Spencer Cox, a Republican, and Colorado Gov. Jared Polis, a Democrat. The topic: how to promote civility in politics.

More from Deadline

McConaughey remained coy about potential party affiliation and which office he may see, according to a report by Politico. He hinted in 2022 that he was thinking about running for governor in Texas.

Im on a learning tour and have been for probably the last six years, McConaughey told New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy, a Democrat who asked about his plans. Do I have the instincts and intellect that it would be a good fit for me and I would be a good for it. You know, would I be useful?

McConaughey allowed that he was learning a lot at the meeting.

I learned a lot from you last night through that tequila, sir, he kidded Murphy, whod brought up drinking McConaugheys tequila with him.

The panell discussed how politicians need to grab attention online. McConaughey said that extreme polarization sometimes seen online seen has bled into Hollywood.

My industry has to watch its tongue out of the gate because its coming from the left. We have to open that conversation with our opening statements and not invalidate a moderate or conservative at the gate, which were guilty of, to an extent, McConaughey said.

Hawaii Gov. Josh Green, a Democrat, encouraged McConaughey to someday run.

Dont fall into the trap to think you should be just one thing, said Green. A lot of Republicans will want you to be Republican and a lot of Democrats will want you to be a Democrat, just be you because that might be something special for all of us.

Best of Deadline

Sign up for Deadline's Newsletter. For the latest news, follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
Lafayette, LA (KLFY)  Mayor-President Boulet released a statement after Donald Trump was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd.

According to the Associated Press, Trump was showing off a chart of border crossings during his last rally before the Republican National Convention begins on Monday when bangs started ringing through the crowd.

The Republican presidential nominee could be seen extending his right hand toward his face. According to the Associated Press, there appeared to be blood on his face.

I am deeply disheartened and have been reflecting on the events that transpired yesterday afternoon in Pennsylvania. My prayers are with former President Trump, the families of those who lost their lives, and all who were injured in this tragic event.

We should all be able to gather peacefully, especially when exercising our political freedoms, without the fear of violence occurring. Now more than ever, its crucial that we embrace unity and civility, and reaffirm our American values of democracy. May God bless America. Mayor-President Boulet

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Can a Medicaid plan that requires work succeed? First year of Georgia experiment is not promising

FILE - Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp, left, and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services Administrator Seema Verma, right, sign healthcare waivers at the state Capitol in Atlanta, Oct. 15, 2020. Pathways to Coverage launched last July and is the only Medicaid plan in the country that requires beneficiaries to work or engage in other activities to get coverage. As of June, it had about 4,300 members. (AP Photo/Jeff Amy, File)

ATLANTA (AP)  By now, Georgia officials expected their new Medicaid plan, the only one in the nation with a work requirement, to provide health insurance to 25,000 low-income residents and possibly tens of thousands more.

But a year since its launch, Pathways to Coverage has roughly 4,300 members, much lower than what state officials projected and a tiny fraction of the roughly half-million state residents who could be covered if Georgia, like 40 other states, agreed to a full Medicaid expansion.

Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp's office has presented Pathways as a compromise that would add people to Medicaid while also helping them transition off it. Blaming the Biden administration for delaying the program's start, Kemp's office says it's redoubling efforts to sign people up.

Health and public policy experts believe the enrollment numbers, dismal even compared to what Kemp's office had said Pathways could achieve, reflect a fundamental flaw: The work requirement is just too burdensome.

It's clear that the Georgia Pathways experiment is a huge failure, said Leo Cuello, a research professor at the Georgetown University McCourt School of Public Policy.

Pathways requires all recipients to show at least 80 hours of work monthly, volunteer activity, schooling or vocational rehabilitation. It also limits coverage to able-bodied adults earning no more than the federal poverty line, which is $15,060 for a single person and $31,200 for a family of four.

Cuello noted the program makes no exceptions for people who are caring for children or other family, lack transportation, suffer from drug addiction or face a myriad other barriers to employment. Then there are people with informal jobs that make documenting their hours impossible.

In rural Clay County in southwest Georgia, Dr. Karen Kinsell said many of her patients are too sick to work. Over the last year, Kinsell has suggested Pathways to about 30 patients who might meets its requirements, but none have signed up.

I think the general idea is it would be too much work and too complicated for little benefit, she said.

Just going online each month to submit proof of work can be a significant obstacle, said Harry Heiman, a health policy professor at Georgia State University.

For low-income people who are worried about staying housed and putting food on the table, one more thing to do is often one thing too many, he said.

The program's poor showing so far may have implications beyond Georgia. Republicans in other states in recent months also have proposed requiring work to get Medicaid. In Mississippi, Lt. Gov. Delbert Hosemann in February cited Georgia's Pathways program as a model.

A second term for former President Donald Trump would significantly boost the prospects for such programs. The Trump administration approved Medicaid work requirement plans in 13 states, only to have the Biden administration revoke those waivers in 2021. Pathways survived after a court fight.

Georgia launched the program on July 1, 2023 with little fanfare, and public health experts say they have seen scant effort to promote it or sign people up.

The launch coincided with a federally mandated review of the eligibility of all 2.7 million Medicaid recipients in the state following the end of the COVID-19 public health emergency, another challenging task for Georgia officials.

Still, they did not scale-back their enrollment expectations. Days before the launch, then-Georgia Department of Community Health Commissioner Caylee Noggle told The Associated Press that Pathways could cover up to 100,000 people in year one. The 25,000 estimate had been in the state's 2019 application for Pathways.

Garrison Douglas, a spokesman for Kemp, said in a statement that Pathways had received extraordinary interest from thousands of low income, able-bodied Georgians, and the state was still fighting to reclaim the time stolen from it by the Biden administration.

The program was supposed to launch in 2021, but the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services objected to the work requirement that February and later revoked it. Georgia sued and a federal judge reinstated the work mandate in 2022.

As of June 7, 2024, Pathways had 4,318 members, according to the Georgia Department of Community Health. The agency said in an email that promotion efforts have included social media content and streaming ads on TV and radio, while a robust outreach campaign was being planned.

Pathways deserves more time to see if it reaches its potential, said Chris Denson, director of policy and research at the conservative Georgia Public Policy Foundation.

Denson said there is general agreement even among Pathways' supporters that the state could have done a better marketing job. But he said a fundamental tenet of Pathways  transitioning people through employment, job training or other qualifying activities to private insurance  is sound, particularly given that many primary care physicians in the state are not accepting new Medicaid patients.

To critics, the actual first-year figure is all the more galling given how many people full Medicaid expansion could cover at no extra cost to the state, at least initially.

An analysis by the left-leaning Georgia Budget and Policy Institute found Georgias Medicaid program would receive so much more federal funding under full expansion that in its first year the program could cover 482,000 residents for the same cost as 100,000 Pathways recipients.

North Carolina, which fully expand Medicaid in December, has enrolled nearly 500,000 people in about half the time Pathways has been in effect.

That broader Medicaid expansion was a key part of President Barack Obamas health care overhaul in 2010. In exchange for offering Medicaid to nearly all adults with incomes up to 138% of the federal poverty level, states would get more federal funding for the new enrollees.

The higher eligibility limit is $20,783 annually for a single person and $43,056 for a family of four. None of the 40 states that have accepted the deal require recipients to work in order to qualify.

But Kemp, like many other Republican governors, rejected full expansion, arguing that the state's long-term costs would end up being too high.

Republicans in the Georgia Legislature floated the possibility of full expansion in 2024 before abandoning the effort.

For now, Georgia officials show no sign of giving up on Pathways. The program is set to expire at the end of September 2025. But in February, the state sued the Biden administration to try to extend it to 2028. A federal judge heard arguments last month.
In the face of threats from Donald Trump, Vladimir Putin, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, many South Koreans now want to go nuclear.

Thats regardless of enhanced guidelines for nuclear deterrence signed by U.S. and South Korean officials on the sidelines of this weeks NATO summit in Washington, at which South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol warned against Russia providing advanced technology for North Korean weapons capable of carrying nuclear warheads.

The White House said President Biden pledged the full range of U.S. capabilities including nuclear while Yoon promised the Republic of Korea would greatly contribute to the Alliances combined defense posture. The new guidelines, said the Souths Yonhap News, were designed to help assuage deepening security concerns in South Korea and reaffirm Seouls commitment to the non-nuclear proliferation regime,

The carefully crafted verbiage was not likely, however, to head off fears that Donald Trump, if he returns to the White House, will undermine the U.S.-Korean alliance while sucking up to Russias President Putin and North Koreas Kim Jong Un.

The anxiety level in Korea about the reliability, staying power, and deterrence commitment of the U.S. is high, said Evans Revere, a former senior U.S. diplomat in Seoul and Tokyo. At its core, the concern is about Trump and the possibility he would abandon the ROK, as threatened during his presidency. At the least, Revere told The Daily Beast, he might unilaterally draw down U.S. forces, about 28,500 troops, mostly soldiers and airmen, while the new Russian-North Korean treaty makes the North a de facto permanent nuclear power.

Against the nuclear threat posed by the North, one South Korean woman, Na Kyung-won, is running for leader of the ruling People Power Party, and fighting for South Korea to develop its own nukes. Meanwhile, Trump is threatening to pull out U.S. troops if elected in November and Putin is providing expertise and technology for North Korean missiles capable of dropping warheads on the South.

Man Who Started North Korea Balloon Fight Plots Revenge for Poop Attack

A former judge who is married to a judge, Na is marshaling a campaign that polls indicate has rising support among South Koreans, to whom Trump represents almost as much of a security threat as Putin.

Sure, the alliance between the U.S. and South Korea, is functioning as a deterrent, she said while announcing her candidacy for party leadership, but it cannot guarantee changes in the future security environment. She wants the U.S., which has blocked South Korea from developing nukes for anything other than energy, to jettison that policy.

Thats a polite way of expressing widespread misgivings about Trump, who during his first term demanded that South Korea pay $5 billion a year to cover the cost of American troops defending South Korea. That demand jeopardized the future of Americas largest U.S. base overseas, Camp Humphreys, 40 miles south of Seoul, and nearby Osan Air Base. The Biden administration got the South to agree to pay $1 billion, as originally proposed.

It was on June 25, the 74th anniversary of the North Korean invasion of the South, that Na kicked a hornets nest that shows no signs of dying down by declaring that South Korea should become a nuclear power. NK News, a Seoul-based website that tracks both Koreas, reported her as saying, Now we have to arm ourselves with nuclear weapons too. Conservatives rallied behind Nas position, NK News said, reigniting a debate about nuclear weapons that had largely faded into the background since the allies sought to nip the issue in the bud last year.

The party, though, is fractured for other reasons. Na has fallen out with President Yoon for joining in criticism of Yoons wife for accepting a $2,200 Dior handbag as a giftand for supporting a scheme that did not have his approval, for rewarding couples for having babies. Since South Koreas constitution bans a president from serving more than one five-year term, however, she will not have to run against him for their partys nomination for president in 2027.

At 60, Na has earned her conservative credentials battling through the maelstrom of Korean politics, failing twice to become mayor of Seoul but being elected five times to the National Assembly, most recently in April when the opposition Democratic Party gained considerably more assembly seats than her People Power Party.

The first woman to head the assemblys foreign affairs committee, Na is all for the war games with the Americans that President Yoon has enthusiastically endorsed, and for improving South Koreas relations with Japan. She faced criticism for attending a Japanese reception in Seoul to mark the anniversary of Japans military establishment, known as the Self-Defense Forces, and has called for an end to the controversy over Koreans forced to serve as comfort women for Japanese soldiers in World War II. Na, whose daughter has Down syndrome, has led Korean organizations for those with disabilities and chaired the Korean Special Olympics.

The debate over South Korean nukes picked up steam when Trump discussed his great relationship not only with Putin but also with Kim, with whom he professed to have fallen in love at their summit in Singapore in June 2018.

The Plot to Kill Kim Jong Un

Among the worst concerns is that a future President Trump might try to get Putin to settle for holding on to what hes got in Ukraine in return for ending the warand relief from sanctions. Trump, according to this scenario, would resume his love affair with Kim while bargaining for a deal to scale down or even end war games and missile tests.

Experts debate, however, the degree to which a nuclear arsenal would contribute to the defense of the South. We are all walking into Kims political warfare trap, David Maxwell, a retired army colonel who served five tours in South Korea with the special forces, told The Daily Beast. Neither U.S. nuclear weapons in the ROK nor the ROKs development of its own nuclear weapons will significantly contribute to deterrence.

Kim is looking at these debates with pleasure because they support his major objective of dividing the alliance, Maxwell said. Those calling for nuclear weapons in the ROK are supporting KJUs political warfare strategy and are actually contributing to the weakening of deterrence.

Maxwell is just as skeptical about the return to South Korea of American nukes, which then President George H.W. Bush withdrew in 1991, as he is of the South making its own nuclear weapons. Kim, he believes, will simply exploit their presence for his own political warfare campaign generating widespread anti-nuclear protests wherever these weapons are located.

Right now, according to a detailed study by Victor Cha, a leading Korea expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies in Washington, South Koreans are fearful of the international repercussions of going nuclear, including the fallout from withdrawal from the nuclear non-proliferation treaty. A Trump victory in November, however, could bring about a shift that would persuade the South it had to match the Norths nuclear stockpile, estimated at 100 warheads, with nukes of its own.

If Trump wins and pulls out troops or cuts an ICBM deal with Kim that decouples from short and medium range ballistic missiles, Cha told The Daily Beast, then strategic elite opinions could change and policy could shift swiftly.

The shift has been underway ever since Kim and Putin hugged at the Vostochny Cosmodrome near the Amur River in Siberia last September and Putin agreed to sell the Russians millions of artillery shells, plus other munitions, for Russian forces in Ukraine.

After a lull, South Korea is suddenly talking about going nuclear again, reports NK News. Leading conservatives are endorsing nukes to defend against North Korea, reigniting debate about reliance on US military.

Pressure to go nuclear gained urgency after Putin and Kim signed a mutual defense pact in Pyongyang last month, promising to fight for each other in a future war. Assuming Russia is providing technology for the Norths satellite program, writes Korea expert Angela Stent at the Brookings Institution in Washington, Russia may well assist Kim in further developing his nuclear weapons programa matter of great concern to China, South Korea, the United States, and other Asian and European countries.

The Grim Endgame of Putin and Kim Jong Uns New Lovefest

Revere sees the confrontation cutting both ways.

A lot of domestic polling in the ROK suggests strong popular support for either a nuclear-armed South Korea or the re-introduction of U.S. tactical nuclear weapons into the ROK, he told The Daily Beast. There is a vocal domestic constituency in South Korea that is pushing for the country to go nuclear.

Trump has made his contempt for Korea and his anti-U.S.-ROK alliance views clear, Revere observes, and has spoken positively about his relations with those three dictatorsKim, Putin and Chinas President Xi Jinping. Thus, one can understand why the anxiety level among South Koreans is high.

However, Revere notes, None of the polling that Ive seen asks Koreans the tough questions about the implications of going nuclear, including the need to withdraw from the NPT, the implications of such a move on South Koreas international standing, the fact that this would effectively put an end to the goal (however remote) of denuclearizing North Korea.

Then, Revere adds yet another hazardthe possibility that anti-alliance MAGA forcesthat is, Trumpsters allied around the slogan, Make America Great Againwould seize on this move to reduce the U.S. military commitment or even end the alliance, arguing that Korea can now take care of itself.

Trump, however, is hardly inspiring confidence in the U.S. commitment to defend the South in a second Korean War.

Some believe that the establishment officials in Washington would prevent Trump from pulling US troops from the Korean Peninsula and making other moves that he hinted at, a former South Korean ambassador to Russia, Wi Sung-lac, told the Korea Herald.  That may have been the case during the first-term Trump administration, he said, but if Trump is back in the White House, things are going to be quite different.

The Herald reported conservative leaders as joining the hitherto fringe club of politicians calling for South Korea to get its own nuclear weapons to counter growing North Korean and other security threats facing the country. Or, as one national assembly member, Yu Yong-woon, put it in careful understatement, securing potential nuclear capabilities.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Former President Trump went down the line at his rally near Miami on Tuesday as his family watched from the front row.

He shouted out his son Eric Trump and his daughter-in-law Lara Trump. He recognized Donald Trump Jr. and his girlfriend, Kimberly Guilfoyle, as well as two of his grandchildren in the audience. And he singled out his son, Barron Trump, who was making his first appearance at a Trump rally since graduating high school.

But there was no sign of former first lady Melania Trump, continuing a trend that has underlined much of the former presidents 2024 campaign.

The former first lady has hardly attended any public campaign events with her husband, but she is expected to appear during the upcoming GOP convention in Wisconsin. She is not scheduled to speak, further fueling the narrative around her lack of involvement in the former presidents 2024 campaign.

At the end of the day, I think people vote for the presidential candidate, not their spouse or their vice president, or their staff, said Alex Conant, a GOP strategist who has worked on multiple presidential campaigns. Its about the person at the top of the ticket. Sure, family dynamics can be a distraction or an asset, but theyre not likely to be decisive.

The former first ladys office did not respond to requests for comment about her plans for the Republican convention, which begins Monday.

Former President Trump has frequently dismissed speculation about his wifes absence from the campaign trail, including after he was convicted on 34 felony counts over a hush money scheme to keep quiet an alleged affair with porn actor Stormy Daniels. Trump has denied the affair and said he plans to appeal the verdict.

I have a wonderful wife who has to listen to this stuff all the time, Trump said in early June. Shes fine. I think its very tough on her, but shes fine.

The role of first ladies during political conventions has evolved over the decades, said Katherine Jellison, a professor at Ohio University with an expertise on first ladies and women in politics.

First ladies began attending major party conventions regularly around the 1950s, she said, and it wasnt until Pat Nixon spoke at the 1972 Republican convention that it became regular for first ladies or spouses of candidates to address the party gatherings.

Melania Trump delivered remarks at the 2016 Republican convention, a speech that quickly attracted controversy over allegations that it plagiarized portions of a previous Michelle Obama speech. The former first lady also spoke at the 2020 convention, delivering remarks in support of then-President Trump from the White House amid the coronavirus pandemic.

But the former first lady has mostly been absent from her husbands 2024 White House bid.

She appeared at Trumps campaign launch in 2022, but she has not joined him at any of his campaign rallies; she did not appear on stage with him following victories in the Iowa caucuses, New Hampshire primary or Super Tuesday primaries; and she did not attend the first debate between Trump and President Biden.

The first lady hosted a fundraiser for the LGBTQ group Log Cabin Republicans at Mar-a-Lago in Florida in April, hosted another fundraiser for the group in New York City this week, and she appeared alongside Trump in March when the two cast their ballots in the Florida primary.

There isnt precedent for many events and choices in Trump world. Melania Trump was certainly not a conventional first lady, Jellison said.

Jellison said it would be eyebrow-raising if any recent first lady who had spent many many years in the public eye being the conventional political wife suddenly took such a low-profile approach.

But since Ms. Trump never played that conventional role to begin with and supporters dont expect her to, the fact she has chosen to largely step out of the spotlight isnt so surprising, Jellison said.

Melania Trumps absence from the campaign trail has been brought into even sharper focus given the visibility of first lady Jill Biden.

The first lady was already a prominent surrogate for President Biden, traveling abroad with him, attending donor receptions around the country and launching campaign outreach initiatives.

But Jill Biden has become a central figure in the campaign in the aftermath of the June 27 debate in which her husband delivered a halting, disastrous performance that has sparked calls from some Democrats for him to step aside as the nominee.

The first lady has faced intense scrutiny from some who argue she is urging her husband to stay in the race despite the concerns of elected officials and donors. Even former President Trump has suggested Jill Biden does not want her husband to drop out.

But the first lady has kept her focus on defeating Trump during recent campaign stops and sought to reassure voters who may be wavering on supporting her husband.

For all the talk out there about this race, Joe has made it clear that hes all in, the first lady said in North Carolina as she launched a veterans and military families initiative for the campaign.

Thats the decision that hes made, and just as he has always supported my career, I am all in, too, she said. I know you are too or you wouldnt be here today. And with four more years, Joe will continue to fight for you.

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The former first lady released a lengthy note the morning after Donald Trump was shot, calling on people to "look beyond the red and the blue"

SAUL LOEB/AFP via Getty Melania Trump at a Naturalization Ceremony in Washington, D.C., on Dec. 15, 2023

Melania Trump released an emotional statement the morning after her husband, Donald Trump, was shot at a Pennsylvania campaign rally, calling for Americans to put "love, compassion, kindness and empathy" above politics.

"When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barron's life, were on the brink of devastating change," the former first lady wrote in a statement on Sunday, July 14, also expressing sympathy for the families of bystanders who were wounded, including one who was killed.

"A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration," she said. "The core facets of my husband's life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times."

"Let us not forget that differing opinions, policy, and political games are inferior to love," she added. "Political concepts are simple when compared to us, human beings."

Related: Joe Biden Says He Is 'Grateful' that Donald Trump Is 'Safe and Doing Well' Following Campaign Rally Shooting

Melania continued, "American politics are only one vehicle that can uplift our communities. Love, compassion, kindness and empathy are necessities.

"And let us remember that when the time comes to look beyond the left and the right, beyond the red and the blue, we all come from families with the passion to fight for a better life together, while we are here, in this earthly realm."



Related: Eyewitness Describes Terrifying Moment Shots Rang Out at Trump Rally: 'And Then The President Went Down'

Anna Moneymaker/Getty Donald Trump pumps his fist in the air before he is rushed off stage during a rally on July 13, 2024

Declaring that "dawn is here again," Melania said, "This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence."

"We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realize this world again. Each of us must demand to get it back. We must insist that respect fills the cornerstone of our relationships again," she wrote.

Related:

Former President Trump was mid-speech at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., on July 13, when gunfire rang out. Secret Service agents rushed the stage and surrounded the former president, whose ear was grazed by a bullet.

The suspected shooter, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by Secret Service agents, but not before a bystander was fatally shot and two more critically wounded. A motive for the shooting has not yet been determined.

In a statement given to PEOPLE, the Trump campaign said the former president was "fine" and was "being checked out at a local medical facility." His campaign confirmed that the Republican National Convention, which begins in Milwaukee on Monday, July 15, would move forward as planned.

Never miss a story  sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer.

In the wake of the incident, several Democratic lawmakers spoke out against the violence, including President Joe Biden, who called it "sick."

That's one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," Biden said in live, televised remarks.

"The bottom line is, the Trump rally is a rally that he should have been able to conduct peacefully without any problem," he continued. "But the idea that theres political violence, or violence in America like this, is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it. Everybody."

An official for Biden's 2024 reelection campaign said shortly after the shooting that they would be pulling down their television ads "as quickly as possible."

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U.S. Sen. Angus King (I-ME) speaks to reporters at the U.S. Capitol October 26, 2021 in Washington, DC. (Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine delegation reacts

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Political violence of any kind is never acceptable. Ever. My thoughts are with the former President, his family, and those who were in attendance, U.S. Rep. Chellie Pingree wrote on X.

Independent U.S. Sen. Angus King said he is glad to hear former President Trump is safe and wish him a speedy recovery.

We can disagree on politics, but political violence of any kind is wrong and antithetical to the core American values we believe in, King wrote on X.

I am praying for former President Trump and others at the rally today in PA, as well as for law enforcement on the scene. I pray whoever is responsible is quickly apprehended and held accountable, U.S. Rep. Jared Golden wrote on social media.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

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Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

The post Members of Congress condemn violence after shots seemingly fired at Trump rally appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

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The post Members of Congress condemn violence after shots seemingly fired at Trump rally appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker| Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

North Dakota officials respond

Gov. Doug Burgum, who has frequently been campaigning for Trump but was not in attendance at the rally, posted on social media: Please join Kathryn and me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today, and We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it.

In a statement, U.S. Sen. Kevin Cramer said, Kris and I and our family are praying for President Trump and all victims of todays horrifying shooting. We are grateful to God President Trump is OK and mourn this senseless tragedy. Its time to unite in prayer for our nation. God Bless our first responders and America!

In a social media post, U.S. Sen. John Hoeven said, Mikey and I are praying for Former President Trumps swift recovery from the injuries he sustained, as well as for his family and the safety of all those attending the rally. We appreciate the Secret Service and all law enforcement, and must join together to condemn violence.

U.S. Rep. Kelly Armstrong said in a text message he and his wife, Kjersti, are grateful Trump survived. We are praying for the people who were killed or injured. Thank you to the Secret Service and all of the law enforcement officers who acted quickly and without regard for their own safety, he said.

 North Dakota Monitor

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. | Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

The post Members of Congress condemn violence after shots seemingly fired at Trump rally appeared first on Michigan Advance.
A man in a suit being taken off a stage

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

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Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

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BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

The post Members of Congress condemn violence after shots fired at Trump rally appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker / Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after shots rang out during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after shots rang out during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

On X (formerly Twitter), Sen. John Thune, R-South Dakota, referenced his wife, Kimberley, and said they are praying for the safety of President Trump and everyone who attended the rally in Pennsylvania, and Im carefully monitoring the situation.

His fellow South Dakota Republican Sen. Mike Rounds posted, Relieved to hear that the former President is doing well. Incredibly sad to hear of the rally attendee who was killed. Continuing to pray for those in attendance and the families of those killed and injured. Thank you to all of the first responders.

U.S. Rep. Dusty Johnson, R-South Dakota, posted, Praying for President Trump.

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Speaker Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Speaker Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Possible gunshots at former President Trumps rally in Butler, PA. Secret Service escort Trump off the stage. pic.twitter.com/ckqyjF3S97  CSPAN (@cspan) July 13, 2024

Video of the shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. (C-SPAN via X)

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

 South Dakota Searchlight contributed to this report.
: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Rep. Jeff Duncan of South Carolina called on Americans to pray for Trump, his family, the family of the killed rally attendee, and the nation as a whole.

Let me be clear, the violent rhetoric in American politics must end now! said South Carolinas Third District congressman, who is not seeking re-election. We can vigorously debate policies, but violence should never be allowed.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
CAPTION: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

Oregon reaction

Oregons Republican leaders in the Legislature also released statements in reaction to the shooting. Senate Republican Leader Daniel Bonham of The Dalles called for bipartisan unity: Today, we should all be reminded that violence has absolutely no place in our political discourse. It threatens our country and the principles upon which it was built. This violent attack is not just an assault on one individual but on our collective values. This moment transcends political affiliations and ideologies.

House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich of Hood River struck a partisan tone, casting blame on Democrats by saying their over-the-top partisan rhetoric about fake threats to democracy have contributed to this. He added: We settle disputes in this country with our votes, not violence.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

SUBSCRIBE: GET THE MORNING HEADLINES DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) (This image cannot be republished unless you have a Getty subscription.)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

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: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage.

Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press.

The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday.

Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd.

Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement.

Praying for President Trump

Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump.

Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe.

Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote.

Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally.

Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement.

House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Members of Congress react with horror

Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania.

(A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media.

Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified.

Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts.

Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know.

Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote.

Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America.

Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation.

Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling.

Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote.

Quick response

Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene.

My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media.

House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country.

House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA,

Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X.

Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted.

Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump.

We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.
A febrile nation was pitched into new turmoil on Saturday.

The cause was an apparent assassination attempt against former President Trump.

The scene, at a rally in Butler, Pa., echoed around the world in an instant. It will be replayed for days, weeks and years to come.

The images came in chaotic succession. First the sound of shots and Trump bundled to the ground by protective agents. Then, the former president rising with a clenched fist and blood around his right ear. Trump walked  apparently under his own power but with the knot of agents still tight around him  to waiting vehicles and was ferried away.

The difference of just an inch or two might have protected Trump from a far worse tragedy.

In a social media post, he wrote that he had been shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear and that he had immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Trump avoided the darkest fate of all. But one rally-goer, yet to be named, was killed. The presumed shooter, named by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks (20) of Bethel Park, Pa., is also dead. Two people are reported to have been injured.

The attack on Trump was condemned instantly by politicians of all ideological hues.

President Biden appeared for a short, hastily convened event in Rehoboth Beach, Del., where he had planned to spend the weekend.

There is no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country.

Biden also said he had tried to contact Trump, only to learn his predecessor was with his doctors. A White House official said the president spoke with Trump later. Soon afterward, Biden returned to Washington.

There were condemnations from other senior Democrats, including Senate Majority Leader Charles Schumer (N.Y.), House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (N.Y.) and former President Obama.

The same was true on the Republican side, where former President Bush, Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (Ky.) and Speaker Mike Johnson (La.) were among the many voices condemning the attempt on Trumps life.

Johnson called it a horrific act of political violence which should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

But if there was near-unanimity in the condemnation of the act itself, there were also instant signs of a fraying around the edges.

Some Republicans hit out at Democrats for what they see as an unfair demonization of the former president  a dynamic that, they argue, created fertile ground for violence.

Meanwhile, left-of-center Americans believe, with just as much conviction, that it is Trump himself who has has been the prime mover in injecting a dangerous toxicity into the bloodstream of American public life.

Right now, there is much that remains unknown about the event itself, including the apparent shooters precise motivation.

There will, too, clearly be grave issues for the Secret Service to address. The bravery of the agents who flung themselves around Trump will not erase the bigger question of how a would-be assassin came so close to killing a former president at a public event in broad daylight.

The shocking event will of course have political ramifications.

Right now, the plan is for the Republican National Convention to go ahead as scheduled, opening in Milwaukee on Monday.

But a convention that would have been expected to have glitz but little real news  beyond Trumps choice of running mate and his own Thursday acceptance speech  will now inevitably be transformed.

Trump will be accorded a heroic status by those in attendance, who will be celebrating his literal survival, not just his political resilience.

The criticism that such an event would otherwise draw, from the media as well as from political opponents, will surely have a muted, and perhaps awkward, quality.

In terms of the raw electoral calculus, even so polarizing a figure as Trump can surely be expected to gain some level of increased support. Any soft Trump supporters will be reinforced in their allegiance now.

In a dark and strange irony, Biden could also be a political beneficiary of the shocking events of Saturday.

The president has been pilloried by many within his own party following his dismal debate performance in Atlanta on June 27. His hold on the Democratic nomination had grown exceedingly fragile.

But now, it seems sure that the national conversation will be dominated by calls for civility and unity  and by a measure of pure patriotism.

As a practical matter, it will be harder for Bidens internal opponents to shove him aside in such an atmosphere.

Whether the attempt to kill Trump really does bring forth a more civil tone in American politics seems highly questionable. The perverse incentives that favor the outrageous and inflammatory did not disappear in the chaos at Butler.

There is more uncertainty ahead.

For now, it may be enough that the nation avoided a deeper, more convulsive trauma, by the tiniest of margins.

The Memo is a reported column by Niall Stanage.

This story was updated as new details became available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. | Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

A chaotic scene unfolded after gunshots rang out at a former President Donald Trump rally Saturday in Butler, Penn., with law enforcement confirming that an attendee and the shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, are dead. Trump said that a bullet grazed his ear, but his campaign said he was fine after being rushed to a hospital.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, Trump wrote on social media.

Reactions to the shooting from Michigan elected officials from both sides have poured in.

Shots were just fired at President Trump. Please stop what youre doing and pray. Pray for President Trump. Pray for those in attendance. Pray for our heroic Law Enforcement. Pray for our Country. This has no place in America, U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain (R-Bruce Twp.) said.

U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar (R-Midland) said, Praying for President Trump and everyone at his rally today, while U.S. Rep. Tim Walberg said, Praying for President Trump. And Michigan GOP Chair Pete Hoekstra said, Pray for President Trump and America.

U.S. Rep. John James (R-Shelby Twp.) posted several times Saturday on social media, first writing,Please pray for President Trump, and all those involved, following the shooting that took place at his rally today.

Then James posted:

Bleeding from the head and his first instinct is to reassure his troops! What a hero! pic.twitter.com/1AND5oh8M0  John James (@JohnJamesMI) July 13, 2024

And he then tweeted:

They tried to silence him.

They tried to jail him.

Now theyve tried to kill him. pic.twitter.com/cZriwreOAx  John James (@JohnJamesMI) July 13, 2024

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, a Democrat who was the subject of a kidnapping and assassination plot in response to her pandemic health orders in 2020, said she was horrified by the incident.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences. I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately, Whitmer said.

U.S. Rep. Dale Kildee said, Violence is never the answer. I am glad the former President is safe. Hoping that others in attendance at todays rally are too. I am following this situation closely and thankful for the Secret Service and law enforcement for responding immediately to this terrible incident.

U.S. Rep. Shri Thanedar said, My thoughts are with former President Trump and the Trump family. Violence like this has no place in our nation.

Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson condemned political violence.

Political violence is unacceptable, anytime, anywhere, against anyone. I pray for the swift recovery of the former president and am grateful for all in law enforcement who stepped in to protect everyone at the rally from further violence. May this disturbing incident provide a turning point  away from hateful rhetoric and threats and towards civility for all, Benson said.

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The post Michigan leaders send prayers to Trump after shooting, condemn political violence appeared first on Michigan Advance.
Michigan Republicans on Saturday night voiced their concerns for the well-being of former President Donald Trump after he was rushed from a rally stage in Pennsylvania with blood on his face after an apparent assassination attempt.

"There's so much we don't know," said former U.S. Rep. Pete Hoekstra, the chairman of the Michigan Republican Party. "My only message is pray for the president and for the country."

Hoekstra said he had heard that the president appeared to be fine following the incident shortly after a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, got underway. Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung issued a statement saying the former president was "fine and is being checked out a local medical facility."

Trump is running for reelection as a Republican against President Joe Biden. Trump's nominating convention is set to begin this week in Milwaukee, with thousands of delegates on hand.

Hoekstra said Saturday evening that people he spoke to "said it sounded like a gunshot." The FBI confirmed later Saturday night that Trump was the target of a would-be assassin and that the gunman and an innocent bystander at the rally were killed.

Hoekstra served as Trump's ambassador to the Netherlands when he was president and who the former president endorsed to become Michigan's GOP chairman ahead of this year's elections.

Other Republican figures weighed in concerns and well-wishes for the former president as well. Former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Brighton, who Trump endorsed in the race this year for Michigan's open U.S. Senate seat, issued a statement on the social media platform X, formerly known as Twitter.

"This is a somber moment for our nation. We are praying for President Trump and all Americans today," Rogers said.

Former state Sen. Tom Barrett, R-Charlotte, who is running for the open U.S. House seat for Michigan's 7th Congressional District, also posted on X, "Ashley (his wife) and I are praying for President Trump and any innocent attendees who may have been hurt at today's rally in Pennsylvania. Violence has no place in politics."

God Bless President Trump.

We are praying for you!  pic.twitter.com/BztuUWpeds  Representative Lisa McClain (@RepLisaMcClain) July 13, 2024

U.S. Rep. Lisa McClain, R-Bruce Township, who is a close ally of the former president's, posted a photo of Trump's face smeared with blood and raising his fist to the crowds, with the comment, "God Bless President Trump. We are praying for you!" U.S. Rep. John Moolenaar, R-Caledonia., wrote on social media, "Praying for President Trump and everyone at his rally today."

U.S. Rep. John James, R-Shelby Township, posted several messages, beginning with one saying, "Please pray for President Trump, and all those involved, following the shooting that took place at his rally today."

He followed that up with another, posting the same photo McClain did, saying, "Bleeding from the head and his first instinct is to reassure his troops! What a hero!"

Then he posted a third, saying, "They tried to silence him. They tried to jail him. Now theyve tried to kill him."

They tried to silence him.

They tried to jail him.

Now theyve tried to kill him. pic.twitter.com/cZriwreOAx  John James (@JohnJamesMI) July 13, 2024

Several Michigan Democrats reacted as well, including Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who is no stranger to the prospect of political violence after several men were accused and convicted of a plot to kidnap her four years ago.

"There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences," Whitmer wrote on X. "I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately."

U.S. Rep. Dan Kildee, D-Flint Township, also posted a message on X, saying, "Violence is never the answer. I am glad the former President is safe. Hoping that others in attendance at todays rally are too."

"I am watching the news from the Trump rally and hoping for the safety of the former president," U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, who is running for the open U.S. Senate seat as a Democrat, posted on social media. "Im thankful for the swift response from the Secret Service and law enforcement. Political violence has no place in our country and I wholly condemn it, as all Americans should."

Pennsylvania, like Michigan, is a hotly contested swing state in this year's presidential election. Trump was last in Michigan holding a roundtable discussion at a Detroit church in mid-June. Biden campaigned at a rally in Detroit on Friday night.

Contact Todd Spangler: tspangler@freepress.com. Follow him on Twitter@tsspangler.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Michigan politicians react to Trump rally shooting: 'Horrified'
Mind the mangroves! Some Kenyans combat the threat of logging with hidden beehives

Peter Nyongesa walks through the mangroves to monitor his beehives in Bangladesh slums, Mombasa county, Kenya Thursday, May 30, 2024. The 69-year-old Nyongesa recalled how he would plead unsuccessfully with loggers to spare the mangroves or cut only the mature ones while leaving the younger ones intact. So he has turned to deterring the loggers with bees, hidden in the mangroves and ready to sting. (AP Photo/Gideon Maundu)

MOMBASA, Kenya (AP)  Dressed in protective clothing and armed with a smoker, Peter Nyongesa walked through the mangroves to monitor his beehives along the Indian Ocean coastline.

The 69-year-old Nyongesa recalled how he would plead unsuccessfully with loggers to spare the mangroves or cut only the mature ones while leaving the younger ones intact.

But they would retort that the trees do not belong to anyone but God, he said.

So he has turned to deterring the loggers with bees, hidden in the mangroves and ready to sting.

Their hives now dot a section of coastline in Kenya's main port city of Mombasa in an effort to deter people who chop mangroves for firewood or home construction. It's part of a local conservation initiative.

When people realize that something is beneficial to them, they do not consider the harm that comes with it, Nyongesa said of the loggers.

Mangroves, which thrive in salty water, help in preventing erosion and absorbing the impact of severe weather events such as cyclones.

But more than half of the worlds mangrove ecosystems are at risk of collapse, according to the first global mangrove assessment for the International Union for Conservation of Nature Red List of Ecosystems released in May.

Mangroves are threatened by illegal logging, climate change and rising seas, pollution and urban development. According to a Kenya environment ministry report in 2018, about 40% of mangroves along the Indian Ocean coast are degraded.

In Mombasa county, its estimated that almost 50% of the total mangrove area there  1,850 hectares (4,570 acres)  is degraded.

Such overall degradation has slowed in Kenya, which in 2017 developed a 10-year plan to have community conservation efforts manage mangroves. But the efforts have been incomplete because of inadequate resources.

Communities are doing what they can. James Kairo, a research scientist at the Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, said initiatives such as beekeeping are helping. Their honey also brings in community income.

Mangrove honey is also classified as top quality and medicinal," he added. This could be due to the environment that mangroves thrives in" and what they absorb from their surroundings.

Nyongesa now has 11 beehives and harvests about 8 liters (2 gallons) of honey per hive every three months. Each liter earns him $6, a valuable source of income.

When Nyongesa started beekeeping 25 years ago, he didn't know anything about the threat to mangroves or how his bees could help.

He became involved in 2019, when he joined a local conservation group called Tulinde Mikoko, Swahili for Lets Protect Mangroves. The group adopted his beekeeping as a community initiative along with mangrove planting. Members also serve as custodians of the mangroves and try to stop loggers.

The group has concealed beehives in the top branches of mangroves as silent guardians. The bees are meant to attack unsuspecting loggers.

We positioned them at the peak where they cant be spotted with ease, said Bibiana Nanjilula, the Tulinde Mikoko founder. As such, when the loggers start cutting down whichever tree, the bees will attack due to the noise."

The group hopes the tactic is working but has found it hard to measure its effects in the relatively difficult to access areas.

The bees also play a crucial role as pollinators. As they forage among the mangrove flowers, they transfer pollen from one flower to another, facilitating plants' reproduction.

The healthier the mangroves are, probably the more productive the honey production will be," said Jared Bosire, project manager for the UNEP-Nairobi Convention, who said they encourage the integration of livelihoods with conservation. The office is a project of the United Nations Environment Program, based in Nairobi.

Kenya has 54,430 hectares (134,500 acres) of mangroves remaining, and they contribute $85 million per year to the national economy, according to a report by the Global Mangrove Alliance in 2022.

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For more on Africa and development: https://apnews.com/hub/africa-pulse

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The Associated Press receives financial support for global health and development coverage in Africa from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation Trust. The AP is solely responsible for all content. Find APs standards for working with philanthropies, a list of supporters and funded coverage areas at AP.org.
What Minnesota leaders say after the shooting of former President Trump

Minnesota lawmakers offered prayers and support Saturday after Donald Trump was shot during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh.

The former president was taken to a hospital and was safe. At least one person at the rally, who officials have not identified, was killed in the shooting. Two others are in critical condition at Allegheny Hospital, according to CBS.

Several of Minnesota's political leaders swiftly spoke out following the shooting:

House Majority Whip, U.S. Rep. Tom Emmer, R-Minn., wrote on social media that he and his wife are praying for the former president.

More: Photos of Trump shooting See in photos how a shooting at Donald Trump's rally unfolded

"Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally," Emmer said. "President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever."

Leaders from across the aisles are also saddened by the event, expressing violence has no place in the nation.

U.S. Sen. Amy Klobuchar, D-Minn., released a statement regarding the shooting in Pennsylvania.

I am horrified by what happened at the rally today, Klobuchar said in a release. My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump, his family, those injured and the family of the rally participant who was killed. Violence has absolutely no place in our democracy.

House Minority Leader Lisa Demuth, R-Cold Spring, issued a statement regarding the shooting at Saturday's Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

Im praying for President Trump and all of the attendees of the rally today in Pennsylvania, and extremely grateful for the heroic work of the Secret Service who moved quickly to eliminate the threat," Demuth said in a release. The right to peacefully assemble is fundamental in our country, and this horrific act of violence is rightfully being condemned across the political spectrum. With at least one victim tragically killed, I hope the country can come together for a moment of prayer and unity as we process this horrific tragedy.

More: Trump rushed to hospital Trump shot in ear in apparent assassination attempt at rally; 1 attendee dead, 2 seriously injured

Sen. Mark Johnson, R-East Grand Forks, called for an end to violence.

My prayers are with President Trump, the attendees and the injured after this terrifying event. Pray also for our law enforcement officers who moved swiftly to protect as many people as they could," Johnson said in a release. "Violence has no place in our political discourse. Finally, I am praying for the safety and peace of every American to speak, associate, organize, and vote  freely and without fear.

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Trump said in a social media post that he was injured when a bullet hit his right ear.

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump wrote on social media. "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. God Bless America!"

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, CBS, CNN and other outlets reported.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: Trump shot in Pennsylvania; Minnesota leaders speak out
The Mirage in Las Vegas is set to close its doors on July 17 and tourists are getting in their final goodbyes (Getty Images)

The Mirage casino in Las Vegas is permanently set to close its doors next week but not before giving away over $1 million in jackpot money.

The casino will soon be replaced by a new Hard Rock Las Vegas - ending the tenure of one of the resorts that ushered in a new casino boom in Las Vegas in the 1990s. The Mirages last day of casino operations is July 17, according to KTNV.

Nevada gambling policy requires closing casinos to pay out its progressive jackpots, meaning $1.2m needs to be claimed by players at slots and another $400,000 at table games before Tuesday.

Its sad; it feels like its been here forever, William De Leon, a tourist from Colorado, told the outlet.

Alex Guevara, also from Colorado, agreed. Dope casino. We are sad to see it leave, and we are excited to be here.

Thousands of visitors were expected to arrive at the casino to try their luck at securing some of the jackpot winnings.

Some of us are struggling so lets see if we win something, Miriam Perez, a visitor from California, told KTNV.

The Mirage in Las Vegas is set to close its doors on July 17 and tourists are getting in their final goodbyes (Getty Images)

Officials announced plans to close the casino in May, while simultaneously announcing that the new Hard Rock Hotel and Casino and Guitar Hotel Las Vegas would take its place.

Wed like to thank the Las Vegas community and team members for warmly welcoming Hard Rock International, said Jim Allen, chairman of Hard Rock International.

Wed also like to thank the Unions, community leaders, local and state government organizations and the Gaming Commission for their support and fair negotiations over the past year. Also, we are grateful to MGM for assisting with our transition.

Anyone with a reservation scheduled for after July 14, will be automatically canceled and refunded, the outlet reported. Guests that had booked with a third-party provider or online travel agency will also automatically be canceled. However, those customers should contact the booking party for rebooking availability and possible refunds.

Hard Rock International purchased the casino in December 2021.

Plans for the new hotel include 800 to 1,000 hotel rooms and renovating existing rooms. About 1,800 slot machines and 200 table games will sit on the new casino floor.

New event areas, meeting spaces and 3,000 theater seats are also part of the blueprints.

We love everything about the Mirage. The set up they have over here with the water fountains is so beautiful its going to be so sad to see that gone, De Leon told KTNV.
Missing 12-year-old girl may be in Florida, deputies say

Missing 12-year-old girl may be in Florida, deputies say

TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Officials are still searching for a missing 12-year-old girl from Georgia, and they believe she could be in Florida.

Maria Gomez-Perez, of Georgia, was last seen six weeks ago when she went missing from her home on Westside Drive in Gainesville, Georgia the night of May 29, according to the Hall County Sheriffs Office.

Suspect on the loose after Tampa police find man dead

The girl left her house after speaking to someone on the phone. Officials said she hasnt been seen or heard from since.

Our only goal is to find Maria and bring her home, Sheriff Gerald Couch said.

Gomez-Perez is described as a Hispanic/Latino girl, at 53, weighing 110 pounds.

Hall County Sheriffs Office

The sheriffs office said searches spanning across several states have been conducted, including Florida, Alabama, South Carolina, Texas, Tennessee, Illinois, and Maryland.

Corrections officer arrested for using fraudulent handicap tag at Publix, Polk deputies say

The team is using resources including intelligence, translators, drones, crime scene investigators and simple determination to find clues.

A $50,000 reward is being offered for the childs safe return.

In the sixth week since Maria was last seen, assistance from our community remains helpful in ensuring this case remains in the spotlight, the Sheriff added. Whether pledging reward money, organizing signage or sharing fliers, each one of you is appreciated. It is also important to note that scammers have tried to take advantage of this incident using social media. Please remember that the sheriffs office social media platforms should be your point of reference for legitimate and accurate information on the case.

Anyone with tips or any information is asked to call 770-503-3232 or email intelrequest@hallcounty.org.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Missing 66-year-old man last seen leaving Englewood home on bicycle

CHICAGO  A search is underway on Saturday for a missing man who officers say was last seen leaving his South Side home.

Officers say 66-year-old Calvin Swans has been missing from his Englewood home since Friday, July 12.

LATEST CASES: Missing people in Chicagoland

According to police, the missing man was last seen by family members, when he left home on a bicycle.

Swans, who stands 5-foot-9 and weighs around 130 pounds, has black hair and brown eyes.

Officers say Swans was last seen wearing a white t-shirt, black jeans and black gym shoes.

66-year-old Calvin Swans has been missing from his Englewood home since Friday, July 12, according to Chicago police.

In a photograph provided by Chicago police, Swans can be seen with a grey beard, however, it is unclear if he had one at the time of his disappearance.

Police notified the public about the missing mans disappearance in a news release sent out on Saturday afternoon.

Read more: Latest Chicago news headlines

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of 66-year-old Calvin Swans is asked to contact CPD Area 1 Detectives at 312-747-8380 or dial 911.

Those with information that could help authorities in their investigation can also leave a tip at CPDtip.com. Tips can be filed anonymously.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WGN-TV.
More than 2,000 patients potentially exposed to HIV and Hepatitis by an anesthesiologist

An Oregon anesthesiologist has been suspended after he may have exposed patients at Portland-area hospitals to infectious disease (Alamy/PA)

An Oregon anesthesiologist has been suspended after he may have exposed patients at Portland-area hospitals to infectious diseases.

Over 2,000 patients at Providence Portland Willamette Falls Medical Center and Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center, in the Portland area, have been informed they may have been exposed to HIV and Hepatitis, according to KGW8.

Legacy Health, a hospital operator that had some of its facilities impacted, announced it would be sending letters to 221 patients it thought had been impacted, the outlet reported.

The infection control breach came from a third-party anesthesiologist who had been contracted through the Oregon Anesthesiology Group. The doctor had been providing care at Legacy Mount Hood Medical Center for a six-month period.

He started the role in December 2023, the outlet reported.

Upon learning of this situation, we immediately suspended the provider and launched a comprehensive investigation in accordance with regulations and with our policies and procedures, Legacy Health said in a statement.

According to the outlet, Providence said that 2,200 patients at Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center and two at its Portland Medical Center facility were being notified of the breach.

The organization also told KGW8 the outbreak had to do with one medical professional, who is no longer employed by the anesthesiology group. Legacy switched to another provider which caused hundreds of surgeries to be delayed, KGW8 reported.

An Oregon anesthesiologist has been suspended after he may have exposed patients at Portland-area hospitals to infectious diseases (Alamy/PA) (Alamy/PA)

Neither of the organizations provided details on how patients may have been directly exposed to the diseases. However, Providence said their patients were put at a low risk of exposure to hepatitis B and C and HIV.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are encouraging these patients to get a blood test to screen for the aforementioned infections, at no cost. If a patient tests positive, Providence will reach out to discuss their test results and next steps, the company said.

Patient safety is our number one priority and our patients have our full commitment to a thorough review of this issue and appropriate action.

In a statement, Oregon Anesthesiology Group, the company that employed the anesthesiologist in question, said:

The safety of our patients is our top priority. When we learned that the physician had violated infection control practices, we suspended him, informed our partners Legacy Health and Providence and then began an investigation that resulted in the physicians termination.

Even though the risk of infection was low, new protocols and procedures have been put in place to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The Oregon Health Authority said it did not know of any illnesses related to the potential breach.

The physician at the center of the scandal allegedly used unacceptable infection control practices, which put patients at risk of infections, a statement released by the agency said.

While news of this infection control breach at Legacy Mt Hood Medical Center and Providence Willamette Falls Medical Center may be distressing for some people, its important to know that Oregons health care providers employ highly qualified and skilled infection preventionists and laboratory staff who lead the charge to prevent health care-associated infections.
Motorcyclist crashes on I-5 in Lynnwood, sparking roadside fire

A motorcyclist was seriously injured after crashing on an Interstate 5 off-ramp in the Lynnwood area, starting a roadside fire late Saturday night.

According to a press memo from the Washington State Patrol, the 21-year-old motorcyclist from Bothell was exiting I-5 to head to Interstate 405 southbound, when he crossed over the gore point and both lanes of the exit. The gore point is the area between a roadway and an entrance or exit ramp, where the road forks in two directions.

The motorcycle reportedly left the roadway, struck a ditch, and became engulfed in flames. The rider was ejected from the bike as it crashed, but both he and the bike landed in the ditch on the right shoulder of the highway.

Trooper Kelsey Harding with the Washington State Patrol reported the crash around 10 p.m., asking drivers to move carefully through the area as troopers investigated.

#Lynnwood S5 MP182 there is a serious injury MC collision. Please drive carefully through the area as troopers are on scene investigating this collision.  Trooper Kelsey Harding (@wspd7pio) July 14, 2024

The Washington State Department of Transportation also reported the crash, asking drivers to seek alternate routes.

Fire and State Patrol responded to the scene, and by 2:15 a.m. the collision had been cleared with all lanes reopened.

The motorcyclist was taken to Harborview Medical Center for treatment.

UPDATE: The SB I-5 off-ramp to I-405 in #Alderwood is fully blocked after a collision. Fire and State Patrol are on scene.



Seek alternate routes. https://t.co/GRfdtn1NPL pic.twitter.com/qf41NMOgwp  WSDOT Traffic (@wsdot_traffic) July 14, 2024




Motorcyclist killed after striking back of pickup truck on Interstate 95 near Palm Coast

A Missouri motorcyclist was killed Saturday night in a crash on Interstate 95 near Palm Coast, the Florida Highway Patrol said.

The crash occurred at 11:40 p.m.

State troopers said the 40-year-old man from Baldwin, Missouri, was riding his motorcycle north on I-95 behind a pickup truck. The motorcycle struck the back of the pickup and the rider was thrown from the bike.

The motorcyclist died on the paved median of the highway, troopers said.

The driver of the pickup, a 51-year-old Palm Coast man, and his passengers, a 49-year-old woman, and two boys, ages 10 and 11, also of Palm Coast, were not injured, troopers said.

The crash remains under investigation.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Florida interstate crash kills Missouri man near Palm Coast
MEMPHIS, Tenn.  A man was charged with aggravated assault after police say he stabbed his brother after an argument.

On Friday at 11:14 p.m., officers responded to a wounding call in the 1000 block of N. Watkins Street.

When they arrived, they spoke with the victim who said he and his brother Antonio Burrows got into an argument over the victim telling him to calm down.

Attempted murder suspect found after getting shot in foot

Thats when the victim said that Burrows got upset and went and grabbed a kitchen knife. He began heading towards the victim with the knife, but their mother stepped in front of him.

Burrows allegedly pushed her out of the way and stabbed the victim in the lower stomach.

According to the police report, when officers arrived, they saw a knife partially hanging from the victims stomach. When he lifted his shirt, the blade fell out.

Burrows said that he didnt do anything, but witnesses told a different story.

Man accused of strangling ex-girlfriend, her friend

The mother of the brothers said she saw Burrows stab her other son with a fork in the stomach.

Two other witnesses told officers that they saw Burrows stab the victim with a kitchen knife in the stomach.

Officers located a handle-less serrated knife where they saw the blade fall from the victim. They took pictures and the knife blade was collected for evidence.

Burrows was taken into custody on Saturday. His bond was set at $20,000.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WREG.com.
Mississippis leaders asked for prayers Saturday evening after what authorities are describing as an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally for former President Donald Trump.

A series of loud pops rang out, then Secret Service agents tackled the former president, whose ear and face were bloodied. A Trump spokesman said Saturday night the former President is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

Authorities said a shooter and one person who attended the rally are dead. Two spectators were critically injured after the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, according to the Secret Service.

Gov. Tate Reeves posted on social media Saturday evening and asked for prayers for the former president.

Pray for the Trump family! Reeves wrote. Pray for the attendees at the rally! And please...pray for America!

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa, on Saturday, July, 13, 2024. Trump was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents and into his motorcade just minutes into his rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, after a series of pops that sounded like gunshots rang out. (Doug Mills/The New York Times)

Much about the chaos remained unclear Saturday night. Authorities identified the suspected shooter as a 20-year-old from Pennsylvania named Thomas Matthew Crooks. No additional information was released about him Sunday morning.

Prayers for President Trump, Sen. Roger Wicker posted. Glad he was able to walk away.

Rep. Mike Ezell, the former Jackson County sheriff who represents South Mississippi in congress, thanked first responders and Secret Service for their quick action.

He said he and his wife are praying for President Trump.

President Joe Biden and Democrats around the country condemned the violence and expressed relief that Trump did not appear to be badly hurt.

Political violence is wrong against anyone, anywhere, anytime, Brandon Presley, a Democrat who unsuccessfully challenged Reeves in the governors race last year, wrote on social media.

State Rep. Kevin Felsher, a Republican who represents parts of Harrison County, condemned the scene at the rally and offered support for Trump.

Pray that our Country can be a place where civil discourse can occur without violence, he wrote on Facebook. We are better than this.

Pray for President Donald Trump!



Pray for the Trump family!



Pray for the attendees at the rally!



And pleasePray for America!



Gods protection and grace, along with the vigilance of patriots, is the only shield against evil. pic.twitter.com/gu6dFYX1Fl  Governor Tate Reeves (@tatereeves) July 13, 2024

This is a developing story and may be updated.
A group of Mississippi Republicans are calling for U.S. House Rep. Bennie Thompson, D-Miss., to resign after a now former staffer posted support for a failed assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

In posts made on X Sunday, State Auditor Shad White and others called out Thompson for hiring radical staff, referring to Jacqueline Marsaw, a field director who said the man who shot at Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, should have practiced his aim better so that he wouldn't "miss next time."

Read about Marsaw's post Bennie Thompson staffer's Facebook page posts 'don't miss next time' after Trump shooting

White also said Thompson should give up his seat in the U.S. House because he filed a bill earlier this year that seeks to take away Trump's Secret Service detail as a convicted felon. That bill is currently being considered in the U.S. House Judiciary Committee.

Bennie Thompsonthe Mississippi congressman who tried to strip President Trump of Secret Service protection and whose aide apparently wished on social media that the shooters aim had been bettershould resign TODAY. @DonaldJTrumpJr  Shad White (@shadwhite) July 14, 2024

"Bennie Thompson is an embarrassment to the state," White told the Clarion Ledger on Sunday. "It was completely irresponsible when he proposed legislation to take away President Trumps Secret Service protection. He is one of the most senior Democrats on the U.S. House Homeland Security committee, so he knows better. In my opinion he wanted to endanger President Trumps life to score some political points. He has clearly hired and promoted nut job staffers, as one openly called for President Trumps assassination. Thompson should resign immediately."

The Mississippi Republican Party, which previously called for Marsaw to resign Saturday night, posted to X later Sunday that Thompson needed to quit, too, noting Marsaw's post, his Secret Service removal bill and the Jan. 6, 2021, riot investigation committee that he sat on.

Mississippi GOP Chair Mike Hurst told the Clarion Ledger the demand came from several places, including that Thompson shows animosity toward Trump, the Jan. 6 committee hearings and a lack of response on Marsaw's actions Saturday night, among other reasons.

"Congressman Thompson fired the lady, thank goodness, but he still doesn't condemn what she said," Hurst said. "He hasn't condemned what anyone else has said either that continues to escalate the tension between Americans. I mean, we've got to have some grownups in the room, and right now, Congressman Thompson is not one of them."

Thompson, who told the Clarion Ledger that Marsaw, as of Sunday, is no longer in his employment, stood by his bill in a response to those scrutinizing his piece of legislation.

According to the U.S. Legislature website, the bill would only remove Secret Service protection for convicted felons upon sentencing. Trump was convicted of 34 counts of falsifying business records in May in New York, but he has not been sentenced.

Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. Donald Trump was hit in the ear in an apparent assassination attempt by a gunman at a campaign rally on Saturday. Sunday, Mississippi State Auditor Shad White called for U.S. Congressman Bennie Thompson to resign after one of his staffers posted support for the would be assassin.

"My bill would not have affected the Secret Service's presence during this tragic event," Thompson said. "It aims to clarify lines of authority when a protectee is sentenced to prison and is in the custody of another law enforcement agency. That does not apply to the former President."

On Saturday, while Trump was giving a speech to a crowd of thousands in Butler, Pennsylvania, several shots rang out through the crowd, killing at least one person, slightly injuring Trump and seriously wounding two others.

According to reporting by the USA Today Network, Trump was not seriously injured, and the shooter was identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

U.S. House Rep. Bennie Thompson speaks during a news conference at Hinds Community College following the groundbreaking for the Medgar Evers Boulevard Project in Jackson on June 21. Thompson is now facing heat for a staffer who posted Saturday in support of an attack on former President Donald Trump.

More on the shooting Trump wounded at rally in assassination attempt; gunman killed

The FBI told reporters that Crooks was also shot dead within moments of opening fire on Trump. Crooks was registered as a Republican and was in active voting status, according to the database service LexisNexis. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

Mississippi House Representative and state Democratic Party Chair Cheikh Taylor of Starkville told the Clarion Ledger he thought White's post sewed further division during a time when state leaders and lawmakers should be coming together.

"Everyone needs to take a step back and look at what's important," Taylor said. "The most important thing is the ballot box and fleshing issues out in a way that's peaceful and is respectable."

Taylor said it would be foolish to hold Thompson accountable to the degree White has demanded, especially when considering Marsaw posted on her own Facebook page without anyone else's prior knowledge.

Read state reactions to Trump attack Donald Trump offered prayers, support from MS leaders following rally shooting

"There is no way to control all the ideas and thought processes of all staffers," Taylor said. "Everyone has the right to their own personal opinions, but I trust Congressman Thompson, his leadership and his ability to handle his own office. Whatever decision he makes, I think will be the right decision."

Thompson's Communications Director and Press Secretary Yasmine Brown told the Clarion Ledger via text his office would be releasing an official statement on Marsaw's post, but at about 7 p.m. Sunday, Brown said the office was no longer planning to do so.

Marsaw did not respond to a request for comment by time of publication.

Editors note: This story has been updated to reflect several state Republicans calling for Thompson's resignation. Sunday night, Thompson's office said they would not be releasing any further statements on Marsaw's post.

Grant McLaughlin covers state government for the Clarion Ledger. He can be reached at gmclaughlin@gannett.com or 972-571-2335.

This article originally appeared on Mississippi Clarion Ledger: Mississippi Auditor calls for Congressman Bennie Thompson to resign
Olympia officials have received two proposals for what the future of its building at 108 State Ave. NW should be. The former City Hall and Fire building was built in 1912 and is the oldest building in the citys portfolio.

The site was most recently home to the nonprofit Family Support Center. Next, it could become a boutique hotel, or a museum.

Olympia Finance Committee chair Lisa Parshley said Olympia is the only U.S. capital city without a history museum. Many states capitals are home to a State History Museum; Washingtons is in Tacoma. Theres the Olympia Historical Society/Bigelow House Museum, but its small and focused, and not in the downtown core.

The museum proposal

The Olympia Arts and Heritage Alliance (AHA) submitted a proposal to the city to turn the 112-year-old building into an arts, culture and history museum. The citys Finance Committee reviewed the proposal July 2, and the city council is expected to make a final decision in the fall.

The AHAs proposal states the museum would be a place for learning about, reflecting on, and becoming inspired by Olympias rich arts, cultures and history. The space would be used to collect and preserve cultural resources important to Olympia and its legacy.

The nonprofit wants to build out space for artist studios, classrooms and workshops, a retail shop and more. There would be in-person and online access to exhibits and historical documents, and rooms for community group meetings.

As a nonprofit, the AHA is requesting a subsidized lease of $1 per year for 25 years, with an additional 25-year extension.

We expect a city commitment to renovate and improve the building shell and building systems, meet ADA requirements and address seismic, sea-level rise, security, and internet needs, the AHA says in the proposal. City maintains the building shell in good condition and repair.

The proposal includes the city maintaining HVAC and electrical, including an emergency generator, internet, safety and security systems, elevators, water, sewer, doors, grounds and more.

The city would have to give the AHA a yearly monetary allocation for repairs and maintenance they took on. The city would pay for utilities, staffing at the welcome center, and insurance, while having no say in museum programming.

Last year the citys Economic Development Director Mike Reid said the city cant take on the necessary upgrades alone.

The property and lease valuation in 2019 was $2.2 million, and it has grown to $4.3 million since then. On top of that, the building needs a good amount of updates. It was estimated in 2019 theres $1.5 million in maintenance needed, including to the HVAC system, plumbing, interior and exterior finishes, as well as the possibility of switching from natural gas to all-electric power. Reid said he imagines that the price tag for maintenance has gone up since 2019.

According to the proposal, AHA will begin a Capital Campaign for building improvements if chosen. It will also pursue state funding through Building for the Arts and Heritage Capital Projects grants, and through trusts and foundations.

The nonprofit has fundraised $100,000 to date and has more than $70,000 in reserve, according to the release.

The boutique hotel proposal

The second proposal the city received was to turn the 112-year-old building into an independent historic hotel called The Ladderhouse.

The Ladderhouse is a private business enterprise proposing to buy the building and turn it into a boutique hotel with 28 to 32 rooms. The hotel would include a walled-in outdoor heated soaking pool, an event space, a covered outdoor patio, a cafe, a bar and a covered rooftop deck.

According to the proposal, the business enterprise is composed of Essence Hotel Group, a development firm and a general contractor, as well as local architecture firm Artisans Group Architecture and Planning. The firm is 100% woman owned and a Certified Women Business Enterprise.

Artisans Groups previous projects include 222 Market Building, Olympia Coffee Roasters, and the Boulevard Habitat for Humanity project.

The Ladderhouse wants to buy the property for $500,000, which is well below the assessed value. The offer is due to the extensive nature of the improvements needed, which would be paid for by the development team, according to the proposal.
Law enforcement agents stand near the stage of a campaign rally for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Floridas Republican leadership offered a mostly restrained response to Saturdays assassination attempt against former president Donald Trump, although U.S. Sen. Rick Scott called for swift Senate hearings into how it was allowed to happen.

Scott wants the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs to convene on the matter before the end of the month to demand answers from [the Department of Homeland Security] and the U.S. Secret Service on how this happened and what steps are being taken to investigate this assassination attempt and make sure it never happens again, he said in a written statement.

It is a miracle that President Trump is alive and well but absolutely inexcusable that the deranged would-be assassin had a direct line of sight to the former president and the leading candidate for President of the United States, he continued.

Chairman Gary Peters must immediately hold a  hearing, before August 1st, with testimony from these agencies and deliver the answers that we as U.S. senators and the American people demand and deserve from our government. The security of our Republic is being questioned and we as a nation need answers.

Gov. Ron DeSantis, meanwhile, expressed concern for the former president. He, too, demanded answers.

.@CaseyDeSantis and I are praying for Donald Trump and his family, the governor said on his X account.

It is great that President Trump is doing well. It is sad beyond measure that a rally attendee was killed and that others were wounded. The American people deserve answers about how this could have happened, as well as information about the assassin, he said on a separate X account.

DeSantis took a harder line later.

Biden tells us to trust the bureaucracy to investigate the assassins motive. But the feds categorized the crazed, leftist congressional baseball shooter as suicide by cop  even though the shooter had a well-documented left-wing political bent and made sure that the players on the field were Republicans before attacking, he wrote.

And there does need to be an investigation regarding the security protocols used in Butler. The answer to the following question must be provided in short order: how did someone, armed with a rifle, get on top of a roof 150 yards away from the stage? DC bureaucratic failures almost never result in any accountability; this time needs be to be different. Our country is in the peril its in partly because the DC ruling class has consistently evaded responsibility for its failures.

Instant chills

Republican Attorney General Ashley Moodys response was similarly muted. on X, she wrote: Trump injured at rally in Pennsylvania. Praying for President Trump, his family and our entire nation.

Patronis

Jimmy Patronis, the Republican state chief financial officer, meanwhile, blamed Democrats. He expressed thanks that Trump wasnt seriously injured. To have taken an attack like this, he got back up as soon as he could, and immediately engaged the crows telling them to fight. Instant chills, he wrote.

Then he added: [T]he people who hate Trump, who have created the type of environment to make this attack possible, should be ashamed of themselves. Joe Biden and every elected Democrat must condemn this assassination attempt to fullest extent possible.

This is an attack on who we are as Americans. All of us. With more resolve than ever before, we will stand with President Trump to Make America Great Again, wrote Agriculture Commissioner Wilton Simpson, also a Republican.

U.S. Rep Matt Gaetz, the Republican U.S. representative from the Panhandle, predicted the attack would rev up GOP voters.

President Trump is determined to save this country from the path of ruin that we are on. No politician in our countrys history has ever faced these kinds of efforts to stop him, Gaetz wrote on X.

They tried to impeach him. They are trying to imprison him. Now, they have tried to assassinate him. Every time they do this, the American people become more committed to the vision for the country that he has for our success and our prosperity.

Praying for him

We thank God that @realDonaldTrump appears safe and survived todays assassination attempt. Our whole family is praying for him now and in the days ahead. President Trumps determination was on full display after the attack. Make no mistake: Democracy will not be deterred! Republican Florida House Speaker Paul Renner wrote.

I am praying for President Trump and our nation. Thankful for the Secret Service officers and law enforcement who responded quickly, wrote Kathleen Passidomo, the Republican president of the Florida Senate.

Marco Rubio, Floridas Republican senior U.S. senator, complained on X that some initial news reports played down the nature of the attack but also said, Praying for President Trump and all those attending the rally in Pennsylvania today, adding, God protected President Trump.

The Florida Democratic Party condemned the attack.

There is no place for political violence in this country  period. The Florida Democratic Party unequivocally condemns todays violence and thanks the Secret Service, law enforcement, and first responders for their swift response, the party posted on X.

Political violence has no room in our democracy. I thank the Secret Service and first responders for their quick action in protecting former President Trump. We must condemn all forms of violence and encourage using our voices, not weapons, in times of disagreement, state House Democratic Leader Fentrice Driskell wrote.

Violence has no place in our democracy. Regardless of who you support or what you believe, we must resolve our differences at the ballot box  never through violent attacks. Praying for the former president, state Senate Democratic Leader Lauren Book wrote.

Political violence is wrong and never the answer. We should all be committed to community safety regardless of politics, state Rep. Anna Eskamani added.

This story has been updated to include a fresh quote from Gov. DeSantis.
Leaders across the nation expressed bipartisan outrage and many extended prayers to those involved in what law enforcement officials confirmed is being investigated as an attempt to assassinate presumptive GOP presidential nominee Donald Trump during a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

Bleeding from the ear, the former president walked off the stage with his fist raised, shouting Fight! to the crowd. U.S. Secret Service agents assisted him into a black SUV.

Some fired-up politicians and pundits used it as a moment to cast blame, while others called for answers on how the shooter avoided security until after the gunfire and an extremism researcher warned about how Trump supporters on the far right might interpret that fight now in light of the graphic images.

The U.S. Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage. The shooter died and a spectator was also killed. Two other spectators were wounded and in critical condition, according to the agency.

A Trump spokesperson said the former president was fine but went to a nearby medical facility to be examined by doctors.

Trump was scheduled to formally accept the nomination to run for a second term in the White House during the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media platform X that he had been briefed and Pennsylvania State Police were working with federal and local law enforcement. Shapiro called any violence targeting either political party or leader absolutely unacceptable.

Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene, Shapiro wrote.

President Joe Biden, who was in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, issued a statement confirming he also had been briefed and expressed gratitude that Trump was safe and doing well.

Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said in the statement. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

PA Gov Shapiro says man killed at Trump rally was protecting family

The presidents campaign said it was pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down all of its television ads as quickly as possible following the shooting.

In Milwaukee, it wasnt immediately clear if there would be any changes to schedules or security for the RNC, which started Monday.

The Trump campaign released a statement late Saturday saying: President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

More than 50,000 politicians, delegates and media personnel were expected to flow into Milwaukee for the convention, where Republicans plan to formally nominate Trump for president.

Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds, who is attending the convention as an at-large delegate, issued a statement Saturday night saying she is committed to attending the gathering in Milwaukee.

As President Trump showed when he walked off the stage, we will not cower to such terror, she said. I will be in Milwaukee this week and will proudly stand with him and our party. America will get through this, together, and President Trump will lead us into the next four years.

U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., who is on the short list of those being considered by Trump for the vice president spot on the ticket, wrote that: God protected President Trump.

Republican Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis said he and his wife Casey DeSantis were praying for Donald Trump and his family.

Larry Olmstead, president and CEO of United Way of Northern California, said he was horrified and sickened by the gun violence at the rally.

All of us, regardless of political affiliation or leanings, should be grateful Mr. Trump was not more seriously injured, Olmstead said. I pray for all others affected in this incident that reportedly resulted in loss of life. What is saddest is that the incident is not altogether surprising, given the toxicity of our current political climate.

Carla Vera, left, waves a flag next to Angela Rotella, right, who holds a bouquet of flowers for former President Donald Trump, a day after he was shot in the ear at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The supporters gathered near his home at Mar-a- Lago on July 14, 2024 in Palm Beach, Florida.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was in the front row at Trumps rally Saturday in rural Pennsylvania when gunfire burst out, saying he heard as many as eight shots and saw a woman nearby who appeared to have been struck by gunfire.

At first, I didnt know what it was, Miller told the American-Statesman by phone from the outdoor venue. Then I heard pop! pop! and knew it was gunfire. Everybody got down, but I stayed standing up to try to see what was going on.

Miller said that he was not harmed and did not know the condition of the woman who appeared to have been hit.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott posted a defiant message on X soon afterward, associating the attack with the criminal charges prosecutors have brought against Trump.

They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work, Abbott posted. He is indomitable.

Jon Lewis, a research fellow for George Washington Universitys extremism program, said the incident will likely inflame Trump supporters on the far right.

You cannot overstate how powerful this imagery is, Lewis said of the still images and video from the shooting that show a bloodied Trump with his fist in the air.

The right-wing online ecosystem is already calling this a Democratic attack on Trump, saying that their followers need to be ready to fight, he said.

Internet personality and founder of Turning Point USA Charlie Kirks post on social media platform X said the shooting was the end result of rhetoric from the left.

U.S. Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene, R-Ga., also took to X to blame the Democrats and the media for Saturdays events, also while calling supporters to action.

Lewis said its too early to know exactly how the RNC will be affected.

But the call to fight is a message that these right-wing groups will respond to in their local communities and within their states, even if not at the national level, Lewis said.

The Republican Party of Florida posted a photo of Trump, bleeding from his right ear, with his fist in the air and TRUMP STRONG in white, capital letters above the frame.

This will not stop us. We will prevail! We will Make America Great Again. #TrumpStrong, read the text along with the image.

U.S. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., demanded answers from the head of the Secret Service.

I am so thankful for the heroic agents who rushed in to protect President Trump. They are heroes! he wrote. The Director of the Secret Service needs to come out ASAP and let us know how this happened and how everyone at the RNC and DNC conventions will be safe.

Contributing: Brianne Pfannenstiel, Des Moines Register; John C. Moritz and Bayliss Wagner, Austin American-Statesman; Michele Chandler, Redding Record Searchlight. Antonio Fins writes for the Palm Beach Post. Jo Ciavaglia wrotes for the Bucks County Courier Times. Hannah Edelman writes for the Delaware News Journal. Alison Dirr, Mary Spicuzza, Ricardo Torres and Quinn Clark write for the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Nation outraged after assassination attempt on Trump
General Philippe Lavigne, NATO's Supreme Allied Commander Transformation, and Vice Admiral Jeff Hughes, Deputy Chief of Staff for NATO Capability Development, have both lauded Ukraine's DELTA combat system.

Source: Kateryna Chernohorenko, Ukraine's Deputy Minister of Defence for Digital Development, Digital Transformation and Digitalisation, as quoted by Ukraines Ministry of Defense on Telegram

Details: NATO representatives recognised significant work to secure interoperability between Ukraine and NATO systems, as well as a novel approach to the development of the DELTA combat system.

Quote: "DELTA has demonstrated that it can exchange information with other NATO allies.

With the introduction of DELTA, Ukraine is solidifying its place in the world as a powerful innovation hub that develops practical solutions for wartime."

DELTA is a distinct ecosystem of military equipment designed to meet NATO criteria. It allows soldiers to view the battlefield in real time and displays the air, land, and sea conditions on a digital map.

The system also features a messenger and streaming, allowing the military to converse securely while viewing the UAV feed in real time. The mechanism allows sharing information within a unit or a brigade, and, if necessary, with other countries.

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Amidst the ongoing debate over whether artificial intelligence is really sentient, scientists are still trying to figure out the same thing about non-human animals. Amazingly, naturally-produced painkillers have long been considered a key indicator of possible sentience in animals. America can ban all the opioids it wants, but still wont stop your brain from making them or seeking the relief from suffering they provide, and so they have been seen as a kind of smoking gun for sentience in non-human animals as well. But a look at the evolutionary role of endorphins really highlights the complexity of conscious experience  especially our own.

The field of animal consciousness studies has grown in leaps and bounds over the past couple of decades. The clearest evidence comes from studies in neuroscience on the neurophysiological basis of behavioral responses to animals subjective experiences  such as a dog seeking to relieve its thirst by drinking  definitively overturns the legacy of mid-20th Century behaviorism, in which animals were considered to have a set of automatic behaviors that nevertheless didnt reflect a sentient mind.

We are constantly underestimating animals, David Mellor, a retired professor of applied physiology and bioethics, told Salon from his home in New Zealand. Every time, we are surprised at how smart animals are. Its because we have underestimated them, not because theyve suddenly become smart.

Indeed, its human understanding that seems to have deepened.

Its really only in the last fifteen years, I would say, that theres been an attempt to integrate consciousness science with comparative psychology or comparative cognition, the study of animal minds, so that now were seeing the emergence of a science of animal consciousness, Jonathan Birch, a philosopher of biological sciences at the London School of Economics, told Salon. Birch was just back in London after co-hosting a conference in April on animal consciousness in New York City that culminated in the release of a pithy but important new declaration on animal sentience by dozens of luminaries in the field.

Over those last fifteen years, the markers we look for as hints of sentience  that within their furry (or scaly, or feathery) little heads there is a quality of what its like for that animal to be itself  have grown beyond simply what we expect based on our own human or primate, or even mammal experience.

Importantly, the definition of sentience isnt a neutral one: it is profoundly political, linked as it is to resource use and granting of rights. Once we understand a creature to be sentient, we recognize ethical imperatives. It is not so long since it was broadly believed that human infants didnt experience pain the way older children and adults do, with babies rarely receiving anesthetics before painful procedures, their cries considered automatic and their nervous systems considered too underdeveloped to offer them a subjective experience of pain. A 1987 study of stress responses in newborns provided the first strong evidence that this was terribly wrong.

We no longer routinely deny that what looks like a behavioral response to pleasure or pain in a baby reflects its subjective sense of positive or negative feelings. And more recently, weve become willing to consider that other mammals and less familiar animals  crabs, say, or octopuses  really are sentient, not just seeming so. While we can consider many aspects of sentience, perhaps the most basic aspect we look for  the one that resonates most strongly, especially when we consider how sentience applies to animal rights, remains the ability to experience enjoyment and suffering, pleasure or pain.

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To apply evolving understandings of animals subjective experience and its relation to structure and function to animal welfare, Mellor came up with the term welfare-aligned sentience.

Basically, it is that animals that can have positive and negative experiences that matter to them are sentient in a welfare-aligned sense. he said. Because the welfare of an animal depends on the balance of positive and negative experiences it can have at any one time or over a period.

Evolution produced sentience

The kingdom of animals is a broad category that includes everything from mosquitos to chimpanzees. Vertebrates are a sub-group of animals with backbones, a development that emerged some 450 million years ago. Given the prevalence of back pain in at least some of their long-suffering descendants, perhaps its appropriate that with the first vertebrates on Earth came the first painkillers on Earth.

Of course were speaking about endorphins  naturally-produced opioids pumped out by the brains and spinal cord, not only those of humans but of every vertebrate. Endorphin is a portmanteau of endogenous opioid and in fact drugs like morphine and fentanyl only work in our bodies because they mimic the effects of these innate peptides.

Every creature with a backbone releases endorphins in response to stress. The existence of this self-made morphine has been considered a way of identifying animals  until recently, mostly just mammals  capable of experiencing pleasure and pain. In fact, RSPCA scientists argue that having such neurotransmitters constitutes one form of evidence for sentience. We understand creatures that produce their own morphine to relieve pain are creatures capable of experiencing pleasure and pain, able to suffer and for this reason  the thinking goes  entitled to not be abused or treated in such a way as to cause unnecessary pain.

Mellor further argues that in welfare-aligned sentience we might try to support animals under our care to thrive, facilitating whats called positive-valenced experiences that, just like pain, also suggest that sense of what its like to be oneself  things like warmth, comfort, interest and enjoyment.

And so we can consider aspects of animal consciousness beyond the experience of suffering, such as playfulness and curiosity, the ability to make decisions, purposefulness. Were also expanding our understanding of what sort of evidence we should be looking for.

You dont need a backbone to be sentient

Although invertebrates do have the opioid precursor proenkephalin and some other signs of precursors to the opioids found in vertebrates like us, endorphins as we know them evolved in vertebrates. Thus opioid receptors are not found in invertebrate animals like the nematode C. elegans, the honeybee or the squid. While some research has found that morphine can have analgesic effects on crayfish, we dont yet know what type of receptor its targeting, though it probably relates to these evolutionarily early starts at an opioid system.

But invertebrates like octopuses are known to be intelligent, even playful. Should their inability to produce their own opioids preclude them from being considered sentient? Ah, but that would be applying a human bias, or rather a vertebrate bias, to our quest to understand sentience in creatures as unlike us as possible. So we need to look for other chemicals that might have evolved to fulfill analogous functions, whether the experience of suffering and its relief, or other attributes we increasingly recognize as aspects of a conscious experience.

In terms of vertebrates, [this means] having the equivalent of a cerebral cortex. And that doesnt mean that cephalopods and crustaceans and so on that dont have a nervous system the same as vertebrates are not sentient, Mellor told Salon. "The neural bundles and so on in them clearly have a capacity to motivate behaviors that are purposeful."

We acknowledge a huge amount of uncertainty in this area, Birch told Salon, but also want to emphasize that despite that uncertainty, theres quite a lot of high quality evidence for conscious experience, not just in mammals and birds, but also in fishes, reptiles, amphibians and invertebrates like octopuses, crabs, lobsters and insects. Theres at least a realistic possibility of conscious experience in all of these animals.

Its reasonable to expect that different aspects of sentience evolved at different points in the evolutionary tree, with divergent groups going on to develop their own ways of being conscious and having a sense of what its like to be themselves.

Theres quite a lot of behaviors where if you saw them in a mammal or bird, you will quite readily accept the behavior as evidence of pain, Birch explained. And so its largely about avoiding double standards. When were thinking about pain in vertebrates, and invertebrates display the same markers, we should be willing to entertain the idea of pain in those animals as well.

Once you start looking beyond just pain, where we are able to use morphine to test for the experience of pain and its relief, other neurotransmitters than endorphins can become clues to the neurophysiological bases of subjective or sentient experience. In shore crabs, for example, Prozac may calm experimentally-induced anxious behaviors. Birch also cites an experiment in which lidocaine was used to relieve experimentally-induced pain from an injection of acetic acid in an octopus.

The New York Declaration on Animal Consciousness is meant to be a conservative minimum that everyone can agree on despite the uncertainties on exactly how sentient some of these animals are. It reads in its entirety:

Which animals have the capacity for conscious experience? While much uncertainty remains, some points of wide agreement have emerged. First, there is strong scientific support for attributions of conscious experience to other mammals and to birds. Second, the empirical evidence indicates at least a realistic possibility of conscious experience in all vertebrates (including reptiles, amphibians, and fishes) and many invertebrates (including, at minimum, cephalopod mollusks, decapod crustaceans, and insects). Third, when there is a realistic possibility of conscious experience in an animal, it is irresponsible to ignore that possibility in decisions affecting that animal. We should consider welfare risks and use the evidence to inform our responses to these risks.

Seeking evidence where we find it

Rather than moving from a purely behaviorist approach to a purely neurochemical one, the current thinking is that we should evaluate possible consciousness with an open mind, and in fact seek out evidence for sentience, correcting for our own anthropic or perhaps vertebrate biases by combining evidence in the form of behaviors that, if we did them, we would attribute sentience to them, and in the form of neurotransmitters and neural structures analogous to those that allow us to, well, experience our own experiences.

If you give honeybees a vigorous sixty-second shaking, mimicking an attack on their hive, they can develop pessimistic cognitive biases: coming to expect the worst. As with humans, crayfish and capybaras, if you look youll find the biochemical markers of the poor bees cognitive change. In this case, a reduction of the chemical messengers dopamine, octopamine (a chemical analogous to the norepinephrine that has largely replaced its function in vertebrates), and serotonin in their hemolymph, the invertebrate equivalent of blood.

If we are willing to entertain the notion of sentience in bees, where will this end? A new pre-print atlas of neurotransmitters maps out such chemicals in C. elegans, a millimeter-long multicellular roundworm often used in biological experiments. Are we positing sentience in this little nematode? Not yet. And it doesnt seem equipped to feel pain with opioid receptors, though like other invertebrates, it may have that very primitive opioid system.

But with familiar neurochemicals like glutamate, acetylcholine, GABA, serotonin, tyramine and octopamine zipping around its primitive nervous system, its worth paying close attention to its behavior, too, so we can do our best to help all our animal relations thrive.
VIRGINIA BEACH, Va.  U.S. Navy fighter pilots came home to Virginia feeling relieved Friday after months of shooting down Houthi-launched missiles and drones off Yemens coast in the most intense running sea battle the Navy has faced since World War II.

F/A-18 Super Hornets swooped over waiting families in a low formation before landing at their base in Virginia Beach. Dressed in green flight suits, the aviators embraced women in summer dresses and kids carrying American flags. Some handed red roses to their wives and daughters.

All the Houthi-US Navy incidents in the Middle East (that we know of)

Were going to go sit down on the couch, and were going to try and make up for nine months of lost time, Cmdr. Jaime Moreno said while hugging his two young daughters, ages 2 and 4, and kissing his wife Lynn.

Clearing the emotion from his voice, Moreno said he couldn't be prouder of his team and everything that the last nine months have entailed.

The USS Dwight D. Eisenhower aircraft carrier strike group, which includes three other warships, was protecting merchant vessels and allied warships under fire in a vital Red Sea corridor that leads to the Suez Canal and into the Mediterranean.

Iran-backed Houthi rebels in Yemen have been attacking ships linked to Israel, the United States or Britain in what they say is a campaign to support the militant group Hamas in its war the Gaza against Israel, though they frequently have targeted ships with no clear links to Israel or its supporters, imperiling shipping in a key route for global trade.

The U.S. and its allies have been fighting back: One round of fire in January saw F/A-18s from the Eisenhower and other ships shoot down 18 drones, two anti-ship cruise missiles and a ballistic missile launched by the Houthis.

U.S. Navy sailors have seen incoming Houthi-launched missiles seconds before they are destroyed by their ships defensive systems. Officials in the Pentagon have been talking about how to care for the sailors when they return home, including counseling and treatment for possible post-traumatic stress.

Strike Fighter Squadron 83 flies over families of pilots as they return to NAS Oceana in Virginia Beach on Friday, July 12, 2024. (Billy Schuerman/The Virginian-Pilot via AP)

Cmdr. Benjamin Orloff, a Navy pilot, told reporters in Virginia Beach on Friday that most of the sailors, including him, weren't used to being fired on given the nation's previous military engagements in recent decades.

It was incredibly different, Orloff said. And Ill be honest, it was a little traumatizing for the group. Its something that we dont think about a lot until youre presented with it.

But at the same time, Orloff said sailors responded with grit and resilience.

Whats impressive is how all those sailors turned right around  and given the threat, given that stress  continued to do their jobs beyond reproach, Orloff said, adding that it was one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

The carrier strike group had left Virginia in mid-October. Its deployment was extended twice because of the importance of having a powerful carrier strike group, which can launch fighter jets at a moments notice, in the volatile region.

The months of fighting and extensions placed extra stress on roughly 7,000 sailors and their families.

Caitlyn Jeronimus, whose husband Keith is a Navy lieutenant commander and pilot, said she initially thought this deployment would be relatively easy, involving some exercises with other NATO countries. But then Hamas attacked Israel on Oct. 7, and plans changed.

It was going to be, if you could call it, a fun deployment where hes going to get lots of ports to visit, Jeronimus said.

She said the Eisenhower's plans continued to change, which was exacerbated by the knowledge that there were people who want to harm the ship.

Jeronimus leaned on counselors provided by the Navy.

Her two children, aged 5 and 8, were old enough to understand that daddy has been gone for a long time, she said. It was stressful.
Welcome to the governors race edition of our Under the Dome politics newsletter. Im Dawn Vaughan, The News & Observers Capitol bureau chief.

The Republican candidate for governor, Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, and the Democratic candidate, Attorney General Josh Stein, had a campaign finance deadline a few days ago. Steins report is in, while Robinsons had yet to be posted on the State Board of Elections website as of Friday afternoon.

Reports for the second quarter of the year cover Feb. 18 through June 30. You can read Steins report here, and Ill be spending more time diving into the numbers that show Stein raising more than $13 million this quarter. Most were individual donations, while others came from political party committees and PACs.

Most GOP leaders talk to reporters, but Robinson doesnt

As I wrote about in last weeks governors race newsletter, after spending hours watching Robinsons full speech and visit to Lake Church in Bladen County, I included the context of his Get mad at me if you want to. Some folks need killing, quote that has been covered extensively by the press and used by Democrats to highlight why they want to defeat him.

As I wrote about then, Robinson spoke about freedom, mentioned several wars, including World War II, which is when he made the comment about the United States fighting Nazis and Japan, and then continued by referencing the boys in blue and the need for the U.S. to start handling our business again.

In speech about freedom slipping away, Mark Robinson talks about wicked people, killing

A few days later at the Legislative Building, he admonished reporters who wanted to ask him some questions, including about that speech  calling out from the elevator after an unrelated news event that they should be ashamed, The N&O previously reported. If you watched the video from CBS 17 and WRAL-TV, you can see that reporters waited until after the event and walked out behind Robinson to ask questions.

Other Republican leaders in North Carolina state government regularly take a series of questions from reporters about a variety of topics. After most House and Senate sessions, Republican House Speaker Tim Moore and Republican Senate leader Phil Berger usually talk to reporters in the press corps. On the same day that Robinson called out from a Legislative Building elevator, Moore talked to reporters twice, both after that same event and after a nonvoting House session.

Democratic lawmakers are also accessible to reporters, but like Republicans, vary by lawmaker.

Democratic Gov. Roy Cooper does very few sit-down interviews with North Carolina reporters, usually only once a year, though he calls in to national television shows more often. However, Cooper will take a variety of questions from statewide and local reporters for a few minutes after most public events.

This was the second time recently that Robinson quickly departed without taking a single reporter question after a public event. He did the same after a Moms for Liberty event on the lawn outside the Legislative Building.

North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson lashes out at the news media on Wednesday, July 10, 2024 from an elevator in the General Assembly as they ask him questions about his comments on June 30, 2024 at Lake Church in Bladen County, when he said some folks need killing.

Speaking of Cooper...

Questions about Coopers political future continue, as President Joe Biden still faces attention from Democrats and news media on whether hell stay in the race. If Biden stepped aside for Vice President Kamala Harris to be the nominee, one name on multiple short lists of potential running mates for her is Cooper. As weve reported, they have known each other for years and both served as attorneys general.

Cooper took the stage in Greensboro on Thursday before Harris campaign speech, which included her saying that Biden is a fighter who is staying in the race.

Gov. Roy Cooper speaks during a campaign event for President Joe Biden at the Jim Graham building at the North Carolina State Fairgrounds in Raleigh on Friday June 28, 2024.

Then he was asked about the speculation on Friday, my colleague Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi reports:

Cooper on Biden

Asked, during an announcement that Medicaid expansion has enrolled 500,000 people in North Carolina, whether he had had any conversations with Harris or the Biden campaign about it, Cooper said, thats the kind of speculation we do not need right now. Yesterday my conversations with her were about winning in November.

On his thoughts on Bidens press conference Thursday  and whether Biden successfully alleviated concerns about his age and leadership capacity  Cooper said he showed a real command of foreign policy, really extraordinary. I dont think Donald Trump can talk about foreign policy coherently for one minute.

Asked if he had been involved in conversations about being VP, Cooper point blank said no.

 Luciana Perez Uribe Guinassi

Stein on Biden-Harris

Back to the governors race. I asked Steins campaign what he thinks of Biden staying in the race, and if he thinks Harris or another Democrat should lead the ticket, as well as about the Cooper speculation.

Stein took the stage at Bidens campaign rally in Raleigh in late June, but he was not at Harris event in Greensboro on Thursday. His campaign said he had a scheduling conflict, and in answer to my questions about Biden, Harris and Cooper, referred me to previous comments from Stein to the local CBS affiliate and MSNBC.

Stein told CBS 17 on Wednesday that the decision about staying in the race is up to Biden.

He has all the delegates. And he has indicated he is running for reelection. And theres no question that I think our future as a country is better with him as the president rather than his opponent. I am running for governor. We are applying for different jobs, Stein told CBS 17.

Vice President Kamala Harris, President Joe Biden and Gov. Roy Cooper join each other on stage after speeches on heath care during a campaign stop at the Chavis Community Center in Raleigh on Tuesday, March 26, 2024.

Stay informed about #ncpol

Dont forget to follow our Under the Dome tweets and listen to our Under the Dome podcast to stay up to date. Our new episode posts Monday morning, and Im joined by former Republican state Sen. Jim Perry. Perry and I have a wide-ranging conversation about him, the legislature, politics and Robinson and Trump, too.

You can sign up to receive the Under the Dome newsletter at newsobserver.com/newsletters. Want your friends to get our email, too? Forward them this newsletter so they can sign up.
Former President Donald Trump is safe after what authorities confirmed was an assassination attempt at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, that left Trump bloodied.

North Carolinas elected officials immediately took to social media reacting to the shooting.

This was a heinous assassination attempt and thank God that President Trump is safe, Sen. Thom Tillis, a Republican from Mecklenburg County, wrote. Keep praying for those who were shot. Violence in our political system can never be tolerated.

Former President Donald Trump is seen with what appears to be blood on his face, surrounded by Secret Service agents, as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (Rebecca Droke/AFP/Getty Images/TNS)

Law enforcement officials confirmed an attendee is dead and so is the suspected shooter, with two other attendees critically injured.

Praying for President Trump and everyone at the PA rally.  Senator Thom Tillis (@SenThomTillis) July 13, 2024

Gov. Roy Cooper, a Democrat, posted on social media that violence has no place in our politics or communities.

I am grateful for the quick response by law enforcement today and hope former President Trump is not seriously injured.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage by Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a campaign rally on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania.

His words echoed those of Rep. Jeff Jackson, a Democrat from Charlotte who is running for attorney general, and who called for the person responsible to be held fully accountable.

Political violence indelibly stains countries, Jackson wrote. It must always, always be rejected. Our sincere appreciation to the Secret Service, and may our former president recover quickly and fully.

Whoever did this must be held fully accountable.



Political violence indelibly stains countries. It must always, always be rejected.



Our sincere appreciation to the Secret Service, and may our former president recover quickly and fully. https://t.co/Jznwy6W5e3  Rep. Jeff Jackson (@JeffJacksonNC) July 13, 2024

Trump was speaking about immigration on stage as several pops were heard. He grabbed his right ear and Secret Service moved him from the stage.

Blood could be seen on his face.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a campaign rally on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Anthony Guglielmi, spokesman for the Secret Service, wrote in a statement that a spectator was killed and two others were critically injured, after a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. US Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated.

An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.  Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) July 13, 2024

The shooting came just 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Monday.

Renee and I are Praying for Gods protection of President Donald Trump, wrote Rep. Richard Hudson, a Republican from Southern Pines. I am in shock  this is unAmerican. God help us

Renee and I are Praying for Gods protection of President Donald Trump. I am in shock  this is unAmerican. God help us  Richard Hudson (@RepHudsonNC) July 13, 2024

Hudson leads the National Republican Congressional Committee, and has a speaking role at RNC this week.

Rep. Virginia Foxx, a Republican from Banner Elk, asked her constituents to pray for Trump, while Rep. David Rouzer, a Republican from Wilmington, offered his prayers to Trump and those attending the rally. House Speaker Tim Moore also offered his prayers.

Former members of Congress from North Carolina also tweeted their support.

Former Rep. Mark Walker offered his prayers.

Former Rep. Madison Cawthorn tweeted that, THEY WILL NEVER STOP THIS MAN.

Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson, a Republican running for governor, called for peace.

We see whats happening here in America right now, Robinson wrote. Passions are inflamed on both sides of the aisle. But please, lets all remember who we are. We are Americans. And lets unify in the fact that violence has no place in political discourse. We must remain calm, we must remain steadfast. And we must remain unified on at least that point.

For the safety of our country and our citizens and for our Republic as a whole, we need calm, we need peace and we need to rise again. Violence has no place in political discourse for the entire country.

State Attorney General Josh Stein, a Democrat, said he was outraged, calling political violence abhorrent and saying that it has no place in America.

I pray for his health and am grateful he was able to walk off the stage tonight, Stein said. I appreciate the secret service and law enforcement for their immediate response. I am also praying for our deeply divided country. People should be able to have differing opinions without fear of violence or threats.

Under the Dome

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Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Elected and political leaders in Nebraska reacted this weekend to the shooting of former President Donald Trump and at least two people attending one of his rallies in Pennsylvania.

Heres a sampling:

Republican gubernatorial candidate Jim Pillen

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen: This was a terrible incident and a shocking moment for our democracy. Suzanne and I are gratified that President Trump is reported to be okay, but we are deeply saddened to hear that one attendee was killed and at least one other has been injured. All politically motivated violence is to be condemned, no matter what form or what situation.

U.S. Sen. Deb Fischer, R-Neb.: Bruce and I are thankful that President Trump has survived this assassination attempt, and were praying for the families with loved ones lost and in critical condition. The decisive actions of law enforcement on the scene no doubt prevented further loss of life, and were grateful for their bravery.

U.S. Sen. Pete Ricketts, R-Neb.: My wife Susanne and I send our condolences to the families of the innocent victims. Im grateful President Trump is safe and that more people in attendance were unharmed. Political violence is anti-American. We need a full investigation into todays assassination attempt and the information must be shared with the American people as soon as possible.

U.S. Rep. Mike Flood, R-Neb., 1st District: I am grateful that President Trump has survived this assassination attempt. My thoughts and prayers go out to the family of the attendee who tragically lost their life and to those who remain in critical condition, Rep. Flood said. Violence has no place in politics. I expect an investigation into the shooting to ensure justice and understanding of this incident.

U.S. Rep. Don Bacon, R-Neb., 2nd District: Our nation has been rocked by this assassination attempt. While were thankful that President Trump is okay we are mourning for the family who lost a loved one. Were also praying for the quick recovery of the other victims and send our thanks to the Secret Service who raced to protect President Trump, as well as law enforcement and first responders. I absolutely condemn all political violence, to include this vile attack. Furthermore, we lift this nation up in prayer that we can come together to heal and move past the hyper partisanship that weakens our nation.

U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith

U.S. Rep. Adrian Smith, R-Neb., 3rd District: I am grateful Pres. Trump is reportedly safe and recovering with non-life-threatening injuries. Violence has no place in our nations political life, and this attack marks a sobering day for our country.  My prayers are with Pres. Trump and everyone at the event in Pennsylvania. I appreciate the fast action of members of the Secret Service and am monitoring reports for more information.

Preston Love Jr., Democratic candidate for U.S. Senate: I am aware of the shooting incident at Former President Trumps rally this afternoon. Violence in our country is never the answer. Whether in the streets or against our leaders, it is simply unacceptable. I urge everyone to stand against violence as we work toward a better future for our nation. I wish Former President Trump a speedy recovery.

State Sen. Carol Blood of Bellevue, Democratic candidate for 1st Congressional District: Condolences to those whose family members lost their lives today. I am thankful that our secret service did their jobs so eloquently today to protect the former president. Violence is never the answer & I hope this incident brings us closer as a country & not further apart.

State Sen. Tony Vargas of Omaha, Democratic candidate for 2nd Congressional District: There is no place for violence in our politics and I strongly condemn all acts of violence against anyone, regardless of their political party. I am glad to hear that President Trump is ok and thank our law enforcement for their quick action.

Jane Kleeb, chair of the Nebraska Democratic Party: The Nebraska Democratic Party condemns all political violence. We are grateful to the Secret Service and law enforcement for protecting former President Trump and getting him to safety. We hope all rally-goers are on their way home to their loved ones.

Nebraska Republican Party: Pray to God. Pray with Americans. Pray for President Donald J. Trump.

The post Nebraska political leaders condemn violence after Trump shooting appeared first on Nebraska Examiner.
The major TV news outlets are planning special coverage on Sunday, following a shooting at one of former President Donald Trumps rallies that left the presumptive Republican nominee wounded but OK.

The former presidents campaign said Trump was fine after being rushed off the stage in Butler, Pennsylvania, when gunfire erupted. Trump posted that he was hit in the upper part of his right ear. The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination on Trump, law enforcement officials told the Associated Press. A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead.

More from The Hollywood Reporter

The White House said that President Joe Biden spoke to former President Trump Saturday evening.

While the event unfolded live on TV (broadcast networks jumped in with special reports minutes after the event unfolded, with Secret Service agents surrounding the president and leading him off the stage), the networks indicated late Saturday night that the shooting will dominate their coverage on Sunday.

CBS said that it is preempting CBS Sunday Morning, with anchor John Dickerson instead set to host a live special from 9-10:30 a.m.

NBC says that it will have Savannah Guthrie and Willie Geist anchoring a special edition of Today on Sunday morning. On Saturday night, MSNBC simulcast NBC News coverage, which was led by Lester Holt.

ABC News planned a special edition of Good Morning America, led by its weekday hosts Robin Roberts, George Stephanopoulos and Michael Strahan.

On cable, Fox News says that it will have continuous live coverage overnight with Eric Shawn, Arthel Neville and Trace Gallagher, with Fox & Friends set to begin an hour early at 5 a.m. Co-host Lawrence Jones will report live from Butler. Live coverage will continue throughout the morning.

Fox also said that anchor Harris Faulkner interviewed Trump earlier in the day before the shooting took place, and will release those videos when available.

Best of The Hollywood Reporter
LAS VEGAS (KLAS)  Nevada officials took to social media Saturday after Donald Trump was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after what the Associated Press said was an assassination attempt that left one attendee dead, two attendees critically injured, and the suspected gunman dead.

Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo said in a post on X, Donna and I thank God that former President Trump is safe and unharmed after being shot at during a rally in Pennsylvania. We are waiting for more information from the Secret Service. In the meantime, we are praying for calm and civility around the country.

Nevada Senator Jacky Rosen took to X to condemn the apparent shooting by saying Im keeping former President Trump and all those attending his rally in my thoughts. I condemn this despicable act of political violence in the strongest possible terms. Ill continue monitoring the situation as we learn more.

Nevada Congresswoman Susie Lee expressed on X that she is grateful the former president is safe by saying, Political violence of any kind can never be tolerated in America. I am grateful to hear that the former president is safe and for the Secret Service officers who threw themselves in harms way. I am praying for everyone in Butler, PA.

Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford said, This is not who we are as a country. Political violence from any side of the political spectrum should be met with the appropriate consequences. Grateful to the law enforcement that stepped in, and hoping for justice to prevail. Glad to see that former President Trump is safe, in a post on X.

Nevada Congresswoman Dina Titus released a statement saying, Gun violence has no place in our society. I am relieved that President Trump is okay and my thoughts are with him and the other victims of todays horrific act. I commend the Secret Service on its swift response today and have full faith that they will bring to justice all individuals involved.

Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager (D) took to X saying, Political violence is neither acceptable nor an appropriate response to political disagreement. As we wait for more information on what transpired today, I am grateful it was not worse. Lets collectively commit to strongly condemning political violence in any form.

Political violence does not have a place in our democracy. Period. Our differences are resolved at the ballot box and never through violence, Congressman Steven Horsford said on X. My thoughts are with the former President and everyone who was at the rally. No one in this country should have to experience that kind of trauma. I will be following the situation closely and applaud the swift action of law enforcement.

Senator Catherine Cortez Masto said, Political violence like this is an attack on our democracy and must never be tolerated. Im grateful former President Trump is safe and my thoughts are with all those affected. Thank you to the law enforcement and first responders who were on the scene, in a post on X.

Former President Barack Obama took to X wishing the former president a quick recovery saying, There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Former President Bill Clinton said in a post on X, Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLAS.
Several Georgia politicians, including representatives of Columbus, have spoken out against the shooting that left former President Donald Trump injured, and also left one attendee dead and another hurt.

Trump was rushed out of the rally after he was grazed by a bullet, according to local law enforcement. The incident occurred in Butler, Pennsylvania. Officials said the shooter has also been shot and killed.

Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, both Democrats, shared statements Saturday.

In America, we settle our political differences democraticallynot violently, Warnock said in a post to X. I am deeply saddened by todays events in Pennsylvania. I condemn any violence aimed at former President Trump in the strongest terms, and pray for him, his family & our nation. We are better than this.

Ossoff said he joined all Georgians in discouraging the shooting.

I join all Georgians and Americans in condemning this despicable act of violence and pray former President Trump makes a full recovery, Ossoff said in a statement. I thank the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response. Political violence is never acceptable and can never be tolerated.

Democratic Rep. Sanford Bishop, who serves part of Muscogee County as the congressman for Georgias 2nd District, said the shooting couldnt be tolerated.

Shooting or other violent assault on anyone, including former President Trump, is abhorrent and unacceptable! Violence has no place in our body politic and cannot be tolerated, Bishop said. Nor can the rhetoric that provokes it. My thoughts and prayers go out to the former President, the innocent persons who were casualties, and their families.

Republican Rep. Drew Ferguson, who also represents part of Muscogee County in Georgias District 3, called the incident cowardly.

I wholeheartedly condemn this cowardly attack on President Trump, Ferguson said. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump, Melania & their entire family.

GOP Gov. Brian Kemp also shared comments Saturday, saying that all of Georgia was mourning the death of the victim at the rally.

This attempt on former President Trumps life is horrific and contrary to everything our nation stands for, he said. In America, we settle political disagreements peacefully at the ballot box - not through heinous acts of violence. We must stand together to condemn what happened today, and remind ourselves that regardless of how we vote or what we believe, we are all Americans.
Cheerleading Coach Haylee Elliott, shares: The Newcomerstown High School cheerleaders attended UCA Great Wolf Lodge Cheerleading Camp at Mason, OH. Here, the cheerleaders work on skill sets like jumps, tumbling, motion technique/sharpness, team bonding, and learn the material to use on the sidelines such as band dances, cheers, chants, and timeout dances. The cheerleaders compete in the "camp dance" and the "rally routine" (Cheer, chant, band dance) on the final day."

The Newcomerstown High School cheerleaders at the UCA Great Wolf Lodge Cheerleading Camp at Mason.

The cheerleaders received the following awards: first place Camp Dance in Varsity Large Non-Build, first place Rally Routine in Varsity Large Non-Build, Best Cheer in Varsity Large Non-Build, Best Rally Routine in Varsity Non-Build. The following cheerleaders received the All-American Award which they have to try out for: Heaven Amore, Emma Parry, Maggie Smith and Lauren Ahle.

Newcomerstown Village Council Special Meeting notes

A special council meeting was called on July 9 for purchases and the hiring of personnel. Councilperson Susan Little led the meeting due to Mayor Pat Cadle being on vacation.

The village council voted to hire Braelyn Fish as a lifeguard, Lisa Weber for the concession stand and Ryan Wright for park seasonal work. The council also approved the purchase of three sets of fire gear for new firefighters joining the department.

The next regular meeting is at 7 p.m. Monday, Aug. 5 in the Village Administration Building located at 308 S. College St.

ARTSNCT to feature Ohio photographer

ARTSNCT will be featuring the stunning photography of Brennan McClain from Aug. 3-30. He is known for his exceptional use of color, detail, and natural light. McClain captures a variety of genres, including landscape, travel, and architecture.

Born and raised in Ohio, McClain's love for the outdoors was sparked by family travels and Boy Scout adventures. His passion for photography ignited at 17 during a high school photography class, and since then, his work has been admired by many, including the Johnson-Humrickhouse Museum in Coshocton.

The opening reception will be held from 2 to 4 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 3 at ARTSNCT, 304 S. College Street. This event is free and open to the public.

Splash pad fundraiser canceled

The pool party/event scheduled on Aug. 11 to benefit the splash pad at Cy Young Memorial Park has been canceled.

Bingo update

The new owner of the David Barber Civic Center is scheduled to take possession of the building next week. Shortly after they will be setting up a website so events can be scheduled. Bingo is expected to start in late July or early August. Soon-to-be owner Shawn Parker said they would be retaining the David Barber Civic Center name because of the community and its heritage.

To submit items to Newcomerstown News, email kkwilkin61@gmail.com.

This article originally appeared on The Times-Reporter: Newcomerstown News: Village council votes on new hires
Nikki Haley is now set to speak at the Republican National Convention, despite not initially receiving an invitation to the event.

According to The Wall Street Journal, the former South Carolina governor has accepted an offer to address attendees at this weeks convention in Milwaukee.

As the Journal reported, the move is an attempt to coalesce Republicans into a united front following an apparent assassination attempt at a Donald Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday that left the former president wounded.

Previously, Chaney Denton, a spokesperson for Haley, told Politico that the Republican National Committee did not extend an invitation to the politician but added that Haley was fine with the reported snub.

Trump deserves the convention he wants, Denton said. Shes made it clear shes voting for him and wishes him the best.

Haley appears during a campaign rally in Portland, Maine, in March. The former South Carolina governor will be speaking at this week's Republican National Convention following previous reports that she was not invited to the event. JOSEPH PREZIOSO via Getty Images

On Saturday evening, Haley addressed the Trump rally shooting in a post on X, formerly called Twitter, saying, This should horrify every freedom loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized.

We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer, she added.

As Trumps Republican presidential primary opponent, Haley railed against him as unstable and unfit to serve a second term in the Oval Office.

But two months after her campaign sputtered out in March, Haley, who served as a United Nations ambassador under Trump, decided to endorse him.

I will be voting for Trump, Haley declared during a May event at the Hudson Institute in Washington.

Related...
Former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley, who was considered a moderate during her campaign, said when she dropped her election bid she wasn't sure whether she would support Donald Trump. File Photo by Bonnie Cash/UPI

July 14 (UPI) -- Nikki Haley, the last Republican to drop out of the 2024 presidential race, will now attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week in the aftermath of the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump.

Haley, who was considered a moderate during her campaign, dropped her election bid earlier this year, stating at the time that she wasn't sure if she would support Trump as she seemingly reluctantly surrendered to his dominance over the GOP.

When Haley released her 97 delegates and encouraged them to support Trump at the convention, a spokesperson revealed that the former ambassador was not invited.

After Trump was shot at his rally in Pennsylvania over the weekend, sources who spoke to NPR confirmed she will now speak at the RNC. Others who reported the news include the Wall Street Journal and its sister publications: the New York Post and Fox News.

"This should horrify every freedom-loving American," Haley said on social media after the assassination attempt. "Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized. We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer."
No injuries after house fire in Commerce City

DENVER (KDVR)  No injuries were reported after a house fire in Commerce City on Saturday, according to the South Adams Fire Department.

The fire was reported near East 63rd Place and Monaco Street at around 8:07 p.m.

Download the FOX31 App: Breaking news alerts & Pinpoint Weather

When they arrived, crews saw large flames from the back of the home. After a search to make sure everyone was out of the house, fire crews extinguished the fire.

Investigators were working to determine the cause of the fire.

SAFD said Adams County Fire, Platte Valley Ambulance and the Commerce City Police Department assisted in the operation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
WASHINGTON  President Joe Biden called for unity following the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump, saying Sunday there is "no place in America" for the violence that unfolded at Saturday's Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

In brief remarks from the White House Roosevelt Room, Biden said he spoke with Trump on Saturday night during a brief phone call. He also said he's ordering an independent review into the attack, calling for a thorough and swift probe.

"I'm sincerely grateful that he's doing well and recovering," Biden said. "We had a short but good conversation. Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers."

Biden said he will give a full primetime address to the nation Sunday at 8:00 p.m. ET from the Oval Office.

President Joe Biden speaks from the Roosevelt Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on July 14, 2024, one day after former president Donald Trump survived an apparent assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania.

More: Trump vows he'll be at this week's GOP convention after rally shooting: Live updates

"As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence, or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything. It's not who we are as a nation. It's not American, and we can't allow this to happen," Biden said.

He added: "Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is more important than that right now  unity. We'll debate and we'll disagree. That's not going to change. But we're going to not lose sight of who we are as Americans."

Trump's right ear was injured and bloodied in the shooting at a campaign rally Saturday evening in Butler, Pennsylvania, outside of Pittsburgh. One spectator, identified as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, was killed in the shooting. Two others, both adult males, wee hurt.

"We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed," Biden said. "He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired and he lost his life. God love him. We're also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured."

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. Crooks, who was on the roof of a nearby building, was killed by Secret Service agents moments after gunfire erupted at the former president's rally.

Biden said he and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the shooting Sunday morning by law enforcement and homeland security officials. He said the FBI's investigation into the shooting is still in its early stages.

"We don't yet have any information about the motive of the shooter. We know who he is. I urge everyone, everyone, please don't make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations. Let the FBI do their job," Biden said. "I've instructed that this investigation be thorough and swift."

Biden said he directed the director of the Secret Service, Kimberly Cheatle, to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. He said he also ordered an independent review of the security measures taken at the Trump rally to "assess exactly what happened."

The White House said Biden has rescheduled a previously planned trip Monday to Texas following the shooting.

More: This election was already shattering norms. Then the Trump rally shooting happened.

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

Reach Joey Garrison on X, formerly Twitter, @joeygarrison.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Biden calls for national unity after attempted assassination of Trump
No-show candidates are a disappointment. Their absence is a strike against them | Opinion

Tri-City voters will face a busy ballot in the August primary, including choosing nominees in the 4th Congressional District and the 14th Legislative District races for this falls general election.

The ballots are on the way soon, and so are a couple of televised candidate forums that should capture the attention of our region even if  regrettably  they didnt do the same for everyone vying to represent the region.

The first forum, sponsored by the League of Women Voters of Benton and Franklin Counties and Northwest Public Broadcasting, will feature the congressional candidates and will air on KTNW TV (PBS) at 4:30 p.m. Tuesday, July 16, with a repeat at 7 p.m. Tuesday, July 30.

The second forum, with interviews of candidates for Positions 1 and 2 in the 14th Legislative District, will be broadcast first at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 17, with a repeat at 7 p.m. Wednesday, July 31.

But dont worry if you miss those dates. Voters can catch the forums anytime on YouTube, the Leagues website, or the Richland and Pasco city TV stations.

Ideally the forums would feature robust dialogues between all of the candidates. Unfortunately, some candidates opted out, unwilling to put their views forward for scrutiny.

In the 4th Congressional District, voters will hear from only four of eight candidates. Democrats Mary Baechler of Zillah and Barry Knowles of Yakima, Republican Jerrod Sessler of Prosser, and independent Benny Garcia of Grandview will all be there.

The no-shows are incumbent Republican Dan Newhouse and his GOP challenger, Tiffany Smiley, as well as Democrat Jane Birdie Muchlinski and MAGA Democrat John Malan  whatever a MAGA Democrat is.

The district encompasses Central Washington, including Omak, East Wenatchee, Moses Lake, Yakima, the Yakama Indian Reservation and the Tri-Cities.

Meanwhile, the 14th Legislative District forum will feature Republican Andy Kallinen of Lyle, Democrats Chelsea Dimas of Sunnyside and Ana Ruiz Kennedy of Pasco, and Eddie Perez of Union Gap, who lists no party preference. The no-shows for the forum are Republicans Gloria Mendoza of Grandview and Deb Manjarrez of Wapato.

The legislative district looks substantially different this year because of a redistricting plan designed to ensure Latino voters have a voice in who represents them in the Legislature.

The district now includes Pasco, parts of Kennewick, parts of Yakima, Wapato, Toppenish, Finley, parts of Goldendale and the Yakama Reservation. If youre unsure if that includes you, you can look up your correct district at voter.votewa.gov.

The League of Women Voters is providing a valuable resource by bringing the candidates together. Were really excited to present these broadcasts to the public so that they can be informed voters, says Beverly Johnson-Torelli, a member of the Benton-Franklin League.

Its disappointing, then, that all candidates wont be present. Unless the no-shows can provide a valid excuse, voters should certainly consider their absence to be a strike against them.

In addition to the forums, there are plenty of other resources available for voters to assess the candidate options, beginning, of course, with this newspaper. Ballotpedia is a handy reference for seeing whos running for local, state and federal offices  including governor and the U.S. Senate  and finding their websites and other useful information. OpenSecrets tracks campaign contributions and more.

No one should sit this one out.

Deadline to register online or by mail is July 29, and in-person registration is available at the auditors office all the way through 8 p.m. on the Aug. 6 primary election.

The candidates who advance to November will be one election away from having a significant influence on the Tri-Cities and the regions residents.

As unpleasant as the campaign season can often be, its critical that we all participate in making these choices if we want responsible decision-makers as our representatives.

Always show up and be heard, even if some of the candidates dont. With the states vote-by-mail system, its never been easier.
No students, no schools, no problem. Highland Park board still wants to spend $1M on HQ.

Faith is a wonderful thing, a force that can move mountains. The question in Highland Park is whether faith is reason enough for a school district with no students and few employees to shell out $1 million for a virtually abandoned collection of old buildings that are more art wreck-o than Art Deco.

This debate is playing out in one of the state's most challenged school districts as a majority of the board is prepared to fork over more than $1 million for a building the district sold for $90,000 less than a decade ago. If it seems like the district sold the building for a song back in 2015, consider that $72,000 of the sale price was used to pay off the district's water bill. So, you could say the buildings themselves sold for only $18,000, meaning the district is willing to pay 5,000% more than it received to buy them back.

Of course, real estate values fluctuate. And the true value of anything is ultimately what someone else is willing to pay for it.

Still, I can't imagine a lot of taxpayers in perpetually cash-strapped Highland Park will be excited to learn their school board is about to pay 55 times more than it got for a collection of buildings at the corner of Woodward and Bartlett that have sat empty since the district sold them a decade ago.

This is the former Highland Park school district administration building at 20-32 Bartlett, as seen from the Woodward Place shopping plaza. Some school board members want the district to pay more than $1 million for the building.

Oh, and did I mention the buildings shouldn't even be there, because the buyer said back in 2015 he would demolish them to create "retail space?"

That's just one of the many twists in this tale about a deal that runs the risk of sending the district into bankruptcy not long after the state declared an end to the financial emergency that caused it to take over and, essentially, destroy the Highland Park school system.

So, today's study session will include a review of the rise and fall of Highland Park's once-mighty school district, a recap of the school board's debate over the merits of the deal, a look at the questionable credentials of an appraiser the district hired to advise it on the buildings' value, and, sadly, multiple examples of yet another public official's refusal to provide you and me with even basic answers to simple questions like: How many employees does the district have?

Why does that presumably small staff need to move from a tiny storefront in a strip mall to a 37,000-square-foot collection of raggedy buildings?

Has the district budgeted for renovations and, if so, where will it get the estimated $13 million needed to fix up the buildings if it buys them?

When does the district expect to have students again?

And, crucially: Does the old adage that a fool and his money are soon parted also apply to a school (district) and its money  which, of course, is really our money?

Polar Bear plunge

It's been a l-o-o-o-o-n-g time since Highland Park was the bougiest suburb in Michigan, flush with cash from tax money generated by Henry Ford's Model T plant and Chrysler's world headquarters. The schools and public library were architectural gems brimming with amenities that made them the envy of other municipalities. The Model T plant now sits abandoned along Woodward Avenue, a crumbling reminder of this city within a city's better days, and the library has been boarded-up for years.

Contributing to the erosion of Highland Park's tax base were population loss and Chrysler's decision to move its headquarters to Auburn Hills in the 1990s.

In 2007, according to the school district's website, about 3,900 students attended Highland Park schools, which had $26 million in revenues. By 2011, enrollment had plummeted to about 1,000 students and revenues plunged to $10 million. The district was spending more than it brought in and running massive deficits. In 2012, an emergency manager took over. The district's five schools were taken over by charter school operators and, over the next several years, three of the district's schools closed due to declining enrollment. The high school, home of the Polar Bears, was among the casualties.

In 2018, the last emergency manager declared that the district was making enough progress on its financial problems to return the district to local control.

However, the domain over which school board members regained power was vastly diminished.

Under emergency management, school buildings  like the former administration buildings at 20-32 Bartlett  were sold or demolished. Turning the schools over to charters left the district with no students and few employees. Today, the district is headquartered in a tidy rented space in a strip mall along Woodward Avenue, where its neighbors include The Tax Kings, Maxx Beauty and Asian Corned Beef. Highland Park Schools Chief Executive Isaiah Pettway refused on multiple occasions to say how many people work for the district full-time, though the answer appears to be at least two: Assuming Pettway and the woman who answers the phone at the district office are full-timers.

This is the Highland Park School District's current administrative office, in a strip mall along Woodward Avenue, between Colorado and Rhode Island streets.

I asked about the number of employees because they could be the first folks to move into the sprawling collection of buildings ranging from 20 Bartlett to 32 Bartlett if the district buys back its old headquarters complex.

The buildings look as if they haven't been touched in years  unless you count the rocks thrown through windows. But there shouldn't even be anything for miscreants to vandalize at the northwest corner of Bartlett and Woodward.

This is one of the many broken windows in the front of the former Highland Park school district administration building at 20-32 Bartlett, which some school board members want the district to buy for more than $1 million.

In 2015, before the school board approved the sale of 20-32 Bartlett, buyer Michael Curis said he would knock the buildings down "to create retail space." Curis, whose company owns the Woodward Place shopping center across the street from the Bartlett buildings, told me he didn't specify when the buildings would be demolished.

"We were working on numerous developments there," he said.

Highland Park city records show that Curis has another option for the property: a development that would require razing the hodgepodge of hovels and their crumbling parking lot to clear space to construct a sleek new gas station with two restaurants that would face Woodward.

This is a pothole in the parking lot of the former Highland Park school district administration building at 20-32 Bartlett, which some school board members want the district to buy for more than $1 million.

Some board members see that possibility as a threat, which may be why they are in such a hurry to close their own deal with Curis.

Stepping out  or stepping off?

Where others see potential disaster, Highland Park School Board President Janet Spight-White sees her district's destiny.

"It's for the betterment of the community, adults, children and the board," she said during the board's May 23 meeting, urging her colleagues to approve spending more than $1 million to buy back the district's old headquarters.

Board secretary Linda Wheeler, who was on the board when it voted to sell the buildings, added: "I am willing to say that Highland Park is ready to move past the 21st century  and that move begins with the purchase of 20-30 Bartlett." (The addresses are actually 20-32 Bartlett, but board members often refer to the property as 20-30 Bartlett.)

"My dream, and, hopefully, one day, that whole street will be our educational campus," Wheeler said. "It can happen. It can happen."

Wheeler's dream involves offering adult education and vocational training at the building. She said, without explanation, that buying the building will help the school district realize its goal of bringing back a high school in Highland Park. Neither Wheeler nor Spight-White responded to my calls and emails requesting an opportunity to discuss their positions and ambitions.

Board members Doris Harris and Cheryl Sanford told their colleagues they are concerned the deal could derail the district just as it's preparing to balance its books after more than a decade in debt.

"We don't have the money to rehab the facility," Sanford said at the May 23 meeting. "There's no plan for rehabbing, there's no plan for programming ... it also affects our ability to pay off our operating deficit."

Harris estimated it would cost $13 million to rehab the building.

Ivy and weeds obscure a service entrance to 20-32 Bartlett, the former Highland Park school district administration building, which some school board members want the district to buy back for more than $1 million.

This is a close-up of one of the entrances to 20-32 Bartlett, which some of the Highland Park school district's board members want to buy for more than $1 million.

"We are in a deficit and we don't have the money to invest in it right now," Harris warned her colleagues. "It's not good for us, it's not good for the district."

It's not clear where Harris' $13 million estimate came from, so I asked Pettway whether the district has budgeted for renovation or has plans for how to implement some of the programs Spight-White and Wheeler envision for 20-32 Bartlett. Pettway would not speak to me about the project or the district's plans. He also refused on multiple occasions to answer those and other questions about the project.

In between shouting at each other and agreeing that they still don't have answers to crucial questions, on May 23 the board voted 4-2 to purchase 20-32 Bartlett on the condition that they consult with state treasury department officials before moving forward. Members of the majority said they wanted to move quickly because they were worried the gas station or another educational entity would snag it. They did not name the entity.

When I spoke to board member Loren McGee last week about why he supported the deal, he struggled to strike a balance between wanting to show the community the district is making progress and being fiscally responsible.

"When you handle the taxpayers' money, you definitely can't say you're stepping out on faith," he said. "You have to have a plan."

That's quite a change from May 23, when McGee told his colleagues: "The only way I can justify buying 20-30 is you have to step out on faith."

When I pointed out the contradiction, he acknowledged it and said: "I do believe that you have to step out on faith."

McGee also offered: "Life ... it ain't all rainbows and unicorns. I would hate for this to fail. But being scared can prevent you from moving forward. And I'd like to move forward."

One of the many questions swirling around this deal is whether that step will carry the district forward ... or off a cliff.

The answer may lie in whether the district is paying a fair price for 20-32 Bartlett.

A full appraisal

After reviewing records detailing multiple Highland Park school board meetings and speaking to board members, it's still not clear to me who  if anyone  is negotiating on behalf of the district. When I asked Pettway who is representing the board in negotiations with Curis he, again, refused to answer. He did say, in an email, that the board: "has not yet negotiated terms of that purchase with the seller."

Maybe so. But even if negotiations haven't started, there doesn't seem to be much mystery about how much the district is willing to pay. After all, the board already voted to spend more than $1 million to buy the property.

Perhaps some board members think that's a fair price because the district has two appraisals valuing the property at around $1.4 million. One of the appraisals came from Curis, the seller. The other was done for the district by an appraiser who state records indicate is not licensed to do commercial appraisals and who has twice been disciplined by state regulators. More on him in a minute.

With a seller motivated to get the best price he can, and a district in a rush to fork over a pile of taxpayer money, I figured it would be good to get an objective perspective on the value of the property. So, on Thursday I met Mark Sheppell, a licensed general real estate appraiser, at 20-32 Bartlett. I also shared the appraisals done for Curis and the district with Sheppell, who has been appraising properties since 1986.

Sheppell was skeptical of the appraisals, citing factors such as the properties used to assess the value of 20-32 Bartlett. The district's appraiser, for example, compared the long-vacant building to much newer retail buildings which are occupied. Sheppell said retail properties generally have higher values than office and warehouse spaces like 20-32 Bartlett. And, unlike the Bartlett buildings, they haven't been vacant for years and don't require extensive renovations and repairs.

When I asked Sheppell how much he thought the buildings were worth, he said his certification prohibits him from giving a figure without having access to the building. The appraisals he reviewed included details and photos about the interior, however. Still, Sheppell would only say: "I would be open to an alternate value."

Curis told me he believes the district is getting a bargain and that his appraiser, Integra Realty Resources of Detroit, would not risk its reputation by providing an inaccurate estimate.

"We're selling at 30% below appaisal," he said, adding, "We used the biggest and best real estate appraisal company in Michigan."

The district's appraisal came in slightly higher than the one done for Curis. It was done by Harold Morgan of Ecentury Appraisal Services, which is located in Flint. Sheppell pointed out, however, that Morgan is only licensed to evaluate residential properties.

Morgan declined to discuss his assessment with me or why he believes his residential appraisal license allows him to evaluate commercial real estate. Before he hung up on me, he said he would not discuss his license until I did some research into real estate appraisal licensing. In the course of doing that research, I found that the state's bureau of Licensing and Regulatory Affairs, which regulates real estate appraisers, disciplined Morgan twice over the last 15 years.

In 2009, the state reprimanded and fined Morgan. The state took action again in 2021, this time suspending and fining Morgan. Details about the disciplinary action were not available on the state's website and an agency spokesperson did not return my message Friday. That left Morgan to shed light on the matter.

When I called him back to share my research, he hung up on me again.

I understand the board's desire to send a message that they are serious about turning the district around and optimistic about its future. But if their gesture involves paying too much for a dilipaidated building and putting the district at risk of a return to financial ruin, board members may want to consider what kind of message they're really sending  especially to taxpayers who have been burned too many times already.

M.L. Elrick is a Pulitzer Prize- and Emmy Award-winning investigative reporter and host of the ML's Soul of Detroit podcast. Contact him at mlelrick@freepress.com or follow him on X at @elrick, Facebook at ML Elrick and Instagram at ml_elrick.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Highland Park school board wants to spend $1M on rundown building
North Carolina State Capitol Photo: Clayton Henkel

North Carolinas top politicians are speaking out and condemning Saturdays violence at a Trump campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania that ended with the former president being whisked off stage. Secret Service agents say that Trump is fine though the suspected shooter is dead.

Heres some initial reaction from across North Carolina.

U.S. Senator Thom Tillis:

This was a heinous assassination attempt and thank God that President Trump is safe. Keep praying for those who were shot. Violence in our political system can never be tolerated.

Governor Roy Cooper:

Violence has no place in our politics or communities. I am grateful for the quick response by law enforcement today and hope former President Trump is not seriously injured.

Lt. Governor Mark Robinson:

In America right now, passions are inflamed on both sides of the aisle, but please lets all remember who we are. We are Americans unless unified in the fact that violence has no place in political discourse. We must remain calm, we must remain steadfast, and we must remain

unified on at least that point.

For the safety of our country and our citizens and for our republic as a whole, we need calm, we need peace, and we need to realize again, violence has no place in political discourse. Im praying for the entire country, Im praying for North Carolina, Im praying for President Trump.

Attorney General Josh Stein:

I am outraged by what happened tonight at President Trumps rally. Political violence is abhorrent and has no place in America.

I pray for his health and am grateful he was able to walk off the stage tonight. I appreciate the secret service and law enforcement for their immediate response.

I am also praying for our deeply divided country. People should be able to have differing opinions without fear of violence or threats.

Rep. Jeff Jackson:

Whoever did this must be held fully accountable. Political violence indelibly stains countries. It must always, always be rejected.

Our sincere appreciation to the Secret Service, and may our former president recover quickly and fully.

Rep. Dan Bishop:

Pray for President Trump and for our nation.

U.S. Senator Ted Budd:

Praying for President Trump and everyone at the Pennsylvania rally. Pray for our country.

Senate President Pro-Tem Phil Berger:

Praying for President Trump and our nation.

Bob Orr and Jennifer Roberts, co-chairs of North Carolina Network for Fair, Safe, and Secure Elections:



The North Carolina Network for Fair, Safe, and Secure Elections condemns todays violence targeting former President Trump in the strongest terms. Acknowledging that we do not yet have all the facts, we are nevertheless deeply concerned at what appears to be a politically motivated incident. Our thoughts are with President Trump and all those affected by this act of violence.

Anderson Clayton, Chair of the North Carolina Democratic Party

There is no place for violence ever in our politics, in our society, or in our communities. The @NCDemParty condemns this attack on Donald Trump and we are relieved to hear that he will be okay.
Kim Yo-jong, sister of North Korea's leader Kim Jong-un, attends a wreath-laying ceremony at the Ho Chi Minh Mausoleum in Hanoi, Vietnam, in March 2019. File Photo by Jorge Silva/EPA-EFE

July 14 (UPI) -- Kim Yo-jong, the sister of North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong-un, hinted at a response to South Korea's efforts to spread propaganda leaflets in the southern part of its territory.

"I was informed today that, again, filthy leaflets and articles of South Korean trash were found near the border and in some remote areas of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea," Kim said in a statement carried by state media on Sunday.

Kim said that authorities found what it called "dirty waste" in 17 places in Jangpung County and its neighboring areas in North Hwanghae Province.

"Military units at all levels along the border, as well as Ronong Red Guards, safety and security agencies, are currently conducting a comprehensive search and incinerating the found filth," Kim said.

"Despite repeated warnings, South Korean scumbags continue this petty and dirty prank. As I have already warned, those scumbags who do this will face even more harsh criticism from their own people. We have fully explained our response policy in these situations."

In June, South Korea's military resumed loudspeaker propaganda broadcasts to undermine Kim Jong-Un's regime after North Korea sent around a thousand balloons filled with trash and manure over the border.

"Whether our military will conduct additional loudspeaker broadcasts depends entirely on North Korea's behavior," South Korea's Joint Chiefs of Staff said in its statement then. "We make it clear that North Korea bears full responsibility for this situation, and we strongly urge it to immediately stop its despicable behavior, including the release of filth balloons."

North Korea had sent the trash balloons in the first place in response to South Korean activists floating balloons filled with leaflets and USB drives over the border.
By Hyonhee Shin

SEOUL (Reuters) - North Korean leader Kim Jong Un has sacked or demoted some senior officials for their "irresponsible" handling of his flagship project to build a new town in the country's north, state media KCNA said on Sunday.

Kim announced the decision while visiting Samjiyon, where North Korea has been building what it called a "socialist utopia" and "a model of highly-civilised mountain city" with new apartments, hotels, a ski resort and commercial, cultural and medical facilities.

While praising builders for their achievements so far, Kim said the irresponsibility of senior officials had caused a series of serious deviations including poor construction work and financial losses.

He singled out Ri Sun Chol, minister of state construction control who was appointed in September, as a "good-for-nothing person" who has never even been to the site since December, suspending him and calling for a formal investigation.

Kim also suspended all members of a construction inspection committee for the project, demoted a ruling Worker's Party official responsible for the matter, and vowed to reexamine vice premier and others over their neglect of duty.

"Going round the newly-built hotels for domestic tourists, he severely pointed out that their construction was carried out at an outdated and backward level," KCNA quoted Kim as saying.

"Those new buildings have to be remodelled and, consequently, this problem badly affects the general long-term plan for the city development, bringing economic losses."

(Reporting by Hyonhee Shin, Editing by Nick Zieminski)
George Brauchler is the former district attorney for the 18th Judicial District and is a candidate for district attorney in the newly created 23rd Judicial District. He has served as an Owens Early Criminal Justice Fellow at the Common Sense Institute. Follow him on Twitter(X): @GeorgeBrauchler.
Republicans and Democrats representing Jacksonville and Northeast Florida were united in condemning political violence and offering prayers following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump that left his face bloodied, a spectator dead and two others seriously injured at a campaign rally Saturday evening in Butler, Pennsylvania.

We need to call this what it is  an assassination attempt on President Trump," wrote U.S. Rep. Aaron Bean, who represents Floridas 4th Congressional District, on X, the social media platform previously known at Twitter. "This is not what we stand for and the people responsible need to be swiftly brought to justice. This is not the democracy that we represent in America. I pray everyone is OK and we bring whoever did this to swift and mighty justice.

The former president and presumptive Republican nominee in the 2024 presidential race was speaking at an outdoor rally north of Pittsburgh when multiple gunshots rang out at about 6:15 p.m.

Moments later, with blood dripping from his ear and face, Trump  who later said he was fine  was surrounded by his Secret Service protection detail and rushed off the stage and into a vehicle.

The suspected shooter, identified Sunday by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was confirmed dead, said Secret Service Spokesman Anthony Guglielmi, USA TODAY reported.

More on the shooting: FBI will lead investigation into Trump rally shooting

U.S. Sens. Rick Scott and Marco Rubio were among Floridas congressional delegation to offer prayers for the former president.

This was clearly an assassination attempt on President Trump. Im glad he seems OK, and I am praying for him and all who were at the rally, Scott wrote on X. There is ZERO tolerance for violence. I hope this monster is already caught and prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

U.S. Rep. John Rutherford, Jacksonville's former sheriff also responded Sunday: "Yesterday, by the Grace of God, former President Trump survived an assassination attempt. Though wounded slightly by the assassin's bullet, Secret Service agents were able to kill the assassin and get President Trump to safety."

Florida Sen. Rick Scott calls for investigation after Trump rally shooting

The senator and former Florida governor later posted that he was "calling for an immediate investigation ... on the attempted assassination of President Trump" and for the U.S. Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs "to demand answers from DHS [Department of Homeland Security] and the U.S. Secret Service on how this happened and what steps are being taken to investigate this assassination attempt and make sure it never happens again."

"It is a miracle that President Trump is alive and well but absolutely inexcusable that the deranged would-be assassin had a direct line of sight to the former president and the leading candidate for President of the United States," Scott wrote in the post at 11:30 p.m. Saturday.

God protected President Trump, Rubio said in a post to X that included a photo of the bloodied Trump raising a defiant fist in the air beneath a U.S. flag.

Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, one of Trump's former challengers to become the Republican nominee, wrote "It is great that President Trump is doing well. It is sad beyond measure that a rally attendee was killed and that others were wounded. The American people deserve answers about how this could have happened, as well as information about the assassin."

President Biden, Jacksonville Mayor Deegan denounce attack on Trump

Speaking before television cameras on Saturday evening, President Joe Biden called the attack on his political rival sick.

There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden told reporters. Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Jacksonville Mayor Donna Deegan, a Democrat elected to office a year ago, also denounced the violent act: Political violence is indefensible, and unacceptable in the United States of America. My prayers are with the former President and his family. Lets gather ourselves in this moment and remember who we are.

And Floridas Democratic Party posted on X: "There is no place for political violence in this country  period. The Florida Democratic Party unequivocally condemns todays violence and thanks the Secret Service, law enforcement, and first responders for their swift response."

Party chairwoman Nikki Fried added: "In America, political disagreements should never turn into violence. My thoughts are with former President Trump, the families of the victims and the people in the crowd."

Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters, Duval Republicans call for unity after Pennsylvania rally shooting

"I am angered and saddened by the assassination attempt on former President Trump," Jacksonville Sheriff T.K. Waters said. While emotions run high during political elections, violence is never acceptable. We are a society of law and order, marked by a peaceful, democratic system of government. My thoughts go out to President Trump as he recovers, and I pray that our great nation stands in solidarity against this violence."

In a longer statement posted to social media, the Republican Party of Duval County wrote, in part: This heinous act was an attack on President Trump and his movement. For years, Donald J. Trump has been persecuted and prosecuted, and now, he is the target of an assassination attempt.

Politics is divisive, and our disagreements have led to polarization across our Nation. However, those we disagree with are our co-workers, family members, and, most importantly, our Countrymen. We must learn to live with one another.

Contributing: Antonio Fins, Amy Bennett Williams, Naples Daily News, C.A. Bridges and Scott Butler, USA TODAY Network, Florida

This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Trump rally shooting: Florida politicians denounce violence
President Joe Biden addresses the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, Sunday, July 14, 2024, about the assassination attempt of Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. | Erin Schaff

President Joe Biden spoke to the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday evening  his second address of the day on the failed assassination attempt on former president and Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump  and asked Americans to cool down the political rhetoric.

In asking Americans to lower the temperature in our politics, the president also reinforced the stakes of the upcoming election.

You know, the political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. Its time to cool it down, the president said. And we all have a responsibility to do that. Yes, we have deeply felt, strong disagreements. The stakes in this election are enormously high. Ive said it many times that the choice we make in this election is going to shape the future of America and the world for decades to come. I believe that with all my soul. I know that many of my fellow Americans believe it as well. And some have a different view as to the direction our country should take. Disagreement is inevitable in American democracy. Its part of human nature. But politics must never be a literal battlefield, or God forbid, a killing field.

Trump was fired at during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler County, Pennsylvania. An attendee, 50-year-old Corey Comperatore, was killed while shielding his wife and daughter from bullets.

A former president was shot. An American citizen was killed while simply exercising his freedom to support the candidate of his choosing. We cannot, we must not go down this road in America.

Biden also:

Began by saying, And remember, while we may disagree, we are not enemies. Were neighbors. Were friends, co-workers, citizens. And most importantly, we are fellow Americans. We must stand together.

Reemphasized that the investigation into the shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was ongoing and his motive is unknown. We dont know his opinions or affiliations, Biden said.

Extended his deepest condolences to Comperatores family. Corey was a husband, a father, a volunteer firefighter, a hero, sheltering his family from those bullets. We should all hold his family and all those injured in our prayers, he said.

Said violence has never been the answer and listed several examples, including the events of Jan. 6, the 2017 Congressional Baseball Game practice shooting and the attack on Paul Pelosi, former House Speaker Nancy Pelosis husband.

The power to change America should always rest in the hands of the people, not in the hands of a would-be assassin, Biden said.

Trumps response to the shooting

Earlier Sunday, the former president had issued a call for unity via his TruthSocial account, saying in this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

The statement also read: We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

A statement from former first lady Melania Trump followed.

Dawn is here again, she wrote. Let us reunite. Now. This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence. We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realize this world again. Each of us must demand to get it back.

President Bidens remarks from earlier

The president spoke early Sunday afternoon at the White House in Washington, D.C., where he:

Said he has directed an independent review of the national security at yesterdays rally to assess exactly what happened and will share the results of that independent review of the American people as well.

Said that he spoke with former President Trump and said that he and first lady Jill Biden are keeping him and his family in our prayers.

Called on Americans to not make assumptions about (the shooters) motives or his affiliations.

Ended with a plea to unite as one nation.

More from Sunday

During his brief remarks with Vice President Kamala Harris by his side early Sunday afternoon, the president said he was sincerely grateful that (Trump is) doing well and recovering. We had a short but good conversation. Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers.

During his evening address, the president referenced the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. The Republican convention will start tomorrow, he said. I have no doubt theyll criticize my record and offer their own vision for this country. Ill be traveling this week making the case for our record and my vision for the country, our vision. Ill continue to speak out strong for our democracy, stand up for our Constitution and the rule of law, to call for action at the ballot box. No violence on our streets. Thats how democracy should work.

The president has rescheduled his planned trip to Austin, Texas, this week.
Should not, cannot happen; Political science expert provides insight on shooting at Trump rally

Former President Donald Trump was injured in a shooting at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

>>RELATED: Trump rally shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, officials say

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told the AP that the suspected gunman is dead and at least one rally attendee was killed. Secret Service said two people were critically injured.

As reported on News Center 7 at 11:00, the shooting is now being investigated as an assassination attempt, according to the AP.

University of Dayton Associate Professor of Political Science Chris Devine said many Americans have probably never seen anything like this before.

Last time, as far as I can remember, last time there were really shots taken at a president, current or former, I believe would have been May of 1981 when Ronald Reagan came basically within an inch of his life, Devine said.

>>PHOTOS: Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage after shots fired at rally

And as far as a presidential candidate, someone not currently holding the office but running fairly, seriously, for it, the last one I think of was over 50 years ago, in 1972, when George Wallace was running for the Democratic nomination, he said.

Devine said security at these kinds of events is very high.

Its hard to say, what would have been different today, we just assume whats normally done would have been whats done. And in fact, we saw a very quick response from the Secret Service agents when Trump was injured, Devine said.

>>RELATED: Ohio politicians speak out after shooting at Trump rally

Regardless, Devine said this shouldnt have happened in the first place.

This is clearly and exactly the kind of thing that should not, cannot happen in American politics, Devine said.

Based on past violent incidents involving political figures, Devine said people will likely be working to learn why this happened.

News Center 7 will continue to follow this story and provide updates with the latest information.

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

U.S. Secret Service agents respond as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded on stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump waves from the stage as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Law enforcement officers gather at campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped into a vehicle at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Law enforcement officers gather at the campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

People hug after Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump arrives for a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump arrives for a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Civiles se cubren al tiempo que agentes del Servicio Secreto de Estados Unidos rodean al expresidente Donald Trump durante un acto de campana, el sabado 13 de julio de 2024, en Butler, Pensilvania. (AP Foto/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

People take cover as U.S. Secret Service agents surround Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)
NEW YORK (PIX11)  New York Gov. Kathy Hochul issued a statement Saturday after former President Donald Trump was removed from the stage when gunshots rang out at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

Any violence against a fellow American is disgusting and unacceptable. We must express political disagreements peacefully, civilly, and respectfully. I am praying for the safety and health of former President Trump and all who are attending this event in Pennsylvania, Hochul said.

More Local News

As Trump was displaying a chart of border crossing numbers, a loud noise pierced the crowd. Trump swiftly reached for his neck with his right hand, and there appeared to be blood on his face.

The Secret Service escorted Trump off the stage. In a statement, the agency said: The former president is safe.

Trump campaign officials also issued a statement.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow, the statement read.

The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination, law enforcement officials said.

Matthew Euzarraga is a multimedia journalist from El Paso, Texas. He has covered local news and LGBTQIA topics in the New York City Metro area since 2021. He joined the PIX11 Digital team in 2023. You can see more of his work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
New York Citys minimum-wage hike has boosted pay for food-delivery workers who have managed to hang onto their jobs, but thousands have lost work  even as the price to get a meal delivered goes through the roof, according to a report by city officials.

A December law that hiked pay to nearly $20 an hour  which delivery apps including Doordash, Grubhub and Uber Eats had tried to block with a lawsuit last year  is boosting paychecks significantly, according to the report by the citys Department of Consumer and Worker Protection.

Those still employed earned 22% more during the first quarter  or $28.3 million per week  compared to the previous quarter and 42% more versus a year ago, according to the report. Thats despite the fact they worked 22% fewer hours per week, according to the report released late last week

A new report from NYC shows that delivery workers are earning higher wages, but nearly 10% of them have been kicked off of the delivery app platforms. Getty Images

The average hourly wage was $19.26 including tips, up sharply from $11.72 a year ago, according to the report.

At the same time, however, the total number of active worker accounts on delivery apps dropped to 99,000  down 8% from the previous quarter and 9% from a year ago, the study found.

Thats a signal that thousands are out of work since the controversial law was enacted. City officials estimate the worker accounts are held by 65,000 delivery workers citywide, with some making deliveries on more than one app.

The cost of food deliveries, meanwhile, has surged a whopping 10%, according to the report. That includes a 12% increase in restaurant menu prices for delivery and a 58% increase in the fees the apps tack on to cover the higher wages.

In response, customers are tipping less. While apps raised delivery fees by an average of $2.30 per order, the average tip amount decreased by $2.64, according to the report released Thursday.

Theyre also using the apps less for delivery, according to Andrew Schnipper, who owns the Schnippers burger joints in Manhattan, one on 8th Avenue near the Port Authority and one on Lexington Avenue and East 51st Street in Midtown.

I do think that there is a higher cost to consumers and we are seeing more people order online but pick up in the store to avoid the higher fees, Schnipper told The Post. That indicates a change in behavior.

UberEats says it has 12,000 fewer delivery workers on its platform since the citys minimum wage for delivery workers increased in December. Getty Images

In the end, the average food-delivery bill increased 76 cents, to $39.11 per order, the report found.

Despite rising tabs, the number of deliveries rose 8% to 2.8 million in the first quarter versus a year ago, even as customers paid 10% more  or $103 million, according to the report.

The rosy picture DCPW lays out is misleading at best, the delivery apps claim.

Grubhub said in a statement, DCWP predicted in its 2022 study that couriers would earn more, but that earning opportunities would be concentrated in fewer hands. Todays report shows that this is true.

UberEats claimed the number of delivery workers on its app has plunged by 12,000 since the new law went into effect, adding in a statement, The couriers who are still able to work need to work much harder, doing 80% more deliveries per hour than they did before the rule took effect.

Worker advocacy group Los Deliveristas claims that the delivery apps are deactivating workers in retaliation for not working fast enough or picking up each order thats offered to them. AP

UberEats also claims there is a waitlist now for the first time with some 27,000 New Yorkers seeking delivery work.

The city has argued that before the wage law went into effect the app companies had no incentive to limit the number of workers available to them, because they didnt have to pay them for the time they waited to get orders to deliver, referred to as on call time.

Now workers are mostly scheduled to work during shifts, making better use of workers time, the city said.

Ligia Guallpa of Los Deliveristas Unidos, which fought for the minimum wage law, blames the job losses on the apps punitive policies, claiming that they are deactivating workers who declined to ride faster or accept every order offered to them.

Consumers are paying 10% more for their delivery orders, according to the citys report. Getty Images

The app companies are recruiting new workers every day, trying to replace workers who are pushing back, Guallpa told The Post.

Some 50 to 70 delivery workers are being deactivated every day, according to the group.

Doordash shot back in a written statement that the citys report used cherry-picked figures that dont tell the whole story.

Food delivery workers complain that they are earning less in tips after Doordash and UberEats moved the option to tip on their platforms to after the checkout process. AFP via Getty Images

Weve heard time and time again from users on all sides of our platform that the new rules simply arent working, Doordash said in the statement.

And the real numbers bear out that sad truth: higher costs causing thousands of lost orders for Dashers to deliver and millions of dollars in lost revenue for local businesses, Doordash added.

The city report is the first to analyze data from January to March that the app companies submitted to the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection, which is charged with regulating the delivery industry and monitoring its compliance with the minimum wage law.
Former President Obama condemned the apparent shooting at a Trump rally on Saturday, expressing relief the former president was not seriously hurt.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, Obama posted on X. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Trump was on stage for just a short time at a rally in Butler, Pa., before apparent gun shots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage. Trumps ear was bloodied, and some blood had run onto his face.

Live updates: Suspected shooter reported dead after Trump rushed off stage

The former president pumped his fist toward the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement.

Trump hustled off stage after apparent shooting at rally

The Trump campaign said in a statement that the former president is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The suspected shooter is dead and a rally attendee was killed, the Butler County District Attorney told The Associated Press.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
AUSTIN (KXAN)  Officials are battling a fire in Burnet County that started on Friday, located between Marble Falls and Burnet, according to the Texas A&M Forest Service.

This embedded content is not available in your region.

The fire, now named the Lovers Hill fire, has burned at least 47 acres and was 75% contained as of 2:30 p.m., according to the forest service.

We will continue updating this article as updates become available.

How to prepare for extreme wildfire danger

Texans can prepare for an evacuation plan, including assembling a Go Kit that can meet the needs of all family members and start with the five Ps, as provided by the forest service:

People and Pets  plan for the whole family, including pets and livestock

Prescriptions  bring extra medication, eyeglasses, hearing aids and medical equipment including necessary batteries and power cords

Papers  include copies of insurance information, phone numbers and other important documents

Personal needs  pack personal items including clothes, food, water, toiletries, first aid kit, cash, computers/tablets, phones, chargers and sanitation supplies

Priceless items  include items of sentimental value, such as pictures, heirlooms and irreplaceable memorabilia.

Ways Texans can prepare for extreme wildfire danger

Other tips include for evacuation planning include:

Identify at least two evacuation routes, in case one is impacted, and save them in a navigation system or phone.

Practice your evacuation plan. Locate and load your Go Kit into your vehicle and drive your evacuation routes. Include all individuals at your home in this drill and ensure they are confident with the plan.

Work with your local emergency responders. Learn what to expect, how you will be notified during an emergency and determine if you need to register for a notification service.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Ohio jail deaths: Twice inmates overpower guards at hospitals, took guns, died by suicide

Shortly before 10 a.m. on June 1, 2022 inside a Dayton hospital, Montgomery County Jail inmate Brian Booth overpowered a 78-year-old contract security guard, who used a cane.

Booth, 30, fought with Darrell Holderman, took his gun, shot him in the neck, and then ran through the hospital hallways, pointing the Glock handgun at employees and patients. Outside in the hospital parking lot, Booth sat down and turned the gun on himself.

It was a shocking event.

Montgomery County Jail on West 2nd Street in Dayton Wednesday, January 17, 2024.

Montgomery County officials told state jail inspectors that it would change some procedures for dealing with people going through detoxification.

Less than two years later, a strikingly similar case happened.

In January 2024, Montgomery County deputies escorted Dejuan Johnson, 25, to another Dayton hospital for treatment.

Johnson wrestled a gun away from the Montgomery County Sheriff's deputy assigned to guard him. A doctor and nurses tried to intervene but when the gun discharged, they ran out of the room at Kettering Health Dayton.

With the gun in hand, Johnson ran through the hospital, out the door and to a nearby neighborhood where he broke into an unoccupied house. Dayton police officers surrounded the house. Once inside, officers found Johnson had shot himself in the head with the deputy's gun.

A year-long investigation by The Cincinnati Enquirer, Columbus Dispatch and USA TODAY Network Ohio examined 219 deaths in jail custody that were reported to the state Department of Rehabilitation and Correction between 2020 and 2023. Booth was among those deaths. Johnson's suicide is among 18 in-custody deaths reported to the state in the first five months of this year.

The investigation found jail personnel ignored serious medical conditions and injuries, withheld life-saving medicine and did not adequately monitor prisoners at risk for suicide.

Generally, the sheriff who runs the jail investigates the deaths that happen in-custody. Following the news organization's investigation, Gov. Mike DeWine said independent investigations should be conducted for every death.

Jails must report deaths and other critical incidents to the state prisons department but there is no consequence for failing to do so. Following a death in custody, inspectors check to see if the jail was out of compliance with state standards that would've applied to the case.

Montgomery County Sheriff Rob Streck, through a spokeswoman, declined to detail how the jail may have changed its protocols between or after the Booth and Johnson cases.

State inspectors also found that Montgomery County Jail had no deficiencies in how it handled Isaiah Trammell, a 19-year-old with autism who died after 10 hours inside the jail. Guards could be heard on security footage belittling and tormenting Trammell, who was banging his head, screaming and begging for help.

Streck's office has declined to comment on the Trammell case.

Since publication, Trammell's story has garnered headlines worldwide and a local group has called for an independent investigation.

Laura Bischoff is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Guards overpowered, guns stolen: How one Ohio jail lost control
Ohio officials conveyed their shock, horror and prayers for former President Donald Trump on Saturday night after he was rushed off stage following a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania.

One person was killed and two others critically injured after someone fired shots from outside Trump's rally in Butler, about 40 miles from the Ohio border, the Secret Service said late Saturday. The former president raised his fist as agents rushed him off stage, blood visible on the side of his face.

Trump later said he was shot. A statement from the Trump campaign and Republican National Committee said hes doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action.

The suspected shooter is dead. The incident is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

"Today is not just some isolated incident," Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, posted on X. "The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by guards during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Vance is among the leading candidates for Trump's vice-presidential running mate. His office did not immediately respond to a request for comment, but the Washington Post reported that he would not be attending Saturday's rally.

Here's how other Ohio officials reacted to the incident.

Gov. Mike DeWine

"Fran and I are praying for President Trump, his family, and our country."

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown, D-Ohio

"Connie and I are relieved that President Trump is safe, and are praying for the health and safety of all those attending the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania tonight, and for our country. Were grateful to the law enforcement who responded immediately. Political violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in our democracy."

U.S. Senate candidate Bernie Moreno

"Bridget and I are grateful for the rapid response of law enforcement in the wake of tonight's heinous attack. We also want to extend our condolences to the people who we lost in this act of evil. Bridget and I are also overwhelmingly thankful that President Trump is doing well and has never stopped fighting for the people of this country no matter the personal sacrifice. We need President Trump  an American legend  now more than ever."

Former Congressman Tim Ryan

"F***ing unacceptable. Zero tolerance for violence of any sort. I pray the former President is OK and all attendees. I dont give a s*** what (your) politics are. The competition is at the ballot box, not with guns. Lets pray for peace and nonviolence in America."

Former Gov. John Kasich, Republican

"What a terrible situation that a former president and potentially the next President of the United States has been shot. It's a horrible development. Let's pray that he has escaped any serious injury."

Ohio Republican Party Chairman Alex Triantafilou

"My President," Triantafilou posted with a photo of Trump raising his fist. "Pray for all attendees and for our great country."

U.S. Rep. Dave Joyce, R-Chagrin Falls

"Relieved to hear President Trump is okay. Please join me in praying for him, his family and the Secret Service agents who fearlessly jumped into action. As Americans, we must always stand strong against political violence."

U.S. Rep. Emilia Sykes, D-Akron

"Political violence is never acceptable. And is never justified under any circumstance. My thoughts and prayers are with all who were at the rally and my gratitude goes out to the secret service for their swift and decisive action."

U.S. Rep. Greg Landsman, D-Cincinnati

"This is horrific. Im grateful to hear that former President Trump is okay. Thankful for law enforcement and first responders. This is a very sad moment for our nation."

U.S. Rep. Michael Rulli, R-Salem

"They may try to lie, cheat, steal and kill. But they will never win. Trump, now more than ever."

U.S. Rep Joyce Beatty, D-Columbus

"Violence of any kind is unacceptable. We cannot allow it in our political discourse or our democracy. I was pleased that law enforcement responded quickly. My thoughts are with all impacted by this incident and I wish former President Trump a quick recovery."

Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague

"Donald Trump has put his fortune, his freedom and now his life on the line for the American people. Please pray for his safety."

House Speaker Jason Stephens, R-Kitts Hill

"Prayers for President Trump and everyone at the rally in Pennsylvania."

House Minority Leader Allison Russo, D-Upper Arlington

"Political violence has no place whatsoever in our democracy. My thoughts are with former President Trump, his family, and the victims of todays senseless attack. Grateful for the bravery and quick response of the Secret Service and law enforcement."

Senate President Matt Huffman, R-Lima

"Our prayers are with President Trump, his family and the nation tonight. An attempt on the president's life is an attack on our country and on our freedom."

USA TODAY contributed.

Haley BeMiller is a reporter for the USA TODAY Network Ohio Bureau, which serves the Columbus Dispatch, Cincinnati Enquirer, Akron Beacon Journal and 18 other affiliated news organizations across Ohio.

This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Trump rally shooting: Ohio officials react to incident at Pa. rally
BUTLER, Pa. (WCMH)  Ohio politicians are reacting to the news that former president Donald Trump was rushed off stage after an apparent shooting during a rally in Butler, Pa. on Saturday.

Among those who quickly weighed in were U.S. Sen. JD Vance (R), who has been rumored to be Trumps pick for vice president.

Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok, Vance said.

Democrats condemn apparent shooting at Trump rally

Vance later said in a statement, Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when the apparent shots began.

U.S. Sen. Sherrod Brown (D) also released a statement condemning political violence.

Connie and I are relieved that President Trump is safe, and are praying for the health and safety of all those attending the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania tonight, and for our country, Brown said. Were grateful to the law enforcement who responded immediately. Political violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in our democracy.

Ohio governor Mike DeWine posted on X, the website formerly known as Twitter, Fran and I are praying for President Trump, his family, and our country.

President Biden has been briefed on the incident, the White House said Saturday.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said in a statement. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Former Ohio governor John Kasich posted on X, What a terrible situation that a former president and potentially the next President of the United States has been shot. Its a horrible development. Lets pray that he has escaped any serious injury.

Former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton also weighed in on the situation. Obama said on X that him and wife, Michelle, are wishing Trump a quick recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, Obama said. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

Bush released a statement on X and said, Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Clinton echoed the sentiments of Obama and Bush by condemning the shooting.

Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process, Clinton said. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Jon Caldara is president of the Independence Institute in Denver and hosts The Devils Advocate with Jon Caldara on Colorado Public Television Channel 12. His column appears Sundays in Colorado Politics.
I cant remember a time Ive ever written olive oil and beer in the same sentence, much less had a tasting of both on the same day and in the same building.

That changed when I toured Sciabicas California Olive Oil and its new brewery, Track 424, in late June.

You may have this question, because I certainly did: How did a well-established olive oil company venture into the beer business?

Im gonna preface this by saying I love olive oil. I love my job, said Jonathan Sciabica, CEO of the company and the great-grandson of the businesss founder. It was from my desire to put my mark on Sciabicas and the family and do something that I was really passionate about.

Andrew Sciabica pours a flight of beer at the Track 424 Brewery taproom in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Jonathan Sciabica thought he might get some opposition for his somewhat radical idea to expand the family business with a seemingly polar opposite product, but he received support instead.

I was gung ho, said Daniel Sciabica, co-owner of the company and Jonathan Sciabicas uncle. Jonathan Sciabicas father, Nick Sciabica, is the second owner.

Daniel Sciabica said opening the taproom has led to an increase in olive oil sales because it sits next to the gift shop and theres a large opening in the wall between them.

Sciabicas has several varieties of flavored olive oil in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Though drinking alcohol is not allowed in the gift shop, sipping olive oil is. Customers can choose from a variety of olive oils to sample for free while learning about the products.

Theres more overlap in the olive oil industry and the beer industry than one may think, Jonathan Sciabica said.

The Sciabicas work backward from a targeted flavor, meaning they observe what their customers like and what the family likes and figure out how to make it happen with chosen ingredients, equipment, where they plant and what time they harvest. The culmination of these choices helps them achieve the flavor profile they and their customers are seeking.

The family has long used this process for making olive oil and has since used the process to develop its beer product.

I knew exactly what I wanted the hazy IPA to taste like before we even did the first trial, Jonathan Sciabica said. We just kept working on different hops, grains, water chemistry, time and temperature until we achieved the flavor that I was after.

Brewmaster Bob Proffitt in the process of making beer at Track 424 Brewery in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

He does acknowledge, however, that olive oil and beer dont often go together in a business or in peoples minds.

The plant that houses the gift shop and the taproom on Yosemite Boulevard will soon have a sign that says olive oil and brewery.

When passersby see it, it may provoke thought similar to what Jonathan Sciabica said happened when olive oil tasting rooms started popping up all over the country.

People may have had questions like: Why would I taste olive oil? Doesnt it at all taste the same?

Im hoping to do a similar thing by kind of breaking down a barrier for people (who may ask), Well, what do olive oil and beer have to do with each other? Jonathan Sciabica said. And in my opinion, its about crafting flavor.

Bottles of olive oil are being capped at Sciabicas facility in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Sciabicas celebrates 88 years with Farm2Fork event

A trip to Modesto to buy watermelons ignited the start of the business that has now existed in the city for nearly nine decades.

Nicola Sciabica learned to make olive oil in the town of Marsala in Sicily, Italy, in the late 1800s before immigrating to the United States.

He found his way to San Francisco, where the climate wasnt quite what he was searching for. Sciabica traveled to Modesto to buy watermelons to sell at a market in San Francisco, but he fell in love with the smaller town.

He bought a piece of property along Dry Creek in 1925 where he began producing olive oil, thus starting the family business in 1936.

Were now in our fifth generation making the olive oil in the same place, Jonathan Sciabica said.

Sciabicas olive oil in Modesto.

The water used in brewing the Track 424 beer is pulled from the family well that sits on the property along the creek.

In 1998, the family bought the Yosemite Avenue building, which sits around a mile from the Dry Creek property.

The Sciabica familys olive oil is made at the original property and transported to the newer building, where everything else happens, including bottling and distribution. All of the offices, the gift shop and the taproom are in the Yosemite Avenue building as well.

After Nicola Sciabica, the business was passed on to his son, Joseph Sciabica. Joseph Sciabica ran the company for 74 years.

Now, the legacy is carried on by Nicola Sciabicas grandsons Daniel and Nick Sciabica, and his great-grandson Jonathan Sciabica. Other Sciabica family members also have roles in the business, and there are no ownership changes in sight.

I think weve got the next 40 or 50 years covered, Jonathan Sciabica said.

Three generations of oil olive makers from the left, Daniel Sciabica, Jonathan Sciabica and Andrew Sciabica at Sciabicas California Olive Oil in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

The family will celebrate its 88th anniversary with the annual Farm2Fork Market & Culinary Fair in the parking lot of the building at 2150 Yosemite Blvd. in Modesto.

The event is from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Friday, Aug. 23, and features food, olive oil, beer, wine and cider sampling.

Sciabicas largest sale of the year happens during the event.

Vendors include Fiscalini Farmstead Cheese, Pauls Rustic Oven, Matkat Sourdough, Naturacentric Honey, Bauhaus and Food Fix.

Sciabicas California Olive Oil gift shop is open Monday through Wednesday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m., Friday from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Track 424s hours are Thursday from 4 to 8 p.m. and Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 8 p.m.

Track 424 Brewery taproom in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Flight of beer, from the left, nitro stout, double IPA, IPA, and a pilsner at Track 424 Brewery in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Track 424 Brewery in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Craft brew cocktails like the Lavender Haze (lavender, mint, lime juice, pilsner) are available at the Track 424 Brewery taproom in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.

Sciabicas and Track 424 Brewery on Yosemite Boulevard in Modesto, Calif., Friday, June 28, 2024.
With an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024, the U.S. experienced another violent episode in its increasingly polarized politics. Former President Trump, whos about to formally become the GOP nominee for president in the 2024 election, survived the attempted assassination when, initial reports said, a bullet grazed his ear. But one rally attendee was killed, more spectators were injured and the suspected gunman is also dead. The Conversations politics editor, Naomi Schalit, spoke with University of Massachusetts, Lowell, scholar Arie Perliger after the event. Perliger offered insight from his study of political violence and assassinations. Given the stark political polarization in the U.S., Perliger said, its not a surprise that eventually people engage in violence.

Schalit: When you heard the news, what was the first thing you thought?

Perliger: The first thing that I thought about is that we were basically one inch from a potential civil war. I think that if, indeed, Donald Trump would have suffered fatal injuries today, the level of violence that we witnessed so far will be nothing in comparison to what would have happened in the next couple of months. I think that would have unleashed a new level of anger, frustration, resentment, hostility that we havent seen for many, many years in the U.S.

This assassination attempt, at least at this early stage, may validate a strong sense among many Trump supporters and many people on the far right that they are being delegitimized, that they are on the defensive and that there are efforts to basically prevent them from a competing in the political process and prevent Trump from returning to the White House.

What weve just seen, for many of the people on the far right, fits very well into a narrative that theyve already been constructing and disseminating for the last few months.

Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Political assassination attempts dont aim only to kill someone. They have a larger goal, dont they?

In many ways, assassination attempts bypass the long process of trying to downgrade and defeat political opponents, when there is a sense that even a long political struggle will not be sufficient. Many perpetrators see assassinations as a tool that will allow them to achieve their political objectives in a very quick, very effective way that doesnt demand a lot of resources or a lot of organization. If we are trying to connect it to what weve seen today, I think that many people see Trump as a unicorn, as a unique entity, who in many ways really consumed the entire conservative movement. So by removing him, theres a sense that that will or may solve the problem.

I think that the conservative movement changed dramatically since 2016, when Trump was first elected, and a lot of the characteristics of Trumpism are actually now fairly popular in different parts of the conservative movement. So even if Trump will decide to retire at some point, I dont think that Trumpism  as a set of populist ideas  will disappear from the GOP. But I can definitely understand why people who see that as a threat will feel that removing Trump can solve all the problems.

In a study of the causes and impacts of political assassination, you wrote that unless electoral processes can address the most intense political grievances  electoral competition has the potential to instigate further violence, including the assassinations of political figures. Is that what you saw in this attempted assassination?

Democracy cannot work if the different parties, the different movements, are not willing to work together on some issues. Democracy works when multiple groups are willing to reach some kind of consensus through negotiations, to collaborate and to cooperate.

What weve seen in the last 17 years, basically since 2008 and the rise of the Tea Party movement, is that theres increasing polarization in the U.S. And the worst part of this polarization is that the American political system became dysfunctional in the sense that we are forcing out any politicians and policymakers who are interested in collaboration with the other side. Thats one thing. Second, people delegitimize leaders who are willing to collaborate with the other side, hence, presenting them as individuals who betrayed their values and political party.

The third part is that people are delegitimizing their political rivals. They transform a political disagreement into a war in which there is no space for working together to address the challenges they agree are facing the nation.

When you combine those three dynamics, you create basically a dysfunctional system where both sides are convinced that its a zero-sum game, that its the end of the country. Its the end of democracy if the other side wins.

If both sides are hammering into people again and again that losing an election is the end of the world, then its not a surprise that eventually people are willing to take the law into their hands and to engage in violence.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Arie Perliger, UMass Lowell

Read more:



Arie Perliger does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organization that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

With an assassination attempt on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024, the U.S. experienced another violent episode in its increasingly polarized politics.

Former President Trump, whos about to formally become the GOP nominee for president in the 2024 election, survived the attempted assassination when, initial reports said, a bullet grazed his ear. But one rally attendee was killed, more spectators were injured and the suspected gunman is also dead.

The Conversations politics editor, Naomi Schalit, spoke with University of Massachusetts scholar Arie Perliger after the event. Perliger offered insight from his study of political violence and assassinations. Given the stark political polarization in the U.S., Perliger said, its not a surprise that eventually people engage in violence.

Schalit: When you heard the news, what was the first thing you thought?

Perliger: The first thing that I thought about is that we were basically one inch from a potential civil war. I think that if, indeed, Donald Trump would have suffered fatal injuries today, the level of violence that we witnessed so far will be nothing in comparison to what would have happened in the next couple of months. I think that would have unleashed a new level of anger, frustration, resentment, hostility that we havent seen for many, many years in the U.S.

This assassination attempt, at least at this early stage, may validate a strong sense among many Trump supporters and many people on the far right that they are being delegitimized, that they are on the defensive and that there are efforts to basically prevent them from competing in the political process and prevent Trump from returning to the White House.

What weve just seen, for many of the people on the far right, fits very well into a narrative that theyve already been constructing and disseminating for the last few months.

A white man with a bloodied face raises his fist as he is surrounded by men in darks suits and sun glasses.

Political assassination attempts dont aim only to kill someone. They have a larger goal, dont they?

In many ways, assassination attempts bypass the long process of trying to downgrade and defeat political opponents, when there is a sense that even a long political struggle will not be sufficient. Many perpetrators see assassinations as a tool that will allow them to achieve their political objectives in a very quick, very effective way that doesnt demand a lot of resources or a lot of organization. If we are trying to connect it to what weve seen today, I think that many people see Trump as a unicorn, as a unique entity, who in many ways really consumed the entire conservative movement. So by removing him, theres a sense that that will or may solve the problem.

I think that the conservative movement changed dramatically since 2016, when Trump was first elected, and a lot of the characteristics of Trumpism are actually now fairly popular in different parts of the conservative movement. So even if Trump will decide to retire at some point, I dont think that Trumpism  as a set of populist ideas  will disappear from the GOP. But I can definitely understand why people who see that as a threat will feel that removing Trump can solve all the problems.

In a study of the causes and impacts of political assassination, you wrote that unless electoral processes can address the most intense political grievances  electoral competition has the potential to instigate further violence, including the assassinations of political figures. Is that what you saw in this attempted assassination?

Democracy cannot work if the different parties, the different movements, are not willing to work together on some issues. Democracy works when multiple groups are willing to reach some kind of consensus through negotiations, to collaborate and to cooperate.

What weve seen in the last 17 years, basically since 2008 and the rise of the Tea Party movement, is that theres increasing polarization in the U.S. And the worst part of this polarization is that the American political system became dysfunctional in the sense that we are forcing out any politicians and policymakers who are interested in collaboration with the other side. Thats one thing. Second, people delegitimize leaders who are willing to collaborate with the other side, hence, presenting them as individuals who betrayed their values and political party.

The third part is that people are delegitimizing their political rivals. They transform a political disagreement into a war in which there is no space for working together to address the challenges they agree are facing the nation.

When you combine those three dynamics, you create basically a dysfunctional system where both sides are convinced that its a zero-sum game, that its the end of the country. Its the end of democracy if the other side wins.

If both sides are hammering into people again and again that losing an election is the end of the world, then its not a surprise that eventually people are willing to take the law into their hands and to engage in violence.

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This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
In the hours, days and weeks to come, America will surely hold its breath. The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump comes at a time when the country already felt bruisedif not brokenpolitically.

America is on a knife edge.

To all intents and purposes, Americas two tribes were already at war. But a shot had not been fired. Until now. (No, we dont know the political motivations or the mental state of the would-be assassin, but attempting to kill a presidential candidate will do nothing to lower tensions.) Over the last few years the tenor of what passes for political debate and argument in the U.S. has plumbed new depths of ugliness and violence.

And its not just words. The threat level to members of Congress is historically high. U.S. Capitol police reported that, from 2017 to 2021, they rose from 3,900 to 9,625 annually. Since the Jan. 6 Capitol attack, threats to lawmakers on both sides, judges, election officials and school board members have risen exponentially. Threats to judges have risen 400 percent over the last few years.

The violence of Jan. 6 was not a stand-alone moment. Threats to lawmakers and judges have risen exponentially in recent years. Shannon Stapleton/Reuters

And, alarmingly, Americans are now much more comfortable with the idea of political violence. A 2021 study by Johns Hopkins University and the University of Wisconsin-Madison found that 20 percent of Republicans and 13 percent of Democrats felt that violence was warranted in the current political climate.

They also revealed that 25 percent of Republicans and 17 percent of Democrats said threats to opposing party officials were acceptable. These are frightening numbers. Violence doesnt just creep up: it explodes. Societies, once peaceful, can be torn apart overnight.

America is not on the brink of war, but it certainly feels like a tinderbox. Political leaders on all sides have a duty to douse the flames, not reach for the lighter fluid. The early signs are not good.

Although he was understandably angry, frightened and distressed, the sight of former President Trump looking directly into the crowd and shouting fight, fight fight as he was bundled off the stage after the shooting is not likely to reduce tensions.

An understandably angry, frightened, and distressed former President Trump shouting fight, fight fight as he was bundled off the stage after the shooting is not likely to reduce tensions. Brendan McDermid/Trump

And, within hours, Trumps possible vice-presidential pick, J.D. Vance, chose an incendiary post on X as his response.

Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Elon Musk, Xs owner, promptly leaping to endorse Trump on X and demanding the resignation of the head of the Secret Service only added to the frenzy.

America, more than ever, needs reconciliation, not retribution.

But its not just the blowhards on the right. On X (where else?), idiots made trending topics of How Did They Miss and They Missed. Conservative comedian Tim Young noted, Now HOW DO YOU MISS is trending because people are upset Trump wasnt k*lled. This sums up the time we live in. Disgusting.

And words matter. Theres absolutely no question that speech convinces people to do things, Susan Benesch, a human rights attorney and faculty associate of Berkman Klein Center for Internet & Society at Harvard told the Harvard Gazette last year.

Theres very strong evidence of at least a correlation between dangerous speech and mass violence.

It feels like an especially febrile time, not just domestically, but globally. There is a war in Europe, notionally between Ukraine and Russia, but proxies in Europe, China, the US, Iran, and North Korea are being drawn closer to the action. Tensions in the South China Sea are at an all-time high. Gaza is in flames and Israel may yet be drawn into a war on its northern border.

America is at a tipping point. Can those who presume to lead the country, and their fellow travelers, step back from the raucous, heightened rhetoric of political violence? We are about to find out.

On Aug. 28, 1963, one of Americas foremost public figures delivered an astonishing speech on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial in DC, watched by 250,000 people.

In 1963, America heard an impassioned speech on the need for civility and peace. But five years later, he was the victim of the assassins bullet. Bettmann/Getty

Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for freedom by drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must forever conduct our struggle on the high plane of dignity and discipline. We must not allow our creative protest to degenerate into physical violence.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., who spoke those words, was assassinated in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 4, 1968.

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Editors Note: Jeff Schlegelmilch is a research scholar and the director of the National Center for Disaster Preparedness at the Columbia Climate School at Columbia University. He is the author of Rethinking Readiness: A Brief Guide to Twenty-First-Century Megadisasters and co-author of Catastrophic Incentives: Why Our Approaches To Disasters Keep Falling Short. The opinions expressed in this commentary are his own. Read more opinion at CNN.

I was driving from my hotel room in Gaziantep, Turkey, to the Hatay region last fall, about eight months after the devastating magnitude 7.8 earthquake that was one of the strongest temblors to hit the country in more than a century. I was expecting to see communities emerging from the rubble and rebuilding. I expected visible scars and a slow recovery, with some progress made and emerging areas of normalcy.

But as we approached the epicenter of the damage, I realized this disaster was different.

Building after building had large cracks throughout, while many other structures had partially or totally collapsed. Interspersed across the landscape were makeshift camps with tents, which were gradually being replaced by encampments of thin-walled containers (think shipping containers used to house people). There was virtually no surviving housing in the worst-hit areas, limited infrastructure was functioning and demolition of damaged buildings was only starting to push forward.

Meeting after meeting with local officials and residents reflected eight months of standing still, persistent trauma and recovery stunted while the rest of the world moved on. One elected official told our group that if we wanted to give assistance to children, that was okay  but for the adults, they said the only thing we could do to help was to take them back to America with us.

Building codes were in place to prevent such a tragedy, but sadly few structures were built to this standard. The countrys Disaster and Emergency Management Authority is active but relatively new in its current form, having been consolidated as a single agency only in 2009. Digging out from the rubble, it is estimated that the monster quake killed more than 53,000 people and displaced 3 million more in Turkey and neighboring Syria.

Jeff Schlegelmilch - Jonathan Sury

Tragedies of this scale are major disasters  and begin to approach what we refer to as a megadisaster.

Disasters come in all shapes and sizes: from the extreme society-ending disasters such as the destruction of Pompeii with the eruption of Mt. Vesuvius in 79 CE to the simple house fire that may mean little to passers-by but has shattered the whole world of the family who resides there.

But in a megadisaster, the very resources and systems we rely upon to respond to and recover from disasters are destroyed or otherwise overwhelmed as systems fail and rescue and recovery are nearly impossible. The needs in a house fire are addressed by a local fire department, the survivors network of family and friends and maybe a local chapter of a nonprofit such as the Red Cross. The recovery in Turkey is slow, but it has been advanced by bringing in resources from donors and supplies from other parts of Turkey, as well as other countries. In ancient Pompeii, there were no resources to draw upon. The entire city was devastated. Every option for external assistance was disrupted and there was nowhere to go for help.

This is a megadisaster. And there is little that your emergency managers can do about it once it happens.

A Thai woman walks by the devastation at a hotel along Patong Beach, one of the worst tsunami-hit provinces, on December 27, 2004, in Phuket, Thailand. The Boxing Day tsunami triggered by a massive underwater quake in the Indian Ocean killed at least 225,000 people. - Paula Bronstein/Getty Images

Expanding how we see megadisasters

There are also mega threats beyond the big one quake feared along a ruptured fault or a waking very high threat volcano. As explained in detail in my book, Rethinking Readiness: A Brief Guide to Twenty-First-Century Megadisasters, there are categories of calamities with the potential to become megadisasters including biothreats, extreme weather related to climate change, infrastructure failure such as a power grid going down, cyberthreats and nuclear conflict. In each of these scenarios, our development of societies enhances the threats and our underlying vulnerability to them.

Biothreats, including the possibility of a pandemic that would dwarf the Covid-19 pandemic, stalk us with pathogens such as highly pathogenic avian influenza lurking in the background. The prospect of biological weapons reads like something out of a science-fiction novel, but these are real threats: Advances in genetic engineering are lowering the technical barriers to build sophisticated bioweapons, with potentially devastating consequences.

Unprecedented heat and extreme-weather events are breaking records and have cost trillions of dollars in the past few decades in the US alone. This has all been bought and paid for with our disaster funds, national deficit, and absorbed by our large economy. But there are breaking points. Deficits are growing, and spending on disasters is increasingly coming into question with projections of costs set to continue to spiral without reductions in greenhouse gas emissions. These hazards are also threatening to make some parts of the world, such as the Middle East, virtually uninhabitable without extreme reliance on cooling infrastructure. Some small island nations may vanish entirely because of sea-level rise. The implications for state stability, global migration and military assets pose such a risk to national security that the Defense Department and other agency leaders have been increasingly sounding the alarm on climate change.

Our vulnerability from crumbling infrastructure and potentially catastrophic cyber threats continues to be front and center in the news, with a ship crashing into Baltimores Key Bridge, leading to its subsequent collapse, giving us just a small taste of what is possible when our critical arteries and systems go down. And, of course, with Russias war in Ukraine, among other global tinderboxes involving nuclear powers, nuclear war is now arguably more likely than it was during the Cold War.

A megadisaster could strike a catastrophic blow at the outset or could cause widespread death and destruction through a slow burn of cascading impacts such as a nuclear winter from atomic blasts, or prolonged droughts leading to crop failures, mass famines and the collapse of governments.

While emergency managers around the world already have their hands full with disasters of increasing scope, severity and frequency, megadisasters could overtake the very systems we rely upon to manage disasters.

John Quinn of Bothel, Washington, watches as steam erupts from Mount St. Helens on October 12, 2004, at Mount St. Helens National Volcanic Monument, Washington. - Craig Mitchelldyer/Getty Images

The limits of emergency management

A friend and respected colleague in the field once referred to disasters as a numbers game: You have to garner limited resources across relatively siloed organizations, within and outside of government, and get them to work together to help response and recovery in the greatest way possible  getting things like water, food, medicine, fuel and temporary shelters where they are needed most.

The practice of emergency management has generally originated from the first responder community and the civil defense era, primarily with a focus on consequence management. Early disaster researchers like Enrico Quarantelli found disasters to be whole-of-society phenomena, where everyone comes together and recovery works  or they dont, and it doesnt. But as emergency management agencies have been designed, emergency management systems have been shaped by laws and agreements across government bureaucracies and partners in the private and nonprofit sectors with a narrower focus on managing consequences, focused more on logistics than sociology.

Over the past several decades, the aperture of the emergency manager has widened to take a broader look beyond the procedures. In the United States, this has been encapsulated with a transition from talking about preparedness to words like resilience. The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) now speaks of a whole community approach to disasters, and even includes community lifelines as a key lens for understanding recovery and resilience. These approaches look at how society works, across multiple independent businesses, organizations and agencies and what is needed to make recovery happen  such as delivering transportation, communications, safety and security, food, water and shelter.

Globally, a similar trend is taking hold, with the United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction (UNDRR) building off of global disaster frameworks and moving toward disaster planning that acknowledges the complexity of how civil society operates, recognizing that we need to engage across communities including the public and private sectors to build partnerships before disaster strikes.

But disaster management in practice is still fundamentally a numbers game.

Megadisasters decimate the supplies needed to respond to a disaster and destroy systems needed to manage catastrophes. A disaster becomes mega through the hubris of societal development that amplifies our vulnerability, the weaponization of our science and technology for greater gain that increases the threat and tipping points where the bad things get too far away from us. The warning signs are written in the history books of past societies destroyed, the models and projections from scientists studying the growing threats and even in the imagination of fiction writers and Hollywood films. But they are ultimately ignored until they can no longer be denied.

A group of tents stands amidst the rubble after an earthquake in Port-au-Prince, Haiti, on January 12, 2010, in this United Nations handout photo. - Ho New/Reuters

How do we even manage megadisasters?

Megadisasters are formed through development policies. The most obvious is the infrastructure we rely on.

Imagine the roads for transporting our food, the power lines ferrying electrons to power our lives and the internet behind our bank accounts, navigation systems, health monitoring devices and much more. The more we rely on these advances, the more devastating it is when they are taken from us.

Building resilience into these infrastructure investments is critical to reduce the potential for disaster, but we dont do a good job of acknowledging the value of that additional investment  so we spend less and ask why when the infrastructure we rely upon fails us.

The consumption of resources for growth, conquest and conflict to attain those resources and incentive structures are designed to reward short-term, visible outcomes rather than true preparedness and resilience building.

We want to see the condo development built and sold with a nice view of the water, rather than spend more time and money to reinforce and elevate it to withstand the hurricane, or maybe even not build in harms way at all and leave that parcel of land empty (and without tax revenue). We need the new road built and opened today, even if tomorrow it may be flooded. And donors want to see pictures of people happy to be moving from a tent to a container shelter, and not earthquake-resilient housing built that takes several decades to build and should have been.

Where we build, how we build and whom we protect are all factors that are outside of the sphere of influence of an emergency manager, yet they are the ones who clean up the mess when political incentives, corporate shareholder demands and donor insistence on immediate and photogenic post-disaster results prevent us from meaningfully investing in our own resilience.

To reduce the risk of megadisasters we need to look to sustainable development  and the underlying incentives that drive our development  and better integrate the hard-earned wisdom of our emergency managers to better understand the consequences of our decisions before we make them.

There are early steps being taken with a shift domestically to funding resilience in infrastructure bills, and internationally with a shift in focus to climate adaptation funding, as well as increased interest in utilizing the private sector to finance resilience. These investments can have dramatic impacts on disasters. Look at similar-sized earthquakes in Japan and Haiti: In a country with limited building codes and little money to invest in resilience measures, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake in 2010 became one of the worst disasters in modern history. Japan is one of the wealthy nations that experience earthquakes frequently, and a 7.0 in 2021 caused very little damage.

Strong emergency management agencies are also important. The toll of earthquakes like the ones in Turkey would be better confronted by strong response and recovery systems, which can stop runaway impacts from the extended loss of community lifelines including water, power and healthcare. But while we need stronger and more robust emergency management agencies to help us with the increase in major disasters, we need to think bigger to prevent looming megadisasters  otherwise, there may not be future generations of archaeologists to sift through the ashes and marvel at a society that once was.

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The two greatest intelligence and security failures in U.S. history were the totemic sneak attacks on Pearl Harbor and 9/11.

Separated by 60 years, both failures shared striking similarities. Clues to both were available in the raw intelligence gathered by the U.S. but they slipped through the gaps of multi-agency cooperation, poorly focused resources and a failure of imagination. The failings were profound but at least they were understandablethe security failure on Saturday that allowed a sniper to fire shots at President Donald Trump was just plain dumb.

How on earth could you not secure the single most obvious elevated sniper position directly overlooking the site of a presidential candidates speech?

Under standard procedure for these events, the advance team, Secret Service and local law enforcement would identify potential sniper platforms for a perimeter shooter. Security would then usually be placed on the roofs or at the very least law enforcement would block access to the potentially risky sites. In this instance, the roof used by the attacker was by far the most obvious elevated location and it was well within range for a gunman with an AR-style rifle like the one used this weekend.

Studying satellite images of the rural site, it is immediately clear that there are only a handful of high-risk sniper platforms within range of Trumps stage. This should have been a relatively simple location to secure.

Images from Google Earth show that there are only a small number of buildings within the range of a sniper rifle. Illustration by Elizabeth Brockway / Google Earth

A former Department of Homeland Security senior official said he was concerned about how and why someone could have gotten that close with a long range weapon. It was outside the perimeter.

If its true that the structure was only 150 yards away, thats what we call danger close, too close, you have to push your perimeter out. At 200 yards you dont have to be a very good shot to hit someone if you have rifle.

My concern is that the bad actor was only 150 yards away, and he was in maximum effective range of the weapon.

The source, who asked to remain anonymous, said the director of the Secret Service Kim Cheadle was the best boss he had ever had: The knock on her is that fiscally shes outstanding, fiscally shes dynamite, but operationally the knock on her is that shes under exposed operationally. She ran the VPs, Gore and Cheney, and then Biden as Veep, but operationally its not the same as running the presidents.

He added that he understood Cheadle would now be put under pressure, but the Secret Service were not partisan. Once one of the presidents asked me which side I was actually on and I said Sir, we dont think that way. I am on the side of the Constitution.

The Secret Service has already launched an investigation into how this blunder was allowed to happen. It shouldnt last as long as the multitude of probes into 9/11 and Pearl Harbor.

The 9/11 Commission reported back almost three years after the Twin Towers were brought down. It found that The overriding conclusion was that the governments principal failure in 9/11 was a failure to connect the dots.

The report said Presidents Bill Clinton and George W. Bush had not been well-served by the CIA and FBI. A separate special report by the Office of the Inspector General also dated 2004 found that the FBI was failing to properly analyze and share the intelligence it was gathering with the rest of the intel community. For example, the pursuit of information relating to two of the 9/11 terrorists, Nawaf al Hazmi and Khalid al Mihdhar, was compromised by systemic failings. The CIA had been tracking them overseas, but they didnt have jurisdiction on American soil and they never handed over responsibility to the FBI to keep watching the men once they were inside the United States. Flags had also been raised about flight school students and the potential use of kamikaze-style attacks but they were not properly shared.

The U.S. was hoovering up huge amounts of intelligence via 18 intelligence agencies including Naval, Army and Air Force Intelligence and the National Security Agency (NSA) but failing to put it to good use. Millions of intercepted messages and satellite images were stuck in a years-long wait to be analysed.

The problem was relatively simple but hugely difficult to resolve.

The response after 9/11 was the establishment of new umbrella organizations: the Office of the Director of National Intelligence to coordinate other intelligence agencies; the Department of Homeland Security; and the TSA to belatedly federalize border control.

According to multiple inquiries held in the years after, many of the same problems had hampered U.S. intel agencies ahead of Pearl Harbor. The U.S. Army, for example, was responsible for monitoring the Japanese Army, while the U.S. Navy watched their navy. Communication between the two was so weak that patterns showing Japan preparing for the attack were missed. Not only that, the Navy and Army didnt even communicate well enough to know when one of their planes was appearing on the others radar, thus radically reducing the utility of the early warning system.

The day before the attack, the Armys Signal Intelligence Service (SIS) intercepted a message from Japan to its diplomats inside the U.S. saying that they had decided months of negotiations were now over and there would be no peace with the United States. It wasnt until the attack was underway less than 24 hours later that intel analysts realized how important that message had been.

Other messages which could have offered vital clues before the Dec. 7, 1941 attack were not decrypted and translated until years later.

Like any other event even close to the scale of Pearl Harbor, there are dozens of conspiracy theories that try to ascribe sinister motives to the intel failings, but the truth is: Intel collection was too casual, poorly shared and not disseminated to the key decision makers. Just like 9/11.

What did the U.S. do after investigating Pearl Harbor? It set up new intelligence agencies in 1947 that were supposed to share their intel better. That included a Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) and the National Security Council which coordinated between intelligence agencies and government departments.

Yes, the U.S. was breached again on Sept. 11, 2001, but huge strides forward had been taken. The sophistication of the U.S. intelligence operation had come on leaps and bounds.

Sixty-one years after JFK was shot dead by a sniper in an elevated position, why hasnt the Secret Service made similar progress?

The lessons have not been learneddespite the near miss with President Ronald Reagan.

President Franklin D. Roosevelt described the assault on Pearl Harbor as a date which will live in infamy. For the Secret Service, Saturdays assassination attempt on Trump will go down as the day of their greatest ignominy.

Nico Hines covered U.S. politics in Washington, D.C. for The Times of London and was London Bureau Chief for Newsweek before becoming The Daily Beast World Editor. As a foreign correspondent he has reported from NATOs front line with Russia in the Arctic Circle, camped out with the families of trapped Chilean miners in the Atacama desert, and chased down terror suspects in Sydney.

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In early 2020, nine months before the presidential election, New York Magazine profiled one of the newest House Democrats and asked them what they thought of a possible Joe Biden presidency. Oh God, they replied, In any other country, Joe Biden and I would not be in the same party, but in America we are.

Earlier this week, as Biden struggled to survive the fallout from his disastrous presidential debate performance, the same member of Congress told reporters outside the Capitol. The matter is closed. Joe Biden is our nominee. He is not leaving this race. He is in this race, and I support him.

Welcome to the changing face of Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez.

Her rise from political outsider to D.C. insider has not pleased everyone, and her critics on the left have been especially voluble. This week the Democratic Socialists of America (DSA) group withdrew its conditional endorsement of Ocasio-Cortez, claiming she is not supportive enough of the Palestinian position in efforts to end the war in Gaza.

At first as a Congresswoman, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez leaned into her radical roots and branding, including in New York in June 2018. But her path has changed in recent months. David 'Dee' Delgado/Reuters

This was a significant break. In 2018when Ocasio-Cortez stunned US politics by unseating a veteran, and senior, Democrat in a primary race for a House seat in NYit was grassroots organizations like the DSA, alongside the Justice Democrats, who played a key role in helping organize, canvass and mobilize support.

Its worth remembering how sensational and unexpected her victory was, as is reflected in reporting of her victory in June 2018 in the New York Times: Mr. Crowley was defeated by a 28-year-old political newcomer, Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez, a former organizer for Bernie Sanderss presidential campaign, who had declared it was time for generational, racial and ideological change.

She had come out of nowhere. And yet, 24 hours later, the same news organization declared that Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez Emerges as a Political Star. As Harold Wilson, the former British prime minister famously said, A week is a long time in politics.

The old Ocasio-Cortez was at the center of the Democratic Socialists of America and the Justice Democrats attempt to reframe debates, including around defunding ICE. Jonathan Ernst/Reuters

The DSAs statement is merely the latest criticism from the left that claims that Ocasio-Cortez has compromised her radical politics in exchange for a seat at the top table.

One uncharacteristic misstep on her road from political outsider to insider was her appearance at the Met Gala in 2021 when she arrived in a Tax the Rich gown. This provoked a storm of criticism from the left and right. Donald Trump Jr. hit out at her hypocrisy in sending a message about taxing the rich while shes hanging out with a bunch of wealthy leftwing elites.

In 2021 the politician caused a social media storm of praise and condemnation when she wore a Tax the Rich dress to the Met Gala. Mario Anzuoni/Reuters

On the left there was an equally furious response. Briahna Gray, the former national press secretary for Senator Bernie Sanders 2020 campaign, said the response was, in part, born from disappointment with her perceived lack of progress on progressive issues, People are disappointed in her behavior outside of this context, and this seems to be reflective of a lack of commitment that has been demonstrated in a purely political context.

This was politics as theaterbut the critics werent amused. And, increasingly, Ocasio-Cortez has made a very deliberate shift from firebrand tactics and social media provocations to working the levers of power on Capitol Hill.

She secured a senior position on a powerful House committee and learned to work with allies on the left and right (among them the ultra-MAGA Floridian Rep. Matt Gaetz, in crafting a bill that would ban lawmakers from owning stocks). This is a world away from the day, in her first week in the House in 2018, when she was among a group of protesters who occupied then-minority leader Nancy Pelosis office to demand more action on climate change.

Ocasio-Cortez has acknowledged the change and explained how and why it had to happen. Stung by the hostility she faced from Congressional Democrats, who seemed to take umbrage at this young, demonstrative woman of color, she gradually re-thought how she could make headway, not just headlines.

The prickly relationship between AOC and Nancy Pelosi as House minority leader then speaker has changed markedly. Pelosi had dismissed AOC and other members of the so-called squad as speaking only for themselves. Office of House Speaker Nancy Pelosi/Reuters

She had a fractious (at best) relationship with Nancy Pelosi, who seemed singularly unimpressed by her and her fellow Squad members. In an interview with the New York Times in 2019, Pelosi said, All these people have their public whatever and their Twitter world. But they dont have any following. Theyre four people, and thats how many votes they got.

In another biting putdown, a senior aide to Pelosi, when asked what the veteran leader really thought of Ocasio-Cortez revealed, Nancy doesnt have much patience for people who dont know what they dont know.

To negotiate the byzantineand often embitteredworld of Capitol politics, Ocasio-Cortez 2.0 started to emerge.

In a Q&A last year headlined Alexandra Ocasioo-Cortez on How She Has Changed, she was forthright about this awakening I had to prove to this world of Washington that I was serious and skilled, and that I wasnt just here to make a headline, but that I was here to engage in this process in a skilled and sophisticated way. That I did my homework, so to speak.

USA-BIDEN/HUNTER The new version of AOC is a more subtle Capitol Hill warrior, as demonstrated as she whispers to Jamei Raskin, the ranking Democrat on the House Oversight Committee. Evelyn Hockstein/Reuters

In doing the homework, some marked it down.

A year ago New York Magazine ran a long, scathing piece headlined AOC Is Just a Regular Old Democrat Now, in which the writer criticized her for consistent fealty to Democratic Party leadership, and as someone who is increasingly comfortable with leaving her past radical branding behind.

Ocasio-Cortezs journey involves a difficult balance. As the writers of a lengthy profile in Politico charting her journey over the last six years, pointed out, Ocasio-Cortezs new profile also isnt without risk. The Democratic base doesnt typically reward an ability to work the inside levers of Congress. But the influence she can accrue by playing Congress inside track may prove to be as potent as the saturation-level media exposure she would forgo in the process.

Ocasio-Cortez is aware of that balance, and the journey she is on. As she said last year, I think that perhaps some of the things that would describe me in this moment might be: evolving, learning, challenging myself. And in challenging herself, she is also, increasingly, being challenged.

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Timothy Forte, a 65-year-old retiree in a "U.S. Army Veteran" hat, grasped for words Sunday morning about the state of the country after the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump.

"That's the life we're living now," he said. "Stuff like this happens all the time."

As he was heading into BJs on Route 119 in Greenburgh, Forte had a look of exasperation and disappointment about the state of the nation, not unlike other shoppers who stopped to talk Sunday morning. Forte said he was not a Trump supporter, but that it didn't matter.

Timothy Forte, 65, of Greenburgh said that he's not a Trump supporter, but "what happened to him was terrible, it should never have happened. That's not the democratic way." Forte spoke outside BJ's Wholesale Club in Greenburgh July 14, 2024, one day after former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

"What happened to him is terrible; it should have never happened," Forte said. "What's going to happen now? I don't know what's going to happen now."

Across the Lower Hudson Valley on Sunday morning, from Greenburgh to Piermont, Nyack to Mount Kisco, people tried to make sense of Saturday's attack, which killed one spectator and critically injured two others, in addition to Trump's injury. People expressed widely divergent political opinions, as expected, but most also shared a pretty cynical view about the worsening political divide and where things might go after the attempt on Trump's life.

Most also thought that Trump is more likely to be elected.

A note to our readers: Coverage of the shooting at former President Trump's rally in Pennsylvania was limited in Sunday's printed edition due to our deadlines. We have updated and expanded the Nation & World Extra section in your Sunday eNewspaper with special coverage of the shooting  you can see 8 full pages of coverage now in section NN of your eNewspaper. Ongoing live coverage can always be found here.

John V. Milioti of West Harrison says the he's tired of "people on the left" comparing Donald Trump to Hitler and Mussolini. Milioti spoke outside BJ's Wholesale Club in Greenburgh July 14, 2024, one day after former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

John Milioti, 64, a former mover from West Harrison, blamed the rhetoric of Democrats for inciting Saturday's shooting. He expected more voters to pay attention now.

"The left is ridiculous, saying that Trump is like Hitler and Mussolini. I'm tired of it," said Milioti, wearing a "Trump 2024: Take America Back" cap. "He's trying to make the country better. We're in hell right now."

Nelson and Angela Abreu of Pleasantville, no fans of Trump, said they were shocked by Saturday's violence and oppose violence in all forms. But they're even more concerned about where Trump's politics could lead.

"Women's rights are being attacked and undermined," said Angela Abreu, 49, an associate director for Verizon. "That's my number one priority right now."

Angela Abreu of Pleasantville spoke about the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump before she and her husband Nelson went shopping at BJ's Wholesale Club in Greenburgh July 14, 2024. "We don't condone violence in any way, shape or form, no matter who it is." she said.

Nelson Abreu, 54, a trader, said that the political climate is so concerning that "all I want to do is take care of my kids in the future."

"I don't know where we go from here, until our political rivals find a way to work with each other and accept each other's differences," he said. "That's what this is all about, right? ... People should just listen to each other. Try. I mean, what is this country about?"

Paul and Linda Weiss of Ossining, big Trump supporters, said the attack on Trump should lead to more Republican votes and implied that Democrats may have been connected to the shooting, a notion all over social media Sunday despite any evidence of such a connection.

Paul and Linda Weiss of Ossining both said that they think "people are going to finally see the Democrats as they truly are...living liars". The couple spoke outside BJ's Wholesale Club in Greenburgh July 14, 2024, one day after former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

"More people will vote for Donald Trump," said Paul Weiss, 74. "Right now, we have too many immigrants, high taxes and inept foreign policy."

"Wake up America," said Linda Weiss, 69. The couple manufacture wedding and formalwear in Yonkers. "Trump is the only one who can make America great."

Shariyf Jefferson, 44, a mechanic from Yonkers, said hes not a fan of politicians. "Politics is a dirty little business," he said as he and his wife, Daisy Jefferson, 44, an administrative assistant at St. John's Riverside Hospital in Yonkers, were loading their vehicle with months of groceries.

But he expects the assassination attempt will lead to Trumps election.

He wins, Jefferson said. Because he looks stronger Thats how life works.

Daisy Jefferson, like others, couldn't understand how the shooter was able to carry out the attack.

"Trump has so much security and personnel," she said. "How is that even possible?"

Anthony Vespa,. 62, a retired New York City police officer and Bronxville resident said that after the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, "everybody should unite together and have peace, that's all." Vespa spoke outside BJ's Wholesale Club in Greenburgh July 14, 2024, one day after former President Donald Trump was grazed by a bullet during an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

One woman who stopped to talk about the nation's political nastiness did not want to give her name because she said she was fearful of who might see it and react.

Anthony Vespa, 62, of Bronxville, a retired New York City police officer, tried to be hopeful.

"It's horrific, it's inexcusable," he said. "There's no room for this to happen in the world. It's sad today. Everyone has to come together and unite together and have peace.

"Stop all this being against each other."

At Piermont park, strong views both ways

Flywheel Park in Piermont teemed with activity on a sunny Sunday morning as vendors set up for a weekly farmers market. People strolling by or sitting next to the park had a lot to say when asked about the shooting and its possible impact on the campaign. Some held strong views for or against Trump and spoke from those perspectives. Others gave measured views that betrayed no political leanings.

Its unfortunate. I think it makes him a martyr, which is more unfortunate, said Mariann Sauvion, a South Nyack resident seated in a pavilion next to the Hudson River. The fact that he raised his fist like the symbol of Black power in the 60s  instead of now representing white supremacy in the 2020s  I find it to be disheartening.

She saw the shooting as another example of the nations gun-violence problem and lax gun laws in states like Pennsylvania. And she rejected the Republican charge that strong Democratic rhetoric about Trump posing a threat to democracy may have contributed to the shooting.

I buy the fact that I feel that hes a threat to democracy  definitely, Sauvion said. He has his whole agenda. Hes going to take out whoever he can the first day hes in office, get rid of any long-term civil servants and replace them with sycophants.

Seated nearby on a bench in front of the Piermont library, Max Beer could not have disagreed more. He wore his political beliefs quite clearly: a red baseball cap that read Keep America Great paired with an anti-Biden t-shirt, complete with expletives.

If you look at this campaign, from the day that this man announced that he was running, the left was going to impeach him, they were going to do this, violence was mentioned, said Beer, who lives in Piermont. What did Biden say? Just put him in the bull's-eye'? Thats a very inflammatory statement.

Beer was disappointed the Secret Service had killed the shooter before he could be interrogated about his motives.

He expects the attempted assassination will help elect Trump, along with the fake 34-indictment case  Trump's recent conviction on charges of falsifying business records to conceal hush money payments to a porn star.

Jack Collins, a Montebello resident seated in front of a store next to the park, gave a non-partisan reaction to the shooting, saying it struck him the same way as hearing about the assassinations of Robert F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King in 1968, and the attempted killing of President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

Its like somebody punches you, I mean its just terrible when you hear it, Collins said. No matter what your political affiliation, Im just glad hes OK.

He said todays political atmosphere felt similar to the tension of the late 60s. And I just hope that all Americans join (in on) condemning this act of violence, no matter what your political bent is," he added.

He doesn't expect the shooting to have a lasting impact on the campaign. But Ron Steinberg, a friend from Piermont, predicted it will lead to Trump winning by a landslide, particularly if Biden stays in the race.

People are just going to be angry that they attacked him, Steinberg said. You dont want to see somebody get shot, nobody wants to see that.

At Nyack fair, Kennedy supporter sees character assassination, too

At the Nyack Street Fair, Krystle Stephens of Hawthorne, New Jersey, shared the view of many who don't support Trump but now believe he is more likely to return to the White House.

Im not a supporter of his, but its still hard to see," Stephens said. "The whole gun thing in this country in and of itself worries me. I think the majority of people now are going to want him to be president and hes going to win.

Amid the popular fair's colorful stands and tasty treats, volunteers for local political campaigns were still trying to get people engaged for November's elections.

Lorraine MacKenzie, 70, from Blauvelt, is a volunteer for Robert Kennedy Jr.'s presidential campaign

Lorraine MacKenzie, 70, from Blauvelt, a volunteer for Robert Kennedy Jr.'s presidential campaign, said she expected some people to think the shooting was a setup since many still question John F. Kennedys assassination attempt more than 60 years ago.

She believes Robert Kennedy Jr. is now facing character assassination from his critics.

Were in sad shape," MacKenzie said. "For both Trump and Kennedy, I mean, if people are desperate enough to bankrupt people, character assassinate them and do legal actions against them, and when they find that its not working they actually try and assassinate them, were not in a democracy.

Joseph Porvecchio, 75, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan and retired in 1999

Joseph Porvecchio, 75, an Army veteran who served in Afghanistan and retired in 1999, blamed the media for the assassination attempt. He said he hopes, and expects, that support would build for Trump.

What happened yesterday was inevitable because of all the rhetoric in the media demonizing the former president," he said. "So that drove people to do things that they probably wouldnt do if it wasnt for the bombardment of the media and the kind of hyperbole that resulted in that kind of attack."

Dale Ramdass, 49, from Bergen County, New Jersey, said the shooting, sadly, would be upstaged by something else.

"In a couple of weeks, its just going to turn into yesterdays news," Ramdass said.

'It's disgusting how conflicted our country has become'

In Mount Kisco on Sunday morning, residents were still reeling from the news.

At Mimis Coffee House, Marjana Pjetrani, 62, an immigrant from Albania, was wishing the best for Trump, who she supports for president in the 2024 election.

Marjana Pjetrani, an immigrant from Albania, supports Trump

Im so sorry for the former president, she said. Im so sorry whats happening in this country, the best country in the world. 

Rob Bloch, of Mount Kisco, who was getting coffee at the Bagel and Bean Cafe, lamented the state of affairs in the U.S. political world, as the Republican Party convention starts Monday in Milwaukee and Democrats look forward to their convention in Chicago in August.

Its terrible out there, said Bloch. Its disgusting how conflicted our country has become. We need two new candidates.

At another table, Richard Knopf, of Mount Kisco, said the shooting showed just how much some Americans fear a second Trump term as president.

Everybody is afraid of Trump, he said.

Richard Knopf of Mount Kisco said many people fear a second Trump term.

At Trump Plaza in New Rochelle

Jorge Batista, who owns an apartment at Trump Plaza in New Rochelle, analogized Saturday's violence to prior instances where U.S. presidents have been targeted for assassination.

Batista believes that the attempt on Trumps life, if anything, bolsters the Republicans electoral prospects come November. He referenced the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan, who would go on to win re-election three years later.

The politics continue. Life continues, he observed. Hes lucky he didnt die, thats it.

This article originally appeared on Rockland/Westchester Journal News: Lower Hudson residents stunned by political split after Trump shooting
David McCormick, the GOP nominee for Senate in Pennsylvania, said in a live phone interview on Fox News that he was in the front row at former President Trumps rally when shots rang out. Just minutes before the apparent attack, Trump had told the crowd that he would bring McCormick up on stage.

There were seven or eight shots, McCormick said. Its hard to tell whether they came from one direction or from two different weapons. It wasnt clear.

Sadly, someone behind me up in the bleachers was  was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood, McCormick said.

Live updates: Trump safe after shooting; Biden condemns violence

I was sitting to President Trumps right as he was facing the crowd, McCormick said. It sounds like some of the shots came from his left side, which would make sense because someone behind me was hit. It sounds like at least some came from that side of the crowd.

Im no expert on this, but it felt  it sounded like a small caliber weapon of some sort, McCormick said. Initially, I thought it might be fireworks or something, but then the succession of the shots, I think it was clearly a weapon, a firearm.

Trump hustled off stage after shooting at rally

McCormick said it looked like the person in the crowd who was injured was a man, and that he had shirts wrapped around him to try to stop the bleeding. Some police officers came in and carried the man out of the stands, he said. McCormick could not tell if others were wounded.

Asked if Trump was lucky to be alive, McCormick said: I think so. Yeah, absolutely, I think so.

When youre in the middle of a crisis, you dont want to draw too many conclusions. But it felt to me like hes very lucky to be alive. And I hope others who are injured are going to survive this. It was a very scary moment, McCormick said.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Reaction was swift to the apparent shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania that injured former President Donald Trump and left two others dead  the suspected gunman and a rally-goer.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

Photos: Trump reacts to injury at PA rally shooting

Oregon and Washington lawmakers reactions

Todays shooting in Pennsylvania underlines clearly the danger of normalizing political violence.

 Oregon Sen. Ron Wyden

Violence of any kind has no place in politics. My thoughts are with the former President and all event attendees.

 Oregon Sen. Jeff Merkley

Obama condemns apparent shooting at Trump rally, wishes former president quick recovery

I am praying for the safety and health of former President Trump and everyone else in Butler, and I hope the perpetrator of this heinous act is swiftly apprehended by law enforcement. There is no room in America for political violence of any kind, against anyone, for any reason.

 Washington US Rep. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez

Like so many Oregonians and Americans, Im devastated and deeply troubled by the senseless act of violence that caused innocent blood to be spilled in Pennsylvania today. Political violence in all forms is reprehensible and uniquely unAmerican. Im grateful to all those who responded swiftly to protect President Trump and those in attendance, and I will continue praying for the safety of our nation and mourn this horrifying tragedy.

 Oregon US Rep. Lori Chavez-DeRemer

Violence in a political context is never acceptable, and our country is better than this. Thankful that the former president is recovering and grateful to all those on the front line that responded quickly.

 Oregon Gov. Tina Kotek

Trump allies react to apparent shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Violence has no place in politics, ever. I hope whoever perpetrated todays attack is held to account. Our thoughts are with all who attended the former presidents event, and I join the many others who are expressing gratitude for the Secret Service and first responders.

 Washington Gov. Jay Inslee

Our prayers are with President Trump. Democrats not only need to denounce this despicable act of violence, they must also consider how their over-the-top partisan rhetoric about fake threats to democracy have contributed to this. We settle disputes in this country with our votes, not violence.

 Oregon House Republican Leader Jeff Helfrich

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Eye on Northwest Politics

Today, we should all be reminded that violence has absolutely no place in our political discourse. It threatens our country and the principles upon which it was built. This violent attack is not just an assault on one individual but on our collective values. This moment transcends political affiliations and ideologies.

 Oregon Senate Republican Leader Daniel Bonham

Political violence is unacceptable. It has no place in our democracy. We are better than this. I hope former President Trump is safe and recovers fully.

 Oregon House Majority Leader Ben Bowman

Our prayers are with President Trump. Democrats not only need to denounce this despicable act of violence, they must also consider how their over-the-top partisan rhetoric about fake threats to democracy have contributed to this. We settle disputes in this country with our votes, not violence.

 Oregon State Rep. Jeff Helfrich

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
Tom Copeland, Ph.D., is the director of research at the Centennial Institute of Colorado Christian University. He writes regularly on public policy and the intersection of politics, culture, and religion. The views expressed by the author are his own and do not represent the views of Centennial Institute or Colorado Christian University.
Pastor accused of stealing funds from Leesville church

VERNON PARISH, La. (KLFY)  A pastor was arrested in Florida on a felony theft warrant and is awaiting extradition to Vernon Parish, Louisiana State Police announced Saturday.

Dock Jack Osteen III is charged with theft of under $25,000, state police said.

Earlier this month, the Vernon Parish Sheriffs Office asked state police to investigate a theft at the First Assembly of God church in Leesville, authorities said.

State police said they obtained a warrant for Osteens arrest in connection with the stolen funds.

Osteen was arrested Friday by the Polk County Sheriffs Office in Florida for the outstanding warrant, Louisiana State Police said.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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Paulding Co. man missing, family last had contact with him weeks ago

The family of a Paulding County man has reported him missing after not having contact with him for several weeks.

Kenneth Dubon last had contact with his family on June 24, 2024.

He was reported missing on July 11.

[DOWNLOAD: Free WSB-TV News app for alerts as news breaks]

Dubon is a 30-year-old Hispanic man about five feet, four inches tall, and weighs about 190 lbs.

He has brown eyes and black hair.

Dubon does not own a car and his clothing description is unknown.

Deputies believe he is possibly in Union City, Georgia or is possibly traveling back to Richmond, Texas.

If you have seen him or know where he is, please call the Paulding County Sheriffs Office Criminal Investigations Division Tip Line at 770-443-3047.

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IN OTHER NEWS:
Pennsylvania officials and lawmakers speak out after shooting at Trump rally in Butler

Pennsylvania Capitol Building. May 24, 2022. Harrisburg, Pa. (Photo by Amanda Berg, for the Capital-Star).

Pennsylvania Capitol Building on Tuesday, May 24, 2022. (Photo by Amanda Berg, for the Capital-Star).

Pennsylvania officials are speaking out after former President Donald Trump was shot at a rally in Butler Saturday evening.

Trumps campaign has confirmed that Trump isdoing well and will attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week. The former president said via his Truth Social account that he was shot in his right ear.

The Secret Service said in a statement that one rally attendee was killed and two others are in critical condition. The alleged shooter was also killed.

Many Pennsylvania lawmakers and elected officials have spoken out to condemn the shooting and offer condolences to the victims of the shooting and their families.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media that he has been in contact with President Joe Biden as well as law enforcement on the ground.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro said via social media. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

In another post later Saturday night, Shapiro said, We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are being treated at this time.

As we wait to learn more from the investigations, I am mindful of just how painful and shocking this event is to so many of our fellow Pennsylvanians, Shapiro added. I respectfully ask that we treat our fellow Americans with respect and join together to universally condemn the unacceptable violence we witnessed earlier today in Butler.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who represents Butler, was at the rally. Kelly confirmed on social media that he and his family were safe.

We are safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved, Kelly wrote. Thank you to law enforcement and first responders for their quick action.

Kelly also called the shooting an attack from the left, but the shooter has not been identified at the time of this writing. It is unclear what their motives may have been.

Republican U.S. Senate Candidate David McCormick spoke at the rally before Trump, and was in the crowd as the shooting unfolded.

McCormick told Fox news that someone behind him was shot in a very scary moment..

The crowd just sort of went to the ground, McCormick said. Sadly, someone behind me up in the bleachers was definitely wounded. And there was a lot of blood and the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed.

McCormicks incumbent opponent, Sen. Bob Casey, said on social media that Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement.

Democratic Sen. John Fetterman also offered his condolences to the victims via social media

I am appalled and condemn in the strongest terms this violence in Butler, Fetterman wrote. I extend my condolences to those injured and wish a speedy and full recovery for Mr. Trump.

State Attorney General Michelle Henry said on her Twitter account, I am deeply disturbed by today act of violence that has absolutely no place in the Commonwealth or anywhere.

My regards are with the families who will be forever impacted by this heinous act.

Henry also wished Trump a speedy recovery and said that her office is in contact with and cooperating with law enforcement.

State lawmakers were also quick to speak out.

Sen. Elder Vogel (R-Beaver), who represents part of Butler County, said, I do not condone the senseless act of violence that took place here in Butler. This horrific incident is currently under investigation.

Former Pres. Trump, his quick acting Secret Service team, rally attendees, and our first responders currently on the scene are in my prayers.

Pennsylvania Senate President Pro Tempore Kim Ward (R-Westmoreland) released a statement saying, the resilience of America must overcome any gutless acts of violence. Praying for President Trump, his family, and any innocent victims and their families who may have been harmed by this senseless act. Thank you to the Secret Service, law enforcement, and emergency responders who assisted in keeping things safe and calm. God Bless America.

Democratic state House Majority Leader Matt Bradford (D-Montgomery) said, Political violence is never appropriate and must be condemned.

I pray for the former president, all those injured and the life lost to this heinous act.

Love of our country and reverence for our democracy has never been more important.

Senate Minority Leader Joe Pittman (R-Indiana) said The heinous act is unbecoming of our Constitutional Republic. I certainly expect those who may disagree with Trumps views should at least recognize such vile actions are beyond anything we should accept in a civilized society.

The sentiment was echoed by Senate Minority Leader Jay Costa (D-Allegheny)

Political violence is a threat to all of our democratic ideals, Costa wrote. I condemn it without equivocation. Our law enforcement officers acted with bravery tonight and my thoughts are with all who were wounded or worse.

Update: This story was updated at 11:29 p.m. July 13, 2024 with additional comments by Gov. Josh Shapiro.
Just a few minutes separated Pennsylvania Senate candidate Dave McCormick from being on stage with Donald Trump when a gunman opened fire on Trump.

McCormick was in the front row of the rally Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania, when the shots rang out. Moments earlier, the former president had invited McCormick to join him up on the stage, but then told him to wait a second.

He came out on the stage and invited me up  introduced me and invited me up on the stage and then said no, no why dont we wait and have you up a little bit later, McCormick said during an interview on Fox News Sunday." And just a minute or two after that, the shots were fired. And so I would have been on stage.



Secret Service jumped to action, climbing on top of the former president, McCormick said, but on the other side, a rally attendee was bleeding very badly. One person was killed in the shooting, now under investigation as an assassination attempt, and two others are in critical condition according to law enforcement.

As for his own campaign, McCormick, who is looking to unseat Democratic Sen. Bob Casey in battleground Pennsylvania, said he didnt even really think about how this would change his own campaign until later in the night.



Being a public official, we shouldn't have to worry that our lives are at risk if we're running for office or a certain public office, he said Sunday. You know, this extreme political rhetoric that certainly has to contribute to the violence weve seen  this is just unacceptable in our country.

We have to dial it back, he added later.
BUTLER, Pa. (KDKA) -- The Pennsylvania State Police have identified three victims who were shot during the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

The deceased victim was identified as Corey Comperatore, 50, of Sarver, Pa.

The second victim, who was wounded in the shooting, has been identified as 57-year-old David Dutch, of New Kensington, Pa. He is currently listed in stable condition. The third victim, who is also listed in stable condition, was identified as James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pa., according to a media release from state police.

Both wounded victims were "essentially the same as they were last night," which was in critical but stable condition, Allegheny General Hospital said Sunday evening.

"These victims and their families are certainly in our thoughts today," said Colonel Christopher Paris, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner. "The Pennsylvania State Police continue to work tirelessly alongside our federal, state and local partners as this investigation continues."

Gov. Josh Shapiro has ordered United States and Commonwealth flags on all Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff immediately in honor of Comperatore.

"Corey was the very best of us," Shapiro said. "Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night. Corey was a 'girl dad.' Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community."

The gunman was identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park. The U.S. Secret Service said he was shot and killed by a Secret Service sniper.

Law enforcement has told CBS News that Crooks opened fire with a semiautomatic AR-style rifle.

Trump released from hospital after apparent assassination attempt at rally

Officials share new details on Trump rally shooting, investigation of assassination attempt

RNC making final plans for convention after Trump rally shooting
Perspective: How both parties are getting it wrong on tariffs and trade

Imagine a serene summer evening: Youve just finished mowing the lawn, birds are singing softly in the background, and you settle into a hammock with a book or a cold drink, ready to unwind. Suddenly, a car pulls up with a group of teenagers heading to a party at your neighbors house. They cannonball into the pool and crank up their music to maximum volume, shattering your plans for a peaceful rest.

Frustrated, you shout across the fence, Cant you keep the noise down? Some of us dont want to hear your music! They ignore you, and in frustration, you start punching yourself in the face out of sheer outrage.

One teenager approaches and asks what you are doing. Im so angry, you explain, that Im punching myself to show you how furious I am at you. Perplexed, the young man walks away, wondering about a neighborhood that would spawn such behavior.

Such a scene is playing out in the discourse about international trade in presidential campaigns right now. Both the Biden and Trump campaigns are acting like the angry man who resorts to self-harm to express displeasure at anothers action.

Recently, the Biden administration announced steep tariffs on Chinese electric vehicles, solar panels and steel, while the Trump campaign proposed a 10% surcharge on all imports. Both policies reflect a dismissive attitude, are unserious and are detached from economic reality.

Trade is the cornerstone of a market-based, free enterprise society. Countries and individuals have certain abilities, resources and training that allows them to be productive in some but not all venues. Specialization and trade allow partners to synergize and boost productivity while allowing citizens to consume beyond the productive capabilities of their own societies.

Trade occurs when the price of a foreign good is lower than its domestic counterpart, incentivizing entrepreneurs to import goods at a lower cost and sell them in the United States. Arbitrage allows importers to make a profit while consumers enjoy new products at a lower cost.

However, domestic businesses struggling to compete may demand protectionist measures, like tariffs, from elected officials. Lets be clear: tariffs ultimately tax American consumers who exercise their liberty to choose in a free enterprise system. Tariffs increase prices such that the foreign price is the same as the domestic one, closing the incentive to efficiently move goods from foreign producers who are most efficient to American consumers willing to buy their products.

Most taxes distort economic behavior unintentionally. Income taxes, for example, may discourage extra work shifts, sales taxes can reduce consumer spending, and property taxes might limit housing choices.

Tariffs are doubly pernicious. First, as the tariff increases, consumers purchase less of the product, both foreign and domestic. Most consumers dont notice if blueberries at the store come from California or Mexico, but they will see the prices increase regardless of the berries place of origin. Second, other countries will retaliate with tariffs of their own.

These retaliatory tariffs rarely come on the same items, but rather our former friends now target the goods that we have an advantage at producing, thus sealing off our manufacturers from new markets to protect the uncompetitive firms. These distortions tear at the national fabric and put government in a position of choosing winners and losers at the expense of anyone going to the grocery store  that is to say, pretty much all of us.

Tariffs also harm the domestic producer. While they feel protected in the short run, without competition, firms become bloated and inefficient. There is little incentive to innovate and create new products. It is the very definition of lose-lose.

Economic history has shown that tariffs are disastrous as fiscal policy tools. From the heavy tariffs of the last half of the 19th century that caused volatility in agriculture and reduced investment in machinery to the infamous tariffs introduced in 1930 by Utah Sen. Reed Smoot and Oregon Rep. Willis Hawley that arguably deepened and prolonged the Depression. The so-called golden era of tariffs is simply a gilded myth.

Current proposals will do no better. The nonpartisan Tax Foundation found that former President Donald Trumps tariff proposals would increase the tax burden $524 billon while lowering the GDP growth rate by 0.8 percentage points (nearly half of last quarters growth rate) and costing 684,000 full-time jobs.

The late Sen. Orrin Hatch made waves in 2018 by sharing a T-shirt bearing a quote from Scott Lincicome of the Cato Institute: Tariffs not only impose immense economic costs but also fail to achieve their primary policy aims and foster political dysfunction along the way. (A shirt probably made at a cheaper cost in Southeast Asia.)

Both political parties seem to be forsaking international trade and free-enterprise capitalism, systems that have lifted nearly a billion people out of poverty, in favor of a half-baked machismo that will inevitably lead to severe economic consequences.

Michael S. Kofoed, @mikekofoed on X, is an assistant professor of economics at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, and a research fellow at the Institute of Labor Economics. A Utah native, he holds degrees in economics from Weber State University and the University of Georgia.
The Archbishop of Canterbury paused between synod and evensong this week to tweet. The Rwanda policy being scrapped is a very welcome decision, he said, adding profligacy to his many talents.

I wonder how he might like to spend the 270 million the Rwanda state wont be paying back to the British government.

The Church of England will keep calling for an effective system that treats people with dignity, prevents dangerous crossings and tackles criminal gangs, he added, sounding like a politician at the rostrum during an election campaign; calling for an effective system but not offering any idea of what that might be. And, of course, then saying that we pray for them [the new government] as they try to figure out, and have as yet offered absolutely no new ideas of, what that might be.

Indeed, were all praying like mad that someone, somewhere, will come up with something to stop the madness of illegal and dangerous channel crossings. But since the Tories Rwanda idea wasnt good enough for Welby, or anyone other than Tories (remember them?), well all just have to keep on praying while Rwanda says, thank you very much for the 270 million and the oven-ready, clean and new migrant rooms we can now offer another country.

Welbys intervention is typically infuriating; grandstanding on political issues without offering solutions while not addressing his own fundamental and existential problem of the rapid emptying and disintegration of his churches.

He is, of course, an intelligent, deeply spiritual and caring person  who can also speak in tongues  and, given his wide reach, I would welcome his thoughts on the following:

Should women be fast-tracked to membership of the Garrick? Fizzy or still? Should smartphones be banned from teenagers? Is Lucy Letby innocent? Where is Lord Lucan? Should Biden quit the US presidential race? Indian or Chinese? Should men wear shorts to the office? Aloe vera or original Vaseline? Marmite or Bovril? Can you be a true Catholic if you dont believe in the infallibility of the Pope or transubstantiation? Do you believe in the principles of a boarding school? Is it time Coldplay did something other than Fix You as their encore? Why dont they sell Bonjela in the US? Where is it more acceptable for a man to cut his toenails, over the bathtub or loo? Do you like getting squiffy on sake? Breaking Bad or Vikings? And who do you think should buy The Telegraph?

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Guest Opinion. The Cape Fear River is the only River in N.C. that flows directly into the Atlantic Ocean. It has been industrialized, dammed, locks have been built, it has been navigated and commercialized, and poisoned. The most recent poison threatens to be there forever.

A lot has been said about PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances) or forever chemicals without explaining it very well or saying why it is different from Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs), that category of pollutants we were just warned about a decade ago. It turns out they are similar in that one has chlorines as its predominant pollutant (POPs); and one has fluorines as its predominate pollutant (PFAS). Chlorine and Fluorine are in the same group of elements on the Periodic Table which groups according to its structure and behavior. (See the red box on the chart.) Both can be organic, meaning they contain at least one atom of carbon,

Why did EPA allow the manufacturing of PFAS in the first place

EPAs current instructions for reporting PFAS, says little about PMN or Pre-Manufacturing Notices. This is the mechanism by which EPA can say no to the manufacture of a chemical that is determined to be more harmful than good. So what happened that EPA allowed PFASs to be manufactured in the first place?

For one, PFAS predate the TSCA (Toxic Substances Control Act), the statute that requires Pre-Manufacturing Notices (PMNs) to determine whether their benefit outweighs the harm. Products like Teflon are proprietary PFAS coatings that have been around for decades. The harm and persistent presence was only recently realized or at least made public.

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PFAS can have health effects on everything in the environment. With regard to humans who fish, swim and drink the water in the contaminated rivers, PFAS can cause decreased fetal growth and development, lower immune responses, liver toxicity, kidney toxicity and blood toxicity, but this is only for oral exposure and does not even consider dermal or inhalation risks. The GenX exposure study conducted by NC State University, showed that people along the Cape Fear River do have a presence of PFAS in their blood.

EPA released MCLs for PFAS which are the levels of contaminants that are acceptable under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA). The SDWA was passed in 1974, and it is the statute that requires your annual water quality report that you should receive in the mail each year from your water supplier.

Native Americans along the Cape Fear

For millenia, Native American Tribes in North Carolina have used the Cape Fear River. The Waccamaw Sioux, the Coharie and the Tuscarora (Skarure Woccon Tribe, also known as Cape Fear Indians) are specifically inhabitants and users of the Cape Fear River and its region. One in five North Carolinians use water from the Cape Fear, in addition to this unique contact by Native Americans in North Carolina. Native Americans that use the Cape Fear for subsistence fishing and other cultural practices, as well as managing wildlife, are more exposed than the general population. Indigenous environmental justice is specifically defined by these distinctions making Native Americans due to these cultural practices uniquely vulnerable to these pollutants.

Unlike mining waste that kills everything in its path, and had intense unnatural colors in the water, PFAS are the silent killers that go unnoticed, untasted and unknown without special chemical testing.

People along the Cape Fear have been tested and PFAS appear in blood samples. The alligators in nearby Waccamaw Lake are contaminated with PFAS and showing signs of immuno-deficiency effects

The Rivers in North Carolina are connected to the Tribes that call them home, so much so that they often share the same names: Lumbee Indian Tribe (Lumber River); Coharie Indian Tribe (Coharie River); Waccamaw Sioux Tribe (Lake Waccamaw); Meherrin Indian Tribe (Meherrin River); Chowan Tribe (Chowan River), Cape Fear Indians (Cape Fear River). Native scholars from North Carolina have written about this relationship and the damage that has been caused and the efforts to understand Indigenous Environmental Justice.

Hope to stop the forever pollution

There is hope that research from Sweden may be useful in clearing the PFAS from the Cape Fear River. This floating treatment wetlands pictured here is designed to contain the uptake of PFAS into these particular plants. Although the plants are not harmed, they would need to be disposed to avoid re-circulating PFAS into the environment, through either returning to the soil, or being eaten by animals and spread further. With some planning for the unintended consequences, it looks like a promising biological solution to at least begin removal from the water.

This also depends upon Dupont Chemours ceasing their disposal activities into the River, but since they were seeking to import more PFAS for disposal in N.C. from their plant in the Netherlands, one has to wonder about their sincereity?

Probe of Dupont/Settlement with Dupont/Consent Order with NC

The North Carolina Department of the Environmental Quality entered into a consent order with Dupont Chemours in 2019 that outlined in 49 pages requirements to stop the release of PFAS into the Cape Fear River. Oddly, although EPA had granted an importation permit to Dupont Chemours to import more PFAS to be disposed of in N.C., not a word was mentioned about this in the Consent Order.

On the civil litigation front, Dupont Chemours agreed to a settlement with all water pollution claims in a class action, nationwide of $1.185 billion dollars. The largest area of contamination in the U.S. is in North Carolina.

Meanwhile, the United Nations Rapporteur sent a letter charging Dupont de Nemours Inc., Chemours, LLC and Corteva Agriscience LLC (the Dupont spinoff shells) with blatant disregard for human rights and environmental protections that these companies have shown by knowingly releasing PFAS, that they knew were harmful into the River from their North Carolina plant. The United Nations is investigating the companies as well as the U.S. and the Netherlands for their role in allowing the disregard for human rights.

Dupont Chemours had plans to expand PFAS production at its Fayetteville Works plant, and to ship 4.4 million pounds of PFAS waste from the Netherlands to the Chemours plant. However, due to the increased state, federal and international pressure, the U.S. EPA rescinded their permit to import PFAS, not because it was a forever pollutant that would contaminate the Cape Fear River further, but because Dupont Chemours had miscalculated the amount of waste they would bring in on their permit application! Clearly there is too much discretion for EPA in granting permits if that is their criteria for denying a permit.

Meanwhile, in North Carolina, Dupont Chemours has graciously provided some funding as a sponsor for the AISES (American Indian Science and Engineering Society) powwow just this month, they boast on their X account in the name, Chemours Neighbors. If that is not cringe-worthy enough, their first line on their community webpage is, We commit to being good corporate citizens, upstanding stewards of our local environmental resources, and good neighbors with Unshakable Integrity, one of our values. I am impressed with their unshakable commitment to denial. Is this subtle bribery or just good public relations?

One of the problems with settlements for environmental damages in civil proceedings is that the money goes to compensate the victims. But just compensating the victims to offset the loss in value of their land and degradation to their health is fully warranted, but it is hardly putting the Cape Fear River back to a healthy state. The Cape Fear is already suffering from more hog farms (and its runoff) than any other River in America, but allowing continual settlements to go without restoration funding for the River means ultimate death of the River. This is one of the arguments for the growing movement to give rights to rivers, in order to have a guardian make a claim on the Rivers behalf in order to get a restorative award to help the River recover. Native America is on the forefront of this movement and more than a dozen Tribal Nations have passed Tribal Laws to give rights to the environment. An Indigenous Non-profit group supported legislation that was introduced in the N.C. legislature that would give the Haw River, the right to exist, flourish, regenerate, and evolve. The Haw River joins about 200 miles away from the Cape Fear River emptying into the Atlantic Ocean. The bill did not pass.

Reversing the Forever

EPA is now using TSCA to prevent further manufacture of PFAS, but the substitutes are proving to be just as dangerous or more so because they may be harder to remove. The process of granting permits to import forever chemicals into the U.S. for convenient disposal is a gap that needs to be addressed with criteria that is more probing than making sure the form is correctly completed.

Where is EPAs effort to protect Native Americans against Indigenous Environmental Justice? EPA could not even designate the banks of the Cape Fear a Superfund site with a cleanup site assessment. We have not heard from them, despite the well established disproportionate impact on the Cape Fear River.

This is an example of how these environmental harms were shifted to those that are the least politically powerful, indigenous people on the Cape Fear River who depend on the River for food. Indigenous Environmental Injustice requires some specific remedies, like the U.N. also condemning the U.S. for allowing Dupont Chemours to violating the principles of the American Declaration of the Rights of Indigenous Peoples. Although the UNDRIP is not binding on Nations, it is a moral guide that 143 countries voted to support.

The life of the Cape Fear River is worth saving and human fates are closely tied with the Rivers fate. It is worth some sacrifice, even the smallest step that might mean just giving up teflon and its progeny in cookware purchases. In the meantime, the biological solutions for recovery of the Cape Fear should be a priority.

To read more articles by Professor Sutton go to: https://profvictoria.substack.com/

Professor Victoria Sutton (Lumbee) is a law professor on the faculty of Texas Tech University. In 2005, Sutton became a founding member of the National Congress of American Indians, Policy Advisory Board to the NCAI Policy Center, positioning the Native American community to act and lead on policy issues affecting Indigenous communities in the United States.

About the Author: "Levi \"Calm Before the Storm\" Rickert (Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation) is the founder, publisher and editor of Native News Online. Rickert was awarded Best Column 2021 Native Media Award for the print\/online category by the Native American Journalists Association. He serves on the advisory board of the Multicultural Media Correspondents Association. He can be reached at levi@nativenewsonline.net."

Contact: levi@nativenewsonline.net
 Flash

Former U.S. President Donald Trump is "fine" and being checked out at a local medical facility after the shooting incident during a rally, his campaign said in a statement.

This video screenshot shows former U.S. President Donald Trump being helped off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania of the United States after what sounded like gunshots rang out through the crowd, July 13, 2024. Video footage showed that Trump was making a speech when popping sounds rang out over the rally. Screams could be heard in the crowd, and Trump was swiftly escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents. Blood could be seen on the side of his head and his ear. He was quickly escorted into a vehicle, and his motorcade has left the venue. Trump is currently safe and is expected to survive, NBC News reported, quoting senior law enforcement officials. (Xinhua)

Trump was rushed off the stage at a rally in Butler in the U.S. state of Pennsylvania on Saturday after gunshots rang out through the crowd.

Blood could be seen on the side of his head and his ear as he was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents, video footage showed.

The suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed, local media reported, quoting Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger.

Popping sounds rang out over the rally a few minutes after Trump began his speech.

Screams could be heard in the crowd, and Trump held up his fist to the crowd while he was escorted away from his rally and into a vehicle.

"The former president is safe," Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement posted on X.

"An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," the statement said.

U.S. President Joe Biden, who is in Delaware for the weekend, has been briefed on the situation, reports said.

The incident occurred only two days before the Republican National Convention, scheduled to kick off in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday, during which Trump is expected to be formally nominated as the party's presidential candidate for the Nov. 5 election.
When Shamans refer to soul, they mean the eternal experiential self that each of us truly is.

Shamans say that with our soul, we live all sorts of lives: a variety of human lives and a whole array of life experiences as other creatures, the memories of which are nearly inaccessible to our human minds.

Many of us have had dreams or visions that seem so real that they surely seem to belong to another lifetime, and yet they are so closely personal that it is hard to deny the reality of our own experiences.

Usually we dismiss these experiences and do our best to suppress their memory, until one fine day, for seemingly no reason, they pop up in our memories. People will tell us those are meaningless images that occur as the brain recharges itself, or some other such rationalization.

When we consider the Shamans proposition that we are all continuous beings existing through a vast variety of forms through infinite time in infinite space, the nature of these dreams and visions can become part of the tapestry of our personal experiential history.

Shamans are not saying that you (or we) have lived everything and so know everything; rather, the Shamans say that amid the incomprehensible vastness of potentiality, this is the particular pattern that is playing out here and now: unrepeatable, unique, authentic, self-existing and transient.

It is ironic and actually quite underhanded to have people presume to confer on a person an eternal soul, or to deny that one has such, much less to try to take it away, which is not to say that some people dont indeed experience soul loss. Some, for sure, do. Perhaps many do; how about you, dear reader? Do you have some degree of soul loss?

Not knowing you have a soul and are a continuous being is a prime symptom of soul loss. Being unable to recall past lives or being unable to fully experience our dreams leaves us without context for our lives, and therefore subject to the wildness of this world or whatever world we find ourselves in.

Not to be judgmental. Perhaps this is the way we prefer to live in this world at this time. Yet perhaps this sense of loss causes us great suffering. Perhaps this lack of really remembering who we have been through time and space is why we become so fraught with loneliness and isolation, even in the midst of our crowded lives.

We could really use a helper familiar with the soul side of existence. And this is why some Shamans specialize in soul retrieval.

Soul retrieval may sound a lot like certain therapeutic techniques, and yet it is the Shaman who knows how helpful retrievals can be and just how to help in recollecting someones soul-purpose energy. Such practices are adjusted to a persons particular situation, and its not a one-size-fits-all solution.

Frankly, we have been taught through our culture to be resistant to knowing our soul self. Not so with my Native American friends. Children with special talents and skills in visioning are welcomed and encouraged to have and share their visions and past life experiences.

The value of knowing who you have been and your purpose in being here in this lifetime increases your resiliency and adaptability in times of difficulty. Returning your soul to its fully functioning self is among the most rewarding experiences in Shamanism.

Shamans journey into imaginary realms and retrieve lost pieces of themselves, to their astonishment and wonder; who are we, where are we going and how does it feel?
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Police are identifying the victim of a recent shooting that happened in north Topeka on Saturday.

Shooting in North Topeka leads to one person dead

The Topeka Police Department (TPD) issued an updated press release on Sunday, July 14, identifying the shooting victim as Richard E. Hernandez, 47, of Topeka.

As a result of the investigation, the TPD has two people in custody for the alleged shooting.

The investigation is still ongoing. 27 News will provide more information as it becomes available.

If you have any information to share with police regarding this case, send an email to telltpd@topeka.org or call 785-368-9400. Anonymous tips can be sent to Shawnee County Crime Stoppers at 785-234-0007 or online by clicking here.

For more crime news, click here. Keep up with the latest breaking news in northeast Kansas by downloading our mobile app and by signing up for our news email alerts. Sign up for our Storm Track Weather app by clicking here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KSNT 27 News.
Police identify two people killed in motorcycle crash in Prince Georges County

PRINCE GEORGES COUNTY, Md. (DC News Now)  Maryland State Police (MSP) said its investigating a fatal motorcycle crash that happened Saturday evening in Largo.

MSP said that just before 8 p.m., they responded to the area of I-495 at Branch Avenue for a report of a crash involving a motorcycle.

Police said a Harley Davidson motorcycle was traveling north on I-495 when it struck the rear of a Dodge.

Police increase patrols in the District out of an abundance of caution following shooting at Trump rally

MSP said the driver of the Harley Davidson motorcycle, identified as 37-year-old Quintin Barnes, of Reisterstown, Maryland and a passenger, identified as 19-year-old Jasmine Jeffries, of an unknown location, died at the scene.

A driver and passenger of a Dodge involved in the crash were transported to the hospital to be treated for their injuries.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said it has identified the woman who died after being shot in Fort Dupont Park Saturday afternoon.

MPD said that on July 13 at around 2:30 p.m., police were dispatched to the 3300 block of Fort DuPont Drive in Southeast for reports of an unconscious person in the park area.

Shannen Doherty, 90210 and Charmed actress, dead at 53

Police then located 21-year-old Ambria Farmer, of District Heights Md, suffering from a gunshot wound. Farmer died at the scene.

Anyone with information should contact police at (202) 727-9099 or text a tip to 50411.

MPD currently offers a reward of up to $25,000 to anyone who provides information that leads to an arrest and conviction.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
Police are investigating after a cruiser was struck in Springfield early Sunday morning.

Around 2:31 am an officer with the Springfield Police Department on a separate call on West Main Street dispatched via emergency scanner traffic that a cruiser had been struck.

The Springfield Police Officer in Charge told News Center 7 that crews were still investigating. They also confirmed the cruiser was not damaged.

>> FBI releases ID of alleged shooter at Donald Trump rally

Emergency Scanner Traffic indicated the at-fault driver left the scene toward West High Street.

It is unclear if the driver has been located yet.

This is a developing story and we will update as we learn more.
DENVER (KDVR)  The Denver Police Department is searching for a 14-year-old in connection with a deadly shooting in a busy area of the River North Art District on July 10.

The shooting happened around 6:40 p.m. in the area of 29th Street and Larimer Street.

Steven Joseph Marquez, 14, goes by Esco, and was described as being 5 feet, 5 inches tall and 140 pounds.

Download the FOX31 App: Breaking news alerts & Pinpoint Weather

According to police, an adult male victim intervened in a disturbance and was shot. He died as a result of his injuries days later on July 12.

The victim has not been officially identified as of Sunday morning.

Anyone who knows where Marquez is is urged to contact the Metro Denver Crime Stoppers immediately at 720-913-7867. Tipsters can remain anonymous and could be eligible for up to $2,000.

Marquez is considered armed and dangerous and should not be contacted if seen.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX31 Denver.
Former President Donald Trump had hardly been hustled into an armored SUV after an apparent assassination attempt when the political wrangling began.

Supporters of the former president championed Trump for his defiance, pumping his fist with blood running down his cheek. His critics were startled, questioning what happened and fearing what would happen next.

In a knife's-edge presidential race, no one knows yet the political fallout of the shooting.

"Right now, I would say that Trump is going to benefit from this assassination attempt," said Andrea Bitely, a political consultant who worked for former Michigan Attorney General Bill Schuette. "But it's a long time from now until November. There's a lot of things that could happen over the next few months that could erase that bump or increase that bump."

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

Bitely said in politics, nothing happens in a vacuum. The shooting comes just two weeks after a poor debate performance by President Joe Biden prompted calls for him to exit the race so another candidate could challenge Trump.

Biden called on all Americans to condemn the shooting and said It's sick. It's sick.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

But Trump supporters on social media were highlighting a Monday story in Politico, which reported Biden told donors on a phone call: I have one job, and thats to beat Donald Trump. Im absolutely certain Im the best person to be able to do that. So, were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

Details were slow to emerge from the Trump rally in Butler County, Pennsylvania, north of Pittsburgh.

A Secret Service spokesman confirmed that one person who attended the rally was dead, as was a person suspected of firing at Trump. The FBI is characterizing it as an assassination attempt. The identity of the suspected shooter and the motive were not yet known in the hours after the shooting, but online speculation followed the deep political divisions that have marked this race since the beginning.

Trump was rushed to a nearby hospital but appeared to have escaped serious injury. He later announced on Truth Social that he heard a whizzing sound and felt a bullet tear through his right ear.

Trump thanked law enforcement for their quick response and offered condolences to the family of the person who was killed.

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, herself the target of a violent kidnapping plot in 2020, denounced the attack.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences, Whitmer said in a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences.



I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.  Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 13, 2024

Third-party presidential candidate Robert F. Kennedy Jr., whose father was assassinated as he ran for president in 1968, urged restraint in the wake of the shooting.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, Kennedy said in a statement on X.

Newsweek reported this week that Kennedys repeated requests for Secret Service protection while he campaigns have been denied.

Bitely said the shooting is likely to alter the way candidates interact with the public going forward. She said she wouldn't be surprised to see more indoor events where security can be more tightly controlled. It might also change the public's willingness to attend political events.

"We've all been impacted in some way by gun violence, whether it be in a school setting or in a neighborhood or in many different ways," Bitely said. "But having someone attempt to assassinate a former president, potentially future president on national television is something that most people have never experienced in their life. And hopefully, we'll never have to again. We've now entered a different, darker portion of the political arena that I think many of us are in politics have been worried about for a long time."

USA TODAY contributed to this report.

Contact John Wisely: Jwisely@freepress.com

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Trump rally shooting: Political fallout is just beginning
Political and religious leaders call for prayers for Trump and the country after apparent shooting

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

In the aftermath of an apparent shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, political and religious leaders took to social media to ask Americans to pray for the former president and for the future of the country.

Prayers for President Trump right now, said Utah Gov. Spencer Cox.

Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us, said former Vice President Mike Pence, who served alongside Trump during his time in the White House.

President Joe Biden said on X that hes praying for Trump and his family and rally attendees.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden said.

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council, said Folks, we need to pray.

Pray for Donald Trump and pray for our nation, he added.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

U.S. Secret Service agents rush to the stage as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

People take cover as U.S. Secret Service agents surround Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump on stage at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

U.S. Secret Service agents surround the stage during a campaign rally with Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped into a vehicle at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was speaking at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

People hug after Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

U.S. Secret Service agents converge to cover Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

The Rev. Samuel Rodriguez, president of the National Hispanic Christian Leadership Conference, tweeted that hes praying for a hedge of protection to surround Trump and President Joe Biden.

I pray that all Americans rebuke and repudiate all vestige of rhetorical and physical violence from our political discourse; in the mighty name of Jesus!, he said.

The Rev. Rodriguez and Perkins are among the faith leaders who have worked with the Trump campaign in the past.

Other pastors who have called for prayers for Trump have been outspoken critics of his leadership.

Political violence is evil to the core and is an attack on everything this country represents. Attempted murder is an attack on the image of God. This is awful, tweeted Russell Moore, a prominent evangelical leader who became known for his never-Trump status eight years ago.

Political violence is evil to the core and is an attack on everything this country represents. Attempted murder is an attack on the image of God. This is awful.  Russell Moore (@drmoore) July 13, 2024

Responses to shooting at Trump rally

Calls for prayer for Trump and the country continued to appear on social media after Trumps campaign announced that the former president is safe.

Here are some more faith-related responses from politicians and pastors.

Together with my brother bishops, we condemn political violence, and we offer our prayers for President Trump, and those who were killed or injured. We also pray for our country and for an end to political violence, which is never a solution to political disagreements. We ask all people of goodwill to join us in praying for peace in our country. Mary, Mother of God and Patroness of the Americas, pray for us, said Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, in a statement.

This is a time to unite against violence and pray for @realDonaldTrump and the victims of this assassination attempt. Whatever your politics, this is not the way.  J.D. Greear (@jdgreear) July 13, 2024

The way of love  not the way of violence  is the way we bind up our nations wounds. We decry political violence in any form, and our call as followers of Jesus of Nazareth is always to love. We pray for the families of those who were killed. We pray for former President Trump and his family and for all who were harmed or impacted by this incident. I pray that we as a nation and a world may see each other as the beloved children of God, said the Episcopal Churchs presiding bishop, the Rev. Michael Curry, in a statement.

Join me in praying for former President @realDonaldTrump as it appears gunfire erupted at his Pennsylvania rally and he had to be rushed off the stage. https://t.co/4ym9nvU5HB  Franklin Graham (@Franklin_Graham) July 13, 2024

We are grateful that President Trump was not seriously injured in the the tragic shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania this afternoon. We are praying earnestly for Mr. Trump and his family and the loved ones of the bystander who was killed  and we ask our fellow Christians to call on our mighty and merciful God to comfort all those affected, said Focus on the Family President Jim Daly in a statement.

We are praying for @realDonaldTrump  Dr. Robert Jeffress (@robertjeffress) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump. Praying for any others hurt in Pennsylvania. Democracy has no room whatsoever for political violence. We must act - both parties and Americans of no particular party - to deescalate that which divides us.  Adam Nicholas Phillips (@theRevAdam) July 13, 2024

We are so grateful to God for His protection of President Donald Trump. The Secret Service did their job, along with law enforcement, and we are appreciative. But we know the hand of God was at work in this and his angels supernaturally protected Donald Trump. This is a time for Christians everywhere to pray for former President Trump and for his family as well. This is also a time to pray for our nation because we are living in perilous times. May God be glorified in this tragedy and triumph against all enemies of darkness. At a time like this we are not Democrats or Republicans. We are Americans praying against the evil works of darkness, said the Rev. Jack Graham in a statement.

Pastors and churches, please set aside time on Sunday in your worship services to pray for the safety of our nations leaders, their families, and for America. These are serious, dangerous, and evil days.  Ronnie Floyd (@ronniefloyd) July 13, 2024

President Trump was shot in the neck but the Hand of God is protecting him. No weapon formed against you will prosper. Isaiah 54:17 Trump LIVES #MAGA #Trump2024 #TrumpShot pic.twitter.com/OJXc68NQe4  Pastor Mark Burns (@pastormarkburns) July 13, 2024

I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania.



Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.



We are grateful to  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 14, 2024

As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe.



As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those  Nancy Pelosi (@SpeakerPelosi) July 13, 2024

This should horrify every freedom loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized.



We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer.  Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) July 13, 2024

Political violence is never acceptable.



My prayers are with former President Trump as he recovers from any injuries.  Cory Booker (@CoryBooker) July 13, 2024

America is praying for President Trump.



We will overcome and DEFEAT EVIL!



NEVER SURRENDER! pic.twitter.com/uBjqYNnGBH  Rep. Matt Gaetz (@RepMattGaetz) July 13, 2024

Please pray for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our country. God Bless America.  Governor Phil Murphy (@GovMurphy) July 13, 2024

Pray for those in the crowd at the Trump rally.  House Judiciary GOP  (@JudiciaryGOP) July 13, 2024
'Political violence is never the answer': Area lawmakers react to Trump rally shooting

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Virginia leaders on both sides of the aisle are condemning the shooting Saturday afternoon at a Pennsylvania political rally that slightly injured former President Donald Trump and killed one attendee.

Gov. Glenn Youngkin, believed at one time to be on the list of potential running mates for the GOP ticket this year says he is praying for Trump and his family.

Suzanne and I are praying for President Trump, praying for his family and praying for America, Youngkin posted on his personal X (formerly Twitter) account moments after the incident at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh.

Trump was speaking to the crowd when the first of about eight shots rang out. He grabbed his right ear and dropped to the ground before being shielded by Secret Service agents.

After several moments, Trump was raised up and whisked off the stage to a waiting vehicle. His ear appeared to be bloodied but was able to raise his fist toward the crowd and allegedly shout, Fight! Fight! Fight!

The reported shooter is dead, as is one rally spectator.

Per USA TODAY, a spokesperson for Trump described the former president as fine and being checked out at a local medical facility.

God help us all

Other Virginia Republicans are reacting to what happened.

Del. Carrie Coyner, R-Chesterfield, said she left church Saturday evening with a heavy heart after hearing the news.

At a moment like this, we must come together united by our shared belief that political violence has no place in our country, Coyner posted on Facebook. Let us all pray for a swift recovery and for the healing of our nation.

May we find strength in unity, peace in our shared humanity and faith in each other by remembering there is much more that unites than divides us as Americans.

The Republican Party of Virginia issued its own statement echoing what Coyner said.

Political violence has no place in our country, RPV said on X.

Del. Kim Taylor, R-Dinwiddie, said she was relieved President Trump is OK and she was thankful for the immediate reaction to protect him by the Secret Service.

Political violence is never the answer, Taylor said, adding that she was praying for President Trump, those injured and our nation.

"I decry the senseless violence against President Trump," Del. Mike Cherry, R-Colonial Heights, said on Facebook. "This type of behavior has no place in our society. I grieve for the lives lost and pray for healing for the injured and our nation. God help us all."

Former state Sen. Amanda Chase of Chesterfield, one of the more vocal Trump supporters in the state, said the attempt on Trumps life was because the oligarchs want to take him out. Despite those efforts, Chase said, Trumps popularity has only increased.

Thank God President Trumps guardian angels were watching over him today, Chase said, adding, We must stay vigilant but never fearful.

Democrat 'sickened'

Across the political aisle, local Democrats used words like sickened and troubling in reacting to the shooting.

Violence of any kind is unacceptable, Rep. Jennifer McClellan, D-4th, said on X. I am sickened by what happened in Pennsylvania today and grateful the former president is safe.

State Sen. Lashrecse Aird, D-Petersburg, said the nation should be able to have differences that dont lead to personal harm to each other.

Its more troubling that todays incident appears to be politically motivated, Aird said, which I condemn to the fullest extent.

U.S. Sen. Mark Warner, D-Virginia, said there is no place in a democracy for political violence.

Im monitoring this terrible situation and praying for all those at the Pennsylvania rally, Warner wrote on X.

Warners colleague, Sen. Tim Kaine, was succinct in his assessment on X.

Im deeply concerned by this situation and am praying for President Trump and everyone at todays event, Kaine said.

Bill Atkinson (he/him/his) is an award-winning journalist who covers breaking news, government and politics. Reach him at batkinson@progress-index.com or on X (formerly known as Twitter) at @BAtkinson_PI.

This article originally appeared on The Progress-Index: Virginia political leaders react to shooting at Trump rally
Politicians from both political parties expressed outrage after former President Donald Trump was rushed off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa. on Saturday evening after shots were heard near the beginning of the event.

The incident, which left one rally attendee dead and the suspected gunman shot by Secret Service agents, is being investigated as a possible assassination attempt. The shooting occurred just minutes after the rally began, sending attendees into chaos.

Witnesses reported hearing multiple gunshots. As shots rang out, Trump ducked and placed his hand to his ear as he was quickly surrounded by security personnel, with visible blood on his face. A spokesman for Trumps campaign later said the former President was fine, although details about his injuries remained unclear.

Trump posted on his Truth Social account that he was shot by a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!" he wrote.

Local authorities, including Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger, confirmed that two individuals were dead, including the suspected shooter. Investigations are currently underway, with the FBI, Secret Service, and ATF involved in determining the motives behind the attack.

Reactions from political leaders and the public poured in, with widespread condemnation of the violence and calls for unity in the wake of the deadly incident.

President Joe Biden

President Joe Biden said in televised remarks that he hopes to speak with Trump tonight, declaring there is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick.

We cannot allow this to be happening, he added. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this. Biden said the rally should have been able to be conducted peacefully, and that he tried to get in touch with Trump following the incident. I plan on talking to him, shortly, I hope, the President said.

President Joe Biden speaks, July 13, 2024, in Rehoboth Beach, Del., addressing news that gunshots rang out at Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump's Pennsylvania campaign rally. Manuel Balce CenetaAP

He added, "Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information." Biden also said that every agency in the federal government is investigating the matter and providing him reports. He said he does not know enough to say if this was an assassination attempt.

Biden was at church in Rehoboth Beach, Del. during the shooting, and will return to the White House tonight. He was initially supposed to remain in Delaware for the weekend. Following the incident, Bidens presidential re-election campaign announced it is pausing all campaign ads for the time being.

Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson

House Speaker Mike Johnson, a close ally to the former President, said in a statement that political violence should be condemned: Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene. I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

Vice President Kamala Harris

Vice President Kamala Harris said in a statement she was "relieved" that Trump was not seriously injured. "We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence."

I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania.



Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting.



We are grateful to  Vice President Kamala Harris (@VP) July 14, 2024

Former President Barack Obama

Former President Barack Obama wrote on social media that there is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy and that we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

House Speaker Emerita Nancy Pelosi (D-Calif.)

The former House Speaker condemned the shooting at Trumps rally, writing on social media that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. Rep. Nancy Pelosis husband was attacked with a hammer in their home over a year ago. As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society, she said. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed.

Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer

Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, who has faced threats to her life while in office, was quick to condemn the attack. There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences, Whitmer said on X.

There is no place for political violence in this country, period. This is not how we solve our differences.



I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.  Governor Gretchen Whitmer (@GovWhitmer) July 13, 2024

U.S. Senator Mike Lee (R-Utah) and Former National Security Advisor Robert OBrien

Some politicians used the incident to urge that Trumps charges be dismissed. In a joint statement, Utahs Republican Sen. Mike Lee and former National Security Advisor Robert OBrien called on President Biden to immediately order that all federal criminal charges against President Trump be dropped, and to ask the governors of New York and Georgia to do the same. Such a gesture would help heal wounds and allow all Americans to take a deep breath.

Statement by U.S. Senator Mike Lee and Ambassador Robert OBrien, former U.S. National Security Advisor on todays events in Pennsylvania.



Salt Lake City, Utah.



Weve got to take the political temperature down, as evidenced by what happened in Pennsylvania today. We call on  Mike Lee (@BasedMikeLee) July 14, 2024

Rep. James Comer (R-Ky.)

Rep. James Comer, the chair of the House Oversight Committee, said he wants the U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheadle to appear for a hearing on the Trump shooting soon.

There are many questions and Americans demand answers, he said in a statement. I have already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and am also calling on Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear for a hearing. The Oversight Committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords

Former Rep. Gabby Giffords, who was shot in the head by a gunman in 2011, said in a statement: Political violence is terrifying I know.

Giffords, who suffered permanent damage from the incident and has since founded a gun-control organization, added: Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptablenever.

Political violence is terrifying. I know.



Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptablenever.  Gabrielle Giffords (@GabbyGiffords) July 13, 2024

Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.)

Someone just tried to ASSASSINATE President Trump, Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene said on X. The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today. For years and years, theyve demonized him and his supporters. Today, someone finally tried to take out the leader of our America First and the greatest President of all time.

Someone just tried to ASSASSINATE President Trump.



The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today.



For years and years, theyve demonized him and his supporters.



Today, someone finally tried to take out the leader of our America First and the pic.twitter.com/38cFXjQdwx  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 13, 2024

Rep. Rich McCormick (R-Ga.)

At least one Republican member of Congress suggested that the incident could help Trump in the presidential election: I have no doubt that this cowardly attempt to assassinate our nominee will further galvanize the American people in support of Donald J. Trump, Rep. Rich McCormick wrote on X.

Former President Bill Clinton

Former President Bill Clinton wrote in a statement: Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.

Violence has no place in America, especially in our political process. Hillary and I are thankful that President Trump is safe, heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally in Pennsylvania, and grateful for the swift action of the U.S. Secret Service.  Bill Clinton (@BillClinton) July 14, 2024

Nikki Haley, Republican former South Carolina Governor and United Nations Ambassador

Nikki Haley, who ran against Trump in the Republican primary election, said: This should horrify every freedom loving American, and Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Prime Minister of Israel, wrote on social media that he and his wife were shocked by the apparent attack and that we pray for his safety and speedy recovery.

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.  Benjamin Netanyahu -   (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024

British Prime Minister Keir Starmers office:

The office of newly elected British Prime Minister Keir Starmer wrote: We are shocked by the scenes at President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. We condemn all forms of political violence in the strongest terms and we send our best wishes to President Trump and his family at this time.

Former President George W Bush

The George W. Bush Presidential Center shared on social media a statement by former President George W. Bush, who said that he and his wife are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. He went on to say they both commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Statement by President George W. Bush: "Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response."  George W. Bush Presidential Center (@TheBushCenter) July 13, 2024

Senator Bernie Sanders (D-Vt.)

Progressive senator Bernie Sanders wrote on X that Political violence is absolutely unacceptable, and that he wishes former President Donald Trump and any other victims a speedy recovery.

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese:

In the Australian Parliament House, the countrys Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters the events were an an inexcusable attack on the democratic values that Australians and Americans share. He also sent his condolences on behalf of Australia to those who were injured and the person who was killed

"In Australia, as in the United States, the essence and the purpose of our democracies is that we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully," Albanese said. Any act of violence is an affront to that and must be condemned unequivocally.

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau:

Canadian Prime Minister, and leader of the countrys liberal party, Justin Trudeau wrote on X that he was sickened to hear about the shooting.

It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable, he said. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.

Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 14, 2024

French President Emmanuel Macron

French President Emmanuel Macron sent his wishes to Trump for a speedy recovery. "It is a drama for our democracies. France shares the indignation of the American people," he posted on X.

Mexican President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador

Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, President of Mexico, took to X to condemn the attack on Trump, saying that "violence is irrational and inhumane."

India's Prime Minister Narenda Modi

India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi said on X that he was deeply concerned by "the attack on my friend," former President Trump.

"Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies," he wrote. He continued, sharing that his thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people."

Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.)

Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote on social media: Political violence is wrong and I condemn it. She went on to say that she hopes everyone who attended the rally is ok and that she is glad Trump is safe.

Political violence is wrong and I condemn it. I hope everyone who attended the rally is ok and I am glad the former president is safe.  Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) July 13, 2024

Former Vice President Al Gore

Former Vice President Al Gore, who vied for the presidency in the 2000 general election, took to X, writing: In the wake of the horrifying events at former President Trumps rally today, we must join together to wholeheartedly and unequivocally condemn political violence. He continued, saying, the former President and those affected today are in my prayers.

Former U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak

Former U.K. Prime Minister Rishi Sunak said he was horrified by the attack. Addressing the incident on social media, he said: In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in. Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.

Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.



In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in. Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.



My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 14, 2024

Write to Nik Popli at nik.popli@time.com.
Trump's raised fist in defiance: How the assassination attempt on him unfolded

Donald Trump was only minutes into his rally speech in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening when gunshots rang out, he dropped behind the lectern and he was swarmed by Secret Service agents.

The assassination attempt on the former president left at least one bystander dead, according to officials. The shooter, who officials said apparently fired multiple rounds from outside the venue's security perimeter, is also dead.

MORE: Trump rushed off stage after possible assassination attempt at Pennsylvania rally; former president 'fine,' spokesperson says

Trump was said to be "fine"after being taken to a local medical facility for treatment, a spokesperson for the former president said. The U.S. Secret Service also confirmed Trump is "safe" and that it was actively investigating what occurred.

Here is how the drama unfolded, culminating in an iconic moment of a wounded, bleeding Trump raising his fist in defiance.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump arrives for a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP)

MORE: Biden calls Trump rally shooting 'sick,' says 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

Talking about border security as shots heard

The former president was talking about immigration and criticizing the Biden administration's handling of the southern border to his crowd of supporters gathered at the Butler Farm Show grounds in Butler County just before the scene took a violent turn.

Trump was pointing toward a screen displaying information the Trump campaign had prepared about border security.

MORE: Trump Rally Shooting: Slideshow

"That arrow is the lowest amount of illegal immigration ever in recorded history into our country, and then, and then the worst president in the history of our country took over, and look what happened to our country, probably 20 million people. And you know, that's a little bit old, that chart, that chart's a couple of months old," Trump said as he pointed to the screen.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump speaks during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pa., July 13, 2024. (Brendan Mcdermid/Reuters)

"And if you want to really see something, that said, take a look what happened," Trump said just before the first shots were heard.

Trump raised his hand to his right ear as the shots rang out then quickly crouched behind his lectern as Secret Service agents -- heard saying "get down!" on audio from the podium mic -- swarmed around him.

'Get down!'

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump reacts as multiple shots rang out during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. (Brendan Mcdermid/Reuters)

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Some in the crowd were screaming as additional shots were fired.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP)

PHOTO: Secret Service tend to republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump onstage at a rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

After about a minute, and after someone, possibly an agent, yelled the shooter was down, Trump was helped to stand up still surrounded by Secret Service agents.

As he got to his feet, Trump could be heard telling the agents, "Let me get my shoes."

"I got you sir, I got you," one agent said.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Trump raises his fist

As he was rushed off, Trump repeatedly raised his fist in the air toward the crowd who responded with a roar.

He appeared to mouth the words, "fight, fight, fight!"

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP)

As he was ushered off the stage, blood could be seen on his right ear and streaming down his face.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Secret Service agents continued to surround him as he made his way down the steps and was rushed into a black SUV.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Evan Vucci/AP)

As agents tried to get him inside the vehicle, he once again turned to the crowd and raised his fist for all to see.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally, on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Trump's raised fist in defiance: How the assassination attempt on him unfolded originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Trump rally shooting being investigated as attempt on his life as spectator killed

Donald Trump is assisted by guards during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July.

Donald Trump is assisted by guards during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July. Photograph: Gene J Puskar/AP

Law enforcement agents were investigating what they suspected was an attempt to assassinate Donald Trump after a man with a rifle fired shots at him during a campaign rally on Saturday in Butler county, Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service spokesperson, Anthony Guglielmi, said on X that the former Republican president was safe following several shots, which prompted agents protecting Trump to leap on him amid the ensuing panic. Guglielmi said Secret Service agents then fatally shot the suspected attacker  who had fired toward Trump from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, Guglielmi said.

Related: What we know about reports of shots fired at Donald Trump rally

One spectator was killed and two others were critically wounded. The FBI later identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, the Associated Press reported.

Officials have not publicly disclosed a possible motive. A public records database showed a Bethel Park man with the exact same name and age as Crooks registered to vote as a Republican in 2021. Yet federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on 20 January 2021, the first day Democratic president Joe Biden took office.

In a pair of statements, Trump said he was fine after a bullet hit the upper part of [his] right ear.

The former president also issued thanks to the Secret Service agents as well as other law enforcement officers for their rapid response in a Truth Social post in the shootings aftermath.

Mostly importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed and also to the family of [those] badly injured, said Trump, who was taken to a hospital for evaluation and then reportedly released about 10.20pm local time.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

Video from NBC News captured more than a dozen shots, with later ones apparently coming from agents protecting the former president, who had been speaking on stage at the time.

A voice could be heard saying: Get down, get down, get down! Agents arrived to throw themselves on top of Trump as the gunfire continued and screams were heard from the crowd.

Audio from the network captured agents voices saying: Shooters down. Shooters down. Are we good to move? Were clear, were clear.

As agents tried to move Trump off the stage at the rally, he said: Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Agents can be heard telling the former president: I got you. Hold on. Your head is bloody. Weve got to move.

Trump replied: Wait, wait. He then pumped his fist, mouthed the words: Fight, fight, fight.

And the crowd at the rally responded with cries of: USA! USA! USA!

Armed troops in uniform soon arrived as some spectators shouted abuse at the media.

Agents then whisked Trump away from sight.

Video showed blood on Trumps ear. There were also snipers on a roof near the stage where Trump was standing, the Reuters news agency reported.

NBC News, citing two senior law enforcement officials, reported there was growing concern among investigators that the shooting at the Trump rally may have been a serious attempt on his life.

The local district attorney, Richard Goldinger, appeared on CNN and said he wasnt sure how the suspected shooter wouldve gotten to the location where he was.

Thats something were going to have to figure out  how he got there.

The BBC, meanwhile, interviewed a Trump supporter who said he was outside the rally site and had been trying to get close enough to hear the former president speak when he saw a man carrying a rifle climb on to the roof of a building.

The man said he pointed out the building in question to police and remarked: Theres a guy on the roof with a rifle. But none of the police reacted, and about two minutes later, the man fired five or so shots toward Trump.

At that point, the man told the BBC, Secret Service agents shot the attacker to death. They blew his head off, the man said.

Investigators recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, the AP reported, quoting a law enforcement source.

The AP reportedly geolocated a video posted to social media which showed the body of a person lying motionless on the roof of a building at AGR International, a manufacturing plant just north of Saturdays Trump rally.

The roof was less than 164 yards from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target, the APs Scott Bauer wrote on X.

Biden said on X that he had been briefed on the reported shooting.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well, the president said of Trump, with whom he reportedly spoke on Saturday night. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

In a televised address, Biden urged widespread condemnation of political violence.

The bottom line is, the Trump rally  should have been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem, Biden said. But the idea  that theres political violence  in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it.

The scenes from the rally prompted a flood of reactions, including among Trumps fellow Republicans.

The US House speaker, Mike Johnson, wrote on X that his congressional chamber would conduct a full investigation of the tragic events today.

The American people deserve to know the truth, Johnson said, pledging that the House would summon officials from the Secret Service, homeland security and FBI for hearings as soon as possible.

Former Republican president George W Bush said he was grateful that Trump was safe following the cowardly attack on his life.

The top Democrat in the US House, Hakeem Jeffries, offered prayers to Trump.

I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote on X. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

The former Democratic president Barack Obama said in a separate statement: There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former president Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

In a Guardian interview in June, Steve Bannon  a Trump adviser and former White House chief strategist  spoke of his concerns that the Republican nominee would be assassinated before the election in November.

Its my number one fear, Bannon said, speaking before he began a four-month prison sentence for defying a congressional subpoena. Assassination has to be at the top of the list and I believe that the woman thats running the Secret Service part is not doing her job.

Referring to the Republican national convention, due to start Monday, he added: Im not comfortable with whats happening in Milwaukee. But he added: His detachment is fantastic.

Bannon argued that Trump had been portrayed as a new Julius Caesar everywhere from a New York theatre production to an essay by leading scholar Robert Kagan, paving the way for a would-be assassin to feel justified in emulating Brutus. He said president Abraham Lincoln received similar treatment after the civil war before his assassination at the hands of John Wilkes Booth.

Remember John Wilkes Booth, Bannon said. In the southern press, and in particular the Richmond papers, Caesar-ism, Lincoln is Caesar, Lincoln is taking your liberties. You fought this war but, even in losing the war, hes going to take all your liberties and enslave you.
'We need to pray for our country': Leesburg reacts to shooting at Trump rally

LEESBURG  Shock, anger, disgust, disbelief, and not-so-surprised.

That was the reaction Saturday evening of Lake County Republicans who learned that former President Donald Trump was shot at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

My first thought was divine protection, said Art Ayris, the CEO of Kingstone Studios, which has produced the Bible and U.S. history in comic book form.

My next was that the left has repeatedly attacked him through farcical legal assaults and repeatedly screamed that he is a threat to democracy. For someone to try to kill him seems a natural outcropping of the violent rhetoric. I hope many others will join me in serious prayer that God will radically change America.

Alan Hays, Lakes supervisor of elections, said he was terrifically dismayed by the despicable behavior.

The latest: Trump shot in ear in apparent assassination attempt at rally; 1 attendee dead, 2 seriously injured

A member of the state Legislature before becoming elections supervisor, Hays said the current polarized political scene is unlike anything he has seen before.

The way to change government is through the ballot box, he said.

He is urging every eligible person to vote, and if not already signed up, register by July 22, and be an informed voter before marking that ballot.

He also said that America should return to the Christian-Judeo beliefs that founded this nation.

Retired Circuit Judge Mark Hill said he was shocked when he saw the attack on television.

Unlike Hays, however, he does not believe politics have become more rancid. He witnessed bad behavior in his courtroom and in campaigns for years.

You hope it never happens, he said of the assassination attempt. But it keeps happening. Hes lucky. He put a hole in his ear, Hill said of the gunman. He could have put a hole in his head.

Retiree Jack Rogers of Leesburg was distressed but not totally surprised, since so many have described Trump as a dictator, a Nazi, and a white supremacist who will end democracy."

"We need to pray for our country, he said.

I hate to think about politics like this, but this could guarantee his re-election.

Butch Hardman of Leesburg was thinking about the presidential campaign, too.

I think the Democrats will turn it around and say that it was the MAGA movement that caused this, he predicted.

This article originally appeared on Ocala Star-Banner: Leesburg, Florida, reacts to Donald Trump rally shooting
Prayers, gratitude and anger marked the response of Arizona officials after former President Donald Trump was wounded on stage at a campaign rally in western Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service was handling the attack as an assassination attempt.

Gunshots rang out at Trumps rally in Butler on Saturday, and the Republican presidential candidate appeared to drop to the ground during his speech and was quickly covered by Secret Service agents.

When Trump stood up, he had blood on his face and pumped his fist as he was ushered into a vehicle.

The former president was fine and had been evaluated at a medical facility, Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheug said in a statement. Trump flew to New Jersey Saturday night and reportedly was to spend the night at his Bedminster residence.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured at the rally, according to the Secret Service.

The shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from a rooftop outside the venue, the Secret Service said. Secret Service agents killed the shooter.

He was identified late Saturday as as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. No information about a motive was immediately available.

Trump said in a statement he had been shot in the ear.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA! Trump said on Truth Social.

The former president praised law enforcement for responding quickly to the attack and offered his condolences to the family of the person killed at the rally and the families of those injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Trump said.

President Joe Biden said in a statement that he had been briefed on the shooting at Trump's rally and said there was "no place for this kind of violence in America."

"I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information," Biden said. "Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

A Biden campaign official said the president's campaign was pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down its campaign television ads as quickly as possible.

'Catastrophic": How Fox News and CNN covered Trump rally shooting

Reaction pours in from Arizona politicians

Democratic Rep. Ruben Gallego, who is running for Senate, had a similar message to Biden's.

Absolutely horrible. Political violence should never be tolerated. I hope President Trump and everyone at the rally is safe. Grateful Secret Service and law enforcement got the situation under control so quickly.

Republican Rep. Paul Gosar called the attack a "heinous assassination attempt" in a written statement and said he was praying for the former president.

"I am extremely grateful to the brave law enforcement officials protecting President Trump and I thank God he is doing well and will never stop fighting for the American people, Gosar said.

Violence is unacceptable. Law and order must prevail. Mr. President, we stand with you, Republican Rep. Andy Biggs posted on the social media platform X.

Other members of Arizonas congressional delegation called for prayers for the president.

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Pray for President Trump, said Republican Rep. Eli Crane. Rep. Juan Ciscomani and former GOP Gov. Doug Ducey shared similar messages.

Rep. David Schweikert said on X that "political violence has no place in America."

"Joyce and I send our prayers to President Trump, his family, and the family of the rally attendee whose life was tragically taken," the Republican lawmaker said.

Rep. Greg Stanton, a Democrat, said he was praying for the health and safety of Trump and the rally attendees. He said he hopes the perpetrator of this cowardly act is swiftly apprehended by law enforcement and noted that violence of any kind is never acceptable.

Violence, especially political violence, is completely unacceptable. We must be a model for civil democracy and commit to the values that define us as Americans, independent Sen. Kyrsten Sinema said.

'It's sick': Joe Biden condemns shooting at Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania

Gabby Giffords: 'Political violence is terrifying'

Former Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, who was shot in the head during a political event in 2011, said that she was holding Trump in her heart after the incident on Saturday. The Democrat is the founder of GIFFORDS, a gun violence prevention organization.

"Political violence is terrifying. I know, Giffords said. "Im holding former president Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never."

Sen. Mark Kelly echoed his wife, Giffords, saying, "Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania."

"No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts," Kelly said.

Democratic Gov. Katie Hobbs condemned the violence and called for justice against the perpetrator of this heinous act.

Political violence is unacceptable, and has no place in this country, Hobbs said. I am glad that former President Trump is safe. ... I hope the perpetrator of this heinous act will be swiftly brought to justice.

Arizona state Republican Party Chair Gina Swoboda took aim at President Joe Biden's cognitive ability in her reaction to the attack at Trump's rally.

"Biden is dodging cognitive tests. President Trump is dodging bullets. Only one is willing to die for the future of America," Swoboda said. "I call on all Arizonans to join us in praying for President Trump and those in attendance."

Later in the day Saturday, Swoboda walked back her initial statement and called for all Americans  no matter their party  to join us in condemning this atrocity. The second statement did not mention Biden or his mental acuity.

We thank God that President Trump is safe. We pray not only for him and his family, but for the family of the rally attendee who was killed by the shooter and the victims currently receiving medical treatment. We also pray for all the Secret Service and law enforcement who put their lives on the line to protect the President and all the attendees. They are heroes, and showed it today, Swoboda said.

We are both horrified by this violence and angered that our country continues to suffer under this total collapse in leadership. The world is on fire, violence is growing and America has no one steering our course. President Trump is a fighter and America needs him now more than ever, she continued. President Trump will never surrender and neither will the American people.

Kari Lake, a Trump ally and Republican Senate candidate, asked for prayers for the former president. They will never stop us, Lake wrote, accompanied by a photo of Trump with blood on his face.

Jake Hoffman, a state lawmaker and national committeeman-elect to the Republican National Committee for Arizona, criticized news outlets and Democrats for their reaction to the shooting at Trump's rally. Biden also took too long to comment on the attack, Hoffman said.

"They tried to kill President Trump, and they successfully killed a Trump supporter today. Within mere minutes, assassination deniers on the Left, including the Democrat mouthpieces at CNN, The Washington Post and USA Today, all immediately began disseminating misinformation and disinformation about the attempted assassination," Hoffman said in a statement.

Pray for our broken country, said Meghan McCain, the daughter of the late Sen. John McCain.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona politicians stunned after Trump targeted, shooter killed in PA
Leaders in the El Paso Borderland strongly condemned violence while calling for greater respect and kindness in political discourse following the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally.

A spectator was killed and Trump was wounded in an ear by a sniper on Saturday while on stage at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The 20-year-old shooter was killed by Secret Service agents.

'We have a responsibility to treat each other with respect and kindness'

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego, a Democrat, stated that El Pasoans know the trauma of violence.

The community is still coping with the aftermath of mass shooting by a racist gunman targeting Latinos inside a Walmart store on the Aug. 3, 2019. Some have pointed out that the Walmart shooter's written rant mirrored the anti-immigrant rhetoric by Trump and others in the Republican Party.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures with a bloodied face as multiple shots rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. REUTERS/Brendan McDermid

Samaniego stated: "I am praying for the safety and healing of our former president, the brave Secret Service members that acted quickly, and everyone who was in attendance today. El Pasoans know the impact of an event like this better than most, unfortunately. Any such event is devastating and shocking, but also brings a unique opportunity for unity and clarity.

More: Former Marine arrested for making threats against federal employees, President Biden supporters

"Violence has no place in our democracy nor our communities. I ask everyone to remember that we have far more in common than we often realize. This Novembers elections should not be based on the events of today or political parties, but should be focused on how we move our country forward to be the best that we can be.

El Paso County Judge Ricardo Samaniego condemned the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump. In this photo, Samaniego holds a candle at a Dia de Muertos ceremony in memory of El Paso and Uvalde gun violence victims on Nov. 2, 2022, at the El Paso County Healing Garden in Ascarate Park.

"We have a responsibility to treat each other with respect and kindness, today and everyday. Let us not allow fear and division to overshadow our shared values and aspirations."

U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar reacts to Trump shooting

"Im grateful that the former president is safe," U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso, a staunch critic of Trump, said on a post on X. "I condemn  in the most emphatic way  all political violence, am grateful to law enforcement and send my heartfelt condolences to the families of the victims."

'Viva Trump!!!'

Republican Irene Armendariz-Jackson, a hardcore Trump supporter running for Congress against Escobar in the November election, called Trump "America's Champion," sharing a photo on X of the bleeding ex-president with his fist defiantly in the air after being shot.

The intolerance of the left has brought us to this. @JoeBiden and. @TheDemocrats have now shown theyll go to every extreme to keep Trump from winning.

GULTY, GUILTY, GUILTY!!!



Viva Trump!!! pic.twitter.com/GNRbCU1zgT  Irene Armendariz-Jackson (@BorderIrene) July 13, 2024

"The intolerance of the left has brought us to this. @JoeBiden and @TheDemocrats have now shown theyll go to every extreme to keep Trump from winning. GULTY, GUILTY, GUILTY!!! Viva Trump!!!" Armendariz-Jackson posted on X above a screen capture of a Fox News image of the shooting.

Republican congressional candidate Irene Armendariz-Jackson speaks to other Trump supporters after organizing the "El Paso Freedom March" on Jan. 6, 2021, in Downtown El Paso.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected Trump sniper, was registered to vote as a Republican, according to news reports.

US Rep. Tony Gonzales praying for Trump

"I pray President Trump has a speedy recovery," U.S. Rep. Tony Gonzales, R-San Antonio, whose district stretches from the San Antonio area to the easternmost portion of El Paso County, stated on X,

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser condemns violence

"Senseless acts of violence have no place in our country," El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser said in a statement. "We may not all agree ideologically, but this country was founded on that freedom.

El Paso Mayor Oscar Leeser. File photo.

"Whether you support the former president or not, I think all of us can agree that these types of violent acts should be condemned. I am glad to hear that former President Trump is safe, and as we learn more, I encourage our community to pray for anyone affected by the senseless shooting today (Saturday, July 13)."

Juarez Mayor Cruz Perez Cuellar condemns attack

The assassination attempt against Trump was also condemned by Juarez Mayor Cruz Perez Cuellar across the Rio Grande in Mexico, where the murder of political candidates hit a new bloody record this year.

There were 37 candidates for a variety of local offices killed across Mexico during the just passed 2024 political season, Reuters reported.

Nation: Trump survives assassination attempt, when was the last one on a presidential candidate?

"As a main bridge between Mexico and the United States, the mayor of this city (Juarez) joined in condemning the attack and condemned any violent act that threatens democracy," read a statement in Spanish issued by Perez Cuellar.

'Our thoughts are with former President Trump'

El Paso County Democratic Party Chairman Michael Apodaca said in a statement, There is never room for violence in our political discourse. Our nation's founding documents call for freedom of speech and free, fair, and safe elections. We are committed to upholding these principles, solving our political issues through the ballot box, not by bullets.

Archives: El Paso man accused of killing lawyer in anti-abortion, anti-Democrat fueled shooting appears in court

As we continue to gather more information about this ongoing situation, our thoughts are with former President Trump and the affected families."

This article originally appeared on El Paso Times: El Paso area leaders react to Trump assassination attempt
It was "God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening," former President Donald Trump said Sunday as he recovered from an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Religious leaders in the metro Phoenix area echoed divine intervention in statements, sermons and words of prayer.

Trump was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire Saturday evening with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside the event. One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured, the Secret Service said.

In opening remarks for the 9 a.m. CalvaryPHX sermon Sunday, worship pastor Jason Feeser addressed the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump to the congregation and on the YouTube livestream of the service.

What a crazy weekend for our nation, Feeser said. Praise God for His protection over Donald Trump."

Trump shooting: How CNN and Fox News coverage differed

Feeser called on the congregation to continue to pray for Trumps protection and the country.

This is a great time for the enemy to polarize the right from the left and from the liberals to the conservatives, from Christians to non-Christians 

Just be careful. Be tactful, be tasteful. And let's just be praying for our nation.

Bishop John Dolan, who leads the Roman Catholic Diocese of Phoenix, released a statement Saturday evening on the rally shooting.

My heart goes out to those who suffered during todays act of violence that took place in Pennsylvania during President Donald Trumps campaign rally, including the former president himself," Dolan's statement said.

Dolan called the act another sign of a very divided and contentious political year" in the country.

Let us pray for a quick response to this, that only the Prince of Peace can grant, Jesus Christ, Dolan said.

Pastor Anthony Romo advised the congregation at Phoenix First Apostolic Church to keep leaders on all sides of politics and all levels of government in their prayers.

"We have to pray for our nation. We've seen what happened yesterday. Let's pray for President Trump. Let's pray for President Biden. We're instructed as Christians to pray, not only for our spiritual leaders, but those who govern over us," Romo said.

Live updates: Biden to address the nation tonight after Trump assassination attempt

"Let's pray for the President. Let's pray for those who are running for president. Let's pray for those in Congress and the Senate. Let's pray for local officials."

With the presidential election about 16 weeks away, Romo warned congregants that tensions are heightened during campaigning and tight races.

"Don't get distracted. Keep your eyes on Jesus ... Don't let what's happening in the world divide us."

President Joe Biden, who is in a razor's edge race with Trump, and a host of Republican and Democratic politicians condemned the shooting. There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden said.

Imam Omar Tawil of the Islamic Community Center of Tempe said that from what he's seen within his community, Muslims are shocked.

"This desire to weed out political adversaries, or to get rid of political figures through means of violence... This is something that America is not really supposed to have," Tawil said.

"We're supposed to speak through a democratic voice, not through pulling a trigger or inciting any forms of violence," he said. "Even against people we may disagree with, no matter how harsh."

Arizonans show mixed reactions to the attack

Fountain Hills resident James Harr, 80, was sporting his Donald Trump 2024 campaign hat as he described his emotions on the assassination attempt on the former president's life."I don't care whether it was for Biden or for Trump," Harr said. "I think the Secret Service dropped it a little bit and we need more protection for those guys  in this type of world right now that we're in."Harr said that while it appeared the shooter fired from a rooftop outside the security boundary, Secret Service agents should have identified it as a vantage point and monitored the area more closely.Harr said he didn't see the assassination attempt as a sign of a more divided country, noting that while they don't happen often, America has had multiple attempted and successful assassinations of presidents before."I'm actually surprised (Trump) hasn't been shot at before," Harr said. "I don't think you can ever stop 'em totally. It's just we've got a lot of radical people. We've got 300 million here. You have those rallies. I mean, they try to protect 'em but there's always someone who can get through it."When asked whether he believed the attempt on Trump's life could reignite discussions of gun control, Harr chuckled."It'll never happen."

Jonathan Ramirez, a Phoenix resident, was shopping at Desert Sky Mall in Maryvale on Sunday.

I thought it was wild," Ramirez said. I thought it was interesting just to be able to witness it if you know what i mean. You know, like its history in the making."

Charles Buhr and Tamr Holmburg, both Peoria residents, did not know that Donald Trump had been shot.I mean, it sucks that anybody gets shot but I dont know the circumstances around it, Buhr said.Im pretty indifferent. I mean, like he said, we dont know the circumstances around it, so we dont really have much of an opinion, Holmburg said.

To be honest, I thought it was pretty bad (expletive) that he stood up and walked off, Ramirez said. To be able to take a shot to the ear and get up, you know love him or hate him that was pretty bad (expletive).

'Our love goes out'

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, outside Pittsburgh. Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents moments after gunfire erupted at the former president's rally.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro identified the man killed in the shooting at Trump's rally in Butler as Corey Comperatore. Shapiro said he spoke with Comperatore's wife and daughters and described him as a father of two girls, a firefighter and an avid supporter of the former president.

"Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump said in a statement on Truth Social posted Sunday morning. "We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed."

USA Today reporters contributed to this article.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Phoenix church leaders address congregations on Trump rally shooting
President Biden Says There Is No Place in America For This Kind of Violence After Shots Fired at Trump Rally

President Joe Biden spoke before the press Saturday evening after shots were fired at a Donald Trump rally earlier that day.

Former president Trump was rushed off stage after a weapon was fired at a campaign event in Butler, Pa. His right ear appeared to be grazed as he was escorted away by Secret Service.

More from TVLine

Biden told the press shortly at 8 pm ET that Trump was with doctors and doing well. His comments were in line with what Trump spokesman Steven Cheung told the The New York Times soon after the incident  that the former president was fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. Secret Service also had confirmed that the former President is safe.

Biden then went on to condemn the horrific events that transpired.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, he declared. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country.

We cannot allow for this to be happening, Biden continued. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

According to the Associated Press, the suspected shooter  identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa.  was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed. A rally attendee is also dead, and two other attendees were critically injured.

The shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

Watch video of Bidens remarks below:

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WASHINGTON (AP)  President Joe Biden addressed the nation Sunday afternoon after a Situation Room briefing about the apparent assassination attempt on his predecessor, Donald Trump.

Biden said he spoke with Trump Saturday after he was bloodied during a shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania. The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, but the motive remains unknown. Authorities on Sunday identified the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park.

Trump rally shooting latest: Former president recovering in NJ, NYC mayor responds

Dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations, Biden said of the suspected shooter.

Biden reiterated his concern for Trumps safety.

As I said last night, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation.

Now, Biden is ordering heightened security for Trump and a review on all security measures for the upcoming Republican National Convention. In addition, Biden said he called for an independent review of national security at Saturdays rally.

We must unite as one nation, Biden said. Unity is the most elusive goal of all.

Just after midnight, Trump landed at Newark Liberty International Airport and is thought to be recovering in Bedminster, New Jersey.

In a social media post, Trump says he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. The former presidents campaign and aides say hes fine and in great spirits after the shooting.

Biden said he will address the nation once again Sunday evening from the Oval Office.

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PIX11.
President Biden Says He Spoke With Donald Trump After Rally Shooting: An Assassination Attempt Is Contrary to Everything We Stand for as a Nation

President Joe Biden addressed the nation on Sunday following the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday evening.

Biden said he and Trump had a short but good conversation on Saturday after the rally shooting, and hes sincerely grateful that [Trumps] doing well and recovering.

More from Variety

Biden continued: We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father; he was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired when he lost his life. God love him.

Trump was struck in the ear by a bullet at his campaign rally in Butler, Pa., after a gunman opened fire outside the venue, the U.S. Secret Service said.

The Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is dead, agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement. One person in the crowd, who has been identified as firefighter Corey Comperatore, was killed by the gunfire, and two were critically injured.

Were also praying for the full recovery of those who were injured, and were grateful to the Secret Service agents and other law enforcement agencies and individuals who risked their lives literally for our nation, Biden said. As I said last night, there is no place in America for this kind of violence or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation  everything. Its not who we are as a nation. Its not American and we cannot allow this to happen.

He added, Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is as more important as that right now: Unity.

Biden said he and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed in the Situation Room by his Homeland Security team, and the FBI is leading this investigation, which is in its early stages.

We dont yet have any information above the motive of the shooter; we know who he is, the president continued. I urge everyone  please dont make assumptions about his motives or affiliations. Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job.

Biden noted he will be speaking more about this tonight at greater length from the Oval Office; he is scheduled to deliver the Oval Office address at 8 p.m. ET on Sunday.

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President Joe Biden is rescheduling Monday's planned visit to Austin in the wake of a man's attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump, the White House announced Sunday afternoon. The visit is still expected to take place in July.

Biden was scheduled to deliver a major speech on civil rights and democracy at the LBJ Presidential Library. Democratic members of Congress and members of the Texas Legislature were expected to attend the speech, and Austin Mayor Kirk Watson was slated to greet the president at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Monday morning.

A new date for the Austin visit will be announced this week, the LBJ Library said in a press release.

Biden had also planned to participate in a rare one-on-one interview with NBC News' Lester Holt from Texas' capital city that day. That interview will take place at the White House instead, NBC announced Sunday afternoon.

Texas political figures react: 'They try to kill him. It will not work'

The announcement came as Biden was expected to deliver remarks Sunday on a shooter's assassination attempt that injured Trump's right ear. At least one person  Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief of Buffalo Township, Pa.  died in the shooting, and two others were critically injured, according to USA TODAY.

Given the unfortunate events of the last 24 hours, we anticipated that the President's schedule could change anytime, Mark Updegrove, president and chief executive officer of the LBJ Foundation and a presidential historian, said in the LBJ Library's press release. We are honored President Biden remains committed to joining us at the LBJ Library to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Civil Rights Act and we look forward to hosting him later this month.

Watch live: President Biden speaks Sunday on Trump rally shooting, assassination attempt

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

President Joe Biden won't fly into Austin on Monday morning, but he does plan to visit later this month.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Biden to reschedule Austin visit after Trump assassination attempt
Our president is unique among democratic executives. He represents the nation as the English King does as a ceremonial leader, and he is the chief executive officer. Our president does it all, as chief executive. He is Article II of the Constitution and makes up one of three powers of separation of powers: Article I (the Congress), Article II (the President), and Article III (the Judiciary). He is independent and represents the nation in international relations.

When the Framers created Article II, we had had prior presidents in the Articles of Confederation as leaders of the Congress, but this one of the new Constitution is standing on his own, outside of Congress, although he is interdependent with Congress to make the laws and dependent of Congress for funding and appointments. The main model for him in the eighteenth century was the King of England, but was created as a more democratic entity relying on election in an Electoral College controlled by the states.

The general principle is governmental immunity from lawsuits, although government can consent to be sued when equitable, for example in the Federal Tort Claims Act. Thus, we can expect Article II to be immune from lawsuits as a general principle. The Supreme Court established immunity from lawsuit in civil matters in Nixon v. Fitzgerald (1982). It stated a president has to be free from worry about future personal liability when he makes decisions in the present in the national interest. This precedent and principle will be the foundation for Trump v. United States (July 1, 2024).

Trump v. United States held, in brief, that the President has absolute immunity for his core Article II functions, such as Commander-in-Chief to defend the United States, his foreign policy responsibilities, his appointment power, and so on. For other official acts, he will have a presumption of immunity. For unofficial acts, he will have no immunity. Determining what are unofficial acts will be a big issue for lower courts.

Chief Justice Roberts (herein Roberts) wrote the majority opinion. Justices Sotomayor, Kagan, and Jackson dissented. The foundation will be separation of powers. The issue is: the scope of a presidents immunity from criminal prosecutions. Donald J. Trump (herein Trump) will claim absolute immunity. Trump spoke of the need for bold and unhesitating action in carrying out the duties of the office.

Roberts is going to accept these points, but distinguish between absolute immunity and a presumption of immunity. The key precedent is Nixon v. Fitzgerald (1982), which gave the President immunity from civil liability. It spoke of risks to the nation when the Presidents energies are diverted by fear of future lawsuits to cause him to be unduly cautious in the discharge of his official duties. We need the president to act fearlessly and impartially (Roberts citing Ferri v. Ackerman, 1979). Fitzgerald gave the president absolute immunity from civil actions.

Trump v. United States will develop the concept of presumptive immunity for non-core official actions. This concept goes back to United States v. Nixon (1974), which required the president to hand over his tapes of office recordings. This had a foundation in the Aaron Burr case of 1807, where Thomas Jefferson was required to hand over letters in a treason trial. Here, the Sixth Amendments requirement of a fair trial was balanced against Article II. In the Nixon case regarding Article II, Roberts writes: we held that a presumptive privilege protects Presidential communications. But the Sixth Amendment claim was specific and Nixons claim was general, so Nixon lost.

Criminal liability is worse than civil liability, with the threat of imprisonment and public opprobrium. This would more likely distort presidential decision making compared to merely paying civil damages. (Roberts).

Is the president above the law? I believe not. In his official duties he is, in himself, a branch of government in separation of powers, where we have a tradition of governmental immunity. Roberts writes: Like everyone else, the president is subject to prosecution in his unofficial capacity. But unlike anyone else, the President is a branch of government, and the Constitution vests in him sweeping powers and duties. This ensures that the president may exercise those powers fully, as the framers anticipated he would  does not place him above the law; it preserves the basic structure of the Constitution from which that law derives.

 James W. Pfister, J.D. University of Toledo, Ph.D University of Michigan (political science), retired after 46 years in the Political Science Department at Eastern Michigan University. He lives at Devil's Lake and can be reached at jpfister@emich.edu

This article originally appeared on The Monroe News: Principles of presidential immunity
At the start of Project 2025's conservative playbook for a second Trump presidency, Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts took aim at leaders who he said wield power to "serve themselves first and everyone else a distant second."

He mentioned North Korean dictator Kim Jong Un comfortably ruling over an impoverished nation, "billionaire climate activists" flying on private jets while criticizing carbon-emitting cars, and two "COVID-19 shutdown politicians" in California who were seen out and about  at a hair salon and a fancy restaurant  while calling on their constituents to stay home.

Name-dropping U.S. Rep. Nancy Pelosi and Gov. Gavin Newsom in the conservative right's blueprint for the White House was a way for Roberts to tie them, and California, to the idea that out-of-touch coastal elites are ruining the country.

That notion  well worn in American politics  appears throughout the Project 2025 plan, a wonky, 900-plus-page manifesto released last year by conservative thought leaders and Trump acolytes.

The idea is also evoked more subtly in the much snappier, 16-page Republican Party platform spearheaded by Trump and adopted by party officials last week, which criticizes American politicians who "insulated themselves from criticism and the consequences of their own bad actions" while average Americans suffered.

Read more: Newsom stands by Biden, repeats that he wouldn't run against Harris

Roberts and other Heritage Foundation officials were not available for comment. A Heritage Foundation spokesperson said Project 2025 is a product of more than 100 conservative organizations and "does not speak for any candidate or campaign."

According to political experts, the conservative strategy of criticizing "woke" liberal ideas, many of which got traction in California, has become particularly useful in the current election cycle, as Trump's base has proved especially receptive to conservative virtue signaling on issues such as abortion, climate change, guns, immigration and LGBTQ+ rights.

That strategy will only grow, the experts said, if President Biden comes off the Democratic ticket and is replaced with a California politician such as Newsom or Vice President Kamala Harris, a former senator.

"This is a vital angle to be hitting," said Jon Michaels, a constitutional law professor at UCLA with a forthcoming book on right-wing authoritarianism. "California becomes a convenient foil, and the excesses of California are what Republicans can run against."

Issues at play

Conservatives have long cast California  sometimes fairly, other times not  as a failing state crumbling under the weight of out-of-control regulation, crime and homelessness, and the 2024 race has intensified those lines of attack.

"Instances of California really going in a different direction from what the Republican Party wants is all over the [Project 2025] report  everything from diversity, equity and inclusion, to connections to China, to high tech [companies] to homelessness," said Bruce Cain, a political science professor at Stanford University. The aim is to portray a state in disorder, an "undemocratic, patronizing state controlled by the high-tech elites completely out of touch with where the rest of America is."

Both Project 2025 and the GOP platform envision a second Trump presidency where federal bureaucrats use the powers of the executive branch to beat back an array of California policies  including protections for undocumented immigrants, the environment, unionized workers, those seeking abortions and transgender youth.

In its phrasing, the GOP platform is at times bombastic  just like Trump, who helped draft it  and lays out a relatively clear framework for how he intends to govern in sharp contrast to California leaders.

"California becomes a convenient foil, and the excesses of California are what Republicans can run against."

Jon Michaels, constitutional law professor at UCLA

For example, Los Angeles and other major California cities decline to use their police forces or city personnel to enforce immigration laws. Trump's platform promises to "cut federal funding" to such jurisdictions.

California is in the process of reining in oil drilling in the state, with leaders raising concerns about the environmental and health impacts. The platform calls on the nation to "DRILL, BABY, DRILL."

California requires LGBTQ+-inclusive curricula in schools and the Democrat-controlled state Legislature just passed a law barring school officials from informing parents of kids who identify as transgender at school if the kids don't want that information shared. The platform says Republicans support "parental rights" and will "defund schools that engage in inappropriate political indoctrination of our children" or push "radical gender ideology."

The Project 2025 plan is even more ardent in its rebuke of California policies.

Read more: Pro-Trump Project 2025 leader suggests a new American Revolution is underway

Roberts, in his foreword of Project 2025, speaks much of American liberty, but defines it squarely within a Christian nationalist framework, saying the Constitution gives each American the liberty to "live as his Creator ordained"  to "do not what we want, but what we ought."

The plan calls on Trump, if elected, to "make the institutions of American civil society hard targets for woke culture warriors"  a process that it says should start with deleting all references to queer identities, "diversity, equity, and inclusion," abortion or "reproductive health" from federal legislation and rules.

Calling California and other liberal states "sanctuaries for abortion tourism," the plan says the Trump administration should "push as hard as possible to protect the unborn in every jurisdiction in America," work with Congress to enact antiabortion laws, and mandate state reporting of abortion data to the federal government  including patients' state of residence and "reason" for receiving a procedure.

Critics say such actions would empower conservative states that ban abortions to identify and punish women who go to liberal states such as California to have those procedures.

The party platform does not call for a national abortion ban, which rankled some on the right, but does back state policies restricting it and says Republicans "proudly stand for families and Life."

Both plans criticize the nation's shift to electric vehicles, and Project 2025 says the federal government should rescind a waiver allowing California to set its own clean air standards around fuel economy, which underpins the state's goal of shifting exclusively to zero-emissions vehicles by 2035.

The fight ahead

Although Project 2025 is authored in large part by prominent advisors and former appointees of Trump, he has recently sought to distance himself from the plan.

In an online post July 5, Trump wrote that he knew "nothing about it," but also that "some of the things they're saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal." Even so, he wished those behind the plan "luck."

"This isn't Alabama or Mississippi. You are taking on a very powerful state with a lot of resources  and a will to resist."

Bruce Cain, political science professor at Stanford University

Trump's campaign referred questions about Project 2025 and the GOP platform, and their relation to California policies, to the Republican National Committee.

Anna Kelly, a committee spokesperson, said the party platform "contains commonsense policies like cutting taxes, securing the border, ending absurd [electric vehicle] mandates, securing our elections, defending our constitutional rights, and keeping men out of womens sports"  with the last being an apparent reference to transgender women.

"If reporters find those principles contradictory to values pushed by California leaders," Kelly wrote, "maybe it's time for Democrats to evaluate how their state is run."

Democrats, including Biden, have repeatedly tied Trump to Project 2025, saying his claims of distance from it are absurd given how many people in his orbit are leading it. On Tuesday, Harris called out Project 2025 at a campaign event in Las Vegas, noting that it calls for the dissolution of the U.S. Department of Education, cuts to Social Security and a nationwide abortion ban.

Read more: Kamala Harris faces political pressure  and opportunity  as Biden struggles

"If implemented, this plan would be the latest attack in Donald Trump's full-on assault on reproductive freedom," she said.

Experts said that if Biden is replaced by Harris or Newsom  who are considered leading candidates amid a swirl of doubt about Biden's age and ability to defeat Trump  conservative derision about California and its liberal policies will increase, and find a receptive audience in many parts of the country.

A Times survey earlier this year found that 50% of U.S. adults believe California is in decline, with 48% of Republicans saying it is "not really American."

If Trump wins, California is expected to lead the liberal resistance to Trump's agenda, just as it did during his first term, experts said. Such efforts will be hampered by California's budget woes and the conservative-leaning Supreme Court, they said, but not undone completely.

"California will fight back, and it has the means to fight back," Cain said. "This isn't Alabama or Mississippi. You are taking on a very powerful state with a lot of resources  and a will to resist."

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
Protesters gather in Shadyside, ask to meet with the University of Pittsburgh Chancellor

Protesters gathered in Shadyside to call for change from the University of Pittsburgh.

At 5:06 p.m. Pitt Police said the protest was happening in the area of Devonshire Street between Fifth Avenue and Ellsworth Avenue.

A protest attendee said they are protesting because Joan Gabel, Chancellor of the University of Pittsburgh, will not sit down with them to talk about divestment from Israel.

Protesters wrote messages on the street road and called for an end to violence in Gaza.

The AP reports that more than 38,400 people in Gaza have been killed in Israeli ground offensive and bombardments since Hamas Oct. 7 attack on southern Israel that killed at least 1,200 people.

The demonstration impacted traffic while it was happening and travelers were asked to plan ahead.

At this time, Pitt Police say operations in the area have returned to normal.

Channel 11 has reached out to the University of Pittsburgh for a response to the protest and is waiting to hear back.

Download the FREE WPXI News app for breaking news alerts.

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Trump injured in assassination attempt at rally in Butler; 1 attendee, suspected shooter killed FBI seeking information, digital media from shooting at Trump rally in Butler County STATEMENTS: Local, national officials condemn violence following shooting at Trump rally VIDEO: Shots fired at Trump Rally, Former President Donald Trump rushed off stage DOWNLOAD the Channel 11 News app for breaking news alerts
Thousands of opposition supporters in Albania staged a protest in the capital, Tirana, on Thursday, demanding Prime Minister Edi Rama step down. The demonstrators accused Rama, who has been in power since 2012, of corruption.

The protesters pelted a government building and the mayor of Tirana's office, who is affiliated with the prime minister's Socialist Party.

Police put out the fires caused by the bombs, and there were no reports of more serious altercations or injuries.

The demonstrators also demanded the release of opposition leader Sali Berisha, who has been held under house arrest on corruption charges since last year, in a move many say is politically motivated.

The former Prime Minister, who leads the opposition Democratic Party, had called for the protests from his house arrest.

Berisha made a video link statement, saying, "Albania is the only country in Europe with its opposition leader under political arrest without any facts, evidence, or documents." "Edi Rama wants an Albania without Albanians, without opposition, and without justice."

In October 2023, prosecutors accused Berisha of allegedly abusing his post to help his son-in-law, Jamarber Malltezi, privatize public land to build 17 apartment buildings.

Prosecutors have yet to take the formal charges to court, and Berisha is still technically under investigation.

Berisha, 79, and Malltezi, 52, both have proclaimed their innocence, alleging the case was a political move by the ruling Socialist Party of Prime Minister Edi Rama.

Prosecutors have said that if Berisha is convicted, he faces a prison sentence of up to 12 years.
An advisory council Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham established last year to help address a crisis of missing and murdered Indigenous people is meeting behind closed doors. Thats a problem, according to the head of a government transparency group.

The governor announced the advisory council in November, a little over a month after New Mexico In Depth reported that her administration had quietly dissolved a state task force working on the issue, a move affected families and other advocates protested. The task force held regular public meetings until it was shuttered.

The seven-member council has met once so far, in March, to organize itself. Asked this week whether it has scheduled another meeting, Indian Affairs Department spokesman Aaron Lopez did not answer. Instead, he wrote in an email that advisory councils arent subject to the state Open Meetings Act.

Josey Tenorio (Hopi), an advocate for missing and murdered Indigenous women, at Missing in New Mexico Day in Albuquerque on Dec. 3, 2023.

That means theyre not legally required to have public meetings.

But they could. A review by New Mexico In Depth of other state advisory councils show a number have and continue to meet publicly, including at least one Lujan Grisham created.

The councils decision to not hold public meetings is related to the sensitive nature of the topics discussed and the need for privacy in handling certain cases, Lopez wrote in an email Friday.

Asked whether the council will share the location and time of its meetings, Lopez wrote its not required to.

Melanie Majors, executive director of the New Mexico Foundation for Open Government, said the public should be able to hear directly what members discuss, partly because those discussions could inform policy.

If its public money thats being used, its for a public agency, then the public should be involved, no ifs, ands, or buts, said Majors, who later wrote in an email that it is basically a question of accountability and being transparent.

A news release last fall said the council would bring together tribal and state leaders, law enforcement, advocates and affected families to support the states efforts to carry forward recommendations made by the now-defunct task force.

Lopez wrote over email that the council will keep the public informed and provide any necessary updates at meetings hosted by the Indian Affairs Department in part to share developments in the states response to the crisis.

The next public meeting is scheduled for 10 am Monday. It will be held in Santa Fe in the second floor conference room of 1220 S. Saint Francis Drive and streamed via Zoom.

A notice was posted on departmental social media accounts Thursday morning, with an agenda that doesnt include a public comment period. New Mexico In Depth could not find a notice on the agency website.

Generally, community meetings are promoted through local media, social media, community bulletin boards, and direct outreach by the department, Lopez wrote.

Last year, the department faced criticism for hosting an event for families with missing loved ones on short notice. The agency announced the date and location of Missing in New Mexico Day, which the state is required by law to hold annually, less than a week in advance.

Josett Monette, who now leads the agency, said at the time that officials wanted to get the notice out as soon as possible in the future.

Pojoaque Pueblo Gov. Jenelle Roybal and Picuris Pueblo Gov. Craig Quanchello are co-chairs of the advisory council.

Members include:

First Lady Jasmine Blackwater-Nygren, Office of the Navajo Nation President and Vice President

Major Nathan Barton, Pojoaque Police Department

Chief Daryl Noon, Navajo Nation Police Department

Dawn M. Begay, CABQ Native American Affairs

Tiffany Jiron, Executive Director Coalition to Stop Violence Against Native Women

Bella Davis is an Indigenous affairs reporter at New Mexico In Depth, a position made possible in part by the national organization Report for America.

Editor's note: The editor of this publication is a member of the Board of Directors for New Mexico In Depth.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Public can't attend NM's MMIW advisory council meetings
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In a lot of Pacific War histories, Guam is swept aside and banished as insignificant.

How soon they forget, many might say.

In Tokyo, soundtrucks festooned with World War II colors still extol those lost in a gallant defeat. In America, elders like Louis H. Wilson Jr. and George Tweed would never forget.

Masashi Ito and Bunzo Minagawa spent young manhood into middle age in the tropical underside of an island that tourists now praise as a paradise. They were holdouts, soldiers who refused to surrender and would forage for survival for 16 years.

The last known Japanese survivor, Shoichi Yokoi, held out until 1972, captured by chance as he ventured out to empty a fish trap. Yokoi had never crept out of dense cover to hear the happy shouts of Japanese tourists and honeymooners. Nor had he walked the lobby of the Hilton or the Cliffside.

Luxury hotels swarm over the beachfront and jungle growth has covered the faint traces of war, and Guam gets only a passing nod as a battlefield beside Guadalcanal, Tarawa, Okinawa and Leyte. Thirty-six years ago, shellfire plowed across Guam. Some 18,500 Japanese were trying to pry loose the fingerhold that many more thousands of American soldiers and Marines had fastened on beaches and cliffsides.

Many of the Americans barely had a respite between battles, having first seized Saipan to pull the keystone of the Marianas archway. Guam was almost a point-of-honor afterthought. The island was an American possession until a handful of Marines, soldiers and Guamanian militia made a no-choice surrender only three days after Japanese bombers pounded Hawaii.

The III Amphibious Corps and the 77th Infantry Division are not going in blindfolded that July 21, 1944. Eleven days before the landing, as American warships savage Guams coastal defenses, a tall figure sprints down a beach and plunges into the surf, swimming with desperate strength until he is within hailing distance of a destroyer.

George Tweed is pulled aboard and tells an astonishing story. He was one of the 288 men on the island as 5,000 Japanese surged ashore, ignoring the flea-bite firepower of a few .30 cal. machine guns as they overwhelmed the thin garrison and forced the Naval Governor, Capt. George J. McMillin, into quick submission.

Tweed and five others slipped away, hunted by Japanese who probed the underbrush with bayonets. Only Tweed survived, living on land crabs and coconuts, warily evading the patrols that shook every palm tree and banyan for him. Tweed saw his pursuers far more often than they saw him, and his sketchpad mind has taken it all down  every gun emplacement, trenchline and fortified cave. The Japanese failure to capture or kill this ragged stray will cost them dearly.

Exacting naval gunfire singles out visible and concealed coastal guns  all but a few. As the 3rd Marine Division and the 1st Marine Brigade board barges that cut paint-stroke wakes toward the western side of Guam, sharp flashes burst along the coastline. Barges turn over like crumpled buckets.

You never get it for free, an older Marine mutters as the barges push ashore  the division between Adelup and Asan Points and the brigade wedging between Point Bangi and the town of Agat. Beachheads are tightly fastened and the coastal guns erased.

There are already wolfish shouts from the jungle along the coastline. Fierce counterattacks tear into the Marine lines and one lunge rips through the brigade. It is contained after a desperate brawl with bullets, blades and even fists.

The Marines begin moving inland, slowly closing a gap between division and brigade as hey crush across Apra Harbor and Orote Peninsula, squeezing the defenders between them. But the Japanese put no markdown price tags on anything, heaping fallen defenses with Marine dead. As the two Marine forces grasp .hands, another enemy rush pours forth  the futile bravery of 500 Japanese sailors who die in an inferno of shellfire.

Capt. Louis H. Wilson Jr. is a company commander in the 2nd Battalion, 9th Marines. He thrusts ahead of the others to take high and important ground, holding it against human-avalanche counterattacks.

His Medal of Honor citation will stiffly relate that Wilson contributed essentially to the success of the assault, passing over the fact that he was wounded three times and fought aside agonized delirium to rally his Marines.

Soldiers of the 77th, fed slowly into the advance, must do the deadly, mop-and-dustpan work in southern Guam as the Marine advance lunges on. The suicidally determined Japanese will tear tiny leaks and large gaps in the line, and the effort to repulse them will often get down to hand-to-hand piecework.

The advance will spider all over the island, with Guam declared secure as Marines reach the northernmost tip on Ritidian Point. Everything is back under American colors by Aug. 10.

The past will be wiped away over the years. Wreckage will be swept aside. Foundations for posh hotels will be sunk along the beachfront. Andersen AFB and Agana NAS will assure a stronger military presence than those unfortunate few of late 1941.

Strangers will be strafed by stiff expense but nothing else.

Tweed will write a book, Robinson Crusoe, USN.

Wilson will become Marine Corps Commandant.

Battle histories will little note nor long remember Guam.

But Wilson, Tweed, many Americans and a few Japanese, will always share a thin fund of private memories.

Yokoi returns to Japan - Tears and Cheers for an Old Soldier

By Sgt. C.E. Witter, Stars and Stripes Published: Feb. 4, 1972

TOKYOShoichi Yokoi, the former Japanese Imperial Army sergeant who hid out in the jungles of Guam for 28 years, jetted home Wednesday and received a heros welcomea welcome that outshone Emperor Hirohitos return from his world tour.

About 5,000 people crowded the observation decks at Tokyo International Airport Wednesday afternoon as the Japan Air Lines charter plane touched down bearing Yokoi and the remains of two other Japanese soldiers, Mikio Shichi and Satoru Nakahata.

The two soldiers had sp ent some time with Yokoi in the jungles of Guam before they died about eight years ago.

Yokoi, 56, was placed in the first class compartment of the special JAL flight from Guam, where he was captured Jan. 24 after spending half his life hiding from the enemy, never wanting to surrender because it would have been a disgrace to do so.

He was attended by Dr. Yoshiuki Koyama of Tokyos Daiichi Hospital, a nurse from Tokyo, and Kazushige Nakamura, director of the Repatriation Bureau.

First on board the aircraft after the doors opened in Tokyo were customs and immigration officials. Following them, 10 doctors filed through the doors to examine Yokoi.

Next on board were three officials to claim the remains of Yokois two companions. They came back out almost immediately bearing white boxes con- taining the remains. They passed by bereaved relatives who wept openly and bowed low in grief.

About 15 minutes after the plane had parked it was time for Yokoi to emerge. He was visibly touched by the response as he stepped onto the stair-ramp. He had to be steadied by his doctor and nurse.

The crowd waved Japanese flags and chanted Banzai! Banzai! Yokoi waved back as tears streaked down his face.

At the bottom of the steps he set foot on Japanese soil for the first time in 31 years. He was first greeted by Japans Health and Welfare Minister Noboru Saito. The two chatted for a few minutes, Yokoi now standing on his own but not letting go of the ministers hand.

After the exchange of greetings the two turned towards the assembled press for pictures. Again Yokoi waved and this time he shouted Banzai! The crowd cheered louder.

Two airport ground crewmen, who were also working the day the Emperor returned from his overseas tour, said the crowd was bigger and more boisterous on Wednesday than the day of the emperors return.

Yokoi was placed in a wheelchair for the short trip from planeside to a waiting car. As he was pushed to the car he again received a loud ovation. The car took him to the airport hotel for a brief press conference.

During the conference Yokoi was asked his first impressions of Japan. When I saw my motherland Nippon I could not help but cry. I am too full of emotions to express my happiness to be back in Japan, he said.

Yokoi also gave his reason why his country lost the war: Japan lost the pacific war because it lacked arms, warships and planes and not because of any lack of fighting spirit.

He also repeated his desire to meet the emperor. Thoughts of Emperor Hirohito helped him to continue during his lonely years in the jungle, he told the press.

He also mentioned one of the possessions he brought back from Guam. I brought back the rifle entrusted to me by the honorable emperor which I want to return. I want to report that I am sorry I did not serve his majesty to my satisfaction.

He said, as he did in Guam shortly after his capture, that he was glad he was going to Japan, but apologized for not dying for his country.

Following the conference Yokoi was whisked away to the Tokyo Daiichi Hospital where he will undergo more medical checkups. A team of specialists will be assigned to him full time.

Yokoi seems to know what he wants to do as soon as he is able. He wants to write his memoirs.
Putnam County Fire Rescue posted on Facebook that its working three brush fires.

In unincorporated Palatka, theres a brush fire spread over several acres thats endangering structures near West Pinellas Street.

Forestry has a fourth dozer on the way and a helicopter is en route from Tallahassee, according to the post.

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In Georgetown, theres a several-acre brush fire endangering structures off of Meadow Drive.

In Interlachen, a brush fire is now under control. Off Rowell Avenue, there are two acres of land with endangered structures.

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KANSAS CITY, Mo.  This week its a bi-state edition of 4 The People and our Candidate Conversations.

First up, outgoing Missouri House Minority Leader Crystal Quade. Shes seeking the Democratic nomination for governor and talks to us about what she views as her pathway to victory in bright red Missouri. She also discusses her views on state support for professional stadiums and on her support of returning the Kansas City Police Department to local control.

Read more Politics stories from FOX4

Primary opponent Mike Hamra has been invited to join a future show, and next week primary opponent Eric Morrison is schedule to join 4 The People.

Then we sit down with former Kansas Attorney General Derek Schmidt, who is reentering politics to seek the 2nd Congressional District seat being vacated by Cong. Jake LaTurner. The Republican Schmidt discusses his campaign and issues including immigration, spending and more.

His principal primary opponent Jeff Kahrs joined us recently. You can see his conversation at this link.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 4 Kansas City WDAF-TV | News, Weather, Sports.
Rally shooting likely won't keep Trump out of Pa. Swing state critical to election win

An assassination attempt probably wont stop former President Donald Trump from future campaign stops in Pennsylvania.

Trump was speaking to supporters at a rally in Butler, near Pittsburgh, Saturday evening when the presumptive Republican nominee fell to the stage following several gunshots. He was pictured with blood on his face as Secret Service surrounded him and escorted him to an SUV, but was quickly confirmed to be "fine" by his campaign.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pa., was identified as the shooter, and the FBI continues to investigate.

Is Pennsylvania a swing state?

Pennsylvania is one of six swing states that could decide the outcome of the 2024 Presidential Election; the others are Arizona, Georgia, Michigan, Nevada and Wisconsin.

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Republican political strategist Sam Chen, a principal director of the Allentown-based communications firm The Liddle Group, said he doubts the shooting will keep Trump from campaigning in Pennsylvania, where the former president has already visited at least five times in recent months for fundraisers and rallies.

There's no chance the shooting at President Trump's event in Pennsylvania will stop him from coming back and campaigning in the state, Chen said Saturday night. That's not the former president's personality and, more broadly, Americans are known for pressing on  even more relentlessly  in the face of such attacks.

Both Trump and President Joe Biden have been spending a lot of time in Pennsylvania this year.

Where is Butler?: Where is Butler Pa? Trump taken off stage after reports of shots at rally

Biden did a three-day blitz through the state in April, including an event in his hometown of Scranton, and was back in Harrisburg and Philadelphia, where he's been at least six times, as recently as July 7

The rally in Butler was one of at least five events Trump has made to Pennsylvania this year alone. His first rally was in Schnecksville, near Allentown, in April. That same day he attended a private fundraiser in Buck County and was greeted by hundreds at an organized street rally as his motorcade passed. Trump also held a rally in Philadelphia just a few days before he and Biden squared off in their first televised debate last month.

Red states and blue states

During a presidential election, many states are considered Red or Blue states because the results historically favor Republicans or Democrats, respectively.

For example, California is considered a Blue state because voters there have chosen the Democrat over the Republican candidate in every Presidential Election since 1992, according to www.270towin.com.

On the other hand, Texas has consistently voted Republican for president since 1980.

PA leaders condemn Trump shooting: Pennsylvania political leaders condemn Trump shooting at Butler County rally

States that have historically voted for both parties in major elections or where the margin of Republican and Democratic voters is very thin can be unpredictable and typically referred to as swing states, or sometimes also referred to as battleground states.

Pennsylvania has gone to the Republican candidate in every major election of the 1980s and in 2016, while the Democrats have won the state in eight of the past 12 presidential elections.

Democrats also lead Republicans by about 371,280 voters, or just 4% of the states 8.7 million voters, according to July registration data from the Pennsylvania Department of State.

Former President Donald Trump is assisted by Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during his reelection campaign rally in Butler, Pa., on July 13, 2024.

Why is Pennsylvania so important in 2024 presidential election?

In order to win the election, one candidate will need to secure 270 electoral college votes  votes assigned to each state based on its population determined by the census. The District of Columbia is given three votes and considered a state for the purposes of the electoral college.

Pennsylvania, the fifth most populous state in the country as of the 2020 census, holds 19 electoral college votes.

None of the four states ahead of Pennsylvania  California (54 votes), Texas (40 votes), Florida (30 votes) and New York (28 votes)  are considered swing states this year, making Pennsylvania the largest unknown for both Trump and Biden.

Road to 270 goes through PA: Electoral math: Biden needs to take these swing states to win in 2024

Chen also said Pennsylvanias role as a bellwether in the election is also equally important. Bellwethers in elections are places that can often be used to predict the outcome of an election.

Since 1976, Pennsylvania has voted for the winner in each presidential election except in 2000 and 2004.

Pennsylvania voters are politically very diverse, Chen said, a microcosm of the nation with a mix of liberal and conservative voters who often split their ticket between Republicans and Democrats.

It's not like if you win these 19 votes, you're guaranteed the presidency, Chen said. It's more if you've done the work to be able to win in Pennsylvania, you hit some kind of sweet spot where you're able to speak across different demographics.

Chris Ullery is the Philadelphia Hub Data Reporter for the USA Today Network. Reach him at cullery@couriertimes.com or find him on Twitter at @ulleryatinell.

.

This article originally appeared on Bucks County Courier Times: Why Trump won't avoid Pa after rally shooting. Swing state key to win
BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KGET)  A vegetation fire burning on Sebastian Road in Kern County that posed an immediate threat to life has been downgraded, according to Cal Fire.

On July 13, Cal Fire and the Kern County Fire Department ordered an evacuation for genasys zone KRN-495, and evacuation warning for KRN-118 near Arvin.

Residents can return to their homes after the Kern County Fire Department reduced the Rancho Fires evacuation order to a warning Monday, July 15, the department confirmed to 17 News.

Political analysts speak on the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump

The Rancho Fire is up to 9,950 acres at 50% containment, KCFD said via social media post on Monday.

The Kern County Fire Department is investigating the scene. The cause of this fire is unknown and being investigated.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KGET 17.
WASHINGTON (Reuters) -Here are reactions from politicians, business leaders and others in the United States after Donald Trump was shot in the ear during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

See also reactions from foreign leaders here, and from investors here.

REPUBLICAN FORMER US PRESIDENT DONALD TRUMP

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

DEMOCRATIC US PRESIDENT JOE BIDEN

"I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

DEMOCRATIC US VICE PRESIDENT KAMALA HARRIS

"I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trumps event in Pennsylvania. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action. Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence."

FORMER US FIRST LADY MELANIA TRUMP

"America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one. When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and (son) Barron's life, were on the brink of devastating change."

"A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passion - his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husband's life - his human side - were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times."

"This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence."

DEMOCRATIC US SENATE MAJORITY LEADER CHUCK SCHUMER

I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country.

REPUBLICAN US HOUSE SPEAKER MIKE JOHNSON

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned.

"Congress will conduct a full investigation of the tragedy to determine where there were lapses in security."

REPUBLICAN US SENATOR J.D. VANCE, A POSSIBLE TRUMP RUNNING MATE

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

REPUBLICAN US SENATE MINORITY LEADER MITCH MCCONNELL

"... all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement."

DEMOCRATIC US HOUSE MINORITY LEADER HAKEEM JEFFRIES

"My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable."

DEMOCRATIC US REPRESENTATIVE AND FORMER HOUSE SPEAKER NANCY PELOSI

"As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe."

US ATTORNEY GENERAL MERRICK GARLAND

The FBI, ATF, U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the Departments National Security Division are currently working with the Secret Service as well as state and local law enforcement partners on the ground in Butler, Pennsylvania. My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy. The Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

REPUBLICAN FORMER US PRESIDENT GEORGE W. BUSH

"Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response."

DEMOCRATIC FORMER US PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

REPUBLICAN US REPRESENTATIVE MARJORIE TAYLOR GREENE:

"Democrats wanted this to happen. Theyve wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen."

DEMOCRATIC FORMER US REPRESENTATIVE GABBY GIFFORDS, WHO WAS SHOT IN 2011 AND LATER FOUNDED A GUN CONTROL GROUP:

"Political violence is terrifying. I know. Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never."

NO. 2 US HOUSE REPUBLICAN STEVE SCALISE, WHO WAS SHOT IN 2017 IN AN ACT OF POLITICAL VIOLENCE:

"For weeks Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America. Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop."

DEMOCRATIC SENATOR JOHN FETTERMAN OF PENNSYLVANIA

"What we cannot assume is that these kind of things can't happen again and we just have to turn down the temperature on this," Fetterman told CNN's State of the Union program.

REPUBLICAN SENATOR RON JOHNSON OF WISCONSIN

"The Department of Justice, the Secret Service, the FBI need to be completely transparent; they haven't been so in the past," Johnson told CNN, referring to the investigation of the shooting.

AMAZON FOUNDER JEFF BEZOS:

"Our former President showed tremendous grace and courage under literal fire tonight. So thankful for his safety and so sad for the victims and their families."

APPLE CEO TIM COOK:

"I pray for President Trump's rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence."

(Reporting by John Kruzel, Orathai Sriring and Richard CowanEditing by Nick Zieminski, Deepa Babington, Christian Schmollinger, Will Dunham and Frances Kerry)
For Some Reason Nobody's Ever Tested for Heavy Metals in Tampons Before, and the Results Are Alarming

Tampons are one the world's most commonly used menstrual products, and according to a new study, they contain a number of toxic metals including arsenic and lead.

As a UC Berkeley press release about the new study notes, the school's researchers were, to their knowledge, the first to ever measure heavy metals in tampons.

"Concerningly, we found concentrations of all metals we tested for," said Jenni A. Shearston, a Berkeley public health postdoctoral student and the first author of the new paper in Environment International.

In sum, the researchers  who worked with counterparts at Columbia University in New York  found levels of 16 different chemicals in the 14 brands they measured (which were not, we should note, listed in the paper itself.) Along with arsenic and lead, they found concentrations of cadmium, copper, iron, mercury, and nickel.

Although the metal levels varied based on a number of factors, including whether the tampons were from the United States or Europe and whether they were organic or not, "no category had consistently lower concentrations of all or most metals," the press release notes.

For instance, organic tampons had lower lead concentrations than non-organic, but were found to be higher in arsenic.

These chemicals could, as the Berkely statement explains, have gotten into tampons in several different ways. The cotton used in tampons could have absorbed the metals from either the air, water or soil where it grew, or it could have been contaminated by pollution, such as being near a lead smelter. What's perhaps more concerning, however, is the public health scientists' hypothesis that some of the chemicals were added during the manufacturing as antibacterial agents, whitener, pigmentation, or some other process at the industrial level.

While it's certainly alarming to suggest that a product used by a near-majority of those who menstruate contains a bunch of freaky chemicals, the researchers behind this first-of-its-kind paper urge caution before panic.

"We just need more information," Shearston told Today.com in an interview about the research. "What I would like to encourage people to do is support more research and ask more questions about this to try to make research on menstrual products and menstruation a priority."

Ultimately, the onus lies with menstrual product manufacturers to get it right  but as Time magazine noted in its own writeup of the research, chemical testing is not part of the legal requirements for tampons in either the United States or Europe.

"It would be exciting to see the public call for this," Shearston said in the school's press release, "or to ask for better labeling on tampons and other menstrual products."

More on freaky health findings: Scientists Found Microplastics in Every Human Semen Sample They Examined
Republican lawmakers blame Biden for shooting at Trump rally that left former president injured

A freshman Republican has accused President Joe Biden of ordering the shooting at a rally in Pennsylvania that left Donald Trump injured.

The former president was rushed from the stage, with blood running down his face soon after he began to speak on Saturday, as shots were fired toward the stage.

He was bundled him into a waiting motorcade by his Secret Service detail.

Trumps campaign later said that is he fine and being checked out a local medical facility.

Secret Service said that one spectator was killed and two critically injured in the assassination attempt.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

The suspected shooter, who was later identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed by an agent on the scene.

The motive for the attack remains unclear. Crooks, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident,, was a registered Republican voter, but also donated $15 to a Democratic-aligned PAC, according to online records.

Less than an hour after the shooting, Georgia GOP Representative Mike Collins posted a screenshot of a quote from Joe Biden, which read, were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

Joe Biden sent the orders. https://t.co/pOc0XLxCwg  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

The president made the remarks last Monday during a speech to Democratic donors, Politico reported.

Joe Biden sent the orders, Collins posted, above the quote.

Collins, who is known to make inflammatory remarks on social media, also called on Biden to be prosecuted for the shooting.

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination, he said. Other Republicans seemed to fault Democrats for the shooting.

Today is not just some isolated incident.



The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs.



That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.  J.D. Vance (@JDVance1) July 14, 2024

Today is not just some isolated incident, Ohio Senator JD Vance, a potential Trump running mate, posted on X. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.

Senator Tommy Tuberville of Alabama, another Trump ally, retweeted Vances remarks.

In a statement on Saturday night, President Joe Biden said every American must condemn political violence after the shooting.

Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania by Secret Service agents after he is injured in a shooting on Saturday (AP)

Speaking from a convention center at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, Biden said he has been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government on the situation and that hes attempted to get ahold of Trump but had been unsuccessful, because he was with his doctors.

Biden said he plans on speaking with Trumps doctors as well, and said there was no place in America for this kind of violence.

Its sick, he said. Its sick.

Biden said the incident at the rally demonstrates one of the reasons why we have to united this country and said Americans cannot allow for this to be happening.

We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this, he said.
Workers prepare the stage for the Republican National Convention at the Fiserv Forum on July 13, 2024, in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Scott Olson/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an assassination attempt and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.
Republican National Convention to go on despite shooting, with Trump plans unchanged

A worker helps prepare the Fiserv Forum for the start of the Republican National Convention on July 11, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. The Republican National Convention will be held in Milwaukee from July 15-18. (Photo by Joe Raedle/Getty Images)

WASHINGTON  Thousands of Republicans will gather in Milwaukee beginning Monday for the partys presidential nominating convention  a typically joyous occasion that will likely take on a different tone this year after a gunman shot at Donald Trump, injuring him, on Saturday.

Trump, who will be formally nominated as the GOPs presidential nominee on Thursday, still plans to attend the convention and officials stress the four-day event will go on as normal.

The shooting at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania is being investigated as an attempted assassination and the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. The U.S. Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, the Secret Service said.

Trump, who has been declared safe by the Secret Service, posted on social media Sunday morning that he was still looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Senior advisors to the Trump campaign Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita released a statement hours after the shooting on Saturday to say that the former president wasnt changing his plans.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in a joint statement. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Reince Priebus, chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, said in a separate statement that he was heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week, Priebus added.

Political party conventions are designated as National Special Security Events, or NSSEs, and come with extremely heightened security compared to a typical campaign rally.

The Secret Service will have at least two security perimeters around the Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee and the city itself will be swarming with additional federal, state and local law enforcement officers.

The convention will still host speeches throughout the week and the dozens of side events hosted by state Republican Parties and conservative organizations were still expected to continue, though likely with a more somber mood than was planned before the shooting.

GOP platform

Party conventions have traditionally served as an opportunity for the GOP to showcase its candidates up and down the ballot and unify behind their presidential nominee after sometimes divisive primaries.

Theyre also the point every four years, with at least one exception, when party leaders release their key policy goals for the next four years.

The RNC released its trimmed-down party platform the week prior to the convention, after foregoing one entirely in 2020. And while many Republicans in Congress said during interviews they either support it, or hadnt read it, some were critical it adopts Trumps position that abortion access be left up to states  one of the top issues in the presidential race.

The platform wraps in longtime party goals as well as others tied to Trump. But it also competes with attention drawn to the Heritage Foundations massive far-right Project 2025 policy agenda, which Trump has repeatedly disavowed.

Democrats and President Joe Bidens reelection campaign have targeted the document spearheaded by former Trump administration officials  which says the president should work with Congress on abortion policy  as an example of an extreme GOP agenda.

The Heritage Foundation is scheduled to host an all-day policy fest on Monday at the RNC Convention, headlined by conservative media personality Tucker Carlson and former Utah Congressman Jason Chaffetz, among others.

The RNC convention could also be the showcase for Trump announcing his running mate, after months of speculation about who would get the nod. As of Friday, Trump had not revealed his pick, though speculation centered around Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.

There was also little information available ahead of the convention as to the lineup and schedule of speakers in official sessions throughout the week, which culminates with the nomination of Trump on Thursday and his speech.

Unhappiness over abortion stance

GOP members of Congress said in interviews that took place days before the shooting they would have liked to have seen a national abortion ban in the platform.

Louisiana Sen. Bill Cassidy, the top Republican on the Health, Education, Labor and Pensions Committee, said he preferred the GOPs last official platform, which called for a nationwide abortion ban after 20 weeks.

Im pro-life and I like the way it was previously, Cassidy said.

Iowa Republican Sen. Joni Ernst said while she hadnt read the full platform, she had read the section about abortion, as well as a few others.

I am pro-life and I am always going to be adamantly pro-life, Ernst said. And I think what were going to have to do is work very hard to educate the American people on the value of life. So would I like to see more robust (language) in the platform? Certainly. But thats not the way its going to be. So were just going to have to continue fighting for life.

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Oklahoma Sen. James Lankford said the platform places a new emphasis on the states to regulate abortion access, largely as a result of Trump pressing for that structure in an attempt to appeal to independent voters, though Lankford said it wont bind Republicans in Congress.

Obviously, this is a platform thats wrapped around him, its a new model for presidential platforms to be wrapped around the candidate, Lankford said.

Trump has shifted the GOP platform away from pressing for a nationwide law, in part, because he doesnt believe the votes are there at the moment, Lankford said. But that doesnt mean Republican lawmakers will stop talking about their beliefs or working to build support for a nationwide law.

Its a common ground statement, Lankford said of the platform. But for those of us that believe in the value of every single child  and we should do whatever we can to be able to protect the lives of children  we will continue to be able to speak out on those things.

Mike Pence, former Indiana governor and vice president during Trumps first term in office, released a statement saying the RNC platform is a profound disappointment to the millions of pro-life Republicans that have always looked to the Republican Party to stand for life.

Unfortunately, this platform is part of a broader retreat in our party, trying to remain vague for political expedience, he wrote.

Pence called on delegates attending the RNC convention to restore language to our partys platform recognizing the sanctity of human life and affirming that the unborn child has a fundamental right to life which cannot be infringed.

Shorter, vaguer

The 16-page platform is much shorter than years past and is at times vague about the goals the Republican Party hopes to accomplish if voters give them unified control of the federal government during the next two years.

The official document was put together behind closed doors.

It says that after nearly 50 years, because of us, the ability to regulate abortion has been given to the States and to a vote of the People.

We will oppose Late Term Abortion, while supporting mothers and policies that advance Prenatal Care, access to Birth Control, and IVF (fertility treatments), the new RNC platform states.

The 2016 Republican Party platform, by contrast, was 66 pages long and mentioned abortion more than 30 times, calling for Congress to pass legislation that banned abortion after 20-weeks gestation.

That previous platform also said that the RNC respected the states authority and flexibility to exclude abortion providers from federal programs such as Medicaid and other healthcare and family planning programs so long as they continue to perform or refer for elective abortions or sell the body parts of aborted children.

National treasures, womens sports

The RNCs new platform includes familiar GOP policy goals as well as some that came along after Trump became the partys nominee eight years ago.

For example, it calls for Republicans to promote beauty in Public Architecture and preserve our Natural Treasures. We will build cherished symbols of our Nation, and restore genuine Conservation efforts.

It also calls on GOP lawmakers to support the restoration of Classic Liberal Arts Education, though it doesnt detail that particular issue.

The rest of the platform is pretty standard for the types of initiatives and policy goals that Republicans have traditionally pursued.

For example, it calls on Republicans to slash wasteful Government spending, restore every Border Policy of the Trump administration, make provisions from the 2017 tax law permanent and will keep men out of womens sports.

Trump running mate

The RNC convention could also include Trump announcing who will campaign with him at the top of the ticket.

His last running mate, Pence, began distancing himself from Trump after the Jan. 6 attack on the U.S. Capitol, which included calls from the mob to kill Pence, and the construction of a scaffold for public hangings on the National Mall.

Pence was in the Capitol building that day and was removed from danger by his security detail as the pro-Trump mob beat police officers, broke into the building and disrupted Congress certification of Biden as the countrys next president.

Trump, without revealing his vice presidential selection, wrote Thursday on social media that he is looking very much forward to being in Milwaukee next week.

The great people of Wisconsin will reward us for choosing their State for the Republican National Convention. From there we go on to MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN! See you next week, he posted on Truth Social, his online platform where he regularly publishes comments and statements.

The vice presidential candidate typically gives a speech on Wednesday night, so Trump is expected to make his announcement before then.

Project 2025

Conservative operatives striving to elect Trump to the White House have been circulating the 922-page Project 2025 plan for nearly 15 months.

Spearheaded by the Heritage Foundation, in conjunction with more than 100 organizations, the policy agenda titled Mandate for Leadership: The Conservative Promise presents a roadmap should Trump win in November.

The goal is to assemble an army of aligned, vetted, trained, and prepared conservatives to go to work on Day One to deconstruct the Administrative State, according to the organizations description of the mandate.

The lengthy mandate sets forth core promises to restore the family and overhaul government agencies.

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The document states that (i)n particular, the next conservative President should work with Congress to enact the most robust protections for the unborn that Congress will support while deploying existing federal powers to protect innocent life and vigorously complying with statutory bans on the federal funding of abortion.

The mandate is just one pillar under the multi-pronged Project 2025: Presidential Transition Project that also includes a presidential administration training academy and a 180-day playbook aimed to bring quick relief to Americans suffering from the Lefts devastating policies. The project is led by two former Trump administration officials.

The Biden-Harris campaign and Democrats have repeatedly criticized Project 2025 in comments and campaign emails.

If implemented, Project 2025 would be the latest attempt in Donald Trumps full on assault on reproductive freedom, Vice President Kamala Harris said at a rally in North Carolina on Thursday.

Democratic House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries said during a press conference Thursday that the plan is dangerous, its dastardly and its diabolical.

Project 2025, the Trump and extreme MAGA Republican agenda, will criminalize abortion care and impose a nationwide ban on reproductive freedom, Jeffries said.

Trump and his campaign deny any connection to the project.

I know nothing about Project 2025. I have not seen it, have no idea who is in charge of it, and, unlike our very well received Republican Platform, had nothing to do with it, Trump wrote Thursday on his social media platform Truth Social.

The Radical Left Democrats are having a field day, however, trying to hook me into whatever policies are stated or said. It is pure disinformation on their part, he continued. By now, after all of these years, everyone knows where I stand on EVERYTHING!

Trump has delivered keynote speeches at Heritage Foundation events multiple times. An analysis by CNN showed 140 former Trump administration staffers were involved in the project. Kevin Roberts, Heritage Foundation president, told the New York Times in April 2023 that Trump had been briefed on the project.
Republican National Convention security zone, perimeter, map: what we know about potential changes

Former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania Saturday evening, just days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

The brazen act of political violence  which killed one spectator and critically injured two others in the rally crowd  has raised new questions about security for the convention.

Here is what we know and what we do not know about any changes to security at the RNC.

Will there be changes to the RNC security zone, perimeter?

So far, no specific changes to the security zone have been announced.

However, on Monday, Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle said the agency had "strengthened" its security plan for the RNC.

I am confident in the security plan our Secret Service RNC coordinator and our partners have put in place, which we have reviewed and strengthened in the wake of Saturdays shooting, Cheatle said in a statement.

In addition to the additional security enhancements we provided former President Trump's detail in June, we have also implemented changes to his security detail since Saturday to ensure his continued protection for the convention and the remainder of the campaign.

Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, RNC coordinator for the U.S. Secret Service, previously said during a Sunday news conference that the agency was not anticipating any changes to our operational security plans" and "we're ready to go."

In brief remarks from the White House Sunday afternoon, President Joe Biden emphasized all security measures will be reviewed.

"I've directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures - all security measures - for the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to start tomorrow," Biden said.

LIVE UPDATES: Trump will appear at the convention on Monday, coverage from Sunday's developments

Will the RNC still start Monday?

Yes.

The RNC starts on Monday and continues through Thursday.

Welcome parties and other events in Milwaukee are taking place over the weekend. As of Sunday afternoon, no major changes to the schedule had been announced.

Who is in charge of security at the RNC?

In general, the U.S. Secret Service and other federal authorities will be leading the response for security within the hard perimeter, which encompasses the main RNC venues downtown and requires credentials to enter.

Local authorities will be responsible for law enforcement outside that area in the broader security footprint.

Are police preparing for new security threats after the Trump assassination attempt?

Federal and local law enforcement officials said Sunday that they were not aware of any new threats targeting the RNC.

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman said he wanted to reassure RNC attendees as well as members of the community that local and federal law enforcement officials were prepared.

We got this, Norman said. We got this.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson and others stressed the planning and preparation that had already gone into the existing plan.

A national special security event is the highest designation that you can get for a security event of its size and magnitude in the United States, Johnson said. We have that designation."

Are guns allowed inside the 'hard' RNC convention perimeter?

No.

Guns will not be allowed in the hard perimeter, which includes buildings like Fiserv Forum hosting convention events and the immediate area around them, according to a U.S. Secret Service spokesperson.

Working law enforcement officers are permitted to have firearms inside that hard zone, the spokesperson said.

Are guns allowed in the RNC 'soft' zone and larger security 'footprint' where demonstrations will take place?

Yes.

State law prevents the city from banning most firearms, including within the security "footprint" that will surround a credentials-only "hard" zone.

Demonstrations at two locations plus a march route are planned within the broader security footprint each day of the four-day convention.

In addition, the Hank Aaron Trail will be closed between North 76th and North 89th Streets in Milwaukee from Monday through Saturday to accommodate security operations associated with the RNC, according to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

Will there be any changes for events at the RNC convention?

At a news conference Sunday, Republican Party of Wisconsin Chairman Brian Schimming said that "there are no major changes whatsoever at this point to the schedule for the convention that will be held here this week."

Asked if he was concerned about security for the convention, Schimming said no.

We have been working for months with the Secret Service, the city, the county, and of course dozens of law enforcement agencies all over Milwaukee, he said. I feel very, very confident in the security situation here in Milwaukee. I have passed that on to my delegation and to delegations and other state chairs.

Is Donald Trump still planning to come to Milwaukee for the RNC?

Yes.

Trump arrived in Milwaukee around 6 p.m. Sunday.

When is Trump expected to speak at the RNC?

Trump is scheduled to formally accept the nomination and speak at the RNC on Thursday at Fiserv Forum in downtown Milwaukee.

Will RNC protests go on as planned?

The Coalition to March on the RNC 2024 is continuing its plans for a march on Monday.

"The Coalition to March on the RNC reaffirms our commitment to a family-friendly march along the route we have agreed on with the city," the group said in a statement late Saturday.

Mary Spicuzza and Alison Dirr can be reached at mary.spicuzza@jrn.com and adirr@jrn.com.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: RNC 2024 in Milwaukee security zone, perimeter, map: what we know
Delegates, elected officials and media are gathering in Milwaukee ahead of the Monday start of the Republican National Convention, against the backdrop of the first attempted assassination of a presidential candidate in decades.

Former President Donald Trump, who was injured when shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday night, is expected to attend the convention. A Trump campaign spokesperson said the former president was fine and was released from a medical facility late Saturday night.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he will appear at the convention. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin, Trump wrote.

Presidential nominees often do not appear until the Thursday night of the convention, when they formally accept the nomination. But the conventions schedule  and Trumps whereabouts  are likely in flux in the wake of Saturdays incident.

Security will be strengthened and protests tamped down

In April, Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson told the Deseret News political violence would not be tolerated surrounding the convention.

It is never OK for someone to use violence against another person because they have a disagreement with them, especially a political disagreement, Johnson, a Democrat, said. The way that you fight that out is at the ballot box.

Local law enforcement agencies and the U.S. Secret Service released an extensive security plan last month, which includes a screening area for blocks around Fiserv Forum accessible only to credentialed individuals. There is planning underway to expand the perimeter at the RNC and create buffer zones around the events, CBS News reported Saturday.

Firearms will not be permitted within any of the credentialed-access areas, though Wisconsin law prevents the city of Milwaukee from prohibiting firearm possession in the area just outside the security perimeter, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reported. The gunman at Saturdays rally was reportedly on a roof outside of the security perimeter. Two people were killed, including the gunman and a rally attendee, and several others were injured.

The city is expecting some 5,000 protesters during the weeklong events, but they will be restricted to an area several blocks from the main convention site, Politico reported.

Darrin Bruce works on the exterior lighting on the Fiserv Forum ahead of the 2024 Republican National Convention, Thursday, July 11, 2024, in Milwaukee. | Alex Brandon

When will Trump announce his vice president?

Trump is expected to name his running mate early in the convention. During an appearance on The Clay Travis & Buck Sexton Show on Thursday, Trump said he would reveal his pick in the coming days: Id love to do it during the convention, or just slightly before the convention, like Monday, Trump said.

It is unclear how Saturdays shooting will affect the timeline. Less than 24 hours before the assassination attempt, Trump held private meetings with three of the finalists, ABC News reported. The meetings included Sen. J.D. Vance, Sen. Marco Rubio and North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum.

Aides have mulled an Apprentice-style reveal on Monday evening, during the conventions opening night, when Trump would announce his running mate onstage.

In the aftermath of Saturdays shooting, the leading vice presidential candidates were quick to express their support for Trump. Rubio, who spoke at a rally in Florida alongside Trump on Tuesday, posted to X the image of Trump being dragged offstage, his fist in the air, with the caption: God protected President Trump. Rubio also criticized the early media coverage of the incident.

God protected President Trump pic.twitter.com/96UKVdjF3A  Marco Rubio (@marcorubio) July 13, 2024

Burgum asked his X followers to pray for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today.

We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies, Burgum continued. Today he showed it.

Vance blamed rhetoric from the political left for the assassination attempt. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Vance wrote on X. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Biden steps out of the spotlight

In the two weeks since the June 27 debate, questions about Bidens fitness for office and his cognitive ability have consumed the news cycle. Saturdays assassination attempt  combined with the convention, the key Republican event of the campaign cycle  will likely turn media attention away from the president.

Will that lessen the pressure on Biden to drop out, even from within his own base? To date, 19 sitting House Democrats and one Senator have called on Biden to exit the race, and dozens more have expressed concerns about his ability to lead and to defeat Trump in November. As the spotlight turns to Milwaukee, those conversations may move to the side.
Former U.S. President Donald Trump appears ahead of the start of jury selection at Manhattan Criminal Court on April 15, 2024, in New York City. (Photo by Jabin Botsford-Pool/Getty Images)

On June 30, actress Taraji P. Henson paused her BET Awards hosting duties to warn viewers about the danger Donald Trump and Project 2025 pose to most U.S. citizens.

They are trying to bring the draft back. Who do you think theyre going to draft first?  Our careers, our next generations to come. Did you know that it is now a crime to be homeless? Pay attention. Its not a secret, look it up. They are attacking our most vulnerable citizens, she said.

The Project 2025 plan is not a game, Henson added. Look it up! She exhorted those who dont or wont vote to get out and do their civic duty.

Im not trying to scare us; Im trying to inform us. Weve got three Supreme Court seats up, you guys. We need those seats or we have no protection, she said. Okay, I got it out of my system. Im talking to all the mad people that dont want to vote. Youre going to be mad about a lot of things if you dont vote.

In this celebrity-driven culture, Henson did more to publicize Project 2025 than all the purposeful talking heads and their preening, pretentious colleagues. Henson has performed a vital public service for the American people because everyone needs to know what Trump has in store for us.

Black people, women of childbearing age, young adults, children, undocumented immigrants, and other marginalized communities have the most to lose if Donald Trump wins a second term, because hes coming for us.

Blueprint

Project 2025 is a sweeping rightwing blueprint for the next Republican president, Trump or not, to run the country. Funded by The Heritage Foundation, the Koch network, and a vast and secretive dark money network, the project has recruited at least 100 far-right organizations and entities to the cause.

Trump  aided and abetted by far-right extremists, MAGA supporters, and the remnants of the Republican Party  is gearing up to reassert racial and political dominance by upending the political system, eviscerating the rule of law, and wielding unconstrained power.

Project 2025 is the cudgel theyll use to implement this strategy. Harold Meyerson in the Prospect explains that Project 2025 is the blueprint for a conservative presidency.

The actions of liberal politicians in Washington have created a desperate need and unique opportunity for conservatives to start undoing the damage the Left has wrought and build a better country for all Americans in 2025, the Project 2025 manifesto says. It is not enough for conservatives to win elections. If we are going to rescue the country from the grip of the radical Left, we need both a governing agenda and the right people in place, ready to carry this agenda out on day one of the next conservative administration.

Yet even as a wider swathe of Americans are learning about Project 2025, Floridians have, since 2019, been watching and living the nightmare. Gov. Ron Santis and his extremist minions have implemented the Sunshine State version of conservatives planned theocratic/MAGA takeover. And Florida is all the worse for it.

Carnage

DeSantis has refused to expand Medicaid; rejects science and denies the existence of the climate crisis; is in the pocket of the fossil fuel industry; bears a special hatred for diversity, equity, and inclusion; has attacked transgender people; is anti-labor; and has used the power of his office to harm undocumented immigrants.

Thats not much different from the 920-page Heritage Foundation manifesto, which outlines the intention to, among other things, privatize Medicaid; deny Medicaid to increasing numbers of Americans; dismiss more than 50,000 civil servants and replace them with loyalists; allow Trump to mobilize the military against dissent; unleash ICE to raid schools, hospitals, churches, and playgrounds to round up undocumented immigrants and U.S. citizens (since hes promised to revoke birthright citizenship); and use the 150-year-old Comstock Act to ban the shipment of abortion pills.

Thanks to Henson, Rep. Ayanna Pressley, brutal ads from The Lincoln Project, mainstream and social media influencers, and others, the word is out about this toxic stew of racial resentment and grievance, Christian nationalism, MAGA outrage, and rightwing power grab.

In interviews, rallies, and on social media leading up to the Nov. 5 election, Trump  the presumed Republican nominee  has promised to unleash political violence, crushing his enemies, routing the media, appointing a special prosecutor to pursue President Joe Biden and his family for alleged corruption, and round up as many as 20 million undocumented immigrants and hold them in vast concentration camps before deporting them.

Hubris

I always thought it strange that Trump and the rest of these cruel creatures would so boldly publicize their plans for a MAGA conservative takeover. It reeks of deep-seated hubris. They appear to have not considered the consequences of tipping their hand.

And, as whats left of the Republican Party learned after the U.S. Supreme Court overturned the landmark Roe v. Wade, theres a price to pay for trying to impose its Christian nationalist ideology on the rest of America. When it comes to reproductive justice, Republicans have been beaten around the head and face by voters in red, blue, and purple states, all of whom intensely reject having government functionaries tell women what to do with their bodies.

Now that the true scope of public outrage is dawning on the GOP, they have been falling over themselves trying to escape the fallout. They have lied, obfuscated, and deflected, trying desperately to assure the public that their noxious anti-abortion positions are palatable, but its too late.

They will pay for their folly in November.

Much like roaches that scurry away when someone turns on the light, Donald Trump  twice impeached, four times indicted, charged with 88 felonies in state and federal courts  is shuffling away as fast as his portly body can carry him, trying to distance himself from Project 2025. Why? Because he and the other power-hungry zombies see the polls showing that many of their proposals stink.

According to a recent YouGov poll, 58% of Americans oppose the Trump/conservative Republican proposal to abolish the U.S. Department of Education. Meanwhile, 59% disagree with Trump/GOP cutting taxes on corporations and 56% are against repealing Obamacare.

Song and dance

Which is why in a recent Truth Social post, Trump performed his evasive song-and-dance: I know nothing about Project 2025. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things theyre saying and some of the things theyre saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal. Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them.

Oops, too late.

As customary, Republicans think Americans are stupid, because as they weather the punishing blowback, they are attempting a rebrand of Project 2025 to Agenda 47.

Kevin Roberts, president of the conservative think tank Heritage Foundation, which is orchestrating the overhaul of federal government if a Republican wins, crowed that America is in the midst of a second American Revolution that will be bloodless if the left allows it to be.

Incendiary comments like these, widely publicized, are just the fuel needed to mobilize the electorate to ensure that Trump the wanna-be dictator never returns to the White House.

On Nov. 5, Americans opposed to Project 2025 will have the opportunity to wage their own second American revolution and drive out the Republican enablers, insurrectionists, and liars whore in office and replace them with lawmakers who want to govern, who care about ordinary people, and who are interested in fully embracing and advancing Americas inevitable multicultural, multi-ethnic future.
Donald Trump has survived an attempt on his life during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania - REBECCA DROKE/AFP

Republicans have blamed Joe Biden for Donald Trumps shooting at a rally on Saturday, after the US president said it was time to put Trump in the bullseye.

Trumps allies accused Mr Biden of whipping up opposition to his rival in recent days, in comments they said had encouraged the shooter.

Eight Republicans have blamed Mr Biden directly for the shooting, while a further 21 have blamed critics of Trump more generally.

Steve Scalise, a senior Republican in the House of Representative, said: For weeks Democrat leaders have been fuelling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America. Clearly weve seen far Left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop.

Wesley Hunt, a Texas congressman, pointed to remarks by Mr Biden in 2022, when he said Trump was a threat to the very soul of this country.

This is the rhetoric that leads to political violence, Mr Hunt said.

Keith Self, who represents the same state, said: Every American should be outraged at Joe Biden for inciting violence against Donald J Trump.

Rick Scott, a Florida senator, accused Mr Biden of saying he wanted to put Trump in the crosshairs.

This isnt some unfortunate incident. This was an assassination attempt by a madman inspired by the rhetoric of the radical Left, he said.

JD Vance, a senator who is on the shortlist to be Trumps running mate in this years presidential election, said the events at his rally in Pennsylvania were not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that president Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to president Trumps attempted assassination.

Tim Scott, a Republican senator from South Carolina who is one of Trumps biggest cheerleaders, added: Lets be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascist, or worse.

Several Republicans pointed to comments by Mr Biden on a call with donors earlier this week, in which he said Trump should be put in a bullseye.

So, were done talking about the debate, its time to put Trump in a bullseye, he reportedly said.

Chris LaCivita, the co-chairman of the Trump campaign, suggested the shooting had been carried out by the same people who prosecuted the former president in the hush money case earlier this year.

For weeks, Leftist activists, Democrat donors and now even the president of the United States have made disgusting remarks, he told the Washington Post. Its high time they be held accountable for it.

Mike Collins, a GOP congressman from Georgia, claimed that Mr Biden had sent the orders and called for him to be prosecuted. Marjorie Taylor Greene, a hard-Right representative for Georgia, said: The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today. For years and years, theyve demonised [Trump] and his supporters.

Mr Biden has been battling to keep hold of the Democratic nomination for two weeks, after his disastrous televised debate performance against Trump led to fresh concerns about his age and health. His campaign has pushed the message that Trump would pursue a radical agenda if he won a second term, and framed the election as a choice between democracy and authoritarianism.

Speaking after the shooting, the US president called for unity and condemned it as sick. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, he said.

US President Joe Biden has been criticised for his reckless choice of words about Mr Trump - SAMUEL CORUM/GETTY

The shooting is expected to quell calls for Mr Biden to stand down before Novembers election, after weeks of turmoil in the party over his candidacy. If youre an advocate for: How do we tell the old man its time to go?  its really hard to have that conversation publicly, one Democrat strategist told NBC News. This event blocks out the sun right now.

The shooting may lead to a boost in public support for Trump, who is already leading Mr Biden in most swing states and by a small margin in national polls.

After Ronald Reagan was shot in March 1981, shortly after taking office, he saw an eight-point poll boost that lasted several months.

On Saturday night, the implied probability of a Trump victory on the US political betting markets jumped to 70 per cent.

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As law enforcement investigated an apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump, President Joe Biden called the violence sick, and one of the reasons why we have to unite this country.

But to many of Trumps supporters, Biden and his allies were the reason for that disunity  and for the threat on the former presidents life. They demanded that Democrats retract their heated criticism of the former president, and that they tread more lightly now.

Today is not just some isolated incident, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance wrote on X. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

The shooting, which injured Trump and left one rally-goer dead, stirred Republican anger at how Democrats and the left sometimes talked about their party. House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, who survived a 2017 mass shooting by a man whod posted angry threats against Republicans, had previously invoked that to rebuke Republicans who blamed Trump for right-wing violence.

On Saturday night, he linked the Butler shooting to the Democrats campaign themes.

For weeks Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America, the Louisiana congressman wrote. Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop.

Other Republicans said that the shooting should convince Democrats to wind down prosecutions of the GOP nominee. Several criticized Mississippi Rep. Bennie Thompson, who had chaired the Jan. 6 Select Committee, for introducing a bill that would end Secret Service protection if recipients were convicted of felonies.

The legislation was doomed in the Republican-led House; Georgia Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene wrote that the co-sponsors wanted this to happen. And other Republicans said that Democrats should altogether end the cases against Trump.

Weve got to take the political temperature down, Utah Sen. Mike Lee said in a statement, urging Biden to immediately order that all federal criminal charges against President Trump be dropped, and to ask the governors of New York and Georgia to do the same.

That, explained Lee, could help heal wounds and allow all Americans to take a deep breath and reflect on how we got here.

Thompson, the Democratic congressman, defended his bill in a statement through a spokesperson, saying it would not have affected the Secret Services presence during this tragic event and merely aims to clarify lines of authority when a protectee is sentenced to prison and is in the custody of another law enforcement agency. That does not apply to the former President.

Davids view

As the investigation begins into this shooting and shooter, two trends have converged.

One is the instant search for a partisan motive in political violence, which can lead nowhere. Democrats and some liberals learned that in 2011, after baselessly suggesting that the unstable man who shot Arizona Rep. Gabby Giffords was motivated by her appearance on Sarah Palins election target map.

The other is a belief among some of Trumps supporters that his enemies will use any means to prevent him from retaking the White House, from imprisonment to removing him from ballots to assassination. In the final hours of his own presidential campaign, Vivek Ramaswamy urged conservatives to vote for him to save Trump, because the system would try to deny him the nomination.

He urged MAGA voters to imagine the worst-case scenario  and many did. (No amount of verbiage today changes the toxic national climate that led to this tragedy, Ramaswamy wrote on Saturday.) On Saturday night, two House Republicans asked whether the Biden administration had put Trumps life at risk, urging an investigation. Florida Rep. Michael Waltz cited very reliable sources who told him that Trump was denied stronger Secret Service protection by Bidens DHS.

If the Director of the Secret Service is making decisions based on politics and President Trump was almost killed as a result, SHE IS DONE!!! wrote Texas Rep. Ronny Jackson, Trumps former White House physician.

Elected Democrats should expect their rhetoric to go under the blacklight. Early Saturday night, multiple Republicans pointed to the way Biden told donors that he needed to shift the post-debate discourse back to his opponent: Its time to put Trump in a bulls eye.

At the same time, the Biden campaign was pulling down its paid media, and I was hearing about outside groups halting or delaying their own anti-Trump messaging around the Republican National Convention. The Republican ask is that Democrats stop portraying Trump as an existential threat to America.

And if they oblige, as a few have, theres plenty of stuff on the record thats about to be infamous. Riffs on how Biden should use his presidential immunity; comments about Trump being a martyr (Reid Hoffman is already getting grief for that); analogies that people wouldnt have used had they known what would happen on July 13.

Know More

The most direct connection between Bidens rhetoric and the shooting came from Georgia Rep. Mike Collins, who blamed the president outright for what happened.

Joe Biden sent the orders, Collins wrote on X. The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, Pa., should immediately file charges against Joe Biden for inciting an assassination.

As in Trumps second impeachment trial, when his defense team played clips of Democrats using violent metaphors to talk about Trump, old quotes were being mined for poorly-aging rhetoric. A spokesman for the GOPs Senate campaign committee shared a 2019 video of Montana Sen. Jon Tester, whod been re-elected after crossing Trump, saying that Democrats who were scared of doing so needed to punch him in the face. Tester had just said he was praying for his safety  the operative accused him of advocating for violence against Trump.

Notable

In Politico, Olivia Beavers and Jordan Carney talked to Republican members of Congress who are already confident that the shooting will help Trump. President Trump survives this attack  he just won the election, Wisconsin Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Wis.) told them. I hate to say it, but the rhetoric around him over the last few weeks, that if he wins an election, our country will end, our democracy will end, its the last election well ever have  these things have consequences, okay?

Had it been less than a half inch to the right, he would not have survived, wrote Texas Gov. Greg Abbott. Trump is truly blessed.

They are coming after him because they want control of you, wrote Tiffany Justice, the co-founder of Moms for Liberty. They want control of your children.

Its been 52 years since a presidential candidate was shot in the heat of a campaign  George Wallace, as he campaigned for the Democratic nomination in Maryland.

In Trumps second impeachment trial, the ex-presidents legal team played back clips of Democrats using violent metaphors or calls to fight, to dispute the idea Trumps Jan. 6 speech outside the White House encouraged the violence at the Capitol.
Despite the familiar faces in this year's election, the rematch between Donald Trump and Joe Biden offers Republicans a vital chance to win over young and independent voters who swung the last election.

The Republican Party has notoriously struggled with young voters and independents. According to a study out of the University of Colorado in Boulder, the strongest predictor of independents voting for Biden in 2020 was their concern over climate change. The study concludes: We project that climate change opinion probably cost Republicans the 2020 presidential election, all else being equal. This sentiment was echoed by young voters in the 2022 midterms, where Democrats won young voters by nearly a 30-point advantage.

Yet, environmental issues dont need to be a poison pill for Republicans any longer. The conservative movement has a rich legacy of prioritizing conservation, and the lefts monopoly of these issues is, historically speaking, a new development. After all, President Ulysses S. Grant made history by establishing Yellowstone as the first national park in 1872. His administration was followed by the conservation president, Teddy Roosevelt, who embodied the conservative conservation ethos through his love of the great outdoors. Throughout his presidency, he protected 230 million acres of American land and encouraged his fellow Republicans to connect with their natural heritage.

This leadership was continued throughout the 20th century with Republicans like President Ronald Reagan, who signed the influential Montreal Protocol which reversed ozone depletion. While the polarizing term climate change threw a wrench in Republicans productive environmental engagement around the turn of the century, the tide has been turning as more and more conservatives reclaim their seat at the table.

Trump had several environmental and energy wins in office

Contrary to the pervading narrative, former President Trump had several significant environmental and energy wins throughout his first term from the signing of the historic Great American Outdoors Act to supporting the development of nuclear energy to jumpstarting the permitting reform conversation.

In Congress, the Conservative Climate Caucus, a group of nearly 100 Republican House Members who want to engage on realistic, productive energy and environmental policy, has led on thought leadership among the Republican conference. These members have proven that it is once again possible to be conservative and prioritize environmental stewardship.

If Trump is elected to a second term, under Republican leadership, America can become the cleanest and the most prosperous country in the world.

How Republicans can lead on energy and the environment

To achieve this, we must pursue not just American energy independence, but American energy dominance on the world stage. We need an all-of-the-above energy approach with an emphasis on baseload sources like clean nuclear power and reliable natural gas, supplemented by additional sources like wind, solar, hydropower, geothermal, and other innovative technologies. We must not fall into the energy dependence trap that Europe did in the wake of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. We must develop American resources to fuel our country and compete with China in the 21st Century.

Second, we must get the government out of its own way when building new energy projects of all kinds. The barrier between us and a cleaner, more prosperous future cannot be our own government and onerous regulations. A combination of regulatory barriers, prohibitive fees, and special interest green groups suing potential energy projects has prevented the greatest country in the world from modernizing our energy infrastructure. While we languish under our outdated permitting process, China is building new clean and traditional energy projects every single day.

Finally, we must conserve our natural heritage and allow Americas beautiful landscapes to benefit our climate. Popular conservation practices, such as simply planting trees, have the ability to reduce emissions by naturally storing them in plants and soil. Our forgotten conservationists  farmers, ranchers, outdoors people, and hunters  must return to the forefront of the environmental movement and fuel it with their on-the-ground knowledge. Through regenerative agricultural practices, active forest management, and ecosystem restoration, not only can we keep America beautiful today, but we can ensure she stays beautiful for future generations.

Together, we firmly believe that to build a better conservative movement, we must have a vision on environmental issues. Any Republican on the ballot this November should be prepared to follow in the footsteps of Theodore Roosevelt and leave an environmental legacy.

The authors constitute the senior leadership team at the American Conservation Coalition Action (ACC Action), the largest conservative grassroots environmental organization in the country. Follow them on X @DanielleBFranz, @ChrisBarnardDL, and @Stephen_Perkins.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: The environment can be winning issue for Republicans in 2024 election
Republicans should not fall into the trap of blaming Democrats after Trump shooting

Republicans will be greatly tempted to blame Saturdays attempted murder of Donald Trump on the Democrats and left-wing media.

They should resist.

Both the liberal party and media for years have depicted Trump as a would-be dictator and tyrant on the cusp of turning America into a fascist state.

On its June cover, The New Republic merged Trumps face with Hitlers and invited writers to imagine what the Trump dictatorship would look like.

On Sept. 1, 2022, Joe Biden lit Philadelphias Independence Hall in Nazi two-tone  red and black  and turned the birthplace of our democracy into one of Hitlers Nuremberg rallies.

Biden warned in that Philadelphia speech that MAGA Republicans are a threat to our personal rights, to the pursuit of justice, to the rule of law, to the very soul of this country.

Yes, he was comparing MAGA Republicans to Hitlers brown shirts.

You cant deny Democrats were reckless

Those messages were irresponsible and overwrought, but so is much of the political speech in this country, and it didnt start with The New Republic and Joe Biden.

We have long been a nation tightly coiled and eager to burst through the lines of good taste and judgment. Both right and left cross lines all the time.

If America has entered a new period in which political violence grows more common, well, both parties have left a long trail of highly exaggerated and provocative rhetoric.

When a man shot and killed five people at newspaper office in Maryland, Trump was accused of inciting the violence after having called the media the enemy of the people." But rhetoric didn't kill those people. Bullets did. The gunman's hatred for the newspaper began long before Trump made his comment.

When a crazed gunman fired point blank at people at Tucson supermarket in 2011, severely wounding Gabby Giffords and killing six others, the Democrats blamed the Republicans.

They screamed at Sarah Palin for using gun imagery  rifle sights  on a campaign web page, and they blamed the conservative live-wires on talk radio for inciting the shooter.

They were wrong.

The right knows what its like to be the accused

The shooter was a severely mentally ill young man who disliked Giffords' grammar, which, by the way, was pristine. He was crazy.

Conservatives who have been the targets of these recriminations should learn from such moments and react differently  react in a conservative way. In fact, in that most conservative of ways.

Blame the shooter.

Whoever pulled the trigger is either evil or seriously cracked and is not representative of the American people. The vast, vast majority of us would never think to do something so vile.

The near miss in the attempted assassination of Trump presents an opportunity to start dialing down that impulse that makes us blame the wicked acts of one person on millions of Americans.

For Democrats, its a reminder that Donald Trump is a human being who bleeds real blood. Hes not the Hitler caricature youve created in your minds and have now put on the cover of The New Republic.

We should take heart that rank-and-file Democratic leadership stepped forward after the Trump shooting to express their genuine concern for his well-being and to condemn the violence.

Responsible Democrat leaders speak out

Horrified by this apparent assassination attempt. ... Wishing President Trump a swift recovery."

 U.S. Rep. Adam Schiff, D-Calif.

I thank God that former President Trump is safe.

 Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi.

"Lori and I are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene.

- Josh Shapiro, Democratic governor of Pennsylvania

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. ...We should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

-- Barack Obama, former U.S. president

I might reject their politics, but I recognize something American in their response. They make me proud theyre my countrymen.

On the right, I am warmed by the comment of an old friend  Zuhdi Jasser, an Arizona Republican candidate for Congress and one of the bravest men I know.

A devout Muslim, Jasser became a leading U.S. reformer of Islam after 9/11  making himself the target of fierce and even dangerous backlash.

After news of the Trump shooting broke, Jasser tweeted out on the social media platform X, This moment should remind us to listen to one another and to call on the better angels of our nature and come together as Americans.

If Republicans are in doubt how they should respond to this shooting, do as Zuhdi Jasser has done.

Lead with grace.

Phil Boas is an editorial columnist for The Arizona Republic. Email him at phil.boas@aizonarepublic.com.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Best conservative response to Trump shooting isn't to blame Democrats
Not long after the attempt to assassinate former president Donald Trump, Republicans began to blame the Democrats; the media; diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts; and critical race theory as responsible for the shooting, even though law enforcement thus far has not shared information about the shooters motivations.

The greatest threat to our nation right now is that we are horribly divided, Republican Sen. Ron Johnson told Jake Tapper on CNNs State of the Union Sunday. But again, in general, we share the same goals. Why are we so divided? Well, there are political figures, there are political groups. I would argue thats what identity politics is about. Thats what critical race theory is about. So there are people who are purposely trying to divide us for political advantage. Resist. Dont let them get away with it, and again, start talking to each other. Thats part of the problem.

Ron Johnson: "As President Lincoln said, a house divided against itself cannot stand. I've been saying for quite some time as much as we're not addressing our debt and deficit issue, I think the greatest threat to America right now is the fact that we're horribly divided." pic.twitter.com/xmtV02X6EM  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 14, 2024

Twenty-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, a registered Republican who once gave $15 to a progressive anti-Trump political action committee, opened fire at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. A Secret Service sniper shot and killed Crooks seconds after he began shooting. Trump was injured and seen bleeding from his right ear and later said he was shot with a bullet. One rally goer died and two others were injured in the shooting.

House Speaker Mike Johnson told The TODAY Show on Sunday that there is no figure in American history at least in the modern era  maybe since Lincoln  whos been so vilified and really persecuted by media and Hollywood elites, political figures, even the legal system.

"Everyone needs to turn the rhetoric down." Speaker Johnson comments on today's heated political environment. pic.twitter.com/LVsiCxGVei  TODAY (@TODAYshow) July 14, 2024

Johnson also said allegations that Trump poses a threat to democracy are untrue. Trump, who still refuses to commit to accepting the results of the upcoming presidential election, in December boasted that he wants to be a dictator for one day on his first day, should he return to the White House. You know why I wanted to be a dictator? Because I want a wall, and I want to drill, drill, drill, he told a crowd in New York City. Trump more than a month later claimed his dictator comments were said in jest.

Republican Sen. J.D. Vance, who once opposed Trump before becoming one of his staunchest supporters and a finalist for the vice presidential nomination, wasted no time Saturday blaming Democrats. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, the Ohio senator wrote on X, formerly Twitter. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Republican Sen. Lindsey Graham claimed that the rhetoric against Trump is way too hot. During a Sunday appearance on NBCs Meet the Press, he said, You know, if he wins, democracy is not going to end. Hes not a fascist. He represents a point of view that millions share. The rhetoric is way too hot.

When host Kristen Welker asked Graham about Vances comments as well as a tweet from Rep. Mike Collins claiming without evidence that Biden sent the orders to shoot Trump, Graham said, There is frustration, on our side, about the way President Trump has been treated.

Conveniently, Lindsey Graham on Meet the Press doesn't want to talk about the absolutely unhinged rhetoric offered up by Sen. JD Vance and Rep. Mike Collins in the wake of Trump's shooting pic.twitter.com/PciutsDqOz  Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) July 14, 2024

Another GOP politician on Trumps shortlist for VP, Sen. Tim Scott, on Saturday baselessly claimed that the radical left and the media aided and abetted in the shooting. This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse, Scott wrote on X.

Conservative firebrand Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene in several tweets blamed the Democrats and scumbags in the media. Law enforcement has not shared what, if anything, they know about the shooters motives.

The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today, Greene wrote Saturday evening on X. For years and years, theyve demonized him and his supporters. Today, someone finally tried to take out the leader of our America First and the greatest President of all time.

In a separate post, Greene accused Democrats and members of the media of being responsible for the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump, death threats and attempts against me and other Republicans, and brain washing half the country with your sick violent rhetoric.

Greene in 2021 appeared in a campaign video holding a 50-caliber rifle and promising to blow away the Democrats socialist agenda. She then fired the rifle at a Toyota Prius with a socialism sign on its side. Footage showed the vehicle exploding with the words, Target destroyed displayed on screen. The video promoted a giveaway of the rifle for Americans only.

Johnson wrote on X that the House will conduct a full investigation of the tragic events today, including seeking testimony from Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from [the Department of Homeland Security] and the FBI.

House Oversight Committee Chair James Comer sent a letter late Saturday to Cheatle indicating he is opening an investigation into the shooting and requesting that she voluntarily testify before the committee.

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An emergency worker was injured in the city of Kherson on 14 July as a result of a repeat Russian attack on firefighters who arrived to extinguish a blaze caused by the initial strike.

Source: State Emergency Service of Ukraine

Details: On the afternoon of 14 July, the Russians launched an attack on the outskirts of the city of Kherson. An outbuilding and some deadwood caught fire.

Firefighters arrived on call and began to put out the fire. Then the Russians launched another strike.

Quote: "The emergency workers were forced to retreat to a secure location. Upon arriving at the fire station, one of the firefighters was taken ill. Doctors have examined him, and early reports say he suffered an acubarotrauma."

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Researchers Call for "Child-Safe AI" After Alexa Tells Little Girl to Stick Penny in Wall Socket

Chatbot Shocker

Researchers are urging tech companies and regulators to come up with new rules to protect children from AI chatbots that lack any kind of emotional intelligence.

This "empathy gap," as detailed in a new paper authored by University of Cambridge sociology PhD Nomisha Kurian, could put young users at risk, prompting the need for "child-safe AI."

In her paper, Kurian detailed a number of interactions between children and AI chatbots that led to potentially dangerous situations.

In one incident cited by Kurian, a ten-year-old girl in the US was told by Amazon's Alexa assistant to touch a live electrical plug with a coin back in 2021. As the BBC reported at the time, the girl's mother managed to intervene just in time, shouting "No, Alexa, no!"

More recently, the Washington Post columnist Geoffrey Fowler posed as a teenage girl on Snapchat's My AI, a chatbot that acts as a friend, posing as a 13-year-old about to lose her virginity to a 31-year-old  a plan the AI was disturbingly supportive of.

Needless to say, these incidents highlight the risks of allowing underage users access inherently flawed tech that could get somebody hurt, given the lack of oversight.

"Children are probably AIs most overlooked stakeholders," said Kurian in a statement.

AI Child Lock

As a result, Kurian argued that there should be safeguards designed to keep children safe.

"Very few developers and companies currently have well-established policies on how child-safe AI looks and sounds," she added, arguing that "child safety should inform the entire design cycle to lower the risk of dangerous incidents occurring."

"Regulation would be quite beneficial to address these issues and ensure the benefits of AI can be realized and not overshadowed by negative perceptions," La Trobe University AI expert Daswin De Silva told News.com.au of the concept.

Kurian argued that large language models like the one powering OpenAI's ChatGPT simply don't have the empathy required to ensure the safety of underage users.

AI chatbots aren't able to necessarily understand language like humans, and simply use statistics to regurgitate and remix existing data. That could be especially dangerous for children, who lack the linguistic skills to safely interact with an internet-connected algorithm. Children are also far more prone to giving away sensitive personal information, Kurian argued.

"Making a chatbot sound human can help the user get more benefits out of it," said Kurian. "But for a child, it is very hard to draw a rigid, rational boundary between something that sounds human, and the reality that it may not be capable of forming a proper emotional bond."

However, the researcher argued that the tech may still play an important role.

"AI can be an incredible ally for children when designed with their needs in mind," Kurian argued. "The question is not about banning AI, but how to make it safe."

More on AI chatbots: Sam Altman Admits That OpenAI Doesn't Actually Understand How Its AI Works
BENTONVILLE, Ark. (KNWA/KFTA)  A K-9 officer from the Benton County Sheriffs Office (BCSO) passed away on July 12 at 12 years old.

Kilo was partnered to Detective Ralph Bartley for seven years, during which they rode approximately 200,000 miles together. The BCSO remembers Kilo as an exceptional deputy in a Facebook post on July 13.

The two met in March 2013 in Huntsville, Alabama, according to a written statement from Bartley.

Some of the guys nicknamed him Squirrel because he was easily distracted by flowers or anything else, Bartley said. We graduated and hit the streets together, learning how to be cops.

Kilo boasted the highest number of physical apprehensions among all dogs in BCSO, according to the post.

Pizza chain opening locations in 92 Walmart stores

If Kilo was on the ground, there was a good chance the suspect would be found, Bartley said. To Kilo, it was all just a game.

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

(COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

Nov. 17, 2018  Kristen Teague, a local student, meets presents K9 Kilo and Detective Bartley with a drawing of Kilo. (COURTESY: Benton County Sheriffs office)

The Department of Justice honored Kilo with an award for his role in a federal operation. When he was not in the field, he was conducting K-9 demos with the community.

He could be biting a bad guy one minute and letting a kid pet him the next, Bartley said. Kilo loved the kids, and they loved him.

Upon Kilos retirement, he initially struggled to adjust. He scattered trash around the apartment and even devoured an entire batch of brownies. Eventually, Kilo settled in and enjoyed the newfound attention, according to Bartley.

He had my back, and I had his, Bartley said. I couldnt have asked for a better partner or best friend. Until we meet again, Kilo, I will always love you. Rest easy, we have the watch from here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KNWA FOX24.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Strong condemnation and prayers were the reactions among political leaders from Rhode Island after learning that former President Donald Trump had been wounded Saturday night at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Political violence of any kind is abhorrent and inexcusable, Gov. Dan McKee posted on X. Praying for the safety of former President Trump and all those at the rally in Pennsylvania today.

There is no place for political violence of any kind in America, and I condemn whoever is responsible for this attack. I urge everyone to remain calm, U.S. Rep. Seth Magaziner, ranking member of the Homeland Security Subcommittee on Counterterrorism, Law Enforcement and Intelligence.

The Associated Press reported that law enforcement officials say the shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

The relentless attacks on President Trump have reached a new and horrifying low with this recent attempt on his life, said Rhode Island Republican Party Chairman Joe Powers. They have impeached him, indicted him, and tried to jail him. Now, they have resorted to an attempted assassination. It makes you want to ask, what are they so afraid of?

Powers called on all Americans, regardless of political affiliation, to condemn the attack and work together to uphold the principles of democracy and justice.

We are all praying for President Trump, his family, and everyone involved, Powers added. This is a critical moment for our nation, and we must stand united against such acts of violence and intimidation.

Political violence of any kind is abhorrent and inexcusable. Praying for the safety of former President Trump and all those at the rally in Pennsylvania today.  Governor Dan McKee (@GovDanMcKee) July 13, 2024

We dont have all the information about this situation but political violence is unacceptable and never the answer. It appears former President Trump will make a full recovery. We are glad he is safe. More facts will come out and whoever did this must be held accountable.  Senator Jack Reed (@SenJackReed) July 13, 2024

Violence is never ok. My thoughts and prayers are with all those involved in this horrific incident. Glad to know the former president is safe.  Sabina Matos (@Sabina_Matos) July 13, 2024

Political violence is unacceptable. Threats of political violence are unacceptable. Americans have strong political disagreements but elections are the means to determine who will govern. The ballot, not the bullet, is how a republic of civilized people choose their leadership.  Gregg Amore (@GreggAmore1) July 13, 2024

No matter your political persuasion, now is the time to pray for former President Donald Trump and our country. pic.twitter.com/cIPwaPU31A  Senator Jessica de la Cruz (@JessicaforRI) July 13, 2024

Im sorry but whatever candidate you supported in the primaries, whatever party you support, Trump or Biden this is utterly unacceptable. I pray for better days. pic.twitter.com/3aVYs41b9p  Kenneth Naylor (@KenNaylorJR) July 13, 2024

The post Rhode Island officials react to Trump rally shooting appeared first on Rhode Island Current.
The 2024 legislative session marked a watershed moment in securing long overdue funding to address the mental health and substance use challenges of all Rhode Islanders, particularly the most vulnerable and underserved populations. Numerous legislative champions stood up and together passed key bills and rate increases that will transform Rhode Islands behavioral health system.

Leading this charge was Rhode Islands Speaker of the House of Representatives, Joseph Shekarchi. He addressed decades of underfunding by not only advocating rate increases but by backing initiatives that will support the system of behavioral health care for years to come. He did not do this alone; our Newport County legislators rallied behind Speaker Shekarchi and Senator Dominick Ruggerio, President of the Senate, to pass these initiatives.

Newport County is very fortunate to have a well-informed, influential, hard-working group of state legislators to get things done. Having the Chair of the House Finance Committee, Representative Marvin Abney, and Senate Committee on Finance Chair, Senator Louis DiPalma, providing key leadership in support of Newport County (and the entire State) is something we are very thankful for. Without their deep understanding of the importance of mental health, the huge steps forward could not have been achieved. House Finance Committee member Representative Terri Cortvriend, and Senate Health and Human Services Committee member Senator Linda L. Ujifusa, our hardworking Portsmouth legislative duo, and Representative Lauren Carson (Newport), also played vital roles.

Representative Marvin Abney, Representative Lauren Carson, Speaker of the House of Representatives Joseph Shekarchi, NMH emeritus board member Joyce Kirby, NMH board member A. Lavaz Watson, NMH President & CEO Dayna Gladstein celebrating at the organizations 2023 Fundraising Gala.

Here are some of the key wins:

Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC)  Secretary of Rhode Island Executive Office of Health and Human Services Richard Charest and Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals (BHDDH) Director Richard LeClerc championed legislation that led to the approval of $79.2 million dollars in the 2024-25 state budget to fund eight CCBHCs across the state to provide same-day mental health and substance services to everyone, regardless of the ability to pay or insurance type.

Behavioral Health Rate Reform - Last year, the legislature commissioned the Office of the Healthcare Insurance Commissioner (OHIC) to review the rates paid by Rhode Island Medicaid for mental health and substance use services, which not been increased in decades. This chronic underfunding was a key reason for a lack of providers and in consequence, long waiting lists for care and a shortage of high-quality care. New rates were presented, and an early draft of the Governors budget proposed spreading the increase over three years, a delay that would have caused many safety net providers to close services. Our legislative champions said no and approved the new OHIC rate increases fully this year. (Next year, well be supporting a bill that requires these new Medicaid rates to be a rate floor for what commercial insurers pay behavioral health providers.)

988 Funding - 988 is the States number to call when someone is in behavioral health crisis. Rhode Islands Senator Jack Reed championed the legislation to establish 988 nationally but is still working to get federal funding to sustain this lifesaving initiative. Our legislature funded 988 with one time-funding for this year. Next year, we hope that that the surplus money generated by the cell phone tax that funds 911 can be used to support 988 while our federal delegation continues to secure federal funding.

Department of Children and Families (DCYF) - The legislature added $20 million dollars to the DCYF budget to support contracted services for our most vulnerable children. DCYF is the agency responsible for childrens mental health in Rhode Island and has also been grossly under-supported.

Our state legislators listened to the advocates, volunteers, and families who spent countless hours sharing their personal stories to educate policy leaders on the importance of addressing the behavioral health crisis in Rhode Island. They drove home the intrinsic point that you cant have healthcare without behavioral health. This success would not have happened without their voices.

During my ten years of advocating for mental health issues, Ive seen our state legislators and elected leaders become highly educated and engaged around the need for high-quality and accessible behavioral health services. Not only will lives be saved, and Rhode Islanders live happier and more productive lives, but these investments in community-based treatment will save money by getting people healthier and thereby reducing high-cost hospital admissions. A big thank you too all!

In addition, a big shout out to the Governor for vetoing the legislation to legalize Kratom, which is another harmful drug of abuse that can result in overdose and addiction.

To the patients, clients, friends, and families connected to Newport Mental Health, we promise we will continue to strive, and never yield, in the fight for your rights to accessible and affordable quality care. Thank you, everyone for a job well done, and the part you played to make this years successes a reality.

Newport Mental Health is a 501(c)3, charitable nonprofit and a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic that provides mental health and substance use treatment to those who live, work, and study in Newport County, regardless of their income, insurance status, or ability to pay. Newport Mental Health offers programs and services for children and adults; immediate access to care is available by calling 401-846-1213. newportmentalhealth.org

Jamie Lehane is Chief Strategy Officer for Newport Mental Health in Middletown. Peace of Mind, which is co-written with Kristan McClintock, runs in the Newport Daily News and online at newportri.com.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: RI lawmakers secure funding for mental health and substance abuse
(NBC News)  Fitness guru Richard Simmons has died, two law enforcement sources confirmed to NBC News.

Simmons was found unresponsive Saturday at his Hollywood Hills home, one day after his 76th birthday, the law enforcement sources said. The exact cause of his death is pending.

On Friday, Simmons shared a message on social media thanking fans for the birthday wishes.

Thank youI never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! Simmons wrote. I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday.

Read the full story on NBCNews.com.

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Rising seas wiped out an entire US species for the first time. Scientists say its a sign of things to come

A unique plant has become the first species in the United States to be exterminated from the wild by the compounding effects of rising seas, scientists say. Its a grim first, but not last, as the scientists fear the demise of the plant is a bellwether for other species as the climate crisis tightens its grip.

The combined effects of sea level rise, rising tides and intense storms drove the wild Key Largo tree cactus population to extinction in its only known US location in the Florida Keys, according to the paper published this week in the Journal of the Botanical Research Institute of Texas.

This is just one example of whats happening to dozens of species, and people need to understand that if we dont do something, this loss is just going to accelerate, said George Gann, co-author of the study and executive director and president of the Institute for Regional Conservation.

The Key Largo tree cactus still exists in parts of the Caribbean, including Cuba, Puerto Rico and the Bahamas, but the chances of it re-establishing naturally in the Florida Keys is basically zero, Gann said.

Around 150 individuals existed in 2011 on a tidal rock barren atop a small limestone outcrop among a plethora of mangroves in John Pennekamp Coral Reef State Park. But by 2015, researchers noticed the cactus dying at an alarming rate, a consequence of a one-off animal attack, but also its location on the low-lying Florida Keys, most of which is just 5 feet above sea level.

The plants habitat was being swamped by saltwater from storms and high tides worsened by the rising sea. As fossil-fuel pollution heats up the planet, it also heats up and expands the oceans and melts ice sheets and glaciers, inching up water levels.

Sea levels around the Florida Keys have been rising by around an average 0.16 inches a year, or just over 8 inches since 1971, the researchers reported.

Too much salt is just a stressful environment for most plants, James Lange, study co-author and research botanist at Miamis Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden, told CNN.

Plants can tolerate salty seawater for a few days, but when the timeline extends into weeks or longer, their structures are just not set up to deal with it because theyre no longer getting any freshwater  they cant feed their bodies.

Staff from Fairchild Tropical Botanic Garden and the Florida Department of Environmental Protection removed all remaining green material in 2021 after it became clear the population was not going to survive. - Courtesy Jennifer Possley

By 2021, after years of exposure, only a few cactuses remained. Researchers chose to remove them from the wild rather than let them die. The final wild straggler was removed in 2023 because it was clear that the area will only continue to succumb to sea level rise, the researchers said.

The loss of the species in the US is an indicator of a bigger problem, Gann told CNN.

Sea levels are projected to rise up to 7 feet by the end of the century around the Florida Keys, bringing even worse tides and ocean water intrusion  an existential threat to many other species, scientists say.

Unfortunately, the Key Largo tree cactus may be the bellwether for how other low-lying coastal plants will respond to climate change, said Jennifer Possley, lead author of the study and director of regional conservation at Fairchild.

Possley said more than 1-in-4 native plant species are critically threatened with regional extinction in South Florida. They include the rare flowering plant Garbers spurge, the smallflower lilythorn, smallfruit varnishleaf and the Grisebachs dwarf morning glory.

And its not just plants. The intruding saltwater is depriving local wildlife of fresh drinking water and forcing them to consume moisture-retaining plants like the cacti, only worsening the problem for the threatened plants. To address this, biologists had to create small pools of freshwater to help keep animal and plant alive.

But these fixes are only temporary. The amount of planet-cooking pollution already baked in the atmosphere has locked in decades of sea level rise, which makes protecting biodiversity especially challenging, researchers say.

Cuttings were carefully wrapped in towels for the safety of both the cacti and those handling them. - Courtesy Jennifer Possley

The researchers rescued the last remaining cacti from the wild, wrapping them with towels for protection, and whisking them away to a greenhouse off site to ensure the plants survival.

While there are plans to reintroduce the species back in the Keys, researchers say finding a suitable habitat that would contend with the rapid changes in climate has been difficult.

In the end, the Key Largo tree cactus may not have a future in a wild made too wild by the climate crisis.

For more CNN news and newsletters create an account at CNN.com
Republican National Committee (RNC) Chair Michael Whatley said Sunday that the RNC is very comfortable with the security situation for this weeks Republican convention following the assassination attempt on former President Trump at a Saturday rally.

Whatley, in an interview with Fox News Sunday, said the RNC is working with various law enforcement agencies to prepare for the Republican National Convention, which will kick off Monday in Milwaukee.

When asked how the shooting at Trumps rally will impact the convention plans, Whaltey said, In terms of the physical sense of the arena set, the security is here, and we feel very comfortable that were working with the Secret Service; were working with 40 different law enforcement agencies in terms of what that security is going to look like.

And this is going to be a facility, where were going to be able to have 50,000 delegates and alternates and guests and members of the media, who are going to be here and who are going to be safe, Whatley continued. Thats very critical for us. Look our business is critically important for the process, right?

Shots were fired Saturday night at Trumps rally in Butler, Pa.; the former president said a bullet pierced his ear. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks by the FBI, and one spectator at the rally were killed. Two other attendees were critically injured, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in Pittsburgh, said authorities have not yet identified a motive for the shooting.

Top Trump aides confirmed the former president still plans to attend the Republican convention.

In a statement Sunday, Trump called on Americans to unite and said he is looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Whatley said he predicts a change in mood for the convention, though the plans for the week remain largely unchanged. He later urged unity in the wake of the shooting, calling politics secondary.

I think unity is obviously very important. I think strength is obviously very important, but right now, this morning, I think politics is secondary, Whaltey said. I think right now we need to be praying for these families that have been affected, I think we need to be grateful that President Trump is alive and is actually going to be there.

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Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley on Sunday emphasized the need for unity and prayer following the assassination attempt on former President Trump, stating politics should be secondary as the nation reels from the incident.

I think unity is obviously very important. I think strength is obviously very important, but right now, this morning, I think politics is secondary, Whaltey said on Fox News Sunday. I think right now we need to be praying for these families that have been affected, I think we need to be grateful that President Trump is alive and is actually going to be there, in reference to this weeks Republican National Convention.

Shots were fired Saturday night at Trumps rally in Butler, Pa.; the former president said a bullet pierced his ear. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks by the FBI, and one spectator at the rally were killed. Two other attendees were critically injured, the U.S. Secret Service said.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in Pittsburgh, said authorities have not yet identified a motive for the shooting.

The shooting occurred just days ahead of the Republican National Convention, slated to kick off Monday in Milwaukee, where delegates are expected to vote Trump as the partys presidential nominee.

Whatley said the RNC is looking forward to Trumps attendance in Milwaukee, telling Fox News Sunday anchor Shannon Bream, I think its going to be  tremendously important for him to be here and to deliver that message to America.

Shortly after the shooting, top Trump aides confirmed the former president still plans to attend the Republican convention.

In a statement Sunday, Trump called on Americans to unite and said he is looking forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Whatley echoed the sentiments of other national and world leaders who condemned the political violence.

There is no place in politics in any way, shape or form for this kind of violence, for these types of actions. Its a horrific act, and were gonna have time for investigations on it. But right now, I think everybody in America needs to stop. They need to pause; they need to reflect on what is actually important for us in this political process going forward.

You know, fortunately, we are here in Milwaukee and the show is going to take place. I think its tremendously important for us as a country that the Republican Party is going to move forward, he added. We are going to be strong. We are going to be resilient and certainly President Trump is going to be strong and resilient.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Damaris Perez and Melanie Collette were eating at Carsons Prime Steaks and Famous Barbecue in downtown Milwaukee when they heard there'd been a shooting at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania and told the staff to turn on the TV.

The FBI is calling the shooting an assassination attempt. Secret Service Spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement that the suspected shooter, whom officials confirmed is dead, fired multiple shots toward the stage at approximately 6:15 p.m. ET.

Trump was rushed off the stage with his cheek and ear streaked with blood.

Im so upset right now, said Collette, a Cape May County Commissioner in New Jersey and delegate at the convention.

(Right) Melanie Collette, Cape May County Commissioner in New Jersey and delegate at the RNC, and her friend (left) Damaris Perez, from Franksville in Racine County, discuss their feelings on former President Trump on Saturday, July 13, 2024 at Carson's Prime Steaks & Famous Barbecue in Milwaukee, Wis.

Perez said she was shocked this kind of incident would happen in America.

We should have different opinions, different political affiliations but it should never resort to violence, said Perez, a resident of Franksville in Racine County.

Perez and Collette said the rhetoric associated with this election has gotten dangerous.

If you continue to say that Donald Trump is an existential threat to democracy, somebody might want to put him out, Perez said. If you keep saying this guy is a threat to our very way of life, maybe someone want to put him out because of that, and this goes to all news media.

Perez said she would feel the same way if it was Biden.

I dont want my adversaries dead or shot at, Perez said. I just want a fair place where we can debate ideas. We dont want people killed. This is America.

Whether there will be any changes to schedules or security for the RNC, which officially begins Monday in downtown Milwaukee, was not clear Saturday evening. The Trump campaign released a statement late Saturday saying: "President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States.

Milwaukee city and police officials did not immediately respond or did not have information early Saturday evening about how the assassination attempt would impact RNC security.

Collette said security at the convention might be increased.

"If there is a way to make this (area) more secure, theyre going to," Collette said. "I cant imagine what more they can do, to be honest... security is extremely tight. Its run by the Secret Service."

What we know: About Trump rally shooting and 2024 RNC in Milwaukee

Katie Larson, manager of Carsons, said she is horrified that someone would try to do something so publicly.

Especially since it happened to a former president, Larson said. It makes me nervous. Definitely. Its scary that someone would do that.

Carsons is right on the edge of the credentials-only hard security zone, and although Larson doesnt know how Saturday's incident would impact security at the convention, she is expecting some changes.

The hard security zone might extend a bit which makes us unhappy, we dont want that. We want our guests to come in, Lason said.

What Wisconsin law says: Will guns be allowed at the 2024 RNC in Milwaukee or in the security zone?

Residents shocked, concerned by news

Milwaukee resident Benjamin Kressig was in an Uber heading to Bastile Days when the driver told him what happened to Trump.

Its not good for the country, Kressig said. Whether youre on the right or left its not good.

Cindy Jones-Nosacek and her husband, Deacon Gary Nosacek, were at a service at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist when they heard about the shooting.

Its horrible, Johns-Nosacek said. No matter if youre for the guy or against the guy, no one deserves to be shot.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania, after an assassination attempt.

Nosacek, who works at Saints Peter and Paul Catholic Parish, said hes watched its sister parish in Uganda go through violent elections in their country and said this is something you would see in a third-world country.

Nosacek pointed to the language both candidates use as a contributor to this incident.

They dont run on the issues, they just attack each others character, Nosacek said.

Germantown residents Jayme and Michele Bogner were in church when Jayme Bogner heard his phone buzz with a message from his daughter informing them of shooting. He called the incident devastating.

It shows how unsafe it is in our world right now and for something like that so stupid to happen in a democratic society that we have people shooting. It is just scary, Bogner said.

Bogner said hes glad the shooting did not happen in Milwaukee.

It would have put a real bad taste on Milwaukee," he said. "I glad it didnt happen here and tarnish our beautiful city.

Michele Bogner called it heartbreaking. I cant believe someone can get to that level and go and do something like that, she said. Thanks God he is okay.

Whatever side of the aisle that you are on violence is never good, said Saleem Al-Amin of Franklin. It is just another American tragedy.

Al-Amin said he is concerned about what security precautions the city is taking after the shooting.

It does raise a level of consciousness. You have to read the signs. But it does suggest our level of security should be heightened, Al-Amin said.

RNC protest group emphasizes its 'family friendly' approach

For months the Coalition to March on the 2024 RNC has been planning peaceful protests in opposition to the RNC  plans that remain unchanged Saturday.

The Coalition to March on the RNC reaffirms our commitment to a family-friendly march along the route we have agreed on with the city, the coalition said in a statement. From the very beginning of our coalition, we have been clear about two things: we stand in opposition to the racist and reactionary Republican agenda, and we are a broad coalition that is planning a family-friendly march. Our points of unity are in opposition to the entire Republican agenda, not solely one candidate or politician.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: RNC delegates, Milwaukee react to Trump assassination attempt
GENEVA COUNTY, Ala. (WDHN)  A Saturday night crash in Geneva County killed a woman and left two of her young children and husband in critical condition.

Geneva County Coroner Donny Adkinson identified the victim as 26-year-old Tiffany Cobb. She was pronounced dead on the scene.

Adkinson tells WDHN Cobbs husband and three children were in the vehicle at the time of the crash.

According to the coroner, two of the children were transported to Sacred Heart Hospital and the husband was taken to Southeast Health, all in critical condition.

One of the children was unharmed in the crash, Adkinson said.

While the exact ages of the children have not been released, Coroner Adkinson confirmed the youngest of the three was an infant.

Officials say Cobbs and her family were involved in two-vehicle crash at approximately 7:40 p.m. on Saturday on Alabama 167 near Geneva County Road 9.

It is unknown if anyone in the second vehicle was injured.

Troopers with the Alabama Law Enforcement Agencys (ALEA) Highway Patrol Division are investigating the crash.

Stay with WDHN News as we bring you the latest developments.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WDHN - wdhn.com.
Rooks: Much more at stake than Biden and Trump

Weve just lived through an extraordinary political crisis  extraordinary because so unexpected.

The about-to-be-renominated president delivered an instantly notorious debate performance June 27 that left some supporters gasping while others headed for the exits.

Douglas Rooks

On Monday, with Congress back, Joe Biden quieted dissent with a letter usefully read by all Americans, not just Democrats.

Hes staying in the race, and says no earthly force can convince him to drop out. For good or ill, Biden remains.

The pundits, fundraisers, donors and malcontents wont go quietly, but its over. The cognitive abilities of both Biden and Donald Trump will be considered by voters, but no longer will be the only issue.

So its worth a look at initial reactions when, overwhelmingly, the press decreed Biden was done.

Among Maines congressional delegation, Rep. Chellie Pingree in the 1st District and Sen. Angus King were subdued.

Pingree, a Democrat, reliable Biden supporter and determined Trump critic, stayed out.

King, an independent, expressed concern about Bidens condition but seemed more concerned about the U.S. Supreme Courts sweeping grant of immunity before Trumps federal criminal trials can begin, saying Congress may need to rein in the court.

Sen. Susan Collins, a Republican, was also quiet about Biden, but her comments on immunity were significant.

Collins, among seven Senate Republicans voting to convict Trump on Jan. 6 charges, back then spoke with clarity and firmness.

This impeachment trial is not about any single word uttered by President Trump on January 6, 2021, she said. It is instead about President Trumps failure to obey the oath he swore on January 20, 2017. His actions to interfere with the peaceful transition of power  the hallmark of our Constitution and our American democracy  were an abuse of power and constitute grounds for conviction.

What a difference three years make. When Trump was convicted on state felony tax charges, Collins faulted the prosecution. And when the Supreme Court granted Trump preemptive immunity  based on nothing in the Constitution, which was designed to deny kingly powers  she said lower courts must figure it out.

Three years of relentless pressure by an ex-president demanding unconditional fealty have worn down Maines senior senator.

A creative, even loopy response came from Rep. Jared Golden in the 2nd District. In a Bangor Daily News op-ed, Golden said he wouldnt vote for Trump but predicted hed win, and Im OK with that.

Golden believes Trump represents no real threat to democracy, despite his unwillingness to accept defeat in 2020 and his vow to contest the outcome if he loses again.

He picked an alarming example of Americans resisting tyranny  the events of Jan. 6. In Goldens telling, Hundreds of police officers protected the democratic process against thousands who tried to use violence to upend it.

He failed to mention why hundreds were overwhelmed by thousands  the soon to be ex-president, watching the invasion of the Capitol unfold for hours and doing nothing to stop it. Not exactly reassuring.

Gov. Janet Mills, a Democrat, came closest to re-endorsement, saying after a conference call she supported Bidens record of accomplishment over Trumps chaos and ineptitude.

Two weeks later, the mood has shifted, through threats to democracy emerged from surprising quarters.

James Carville, who championed the irritating slogan Its the economy, stupid! during Bill Clintons 1992 presidential campaign, sketched a fantastic scenario for replacing Biden.

Vice President Kamala Harris could compete but not be anointed. Instead, Clinton and fellow former president Barack Obama would convene town halls to select finalists for the Democratic convention.

Wed have a winner, and united Democrats would go home happy. Right. Backbiting, recriminations and disunity are far more likely; Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, most frequently mentioned replacement, quickly bowed out.

Biden pointed out the flaw, saying 3,900 delegates are pledged to him. The voters of the Democratic Party have voted. They have chosen me to be the nominee . . . Do we now say this process didnt matter? That the voters dont have a say?

Contrary to Rep. Goldens apparent omniscience, no one knows who will win on Nov. 5. A Biden comeback is possible, but only if he eliminates foreign travel, gets more sleep and turns in a credible second debate performance.

In the meantime, there are hundreds of congressional seats, thousands of state legislative contests, and tens of thousands of municipal and county offices on the line  with far more collective impact on our democracy than which of two older, unpopular nominees gets the top job.

Britain and France just completed well-run elections that rejected extremist appeals. We know how to do the same, and have four months to prove it.

Douglas Rooks has been a Maine editor, columnist and reporter since 1984. He is the author of four books, most recently a biography of U.S. Chief Justice Melville Fuller, and welcomes comment at drooks@tds.net.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: Rooks: Much more at stake than Biden and Trump
Not long after RoboCop saved Trunetta Roach's hometown, which was in 1987, the Detroiter found herself on vacation in Florida.

Chatting with a stranger there, she told me in an email, she mentioned where she was from  and the woman recoiled, took a step back, and told Roach that she "seemed very nice to live in such a dangerous place."

It hurt, Roach said, and decades later, it infuriates. After I offered an update Thursday on the status of the crowd-funded statue of the star of "RoboCop"  it's still bound for Eastern Market, ideally by the end of the year  she responded with a concise review of the movie and the project.

Nadine Chronopoulos, left, works on the grinding and sanding of an 11-foot RoboCop statue at a warehouse on Detroit's east side on Feb. 24, 2021, while finishing the statue before patina being applied as Jay Jurma walks around the statue. The statue will be housed somewhere while waiting for a home to be announced.

"The RoboCop story," she said, "represents a mainstream, racist narrative about Detroit that has damaged our reputation worldwide. It should be consigned to the trash heap of lies and misinformation."

I've always thought it was on the amusing side of peculiar to erect, in Detroit, an 11-foot-tall bronze likeness of the title character from a film whose founding premise was that the city is a festering hellscape.

Having spoken often to one of the Detroit-based ringleaders of the project, I've come to appreciate that the intent is to get people thinking and talking, not just about the sculpture but about the philosophies and attitudes that inspired the movie.

As a rule, I hold that more art is better than less art, that public art makes places better, and that my taste should not be the universal yardstick, even if I'm always right. That 17-foot-tall statue by Kaws outside One Campus Martius in downtown Detroit makes me roll my nearsighted eyes, but I see people posing with it all the time.

What hadn't struck me, in my capacity as a white guy from the suburbs, is that some people view the film and its commemoration as raw bigotry.

"Its a cult classic," said Wayne State professor David Goldberg, "but only for certain groups of people"  and not the ones who have to defend the city as actually having human beings in it.

MORE ABOUT ROBOCOP: 11-foot-tall statue is somewhere in Eastern Market awaiting new secret home

A mostly white cast

The movie had Dallas playing the role of a futuristic Detroit and Peter Weller playing RoboCop, a law enforcement cyborg constructed around what was left of a murdered police officer.

The leader of the drug gang that killed him is introduced as a suspect in the murders of 31 other officers, which suggests a wildly out of control city. He's white, as are most of his gang, some looters shown late in the picture, and pretty much everyone else except for a likeably tough police sergeant, the briefly seen mayor and one executive of the venal Omni Consumer Products.

"The hoodlums are mostly middle-class white gangster types," said Brandon Walley, a graphic designer and experimental filmmaker who has become the spokesman for the small band of artists behind the sculpture.

As for the movie's Dutch director, Paul Verhoeven, Walley said, he's politically well left of center, and his goal was to blend science fiction, action and a human touch into a social commentary that took potshots at Reaganomics and the smothering state of capitalism.

The ultimate bad guy is a treacherous corporate bigwig played by the shiny white Ronny Cox. No bigotry was intended, Walley said, by either the filmmaker or the fundraising amateurs who attracted $67,436 in a worldwide Kickstarter campaign inspired by a facetious tweet to Mayor Dave Bing.

But intent and perception don't always march side-by-side.

The '80s view of Detroit

Art, whether high, low or blood-spattered, is supposed to evoke reaction.

What Walley found, he said, especially in the early stages of the project around 2013, is that many of the most strenuous objections came from people who had heard about "RoboCop" but hadn't actually spent whatever trivial amount it took to buy a ticket back then.

Others left the theater outraged, and it's not his place or his philosophy to begrudge their ire.

"No one thats from the city wants this statue," said Brandon Keyes, another emailer last week. "Weve always seen it for what it is: a racist joke thats turned into some perverted project. Its disgusting and offensive."

Goldberg, 52, an associate professor of African-American Studies and director of the Crockett-Lumumba Scholars program, ignored "RoboCop" when he was a high schooler: "I was watching sports."

He caught up with it as it spawned two unsuccessful sequels, a pair of animated series, video games, comic books and action figures, and "all I see is that there needs to be extra control of the Black population."

Give credit, though, he said: "It put Detroit in the exact role Detroit played in the national media in the 1980s, as the American Beirut."

Tragedy and possibility

Weller, the star, told the Free Press' Julie Hinds last year that he sees the movie as a tragedy.

Walley, the statue's guide, sees Weller's towering replica as an opportunity.

Not for profit, though it will likely draw visitors to its unspecified spot just outside the main retail area of the market. After commissions and unfulfilled pledges, the original campaign collected less than $60,000, which didn't even pay for the bronze.

Not necessarily for praise, either. Critics have complained that a better subject would have been someone like Rosa Parks, to which Walley responds that if they could have spontaneously collected that much money from small donors around the world for a likeness of her, they would have.

Rather, he said, RoboCop will stand at Eastern Market as a magnet for discussing everything from class to design to race to geography  and no, he said, despite years of reports saying otherwise, there was never any intention of parking the statue in front of the pre-renovation Michigan Central Depot, where it would simply have called attention to blight.

That's all presuming the sculpture stays upright, and that Keyes, who emailed his displeasure, is exaggerating for effect.

"This is Detroit," he said. "RoboCop's ass is getting scrapped"  a theft that would be, fittingly, a case for RoboCop.

Reach Neal Rubin at NARubin@freepress.com.

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This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: Some Detroiters view Robocop film, statue as raw bigotry
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM)  The Ruidoso Police Department has arrested a 66-year-old man in connection with the murder of his female roommate, the department said in a news release posted on the Village of Ruidoso Facebook page on Sunday, July 14.

Robert Walker, 66, was arrested and charged with murder in the first degree, tampering with evidence, negligent use of a firearm and possession of a controlled substance, according to the Ruidoso Police Police Department.

At about 5 a.m. on Wednesday, July 10, Ruidoso Police were dispatched out to 109 Mustang Drive. A caller to the Tularosa Basin Regional Dispatch Authority had told them he had shot a woman in his driveway, had placed the gun in his bathroom and would wait in his bedroom until police arrived, according to the news release.

When officers arrived, they found Walker on his front porch. Walker was taken peacefully into custody once commands were given to him, according to Ruidoso Police.

Responding officers found 55-year-old Zeba Lynette Morris-French dead in the driveway of the home.

Police say they learned that Walker and Morris-French were roommates. They say Walker fatally shot Morris-French, but did not provide a motive.

The case is being investigated by the 12th Judicial District Attorneys Office Major Crime Unit. This task force consists of members of the Ruidoso Police, Lincoln County Sheriffs Office, Alamogordo Police, Otero County Sheriffs Office and members of the District Attorneys Office Carrizozo, New Mexico.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTSM 9 News.
By Alexander Marrow

(Reuters) - The Kremlin said on Sunday it did not believe the U.S. administration was responsible for Saturday's assassination attempt on U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, but accused it of creating an atmosphere that provoked the attack.

Trump was shot in the ear during a rally in Pennsylvania, in an attack now being investigated as an assassination attempt. The attacker was shot dead and law enforcement officials said they had not yet identified a motive.

"We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"But the atmosphere around candidate Trump ... provoked what America is confronting today."

U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, saying there was no place for that kind of violence in America. Peskov said Russia condemned any violence in the course of the political struggle.

His comments echoed those of some of Trump's Republican allies, who immediately pinned the blame on Biden.

"After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena - using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate - it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger," Peskov said.

He added that there were no plans for President Vladimir Putin to call Trump in light of the incident.

Putin has said the outcome of the U.S. presidential election is unlikely to change anything for Russia and that Trump's presidency had damaged U.S.-Russia relations.

But the Russian leader has taken a public interest in Trump's statements that he could end the Ukraine war, saying he does not know the details but supports the idea of ending the war in principle.

World leaders, including Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy, rapidly condemned Saturday's attack, expressing shock, denouncing political violence and wishing Trump a quick recovery.

US CIVIL WAR?

Peskov and Russia's foreign ministry pointed to previous assassinations of U.S. presidents, highlighting domestic U.S. security failings.

Vyacheslav Volodin, the speaker of Russia's lower house of parliament, said American political crisis, deep divisions in society and Washington's focus on "interfering" in other nations' affairs were all causes of the attack on Trump.

"With its years-long policy, the United States has let itself reach literally the brink of civil war," Volodin wrote on Telegram.

Volodin also said Trump's position on Ukraine could not be completely ruled out as a reason for the attack.

"Trump is one of the few Western politicians who has openly spoken about the need to stop sponsoring military action," Volodin said.

Russia's foreign ministry used the shooting to urge Washington to stop funding Ukraine's military and concentrate on improving domestic law enforcement instead.

Moscow's full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022 has brought Russia's ties with the West to their lowest ebb since the height of the Cold War.

Asked whether the Trump attack could affect the legitimacy of the United States' upcoming election, Peskov said: "It is not for us to judge. We have not the slightest desire to interfere. This is a U.S. matter."

(Reporting by Alexander Marrow; Editing by Philippa Fletcher)
For years, Russian state media pundits have been claiming that the Democrats would assassinate Donald Trump and even previously proposed that Russias Federal Security Service should start protecting our Donald.

Unconstrained by facts or journalistic standardsstriving to kill two birds with one stoneRussian propagandists are now blaming both the Democrats and Ukrainians for an attempt on Trumps life. During Sundays broadcast of the show At Dawn on the Solovyov Live network, former New York Times correspondent John Varoli baselessly claimed, The Democratic party is behind this attempted assassination! The Democratic party is doing everything to destroy Donald Trump!

He added, In all seriousness, I believe that the Ukrainian special services may be behind thison orders from the White House. Host Andrey Ponomar chimed in to add that since Ukrainians were allegedly able to blow up the Nord Stream pipeline, then the head of Ukrainioan military intelligence, Kyrylo Budanov, might also be linked to an attempt on Trumps life.

The host played an old clip from Saturday Night Live where Jim Carrey jokingly portrays President Joe Biden firing a gun while Ponomar suggests the president would resort to shooting his opponents. Ponomar claimed that Biden and the deep state are ready to drown America and the rest of the world in blood. Varoli concurred and said: Joe Biden is a terrorist. He orders many terrorist acts against your country [Russia]. Under Joe Biden, the United States became the biggest sponsor of terrorism in the world.

Varoli added that the Secret Service and other U.S. intelligence agencies are controlled by the government, ludicrously suggesting that they are full of liberals and might have participated in an attack on Trump.

On another program the same morning, host Ivan Kamenev offered Trump a recipe for igniting a civil war in the United Statesan outcome that is very much coveted by Moscow. Kamenev said, I have an internal feeling that everything that is happening now depends on Trump. I will say something that is not politically correct. Trump has Bidens balls in his hand, because everyone is waiting for his statement right now... Its possible that he will gather the facts, come out and say, This attempt was planned by Democrats, I have verifiable information about this. I believe that the current President and his team are behind it... And then there will be civil war!

Kamenev surmised, What just happened turned the page to a new American reality.

During state TV program Moscow. Kremlin. Putin, host Vladimir Solovyov bemoaned the volatile state of affairs in the United States and said, We should be seriously concerned about Donald Trumps life. Later, in his own eponymous show Sunday Evening With Vladimir Solovyov, he proudly reminded everyone that he himself and many of his guests previously predicted that Trump would be assassinated. Solovyov accused the Secret Service of either being unprofessional and stupid, or being in on it and deliberately allowing the attacker to take his shot.

The TV host predicted Trumps imminent victory in the upcoming presidential election, declaring that he is now unstoppablebarring a more efficient assassin.

Showcasing the photograph of the bloodied former president pumping his fist in the air, Solovyov praised him, describing his reaction as that of a seasoned political animal. The state TV host compared this event to the attempted assassination of Ronald Reagan in 1981 that led to his landslide victory in a presidential re-election. Solovyov added: This is the moment after which Trump will obviously become president... This is it! This is a tragedy for Zelensky.

Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova made a clumsy effort to link the funding of Ukraines defense against the Russian invasion to the attempted assassination of the former president, in a rambling post on her Telegram channel. She suggested that the money the U.S. is spending on Ukraine would be better spent on various branches of American law enforcement. Zakharova linked an attack on Trump to Ukraines alleged plot to eliminate Putin, stating that both of them were prepared using American money. She ended her post by proclaiming: The bell is already tolling for Washington!

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Russia and Iran seek to deepen relations and cooperation  ISW

Experts at the Institute for the Study of War (ISW) observe that Iran and Russia continue to demonstrate a commitment to deepen bilateral relations and multilateral cooperation.

Source: ISW

Details: The analysts point out that Russia and Iran continue to exhibit a strong commitment to enhancing their bilateral relations and expanding multilateral cooperation.

Iran's newly elected president, Masoud Pezeshkian, wrote an article in the Tehran Times, lauding the People's Republic of China and Russia for their support during "challenging times".

Pezeshkian referred to Russia as Iran's "valued strategic ally and neighbour" and emphasised that his administration would prioritise and extend bilateral and multilateral cooperation with Russia.

He also underscored that Iran "seeks peace" between Russia and Ukraine and is willing to support efforts aimed at achieving this peace.

Meanwhile, the Russian ambassador to Iran, Alexei Dedov, affirmed that Russia will continue the same strategic path with Iran under Pezeshkian's leadership as it did under the late Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi.

Dedov indicated that Russia is receptive to considering peace mediation proposals from Iran, although Russian leader Vladimir Putin has recently rejected the idea of any third-party mediation efforts between Russia and Ukraine.

Additionally, Dedov revealed that Russia and Iran plan to sign a comprehensive strategic partnership agreement in the "foreseeable future", though he did not provide a specific timeframe for this agreement.

To quote the ISWs Key Takeaways on 13 July:

Ukraine's Security Service (SSU) reportedly conducted successful drone strikes against an oil depot near Tsimlyansk, Rostov Oblast on the morning of 13 July.

Russia and Iran continue to signal their commitment to deepening bilateral relations and multilateral cooperation.

A detained Russian businessman and a Russian military official who were reportedly connected to detained former Deputy Defence Minister Timur Ivanov recently died on the same day.

Armenian border guards, cooperating with Russian authorities, reportedly detained a Russian citizen in Yerevan, likely as part of a continued Kremlin effort to assert political power over Armenia and challenge Armenia's sovereignty amid deteriorating Russian-Armenian relations.

Ukrainian forces recently regained lost positions near Kupiansk and Svatove, and Russian forces recently advanced near Kreminna, Toretsk and Avdiivka and in the Donetsk-Zaporizhzhia Oblast border area.

The Russian military continues efforts to improve training capacity.

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Russian attacks on Donetsk Oblast kill 1, injure at least 9

Russian troops attacked Lyman and Myrnohrad in Donetsk Oblast on July 14, killing one person and injuring at least nine, Governor Vadym Filashkin reported.

In Myrnohrad, a Russian missile attack targeted an administrative building and a multi-story residential building, Filashkin said.

As of 6:30 p.m. local time, one person was known to be killed in the Myrnohrad strike, and six more were injured. Two more people are thought to be trapped under the rubble, according to the governor.

In Lyman, the attack hit one building and a coffee shop, injuring three.

The aftermath of the Russian attack on Donetsk Oblast on July 14. (Vadym Filashkin/Telegram)

Russia has been carrying out intense attacks in multiple sections of the eastern front, including in Donetsk Oblast, since it captured the city of Avdiivka in February.

Earlier in July, Ukrainian troops withdrew from the Kanal neighborhood of the region's embattled town of Chasiv Yar.

Commander-in-Chief of Ukraine's Armed Forces Oleksandr Syrskyi said on July 2 that fighting had been particularly intense in recent weeks around the town of Toretsk, located some 25 kilometers (15 miles) south of Chasiv Yar.

Read also: Russia claims launch of 3-ton aerial glide bombs from Su-34 jets against Ukraine

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Russian attacks have killed 13 people and injured 54 others, including children, in Ukraine over the past day, regional authorities reported on July 14.

Civilian casualties were reported in Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts.

A double-tap attack in the village of Budy in Kharkiv Oblast during the afternoon of July 13 killed two people and injured 25 others, among them two children.

Artem Kostyria, head of the State Emergency Service's branch in Kharkiv Oblast, and police sergeant Oleksiy Koshchii were killed after Russia used two Iskander missiles to target the area near the village railway station.

The strikes also damaged railway infrastructure, including train wagons, and injured five railway workers, according to state railway company Ukrzaliznytsia.

Attacks in Kupiansk district injured a 39-year-old woman in the morning and two women aged 72 and 73 in the evening, Kharkiv Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

Donetsk Oblast Governor Vadym Filashkin reported that Russian attacks over the past day had killed six civilians and injured 11 others.

Two people were killed in the village of Novoocheruvate, and another two were killed in the village of Prohres, which lies less than two kilometers from the front line.

Read also: Ground zero: How a Ukrainian boy battling cancer and his mother survived Russias missile strike on childrens hospital

Another person was killed in the front-line village of Novosilka Persha, while one person was killed and two others were injured in Kostiantynopil, Filashkin said.

In Kherson Oblast, Russian attacks killed five people and injured nine others, including a child, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

A 41-year-old man was killed in Tokarivka, while two women aged 50 and 72 were killed after Russian forces shelled the village of Pryozerne. Both settlements lie on the west bank of the Dnipro River, across from Russian positions on the east bank.

Prokudin later reported that two people aged 44 and 40 had been killed in Komyshany, a village that neighbors Pryozerne. The victims were husband and wife.

In the evening, a projectile hit a house in Chornobaivka, a suburb of Kherson, injuring a 16-year-old girl.

"She has a traumatic amputation of her hand, shrapnel injuries to her body," and was taken to hospital "in an extremely serious condition," Prokudin said.

Russian attacks wounded five people in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast over the past day, Governor Serhii Lysak reported.

Artillery fire injured a 51-year-old man in Nikopol and two others in the nearby village of Pokrovske. The attack damaged high-rise buildings, houses, farm buildings, an educational institution, and a religious building, Lysak said.

Later in the day, Lysak reported that a 57-year-old emergency worker was injured when a Russian drone attacked firefighters putting out a grass fire. The attack also damaged the fire truck.

Overnight, a missile attack on the region caused another grass fire in Kryvyi Rih, which injured a 67-year-old woman. She was treated at the scene, Lysak said.

Zaporzhzhia Oblast Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that one person was killed in Vasylivskyi district, an area that includes the southern front line.

Over the past day, Russian forces carried out 373 attacks on 11 settlements in the region, Fedorov said.

Read also: Russias advance toward key eastern highway threatens Ukraines grip of Donetsk Oblast

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The aftermath of Russian attacks on Sumy Oblast. Photo: Sumy Oblast Military Administration

Russian forces attacked Sumy Oblast 40 times over the course of Saturday, 13 July, deploying unguided air-to-surface missiles and bombs in these attacks.

Source: Sumy Oblast Military Administration on Telegram

Quote: "Ninety explosions occurred. Khotin, Yunakivka, Myropillia, Bilopillia, Vorozhba, Krasnopillia, Velyka Pysarivka, Hlukhiv, Shalyhyne, Esman and Seredyna-Buda hromadas came under fire." [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a town, village or several villages and their adjacent territories  ed.]

Details: Russian forces dropped explosives from drones and launched 6 unguided air-to-surface missiles from helicopters to attack Khotin hromada, causing a total of 12 explosions there.

Krasnopillia hromada suffered two FPV drone attacks and was shelled; the Russians also deployed a drone to drop explosives on the hromada, where a total of 11 explosions occurred.

Russian forces also dropped 13 air-dropped mines on Shalyhyne hromada, and deployed FPV drones and mortars to attack Myropillia hromada, causing 15 explosions there.

Two explosions occurred in Vorozhba hromada as a result of a Russian FPV drone attack, and eight in Esman hromada following Russian mortar and FPV drone attacks.

Russian forces deployed FPV drones, 10 unguided air-to-surface missiles, and mortars to attack Velyka Pysarivka hromada, and also dropped explosives from drones, causing a total of 14 explosions there.

One explosion occurred in Hlukhiv hromada and two in Seredyna-Buda hromada as a result of Russian FPV drone attacks.

Two Russian air-dropped mines and an FPV drone attack caused explosions in Yunakivka hromada.

Two explosions also occurred in Bilopillia hromada after Russian drones dropped explosives on the area.

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Russian Kursk Oblast authorities report UAV attack on TV tower and gas station

A drone attack caused a television tower in the Russian city of Sudzha to catch fire, says Alexei Smirnov, governor of the Kursk Oblast.

Source: Smirnov on Telegram; Mash

Details: According to Smirnov, the attack took place on 14 July.

A fire department crew is on the scene.

According to state-owned media, at least two kamikaze drones hit a broadcast tower, resulting in a fire.

There was also a strike on the citys "closed petrol station."

According to Russian media, the Sudzhansky district used to have four petrol stations. The first two were attacked on 5 July, with the remaining two on 9 July.

Currently, all four petrol stations are closed.

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The Russians attacked the village of Kruhliakivka in the Kupiansk district in Kharkiv Oblast on 14 July at about 12:00, injuring a woman.

Source: the Kharkiv Oblast Prosecutors Office

Details: A 70-year-old woman was injured and treated on the spot. Moreover, a residential building was damaged in the attack.

On the morning of 14 July Russian troops struck the city of Kupiansk. Storage buildings of a civilian facility with an area of 200 square metres caught on fire.

Reportedly, two women aged 72 and 73 were injured in Kupiansk on the evening of 13 July. The Russians attacked the city from multiple-launch rocket systems, damaging houses.

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How Rust Prosecutors Case Against Alec Baldwin Fell Apart in Stunning Fashion: What Have They Done? (Exclusive)

The judge in the actors involuntary manslaughter trial dismissed the case against him on Friday, July 12

Jean Catuffe/GC Images; Ramsay de Give-Pool/Getty; Ramsay de Give-Pool/Getty From left: Alec Baldwin, Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer and Kari Morrissey

On the first two days of Alec Baldwin's involuntary manslaughter trial, prosecutors seemed to have momentum

A stunning accusation of buried evidence turned the tide

An expert breaks down why the judge ultimately dismissed the case against Baldwin

Before the judge in Alec Baldwins involuntary manslaughter trial dismissed the case against him in a shocking move on Friday, July 12, the prosecutors in the case had momentum.

For the first two days of the trial on Wednesday, July 10, and Thursday, July 11, prosecutors Erlinda Johnson and Kari T. Morrissey proved to be impressive and persuasive as they methodically laid out their case against the actor, who was holding a prop gun on the set of the Western movie in 2021 when it discharged, killing cinematographer Halyna Hutchins and injuring director Joel Souza.

In her opening statement, Johnson was a breath of fresh air, legal expert Emily D. Baker, a former Los Angeles deputy district attorney who is not involved in the case, tells PEOPLE. I found her clear, easy to follow.

Johnson painted Baldwin as a reckless actor who did not follow proper gun safety protocol, which she claimed directly contributed to Hutchins death.

Ross D. Franklin - Pool/Getty From left: Lawyer Alex Spiro, Alec Baldwin and lawyer Luke Nikas in court on July 8.

In his opening, defense attorney Alex Spiro, who has worked with A-list clients including JAY-Z and Elon Musk, leaned into the idea that Baldwin was simply an actor acting. He called what happened an unspeakable tragedy, but insisted Alec Baldwin committed no crime.

The defense opening was longer than I thought, not as concise and pointed, notes Baker. She conducted a poll of 3,000 people watching the trial. It was very clear that they found the prosecution's opening more compelling, she adds.

Related: Alec Baldwin Speaks Out Following Rust Shooting Case Dismissal: 'I Appreciate Your Kindness'

From then on, the prosecution seemed to be on a roll as they called their witnesses to testify about Baldwin, who has insisted he never pulled the trigger and did not know how live ammunition made it into the gun he was holding.

What struck Baker was how thorough the prosecution was by flying in the gun manufacturer, Alessandro Pietta, from Italy. He gave what seemed like damning testimony against Baldwin, saying the gun he made cannot fire without a pull of trigger because the mechanics and design of trigger was made to work in this way.

(During cross-examination, the defense confirmed that Pietta did not see or have knowledge of its condition on the Rust set.)

Ramsay de Give-Pool/Getty Alec Baldwin and his wife Hilaria Baldwin hug in court on July 12.

While Morrisseys substance was impressive, her style was commanding, says Baker.

What is interesting to me is how in control of the courtroom prosecutor Kari Morrissey is and how much it seems to be throwing the defense off their game, says Baker. She interrupts, she objects, she speaks out in the court.

But the tide turned in shocking fashion on the morning of Friday, July 12.

Before jurors were admitted into the courtroom, Baldwin attorney Luke Nikas made a surprise motion, asking Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer to dismiss the charge against Baldwin, claiming the State had violated what is known as the Brady rule, which requires prosecution to disclose material, exculpatory information in the government's possession to the defense, according to Cornell School of Law.

Ramsay de Give-Pool/Getty Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer in court on July 12.

Theyd learned via testimony from crime scene technician Marissa Poppell the prior day that a man named Troy Teske, a friend of Thell Reed, the father of convicted Rust armorer Hannah Gutierrez-Reed  who was found guilty of involuntary manslaughter for loading a live round into Baldwin's gun  turned over ammunition to authorities that he thought was connected to the case.

Nikas said the defense was never made aware of it, robbing them of their own ability to determine its relevance.

This is critical evidence in the case that was never disclosed to usWe were entitled to it, he said. This case should be dismissed, Your Honor.

Though it wasnt known publicly at the time, Johnson, the prosecutor who gave the opening statement, resigned on the spot on Friday morning.

Prosecutors have high ethical obligations and when a prosecutor learns of evidence that could be material to the defense was not disclosed, the right thing to do would be to dismiss a case, Johnson, who thought the State should have dropped the case then and there, told PEOPLE on Saturday, July 13. When that was not done, my ethical obligations compelled me to withdraw.

ROSS D. FRANKLIN/POOL/AFP via Getty Prosecutor Erlinda Ocampo Johnson in court on July 10.

Johnson, who joined as a special prosecutor in April, explained in other interviews that she had no idea about this evidence, which was given to the sheriffs office prior to her signing on.

In a move that stunned those watching Friday morning, Sommer, who donned gloves and personally inspected the ammunition in the courtroom, agreed to hear testimony regarding the motion to dismiss, and called in the jury to dismiss them for the day.

Baker says she was left perplexed by the turn of events at a time when the prosecution seemed to be doing so well. I was like, What have they done? 

The mood in the courtroom turned. Suddenly, Baldwin, who had kept a neutral expression for much of the first two days, seemed lighter as he hugged his wife, Hilaria  who sat behind him along with the actors siblings, Stephen Baldwin and Beth Keuchler  and even blew her a kiss.

The defense had tried  and failed  several times prior to get the case dismissed through motions, and now the judge was going to hear them out again rather than proceed with the trial.

Related: Alec Baldwin Smiles as He Steps Out for Dinner with Family After Rust Case Dismissal

Corporal Alexandria Hancock of the Santa Fe Sheriff's Office, where Teske allegedly dropped off the ammunition in March, took the stand and seemed flustered as Spiro grilled her about hiding evidence. "I don't think I've hidden anything," Hancock replied.

She did, however, admit that the ammunition Teske handed over was filed separately from the other Rust evidence  and incredibly, she also said prosecutor Morrissey was involved in talks to file them separately.

In another shocking move in a day full of such moments, Morrissey called herself to testify under oath, and explained to the court why she didnt think the ammunition handed over was considered Rust evidence. She said that the bullets had no evidentiary value whatsoever.

RAMSAY DE GIVE/POOL/AFP via Getty Special prosecutor Kari T. Morrissey in court on July 12.

And the kicker, adds Baker, is that the Teske evidence might not have mattered in any way to the manslaughter case. But Baker notes Baldwins team still has the right to have that evidence.

Moments after Morrissey stepped off the witness stand, Sommer issued her ruling, dismissing the case with prejudice, explaining that the Brady rule had been violated.

The late discovery of this evidence during trial has impeded the effective use of evidence in such a way that it has impacted the fundamental fairness of the proceedings, said Sommer, in part.

The ruling astounded those watching  the Court TV Youtube feed that streamed the trial was filled with exclamations of surprise  and left Baldwin and his loved ones visibly relieved.

The Emmy winner burst into tears, burying his face in his hands, while Hilaria and Beth were seen crying, too.

Related: Alec Baldwin's Brothers and Daughter Ireland React to His Rust Case Dismissal: 'God Is Good'

"The dismissal with prejudice is one of the strictest sanctions against prosecutors and, by extension law enforcement, when they do things wrong that impact the defendant's constitutional rights, says Baker. It is taking the case away from them and telling them they can no longer prosecute this defendant.

Sommers ruling ends the case against Alec Baldwin, says Baker, who explains that no more criminal charges can be brought against him. (He can, however, face civil action.)

The involuntary manslaughter case prosecutors pursued was ridiculous to begin with, says one legal source. But shame on [prosecutors] for pursuing this against Alec personally. For grandstanding. For ignoring evidence. For ultimately trying to bury evidence.

From a legal perspective, Baker agrees Sommer made the right decision.

But, she notes, this [ruling] doesn't say Baldwin didn't do anything wrong. What this finding by the court says is that prosecution and law enforcement did something so wrong that the only remedy here is to not prosecute Baldwin.



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At a Sacramento high school, some ugly racism comes from a teacher and his test | Opinion

Americas lingering racism can raise its ugly head at any time, even in the California high school classroom. But its really a problem when the promoter of demeaning stereotypes is the one who should be dispelling them, the teacher.

For a final exam, Sacramentos Luther Burbank High School teacher Alex Nguyen wanted to include his students names in some questions on the test.

But instead of just making a regular test, Nguyen wanted to go all Regina George (a character from the movie Mean Girls) on his students and make a test that looked like a burn book.

Opinion

Just take a look at this question.

Here at the wonderful school of LBHS, we have certain students who love to sleep in class. I even see students fall asleep during exams! Can you believe that?! I dont like it when students sleep in class its rude! So, WAKE THE #$%K UP! Well, through much study, I have concluded that the gene for falling asleep is dominant. Not only that some students sleep, they snore in class. This too is a dominant trait. What are the possible offspring if you cross a homozygous sleeping, heterozygous snoring student (student name) with a homozygous attentive, non-snoring (student name) student?

Really? The teacher goes far as insinuating curse words on an final exam and uses the names of students without their permission.

But then, apparently Nguyen wanted to sprinkle a little bit of racism into this very odd test.

For some reason, the African American culture has influenced most of the student body. How? In African Americans, they have a gene for the pimp walk, which is dominant. What is the result if you cross (student name) homozygous dominant Latina with a homozygous recessive Hmong like (student name)?

Nguyen calls this a test but clearly he doesnt know a thing about genes. For one, and I cant believe that I have to say this, but Black people dont have a gene for a pimp walk. And second, genes are not passed down by race. There is no genetic basis for race. If anything, theres actually more gene diversity within races than between them.

Hasnt this so-called teacher taken an anthropology class?

Test displayed blatant racism

Just a friendly reminder, spreading foolish stereotypes is something that an ill-informed and ignorant person does, not a molder of young minds.

Using a kids full name in a test and then making fun of them is cruel punishment that is the equivalent of bullying.

Teachers are the moral compass for a classroom. They set the standard how an adult should act for these young impressionable students.

How does a teacher with years of experience with kids ignore the impact of hurtful words?

Not only is Nguyens words hurtful, theyre just plain ugly. These questions seem to be coming from someone who is done with teaching. Why else would a teacher use such disgusting and inappropriate language for a final exam.

In a story on the incident by the Bees Jennah Pendleton, some of Nguyens students said they did not want him fired. But this is certainly a serious enough offense to merit the most serious of consequences. No such blatantly disrespectful should be used by some who holds a coveted position as teaching.

This is yet another litmus test of the leadership of the Sacramento City Unified School District. How could a the district place on leave a journalism professor at C.K. McClatchy High School for printing accurate things that a student said, even if the words are uncomfortable, and go easy on a teaching making deliberate verbal attacks on students?

A school spokesman told Pendleton that Nguyen was placed on leave as of the last day of the school year. Perhaps that is a start. Some broader district guidelines on teacher conduct and testing protocol seems to be in order.

Whatever made Nguyen come up with this racist exam, he flunked a fundamental test of what an educator is supposed to do.

Teachers are to lift their students up, not break them down.
A California high school teacher is on administrative leave for posing racially motivated questions to several students on a biology final last month.

According to the Sacramento Bee, a freshman at Luther Burbanks High School, who is half-Black and half-Mexican, was shocked to find his and several classmates names mentioned disparagingly in a series of test questions.

In high school, there are individuals who are cross-eyed like (the name of a fellow student) and (the name of the student previously mentioned), which is a dominant trait. We call those individuals weirdoes. So, if you crossed two weirdoes (the two students named again), that are heterozygous for being cross-eyed, what is the offspring that would result? one question reads.

In this question, Nguyen refers to two students as "cross-eyed" which makes them "weirdoes." One of these student's mother said that she thinks her son was targeted because of his learning disability. pic.twitter.com/rvIIUCgWML  Jennah Pendleton (@jennahpen) July 10, 2024

The test questions referenced non-white students by their first and last names, described by teacher Alex Nguyen based on their physical attributes and speculated about their potential children. Moreover, the question that particularly stood out to the mixed-race student made racially discriminatory claims about Black students at the high school.

For some reason, the African American culture has influenced most of the student body. How? In African Americans, they have a gene for the pimp walk, which is dominant. What is the result if you cross (student name) homozygous dominant Latina with a homozygous recessive Hmong like (student name)?

In a final given to Luther Burbank High School freshmen, teacher Alex Nguyen wrote a test question that to some was reminiscent of early 20th century racial pseudoscience, in which he suggested that the "pimp walk gene" was spreading to non-Black students. pic.twitter.com/O57A8MnGXE  Jennah Pendleton (@jennahpen) July 10, 2024

The student said that Principal Jim Peterson entered the classroom 10 minutes into the two-hour exam to speak with Nguyen. Peterson then collected the exams and left, prompting Nguyen to continue by displaying questions on a projector for students to answer on separate sheets of paper, the Sacramento Bee reported.

The following day, the student showed up to class and noticed a sub had filled in for Nguyen. He also raised concern after receiving a zero test score on the now-controversial exam. To maintain his eligibility for sports, he typically earns good grades. However, his parents, Adriana and Shawn Allen, enrolled him in summer school to prevent the D grade from affecting him in the future.

Peterson was made aware of the test questions on June 12 after students from previous periods raised concerns about it. He then decided to collect the paper exams during the same period the student was in, per the Sacramento Bee. District spokesperson Al Goldberg said an investigation has been launched against Nguyen after he continued with the exam on the projector after the paper ones were removed.

Goldberg revealed there were issues with the tests after they were collected.

There were challenges with the grading process, he said, adding that the district is working to correct them. We will evaluate the exams of the students who received the test and our Academic Department will contact students whose final grade has been impacted.

The Allens and their son have expressed their views on Nguyen and discussed whether or not he should remain employed at the school where he has worked for the past 10 years. Both Shawn and the teen expressed that they wouldnt want the teacher to lose his job; instead, they believe he should apologize to the students and undergo mandatory racial sensitivity training.

Id want him to apologize to Burbank as a whole, because thats the majority of our kids, the student told the outlet. So for him to say those things, its pretty messed up.

His father shared similar sentiments, saying, In this day and age, I dont want anybody to get fired from their job, he said. But if theres some sort of discipline, a class that you could take to better yourself, especially working in a school with the diversity that they have, because you have to know how to deal with all kinds of different cultures and people.  You should have an understanding that your words can hurt people, and put them in a position that they dont want to be in.

Meanwhile, Adrianna believes the school should set an example with Nguyen, emphasizing that if the roles were reversed, they would discipline the student for harassing the teacher.

Because if it were a student, they would have disciplinary action against them, so you have to lead by example, she said. Its not OK for a teacher, an adult, to talk to students like that or call them out in any kind of way. You should be setting the example, so you should be disciplined for that.
Update: At 3:46 p.m. on July 14, the Sacramento Police Department said Marquez Hollis was found safely.

(FOX40.COM)  The Sacramento Police Department is seeking help from the community to find a missing person, 12-year-old Marquez Hollis.

Police said Hollis was last seen around 2 p.m. near Bridge Bay Drive in the Pocket neighborhood wearing a green shirt and khaki sweatpants.

He is described as a 52, black child with a thin build, black hair, and brown eyes. Due to his age, Hollis is considered at-risk.

If anyone locates Hollis or has an idea of his whereabouts, they are asked to call the Sacramento Police Department immediately at 916-808-5471.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX40.
SC leaders could learn a thing or two about tourism from Barcelona residents with squirt guns | Opinion

Hold your fire, South Carolina, your water pistol may become another tourist attraction.

Maybe you saw in the recent news that protesters in tourism-soaked Barcelona, Spain, squirted visitors eating in a street-side cafe with brightly colored water pistols while chanting, Tourists Go Home! Others marched in the Barcelona streets carrying a banner that said: Mass Tourism Kills the City.

You too might see the world through Picasso glasses if you were host to 26 million visitors a year, as is the Barcelona region.

David Lauderdale

Coverage in the Washington Post says that fed-up Barcelona residents are specifically pushing for an end to Airbnb-style, short-term rentals in the city within five years. The Neighborhood Assembly for Tourism Degrowth also wants an end to tourism promotion with public dollars.

Locals say extreme tourism has astronomically driven up the cost of housing for everyone in Barcelona.

This pushback against overtourism apparently got a head start in Venice, and the issue of how to better handle roving throngs of tourists has been grappled with worldwide for some time now.

We, in South Carolina, should take note.

On Hilton Head Island, the number of tourists and the type of tourists have been argued about for decades. But remember that tourism is the states leading industry, ahead of manufacturing and agribusiness.

Tourism has an annual $29 billion economic impact statewide, according to the state Department of Parks, Recreation and Tourism.

The Hilton Head Island-Bluffton Chamber of Commerce says some 2.6 million visitors come annually, with a $1.4 billion economic impact on Beaufort County. Myrtle Beach attracts 19 million annual visitors, followed by the famously-hot Columbia region with 16 million and Charleston with 8 million.

The saturated peninsula in Charleston is the most likely place for squirt guns to come out. But the sweltering tourists would probably smile and demand that protesters come back with Super Soakers.

Tourists are an easy target on Hilton Head, where many complaining residents forget that they, too, came first as mere tourists.

Also overlooked is the degree to which tourists are paying for themselves. On Hilton Head, tourists wholly fund the extravagantly expensive routine schedule of beach nourishment through a 2% tax on overnight lodging. Such steady funding to maintain the heart and soul of the island is the envy of communities on eroding waterfronts worldwide.

Tourists pay another 2% tax on overnight lodging called the accommodations tax that funds tourism marketing and arts and some nonprofits. Hilton Head tourists also contribute heavily to a 2% hospitality tax on prepared food and beverages, which gin up $5 million annually for public safety projects and capital improvements such as bike pathways.

Tourists also kick in a big chunk of the short-term 1% sales taxes that voters have approved over the years to fund roads, bridges and green space. Tourists are also the reason a small town like ours can have high-end amenities, including fine dining, the arts and nice hotel ballrooms for community gatherings. And, so far, weve built this economy without a single wax museum, neon Pedro, albino alligator, trained seal or Ferris wheel.

One of the things Barcelona residents want officials to do is tax tourists even more. Here, it seems the squirt guns could be aimed more at the homies than the tourons.

It is us who invite the world to come without offering so much as adequate parking space. We approve motels disguised as monster homes for weekly rentals in what once were quiet neighborhoods. We change zoning to enable more timeshares. We annex rural land at the behest of developers who then strip it bare and stack in tens of thousands of new homes while all the streets get clogged.

Barcelona can teach S.C. leaders a lot. Plan better for the tourist onslaught. And listen to them. Plan better for the residents. And listen to them.

Or, be prepared for water pistol shots that will be heard around the world.

David Lauderdale may be reached at LauderdaleColumn@gmail.com .
Scientists, a journalist and even a bakery worker are among those convicted of treason in Russia

FILE - Oksana Sevastidi leaves Lefortovo Prison in Moscow, Russia, on Sunday, March 12, 2017. Sevastidi, a bakery worker in the Black Sea resort of Sochi, was convicted of treason and sentenced to seven years in prison after she sent a text message to a friend in neighboring Georgia about seeing military equipment carried on a nearby railway prior to Russias brief war in 2008 with its neighbor. President Vladimir Putin pardoned her in 2017. (AP Photo/Denis Tyrin, File)

TALLINN, Estonia (AP)  Over the past decade, Russia has seen a sharp increase in treason and espionage cases.

Lawyers and experts say prosecutions for these high crimes started to grow after 2014  the year that Russia illegally annexed the Crimean Peninsula from Ukraine. Thats also when Moscow backed a separatist insurgency in eastern Ukraine.

The number of treason and espionage cases in Russia really spiked after the Kremlin sent troops into Ukraine in February 2022, and President Vladimir Putin urged the security services to harshly suppress the actions of foreign intelligence services (and) promptly identify traitors, spies and saboteurs. The crackdown has ensnared scientists and journalists, as well as ordinary citizens.

A look at some treason cases prosecuted in Russia in recent years:

Oksana Sevastidi

In April 2008, bakery worker Oksana Sevastidi saw military equipment on the railway near Sochi, the Russian Black Sea resort where she lived. She texted a friend who lived in neighboring Georgia about it. Weeks later, in August, the two countries fought a brief war, which ended with Moscow recognizing South Ossetia and another Georgian province, Abkhazia, as independent states and bolstering its military presence there.

Sevastidi was arrested in 2015, stemming from her text messages, and convicted of treason the following year. The case made national headlines after Ivan Pavlov and Evgeny Smirnov, prominent lawyers specializing in treason cases, took it on in 2016. That same year, Pavlovs team revealed that several other Sochi women were convicted of treason in eerily similar cases.

President Vladimir Putin was asked about Sevastidi at his annual news conference in December 2016. He called her sentence harsh and promised to look into it, saying that she wrote what she saw in her texts and that it didnt constitute a state secret. In 2017, Putin pardoned Sevastidi and two other women.

Ivan Safronov

Ivan Safronov, a former journalist who went on to work for the Russian space agency Roscosmos, was arrested in 2020 and accused of passing military secrets to Czech intelligence and a German national. In September 2022, a court in Moscow convicted him of treason and sentenced him to 22 years in prison.

Safronov rose to prominence as a military affairs reporter for Kommersant, a leading business newspaper. He vehemently rejected the charges against him, arguing that he collected all the information from open sources as part of his journalistic work and did nothing illegal.

Colleagues denounced the verdict as unfounded and pushed for Safronovs release, suggesting authorities may have wanted to punish him for his reporting about military and space incidents and arms deals.

His fiancee, Ksenia Mironova, told The Associated Press that she believes such treason cases, which are investigated in secret with trials held behind closed doors, are convenient for law enforcement because their accusations can go unchallenged:

They dont have to explain anything to anyone at all. Not that they bother anyway.  But (with open trials), there is still a chance that some unfortunate journalists will come and write something. With treason, the case is closed, and they can just concoct something, and thats it, said Mironova, who also is a journalist and has reported on the rise of treason prosecutions.

Valery Golubkin

Valery Golubkin, now 71, was a physicist specializing in aerodynamics when he was arrested in 2021 and convicted of treason in June 2023. He was sentenced to 12 years in a maximum-security prison.

According to his lawyers, the authorities accused Golubkin of sharing state secrets with a foreign country. The scientist and his defense team argued that he merely submitted research reports on an international project of a hypersonic civilian aircraft that his state-run institute was involved in.

The reports didnt contain state secrets and were vetted in accordance with regulations before they were sent abroad, according to lawyer Smirnov.

In a letter from behind bars to the Russian news outlet RBK in 2021, Golubkin said the project in question was approved by the Trade Ministry, and that the charges against him are based on the testimony of his supervisor, Anatoly Gubanov, who was arrested several months before Golubkin.

Gubanov, 66, also was convicted of treason and sentenced to 12 years in prison in 2023.

Lawyers for Golubkin appealed his verdict and lost. In April 2024, the Supreme Court overturned the ruling on the appeal and ordered another review of it, but in the end, the original sentence was upheld.

His daughter, Lyudmila Golubkina, told AP that neither the family nor Golubkin have had high expectations after the Supreme Court ruling, and they now hope he can be released on parole after serving two-thirds of his sentence.

When a person has something to live for, a goal, it helps them to overcome everything, she said. I hope we will still get to see him a free man.

Igor Pokusin

Igor Pokusin, a 62-year-old retired pilot who was born in Ukraine, was arrested in the southern Siberian city of Abakan, for protesting Russia's 2022 invasion of his native land. He was convicted of vandalism and sentenced to six months of parole-like restrictions.

He later was arrested again on the more serious charge of preparing for treason, according to the First Department, a rights group that investigates treason cases.

The charges against him stemmed from his phone calls to relatives and friends in which he mulled moving to Ukraine and volunteering as a pilot there to ferry the wounded or deliver humanitarian aid, according to the rights group and media reports.

In January 2024, Pokusin was convicted of the preparing for treason charge and sentenced to eight years in prison. The First Department said he died behind bars in June.

Advocates from Memorial, Russias oldest and most prominent human rights group, have declared Pokusin, Sevastidi, Safronov and a number of others accused of treason to be designated as political prisoners.
The Seconds Gentlemans trip to Georgia has been rescheduled, The White House announced.

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Second Gentlemen Doug Emhoff and actor and community advocate BD Wong were planning to launch the AANHPIs. for President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harriss campaign.

The organization helps mobilize Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander voters, communities, and leaders across the nation

The roundtable was set to be held in Gwinnett County, and the Second Gentleman was set to discuss lowering healthcare costs.

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On Sunday, the White House announced that the roundtable would be rescheduled. There was no immediate update as to when the event would take place.

The announcement comes hours after former President Donald Trump was injured in an apparent assassination attempt Saturday as he began speaking at a campaign rally in Western Pennsylvania.

One bystander was killed and two others were seriously injured.

It is the first assassination attempt made on a sitting president or presidential candidate since 1981.

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Councils have been accused of tapping up taxpayers with a raid on second homes, despite out-of-towners taking up just a fraction of properties.

Since April, local authorities have been allowed to charge a 100pc council tax premium on unoccupied homes after just one year, instead of two.

Councils have rushed to implement the surcharge on second homeowners, who have been accused of pricing out locals and turning communities in popular coastal and rural areas into permanent Airbnb settings.

But in close to two thirds (63.7pc) of the 146 councils that have so far confirmed they are implementing the double tax, fewer than one in a hundred properties are second homes, according to analysis of official data by The Telegraph.

In no local authority that has so far brought in the higher council tax charges do second homes make up more than 8.6pc of dwellings.

Some councils who have introduced the changes have fewer than 100 second homes registered in the local authority, while just 11 of the councils that have implemented the tax raid are currently raising more than 10m from taxing second homeowners. Half are making less than 1m.

This is despite concerns first raised in The Telegraph that the enhanced powers are catching out homeowners never intended as targets for the tax, including home movers and low income households.

Elliot Keck, of the TaxPayers Alliance, said the premiums pitiful revenues do not come close to justifying its existence.

He said: For too long town halls have focused on fiddling with different ways to dip into the wallets of their residents, rather than focusing on delivering quality services.

Local authorities should prioritise cutting down on waste and finding efficiencies to ensure they arent continuously tapping up taxpayers.

Gravesham Borough Council raised 43,013 last year from taxing second homeowners, according to government figures. Only 23 properties in the borough are classed as second homes  or 0.05pc of the local housing stock.

Some 55,000 in tax was clawed back from second homeowners in Newcastle-Under-Lyme, where second homes also account for one in 2,000 properties.

The double council tax applies to properties that are left empty for more than a year. It is part of a wider bid to deter out-of-towners buying up homes and pricing out locals, while increasing funding for local services.

Former housing secretary Michael Gove previously said second home ownership was turning seaside towns and other parts of the country into permanent Airbnb settings.

Though it is up to councils whether or not they implement the council tax premium, it comes as local authorities are under severe financial strain. Some, including Britains largest local authority Birmingham City Council, have been forced into effective bankruptcy, with local politicians warning finances are being pushed to the brink.

Critics have said grey areas in the new rules means councils are not required to refund accidental second homeowners who claim to have been hit with a tax charge after being unable to sell during a move.

The Local Government Association, which represents councils across England, maintained the council tax premium would help free up houses for locals to buy or rent.

A spokesman said: There is a desperate need for more affordable housing across the country and councils need all options possible to ensure a supply of homes for rent and sale that meets local needs.

Charging a council tax premium, for long-term empty and second homes, is one way of encouraging owners to bring these properties back into permanent use.

However, we remain clear that council tax itself has never been the solution to meeting the long-term pressures facing local services, and councils need the powers and resources to build more affordable homes.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
The Secret Service has denied claims it refused additional protection to former President Donald Trump before the assassination attempt on him Saturday.

There is an untrue assertion that a member of the former Presidents team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi wrote on X, the site formerly known as Twitter. This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.

The Secret Services denial appears to come in response to an allegation by Rep. Mike Waltz (R-FL) that Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas had refused to boost Trumps protective measures.

Theres an untrue assertion that a member of the former Presidents team requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed. This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo  Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) July 14, 2024

I have very reliable sources telling me there have been repeated requests for stronger secret service protection for President Trump, Waltz wrote. Denied by Secretary Mayorkas.

A Trump spokesperson did not immediately reply to a request for comment on the assertion.

Trump said a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear as several pops could be heard at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Bleeding, he raised his fist in defiance as the Secret Service rushed him out of the venue. He and his team later confirmed that he was doing well.

Several Republican lawmakers immediately demanded an investigation into how someone was able to shoot the former president, according to Reuters, with Speaker Mike Johnson promising to call representatives for the Secret Service, the Department of Homeland Security, and the Federal Bureau of Investigation in for questioning.

The Secret Service handled Trump off stage as he raised his fist. Now the agency is under scrutiny over its wider security performance. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Although we still do not have all the facts, the little that we do know suggests a staggering security failure, wrote Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO.)

Large political rallies generally have tight protective measures, including metal detectors that prevent attendees from bringing weapons inside the security perimeter. Guglielmi confirmed that the shooter had taken an elevated position outside of the rally venue and that U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased.

The Secret Service, which rushed Trump to his armored Chevy as well as neutralizing the shooter is now facing scrutiny over its actions. It denies having refused to ramp up his protection. Brendan McDermid/Reuters

The shooter was reportedly crouched on a roof about 150 yards from the former president.

The issues about having to get within 150 yards, that is very concerning, that should never have happened, former FBI agent Christopher OLeary said on NBC News. My assumption would be that that was left to be covered by state and local law enforcement and there was a breakdown and somebody was able to get in there.

Since the assassination attempt, Republicans also slammed Rep. Bennie Thompson (D-MS) and other Democratic lawmakers for introducing a bill in April that would end Secret Service protection for any federal official upon sentencing for a felony conviction. A Manhattan jury in May found Trump guilty of all 34 felony counts in his hush money trial.

Trumps team has assured voters that he looks forward to attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week. The festivities are scheduled to begin Monday with heightened security measures.

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The Secret Service is investigating how a gunman who shot and injured Trump was able to get so close

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

WASHINGTON (AP)  The U.S. Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former President Donald Trump at a rally Saturday in Pennsylvania, in a devastating failure of one of the agencys core duties.

The FBI on Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The gunman, who officials said was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking. A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows Crooks' body lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds, where Trumps rally was held. A different image shows Crooks wearing a gray T-shirt with a black American flag on the right arm, with a bloody wound to his head.

The roof was fewer than 150 meters (164 yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training. The AR-style rifle, like that of the gunman at the Trump rally, is the semiautomatic civilian version of the military M16.

President Joe Biden said Sunday he has directed an independent review of the security at the rally.

Biden said he also directed the U.S. Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the Secret Services coordinator for the convention, told reporters later the agency was satisfied with what she called its comprehensive planning for the Republican convention.

Biden urged Americans not to make assumptions about the motive of the shooter. He said investigators are working swiftly to investigate the attack.

Unity is the most elusive goal of all," he said, but "nothing is more important than that right now.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

Rep. Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican who chairs the House Committee on Homeland Security, sent a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on Sunday raising questions about the shooting and demanding information about the former presidents Secret Service protection.

The seriousness of this security failure and chilling moment in our nations history cannot be understated, Green wrote.

The Secret Service did not have a speaker at a news conference Saturday night where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation. FBI Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

Members of the Secret Service's counter-sniper team and counterassault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials. The officials spoke on condition of anonymity because they werent authorized to discuss details of the investigation.

The heavily armed counterassault team, whose Secret Service code name is Hawkeye, is responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting. The counter-sniper team, known by the code name Hercules, uses long-range binoculars and is equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting. Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the departments most vital priorities, he said.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, Mayorkas said. We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Green also noted reports that the Secret Service had rebuffed requests from the Trump campaign for additional security. A spokesman for the Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, said on X Sunday that those allegations were absolutely false and that they had added resources and technology as the campaigns travel increased.

Green said he would be talking with Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle on Sunday.

Former top Secret Service agents told The AP that Crooks should never have been allowed to gain access to the roof, and the agency will have to figure out how that happened. They said such a lapse could have been caused by officers neglecting their posts or a flaw in the events security plan.

The agency is going to have to go through the security plan and interview a number of people from the director on down to figure out what went wrong, said Stephen Colo, who retired in 2003 as an assistant director after a 27-year career in the service.

Colo said presidential candidates and former presidents dont typically get the same level of protection as the sitting president. In fact, Colo said he was surprised that the agency had staffed the event with a counter-sniper team. Such a valuable resource  there are not many of those highly trained agents  is usually reserved for the president. Candidates dont usually get such teams.

Timothy McCarthy, a former agent who retired from the agency in 1994, said the Secret Service better be doing a deep dive into what happened there and doing whatever it takes to figure it out because the gunman should not have been able to occupy such a vantage point.

How did that person get up on that building? said McCarthy, 75, who in 1981 took a bullet when President Ronald Reagan was shot outside the Washington Hilton Hotel. How did that happen? I mean, thats the key to the entire thing. And what measures were put in place to prevent it?

James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who is the House Oversight Committee chairman, said he contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and called on Cheatle to appear for a hearing. Comer said his committee will send a formal invitation soon.

Political violence in all forms is un-American and unacceptable. There are many questions and Americans demand answers, Comer said in a statement.

U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat, called for investigating security failures at the rally.

The federal government must constantly learn from security failures in order to avoid repeating them, especially when those failures have implications for the nation, Torres said.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers, a Democrat, posted on X that he and his staff are in contact with security planning coordinators ahead of the Republican National Convention set to begin Monday in Milwaukee. We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kind  that is not who we are as Americans, Evers said.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney General Merrick Garland said the Justice Department "will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Garland said in a statement. We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy."

___

Associated Press writers Del Quentin Wilber, Colleen Long and Zeke Miller in Washington contributed to this report.
As updates pour in following a violent attack against former President Donald Trump during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday evening  in which the side of his head was grazed, leaving him bloody but "fine," per those at the scene  several outlets have indicated that the suspected shooter has been killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

The news of the suspect's shooting comes via an update from The Washington Post, having obtained the intel from area law enforcement. The shooter was armed with an AR-style rifle, sources said.

Two people briefed on the matter used as sources by The New York Times say that at least one spectator at the rally was also killed during the event. New York Magazine is reporting that the suspect shooter responsible for both the death of the spectator, as well as the injuries caused to Trump, had been firing from a nearby rooftop.

"Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well," President Biden said in a statement, responding to the news of Trump's injuries. "Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."
(Bloomberg Government) -- A top House Republican is demanding answers from Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas on the Secret Services actions Saturday at the Pennsylvania rally where former President Donald Trump was shot.

Most Read from Bloomberg

Homeland Security Chairman Mark Green (R-Tenn.) on Sunday sent a letter, first obtained by Bloomberg Government, pledging rigorous oversight and asking Mayorkas for information on the perimeter security protocols at the site of the campaign rally and whether Trump had adequate protection from the Secret Service. Democratic Senate candidate Rep. Ruben Gallego (Ariz.) also sent a letter to the agency Sunday calling the event a security failure and demanding more information.

The statements add to growing calls for answers from members of Congress into whats now being investigated as the closest assassination attempt of a president or presidential candidate since that of President Ronald Reagan in 1981. The Secret Service is part of the Department of Homeland Security and is tasked with protecting former presidents and major candidates for the position.

Green plans to hold a hearing to investigate the shooting, including the Secret Services actions. The House Oversight and Accountability Committee has also announced plans for a hearing featuring Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle.

Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) also promised a full investigation into the shooting, and said Homeland officials, including Cheatle, would be called to testify.

The seriousness of this security failure and chilling moment in our nations history cannot be understated, Green wrote in the letter.

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi on Sunday disputed allegations from Trump supporters that a Trump representative requested additional security resources and was denied.

This is absolutely false. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo, he said on X.

Trump-aligned America First Legal sought records this weekend on how DHS handled any Trump campaign requests for increased security, citing unconfirmed reporting from right-wing media.

To contact the reporter on this story: Ellen M. Gilmer in Washington at egilmer@bloombergindustry.com

To contact the editors responsible for this story: Michaela Ross at mross@bgov.com; Angela Greiling Keane at agreilingkeane@bloombergindustry.com; John Hewitt Jones at jhewittjones@bloombergindustry.com

(Updates with additional reporting throughout.)

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
Just hours after Donald Trump narrowly escaped assassination, Secret Service agents and local police went into overdrive securing Trump Tower and the site of this weeks Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

Photos from both sites showed an influx of rifle-toting officers securing the facilities, with New York City Deputy Mayor Fabien Levy announcing security at Trump Tower was beefed up out of an abundance of cautionnot because of a particular threat.

Mayor Eric Adams added himself that he was surging officers to certain sites across the city, with Trump Tower undoubtedly among them.

A security worker helps put up a fence outside Fiserv Forum, where the RNC begins Monday. Getty

In Milwaukee, where more than 50,000 politicians, delegates, and media personnel will convene for the RNC starting Monday, there have been several perimeters and TSA bag scanners put in place that attendees must pass through before getting a glimpse at its stage.

No firearms will be permitted for attendees, and other security measures include K-rail barriers and metal barricades closing each block around Fiserv Arena in downtown. Fox News reported from the scene that police can be seen all over, with routine helicopter flyovers and heavily armed officers patrolling.

While securing the convention is surely quite the headache, organizers arent suffering from a lack of funding. Both national party conventions had their federal security budget boosted from $50 million in 2020 to $75 million each this summer.

Concrete blockades have been put in place on all blocks surrounding Fiserv Forum, where the RNC begins Monday. Scott Olson/Getty

Despite Saturdays tragedy, which left a rally attendee dead, the Republican National Committee indicated it had no plans to change its convention schedule. The injured Trump, who was briefly hospitalized for observation, is still expected to appear in person to receive his partys nomination a third time.

Its a trying time for the Secret Service, with scores of politicians, like Sen. Rick Scott (R-FL), calling for heads to roll at the agency after it failed to spot 20-year-old Thomas Crooks on a nearby roof before he opened fire and bloodied Trumps ear.

Ripping Though My Skin: Trump Speaks Out After Assassination Attempt

The assassination attempt on President Trump and murder of an innocent American demands immediate answers from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the U.S. Secret Service, said Scott, who added that its a miracle that Trump is still alive.

A bloodied Donald Trump raises his fist seconds after he was shot in the ear by a 20-year-old gunman. Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Trump, 78, hardly appeared fazed by his near-death experience, though he chillingly detailed in a statement that he felt the bullet ripping through the skin on his ear. Still bloodied, he was photographed with a fist raised as Secret Service rushed him off the Pennsylvania rally stage.

I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin, Trump posted to Truth Social on Sunday.

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See inside the $23 million Embraer Praetor 600, one of the most advanced midsize private jets on the market

The Embraer Praetor 600 is a $23 million super-midsize business jet.

Embraer calls it the most technogically advanced jet in its class.

See inside the $23 million aircraft that's fully fly-by-wire and has touchscreen cabin controls.

Brazilian firm Embraer is the third-biggest manufacturer of civil aircraft behind Airbus and Boeing.

It found its start focusing on military aircraft, before expanding into regional airliners and business jets.

This array of divisions and their history paved the way for technological developments which have made its business jets some of the most popular on the market.

In May, Business Insider toured an Embraer Praetor 600 at an aviation conference in Switzerland. The manufacturer extols it as the most technologically advanced jet in its class.

With features like full fly-by-wire controls and high-efficiency particulate air filters, here's what the $23.295 million jet is like.

The Embraer Praetor 600 is a super-midsize business jet, capable of flying over 4,600 miles and with a top speed of 536 mph.

The Praetor 600 is among the most-advanced midsize business jets on the market. JanValls/Urbanandsport/NurPhoto via Getty Images

Business Insider toured a Praetor 600 on display at EBACE, Europe's biggest business aviation conference, in Geneva.

The Praetor 600 was one of dozens of business jets on show at EBACE. Pete Syme/Business Insider

In the flight deck, you can see the sidesticks that control the fly-by-wire technology, which Embraer initially developed for its military aircraft.

The flight deck of the Praetor 600 includes sidesticks for the flight crew to control the jet. Pete Syme/Business Insider

Instead of mechanical flight controls, fly-by-wire uses computer-controlled systems to process the pilots' input. It means better fuel efficiency as there are fewer parts and lighter wires, plus simpler maintenance.

Embraer's Phenom 300 also uses some fly-by-wire technology, but the Praetor 600 is fully fly-by-wire  the only super-midsize business jet to be so.

Another interesting tech feature can be seen on the nose, the enhanced flight vision system, which helps pilots land in low-visibility conditions.

The enhanced flight vision system is built into the Praetor's nose. Pete Syme/Business Insider

Inside, there's a relatively spacious galley that includes a sink ...

The galley also included candy, flowers, and some documentation detailing specs for the Praetor 600. Pete Syme/Business Insider

... plus an oven, microwave, and fridge.

The galley has everything you need for your flight. Pete Syme/Business Insider

The 6-foot tall cabin has room for nine passengers, plus a HEPA filtration system.

In some smaller jets, most adults can't stand fully upright, but that's not a problem in the Praetor 600. Pete Syme/Business Insider

The cabin is also pressurized to an altitude of 5,800 feet, helping ease the effects of jet lag.

Some of the ceiling panels store oxygen masks in case of emergency. Attached with electromagnets, they appear flush with the interior.

Saving space is paramount on a smaller plane like the Praetor 600. Pete Syme/Business Insider

And next to the air vents, there are small touchscreens showing information about the flight.

Information such as how long remains of the flight is displayed on the screen. Pete Syme/Business Insider

There were actually several touchscreens, like this control panel tucked away in a stowage area.

Things like lighting can be controlled by the screens. Pete Syme/Business Insider

All the seats face opposite another one, with a table that pops out from the ledge ...

Face-to-face seats make for easier conversations between passengers. Pete Syme/Business Insider

... As seen here, set up for a meal.

The Praetor 600's seat setup allows for an intimate dining experience. Pete Syme/Business Insider

Plus there's the three-seater divan that can be used as a bed.

With the Praetor 600 able to undertake flights of seven hours or more, a comfortable place to sleep is an essential. Pete Syme/Business Insider

At about 55 dB, the Praetor 600 has one of the quietest cabins on the market. That's aided by the absence of an emergency exit behind the divan, where noise could come through the moldings.

Above the divan and at the front of the cabin were small TVs that displayed flight information.

The Praetor 600's screens allow passengers to track the progress of their flight. Pete Syme/Business Insider

And in the aft, there's a compact bathroom.

Journeys on the Praetor 600 can be up to 4,620 miles, so a bathroom is essential. Pete Syme/Business Insider

The toilet can also be used as a seat, and drawers under the sink provide extra storage space.

A small door in the bathroom means passengers can access a stowage area midflight.

Getting to your bag mid-flight can be very useful indeed. Pete Syme/Business Insider

UPDATE: This story previously stated that the Embraer Praetor 600 costs $21 million. The current price is $23.295 million.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Arkansas Sen. Tom Cotton said that he's grateful for Secret Service and law enforcement present yesterday after former president Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt on Saturday. He said the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin will be secure as the GOP gathers to nominate the 45th president for a second term in office.

"I look forward to speaking on behalf of President Trump," Cotton said Sunday morning, on CBS' "Face the Nation."

"I encourage all the delegates and everyone else who is going to the convention to go there with confidence that it will be, frankly, maybe the safest place in America over the next week."

More: Trump wounded at rally in assassination attempt; gunman killed

Cotton said he spoke to Trump Sunday morning and expressed condolences as well to the family of the man who was killed by the shooter.

"I had a chance to speak to President Trump this morning," Cotton said. "He's doing well. He's in good spirits, he's very grateful for the prayers that Americans have sent to him and all of those who were affected at the rally."

Cotton sits on the Senate intelligence and Judiciary Committees. He said he thinks "it's important that we not jump to any conclusions about the shooter" and "let investigators fully develop this situation" before conclusions are drawn. "I think it's fair to say there was a lapse in the planning for the security at this event," he said and that there should be an investigation in how the shooter was able to get that close to Trump.

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, R-Kentucky, posted on X Saturday night "violence has no place in our politics."

Cotton said that he agreed with the sentiment. "Unfortunately, we've seen a few instances of violence in recent years," he said, "robust strong campaigns, contrasting ideal between candidates and parties, of course, is essential to American democracy, but we settle those differences through political debates and through elections. We don't settle them through violence."

The shooter, identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Pennsylvanian Thomas Matthew Cooks, who was registered as a Republican and was in active voting status, according to the database service LexisNexis.

Victor Hagan is the Alabama Election Reporting Fellow for the USA TODAY Network. He can be reached at vhagan@gannett.com or on X @TheVictorHagan. To support his work, subscribe to the Advertiser.

This article originally appeared on Montgomery Advertiser: Sen. Tom Cotton says RNC will be the 'safest place in America'
Subway as a corporation is no stranger to controversy. Once the largest fast food chain in the world, the company has attracted plenty of negative headlines before. There was the time Subway had to make sure its footlongs were actually 12 inches in response to customer outcry, not to mention that its franchising practices are regarded by some as exploitative enough that they led to an entire main segment on "Last Week Tonight." This isn't even getting into product quality, where employees at Subway insist there are plenty of things you shouldn't order.

But perhaps no negative headline about Subway's offerings has ever been more comical than when an entire country decided its bread could not legally be considered bread. In 2020, the Republic of Ireland's Supreme Court declared that because of its sugar content, Subway bread is not bread, thanks to a 1972 law, labeling it more similar to cake. This actually had significant tax implications for the company.

Read more: 7 Butter Brands You Should Buy, And 7 You Shouldn't

The Ruling Specifically Applies To Tax Issues

Subway storefront sign - Iryna Tolmachova/Shutterstock

Without getting too far into the regulatory weeds, the takeaway here is that Ireland's Value-Added Tax Act of 1972 allows certain items to attain tax-exempt status, meaning they're not subject to additional financial burdens (in this case, a 13.5% tax). One of these is bread, which is marked under the law as a "staple food." The problem for Subway is that the VAT Act declares tax-exempt bread can't have more than 2% of its flour weight consists of sugars, fats, or other ingredients designed to artificially enhance the end product. Subway's bread blows well past that mark in terms of sugar, which makes up a whopping 10% of its flour weight. As a result, the Irish Supreme Court ruled in late 2020 that Subway bread couldn't be called bread for tax purposes.

Subway was less than pleased about this ruling, telling the BBC at the time that "Subway's bread is, of course, bread." Since the ruling was handed down by the Supreme Court, though, there was nowhere for them to go with it. To this day, Subway bread is not legally considered bread in the Republic of Ireland.

Subway Has Had PR Issues Surrounding Questionable Bread Before

yoga mats being rolled up - Drazen Zigic/Getty Images

This, of course, isn't the only time Subway has gotten into hot water over their bread, nor is Ireland the only country where the company has faced skepticism regarding its quality. In 2014, blogger Vani Hari (also known as "FoodBabe"), brought attention to the fact Subway's bread contained a chemical known as azodicarbonamide -- one also present in products like shoe soles and yoga mats. Used as a dough conditioner and flour bleaching agent, the FDA considers azodicarbonamide safe, but it's banned in the U.K. and European Union.

Whether or not it's safe, though, the company was not a fan of the negative publicity associated with having yoga mat ingredients in its food, so Subway quickly removed the chemical from its bread. The entire episode wasn't entirely fair to Subway; the company was hardly the only one using azodicarbonamide, as 500 foods contained it, making it one of the more questionable ingredients broadly hiding out in fast food. Other chains like McDonald's, Chick-fil-A, and Wendy's also got rid of it in their products in response to the heat heading Subway's direction.

Read the original article on The Daily Meal.
(KRON)  The San Francisco Fire Department rescued a person and their dogs from a steep cliff at Fort Funston on Saturday afternoon. SFFD personnel rescued one dog and its owner earlier and later succeeded in bringing two additional dogs up from the cliffside.

Man charged for robbing three Oakland fast food chains in one hour: DA

Fire crews arrived at the scene at approximately 6 p.m. They reported seeing a human and a set of dogs trapped on the cliffside.

Approximately 30 minutes later, SFFD rescued the trapped person and their dog. Photos show a man and his dog getting harnessed from the cliff (pictured below).

Image

According to fire officials, two of the dogs trapped on the cliffside were not wearing any leashes.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
 Thunderstorms will rumble from the Ohio Valley to the Northeast on Tuesday before becoming more confined to the East by Wednesday.

 In the wake of the storms, much cooler and less humid air will move into the Midwest, Great Lakes and Northeast.

 The cold front responsible for the storms and cooler air will stall in the Southeast late this week.

The likelihood of thunderstorms, some packing severe weather, will expand from the Ohio Valley to the Northeast on Tuesday, before departing from west to east from Wednesday to Thursday. The storms will be locally damaging and disruptive, AccuWeather meteorologists warn.

Storms erupted Monday afternoon across Iowa before charging across Illinois, Indiana and Michigan generating over 300 storm reports and leaving behind a swath of power outages. As the system rolled through Chicago a wind gust of 75 mph was reported at the O'Hare airport.

As AccuWeather meteorologists mentioned last week for the particular weather pattern, there was the potential for a long-lived severe thunderstorm complex packing high wind gusts. This complex covered a distance of more than 400 miles, generating hundreds of reports of consistent high winds or wind damage incidents, which qualifies as a derecho by the National Weather Service definition.

Cooler and drier air will arrive in the wake of the cold front Tuesday, finally ending the threat of thunderstorms across the Midwest. However, the hot and humid air and the east-advancing cold front will continue the severe thunderstorm risk farther to the south and east.

"The strongest storms will be from southern Illinois to southeastern Ohio, where storms will be capable of producing flooding downpours, damaging wind gusts and hail," outlined AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Tyler Roys.

Another pocket with more extensive coverage of severe weather will exist over much of New York on Tuesday. In this zone, there can also be an isolated tornado or two.

Outside of these zones, there will still be some risk of severe weather.

Regarding the heat, the exact timing of thunderstorms will impact high temperatures. Roys mentioned that places like St. Louis, Pittsburgh and Scranton, Pennsylvania, and Albany, New York, may run a bit lower than forecast if any thunderstorms occur in those locations before the late afternoon.

The Midwest will catch a break by Wednesday as the cold front moves to the East Coast.

"The cold front moving into a very hot and very muggy air mass in the northern Tennessee Valley and into the Northeast and mid-Atlantic will lead to explosive thunderstorm development," explained Roys.

AccuWeather experts are honing in on a zone from southern Maine to northern Virginia for the highest potential for severe weather at midweek. A large zone outside of that, stretching as far west as eastern Oklahoma and as far south as South Carolina, will have some risk for severe weather Wednesday.

"This time, the big cities from Washington, D.C., to Boston are likely to have storms during the afternoon commute or in the early evening hours, snarling travel for those driving home," said Roys.

In the wake of the front, widespread lower humidity and temperatures below the historical average will grace the Midwest, Great Lakes and interior Northeast Wednesday into Thursday. Just how far the front advances will affect the degree of air mass change along the East coast. Even there, cooler and less humid air should arrive by Thursday night and Friday.

"It may take an extra day [Thursday] for showers and thunderstorms to depart coastal areas of New England and the mid-Atlantic, as the front's forward speed may slow down," AccuWeather Senior Meteorologist Alex Sosnowski said, "This may delay the humidity drop until Thursday evening for these same areas."

As is typical in the summer, the cold front will eventually slow down and stall as it moves into the Southeast. This will set up a zone of potential downpours. This could cause instances of flooding, but much of the region is also in a drought. Therefore, the rain will largely be beneficial in the grand scheme of things.

The risk of severe thunderstorms will be lower late this week, but locally gusty storms are possible from Georgia through the Carolinas on Thursday. AccuWeather meteorologists will continue to monitor this potential throughout the week, but the main hazard is likely to be heavy rain.
By Lisa Richwine

LOS ANGELES (Reuters) - American actor Shannen Doherty, best known for her role as high school student Brenda Walsh on hit 1990s television drama "Beverly Hills, 90210," has died at age 53 following a years-long battle with cancer.

Doherty, who had been public about her treatment for breast cancer, died on Saturday, publicist Leslie Sloane said in a statement on Sunday.

"The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie," Sloane said in the statement. "The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace."

Doherty disclosed in 2015 that she was undergoing treatment for the disease. In 2023, she had a brain tumor removed and revealed that the cancer had spread to her bones.

The actor, who had previously starred in the movie "Heathers," gained widespread popularity on "90210" for her portrayal of Brenda, an honor roll student from Minnesota who struggled to fit in with her classmates in the wealthy zip code.

Her character on the show became entwined in a love triangle with Dylan McKay (Luke Perry) and Kelly Taylor (Jennie Garth). In real life, Doherty clashed with Garth and other castmates and left "90210" during its fourth season in 1994. The show continued through 2000 without her.

In 1998, "90210" producer Aaron Spelling cast Doherty in supernatural series "Charmed" as Prue Halliwell, the oldest of three sisters with magical abilities. The show was a hit but also subject to reports of behind-the-scenes turmoil.

People magazine called Doherty "the iconic 'bad girl' of the nineties," citing her reputation for partying, turning up late on sets and feuding with actors - and her bosses.

In 2023, on a podcast called "Let's Be Clear with Shannen Doherty," the actor said she took "full responsibility for her actions" and acknowledged her behavior "would get a little carried away" when she was frequenting nightclubs in her early 20s.

She also said she spoke up more than other women working in television at the time, telling Spelling and others when she thought a script needed improvement.

"I was raised to have an opinion, and that my opinion should be valued, so I just kept on pressing up against that machine, up against men who didn't really want to hear my opinion," she said on the podcast.

Later, "I learned the simple art of diplomacy. I learned that there might be a nicer way to say some things," she said.

The actor reprised the role of Brenda for "90210" reboots in 2008 and 2019 and said she and Garth had reconciled after the two became adults and left their teenage conflicts behind.

Doherty's co-stars paid tribute to her on Sunday.

"She was a force of nature and I will miss her," Jason Priestley, who played Doherty's brother on "90210," said on Instagram. "Sending love and light to her family in this dark time."

"Charmed" actor Rose McGowan said Doherty "had the heart of a lion."

"My head bows to this warrior on her journey home," McGowan wrote on X.

Doherty was born in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 12, 1971, and began acting as a child. At age 11, she played Jenny Wilder in the final season of TV classic "Little House on the Prairie."

In 1988, Doherty was cast in the dark comedy film "Heathers," which went on to become a cult classic.

Doherty was married three times, most recently to photographer Kurt Iswarienko. She filed for divorce from him in 2023.

(This story has been corrected to fix the spelling of Sloane in paragraph 3 and to add "actor" to paragraphs 5 and 16)

(Reporting by Lisa Richwine; Editing by Mary Milliken, Rosalba O'Brien, Hugh Lawson and Diane Craft)
"It is always easy to say 'Ukraine will prevail,' though it is tough to make it happen. I see this with my own eyes every day, and I know how many of my brothers-in-arms and sisters-in-arms who are fighting for this statehood are no longer with us and never will be again. When they say heroes don't die, unfortunately, they do," says Nelli Chorba, who goes by the alias Monkey.

For Nelli, 22, a senior mortar battery gunner and mortar commander, theatre was her life until 24 February. It was full of intense rehearsals and university studies. After the beginning of Russias full-scale invasion of Ukraine, the only "stage" for her was the war zone, although everything is real there.

Before joining the Ukrainian army, she studied at the Kyiv National I. K. Karpenko-Kary Theatre, Cinema, and Television University. She dreamed of performing at Kyiv's Drama and Comedy Theatre on the Left Bank and did not even consider a military career when, suddenly, February 2022 changed her whole life.

Already a member of Ukraines Territorial Defence Forces, Nelli managed to get her first role and play in the narrative film Ukrainian War Stories. This is an anthology of films based on real events and shot in places of combat operations with the participation of active-duty military personnel.

After that, Nelli spent more than six months on the Soledar front in Ukraine's east, defending the northern Bakhmut district.

During this time, she managed to return to the capital for only ten days to graduate from the university, where she received a diploma as a theatre and film actress. From there, she was already rushing headlong to Sloviansk, ahead of the deadline, to her brothers-in-arms and sisters-in-arms, where her heart called her. And the ten-day visit to Kyiv, as Nelli said, remained "a fabulous, fun dream."

Stories about acting, firing a mortar, challenges with the strikes of Russian aircraft and endurance in this war through the eyes of Nelli "Monkey" Chorba come up next in the article by Ukrainska Pravda.Zhyttia.

At 22, Nelli is already the senior gunner of a mortar battery

Photo: Nelli Chorba

"From morning till night, I cooked food and made tea, sandwiches and salads all the time. I was just dealing with the kitchen"

On 24 February 2022, Nelli did not sleep well and fell asleep in the early morning because she was as busy as a beaver working on her graduation performance on the eve of a large-scale war. That morning, it wasn't the explosions that she woke up to.

"It was my third year as a student when it all started. We were just working on our diploma thesis. And three or four days after February 24, I already became a volunteer in the 207th Battalion. At that moment, I knew that no one else would take me for any other position, and I was convinced that I would help as much as I could with my hands, whether it was about feeding people or making tea; I was ready to do that," says Monkey.

On the first day of their stay at the battalion headquarters, together with a friend, they replaced two girls who had continuously fed the soldiers for four days  two companies, reconnaissance groups, and a combat unit.

"They take us there, everyone is staring at us, and Dasha and I are like two children, like monkeys.

From morning till night, I cooked food and made tea, sandwiches and salads all the time. I was just dealing with the kitchen," Nelli recalls working at the volunteer headquarters.

Before becoming part of the Ukrainian army, Nelli studied at the Kyivs Theatre, Cinema and Television University

Photo: Nelli Chorba

"Liutyi" in March, figures for humanities scholars and shooting

Monkey plunges into memories:

"I was so focused on what was happening in the country and on the outskirts of Kyiv, that I absolutely did not intend to start a relationship on the line of contact, but things turned out differently. It just so happened that a soldier from a reconnaissance group whom I had not met before, all geared up and with ammunition hanging all over him and who goes by the alias Liutyi (Fierce or February), noticed me. Then this alias seemed boring and funny because it all started in February. But it turned out that he got it back in 2014," Nelli laughs.

Nelli's battalion was transferred to Kyiv Oblast in March 2022. Before that, the permanent deployment point was in the city of Kyiv. Then, Monkey was offered to take the oath and serve officially as a soldier. However, she ended up in a logistics platoon.

"While I was making sandwiches there and going out for smoke breaks, I knew that I wanted to be a part of this story; I didn't want to be a volunteer who would go back to normal life because life would never be normal again," Nelli adds.

The elated lady, whose military story did not end with cooking, left with her battalion for Kyiv Oblast and headed the food service.

"I was faced with the mathematical dilemma of calculating how much sugar, potatoes and pasta everyone needs. This went on day and night. I asked myself then whether I was a warrior. I took the oath to defend the motherland, and here I was, sitting with papers in some school and counting all this. Where was the result of my work? I tried to transfer to a combat company," she said.

Nelli's war story began with cooking, as she says, but she did not want to stop there

Photo: Nelli Chorba

Nelli wanted to be a shooter, and training with other soldiers would be useful for this purpose.

The following weeks passed like this: she cooked from morning till night in one company, and then she was on duty every other day, guarding a certain section of the border. At that time, she said, there were six girls in the company. Time passed, and the scene of combat actions in connection with the counteroffensive of Ukrainian troops during the autumn of 2022 shifted to the south and east, where the Armed Forces needed help the most.

"Since we were a unit of the Territorial Defence Forces based in Kyiv Oblast, we were in Kyiv Oblast until the last moment, but with the following months, it became clear that sooner or later we would go to Mykolaiv Oblast or the east," Nelli says.

"We've all been disbanded here, now we're mortarmen, okay?"

On the eve of leaving for the east, several companies of the Kyiv-based Territorial Defence Forces units were disbanded. At that time, some of the soldiers were able to negotiate a transfer with the commanders of other companies. The question of future service in the Armed Forces and the type of military activity also arose for Monkey, who was still in her battalion.

"At that moment, 20-year-old soldiers and I remained there. We trusted each other on an incredible level and couldn't split up, especially our group of five people," Nelli says.

Then, the long-awaited phone call from Nelli's brother-in-arms rang. A soldier from a mortar battery who went by the alias Spartak gladly agreed to accept all five of them to his unit.

"Spartak, look, I'm giving you five surnames, ranks, positions and first names. If you take all five of us and arrange the transfer with the battery commander, I guarantee you that it will be a good choice. Later, I saw a mortar for the first time in my life," Monkey confesses.

After approval from the battalion commander and the company commander, the soldiers began training as mortar operators in February 2023. The new experience became a discovery for Nelli, it seemed like something incredible to her.

Nelli began her mortar training in February 2023

Photo: Nelli Chorba

"There are so many features here. While everything is clear and simple with an assault rifle, here you have a magnetic compass, mathematics, you have to find the arithmetic mean, and use a miners compass (a device used to orient guns, measure distance, and mark targets  ed.). When I thought that a mortarwoman was a good and safe option, I could not imagine how complicated the process was," she admits.

Nelli enjoyed the support of her beloved Lituy during the most difficult moments of training. He headed directly to the headquarters after leaving the hospital with his injury and filed a report saying that he did not need any treatment. He wanted to go to the east with Nellis group of five soldiers.

"There were people who wrote [reports  ed.] that they didn't want to go to the east because they had problems with their backs and legs, etc. Liutyi did the opposite; he went with us to the line of contact despite his arm being bandaged and several fingers not functioning. He wouldn't have had it any other way. How could he have let me go to the east without him? Everything was different here, it was a completely new story for me," Nelli says.

Lastly, there was a heartbreaking farewell to her mother.

"She was standing in the middle of the street, looking at me as I got into the car and watching me with a weeping look, holding a glass of unfinished coffee. There were civilians around, healthy and strong, all going about their daily routines. On 11 March, we were already in Sviatohirsk, in the east," Nelli recalls.

"Everything here changes 10 times a day, so you have to be ready to change your brother-in-arms at any moment"

Despite the general anxiety typical for military duty, Monkey was determined when she went to her position for the first time.

"At first, I took up a 120mm mortar, and performed the tasks I could: I passed the numbers to the mortar from the person who calculated and targeted the enemy, I put gunpowder on the mines  it was necessary to make the mine fly faster, and the additional gunpowder charge increased the maximum range. I also screwed in artillery fuzes  all this increases the chances of hitting the enemy," Nelli says.

Nelli spent the next months in this work routine: five days on combat positions and five days of rest at the permanent deployment point, where the situation was equally tense sometimes.

Nelli and her fellow soldiers approach combat missions with enthusiasm

Photo: Nelli Chorba

"Afterwards, I became a mortar commander, and then I was deployed with my brothers-in-arms Lucky and Liutyi to the position of the 82-mm mortar. It was closer to the occupiers because it was a smaller calibre. We drove an MT-LB (multi-purpose, lightly armoured towing vehicle) to the position because it was the only vehicle that could drive through the mud. In addition to mines and mortars, we also had our personal belongings and water, as we were supposed to be there for 10 days. These emotions are impossible to describe, as you realise that you could be killed anytime because of the loud movement of this iron thing," says Monkey.

She preferred to imagine her military routine as a "cool adventure" to take her mind off things.

"Lucky and Liutyi had no such optimism, while I was singing a song to myself, though only I could hear it, and I thought that I could not die without a smile on my face. So if anything were to happen on the way, I would pass away with a smile on my face," Nelli smiles.

Nelli recalls that none of the MT-LB's military crew knew the right way to the position, with their only guidance being the landscape and scorched patches of land.

"The guys shouted to Motor (the drivers alias  ed.): 'Drive a little further, and we will decide what to do.' We drove for three or four minutes, and the guys saw a broken UAZ-452 vehicle in the middle of the forest belt where the position was located. By and by, we reached our destination. We had to quickly take out the boxes with ammunition, it was terribly uncomfortable. It was a unique experience: when you arrive, you start laying out the mortar, the miners compass and the Starlink. You are busy all the time, but you are happy about being alive every second, and it was so nice to realise that," Nelli says.

"I used to blame myself for being afraid"

Monkey shares her memories of working on some positions with hesitation. One of the most traumatic episodes was the work of mortar operators during a Russian aircraft attack.

"I had never been in this position before, but I was told that we had to be careful and especially attentive, and never let our guard down because of the Russians active work there. We drove up to a specific point and took out all our belongings, backpacks and water.

We were met by the guy whom we were supposed to replace, and he showed us the way. We started to walk towards the crossing and heard an alarming sound. Everyone thought it was an aircraft, but we just sped up our pace. A few seconds later, the aircraft fired nearby. I have to say that I was not afraid, but I saw fear in the eyes of our brother-in-arms. This look made my knees start to buckle. When the aircraft fired for the second time, we fell to the ground," Nelli recalls.

Nelli decided to speak to the battalion psychologist after returning from the position, as she had gone through a traumatic experience.

"We used to have a psychologist in our battalion, but then it turned out that battalions didn't need such a person and there was no such position on the personnel list, so the psychologist was removed," she shrugs.

"But the issues remained the same, and I asked him at my most difficult moment when I was completely overwhelmed," Nelli adds.

The psychologist helped Monkey go back to military action and overcome the fear she had been blaming herself for after going to that fateful position.

Nelli with her brothers-in-arms

Photo: Nelli Chorba

"Anarchy"

Nelli will remember her 10 days at the position called Anarchy for a long time.

"After those days, I realised that I could do much more than I thought, I could be a mortar crew commander and I succeeded," she admits.

A Smerch MLRS was firing at our positions in those days, and every time one heard the sound of a projectile fired and a pile of earth raised in the air, the soldiers were happy to realise that they were alive.

Back then, the mortar crew's fire was adjusted by a fellow soldier who was flying a drone and went by the alias Paton. After several days of work, he stated: "Guys, on certain days, you worked better and more accurately than the experienced mortar operators."

Nelly has no regrets about leaving the theatre stage and acting beyond it

Photo: Nelli Chorba

Nelly admits that she has no regrets about her decision to leave the theatre stage and act beyond it. Moreover, the challenge of being under fire at the Anarchy position contributed to her confidence.

"And then I realised: I'm 22, I'm a girl, I'm still quite young, but I do it well. I'm not ashamed and I'm not afraid," Nelli summed up.

Anton Ishchuk, special for UP. Zhyttia.

Translation: Yuliia Kravchenko and Violetta Yurkiv

Editing: Myroslava Zavadska and Ivan Zhezhera
(Bloomberg) -- Alongside the shock and outrage expressed at the attempt on Donald Trumps life, another message ran through the many statements by world leaders: that something has to change.

Most Read from Bloomberg

From Abraham Lincoln to Shinzo Abe, political assassinations are nothing new: The 1960s in the US alone saw the slayings of two Kennedys, civil rights champion Martin Luther King and Black activist Malcolm X. But theres also no denying that the rising polarization witnessed globally today is reaching its ultimate conclusion in the form of acts of violence.

Several leaders warned that Saturdays shooting in Pennsylvania represented a wider problem facing democracies around the globe. Extreme rhetoric amplified by social media is increasingly leading to real-world attacks.

Its a phenomenon thats not unique to the United States, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese told reporters on Sunday. We must lower the temperature of debate. There is nothing to be served by some of the escalation of rhetoric that we see in some of our political debate, political discourse in the democratic world.

The troubles of western-style democracy, with the US a glaring example, is a point often made by the Communist authorities in China.

Asia in particular has seen a raft of violence against political leaders in recent years, most evident in the killing of Abe, Japans former prime minister, in July 2022. Even though Japan has strict gun-control laws, an assailant used a home-made weapon to shoot Abe twice at a campaign event, targeting the high-profile leader due to his links to a church that the suspect said bankrupted his family by asking for excessive donations.

A few months later, former Pakistan leader Imran Khan was shot in the leg at a public event, an attack that he blamed on his political opponents. Then in January of this year, South Korean opposition leader Lee Jae-myung was stabbed in the neck at a public appearance. The perpetrator was sentenced to 15 years in prison for the attack on Lee, who is considered a leading candidate ahead of the next presidential vote in 2027.

In Latin America, Ecuadorian presidential candidate Fernando Villavicencio was shot dead while leaving a campaign rally in August last year. His running mate, Andrea Gonzalez, is now standing for the February election in his place.

Were a generation that values liberty, the freedom to step into the street without being shot, she said in a recent interview.

Brazil meanwhile witnessed its own version of the Jan. 6 US Capitol riot in January 2023, when supporters of defeated President Jair Bolsonaro rampaged through the capital, Brasilia, despoiling the presidential palace and other national institutions in protest at Luiz Inacio Lula da Silvas election victory.

In Europe, too, the stain of violence has seeped into an increasingly embittered politics as the nationalist right makes inroads from France to Finland.

In Slovakia, Prime Minister Robert Fico, himself a polarizing political figure, was shot in an attempted assassination in May. In his response to the attempt on Trump, the countrys president, Peter Pellegrini, warned of the escalation of political violence around the world, saying that politics should be decided in the polling stations and not by shooting on the streets.

Violence must be condemned in the strongest terms and justice delivered, Pellegrini said, so that people dont lose confidence in democracy and democratic state institutions and dont start to take justice into their own hands.

Its hard to know whether anyone is listening to such pleas. The shock of the moment is certainly raw, but political ambition has its own momentum.

Polands President Andrzej Duda, a Trump ally, described the assassination attempt as a shocking moment for the world, while his political nemesis, Prime Minister Donald Tusk, said that violence is never the answer to political differences. I am sure this is one thing we can all agree on, Tusk added.

Its also probably too soon to say what this means for Trumps efforts to recapture the White House, although gamblers already see the shooting as bolstering his chances, with bets on a Trump victory in November surging.

What is clear is that the image of a defiant candidate, bloodied yet unbowed, is a potent contrast to the hesitant and at times apparently confused Joe Biden, whose age has become the defining factor of his campaign for a second term.

In their reactions, some leaders echoed the Trump camps defiance after the shooting, likening the US incident to their domestic political situation. Geert Wilders, the anti-immigration leader of the largest governing party in the Netherlands, was among the most pointed.

What happened in the US can also happen in the Netherlands, he posted on X. Dont underestimate it. While Wilders didnt mention specific incidents, he may have been referring to Pim Fortuyn, the libertarian, anti-Islam politician who was assassinated by a left-wing radical in 2002.

The hatred targeting right-wing politicians is unprecedented, said Wilders. The hate rhetoric from many leftish politicians and media, who label right-wing politicians as racists and Nazis is not without consequences. They are playing with fire.

Italys Giorgia Meloni, who at one time had courted Trump, knows a thing or two about political violence in her own country, which in the 1970s saw a crippling wave of far-left and far-right terrorism. The killing of anti-mafia judge Paolo Borsellino three decades ago was seen as a turning point in Italian politics - except it led to the rise of Silvio Berlusconi, who is seen as an early blue-print for Trump.

In political debate, all over the world, there are limits that should never be crossed, she said on X. It is a warning to everyone, regardless of political affiliation, to restore dignity and honor to politics, against all forms of hatred and violence, and for the good of our democracies.

Among the most polarizing political events of recent times was witnessed in the UK over the countrys membership in the European Union. The shock decision to quit the EU in the Brexit referendum of June 2016 went against prevailing economic and political logic and was a defining moment of voter defiance that presaged Trumps victory later that same year.

One week before the referendum, pro-European Labour Member of Parliament Jo Cox was shot and stabbed to death in her district by a far-right assailant. Coxs sister, Kim Leadbeater, now also a Labour lawmaker, made among the most personal contributions to the debate about a way forward, telling the BBC on Sunday that not enough had been done to counter political violence.

Violence, threats, abuse and intimidation have a deeply worrying impact on our democracy, she said. We have got to have that conversation about what a civilized democracy looks like. Ive been having it since Jo was killed. I sadly feel that were not making huge amounts of progress.

--With assistance from Alex Wickham, Daniel Ten Kate, Cagan Koc, Ben Westcott, Andrea Dudik, Natalia Ojewska, Amy Bainbridge and Flavia Rotondi.

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In the weeks after 9/11 almost 23 years ago, America experienced a rare unity where partisan differences evaporated in a shared sense of mourning and outrage. A similar solidarity was felt early in the COVID-19 pandemic, when for a few weeks, the country felt like it was facing an unknown threat together.

Last nights shocking attack on former President Donald Trump has created a similar unifying moment as a nation where partisan hostilities were momentarily paused as leaders of many backgrounds expressed shared concern and condemnation at a common threat.

Diverse leaders respond to the shooting

Immediate statements were issued not only by Republican leaders, but also by a string of prominent Democrats, including Rep. Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., who said in part, My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump, and President Joe Biden, who said, Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally.

Liz Cheney, a vocal Republican critic of Trump, stated that people should pray for the former president and all those injured, adding that violence of any kind has no place in American politics.

In remarks soon after the event, Biden twice called the former president by his first name, and spoke of wanting to get him on the phone: I have tried to get a hold of Donald. Hes with his doctors. Apparently, he is doing well. The president did later speak with the former president.

Biden calls for a pause on proactive campaign communication across all platforms

The Biden campaign announced it would pull down television ads as quickly as possible, and emailed staffers asking them to refrain from issuing any comments on social media or in public and pause any proactive campaign communication across all platforms and in all circumstances until more information came to light.

Utah Sen. Mike Lee and Ambassador Robert OBrien, former U.S. national security adviser during Trumps administration, released a joint statement calling for the country to take the political temperature down and asking Biden to immediately order that all federal criminal charges against President Trump be dropped, and to ask the governors of New York and Georgia to do the same.

1/3 Statement by U.S. Senator Mike Lee (@basedmikelee) and Ambassador Robert OBrien, former U.S. National Security Advisor on todays events in Pennsylvania.



Salt Lake City, Utah.  Robert C. O'Brien (@robertcobrien) July 14, 2024

Such a gesture would help heal wounds and allow all Americans to take a deep breath and reflect on how we got here, they said.

Back in May, Sen. Mitt Romney also suggested Biden should have pardoned Trump and press New York prosecutors not to pursue Trumps trial after the Justice Department brought indictments against the former president.

While its not clear whether Bidens administration would take such a step, his words the night of the event were a clear plea to the nation: Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Everybody must condemn it.

Trump calls for Americans to stand United

In his own statement, Trump himself said in part, In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans.

A campaign rally site for Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is empty and littered with debris, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. | Evan Vucci

To see the former president bloodied was upsetting to many across the political spectrum, including those not supporting his campaign to return to the White House.

Reaching for higher unity

And there were glimpses of higher unity at the rally itself, as one woman attending the rally reported, Everybody stood together and everybody screamed out the Fathers prayer and everybody prayed together. That was amazing. That was something that was beautiful.

Unfortunately, some rallygoers started to menace journalists soon after the shooting according to NPR  causing some reporters to fear for their safety. The National Press Club issued a statement earlier that day, calling for speakers at the GOP convention to refrain from language that could inflame those in the streets against journalists.

This sense of unity will undoubtedly be short-lived for many. Within hours, some were insisting Bidens statement from Monday that its time to put Trump in a bullseye somehow played a role, with Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, asserting that Democratic rhetoric had led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Deescalating the division

Yet even when partisan hostilities sweep back to surround us all, theres something important to be learned from this pause. If nothing else, its a reminder that its possible to do something different. Weve actually got it in us as a people!

A number of faith and political leaders encouraged the nation to use this moment as a chance to rethink the direction the country is going. Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, called for an end to political violence, which is never a solution to political disagreements. We ask all people of goodwill to join us in praying for peace in our country.

At a time like this we are not Democrats or Republicans, said the Rev. Jack Graham. We are Americans praying against the evil works of darkness. The Rev. Adam Phillips likewise called on Americans of both parties and of no particular party  to deescalate that which divides us.

Although its been 33 years since an attempt was made on the life of a president (1981 against Ronald Reagan), America has seen a steady uptick in acts of politically-motivated violence over the last decade, including attacks on Democratic Rep. Gabby Giffords (2011 in Tucson), Republican Rep. Steve Scalise and five others at a Congressional baseball game (2017 in Virginia), security forces at the U.S. Capitol (2021 in Washington D.C.), and Rep. Nancy Pelosis husband (2022 in San Francisco)  along with ongoing threats on the lives of Supreme Court justices and a striking increase in threats against federal judges across the nation.

People hug after Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump was helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. | Gene J. Puskar

An opportunity to recommit

After last nights attack, former President Barack Obama called for Americans to use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics, adding that Michelle and I are wishing (former President Trump) a quick recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.  Barack Obama (@BarackObama) July 13, 2024

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, stated Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent presidential candidate whose father was assassinated while campaigning for president.

This attack can turn into a moment of healing and unity for the country if Americans realize what is at stake, suggested Republican Sen. Ron Johnson on CNN Sunday morning.

I think the greatest threat to America right now is the fact that were horribly divided, the Wisconsin leader said  emphasizing that Republicans love America, and Democrats do too.

Thats a good place to start the healing and unification of this country. We need to understand that about each other.

An automobile dealership sign displays a message for the victims of the apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump, Sunday, July 14, 2024, in Seffner, Fla. | Phelan M. Ebenhack

A time for sober self-reflection

It is up to all Americans now to make sure the violence ends in Butler, Pennsylvania, the Deseret News Editorial Board declared yesterday  calling for sober self-reflection and urging all Americans to pray for our better angels to emerge, while resisting the temptation to answer violence with violence and to answer anger with anger.

We cannot be like this, Biden reiterated. Look, there is no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick, its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening.

A central lesson of 9/11, Biden said on the 20th anniversary the terrorist attacks, was that unity is our greatest strength and what makes us who we are  America at its best.

May we hold on to the same lesson after last nights assassination attempt. And lets not forget it this time as quickly.
Shots rang out at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13

Rebecca DROKE / AFP) (Photo by REBECCA DROKE/AFP via Getty

Authorities have identified a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man as the suspect who opened fire at a Donald Trump rally in Butler County, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, in what authorities have said was an assassination attempt.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania was identified by the FBI as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of the former president. The FBI said the investigation into the incident remains "active and ongoing."

The Secret Service announced after the shooting that the shooter was declared deceased after being neutralized by authorities. One person at the rally was killed and two were critically injured.

Trump was giving a campaign speech at the rally on Saturday when shots rang out. He was "grazed" by gunfire at the rally, Richard Goldinger, the District Attorney of Butler County told PEOPLE on Saturday.

In a statement posted to Truth Social, Trump wrote, in part, "Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA."

In videos of the incident shared on social media, the former president is seen turning toward the noise before briefly grabbing his ear.



Related: Donald Trump Rushed Off Stage After Being Injured at Campaign Rally, Shooter and One Attendee Reported Dead

The Secret Service said Trump was safe and was being evaluated.



Related: Eyewitness Says He Saw Man with Rifle on Rooftop Moments Before Donald Trump Rally Shooting, Police Unaware

President Joe Biden, along with former presidents Barack Obama, George W. Bush and Bill Clinton, have condemned the shooting.



Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to call the FBI tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

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Read the original article on People.
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China on Friday pledged to take a series of measures, including expanding channels for financing and strengthening cooperation with multiple partners, to give durable and strong impetus to sustainable development.

Chinese top diplomat Wang Yi made the remarks when addressing the opening ceremony of the second High-Level Conference of the Forum on Global Action for Shared Development, which gathered representatives from over 110 countries and more than 30 international and regional organizations.

China will expand the global development capital pool, increase the special fund for global development and encourage stronger and continuous support from Chinese and foreign financial institutions, said Wang, who is director of the Office of the Foreign Affairs Commission of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Foreign Minister.

Beijing will also provide more funding to support the global development project pool and prioritize "small and beautiful" projects directly benefiting people's livelihoods, he said.

China announced the establishment of the project pool and capital pool last July. So far, there are more than 1,000 projects in the project pool, and more than 500 of them are being implemented or have been completed.

The foreign minister also expressed a willingness to introduce more third-party and multi-party partnerships for cooperation on debt-for-development swaps to enrich practices for development cooperation.

In addition, China will provide 100,000 workshop training opportunities for Global South countries over the next five years, he said.

Facing challenges including the Ukraine crisis, the Gaza conflict and the sluggish global economic recovery, there remains a long way to go to achieve the United Nations 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, Wang said.

Ban Ki-moon, former secretary-general of the UN, said at the opening ceremony that the level of implementation of the 17 sustainable development goals is less than 20 percent, calling it a worrying situation.

China shows political and moral responsibility in its commitment to leading the implementation of the SDGs and the Paris Agreement on climate change, Ban said.

He said he counts on China's support and called on various parties to take action now to jointly shape and contribute to a sustainable, peaceful and prosperous future that could bring benefits to all and ensure that no one is left behind.

Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly said in a video speech that the China-proposed Global Development Initiative is a practical response to help accelerate the realization of the SDGs.

The successive crises and changes in the world have posed unprecedented challenges to development paths and increased the cost of achieving the SDGs, he said, adding that the GDI is conducive to mobilizing all forces and giving more impetus to achieve the SDGs.

He said Egypt looks forward to strengthening a comprehensive and sustainable partnership with China beyond bilateral relations, which includes tripartite cooperation, in particular with African countries.

In his video speech, Cuban President Miguel Diaz-Canel said that the China-proposed GDI has brought about a new model of cooperation for sustainable development that is more in line with the legitimate interests and aspirations of countries of the Global South.

Cuba welcomed the GDI early as it believes the initiative to be highly inclusive and consistent with the need to establish and promote a new, just and equitable international order, he said.




Donald Trump afraid injured bleeding on the floor shot at rally blood dripping down face on hand maga hat

A suspected shooter and at least one attendee at a rally for former President Donald Trump were killed Saturday evening in Butler, Pa. Trump also suffered from injuries during the incident. The shooting is being treated as an assassination attempt against Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee for president.



Richard Goldinger, the Butler County Prosecutor, told the Associated Press during a phone interview that the suspected gunmen was killed along with another attendee.

In a statement, the U.S. Secret Service wrote that around 6:15 p.m. the human opened fired toward the stage at Trump from "an elevated position outside of the rally venue."

It added that agents "neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased."

"One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured," according to the Secret Service.

"The officials said the shooter was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection," the AP reports. "Its still not clear yet whether Trump was struck by gunfire or was injured as he was pulled to the ground by agents."

In a social media post, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, according to the AP.

Trump had started to speak about immigration at the rally when several shots rang out, according to media reports. The New York Times reports that the gun sounded "like a small-caliber weapon."

Agents covered Trump and others surrounded him to find the shooter. Trump got up moments after and there appeared to be blood along his face and ear. When he got up, the crowd reportedly began shouting "U.S.A. U.S.A. U.S.A."

A spokesperson told the media that Trump was "fine" and had been seen by doctors following the shooting.

Pa. Gov. Josh Shapiro wrote on X, formerly Twitter, Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

 (@)

This story is developing.
WASHINGTON COUNTY, Ga. (WJBF)  Washington County Sheriffs Office Investigators are investigating the events that led up to a man being shot Friday evening at an Eric Drive residence outside of Tennille.

Authorities say one person was treated for injuries sustained during this incident.

No further information is available at this time.

Count on NewsChannel 6 for more details as they become available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJBF.
The assassination attempt against former President Trump is uniting Republicans as never before, just as the party convenes this week in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention.

In the hours following the shooting, Trump struck a grateful yet commanding tone, calling for unity. Meanwhile, his political allies have rallied around their partys standard-bearer, widely sharing what many have described as an iconic image of him holding his fist in the air with blood on his face.

The moment hit as Democrats have experienced two weeks of turmoil, with calls for President Bidens replacement on the ticket at a fever pitch as Trumps rally began.

Trump is indestructible, said New Hampshire GOP Chair Chris Ager. It doesnt matter who the Democrats put up. They can wring their hands about President Biden all they want. Kamala Harris, Gavin Newsom, it doesnt matter. It doesnt matter who they put up.

The Democrats are essentially a sideshow, he added.

While Republicans were considerably more unified than Democrats going into their nominating convention, there were still some questions about where the partys more moderate flank would turn. Despite suspending her GOP primary bid earlier this year, former U.N. Ambassador Nikki Haley was able to garner substantial support in Republican primaries in critical swing states, sometimes reaching into the 20 percent range.

It has and will continue to be unifying to his base, including that crucial not-consider-Trump Haley voting and donor segment, said one Republican strategist. It is premature to fully calculate the political impact of an assassination attempt beyond that, but make no mistake, Donald Trump was already handily beating Joe Biden, and the tragic events in Pennsylvania will likely only accelerate that momentum.

Ager, who comes from a state where Haley lost by 11 points to Trump, said Never Trump voters reached out to him following the shooting asking how they could help in the effort.

Republican donors are echoing this sentiment and are predicting a groundswell in fundraising following the attempt on Trumps life.

Were going to see absolutely wild fundraising numbers, said Trump donor Dan Eberhart.

Trump already has seen explosive fundraising numbers this year, most notably after he was convicted in his New York City hush money case. The former presidents campaign brought in a whopping $35 million following the verdict in May.

If being charged brought Republicans back to Trump, him being shot is going to bring everyone back [to] Trump, Eberhart said. I think this is going to be a landslide.

The picture of a bloody-faced Trump holding his fist in the air has become a rallying point for the Republican universe in less than 24 hours. The House and Senate Republican campaign arms quickly posted the picture on the social platform X following the shooting, along with other major Republican figures.

Nearly every Republican now sees Trump as the toughest S.O.B. to ever run for president, said Republican strategist Ford OConnell.

Its not a stretch to think that constantly calling Trump an existential threat to Democracy contributed to this tragedy, OConnell added, jabbing at Democratic messaging over the threat they argue a second Trump term poses to democracy.

Republicans say the image encapsulates what they say is Trumps strength.

You just take it all together and say there have been so many things thrown at this man. So many things that a normal-strength person would not be able to stand up to, and he has come through all of them, Ager said.

Trump has often said that anyone who attacks him is by extension attacking his supporters, which Republicans say makes Saturdays shooting that much more personal.

Theyre acting in a sense of if it can happen to him, whats stopping anyone from doing it to us? said one Republican operative.

Both Republicans and Democrats have come out to condemn the shooting and have called for a de-escalation in political rhetoric.

Weve got to turn the rhetoric down. Weve got to turn the temperature down in this country, Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) told NBCs Today on Sunday. We need leaders of all parties, on both sides, to call that out and make sure that happens so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have.

Trump has also sought to strike a unifying tone in the hours following the shooting, calling on the nation to stand united in a Truth Social post on Sunday morning.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump wrote, adding that he was looking forward to addressing the country from the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week.

The Trump campaign and convention officials confirmed Saturday evening that Trump would still be traveling to the convention this week. Trump ally Corey Lewandowski, who is assisting the campaign in the convention and delegate process, called Trumps response following the shooting heroic.

A man who was just shot stood up and he said fight and was released from the hospital just hours later, Lewandowski told The Hill. [He] walked off the plane last night in Bedminster, N.J., and is prepared to accept his nomination and fight for America.

Lewandowski was speaking from Boston Logan International Airport en route to Milwaukee. A number of people were present at the gate in Trump shirts and MAGA apparel. Most of the chatter among them was unsurprisingly about Saturday, and the supporters appeared to be fired up.

Ager told The Hill that he and other Republicans pushed Republican National Committee Chair Michael Whatley to keep with the planned schedule despite the shooting.

We were encouraging him not to change the schedule, not to do anything, and he confirmed very strongly from the top on down that the show will go on, Ager said. Well get business done, and this is not going to slow us down for a minute.

People are already getting their throats ready for Thursday night so when Trump takes the stage, they can scream as loud as they can, he said.

Cate Martel contributed

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Leaders in both parties were quick to condemn the shooting at the Donald Trump rally Saturday that wounded the former president as violence with no place in the U.S. political system.

I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country, said Senate Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) in a statement posted on social media.

The three other party leaders on Capitol Hill also took that stance in their first public statements on the incident.

House Democratic Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-N.Y.) posted, My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable.

House Speaker Mike Johnson (R-La.) quickly posted that he was praying for Trump and then a bit later thanked law enforcement officers for their response.

I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned, he said.

Sen. Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) similarly posted, Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics.

Past presidents also chimed in to condemn the violence.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, former President Barack Obama said in his social media post.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery.

Former President George W. Bush, who was attacked with thrown shoes during a news conference in Iraq in 2008, said in a statement issued by his presidential library: Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.
BUTLER, Pa. (AP/WJW)  Donald Trumps campaign said in a statement that the former president was fine after a shooting at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A local prosecutor says the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Donald Trumps remaining Facebook, Instagram restrictions lifted

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

Two officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation. They said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

The former president and presumptive Republican nominee was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when bangs started ringing through the crowd. Trump could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his neck. There appeared to be blood on his face.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is covered by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci)

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

He quickly ducked behind the riser as agents from his protective detail rushed the stage and screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

His motorcade has since left the venue. His condition was not immediately known.

Police began vacating the fairgrounds shortly after Trump left the stage in what local officers described as a crime scene.

President Joe Biden has been briefed on the incident, the White House said.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said in a statement on X that he had been briefed on the situation and Pennsylvania state police were on hand at the rally site.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, he said.

Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, who is part of the conversation for Trumps vice president nominee, quickly also took to X to express his concerns for the former presidents health:

Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok, he said in a post.

Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine also posted: Fran and I are praying for President Trump, his family, and our country.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Fox 8 Cleveland WJW.
Dave McCormick, the Pennsylvania GOP Senate nominee who attended former President Donald Trump's rally on Saturday, called the shooting a "scary moment."

"The president was taken off the stage, and there was a real confusion of what was going on, whether there were multiple shooters, whether the shooting was done ... an inch difference and the president would have been dead. Was a very scary moment," McCormick told "This Week" anchor George Stephanopoulos, describing his view from the crowd.

McCormick, who had been invited to join Trump on stage later in the rally, urged unity in the country after the shooting.

"I think we, first of all, have to recognize that we do have a real conflict of ideas. That's OK. Our country is faced with very significant choices and running for office, I believe that we're going in the wrong direction, and so I'm making the case as aggressively as I can that that we need to go in a different direction. That's different than attacking people," McCormick said.

He went on, "We need to embrace conflict, conflict of ideas, conflict in the direction of our country. That needs to be addressed at the ballot box. But we don't need to resort and can't resort to violence as a way of promoting political agendas, and I think that certainly the environment contributed, I think, to these acts of violence that we're seeing."

MORE: What we know about the Trump rally shooting suspect: FBI names Pennsylvania man, 20

President Joe Biden, who spoke with Trump on Saturday, called for unity among Americans.

"Look, there's no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick," Biden said. "Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country."

On Sunday, Trump said in a Truth Social post that "in this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United."

The assassination attempt has also sparked questions over the security apparatus around Trump.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., officially invited Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle for a hearing on Monday, July 22. Republicans have cast the shooting as a breakdown in security.

Paul Eckloff, a former Secret Service agent, said the agents on scene did an "exemplary" job of protecting Trump and that political events for a former president are inherently difficult to protect.

MORE: Biden and Trump speak after he says 'no place in America for this kind of violence'

Former presidents "are afforded less protection than a sitting president by authorization, and campaign events are designed for access and viewing of Mr. Trump, rather than security," he told Stephanopoulos on "This Week."

"When I watched those friends of mine and my former colleagues storm the stage, going toward a gunfire, shielding, covering and evacuating the former president, it gave me realization that their mettle was tested and they passed that," he added. "And today, President Trump is alive because of the brave men and women of [the Secret Service.]"

Shooting at Trump rally was a 'scary moment': Pennsylvania Senate candidate originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
Who shot Donald Trump? The candidate was speaking to supporters at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening when the presumptive Republican nominee fell to the stage following several gunshots. He was pictured with blood on his face as Secret Service surrounded him and escorted him to an SUV, but was quickly confirmed to be "fine" by his campaign. Trump was hit in the ear.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, was identified as the shooter, and the FBI continues to investigate.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was recovering after being injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show. One spectator was killed and two others were "critically injured," the Secret Service said.

"Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump said in a statement on Truth Social on Sunday morning. "We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed."

He also said that "God alone" spared him from an assassination attempt and vowed to be at this week's GOP convention in Milwaukee.

Who was the Trump shooter?

Saturday's attack was the closest anyone has come to killing a current or former U.S. president since Reagan was shot and wounded outside the Washington Hilton Hotel in 1981.

Little is known about Crooks beyond the fact that he lived in a home with his parents in Bethel Park. Crooks was 20 years old, registered as a Republican and had an active voting status, meaning he had voted in recent elections. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

More: 'Many men': 50 Cent song fuels meme about Trump shooting

How did they identify dead suspect in Trump shooting?

Crooks carried no identification and his body had to be identified using other techniques, said Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, said at the late-night press conference in Butler, Pa. The methods included DNA and biometric confirmation, Rojek said. Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after opening fire.

Where did the Trump shooting suspect live?

Around 1:30 a.m. Sunday, dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside Crooks' residence listed on his voter registration record. The home sits along a winding suburban road in Bethel Park, about 42 miles south of Butler. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence.

 USA TODAY Network contributed information for this article.

This article originally appeared on Rochester Democrat and Chronicle: Who shot Trump? Suspect named in assassination attempt
MARYSVALE, Utah (ABC4)  The Silver King Fire in southern Utah, about three miles west of the town of Marysvale, was last estimated to be burning about 16,745 acres as of Saturday.

Utah Fire Info posted an update Saturday morning to inform Utahns of the latest conditions  and to explain that a Red Flag Warning would go into effect for high winds. High winds were in the area on Friday as well, according to officials.

READ NEXT: Marysvale residents face risk of major flooding due to Silver King Fire, officials say

Yesterday, a storm cell centered over the southeastern area of the fire, Utah Fire Info said on Saturday. Winds up to 45 m.p.h. were experienced, with directions changing nine times, causing an approximately 800 acre slopover.

Utah Fire Info said the northeastern corner of the fire was mopped up on Friday. As of Saturday, the Silver King Fire was about 2% contained and 660 personnel were assigned to the fire.

Crews will continue line construction on the northern part of the fire, prepping for future firing operations, Utah Fire Info said.

Officials also said they were continuing to scout for firelines along the western perimeter of the fire, which would prevent the fire from going over the ridgelines. Utah Fire Info said similar conditions to Fridays high winds were expected on Saturday, and smoke was getting pushed into Richfield and Salina by winds from the south.

Smoke conditions are likely to increase to unhealthy levels, Utah Fire Info said. New fire starts are possible with the dry lightning.

Officials said they recorded at least one lighting strike in the Bullion Canyon area on Friday, and power was shut off during the high winds. Air operations were also halted during the windy conditions, but started up again later in the day.

Stage 1 restrictions went into effect just after midnight on Friday for the Fishlake National Forest, and closures have been issued for the forest. As of Saturday, the Castle Rock Campground was still open.

A community meeting was scheduled to be held at 6 p.m. on Saturday, and Utah Fire Info said the meeting would be at the Latter-day Saints church building in Marysvale.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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FILE - A balloon presumably sent by North Korea, is seen in a paddy field in Incheon, South Korea, on June 10, 2024. Kim Yo Jong, the powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed Sunday, July 14, 2024, to respond to what she called a fresh South Korean civilian leafleting campaign, signaling North Korea would soon resume flying trash-carrying balloons across the border.(Im Sun-suk/Yonhap via AP, File)

SEOUL, South Korea (AP)  The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed Sunday to respond to what she called a fresh South Korean civilian leafleting campaign, signaling North Korea could soon resume flying trash-carrying balloons across the border.

Beginning in late May, North Korea floated numerous balloons carrying waste paper, scraps of cloth, cigarette butts and even manure toward South Korea in a series of late-night launch events, saying they were a tit-for-tat action against South Korean activists scattering political leaflets via their own balloons. No hazardous materials were found.

In response, South Korea suspended a 2018 tension-reduction deal with North Korea, resuming propaganda broadcasts briefly and frontline live-fire military drills at border areas.

In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said that dirty leaflets and things of (the South Korean) scum were found again in border and other areas in North Korea on Sunday morning.

Despite the repeated warnings of (North Korea), the (South Korean) scum are not stopping this crude and dirty play, she said.

We have fully introduced our countermeasure in such situation. The (South Korean) clans will be tired from suffering a bitter embarrassment and must be ready for paying a very high price for their dirty play, Kim Yo Jong said.

North Korea last sent rubbish-carrying balloons toward South Korea in late June.

It wasnt immediately known if, and from which activists group in South Korea, balloons were sent to North Korea recently. For years, groups led by North Korean defectors have floated huge balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets, USB sticks containing K-pop songs and South Korean drama, and U.S. dollar bills toward North Korea.

Experts say North Korea views such balloons campaigns as a grave provocation that can threaten its leadership because it bans official access to foreign news for most of its 26 million people.

In 2020, North Korea blew up an empty South Korean-built liaison office on its territory in a furious response to South Korean civilian leafleting campaigns. In 2014, North Korea fired at balloons flying toward its territory and South Korea returned fire, though there were no casualties.

South Korean officials say they dont restrict activists from flying leaflets to North Korea, in line with a 2023 constitutional court ruling that struck down a contentious law criminalizing such leafleting, calling it a violation of free speech.

Kim Yo Jong's statement came a day after North Korea's Defense Ministry threatened to bolster its nuclear capability and make the U.S. and South Korea pay an unimaginably harsh price as it slammed its rivals new defense guidelines that it says reveal an intention to invade the North.

___

This story has been corrected to show that North Korea last sent trash-carrying balloons toward South Korea in late June.
Six civilians killed in Russia's 13 July attacks on Donetsk Oblast

The aftermath of one of the Russian strikes on Donetsk Oblast on 13 July. Photo: Donetsk Oblast Military Administration

Six civilians have been killed in Donetsk Oblast in Russian attacks on 13 July: two in the villages of Novoocheretuvate and Prohres and one in each of the settlements of Kostiantynopilske and Novoselivka Persha.

Source: Donetsk Oblast Military Administration

Details: A total of 11 more people were injured in Donetsk Oblast on 13 July.

In addition, 10 houses, a shop and a power line were damaged in Novoocheretuvate.

A fire broke out on the territory of Andriivka hromada. [A hromada is an administrative unit designating a village, several villages, or a town, and their adjacent territories]

Furthermore, the 13 July Russian attacks left one civilian injured in Chasiv Yar hromada and damaged seven houses, four multi-storey buildings and an industrial building in the area.

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Vice President Harris is the most obvious successor to President Biden should he withdraw from the Democratic ticket amid mounting pressure, a situation that would immediately raise the question of who would be Harriss running mate.

Here are some of the possible picks.

Andy Beshear

Kentucky Gov. Andy Beshear, who has also been discussed as a replacement for Biden, might be the ideal running mate on a Harris ticket.

Beshear, 46, represents one of the most conservative states in the country, and just won an impressive reelection victory last year, boosting his profile to the national stage.

Hes one of the most popular governors in the country and one of the youngest, which coupled with Harris, 59, would introduce a much more youthful ticket to one headed by Biden or, for that matter, former President Trump.

Hes young, handsome, smart, popular, wins a red state convincingly, said Democratic strategist Jon Reinish.

Beshear has said he plans to remain governor amid the speculation and has not had any conversations about serving, but he left open some room for joining.

I feel like were on a roll here in Kentucky, and this job is more than enough for me, that I could fulfill this next term, which I fully intend to and be happy if this is the last public service role I ever had, he told reporters. But Ive said before, the only way Id step away from this role is if I felt like I could help the commonwealth even more through some other opportunity.

Roy Cooper

Coopers governorship has been a bright spot for Democrats in recent years in North Carolina, a state that the party has hoped to flip blue in presidential and Senate races but fallen short a few times.

Putting him on the ticket might put the Tar Heel State in play for Democrats, who havent won the state in a presidential election since 2008.

Cooper, 67, was elected governor in 2016 and 2020 despite Trump having won the states electoral votes both times and a Republican-dominated Legislature.

Reinish said putting Cooper, who is term-limited this year, on the ticket could give Democrats another more realistic chance at winning or at least seriously competing in the state.

Two sources close to the Biden-Harris campaign told The New York Times that Cooper is one of the top favorites for a possible Harris presidential candidacy. Beshear is also reportedly one of the top names, but Coopers state is much more likely to be in play, which could be an edge.

Harris and Cooper appeared together on Thursday for a Biden campaign rally in North Carolina.

Josh Shapiro

Shapiro, 51, has been frequently discussed as a possible Harris running mate.

Hes seen as a rising Democratic star, and he governs one of the key swing states in the country.

If he doesnt join the ticket, hell be seen as a potential presidential candidate down the road.

Shapiro comfortably won election in 2022 to become Pennsylvanias governor. He has a reputation as a more moderate Democrat, as does Biden, but he ran and won on key liberal issues like protecting reproductive rights.

Democratic strategist Adrian Hemond said Shapiro would be at the top of his list of possible choices, as he would lean in to the idea of a ticket that represents generational change. He said Shapiro could also detail his accomplishments.

After the collapse of a bridge in Philadelphia last year, Shapiro worked to devote $7 million for repairs that helped reopen Interstate 95. On Friday, he declared success in working with a divided Legislature, the only one in the country, to reach a bipartisan budget agreement with major initiatives and lower taxes.

He also has a story about competence to tell, Hemond said. Hes got pretty good numbers himself in Pennsylvania, so theres a pretty good chance that he could deliver the state where he seems to be popular.

JB Pritzker

Illinois Gov. JB Pritzker, 59, will be welcoming fellow Democrats to Chicago next month for the Democratic National Convention.

Another rising star who has been included in conversations about possible Biden replacements, Pritzker would bring executive experience to a ticket. Hed also bring a lot of money. Pritzker is worth an estimated $3.5 billion and could self-fund a campaign.

Pritzker has been publicly supportive of Biden in the aftermath of last months debate, but he was recently heard on a hot mic saying, Were going to do what we have to do. I dont like where we are. A spokesperson for the governors office confirmed he was talking about the status of the presidential race.

He would have a record to run on as a leader with a range of liberal victories, including protecting abortion access and gun control. He would also bring geographic diversity as a Midwesterner but may not have as much appeal to swing voters as a governor of a solidly blue state.

Gretchen Whitmer

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer, 52, is often discussed as a future Democratic presidential candidate.

Her easy reelection victory in 2022 brought with it a Democratic trifecta, and she now leads a state firmly in Democratic control.

Whitmer said on The View on Tuesday that she would be eager to support Harris if Biden steps aside.

She said she is committed to serving out her term as governor but would never say never to serving as a vice presidential candidate.

Would Democrats want an all-woman ticket? It would be historic, but it also might make some delegates nervous about winning.

I think it would be a winning ticket because I think Gretchen Whitmer is extraordinary, Reinish said, adding that she is super popular and dynamic.

Hemond said he wouldnt be surprised if she was offered the position but would not expect her to accept, as other paths may better lead to the White House in the future if she has those ambitions.

Gavin Newsom

California Gov. Gavin Newsom (D) has become increasingly prominent in the party, and he has been considered one of the main choices to become the nominee if its not Biden.

But a few complications would exist if he were the choice to be Harriss running mate.

The Constitution makes it difficult for individuals from the same state to run as president and vice president. In the case of Newsom and Harris, voters in the Electoral College from California would be prohibited from voting for both of them since they are both officially residents of the Golden State.

The issue has come up before and solved with one candidate changing their residency to another state, but its not clear that would come off well politically for Harris and Newsom.

Two Californians running for office could be easy fodder for Republican attacks, as they often slam the state for its liberalism and accused elitism. It also would not have as much geographic appeal to swing voters in key states, with both candidates coming from a state not in play in November.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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How six Minnesota conservatives feel about the presidential race ahead of the RNC

Some of them love former President Donald Trump, and some can't stand him.

After a statewide callout for voters, the Star Tribune invited six Minnesota conservatives for a discussion on the 2024 presidential election.

They shared their opinions about some of this year's top issues: Immigration, the economy, political polarization and more.

Here's what they had to say, less than four months away from Election Day.

Joe Bridges, 61, Miltona

The farm equipment sales rep does not like the extremes of either party. He's not sure if he can bring himself to vote for President Joe Biden, but he definitely will not vote for Trump.

"I grew up working on a farm. The people were Republicans, and that sort of rubbed off on me. I feel like the Republican Party has passed me by. I'm extremely troubled by the coarseness of not just society but both political parties, their extreme viewpoints. I have a neighbor down the road with a, 'F Biden' flag, and I think, 'What possible redeeming value is there in having that type of attitude?'"

Bridges said he's also concerned about isolationist views among some Republicans.

"I'm troubled by seemingly turning our back on other democratic nations  Trump's lack of support for NATO. Now to say, 'Do your own thing, take care of yourself,' I think that's sad and short-sighted."

"The Republican Party used to be fiscally conservative: That's certainly an issue for me  the deficit, which has fallen by the wayside. There should be orderly immigration."

AK Kamara, 40, Forest Lake

Initially not a fan of Trump, Kamara now believes he's "one of the best presidents of my lifetime." Kamara is also a Minnesota delegate to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week and was elected the state GOP's national committeeman for 2028.

"I would crawl over broken glass to vote for Trump. I don't care if he gets convicted, 30 more felonies, 300 more felonies," he said.

Heading into November, immigration and the economy are the top issues he's thinking about. Though he ardently supports Trump, he thinks everyone's voice should be heard at the polls.

"I'll always turn out. I'll never not vote because I think every American should do it," he said. "Because if you want to have a society that functions, you don't want a king and you don't want a theocracy. The people in every community need to take some ownership and say, 'I need to go out and have my voice be heard.'"

Sue Keator, 68, Edina

The retiree and election judge is worried about crime  "The riots made me just so angry"  and security at the southern border. She said she sees people who are homeless in her community and wonders why the U.S. isn't focusing more on its own problems.

"Until everybody that is legally here, you know, the citizens and the legal immigrants, until they're all taken care of and our veterans are taken care of, don't let anybody else in," Keator said. "We've got enough problems taking care of our own."

The importance of voting was instilled in Keator at an early age. She said Election Day should be a work holiday so everyone can participate.

Keator said she will "absolutely" vote for Trump over Biden, "if things are the way they are today."

"I am not a Trumper, though," Keator said.

She said she'd also vote for Trump over Vice President Kamala Harris if Biden were to exit the race. Other candidates she would be interested in are independent Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Nikki Haley and Tulsi Gabbard.

Daniel McMonigal, 64, Cannon Falls

The retired telecommunications professional said he is worried about the future of the country and the problems his granddaughter and other children will inherit.

Increasing federal debt. Drug trafficking. A public education system he fears is in decline and focused on political "indoctrination."

"Our children, we're failing them. We're falling behind," McMonigal said. "And then the danger of the lack of law and order and the crime."

McMonigal, who describes himself as a "constitutional conservative," said he could never vote for a Democrat because of how the party has changed over the past 20 years. He doesn't like Minnesota's politics, criticizing Gov. Tim Walz and the DFL-controlled Legislature for spending most of a historic $17 billion state budget surplus last year.

Trump, he said, has an "obnoxious personality." McMonigal said he doesn't excuse it, but he chalks it up to the former president being a New Yorker.

He said he's "absolutely voting for Trump."

"I do think that he's one of the most patriotic presidents in my lifetime. I think he's right up there with Reagan and Eisenhower."

Donna Schiff, 86, Prior Lake

Schiff, a longtime election judge, describes herself as politically conservative but strives "to look for the right thing to do" and is open to both sides of the political spectrum.

"If it happens to be a Democratic idea and I think it's right, I will do it. But generally speaking, I vote Republican," she said.

Right now, Schiff is leaning toward voting for Trump. Schiff was a Nikki Haley supporter, but without her in the race, she isn't left with many options. However, if Democratic Sen. Amy Klobuchar ran for the White House, Schiff said she would vote for her.

"I don't like everything that Trump says. I would hold my nose and vote for him. At the current time, if Biden was running, I absolutely could not vote for him because I disagree with almost everything he's done," Schiff said.

Ted Storck, 88, Morris

The U.S. Navy veteran and former small-town radio station owner voted for Trump twice but now dislikes both candidates.

"I'm a Republican because I'm against the nanny state: Everybody takes care of you from the time you were born to your grave. We need more people that take care of themselves. I'm for less government. I was a Republican all my life. I voted for one Democrat in my life, and that was John Kennedy. But I'm disturbed on where our Republican Party has gone or is going."

Storck said his top issue is Ukraine.

"I'm afraid that if Trump gets in that he's going to do what he says and ask for Ukraine to give back to Russia what they're already taken over. I spent a year in Vietnam, 28 years in the Navy and the Navy Reserves. We need a strong military. We gotta stop Putin. We gotta stop China and Iran. I'm worried he's not going to do that. He's a loose cannon."

"I'm a conservative, but I think Trump is out for himself and not for the country, and that worries me a lot."

Storck said he could potentially vote for a Democrat, but would "have to hold my nose and do it."

What question do you have?
Sky News show The World with Yalda Hakim pulled in an average of 60,000 viewers compared to more than 100,000 for BBC News - Geoff Pugh

Sky News has begun to slash its freelance budgets as bosses look to cut costs amid a decline in viewing figures.

The Telegraph has seen evidence that the broadcaster has reduced its use of freelance workers in roles including producers and guest bookers.

Staff have reported a sharp reduction in the number of shifts available in recent months. Sky News said some areas of spending, including staffing have increased even as freelance costs have been reduced.

It comes as Sky News tries to reverse a slump in audience numbers as traditional TV viewing continues its decline.

Figures seen by The Telegraph show Skys The News Hour with Mark Austin has pulled in 76,000 viewers in recent months  less than half of the 165,000 that tuned into BBC News at Six.

Evening news programme The World with Yalda Hakim, which launched earlier this year, was averaging around 60,000 viewers compared to more than 100,000 at the same time for BBC News. Insiders pointed to a slump in morale among staff as bosses attempted to boost audience numbers while cutting costs.

It comes amid questions over the future of Sky News, which has an annual budget of more than 100m but racks up tens of millions of pounds in losses.

US media giant Comcast guaranteed to maintain the channels funding for a decade as part of its $39bn (30.7bn) takeover, but these commitments are due to run out in 2028.

Comcast has already taken an $8.6bn write-down on its investment in Sky.

Sky is grappling with a broader exodus of viewers from traditional TV to streaming rivals and social media platforms such as TikTok.

It is also contending with the emergence of opinionated broadcasters such as GB News and TalkTV, though both start-ups are also heavily loss-making. Rupert Murdoch pulled TalkTV off air earlier this year after losing at least 90m on the venture.

Rupert Murdoch pulled TalkTV off air earlier this year after losing around 90m on the venture - REUTERS/Mike Segar

One source at Sky News said: Its clear management are making cuts, despite them pointing out at town halls that theyre not currently under pressure from Comcast to make Sky News profitable.

The freelancers are very concerned and the industry isnt thriving at the moment given the demise of TalkTV and the massive losses GB News makes. Its all very unsettling.

Speaking in front of MPs earlier this year, Sky News executive chairman David Rhodes played down concerns about the future of the channel, insisting it was a really critical part of the proposition.

He added: We have an ongoing commercial and business plan to properly monetise what we do and spread it into more and more areas of digital, audio and visual presentation, as we have been doing.

The freelancer cutbacks come amid broader job cuts at Sky, which employs around 27,000 people around the UK.

In January, the company said it will cut roughly 1,000 jobs. Many of these will be focused on the groups team of engineers as it navigates the shift from its traditional satellite business towards streaming.

A Sky News spokesman said: Sky News spending is up 10pc on last year.

Broaden your horizons with award-winning British journalism. Try The Telegraph free for 3 months with unlimited access to our award-winning website, exclusive app, money-saving offers and more.
Herd mentality

It seems we are heading toward a cliff and no one is willing to stop this blind herd behavior by the Democrats. Joe Biden should recognize that the legacy he wants means putting the countrys future first, stepping out of the race and allowing a younger, vigorous person to take up the torch. This would energize young people and independents to join the campaign and defeat Donald Trump and all the risks that come with him. Biden has shown courage in the past. This is his greatest test.

Nancy Milio, Chapel Hill

Unite behind Biden

I was disappointed in the Editorial Boards July 10 editorial asserting that Democrats must speak up about Bidens decline. I strongly believe that he has been one of our best presidents and is the best one to defeat Donald Trump in November.

The editorial suggests Biden should submit to a full medical evaluation and make the results public. He did that a few months ago. I read the full report and feel satisfied that he is healthy enough to win this election and serve four more years. Lets stop this in-fighting and unite behind our candidate. Every moment we waste gives Trump a better chance of winning.

Alice Carlton, Chapel Hill

Dont snub Harris

Only Vice President Kamala Harris could backfill Joe Bidens departure from the presidential race. Snubbing her would grievously fragment already fraught Democrats.

Harris would need a mold-shattering choice for a running mate  an authentic hero at her side. She must have a mate of demonstrable strength and character, national security experience at the highest levels of government, and respected global reputation, as well as the rare gifts needed to stand in the face of withering MAGA vitriol.

Extraordinary circumstances demand extraordinary measures. Id be thrilled to see Harris team with retired U.S. Army Gen. Mark Milley. Theirs would be a unique, formidable ticket.

Al Craft, Raleigh

School vouchers

The recent closing of Northside Christian Academy in Charlotte (July 9) is a prime example of why the states Opportunity Scholarship is one of the biggest boondoggles going. Over the last two years the school received nearly $1 million in taxpayer money and had almost no accountability to the public, including the parents of its students. Dilapidated facilities and inadequate heating and air conditioning were just a few of the schools issues.

Its outrageous that our legislature continues to dump our money into private schools that do not need to comply with basic educational standards. The Republican dream of academic freedom is a taxpayer and educational nightmare.

Barbara Szombatfalvy, Durham

Public schools

Regarding Families in limbo without private school vouchers (July 3):

Families bemoaning the uncertainty of where their children will attend school in the fall are not stuck in limbo. North Carolina provides a free public school education to every child and provides services and programs that private schools do not. Families who want a private school education for their children should pay for it. Opportunity Scholarships should be suspended until North Carolina public schools are fully funded.

Karen Gaines, Raleigh

Act on the ERA

The writers are co-presidents of ERA-NC Alliance.

Four years ago, then-President Donald Trump dissed every woman in the country by instructing his attorney general not to publish the freshly ratified Equal Rights Amendment. Facts:

 As of Jan. 27, 2020, the requisite 38 states had ratified the ERA.

 Article V of the Constitution is clear in its instructions for amendments. The ERA followed them precisely.

 85% of U.S. citizens agree that all Americans should have equal rights.

Women have been robbed of equality by Trump and forced into pregnancies by the U.S. Supreme Courts annulment of Roe. We know President Biden supports the ERA. He told us so  and we voted for him. We urge him to use all his powers, old and new, to do the right thing:

Demand the Equal Rights Amendment be published as the 28th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution. Now.

Jimmie Cochran Pratt

Teri Walley
(WSPA)  Former president Donald Trump, was was whisked off the stage at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania after apparent gunshots rang through the crowd.

Trumps campaign said in a statement that he was fine after being whisked off the stage.

S.C. lawmakers across the state are sharing their reactions following the incident.

United States Senator, Lindsey Graham, said in an X, formally Twitter, post:

Thank God President Trump seems to be okay. Just another reminder of the times in which we live. We need to pray fervently for anyone who may have been injured at the rally.

Governor Henry McMaster said in an X post that the risks Trump is willing to face is unbounded.

The risks and forces President Trump is willing to face to serve his country are unbounded, said McMaster in his post. He is the face of Americas strength today. Peggy and I join millions of others praying for his safety and security and that of his family and our country.

Former Governor of South Carolina and Republican candidate, Nikki Haley, said in an X post that the incident should horrify every freedom-loving American.

This should horrify every freedom-loving American, Haley said in her post. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized. We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer.

Senator Tim Scott said that he is praying for Trump and everyone who attended the rally.

Praying for President Trump and everyone at the rally in Pennsylvania, Scott said in his X post. May God watch over them all.

Chester Mayor Carlos Williams said in a statement that the United States was founded on democracy, and reiterated that the power of the people is in their right to vote and not through violence.

If you find yourself at odds with someone in office or a candidate running for office, remember that your vote is your most powerful tool, Williams said. It is our civic responsibility to engage in the democratic process and to respect the outcomes, regardless of our personal preferences.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

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HORRY COUNTY, S.C. (WBTW)  South Carolina politicians took to social media on Saturday with a mix of anger, shock and relief following a deadly disturbance at former President Trumps rally in Butler, Penn.

Heres a look at what people are saying.

South Carolina Republican Party Chairman Drew McKissick

S.C. Republican Party chairman Drew McKissick

Keep President Trump in prayer for a quick recovery and ongoing protection. This was a heinous act, and our civic process deserves better. America deserves better.

U.S. Rep. Russell Fry, R-7th District

The first-term congressman has attended several rallies alongside. President Trump, who endorsed him in 2022. Frys office said he planned to attend this weeks Republican National Convention in Milwaukee.

My President is a badass!



Praying for his health and safety right now and all the people at the rally! pic.twitter.com/wWdDpcCbFd  Russell Fry (@RussellFrySC) July 13, 2024

U.S. Sen. Lindsey Graham

Thank God President Trump seems to be okay, South Carolinas senior U.S. senator wrote on X, formerly Twitter. Just another reminder of the times in which we live. We need to pray fervently for anyone who may have been injured at the rally.

Former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley

The one-time South Carolina governor and Trump confidante who later battled him through a bruising summer primary said on X she was praying for his safety.

This should horrify every freedom loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized.



We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer.  Nikki Haley (@NikkiHaley) July 13, 2024

Gov. Henry McMaster

South Carolinas governor was one of Trumps earliest supporters, and the two have built a personal friendship.

Gov. Henry McMaster with President Donald Trump by his side speaks to the crowd at Airport High School Monday, June 25, 2018, in West Columbia, S.C.

The risks and forces President Trump is willing to serve his country are unbounded, McMaster said on X. He is the face of Americas strength today. Peggy (McMasters wife) and I join millions of others praying for his safety and security of his family and our country.

South Carolina Attorney General Alan Wilson

President Trump is in our thoughts and prayers. This cowardly action today is a very dark moment. We are at a crossroads in America and must do better, Wilson said on X.

Reese Boyd, Horry County Republican Party chairman

Please pray for our country and all of her leaders. Pray that all involved in the campaigns, and especially at this moment, President Trump and his family, will continue to be kept safe and protected from harm, he said in a statement.

* * *

Adam Benson joined the News13 digital team in January 2024. He is a veteran South Carolina reporter with previous stops at the Greenwood Index-Journal, Post & Courier and The Sun News in Myrtle Beach. Adam is a Boston native and University of Utah graduate. Follow Adam on X, formerly Twitter, at @AdamNewshound12. See more of his work here.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WBTW.
SOUTHERN TIER, N.Y. (WETM)  The Southern Tier will receive more than $26 million in state funding to replace and repair some of its bridges and culverts.

Governor Kathy Hochuls Office announced that 137 local governments across New York State will get a total of more than $484 million to make some of their transportation infrastructure safer through the BRIDGE NY initiative. The bridge and culvert projects supported by this tax-funded initiative are expected to make the bridges and culverts more resilient to severe weather and climate change and reduce the risk of flooding. The funds from BRIDGE NY support all stages of the projects from planning to construction.

As New York continues to experience the effects of climate change firsthand, we need to make critical infrastructure upgrades so our communities can withstand the extreme weather to come, said Governor Hochul. Working closely with local governments, we are investing millions to harden more than 200 bridges and culverts across the State, enhancing public safety and make these structures ready for whatever mother nature can throw at us.

New York State spends $7.1 million to replace Southern Tier bridges

The Southern Tier municipalities that are receiving funds, how much theyll be getting, and what the funds will be used for are listed below:

Chemung County is getting $2.535 million to replace the Benjamin Road bridge over North Branch Newtown Creek.

Chemung County is getting $2.897 million to replace the Jackson Creek Road bridge over Jackson Creek.

Steuben County is getting $5.223 million to replace the Newcomb Road bridge over Canisteo Creek.

Steuben County is getting $4.164 million for the major rehabilitation of the Route 15 bridge over the Cohocton River.

Schuyler County is getting $3.324 million to replace the County Road 1 bridge over Bolter Creek.

Tioga County is getting $2.5 million to replace the Brown Road bridge over East Branch Owego Creek.

The Tioga County Department of Public Works is getting $1.46 million to replace the deck of the Straits Corners Road bridge over Pipe Creek.

Chemung County is getting $1.499 million to replace the Federal Road (Route 41) culvert carrying the Tributary to Baldwin Creek.

The City of Hornell is getting $1.5 million to replace the Canisteo Street culvert carrying Spencer Creek.

Tioga County is getting $1.5 million to replace the Halsey Valley Road culvert.

Before BRIDGE NYs most recent round of awards, the initiative had given more than $1.23 billion to local governments across the state. The state chooses which projects are funded through BRIDGE NY based on input from regional and metropolitan planning organizations.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WETM - MyTwinTiers.com.
As the nation turns its eyes to the Republican National Convention underway in Milwaukee, Space Coast residents continue to process the attempted assassination of former president Donald J. Trump, holding rallies and offering prayers.

Across the state, community leaders and elected officials spoke on the attack on Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally, some calling for the political rhetoric on all sides to be toned down; others offering searing critiques of Democrats.

Karen Colby and dozens of other Space Coast residents carried American flags and waved signs at several intersections across the county to show support on Sunday, rallying in support of Trump.

Colby, District 4 vice chair of the Republican Party in Brevard County, hopes there will be healing for the nation in the aftermath of the shooting.

"I'm upset that anybody shot at anybody. There were children there, older people ... it was unacceptable by all means. I will just never understand that kind of violence," said Colby.

Two elected Florida officials' early responses, however, were much more heated and partisan in nature.

"Democrats and liberals in the media have called Trump a fascist. Theyve compared him to Hitler. Theyve tried to lock him up," Sen. Rick Scott said Sunday in a statement on his X account.

"They tried to remove his Secret Service protection. Just this week, Joe Biden said he wanted to put Trump in the crosshairs. This isnt some unfortunate incident. This was an assassination attempt by a madman inspired by the rhetoric of the radical left."

State Rep. Randy Fine is in Milwaukee as a Florida delegate for this week's GOP convention, where the Republican Party will formalize Trump's nomination.

In a statement posted to his X account Sunday, Fine wrote that "The Democrat response to the assassination attempt of President Trump reminds me of their friends in Hamas" and that their rhetoric " ... directly led to this. Now having gotten to the inevitable result, they call for a ceasefire on political rhetoric to shut us up."

He added: "If this had been Joe Biden, it would be 24x7 attacks on our side. You know how we know this? J6 (Jan. 6) where they constantly blame Trump. No calls for taking down the tone there. So we go forward. We point out this is a fight between good and evil. Between those who would mutilate children and those who will protect them.

"Between those who would allow our citizens to be murdered by illegals and those who would shut it down. Between those who stand with Israel and those who support #MuslimTerror. Between those would save our Country and those who would destroy it. Im not backing down. No ceasefire for me. Im ready to fight harder than I was before," he wrote, ending with the hashtag #bombsaway.

The former president was injured when a gunman  identified by authorities as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks  opened fire as Trump was speaking at a rally Saturday in Butler, Pa. Crooks was killed by Secret Service agents. One spectator, Corey Comperatore, 50, was killed, and two other people were critically injured.

In a statement Sunday, Trump called for prayers for Comperatore and those injured.

Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," he said. "We pray for the recovery of the injured and keep in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was murdered so horribly."

Signs of support abound

Karen Colby was still trying to process what happened as she and others rallied in Melbourne for Trump and victims of the violence in Pennsylvania.

She and her husband were leaving the Sebastian Inlet, she said, when she saw the assassination attempt streamed live on her phone.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump gather Sunday morning on U.S. 1 and Eau Gallie Boulevard in Melbourne, following an assassination attempt on Trump in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Among those attending were the Space Coast Young Republicans, and candidates Mike Haridopolos and Dave Weldon.

"I just screamed when I saw it," she said.

At least 30 people turned out for the 9:30 a.m. Sunday rally in Melbourne. Motorists at busy intersections including U.S. 1 and Eau Gallie Boulevard honked horns in support, but others offered obscene hand gestures. Another rally took place at State Road 520 and Courtenay Parkway on Merritt Island, where attendees were dressed in American flag and Trump T-shirts and caps to wave at motorists. Among those carrying signs were Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos and former Sen. Mike Haridopolos, who recently received an endorsement from Donald Trump in his run for House District 8.

Dave Neuman, president of the Space Coast Young Republicans, organized the rally in Melbourne.

The big thing for me honestly was to acknowledge the innocent people that got shot. Were coming together as a community, Neuman said. We all know that violence has no place in politics. If youre trying to make a point, do it at the ballot box and not with bullets."

Randall McCallister, 30, is looking forward to watching the convention this week. He attended the rally at Pineda Causeway and Wickham Road in Melbourne, where some stood beneath the shade of nearby trees while others braved the mid-afternoon sun.

He recalled viewing the live broadcast of Saturday's campaign rally and stared in disbelief as a popping noise erupted and the former president dropped to the stage.

"I didn't know what was going on ... I just knew he was shot," McCallister said.

The message of non-violence resonated with him.

"This was the result of hatred for Donald Trump," McAllister said, adding that any form of violence is unacceptable.

"I wouldn't want that to happen to President Biden. It would be wrong."

J.D. Gallop is a criminal justice/breaking news reporter at FLORIDA TODAY. Contact Gallop at 321-917-4641 or jgallop@floridatoday.com. X, formerly known as Twitter: @JDGallop.

Dr. Stephanie Haridopolos and former Sen. Mike Haridopolos, who recently received an endorsement from Donald Trump in his run for House District 8, hold messages of support Sunday for former President Trump. Supporters gathered Sunday morning on U.S. 1 and Eau Gallie Boulevard in Melbourne.

This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Space Coast Republicans pray for Trump following Pa. shooting
This weeks The Spectrum was recorded before the assassination attempt on former President Trump on Saturday.

COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  This week on The Spectrum:

President Bidens health is now an issue in Ohios closely watched U.S. Senate race.

Ive talked to people across Ohio, Sen. Sherrod Brown (D-Ohio) said. They have legitimate questions about whether the president should continue his campaign.

New bill proposes increased penalties for committing felonies in disguise

It makes Watergate look like nothing, Republican Senate candidate Bernie Moreno said.

Why Moreno is accusing Brown of a cover-up.

A bill that would overhaul higher education has been stalled for months at the Ohio Statehouse.

We had a chance to be out front here on higher education reform, Ohio Sen. Jerry Cirino (R-Kirtland) said.

Bipartisan Ohio bill seeks to fight food insecurity on college campuses

The potential impact is devastating, University of Cincinnati professor Steve Mockabee said.>

Why the bills sponsor said hes determined to get it across the finish line.

One-on-one with Ohio Lt. Gov. Jon Husted about the ongoing investigation into the House Bill 6 bribery scheme.

These things have a way of creating a life of their own, and I really am sad to see that its still lingering on, he said.

Ammo vending machines installed in grocery stores in these southern states

What Husted thinks should happen next with the now-tainted legislation.

Republican strategist Mark Weaver and former Democratic state senator Lou Gentile join the roundtable to discuss Bidens ability to serve for another four years, and how that question will affect Ohios U.S. Senate race.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
Bob and Willa Holliger of Independence were watching former President Donald Trumps campaign rally on TV when they saw him grab his ear and then go to the ground  witnessing live an attempted assassination of the Republican presidential candidate.

A day later the couple said they werent surprised.

I believe this is spiritual warfare, Willa said as they munched on sausages with peppers at the Jackson County Republican Partys ice cream social on Sunday afternoon. I thought about how God had protected him.

Trump supporters in the Kansas City area expressed anger, sadness and relief after the shooting at a Pennsylvania rally, which left Trump shot in his right ear and a rally attendee dead. The shooter, a 20-year-old Pennsylvania man, was killed by the Secret Service moments after opening fire.

Dozens gathered for the Jackson County Republican Party social at an Elks lodge in south Kansas City. The long-scheduled event still featured a parade of candidates delivering two-minute stump speeches in between bites of ice cream, but the atmosphere at times turned somber as speakers gave thanks that Trump  whom many consider a champion  had survived.

At first I couldnt believe it, said Ruth Pirch, an Oak Grove resident who was also watching the rally.

Pirch predicted the shooting would lead to greater unity in the country. She voiced hope that the attack would bring an end to what she called hateful rhetoric.

I think what it means is were coming together, she said.

Members of the Jackson County Republican Party listened as candidates spoke at an ice cream social in Kansas City on Sunday, July 14, 2022. Several candidates mentioned the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

The attempted assassination took place ahead of the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. Trump plans to keep his previous plans to attend the rally and the four-day event appears set to continue on as usual, albeit with greater security.

Modern political conventions are intended to elevate the partys candidate while denigrating the opposing partys nominee. Whether the shooting alters Republican messaging at the convention wasnt immediately clear.

In Kansas City, some GOP candidates faulted Democratic rhetoric about Trump. Will Scharf, a member of Trumps legal team who is running for Missouri attorney general, pointed to the demonization of the former president as a potential future Hitler or dictator.

I mean, the tone of that rhetoric almost calls out for violence and I think thats whats really despicable about, certainly, the lead-up to yesterdays events and the current political tone weve seen throughout this campaign season, Scharf said.

Will Scharf, a Republican candidate for Missouri Attorney General and an attorney for Donald Trump, speaks to members of the Jackson County Republican Party about the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. Scharf spoke during a GOP ice cream social in Kansas City on Sunday, July 14, 2022.

Anthony Zarantonello, a Republican running for Missouri House District 26, which covers a swath of south Kansas City, expressed shock at the shooting. He told the ice cream social crowd that he couldnt fathom what had happened.

The fact that we are fighting so hard for American freedom and that somebody who believes in communism or Marxism wants to take a shot the first time we actually had a real, for the people president that didnt care about the media, about the politicians, about the money, Zarantonello said.

Officials have not identified the motivation of the shooter, who the FBI identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel, Penn. Crooks was a registered Republican and had donated $15 to a progressive political action committee on the day of Bidens inauguration, the Associated Press reported.

Biden has used tougher language about Trump in recent weeks. In a private call seeking to reassure donors following his weak debate performance, Biden said he was done talking about the debate. Its time to put Trump in the bullseye, CNN reported.

Trump himself has a long history of aggressive rhetoric. He has said individuals in the United States illegally are poisoning the blood of the country and has said some are animals. He has called Black prosecutors who have brought cases against him animals.

Biden and Democrats forcefully condemned the shooting. Biden and Trump spoke on Saturday night, and Biden on Sunday said the two men had a short but good conversation. He also called for unity.

We cannot allow this to happen, Biden said.

Rep. Emanuel Cleaver, a Kansas City Democrat, said in a statement that violence only begets more violence. He called political violence a threat to the democratic system and fundamental American values.

Violence has absolutely no place in the United States of America. In the strongest possible terms, I unequivocally condemn last nights despicable, cowardly assassination attempt of the former president, and I am beyond relieved that Mr. Trump is safe and expected to make a swift, full recovery, Cleaver said.

As the investigation continues, Cleaver urged a recommitment to civility, respect and non-violence in politics.

Cleavers Republican opponent, Jackson County Legislator Sean Smith, emphasized the importance of setting a good example by working on problems instead of attacking people.

We have got to cool off the rhetoric, Smith said.
Heres how St. Louis-area first responders are preparing for a big New Madrid earthquake

This story was originally published by St. Louis Public Radio, a BND news partner.

More than 500 federal and local first responders will be in the St. Louis region Monday through Wednesday to practice their responses to a magnitude 8.4 earthquake across the New Madrid Fault.

Members of the Missouri National Guard, military and local law enforcement agencies will practice search and rescue for a planned emergency response drill.

Task Force 46, a National Guard unit from Michigan, will co-host the dense urban terrain training with the St. Louis Area Regional Response System. It will be the most in-depth disaster drill ever held in St. Louis, said Samantha Lewis, the systems executive director.

We have fire departments that work together for fire exercises and law enforcement departments that work together.  We do have that collaboration already within the region, Lewis said. But whats unique about this is it pulls even more people in.

The simulated disaster begins at Busch Stadium, where hundreds of responders will practice search and rescue missions and mass casualty decontamination. Other members of the National Guard, military and local enforcement agencies will mitigate biological contaminants at Linwood Train Yard in St. Louis County.

The scenario involves closing the Eads and Clark bridges to Illinois and bringing first responders to the river near the St. Charles ferry. Members of the National Guard will transport people, mannequins and vehicles across the river on a makeshift bridge.

The National Guard can bring in a floating bridge to be able to transport across the river, if for some reason there was no more road access to get to the other side, Lewis said.

Paramedics aim to take ambulances and helicopters to local hospitals, preparing for an event with a large number of civilian casualties.

Clark and Eighth streets in downtown St. Louis will close during the day. The training is closed to the public but will be visible from nearby streets and waterways.

It shouldnt have too much of an impact on traffic, Lewis said. We just ask that people keep in mind and be aware that theres an exercise going on  just so that our responders can be focused.

Missouri and Illinois police and Emergency Management agencies are among 40 local groups involved in the disaster drill.
Thomas Merton, our Kentucky monk and theologian, didnt know where he was going and couldnt see the road ahead of him. Yet in his famous and wonderful prayer, he said, But I believe that the desire to please you does in fact please you. And I hope that I will never do anything apart from that desire.

President Biden, despite his quip that The Lord Almighty is not coming down to take him out of the race, knows he cant see the road ahead of him. He is a very devout man and we believe deeply that he shares Mertons insights.

All his adult life, Joe Biden blessedly has desired to do right by trying to make government work better in order to make life a little better for more people. For those who know President Biden, whether they believe hes succeeded or failed, or think his life has been a wasted effort altogether, his desire, dedication and good faith have never been in serious question until now. Now, the stakes have never been higher for Kentucky and our entire country.

The stakes are high for Kentucky

The dangers of Trumpism are not hypothetical; theyre realized through Project 2025, a Christian Nationalist agenda that would reshape our system of government, our courts, laws, cultural beliefs, and practices to reflect its ideals. Project 2025 is antithetical to traditional Kentucky values. Values of hard work, freedom, fairness, justice, love for our land and neighbors, and the ability for all people to live safe and healthy lives. It has never been more important that we protect our communities, state, and nation from the Heritage Foundation's Project 2025 and Trumps authoritarian principles.

Former President Donald Trump campaigns for reelection at his golf club in Doral, Fla., on July 9, 2024.

To protect Kentucky and the nation from Trumps potential authoritarian regime, we must call on President Biden to quickly withdraw and create a new slate.

What a miraculous accomplishment it must be for President Biden to have spent his entire adult life as a highly effective politician serving in the most honorable elected positions while retaining such a stellar reputation.

What an accomplishment it is for him to have helped elect and serve our first Black president of the United States of America as second in command to President Barack Obama.

What an accomplishment it is to have led the defeat of a candidate for President who doesnt accept the rules, traditions, and customs of American democracy  who drops dynamite blasts into our bedrock of truth every day!

Thats why we who admire and care deeply for President Joe Biden understand how profoundly unsettling these times are for this great man and his wife and rock, Dr. Jill Biden. It is why we, his supporters, desperately believe his legacy must be preserved! With each past accomplishment, President Biden has expressed his desire to please his god with active listening, learning and prayer.

President Biden must step down

Yet, as he has even acknowledged, The President of today is not the same Joe Biden he, of course, has been. Reaching an older age is an eye-opening reality that octogenarians, like many of us who have supported the president until now, know a lot about. So often even though in our 70s we truly feel younger at heart than ever. A sensation  a gift  that makes us smile, and which we imagine President Biden knows as well. But the mirror, the camera, the many doctors visits, the back, joints, and yes, the mind, are not lying to us each day, not to mention the occasional lack of balance and inability often to walk that straight line.

We have been blessed as a country to have had Joe Biden as our President. We are blessed to now have our 81-year-old president alive and caring so deeply. But now we desperately need our 81-year-old President to be proud of those years and immediately collaborate with the leadership of the House and the leadership of the Senate and his major political supporters to create a new Democratic Party slate and to pass the torch with grace. Not doing so will lead to a tragedy of the greatest possible proportions and leave what is an exceptionally hard-earned family legacy in complete shambles. Enabling a path for the most immoral  or likely amoral  American to be elected which would make President Biden and his family absolutely complicit in what could be a fatal blow to democracy in America and freedoms for all in our world.

The Beatitudes, which we believe have inspired President Bidens guiding political principles, should become his real leadership legacy as he quickly passes this torch!

Blessed are the poor in spirit, Blessed are those who mourn, Blessed are the meek, Blessed are those who hunger, Blessed are the merciful, Blessed are the pure in heart, Blessed are the peacemakers, Blessed are those who are persecuted because of righteousness, Blessed are you when people insult you, persecute you and falsely say all kinds of evil against you, Rejoice and be glad, because great is your reward in heaven

We, together with millions of others pray that President Biden will immediately endorse a new slate. The blitz primary suggestion is a path forward for the Democratic Party.

We pray he will be recognized throughout history as the President who Stopped Donald Trump, in doing so he preserved our country and our worlds freedoms, while preserving President Joe Bidens own hard-earned legacy based on solid moral societal foundations!

Christina Lee Brown is a longtime Louisville philanthropist and namesake of the U of L Christina Lee Brown Envirome Institute. She is a global leader creating new ways to empower "citizen scientists" to lead healthier lives by advocating for a culture of health using nature as the standard, and encouraging all decisions to be made through the lens of health. She believes passionately in the potential of urban and rural communities to effect positive change by working together, at the same time celebrating their commonalities and differences.

Ambassador Tod Sedgwick previously served as U.S. Ambassador to the Slovak Republic from 2010 to 2015. He is a Fellow at the Transatlantic Center at The Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Study and a Senior Fellow at the Center for the Study of the Presidency and Congress, positions he has held since 2015. He is a member of the Ambassadorial Advisory Committee of the Atlantic Council and is on the board of the International Foundation for Electoral Systems. He lives in Louisville.

This article originally appeared on Louisville Courier Journal: Biden must step down as president to protect his legacy and counrty
STAMFORD, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  For nearly three decades, Stamford resident Elida Gonzales has been happy in her home on Hamilton Street, surrounded by the memories of a life well lived. However, a large fire on the night of the 4th of July turned her beloved home into ashes. The fire was so large that it also burned an abandoned home next door. Sophie Gonzales, Elidas daughter, thanks the first responders for putting out the flames.

The police officer had to come in there and get her out. I also want to say thank you to him. He saved my mom. There are just not enough words to say thank you to the police officer. My mom had a lot of old photos of us and, of course, my dad and her. There are a lot of sentimental photos that are gone now, explained Gonzales.

Fire engulfs 2 houses in Stamford

Elidas grandson, Aaron Gonzales, is heartbroken to lose a house that holds many memories. Although its a long road ahead, it is not one they will walk alone. Days after the fire, residents donated clothes and other essential items.

Its just sad to see a house that my grandma and I would sit on that poor porch swing and talk and talk for hours on end and just to see that its all gone now, said Aaron.

Many of the losses can never be replaced, but the Gonzales family shared that with the help of family and community support, they are ready to move on.

I know my mom was actually surprised that people have been trying to reach out and help her. My mom is a strong lady, and with Gods help, we are going to get through this. We are going to help her get through this, added Gonzales.

We fought hard to save it: Abilenes Arrow Ford sign removed after standing for 45 years

The Gonzales family set up a fire fund at First Bank Texas under the name Elida Gonzales for those interested in donating. Drop-off donations are being accepted at 514 East Moran Street in Stamford. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KTAB - BigCountryHomepage.com.
Star Editorial Board endorses candidates in the Aug. 6 primary. What you need to know | Opinion

This year, The Kansas City Star Editorial Board will endorse candidates in primary and general election races in Missouri and Kansas. The date for both is Aug. 6, just three weeks away.

Over the following weeks, we will begin to roll out our endorsements in the following primary races:

Missouri

Governor, U.S. Senate, attorney general, secretary of state, state legislative districts, Jackson County prosecutor, and ballot initiatives on police funding and a tax exemption for child care facilities.

Kansas

State legislative districts, Johnson County sheriff, Johnson County commission, Johnson County district attorney and Douglas County district attorney.

We sent out questionnaires to candidates in almost all of these races by email and postal mail if we could not find an email address. Our endorsements are based on the candidates body of work, our own research, and, if returned, answers to our questionnaire.

In the primary, we selected races to endorse where more than one candidate is for the seat. We did not endorse in races where there are no competing candidates.

In some races, we couldnt recommend a candidate. Some candidates continue to falsely profess that the 2020 presidential election was illegitimate; we cannot endorse any candidate who endorses that.

Our first endorsements were for the Missouri governor primaries, both Republican and Democratic. Youll be able to read those today.

The editorial board, which has a long history of endorsing candidates and issues, took a break for a while. We started endorsing again in last Novembers elections. In the local April 2023 election, we did not endorse because of changes in personnel and the death of Michael Lindenberger, our previous editorial page editor, just months before.

Why are endorsements important? Its all about giving readers more information that can help them make their own decisions. We do this through endorsing candidates and issues in presidential and local races, and explaining how we came to those decisions.

We are not telling you how to vote. Were sharing our recommendations in the races, and why we arrived at them. We encourage you to make up your own mind.

Our news colleagues created a 2024 Voter Guide for Kansas City and Missouri. Read more about several of the issues that have been in the news this year.

Heres how to learn more about Missouri and Kansas voter rules and deadlines.
On Saturday evening, chaos erupted when a gunman fired shots into a Pennsylvania campaign rally for presumptive Republican nominee and former President Donald Trump, who was rushed off stage with a bloodied ear.

Photojournalists at the event managed to capture many of the scenes unfolding before them  including the immediate response from the attendees and from the former president himself, who raised a fist in the air as law enforcement tried to protect him.

Here are some of the many photos that documented what authorities have described as an assassination attempt  an event that will likely be remembered as a significant moment in U.S. history.

The Shooting

Trump was speaking at his rally in Butler when several shots rang out and threw the event into chaos. Images show Trump with a bloodied right ear and blood smeared on his right cheek as Secret Service agents and campaign staffers rush to protect the candidate and civilians.

Agents initially ducked and covered Trump before hurrying him off the stage. In the stands, images appear to show some spectators bloodied or hiding under benches.

Secret Service agents cover former President Donald Trump during his campaign rally on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Trump ducked and was taken off stage after a gunman shot at him. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

Trump is seen bloodied after a gunman attempted to assassinate him during his campaign rally in Butler. Evan Vucci via Associated Press

Secret Service personnel cover Trump on stage. Anna Moneymaker via Getty Images

A shoe is left on stage after Trump was rushed away. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

The Fist

As Secret Service agents surrounded the former president in an effort to protect him from further harm, a bloodied Trump raised his fist in the air, and kept it raised until security personnel were able to get him to a vehicle.

Associated Press photojournalist Evan Vucci took a photo of Trump, fist aloft with a large American flag in the background, that The New Yorkers Benjamin Wallace-Wells described as already the indelible image of our era of political crisis and conflict.

Trump is seen with blood on his face as Secret Service agents rush him off the stage. Rebecca Droke/AFP via Getty Images

Secret Service agents surround Trump on stage. Jeff Swensen via Getty Images

Trump gestures as he leaves the stage, surrounded by Secret Service agents. Evan Vucci via Associated Press

Trump raises his fist as he's helped into a vehicle. Jabin Botsford/The Washington Post via Getty Images

The Shooter

Law enforcement went after the shooter, who was seen positioned with a weapon on a rooftop outside the rally venue. The gunman, whom authorities have identified as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks, was reportedly shot dead by Secret Service personnel.

A law enforcement officer moves after the assassination attempt on Trump. Anna Moneymaker via Getty Images

Police snipers return fire after the attempt on Trump's life. Gene J. Puskar via Associated Press

Law enforcement on July 14 block a street in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, that they say is near the residence of the late Thomas Crooks, whom authorities identified as the man who attempted to assassinate Trump. Joshua A. Bickel via Associated Press
Stoltenberg on Poland potentially shooting down missiles over Ukraine: NATO will not be involved in the conflict

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg has made it clear that he is opposed to Poland using its air defence systems to shoot down Russian missiles over the territory of Ukraine.

Source: Stoltenberg in an interview broadcast on the national joint 24/7 newscast on Sunday

Details: The NATO Secretary General was asked to comment on the idea of Poland shooting down missiles heading in its direction while they are still in Ukrainian airspace.

Quote: "NATO will support Ukraine, and we have now increased our support...

But NATO's policy is unchanged  we will not be involved in this conflict. We will not become part of the conflict. So we support Ukraine in the destruction of Russian aircraft, but NATO will not be directly involved."

Details: Stoltenberg confirmed his position that "Ukraine has the right to attack legitimate military targets on the territory of Russia, the aggressor country".

He noted that "different countries have imposed different restrictions on the use of the weapons they provide to Ukraine". At the same time, the NATO Secretary General welcomed the permission granted by the US to use American missiles to strike Russian territory near the border with Ukraine in Kharkiv Oblast.

Asked to comment on the idea of a government-controlled but later temporarily Russian-occupied part of Ukraine joining NATO, Stoltenberg said: "We have seen various models, and I will be cautious about making any statements about which solution may be applicable to Ukraine."

Background:

After signing a security agreement with Ukraine on 8 July, Polish Prime Minister Donald Tusk said that Poland would open up a discussion with NATO allies about the possible downing of Russian missiles and drones over the territory of Ukraine. Tusk stated that Poland is open to such an initiative but, he said, it would require NATO's involvement and approval.

On 10 July, Polish National Defence Minister Wadysaw Kosiniak-Kamysz said Poland would not shoot down Russian missiles heading through Ukraine in its direction unless a decision is made at NATO level.

On 13 July, Polish Foreign Minister Radosaw Sikorski stated that Warsaw is considering a proposal by Kyiv that Russian missiles heading towards Polish territory be intercepted while they are still in Ukrainian airspace.

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This story pole honors the Boldt Decision and Indigenous activists who fought for it

Salish story poles do exactly that: tell stories.

The one Salish multimedia artist Ed Archie NoiseCat is carving at The Evergreen State College tells the story of the Boldt Decision and three Indigenous activists who fought for the historic tribal fishing rights ruling: Billy Frank Jr., Ramona Bennett and Hank Adams.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the decision, a court ruling by U.S. District Court Judge George Boldt that affirmed Indigenous treaty rights that provided tribes with half of the salmon harvest and set them up as co-managers of the states fisheries. Frank led a series of civil disobedience protests known as the Fish Wars to defend those rights and to bring national and international attention to their cause.

This is being done to recognize the Fish Wars and the people that were involved, mainly being Billy Frank Jr., NoiseCat said. He had a lot of people that helped him get there.

NoiseCat is carving the 13-foot story pole on Evergreens Indigenous Arts Campus during a six-month residency hosted by the Longhouse Education and Cultural Center. He works in the Pay3qali carving studio alongside his apprentices Ablaza Pluff and Earl Pluff, who are also Salish.

His residency began in February and will end in August. After NoiseCat finishes it, the story pole will be on display in the Evergreen Gallery or Longhouse.

Billy had been a Board of Trustees member for the college, and he had always been a part of the Longhouse history. So, he attended our events, he spoke at our events. He was a big part of the early years, Longhouse director Laura VerMeulen said. And so for us, it seemed like a really natural fit to have this particular project.

From statue to story pole

The story pole began as a stick  Franks talking stick, which he holds in the statue NoiseCat submitted for selection to create one of Washington states two statues in the U.S. Capitols National Statuary Hall. Each state has two statues representing them, and a statue of Frank will replace one of missionary Marcus Whitman in 2025.

NoiseCat started planning his submission in 2019. His preparations included studying Franks talking stick, which he said he had in his possession for almost a year. In NoiseCats submission, Frank stood with his talking stick in hand as salmon swam up from the statues pedestal and wrapped around its base.

As a Coastal Salish person, Frank has a lot of story, NoiseCat said. Therefore, NoiseCat thought it important for Frank to have his talking stick, which he used to present himself and the story he told others.

When he was in the room, everybody listened to him and he didnt really need a talking stick, NoiseCat said. But in the Statuary Hall, he doesnt have his voice. He has his talking stick to do the talking for him. Thats why I did it this way.

However, NoiseCats submission was not chosen; Seattle artist Haiying Wu is sculpting the statue now at South Puget Sound Community College.

But soon after, NoiseCat heard about the Longhouses residency program. He has been working with the Longhouse for decades; it never occurred to him that he could work in residence there.

Someone dropped the idea on me and I called Laura, and Laura had a wide open studio and had a grant that needed to be filled right away. And I happened to have a presentation right there and dropped that off with her, NoiseCat said. And we were off and running.

Telling the story

Just weeks after he and VerMeulen came to terms on his residency in January, NoiseCat had redesigned the statues talking stick into the story pole.

He had also found the wood he would make it out of: a piece of yellow cedar and a 10-foot piece of old-growth red cedar about 500 years old, both sourced on the Olympic Peninsula.

Then, NoiseCat started carving in February.

I wanted to tell more of the entire story with the piece rather than having it all be in a talking stick, which is really hard to do because the scale is just wrong, NoiseCat said. So weve kind of taken the talking stick idea and turned the story pole into the talking stick.

Carved into the center of the red cedar is a spindle whorl, a Salish symbol of wealth, with runs of salmon swirling out of the epicenter. They come from the ocean  the bottom of the story pole, also home to an orca and octopus  and swim up to the rivers, meeting toward the top of the wood. There, the salmon split in the middle: the Boldt Decision.

Atop the red cedar main will be Frank himself, made of yellow cedar and standing in a river canoe as he casts his fishing net out over the water below him. NoiseCat is carving the yellow cedar separately before placing it atop the red cedar main.

Portraits of Bennett and Adams will join Frank on the story pole, carved into the red cedar under either side of his canoe.

I made the pole tell the story and Billy Frank is a character in that story, NoiseCat said.

Along with Frank and the other activists who fought for the Boldt Decision, the story pole celebrates the judge who made it: George Hugo Boldt. Below Frank and his canoe, NoiseCat will carve Boldt 1974 in Roman-style lettering.

That will probably be the title of the piece, NoiseCat said.

Salmon has formed the basis of many Indigenous cultures, said VerMeulen, who is Tlingit. As the primary fish they fish for, salmon is critical to Indigenous peoples throughout the rainforest region, from Yakutat, Alaska, to Northern California.

But climate change, overfishing, pollution, trawling and other issues affect the salmon population. Climate change even affects ground temperature and snow cover, killing the same cedar the story pole is made of.

To VerMeulen, the story pole is an intersection of all of this.

Billy would always say, and a lot of the activists like Ramona and Hank would also say, you dont have any treaty rights if you dont have any salmon, VerMeulen said.

In residence

NoiseCats residency at the Longhouse brings together skills he has worked on for almost four decades.

After graduating from the Emily Carr College of Art and Design in 1986, he started in the New York art world as a master lithographer and printmaker. From there, he went to carving, and worked in other media including bronze, silver, gold and glass.

Now NoiseCat is passing those skills on to his apprentices, students and other visitors to the carving studio.

The carving studio will have open hours during which visitors can see NoiseCats progress on the story pole. He is also teaching carving classes there this summer.

Were touching on all the different aspects of making art from our carving sense. Were making axes and everything, were making tools as well, NoiseCat said. Its a full-on experience of learning how to go about this type of art making.

VerMeulen said a focus of the grant funding NoiseCats residency is inter-generational learning and teaching.

The work with the apprentices, the opportunity to bring other people in to see the project, to see artwork of this size and scope in progress, being made, is a huge deal, VerMeulen said. A lot of times people will see the work completely finished and theyre not aware of the process or the steps that are involved in it.

Much of NoiseCats work deals with environmental movements. Namely, he designed one of seven 40-foot banners that flew from the Canadian Iron Workers Memorial Bridge in 2018 to protest the Trans Mountain Expansion Pipeline project.

The story pole is no different. Honoring Frank with it provides a place for others to start in the discussion of protecting salmon and carrying on the fight he started, NoiseCat said.

He gained the right for Native people to get half of the salmon, NoiseCat said. But what happens when the salmon are dwindled away?  Humans have put up every obstacle that they possibly could against the salmon, and all were trying to do is make their trip a little bit easier.
A Tacoma street is closed after a Pierce Transit hybrid bus lost power Sunday and rolled into a power pole, according to the Tacoma Police Department.

About 9:20 a.m., the bus was climbing the hill on South Pine Street when the vehicle lost power, detective William Muse said.

To avoid having the bus veer into traffic, the driver turned the steering wheel in the opposite direction but crashed into a power pole, knocking out power to the immediate area, Muse said.

The driver was not hurt, but one passenger suffered a minor injury to his right leg. He was checked out by a Tacoma fire crew but was not transported to the hospital.

Pine Street, between South Tacoma Way and South 35th Street, remained about closed about 2:30 p.m., Muse said. Officers are not on scene, but there are barricades in place, he said.

The bus is there because it is covered in power lines, Muse said.

According to the Tacoma Public Utilities outage map, two customers, as of about 2:30 p.m., were still affected by the outage.
AUBURN, Ala. (WRBL)  According to information sent to WRBL over the weekend, several students of Lee-Scott Academy have launched a Change.org petition to address recent changes in the schools dress code, which would ban leggings.

The petition argues leggings have become an essential part of students daily attire due to their comfort and affordability. They allow students to concentrate on their studies without the constant worry about their clothing choices. The petition reads in part: Its time for our voices to be heard. Lets rally together to bring back the approval of leggings in our dress code. Sign this petition, and support the right of Lee-Scott Academy students to wear leggings.

WRBL has reaches out to Lee-Scott administrators to understand their reasons behind the alleged legging ban.

The new regulations mandate a jeans-only policy, which supporters of the petition argue hampers their comfort and places unnecessary financial stress on their families as they have to buy clothes to replace leggings in their students closets.

The students emphasize school policies should prioritize their learning and well-being above all else. They are now rallying together to call for the reinstatement of leggings in the dress code, urging their peers and the community to support their petition.

WRBL has learned the Lee-Scott administration responsible for the dress code has proposed a meeting with students to discuss a possible resolution. The meetings are set to take place this week. For now, the students and parents we spoke with say they would like to hold off on addressing the situation in an interview until after the meetings. We will keep you updated.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WRBL.
Researchers have found that children near Amsterdam's Schiphol Airport use inhalers more and have increased asthma-related symptoms because of higher levels of air pollution.

What's happening?

In a new study, Dutch researchers installed air pollution equipment in three different grade schools, each less than a mile from the airport border, as detailed by the Guardian.

Weekly measurements of 161 children from the schools and 19 asthmatic children living in the same area were taken to gauge lung function.

Professor Gerard Hoek of Utrecht University led the study and said that days with higher aviation-related ultrafine particles (UFPs) resulted in more respiratory distress. Symptoms included coughing, wheezing, and phlegm.

"On days with high aviation-related UFP, children experienced substantially more respiratory symptoms and used more symptom-relieving medication," Hoek told the Guardian.

It should be mentioned that UFPs and soot from traffic were also associated with symptoms and changes, particularly in morning lung tests.

Why are these results concerning?

Each cubic centimeter of air breathed near a large airport contains tens of thousands of UFPs, per the Guardian.

The article noted that, in 2021, the Dutch Health Council and the World Health Organization focused on growing evidence that UFPs were damaging our health, using results from 75 different studies.

In 2020, a study of four European capitals found aviation UFPs in the city centers, miles away from the airports. However, researchers found that UFP concentrations are higher within a mile downwind of the airport than they are on the curbs of London's busiest roads.

Victoria Chester described living close to London's Gatwick Airport, telling the Guardian: "Living near the airport you become used to the noise and smell, but on some days it's so bad you can taste the pollution in the air, and when the wind blows in your direction it really stinks."

This is a huge problem, especially for those who live, work, and attend school in these areas.

Airplanes are a giant consumer of dirty energy, responsible for around 2.5% of carbon pollution, per Our World in Data.

The National Cancer Institute has linked UFP to lung cancer, the most deadly cancer in the United States.

What's being done about aviation-related air pollution?

This study may help encourage positive change at airports around the world, resulting in reduced air pollution and the creation of a new standard.

"It may not be possible to get a full picture of health effects of UFPs until we can conduct large-scale epidemiological studies. In the meantime, reduction of exposure to particles from all sources is prudent to protect health," University of Leicester professor Anna Hansell, who was not involved in the study, said to the Guardian.

Change is also coming in the form of alternative, cleaner fuel sources. Japan has plans to build airplanes that use hydrogen fuel or electric propulsion. Other innovative aviation in development include hybrid electric planes, electric planes, and "air-powered" planes.

Airports are making all kinds of eco-friendly shifts, too: from LAX in Los Angeles banning the sale of single-use plastic bottles, to the solar carport and battery storage facility project at JFK in New York, and Washington Dulles International Airport's $200 million renovation that includes electric vehicle charging stations and a solar farm.

Join our free newsletter for weekly updates on the coolest innovations improving our lives and saving our planet.
Concerned about lack of bidders for bridge project

Rhode Islanders were shaken earlier this month by the news that the deadline for contractors to submit bids for the replacement of the failed span of the Washington Bridge had passed without receipt of a single bid. State authorities now had to spend the holiday week attempting to devise a strategy for attracting qualified bidders without increasing the already eye-popping $300-million estimate or pushing back the politically sensitive completion date.

Governor McKee has tied his re-election efforts to the timely opening of the new span, targeted just ahead of the 2024 Democratic primary, where he will be seeking to cap his weirdly overachieving career with another full term. The rejected call for bids included generous incentives for early completion, paired with draconian penalties for delay.

Several factors contributed to the paucity of interest in taking on the project. First construction firms, even those who concentrate on bridge projects, are very busy these days  theres plenty of less risky work to be had. Further, physical realities of the job are daunting, working only feet from an over-stressed interstate highway carrying two-way traffic on a span designed for one.

Even discounting those challenges, it is impossible to ignore the risks of delay arising from the demonstrable inefficiency and corruption of R.I. government. McKees starting reluctance to clean house at RIDOT must only add to the contractors unease. The prospect of being penalized for delays actually arising from political friction seems real at best and inevitable at worst. A revised invitation to bid must address these concerns.

James Bryant, Pawtucket

Appalled by party chairman's response to shooting

I am appalled by one Republican response to the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump. On July 14, theProvidence Journal quoted R.I. Republican Party Chairman Joe Powers thusly: The relentless attacks on President Trump have reached a new and horrifying low They have impeached him, indicted him, and tried to jail him. Now, they have resorted to an attempted assassination. What are they so afraid of?"

The impeachments and indictments  and convictions  were legally permissible actions taken against the former president. To date, no Democratic officials have called for jailing him. Trump is the only individual currently running to reclaim the White House who consistently calls for retribution, weaponizing the Justice Department to imprison his political enemies, shooting drug dealers, etc.

In contrast, President Joseph Biden has never suggested or implemented such illegal actions and, within hours of the attempted assassination, forcefully denounced the attempted assassination and violence in general. The MAGA wing of the Republican Party  not the Democratic Party  blindly supports Trumps dangerous, violent and vitriolic rhetoric.

Nancy Kirsch, East Providence

Vigilance against recurring historical patterns

In light of the recent Supreme Court decision granting the presidency unlimited immunity for official acts, it is pertinent to revisit historical precedents.

Prior to 1933, Germany operated under the Weimar Constitution, which, akin to our own constitution, distributed political authority among the president, the cabinet, and the parliament (the Reichstag). The German president served as both head of state and commander-in-chief, with the authority to enact legislation by signing bills into law.

Notably, the Weimar Constitution included Article 48, which conferred upon the president the unrestricted ability to issue decrees, including the deployment of armed forces to safeguard public security, without parliamentary or judicial oversight. Drawing a parallel, the provision of unlimited immunity to our president for official acts bears similarity to Article 48, shielding the executive from prosecution and oversight from the Congress or courts.

One difference from Article 48 in our Constitution is that our Congress can impeach; but we already saw what happened two times there with the political party influence during impeachment proceedings, and our courts are supposed to be apolitical, in which many of us have lost that confidence.

Should Donald Trump secure reelection, given his proclamation of intent to act as a "dictator for a day," there exists a concern that he may exploit his presidential powers to undermine the checks and balances of our courts and Congress, akin to the Enabling Act of 1933. It is imperative that we remain vigilant against the recurrence of historical patterns. We cannot let history repeat itself.

John A. McLane, Westerly

'Wasting' money to rewrite history

In his excellent column, Christopher Ferguson reminded us of the folly committed by removing "Providence Plantations" from the state name ("RI erred in dropping 'Providence Plantations'," Commentary, July 6).

As he noted, the name was used to distinguish the mainland portion of the state from the actual island. Roger Williams owned no slaves, and, in fact, treated the native peoples with respect  including paying a fair price for the land. The name was a part of our history, and an example of Rhode Island's quirkiness. Clearly, removing the phrase was an unfortunate overreaction.

Why are we wasting thousands of dollars to rewrite history? Let common sense return  along with "Providence Plantations."

Oh, and for the record, Rhode Island was the first colony to outlaw slavery.

W. Bruce Glass, Cranston

Disparities in economic outcomes

In his commentary, Christopher Ferguson opines that cutting "Providence Plantations" from the state name was a mistake. He makes some sweeping conclusions without a factual basis, and tries to trick us with those he does use.

For example, in arguing that economic outcomes are not race based, he points to the Bureau of Labor Statistics regarding the incomes of Asian women, but ignores the 2023 BLS reports that show significant gaps between Black and Latino/Hispanic men and women, and their white counterparts. Without any basis he simply states that as for the criminal justice system, arrests and sentencing have nothing to do with race. In fact, the 2023 report of the United States Sentencing Commission shows that Black and Latino males and females receive harsher sentences than both male and female white defendants for the same crimes.

He concludes with the argument that, without "Providence Plantations," Rhode Island is simply an "awkward" name. Right.

Frank Pannozzi, Providence

Biden's mental acuity is the problem

Regarding Gordon Rowley's letter to the editor "Biden should step aside, Newsom step in" (Letters, July 6):

No, Mr. Rowley, the wrecking ball is Joe Biden for relying on his handlers to run this country for the last four years, the Democratic Party for allowing this to go on, and the media for covering this up.

For the last four years, Fox News has been reporting the many missteps and misspoken words that Joe Biden has made. For even mentioning this, Fox has been accused of lying, altering videos (cheap fakes), and destroying our democracy, among many other slanderous accusations. Now, all of a sudden, the rest of the media and most Democrats acknowledge what has been right before their eyes for four years.

It is not Bidens age. His mental acuity is the problem. He has no business being president now, never mind the next four years. This is the biggest political crime in our country ever, even worse than Watergate. The Democrats have lost their right to lead this country, and the media have lost their relevancy and their reason to exist.

As for Trump, he has already served as president for four years. He did not turn into Hitler; he did not ruin the country; he did his job. And Newsome? I dont care how handsome he is. Just look at whats happening in California. Anni Rawcliffe, Warwick

Trials are more than court arguments, evidence

Re: "Why a state Supreme Court justice is seeking to change the way juries are picked," News, July 8:

Any jury might be assumed to consider the evidence in a trial, along with the arguments of prosecution and defense, and reach the same conclusions toward a verdict. The reality, however, is that those are passed through mental filters in each juror, based on life experiences, possible expectations from verdicts, and other personal factors.

Justice Melissa Long's call to seek input from a variety of stakeholders highlights the filtered role of juries in arriving at verdicts. Justice is definitely not blind to influences outside courtroom arguments and evidence.

Spence Blakely, Portsmouth

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: Sunday letters: Troubled bridge; history repeating itself; RI's 'Plantations'
Pastors at megachurches across the country on Sunday credited God with sparing the life of former President Donald Trump.

Pastor Jack Hibbs, who leads a congregation of more than 10,000, wore a colonial preachers robe that usually hangs on a rack in the church with a placard that reads: Use in case of acts of TYRANNY.

My question is why is Donald Trump alive? Hibbs said to his congregants at the Calvary Chapel in Chino Hills, California, less than 24 hours after the attempted assassination of Trump.

Hibbs, who replayed Fox News footage of Saturdays Pennsylvania shooting, suggested God saw from heaven that Trump was Israels best friend.

It wasnt the man, Hibbs said. It was the decision he made regarding the blessing of Israel.

Hibbs is part of a chorus of Christian leaders giving various degrees of credit to God for Trumps survival. Their Sunday sermons, prayers and reactions on social media paint Trump as a political leader with the protection and backing of God. The message could further his historically overwhelming support among many conservative, Evangelical Christians.

Trump had a similar message, posting on social media that it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. Other Republican leaders shared the sentiment. Some  like New York Rep. Brandon Williams  correlated the survival of Trump with the survival of the Republic.

Pastor Jentezen Franklin of Free Chapel in Georgia referenced Old Testament prophecies about the healing of Israel and asked God to make Trump a man on a mission, to keep America strong and powerful.

You preserved [Trumps] life, and you dont preserve anything you dont have a purpose for, Franklin said in a prerecorded prayer that was shared during service Sunday morning.

Mark Burns, a pastor at the Harvest Praise & Worship Center in South Carolina who is close to Trump, said the former president is now stronger than ever and called for supporters to exercise restraint in coming days.

We will not take to the streets to retaliate, but we will operate in the heavenly realms, the spiritual realms, Burns said.



While the belief that God intervenes in the world is common among Evangelicals, the political impact of this moment will vary among different sects, said Andrew Walker, a professor at Southern Baptist Theological Seminary.

Providence is best understood in the rearview mirror, he cautioned.

The belief that Trump is Gods chosen one is entrenched more deeply among fundamentalist, revivalist and pentecostal sects, Walker says. Hibbs Calvary Chapel denomination, for example, originates in pentecostalism. Among those groups, the idea that God protected Trump is likely to strengthen their belief that Trump is meant to be president.

That is not representative of how all evangelical christians think about this, Walker added.

Dino Rizzo, an associate pastor at Church of the Highlands in Alabama, tied this weekends shooting to previous decades of tumult in the country.

What we saw in the 60s and 70s with President Kennedy and, of course, Dr. King, that tragedy and that pain and the Vietnam War, and what happened? Rizzo said. People began to pray and out of that came a Jesus revolution and here we are all these years later and its still impacting our world today because we decided to pray.

The way Trump turned his head right before being grazed by the bullet is now a key point in the divine intervention argument. Harvest Christian Fellowship pastor Greg Laurie and Christian musician and speaker Sean Feucht both called the timing miraculous, and Hibbs also discussed it.

The way Trump turns his head at the very last second in this angle is WILD, Feuchts posted on X with prayer and dove emojis. (Doves are often symbols of Gods faithfulness to humanity.)

Less than an hour from Hibbs, another Los Angeles pastor presented an alternate interpretation. Doug Andersen at The Church on the Way urged his congregation to push past politics.

We need to recognize and respect the fact that other people around us  that may have views different than we might have  are not wrong, but probably listening to God just as well as you are, Anderson said, before calling on his congregation to join hands and pray for peace.
Supporters in Fort Myers turn out for Trump on Sunday after shooting at rally

Dozens of people decked in stars, stripes and candidate regalia showed support for former President Donald Trump after a shooter killed one and injured him at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday.

"We're here in support of our president," said Michael Liva, community outreach for Republican Executive Committee and president of state charter for America First Club sponsored through Lee GOP. "But obviously we're here particularly today because of the atrocity that happened yesterday."

They pumped their fists, mimicking a bleeding Trump as Secret Service put him in an armored vehicle immediately after the shooting. They waved Trump flags and Old Glory as passing motorists led steady honking in apparent support.

Several dozen supporters of former President Donald Trump including, Margo Vincent, wave flags in front of the Lee County GOP headquarters on U.S. 41 in Fort Myers on Sunday, July 14, 2024. They gathered in response to a shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

Shot during a rally at the Butler Farm Show in Pennsylvania, the presumptive Republican nominee was recovering Sunday after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire from a rooftop outside a campaign rally, USA TODAY has reported.

One spectator was killed and two others were critically injured.

Southwest Florida supporters had joined in front of the Lee County Republican Headquarters, 12995 S. Cleveland Ave., about 1 p.m. after a call by LEEGOP America First to stand in a demonstration "of our gratitude for all of the sacrifices that he continues to make for us all.

Several dozen supporters of former President Donald Trump wave flags in front of the Lee County GOP headquarters on U.S. 41 in Fort Myers on Sunday, July 14, 2024. They gathered in response to a shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania.

More: Biden to address the nation tonight after Trump assassination attempt: Live updates

"Stand with us in demonstration of our unwavering love for our nation. Send a message LOUD and CLEAR, that the fighting spirit of the American Patriot cannot be stopped."

Liva touched on the issues Trump faced since he became the nation's leader and the following years.

"We've watched them come after President Trump with impeachment, 91 charges, then 34 charges," he said. "They talked about, insurrection. They tried everything. There wasn't too many other possibilities that could happen to President Trump.

"But this was always at the back of everyone's mind that this was a possibility. And, unfortunately yesterday, that played out to be the case.

"Anger, shame those are national instincts that are in the back of everybody's mind," Liva continued. "But we all have hope and love for our country. And we're going to keep moving forward regardless of what happened yesterday."

USAToday newspapers contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Fort Myers News-Press: Fort Myers streets lined with supporters after shooting at Trump rally
Paul deLespinasse

Media gurus are interpreting recent Supreme Court decisions as products of a "conservative majority." But the decisions themselves suggest that the majority of the justices are not conservatives.

Conservatives understand that institutions develop gradually and drastic changes are dangerous. Extreme examples come when efforts to improve government are made by violent revolution or by war. In the words of a useful cliche, revolutionaries and crusaders throw the baby out with the bathwater.

But even major changes introduced by current leaders can produce disastrous results if undertaken hastily. Conservatives understand this point, too.

Anglo-American jurisprudence has traditionally been based on a conservative principle: stare decisis  "let the decision stand." This means that similar cases should be decided similarly. Court decisions therefore constitute precedents to be respected in deciding later cases.

English Common Law, ancestor of American law, developed gradually case by case over centuries. It provides legal stability enabling people to know their legal rights and duties. Such understanding is impossible if law is always fluctuating.

Statutes enacted by a legislature take precedence over Common Law traditions. But our courts have been basically conservative institutions, tipping decisions towards consistency and predictability whenever possible.

To put it mildly, respect for stare decisis does not appear evident in recent Supreme Court decisions. The Dobbs decision, overturning a 50-year-old precedent protecting first trimester abortions, comes immediately to mind.

More recently, the Court repudiated the "Chevron" doctrine. That doctrine held that courts should "defer" to an administrative agency's reasonable interpretation of legislation authorizing it to make regulations.

Courts will now be free to disagree with agencies' interpretations whenever they feel like it.

Administrative agencies are staffed by experts in the affairs they are regulating, which are often highly technical. Judges and juries, unfortunately, are not experts in any of these various specialties and are therefore in a poor position to judge wisely.

Chevron deference was a important part of modern administrative law. Overturning it complicates the work of the federal agencies that protect us from dangerous medicines, regulate airline safety, administer anti-trust law, protect worker safety, and provide many other vital services.

As Steven Vladeck, University of Texas Law School professor, put it, this court decision "destabilizes administrative law." Conservatives would not do that!

A third major decision brushing off precedent held that presidents have total immunity from criminal prosecution for actions taken in their core official capacity. Interestingly, no such legal question had ever arisen about the administrations of the first 44 presidents.

And as historian Heather Cox Richardson put it, our Founding Fathers  deadly afraid of unrestrained executive power  would have been aghast at such a decision.

Do the justices remember George III?

Akhil Reed Amar, a leading constitutional scholar at the Yale Law School, goes even further than Richardson: "Essentially, the Court in Trump v. United States is declaring the Constitution itself unconstitutional. Instead of properly starting with the Constitutions text and structure, the Court has ended up repealing them."

It was indeed a strange decision for justices styling themselves originalists and textualists, since the only immunity mentioned in the Constitution was for members of Congress.

The fact that the Constitution granted some immunity to senators and representatives but not to the president suggests the difference was intentional, according to the legal principle expressio unius est exclusio alterius.

These recent decisions suggest that stare decisis is no longer a governing principle in American law. This is not a precedent that conservative justices would have set.

Some members of the current Court may not even be acting like judges at all. Too often, it looks as if they have decided first how they want cases to turn out, then invented new constitutional principles  even if they conflict with precedent and the words and spirit of the Constitution  to justify their decisions.

We clearly need to stop claiming that today's Supreme Court is controlled by a conservative majority. Such claims could give conservatives an undeserved bad name.

 Paul deLespinasse is a professor emeritus of political science and computer science at Adrian College. He can be reached at pdeled@proaxis.com

This article originally appeared on The Daily Telegram: The Supreme Court Doesn't Have A Conservative Majority
Several important Supreme Court decisions this term dealt with questions of executive power.

In two rulings, SCOTUS expanded presidential power and limited the rest of the executive branch.

Where the Court limited the executive branch, it granted power to the judiciary, experts told BI.

With its rulings this term, the Supreme Court created a perfect storm for the lower courts to be inundated with legal challenges on everything from the applications of regulatory laws to the scope of the presidency's power.

In doing so, the high court has set up a political chessboard through which the judicial branch can claw power away from the established executive authority.

Meanwhile, some members of lower courts  such as US District Judge Aileen Cannon, in her Monday decision to toss out Donald Trump's classified documents case  are, intentionally or not, creating ways to assist SCOTUS in methodically shrinking the executive branch's power.

The Supreme Court's attack on executive power

Taken together, two specific Supreme Court decisions this term  on Loper Bright Enterprises v. Raimondo and Corner Post, Inc. v. Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System  combined to create a window for an array of new lawsuits to challenge once-settled law and be reinterpreted by a deeply polarized court. And in the cunning way the high court's conservative majority phrased its decisions, the justices kept the power to clean up the mess for themselves.

In a ruling on June 28, the court overturned 40 years of precedent and rolled back the Chevron doctrine. Once considered a victory among conservative lawmakers because it had upheld a deregulatory interpretation of policy by the Reagan administration, the Chevron doctrine gave the Environmental Protection Agency  and federal agencies more broadly  the power to interpret ambiguous regulatory language in laws enacted by Congress, as long as the agency's interpretation was reasonable.

By rolling Chevron back, the Court decided it should no longer defer to executive branch interpretations of the laws involving its agencies. It has now limited the power of presidentially appointed officials to determine how their agencies should be run under existing laws.

"So that is, in theory, taking power away from unelected officials," Justin Crowe, a professor of political science at Williams University who researches the Supreme Court, told Business Insider. "But, where is that power going? It's not exactly going to the people or to elected officials. In some roundabout sense it might be going to Congress, but in reality, it's going to courts and judges, and giving courts and judges the ability to second-guess agency decisions."

Under the new rules, federal agencies wouldn't be the authority on the regulations they enforce. That means a plaintiff could challenge regulatory rules and enforcement methods by agencies like the EPA, Securities Exchange Commission, or Department of Health and Human Service, and the Court would be allowed to interpret the legal regulations, potentially siphoning even more power from the executive branch.

A one-two punch against regulation

Corner Post was decided on July 1, receiving less media attention than Loper did several days prior. But, when combined with the outcome of the Loper decision, Corner Post "almost encourages the targets of administrative regulation to sue," according to Jonathan Entin, a retired constitutional law professor at Case Western Reserve University.

"Loper says no deference to the agency; the courts are supposed to interpret regulations. But the Corner Post case, which was a challenge to a Federal Reserve Board regulation about card swiping fees, may encourage loads of legal challenges," Entin, who clerked for former Supreme Court Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg while she was in the DC Circuit, said.

In the Corner Post case, Entin told BI, the Court expanded the six-year time limit for plaintiffs to bring lawsuits against federal agencies over their regulatory rules. The new limitations are no longer based on when the rule was implemented, as a lower court had determined. Instead, the high court decided the countdown begins when a plaintiff says they were injured by the rule  which "opens up every rule for renewed challenges by just anybody," Entin said.

This means that a plaintiff could sue over a rule enacted decades ago if they can make a case that they were hurt by the regulation within the last six years  like a newly created gas station suing over emissions regulations that it claims hinder its business, giving the current court a window to reinterpret old law.

With Corner Post, Entin said, the Supreme Court created a statute of limitations that, from the standpoint of federal agencies, never really expires.

A 'tsunami of lawsuits'

In her dissent in the Corner Post case, Justice Ketanji Brown Jackson noted that taken together, the Loper and Corner Post decisions would open up a "tsunami of lawsuits" from plaintiffs who have grievances with various federal regulations  from the Federal Reserve Board's fees for debit card processing to the Environmental Protection Agency's Clean Air Act and beyond.

Those inevitable legal challenges will offer the Court ample opportunities to weigh in  and flex its power  in the future.

But the Court didn't stop at giving itself the reins to interpret regulations that federal agencies are beholden to.

The most striking example might be the Supreme Court's ruling in Trump v. United States, in which the court granted widespread immunity to sitting presidents for official actions taken in office. But an insidious element of the Trump case is that it gave the judiciary the power to decide what exactly constitutes an official, protected, action, compared to an unofficial  and thereby unprotected  one.

In the Trump case, the Supreme Court offered Trump broad immunity for some of his acts concerning his January 6 election interference case. It also kicked some decisions back down to DC District Judge Tanya Chutkan to determine whether other elements of the charges against the former president would be protected by the "official act" immunity or if he could still be prosecuted for them.

Additional challenges from the Trump camp on Chutkan's decisions could land the case back on the Supreme Court's desk for more specific interpretation.

Similarly, Judge Cannon's Monday decision to toss out the former president's classified documents case will almost certainly find its way to the Supreme Court after appeal.

Cannon, who was appointed by Trump, ruled that the appointment of Special Counsel Jack Smith to prosecute the former president was unconstitutional because Smith was not approved by Congress to fill the role like other legal officers of the US who have the power to impanel grand juries and bring indictments.

Smith was assigned to the job by Attorney General Merrick Garland  a presidentially appointed position. Special counsels have historically been used for major cases in which Justice Department officials may have a conflict of interest, such as the Ronald Reagan-era Iran-Contra affair, Bill Clinton's Whitewater controversy, and the criminal investigation into Hunter Biden.

Clarence Thomas signaled in his opinion in the Supreme Court's immunity case ruling this month that he believes many types of special counsels are unconstitutional. It was only weeks after Thomas's opinion that Cannon made her ruling.

While other conservative justices have not so clearly stated their opinion on special counsels, a future ruling preventing their use would erode the right of the Attorney General's office to appoint special prosecutors, removing that power from the executive branch.

The pattern is not limited to the immunity case or those involving business regulations  it's part of a trend of the Supreme Court dismantling the non-presidential powers of the executive branch, rolling back laws, and reversing lower court rulings involving guns, emergency abortions, and where homeless people are allowed to sleep.

In the July 6 episode of Slate's Supreme Court analysis podcast "Amicus with Dahlia Lithwick," Senior Court Reporter Mark Joseph Stern said the Court spent this term expanding its power and "restructuring representative democracy to make it less representative and less democratic."

And it can keep happening no matter who is in the White House.

"It strikes me that this is a court that does not have a modest view of its own role," Entin told BI. "It has reached out to decide things that it didn't necessarily have to decide, and by doing so, it encourages other potential litigants to try to swing for the fences. And whether the court got these cases right or not, I think we're going to see more cases raising these sorts of issues come along."

Read the original article on Business Insider
SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  At a rally for former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13, Trump was removed from the stage after what is now being investigated as an assassination attempt.

At least one rally attendee died, two others were critically injured after the incident, and the suspected shooter was killed, according to reports.

Three witnesses who were at the rally spoke to ABC4.com to discuss the reactions they saw and emotions they felt in the moments after the apparent assassination attempt on the former president.

READ NEXT: Utah leaders respond after apparent assassination attempt at PA rally for former Pres. Trump

Matt Rairigh, Nick Patterson, and Andrew Babay were at the rally. The trio said they were seated fairly close to the front when the situation began unfolding.

Initially, we just heard what sounded like firecrackers, Rairigh said. And we couldnt tell, so we kinda had, like, a delayed reaction.

According to a statement from the U.S. Secret Service, the suspected shooter fired toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. Former President Trump was removed from the stage and taken to a medical facility for treatment after the incident.

A lot of people tried to get out really quickly, as soon as, like, they were able to get back on their feet, Patterson said.

Patterson is a photographer and said he and Rairigh stayed at the scene a little longer than some of the other attendees to take photos.

READ NEXT: Trump rally shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, officials say

Its kinda something that you wouldnt think you would ever see or be a part of, Patterson said.

All three witnesses shared similar thoughts about the apparent assassination attempt taking place in Butler, with one calling the town a safe haven. Patterson and Babay also described the experience as surreal.

Nobody really expected it to happen. It just kinda came out of nowhere, Babay said of the incident.

Rairigh said they heard screaming, and the last thing he saw was Secret Service agents tackling Trump. He said he also saw someone being carried out of the stands, saying he thinks it was one of the other attendees who got shot.

Everyone was kinda freaking out, Rairigh said. Afraid was an understatement.

Former President Trump released a statement on his social media site a couple of hours after the incident.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, Trump said in his statement. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

President Joe Biden released a statement after the incident and said he was praying for Trump and his family. He also expressed his gratitude to the Secret Service for getting the former president to safety.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America, President Biden said in his statement. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Several political leaders in Utah also spoke out about the incident on Saturday, issuing statements via press releases and social media.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
BUTLER, Pa. (WTAJ)  Pennsylvania State Police were stationed outside of Butler Memorial Hospital Saturday evening where rushed former president Donald Trump following a shooting at his rally in Butler earlier in the day.

Suzanne Vincent was attending the rally with her sister, Jean, when they heard the sound of gunfire around them.

It was so surreal when we heard the sound of the bullets. It just went one, two, three, four, five, six. And then were looking around like, firecrackers? And my nephew goes, Get down, get down! And he just shoves us down. And I just wanted to crawl out of there on my stomach. I was so scared, Vincent said.

Pennsylvania lawmakers respond to shooting at Trump rally in Butler

According to the United States Secret Service, one rally attendee as well as the shooter are dead. Two other attendees were critically injured. The identities of the victims and the shooter have not yet been released.

The Secret Service said it shot and killed the shooter, who opened fire from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service

Trump was evaluated at the hospital after his ear appeared to be covered in blood from what he said was a gunshot, but reports feeling fine. According to witnesses, the former president walked into the emergency room where he received stitches to his ear.

Watch: Trump clutches his ear, whisked off stage after shots ring out

Staffers at Nexstars WTAJ were at the hospital and confirmed that around 9 p.m. Trump left in his motorcade, believed to be heading to Pittsburgh.

I cant believe people would do something like this, that people have so much hate that they would so something like this, said Scott Smith standing outside of Butler Memorial Hospital to show his support for Trump.

While some arrived at the hospital to give Trump their well wishes, some counter-protestors also gathered with one woman, Ash Nix, holding a sign stating, Wishing Trump a long terrible recovery!

The only sad thing is, if something were to happen to him, he becomes a martyr. And we dont want that, Nix said.

According to Pennsylvania State Police Troop D, the investigation into the shooting is ongoing. Troopers are also requesting that people refrain from calling the barracks for an update to keep emergency lines open.

Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation who is now the lead agency handling the investigation.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to Queen City News.
We survived some rocky childhood moments. Now, were trying to help other Californians | Opinion

I, Setareh Harsamizadeh Tehrani, remember the sound of my parents fighting when I was a child, glasses shattering. I was experiencing something known as an adverse childhood experience, but I didnt know it at the time. Now, I am a youth advisor trying to explain this trauma to others.

I, Dr. Diana Ramos, grew up in a single-parent household in South Central Los Angeles. My mother worked three jobs, so my aunt tried to help in the house. It was a challenging childhood. Now, I am Californias Surgeon General.

While our beginnings were different, we both experienced adverse childhood experiences (also called ACE) in childhood  which are more common than many may realize.

We are leveraging those experiences and our understanding of them to make a difference for others. It is no coincidence that the surgeon general has a public awareness campaign to highlight the importance of overcoming difficult chapters in young lives.

We met some time ago serving on an advisory board and shared our personal stories. The caring nature of a mother, even one who isnt home much due to work, still comes through. A fathers grief and anger, which can seem confusing and scary at the time, can make more sense years later.

Opinion

Adverse childhood experiences are stressful (and potentially traumatic) experiences, such as witnessing violence, experiencing abuse or neglect, growing up in a household with substance abuse, divorce or mental illness, that occur before the age of 18. When these experiences are prolonged, intense or occur repeatedly, they can cause toxic stress.

Toxic stress can negatively impact a childs development and emotional well-being, as well as increase negative social, physical and mental health outcomes in adulthood. Without adequate support, toxic stress from adverse childhood experiences can impact a person in ways that they may not even realize, causing trust issues, anxiety or chronic pain, for example.

The first step for any adult still suffering from anguish that originated in childhood is to be aware of what is happening. That is why the surgeon generals offices Live Beyond campaign is so important.

This new campaign is part of the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Initiative, which aims to ensure that all young people and families can find support for their emotional, mental and behavioral health needs.

In addition to youth input, the guidance of subject matter experts, market research and a strong grounding in science, the campaign will also include a special focus on outreach and accessible solutions targeted at economically disadvantaged groups. This is especially vital because adverse childhood experiences are disproportionately prevalent among under-resourced communities, which are often less likely to have the resources and information necessary to buffer the impacts of toxic stress.

That is why the critical role of our youth advisors  with diverse life experiences and perspectives  have been key to shaping the campaign. By illuminating research-backed pathways to healing, we hope to empower young people dealing with the impacts of toxic stress to pave the way for the next generation.

But even those without toxic stress have a part to play here. We urge all Californians to support the children and teens around them by reaching out and providing a listening ear, being a stable presence in their life and sharing stress-reduction strategies, such as mindfulness, improved sleep quality and time spent outdoors. While these strategies may seem simple, they are scientifically proven to encourage healing and support overall well being.

You may also encourage a child or teen in your life to seek an adverse childhood experience screening through a primary care provider and learn about available mental health supports in your local community.

We want people to understand that healing from adverse childhood experiences and toxic stress is attainable, and its never too late to start. Our personal journeys provide a small glimpse into what Live Beyond can truly mean for young people with adverse childhood experiences.

Setareh Harsamizadeh Tehrani is a youth advisor for Californias Adverse Childhood Events and Toxic Stress Awareness Campaign and a program coordinator at the UC San Francisco Center for Child and Community Health. Dr. Diana Ramos is the California Surgeon General.
HILLSBOROUGH COUNTY, Fla. (WFLA)  Deputies are investigating a homicide after a person was found dead in Tampa, according to the Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office.

Around 2:21 p.m., deputies received a report regarding a dead person found in the 4800 block of Alvarado Drive.

Suspect on the loose after Tampa police find man dead

Currently, officials are on the scene of a crash after they said a homicide suspect tried to flee from deputies.

Hillsborough County Sheriffs Office

Deputies are expected to release more information Saturday evening.

This remains an ongoing investigation.

This is a developing story. Stay up to date on the latest from News Channel 8 on-air and on the go with the free WFLA News Channel 8 mobile app.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
Suspect in custody after holding people at gunpoint inside Smith County rest area, sheriff says

SMITH COUNTY, Tenn. (WKRN)  The Smith County Sheriffs Office said a man who allegedly held a rest area at gunpoint and ran from Tennessee Highway Patrol (THP) Sunday morning has been taken into custody.

According to Smith County Sheriff Steve Hopper, the first incident took place at the Buffalo Valley rest area along Interstate 40 on Sunday, July 14.

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The man reportedly ran into the rest area with a shotgun and held everyone at gunpoint before fleeing on foot. Law enforcement said he was described as approximately 170 pounds and 5 feet 6 inches tall with a beard, adding that he appeared to be at least 45 years old and should be considered very dangerous.

According to THP, a trooper was later dispatched to a motorist who needed help around mile marker 267 on I-40, which is very close to the Buffalo Valley rest area.

After finding the vehicle, the trooper reportedly realized the man matched the description of the suspect from the incident at the rest area. However, when the trooper tried to detain the man, he ran into the wooded area next to the interstate, authorities said.

 Read todays top stories on wkrn.com

Shortly after 3 p.m., Hopper told News 2 the man was taken into custody in Putnam County.

THP posted photos of the suspects arrest near Hopewell Road and Medley Amonette Road on social media platform X:

(Courtesy: THP Cookeville Division)

(Courtesy: THP Cookeville Division)

(Courtesy: THP Cookeville Division)

Hopper told News 2 the man was later identified as 43-year-old Gregory James Daniel of Franklin, North Carolina. He has been charged with aggravated assault, terroristic threats, reckless endangerment, and evading arrest.

No additional details have been released about Sunday mornings incident at the rest area.

 Download the News 2 app to stay updated on the go.

 Sign up for WKRN email alerts to have breaking news sent to your inbox.

 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
COLUMBUS, Ohio (WCMH)  Police are searching for two men who are accused of stealing a trash bag filled with bottles of cold coffee at a west Columbus convenience store.

According to Central Ohio Crime Stoppers, two suspects are wanted for aggravated robbery, which took place on Wednesday at 11:40 p.m. in the Franklinton neighborhood.

Police said one suspect entered the United Dairy Farmers store near West Broad Street and Dakota Avenue. The man began filling a trash bag with Cold Brew Coffee, then attempted to exit the store. Store clerks reportedly attempted to stop the suspect and a fight ensued.

Police are looking for two suspects charged with aggravated robbery at a Franklinton UDF on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. They reportedly fled in a vehicle parked outside the store. (Courtesy/Columbus Division of Police)

Police are looking for two suspects charged with aggravated robbery at a Franklinton UDF on Wednesday, July 10, 2024. They reportedly fled in a vehicle parked outside the store. (Courtesy/Columbus Division of Police)

An incident report stated a second suspect entered the store while brandishing a gun. Both suspects then fled the scene, but not before their images, and that of the car they were seen leaving in, were captured on video surveillance.

Anyone with information on the suspects and/or the robbery is asked to contact the CPD Robbery Unit at 614-645-4665, Detective Buck at 614-645-4219, Central Ohio Crime Stoppers at 614-461-8477 or visit www.stopcrime.org and e-mail your tip.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to NBC4 WCMH-TV.
'Suspicious death' under investigation after person found dead in Canton home

The Canton Police Department, Illinois State Police criminal investigations, Illinois State Police Crime Scene team, and the Fulton County Coroners Office have launched a suspicious death investigation after finding a deceased person in a Canton residence Saturday.

Canton police and other emergency responders were called to a residence in the 100 block of South First Avenue in Canton at about 12:30 p.m. Saturday in response to a medical emergency. Upon arrival, emergency responders located the deceased individual within the residence.

More: Man held in brutal beating of woman in Peoria

This article originally appeared on Journal Star: Suspicious death under investigation after body found in Canton
We cant go on like this, says Speaker Johnson as he calls for turning down the political temperature

Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, R-La., speaks as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump listens during a news conference, April 12, 2024, at Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach, Fla. | Wilfredo Lee

America awakes to a rather surreal morning, said House Speaker Mike Johnson the morning after former president Donald Trump narrowly avoided an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally.

This is a horrific act of political violence that ought to be roundly condemned, said Johnson. Obviously, we cant go on like this as a society.

Trump was holding a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania when a shooter fired bullets striking him on the ear. One attendee died; two others are critically injured. The shooter, who the FBI identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was killed on the scene. The FBI is investigating the incident. No motive has been identified.

The Republican House leader from Louisiana made his comments in an interview on the Today Show, where he reiterated his commitment to Congress fully investigating the shooting. Johnson also called for dialing back political rhetoric and said leaders on both sides of the political spectrum need to call it out.

Calls to turn down political rhetoric

Weve got to turn the rhetoric down, weve got to turn the temperature down in this country, said Johnson. We need leaders in both parties, on both sides, to call that out, and make sure that happens, so that we can go forward and maintain our free society that we all are blessed to have.

Johnson said criticism of Trump has contributed to a heated political environment.

When the message goes out constantly that the threat to Donald Trump would be a threat to democracy and the Republic would end, it heats up the environment, said Johnson. We cannot do that, its simply not true. Everyone needs to turn the rhetoric down.

Johnson said its time to abandon such rhetoric. He pointed toward a comment made by President Joe Biden saying its time to put Trump in a bullseye. Biden had made the comment in a call with donors, per Politico.

I know he didnt mean what is being implied there, but that kind of language on either side should be called out, said Johnson adding its fine to have vigorous debate, but it needs to end there.

Biden statement on Trump and the shooting

Biden made a statement about the assassination attempt on Trump that resulted in the death of one rally attendee, firefighter Corey Comperatore, and critical injuries to two others. He said he was grateful Trump was safe and he prayed for his family.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America, said Biden. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Trump has called for Americans to unite and remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness.

Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed, said Trump on Truth Social. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

Calls to turn down the political temperature

There have been other calls to turn down the temperature. Sen. John Fetterman, D-PA, said the assassination attempt marked a dark, dark day for our nation

We just have to kind of turn down the temperature on this, Fetterman told CNNs Jake Tapper. This election is going to be the election in our lifetime, and we have months ahead of us. So much more can happen.

We have to make sure that this can never happen again, said Fetterman.

Sen. Mike Lee, R-Utah and former U.S. National Security Advisor Robert OBrien issued a joint statement saying, Weve got to take the political temperature down, as evidence by what happened in Pennsylvania today.

1/3 Statement by U.S. Senator Mike Lee (@basedmikelee) and Ambassador Robert OBrien, former U.S. National Security Advisor on todays events in Pennsylvania.



Salt Lake City, Utah.  Robert C. O'Brien (@robertcobrien) July 14, 2024

We call on President Biden to immediately order that all federal criminal charges against President Trump be dropped, and to ask the governors of New York and Georgia to do the same, said Lee and OBrien. Such a gesture would help heal wounds and allow all Americans to take a deep breath and reflect on how we got here. Our prayers are with the victims of the shooting, President Trump and our country.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media that its time for political leaders to act with moral clarity and take down the temperature.

This is a moment where all of us have a responsibility to take down the temperature, rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists, and search for a better, brighter future for this nation.



I ask that you join Lori and me in prayer for the two Pennsylvanians still in critical pic.twitter.com/XjYP5QstId  Governor Josh Shapiro (@GovernorShapiro) July 14, 2024

This is a moment where all leaders have an opportunity to speak and act with moral clarity. Where all leaders need to take down the temperature and rise above the hateful rhetoric that exists and search for a better, brighter future for this nation, said Shapiro.

Shapiro ordered that the flags in Pennsylvania fly at half-staff in honor of Comperatore, who was killed at the rally. He told CNN he spoke with Comperatores wife who said her husband dove on his family to protect them.

Corey was a girl dad. Corey was a firefighter. Corey went to church every Sunday. Corey loved his community, and most especially, Corey loved his family, said Shapiro.

Former First Lady Melania Trump offered her sympathy to victims and commended those who reached out across the political divide to support Donald Trump and their family.

Dawn is here again, wrote Melania Trump. Let us reunite. Now. this morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence. We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realize this world again. Each of us must demand to get it back.

Johnson: Committed to Congress doing a full investigation after Trump assassination attempt

Johnson reiterated his commitment to Congress fully investigating the rally shooting and said Congress would work to identify any security lapses.

THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY.



The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.  Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) July 14, 2024

The American people deserve to know the truth, said Johnson on X. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.

House Oversight Chair Rep. James Comer, R-KY has already summoned Cheatle to appear before the committee on July 22. Theres also bipartisan legislation in the works to increase Secret Service security protections for all presidential candidates, including Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., who was denied this protection by the Department of Homeland Security.

Reps. Ritchie Torres, D-NY and Mike Lawler, R-NY are working together on the bill.

House Homeland Security Committee Chair Rep. Mark Green, R-TN, sent a letter to DHS Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas requesting a sleuth of documents including the security plan, internal communications about the potential increase of security to Trumps team and all briefing materials.
In order to stem the rising tide of gun violence in Detroit, additional police presence in parks, neighborhoods and other public spaces is one of several solutions that must be implemented together.

Community Policing works well when we have the human resources to have a presence to serve as a deterrent. De-escalation tactics must be practiced. Mental health solutions must be in the equation and gun control MUST be a part of the remedy for what ails us as a community.

David Greenwood

Farmington Hills

'Knocking down the Ren Cen is knocking down Detroit'

Lets be clear. Detroit is the Renaissance Center and the Renaissance Center is Detroit. It's the city's symbol as the Empire State is of New York. The demolition talk ("Future of Detroit's Renaissance Center increasingly leans toward demolition of most towers," Detroit Free Press, July 12) needs to stop now. GM's move was foolish, as well as the move from their own building on West Grand Boulevard. Stop searching for solutions to the problems these foolish decisions create and work on solutions to fill these buildings. Knocking down the Ren Cen is knocking down Detroit. Haven't we had enough of that?

Joe Polimeni

Birmingham

A landowner's perspective on ITC transmission lines

The article on energy infrastructure ("$1B plan could save Michiganders $3.4B with new lines for renewable energy" Freep.com, July 4) makes ITC's transmission lines sound great for everyone. But it doesn't highlight the point of view from the landowners perspective.

ITC is threatening to take away my family's centennial farm by filing for eminent domain. This is taking my family's legacy by force, not because there aren't alternatives (there is actually a secondary route that utilizes 9 miles of already cited right of way), but because that is how they can maximize profits.

I would be OK with green energy, but right now it is being handled like a gold rush and a lot of people like myself and my family are being bulldozed by big businesses in the process.

I should not have to spend my children's college funds on lawyer bills because someone 20 miles away sold a bunch of land for wind turbines, solar panels or megasites. Protection for the people shouldn't come last, this should not be allowed to become an episode of "Yellowstone."

Anthony Wohlscheid

Eagle, Michigan

Policy and people

Democrats have been incredibly worried ever since Bidens poor debate performance. Some argue that you cant really say Trump won the debate just because his outrageous lies were delivered in a more clear and confident manner. But the fact is that to many, he did appear to win, due to Bidens inconsistent, hoarse and sometimes rambling performance.

However, while considering who to support for president, I would implore voters to not think of the word performance, but to think of two other P words; policy and people.

Donald Trump has shown us what his policies were with his four years in office, and what they will be should he win again with his frightening rhetoric on the campaign trail. His policies are all about him and his wealthy donors looking for more money and more power. He promises retribution against his political enemies, less regulations, and despite his claims, nothing economically for 99% of Americans.

Conversely, Bidens policies have resulted in more rights, more hope, and a better economy for the vast majority of citizens. Of course, these facts themselves have an uphill battle against Trumps outright lies and the alternate universe that Republicans have resided in since he took over the party.

That brings us to the next important word; people. Biden is a good person and has many good, competent people around him. Moral people with vast expertise that will help him govern effectively over his next term in office.

Trumps people fall into one of three categories: First, people who were in his first administration, who worked with him and who cannot in good conscience endorse his candidacy. Second, those who worked in his administration and are either in prison, have already served time in prison or are awaiting trial for their actions in support of him. And lastly, his sycophants, many of whom denounced him as unhinged before, who are now lying with him, for him, and pledging their undying loyalty to him, hoping to get some crumbs from their king.

I hope that our electorate is intelligent enough to see that we need to look at the entire campaign and not just the one person. Although, just looking at the person, I would also hope that we could make the correct choice between a lying felon with no morals, and an honest, experienced, public servant who is aging into a less effective public speaker.

David Cash

Detroit

'Biden is mentally fine, even brilliant'

After the huge July 11 Biden press conference, I sampled post-mortems to see if any commentator got the real takeaway. Nope. Biden is mentally fine, even brilliant.

But like any citizen well past retirement age, if you challenge his wit after a long working day and after a long work week (like at the first presidential debate), he, like me, will likely not be able to remember his own name.

However, let him get a good nights rest and he will slay dragons tomorrow. Thats life on planet elderly, Mr. Wise Guy, and you missed it.

Biden was more lucid and incisive and communicative on important issues than todays once friendly 40-something and 50-critics will ever be. Yup, he stumbled on a name, but his critics are stumbling on roadside IEDs in comparison. I have no horse in this race. I am an independent, so Im merely reporting what a dispassionate voice should have seen.

Kimball Shinkoskey

Woods Cross, Utah

Republicans: 'Swallow your pride and do what's right'

I want to respectfully ask the true Republicans to have a one-off year.

Get rid of and vote NO to all those (including the enablers), who will harm this great nation. Swallow your pride and do whats right. In no time at all, you can return all your new righteous candidates to the Congress. Those that will put our country before themselves. Get us back on the right track. We should press for all to compromise.

And I, for one, will welcome you and your chosen representatives back with open arms. We need you. Democracy must prevail.

Do some soul searching and forsake all those candidates that will do this great nation harm. Get this country back on the right track to where we once were and should be. If we vote this way, going forward, I believe both political parties can therefore be put on notice that the rule of law and democracy must prevail over personal and special interests. Remember your elementary school teachings.

Morality matters, it's a no-brainer.

Pete Begley

Morristown, New Jersey

Submit a letter to the editor at freep.com/letters, and we may publish it in print or online.

This article originally appeared on Detroit Free Press: These tactics together can remedy gun violence | Letters to the Editor
Taiwan on alert over 'waves' of missile tests in north China

TAIPEI (Reuters) - Taiwan's defence ministry said on Saturday it was monitoring "waves" of missile tests taking place in China's far northern region of Inner Mongolia and that its air defence forces were on alert.

Democratically governed Taiwan, which China views as its own territory, keeps a close watch on all Chinese military activities given Beijing's regular activities around the island, but only rarely releases details of what it sees taking place inside China.

The ministry said that from 4 a.m. (2000 GMT on Friday) it had detected "multiple waves of test launches" by China's Rocket Force in Inner Mongolia, which lies some 2,000 km (1,200 miles from Taiwan.

Taiwan's forces are continuously monitoring developments and the air defence forces are on alert, the ministry said, without giving details.

China's defence ministry did not answer calls seeking comment outside of office hours. The Rocket Force is in charge of China's conventional and nuclear missile arsenal.

In August 2022, China fired missiles into the waters around Taiwan during war games to express anger at a visit to Taipei by then-Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives Nancy Pelosi.

Taiwan operates powerful radar stations on some of the peaks of its central mountain range that can look far into China, according to security sources.

China detests Taiwan President Lai Ching-te, who took office in May, calling him a "separatist", and has increased its military pressure including war games since his inauguration.

Lai has repeatedly offered talks with China but been rebuffed. He rejects Beijing's sovereignty claims, saying only Taiwan's people can decide their future.

(Reporting by Ben Blanchard in Taipei; Editing by William Mallard)
LITTLE ROCK, Ark.  The states top lawyer has had his hands full in recent weeks.

Talk Business & Politics host Roby Brock talked with Arkansas Attorney General Tim Griffin about recent lawsuits, a new cold case unit and an upcoming cyber security summit.

Roby then talks with former Bentonville Chamber of Commerce President Graham Cobb to talk about his new consulting firm Paceline Strategies.

Talk Business & Politics airs Sunday at 9:30 a.m. on FOX 16. For more coverage, head to TalkBusiness.net.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KLRT - FOX16.com.
Age-appropriate advice for kids

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick supports a law requiring Texas public schools to display the Ten Commandments in every classroom. The Ten Commandments are not written in child-friendly language. Teachers would need to explain the commandments to young students. The seventh commandment about adultery and the 10th commandment about coveting your neighbors wife are problematic.

Instead, Texas could require that schools post Matthew 7:12, the verse known as the Golden Rule. It is easy for young children to understand. Versions of this guidance are found in most faith traditions. Schools could post versions of the Golden Rule from many faiths.

- Ann McKee, Hurst

Mattie Parkers real ideas, agenda

I read with disbelief that the Tarrant Party Republican chairman, Bo French, accuses Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker of pushing radical transgender ideology with her childhood reading and literacy program. (July 9, 1A, GOP leader says mayors reading program celebrates Pride)

Really? Anyone who knows Parker knows that is simply ridiculous, even laughable. French needs a hobby or a real job, as he clearly does not have enough to worry about. Better still: How about volunteering to help teach our kids to read? Then perhaps someone can examine Frenchs agenda for hints of radical right extremism.

- Owen Daniel, Fort Worth

What good policing actually means

With Tarrant County jailers charged with murdering an inmate and Fort Worth police throwing a 60-year-old woman face down onto a street, it is time to hold law officers responsible. Obviously, there are many decent officers who live up to the motto Protect and serve. However, when bad officers are not held responsible, it hurts the public and the many good officers.

Law enforcement officers are not above the law and need to be punished for illegal behavior.

- John Nolan, Arlington

Would you work with Trump?

My question to a Republican businessperson: Would you want to do business with Donald Trump? My question to a Republican parent: Would you like your child to be associated with this man, or his behavior? Cant we stand up to his hateful and oppressive rhetoric?

My answer to Republicans: Just do not vote this year.

- Debra J. Mann, Austin

Biden isnt up to the demands

A recent news article highlighted what President Joe Biden told a group of Democratic governors: that he just needed more sleep and fewer events after 8 p.m. Does Biden realize hes running for president of the United States? Its a 24/7 job. He needs to be on his toes and able to handle a nuclear attack within a matter of seconds.

Biden made it crystal clear during the last debate that he cant handle facing Donald Trump. He cant articulate any accomplishments from his term, and when push comes to shove, he just accuses Trump of lying.

Americans saw the real Biden, and it was a pathetic, tired old man. Hes the one lying to us now.

- Donna Bierd, Keller

Biden shows hes fit for the job

I understand voters being concerned and disappointed in President Joe Bidens performance in the debate. I was, too. But its beyond my comprehension that anyone would think of voting for his opponent, a lying con man who proved his incompetence during his chaotic and destructive presidential term.

The fact that Biden didnt tap dance on stage like Fred Astaire doesnt mean he is unfit to deal with the domestic and international problems we face. Biden is twice as coherent and 10 times more honest than his opponent.

- Robert Bunata, Fort Worth
Montana 2024 Republican U.S. Senate candidate Tim Sheehy. (Courtesy Tim Sheehy campaign)

My grandfather, Lewis Fox, was a skilled carpenter and woodworker who had a reputation for his precise and beautiful craftmanship in building homes and cabinets. He trained a few dozen apprentices who sought his mentorship.

As a boy, I loved hanging out in Gramps workshops and tagging along on jobs just to watch his gentle nature in how projects were created with his skilled hands and under his patient guidance. He was the epitome of measure twice, cut once.

His harshest criticism of one of his work crew who rushed a job was: Kinda got ahead of himself, didnt he?

I thought of Gramp when I heard that Tim Sheehy, very well financed and curated U.S. Senate candidate, made a surprise announcement that he resigned as CEO of Belgrade-based Bridger Aviation. He threw himself on the sword of the firm needing a fully focused chief executive, a priority second only to his unfettered ambition which has propelled him since his privileged days in a wealthy Twin Cities-area Minnesota family.

From a public relations perspective, he can now present himself as even-more committed as an assurance to those voters who dont seem to mind that Montanas congressional delegation would be totally a group of multimillionaires if he were to be elected (not to mention the governor). These affluent political ladder-climbers are keen to trade the power of their personal finances for the power of elected office  and can pay for it.

So that now Sheehy says hes all in, as a public service lets pose 10 questions for Tim Sheehy:

Tim, whats the full story behind the Glacier Park incident, and did you go to the hospital with an open wound to your arm from a discharge from your .45? They make god-awful holes and break bones. If you still had a secret round of some caliber in your arm from Afghanistan, it would have been nice for the doctors to remove it. Why have you been so secretive about your familys wealth generated by your paternal grandfather in the Twin Cities  who you essentially denied knowing in a podcast interview? As a combat-injured sailor, how do you feel about the disparagements of military personnel by Donald Trump  who you so proudly support  to include referring to them as suckers and losers, saying of the late John McCain, a Vietnam prisoner-of-war, that, I like people who werent captured, and publicly chastising gold-star parents for publicly opposing him? The citation accompanying your Bronze Star attests to your bravery and small-team leadership. It notes the award was made on June 24, 2014, four months before you left your active-duty assignment in Hawaii in October 2014. Why was it seeming re-awarded in August 2015 in a publicity-requested ceremony by U.S. Rep. Ryan Zinke, also a Navy Seal, when you were presented your Purple Heart? Perhaps it was the start of your public unveiling? Youve said you want to abolish the Department of Homeland Security which has a wide swath of responsibilities based on the need for federal agency coordination and communication in the wake of the Sept. 11 terrorist attack. They include emergency disaster response; transportation security; antiterrorism protection; maritime security; intelligence collection and coordination; coordination of federal response to domestic disasters and emergencies, and, of course, border, customs and immigration enforcement. Precisely, how would you continue these responsibilities after abolishing DHS? The U.S., Europe, Australia and some Asian countries are beset by illegal immigration. What informs your understanding of the primary causes? Do you agree with Trumps assessment that border-crossers comprise a military invasion composed of drugs, criminals, gang members and terrorists or that perhaps crime and political violence in native countries, changes in subsistence agriculture and climate change, and gross historic economic disparity are somehow involved? Do you believe that either the federal or state government should determine the legality of abortion or should the decision rest solely on an individual womans decision? You continue to engage in, frankly, silly hyperbole. For example, in Rural Montana magazine you said, Were seeing electric vehicle mandates trying to take away our pickup trucks and put Montanans in a Prius. You insult the publics intelligence and lend credence to suspicion that your factual knowledge is shallow and youre more comfortable in name-calling and talking points than actual substance. (OK, this is a statement and not an actual question. Sorry.) What informs your knowledge of Russian President Putins cherished goal of re-forming the old Soviet Unions supremacy over its former satellite nations and parts of Europe to include Poland and the Baltic States as happened in the aftermath of World War II? After expressing financial support to Ukraine, how do you consider it today and do you think Trump could solve the conflict in a day? OK, I admitted No. 7 was not a question, so this makes up for it: Does your knowledge of the Hamas-Israeli conflict in areas designated internationally as Palestine include the history of region going back to the Ottoman Empire, post-WWI, the removal of Palestinians from ancestral lands to make room for the State of Israel (that continues today), and the difference between the Hamas political entity and the Palestinian people  or do you think this is another one-day solution? (We know you share near-everyones concern this is a monumental human tragedy for both the Israelis and the Palestinians.)

Thats enough questions for now. Next we can deal with the historic role of public education in American history; ask you to identify a currently seated Democrat in Congress who you admire; specifically describe what you mean by woke crap; who do you think won the 2020 presidential election; and why do you call yourself a political outsider when youve got the full political weight of Steve Daines and his Senate campaign fund along with Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnells endorsement?
Tennessee lawmakers responded to an attempted shooting of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024.(Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Tennessee lawmakers responded to an attempted shooting of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024.(Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

(Editors note: This story has been updated.)

Following the attempted shooting of former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday evening, Tennessee lawmakers from both parties weighed in with responses.

Secret Service agents surrounded Trump, who was seen bleeding, and wrestled him off the podium to safety. One rally-goer was killed by a bullet; the shooter was killed by Secret Service.

Republicans were quick to condemn the violence and to accuse the Democratic Party and Democrats of being responsible for it. Many posted a photo taken of Trump after the shooting, pumping his fist toward the crowd.

There is no way some liberal idiot with a gun will stop @realDonaldTrump, House Majority Leader William Lamberth, a Portland Republican, posted on X. Our prayers are with you Mr. President.

House Republican Caucus Leader Jeremy Faison, Republican of Cosby, posted The party of tolerance, equity, and inclusion is responsible for an attempted assassination on a Presidential candidate. THIS is whats on the ballot this November. Do you want to live in a world where you may get shot for your beliefs, or one that puts our country first and unifies us?

Several Democratic lawmakers suggested loose gun laws were partly to blame for the incident.

Now that Trump has stated hes fine I wonder will he consider sensible gun laws? Gun violence is too rampant in our country and I hope this situation changes the minds of his followers and Republican lawmakers, wrote Memphis Democratic Sen. London Lamar.

Lamar later said in a statement, I am deeply troubled by news reports that former President Donald Trump was shot at during a political rally. Violence has no place in our society, and I condemn this act in the strongest possible terms.

I hope this is not a staged act. But . . ., Rep. Antonio Parkinson, a Memphis Democrat, posted on social media, adding an emoji with rolling eyes to his post.

Parkinson went on to add, Politics aside am glad that the former president is doing ok. My heart goes out to the families of the victims of todays violence. We have to do better as a nation and I truly believe we can do better.

Regardless of what side of the isle (sic) youre on, all acts of violence and those perpetrating them should be denounced emphatically, wrote Parkinson. Unfortunately, we live in a sad reality that America has become so divided that someone would resort to such a violent act. But are we really surprised? There is absolutely nothing good that can come out of this.

U.S. Sen. Marsha Blackburn, Republican

Join me in praying for President Trump and the law enforcement personnel who are tending to him and citizens at the scene.

U.S. Sen. Bill Hagerty said, My prayers are with President Trump. He is the strongest person I know.

Gov. Bill Lee

Maria & I ask Tennesseans to join us in praying for President Trump & his family, & all who were in attendance at todays rally in Pennsylvania.

Lt. Gov. Randy McNally

I am deeply grateful President Trump survived the attempt on his life today. Political violence is abhorrent whenever and wherever it occurs  but especially here at home.

House Democratic Caucus Leader John Ray Clemmons, Nashville

Political violence of any kind is never the answer. These are sad times. Thankful to read that the former president is safe and recovering.

Rep. Gloria Johnson, D-Knoxville

We condemn political violence of any kind, under any circumstances. We thank the Secret Service for their quick action and we hope and pray Former President Trump and others are not injured.
NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WKRN)  A shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday left at least two people dead, including the suspected gunman, according to officials.

The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

Posting on his Truth Social media site about two and a half hours after the shooting, Trump said a bullet pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said in the post. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Trump rally shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, officials say

Meanwhile, according to the Associated Press, Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed. The Secret Service added that two spectators were critically injured.

President Joe Biden held a brief press conference after the shooting, during which time he condemned violence in America. In addition, both Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have said they are praying for Trump and his family.

The chairman of the Tennessee Republican Party, Scott Golden, said hes trying to get over the shock and find rationale in what happened, but hes proud of how Trump reacted during the shooting. According to Golden, the former president demonstrated courage and leadership in the face of defiance.

Its a sad and historic day, Golden said. Im thankful President Trump is okay by all accounts, and were praying for the individual who lost his life in the crowd.

Trump plans to be in Milwaukee for convention after shooting

Golden told News 2 it gave him chills to see Trump plunge to the ground during the rally, but the fact that Trump is going to continue his campaign makes a statement.

For a lot of us Republicans and Trump supporters, it kind of feels like weve had one case after another, and now here we are with the next step of an attempted assassinationand so, to see President Trump stand up and say, Keep fighting, that has absolutely encouraged our crowd, so I think what were going to see next week is even more excitement for the convention and launching the campaign of Donald Trump than we wouldve had had the day not happened, Golden explained.

Over the next few weeks, Golden said both political parties will be affected by the aftermath of Trumps Pennsylvania rally.

What we know about the suspected Trump rally shooter

The following lawmakers from Tennessee have also shared their thoughts and prayers on social media following the incident:

Maria and I ask Tennesseans to join us in praying for President Trump and his family, and all who were in attendance at todays rally in Pennsylvania.

Cowardly violence has no place in US elections. God bless the Secret Service for putting their bodies on the line to protect President Trump. We pray for President Trumps health following the attack, for the safety of both candidates, and for the stability of our republic.

Join me in praying for President Trump and the law enforcement personnel who are tending to him and citizens at the scene.

My prayers are with President Trump. He is the strongest person I know.

Biden on Trump rally shooting: Everybody must condemn it

Our prayers are with President Trump, and we look forward to his speedy recovery. We are grateful to law enforcement who reacted so quickly. Such violence has no place in our country. Whoever is responsible must be held accountable.

The congressman, who is chair of the Committee on Homeland Security for the House of Representatives, also posted pictures of a letter he sent to Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas of the Department of Homeland Security addressing the assassination attempt.

Lets be grateful that President Trump is now safe. The Secret Service promptly stepped in to protect him. As we learn more, lets pray for the 45th President of the United States.

Everyone please pray for President Trump. Pray for God to put his healing hands on him and everyone else who was hurt.

President Trump is an American hero. Join me in praying for him and the innocent rally attenders in Pennsylvania. This is a dark day in American history.

Please join me in praying for President Trump.

Please join Roberta and me in praying for President Donald Trump this evening.

First of all, lets be thankful that reports are President Trump is safe. Political violence is never acceptable, and the threats made time and again against President Trump over the years have made todays event feel like a formality. Lets all be thankful that this did not turn out to be worse, and Amy and I are grateful that Donald Trump is safe. As the investigation continues, lets work to make sure this does not happen again.

Please join Brenda and I in prayer for President Trump, his Secret Service team, and all those in attendance at his rally. We pray for his speedy recovery.

Violence has no place in political arena or America. Its antithetical to our political system. Elections are won or lost at the polls. Thankfully Trump wasnt killed.

Trump says he felt bullet ripping through the skin in possible assassination attempt

As we wait for more news on @realDonaldTrump, join me in praying for him, his family and all the attendees at todays rally in Pennsylvania.

Deanna and I are praying for President Trump and all affected by the cowardly violence at todays rally. We are grateful for the Secret Secret Service and other first responders for their selfless courage.

I #standwithTrump and will fight every single day between now and November 5th to guarantee he will be our President again. Todays leftist attack on our democracy just created millions of patriots. This is way beyond politics now and just became personal.

The party of tolerance, equity, and inclusion is responsible for an attempted assassination on a Presidential candidate. THIS is whats on the ballot this November. Do you want to live in a world where you may get shot for your beliefs, or one that puts our country first and unifies us?

Political violence of any kind is never the answer. These are sad times. Thankful to read that the former president is safe and recovering.

Pray for President Trump and his family. The violent rhetoric directed toward him has no place in our society. Trump has always stood strong and my family stands with him. We will take this country back and win in November.

Trump allies react to apparent shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Amy and I are deeply troubled by the heinous act at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania. We are relieved to hear that @realDonaldTrump is safe, and our thoughts are with him and the injured victims during this time.

We also extend our heartfelt thanks to the @SecretService and first responders for their prompt and dedicated response.

Praying for President @realDonaldTrump.

State Sen. London Lamar (D)

I am deeply troubled by news reports that former President Donald Trump was shot at during a political rally. Violence has no place in our society, and I condemn this act in the strongest possible terms. Our political discourse has become too charged and divisive. Leaders from every background have a responsibility to condemn violence in any form and focus their actions on healing these divides. This is a call to reflect and recognize our shared humanity. We must stop demonizing one another in words and policies and urgently begin fostering more understanding and civility.

Shocking [assassination] attempt on @realDonaldTrump. Lets all keep him, his family and our nation in our prayers.

There is and must be no place for political violence in this country, and people of good faith on all sides should come together not just to condemn it, but to build something better. 1/

Todays shooting was tragic and terrifying. Praying for all who were in attendance, especially those who were injured. But especially proud of the Secret Service rushing into danger and doing its job to protect the former president. 2/

Joining the chorus of those praying for @realDonaldTrump and those attending the rally. There is power in prayer.

Democrats condemn apparent shooting at Trump rally

We condemn political violence of any kind, under any circumstances. We thank the Secret Service for their quick action and we hope and pray Former President Trump is not injured.

Our prayers are with President Trump and his family. Thank God that President Trump was spared on July 13, just as Pope St. John Paul was spared on May 13 through the intersession of Our Lady of Fatima.

Praying for President Trump

Political violence has no place in our country. Praying for safety for President Trump and hope he makes a safe recovery.

Violence of any kind is never the answer. Im grateful for Secret Service and their swift action to protect former President Donald Trump & to hear he is safe. We must do better.

Trump calls on nation to stand united after shooting

Praying for President Trump and all those injured at todays rally in Pennsylvania. We stand united against despicable acts of terror. MAGA

Grate @realDonaldTrump remains strong even after this assassination attempt. Our family joins him in praying for the victims of todays shooting.

Praying for our country at this moment. Now more than ever, we must untie to stand up against and condemn this type of behavior. Our kids are watching. The world is, too Relieved to hear former POTUS Trump is doing fine, and hopeful he can bounce back in the near term. Pleased to hear @POTUS is suspending things until then. The healing must begin now. So sorry to hear about the additional victim in attendance at the rally and hope to God there arent more. In awe of Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action, thank God for them, too. If youre a praying person, pray for all of those involved. President Trump, the victims and everyone else. And, pray for our country. And a return to normalcy when it comes to political processes and political speech. We are better than this. We must be.

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 Find todays top stories on WKRN.com for Nashville, TN and all of Middle Tennessee.

This is a developing story. WKRN News 2 will continue to update this article as new information becomes available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WKRN News 2.
Tennessee pastors react to Trump shooting: 'We're a nation in trouble, have you noticed?'

Many Middle Tennessee church leaders referenced Saturdays shooting at a Pennsylvania rally that injured former President Donald Trump, killed one spectator and injured two others with a theme to unify.

Pastor Allen Jackson of World Outreach Church in Murfreesboro encouraged Tennesseans to prayer and fasting in accordance with a bill signed by Gov. Bill Lee that calls residents of the pray and fast.

Were a nation in trouble, have you noticed? Jackson said to his congregation. Just about any perspective you choose, no matter where you would sit on the ideological spectrum, where you are in economic, social, educational  all those things that tend to divide us folks, were a people in trouble. Momentum in the direction were going will bring destruction. We had evidence of that yesterday.

World Outreach Church Senior Pastor Allen Jackson in 2020.

Bishop Joseph W. Walker III, the senior leader of Nashvilles Mt. Zion Baptist Church, called on both sides of the political aisle.

We need to pray for our country," Walker said. "It doesnt matter what your political position is, your stance, etc. Nobody, no one running for office in a free democracy deserves to have an assassination attempt levied against them. Nobody.

Pastor Erik Reed of The Journey Church in Lebanon, prayed for the former president and other victims and for the country at the start of a Sunday service.

We believe its important to help people process events in their lives and our culture with Gods Word, Reed said.

Other churches addressed the shooting that included a theme for national revival. Woodmont Baptist Church Pastor Nathan Parker encouraged that congregation to:

"Condemn violence."

"Remember God is sovereign."

"Live peaceably."

Trump, whose right ear was hit, has posted on social media that it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

Wilson County Global Vision Church Pastor Greg Locke, a strong Trump supporter in the past, posted on the X platform Saturday:

Today, the entire world saw a dispatch of Angelic protection from The LORD.

Reach Andy Humbles at ahumbles@tennessean.com or 615-726-5939 and on X, formerly known as Twitter @ AndyHumbles.

This article originally appeared on Nashville Tennessean: Tennessee church leaders react to Trump shooting
JOHNSON CITY, Tenn. (WJHL)  President Donald Trump says he was struck in the ear during a shooting at a rally that left at least one spectator dead, according to officials.

In a post on Truth Social, Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

Trump says he felt bullet ripping through the skin in possible assassination attempt

A prosecutor confirmed that the suspected gunman and at least one spectator are dead and the Secret Service said two spectators were critically injured, according to the Associated Press.

Many Tennessee and Virginia officials issued statements following the shooting:

Gov. Bill Lee (R-Tenn.)

Maria & I ask Tennesseans to join us in praying for President Trump & his family, & all who were in attendance at todays rally in Pennsylvania. Gov. Bill Lee on X

Gov. Glenn Youngkin (R-Va.)

Suzanne and I are praying for President Trump, praying for his family, and praying for America. Gov. Glenn Youngkin on X

Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-Tenn.)

Tonight, I join the millions of Americans in prayer for President Trump, his family, rally attendees, and our great nation. President Trump is a fierce fighter for the American people, and Im thankful to hear he is okay. God bless our brave Secret Service and first responders who acted quickly to protect him. This is a horrific day in our nations history. Sen. Marsha Blackburn statement

Sen. Bill Hagerty (R-Tenn.)

Pray for our President @realDonaldTrump

He is the strongest person I know. Sen. Bill Hagerty on X

Sen. Mark Warner (D-Va.)

There is no place for political violence in a democracy. Im monitoring this terrible situation and praying for all those at the Pennsylvania rally. Sen. Mark Warner on X

Sen. Tim Kaine (D-Va.)

Im deeply concerned by this situation and am praying for President Trump and everyone at todays event. Sen. Tim Kaine on X

Rep. Diana Harshbarger (R-Tenn.)

President Trump, by the grace of God, has survived this vile attempt on his life. He is truly a once in a generation leader and I will continue to pray, knowing that God will be watching out for him always. As Isaiah 41:10 reminds us, Do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.' Rep. Diana Harshbarger statement

Rep. Morgan Griffith (R-Va.)

Any and all forms of political violence are unacceptable. The event in Butler, Pennsylvania involving President Trump is a deeply concerning development. As we wait to hear more from authorities, I urge all Americans to pray for the victims of this incident, the people of Pennsylvania and President Trump. Rep. Morgan Griffith statement

This is a developing story. Check back for updates.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WJHL | Tri-Cities News & Weather.
Valley of the Gods within the Bears Ears National Monument

The Valley of the Gods within the Bears Ears National Monument. (Tim Peterson LightHawk/Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition)

Five Native American tribes are joining the federal government in looking over tens of thousands of public comments on the future of the Bears Ears National Monument in Utah.

The three-month public comment period ended on June 11, and more than 20,000 people submitted responses, according to the Bears Ears Inter-Tribal Coalition.

The public comments overwhelmingly supported the use of traditional Indigenous knowledge in the management of the monument, the coalition said in a news release on Wednesday.

The tribally informed co-management plan for the national monument is the first of its kind in U.S. history.

The plan is a collaborative approach between the federal government and tribes on how to steward Bears Ears, which can include tribal ancestral history and ideas for protections through land conservation and traditional education.

People from the Zuni Pueblo, Navajo Nation, Hopi Tribe, Ute Mountain Tribe, and Ute Indian Tribe of the Uintah and Ouray each have their own cultural and spiritual connections to the land, and say it is a sacred site. The five tribes signed the land management deal in June 2021.

With public comment over, the five tribes acting through the Bears Ears Commission, along with the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management, will review the comments and figure out how to incorporate them into the final management plan.

President Joe Biden fully restored the Bears Ears monument in October 2021 after the Trump administration cut it by nearly 2 million acres.

In 2023 a federal judge tossed out a lawsuit by Arizona lawmakers that sought to reverse Bidens proclamation.

Part of the impetus for the area being designated a national monument was to protect it from future uranium mining, like the Baaj Nwaavjo Itah Kukveni  Ancestral Footprints near the Grand Canyon National Monument.

Bidens executive action came after the head of the National Park Service said in March 2022 the federal government would make greater efforts to include Native American tribes in decisions involving federal lands.

Source New Mexico, like the Idaho Capital Sun, is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Source New Mexico maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Shaun Griswold for questions: info@sourcenm.com. Follow Source New Mexico on Facebook and X.
Donald Trumps July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, began like any other - but changed minutes after the event started when shots rang out.

Donald Trump was a hairs breadth away from being assassinated, Dr Joseph Meyn, who was watching the rally near the bleachers, told NewsNation. Had he not looked to the left  he would have got hit directly in the head.

Instead, Meyn said: It looked like a piece of his ear got sliced off from one of the rounds.

It was pandemonium, Todd Gerhart told the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette about the moment shots rang out. Everybody was running.

Former president Donald Trump is helped off stage by Secret Service agents. A witness said Trump was just inches from being killed in the shooting (AP)

No stranger to the Trump campaign trail, Gerhart was running his Make Honey Great Again stand, selling Trump-shaped 16-oz bottles of Ultra MAGA pure raw honey.

The honey vendor said he felt sheer fear when he heard the gunshots.

He added: Why do you hate this man so much when hes doing it for us? Hes not doing it for himself. Hes doing it for America.

Several other witnesses have spoken out about the moment that the political rally descended into chaos  and the aftermath as terrified attendees sought to help victims and tried to flee to safety.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

A bullet struck the former presidents ear, prompting Trump to immediately duck to the floor, behind his podium. Secret Service agents swarmed the stage before rushing the former president to safety. A trail of blood dripping down his face, Trump defiantly pumped his fist in the air.

When the pops sounded, a wave of red-capped Trump supporters sitting behind the former president started screaming and ducking.

Trump pumps his fist after being struck in the ear by a bullet. The former president has said he is fine since the shooting (AFP via Getty Images)

While everyone else was running, one rallygoer Jayme Karis, said that he was so shocked that he froze.

I just kind of stood there trying to figure out what to do, he told the outlet. Is there going to be more shots? I was just kind of stunned.

One spectator was killed in the shooting while another two were critically injured.

Rico Elmore said he desperately tried to help save the victim who had been shot in the head.

I was in the bullpen area to the right of the stage when Trump was at the monitor speaking, Rico Elmore told Scripps News. We heard shots fired, and for everyone to get down. Being military myself, I yelled at everyone to get down.

I hopped over the barrier because they yelled for [a] medic. There was no way the medic [could] get to the guy who had been shot, Elmore said. I ran to the guy who had got shot in the head. And I held his head as he passed.

Nobody wants to see someone get shot. Nobody wants to hold someones head and brain matter and blood are trickling out  knowing that theres nothing that you can do, he told the outlet.

A witness outside of Trump rally claims he saw the shooter before Trump was struck (BBC / screengrab)

The suspected gunman, later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot dead by authorities.

Secret Service blew his head off, a witness named Greg told the BBC. They crawled up on the roof, they had their guns pointed at him to make sure he was dead, he was dead. And thats it. It was over.

But Greg claims he saw the shooter in the moments leading up to the devastation. He spotted him bear crawling on the roof of a nearby building before he opened fire.

Im standing there pointing at him for two to three minutes, Greg said, explaining that he was trying to catch the attention of police and Secret Service to warn them about a gun-toting man nearing the venue. We could clearly see him with a rifle.

Trump is rushed off stage by Secret Service detail after the shooting. However, they have been questioned about how the shooting happened and their response (EPA)

He continued: Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn, Im pointing at the roof... and next thing you know, five shots rang out.

Karis predicted Trump will win in November  and that the attack will underscore his strength.

Its going to make his victory even better, Karis told the Post-Gazette.

Hes pushed through this much. Everybodys trying to take him down, take him out, do whatever they can. Its crazy.
After terrifying attempt on Trumps life, NC delegate keeps coming back to one detail

North Carolina delegate Michele Woodhouse was walking with former Chief Justice Mark Martin in downtown Milwaukee taking in the early sights and sounds of the Republican National Convention when she started receiving messages that former President Donald Trump had been shot.

On Saturday evening, Trump was speaking on stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when, law enforcement say, 20-year-old Matthew Thomas Crooks fired shots from a nearby rooftop  striking Trump in the ear, killing Corey Comperatore, 50, and seriously injuring two other men attending the rally.

I really hurried back to the hotel and we were in the lobby with the other delegates watching the replay of it and to see President Trumps bloody face, Woodhouse said. Holding up his fist as Secret Service is trying to hold him down. You could hear the chants of USA.

She said they all stood together trying to absorb what they had just seen. Among the group were North Carolina Republican Party Chairman Jason Simmons and NCGOP Finance Director Sarah Newby, daughter of Chief Justice Paul Newby.

Just kind of watching and waiting, and at that point we didnt know that there were any other casualties, Woodhouse said. It was really focused on Trump.

She said they wondered together what happens to security at RNC.

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents after a shooting at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13, 2024.

The NCGOP already announced it will no longer welcome press at its events. Other state parties have done the same.

Woodhouse said when she first arrived in Milwaukee on Saturday it was relatively quiet from the airport to the site of the convention.

Woodhouse, of Hendersonville, serves as chairwoman of North Carolinas 11th District Republicans. Its a role she has previously served in but stepped down from in 2021 to run unsuccessfully for Congress. She also hosts a radio show in Raleigh.

Republicans had for weeks been worried about whether Trump would make it to RNC because of a scheduled July 11 sentencing on 34 criminal convictions for business fraud over hush money payments made in connection to an affair with adult film star Stormy Daniels.

But when the sentencing was put on hold, Republicans had assurances that Trump could make the convention.

Now the delegates from North Carolina were staring at television screens concerned about the former presidents injuries.

And whether he was even alive.

In hindsight, if someone asked me today, was I surprised, Im not, Woodhouse said of the shooting. But it still doesnt make it any less terrifying.

She, herself, has been to many Trump rallies.

Now, knowing Trump survived, Woodhouse is grappling with what led the suspect to attempt to kill Trump.

And that inches meant life-or-death difference for the former president.

Political violence

Shes also annoyed by the political left, which she feels is watering down what happened by describing the shooting as political violence.

I think it was 100% an assassination attempt, with someone murdered, and attempted murders on others, Woodhouse said.

She said political violence describes a protest or burning a flag, but not this.

She also blames partisan rhetoric for the shooting.

Theres years of language around Hes a threat to democracy, Woodhouse said.

You start to use that language over and over and over and you have Kathy Griffin holding a bloody head. I think when one side takes that on as their narrative, sadly something like this is destined to happen, Woodhouse said.

In 2017, Griffin, a comedian, created a photo of herself holding a bloody, decapitated fake replica of Trumps head. It led to the star being essentially canceled.

Trumps strength and vulnerability

Since Saturday nights shooting, Woodhouse has watched the clip of Trump several times and she keeps coming back to one detail: Trumps shoes.

Trump and the Secret Service were still next to the podium when they were trying to move him from the stage, and that allowed the rallys microphone to pick up some of what they were saying.

Let me get my shoes, Trump could be heard saying.

Weve all been in ... those moments where something really kind of horrible happens you go to something kind of silly, like, get my shoes or the house is on fire and is the door locked, Woodhouse said.

But she also noticed Trumps ability to show thousands of people at the rally that he was OK, when he raised his fist in the air.

So I think you saw this really vulnerable part of Trump, balanced with a powerful part of Trump when he was sticking his arm up with the bloody face and people started chanting, USA.

What it means for the convention

Woodhouse believes the shooting will become unifying for the Republicans attending the rally.

She believes speeches are being rewritten.

She wonders if the themes will change.

But she thinks North Carolina Lt. Gov. Mark Robinson will be the person to watch.

Hes one who tends to be incredibly bombastic, Woodhouse said. What does he do?

She also is interested in how Democrats respond in the coming days.

When all of your advertisement is Donald Trump is the biggest threat to democracy and then someone tries to kill him, Woodhouse said. What is your messaging?

But more than anything she wonders how she will respond to Trump when he speaks to the convention on Thursday night.

I think it will be pretty emotional, she said. I think yesterday was emotional, but when he speaks on Thursday, I think it will be a different emotional response.

Under the Dome

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Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

U.S. Sen. Jon Tester called on the Senate Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs to investigate the attack Saturday against former President Donald Trump.

Trump was wounded and is recovering from the assassination attempt at a political rally in Pennsylvania. Two people were dead including the gunman, according to the Associated Press citing the Butler County District Attorney.

I am appalled by this senseless act and am keeping those that were impacted in my prayers, Tester said in the letter to the committee. As our nation grieves and looks to unite in the face of this violence, your committee can play an important role in getting answers to how this tragedy happened.

U.S. Sen. Steve Daines said people shouldnt feel unsafe at political rallies. The Secret Service neutralized the shooter, who is deceased, the Pennsylvania Capital-Star reported.

Cindy and I join with millions of Americans in relief that President Trump is still alive after an assassin attempted to take his life. We also mourn with the families of the fallen at yesterdays rally.

No one, from our political candidates to innocent Americans should feel unsafe at our political rallies.

Tester earlier said he would pray for Trumps safety.

I am appalled by the violence at the political rally in support of former President Trump, Tester said. There is absolutely no place for political violence in America and anyone found responsible for this needs to prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

In the letter Sunday calling for the investigation, Tester said people should be able to peacefully attend a political rally without fearing for their safety.

What happened yesterday has no doubt shaken that belief, but our great nation has always responded to ugly events like this by coming together.

Today and the weeks ahead should feel no different.

Tester also said he believes the Senate committee should work with the Secret Service to help people understand how the shooting took place and to prevent similar violence.

I appreciate the brave men and women in law enforcement, including the U.S. Secret Service, that put their own lives at risk to protect former President Trump and attendees.

They do important work every day, almost exclusively out of the eye of the public. I trust that your committee will work with them to provide oversight, accountability and piece together information so we can better understand how this event took place and what steps need to be taken to ensure something similar does not happen again.

Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte also weighed in on Twitter, late Saturday night:

Susan and I are praying for President Trump, his family, and our nation. Were also keeping close to our hearts the other victims of this heinous attack. Were grateful to U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response.

2024-07-14 Chairman Peters Ranking Member Rand Paul HSGAC Oversight hearing
Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was in the front row at former President Donald Trump's rally Saturday in rural Pennsylvania when gunfire burst out, saying he heard as many as eight shots and saw a woman nearby who appeared to have been struck by gunfire.

"At first, I didn't know what it was," Miller told the American-Statesman by phone from the outdoor venue. "Then I heard 'pop! pop!' and knew it was gunfire. Everybody got down, but I stayed standing up to try to see what was going on."

Miller, who said he heard as many as eight shots, added that he was not harmed and did not know the condition of the woman who appeared to have been hit.

Cable stations carrying the rally showed the incident, where popping noises could be heard along with screams from people in the crowd at the outdoor event. Trump was removed from the site by the Secret Service, with his fist raised, and appeared to have blood on his ear and cheek as he left the stage.

The extent of the injuries to the former president was not immediately known, but Steven Cheung, Trumps spokesperson, said in a statement that he was fine.

Miller, noted for his irrepressible demeanor and his ever-present cowboy hat, is a Republican in his third term heading the agency that oversees Texas' farming and ranching industries and is one of the most ardent Trump supporters in state politics.

A one-time rodeo cowboy, Miller is quick to boast that he was the first prominent Texas Republican to embrace Trump during the 2016 election cycle and the first to endorse his 2024 comeback bid.

The shooting took place in Butler, a city about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh.

USA Today contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: Texas Ag Commissioner Sid Miller describes gunfire at Trump rally
Texas political figures react to Trump shooting: 'They try to kill him. It will not work'

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was in the front row at former President Donald Trump's rally Saturday in rural Pennsylvania when gunfire burst out, saying he heard as many as eight shots and saw a woman nearby who appeared to have been struck by gunfire.

"At first, I didn't know what it was," Miller told the American-Statesman by phone from the outdoor venue. "Then I heard 'pop! pop!' and knew it was gunfire. Everybody got down, but I stayed standing up to try to see what was going on."

Miller said that he was not harmed and did not know the condition of the woman who appeared to have been hit.

Reactions from other Texas political figures to the incident came swiftly, many expressing shock and speculating on the political implications for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee.

Trump was shot in the earlobe in a near-miss that is being investigated as an assassination attempt, federal and Pennsylvania state confirmed late Saturday.

Cable stations carrying the rally showed the incident, where popping noises could be heard along with screams from people in the crowd at the outdoor event. Trump was removed from the site by Secret Service, with his fist raised, and appeared to have blood on his ear and cheek as he left the stage.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott posted a defiant message on the social platform X soon afterward, associating the attack with the criminal charges prosecutors have brought against Trump.

"They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work," Abbott posted at 5:39 Central time. "He is indomitable."

President Joe Biden did not comment on the attack until around 7 p.m. CDT, more than an hour after he received an initial briefing on the shooting.

"Im grateful to hear that (Trump is) safe and doing well," Biden wrote in a statement sent to press and posted on social media. "Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information."

Both in his initial statement and in brief, televised remarks delivered 15 minutes later, Biden condemned the attack.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Biden said, speaking from Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. "It's sick. It's one of the reasons we have to unite the country."

The president  who will likely face Trump in the 2024 presidential race  spoke with Trump and received an updated briefing on Saturday night.

Here's how Texas political figures reacted to the shooting.

Former President George W. Bush

"Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life," the 43rd president said in a statement. "And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response."

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick

Republican Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who enlisted Trump's help in his quest to have Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan ousted in this year's Republican primary, wrote on X Saturday night that he was "shaken by the assassination attempt on President Trump."

He shared a lengthy text message he had sent Trump in the wake of the shooting on social media.

"By the slightest turn of your head in a mere microsecond or the shield of a teleprompter, your life was spared by the Grace of a Merciful and Holy God," Patrick wrote. "I shared with you not long ago, on our flight to Houston, that God has had his hand on you since you first ran for President. That I believe."

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz

"Extraordinary. God bless President Trump," Cruz posted on X, adding a photo of Trump with a blood streak on his face and his fist in the air as Secret Service agents swarmed to his aid.

Extraordinary.



God bless President Trump. pic.twitter.com/GEipCSwl6G  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) July 13, 2024

U.S. Sen. John Cornyn

"Whoever is responsible must face swift justice," Cornyn wrote. "May we all pray for our country tonight."

U.S. Rep. Colin Allred, D-Dallas

"Violence of any kind has no place in our democracy, and I condemn this horrific attack in the strongest possible terms," Allred wrote in a statement. "I pray former President Trump makes a full and complete recovery and am thankful for the Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift action."

U.S. Rep. Lloyd Doggett, D-Austin

"Violence begets violence, whether directed at Trump or inspired by him," Doggett wrote in a statement. "I strongly condemn all acts of violence and hope that with quick law-enforcement action, all are safe at the Trump rally and he has suffered no lasting damage. In America, we must make our voices heard by ballots, not bullets."

Doggett's post was widely criticized by people who commented. "Please be better than this Congressman," one person said.

U.S. Rep Michael McCaul, R-Austin

"Thank God President Trump is okay," McCaul said in an emailed statement. "I can only imagine what could have happened had House Democrats been successful in their attempts to terminate his Secret Service detail. This should be a sobering reminder to them and others on the Left that their rhetoric and actions matter.

Our democratic process will not be deterred by this baseless act, as President Trump so powerfully demonstrated. Millions of Americans will never forget seeing his fist in the air  a symbol of hope, courage, and strength in the face of despicable evil."

U.S. Rep Greg Casar, D-Austin

"I agree with President Biden," Casar wrote in a post on X. "Political violence  against Trump or anyone else  has no place in our politics or our country."

Texas Sen. Roland Gutierrez, D-San Antonio

"Guns have no place at political rallies," Gutierrez wrote in an X post. "Or in elementary schools. Or churches. Or grocery stores. Its time to stop this madness America."

Texas House Speaker Dade Phelan, R-Beaumont

Phelan described the photo of Trump with a bloodied ear and fist raised as showing "the next President of the United States" in a social media post.

Elon Musk, owner of Tesla and X

"I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk, the Tesla entrepreneur who now makes his home in Texas, said on the platform once known as Twitter. Musk included footage of Trump pumping his fist after the Secret Service rushed to protect him.

U.S. Rep. Veronica Escobar, D-El Paso

"Any kind of political violence is absolutely unacceptable," Escobar wrote in an X post. "Prayers for everyone in the line of fire and grateful for law enforcements quick response."

State Rep. David Spiller, R-Jacksboro

"God bless President Donald J. Trump," Spiller wrote in an X post. "Please pray for him, his family, others in the line of fire and our country. This is a disastrous day for our country and is an attack on our entire Republic. Thank you to our brave Secret Service agents."

U.S. Rep. Vicente Gonzalez, D-McAllen

"Political violence is never the answer," Gonzalez wrote. "Thank you to the first responders and Secret Service for doing their job and maintaining order. I pray for former President Trump and our country. We must unite against any violence."

State Rep. Jeff Leach, R-Plano

"Praying for President Trump  and for our Nation," the veteran lawmaker posted. "An attack on a President is an attack on all of us and an attack on everything that makes America great. November  and the White House  here we come!"

State Sen. Brandon Creighton, R-Conroe

"Praying for President (Trump's) safety and for this sick (individual) to be apprehended," Creighton posted.

This article originally appeared on Austin American-Statesman: What Biden, Texas politicians are saying about shooting at Trump rally
Republican lawmaker Ronny Jackson has revealed that his nephew is among the injured in the assassination attempt of Donald Trump that left one victim dead and two people in critical condition.

The Texas congressman said that his family had been sitting close to the front of the crowd at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, when gunshots rang out minutes after Trump took to the stage.

His nephew, who was not identified, was grazed in the neck by a bullet in the shooting.

Thankfully his injury was not serious and he is doing well, Rep. Jackson said in a statement.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking. They heard shots ringing out  my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck.

Jackson said that his nephew was treated by medical staff at the rallys medical tent.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Please join my family and me in praying for all who were injured and the life lost. The President and the survivors are lucky to be alive, he added.

Map showing where the attacker was located when he fired shots toward Trump on stage in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024 (Anadolu via Getty Images)

The congressman told Fox News that it was a horrific, horrific experience for his family.

One attendee was killed in the shooting and two others left critically injured in the attack on the former president at Saturdays rally, authorities said.

The victims are yet to be publicly identified but Lt Col George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police confirmed that all three were adult men.

Trump was speaking on stage when suspect Thomas Matthew Crooks opened fire from his position perched on the building of a nearby rooftop outside of the rallys security perimeter.

Screams filled the air as gunshots rang out and Trump ducked down under his lectern on the stage.

The former president was rushed off stage by Secret Service to a waiting vehicle, his face bloodied and raising a defiant fist to the crowd.

Donald Trump is seen with a bloody face after surviving an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania (AP)

Crooks, a 20-year-old resident of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed by Secret Service agents at the scene, authorities said.

Trump later took to Truth Social, speaking out about the moment he said he was shot in the ear and thanking Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he said.

Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

Ronny Jackson attending Trumps hush money trial in New York. He revealed that his nephew is among the victims injured in the assassination attempt of Donald Trump (Getty Images)

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead.

The former president was seen landing back in New Jersey later on Saturday night.

President Joe Biden has since spoken to Trump about the incident, after he condemned the sick violence and said it has no place in America.

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country, he said. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

President Biden has since returned to the White House.

Now, questions are being asked about the Secret Service detail at the rally  and how the gunman was able to carry out the attack.
AUSTIN (Nexstar)  Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller has been to dozens of political rallies for former President Donald Trump, but an assassination attempt at a Saturday rally in Pennsylvania for the presumptive Republican presidential nominee is something Miller will never forget.

Trump, Biden, former presidents react to shooting at Trump rally

As one of Trumps top allies in Texas, Miller said he was standing about 30 feet away from the former president when he heard popping noises. Soon, U.S. Secret Service agents rushed Trump off the stage and to safety, with some blood on his ear and face.

For Miller, the first shot sounded like a pop of a balloon. On the second shot, he thought he was hearing firecrackers. He then quickly realized it was the sound of gunfire, estimating it was a small pistol.

Everybody else around me was either on the ground or kneeling or crouching down. I was looking for the gunman, Miller told Nexstar.

The agriculture commissioner said he was standing by the man who was killed by the stray bullet and another woman who was injured and is in critical condition. One other person was also critically wounded, according to the Associated Press.

The suspected shooter was killed and another rally attendee was dead, the AP reports. The FBI is investigating the shooting as an attempted assassination.

Texas U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson says his nephew was injured in shooting at Trump rally

Miller, who is currently traveling to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, said he hopes Saturdays events become a flashpoint for a divided nation.

Hopefully, that this will tone down the rhetoric, he said. I hope it brings our country together out we have less vitriol between the two parties.

In a social media post Sunday, Trump said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. His aides say he is doing well.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
Tarrant County and Texas leaders took to social media Saturday, extending their sympathies for Donald Trump after he was injured and escorted from a campaign rally in Pennsylvania where gunshots were fired. An attendee was killed and the suspected gunman is dead in what is being investigated as an assassination attempt, the Associated Press reported.

Video from NBC News shows the former president grabbing his ear and then ducking as gunshots were heard at the event. Secret Service agents rushed to the stage, grabbing Trump.

Trump had blood on the side of his head and ear, NBC reported, but is safe and is expected to be fine, according to Trumps campaign team.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told the Associated Press that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one bystander was killed.

President Joe Biden announced he was briefed on the shooting.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information, Biden said on X before he later spoke at a press conference. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was at the rally and told the Texas Tribune he was standing about 30 feet away from Trump.

It looked like the first maybe three shots missed him and he was turned looking towards me, Miller said. And then the one grazed his ear and then he got down.

Miller told the Houston Chronicle that the shots werent very loud and people in the crowd at first thought the sounds might have been firecrackers or balloons.

I am shocked, but thankful that (Trump) survived todays assassination attempt, Miller wrote in a post on X.

We pray for the President and any other potential victims of the evil that has unfolded before or eyes.

Tarrant County Judge Tim OHare posted on X in response to the shooting, Pray for President Trump and everyone at the rally. It is awful what is happening to our country.

In another post on X, OHare said members of the media contributed to criticism of the former president and presumed Republican nominee.

These same members of the media and many so-called leaders in our country are culpable for carrying out an 8+ year campaign of unbridled hatred towards this man, practically encouraging a homicidal lunatic to take the opportunity to become their hero, said OHare. President Trump has a resilience that is beyond remarkable. And he will be the next President of the United States.

Tarrant County GOP Chairman Bo French used X Saturday to criticize the Democratic Party in light of the shooting.

Democrats will do anything to win, including try to kill Trump. This is why we have to completely crush their ideology into the ash heap of history, said French.

Please pray for President Trump, his family, and for the safety of the folks in Pennsylvania, said U.S. Rep Jake Ellzey, Congressman for Texas 6th District.

State leaders also showed their support for Trump just minutes after the gunfire was reported.

The world is evil. Praise God that President Trump was able to walk away on his own. Praying for complete healing and that this person is captured immediately, said Texas Attorney General Ken Paxton in a post on X.

Paxton continued on X with posts that read Fighter!!!! USA!!! and Trump has you America!

PRAY FOR TRUMP https://t.co/Ow1aDc2HCc  Greg Abbott (@GregAbbott_TX) July 13, 2024

After being grabbed by agents, Trump was seen pumping his fist into the air, NBC video shows.

They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable, said Texas Gov. Greg Abbott on X.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick wrote in a post on X, Incidents erupts at President Trumps Rally. Trump rushed off stage by secret service. Please everyone pray for President Trump and pray for the country.

Extraordinary.



God bless President Trump. pic.twitter.com/GEipCSwl6G  Ted Cruz (@tedcruz) July 13, 2024

U.S. Sen. Ted Cruz said on X that he and his wife, Heidi Cruz, were also praying for Trump.

This is horrific & wrong & evil. Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured. Heidi & I are lifting President Trump in prayer right now, Cruz said.

Former President George W. Bush said in a statement that Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Several other Texas and Tarrant County leaders used X to offer their support:

Praying for President Trump and our nation this evening. Incredibly thankful for our Secret Service. Theres no place for political violence in our nation. United we stand, divided we fall. Let us unite in prayer and uplift those impacted by this senseless act of violence.  Mayor Mattie Parker (@MayorMattie) July 14, 2024

There is no place for political violence in our country, as I and many of my colleagues know all too well. I am thankful to hear that President Trump is safe. I am continuing to pray for him and America.  Rep. Roger Williams (@RepRWilliams) July 13, 2024

God Bless and Protect President Trump! pic.twitter.com/PUpsli0QDh  Beth Van Duyne (@Bethvanduyne) July 13, 2024

Praying for @realDonaldTrump. Our 45th and 47th President.  Craig Goldman (@GoldmanCraig) July 13, 2024

God bless the men and women of the United States @SecretService and local law enforcement. Swift response and decisive action to save President Trump and get him out of further danger. pic.twitter.com/SqbtzOF4zL  Manny Ramirez (@MannyRamirez_TX) July 13, 2024

Sending prayers for President Trump for a swift recovery. Thank you to the U.S. Secret Service for acting quickly to ensure his safety.



Whoever is responsible must face swift justice. May we all pray for our country tonight.  Senator John Cornyn (@JohnCornyn) July 13, 2024

Please stop what youre doing and pray for President Trump, his family, and the patriots who were in the audience. And pray with me that the coward who perpetrated this evil is brought to justice. pic.twitter.com/2HdZ27Y9Yy  Rep. Tony Tinderholt (@reptinderholt) July 13, 2024

WE ARE IN A BATTLE FOR OUR NATION! @realDonaldTrump IS A HERO & HE IS ON THE FRONT LINES FOR US! I STAND WITH TRUMP #MAGA2024 https://t.co/niV9v7LI99  Nate Schatzline (@NateSchatzline) July 13, 2024

Horrible news out of Pennsylvania. I hope former President Trump is OK and no one else was hurt.  Chris Turner (@ChrisGTurner) July 13, 2024

Please keep President Trump, his family and all attendees of the rally in your prayers. #txlege  Giovanni Capriglione (@VoteGiovanni) July 13, 2024

I am speechless. These people will be held accountable for their actions.



America stands strong by President Trump. https://t.co/CZNgG3kjTG  Michael Burgess, MD (@michaelcburgess) July 13, 2024

 More top stories from our newsroom:

 Trump fine after shots fired at rally stage; shooter, bystander killed

 2 girls killed in July 4 shooting are laid to rest

 Political conference at Fort Worth Botanic Garden draws protesters

[Get our breaking news alerts.]
The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, as the gunman who fired multiple shots with an AR-style rifle in a failed assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. The agency used biometric data to confirm Crooks was the would-be killer.

Crooks apparently fired from a rooftop about 130 yards from his target, hitting the former President Trump in his right ear. Crooks was immediately neutralized by the Secret Service, according to the FBI.

On Sunday, law enforcement vehicles remained stationed outside a residence listed at the address on Crooks voter registration record, according to USA Today. A bomb squad and agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were also on the scene, which was cordoned off with yellow police tape.

Who is Thomas Crooks?

Crooks is from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, a relatively affluent, predominantly white suburb of of Pittsburgh, about 42 miles away from Butler, where the Trump rally took place.

Allegheny County voter records listed a Thomas Matthew Crooks as a registered Republican, according to multiple news reports.

When Crooks was 17, according to Reuters, he made a $15 contribution to Act Blue, a political action committee that raises money for Democratic candidates. The donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, according to Federal Election Commission in 2021 filings cited by Reuters.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022 and was awarded a National Maths and Science Initiative Star Award worth $500.

Crooks worked as a dietary aide at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center, the administrator of the nursing home said in a statement Sunday. That likely means he was responsible for running food to the facilitys residents.

The 20-year-old does not appear to have had a criminal record in Pennsylvania.

Loner in Hunting Gear

In the first insight into Crooks past and personality, high school classmates told local Pittsburgh station KDKA that he had worn hunting gear to class.

He was relentlessly bullied the classmates said and was a loner.

Rejected From High School Rifle Club

Crooks was rejected from his high schools rifle club and told not to return because of how bad a shot he was, a former classmate told ABC News.

Jameson Myers and one other student who was also a member of the rifle club at the time told the network that Crooks attended its preseason, but did not even make it to the tryout stage. Both said Crooks was a bad shot.

He didnt just not make the teamhe was asked not to come back because how bad of a shot he was, Myers said. It was considered like, dangerous.

The teams coach declined to comment to ABC News, while a school district spokesperson did not immediately response to a request for comment.

The Attack

During the attack, Crooks wore a gray T-shirt with an American flag on the sleeve, matching merchandise sold by the popular YouTube firearm channel Demolition Ranch. The channel has over 11 million subscribers and frequently posts videos about various types of weaponry.

During the rally, the alleged shooter was positioned on the roof of a building approximately 130 yards from the stage where Trump was speaking. Witnesses described seeing Crooks moving across the roof before the attack.

Did Police Fail?

Accounts from the rally show first how close people were to the stage without being inside the security perimeter, and second, that they saw a man with a gun.

The person recording this video was outside the security perimeter when someone shouted hes got a gun and hes on the roof. TMX

One witness, identified only as Greg, told the BBC that he was having a party outside the rally and was planning to walk up through a nearby field and listen to Trump when he started speaking. But as he was walking up, about five minutes into Trumps speech, We noticed a guy bear-crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50 feet away from us.

Were pointing at the guy crawling up the roof the police are down there running around on the ground. Were like, Hey man, theres a guy on the roof with a rifle and the police were like, Huh, right. They didnt know what was going on.

FULL INTERVIEW with a witness, talking to @BBCNews, who says he saw a man with a gun on a building roof firing shots.



Donald Trump was rushed off stage during a rally in Pennsylvania after gun shots were heard.



He talked to @BBCBlindGazza - more information @BBCNews pic.twitter.com/aWqSXbzor2  BBC Newsnight (@BBCNewsnight) July 14, 2024

Greg said his group kept trying to flag down law enforcement with little success.

Next thing you know, Im thinking to myself, Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage? Im standing there pointing at [the gunman] for, you know, two or three minutes. The Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn. Im pointing at the roof, just standing here like this Next thing you know, five shots came out.

Greg estimated the shooter was on the roof, in plain view, for at least three or four minutes before opening fire. He said its possible that the agents on top of the barn and on the ground couldnt see the man because of the slope of the roof.

Why arent there Secret Service on all the roofs? he asked, seeming incredulous. This is not a big place.

Secret Service snipers returned fire when Crooks launched his assassination attempt from a rooftop outside the security perimeter. Glen Van Tryfle/TMX/Reuters

A New York Times audio analysis reported there were two bursts of shotsa round of three followed by a round of five. The shots appeared to have been fired roughly 330 to 390 feet from the microphone that was recording the audio, according to the Times analysis.

Crooks fired the shots outside the area secured by the Secret Service. Following the shots, the Secret Service immediately neutralized Crooks.

Dads Gun, Explosives Found

The Wall Street Journal reported that Crooks had used his father's AR-style gun. Pennsylvania law would have allowed Crooks to purchase a long gun after he turned 18.His father appears to have no criminal convictions which would have prevented him owning a firearm.

Sources told the New York Times that three explosive devices had been found, two in Crooks car and one in the home he shared with his parents. Aaron Josefczyk/Reuters

But more concerningly, authorities found two explosive devices in Crooks' car and one in his home, the New York Times reported a person with knowledge of the investigation as having disclosed.

Motive Mystery

Law enforcement officials have not dismissed the possibility that Crooks acted alone, and they are investigating suspicious packages found near the gunmans location.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge at the FBI Pittsburgh field office, said investigators are still determining the motive behind the shooting.

Crooks Family Reacts

When reached by CNN late Saturday night, Crooks father, Matthew Crooks, said he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but would wait until I talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son.

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The man who shot Donald Trump has been identified as a 20-year-old registered Republican who was bullied at school and had an obsession with guns.

Classmates described Thomas Matthew Crooks, who was killed by a special forces sniper after firing from a nearby roof at the former US president during a Pennsylvania rally, as an outcast who was relentlessly teased about his appearance.

A car belonging to the gunman was found on Sunday parked near the rally laden with explosives.

Bomb-making materials were also discovered at his family home after heavily-armed US security agents carried out a raid on the property in Bethel Park, a village about an hours drive south of Butler, the small and hard-up post-industrial town where he tried to shoot Trump.

Crooks was reportedly wearing a t-shirt bearing the emblem of a pro-gun YouTube channel when he carried out the assassination attempt by firing a volley of bullets towards the stage a few minutes after Trump began speaking.

Crooks opened fire while the former US president was addressing a crowd in Butler, Pennsylvania, leaving one audience member dead and two others badly hurt.

Trump gunman Thomas Matthew Crooks

One shot grazed Trumps ear, spraying blood across his face. Corey Comperatore, a 50-year-old father of two who was sitting behind Trump, was shot and killed, and two other people were badly injured.

The FBI said that it regarded Crooks as carrying out an assassination attempt on former president Donald Trump.

This remains an active and ongoing investigation, it said.

The Pentagon confirmed that Crooks did not have any military ties.

Weve confirmed with each of the military service branches that there is no military service affiliation for the suspect with that name or date of birth in any branch, active or reserve component in their respective databases, Pentagon spokesman Maj Gen Patrick S Ryder said.

Law enforcement sources said they believed the weapon used to shoot Trump was purchased by Crooks father, who bought a weapon at least six months ago.

Police surround Crooks' home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania - Joshua A. Bickel/AP

Crooks father told CNN he was trying to find out what the hell was going on but that he would talk to law enforcement before speaking about his son publicly.

The gunman, who reportedly worked in a nursing home, did not have a criminal history reflected in Pennsylvanias public court records, and officials said they had not identified a motive.

The Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation Center said Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean.

Unconfirmed videos and photos on the internet showed Crooks to be a tall, slender, white man who wore glasses and had long sandy-brown hair.

Voter-registration data showed that he was a registered Republican voter but on Jan 20 2021, two weeks after pro-Trump alt-Right supporters stormed the White House, Crooks gave $15 (11.80) to a grassroots Democratic group.

A bespeckled Crooks, who was pictured in his Bethel Park High School yearbook photo wearing a t-shirt emblazoned with the American flag, was described by former classmates as an outcast who was bullied daily.

He was bullied almost everyday. He would sit alone at lunch. I mean, he was just an outcast, and you know how kids are nowadays, one former pupil told NBC.

They go see someone like that and target him because they think its funny or whatever. Its the best way I can describe it. And honestly, its kinda sad. I dont want to say this is what provoked it, but you never know.

He was bullied so much. So much [in high school]. They just made fun, for the way he dressed, his appearance.

Sarah DAngelo, a former classmate of Crooks at Bethel Park High School, told the Wall Street Journal the gunman Crooks had never appeared political at school.

He never outwardly spoke about his political views or how much he hated Trump or anything, she said.

The FBI said that Crooks was not carrying any identification when he made the assassination attempt and had to be identified using DNA samples.

We dont currently have an identified motive, although our investigators are working tirelessly to attempt to identify what that motive was, said Kevin Rojek, an FBI Pittsburgh special agent.

Officers stand over the body of the Trump suspect

Crooks shot at Trump from the roof of a shed outside the security cordon thrown up around the rally in a park in central Butler at around 6.15 pm local time, shortly after the former US president had started speaking.

Witnesses said Crooks bear crawled across a rooftop less than 100 metres away from Trump, the Republican presidential candidate frontrunner. They said that Crooks then spent two or three minutes steadying himself, before taking aim and firing at Trump.

US security forces said that they had recovered an AR-15 semi-automatic rifle lying by Crooks body. AR-15 semi-automatic rifles have been used in several mass shootings in the US and have become the focus of the gun debate.

Photos also showed a member of the US security forces standing over Crooks body. Crooks was wearing beige cargo-style shorts and a grey t-shirt bearing the logo of a pro-gun YouTube channel called Demolition Ranch.

Crooks didnt have a criminal record. A video purportedly showing him wearing a black gown as he graduates from the Bethel Park High School in 2022 was circulating on social media.

Police outside Crooks' home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania - DAVID MAXWELL/EPA-EFE/Shutterstock/Shutterstock

Open-source intelligence analysts reported that Crooks did not appear to use mainstream social media channels such as Facebook or Instagram and had an almost negligible internet footprint, which is highly unusual for a 20 year-old.

Instead, analysts said that Crooks corresponded with friends and associates on a Discord server which they were now trying to access.

Discord servers are restricted ring-fenced sections of the internet. They are often used by gaming groups and communities as secure chat rooms but are also used by fringe organisations to push their ideologies and discuss wild conspiracy theories and plots.

The Demolition Ranch YouTube channel is one of the most popular pro-gun channels in the US. It has nearly 12 million subscribers and is a mix of instructional videos of clients learning how to shoot at the Demolition Ranch range in Texas and middle-aged men glorifying sniper rifles.

Crooks appeared to have featured in a TV advert for the BlackRock finance company filmed at Bethel Park High School and broadcast in 2023.

In the advert promoting teachers retirement plans, a boy who appears to be Crooks was sat in one of the classrooms during an economics lesson.

On its website, Bethel Park High School promotes itself as a traditional school in an affluent middle-class Pittsburgh suburb that has a distinguished alumni.

During his senior year, Crooks was among several students to receive an award for math and science, according to a Tribune-Review story at the time.

Crooks tried out for his schools rifle team but failed to make it because he was a comically bad shot and made jokes deemed inappropriate with firearms around, two former classmates told The New York Post.

He missed his target by close to 20ft, Jameson Murphy said.

He tried outand was such a comically bad shot he was unable to make the team and left after the first day, he added.

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A wildfire burning in eastern Canada has scorched more than 24,000 acres and forced thousands to flee the Town of Labrador City, where at least one hospital has been closed, officials said Saturday.

The extremely aggressive inferno was deemed fully under control earlier this week, but weather conditions shifted Friday, setting the stage for rapid fire spread, Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Andrew Furey said in a Facebook update Saturday.

The wildfire exploded 22,000 acres in size, moving about 13 miles in just four hours, Furey said.

Around 9,500 people have been evacuated from Labrador City, Jeremy Reynolds, a spokesperson for the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador, told CNN Saturday. A contingent of essential personnel have remained behind to oversee the emergency response, he added.

The Town of Labrador City, in the northwestern part of the province, is remote and sits about 900 miles north of Canadas capital city of Ottawa.

The fire is spreading just three miles northwest of Labrador City. Residents have been told to evacuate to the Town of Happy Valley-Goose Bay  a six-hour drive away, Furey said.

An evacuation order posted Friday evening said the fire had the potential to grow significantly closer to Labrador West over the next 24 to 48 hours. Meanwhile, an evacuation alert has been issued for the neighboring community of Wabush, where residents should be prepared to evacuate at any moment, Furey said.

The wildfire has also led to the temporary closure of Labrador West Health Centre, according to Furey. Everyone in the hospital has been safely evacuated, including 45 patients receiving care for more serious conditions. Those patients have been moved to facilities within the province, Furey added.

The hospital announced it would remain closed until it is safe to fully reopen.

Ambulances are stationed in the area to respond to emergency calls as walk-in emergency services are not available, the hospital said in a news release Saturday.

CNNs Kara Devlin contributed to this report.

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Family, friends and supporters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas take part in a protest as they complete the final leg of a four day march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem demanding the release of the hostages. Ilia yefimovich/dpa

Thousands of Israelis demonstrated in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem on Saturday, demanding an agreement that would allow around 120 hostages still held by Hamas to come back to Israel.

Participants in the rallies accused Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of sabotaging the indirect talks with the Islamists to reach an agreement.

"Netanyahu is killing the hostages," read a huge banner carried by demonstrators in Tel Aviv. One of the speakers, a former hostage, said, "I may seem OK on the outside, but the pain weighs on me more than anyone can imagine."

He was one of the lucky ones who had been held captive in a house and not in a tunnel. "So if I suffered brutal conditions and abuse, what about the other 120 hostages?"

Thousands demonstrated in Jerusalem outside Netanyahu's residence and in the seaside resort of Caesarea outside one of Netanyahu's villas, according to reports.

Smaller rallies were held in Haifa, Beersheba and Herzliya.

Several hundred relatives and supporters had marched on foot from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem over the past four days.

The Gaza war was triggered by the unprecedented terrorist massacre of more than 1,200 people in Israel, killed by militants from Hamas and other groups on October 7. Up to 250 were kidnapped to Gaza, and some 120 may be still alive.

Israel responded with massive airstrikes and a ground offensive. In view of the high number of civilian casualties and the catastrophic situation in the Gaza Strip, Israel has come under international criticism.

Negotiations to release the hostages have stalled for months as Qatar, Egypt and the US act as mediators to try and bring about a ceasefire in Gaza and an exchange of the remaining hostages held by Hamas for Palestinian prisoners being held in Israeli jails.

Family, friends and supporters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas take part in a protest as they complete the final leg of a four day march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem demanding the release of the hostages. Ilia yefimovich/dpa

Police officers arrest a protester as family, friends and supporters of Israeli hostages taken by Hamas take part in a protest to complete the final leg of a four day march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem demanding the release of the hostages. Ilia yefimovich/dpa
(FOX40.COM)  Three juveniles were arrested after police said they burglarized and vandalized a local elementary school.

Around 3:10 on Thursday, the Galt Police Department responded to a burglary alarm at Greer Elementary School. Video surveillance footage reportedly showed three suspects on campus. When officers arrived to the scene, they said two suspects fled on foot. The third suspect was later located at his nearby residence nearby.

CHP blocks freeway takeover in Sacramento County

GPD said about $15,000 worth of damage was done to school grounds. Two juveniles were transported to the Sacramento County Juvenile Detention Facility and booked in connection to burglary, felony vandalism, resisting arrest, providing a false name to officers, and minor in possession of alcohol.

Due to the age of the third suspect, police said he was cited for alleged burglary and resisting arrest and released to his parents

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BUTLER, BUTLER COUNTY (WBRE/WYOU) The identities of the three people shot have been released, according to a release made by the Pennsylvania State Police.

Officials say 50-year-old Corey Comperatore of Sarver, PA was fatally shot during the rally.

Officials also 57-year-old David Dutch, of New Kensington, PA was also hit, but is currently in stable condition and 74-year-old James Copenhaver, of Moon Township, PA is also in stable condition.

These victims and their families are certainly in our thoughts today, said Colonel Christopher Paris, Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner. The Pennsylvania State Police continue to work tirelessly alongside our federal, state and local partners as this investigation continues.

Governor Shapiro ordered United States and Commonwealth flags on all Commonwealth facilities, public buildings, and grounds across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania to fly at half-staff immediately in honor of Corey Comperatore. The Governor also extends the prayers of all Pennsylvanians to the two Pennsylvanians who remain hospitalized and their families.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to PAhomepage.com.
Sir Tony Blair's attempts to introduce a National ID as prime minister were met with protests against their threat to civil liberties - Scott Barbour/Getty Images Europe

He was an unlikely source of the new Governments first row on immigration, but Sir Tony Blair managed to cause a headache for the Labour Party, days into its triumphant return to office.

Last weekend, the former Labour leader called for digital ID cards to help crack down on illegal immigration, leading to mixed messages from Jonathan Reynolds, the new Business Secretary, about whether the advice would be taken on board.

Reynolds appeared to open the door to the policy, telling a broadcaster that the Government would consider all advice on the matter. He later ruled out digital ID cards, saying it was not a Labour policy.

Jonathan Reynolds rules out ID cards just hours after saying he will consider all advice - Wiktor Szymanowicz/Future Publishing

That did little to deter the former prime minister, however. On Tuesday, at a conference a stones throw from Westminster, Sir Tonys Institute for Global Change unveiled a manifesto for a digital ID that it claimed would save the taxpayer 2bn a year through cutting benefit fraud and yielding more tax revenue.

A single identifier would link personal details, biometric markers to NHS, tax and benefits systems. On Tuesday Sir Tony said that the world was heading in this direction, pointing to countries such as Estonia and Singapore that had national identity systems.

National IDs have been seen as a quixotic crusade for Sir Tony, who tried to introduce them as prime minister before the plan was junked by David Cameron. But even without his influence, the building blocks for a digital ID system are quietly coming together in Britain.

Sir Tony Blair's Institute for Global Change claims its digital ID would save the taxpayer 2bn a year - Dan Kitwood/Getty Images Europe

In June a Government-backed digital ID scheme certified the first providers of smartphone-based age verification apps. Three companies  Lloyds Bank, the Post Office and Yoti  can now offer digital IDs that consumers can use to buy age-restricted items such as tobacco and fireworks (the previous government planned to change the law to include alcohol before the election was called). The digital IDs can also be used to prove identity for work or criminal checks.

Four million people have already downloaded the apps, which supporters say allow shoppers to leave the house without their wallet and support the millions of people who do not have a driving licence or passport. In future, self-service tills will be able to scan the IDs, avoiding the need to have shoppers ages checked by an assistant. In April, Fujitsu was awarded a contract to provide the technology behind the scheme.

There are clear benefits to enabling people to prove who they are digitally, online and in a face to face situation, says Nick Mothershaw of the Open Identity Exchange, an industry group in favour of digital IDs. He says that digital IDs also have the advantage of only displaying the minimum information needed: a proof of age app only has to say that somebody is over 18, compared to a driving licence that features their date of birth and address.

Mothershaw points out that digital IDs provided by private companies are optional, and different to a national ID as proposed by Sir Tony. As soon as someone mentions national ID cards you can see thats not popular, he says.

However, sceptics might spy a slippery slope. Digital payments were optional when introduced, but the rapid decline in the use of cash as a result means that from car parks to coffee shops, many places now no longer offer an alternative.

Sir Tony Blair has admitted that the idea of digital ID cards remained unpopular - Matthew Lloyd/Getty Images Europe

The availability of digital ID cards seems destined to grow. The DVLA plans to let people access digital driving licences on their phone at some point next year, the authority recently revealed after a Freedom of Information request.

Before the election, the Conservative government planned to put digital IDs on a statutory footing and establish an information gateway that could see information on Government databases shared with private ID providers. The bill failed to pass before the election but the tech industry has urged the Labour Government to revive the digital ID plans.

Meanwhile, Whitehall officials have been investing more than 300m in a single login system for accessing all online services.

Separately these initiatives might not raise many concerns: digital versions of what we already have in our wallet are not necessarily the harbinger of a surveillance state. But taken together they can seem like the ingredients for Sir Tonys national ID card.

Labour has said government services need to work better together and that it plans to digitise many ways that citizens interact with the state

The campaign group Big Brother Watch has claimed the one login system will lead to a database state and warned of function creep that effectively turns the system into a national ID card scheme. The Tony Blair Institute has suggested that national IDs could be used to exempt the better off from programmes such as the energy bills support scheme that followed Russias invasion of Ukraine.

Last week, Sir Tony admitted that the idea of digital ID cards remained unpopular, saying we have a little work in persuading to do here. They appear to be coming anyway.

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Theranomnis

Cult-followed self-help guru Tony Robbins wagered hundreds of millions of dollars on a breakthrough technology that seeks to turn coal into clean energy  but according to new reporting from The Wall Street Journal, proof that the tech works remains scant.

Per the WSJ, the ambitious tech in question claims to use "quantum reformers" to transform coal, a heavily polluting fossil fuel that much of the planet is currently trying to move away from, into hydrogen  meaning that, if it works, it stands to turn the coal industry of the past into clean, climate-friendly energy. And the scientist behind the plot, according to the WSJ? A person named Simon Hodson, who's described in the report as a "white-haired California scientist with a background in cement and food packaging."

Robbins, also an accused sexual predator, was reportedly so taken with the quantum coal machine and its creator that in September 2022 he pledged a staggering $200 million to the project, dubbed Omnis. Soon thereafter, he and Hodson took over an inoperative coal-fired energy facility in West Virginia.

"If I'm wrong, I lose all that," Robbins told the paper in an April interview, referring to the $200 million cash infusion. Robbins has published multiple books about personal finance, which boast titles like "Unshakeable: Your Financial Freedom Playbook" and "The Holy Grail of Investing." (The latter book, as the WSJ notes, glowingly describes the self-helper's first Omnis encounter.)

But years into the venture, according to the WSJ, Omnis has strikingly little to show for all of its world-changing promises.

Fire Flames

According to the WSJ, Omnis was founded in 2014 and made a big splash in 2017 when it teamed up with the coal producer Consol Energy to convert Pennsylvania waste coal into "fertilizer and other products." Upon Robbins' cash infusion, Omnis  which had already inked a deal with West Virginia government to construct modular homes using coal products  took over an out-of-use coal energy plant in West Virginia, where it got to work on its coal-into-quantum-hydrogen scheme.

Robbins wasn't the only backer. The project has also captured the attention of major West Virginia lawmakers and influential energy barons, with the state approving a "$50 million low-interest loan" for Omnis' miracle power plant, despite there continuing to be no public proof that the concept works. Hodson has elsewhere raised money and inked deals for other projects in the state, including an effort to build modular homes, but has yet to follow-through on those plans. Also, per the WSJ, Omnis' Pennsylvania plant was destroyed in a May fire.

According to the report, a spokesperson for Robbins claims that the cult-followed figure was recently returned $75 million from Omnis, which is now going by a new name: Omnigen. So, in a spot of good news for Robbins, it looks like the alleged sex pest won't have to resort to shacking up in one of Hodson's missing modular houses.

The West Virginia plant, meanwhile, is still burning coal.

More on maybe-probably related stories: Elizabeth Holmes Says She Can't Afford $250 per Month to Pay Back Victims
'He took a bullet for us': Trump supporters rally at Taunton Green after shooting attack

TAUNTON  Judith Conlan drove from her home in Somerset to share her appreciation for former president Donald Trump with drivers circling the Taunton Green.

Its not far to travel for a man who took a bullet for us, Conlan said.

She was one of about a dozen people who stood in the shade on a sweltering Sunday afternoon holding signs and flags in support of Trump, a day after the former president had his right ear grazed in an assassination attempt during a rally in Pennsylvania. A supporter at that rally was shot and killed; two others were critically injured.

Conlan said she watched the rally on TV and heard the shots, thinking they were firecrackers.

All of a sudden he grabbed his ear and went down, she said. I was very afraid. I thought the worst.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump rally on the Taunton Green on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

Public officials call for thoughts and prayers

According to USA Today reports, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee was injured after a rooftop sniper opened fire on the rally with an AR-15-style rifle. Secret Service agents shot and killed the gunman, later identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Initial reports show Crooks is a registered Republican. His motive is under investigation.

The shocking public attack, which recalled the near-assassination of President Ronald Reagan in 1981, has elicited sympathy and offers of thoughts and prayers from all political corners, Democratic leaders included, and condemnations of politically motivated violence.

President Joe Biden called for national unity at a short White House news conference Sunday and said he spoke with Trump briefly on Saturday night and, "I'm sincerely grateful that he's doing well and recovering." Biden also said he would address the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday night.

Massachusetts State Police issued a press release indicating that while there is no known connection or threat to the Bay State, Out of an abundance of caution, MSP has increased presence in highly trafficked areas across the Commonwealth.

Former Bristol County sheriff Thomas Hodgson, who chairs Trumps 2024 re-election campaign in Massachusetts, spoke with The Herald News while traveling to the Republican National Convention, which begins this week in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

Hes a giant of a man who is not afraid of anything, and thats what bothers the elite in Washington, D.C., Hodgson said. It only reaffirmed to the American people that this is a man who doesnt care about the politics of all this. He doesnt need this job. He loves America and he loves the challenge of being able to give back to the people of our neighborhoods, our kids, our grandkids, our American way of life that weve lost.

'That should never happen in America'

In Taunton, Kayla Churchill, the Massachusetts Trump campaigns senior director of volunteers, organized a stand-out in support of Trump via Facebook. Along corners of Taunton Green, supporters erected signs with messages like ULTRA MAGA and life-size standees of the former president.

Hes working for free for us, and now he just took a bullet for us, Churchill said. The least we can do is come out here and show our support.

Supporters held signs and flags in view of the traffic, and among themselves aired their grievances about economic policy and immigration law, shared their theories about why the attack happened. Some drivers passing by honked horns in apparent support. A few drivers shouted profanity.

Churchill said while shes a political conservative and strong Trump supporter, she deplores political violence, and she was shaken by the idea of a political leader being shot at during a rally  even if it were the current Democratic president, she said.

First Bristol Plymouth GOP Chairwoman Kayla Churchill holds a Women For Trump sign at a gathering on the Taunton Green on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

"I might not do a standout if its for Biden, but this shouldnt happen, Churchill said. This is America and we shouldnt have any president, candidate, elected official ever be in a position where theyre going to be shot on stage in front of families.

Churchill noted that a man was killed by a bullet apparently meant for Trump.

He got his head blown off in front of his family," Churchill said. His kids were there. His family was there. Thats not the America that I want. ... I dont care whos standing up there. That should never happen in America.

Blaming heated rhetoric for assassination attack

Several attendees blamed the 2024 presidential campaigns heated rhetoric for riling people up, laying it at the feet of the political left. Churchill said Biden should feel responsible, or at least retract a statement he made on July 8, where Biden told donors, We're done talking about the debate. Its time to put Trump in a bullseye.

What do you mean by that, other than kill him? Churchill said. "Not even a week later, this happens?

Supporters of former president Donald Trump rally on the Taunton Green on Sunday, July 14, 2024.

It absolutely makes sense that something like this would happen when theyve been demonizing the guy for seven or eight years, saying hes Hitler, saying hes a dictator, saying hes a danger to democracy, said Conlan.

Churchill said she believes as a Christian that Trumps surviving the attack was divine intervention. The former president, no stranger to heated rhetoric himself, also stated on his TruthSocial network that God alone saved him from assassination.

"If he just didnt look at the chart, the big chart he had up, he would have been shot on TV," Churchill said. And I get people on Facebook and theyre like, Oh too bad they missed. So what, he gets his head blown off? How is that going to make America look? What about the children in the audience? What about the kids at home?

I dont even want to see Biden get his head blown off, and I hate him.

Dan Medeiros can be reached at dmedeiros@heraldnews.com. Support local journalism by purchasing a digital or print subscription to The Herald News today.

This article originally appeared on The Herald News: Trump supporters rally in Taunton a day after assassination attack
A top Democratic strategist to LinkedIn co-founder and Democratic tycoon Reid Hoffman floated the possibility the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump may have been a false-flag operation, according to an email to journalists obtained by Semafor.

Dmitri Mehlhorn said in the Saturday evening email that one possibility for the attackwhich feels horrific and alien and absurd in America, but is quite common globallyis that it was both encouraged and potentially staged by Trump to secure a political advantage.

This is a classic Russian tactic, such as when Putin killed 300 civilians in 1999 and blamed it on terrorists to ride the backlash to winning power, Mehlhorn wrote, according to Semafor. Others who have embraced this tactic of committing raw evil and then benefitting from the backlash include Hamas on October 7. If any Trump officials encouraged or knew of this attack, that is morally horrific, and Republicans of decency must demand that Trump step down as unfit.

Mehlhorn acknowledged the other possibility that some crazy anti-Trumper in this chaotic moment decided to assassinate the former President. Law enforcement officials have confirmed the identity of the shooter as Thomas Crooks, 20, and have not publicly identified any ties to the Trump campaign or larger apparatus.

Trump Gunman Was Loner Who Wore Hunting Gear to School

While Mehlhorn acknowledged the line of questioning was conspiratorial, he maintained that it was still a reasonable question to ask. This is a classic Putin play and given the facts seems more plausible. Look at the actual shot. Look at the staging. Look at how ready Trump is to rally; this pampered baby shit his pants when an eagle lunged at his food, he wrote. Look at how quickly Trump protects himself at the expense of others, but showed few of those lifelong instincts in this moment. And consider how often Putin and his allies run this play.

Mehlhorn eventually acknowledged that his statements were not public remarks. In a statement provided after this story ran, Mehlhorn apologized for making the comments at all, particularly for the attention they took away from the person killed at the Trump rally.

We must unite in condemnation of such violence in every instance, without reservation, Mehlhorn said. Any other topic is a distraction.

But his comments came days after Hoffman sarcasticallyand controversiallytold GOP mega-donor Peter Thiel that he wished he had made Trump an actual martyr through the funding of lawsuits like E. Jean Carrolls against Trump and Smartmatics against Fox News and Newsmax.

This is the second time Mehlhorn has stoked controversy this month, telling Democratic donors earlier in July that a dead or comatose Joe Biden stood a better chance at defeating Trump than Vice President Kamala Harris, according to Semafor. He later tried to walk back his remarks, saying Harris would still be a competitive candidate against Trump.

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ABILENE, Texas (KTAB/KRBC)  A train was reported as derailed on Sunday morning on the west side of Abilene near the Five Points Business Park.

According to the Abilene Police Department, police were notified of a derailed train at W Hwy 80 and Fulwiler Road just after 10 am. Fire crews were fighting several grass-related fires east of the derailment. Heavy damage was reported to the tracks.

A spokesperson with Union Pacific said about 32 cars derailed carrying deer corn were separated and on their side. Officials on the scene said there were no injuries. Crews are en route to clean up the area.

Hurts their hearts: CityLink Abilene struggles to provide transportation services due to staff shortages

Workers of the nearby business park told a BCH Reporter on the scene, that nothing was heard regarding a derailed train.

The cause of the derailment is under investigation. This is a developing story.

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Forget Biden; look at Trump

Many of you watched the presidential debate last month. So lets forget what happened with President Biden for a few minutes and focus on his deranged opponent.

What did you see? I saw a tidal wave of self-serving lies.

Opinion

Mr. Trump said:

1. Nancy Pelosi was responsible for the Jan. 6 fiasco. Trump claimed he offered 10,000 troops, which she turned down. The tape he referred to explicitly showed her looking for alternative help because he would not authorize the National Guard.

2. By the way, the people who went to the Capitol on Jan. 6 were ushered in by the police. Really?

3. Talking about abortion, he claimed Democrats would do-in babies in the eighth and ninth month, even after birth. Not him.

4. Trump repeated hed never had sex with a porn star. Yet, he was convicted on 34 felony counts of covering it up. He did say that the judge and jury were corrupt.

5. He claimed responsibility for the great economy during Bidens tenure. But only the good stuff.

6. Under Biden, were like a third-world county, he said, and not respected. The list goes on further and gets more absurd.

And you want this guy?

Mike Broadhurst

Cambria

Resign now, Mr. President

At the NATO Summit in Washington, President Joe Biden introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy as President Putin. President Biden need not withdraw his candidacy for the Democratic nomination; he should resign from office now and let Vice President Kamala Harris lead the administration, and let the Democratic Party select a nominee for president at its convention. Enough is enough.

John Barbieri

San Luis Obispo

Future is looking grim

In the earliest days of our republic, the founding fathers were concerned about two very serious potential pitfalls looming on our horizon. First, they were careful to remind their progeny never to allow the office of the president to acquire the kind of unlimited power historically assumed by kings.

The second warning was to be mindful of the unhealthy effect of the then-nascent political parties appearing on the scene. Political parties, over the years, have unfortunately proved unstoppable. Thus, we are today faced with a very unhealthy choice of only two candidates for leadership of the nation: one seems to be on the edge of senility; the other is very clearly on the edge of insanity.

The nation fortunately has at least heeded the first piece of advice  until now. However, Donald Trump and his minions on the Supreme Court have now blithely transgressed that commandment. As a result, we are about to hand over the reins of a more-than-ever powerful office to one of those most unfit candidates who are today seeking the position (merely to assuage the ego of one, the megalomania of the other). The future has rarely seemed so grim.

Gene Strohl

San Luis Obispo

Morro Bay battery plant

Would Measure A-24 block Morro Bay battery plant project? (sanluisobispo.com, July 8)

I will be voting against A-24. Measure A-24 is an all-or-nothing proposal. The risk in denying Vistra the permit to build the plant on 24 acres of their property is enormous. Vistra will take its case to the Energy Commission. We dont know what the decisions of the Energy Commission or the Coastal Commission will be.

If the city permits Vistra to build the battery facility on the worst-polluted 24 acres of their 107-acre property, then they will remove the old power plant and stacks. The citys land use plan will determine how the remaining 83 acres are developed. This is a coup for the city.

Estimates are that the plant will generate $10 million per year in local taxes. This is better than wasting taxpayer dollars on a fight with the property owner (Vistra), the Energy Commission and the Coastal Commission. It will also be a savings to utility ratepayers by building the storage facility next to the existing grid.

I will be voting no on A-24. Please think long and hard before you cast your ballot on this costly, all-or-nothing gamble.

Carol Swain

Morro Bay

Help senior veterans

More than half of the 17,000 veterans living in San Luis Obispo County are over 65. However, far less than half of all our veterans take advantage of our VA Clinics and an even smaller number are members of Central Coast Veterans Organizations.

Like most seniors, senior veterans basically need to not be abandoned and forgotten.The U.S. Surgeon General recently declared a public health crisis of loneliness, isolation, and lack of connection in our country. This is particularly true with senior veterans, who reportedly often feel disconnected from the civilian life experience. In a 2018 VA Study, 56.9% of all veterans expressed feelings of loneliness.

So what can any of us do to make senior veterans feel less lonely? When you see one of us old, gray-haired guys (or gals) wearing one of our caps designating military service, do more than just say Thank you for your service.

Stop and introduce yourself; ask about the senior veterans life situation; invite him or her to participate in community activities; exchange phone numbers with the veteran and offer to stay in touch.

Paul Worsham

SLO Veterans Collaborative
Donald Trumps top allies reacted to news that the former president was rushed off stage after an apparent shooting during his rally in Butler, Pa. on Saturday.

Among those who quickly weighed in were Ohio Sen. JD Vance (R), who has been rumored to be Trumps pick for vice president.

Everyone join me in praying for our President Trump and everyone at that rally. I hope everyone is ok, Vance said.

Florida Sen. Marco Rubio (R ), another vice-presidential contender, also said he was praying for Trump and everyone who attended the rally.

We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it, said North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum (R ) on X.

Live updates: Trump reported safe after apparent shooting at rally

Rubio and Vance both posted pictures of Trump with what appears to be blood on his face and holding up his fist, with secret service members surrounding him. The image was also shared by other supporters of the former president on X.

Trumps former vice president, Mike Pence, also responded on X.

Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us, Pence said on X.

Trumps other former 2024 Republican primary rivals Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis (R), former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley, and businessman Vivek Ramaswamy all took to X to say they were praying for the former president.

Congressional Republicans, including House Majority Leader Steve Scalise (R-La.) who was shot in 2017, also reacted to the news.

There is never any place for political violence, Scalise said in a post on X.

Trump hustled off stage after apparent shooting at rally

Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.) also responded to the news, praising the Secret Service.

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement, McConnell said.

Updated at 7:41pm ET

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Trump to appear at Republican National Convention as planned

A general view of the official White House portrait of Former President Donald Trump in front of an American flag after an assassination attempt was made on his life at a 2024 US Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US president Donald Trump is looking forward to the Republican National Convention next week despite an apparent shooting at his rally on Saturday, his advisors say.

Trump was whisked off stage by Secret Service agents after gunshots were heard during a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Writing on his social media site Truth Social after the event, Trump said a bullet had pierced the upper part of his right ear.

The Republican National Convention (RNC), where Trump is set to be officially nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election, is due to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday.

A statement from the Trump campaign and the RNC said Trump was doing well following Saturday's incident.

"President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States," the statement said.

"As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again."

A general view of a statement on Donald Trump's official X account after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
The Republican National Convention was set to be pretty straightforward this year.

Donald Trump had become his partys undisputed leader, without the in-party doubters of previous runs. Even those Republicans who pointedly went for years without speaking to Trump were set to use this convention to project unity behind their nominee. This year, it was the Democrats who had been melting down over their presumed nomineeso much so that Trump, with an unnatural reservedness, had receded to the background to give them the space they needed to destroy themselves.

Then, late Saturday afternoon, a bullet fired from a rooftop outside Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazed the ex-president and came about an inch away from taking his life.

The assassination attempt against Trump, which left one rally attendee dead and another seriously injured, is a shocking moment in history that, even a day later, is still hard to fully wrap ones head around. The image of Trump reaching for his right ear, hitting the deck, and emerging, bloody and disoriented, from a protective layer of Secret Service to raise his fist and repeatedly scream FIGHT! is one of the most stunning visuals Ive ever seen. It will reverberate through American politics, in ways that are hard to predict, for days, months, years.

For the moment, the presidential campaign is in a holding pattern as the principals of U.S. politics cease hostilities. President Joe Biden gave brief remarks Saturday night condemning the act and cut short his weekend in Delaware; he also was able to speak on the phone with Donald, as he called him, Saturday night. His campaign has pulled its ads. Former Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton, along with congressional leaders of both parties, issued statements offering their sympathies to Trump and his family. Trumps first posts since the incident have eschewed any calls for vengeance or retribution, instead offering thanks to law enforcement and to those who have reached out.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump posted Sunday morning. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin. He would be arriving in Wisconsin Sunday afternoon as planned.

Now Trump will be entering the RNC not just the races polling leader or its certain favoriteeven, arguably, the clearest Republican favorite to win a presidential election, at this point in the cycle, of any Republican in the 21st century. His stance, heading into the week, is one of a survivor of deadly political violence. The most recent presidential assassination attempt in the U.S. was made on Ronald Reagan in 1981. In other words, Democratic infighting will not be the biggest story of the week.

How the RNC will change, both from a security standpoint and in regard to its programming, is still an open questionand has likely been the subject of a great many conference calls involving the Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign. Trumps campaign co-managers, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, did release a memo to staff noting that they were enhancing security for the campaign and calling on staffers to recognize the political polarization in his heated election.

Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today, they wrote. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media. (LaCivita himself had stumbled on this front in the shootings aftermath with an incendiary tweet. He deleted it.)

The RNC Convention will continue as planned in Milwaukee, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in their memo, where we will nominate our President to be the brave and fearless nominee of our Party.

The convention as planned featured themes for each day. Monday would be Make America Wealthy Once Again; Tuesday is Make America Safe Once Again; Wednesday is Make America Strong Once Again; and Thursdayyou get one guessis Make America Great Once Again. Adherence to themes, though, is only as strong as the planned speakers willingness to adhere to them, so expect similar themes around crime, the border, deregulation, tax cuts, and China to be hammered home each day. The only difference now is how Trumps near-death experience is worked into previously drafted speeches, themes, scheduling, production, lightingeverything. And to what extent its used as a cudgel. Partisan politics wont be on hiatus for long.

Well also soon learn the answer to one of the biggest remaining questions of the campaign: Who will be Trumps running mate?

Each of the leading contendersOhio Sen. J.D. Vance, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkinhas been given a speaking slot at the convention. (And if youd like to keep a dark horse in mind, its worth observing that the runner-up to Trump in the primary, Nikki Haley, will reportedly be speaking at the convention after all.) According to reports, Trump had been mulling a reality showstyle reveal of his pick at the convention on Monday night, should the campaign be able to keep the name under wraps until then. Whether the shock of the assassination attempt mitigates Trumps otherwise insatiable appetite for elaborate television reveals remains to be seen. Perhaps the campaign will just send out an email.

A convention is more than just speeches, running-mate announcements, a roll call of delegates, and the ratification of a platform that, for all the work and negotiating that is put into it, goes on to collect dust. A convention is a takeover of a major American city by people who seek salvation in politics. Its prayer breakfasts, protests, traffic, fundraisers, live music, watch parties, overeating, undereating, adrenaline, and alcohol. This RNC in particular was lined up to be a pure celebration for Republicans at having unequivocally obtained the upper hand ahead of Novembers election. Beyond the selection of a VP, there werent any pressing questions to be answered, a contrast in itself to the many that Democrats would have to answer by the end of their convention in August.

Well, theres a question for the RNC now: How does a party, all gathered together, digest the near killing of its leader?
Saturday's assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump is expected to put President Joe Biden and his campaign even further on their back foot, curtailing their messaging and transforming a race in which Biden was already perceived to be faltering.

Biden will likely not be able to message as aggressively as usual, particularly on Trump's supposed threat to democracy, while democratic strategists predict that the former president will get a polling boost from the shooting and this week's Republican National Convention, where he will formally accept the GOP presidential nomination.

The fundamentally altered campaign dynamic comes amid a broader Democratic reckoning over Biden's place atop the 2024 ticket -- a debate that might only be temporarily paused.

MORE: After Trump assassination attempt, Biden campaign pauses ads, events, attacks

"It makes Biden's path even more challenging since it makes it more difficult for him to highlight the risk Trump poses, especially in the short term," said one source familiar with the Biden campaign's strategy.

The shooting, which injured Trump in his right ear and led to the deaths of both the shooter and one rally attendee, is formally being investigated as an assassination attempt, heightening the tenor of an already acrimonious race.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Already, Biden's team is adjusting to the new political reality.

After the president's shaky debate performance last month, his campaign began rolling out a more aggressive campaign strategy, flying Biden out to key swing states at a rapid pace and having him sit down for unscripted interviews with the media to assure voters he's up for another four years in office.

But a campaign official told ABC News that Biden's team is "pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible," and an internal memo sent by campaign leadership and obtained by ABC News asked staffers to "refrain from issuing any comments on social media or in public."

MORE: Biden orders independent review of security measures around Trump assassination attempt

Vice President Kamala Harris also postponed her visit on Tuesday to Palm Beach County, Florida, Trump's backyard, to talk about abortion rights, according to a campaign official.

Biden in remarks Sunday urged unity after the shooting, saying he was grateful that Trump was safe.

"Unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is [more] important than that, unity. We'll debate, we'll disagree, that's not going to change. But we're gonna not lose sight of the fact of who we are as Americans," Biden said from the White House.

Taken together, the assassination attempt underscores the fragile footing the Biden campaign finds itself on as it tries to prosecute a contrast with Trump while dialing down rhetoric that members of both parties said over the weekend has gotten out of hand.

"I think it forces the overall tone to be reconsidered for everyone," said one former Democratic House aide who remains familiar with dynamics on Capitol Hill, who, like others, spoke anonymously to discuss the political issue the day after the shooting.

MORE: After Trump assassination attempt, questions swirl about what happened

The president's messaging accusing Trump of being a threat to democracy are expected to be particularly impacted by the shooting, sources told ABC News.

Biden had recently made the Jan. 6, 2021, insurrection and Project 2025 -- a plan that Trump has disowned that former administration officials put together for a theoretical second term -- a cornerstone of his stump speech, suggesting that the former president posed an existential risk to America's democratic foundations.

That's no longer expected to be the case.

"Message-wise, I think it means the rhetoric around Project 2025 must become even more 'Google it' with much less spin or hyper language," said one Democratic strategist.

"I think in the short term their messaging will be more focused on Biden," the source familiar with the Biden campaign's strategy added.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped into a vehicle at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Other Democrats said the campaign should still try to make a case about the country's democratic foundations being at risk, though they still underscored Biden will be walking a tightrope.

"Another Trump presidency is a threat to democracy and political violence has no place in America; we can make both points simultaneously," the former House aide said.

Still, "I think the way Biden responds in the coming days will be watched closely," the person said.

Beyond arguments around democracy, the shooting could suck up so much political oxygen that it could be difficult to talk about anything besides the assassination attempt.

"It makes it harder to pivot to economic contrast for the next four years, which is the only way to win," the Democratic strategist said.

Some operatives urged caution at how much the shooting would alter the race, noting that the back-to-back events of the assassination attempt and GOP convention will take time to seep into the public consciousness.

"I can't forecast and won't make any predictions until I see new data. We realistically now have to wait for the post-assassination attempt and post-GOP convention polls to really understand where the race is. One was a seismic, unprecedented event and the other is a historical marker event in the presidential campaign," one Democratic pollster said.

MORE: Suspect in Trump assassination attempt had registered as Republican but motive unknown

Still, it's unclear if party members will follow that advice.

Democrats were already in the middle of an increasingly tense internal discussion over Biden's chances in November after his disastrous debate performance last month.

Last week, Biden sought to quell his doubters' worries with calls to key lawmakers and a press conference Thursday capping off the NATO summit.

Those efforts failed to stop more calls for his campaign's end, after some calls descended into shouting matches, and gaffes during his press conference overshadowed his comfort with complex foreign policy issues.

Now, with Trump expected to get a boost, that internal feud may only amplify, if after a brief pause.

"It freezes the public conversation about replacing Biden for the next week, but my guess is the polling post-RNC will be even worse, heightening the calls for Biden to step down at that point when members return to D.C.," the Democratic strategist said.

"I think Biden will think he's the only one who can be a healer and digs in more, which just keeps Democrats on this treadmill of having a nominee who is badly behind, but even more resistant to stepping aside."

Trump assassination attempt could force Biden to limit newly aggressive campaign originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
A host of conservative figures have poured money into a GoFundMe page for the victims of the shooting at Donald Trumps Butler, Pennsylvania rally - with it now nearing $2 million in total donations.

The former president survived an assassination attempt, suffering a bullet wound to his ear. One rally-goer died and two were critically injured.

In the wake of the harrowing incident, Meredith ORourke, the national finance director and senior advisor to Trump, launched a President Trump Authorized GoFundMe page for the victims of the tragedy.

All donations will be directed to these proud Americans as they grieve and recover. May God bless and unite our nation, according to the fundraiser, which has raised more than $1.8 million, as of Sunday afternoon.

Famous figures have flocked to the fundraiser, donating considerable amounts in the day since the shock shooting. Musician and Trump advocate Kid Rock and president of Ultimate Fighting Championship Dana White each donated $50,000 to the fund.

I am absolutely SICK to my stomach and in complete shock, White said on his Instagram account on Saturday evening after learning that the former president had been shot. I cant WAIT to stand up on stage with him on Thursday and introduce him at the Republican National Convention and tell the WORLD exactly the character of the friend and man I KNOW!!

Trump raises fist in the air, showing he is okay, after an assassination attempt against him at his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. A GoFundMe he authorized has raised nearly $2 million for victims (Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved)

Trumps daughter Ivanka and her husband Jared Kushner, failed GOP presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, conservative pundit Ben Shapiro, rightwing commentator Benny Johnson, and billionaire Bill Ackman have also contributed to the campaign.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Pennsylvania Senate candidate Dave McCormick - whom the former president was voicing support for when the shots broke out - and his wife also donated to the fund.

A gunman, perched from a roof, fired multiple shots from his AR-15-style rifle into the venue just 15 minutes into the former presidents rally. Amid a rapid succession of popping sounds, Trump dropped to the floor and ducked behind his podium. Secret Service agents flooded the stage, hoisted up the GOP candidate and rushed him offstage to safety.

The former president has said he is fine and is grateful that God prevented the unthinkable from happening.

He announced on Truth Social that he plans to leave for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee as scheduled on Sunday afternoon: Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, but have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else.

The suspected gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, was killed by authorities at the venue.

Former fire chief Corey Comperatore was identified dentified as Trump rally shooting victim (Dawn Schafer / Facebook)

The two injured victims have yet to be identified, but on Sunday morning, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro revealed the identity of the shooting victim as Corey Comperatore.

Comperatore was a former fire chief and had just turned 50, according to his relatives.

Corey died a hero, Shapiro said. Corey dived on his family to protect them last night. Corey was the very best of us.
A general view of a statement on Donald Trump's official X account after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Taidgh Barron/ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

Donald Trump called on the United States to 'stand united' on Sunday, hours after the former president survived an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The shooting in the town of Butler, north of Pittsburgh, is likely to cause political shockwaves in the United States just months ahead of Trump's rematch with President Joe Biden in November's elections.

Footage from the scene showed Trump defiantly raising his fist with blood on his face as he was escorted off the stage by US Secret Service agents.

A shooter was able to climb to an "elevated position," a Secret Service spokesman said, and fire a number of bullets at Trump with an assault rifle, causing panic to break out in the audience as loud bangs and screams were heard.

Trump was hit on the ear by a bullet, while one rally attendee was killed and two others seriously injured in the incident.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening," Trump wrote on his social media platform Truth Social.

He later added: "It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening," before paying tribute to the victims of the shooting.

"Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed," he wrote.

Trump received a medical examination and his campaign team later released a video showing him stepping out of a plane in the state of New Jersey.

FBI identifies shooter

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified the suspected shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The man was killed by Secret Service agents moments after he fired at Trump.

The man's motive for the shooting is not yet clear, with the FBI's investigation ongoing. US media reports suggest Crooks was a registered Republican, although he once donated money to a Democratic fundraising platform.

The attack is being treated as an "assassination attempt," the FBI said in a press conference.

"This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former president Donald Trump." said Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office.

Secret Service kills gunman

US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi confirmed that agents killed the shooter.

"A suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue," Guglielmi said in a statement.

"U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased."

Agents had "quickly responded with protective measures" and Trump was safe, Guglielmi said.

He said the incident was under investigation and the Secret Service had notified the FBI.

Investigators seized an AR-15 style rifle believed to have been used in the shooting at the scene, the New York Times and Washington Post reported.

Nevertheless, the Secret Service is certain to come in for heavy criticism, as prominent Republicans questioned how a gunman was able to get so close to the former president.

Biden and US leaders condemn political violence

Trump is campaigning to return to the White House in November's presidential election against Biden.

Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the incident, with Biden saying there is no place in America for political violence. "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this," he said.

"The idea that theres political violence or violence in America like this is just unheard of. Its just not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it."

The Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said he was also briefed about the shooting.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," he wrote on X.

Former US president Barack Obama said there was "absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy," in a post on X.

"Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics."

World leaders, including China's Xi Jinping, French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Olaf Scholz and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, were quick to denounce the shooting and express their wishes for Trump's swift recovery.

Republican National Convention going ahead

Trump wrote on Truth Social that he is looking forward to the Republican National Convention next week despite the shooting.

The convention, where Trump is set to be officially nominated as the party's candidate for the presidential election, is due to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on Monday.

The ramifications of Saturday's shooting will be felt in the coming weeks as the election campaign heats up, with less than four months to go until US voters head to the polls.

Some Republicans have already begun to point fingers at Democrats for their rhetoric against Trump. "Everyone needs to take the rhetoric down a notch," said House Speaker Johnson on Sunday in an interview with US broadcaster NBC.

There are also fears that the incident could provoke further violence. "We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," wrote Vice President Harris on X.

Writing on Truth Social, Trump added: "It is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win."
Former President Trump called on Americans to unite on Sunday, following the assassination attempt on him at a campaign rally on Saturday.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

In the same post, the former president said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

Trumps comments come hours after shots were fired at his rally Saturday evening in Butler, Pa., during which he said a bullet pierced his ear. The U.S. Secret Service said the shooter and one spectator at the rally were killed, and two other attendees were critically injured.

The FBI has identified the suspect as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa.

Late on Saturday, Trumps campaign and the Republican National Committee confirmed that the former president would still be in attendance at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which starts Monday.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
A U.S. Secret Service agent stands on the perimeter of Mar-a-Lago, the home of former President Donald Trump, on July 14, 2024 in Palm Beach, Florida. Trump survived an assassination attempt while speaking at a rally on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

An internal Donald Trump campaign memo sent out to staff hours after the attempted assassination of the former president directs staffers to avoid the offices in West Palm Beach and Washington, D.C.

In the brief memo, obtained by several media organizations, campaign senior advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles say that the Republican National Convention "will continue as planned" in Milwaukee this week, but that staff should stay away from campaign offices as locations are assessed and new security measures are implemented.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was recovering after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire Saturday with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pa.

One spectator was killed and two others were "critically injured," the U.S. Secret Service said. Authorities also killed the sniper, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa.

Trump issued a statement Saturday night expressing gratitude to the Secret Service agents and law-enforcement officials who responded after the shooting. "Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump said in a statement Sunday on Truth Social.

Meanwhile, the campaign memo said LaCivita and Wiles remain horrified at the attack and that it is our fervent hope that this horrendous act will bring our team, and indeed the nation, together in unity ... we must renew our commitment to safety and peace for our country.

President Trump was treated at a local medical facility and is doing well  and in great spirits, it continued. The memo offered prayers for the other victims of the attack. Wiles was among the campaign staff at the rally with Trump in Pennsylvania on Saturday night.

Wiles and LaCivita advised campaign staff, some of whom are already in Milwaukee for the convention, to avoid their offices in West Palm Beach and Washington until they undergo a safety assessment. They added that they will be beefing up security at both locations, including armed security presence with 24/7 officers on-site.

Our highest priority is to keep all of you on this staff safe, the memo read.

We also urge you to recognize the political polarization in this heated election. If something looks or feels off, please flag it immediately for leadership or an on-site security team, Wiles and LaCivita wrote. Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media.

Vice President Kamala Harris postpones Palm Beach County visit

Meanwhile, Vice President Kamala Harris has postponed a trip planned for this week to Palm Beach County to meet with Republican women voters, according to a campaign source.

In light of the horrific shooting in Pennsylvania, the vice presidents planned campaign trip to Florida has been postponed, a Biden-Harris 2024 aide said on background late Saturday night.

The vice president's visit to Trump's backyard was to have been Tuesday, two days before the former president is to accept the Republican Party's nomination as its candidate for the White House.

Rick Christie is executive editor of The Palm Beach Post. He can be reached at rchristie@pbpost.com and followed on X (formerly Twitter) at @rchristiepbp. Subscribe to independent reporting that supports democracy via subscribe.palmbeachpost.com.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump to staff after rally shooting, avoid West Palm, D.C. offices
A bullet fired by a 20-year-old man grazed former president Donald Trump as he spoke Saturday evening during a campaign rally about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh. Secret Service agents rushed Trump, face bloodied, from the stage into a nearby limo as the former president pumped his fist in defiance.

Trump was treated and released at a nearby hospital. His campaign said he was fine.

This evening, we had what were calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump. Its still an active crime scene, Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said at a news conference.

Early Sunday, the F.B.I. identified the shooter as Matthew Crooks from Bethel Park, Pa., which is about an hours drive from the rally site in Butler. They were working to uncover a motive.

State voter rolled identified Crooks as a registered Republican, multiple media outlets reported. He was killed by a U.S. Secret Service agent shortly after opening fire.

Thomas Matthew Crooks identified by FBI as gunman behind attempted assassination of Trump at Western Pa. rally

Two people  the shooter and a rally attendee  were killed, and two other spectators were critically injured, the Secret Service said. The FBI said they were all adult men.

The attack occurred just moments after Trump began speaking at the rally. He was showing rally attendees a chart about border crossings when gunfire rang out. Trump stopped speaking mid-sentence, touched the side of his face and ducked down.

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa, on Saturday, July, 13, 2024. Trump was escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents and into his motorcade just minutes into his rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, after a series of pops that sounded like gunshots rang out. (Doug Mills/The New York Times)

He was quickly dog-piled by Secret Service agents as several more shots rang out. In the background, someone could be heard yelling get down, get down, get down. There was screaming in the crowd, as spectators sitting behind the former president either crouched down or looked around nervously.

Agents held Trump down for about a minute, before helping him up and encircling him. He emerged with blood on his ear and face, and pumped his fist as he was hustled offstage.

Trump took to his social media site Truth Social at 8:42 p.m. and said that a bullet had gone through the upper part of his right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, wrote Trump, who also offered his condolences to the rally attendee who was killed. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said during an appearance on CNN Saturday night that the shooter pulled the trigger from outside the grounds of the rally, and acknowledged that law enforcement would have to figure out how he got to the location where he carried out the attack.

A spokesperson for the Secret Service said in a statement that the shots came from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, and confirmed that the shooter was dead.

Rally attendees described a chaotic scene as the shooting unfolded . One man at the rally who said he is an emergency room physician recounted to CBS News in an on-camera interview how he tried to help someone who was badly wounded in the attack.

Trump shooting: Attendees describe chaotic scene as shots rang out at Pennsylvania rally

The guy had spun around, was jammed between the benches, the man recalled. He had a head shot here. There was lots of blood and he had brain matter.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident by top officials, including Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, according to the White House.

In a brief televised address delivered Saturday night, Biden condemned the violence and said he would reach out to Trump. He later connected with the former president.

An attempt to kill an ex-president, caught in real time, stuns the country

How could a gunman get close enough to nearly assassinate a former president?

Look, theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said. Its sick. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

The shooting came just hours before Republicans are set to gather in Milwaukee for the the partys political convention, which begins Monday. Trump, who is expected to name a running mate any day, is scheduled to formally accept the GOP presidential nomination Thursday.

In a statement issued Saturday night, senior Trump campaign advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita said the shooting would not interfere with the Republican National Convention.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, they said. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Shots fired at Trump: Please God, let us stop hating one another this much | Opinion

Kentucky Republicans, Gov. Beshear: Violence has no place in our country

How attacks on presidents and candidates have shaped US history
(Bloomberg) -- Former President Donald Trump said he was shot in the right ear after gunfire erupted at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, a harrowing episode that shook the US presidential campaign and drew bipartisan condemnation of political violence.

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In addition to Trumps injury, another attendee at the rally was shot and killed while two other bystanders were in critical condition. The shooter, who fired from an elevated rooftop, was killed by the US Secret Service, law enforcement officials said.

The FBI identified the male suspect as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to a bureau statement. The incident is being treated as an assassination attempt, and a motive has yet to be determined.

The Trump campaign said he was fine and that he still planned to attend his partys nominating convention starting Monday in Milwaukee. In a post to his social media network, Trump extended his condolences to the family of the dead rally-goer and thanked law enforcement for their response.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, Trump said in a post to Truth Social. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The chaotic and bloody scene  which unfolded with less than four months until the presidential election  was certain to reverberate loudly across a fractured and heated American political landscape strained repeatedly in recent years.

Trump was visiting swing-state Pennsylvania for his last rally before the convention and as he is preparing to announce his vice presidential pick.

In the shootings immediate aftermath, Trumps supporters cheered images of the bloodied former president  who pumped his fist in defiance as he was being hurried from the stage. Trump was released from a local hospital Saturday night after being evaluated.

President Joe Biden was receiving an updated briefing from homeland security and law enforcement officials around midday Sunday at the White House, according to a person familiar with the matter.

He delivered brief remarks from Delaware on Saturday, condemning the shooting as sick.

We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this, Biden said. Everybody must condemn it.

Biden spoke with Trump following the incident, and cut short his weekend in Rehoboth Beach to return to the White House. His campaign was working to pull down television ads as soon as it could, according to an aide.

The president spoke directly with Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro and Bob Dandoy, the mayor of Butler, Pennsylvania, where the rally took place.

The shooter wasnt found with identification, Kevin Rojek of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office told reporters earlier, adding intelligence analysts were working on any motives behind why this was done.

Crooks had explosive materials in his vehicle, which was parked near the rally site, according to a person familiar with the investigation. The Associated Press said he had bomb-making materials in the car and at his home, citing law enforcement officials.

The gun that Crooks used had been purchased by his father, the Wall Street Journal said, citing people familiar with the investigation.

All of the victims were adult males, according to investigators who briefed reporters.

The Justice Departments national security division is also working with investigators, according to Attorney General Merrick Garland.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said the shooter was outside the rally site in an interview with CNN.

The incident happened shortly after 6 p.m. New York time, just a few minutes after Trump began speaking on stage.

As the sound of gunshots rang out, Trump grasped his ear and then ducked. Agents used their bodies to cover Trumps as the sound of more bullets cracked through the air, while a bystander screamed. Rally attendees dove to the ground, ducking for cover.

An agent indicated to Trump they were ready to move him  with the former president responding that he wanted to recover his shoes.

Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes, Trump said.

An agent then told him that his head was bloody. As he rose to his feet, he began shouting and pumping his fist repeatedly. Audience members roared their approval  chanting USA! USA!  as he was hustled off the stage, with one agent carrying his signature red hat. He was quickly ushered into his SUV and taken for a medical evaluation.

Markets Likely to React to Trump Rally Shooting Incident

Lawmakers from both parties called for an investigation into the shooting and any security missteps.

House Oversight Committee Chairman James Comer, a Kentucky Republican, said he had already contacted the Secret Service seeking a briefing and would call on the agencys director to appear for a hearing.

US Representative Ritchie Torres, a New York Democrat, said the security failures surrounding the attempted assassination of a presidential candidate demand an investigation, in a post on X.

Sid Miller, the Texas agriculture commissioner, said he was about thirty feet from the president when the shooting started. He initially believed a balloon had popped before realizing it was gunshots.

I turned to look at the president, and he appeared to have the same puzzled look that I had, Miller said in an interview.

David McCormick, the former Bridgewater Associates chief executive officer turned Republican Senate candidate, was at the rally. McCormick said he heard a series of seven or eight shots and said someone behind him in the audience had been hit.

People around this gentleman were trying to administer first aid, and he was clearly  this person was clearly injured, seems severely, he said in an interview with CNN. There was a lot of blood.

--With assistance from Jenny Leonard, Laura Nahmias and Julie Fine.

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Former President Trump and President Biden seemed to be sharing similar messages on Sunday.

Just minutes after Biden finished remarks on the attempt on Trumps life the day prior, Trump posted UNITE AMERICA! to his Truth Social account.

A gunman fired shots into a Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday evening. The former president reported that a bullet pierced his ear, and he walked away otherwise unscathed. The shooter, identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa., targeted the rally from a nearby rooftop.

Biden revealed during his Sunday remarks that he has initiated an independent review of the security apparatus. He also again condemned the assassination attempt.

Its not who we are as a nation. Its not America, and we cannot allow this to happen, he said.

Three minutes after the remarks ended, at 2:11 p.m., the former president posted his message of unity on Truth Social. He made a similar statement hours earlier.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump wrote. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Trump announced on Truth Social at 2:09 p.m. that he was departing for Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention as scheduled after considering delaying the trip. The convention is set to proceed as normal and will begin Monday.

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Donald Trumps campaign has begun soliciting donations in the wake of his attempted assassination even as Joe Bidens campaign halted all TV ads while the nation reels from the attack at a rally in rural Pennsylvania.

One day after a bullet grazed Trumps ear in the shooting that left one spectator dead, his campaign sent at least two text message-based fundraising appeals which contain links to WinRed, the GOP-affiliated fundraising platform run by the ex-presidents allies.

The page contains an image of Trump raising his fist while wearing one of his signature campaign hats, an American flag flying above. It appears deliberately meant to echo the now-famous photograph, of the bloodied ex-president striking a defiant pose as he was rushed off by his Secret Service detail, taken by Associated Press photographer Evan Vucci moments after the shooting.

The Independent reviewed two separate texts sent out by the Trump campaign using its texting short code, 88022.

One of the messages read: From Trump: FEAR NOT ... It is more important than ever that we stand UNITED, while the other bore the message NEVER SURRENDER.

Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump is helped off the stage by Secret Service agents at a campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024 (AP)

Both contained links to Trumps WinRed page.

A third text, sent at 5.24pm (Eastern Time) on Sunday, repeated the fear not message and reported that Trump would be speaking as planned at the Republican National Convention this week. It also included a link to the same campaign fundraising page.

At the same time, the Biden re-election effort has paused all outbound communications in the aftermath of the shooting, and is working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible, a campaign official told Reuters.

Trump was shot at a Pennsylvania campaign rally on Saturday by Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old who lived in the Pittsburgh suburbs. He squeezed off a number of rounds from an AR-15 assault-style rifle that authorities say was purchased legally by his father, a licensed behavioral counselor. However, investigators said they were not yet sure if Crooks dad knew he had taken the gun, or if he took it without permission.

Crooks, who was not attending the Trump rally, posted up on a nearby rooftop, which was just outside the secure perimeter set up by the Secret Service. Still, the building was within the area of vulnerabilities, so a lot of questions remain unanswered, former Secret Service Special Agent Jonathan Wackrow told The Independent.

One of the rounds grazed Trumps right ear; the former president was not seriously injured. Still, the rally descended into chaos as terrified attendees hit the deck and a bloodied Trump was hustled offstage by his Secret Service detail.

Secret Service snipers quickly neutralized Crooks, whose body could be seen on bystander video, lying prone on the roof from which he fired at least eight shots. Crooks was dressed in gray camouflage and had explosives in his car, according to the FBI, which is heading up the investigation.

Trump was taken to a local medical center and quickly released, then flew to New Jersey in advance of the RNC, which kicks off in Milwaukee on Monday.

Mr Trump was left bloodied after the shooting but defiantly raised his fist as he was rushed off the stage (AP)

The shooting was emblamatic of a security breakdown from start to finish, former FBI Assistant Director Chris Swecker said in an appearance on Fox News.

Moments after being shot, Trump pumped his fist to the crowd and mouthed the words, Fight! Fight! Fight! This, Swecker argued, never should have happened.

[H]e should have been off that stage, in that car, and out of there in seconds, he said. And it was a lifetime. If there had been a second shooter, they would have taken him out it was almost a kill-shot as it was So this breaks every rule of the Secret Services protocol, and just executive protection in general.

One rally attendee was killed in the shooting, and two others suffered critical injuries, Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said.

A day after the violent episode, retired FBI Supervisory Special Agent Dennis Franks told The Independent he was still trying to wrap his head around what went down at the rally.

How did this happen? How did they let it happen? he asked. Its usually something [the Secret Service] has under control.
A former Bethel Park High School classmate of Donald Trump shooter Thomas Crooks described him on Sunday as a loner who was often bullied in school.

The classmate told CBS affiliate KDKA that Crooks also often wore hunting outfits to school. He provided the affiliate with photos of Crooks in school wearing a Bethel Park High School hoodie.

NEW: These photos show the gunman in a classroom in high school & on the school bus. Provided to me from the classmate in my previous tweet. These photos are 2022 and pre 2022 at Bethel Park high school @KDKA pic.twitter.com/4gNyBaMVRS  MEGHAN SCHILLER (@MeghanKDKA) July 14, 2024

Another former classmate, Michael Dudjak, told NBC News Crooks was on his own a lot, though he didnt witness any bullying firsthand. He said he was with other former high school classmates on Saturday and they were all in shock over Crooks attack on Trump.

Its definitely terrifying for someone you went to school with to commit such a heinous act... thats the craziest thing about it when it entered my brain, Dudjak told NBC. You were in the same class as this person two years ago.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022, where he earned a $500 award for achievements in math and science, according to a Bethel Park Journal report.

He was rejected from his high schools rifle club and told not to return because of how bad a shot he was, a former classmate told ABC News on Sunday.

He didn't just not make the teamhe was asked not to come back because how bad of a shot he was, Myers said. It was considered like, dangerous.

The teams coach declined to comment to ABC News, while a school district spokesperson did not immediately response to a request for comment.

The Bethel Park School District told KDKA it would cooperate with law enforcement officials in their investigation.

More recently, a nursing home director said Sunday that Crooks was a dietary aide at the facility, suggesting he was responsible for running food to its residents.

Crooks was killed by law enforcement on Saturday after he launched multiple shots from an AR-15-style at Trump during his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. The presidents ear was grazed and one rally attendee was killed. Two other attendees were critically injured.

Crooks motive has remained unclear, and officials have not yet determined whether his political profilea registered Republican who once made a donation to a Democratic groupcontributed to his attack.

The FBI identified Crooks by analyzing his DNA, officials told KDKA, as he did not have any identification on him.

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The semi-automatic rifle used in the assassination attempt on Donald Trump is a weapon known as Americas rifle which is commonly used in mass shootings.

The AR-15, which is banned in several states, has an effective range of between 500 to 800 yards. Thomas Michael Crooks is believed to have shot at the former president from 150 yards away before being killed by police snipers.

Lightweight, deadly, and easy to mass-produce, it can be customised with scopes and other accessories that can turn even a novice gunman lethal.

The civilian version of the armys M16, it can fire heavier and lighter rounds, such as .22-calibre and .308-calibre, but most commonly fires a 5.56-millimetre round.

The AR-15 was created by Eugene Stoner, a former marine and one of the worlds leading small-arms experts, in his garage in the early 1960s.

Donald Trump Jr poses with an AR-15

Its first iteration was the Colt Armalite Rifle-15 Sporter, which was marketed to hunters. Despite a patented system allowing for rapid fire and reloading, along with a 20-round magazine, it failed to catch on among those who preferred large-calibre hunting rifles.

It was outlawed in the mid-1990s as part of the federal assault weapons ban but re-entered the market in 2004, when the Republican-controlled Congress let the ban lapse.

Since then, it has surged in popularity amid concerns about crime, becoming a symbol of second-amendment rights and the most ubiquitous weapon in the US. Donald Trump Jr once posed with an AR-15 decorated with an image of Hillary Clinton behind bars.

These are the guns the Republican party  and Trump  want to protect, Stephen King, the novelist, said on social media in the wake of the Trump rally shooting.

Everyone knows its silhouette

Everyone knows the silhouette of that image, Cameron McWhirter, author of American Gun: The True Story of the AR-15, told The Guardian last year.

If youre for it, you put it on your bumper sticker on your car. If you put a symbol of it with a line through it on a sign, then you know what youre saying right away.

The sale and possession of AR-15-type rifles, and other semi-automatic weapons, is banned in nine states: Washington, California, New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Maryland, Illinois and Delaware.

It was used in the Las Vegas shooting in October 2017, in which 59 people were killed, and the Colorado Springs nightclub shooting that left five dead in November 2022.

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A screen is pictured at Fox headquarters after former U.S. President and Presidential candidate Donald J. Trump was injured during a campaign rally, in New York

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former U.S. President Donald Trump was out of hospital late on Saturday following a shooting earlier in the day at his rally where he was shot in the right ear, Bloomberg reported.

(Reporting by Kanishka Singh and Jasper Ward in Washington)
Former President Trumps rally on Saturday abruptly ended after gunshots rang out while he was speaking in Butler, Pa., leaving the suspected shooter and one attendee dead and two others seriously injured, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Less than 10 minutes into his speech as Trump spoke about immigration, gunshots rang out. Trump reached for his right ear and dropped from the lectern.

Secret Service agents swarmed on top of him on the ground immediately amid audible screams from the crowd. Agents could be heard yelling that the shooter was down before lifting Trump up and leading him off stage shortly after while surrounding his entire body until he reached his vehicle.

Trump pumped his fists at the crowd gathered in an outdoor field and appeared to mouth fight while being taken away and climbing into an SUV.

The crowd chanted USA! as he stepped off the stage.

In a statement, Trump said his right ear was pierced with a bullet and recalled hearing whizzing sounds, shots as the incident was unfolding.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

The Secret Service said in a statement the shooting occurred around 6:15 p.m. and that the shooter had been in an elevated position outside of the rally venue. The shooter was quickly neutralized, the agency said.

In a statement, Trumps campaign said he was being checked at a medical facility.

Speaking to reporters on Saturday evening, President Biden said he had tried to contact Trump and condemned the violence.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick, Biden said. Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening.

The shooting occurred just days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee on Monday. There is not indication yet the convention would be impacted by Trumps rally shooting. He is expected to address the convention once he accepts the Republican nomination.

The former president was visiting the battleground state of Pennsylvania, where he was slated to deliver remarks at Butler Farm Show Inc., situated a less than hours-drive north of Pittsburgh.

Just minutes into the speech, Trump asked his campaign to display a chart regarding immigration levels, asking the crowd if it was OK to go off teleprompter.

So that arrow is the lowest amount of illegal immigration ever in recorded history into our country, and then  and then the worst president in the history of our country took over, Trump said as he looked over at the projected chart.

And look what happened to our country  probably 20 million people, he continued.

And you know, thats a little bit old, that chart. That charts a couple of months old. And if you want to really see something this sad, take a look at what happened, he added before shots rang out.

Live updates: Trump reported safe after apparent shooting at rally

Trump then grabbed his ear before voices shouted Get down! Get down! Get down!, followed by screams from the crowd. Secret Service agents raised him up, surrounding him, roughly a minute after Trump had taken cover. Trump could be heard in footage saying let me get my shoes.

I have been told it is chaos, Richard Goldinger, the Butler County District Attorney, told CNN.

I mean, you just wouldnt even think it would happen, especially in  in where I live, in Butler County. You would not expect this, he added.

Democrats and Republicans, in a rare moment of unity, both immediately condemned the violence and offered prayers and well wishes for Trump.

Tonight, all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement, said Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-Ky.).

The calls came from even some of Trumps harshest critics.

I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe, wrote Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-NY.). Political violence has no place in our country.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro (D) also wrote in a post on X that he had been briefed on the incident.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, he wrote. I have been briefed on the situation. @PAStatePolice are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local.

Updated 9:26 p.m.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump gestures while surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents as he is helped off the stage at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump called for unity and resilience Sunday after an attempt on his life injected fresh uncertainty into an already tumultuous presidential campaign, while President Joe Biden implored Americans to cool it down in the final stretch and resolve our differences at the ballot box.

The opponents' statements followed an attack that shook the firmament of the American political system, causing at least a temporary detente in a heated presidential campaign expected to resume again in earnest amid the pageantry of the upcoming Republican National Convention.

A full day after the shooting, the gunman's motive remained a mystery, with investigators saying they believe he acted alone before he was fatally shot by Secret Service agents. Biden ordered an independent security review of the attack, which killed a bystander, critically wounded two others and prompted questions about how a gunman was able to open fire from a rooftop near a Pennsylvania campaign rally. The FBI was investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, said the upper part of his right ear was pierced by a bullet. His aides said he was in great spirits and doing well. He arrived in Milwaukee on Sunday evening for the convention, which begins Monday. He told the Washington Examiner that he had rewritten his speech for the event to focus more on national unity than on the policies of Biden.

In a post Sunday on his social media site, Trump said: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win."

In a prime-time address, Biden urged the public to recommit to civil debate. There is no place in America for this kind of violence  for any violence. Ever. Period. No exception," he said. "We cant allow this violence to be normalized.

Trump on Saturday night spoke briefly with Biden, whose Sunday night speech marked his third time addressing the shooting.

The rallygoer who was killed was Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief from the area, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who said Comperatore died a hero.

His wife shared with me that he dove on his family to protect them, Shapiro said. The two wounded bystanders were listed in stable condition.

FBI investigates shooting as possible domestic terrorism

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from the scene of the shooting.

The gunman had his father's AR-style rifle and was perched atop a nearby roof when some rallygoers pointed him out to local law enforcement, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing criminal probe.

A local law enforcement officer climbed to the roof and found Crooks, who pointed the rifle at the officer. The officer retreated down the ladder, and the gunman quickly fired toward Trump, the officials said. That's when U.S. Secret Service gunmen shot him, the officials said.

Questions abounded about how the gunman got so close in the first place. Kevin Rojek, the agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said "it is surprising the gunman was able to open fire on the stage before the Secret Service killed him.

Bomb-making materials were found inside both Crooks' vehicle and at his home, officials said. The FBI described the devices as rudimentary."

His motive remained unclear. Crooks wasn't on the FBI's radar, and he was believed to have acted alone. Investigators combed through his social media accounts but found no immediate threatening writing or posts, or communications indicating an ideological motive. His family was cooperating. Relatives didn't return messages seeking comment from AP.

Crooks political leanings weren't clear. Records show him registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day Biden was sworn in.

The absence of a clear ideological motive added to deepening questions about the shooting.

Biden urged Americans to stay patient. Please, dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations," he said.

Most serious assassination attempt since 1981

The attack was the most serious attempt to kill a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It drew new attention to concerns about political violence in a deeply polarized U.S. less than four months before the election.

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate said agents have seen increasingly violent rhetoric online since the rally, along with people posing online as the dead shooter. He said the FBI was focused on the upcoming political conventions in Milwaukee and Chicago.

Biden on Sunday ordered a security review of operations for the Republican National Convention, which is proceeding as planned. The Secret Service said it was confident in the security plan, and no additional changes were planned.

Biden said the two men had a short but good conversation Saturday night. Biden returned to Washington from his Delaware beach home where he met with leaders in the Situation Room about the attack.

Many Republicans blamed the violence on Biden and his allies, arguing that sustained attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment.

It's unclear whether Biden will be forced to recalibrate a campaign largely focused on Trump as a threat to democracy. It is a situation the U.S. has not seen since Teddy Roosevelt was shot a month before the election in 1912 while campaigning to regain the White House as a third-party candidate.

A rally disrupted by gunfire

Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the gunfire began after 6:10 p.m. Saturday.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said oh, raised his hand to his right ear and looked at it, then quickly crouched to the ground. People in the stands behind him also crouched as screams rang out.

Someone could be heard near the microphone saying, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents rushed to the stage. They piled atop Trump to shield him as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Afterward, voices were heard saying, Shooters down several times, before someone asked, Are we good to move? and Are we clear? Then someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face, streaked with blood. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word fight twice, prompting cheers and chants of USA. USA. USA.

His motorcade left moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.

Witnesses heard gunshots and ducked for cover

When the firing began, everybody went to their knees or their prone position, said Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, who was sitting to Trumps right on stage.

As he saw Trump raise his fist, McCormick said, he looked over his shoulder and noticed someone had been hit in the bleachers behind the stage.

Eventually, first responders were able to carry the wounded person out, McCormick said.

Reporters heard five or six shots, and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables. After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled but not panicked. An AP reporter described the noise as sounding like firecrackers at first, or perhaps a car backfiring.

When it was clear the situation was contained and Trump wouldn't return to speak, attendees started filing out. Police soon told everyone to leave, and Secret Service agents described the site as "a live crime scene.

Republican Rep. Mike Kelly, who represents the area where the shooting occurred, attended with his wife and grandchildren and was just behind Trump when he was wounded. Kelly said he was in a state of bewilderment of how and what has happened to the United States of America.

I just wish people  tone it down, he said. Quit trying to find, to blame somebody. The blame lies somewhere in the psyche of America.

___

Colvin, Balsamo and Price reported from New York. Long and Tucker reported from Washington. Associated Press writers Will Weissert, Michael Biesecker, Alanna Durkin Richer, Lisa Mascaro and Tara Copp in Washington, and Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, contributed to this report.
Former President Donald Trump spoke out the morning after he was the subject of what the FBI is considering an "assassination attempt" at a Pennsylvania rally. In a new Truth Social post, Trump, 78, pleaded with the public to stand united.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness, he wrote. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed."



Trump continued: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.



One attendee was killed during the rally shooting on Saturday and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All have been identified as men.

The FBI identified the shooter on Sunday as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks, who attacked from an elevated roof outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, the agency said.

Per the FBI, the investigation remains active and ongoing. A motive is not yet clear.

Trump, who is set to accept the Republican nomination for President at the Republican National Convention (RNC) this coming week, has received well wishes and support from politicians across both political parties in regards to the shooting.

The incident on Saturday occurred at around 6:15 p.m. local time. A series of loud pops echoed, and President Trump reached for his right ear, lowered himself to the ground, and was covered and surrounded by Secret Service.

The former President rose from the ground, blood dripping from his ear down his face, and was rushed to his SUV, and then attended the hospital.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through my skin, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post late Saturday. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

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Trump was nearly killed with an AR-style rifle he resisted calls to ban: Will it restart the gun debate in America?

A 20-year-old gunman fired on Donald Trump with a rifle that has been at the center of the national debate over gun control, and that the former president and Congress have resisted calls to ban.

Since taking office, President Joe Biden has made dozens of unanswered calls to Congress to renew a ban on so-called assault weapons like the AR-15-style rifle that was used to shoot into a crowd at a Trump rally on July 13.

The assassination attempt in Pennsylvania on Saturday night is likely to renew debate about the state of the nations gun laws and the proliferation of high-powered firearms like AR-style rifles, which have become the most popular firearms in America while being used in some of the deadliest mass shooting events over the last two decades.

Time and time again our communities are shaken by acts of gun violence that have invaded what should be our safe places, and that includes the violence that we saw, according to Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of gun reform group Moms Demand Action.

But they are a consequence of our countrys weak gun laws and guns everywhere culture  laws that allow hate to be armed with a gun to easily take someone elses life, she added.

The 20-year-old suspected gunman, Thomas Matthew Crooks, could legally purchase rifles like the AR-15 in Pennsylvania, as shotguns and rifles can be purchased in the state at age 18. The minimum age to purchase handguns in Pennsylvania is 21.

But according to law enforcement officials speaking to ABC News, the firearm recovered at the scene of the was legally purchased by the suspects father.

Secret Service agents cover Donald Trump as he is rushed off the stage after a gunman opened fire at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on July 13. (AP)

About one in 20 US adults  roughly 16 million Americans  own at least one AR-15-style rifle, according to polling from Ipsos and The Washington Post.

AR-style rifles  which were initially developed as a military weapon before becoming the most popular gun in America  were used in at least 10 of the 17 deadliest mass shootings since 2012.

Biden has called on Congress to renew an assault weapons ban or pledged that his Democratic allies will do so more than 70 times since entering the White House, according to The Independents review of his public statements.

AR-15-style rifles accounted for 1.2 percent of all manufactured American firearms in 1990.

Thirty years later, the weapon made up 23.4 per cent, according to The Washington Post, which estimates there are at least 20 million AR-15s stored and stashed across the US.

Nearly every major gun manufacturer makes its own version of the weapon.

A House Oversight Committee probe found that five major gun manufacturers  Daniel Defense, Bushmaster, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson Brands Inc., and Sturm, Ruger & Co.  collectively earned $1 billion in revenue over a decade from sales of AR-style rifles alone.

Last year, Republican congressman Barry Moore of Alabama sought to make the AR-15 the National Gun of America.

The weapon was first produced by Armalite in the 1950s, intended as a weapon on par with the Soviet Unions AK-47. The patent was later acquired by Colt for production of its M16 under contract with the Department of Defense. That patent expired in 1977.

The Public Safety and Recreational Firearms Use Protection Act, which imposed the so-called assault weapons ban, was enacted in 1994.

But the law expired in 2004, and Congress has repeatedly decided not to renew it.

Donald Trump blocked the legislation that would have kept the gun used to shoot him out of the shooters hands, said Samuel Schwartz, whose cousin was killed in the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in Parkland, Florida, in 2018.

AR-15 rifles are displayed at an exhibition booth during the National Rifle Associations annual convention in Dallas, Texas, in May 2024. (REUTERS)

Gun reform group Brady: United Against Gun Violence  which was named after former White House Press Secretary James Brady, who was permanently disabled and later died in 2014 after he was shot during an assassination attempt against Ronald Reagan in 1981  has called on Congress to renew the assault weapons ban in the wake of the attempt on Trumps life.

If you keep talking about the assassination attempt, dont you dare tell the kids who survive school shootings and their families to just get over it, said activist David Hogg, who survived the Parkland shooting.

The Trump rally shooting was unacceptable and what happens every day to kids who arent the president and dont survive isnt either, he said.

A study from Northwestern University found that the ban prevented 11 public mass shootings within the decade it was in effect. The study also estimates that keeping the ban in place until 2019 would have prevented 30 public shootings that killed 339 and injured 1,139 people.

House Republicans this year have also proposed a national funding bill that would eliminate public money for research on gun violence prevention and limit research on gunshot injuries.

During an address to the National Rifle Association in May, Trump claimed that the Second Amendment is very much on the ballot and baselessly alleged that Biden is trying to rip firearms out of the hands of law-abiding citizens.

Biden signed the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act into law in 2022 to clarify licensing requirements for firearms dealers and strengthen background check requirements for gun purchases, including a review of juvenile records for anyone 16 years of age or older who attempts to purchase a firearm.

But the administrations efforts followed a landmark decision from the Supreme Courts conservative supermajority that has complicated how states and the federal government can restrict gun access.

That decision states that such restrictions must be rooted in the nations historical tradition of gun ownership, what critics have blasted as an impossibly high bar to combat a modern crisis.
NEW YORK, NEW YORK - APRIL 23: Former U.S. President Donald Trump appears in court for his trial for allegedly covering up hush money payments at Manhattan Criminal Court on April 23, 2024 in New York City. Former U.S. President Donald Trump faces 34 felony counts of falsifying business records in the first of his criminal cases to go to trial. (Photo by Brendan McDermid-Pool/Getty Images)

I imagine how I would have felt reading this Denver Post headline 20 years ago: Donald Trump completes mandatory pre-sentencing interview after less than 30 minutes of questioning. While I wouldnt have been all that surprised to learn Trump is a criminal, I would have been dumbfounded to learn he was still the Republican nominee for president, and that so many people who supposedly value integrity and law and order will support him.

This year will be different for me. Im a Christian, and Ive been a lifelong Republican voter since I cast my first ballot in 1972. I voted for Trump in 2016. But now its clear that Donald Trump represents a genuine threat to the health of our republic, to our global standing, and to the moral fiber of our nation.

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In both his personal conduct and in the execution of his public office, Trump has betrayed the fundamental values of the Republican Party, of American democracy, and of the Christian doctrine he falsely champions. He has co-opted the meaning of patriotism by encouraging his supporters to storm the Capitol to keep himself in power. He still claims, without a shred of evidence, that the election was stolen from him. He undermines and denigrates anyone or anything that stands in the way of his power, not unlike other world dictators. Weve watched him cozy up to those dictators over and over, praising Xi Jinping as smart for ruling 1.5 billion people with an iron fist, and saying he wants his people to stand at attention the way they do for Kim Jong Un. Trump wants an un-American kind of power, and he will say and do anything to get it.

Most abhorrent to me personally are Trumps phony invocations of religion. He says hes a deeply pious man but cant cite (not even quote, just cite) a single Bible verse. His Christian claims are as false as the photo-op he staged in front of St. Johns Church after clearing peaceful protestors with tear gas and rubber bullets. For anyone still clinging to the idea that Trumps faith is anything more than a front, I challenge you: What kind of Christian calls himself the chosen one and compares their business fraud trials to the crucifixion of Jesus Christ? What kind of Christian sells $60 autographed Bibles on Good Friday to front the legal bills for a criminal case related to his extramarital affair with a porn star? We are not dealing with a true Christian here, but a con man who will say anything to get votes. Even if his claims were genuine, his daily conduct  his narcissism, bullying, cruelty, and constant dishonesty  go against everything we try to teach our children in Sunday school. Is this the example of character we want to give to our children?

Donald Trump represents a genuine threat to the health of our republic, to our global standing, and to the moral fiber of our nation.

I have been deeply saddened to watch the party of Lincoln and Reagan devolve into something unrecognizable as it cowers to Trumps will. I am not alone. There are still many of us who remember when the Republican Party had better standards, and well fight to restore it to its former self: a party that holds firm to the American values of integrity, decency and democracy. Getting that party back will require people of courage and principle putting their country first, by taking a stand through their voice and their vote.

I am among the growing number of conservatives, Christians, and genuine patriots who have decided enough is enough. This year, Ive joined Republican Voters Against Trump to share why I cant support Trump. I urge those like me to do the same  to take a stand for the party we grew up with. If our elected officials arent brave enough to speak up, then we need to be the ones who will carry the torch of responsible conservatism.

There are pivotal moments when our country and our faith must take precedence. This is one of those moments. I urge you all to consult your conscience and your dedication to the American idea when you vote this November.

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The post Trump is no Conservative, Trump is no patriot, Trump is no Christian appeared first on Colorado Newsline.
 Flash

At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, China's top legislator Zhao Leji paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13.

Zhao Leji, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, Russia, July 11, 2024. At the invitation of Viacheslav Volodin, chairman of the Russian parliament's lower house, the State Duma, and Chairwoman of Russian Federation Council Valentina Matviyenko, Zhao paid an official goodwill visit to Russia from July 9 to 13. (Xinhua/Liu Weibing)

During the visit, Zhao, chairman of China's National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee, met with Russian President Vladimir Putin in St. Petersburg, and held talks with Matviyenko and Volodin respectively in Moscow. He also attended the 9th meeting of the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation in Moscow on Wednesday.

Zhao conveyed Chinese President Xi Jinping's cordial greetings and good wishes to President Putin.

Noting that this year marks the 75th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic ties between China and Russia, Zhao said under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has developed at a high level and in high quality, bringing tangible benefits to the two peoples.

Recalling that a few days ago, Xi and Putin met again in Astana and reached a series of strategic consensus, Zhao said that the NPC of China is willing to work with the Russian Federal Assembly to implement the important consensus of the two heads of state at the legislative level and contribute to consolidating political mutual trust, deepening practical cooperation and enhancing friendship between the two peoples.

Putin asked Zhao to convey his cordial greetings to Xi. He said he and Xi recently had a successful meeting on the sidelines of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit in Astana, during which they exchanged in-depth views on important issues of bilateral cooperation and reached important consensus.

The legislative bodies of Russia and China have always maintained a high level of cooperation, which helps to advance the priority issues of bilateral cooperation at the legislative level and create a favorable economic, cultural and legal environment for the achievement of various goals, Putin said.

He pointed out that strengthening the work of the Russia-China committee for parliamentary cooperation is not only conducive to exchange of experience, mutual learning and understanding, and promotion of cooperation at the legislative and sub-national levels and in other fields between the two countries, but is also conducive to the enhancement of friendship between the two peoples.

In talks with Matviyenko and Volodin, Zhao said that the strategic guidance of the two heads of state is the biggest political advantage of China-Russia relations.

The two sides should follow the important consensus reached by the two heads of state, maintain strategic focus, strengthen confidence in their path, and firmly support each other on issues concerning each other's core interests, he said.

Over the years, the NPC of China has maintained close exchanges and cooperation with the Federation Council and the State Duma of Russia, constantly enriching the connotation of bilateral strategic coordination, Zhao said, calling on the legislative bodies of the two sides to base themselves on their functions and responsibilities, make good use of mechanisms and platforms such as the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation and the bilateral friendship group, deepen exchanges and cooperation at multiple levels, in multiple fields and through multiple channels, and learn from each other's legislative experience so as to provide a rule of law guarantee for practical cooperation.

The two sides should strengthen coordination and cooperation in multilateral platforms such as the BRICS Cooperation mechanism, the Inter-Parliamentary Union and the SCO to jointly safeguard international equity and justice, he added.

For her part, Matviyenko said that under the strategic guidance of the two heads of state, Russia-China comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for the new era has been operating at a high level, adding that developing relations with China is widely recognized and supported by the Russian society.

She called on the legislatures of the two countries to strengthen legislative cooperation, promote exchanges between legislatures at the sub-national level, young lawmakers and deputies of the NPC, and promote bilateral cooperation in various fields such as economy, trade and people-to-people exchanges.

Volodin said that different parties in the Russian State Duma are highly consistent in developing relations with China. Russia firmly abides by the one-China principle and opposes any external interference in China's internal affairs, he added.

He called on the two countries to innovate and improve the new model of cooperation between the legislative bodies and continuously upgrade the level of cooperation.

When addressing the 9th meeting of the China-Russia committee for parliamentary cooperation, Zhao said that the committee is an important platform for exchanges and cooperation between the legislative bodies of the two countries, which reflects the high level and particularity of China-Russia relations.

He urged the legislatures of the two countries to cement strategic coordination to serve the overall development of China-Russia relations, exchange governance experience to help their respective countries develop and revitalize, give full play to the functions of legislative bodies to promote practical cooperation through the rule of law, carry forward traditional friendship to consolidate the social and public support for state-to-state relations, and enhance multilateral coordination to unite and strengthen the Global South at the legislature level.

During the visit, Zhao laid a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Moscow.
BUTLER, Pa.  Former President Donald Trump called for unity and resilience Sunday after an attempt on his life injected fresh uncertainty into an already tumultuous presidential campaign, while President Joe Biden implored Americans to cool it down in the final stretch and resolve our differences at the ballot box.

The opponents' statements followed an attack that shook the firmament of the American political system, causing at least a temporary detente in a heated presidential campaign expected to resume again in earnest amid the pageantry of the upcoming Republican National Convention.

A full day after the shooting, the gunman's motive remained a mystery, with investigators saying they believe he acted alone before he was fatally shot by Secret Service agents. Biden ordered an independent security review of the attack, which killed a bystander, critically wounded two others and prompted questions about how a gunman was able to open fire from a rooftop near a Pennsylvania campaign rally. The FBI was investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, said the upper part of his right ear was pierced by a bullet. His aides said he was in great spirits and doing well. He arrived in Milwaukee on Sunday evening for the convention, which begins Monday. He told the Washington Examiner that he had rewritten his speech for the event to focus more on national unity than on the policies of Biden.

In a post Sunday on his social media site, Trump said: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win."

In a prime-time address, Biden urged the public to recommit to civil debate. There is no place in America for this kind of violence  for any violence. Ever. Period. No exception," he said. "We cant allow this violence to be normalized.

Trump on Saturday night spoke briefly with Biden, whose Sunday night speech marked his third time addressing the shooting.

The rallygoer who was killed was Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief from the area, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who said Comperatore died a hero.

His wife shared with me that he dove on his family to protect them, Shapiro said. The two wounded bystanders were listed in stable condition.

FBI investigates shooting as possible domestic terrorism

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles from the scene of the shooting.

The gunman had his father's AR-style rifle and was perched atop a nearby roof when some rallygoers pointed him out to local law enforcement, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing criminal probe.

A local law enforcement officer climbed to the roof and found Crooks, who pointed the rifle at the officer. The officer retreated down the ladder, and the gunman quickly fired toward Trump, the officials said. That's when U.S. Secret Service gunmen shot him, the officials said.

Questions abounded about how the gunman got so close in the first place. Kevin Rojek, the agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said "it is surprising the gunman was able to open fire on the stage before the Secret Service killed him.

Bomb-making materials were found inside both Crooks' vehicle and at his home, officials said. The FBI described the devices as rudimentary."

His motive remained unclear. Crooks wasn't on the FBI's radar, and he was believed to have acted alone. Investigators combed through his social media accounts but found no immediate threatening writing or posts, or communications indicating an ideological motive. His family was cooperating. Relatives didn't return messages seeking comment from AP.

Crooks political leanings weren't clear. Records show him registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day Biden was sworn in.

The absence of a clear ideological motive added to deepening questions about the shooting.

Biden urged Americans to stay patient. Please, dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations," he said.

Most serious assassination attempt since 1981

The attack was the most serious attempt to kill a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It drew new attention to concerns about political violence in a deeply polarized U.S. less than four months before the election.

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate said agents have seen increasingly violent rhetoric online since the rally, along with people posing online as the dead shooter. He said the FBI was focused on the upcoming political conventions in Milwaukee and Chicago.

Biden on Sunday ordered a security review of operations for the Republican National Convention, which is proceeding as planned. The Secret Service said it was confident in the security plan, and no additional changes were planned.

Biden said the two men had a short but good conversation Saturday night. Biden returned to Washington from his Delaware beach home where he met with leaders in the Situation Room about the attack.

Many Republicans blamed the violence on Biden and his allies, arguing that sustained attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment.

It's unclear whether Biden will be forced to recalibrate a campaign largely focused on Trump as a threat to democracy. It is a situation the U.S. has not seen since Teddy Roosevelt was shot a month before the election in 1912 while campaigning to regain the White House as a third-party candidate.

A rally disrupted by gunfire

Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the gunfire began after 6:10 p.m. Saturday.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said oh, raised his hand to his right ear and looked at it, then quickly crouched to the ground. People in the stands behind him also crouched as screams rang out.

Someone could be heard near the microphone saying, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents rushed to the stage. They piled atop Trump to shield him as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Afterward, voices were heard saying, Shooters down several times, before someone asked, Are we good to move? and Are we clear? Then someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face, streaked with blood. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word fight twice, prompting cheers and chants of USA. USA. USA.

His motorcade left moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.

Witnesses heard multiple gunshots and ducked for cover

When the firing began, everybody went to their knees or their prone position, said Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, who was sitting to Trumps right on stage.

As he saw Trump raise his fist, McCormick said, he looked over his shoulder and noticed someone had been hit in the bleachers behind the stage.

Eventually, first responders were able to carry the wounded person out, McCormick said.

Reporters heard five or six shots, and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables. After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled but not panicked. An AP reporter described the noise as sounding like firecrackers at first, or perhaps a car backfiring.

When it was clear the situation was contained and Trump wouldn't return to speak, attendees started filing out. Police soon told everyone to leave, and Secret Service agents described the site as "a live crime scene.

Republican Rep. Mike Kelly, who represents the area where the shooting occurred, attended with his wife and grandchildren and was just behind Trump when he was wounded. Kelly said he was in a state of bewilderment of how and what has happened to the United States of America.

I just wish people  tone it down, he said. Quit trying to find, to blame somebody. The blame lies somewhere in the psyche of America.

Colvin, Balsamo and Price reported from New York. Long reported from Washington. Tucker reported from Westport, Connecticut. Associated Press writers Will Weissert, Michael Biesecker, Alanna Durkin Richer, Lisa Mascaro and Tara Copp in Washington, and Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, contributed to this report.
Trump, other GOP leaders called for McConnell to step down after freezes | Fact check

The claim: No one called for McConnell to step down after freezing on camera

A July 5 Instagram post (direct link, archive link) from the liberal group Occupy Democrats includes two pictures of Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell standing behind a podium.

Reminder that Mitch McConnell literally froze, on camera, unable to speak, twice, and no one asked him to step down, reads on-screen text included in the post.

It was liked more than 35,000 times in six days. Other versions of the claim spread widely on Facebook and X, formerly Twitter.

More from the Fact-Check Team: How we pick and research claims | Email newsletter | Facebook page

Our rating: False

Numerous Republican leaders, including former President Donald Trump, said McConnell should step down after he froze while talking to reporters twice in 2023.

Marjorie Taylor Greene said McConnell 'not fit for office'

McConnell, who is 82, abruptly stopped speaking and stood in silence for several moments while addressing reporters twice in the summer of 2023. His office later released a physician's letter that said there was no evidence the episodes were caused by a stroke or seizure disorder, the Associated Press reported.

The Occupy Democrats claim came after President Joe Biden similarly froze during a debate with Trump in June. There were numerous calls in the following weeks for Biden to suspend his re-election bid.

WASHINGTON, DC - JULY 26: (L-R) Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY) reaches out to help Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) after McConnell froze and stopped talking at the microphone during a news conference after a lunch meeting with Senate Republicans U.S. Capitol 26, 2023 in Washington, DC. Also pictured, L-R, Sen. Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), Sen. John Thune (R-SD) and Sen. Joni Ernst (R-IA). McConnell was escorted back to his office and later returned to the news conference and answered questions. (Photo by Drew Angerer/Getty Images)

But its not true that there were no calls for McConnell, a Kentucky Republican, to do the same in 2023.

Trump said in a Breitbart News interview, for example, that Republicans have to have a different Senate leader after the incidents.

Georgia Republican Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene posted a clip of McConnells second freeze on X, saying he and other elected officials were not fit for office, and its time to be serious about it.

Fact check: False claim McConnell's late sister-in-law tied to Baltimore bridge collapse

There were also calls to step down from McConnells home state of Kentucky.

The senator was heckled with chants to retire during an August speech in Fancy Farm, Kentucky, and the chair of the Jessamine County Republican Party told The Washington Post his chapter believed McConnell should leave his leadership role following his second freezing episode later that month.

Voices in conservative media echoed those calls.

Political commentator Bill OReilly said McConnell should resign tomorrow in an August interview with NewsNation, for instance, and the editorial board of the National Review wrote that though McConnell had a long, impressive run, he needed to step aside from leadership.

McConnell announced in February that he would step down as minority leader in November.

USA TODAY has debunked an array of claims from Occupy Democrats, including false assertions that Trump and his team claimed there were 35,000 attendees at his May 23 rally in the Bronx, that Trump told Time Magazine hed force government monitoring on every pregnant woman if re-elected and that 52 of 53 Republican senators voted to let Trump block a Ukraine arms sale in 2020.

USA TODAY reached out to several users who shared the post for comment but did not immediately receive a response.

Check Your Fact also debunked the claim.

Our fact-check sources:

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: False claim of no calls for McConnell to step down | Fact check
Trump plans to be in Milwaukee for convention after shooting

Top Trump aides said the former president will still attend the Republican convention scheduled for next week in Wisconsin after a shooting at his campaign rally on Saturday night.

As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action, Trump campaign senior advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles said in a statement.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again, they added.

The convention is scheduled to begin Monday, and Trump is scheduled to formally accept his partys nomination and deliver remarks on Thursday night.

Trump was on stage for just a short time at a rally in Butler, Pa., before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage. Trumps ear was bloodied, and some blood had run onto his face.

Live updates: Trump says bullet grazed his ear; suspect is dead

The former president pumped his first toward the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement.

Trump posted on Truth Social roughly two-and-a-half hours after the shooting took place, thanking law enforcement, expressing his condolences for the attendee who was killed and confirming he was shot in the ear.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead, Trump posted. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

The identity and motive of the shooter remain unknown.

President Biden has condemned the shooting and called on others to do the same. Biden said he tried to speak with Trump on the phone and hoped to do so on Saturday night.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The apparent assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on Saturday outraged, electrified and emboldened Republicans, who hailed Trumps clenched fist in the wake of gunshots, while it sobered Democrats who were already nervous about the threat of political violence and their diminished prospects this fall.

Within minutes of the rifle fire at Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Republican anger at the shooting turned to admiration at Trumps instinctive response and then jubilation at his defiance, a reaction that underscored the persecution his supporters feel and the instantaneous manner of how even the most grave news is processed.

By sundown, and without concrete reporting about the deceased shooters identity, Republicans were openly faulting their political opponents for the incident.

We will not tolerate this attack from the left, said Rep. Mike Kelly (R-Pa.), who was present at the rally.

The accusation was as raw as it was remarkable. It evoked the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy, which many Democrats immediately ascribed to the right-wing hostilities the then-president confronted in Dallas.

In the always online and deeply polarized world of 2024, though, the claims came quick, no matter the lack of information about motive.



One of Trumps potential running mates, Sen. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio), said, The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist must be stopped at all costs, adding: That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.

Also seeing an opening, Sen. Mike Lee (R-Utah) joined with Robert OBrien, Trumps former national security adviser, to call on Biden to drop all federal charges against the former president.

Even Trumps children immediately responded to the near-murder of their father with a sense of triumph rather than shock. Hell never stop fighting to Save America, Donald Trump Jr. posted online, with a picture of his father, fist raised, face bloodied and surrounded by Secret Service, an American flag in the backdrop.

Others, including sitting members of Congress, rushed to post the same or similar pictures and then joined with Trump officials to use the hours after the shooting to vent about the initial media reports, which understandably were careful about how to describe such a stunning event.

Some of this bravado was just that, the stuff of wanting to say something online, as is typical now in response to any news, without thinking through the profound implications.

However, the speed and intensity of the response also reflected the boiling anger so many Trump loyalists felt long before the former president gripped his right ear Saturday night. His supporters feel he has been pursued by the government in a manner befitting an exiled opposition leader and that, as Vance said, this was the inevitable outcome of America succumbing to Third World tactics. The facts  particularly the Biden administrations initial reluctance to pursue charges against his predecessor  dont reflect the claims, but theyve seeped in deeply on the American right.

It may have been jarring in the moment, but there was a reason so many Republicans thought to quickly post the photos of a blood-streaked Trump: They will prove politically potent.

In campaigns, perception can quickly harden into reality and symbolism is often more significant than substance. The pictures and film of Trump rallying the crowd will likely be the enduring image of this election and perhaps his entire political career.

Even before President Bidens catastrophic debate last month, Trump had run on a platform of strength, portraying himself as a politically muscular figure against a weak and aging incumbent president. Next weeks Republican nominating convention will deliver Trump a heros welcome and an audience to match, befitting a party leader who had a brush with death.

The raised fist will become the iconic symbol of the convention, predicted longtime GOP strategist Mike Murphy.



Convention planners had already successive evening themes dedicated to making America safe and strong again, sessions that will, along with Trumps expected cameo with his new running mate the opening night, be vivified with new meaning after the shooting.

The former president is likely to enjoy a rallying effect in immediate polls, with more independents likely shifting his way. There will be some good, old-fashioned American compassion for Trump, predicted Murphy, who opposes the former presidents campaign.

Whats less clear is whether the shooting hastens Democratic calls for Biden to withdraw from the race. Most elected Democrats responded to the shooting by denouncing political violence and few wanted to discuss how it may echo in the campaign.

Yet in private, many Democratic political veterans were bracing for Trump to enjoy a convention bounce larger than he could have ever hoped to enjoy in such divided times. And it wasnt difficult to detect a sense of doom, that an already uphill campaign may have become out of reach. One longtime strategist invoked Bill Clintons memorable line about strong and wrong always trumping weak and right.

What worried Democrats the most was whether Biden could rise to the moment, whether hed appear more like a forceful Lyndon Johnson addressing a joint session of Congress after Kennedys murder or the elderly looking House speaker, John McCormack, sitting on the rostrum.

Shortly before the shooting, the president shouted down a Democratic representative on a conference call aimed at steadying his listing candidacy and demonstrating to nervous lawmakers he was capable of forging ahead. But the call unnerved even some of Bidens most dedicated allies, who lamented how insecure and defensive the president sounded when the lawmaker, Rep. Jason Crow (D-Colo.), questioned Bidens ability to argue he could remain commander-in-chief.

Before another Biden skeptic waiting his turn could ask a question, the call was ended. The president then got in his motorcade and arrived late for Saturday evening mass as a summer rain came down near his Delaware beach house.

The episode felt cinematic, a vivid scene in an extraordinary moment of political crisis: a president clinging to office as his own party mounts whats effectively a mid-campaign parliamentary coup.

Then shots rang out on live television from Western Pennsylvania.

And while the worst was avoided, it felt like the awful culmination of the menace that has been building since Gabby Giffords, Steve Scalise and Jan. 6.

The real question tonight, said David Axelrod, the Democratic strategist, is what are the implications for our country, are we going to pull back or go deeper into division and violence?

He wasnt the only person wondering, or dreading, the same question.

A fraction of an inch and he wouldve been dead, said Karl Rove. To survive that moment and react the way he did, its an iconic moment. But what worries me is: Is this one and done, or are we entering a period like from 1963 to 1981?

From Kennedys killing to the attempt on Ronald Reagans life two months into his presidency, there were a series of political assassinations and two shooting attempts at then-President Gerald Ford.

Rep. Guy Reschenthaler (R-Pa.) also represents Western Pennsylvania. He was not at the Trump rally, but is an enthusiastic supporter of the former president. Yet on Saturday night, he only sounded like a worried American.

My big concern is that this isnt a one-off and were going to see more political violence, Reschenthaler told me.
BUTLER, Pa. (KDKA) -- An attendee at former President Donald Trump's rally at the Butler County fairgrounds says he saw the alleged shooter on a nearby rooftop as Trump was delivering remarks to supporters Saturday.

Trump is safe after he was rushed offstage by Secret Service agents and whisked away to a secure location. Blood could be seen coming from his face after shots rang out. The shooter was fatally shot by a Secret Service sniper, law enforcement sources told CBS News.

Ben Macer told KDKA-TV's Jennifer Borraso that he was up along the fence line and "saw the guy move from roof to roof. [I] told an officer [the alleged shooter] was on the roof."

"When I turned around to go back to where I was, it was when the gunshots started, and then it was just chaos, and we all came running away, and that was that," Macer said.

Butler resident Ryan Knight, another witness along the fence line, also said he saw the suspected shooter atop the American Glass Research building.

"[I] walked over about 20 minutes before the shooting happened to stand along the fence line where Trump was. As I was doing that, I was right beside the AGR building, which had the shooter on it," Knight said. "When I was sitting there, a guy said, 'Oh God, he had a gun.' When I looked up, there was a guy on top of the building with an M16 with a blanket, pointing at the president. He starts shooting. Four to five shots rang out. I throw the guy I'm with to the ground. I jump to the ground, I look up, and I see his head get split up from the shot from the Secret Service."

"All the cops started flying over, pushing us out, they took my name, witness report, [and] cell phone number to go over what happened because there [weren't many] eyewitnesses," Knight said.

"There were two officers, who, you could tell, were actively looking for somebody, and we just tried to help them and tell them where the guy was. At some point, somebody found him, or the snipers found him, and that was the end of his decisions," Macer added.

The Secret Service confirmed one attendee was killed and two others were critically injured in the shooting.

In a post on social media, Trump said that he was injured when a bullet pierced the upper part of his right ear. He was treated at Butler Memorial Hospital and has since been discharged.

"My main thought is why wasn't the Secret Service on top of AGR?" Knight asked. "That's a very big vantage point to shoot at the president. How did that get missed?"

Macer said he did not get a clear look at the alleged shooter, but reiterated that he saw him move from building to building.

"At first, I didn't know what I heard, and once it became clear what I heard, it was just, getting out of there. I helped a lady that had a 4-year-old kid, I helped them get out, and that was it. We were done," Macer said, visibly shaken after watching the events unfold.

"It's not every day you're that close to anything like that," Macer added. "I'm just curious like anybody else, and seeing what all is still going on. I live close to here, so I am taking it all in."

Trump released from hospital after apparent assassination attempt at rally

Officials share new details on Trump rally shooting, investigation of assassination attempt

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(NewsNation)  Modern history has seen one successful and three unsuccessful attempts to assassinate a president, as well as dozens of foiled plots.

Ronald Reagan came very close to dying after he was shot in Washington on March 30, 1981, just two months into his presidency. Reagan, having just finished a speech at the Washington Hilton, was waving to the crowd when the shots were fired from the area where reporters were standing.

Reagan was hit by a bullet that ricocheted off the presidential limousine, hitting him under the arm. The fragment broke a rib, punctured a lung and caused serious internal bleeding. Reagan left the hospital 12 days later.

What happens if a presidential candidate is killed before an election?

Three others were wounded in the pistol attack, including a Secret Service agent and a Washington, D.C. police officer. White House press secretary James Brady, shot in the head, suffered a serious brain injury and was permanently disabled. When Brady died in 2014, his death was classified as a homicide.

The shooter, John Hinckley, Jr. acted not because of politics but over his obsession with actress Jodie Foster. Hinkley was found not guilty by reason of insanity and spent 35 years in a psychiatric hospital in Washington.

Gerald Ford and two assassination attempts

President Gerald Ford was the target of two assassination attempts within three weeks. Both occurred in Northern California, and both suspects were women.

On September 5, 1975, Lynette Squeaky Fromme was standing about an arms length away from Ford on the grounds of the California State Capitol building in Sacramento when she raised a pistol and pulled the trigger.

While there were four rounds in the 54-year-old Army surplus Colt .45, Fromme had not put a round in the chamber. She was wrestled to the ground almost immediately after raising the weapon.

I saw a hand coming up behind several others in the front row. And obviously there was a gun in that hand, Ford said afterward.

Fromme, a member of the Charles Manson family, was convicted and sentenced to life in prison. She was released in 2009.

Pennsylvania Republican describes panic and mayhem at Trump rally

On September 22, 1975, Ford was back in California, speaking to the World Affairs Council in San Francisco. As Ford was walking from the St. Francis hotel to his limousine, he turned and waved to the crowd. Moore, about 40 feet away, fired two shots.

The first missed Fords head by a few inches. The second struck a taxi driver standing outside the hotel. He survived. A bystander, hearing the first shot, tackled Moore as she fired the second shot. Police quickly subdued Moore as Secret Service agents pushed Ford into his limousine and raced to San Francisco International Airport.

Moore, who was convicted and sentenced to life in prison, told an interviewer she wanted to spark a violence revolution to bring about change in the U.S. She was paroled in 2007.

Both Fromme and Moore are alive today.

Four presidents who died

John F. Kennedy became the 4th president to die by assassination on November 22, 1963 in Dallas. A government commission officially concluded that Lee Harvey Oswald acted alone, but 60 years later the furor over Kennedys death and Oswalds role remains intense.

William McKinley was shot on September 6, 1901, in Buffalo, N.Y. He died eight days later. James Garfield was shot on July 2, 1881, and didnt die until eleven weeks later.

Abraham Lincoln, the first president to be assassinated, was shot on April 14, 1865, in Washington, D.C. He died the next morning.

Failed and foiled attempts

There have been many other plots and failed assassination attempts on U.S. presidents. Among the first: the 1835 attempt on Andrew Jackson. Both of the assassins guns misfired, and Jackson then beat the man with his cane.

Theodore Roosevelt, who became president after McKinleys death, was shot in the chest while campaigning in 1912. Knowing his injury wasnt fatal, Roosevelt delivered an 84-minute speech before seeking medical attention.

Biden on Trump rally shooting: Everybody must condemn it

On February 15, 1933, a man fired five shots at President-elect Franklin D. Roosevelt. The shots missed Roosevelt, but hit five other people, including Chicago mayor Anton Cermak, who was killed.

Every president since Richard Nixon has been the target of assassination plots, most of which were foiled before the suspect could take any action. One failed attempt, however, led to another attempt on a presidential candidate.

Arthur Bremer traveled to Canada to try to shoot Nixon on April 13, 1972, but the presidents motorcade moved to fast for Bremer to get off a shot. A month later, Bremer shot Alabama governor George Wallace, who was paralyzed from the waist down.

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The FBI identified twenty-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks as the person responsible for shooting at former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday evening.

Crooks  a registered Republican  shot off several rounds from a semi-automatic AR-15 rifle while perched on the roof of a building just outside the security perimeter, causing the presumptive GOP nominees upper ear to be wounded. Secret Service agents killed Crooks at the scene, according to law enforcement officials.

Trump was flown to Newark, New Jersey late Saturday night. He reported his first-person account of the event that evening on TruthSocial, writing: I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Crooks was identified by the FBI as a resident of Bethel Park, about 35 miles south of Butler where the rally was being held. He attended Bethel Park High School in 2022, according to a local media report and the school's commencement video, CNN reported.

A listing in Pennsylvanias voter database that matched Crooks name, age, and Bethel Park address established that Crooks was registered to vote as a Republican. The 2024 presidential election would have been the first he would be old enough to vote in, CNN reported.

In addition to this, the Federal Election Commission records indicate that in January 2021, a donor by the name of Thomas Crooks with the same address contributed $15 to a Democratic-aligned political action committee called the Progressive Turnout Project

While Trumps overall health remains well, the multiple shots fired at the event left one killed and two injured, the Secret Service confirmed on X.

Sunday morning, the former president expressed gratitude for everyones thoughts and prayers in a post to social media, thanking God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

In an update from The Wall Street Journal, authorities found explosive devices in Crooks' car, which was parked near the Trump rally, noting that "police received multiple reports of suspicious packages around near where the shooter was, authorities said, prompting them to dispatch bomb technicians."
A 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania fired multiple shots at former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday evening.

A bullet grazed the presumptive Republican presidential nominee's upper right ear, leaving him bloodied but not seriously injured. One rally attendee was killed in the gunfire and two others were "critically injured," authorities later said.

Here's what we know:

Who is the shooter at the rally?

A 2020 high school yearbook shows the photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks.

The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the person behind the assassination attempt. Agency officials released little additional information, saying its investigation remains active and ongoing. They did not indicate what Crooks' motive might have been.

Crooks worked at a nearby nursing home. An administrator there told USA TODAY that the company was shocked to learn of the shooting and that Crooks had passed a background check for his job.

What did Thomas Crooks do at the crime scene?

During the shooting Saturday, Trump's right ear was injured, seconds before he was whisked off stage by Secret Service personnel. One man attending the rally was killed and two others were injured; Crooks was then killed by Secret Service agents, authorities said.

FBI special agent Kevin Rojek said on a call with media Sunday afternoon that authorities found "a suspicious device" when they searched the shooter's vehicle. Bomb technicians inspected the device and rendered it safe.

"I'm not in a position to provide any expertise on the specific components of any potential bombs or suspicious packages," Rojek added.

Rojek said law enforcement is sending the rifle and Crooks' cell phone, along with other evidence, to the FBI lab in Quantico, Virginia "for processing and exploitation."

"We're in the process of searching his phone," Rojek said.

Maps and graphics: What happened in the Trump assassination attempt

What is Crooks' background?

Crooks is registered to vote as a Republican in Allegheny County, Pennsylvania, according to county voter records. His voter registration status has been active since 2021.

Federal Election Commission records show that in January 2021, Crooks made a $15 donation to the Progressive Turnout Project, a group working to increase voter turnout for Democrats.

Born Sept. 20, 2003, Crooks does not have a criminal record in Pennsylvania, nor has he been sued there, according to state court records. There is no record of him in federal court databases, either.

Bill Ranft holds a 2020 yearbook depicting Thomas Matthew Crooks in the Pennsylvania neighborhood where Crooks grew up, Sunday, July 14, 2024.

Where did Thomas Crooks work?

Crooks worked as a dietary aid, a job that generally involves food preparation, at Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation, less than a mile from his home. In a statement provided to USA TODAY on Sunday, Marcie Grimm, the facility's administrator, said she was "shocked and saddened to learn of his involvement."

Bethel Park Skilled Nursing and Rehabilitation seen Sunday, July, 14, 2024.

"Thomas Matthew Crooks performed his job without concern and his background check was clean," Grimm said. "We are fully cooperating with law enforcement officials at this time. Due to the ongoing investigation, we cannot comment further on any specifics. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Former President Trump and the victims impacted by this terrible tragedy. We condemn all acts of violence."

The facility is owned by Kennett Square, Pennsylvania-based Genesis Healthcare. A job posting from the company for a dietary aid in the Pittsburgh area puts the pay at $16 an hour.

Thomas Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania

Crooks' home address is listed in Bethel Park, a suburb in the Pittsburgh metropolitan area, voter records show. That three-bedroom brick house has been owned since 1998 by Matthew and Mary Crooks, who appear to be his parents. Telephone calls to the couple were not returned overnight.

Near the Crooks home, Dean Sierka, 52, said he had known Crooks and his parents for years, as neighbors separated by only a few houses. Sierkas daughter attended school with Crooks from elementary school through Bethel Park High School, and said she remembers him as quiet and shy.

Dean and his daughter said they would see Crooks at least once a week, often when Crooks was walking to work.

You wouldnt have expected this, Dean Sierka said. The parents and the family are all really nice people.

At Bethel Park High School

Thomas Crooks graduated two years ago from Bethel Park High School, the Bethel Park School District confirmed. He was included in a 2022 local news article about recipients of a National Math & Science Initiative Star Award at the public high school, which enrolls about 1,300 students.

Jason Kohler attended Bethel Park High School with Crooks and said he remembers the 20-year-old sat alone at lunch and was bullied almost every day. Kids picked on Crooks for wearing camouflage to class and his quiet demeanor, Kohler, 21, said.

Since hearing Crooks has been named as the shooter, Kohler has been speaking with classmates who knew him, most of whom are stunned by the news.Its really hard to comprehend, he said.

Sean Eckert said he went to school with Crooks from 5th through 12th grade. He said Crooks always went by Tom.

They shared classes together in elementary and middle school. Eckert said Crooks, though "fairly smart," was quiet and rarely spoke up.

Eckert said Crooks did not seem to have many friends. He didn't recall Crooks being playing any sports, being involved in any clubs or student groups or going to popular campus events. He often wore hunting clothes, so Eckert assumed he hunted.

No one in Eckert's group text from high school seemed to know Crooks very well, he said. They were shocked that someone from their town had done this. They were even more surprised that it was Tom Crooks.

Nursing aide turned sniper: Thomas Crooks' mysterious plot to kill Trump

The gaming-oriented online site Discord said Sunday that it had found an account that appeared to be linked to the shooting suspect. The site removed the account, which was rarely utilized, has not been used in months, and we have found no evidence that it was used to plan this incident, promote violence, or discuss his political views, according to a statement from a Discord spokesperson, adding that the company will coordinate closely with law enforcement.

Crooks was a member of the Clairton Sportsmens Club, a shooting club about 8 miles from his home. It is a sprawling complex of 180 acres with rifle, pistol and archery ranges, an area for dog training and a clubhouse, according to the club website.An attorney for the club, Robert Bootay III, confirmed Crooks' membership in an email to USA TODAY, but would not offer additional details.

Where is Bethel Park, Pennsylvania?

Bethel Park is a suburb of Pittsburgh and home to more than 32,000 people  about one thousand fewer than four years ago, according to the latest Census estimates.

The majority-white, mostly college-educated community has a median household income of $102,177.

Described as a charming retreat from the hustle and bustle of the big city to its north, Bethel Park boasts tree-line streets, friendly neighborhoods and a low crime rate.

Bethel Park is about 42 miles south of Butler, where the Trump rally was held. The leafy suburban street was alive with law enforcement overnight amid a multi-agency response to the shooting. A member of the Allegheny County bomb squad told reporters his team was headed into the house around midnight, but did not say why.

For hours afterward, the scene remained quiet, with deer passing under the police tape and an occasional neighbor stepping out of their house to see what was happening.

John Wolf, a local construction superintendent who lives down the road, said hed talked with several worried neighbors.

People are scared, Wolf said.

How did Crooks shoot at Trump?

Crooks had been positioned on a rooftop more than 100 yards from the rally site, Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi said. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle from the scene.

Joseph Price, special agent in charge of the ATF in Pittsburgh, said the weapon used by the shooter was a rifle.It was nothing special, he said in an interview in the parking lot of the Butler Township Municipal Building.

Law enforcement is following up on a number of suspicious occurrences, said Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police, including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

The FBI said in a news release that the situation remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI.

Contributing: Stephanie Warsmith, Tim Evans, Aysha Bagchi, Jessica Guynn, Bryce Buyakie

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Thomas Matthew Crooks, Trump rally shooter: What we know about him
News of a shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania broke Saturday, then descended immediately into the chaotic churn of social media, birthing the kind of lies, conspiracies and speculation that have become our new normal.

What happened was sickening. We didnt need to wait on specific details to know that. Hearing a crackle of gunfire and watching the presumptive Republican presidential nominee  thankfully OK  swarmed by Secret Service officers, rushed off the stage with blood on his face? Its unthinkable. Its not how America is supposed to work.

But what followed, within minutes, was maddening.

Shooting at Trump rally birthed swift social media conspiracies

The chaos of the moment, as is always the case now, was swiftly made worse by speculation blasted out to thousands or millions on X and Facebook and other platforms. It came from every source  random knuckleheads, pundits, lawmakers  deciding in the moment they knew exactly what had happened.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures with a bloodied face as multiple shots rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

Facts rendered meaningless. Opinions and hot takes elevated to levels that were once the sole realm of actual, reputable news.

It was this persons fault. It was that persons fault. Youre to blame. Theyre to blame.

Americans' social-media-driven demand for instant answers hurts us all

Trending topics took off with claims of everything from an assassination attempt to a staged event. Unfettered garbage. Cynical manipulations.

Sick, twisted imaginings and attempts at humor  worthless chatter that once had no way to enter the mainstream  were blasted out to a country where, quite literally, everybody has to have a damn opinion in order to grasp at some form of social status.

What is wrong with us? How have we let the drip of conspiracy theories and lies that are part of any society become a fire hose?

After the Trump rally shots, there was no waiting around for facts

I dont know yet exactly what happened at Trumps rally, beyond the reporting that says the former president is OK, a person at the rally was shot and killed, two others were injured and the shooter is dead. That will change as investigators learn more and share it with the public, but in the wake of the shooting Saturday, that is absolutely the extent of anyones knowledge.

This didnt stop people from extrapolating, from fabricating, from sensationalizing a horrible moment that needed no augmenting. The dearth of facts were quickly backfilled with opportunistic bollocks.

Security personnel inspect the site after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

As a journalist, as someone whose entire professional life has been anchored by facts, this out-of-control, all-too-predictable tornado of fiction makes me sick. It has made me sick following more tragic, chaotic moments that I can recall. It made me sick in the past few weeks as everyone and their uncle became an expert on aging and on President Joe Bidens cognitive state.

But this moment  even though we still dont know the motive or the full details  is one that demands clarity and unity and care. Damn it, we are one nation, and we can and should, across the board, condemn any form of political violence. Period.

Trump rally shooting should've made us pause, not speculate

And thats all anyone should have been doing Saturday, from the moment that shocking gunfire erupted and on and on through the night and until Americans know, without question, what the hell happened.

Opinion alerts: Get columns from your favorite columnists + expert analysis on top issues, delivered straight to your device through the USA TODAY app. Don't have the app? Download it for free from your app store.

This isnt a battle. This cant be us vs. us. We have to reach a moment where we put down our phones and just keep quiet. Just let the facts come out. Just hold back the emotions and the click-thirsty desires and the demand for instant gratification that has led us to this point.

I look forward to every detail of this horrific shooting coming out so we can move forward together and do what Americans should be doing: Make things better.

What happened on social media and across TV screens throughout the country in the wake of this shooting all but certainly made things worse.

Follow USA TODAY columnist Rex Huppke on X, formerly Twitter, @RexHuppke and Facebook facebook.com/RexIsAJerk

You can read diverse opinions from our USA TODAY columnists and other writers on the Opinion front page, on X, formerly Twitter, @usatodayopinion and in our Opinion newsletter.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Trump rally shooting shows our unwillingness to wait for facts
Demands for answers were mounting on Sunday as to how an armed man was able to get into position on a roof overlooking a rally and fire shots at Donald Trump  the 2024 presumptive Republican nominee  despite federal and local law enforcement presence and witnesses reportedly alerting police.

National lawmakers expressed shock at the apparent security lapses. Mike Johnson, the speaker of the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, said the chamber would conduct a full investigation.

Johnson posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the American people deserve to know the truth and said that the US Secret Service director, Kimberly Cheatle, and other appropriate officials from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI would be required to appear for congressional hearings as soon as possible.

Congressman Mike Turner, the Republican chair of the House intelligence committee, said on Sunday that along with Donald Trump, our democracy dodged a bullet during the shooting in Butler country, western Pennsylvania.

The incident is being investigated as an attempted assassination and is the first time a president or leading party candidate for the White House has been shot since Ronald Reagan in 1981. It has triggered fears of political violence and more attacks as the US endures one of the most contentious periods of its modern history, amid fears in some quarters of civil unrest.

Bomb-making materials were found in the vehicle and home of the suspect, officials said.

Trump was bleeding from his right ear and later described a bullet whizzing by while he was speaking at the rally. An attendee was killed and Secret Service agents then shot the suspect dead, with witnesses reporting that someone outside the rally had told police they had seen the armed suspect heading to the roof but it appeared that officers did not respond.

How was it that someone could get [in position] on a roof  with a weapon and try to assassinate [Trump]? Turner told CNNs State of the Union show on Sunday morning, adding: The fact that people knew there was a man with a rifle and were trying to get the polices attention is a cause for concern.

Related: Trump rally shooting: what we know about the suspected gunman

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from nearby Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump, it said in a statement on Sunday.

Aides to Trumps election campaign said on Sunday morning that he was fine, in great spirits and doing well. And on Sunday evening, Trump arrived in Wisconsin, ahead of the start of the Republican national convention.

The former president on Sunday called for national unity and resilience, in a country deeply divided amid the tumultuous 2024 election, where Joe Bidens re-election campaign as the presumptive Democratic nominee has been thrown into crisis by his shaky performance while Trump is expected to be anointed as the Republican nominee at the partys convention this week with a hard-right agenda.

Trump posted on his social media platform that it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win, also adding that it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

Biden quickly condemned the violence saying its sick. The US president said: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

In a primetime address on Sunday evening, Biden said the shooting calls on all of us to take a step back.

We stand for an America of decency and grace ... politics must never be a killing field, the president said.

Other US leaders were incredulous, amid the rise in political violence, that anyone had been able to take a shot at a former president.

The US attorney general, Merrick Garland, said in a statement: The FBI, ATF, US Attorneys Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the Departments National Security Division are currently working with the Secret Service as well as state and local law enforcement partners on the ground in Butler, Pennsylvania  The Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

Hours after the attack, the oversight committee in the Republican-led House of Representatives summoned the Secret Service director, Kimberly Cheatle, to testify at a hearing scheduled for 22 July.

Trumps wife, the former first lady Melania Trump, issued a statement saying: America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one. When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and [son] Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change.

Related: Donald Trumps would-be assassin was a monster, Melania Trump says

A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to [w]ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times. She concluded: This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence.

The political leanings of Crooks were not immediately clear. Records show he was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show in 2021 he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee. Officials have not publicly disclosed a possible motive. They said a review of Crookss social media accounts did not reveal any threatening language.

Former classmates described Crooks as quiet and smart. One former classmate told Reuters he could not recall Crooks discussing politics, but rather they would talk about computers and games.

The US Secret Service has said its agents shot the suspected attacked after he fired toward Trump  who was speaking on stage at the time  from an elevated position outside of the rally venue in Butler county.

Trump later posted on Truth Social that he wanted to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed and also to the family of [those] badly injured.

Video from NBC News captured more than a dozen shots ringing out at the rally, with later ones apparently coming from federal agents.

A voice could be heard saying: Get down, get down, get down! Agents threw themselves on top of Trump as the gunfire continued and onlookers screamed.

Audio from the network captured agents voices saying: Shooters down. Shooters down. Are we good to move? Were clear, were clear.

As agents tried to move Trump away, he said: Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Agents can be heard telling the former president: I got you. Hold on. Your head is bloody. Weve got to move.

Trump replied: Wait, wait. He then pumped his fist, mouthed the words: Fight, fight, fight.

And the crowd at the rally responded with cries of: USA! USA! USA!

Agents then whisked Trump away from sight. Video showed blood on Trumps ear.

Local district attorney Richard Goldlinger told CNN investigators were going to have to figure out how the shooter managed to get close enough to aim a gun at Trump and fire repeatedly.

A Trump supporter told the BBC he was outside the rally site but within hearing distance of the former presidents campaign speech when he saw a man carrying a rifle climb on to the roof of a nearby building.

Related: Witnesses recall how Trump rally shooting unfolded: We were praying for his safety

The man, whom the British broadcaster did not identify, said he and the people he was with started pointing at the man, trying to alert security and police to the guy on the roof with a rifle.

The Associated Press said it was told by two law enforcement officials that a local police officer tried to confront Crooks on the roof before the shooting. But the officer retreated after Crooks pointed a rifle at him, and within moments he fired toward Trump.

The shots appeared to come from outside the area secured by the Secret Service, the agency said.

The Washington Post reported that the Secret Service relied heavily on borrowed local police for units whose purpose was to help spot and take out an attacker.

The FBI said it had taken the lead in investigating the attack.

FBI officials briefed reporters that it was surprising the suspect was able to fire multiple shots.

The House oversight committee issued a statement on social media that said: Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump.

Biden arrived at the White House early on Sunday after cutting short a Delaware beach trip. He had posted on X that he was praying for Trump, his family and rally-goers.

His previous post, the morning before the incident, repeated his call for assault weapons to be banned for the general public and added that: Trump promised the NRA [National Rifle Association] that hed do nothing about guns. And he means it.

The president and the vice-president, Kamala Harris, were to receive a fresh briefing at the White House on Sunday, before Harris travels to Pennsylvania to address a campaign event in Philadelphia.

Dave McCormick, a Republican Pennsylvania nominee for the Senate, who attended the rally, described a scary moment and told ABCs This Week on Sunday: An inch difference and the [former] president would have been dead.

Reuters and the Associated Press contributed reporting
The U.S. Department of Agriculture announced Thursday that it's awarding a $10 million grant to a company with a history of labor and other violations at its processing plant in Hastings.

The $10 million grant, awarded through the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program and the Local Meat Capacity Grant Program, will allow Noah's Ark Processors to expand its processing facility enough to double the capacity for cattle slaughter and processing.

According to a news release announcing the grant, the money will allow Noah's Ark, which is one of only three kosher beef distributors in the U.S., to serve an additional 54 producers. The expansion also likely will create up to 40 additional jobs at the plant, which has more than 500 employees.

Noah's Ark has operated the Hastings plant since taking ownership of it and a plant in Lincoln from Nebraska Prime in 2015. It never reopened the Lincoln plant and sold it in 2019.

The company has faced a number of lawsuits and enforcement actions over the past several years.

Earlier this year it agreed, as part of a settlement with the U.S. Department of Labor, to pay $230,000 to more than 500 employees who were denied compensation for work completed before and after their shifts.

Since 2018, the plant has been in a prolonged legal battle with the United Food and Commercial Workers Local Union No. 293, the union representing workers at the plant. The company has repeatedly been found in contempt of court for refusing to bargain with the union, and the National Labor Relations Board found in 2023 that, when the company did bargain, it did so in bad faith.

As a result of the 2023 findings, the company was again ordered to bargain in good faith with the union. The company appealed the enforcement order to the 8th Circuit Court of Appeals, which heard oral arguments in the case in December.

In 2022, the company pleaded no contest to three criminal counts of failing to file required workers compensation paperwork, a practice that the Nebraska Attorney Generals Office said was done to avoid increased insurance premiums. In 2020, the American Civil Liberties Union unsuccessfully attempted to sue the plant for negligence because of treacherous COVID-19 policies. And in 2019, the Occupational Safety and Health Organization ordered the plant to pay more than $180,000 for 16 serious safety violations after an employee suffered severe ammonia burns.

USDA officials did not respond to a request for comment about the company's history of violations.

Dylan Severino, ACLU of Nebraska Legal Fellow, said in a statement that it was surprising to see the plant getting money from the federal government considering its history.

"It is a surprise to see the federal government investing in a plant that has been not only sued for putting workers rights and health at risk but also fined for multiple serious safety violations,"Severino said. "We cannot speak to its current operations, but speaking generally, a growing footprint for any meatpacking plant only adds to the continued need for more rigorous oversight and safeguards to ensure that workers in Nebraskas meatpacking plants have a safe work environment as required by law.

Noah's Ark wasn't the only Nebraska company to receive one of the $110 million in USDA grants given out Thursday.

Also announced was just over $1 million for ASC Lockers, a small meat processor in West Point.

The news release said the company will use the grant to double its processing capacity and add 12 employees to better serve local producers selling directly to consumers and into local schools, restaurants and grocery stores.

The Omaha World-Herald contributed to this story.

Top Journal Star photos for July 2024
Donald Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was recovering after he was injured in the right ear when a sniper opened fire Saturday. July 13, with an AR-15-style rifle from a rooftop about 400 feet outside a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania. One spectator was killed and two others were "critically injured," the Secret Service said.

Donald Trump issued a statement Saturday night expressing gratitude to the U.S. Secret Service agents and law-enforcement officials who responded after the shooting that took place at his rally.

"Our love goes out to the other victims and their families," Trump said in a statement on Truth Social on Sunday morning, July 14.

Here is everything we know today, July 14, on the shooting at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania.

Live blog: Trump says 'God alone' spared him after brazen rally shooting

Former president Donald Trump said Sunday that "God alone" had spared him from a brazen assassination attempt, an act of political violence the likes of which America has not seen since an attack on President Ronald Reagan's life 43 years ago.

Read full story here with live updates: Trump says 'God alone' spared him after brazen rally shooting

Donald Trump's statement after shooting at Pennsylvania rally

Donald Trump issued a statement Saturday night expressing gratitude to the U.S. Secret Service agents and law-enforcement officials who responded after the shooting that took place at his rally, in which he was injured while one rally attendee was killed and another wounded.

Read full statement here: Trump thanks law enforcement, offers prayers and expresses condolences after shooting at rally

Florida Republicans, Democrat lawmakers express outrage, defiance over Trump shooting

U.S. Rep. Michael Waltz, R-DeLand, wrote that the presumptive GOP presidential nominee "walked off like a Boss." U.S. Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, who is on the short list of those being considered by Trump for the vice president spot on the ticket, wrote that "God protected President Trump."

Read more on Florida lawmakers responses to Trump shooting: Florida Republicans, Democrat lawmakers express outrage, defiance over Trump shooting

Supporters flock to Mar-a-Lago in Palm Beach after Trump shooting at rally

Supporters of former President Donald Trump flocked to his Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach on Saturday night after the former president was wounded in an apparent assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania.

A caravan of Trump supporters from Miami was due to arrive Sunday afternoon, July 14, at Mar-a-Lago in a further show of support.

Read full story here: Mar-a-Lago after shooting at Trump rally - Supporters flock to Palm Beach

Melania Trump issues statement, condemning assassination attempt, calling for unity

Melania Trump released a statement Sunday, July 14, asking for unity following Saturday's assassination attempt on her husband, former President Donald Trump.

The former first lady offered her condolences to the victims, condemned the attack and encouraged people to look beyond political lines, writing, "Dawn is here again. Let us reunite. Now."

Read the full story: Melania Trump issues statement, condemning assassination attempt, calling for unity

Trump rally shooter Thomas Crooks identified

A 2020 yearbook depicting Thomas Matthew Crooks on the page at right, second row, is displayed by Bill Ranft near the intersection of Highland RD and Milford DR, Sunday, July, 14, in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania where Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, once lived.

A 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania fired multiple shots at former President Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday evening. A bullet grazed the presumptive Republican presidential nominee's upper right ear, leaving him bloodied but not seriously injured.

The FBI identified Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the person behind the assassination attempt. Agency officials released little additional information, saying its investigation remains active and ongoing. They did not indicate what Crooks' motive might have been.

Read full story here: Trump rally shooter Thomas Crooks identified - What we know

More news following Trump's shooting at rally:

Kamala Harris postpones scheduled visit to Palm Beach County to talk abortion rights

Vice President Kamala Harris has postponed a trip planned for this week to Palm Beach County to meet with Republican women voters because of Saturday's attempted assassination of Donald Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania, according to a campaign source.

In light of the horrific shooting in Pennsylvania, the vice presidents planned campaign trip to Florida has been postponed, a Biden-Harris 2024 aide said on background late Saturday night.

Read full story here: Kamala Harris postpones scheduled visit to Palm Beach County to talk abortion rights

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Trump shot at rally: shooter identified; Melania letter; bullet photo
PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Federal authorities are investigating after former President Donald Trump was shot in the ear in an assassination attempt at an election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Blood splattered on Trump's face as Secret Service agents surrounded him and led him off the stage to a waiting vehicle to whisk him away. Trump is "fine," a spokesperson said.

The alleged shooter was killed by snipers. One spectator was killed and two were hurt, officials said.





Latest Developments





Jul 16, 10:20 AM

Feds warn of possible 'follow-on or retaliatory' attacks

The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI have issued a bulletin to law enforcement across the country warning them that, in the wake of Saturday's shooting, violent extremists could try to conduct "follow-on or retaliatory" attacks at events over the next few months related to the 2024 presidential election.



The bulletin urged local, state and federal law enforcement -- and their partners -- to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.



The bulletin also said that "lone actors" or small groups of extremists "likely will continue to view" political rallies and campaign events as "attractive targets."



Click here to read more.





Jul 16, 8:57 AM

Gunman planned to attend local 4-year university this fall

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old suspected gunman, planned to attend Robert Morris University this fall, according to a school spokesperson.



Robert Morris University is a private, four-year university located outside of Pittsburgh.



"We have been in touch with law enforcement and stand ready to assist in their investigation," school spokesperson Brian Edwards said.



Crooks had earned his associate degree in science from a local community college and graduated in May with high honors.



He was accepted into both RMU and the University of Pittsburgh, a public-research university also a close drive from his home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.



A spokesperson for the University of Pittsburgh said Crooks was told in February that he could attend this fall semester as a transfer student. In March, Crooks informed Pitt that he would not attend.



-ABC News Anne Flaherty





Jul 16, 6:27 AM

Visual Timeline: How the assassination attempt unfolded





Jul 15, 9:56 PM

Suspected gunman purchased 50 rounds of ammunition day of shooting: Officials

The suspected gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his campaign rally Saturday purchased 50 rounds of ammunition ahead of the event, according to a bulletin from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI Monday.



Thomas Matthew Crooks purchased the rounds from a gun and ammunition shop in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to officials.

PHOTO: A drone view during the police investigation into gunfire at a campaign rally of Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 14, 2024. (Carlos Osorio/Reuters)

The bulletin notes that two improvised explosive devices were found in the shooter's car and one at his home.



"Over the last several months, Crooks received several packages, including some marked as possibly containing hazardous material, according to a review of his shipping history," officials wrote.



Officials also warn of future "follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence in response to this assassination attempt."



"We cannot rule out the possibility that some DVEs (Domestic violent extremists) or other actors may attempt follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence in response to this assassination attempt."



-ABC News' Mike Levine





Jul 15, 8:58 PM

Suspected Trump shooter graduated from community college with 'high honors'

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected gunman in the deadly campaign rally shooting Saturday, did not have any disciplinary problems while attending community college and graduated with "high honors," the school said in a statement Monday.

PHOTO: Undated photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks. (Obtained by ABC News)

Crooks, 20, graduated from Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) in May of this year and majored in Engineering Science, according to the college.



"This individual graduated from CCAC with high honors on May 16, 2024, and was conferred an Associate in Science degree," spokesperson Dena Rose Buzila said in a statement. "In addition, based upon our preliminary review, CCAC has no records relating to any disciplinary, student conduct or security-related incidents involving the identified individual."





Jul 15, 8:35 PM

Trump family member will attend shooting victim Corey Comperatore's funeral

Eric Trump said there is "no question" that a Trump family member will attend the funeral of Corey Comperatore, who was shot and killed at the campaign rally on Saturday.

PHOTO: Corey Comperatore is seen in this undated image shared by his family. (Facebook)

During an interview with Fox News on Monday night at the Republican National Convention, Eric called Comperatore's death "unthinkable," adding, "This is a person who loved Donald Trump, his family. He jumped on his children. It's unthinkable what happened there."



Comperatore, 50, was a firefighter and a father of two daughters, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday. He was from Sarver, Pennsylvania.



Comperatore "died a hero" when he "dove on his family" to protect them from the gunfire during the rally, his wife said, according to Shapiro.



Eric Trump said that the GoFundMe page created for Comperatore's family was close to reaching $5 million.





Jul 15, 8:30 PM

Eric Trump indicates Secret Service director should step down after shooting

In his first interview since Donald Trump was shot at a rally Saturday, Eric Trump was asked if U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle should stay in her position.



"The head [of the Secret Service]? No, they should have had more resources," Trump said.



"Listen, at the end of the day, we can't get past the fact that somebody should not have gotten on a roof 130 yards away from the president of the United States -- you know, ex-president of the United States, and soon to be president of the United States, with a high power rifle; that's inexcusable," Trump said.



Speaking with ABC News Chief Justice Correspondent Pierre Thomas, Cheatle called the shooting "unacceptable," saying, "it's something that shouldn't happen again."

PHOTO: U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle sat down with ABC News in her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. (ABC News)

In the days since the attack, Cheatle and the Secret Service have faced heightening scrutiny for failing to prevent the incident from happening, and even calls from some to resign.



Cheatle said she would not resign from her role.





Jul 15, 7:29 PM

Biden addresses trajectory of 2024 election after assassination attempt on Trump

President Joe Biden weighed in on if the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump will impact the trajectory of the 2024 election.



In an interview with NBC's Lester Holt, Biden was asked if he believes that this shooting has "changed the trajectory of this race," to which Biden said, "I don't know. And you don't know either."

PHOTO: President Joe Biden delivers an address to the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, July 14, 2024. (Erin Schaff/Pool via Reuters)

"I've thought less about the trajectory of the race than two things. One, what his [Trump] health is. That was secure. Number one. And number two, what happens from here on in terms of the kind of coverage that the president and vice president and former president and new vice president get," Biden said.



The president was also asked about his phone call with Trump after this past weekend's shooting, which he described as a "very cordial" conversation.



"I told him how concerned I was and wanted to make sure I knew how he was actually doing. He sounded good. He said he was fine. And he thanked me for calling him. I told him he was literally in the prayers of Jill and me and I hoped his whole family was weathering this," Biden said.



-ABC News Justin Gomez





Jul 15, 7:12 PM

Secret Service director says police were inside building shooter was positioned on

In her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle offered insight into the logistics surrounding the deadly shooting Saturday.



"It was unacceptable," she said in an interview Monday with ABC News Chief Justice Correspondent Pierre Thomas. "And it's something that shouldn't happen again."

PHOTO: U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle sat down with ABC News in her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. (ABC News)

Cheatle said that local authorities were tasked with securing the building where the alleged shooter fired the shots before being taken out by a Secret Service sniper, and confirmed that local police were present inside the building while the shooter was on the roof.



"In this particular instance, we did share support for that particular site and that the Secret Service was responsible for the inner perimeter," Cheatle said. "And then we sought assistance from our local counterparts for the outer perimeter. There was local police in that building -- there was local police in the area that were responsible for the outer perimeter of the building."



She is expected to testify before the GOP-led House Oversight Committee next Monday, July 22.



-ABC News' Julia Reinstein





Jul 15, 5:49 PM

Trump tells ABC News assassination attempt had 'impact'

Former President Donald Trump shared an update with ABC News' Jonathan Karl on how his right ear is recovering and said the assassination attempt at his campaign rally Saturday had "impact."



When asked if the close call to the bullet striking his head "changed him," Trump said, "I dont like to think about that, but, yes, I think has an impact."



Trump said his ear is doing fine and that he hopes the bandage will be off by the time he speaks on Thursday at the Republican National Convention.

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
Former President Donald Trump survived a brazen assassination attempt Saturday evening as a 20-year-old gunman opened fire on a campaign rally, injuring Trump's right ear and killing a spectator, officials said.

Trump was rushed off stage with blood dripping on his face after gunshots rang out at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and the sniper, identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed by Secret Service agents. Two specators were in serious condition.

"This evening we had what we are calling an assassination attempt against our former president, Donald Trump," Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, said at a late-night press conference in Butler. The FBI has not released the motive in the attack.

Trump said he was shot in the ear and an email sent out late Saturday night from his campaign team quoted him saying, "I will never surrender."

Secret Service Spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement that Crooks fired multiple shots toward the stage at approximately 6:15 p.m. Crooks had been positioned on a rooftop more than 100 yards from the rally site.

Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police said law enforcement is following up on a number of suspicious occurrences including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

More: Citing his recent comments, Republicans blame Joe Biden for Donald Trump rally shooting

It is surprising, Rojek said when asked about the alleged gunmans close vicinity to the rally. He said the gunman's proximity is among the details that will come out in the investigation. Rojek added: The Secret Service really needs to answer that question. They conduct the initial site survey.

Trump reached for his ear as the gunfire erupted. Attendees at the rally began screaming as agents pushed Trump to the ground.

The former president was removed from the site by Secret Service, with his fist raised. Steven Cheung, Trump's spokesperson, confirmed in a statement that the former president is "fine" but had seen doctors at an area medical facility.

A Secret Service posting on social media confirmed that agents "neutralized" the assassin and that he was dead. Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle from the scene. A male innocent bystander at the rally was killed, the FBI confirmed.

The former president said in a statement that It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country."

Gunman identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks

The man who shot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania political rally has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

"The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania," the Bureausaid i a statement. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after he opened fire.

Crooks was registered as a Republican and was in active voting status, according to the database service LexisNexis. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

Christopher Cann and Aysha Bagchi

FBI says it is almost ready to identify shooter

Rojek, a special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said the bureau isn't prepared to identify the shooter just yet.

"We are close to that identification, and as soon as we are 100% confident in who that individual is, we will share it," he said.

"With that being said, also, we do not currently have an identified motive, although our investigators are working tirelessly to attempt to identify what that motive was," Rojek added.

 Aysha Bagchi

White House: Biden speaks to Trump after shooting at rally

Joe Biden spoke to Donald Trump Saturday night after Trump was attacked at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Biden told reporters he had tried to call Trump, but the former president was with his doctors. A White House official said later that Biden spoke to Trump; Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro and Bob Dandoy, the mayor of Butler, Pennsylvania, where the rally was held.

No details of the conversation were disclosed.

Michael Collins

More: Top Democrats condemn political violence after Trump assassination attempt

Trump returns to New Jersey

After his release from the hospital, Trump traveled back to New Jersey, where he has a home.

Television cameras filmed the Trump plane landing in Newark late Saturday.

The former president is still scheduled to fly Sunday to Milwaukee, site of next week's Republican nominating convention. But it is not known whether Trump will stick to his schedule in light of the shooting.

 David Jackson

Law enforcement recovered AR-style rifle: reports

Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle from the scene of the shooting at Trump's Pennsylvania political rally, according to reports from the Associated Press and the New York Times.

The AP cited a source familiar with the matter who wasn't authorized to discuss investigation details. The New York Times cited two law enforcement officials.

 Aysha Bagchi

'Somebody failed'

A former Justice Department official and Trump legal aide called out the Secret Service after the close call in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

"A sick person on a roof with a rifle shoots at the former president and misses killing him by an absolute quirk of fate," said Mark Corallo. "He turned his head a millimeter, and instead of it going through his brain, the shot glanced off his ear."

"A guy on a roof with a rifle. That's a security failure," said Corallo, who was a Justice Department spokesman in the early 2000s and later served as spokesman for Trump's legal team.

"The job of the protective detail is to protect the president. Somebody failed. Donald Trump got shot and it is as dark a day for America as I can remember."

Dan Morrison

Biden returning to White House after attack on Trump

President Joe Biden is cutting his weekend trip to Delaware short and heading back to the White House following the attack on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Biden was scheduled to spend the weekend at his beach house in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, and then travel Monday to Texas to deliver a speech on civil rights and democracy at the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin. Biden will now travel back to the White House on Saturday night.

 Michael Collins

FBI taking lead role in investigation after shooting at Trump rally, asks for tips

The FBI is assuming the role as "lead federal law enforcement agency" in the investigation of the shooting at Trump's Pennsylvania political rally, the bureau said in a statement late Saturday.

Special agents from the bureau's Pittsburgh field office responded immediately to the incident, including members of its crisis response team as well as evidence response technicians, the bureau said.

The bureau asked anyone with information that could help the investigation to call its tip line at: 1-800-CALL-FBI.

 Aysha Bagchi

Merrick Garland denounces shooting as 'attack on our democracy'

U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland said in a statement that he had been briefed on the shooting at the Trump rally and several segments of federal law enforcement, including the FBI, are working with the Secret Service and local law enforcement.

"My heart is with the former President, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack," Garland said.

Garland vowed to bring "every available resource to bear" on the investigation.

"We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy," Garland said.

 Aysha Bagchi

Trump VP finalists Vance, Rubio and Burgum offer prayer, horror and anger after shooting

Potential Republican vice presidential candidates - like many Donald Trump supporters - reacted to Saturday's assassination attempt with a combination of prayer, horror, and anger.

Sen. J.D. Vance, R-Ohio, all but blamed rhetoric from President Joe Biden's campaign, saying on the social media platform X that "today is not just some isolated incident."

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum also cited Trump's opponents in paying tribute to the wounded 2024 GOP candidate. "We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies," Burgum said on X. "Today he showed it."

Sen. Marco Rubio, R-Fla., offered a prayerful statement: "God protected President Trump." He also posted some of the news stories about the shooting, and criticized aspects of the news coverage.

 David Jackson

House lawmakers to investigate shooting

The House Oversight committee will hold a hearing to investigate the shooting at Donald Trump's rally, Chairman James Comer, R-Ky., said in a statement Saturday.

He said he has already contacted the Secret Service for a briefing and is asking Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to appear at the hearing.

The House Homeland Security Committee has also requested an official briefing. "We will be conducting thorough oversight to ensure the American people receive answers," the committee posted on its X account.

 Riley Beggin

Trump supporters gather at Trump Tower

Hours after an assassination attempt on former President Trump during a rally in Pennsylvania, supporters gathered outside Trump Tower in New York City.

Some were waving flags, others were draped in them. Most were wearing MAGA hats. Around 10 p.m, there was also a heavy police presence at the entrance of the building and on the street.

Katie Sullivan, 48, a lawyer from Brooklyn, came to Trump Tower with her friends carrying lit candles. I am here to support a fellow New Yorker, a fellow American and to make sure we are still part of a Republic.

She said she was worried about where the country was headed with this level of violence, and blamed rhetoric from the media and the Democrats for the attack on Trump.

Linda Andrews, who works as nanny in Manhattan, said she felt compelled to come to Trump Tower because she was fearful that things could fall apart at any time.

I want him to see that we are upset and that we love him.

 Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy

Lloyd Austin says violence at Donald Trump rally 'has absolutely no place in our democracy'

Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said in a statement on Saturday night that "The entire Department of Defense condemns this violence, which has absolutely no place in our democracy."

"This is not the way that we resolve our differences in Americaand it must never be. Im relieved that reports indicate former President Trump is safe, and I am praying for him and his family and everyone affected by this appalling incident," he added.

 Tom Vanden Brook

Schumer, Jeffries react to shooting

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., and House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, D-N.Y., posted statements on social media condemning political violence following the shooting.

"I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country," Schumer said.

Jeffries said his "thoughts and prayers" were with the former president.

"I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable," Jeffries said.

Rachel Barber

VP Harris reacts to shooting at Trump rally

Vice President Kamala Harris said she and first gentleman Doug Emhoff were relieved that Trump was not seriously injured.

We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting, she said in a statement.She said they were grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action.Violence such as this has no place in our nation, she said. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.Swapna Venugopal Ramaswamy

Trump issues statement on shooting, calls it incredible that such an act can take place in US

Former President Donald Trump issued a statement on the shooting, thanking the Secret Service and law enforcement and extending his condolences to this person who was killed at he rally.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead, Trump said in a statement on Truth Social.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Joey Garrison

BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Netanyahu sends prayers to Trump

Shortly after news broke about the shooting, Israel Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he and his wife were praying for former President Donald Trump.

"Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump," he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "We pray for his safety and speedy recovery."

Rachel Barber

Mayorkas: DHS working with law enforcement partners to investigate Trump rally shooting

Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas said Saturday that has been briefed on the shooting incident and that DHS is working with law enforcement partners to respond and investigate the shooting

Mayorkas said maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their events are top DHS priority.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, he said in a statement. We are engaged with President Biden, former President Trump, and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

 Rebecca Morin

Biden calls shooting at Trump rally sick, says he hopes to speak to Trump

Joe Biden delivered brief remarks about the shooting that occurred the Trump rally, calling it sick and saying he hopes to speak to Trump later Saturday night.

There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden told reporters at an emergency briefing room in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where he is spending the weekend.

Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Biden said he has tried to get a hold of Trump by phone but has been unsuccessful. So far it appears he is doing well, he said, adding that every agency in the federal government is assembling to thoroughly investigate the shooting. Theres some reports, but not final reports.

The bottom line is, the Trump rally was a rally that should have been able to be conducted peacefully and without any problem, Biden said. But the idea  the idea  that theres political violence, or violence in America like this, is just unheard of, its just not appropriate. Everybody, every must condemn it. Everybody. 

Biden said he will keep the public informed and if Im able to speak to Donald, Ill let you know that as well.

Biden, when asked whether he believes the shooting was an assassination, said: I have an opinion but I dont have any facts. I want to make sure I have all the facts before I make some comment.

 Joey Garrison

Former Secret Service agent says apparent shooting may not immediately change Republican convention security

Former Secret Service agent Joe Funk told USA TODAY changing security for the Republican National Convention won't be up next.

Now that Trump has been determined safe per reports from the Secret Service, the next steps are less about changing plans for Monday, and more finding how the violence happened in the first place.

"Most of the work that Secret Service is going to do is going to be pre-incident, 'how did this guy get in... who is he? What was his motive? Is he connected with any other individuals?," Funk said. "I think you're going to see a lot of work pre-incident versus enhancing or ramping up security post-[incident]."

 Sam Woodward

Donald Trump Jr. says his father is in 'great spirits'

Donald Trump Jr., the president's son, shared in a statement: I just spoke to my father on the phone and he is in great spirits. He will never stop fighting to save America, no matter what the radical left throws at him.

 David Jackson

Biden campaign suspending TV ads after shooting

An official from the Biden campaign said it is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down all of its television ads as quickly as possible following the shooting at the Trump rally.

Joey Garrison

Joe Biden set to address apparent gunfire at Trump rally

Joe Biden is scheduled to address reporters on camera Saturday on the incident at Trumps rally. No time has been given.

Bidens campaign said it is pausing all outgoing communications and working to pull down its television ads as quickly as possible.

 Michael Collins

Joe Biden: 'There's no place for this kind of violence in America'

Stunned reactions immediately began pouring in from both sides of the aisle. President Joe Biden, in a statement, said, I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden said.

 Michael Collins

George W. Bush, Laura Bush thank Secret Service

Former President George W. Bush said in a statement Saturday that "Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response."

 USA TODAY staff

Mike Johnson, Nikki Haley, other Republicans react

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., confirmed in a post on X that he has also been briefed on the attack.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," Johnson shared.

Former South Carolina Gov. Nikki Haley, who competed against Trump for the 2024 Republican nomination, responded to the shooting in a post.

"This should horrify every freedom loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalized," Haley said. "We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer."

 USA TODAY staff

Nancy Pelosi condemns political violence

Former House Speaker Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., posted a statement to social media condemning the Trump rally shooting. Pelosi's husband survived a violent attack by a right-wing conspiracy theorist in their San Francisco home in 2022.

"As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society," Pelosi said. "I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former Presidents rally today are unharmed."

--Rachel Barber

Apparent shooting raises questions about Republican convention

The shocking moment also immediately raised questions about security at the Republican convention, set to begin next week. Sen. Rick Scott, R-Fla., said in a post on X that the Secret Service "needs to come out ASAP and let us know how this happened and how everyone at the RNC and DNC conventions will be safe."

Texas official says he heard as many as eight shots

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller was in the front row at the rally in rural Pennsylvania and said he heard as many as eight shots, and saw a woman nearby who appeared to have been struck by gunfire.

"At first, I didn't know what it was," Miller told the American-Statesman by phone from the outdoor venue. "Then I heard 'pop! pop!,' and knew it was gunfire. Everybody got down but I stayed standing up to try to see what was going on."

Miller said that he was not harmed and did not know the condition of the woman who appeared to have been hit.

 John Moritz

Contributing: USA TODAY Network

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Donald Trump shot in assassination attempt at rally; gunman killed
Donald Trump is safe after being rushed offstage with blood on his face at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where gunshots rang out Saturday afternoon.

Early Sunday morning, the FBI identified the shooter as 20-year-old Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, resident Thomas Matthew Crooks. Federal authorities added in a press conference on Saturday that the shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination.

The Secret Service noted after the incident that Trump was safe. The Associated Press has reported that law enforcement is investigating the incident as an assassination attempt.

According to the Secret Service, a suspected shooter fired multiple shots at the stage where Trump was standing, from what is being described as an elevated position outside of the rally venue. The shooting took place at approximately 6:15 p.m. local time, and the shooter was quickly neutralized by the Secret Service and is now dead, according to agency spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi. One attendee was also killed and two others were critically injured. The former president had his injuries treated at an area hospital before being released Saturday night.

I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, Trump wrote on Truth Social Saturday.

Video of the incident shows the crowd reacting to three quick explosive sounds with screaming. As the bangs were heard, Trump grabbed his right ear and crouched onstage. Someone yelled, Duck, duck, duck! as the crowd reacted, and Trump moved to the ground. Secret Service agents then dove on top of the former president, yelling, Get down! Get down, Get down! as another volley of popping, gunshot-like noises could be heard.

The former president soon got to his feet and appeared to be bleeding from his right ear. Trump pumped his fist to the crowd as Secret Service personnel rushed him from the stage and into a waiting vehicle.

Campaign spokesperson Steven Cheung has issued a statement. President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act, Cheung said. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility.

In a Truth Social post at 8:42 p,m., Trump described having been shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. He added: I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place. He thanked the Secret Service and all of Law Enforcement and extended his condolences for the bystanders who were killed and injured.

Trump had been about 10 minutes into his speech, discussing illegal immigration, referring to a chart he had that claimed that he had the lowest amount during his presidency. And then the worst president in the history of our country took over, and look what happened to our country, probably 20 million people. And you know, thats a little bit old. That chart, that charts a couple of months old. And if you want to really see something, that said, take a look at what happened, he said before the first loud bangs began.

Shooting just happened at The Trump rally pic.twitter.com/Xs1dVL1H3T  Acyn (@Acyn) July 13, 2024

The last time a sitting or former president was hit with a bullet was the assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

President Biden, who is in Rehoboth, Delaware, has received a briefing on the Trump incident from the director of the Secret Service and from Alejandro Mayorkas, the secretary of Homeland Security.

Biden, in a statement, expressed gratitude that Trump is safe and doing well, adding that he is praying for the 45th president. He also praised the Secret Service. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America, Biden said. We must unite as one nation to condemn it. Biden added in remarks delivered from Delaware that he has tried getting in touch with Trump. There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, the president said.



Vice President Kamala Harris, in a statement, called on all Americans to condemn this abhorrent act and to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Former President Barack Obama weighed in with a plea for calm. There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, Obama said in a statement calling on the country to use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Former President George W. Bush denounced the apparent shooting at Trump as a cowardly attack on his life and commended the speedy response of the Secret Service. President Bill Clinton wrote on X that violence has no place in America, especially in our political process, and, with Hillary, gave thanks for Trumps safety and the swift action, while adding he was heartbroken for all those affected by the attack at todays rally.

The Republican National Convention, set to kick off in Milwaukee next week, will reportedly allow guns in the security zone, though not inside the convention hall.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.

More from Rolling Stone

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Before secret service agents rushed him off stage, Donald Trump pumped his fist at the crowd while bleeding from his right ear. Photo by David Maxwell/EPA-EFE

July 13 (UPI) -- Former President Donald Trump is "safe" but wounded during an "assassination attempt" at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday night in which a male gunman and a spectator died, Secret Service and the FBI said.

He flew to Newark Liberty International Airport after the shooting. During a news conference before midnight, an official said the FBI was not prepared to identify the shooter with no identification on him and DNA testing to be conducted.

The man was later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, a suburb of Pittsburgh about an hour south of Butler -- where the former president was holding a campaign rally.

A campaign spokesperson said the former president was checked out at a hospital. Late Saturday night, Pennsylvania Gov. John Shapiro posted on X: "Under the protection of US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, former President Trump has now left the Butler area."

One spectator died and two others were critically injured, Butler Counter District Attorney Richard Goldfinger and the Secret Service said. They were all men, the FBI said.

Former President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by Secret Service after an incident during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pa. on Saturday. Photo by David Maxwell/EPA-EFE

Trump later posted a statement on Truth Social thanking the Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response and offering his condolences for the families of the shooting victims.

"It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country," the post read. "I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

Law enforcement snipers set up before the arrival of former president Trump on a rooftop overlooking a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pa., on Saturday. Photo by David Maxwell/EPA-EFE

The Secret Service said in a statement that a suspected shooter "fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside the rally of the venue."

It added that Secret Service personnel "neutralized" the shooter who was now "deceased."

"This evening, we had what we're calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump. It's still an active crime scene," Kevin Rojek, the special agent in charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh field office, said at the news conference.

At 6:15 p.m. EDT, less than 10 minutes into Trump's speech, gunshots rang out over the crowd that gathered to hear him speak outdoors in Butler, about 35 miles north of Pittsburgh.

"And then the worst president in the history of our country took over. And look what happened to our country. Probably 20 million people [came in illegally]. And, you know, that's a little bit old, that chart ... that chart's a couple of months old. And if you want to really see something that sad, take a look at what happened over ..." Trump said before the gunshots went off, per Fox News.

The former president hit the ground behind the podium for cover. Four members of the Secret Service detail immediately surrounded him and then led him offstage to a vehicle. Men with rifles in tactical gear appeared at the scene.

As he was hurried off stage, Trump appeared to be bleeding from his right ear.

Despite his apparent injury, Trump turned back to the crowd and pumped his fist before he was escorted off the scene.

Thousands of people had turned up at the Butler Farm Show Grounds Saturday despite temperatures hovering in the 90s.

"We heard a bunch of ... loud cracking noises. At first I thought: Is that fireworks? All of a sudden everyone started screaming," CNN's Alayna Treene, who was reporting from the rally, said.

Spectators chanted "USA" and they then departed from the grounds.

Crime scene tape was put up around the area.

Trump was visiting the battleground state of Pennsylvania ahead of the Republican National Convention next week in Milwaukee, where he is expected to announce his long-awaited running mate.

The shortlist of names includes North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance and South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott.

"Please join Kathryn and me in praying for President Trump, his family and everyone attending the rally today," Burgum wrote on X following the incident.

Rubio posted on X: "God protected President Trump."

Vance, a freshman Republican senator from Ohio, posted on X: "Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris were briefed on the situation.

"I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information," Biden said in a statement.

"Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Biden later appeared at a press conference.

"The idea, the idea that there is political violence like this is anywhere in America is just unheard of -- it's just not appropriate," Biden said. "Everybody must condemn it. Everybody."

The White House said Biden spoke with Trump on the phone. The president later returned to Washington from Delaware, one day ahead of time.

Former President Barack Obama also offered his condolences in a statement on X.

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy," Obama wrote. "Although we don't yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn't seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

Anthony Guglielmi, Secret Service chief of communications, later issued a statement that Trump was safe following the incident.

"An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former president is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," Guglielmi said.

A spokesperson for Trump said in a statement obtained by ABC News, "President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility."
Donald Trump was reportedly injured in a shooting incident and was rushed offstage by Secret Service agents during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening. The Secret Service has said that Trump is "safe" and the ex-president's campaign says he is receiving medical treatment. Whether Trump was actually struck by a bullet remains unclear, with some reports suggesting he may have been struck by glass fragments from the teleprompter before him.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger has said two people were killed in the incident. One of them is believed to be the shooter and the other was reportedly a person in the audience.

According to CNN, pool reporters present at the rally heard "a series of loud explosions or loud bangs before Trump ducked, or perhaps fell to the stage. According to the New York Times, the loud noises came from the bleachers to Trump's left, and visible smoke was seen from that area. Secret Service agents then "tackled" Trump, helping him up after a brief pause and then rushing him into a vehicle. News photographs taken on the scene show blood on the former president's face, suggesting that his ear was grazed or struck.

Trump campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a social media post that the ex-president was fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. The New York Times reported that a medical helicopter had taken off from the area, possibly heading toward Pittsburgh.

CNN reported that Trump "was yelling back to the crowd and raising his fist" before being led away. Law enforcement officials began to cordon off the area with crime-scene tape while rally attendees were shepherded away, the Times reported.

President Biden was reportedly briefed on the situation shortly after leaving church services near his vacation home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. Numerous politicians and elected officials of both parties, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer and Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, along with world leaders from several other nations, have posted messages of support and sympathy on social media.

This is a breaking news story and will be updated.
BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images.

BUTLER  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this. Biden said he had tried to contact Trump, and said that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

FBI personnel are on the scene in Butler County, Pennsylvania and the FBI will continue to work jointly with the U.S. Secret Service as the investigation moves forward, FBI Pittsburgh Public Affairs Officer Bradford Arick told the Capital-Star in an email.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bertha Cazy told the Capital-Star in an email The Pennsylvania State Police has Troopers on scene assisting the Secret Service in various capacities. All other questions should be directed to the U.S. Secret Service, the agency handling the investigation.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners. Violence targeted at any political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but that he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey D-Pa, said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out to State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, Republican of Pennslyvania and who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

Like Minnesota Reformer, Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, Pennsylvania.  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware. Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this. Biden said he had tried to contact Trump, and said that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

FBI personnel are on the scene in Butler County, Pennsylvania and the FBI will continue to work jointly with the U.S. Secret Service as the investigation moves forward, FBI Pittsburgh Public Affairs Officer Bradford Arick told the Capital-Star in an email.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bertha Cazy told the Capital-Star in an email The Pennsylvania State Police has Troopers on scene assisting the Secret Service in various capacities. All other questions should be directed to the U.S. Secret Service, the agency handling the investigation.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners. Violence targeted at any political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but that he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey, D-Pennsylvania, said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out to State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly, R-Pennsylvania, who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

Reactions from leaders pour in

By Jennifer Shutt and Ashley Murray, States Newsroom D.C. WASHINGTON  Members of Congress rejected political violence Saturday after a shooting at Donald Trumps campaign rally in Pennsylvania left at least one rallygoer dead and forced the Secret Service to rush the former president off stage. Local authorities confirmed the shooter was killed, according to The Associated Press. The shooting at a crowded outdoor rally in Butler, just an hour outside Pittsburgh, occurred less than 48 hours before the Republican National Convention is set to begin in Milwaukee, Wisconsin. Trump is expected to become the partys official presidential nominee on Thursday. Video footage of the rally shows Trump bringing his hand to the right side of his face and ducking down behind the podium just after several gunshots and screams were heard. U.S. Secret Service agents huddled around the former president and raced him off the stage as he reached out to pump his fist in the air toward the crowd. Trump campaign spokesman Steve Cheung issued a statement shortly after that the former president is fine and that he thanked law enforcement. Praying for President Trump Members of Congress from both political parties uniformly condemned violence in a wave of social media posts and official statements. House Speaker Mike Johnson, a Louisiana Republican, posted on social media that he was Praying for President Trump. Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene, Johnson wrote. I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments, Johnson added. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, a New York Democrat, released a written statement saying that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country, Schumer wrote. Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell, of Kentucky, wrote on social media that all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally. Violence has no place in our politics, McConnell wrote. We appreciate the swift work of the Secret Service and other law enforcement. House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries, a New York Democrat, wrote on social media that his thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump. I am thankful for the decisive law enforcement response, Jeffries wrote. America is a democracy. Political violence of any kind is never acceptable. Members of Congress react with horror Democratic Sen. Bob Casey of Pennsylvania issued a statement that he was monitoring the situation that unfolded in Western Pennsylvania. (A)nd Ive reached out (to) the State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former president Trump & all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey wrote on social media. Arizona Democratic Sen. Mark Kelly, whose wife Gabby Giffords, a former congresswoman, was shot in 2011 at an event, posted that they were both horrified. Gabby and I are horrified by the incident in Pennsylvania, Kelly wrote. No one should ever have to experience political violence  we know that firsthand. Were keeping former President Trump, his family, and everyone involved in our thoughts. Giffords wrote on her own social media feed that Political violence is terrifying. I know. Im holding former President Trump, and all those affected by todays indefensible act of violence in my heart. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never, Giffords wrote. Michigan Sen. Gary Peters, chairman of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee, wrote on social media that (p)olitical violence is despicable, and there is no place for it in America. Im grateful that former President Trump is safe, and to the law enforcement officials who risked their lives to take action Peters wrote. I will continue to closely monitor this developing situation. Maine Republican Sen. Susan Collins wrote on social media that she was very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling. Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way, Collins wrote. Quick response Rep. Rosa DeLauro, a Connecticut Democrat, commended the quick response of Secret Service agents and other authorities on the scene. My thoughts and prayers are with former President Donald Trump and his family after hearing news of a shooting at his campaign rally today, DeLauro of Connecticut posted on social media. House Republican Mike Turner of Ohio, chair of the House Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence, issued a statement saying As the situation unfolds in Butler, Pennsylvania, I urge everyone to join me in praying for President Trump and our country. House Republican Conference Chair Elise Stefanik of New York wrote on social media that AMERICA IS PRAYING! GOD BLESS PRESIDENT TRUMP! #SAVEAMERICA, Im praying for President Trump. I hope everyone will join me, former House Speaker Kevin McCarthy wrote on X. Jacquie and I are praying for President Trump and all of the attendees at todays rally. President Trump is a proven warrior who has overcome adversity time and time again. He will rise above this horrifying situation stronger than ever, House Republican Whip Tom Emmer of Minnesota posted. Former Republican Congresswoman Liz Cheney, an outspoken critic of Trump and ranking member of the House committee that investigated the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the U.S. Capitol, said news of the shooting was horrifying. Violence of any kind has no place in American politics. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured, Cheney wrote on social media. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu issued a statement on social media saying he was shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery, the leader of the U.S. ally said.

This story was produced by the Pennsylvania Capital-Star which is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network, including the Daily Montanan, supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity.


Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

Authorities are investigating the incident as an assassination attempt, according to the Associated Press.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware. Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this. Biden said he had tried to contact Trump, and said that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

FBI personnel are on the scene in Butler County, Pennsylvania and the FBI will continue to work jointly with the U.S. Secret Service as the investigation moves forward, FBI Pittsburgh Public Affairs Officer Bradford Arick told the Capital-Star in an email.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bertha Cazy told the Capital-Star in an email The Pennsylvania State Police has Troopers on scene assisting the Secret Service in various capacities. All other questions should be directed to the U.S. Secret Service, the agency handling the investigation.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners. Violence targeted at any political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but that he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa) said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out to State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

Ian Karbal of the Capital-Star staff contributed.

Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X.
Former President Donald Trump offered a faith-based message of gratitude on Sunday after an assassination attempt left him bloodied, thanking his supporters for their thoughts and prayersand God for listening to them.

It was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote in a Truth Social post. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness.

He then expressed his care for the families of the other shooting victims, including one person who died and two others who were critically injured. Trump also used the message to try and encourage unity in the face of the shooting: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win.

The former president, pumping his fist defiantly and with blood dripping down his face, was led from the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, after a shooter opened fire with an AR-15-style rifle from a nearby rooftop. The alleged gunman, who was killed by law enforcement, was named by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Trump also suggested he would attend the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week as planned. Representatives for his campaign did not immediately respond to questions Sunday morning about changes to Trumps schedule.

I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin, Trump wrote.

The message was a marked turn for a former president whos often tolerated religion at best, surrounding himself with religious leaders but usually not expressing his own religious views. Trump, though a Presbyterian, has mocked those whove made public declarations of faith, including enemies such as former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi (D-CA) and Sen. Mitt Romney (R-UT). Still, hes made appearances at churches and has developed a coterie of supporters in spiritual leaders.

Those appearances havent always made a dent in Americans perception of his religious beliefs. During his time in office, a Pew Research poll noted that a majority of Americans didnt think Trump was religious, either thinking he was not too or not at all religious. Of those who thought otherwise, only 28 percent said he was somewhat religious while 7 percent said he was very religious.

Whether it was divine intervention or not, Trumps reflection suggested he found relief in the prayers expressed by all.

Read more at The Daily Beast.

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Trump says he looks forward to speaking from Wisconsin this week

FILE PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Grand Rapids

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Former U.S. President Donald Trump said on Sunday he looks forward to speaking from Wisconsin where the Republican National Convention will be held this week.

"In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined," Trump said in a Truth Social post.

It is his second post since he was shot and injured at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

(Reporting by Jasper Ward; editing by Rami Ayyub)
BREAKING UPDATE: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has named the subject involved in the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

(KRON)  Earlier, the FBI gave an update on what they have confirmed as an attempted assassination on former President Donald Trump on Saturday. During the roughly 20-minute news conference, authorities did not release the identity of the gunman and said there was no clear motive.

The Associated Press reports that the assailant was a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania. The FBI stated that the shooter, who was killed by Secret Service agents, was positioned on a rooftop outside the perimeter of the rally Trump was holding in Butler, Pennsylvania.

According to the FBIs Kevin Rojek, the shooter had no physical identification on him. He could only confirm that the shooter was a man.

What we know about the suspected Trump rally shooter

Rojek said the FBI has yet to identify a motive for the shooter. He said that investigators were still present at the rally site, which remains an active crime investigation. He said the FBI has deployed numerous state and federal resources to conduct the investigation further.

Lt. Col. Geroge Bivens with Pennsylvania State Police said Trump began speaking a little after 6 p.m. He said after about 10 to 15 minutes, gunshots were heard. He believes law enforcement acted quickly in neutralizing the threat and assisting victims. Bivens said before the Pennsylvania rally, Law enforcement had responded to several reports of suspicious activity.

Bivens said the U.S. Secret Service killed the shooter. He said it is currently unclear as to how many shots were fired before the shooter died. He said the greatest priority as of this report was to identify the motive of the shooter and determine if anyone else is involved.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KRON4.
TOPSHOT - Republican candidate Donald Trump is seen with blood on his face surrounded by secret service agents as he is taken off the stage at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. (Photo by Rebecca DROKE / AFP) (Photo by REBECCA DROKE/AFP via Getty Images)

All of us need to renounce language and acts of violence, especially against Black people, especially against Palestinians, especially against Muslims, Jews and anybody else, Cornel West told theGrio.

Political leaders quickly condemned what is being investigated as an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump on Saturday evening at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

President Joe Biden said, There is no place for this type of violence in America, and was grateful Donald Trump, who appeared to be shot or grazed on the ear, is safe and doing well. The presumptive 2024 Democratic presidential nominee declared, Everybody must condemn it. The White House confirmed that President Biden spoke with his 2024 election opponent by phone on Saturday night.

Vice President Kamala Harris similarly said in a statement, Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

TheGrio spoke with Independent presidential candidate Cornel West, who was in Las Vegas at the time of the incident for the Freedom Fest. He told theGrio, I am a Christian. I am praying for the brother and his family.

West added, All of us need to renounce language and acts of violence, especially against Black people, especially against Palestinians, especially against Muslims, Jews and anybody else.

PRAIRIE VIEW, TEXAS  JANUARY 18: African-American scholar and Harvard University professor Cornel West gives an address at Prairie View A&M University on Friday, Jan. 18, 2019. (Elizabeth Conley/Houston Chronicle via Getty Images) 

Former President Barack Obama said that although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

The shooting incident, which resulted in the death of the alleged shooter and a rally attendee, and the injury of two others, raises concerns about the security of presidential candidates and their associates.

A former top-ranking Secret Service official told theGrio that security at the White House would absolutely be enhanced in the wake of the shooting incident involving Trump in the city of Butler.

Armstrong Williams, a Republican strategist and close associate of former Trump administration official Ben Carson, told theGrio, It is amazing he [the shooter] got that close to the perimeter.

The Secret Service candidate protective detail is expected to step up security support for the Democratic and Republican presidential candidates. However, as of Saturday evening, the Secret Service had not reached out to West to step up his security. The activist thought leader and presidential candidate told theGrio, I will be alright. I have the Holy Ghost and some friends. You know what I mean?

On Tuesday, President Biden will travel to Las Vegas for the NAACP National Convention. Leon W. Russell, the chair of the NAACP National Board of Directors, told theGrio, We will have the full range of local police, Secret Service, and our internal security for Bidens convention speech next week.

US President Joe Biden arrives to speak after his Republican opponent Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at an election rally in Pennsylvania, at the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, July 13, 2024. (Photo by SAMUEL CORUM / AFP) (Photo by SAMUEL CORUM/AFP via Getty Images) 

Many questions are swirling in the midst of the alleged Trump assassination attempt where a former Secret Service agent anonymously told theGrio, The question [is] how did a gun get in that close to a protectee? They added, Someone will be fired!

Like other former presidents, President Trump has a Secret Service protective detail. A second former Secret Service official who did not wish to be identified told theGrio that Trump has a Secret Service presence similar to President Bidens.

Typically, entering a space where a president, vice president, or presidential candidate is present is not easy. Security searches are in place, including the use of magnetometers. At the White House, the magnetometers are accompanied by other detection devices, including organic detectors for deadly compounds.

A great concern swirls in the midst of this horrific moment as it is campaign season for both the Democratic and Republican parties. The Republican National Convention is being held in Milwaukee beginning on Monday, and the Democratic National Convention is slated for August in Chicago. Security is being stepped up in the wake of Saturdays shooting.

The Biden administration announced on Saturday night that President Biden would return to the White House instead of travels on the campaign trail. In response to the shooting, his campaign said it would pause all outbound communications and is working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible.

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After Trump shooting, if GOP, Democrats are actually against violence, they'll do this

Theyve all said the right things, because they all know what theyre supposed to say.

But in order to make it mean something, in order for it to have a chance to resonate in a way that people will believe it, even act on it, they need to say it together. Political rivals, side by side.

It could start with President Joe Biden and Donald Trump, of course.

Or it could start anywhere else. Even here in Arizona.

The message is meaningless unless you back it up

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is assisted by U.S. Secret Service personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024.

After the assassination attempt on Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, just about every politician and political commentator in America came forward with the same sentiment.

"Look, there's no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick," Biden said.Democratic Rep. Nancy Pelosi, D-Calif., the former House speaker, wrote on X: "I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society.

Republicans Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, also on X, said that "all Americans are grateful that President Trump appears to be fine after a despicable attack on a peaceful rally." Adding, Violence has no place in our politics.

Its the same message over and over. Its something wed like to believe.

Trump rally shooting: A moment to be thankful Trump is OK and unite to condemn violence

Can elected officials show actual civility, actual tolerance, actual respect?

But it needs to be said more openly, more forcefully, and together for that to happen. And it needs to be followed up with action. Money talks, the old saying goes, and BS walks.

In our little desert paradise it could begin with all 11 members of our congressional delegation, the six Republicans representatives, the three House Democrats, our Democratic senator and our independent senator, in a room, condemning violence and the violent rhetoric that might lead to it.

Together.

And meaning what they say.

Im not talking about kumbaya for kumbayas sake. Im talking about a demonstration of actual civility, actual tolerance, actual respect.

We don't need more division: Republicans should not fall into the trap of blaming Democrats after Trump shooting

Put members of the Arizona delegation in a room, in front of cameras

The New York Times wrote an editorial Saturday with a headline saying The Attack on Donald Trump Is Antithetical to America, while admitting in the same editorial that according to a recent survey by the Chicago Project on Security and Threats that 10 percent of respondents agreed that the use of force was justified to prevent Mr. Trump from becoming president, and 7 percent said the use of force was justified to return Mr. Trump to the presidency.

That doesnt sound very antithetical to me.

So, politicians need to show us that it is. They need to prove it. If Trump and Biden are reluctant to do so just now, politicians in places like Arizona, who support Trump and who support Biden, can do so.

Kari Lake's shooting response was right: Pray that shooting of Trump will unite America to rethink our angry division

Get in the same room, in front of cameras, and talk about it, demonstrate it  Sens. Mark Kelly and Kyrsten Sinema, Reps. David Schweikert, Eli Crane, Ruben Gallego, Greg Stanton, Andy Biggs, Juan Ciscomani, Raul Grijalva, Debbie Lesko and Paul Gosar.

Before the country can come together in peace our politicians need to come together in peace. For real. They dont have to hold hands. They dont have to sing kumbaya.

They have to do something much more important than that. They have to convince us they mean it.

Then  and this is the really hard part  theyll have to live it.

Reach Montini at ed.montini@arizonarepublic.com.

For more opinions content, please subscribe.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: After Trump shooting, Republican, Democrat rivals need to act
The attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump on Saturday wasnt the first time someone tried to kill him, but it was apparently the closest anyone came to doing so.

In September 2017, while Trump was president, a man suffering a serious psychiatric crisis took to a forklift with plans to kill him inside the presidential limousine during a visit to an oil refinery in Mandan, North Dakota.

The gunman in Butler, Pennsylvania, killed at least one spectator and two others were in critical condition stemming from the gunfire. Secret Service agents killed the shooter, identified late Saturday as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. No information about a motive was immediately available.

Trump was wounded in an incident that adds another chapter to Americas long history of political violence involving presidents and those seeking the office.

Four sitting presidents have been assassinated in the nations history. Three presidents, including Trump, were wounded from attacks, with two of them happening after they left office.

Beyond that, there are numerous cases with varying degrees of success in carrying out attacks on presidents or candidates.

It is a dark part of American history, that ranges from the assassination of President Abraham Lincoln during the Civil War to the critical wounding of President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

Presidential candidates, from Robert F. Kennedy, who was shot to death in 1968, to George Wallace, who was paralyzed from a gunshot in 1972, have faced violence, too.

Its hard to catalog the attempts on presidents and candidates, partly because many efforts fail without notice.

The Mandan incident, for example, passed largely unnoticed at the time because Gregory Lee Leingang never got close to Trump or his motorcade. Even so, Leingang reportedly received a year of supervised release for steps taken on a plan to flip the presidents car and kill him.

In May 2023, Nazi sympathizer Sai Varshith Kandula of St. Louis drove a U-Haul truck into a barrier near the White House in a failed plan to take over the government, including killing President Joe Biden if needed. He is scheduled to be sentenced next month for his effort.

In other cases, the attempt came worryingly close but still failed.

In 2013, James Everett Dutschke of Tupelo, Mississippi, sent a letter laced with the deadly toxin ricin to President Barack Obama, though it never reached him. Dutschke is serving a 25-year prison sentence.

In 2005, Vladimir Arutyunian, a Georgian national, threw a live hand grenade on stage at an event in Tibilisi, Georgia, that included President George W. Bush and Georgias president, Mikheil Saakashvili. The grenade failed to detonate.

No case has drawn more attention and cast a longer shadow over the nation than the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy in Dallas.

President Kennedy's motorcade approximately one minute before the first shot was fired at him in Dallas in 1963. In the car riding with Kennedy are Mrs. Jacqueline Kennedy and Gov. and Mrs. John Connally of Texas.

It happened during the tense Cold War and spawned a never-ending supply of conspiracy theories that trail the incident to this day.

Three others died before Kennedy.

Lincoln was shot to death at a play in Washington, D.C., by Confederate loyalist John Wilkes Booth.

Charles Guiteau killed President James Garfield in 1881 in Washington, D.C. Guiteau had symptoms of mental illness, and some consider him a psychopath.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an anarchist, killed President William McKinley in Buffalo in 1901.

Before Saturdays attempt, Reagan was the last president or candidate to face gunfire, when he was wounded in March 1981 outside a Washington, D.C., hotel by John Hinckley. Hinckley spent 35 years in a psychiatric hospital before he was ordered released in July 2016.

President Gerald Ford escaped two attempted shootings in 17 days in September 1975. In one, Lynette Squeaky Fromme pulled the trigger on a pistol as Ford reached for her hand, but the loaded gun didnt have a round in the chamber.

In the other, Sara Jane Moore shot at Ford, but a bystander intervened as she did and the bullet missed its mark.

In 1950, two men advocating independence for Puerto Rico opened fire on the Blair House in Washington, D.C., where President Harry Truman was living at the time.

One died in the ensuing firefight and the other man was subdued before he reached the president. That man, Oscar Collazo, received a death sentence, but Truman spared his life by commuting his sentence to life in prison.

In 1933, President-elect Franklin Roosevelt was giving a speech from the back of a car in Miami when Giuseppe Zangara shot at him.

Bystanders sought to disarm Zangara, but he fired several more shots. Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak died in the incident and five others were wounded.

In 1912, former President Theodore Roosevelt offered the most strikingly similar incident to the one that unfolded Saturday.

Roosevelt was shot in the chest by John Schrank at a campaign event in Milwaukee. Like Trump, Roosevelt was attempting a political comeback when he was attacked.

Roosevelts eyeglass case and a lengthy speech in his pocket helped slow the bullet.

In an act of bravado that compares with Trumps defiant fist pumps on Saturday, Roosevelt finished his speech before receiving medical attention.

Besides the death of Robert Kennedy and the shooting of Wallace, at least one other potential candidate was shot to death.

Louisiana Gov. Huey Long was assassinated in 1935 by Carl Weiss, the son-in-law of a state judge who Long had just drawn out of job political redistricting.

Long was not a declared presidential candidate at the time, but President Franklin Roosevelt braced for his challenge, and Long had just penned a book, later released posthumously, called My First Days in the White House.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Trump shooting joins a list of presidential assassinations, attempts
A Ukrainian national who was on the FBI's most wanted list for nearly a decade was sentenced to federal prison time Thursday in a Lincoln courtroom for a malware scheme that caused tens of millions of dollars in losses.

The U.S. Department of Justice described Vyacheslav Igorevich Penchukov as a leader of two prolific malware groups that infected thousands of computers with malicious software.

He was arrested in Geneva, Switzerland, in 2022 and extradited to the U.S. last year.

In February, Penchukov, 38, pleaded guilty to conspiracy to commit racketeering in Nebraska and wire fraud in North Carolina as part of a plea agreement in which both sides agreed to a nine-year prison sentence.

There is no parole in federal prison.

At sentencing, Assistant U.S. Attorney John Higgins said the government was seeking $75,667,360 in restitution and that, as part of the deal, Penchukov agreed to forfeit $41,522,748, covering the full amount of loss connected to the Nebraska case and 36% of the loss in the North Carolina case.

Penchukov offered an apology to anyone affected by his cybercrime activity. He said he had gotten involved in criminal activity at a young age.

"And I didn't think about the possible consequences, and I didn't think that real people were behind those computers," he said.

Penchukov said only when we arrived in the United States did he "realize the real situation."

Now, in phone calls, his young son asks him when he'll get to come home and when the war in Ukraine will be over. He said following his sentencing that he hoped to be able to give him at least one answer.

The Department of Justice said Penchukov, also known as "Tank," helped lead a wide-ranging racketeering enterprise and conspiracy that infected thousands of business computers with malicious software known as "Zeus" beginning in 2009.

After installing "Zeus" on victims computers, the schemers used the malicious software to capture bank account information, passwords and PINs and other information necessary to log into online banking accounts.

At least two businesses in Nebraska and Iowa were targeted by Zeus malware in 2009 and 2010, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. In one case, a Council Bluffs business had nearly $60,000 removed from its account with First National Bank of Omaha by someone posing as an employee.

Two other Ukrainian men indicted alongside Penchukov in 2012 were extradited to the U.S. from the United Kingdom in 2014 on charges related to the Zeus ransomware. Multiple others alleged to have been involved remain on the FBI's most wanted list.

Beginning in 2018, according to the DOJ, Penchukov and co-conspirators began another scheme using a malware known as IcedID or Bokbot, activated when victims opened attachments in spam emails.

In October 2020, the University of Vermont Medical Center fell victim to the scheme, resulting in a loss of over $30 million and leaving the medical center unable to provide many critical patient services for more than two weeks.

Top Journal Star photos for July 2024
TOPEKA (KSNT)  Former president Donald Trump is fine after a shooting at his campaign rally forced him off the stage.

27 News Political Analyst Bob Beatty joined KSNT in discussion to the assassination attempt of former President Trump.

Beatty says that since Trump is okay, there can be discussions on what this means politically for the upcoming election.

Since former president Trumps campaign has been about defending America and taking on what he calls the Deep State, Saturdays events will only help his campaign.

Going right into the convention. It will invigorate his supporters, invigorate himself, Beatty said. As horrible as this is, this will make Donald Trump and as his campaign even more determined to win this election.

This coming with the Republican National Convention starting in just two days, Monday, July 15.

As for the standing President Joe Biden, Beatty says this could take away some of the noise he has been receiving following the debate.

Does this take away from the impetus and drive by the Democrats who want to have Joe Biden step down, Beatty said. The focus of the nation is on Donald Trump and does that take away from the momentum that was seemingly building of the people that wanted to replace Joe Biden?

Beatty adds todays news could, ironically, lead to more civil race amongst the two candidates.

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Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage after apparent gunshots rang out as he spoke to supporters at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. He appeared to have blood on his face, but was quickly confirmed to be "fine."

At least one person at the rally, who officials have not identified, was killed in the shooting. Another individual was in serious condition.

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, CNN, the Associated Press and other news outlets reported.

There has been no shortage of New Mexico leaders, both in Santa Fe and in Washington ton, D.C., who responded to the events at the rally via social media.

In a joint statement from New Mexico Senate Republicans, Senate Republican Leader Greg Baca (R-Belen), Senate Republican Whip Craig Brandt (R-Rio Rancho), and Senate Republican Caucus Chair Mark Moores (R-Albuquerque) issued the following statement:

We are deeply shocked and outraged to learn about the assassination attempt of President Trump. This senseless act of violence is an attack not only on our President, but on the very fabric of our democracy.

"This fraught moment in American history warrants solidarity. We must stand united against violence lest we degrade into a third world country. We must let the law enforcement agencies do their work to bring the perpetrators to justice and ensure the safety of our nation. Now more than ever, it is crucial for us to uphold the principles of peace, justice, and the rule of law.

In a news release from New Mexico's GOP Chair Steve Pearce said, ""We are praying that President Trump was not severely harmed by the attack and for the other citizens who also may have been injured at his rally. This is despicable behavior, that we as nation must condemn."

New Mexico's Congressional delegation say violence unacceptable

New Mexico's Congressional delegation has also offered posts that condemned violence while expressing well wishes for former President Trump's recovery.

There is NO place for violence in political discourse.



While we wait for more information on what happened in Butler, PA today, we must be clear: We can disagree on any number of things, but violence will never be tolerated.  Martin Heinrich (@SenatorHeinrich) July 13, 2024

On X, House Rep. Gabe Vasquez said "Gun violence has no place on our streets, in politics or in the Democratic discourse. As information continues to unfold, let me be clear that I strongly condemn acts of violence against anyone, regardless of political party. I wish President Trump a safe & speedy recovery as well as anyone involved in this incident."

"I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery and send my prayers to him, his family, and anyone else who was affected by this cowardly act. No matter how much we disagree, violence never has a place in our democracy," House Rep. Teresa Leger Fernandez posted on X.

This article originally appeared on Las Cruces Sun-News: Trump shooting: New Mexico politicians react following shooting at Pennsylvania rally
Trump shooting shocks, but a gunman striking terror in the U.S. is nothing new. Now what?

A member of the Trump campaign and members of the crowd are seen at former President Trump's rally on Saturday in Butler, Pa., after a gunman opened fire nearby. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

The attempt on former President Trump's life at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday felt familiar in a uniquely American way.

The shooter trained his AR-style rifle on people gathered far from his rooftop perch, echoing the mass shooting in 2017 in which a gunman opened fire on a music festival from the 32nd floor of a Las Vegas hotel.

Law enforcement officials said the shooter was 20 years old and got the gun he used from home  just like so many other young shooters who have left bloody trails through this nation's schools and churches, bars and other community gathering places.

"Time and time again our communities are shaken by acts of gun violence that have invaded what should be our safe places," said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of the gun control advocacy organization Moms Demand Action. "But they are a consequence of our country's weak gun laws and guns everywhere culture  laws that allow hate to be armed with a gun to easily take someone else's life."

Amid denouncements of political violence from leaders and average Americans on both sides of the political aisle, the nation's great gun divide felt newly raw Sunday  but hardly changed. Despite their presidential candidate nearly being shot dead, there were no outward calls from leading Republicans for the party to ease its ardent support of gun rights.

Still, the shooting provided a new and particularly powerful example of yet another American institution  this time the electoral process  falling victim to the vast proliferation of modern firearms. And that could matter as courts across the country and in California continue to weigh when, where and why such weapons may be restricted, if at all.

Right now, federal courts are considering challenges to a California law banning exactly the sort of AR-style rifle used by the alleged shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa.; another banning people Crooks' age and younger from possessing firearms; and a third barring people from carrying firearms into an array of "sensitive" places  including public gatherings and special events.

A person is removed by state police from the stands after a gun was fired at Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday. (Rebecca Droke/AFP via Getty Images)

Like the Vegas shooting, in which a gunman killed almost 60 people and injured hundreds of others, the attack Saturday raised questions about how to define such sensitive places, and how to determine whether a certain type of firearm or accessory is so dangerous that it falls outside the protections of the 2nd Amendment, legal experts said.

Such questions hold added weight in the wake of the U.S. Supreme Court's 2022 decision in the case of



New York State Rifle & Pistol Assn. vs. Bruen, in which the high court said most gun laws are legitimate only if they are rooted in the nation's history and tradition or are sufficiently analogous to some historic law.

In October, U.S. District Judge Roger Benitez, of San Diego, citing the high court's Bruen decision, ruled that California's ban on the sort of AR-style weapon used Saturday was unconstitutional because it was not rooted in history  and because assault-style rifles are sufficiently common and not uniquely dangerous.

"Like the Bowie Knife which was commonly carried by citizens and soldiers in the 1800s," Benitez wrote at the start of his decision, " 'assault weapons' are dangerous, but useful."

Of course, assault rifles are far more dangerous than Bowie knives, with a vastly different range for inflicting harm. Federal authorities, for example, said Crooks shot Trump from an "elevated position outside of the rally venue"  which the Washington Post estimated was about 430 feet from where Trump was speaking.

Darrell A.H. Miller, a professor at University of Chicago Law School who studies 2nd Amendment law, said there is a "fairly well established" legal tradition declaring political rallies and other electoral events as sensitive places where guns can be prohibited.

However, Saturday's shooting raised new questions about the scope of such restrictions and others like it  and about the nature of "sensitive places" and how their boundaries can and should be defined, he and other experts said.

"Sensitive places doctrine, to the extent that it is currently being developed, may need to be attentive to changes in firearm technology over the last 200 years," Miller said in an interview Sunday.

Legal experts said the shooting could also help gun control advocates argue that such high-powered, long-range weapons are uniquely dangerous, even if they are commonly owned, and that bans on them in California and elsewhere are therefore in line with other longstanding bans on particularly dangerous weapons such as machine guns.

Steve Gordon, a retired Los Angeles Police Department special weapons team officer and sniper, said the shot that struck Trump was not particularly difficult with a little training, despite the distance.

"That type of rifle is standard issue to the police/military and that is not a difficult shot to make with that weapon system," Gordon told The Times.

Congressional Republicans and the Biden administration have said Saturday's shooting will be investigated thoroughly, including to determine if anything could have been done differently to prevent it. What may come of those probes is unclear.

Trump's shooting also could be cited as another data point  a historically monumental one  in support of laws, such as California's, that bar the sale of such weapons to those under 21, regardless of whether Crooks personally bought the weapon or not.

Gun control advocates could use the added evidence of the unique threat that high-powered, long-range weapons pose in the hands of unstable young men, particularly given the uphill battle they face in defending firearms restrictions post-Bruen.

The U.S. Supreme Court recently ruled that domestic abusers can be precluded from possessing firearms, but it has ruled against firearms regulations in other instances. Just last month, the high court struck down a federal ban on bump stocks  an accessory that enables gunmen to fire off rounds much more rapidly, and which were used in the Vegas shooting.

Courts aside, Trump's shooting has entered the national gun debate in a major way.

For example, when the National Rifle Assn. offered prayers to Trump, law enforcement and others at the rally in a post on the social media platform X, Shannon Watts  a co-founder of Moms Demand Action and the affiliated group Everytown  responded with a bristling retort suggesting hypocrisy on the NRA's part.

"The NRA's extremist agenda ensured a 20 year old would-be assassin had access to a weapon of war, rendering even the most highly trained security forces incapable of protecting anyone  from school children to former presidents," Watts wrote.

She then noted that such weapons have been used in recent years to murder people at a grocery store in Buffalo, N.Y., a nightclub in Orlando, Fla., and schools across the country, including Santa Fe, N.M.; to Uvalde, Texas; and Parkland, Fla.

Others made similar connections.

"If you keep talking about the assassination attempt don't you dare tell the kids who survive school shootings and their families to 'just get over it,' " wrote David Hogg, a survivor of the shooting that killed 17 and wounded others at his Parkland high school in 2018.

Hogg was apparently referring to comments Trump made about the need to "get over" a school shooting in Iowa earlier this year, which were roundly condemned by gun control advocates and survivors.

What happened Saturday was "unacceptable," Hogg wrote, but so is "what happens every day to kids who aren't the president and don't survive."

Times staff writer Richard Winton contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.
When will Donald Trump speak at RNC? When to expect former president to take the stage

Donald Trump is still expected to appear at the 2024 Republican National Convention this week, days after an assassination attempt at his Pennsylvania rally.

The former president is scheduled to join politicians, celebrities and his own family members at the convention in Milwaukee, where he is expected to be officially nominated by the party for president and announce his vice president running mate.

The RNC kicks off in Milwaukee on Monday, just days after a bullet grazed Trump's ear at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Popping sounds rang out amongst the crowd, and Trump was swept off stage by Secret Service agents. The gunman, identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was shot and killed by agents.

The shooting left some Trump supporters wondering if he will still speak at the convention.

Here's what to know.

When will Donald Trump speak at RNC 2024?

Trump is expected to address delegates on Thursday evening, the last day of the convention, when he is formally nominated by Republicans to be the next president of the United States.

In a joint statement released Saturday evening, the Trump campaign and RNC said Trump "looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States."

Trump also said on Truth Social that he plans to speak at the convention.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin, he wrote in a post Saturday after the shooting.

It is believed that Trump might reveal his VP pick at the convention on Wednesday.

Former first lady Melania Trump is expected to join her husband in Milwaukee, though it's unknown whether she will speak to delegates.

When does the RNC start?

The 2024 Republican National Convention starts Monday in Milwaukee.

RNC 2024 schedule

See the full 2024 RNC schedule.

Where is Donald Trump?

Trump flew back to New Jersey, where he has a home, on Saturday after the shooting.

The former president was scheduled to fly to Milwaukee for the convention on Sunday. However, it's not clear if he stuck to those travel plans.

When is Donald Trump's next rally?

Trump's campaign website does not list any upcoming events.

This article originally appeared on Cincinnati Enquirer: When will Donald Trump speak at RNC 2024? Everything to know.
(Bloomberg) -- The Republican National Convention was always going to be a high-security event.

Most Read from Bloomberg

The convention, which opens Monday and is expected to draw over 50,000 attendees, is now under even closer scrutiny after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump over the weekend at a campaign rally.

The US Secret Service, in coordination with local, state, and federal law enforcement agencies, on Sunday reaffirmed the robust security plans. Key venues such as the Fiserv Forum, Panther Arena, and the Baird Center  all located within blocks of each other  are focal points of an extensive security cordon. Stricter measures including vehicle checkpoints, pedestrian restrictions, and limitations on public transit have also been created to safeguard the four-day event.

Milwaukee Police Chief Jeffrey Norman emphasized the citys readiness at a press briefing on Sunday. I just want to reassure not only our greater community, those involved at the convention, but also our city, we got this, said Norman.

Trump even moved up his schedule to arrive on Sunday, saying that he initially considered delaying his trip to the convention by two days but ultimately proceeded with his scheduled departure.

I have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else, he posted on Truth Social.

The event brings together the Republican party and will include the unveiling of Trumps vice presidential pick. The frontrunners are widely seen as Florida Senator Marco Rubio, North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum and Ohio Senator JD Vance. Trump has also invited his one-time 2024 rival, former UN Ambassador Nikki Haley to attend the convention in a show of unity, people with knowledge of the matter said.

Businesses in the vicinity were already bracing for a variety of protests, reflecting the countrys deep political divisions. The Coalition to March on the RNC, comprising dozens of different groups, had announced large-scale demonstrations to voice opposition to Republican policies, support for issues ranging from LGBTQ+ rights to immigration and to protest the Israel-Hamas war.

To bolster security measures, additional law enforcement personnel from across Wisconsin and Chicago have been deployed and officials outlined restricted perimeter zones around convention venues.

Weve been working on the RNC security plan for more than a year and have been in constant coordination with our partners and the Republican National Committee, said Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the RNC coordinator for the Secret Service.

Some companies in the area are taking extra precautions. Accenture, located just blocks from the convention hub, reminded employees on Sunday that its downtown Milwaukee offices will be closed this week.

Your safety and well-being are a priority, Accentures North America chief Manish Sharma said in an email to employees titled Shooting at Trump Rally.

Last month, the consulting giant informed Milwaukee and Chicago employees that offices would close during their respective Republican and Democratic conventions due to possible disruptions and local protests.

In response to the latest security concerns, Comedy Centrals The Daily Show canceled its planned filming in Milwaukee on Monday, opting to resume production in New York City the following day.

The Secret Service closed major roads, including the Hoan Bridge, for the Red, White and Brew event at Henry Maier Festival Park on Sunday night. The gathering featured a performance by country music star Trace Adkins.

Previously announced security measures by the US Secret Service indicated the convention would have two perimeters: an outer zone allowing some pedestrian access with vehicle-screening checkpoints, and a more restrictive inner perimeter limited to credentialed personnel or ticket holders.

In a state where open carry of firearms is permitted, officials on Sunday acknowledged that some firearms may be allowed within the outer perimeter.

In other parts of the country, Trumps top campaign advisers Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles advised RNC staffers in Washington and West Palm Beach to avoid those offices as they assess the safety of the locations.

Further out, the incident on Saturday evening, which resulted in the deaths of one rally-goer and the shooter, may also influence preparations for the Democratic National Convention in Chicago next month.

The Chicago Police Department said its working with the federal authorities as it closely monitors developments stemming from the Pennsylvania rally shooting.

As always, CPD will assess and adjust resources as necessary in real-time, based on intelligence and what we are seeing on the ground to protect the entire city, the police department said in a post on X.

--With assistance from Stephanie Lai, Alicia Diaz, Alex Newman and Dave Merrill.

(Updates with Trump arrival in fifth paragraph)

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2024 Bloomberg L.P.
PALM COAST  A day after former President Donald Trump was injured in an assassination attempt at a rally in Pennsylvania, about 30 people gathered to show their support, waving American and Trump flags Sunday.

Trumps supporters stood on the Matanzas Woods Parkway overpass above the northbound lanes of Interstate 95 in the early afternoon heat as a thunderstorm rolled slowly in from the north. They wore Trump T-shirts, Trump hats and waved Trump 2024 flags.

They attached banners and American flags to the fence along the walkway above the overpass.

The Trump supporters were greeted by frequent honks from cars and semi-trucks passing beneath them on I-95. Motorists driving by on Matanzas Woods Parkway also sounded their horns.

Volusia, Florida officials respond to apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump

Im pleased with the number of honks and support that weve had, said Carol Eddy of Palm Coast. Weve had very few middle fingers, but those are the people that we need to talk to, because its about making America great again.

She said the shooting at Trumps rally in Pennsylvania in which one person was killed and Trump and two others were injured, was very sad and "shocking."

I know after looking at it that God actually saved Donald Trumps life, Eddy said. "It was way too close."

Supporters of former President Donald Trump gathered on Sunday on the Matanzas Woods Parkway overpass at Interstate 95 in Palm Coast to wave American and Trump flags a day after Trump survived an assasination attempt in Pennsylvania.

FBI identified man who shot at Trump

The FBI has identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Crooks was killed by the Secret Service.

Crooks was a registered Republican in Allegheny County, according to a USA Today story. Records also show that he made a $15 donation in January 2021 to Progressive Turnout Project, which works to increase voter turnout for Democrats, the story stated.

Carol Richart of New Smyrna Beach made the drive to Palm Coast where she picked up a friend and then went to the rally at the overpass.

She said the shooting at the Trump rally was a very sad day but she was impressed with how it was handled.

Everyone stayed so calm, Richart said. I was just so impressed with how the Secret Service handled that and the way his followers really there was no chaos everybody was calm. Im just very proud to be a patriot of this country and a patriot of Donald Trump.

Some question security at Trump rally

But Werner and Carolyn Adam of Palm Coast were not impressed with security forces at the rally. They referred to reports that someone had seen the gunman and warned police.

What I dont understand is why the marshals and why the police and so on and so forth didnt take heed of the people that were pointing out the shooter, Werner Adam said.

Big fail, Carolyn Adam said

It was a big fail, Werner Adam agreed.

He said they were at the gathering to show their support.

We are here in solidary for the United States, for the Republican Party, for the conservatives, for Donald Trump and for Flagler County and Florida, Werner Adam said.

Supporters of former President Donald Trump gather Sunday, July 14, 2024, to wave American and Trump flags on the Matanzas Woods Parkway overpass at Interstate 95 in Palm Coast, one day after an attempted assassination on Trump at a Pennsylvania rally.

How has the reaction been from passing motorists?

Fantastic, Werner Adam said.

Even the fire truck likes us, said Carolyn Adams, referring to a passing Palm Coast Fire Engine that had just honked its horn.

Joe Gazdzik, a 20-year Army veteran, was holding up a sign that said Veterans for Trump.

"It was shocking, absolutely shocking. I couldn't belive it. Someone would go to that low to shoot a presidential candidate," Gazdzik.

Sharon Demers, of Palm Coast, a state executive committee member for the Republican Party of Florida, said she has attended Trump rallies.

"I cannot believe that a sniper was able to get that close to the rally," Demers said. "Something went wrong."

Said she was at a church doing voter registration when she received a text message that Trump had been shot.

I was horrified. I was so afraid for everyone there and our president. And I thought Oh my goodness, thank God hes so animated, turns his head when he talks and doesnt stare at the teleprompter. And I just think that the hate thats been driven up in our country is just too much.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Trump supporters rally in Palm Coast day after assassination attempt
Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa., identified as alleged assailant by FBI. Corey Comperatore, 50, was also killed in the attack.

Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt Saturday night after a shooter opened fire at his campaign rally near Butler, Pa.

Trump sustained an injury to his right ear in the attack and was pictured with blood running down the side of his face, but his campaign soon after declared that he was "fine."

The FBI identified the suspected shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20. The Secret Service said he had been killed in the attack. Authorities have yet to establish a motive for the attack.

A man killed during the rally was identified as Corey Comperatore, 50. Two others  David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pa., and James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pa.  were admitted to the hospital for gunshot injuries but were in stable condition as of Sunday, according to the Pennsylvania State Police.

Here's what we know about the shooting.

Trump is safe following the attack

Former President Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents at a campaign rally. (Evan Vucci/AP)

Trump was rushed to a nearby hospital, and his campaign released a statement shortly afterward saying he was fine.

On Truth Social, Trumps social media platform, the former president later said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening.

On Sunday, Trump released another statement thanking people for their well wishes: "Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness."

Trump also said he looked forward to addressing the country at the Republican National Convention later this week.

The shooting happened shortly after the rally began

A gunman opened fire during Trumps rally Saturday night near Butler, in western Pennsylvania, at approximately 6:15 p.m. ET, shortly after the former president took the stage.

In video of the incident, multiple popping sounds can be heard before Trump grabs his right ear. Secret Service agents quickly rushed the stage, collapsing on top of Trump in a protective manner. After a few moments, someone is heard saying "shooter down, and the Secret Service agents let Trump stand up. The presumptive Republican presidential nominee can be seen bleeding from the area around his right ear and can be heard asking Secret Service agents to get his shoes as they start to whisk him away to his convoy. Trump also raises his fist defiantly to the crowd.

In a news conference late Saturday night, Pittsburgh Special Agent in Charge Kevin Rojek labeled the attack an assassination attempt.

The Secret Service, which is charged with protecting presidents, former presidents, and candidates for the office, described the incident as the following:

Here is the latest information from our investigation. We are grateful to the Secret Service team and our law enforcement partners for their swift action. Our thoughts go out to the families affected by this tragedy. pic.twitter.com/E8FazqtUVZ  Anthony Guglielmi (@SecretSvcSpox) July 14, 2024

The suspected shooter has been identified

The FBI released a statement early Sunday morning identifying the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pa. Authorities raided his home Sunday.

Two people were killed, three injured, including Trump

The alleged gunman, Crooks, was killed by the Secret Service. A male audience member identified Sunday as Comperatore also died in the attack. Attendees Dutch and Copenhaver were also shot and admitted to the hospital, but were stable as of Sunday afternoon. Trump was also grazed and bled from his ear, but said he was "fine."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro praised Comperatore as a hero during a Sunday news conference. The victim's sister also hailed him as a hero on Facebook.

"The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most," Dawn Comperatore Schafer wrote. "He was a hero that shielded his daughters. His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality."

There is no danger to the public

While the investigation is still ongoing, Pennsylvania State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens said there is "no reason to believe that there is any other existing threat out there." Investigators said late Saturday that they will continue to try to determine whether the suspect acted alone.

The investigation is ongoing, and Trump will speak at the RNC

FBI and Pennsylvania officials will continue their investigation jointly, with the FBI leading up the inquiry and local authorities handling the homicide and injuries to the rally attendees.

Rojek said they continue to pursue a motive for the shooting, as well. Officials labeled the location an active crime scene.

Law enforcement is also encouraging anyone at the rally or anyone who has any information about the incident to come forward.

Updated FBI statement on the ongoing incident that took place today in Butler, Pennsylvania. https://t.co/MfwVeYs3kF pic.twitter.com/6fWqcTbA1S  FBI (@FBI) July 14, 2024

As for Trump, he is set to address the country Thursday night when he formally accepts the Republican Party's nomination for president in Milwaukee.

 Read more

World leaders condemn shooting at Trump rally, denounce political violence. Leaders from multiple nations expressed shock at the incident, denounced political violence and wished Trump a quick recovery. [Reuters]

Republican National Convention security tightens following Trump assassination attempt. "The security measures currently include many blocks of street closures in all directions surrounding the arena, including K-rail barriers and metal barricades." [Fox News]

Four U.S. presidents were assassinated; others were targeted, as were presidential candidates. Before Saturdays apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting U.S. presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates. [Associated Press]

Shooting at Trump rally comes at volatile time in American history. "Authorities have reported a surge of threats against elected and appointed officials of both parties in recent years, as anger has come to dominate the political discourse." [New York Times]

Trump rally attendee says he saw alleged shooter "move from roof to roof.  Macer said he did not get a clear look at the alleged shooter, but reiterated that he saw him move from building to building. [CBS News]

Biden says hes grateful Trump is safe after rally shooting, denounces political violence. Its sick, the president added. [CNN]

Eyewitnesses describe scene at Trump rally shooting: Its pure insanity Eyewitnesses who spoke to CNN on Saturday described an awful scene following a shooting at former President Donald Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. [CNN]
BUTLER, PENNSYLVANIA - JULY 13: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER  Former President Donald Trump was recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

Authorities are investigating the incident as an assassination attempt, according to the Associated Press.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware. Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this.

A White House official said late Saturday that Biden had spoken to Trump, as well as to Shapiro and Butler Mayor Bob Dandoy.

LIVE: Sounds of multiple shots heard at Trump rally in Pennsylvania https://t.co/0htWSbaRrZ  Reuters (@Reuters) July 13, 2024

FBI personnel are on the scene in Butler County, Pennsylvania and the FBI will continue to work jointly with the U.S. Secret Service as the investigation moves forward, FBI Pittsburgh Public Affairs Officer Bradford Arick told the Capital-Star in an email.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bertha Cazy told the Capital-Star in an email The Pennsylvania State Police has Troopers on scene assisting the Secret Service in various capacities. All other questions should be directed to the U.S. Secret Service, the agency handling the investigation.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but that he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa) said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out to State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

In a joint statement Saturday evening, Trump campaign advisors Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita and Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley and co-chairman Lara Trump said Trump was doing well. President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

Later on Saturday, an FBI spokesperson said the agency had assumed the role of lead federal law enforcement agency in the investigation. We will continue to support this investigation with the full resources of the FBI, alongside our partners at the U.S. Secret Service and state and local law enforcement. Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to call our tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI.

In a second social media post shortly after 11 p.m., Shapiro said Trump had left Butler.

Federal law enforcement officials will continue to lead on the investigation into the shooting of former President Trump, Shapiro wrote. Pennsylvania State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting of the other victims. I have been in regular communication with law enforcement on the ground in Pennsylvania and have spoken with President Biden who offered his full support.

More coverage:

The post Trump safe after shooting at campaign rally in Butler; one spectator and suspected gunman killed appeared first on Iowa Capital Dispatch.
BURLINGTON  A second person has has accepted a plea offer in connection to a Downtown Burlington vandalism spree that left several storefronts damaged.

Rielly Smith, 19, pleaded guilty Friday to criminal damage to property and two counts of disorderly conduct, all misdemeanors.

In exchange for Smiths guilty plea, the Racine County District Attorneys Office agreed to drop one felony count of criminal damage to property and other misdemeanor charges.

Racine County Circuit Judge Toni Young approved the agreement and ordered Smith to make restitution to the damaged businesses and pay $300 in fines.

Smiths agreement is virtually identical to the plea deal reached in May with Mason Wilson, 19, who also was charged in connection to the vandalism.

The two were accused of damaging windows at several Burlington storefront businesses May 1, 2023. Prosecutors alleged that Smith used a BB gun to shoot at storefronts and that Wilson encouraged the vandalism.

Smiths defense attorney Nathan Jurowski said the two plea deals were structured so that the defendants share responsibility for making a combined $10,000 in restitution to the businesses.

Jurowski, who did not represent Wilson, said Smith realizes what a stupid mistake the vandalism was, and he hopes to regain the communitys trust by paying the penalty.

Hes incredibly apologetic and remorseful, Jurowski said. He definitely recognizes that he hurt people, and he wants to apologize for that.

'I'm feeling violated and angry': Downtown Madison businesses bearing brunt of community outrage Brennan Sheedy John Hutchinson Martha Askins T.J. Meadowcraft Geoff Kopski Josh Hurley Laura and Sachi Komai Sam Chehade Marcel Colbert Kai Cheng
Trump safe after shooting at campaign rally in Butler; one spectator and suspected gunman killed

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, Pa.  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said.

Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m. ET, several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the U.S. Secret Service, said in a statement that a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue.

U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased, Guglielmi said. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this.

Biden said he had tried to contact Trump and that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

Officials with the FBI and Pennsylvania State Police said their agencies were assisting the U.S. Secret Service in the investigation.

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on X he had been briefed on the situation.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was difficult to tell where the shots came from, but he said he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood, he said. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of this fan so they could get the care they needed.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row, to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

As Trump rallied in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, first lady Jill Biden was also in the region to attend an Italian Sons and Daughters of America dinner in Pittsburgh. And in the eastern half of the commonwealth, Vice President Kamala Harris was in Philadelphia to deliver the keynote address at the Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall on Saturday.

Saturdays appearance in the Keystone State was Trumps fifth visit to Pennsylvania this year.

Butler is a reliably red county where Trump won by double digits in the 2016 and 2020 general elections. Trumps rally in Butler a few days before the 2020 presidential election was well-attended, although there were transportation issues for those attempting to exit the rally.

Biden also been no stranger to Pennsylvania, making 10 appearances the state so far, mostly in the southeast. Biden campaigned through the state last Sunday, appearing at a traditionally Black church in Northwest Philadelphia, and speaking to supporters in Philadelphia and Harrisburg.

This story was produced by Pennsylvania Capital-Star, a States Newsroom affiliate.
Trump taken off stage at Pennsylvania rally after possible gunshots heard

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, Pennsylvania  Shortly after former President Donald Trump took the stage at a rally Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania, at 6 p.m. Eastern time, several loud pops could be heard, and blood was visible on Trumps face as he was whisked off the stage. Multiple reports suggested the noises were gunshots, and video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

The event was to be his final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

The U.S. Secret Service chief spokesperson posted to Twitter shortly after the incident that The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available.

President Joe Biden has received an initial briefing on the incident, according to a White House pool report.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters, President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

 Steven Cheung, Trump spokesperson

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners.

Violence targeted at a political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

As Trump rallied in western Pennsylvania, first lady Jill Biden was also in the region to attend an Italian Sons and Daughters of America dinner in Pittsburgh.

And in the eastern half of the commonwealth, Vice President Kamala Harris was in Philadelphia to deliver the keynote address at the Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall on Saturday.

Possible gunshots at former President Trumps rally in Butler, PA. Secret Service escort Trump off the stage. pic.twitter.com/ckqyjF3S97  CSPAN (@cspan) July 13, 2024

Video of the shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. (C-SPAN via X)

Saturdays appearance in the Keystone State was Trumps fifth visit to Pennsylvania this year, but his first in the western half of the commonwealth. Trump has made two 2024 appearances in Philadelphia, once for a rally on Temple Universitys campus, and to deliver brief remarks at Sneaker Con in February. He also held a rally in the Lehigh Valley in April, and delivered a keynote address to a National Rifle Association gathering in Harrisburg in February.

President Joe Biden has also been no stranger to Pennsylvania, making 10 appearances in the state so far, mostly in the southeast. Biden campaigned through the state last Sunday, appearing at a traditionally Black church in Northwest Philadelphia, and speaking to supporters in Philadelphia and Harrisburg.

EDITORS NOTE: This developing story was last updated at 6:15 p.m. Eastern time.

Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, Penn.  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Trump briefly pumped his fist at the crowd before he left the stage. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. and appeared to confirm he was shot.

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

In a news conference late Saturday in Butler, Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh office, said the agency was taking the lead role in the investigation treating the incident as an assassination attempt.

Rojek said the identity of the alleged shooter is being withheld until the FBI can confirm his identity through biometrics such as DNA and fingerprints. He also said he could not provide a motive for the shooting yet.

The FBI has a tip line, 1-800-CALL-FBI, and set up a website, www.fbi.gov/butler, to request that rally attendees provide information, photos or videos that could assist the investigation.

Pennsylvania State Police confirmed all three shooting victims were adult men. Their identities were being withheld until relatives could be notified.

The FBI and state police confirmed that the location of the alleged shooter was outside of the safety perimeter the Secret Service established before the rally. No one from Secret Service was able to attend the late Saturday news conference, Rojek said.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware. Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this. Biden said he had tried to contact Trump, and said that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners.

Violence targeted at an political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but said he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of this fan so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row, to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Penn.) said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out the State Police to offer support.

Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

In a joint statement Saturday evening, Trump campaign advisers Susie Wiles and Chris LaCivita and Republican National Committee chairman Michael Whatley and co-chairman Lara Trump said the former president was doing well.

President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States, the statement read. As our partys nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again.

In a second social media post shortly after 11 p.m., Shapiro said Trump had left Butler.

Federal law enforcement officials will continue to lead on the investigation into the shooting of former President Trump, Shapiro wrote. Pennsylvania State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting of the other victims. I have been in regular communication with law enforcement on the ground in Pennsylvania and have spoken with President Biden who offered his full support.

Before the shooting

Speakers at the event ahead of Trump included representatives from the oil and gas industries, the mayor of Slippery Rock, and Sean Parnell, a former GOP candidate for U.S. Senate who received Trumps endorsement, but suspended his campaign in 2021 after his then-wife testified he had abused her and their children.

U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R-9th District) who took the stage to AC-DCs Thunderstruck told the audience Trump will deliver on his promises. Our border will be secure. He will end the gas backwards energy policy of the Biden administration and in Pennsylvania, natural gas will flow again. We will make manufacturing great again by being the most competitive place in the world to build things.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), whose district includes Butler, pointed to Bidens debate performance as evidence that the media has been lying to us about the presidents health.

Have you ever heard the term playing through the whistle? Playing it through the whistle means you keep on playing, you keep on doing what you have to do to win, Kelly said. You keep on going to make sure you dont lose. But I want to give you a different version: Wed better play it through the echo of the whistle. Playing through the whistle isnt enough, not with this crew that were fighting against right now.

McCormick, who is challenging three-term incumbent Casey, reiterated his claims that Casey votes with Biden 98% of the time.

I like to say Punxsutawney, because it reminds me of Punxsutawney, Bob, Bob Casey, that is who only comes out of his hole once every six years, McCormick said.

The lack of leadership, lack of moral clarity, an economy where 60% of Pennsylvanians are living paycheck to paycheck, and prices are up by more than 20% and is the result of the terrible, flawed policies of Joe Biden, the spending Bob Casey supported it every step of the way, he added.

McCormick repeated another familiar highlight of his campaign stump speech, pointing to the fentanyl crisis. For those of you who are Vietnam vets, we lost 53,000 veterans in eight years of war. We had two Vietnams last year in the United States from fentanyl, he said. This is a war against us.

McCormick also referenced Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in Russia in 2023, and Oakmont resident Marc Fogel, a teacher detained in Russia in 2021. Fogels mother said earlier in the week she was going to seek Trumps help in securing her sons release.

We need leadership thats going to stand up and bring Pennsylvanian Mark Fogel home to Pennsylvania, home to America. Thats what leaders do. Thats what a commander in chief does, McCormick said.

The Democratic National Committee rolled out a billboard in Butler to greet Trump on Saturday that jabs at the former presidents economic record. The billboard, with the words Donald Trump was a disaster for Pennsylvania, will be located at the end of the Pullman Viaduct, about 10 minutes away from the Butler Farm Show.

Pennsylvania voters remember Trumps failures and know exactly how much is at stake in November, DNC spokesperson Addy Toevs said in a statement. Thats why theyll reject Trump and his Project 2025 agenda, and once again send President Biden to the White House.

A DNC billboard appearing in Butler, Pennsylvania

As Trump rallied in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, first lady Jill Biden was also in the region to attend an Italian Sons and Daughters of America dinner in Pittsburgh.

And in the eastern half of the commonwealth, Vice President Kamala Harris was in Philadelphia to deliver the keynote address at the Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall on Saturday.

Saturdays appearance in the Keystone State is Trumps fifth visit to Pennsylvania this year, but his first in the western half of the commonwealth. Trump has made two 2024 appearances in Philadelphia, once for a rally on Temple Universitys campus, and to deliver brief remarks at Sneaker Con in February. He also held a rally in the Lehigh Valley in April, and delivered a keynote address to a National Rifle Association gathering in Harrisburg in February.

Donald Trump can take his twice-impeached, 34-time convicted, vowed-to-be-dictator-on-day-one, consumed by revenge, serial liar, Project 2025 self out of Pennsylvania and go back to his Mar-a-Lago golf course, Pennsylvania Lt. Gov. Austin Davis said in a statement Saturday. After he destroyed our economy, screwed over workers, and called for the termination of the Constitution written in our state, Pennsylvania voters will send him packing in November. Again.

Butler is a reliably red county where Trump won by double digits in the 2016 and 2020 general elections. Trumps rally in Butler a few days before the 2020 presidential election was well-attended, although there were transportation issues for those attempting to exit the rally.

President Joe Biden has also been no stranger to Pennsylvania, making ten appearances the state so far, mostly in the southeast. Biden campaigned through the state last Sunday, appearing at a traditionally Black church in Northwest Philadelphia, and speaking to supporters in Philadelphia and Harrisburg.

As of Saturday morning, 18 Democrats serving in the U.S. House and one serving in the U.S. Senate have called on Biden to not seek the Democratic Party nomination, following his poor debate performance in late June, amid questions about whether he can beat Trump in November.

Biden has repeatedly said he does not plan to drop out of the race, reiterating his position at a rally in Michigan on Friday, where he was greeted with chants of dont you quit and we got your back, from a crowd at Renaissance High School in Detroit.

You made me the nominee, no one else  not the press, not the pundits, not the insiders, not donors, Biden told the audience. You, the voters. You decided. No one else. And Im not going anywhere.

Support for the president

Pennsylvania Democrats have largely remained behind the Scranton native. Gov. Josh Shapiro, who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for president or vice president should Biden step aside, has remained committed to Bidens 2024 bid. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) has also emerged as a key campaign surrogate for Biden.

Casey, who is seeking a fourth term in office, has also stood by Bidens side, while other Democrats in battleground states have distanced themselves from him. On Friday, speaking to reporters after an event in Darlington Township, Beaver County, Casey reiterated his support for Biden, saying it had not changed.

I think were going to have a unified party between now and November, Casey said. This is a difficult period, but well get there. But you know where I stand.

McCormick has blasted the three-term senator for continuing to support Biden. His campaign put up billboards in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Scranton this week reading Same old tired ideas, with photos of the two Democrats.

In response to a question about whether he was worried about Biden being a potential drag on his Senate race and other down ballot races on Friday, Casey answered with a firm no.

Pennsylvania U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17th District) who also spoke at the event in Darlington with Casey, urged people to Google Project 2025, and what Donald Trump expects to do if he becomes president, again. It is dangerous, he said. It is threatening to our freedom and the fundamentals of our rule of law in this country. 

Deluzio added that he thinks Democrats will unite to make sure Trump is never the president of this country again.

However, U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-7th District) has expressed concern about Bidens electability and U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (D-12th District) has said Biden needs to show that hes up for the task of staying in the race.

Lee, who was scheduled to attend a Pittsburgh rally for Biden with Allegheny County Democrats on Friday but did not appear due to a schedule conflict, did not answer questions about Biden at an event in Pittsburgh with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Lee said she would not answer a political question while at an event where she was appearing in her capacity as a member of Congress, TribLive reported.

Pennsylvania GOP unites behind Trump

Trump, who was convicted of 34 felony counts in a New York courtroom in May, largely has united the Pennsylvania Republican Party behind his candidacy. With the exception of U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-1st District), every GOP member of the states congressional delegation has endorsed Trump; Fitzpatrick has not announced who he will be voting for in November. The only Republican in Pennsylvanias congressional delegation to represent a district Biden won in 2020, Fitzpatrick said he wrote in Mike Pence for president in 2016, but voted for Trump in 2020.

Pennsylvanias 19 electoral votes are critical to the candidates chances of winning in November. Biden campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon sent a memo to supporters listing Pennsylvania as one of the three blue wall states that provide the campaign the clearest pathway to reelection.

Recent polling indicates that Biden and Trump are engaged in a close race for Pennsylvania, although Trump holds a narrow edge. The Cook Political Report ranks Pennsylvania in the toss-up category. It has the largest number of electoral votes of any battleground state.

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This report was first published by Pennsylvania Capital-Star, part of the States Newsroom nonprofit news network. Its supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X.

The post Trump safe after shooting at campaign rally; one spectator and suspected gunman killed appeared first on Louisiana Illuminator.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

BUTLER, Pa.  Former President Donald Trump is recovering Saturday after a shooting at a campaign rally in Butler that left a rally-goer and the gunman dead, authorities said. Two people were critically injured in the incident, according to the U.S. Secret Service.

Shortly after Trump took the stage at about 6 p.m., several loud pops could be heard, and Secret Service agents whisked him off the stage, blood visible on his face. Video from the incident appeared to show Trump reacting to something hitting his ear.

Trump pumped his fist several times and said fight to the crowd to signal he was OK  causing cheers  after agents surrounded him to use their bodies as protection.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

Saturdays event was to be Trumps final campaign rally before he formally accepts the Republican Partys 2024 presidential nomination at next weeks Republican National Convention.

Trump posted to his verified account on the Truth Social platform at 8:42 p.m. that a bullet hit his ear.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured, Trump wrote.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the U.S. Secret Service released a statement to reporters shortly before 9 p.m. Saturday:

During Former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on the evening of July 13 at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. U.S. Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. U.S. Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe. One spectator was killed, and two spectators were critically injured. This incident is currently under investigation. and the Secret Service has notified the FBI.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger said on CNN that he shooter was outside of the grounds, so to speak. Quite frankly I dont know how he would have gotten to the location he was  were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

President Joe Biden condemned the shooting in a brief statement from Delaware Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Biden said.

Its sick, its one of the reasons we have to unite this country, he added. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this, we cannot condone this. Biden said he had tried to contact Trump, and said that the former president was with his doctors and appeared to be doing well.

FBI personnel are on the scene in Butler County, Pennsylvania and the FBI will continue to work jointly with the U.S. Secret Service as the investigation moves forward, FBI Pittsburgh Public Affairs Officer Bradford Arick told the Capital-Star in an email.

Pennsylvania State Police Trooper Bertha Cazy told the Capital-Star in an email The Pennsylvania State Police has Troopers on scene assisting the Secret Service in various capacities. All other questions should be directed to the U.S. Secret Service, the agency handling the investigation.

Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung told reporters Saturday President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow.

Gov. Josh Shapiro said on social media he had been briefed on the situation and that Pennsylvania State Police were on the scene working with federal and local partners. Violence targeted at any political party or political leaders is absolutely unacceptable, Shapiro wrote. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who spoke at the rally before Trump, told Fox News there were a number of shots, and Secret Service agents attended to Trump. He said it was hard to tell where the shots came from, but that he heard seven or eight shots.

And then, sadly, someone behind me, up in the bleachers was definitely wounded, and there was a lot of blood. And, you know, the police came in and helped carry that person out of the stands so they could get the care they needed. Im not sure if others were injured or not, if at all,  he said, describing the scene as very chaotic.

McCormick said he was sitting in the front row to Trumps right as he was facing the crowd. I couldnt tell whether it was one gun or two, but there were seven or eight shots, just one right, one right after another.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa) said he was monitoring the situation at the rally and had reached out to State Police to offer support. Political violence is never acceptable and I am hoping former President Trump and all attendees are safe. Everyone in Butler should listen to law enforcement, Casey posted to social media.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), who also spoke at the rally, called the shooting an attack from the left, in a Facebook post, adding that he and his family were safe and we are praying for Mr. Trump and everyone involved.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

This is a breaking story. Our earlier coverage continues below.

Speakers at the event ahead of Trump included representatives from the oil and gas industries, the mayor of Slippery Rock, and Sean Parnell, a former GOP candidate for U.S. Senate who received Trumps endorsement, but suspended his campaign in 2021 after his then-wife testified he had abused her and their children.

U.S. Rep. Dan Meuser (R-9th District), who took the stage to AC-DCs Thunderstruck told the audience Trump will deliver on his promises. Our border will be secure. He will end the gas backwards energy policy of the Biden administration and in Pennsylvania, natural gas will flow again. We will make manufacturing great again by being the most competitive place in the world to build things.

U.S. Rep. Mike Kelly (R-16th District), whose district includes Butler, pointed to Bidens debate performance as evidence that the media has been lying to us about the presidents health.

Have you ever heard the term playing through the whistle? Playing it through the whistle means you keep on playing, you keep on doing what you have to do to win, Kelly said. You keep on going to make sure you dont lose. But I want to give you a different version: Wed better play it through the echo of the whistle. Playing through the whistle isnt enough, not with this crew that were fighting against right now.

GOP U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who is challenging three-term incumbent Bob Casey, reiterated his claims that Casey votes with Biden 98% of the time. I like to say Punxsutawney, because it reminds me of Punxsutawney, Bob, Bob Casey, that is who only comes out of his hole once every six years, McCormick said.

The lack of leadership, lack of moral clarity, an economy where 60% of Pennsylvanians are living paycheck to paycheck, and prices are up by more than 20% and is the result of the terrible, flawed policies of Joe Biden, the spending Bob Casey supported it every step of the way, he added.

McCormick repeated another familiar highlight of his campaign stump speech, pointing to the fentanyl crisis. For those of you who are Vietnam vets, we lost 53,000 veterans in eight years of war. We had two Vietnams last year in the United States from fentanyl, he said. This is a war against us.

McCormick also referenced Wall Street Journal reporter Evan Gershkovich, who was detained in Russia in 2023, and Oakmont resident Marc Fogel, a teacher detained in Russia in 2021. Fogels mother said earlier in the week she was going to seek Trumps help in securing her sons release.

We need leadership thats going to stand up and bring Pennsylvanian Mark Fogel home to Pennsylvania, home to America. Thats what leaders do. Thats what a commander in chief does, McCormick said.

The Democratic National Committee rolled out a billboard in Butler to greet Trump on Saturday that jabs at the former presidents economic record. The billboard, with the words Donald Trump was a disaster for Pennsylvania, will be located at the end of the Pullman Viaduct, about 10 minutes away from the Butler Farm Show.

Pennsylvania voters remember Trumps failures and know exactly how much is at stake in November, DNC spokesperson Addy Toevs said in a statement. Thats why theyll reject Trump and his Project 2025 agenda, and once again send President Biden to the White House.

As Trump rallied in western Pennsylvania on Saturday, first lady Jill Biden was also in the region to attend an Italian Sons and Daughters of America dinner in Pittsburgh.

And in the eastern half of the commonwealth, Vice President Kamala Harris was in Philadelphia to deliver the keynote address at the Asian Pacific Islander American Vote Presidential Town Hall on Saturday.

Saturdays appearance in the Keystone State is Trumps fifth visit to Pennsylvania this year, but his first in the western half of the commonwealth. Trump has made two 2024 appearances in Philadelphia, once for a rally on Temple Universitys campus, and to deliver brief remarks at Sneaker Con in February.

He also held a rally in the Lehigh Valley in April, and delivered a keynote address to a National Rifle Association gathering in Harrisburg in February.

Butler is a reliably red county where Trump won by double digits in the 2016 and 2020 general elections.

President Joe Biden has also been no stranger to Pennsylvania, making ten appearances the state so far, mostly in the southeast. Biden campaigned through the state last Sunday, appearing at a traditionally Black church in Northwest Philadelphia, and speaking to supporters in Philadelphia and Harrisburg.

As of Saturday morning, 18 Democrats serving in the U.S. House and one serving in the U.S. Senate have called on Biden to not seek the Democratic Party nomination, following his poor debate performance in late June, amid questions about whether he can beat Trump in November.

Biden has repeatedly said he does not plan to drop out of the race, reiterating his position at a rally in Michigan on Friday, where he was greeted with chants of dont you quit and we got your back, from a crowd at Renaissance High School in Detroit.

You made me the nominee, no one else  not the press, not the pundits, not the insiders, not donors, Biden told the audience. You, the voters. You decided. No one else. And Im not going anywhere.

Support for the president

Pennsylvania Democrats have largely remained behind the Scranton native. Gov. Josh Shapiro, who has been mentioned as a potential candidate for president or vice president should Biden step aside, has remained committed to Bidens 2024 bid. U.S. Sen. John Fetterman (D-Pa.) has also emerged as a key campaign surrogate for Biden.

U.S. Sen. Bob Casey (D-Pa.), who is seeking a fourth term in office, has also stood by Bidens side, while other Democrats in battleground states have distanced themselves from him. On Friday, speaking to reporters after an event in Darlington Township, Beaver County, Casey reiterated his support for Biden, saying it had not changed.

I think were going to have a unified party between now and November, Casey said. This is a difficult period, but well get there. But you know where I stand.

McCormick has blasted the three-term senator for continuing to support Biden. His campaign put up billboards in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh and Scranton this week reading Same old tired ideas, with photos of the two Democrats.

In response to a question about whether he was worried about Biden being a potential drag on his Senate race and other down ballot races on Friday, Casey answered with a firm no.

Pennsylvania U.S. Rep. Chris Deluzio (D-17th District) who also spoke at the event in Darlington with Casey, urged people to Google Project 2025, and what Donald Trump expects to do if he becomes president, again. It is dangerous, he said. It is threatening to our freedom and the fundamentals of our rule of law in this country. 

Deluzio added that he thinks Democrats will unite to make sure Trump is never the president of this country again.

However, U.S. Rep. Susan Wild (D-7th District) has expressed concern about Bidens electability and U.S. Rep. Summer Lee (D-12th District) has said Biden needs to show that hes up for the task of staying in the race.

Lee, who was scheduled to attend a Pittsburgh rally for Biden with Allegheny County Democrats on Friday but did not appear due to a schedule conflict, did not answer questions about Biden at an event in Pittsburgh with U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Xavier Becerra. Lee said she would not answer a political question while at an event where she was appearing in her capacity as a member of Congress, TribLive reported.

Pennsylvania GOP unites behind Trump

Trump, who was convicted of 34 felony counts in a New York courtroom in May, largely has united the Pennsylvania Republican Party behind his candidacy.

With the exception of U.S. Rep. Brian Fitzpatrick (R-1st District), every GOP member of the states congressional delegation has endorsed Trump; Fitzpatrick has not announced who he will be voting for in November.

The only Republican in Pennsylvanias congressional delegation to represent a district Biden won in 2020, Fitzpatrick said he wrote in Mike Pence for president in 2016 but voted for Trump in 2020.

Pennsylvanias 19 electoral votes are critical to the candidates chances of winning in November. Biden campaign chair Jen OMalley Dillon sent a memo to supporters listing Pennsylvania as one of the three blue wall states that provide the campaign the clearest pathway to reelection.

Recent polling indicates that Biden and Trump are engaged in a close race for Pennsylvania, although Trump holds a narrow edge. The Cook Political Report ranks Pennsylvania in the toss-up category. It has the largest number of electoral votes of any battleground state.

Like SC Daily Gazette, Pennsylvania Capital-Star is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Pennsylvania Capital-Star maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Kim Lyons for questions: info@penncapital-star.com. Follow Pennsylvania Capital-Star on Facebook and X.
Donald Trump issued a statement Saturday night expressing gratitude to the U.S. Secret Service agents and law-enforcement officials who responded after the shooting that took place at his rally, in which he was injured while one rally attendee was killed and another wounded.

Here is Donald Trump's statement after shooting at Pennsylvania rally:

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

More news on Trump rally incident:

Florida Republicans, Dems offer prayers and resolve after Trump 'assassination' attempt

Florida Republicans and Democrats expressed outrage, defiance and resolve after what GOP leaders are calling an attempt to "assassinate" Donald Trump during a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday, July 13.

An initial statement from the Trump campaign thanked the first responders who rushed to the former president's aid.

Read the full reactions story here: Florida Republicans, Dems offer prayers and defiance after Trump 'assassination' attempt

Antonio Fins is a politics and business editor at The Palm Beach Post, part of the USA TODAY Florida Network. You can reach him at afins@pbpost.com. Help support our journalism. Subscribe today.

This article originally appeared on Palm Beach Post: Donald Trump makes statement on social media on shooting at rally
The Secret Service is facing tough questions after an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump.

The powerful agency has rocked by scandals in recent years.

Security breaches and embarrassing indiscretions have occurred.

The Secret Service has been at the center of scandals in recent years.

Jaw-dropping breaches and embarrassing indiscretions ended the careers of some agents and led lawmakers to harangue top officials.

But all of those episodes pale to what will happen after Saturday's assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, a shocking breach that was an inch from utter disaster.

Trump was speaking at a rally in Pennsylvania when a gunman  later identified as a 20-year-old man from the area  opened fire at the former president.

Trump's ear was pierced by a bullet; a rallygoer near the president was killed before Secret Service agents shot and killed the would-be assassin.

Trump, President Joe Biden, and scores of other leaders praised the Secret Service for its quick response.

But already, it is becoming clear that the agency's task with keeping the president, former president, and other world leaders when they are in the US safe will face intense scrutiny.

As closely scrutinized as the agency has been, nothing has prepared it for what is likely to come.

Biden himself said Sunday he's ordered an independent investigation into the rally shooting.

And House Speaker Mike Johnson, the nation's most powerful Republican, quickly vowed that Congress would conduct a full investigation into what happened.

Lawmakers and experts alike have been shocked how the shooter was able to get close enough to the rally site that it was within shooting range.

"The seriousness of this security failure and chilling moment in our nation's history cannot be understated," House Homeland Security Committee Chairman Rep. Mark Green, a Tennessee Republican, said in a letter to Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas. "No assassination attempt has come so close to taking the life of a president or presidential candidate since President Reagan was shot in 1981." (The Secret Service is under the Homeland Security Department.)

The past scandals can also shed some light on some of the biggest issues plaguing the agency: shocking security lapses.

US Secret Service agents stayed at this hotel in Cartagena, Colombia, when several agents were found to have solicited prostitutes ahead of then-President Barack Obama's visit. Manuel Pedraza/AFP/Getty Images

Agents went wild while in Colombia for a presidential visit, including hiring prostitutes.

What happened: In April 2012, several Secret Service agents preparing for President Obama's visit to Colombia as part of the Summit of the Americas hired prostitutes.

The scandal rocked the agency to its core. President Obama, who repeatedly expressed his admiration for agents' bravery, said at the time he would be "angry" if the allegations were proved to be true.

The aftermath: Of the 13 agents suspected of soliciting prostitutes, six resigned or retired, according to an inspector general's report released roughly a year after the incident.

Four more had their security clearances revoked. The inspector general found that although individuals engaged in misconduct, there was no evidence "misconduct is widespread in USSS."

Journalist Carol D. Leonnig, who won a Pultizer Prize for her coverage of the Secret Service's scandals, later called into question the finding that Colombia episode was just a one-off incident.

"And in fact, what agents told me in the wake of this series of investigations, what they told me was this happened all the time," Leonnig later told NPR.

Secret Service Director Mark Sullivan, who retired not long after the scandal, testified to Congress that some of his agents "did some really dumb things."

A knife-wielding intruder makes it all the way into the East Room.

What happened: In September 2014, Omar J. Gonzalez, who was carrying a knife, jumped the fence and got into the White House. President Barack Obama was not home at the time of the incident. Gonzalez only made it into the White House briefly, but his actions came on the heels of 16 separate fence-jumping incidents in the five years before his brazen act, according to The New York Times.

The aftermath: Secret Service Director Julia Pierson was already embattled before the incident. In a separate scandal, an armed security contractor had gotten onto an elevator with Obama. The combined weight of the scandals led Pierson to resign.

Two Secret Service agents, who had 'likely' been drinking, crashed a car on the White House grounds.

What happened: In March 2015, two Secret Service agents crashed a car on the White House grounds while the complex was under a heightened security state to investigate a suspicious package. Both agents were high-ranking, including Marc Connolly, the Deputy Special Agent in charge of the Presidential Protective Division (PPD.

Among Connolly's responsibilities was handling "all aspects of White House security."

Homeland Security Inspector General John Roth, a government watchdog, later concluded "it was more likely than not" that the agents' "judgment was impaired by alcohol." Roth's report found that the agents had attended a retirement party and run up quite the tab at a Washington, DC, bar before the incident. Neither of the agents alerted their supervisors of what happened. Both of the agents denied in their interviews with the inspector general that they had drank to excess.

The aftermath: Connolly announced his retirement ahead of the release of the inspector general's report. George Ogilvie, the assistant special agent in charge of the agency's Washington field office, was placed on administrative leave, according to The Guardian.

White House fencer jumper wanders the grounds for more than 15 minutes.

What happened: In March 2017, Jonathan T. Tran scaled multiple fences and was able to approach the White House's south portico just before midnight. President Donald Trump was asleep inside the residence at the time. Tran also looked into windows. Secret Service later apprehended him. He had cans of mace on him.

The aftermath: According to CNN, two Secret Service officers were fired after the incident. Tran had set off multiple alarms before he was discovered. A White House security review was also conducted. Before the breach, the Secret Service had already announced efforts to beef up the fence around the White House, including adding small spikes atop a six-foot fence, according to The Washington Post.

The Secret Service caught wind of threats before January 6.

What happened: According to the House January 6 committee, the Secret Service was among the federal agencies that received warnings that the far-right Proud Boys and Oath Keepers were planning for potential violence on January 6, 2021, during the joint session of Congress that was responsible for formally counting the Electoral College votes for the 2020 presidential election.

Agents were also praised for how they kept Vice President Mike Pence safe as rioters ransacked the Capitol. Pence declined to leave the Capitol complex, which his security detail advised him to do.

The aftermath: After the deadly attack on the Capitol, the Secret Service was also criticized after lawmakers asked for text messages sent around the time of the riot  which the agency said had been deleted.

The Secret Service denied any wrongdoing.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Sens. J.D. Vance (R-Ohio) and Marco Rubio (R-Fla.), two top contenders to become Trumps running mate, blamed the media and President Joe Biden immediately following former President Donald Trumps apparent assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination, Vance posted on X, formerly called Twitter, shortly after the incident Saturday.

Vances statement reflected the messaging from some Republicans in the aftermath of the shooting that Democrats are to blame because they sought to portray Trumps candidacy and the 2024 election as a referendum on democracy.

Bidens campaign did not immediately respond to a request for comment about Vances tweet.

Vance also posted a screenshot of a headline from CNN that described Trump as having fallen on stage as the story was developing. Absolute ghouls, Vance wrote, referring to the outlet.

Even in a horrifying moment such as this they just cant help themselves, Rubio wrote on X, sharing a screenshot of the same CNN headline. (The headline was updated as news developed.)

Vance and Rubio are two finalists for the role of Trumps 2024 running mate. Trump is reportedly set to announce his pick at this weeks Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.), whom Trump has also considered for his VP slot, blamed the other side too.

Congressman Scalise, Justice Kavanaugh, and now President Trump, Scott wrote on X, referring to the Republican congressman who was gravely wounded during a 2017 congressional baseball practice, as well as threats made against the conservative Supreme Court justice in 2022.

For years, Democrats and their allies in the media have recklessly stoked fears, calling President Trump and other conservatives threats to democracy. Their inflammatory rhetoric puts lives at risk, Scott added.

Other Republicans slammed breaking news coverage of the incident, which changes as more information becomes available.

These scumbags in the media are responsible for what happened today. People were shot (potentially killed) and this is what they claimed happened, Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (R-Ga.) wrote on X.

Rep. Mike Collins (R-Ga.) fanned the flames of a dangerous conspiracy, claiming baselessly that Biden  who made a brief address to the nation Saturday night condemning the attack  was behind whats being investigated as an attempt on Trumps life.

Joe Biden sent the orders, Collins wrote on X.

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination, he said in another post.

Related...
Trumpworlds RNC has begun in Milwaukee. Heres what to look out for

Donald Trump and the MAGA-fied Republican Party will take over the city of Milwaukee in Wisconsin this week as the GOP nominating convention takes place over four days.

At the top of every delegates mind this week? Saturdays surreal scene at a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, where a gunman was killed by the Secret Service after attempting to assassinate the former president in a shooting that left one spectator dead and two others seriously injured. An already momentous event will now be underscored by a new layer of security, as the country reels from one of the most shocking outbursts of political violence in decades.

Trump, having lost just one state in the months-long primary slog against Nikki Haley, Ron DeSantis and other opponents, is guaranteed to be his partys nominee when its all said and done. The former president will then embark upon his third bid for the White House, now under the cloud of 34 felony convictions (with three other criminal prosecutions on the way).

This weeks Republican National Convention will be informative not only for any drama that plays out on the convention floor, but also for what it says about the kind of general election campaign Trump will run over the 109 days between his acceptance of the nomination and the November election.

Trumps attempted assassination is likely to be a major topic of speakers and much talked about among attendees, which will include state and county-level Republicans from around the country. Heres what to look out for.

Running mate drama

The main story on day one: Who will be Donald Trumps running mate for the general election?

Sources inside Trumpworld have told journalists for weeks that the contest is down to three men: Marco Rubio, JD Vance, and Doug Burgum. The latter, a governor from North Dakota who dropped out early on from the 2024 GOP primary, is thought to be losing favor while the two senators Vance and Rubio are still duking it out for Trumps rose.

The four-day convention will also be a glimpse into the kind of administration Trump hopes to lead come January 2025. His opponent, Joe Biden, is facing an unprecedented rebellion within his own party after a shocking debate performance at the end of June during which Biden stumbled over his words and repeatedly lost his train of thought, unable to effectively rebut Trumps lies.

Joe Biden looks on as Donald Trump speaks during the first presidential debate of the 2024 general election in June (AFP via Getty Images)

Polling shows the incumbent president trailing in every swing state he won against Donald Trump in 2020. Thanks to current realities in the House and Senate, a Trump victory in November would likely be accompanied by respective Republican majorities in both chambers of Congress.

The shooting

Saturdays shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, is sure to shake up the presidential race and have a profound effect on politics in America during an already divided time.

The gunman, a 20-year-old whose motivations have not been identified, and his actions have already spawned a host of conspiracy theories as Republicans try to point fingers at Democrats for the violence.

Even as Trump and other prominent Republicans stay away from the more outlandish conspiracies being spread in the wake of the shooting, one can expect misinformation and speculation to play a major role this week. That much was evident in the response from JD Vance, one of the finalists who may be announced at Trumps running mate, on Saturday.

Today is not just some isolated incident, Vance posted on Twitter. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Winning back the battleground states

Expect efforts by Republicans to shmooze voters in battleground states  particularly Wisconsin, which is hosting the RNC and is one of the swing states won by Biden in 2020 in his victory over Trump that year. The incumbent president won the state by just one percentage point last time around, and last Thursday, Bidens campaign identified the state in a memo released to reporters as crucial once more to his path to victory this year.

Trump, meanwhile, insulted Milwaukee as a horrible city at a campaign rally earlier this year  but one can assume that he and others will take a stab at smoothing things over during the convention.

Trump has clearly noticed his sudden advantage, and held his fire for several days after his meetup with Biden in Atlanta. That pause quickly ended, however, with the former president asserting at a rally that Bidens convicted-felon son Hunter was running the show at the White House. The presidents adult son has indeed been reportedly managing his fathers communication with friends and outside advisers and has sat in on meetings at the White House, according to multiple officials.

Donald Trump dances onstage during his July 9, 2024 campaign rally at his golf resort in Miami, Florida (Getty Images)

Project 2025

With his opponent in apparent freefall, Trump has turned his attention to the RNC itself and tried to shield himself from the inevitable counter-punching from the Biden campaign and its allies. On Truth Social, the former president distanced himself from Project 2025, a blueprint for radically slimming down and transforming the federal government to fit a far-right conservative vision.

Numerous figures in and around Trumpworld including Trumps ex-aide John McEntee are connected to the project, which was crafted by a host of conservative groups led by the Heritage Foundation, a convention sponsor of the RNC.

Just how much attention Project 2025 and its supporters receive at the convention will be a sign of how much Trumpworld plans to be alligned with the far-right agenda.

Anti-abortion crusade

The actions and rhetoric of anti-abortion groups will be particularly illuminating this coming week. Theres an argument playing out in the media over whether the Trump/RNC 2024 campaign platform takes a direct stance on a national abortion ban.

The platform draft does not contain any language about support for passing legislation in Congress to ban or restrict the practice nationwide, but its inclusion of language supporting the fetal personhood argument  which posits that unborn fetuses have rights of due process under the Constitution  has led many Democrats to argue that the GOP is indicating its support instead for a total ban on abortion through the court system.

Anti-abortion crusaders have been split over the party platform, with groups like Students for Life Action and Susan B. Anthony Pro-Life America applauding what remains in the platform. Others, like Mike Pence, have condemned it as not extreme enough on abortion.

With Trump ascendant in the polls and his opponent facing unprecedented issues vexing his campaign, the relevance of the RNC will take on new weight as voters of all political stripes tune in to see what very well could be in store for American governance for the next four years.
A tryst or treason? How one night out with German POWs put two Michigan women behind bars

Editors note: This is the final story of a five-part series on the history of World War II POW camps in Michigan. Part 1, Part 2, Part 3 and Part 4 are available to read on woodtv.com.

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Overall, then-U.S. Army Chief of Staff Gen. George C. Marshalls plan for European prisoners of war during World War II was a success.

More than 400,000 enemy soldiers were brought stateside, humanely helped solve a manpower problem for farms and businesses and possibly even sped up the end of the grueling fight with the Germans.

But it wasnt perfect. Supervisors had to adjust some rules to keep prisoners safe from the hardcore Nazis who admonished the traitors who intentionally laid down their weapons. And some prisoners took the lax conditions around the camps too far.

Historian Greg Sumner, who literally wrote the book on the history of the World War II POW camps in Michigan, said it caused some headaches.

There were a handful of escape attempts, most of them utterly fruitless  like the pair of POWs who walked off the job while their guard was sleeping and jumped into Lake Allegan, thinking it was Lake Michigan. They crossed the lake only to find Michigan State Police waiting for them.

(The state police) said What the hell did you think you were doing? And they said, Well, we just swam (across) Lake Michigan. We were trying to get to Chicago. Somebody told us there would be some Germans there who would help us. They didnt understand how big the country was, Sumner told News 8. If somebody walked off or escaped for a few hours, they didnt usually get more than a couple of miles away.

POW camps kept Michigans farms, factories afloat during World War II

One escape attempt did cause a big problem  one that had prosecutors mulling treason charges and ultimately sent two young women to prison.

FRATERNIZING WITH THE ENEMY

Most jobs didnt offer much opportunity to chat with people of the opposite sex, but some did and many POWs used their limited opportunities to flirt and befriend the locals. Two prisoners and two young women quickly found the boundary for their fraternization  then rolled right past it.

We were in paradise: Were German prisoners coddled in World War II POW camps?

In the summer of 1944, Kitty Case, 20, and Shirley Druce, 19, had worked at the W.W. Roach Cannery in Owosso in Mid-Michigan. Like many other businesses, the cannery brought in more women to help fill the staffing gap with so many able-bodied men off fighting the war. Then they brought in the POWs.

A tent camp was set up at the Owosso Speedway, so prisoners could volunteer for jobs at farms, factories and other nearby businesses. Two German POWs, Gottfried Hobel and Erik Classen, took temporary jobs at the cannery; the rest is history.

One July day, Case and Druce, with Cases 17-year-old sister Phyllis behind the wheel, drove behind the cannery building and helped Hobel and Classen play hooky from work for a night out.

Ernsts story: How a German POW became a proud American

Nothing too serious happened. Phyllis Case, who claimed she was threatened by her sister, drove the foursome around for several hours before they ended up at Colby Lake, just outside the neighboring town of Corunna, splitting a couple of bottles of wine.

Phyllis Case, who lied and told the foursome that the car was out of gas, was able to make a break for it and speed home to her mother, who alerted the camp to what had happened. It was an embarrassing moment for the camp supervisors, who had not realized two prisoners had been missing for several hours.

It sparked a manhunt. Local police worked with state troopers. The Shiawassee County sheriff and his undersheriff eventually found the group in a patch of woods near the lake around 7 a.m.

The escape plan was seemingly mapped out by Hobel and Kitty Case. One newspaper report claims the women had recently been fired by the cannery and implied the plan may have been to pin the blame on the business for allowing the escape. Regardless, it was clear that the two women didnt think they were committing a federal crime.

Michigans POW camps: War isnt always black and white

One report by The Owosso Argus-Press said, the group was in a jovial, laughing mood at the moment of their capture.

Said Sumner: They thought, Can we go home now? And they said, No. No, youre going to jail. Were putting you on trial.

A photo from the front page of the July 22, 1944 edition of the Owosso Argus-Press that shows two women and two German POWs who escaped from a nearby camp. From left, Kitty Case, Shiawassee County Sheriff Ray Gellatly, Erik Classen, Undersheriff Charles Downer, Shirley Druce and Gottfried Hobel. (Courtesy Google Books/Owosso Argus-Press)

CRIME AND PUNISHMENT

The next day, the story was front and center on page 1 of The Argus-Press with a photo of the foursome and a headline that read in stark letters: War Prisoners Aided by Girls, Flee, Caught.

In a separate newspaper report, Kitty Case allegedly told investigators that it was a last fling before we left Owosso. We thought we could get the prisoners out of the state and then they could look out for themselves. The real plan was to go visit Druces sweetheart, a sailor stationed in Virginia.

They werent prepared for the storm heading their way  the prosecutors looking to make an example out of violators, the national media coverage of their case and of course the small-town gossip that immediately reached a fever pitch.

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Prosecutors ultimately decided that treason charges, which could result in the death penalty, was a bridge too far. Instead, the girls were charged with conspiracy to defraud the government by impairing, obstructing and defeating the lawful function of the War Department.

Case and Druce went to trial the following January  a four-day media circus according to newspaper reports. The defense threw out several arguments, accusing federal investigators of coercing testimony out of the girls, blaming the tavern owners who had sold them alcohol and even reviving debate about the Geneva Conventions and whether the POWs should have been allowed to work at the cannery because food production could be considered tied to the war effort.

Perhaps the most shocking information to come out of the trial was the details about the security protocols at the POW camp. Guards were accused of being negligent, drinking on the job, and letting prisoners do as they pleased, including chats through the chain-linked fence with local ladies.

Remembering D-Day: How Greenvilles Fighting Falcon led the way into Normandy

Then there was the passing of notes, like the one from Hobel to Kitty Case setting up their July 20 rendezvous, Sumner wrote. The evidence revealed an elaborate underground communication network through which POWs solicited sexual contact and other forms of mischief with their female co-workers, many of them minors.  Late-night trysts were common outside the gates of the speedway, right under the noses of the guards.

To make matters worse, the story had made its way to the war zone thanks to a story in Time Magazine. One Marine private fighting in the Pacific wrote a letter to the Owosso Chamber of Commerce that was published in The Argus-Press, lambasting everyone involved and suggesting the guards at the POW camp should swap places with the soldiers fighting on the front lines.

The jury took half a day to deliberate before ruling the two women guilty.

When the foreman read it, the emotionless courtroom demeanor of the defendants suddenly cracked, and they collapsed into the arms of their loved ones sobbing violently, Sumner wrote.

Who is Daniel West? Michigan legislator discovered to be con man

Case was sentenced to 15 months in prison for her role as the mastermind of the plan. Druce was sentenced to one year and one day in prison, counting time already served.

RUNNING FROM YOUR PAST

According to Sumner, both Kitty Case and Shirley Druce left Michigan as quickly as they could following their prison sentences. Case moved to Georgia and Druce headed to California where they both got married and raised families.

In 2010, a reporter with The Argus-Press tried to track down the two women to get the last chapter of the story. Unfortunately, both had died decades earlier. Case reportedly took her own life sometime in the 1970s, not long after her husband was killed in a car crash. Druce died of cirrhosis of the liver in 1975. She was 47 years old.

The reporter was, however, able to track down Druces daughter-in-law, Melinda Nethaway, who had researched the infamous incident. Even though she was more than 1,000 miles away, it seems Druce never really escaped the shadow of shame from that one night in July.

I think her life would have been somewhat different if she didnt have this big cloud over her head, Nethaway told The Argus-Press. I think it was very embarrassing for her.

Nethaway said Druces children didnt even learn about what had happened until after she had died.

Nobody ever mentioned it, nobody knew about it, she said. The oldest daughter knew (Druce) could never vote or get a passport to get out of the country, but she never knew why.

About a week after Druces funeral, her husband told his kids what had happened.

You could tell he wanted to get it off his chest, Nethaway said. To be honest, I dont think anyone was shocked. I think everyone knew that there was always something in the closet.  This was something she put some place deep inside and moved on. But I wonder if it was something that always tormented her a bit.

She suspected it was at least one factor in Druces descent into alcoholism, finding new levels of sympathy for her late mother-in-law as she advanced through her research.

In my head, I started thinking about what this must have felt like for her, Nethaway said. Owosso is a small town, and it was plastered on the front page. I cant imagine being a teenager and going to a federal penitentiary.

The other mounds: Lost history is a part of West Michigans story

She also told The Argus-Press that Shirley Druce wasnt just a 19-year-old who got wrapped up in a scandal; she was also a loving mother who was creative and extremely intelligent.

Said Nethaway: When people Google Shirley Druces name, they are seeing the absolute worst moment in her life, and there is so much more to her.

Editors note: This is the final part of a five-part series on the history of World War II POW camps in Michigan.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Two arrested in Glynn County involving automobile thefts, another for armed robbery

Glynn County Police Department (GCPD) reports the arrest of two men in separate incidents on Perry Lane Rd. One individual was apprehended for entering multiple automobiles, while another was detained for an armed robbery attempt.

>>> STREAM ACTION NEWS JAX LIVE <<<

According to the GCPD, the first investigation began on July 13 at 2128 Perry Lane Rd. A citizen flagged down GCPD Officer Lorraine Owens, reporting a man entering vehicles at the location. Officer Owens, along with additional officers, quickly located and apprehended 37-year-old Nathan Ryan Gress. During an interview at GCPD Headquarters, Gress confessed to entering twenty-five vehicles and has been charged with twenty-five counts of Entering an Automobile.

Meanwhile, Officer Chad Henley was informed of a separate robbery attempt at Parkers station, 2051 Perry Lane Rd. Henley swiftly located the suspect, 41-year-old Robert Todd Stubbs.

Surveillance footage captured Stubbs entering a vehicle parked at Parkers, threatening the owner with a knife, and then fleeing without taking the vehicle. Stubbs was arrested and interviewed at GCPD Headquarters, where he confessed to the charges. Stubbs now faces charges of Aggravated Assault and Armed Robbery.

Authorities urge anyone with additional information on these cases to contact the Criminal Investigations Division at (912) 554-7802, non-emergency at (912) 554-3645, or report anonymously via Silent Witness at (912) 264-1333.

Action News Jax is working to obtain the mugshots of the two suspects.

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Click here to download the free Action News Jax news and weather apps, click here to download the Action News Jax Now app for your smart TV and click here to stream Action News Jax live.
TOWN OF BURLINGTON  A proposed dredging project on Browns Lake is getting a $2.5 million boost from town taxpayers, plus the towns borrowing capacity to finance the work.

The Burlington Town Board voted Thursday to forge a financial partnership with the Browns Lake Sanitary District for a long-discussed effort to rejuvenate the lake.

Town Board members heard opposition from some residents who were concerned that the entire town was being asked to support a project largely benefitting homeowners around the lake.

But the towns elected leaders said restoring Browns Lake would have a positive impact throughout the region, preserving a spot that is popular with boating and fishing enthusiasts.

That lake cannot turn into a swamp, Town Supervisor Jason Ketterhagen said. And I think it is partly our responsibility.

The Browns Lake Sanitary District is seeking $2.5 million from the town and another $2.5 million from Racine County to cover half of the expected $10 million cost.

Sanitary district board chairman Claude Lois said he hopes the towns actions provide added encouragement to Racine County officials to approve their share of the project.

Lois attended the Town Board meeting and said later he felt optimistic that Browns Lake would be restored.

Were full speed ahead now, he said.

The district is planning to remove about 500,000 tons of sediment and other pollutants from the 397-acre lake lake, primarily along the western and southern shores. Work is scheduled to begin in 2025 and to continue through two summer boating seasons.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has approved a permit for the project, including plans to discharge sludge onto farm fields just east of the lake.

Contractor proposals received in May included a low bid of $9.3 million and three other proposals as high as $12.2 million.

The sanitary district has proposed borrowing $10 million at 5% interest and paying it off at a rate of $800,000 a year for 20 years. Under that scenario, the county and town each would contribute $200,000 a year while the sanitary district would contribute $400,000 a year.

To fund the towns portion, officials said the owner of a $200,000 home would pay about $39 a year in higher property taxes, or $780 during the course of 20 years.

Some residents Tuesday spoke against the plan, urging Town Board members to reject it.

Bill Joerndt said the project is too expensive to take on without first holding a public referendum and gauging taxpayer support.

This is a 20-year tax, Joerndt said. It shouldve been voted on by everybody.

Others expressed support for the Browns Lake partnership.

Sue Deans said dredging the lake has been discussed for years without success. But the current plan, she said, is solid and ready to go.

We may never be able to do this again, she said.

The town operates on a yearly budget of $3.8 million, which includes $1.9 million in property taxes.

The Town Board voted 5-0 to contribute the $2.5 million for lake dredging, and voted separately to use the towns borrowing capacity to issue municipal bonds raising the entire $10 million for the project.

Agreements still must be worked out to specify details of the financing arrangement.

The sanitary district has taxing authority, too, and already collects about $380,000 a year in property taxes from landowners around the lake.

Racine County officials have not indicated when they will consider the Browns Lake request. County Board Chairman Tom Kramer has expressed skepticism about the chances for county funding.

During debate Tuesday about town funding, Town Board Supervisor Brian Fliss said he agrees that the question ideally should have been put before voters in a referendum.

Fliss, however, said circumstances have not allowed enough time to plan a referendum. With a state permit approved and contractor bids in hand, he said the project is close to reality.

We cant miss this opportunity, he said.

In Photos: Browns Lake Aquaducks weekly show Brows Lake Aquaducks The Browns Lake Aquaducks perform weekly professional-style water skiing shows at 6:30 p.m. on Thursday nights at Fischer Park on Durand Avenue in the Town of Burlington. A junior show precedes the main event at 5 p.m. that are free to the public. There will also be special weekend shows on Labor Day weekend at 6 p.m Saturday, Aug. 31 and Sunday, Sept. 1. The junior show is at 4:30 p.m. on those days. Photos are from the Aquaducks' Venetian Night show, Saturday, July 6, 2019. Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks Browns Lake Aquaducks
Two drivers arrested at DUI checkpoint in Chula Vista

Two drivers arrested at DUI checkpoint in Chula Vista

CHULA VISTA, Calif. (FOX 5/KUSI)  Two people were arrested at a driving under the influence checkpoint in Chula Vista Saturday night, authorities said.

According to the Chula Vista Police Department, officers conducted the checkpoint in the 300 block of L Street between 6 p.m. and midnight.

A total of 938 vehicles traveled through the checkpoint and authorities said 343 motorists were screened.

Over 500 pounds of meth found within wooden furniture cabinets

Four drivers conducted field sobriety tests and two were arrested for driving under the influence of alcohol, the police department confirmed. The identities of those taken into custody were not immediately released.

Additionally, six drivers were cited for driving without a license or with a suspended license, and another six were cited for reasons not provided.

DUI checkpoint locations are determined based on reported incidents of impaired driving-related crashes, the police department stated. The primary purpose of DUI checkpoints is to promote public safety by taking suspected impaired drivers off roads.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to FOX 5 San Diego & KUSI News.
Two hospitalized, one dead after unusual incident in Snow Canyon State Park

WASHINGTON COUNTY, Utah (ABC4)  Two people were taken to the hospital after showing signs of heat exhaustion in Snow Canyon State Park, and a third person was found dead at the scene, according to the Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department.

According to officials, first responders were dispatched to the scene at 3:30 p.m., and first reports indicated two people were suffering from a heat-related incident. The two people were located and officials administered first aid at the scene before the pair was taken to the hospital, according to a press release.

READ NEXT: Father, daughter die while hiking in Canyonlands National Park

While officials were on the scene, they were also informed of a third person who was unconscious nearby.

The individual was identified as a 30-year-old female, the Santa Clara-Ivins Public Safety Department said in the release. First responders located the individual, and it was determined that the individual was deceased.

No other identifying information has been released about any of the involved parties.

Officials from the Washington County Sheriffs Office, Santa Clara-Ivins Fire and Rescue, State Park Rangers, Gold Cross, and the Santa Clara-Ivins Police Department responded to the incident on Saturday, according to the release.

This is an ongoing investigation, and due to the unusual nature of this incident, no further information will be shared at this time, the press release said.

Officials used Saturdays incident to remind Utahns and park visitors that drinking water, especially while outdoors, is vital  with the department saying dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Remember, your body may still need water even if you dont feel thirsty, officials said. Watch for signs of dehydration, like dizziness or excessive fatigue.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
A majority of Americans believe the current political climate makes violence more likely, according to a new poll conducted shortly after the attempted assassination of former President Trump at a rally Saturday.

According to a snap poll from YouGov, released Sunday morning, 67 percent of U.S. adults said todays political environment makes politically motivated violence more likely, while just eight percent said it makes it less likely.

Ten percent said the current political climate makes politically motivated violence the same as usual and 14 percent said they were not sure, YouGov reported.

The poll was conducted on Saturday, shortly after a shooting occurred at Trumps rally in Butler, Penn., wounding the former president and killing one attendee. The former president said a bullet pierced his ear.

The U.S. Secret Service said the shooter, who the FBI later identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pa., was killed shortly after shots rang out.

The shooting, which is being investigated as an attempted assassination, sent shockwaves throughout the country and world, with domestic and global leaders condemning the political violence.

Exactly half50 percentof U.S. adults said political violence is a very big problem, while 32 percent said it is somewhat of an issue. About eight percent said it is not very much of a problem, while about 2 percent said it is not a problem, pollsters found. Eight percent said they were not sure.

Americans were more split in their trust in the Secret Services ability to protect presidential candidates from harm, per YouGov. About 20 percent said they were very confident, while 45 percent said they were somewhat confident and 17 percent said they were not very confident. Seven percent said they are not at all confident.

The YouGov poll was conducted July 14 among 4,339 U.S. adults. The margin of error was not immediately released.

Trump on Sunday called on Americans to unite, adding that God alone prevented the unthinkable from happening.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump wrote in a post on Truth Social. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
The apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump sent shock waves through the geo-political biosphere, as U.S. leaders chimed in to condemn the attack.

Shortly after the shooting on Saturday evening, President Joe Biden addressed the nation and said that everybody must condemn the events that took place, the Associated Press reported.

Showing support for Trump's recovery after his injuries at the Butler, Pennsylvania rally, Biden spoke with a teleprompter and said The idea that theres violence in America like this is just unheard of. In a White House Press Release, the president was able to confirm that Trump is safe and doing well. He added that the nation must unite in its condemnation of what happened.

A White House official told NBC News that a call between Biden and Trump after the rally shooting was good, short and respectful.

Vice President Kamala Harris also shunned the senseless shooting that took place, saying that there is simply no place for it. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence, she wrote in a White House Press Release.

Sympathies and well-wishes echoed amongst Democrats and Republicans alike, Reuters reported.

Democratic U.S. Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer expressed that he was horrified by what happened at the Trump rally, adding that Political violence has no place in our country.

Republican U.S. House Speaker Mike Johnson offered prayers for Trump and gratitude to the law enforcement at the scene. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned, he said.

Republican U.S. Senator J.D. Vance  one of Trumps possible running mates  blamed President Biden, to an extent. "Today is not just some isolated incident, he said. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

On Sunday, a traditionally mum Melania Trump issued a statement of her own regarding her husband's harrowing campaign event, saying, "America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one."

https://twitter.com/MELANIATRUMP/status/1812492817068945437
UFC CEO Dana White, a close friend of former U.S. president Donald Trump, expressed his concern for the politician after an apparent shooting incident at a rally Saturday.

Trump was rushed off stage in Butler, Penn., after apparent gunshots while he was speaking to his supporters. After the first sound, the former president reached for his right ear before ducking down as the Secret Service rushed to protect him. A moment later, as he rose to his feet, Trump raised his fist in the air as he was taken off stage and placed in a vehicle to be removed from the site.

White often credits Trump as an integral part of the UFCs success in tough moments for the promotion and has recently attended several pay-per-view events where he is featured alongside the promotions boss for special walkouts to his cageside seat.

After learning of the incident, White expressed his concern for the former president in a lengthy message on Instagram:

Im on a plane right now flying to Italy and my phone has been blowing up with text messages from people informing me @realdonaldtrump was shot, White wrote. I am absolutely SICK to my stomach and in complete shock. I still dont know how bad it is or if hes ok. But @mickmaynard2 just sent me this picture and Im praying President Trump is 100% healthy.

This image perfectly reflects EXACTLY the man I know Donald Trump to be. He is the toughest, most resilient, AMERICAN BAD ASS on this planet. I hope the weak coward that shot him gets what he deserves, and I cant WAIT to stand up on stage with him on Thursday and introduce him at the Republican National Convention and tell the WORLD exactly the character of the friend and man I KNOW!!

White is set to speak at next weeks Republican National Convention as the final speaker before Trumps nomination acceptance. White has spoken twice before at the RNC in support of Trump, and appears even more energized to deliver his message following Saturdays incident.

Story originally appeared on MMA Junkie
UK Foreign Secretary visits Israel and West Bank and calls for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza

TEL AVIV, Israel (AP)  The new British foreign secretary called for an immediate cease-fire in Gaza during a visit to Israel and the Palestinian territories on Sunday, his second international trip since Labours resounding victory in elections earlier this month.

David Lammy said the ongoing war in Gaza is intolerable and stressed in meetings with Israeli and Palestinian leadership that Britain wants to assist with diplomatic efforts securing a cease-fire deal and creating the space for a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.

Lammy met Sunday in Jerusalem with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and in the West Bank city of Ramallah with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas. He will meet with Israeli President Isaac Herzog on Monday. During his visit, Lammy will also meet with families of hostages currently being held in Gaza who have ties to the U.K. He called for the release of all hostages and a dramatic increase in the amount of humanitarian aid entering Gaza.

Lammy demanded Israel halt settlement expansion in the Israeli-occupied West Bank and east Jerusalem, and said that the Palestinian Authority needs to be reformed and empowered.

Both Lammys Labour Party and the previous Conservative government initially avoided calling for an immediate cease-fire in the war, using phrases like humanitarian pause. But the language has got stronger. Prime Minister Keir Starmer told Netanyahu last week there was a clear and urgent need for a cease-fire.

Labours stance on the Gaza war cost it votes in this months U.K. election. Although the party won in a landslide, pro-Palestinian independents defeated Labour candidates in several seats with large Muslim populations.

Lammys comments came the day after Israel said it had targeted Hamas shadowy military commander in a massive strike Saturday in the crowded southern Gaza Strip that killed at least 90 people, including children, according to local health officials.

Top Hamas officials said on Sunday that the negotiations for a possible cease-fire deal had not been halted because of the attack. Hamas also denied that Hamas military chief Mohammed Deif, the target of the strike, was killed and said Israels false claims are merely a cover-up for the scale of the horrific massacre.

Deif and Hamas top official in Gaza, Yahya Sinwar, are believed by Israel to be the chief architects of the Oct. 7 attack that killed some 1,200 people in southern Israel and kidnapped 250, triggering the Israel-Hamas war.

Since then, Israeli ground offensives and bombardments have killed more than 38,400 people in Gaza and wounded more than 88,000, according to the territorys Health Ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.



Jill Lawless in London contributed reporting.
Ukraine has right to strike military targets within Russian territory, Stoltenberg says

Ukraine has the right under international law to attack military targets located in Russian territory, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said during an interview on the United News telethon July 14.

United States policy prohibits Ukrainian forces from using U.S.-supplied weapons to strike targets deep within Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Washington to lift restrictions, saying the ability to use long-range U.S. weapons such as ATACMS within Russia and occupied Crimea would produce "an instant result."

In the interview, Stoltenberg affirmed Ukraine's right to self-defense.

"My position is that there is no doubt that Ukraine has the right to attack legitimate military targets on the territory of the aggressor country, Russia," Stoltenberg said.

"This is clearly defined by international law. Since this is a war that Russia started against Ukraine, Ukraine has the right to self-defense, and this includes strikes on the territory of the aggressor. This is absolutely clear to me."

The U.S. government in June gave Ukraine permission to attack Russian targets near the border with Kharkiv Oblast after Moscow's renewed offensive in the region. Stoltenberg said this was a welcome step.

Stoltenberg noted that more allies are "easing their restrictions" in light of Russia's intensified attacks.

"I welcome the decision of the allies to open up the possibility of greater use of weapons to strike these targets," he said.

The NATO chief made a similar argument on July 10 during the Alliance's 75th-anniversary summit in Washington, D.C.

The United States has not announced any changes in its policy regarding long-range strikes in Russia. U.S. President Joe Biden dodged the question in a press conference on July 11, saying attacks against Moscow wouldn't "make sense."

Read also: Zelensky calls NATO summit success, but experts warn of green light for Russian aggression

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Ukraine war latest: Ukraine has right to strike military targets within Russian territory, Stoltenberg says

Key updates on July 14:

Ukraine has right to strike military targets within Russian territory, Stoltenberg says

Russian attacks kill 13, injure 54 in Ukraine over past day

Lukashenko claims Belarus is withdrawing troops from Ukrainian border

Russia claims launch of 3-ton aerial glide bombs from Su-34 jets against Ukraine

Bloomberg: Orban spoke against Ukraine's NATO membership during meeting with Zelensky in Washington

Ukraine has the right under international law to attack military targets located in Russian territory, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said during an interview on the United News telethon on July 14.

U.S. policy prohibits Ukrainian forces from using U.S.-supplied weapons to strike targets deep within Russia. President Volodymyr Zelensky has called on Washington to lift restrictions, saying the ability to use long-range U.S. weapons such as ATACMS within Russia and occupied Crimea would produce "an instant result."

In the interview, Stoltenberg affirmed Ukraine's right to self-defense.

"My position is that there is no doubt that Ukraine has the right to attack legitimate military targets on the territory of the aggressor country, Russia," Stoltenberg said.

"This is clearly defined by international law. Since this is a war that Russia started against Ukraine, Ukraine has the right to self-defense, and this includes strikes on the territory of the aggressor. This is absolutely clear to me."

The U.S. government in June gave Ukraine permission to attack Russian targets near the border with Kharkiv Oblast after Moscow's renewed offensive in the region. Stoltenberg said this was a welcome step.

Stoltenberg noted that more allies are "easing their restrictions" in light of Russia's intensified attacks.

"I welcome the decision of the allies to open up the possibility of greater use of weapons to strike these targets," he said.

The NATO chief made a similar argument on July 10 during the alliance's 75th-anniversary summit in Washington, D.C.

The U.S. has not announced any changes in its policy regarding long-range strikes in Russia. President Joe Biden dodged the question in a press conference on July 11, saying attacks against Moscow wouldn't "make sense."

Read also: Zelensky calls NATO summit success, but experts warn of green light for Russian aggression

Russian attacks kill 13, injure 54 in Ukraine over past day

Russian attacks have killed 13 people and injured 54 others, including children, in Ukraine over the past day, regional authorities reported on July 14.

Civilian casualties were reported in Kharkiv, Donetsk, Kherson, and Dnipropetrovsk oblasts.

A double-tap attack in the village of Budy in Kharkiv Oblast during the afternoon of July 13 killed two people and injured 25 others, among them two children.

Artem Kostyria, head of the State Emergency Service's branch in Kharkiv Oblast, and police sergeant Oleksiy Koshchii were killed after Russia used two Iskander missiles to target the area near the village railway station.

The strikes also damaged railway infrastructure, including train wagons, and injured five railway workers, according to state railway company Ukrzaliznytsia.

Attacks in Kupiansk district injured a 39-year-old woman in the morning and two women aged 72 and 73 in the evening, Kharkiv Oblast Governor Oleh Syniehubov said.

Donetsk Oblast Governor Vadym Filashkin reported that Russian attacks over the past day had killed six civilians and injured 11 others.

Two people were killed in the village of Novoocheruvate, and another two were killed in the village of Prohres, which lies less than two kilometers from the front line.

Another person was killed in the front-line village of Novosilka Persha, while one person was killed and two others were injured in Kostiantynopil, Filashkin said.

In Kherson Oblast, Russian attacks killed five people and injured nine others, including a child, according to Governor Oleksandr Prokudin.

A 41-year-old man was killed in Tokarivka, while two women aged 50 and 72 were killed after Russian forces shelled the village of Pryozerne. Both settlements lie on the west bank of the Dnipro River, across from Russian positions on the east bank.

Prokudin later reported that two people aged 44 and 40 had been killed in Komyshany, a village that neighbors Pryozerne. The victims were husband and wife.

In the evening, a projectile hit a house in Chornobaivka, a suburb of Kherson, injuring a 16-year-old girl.

"She has a traumatic amputation of her hand, shrapnel injuries to her body," and was taken to hospital "in an extremely serious condition," Prokudin said.

Russian attacks wounded five people in Dnipropetrovsk Oblast over the past day, Governor Serhii Lysak reported.

Artillery fire injured a 51-year-old man in Nikopol and two others in the nearby village of Pokrovske. The attack damaged high-rise buildings, houses, farm buildings, an educational institution, and a religious building, Lysak said.

Later in the day, Lysak reported that a 57-year-old emergency worker was injured when a Russian drone attacked firefighters putting out a grass fire. The attack also damaged the fire truck.

Overnight, a missile attack on the region caused another grass fire in Kryvyi Rih, which injured a 67-year-old woman. She was treated at the scene, Lysak said.

Zaporzhzhia Oblast Governor Ivan Fedorov reported that one person was killed in Vasylivskyi district, an area that includes the southern front line.

Over the past day, Russian forces carried out 373 attacks on 11 settlements in the region, Fedorov said.

Read also: Russias advance toward key eastern highway threatens Ukraines grip of Donetsk Oblast

Lukashenko claims Belarus is withdrawing troops from Ukrainian border

Belarusian dictator Alexander Lukashenko claimed on July 13 that he was ordering the withdrawal of troops from the border with Ukraine, Belarusian state-owned news agency Belta reported.



Minsk reinforced security at the border in late June after a series of alleged "security incidents." Colonel Vadim Lukashevich, a high-ranking Belarusian military official, accused Ukraine of setting up explosives and military equipment near the border in preparation for assaults and terrorist attacks.

Lukashevich didn't provide evidence, and the Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims.



During a meeting in Luninets, Brest Oblast, Lukashenko said that the situation had stabilized and that Ukraine had withdrawn its troops. The Belarusian troops will be relocated to their permanent deployment positions, he said.



"We are not going to fight and are not going to concentrate our armed forces here, except for special operations forces," Lukashenko added.



However, he warned of potential threats from the western direction, claiming that Belarus is being provoked into entering the war and should be ready.



Belarus is Russia's closest ally and hosts Russian troops and missiles. However, the Belarusian army is not directly involved in the invasion of Ukraine.



The Ukrainian Security and Defense Council's Center for Countering Disinformation said in May that it predicted the launch of a new Russian psychological operation about the opening of a new front in the north of Ukraine near the Belarusian border, aimed at "stirring up mass panic" in Ukrainian society.

"We expect a series of provocative statements by the top leadership of Russia and Belarus threatening Ukraine soon," the statement said.



Currently, Belarus is hosting joint training exercises with Chinese soldiers, billed as "anti-terrorist training." They began on July 8 and will finish on July 19.



This follows the accession of Belarus to the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, a Eurasian political, economic, and defense organization led by China and Russia.

Read also: Russian kamikaze drone flies deep inside Belarus, whereabouts unknown

Russia claims launch of 3-ton aerial glide bombs from Su-34 jets against Ukraine

Russia has started to use Su-34 jets to launch aerial glide bombs weighing 3,000 kilograms against Ukraine, the Russian Defense Ministry claimed on July 14.

The Russian Defense Ministry released footage that purported to show the aerial bomb, known as a FAB-3000, attached to a Su-34 fighter jet and dropped on a target in Ukrainian territory.

The FAB-3000 has a combat power that "cannot be ignored," the Russian Defense Ministry said.

The Kyiv Independent could not verify the claims at the time of publication.

A video shared by a pro-Kremlin blogger on June 20 first appeared to show a FAB-3000 bomb striking Lyptsi in Kharkiv Oblast.

The blogger, who reportedly has ties to the Russian Air Force, claimed the footage records the first combat use of a FAB-3000 M-54 bomb with a universal planning and correction module (UMPK).

FAB bombs upgraded with UMPK have wings that flip out as the weapon is released by the aircraft and a satellite navigation system.

Kharkiv Oblast police reported that Russian forces attacked the Kupiansk district on May 5 with a FAB-1500 air-dropped bomb, the first time a 1,500-kilogram bomb had been used since the beginning of the full-scale invasion.

The strike killed an 88-year-old woman and injured a 34-year-old man.

Read also: Glide bombs help Russia gain land in Ukraine. What makes them so effective?

Bloomberg: Orban spoke against Ukraine's NATO membership during meeting with Zelensky in Washington

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban spoke against Ukraine's NATO membership during a plenary meeting with President Volodymyr Zelensky at the Alliances Washington Summit, Bloomberg reported on July 13.



Orban refused to back military support for Ukraine during the summit on July 11 and suggested that Kyiv should not join the alliance, according to Bloombergs sources. The comment sparked backlash from other leaders.



Budapest has repeatedly opposed Ukraine's accession to NATO and the EU, sanctions on Russia, undermined Western aid efforts for Ukraine, and maintained close relations with Moscow throughout the full-scale war.



Orban met Zelensky in Kyiv at the start of July after taking over the rotating presidency on July 1. He urged the Ukrainian president to consider a ceasefire to "speed up peace talks.



The talks were billed as an important step toward solving long-standing problems between the two leaders. But Zelensky dismissed the proposal and stuck to Kyiv's own peace plan.



Orban angered many in the EU after meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on July 5 to discuss the invasion of Ukraine. He said that Ukraine and Russia's stances on the war and prospects for peace are "very far apart."



Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said the trip was "an insult to the Ukrainian peoples fight for their freedom.



The EU has distanced itself from Orban's venture, saying he does not represent the European bloc despite Hungary's presidency of the Council of the EU.



The Hungarian leader then visited China and met with former U.S. President Donald Trump in Florida on July 12. After the meeting, he wrote on X that Trump will solve the war.



Orbans 'peace missions' have caused outrage in the EU, undisclosed European diplomats told the media following a meeting in Brussels on July 10. While no decision was taken on how to prevent such ventures in the future, "there will be follow-ups," said Rikard Jozwiak, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty's Brussels correspondent.

Read also: Zelensky repudiates Orban, says only strong alliances can be mediators between Russia, Ukraine

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Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Office of the President of Ukraine, has stressed that Ukraine did not "reject" the Swedish-made JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets so that Ukrainian troops train on the F-16 fighter jets faster, and that the negotiations regarding the purchase of the Gripens are ongoing.

Source: Zhovkva in an interview for Voice of America, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zhovkva was asked to comment on the statement by the Swedish Foreign Minister in an interview to Voice of America that Sweden was ready to supply Ukraine with fighter jets but Ukraine decided to halt this process.

"I have never heard that Ukrainians rejected the Gripen fighter jets. The other way round, this is the topic my president always brings up during the talks with the Swedish leadership," Zhovkva stated.

He noted that this dialogue was ongoing back when Sweden was not a NATO member, and before its final accession to the Alliance Sweden was not ready to make any promises.

Quote: "At the moment this country is in NATO, and my president is talking to the Prime Minister of Sweden again, and our Defence Ministry [communicates] with corresponding Swedish bodies. These fighter jets are as good as the F-16s. So we are moving in this direction."

Background:

Explaining why Stockholm halted the supply of the fighter jets to Kyiv earlier, Swedens Foreign Minister Tobias Billstrom stated that it happened due to Ukraines conclusion, as it found managing both F-16 and Gripen fighter jet systems simultaneously "too challenging"

The security agreement signed between Ukraine and Sweden provides for military assistance to Kyiv worth SEK 75 billion (about 6.5 billion), and also includes "the prospect of providing Ukraine with JAS 39 Gripen aircraft".

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Ukraine's soldiers don't have time to grieve and can't risk falling apart, psychotherapist says after visiting front lines

Ukraine's soldiers don't have time to grieve and can't risk falling apart, psychotherapist says after visiting front lines

Ukrainian soldiers are forced to set aside grief on the battlefield, says psychotherapist Yulia Brockdorf.

Brockdorf visits Ukraine to provide counseling and aid. The war continues taking a mental toll on soldiers.

Prolonged service, PTSD, and lack of consistent aid exacerbate soldiers' mental health issues.

Ukrainian soldiers who have long been fighting on the front lines, facing the horrors of combat, are being forced to set aside their grief on the battlefield, said visiting psychotherapist Yulia Brockdorf.

"It layers on, these losses, these injuries, the ungrieved pain," Brockdorf told Business Insider.

The healthy processing of emotions and grief are pushed aside for the mission at hand, defending the nation from a relentless foe. "You need to set it aside because you need to focus and do your job because if you don't do your job, you will encounter more losses," she said, explaining how many Ukrainian soldiers she's worked with view their situation.

Brockdorf has made several visits to Ukraine since the Russians launched their full-scale invasion in February 2022 to provide counseling services and medical equipment to soldiers, as she is also the co-founder of DAWN, a nonprofit organization that has been supporting Ukraine. Her last visit was in March of this year.

'We just kind of go and do our thing'

Oftentimes, Brockdorf encountered seemingly desensitized attitudes toward death among soldiers defending Ukraine. "So frequently, it comes down to 'it's war, it happens,'" she said.

When grief can't be processed right away, it builds and becomes harder to deconstruct later on, Brockdorf said. Some soldiers are able to walk away from the war without trauma from witnessing losses, but others may experience post-traumatic stress disorder, which varies in severity.

Ukrainian soldiers walk past a volunteer bus burning after a Russian drone hit it near Bakhmut. Shandyba Mykyta, Ukrainian 10th Mountain Assault Brigade "Edelweiss" via AP

A foreign volunteer helping defend Ukraine, speaking from their own experiences, said that losses in this war, the largest land war in Europe since World War II and a truly catastrophic human tragedy in terms of combat losses, are unavoidable and difficult to process when they happen.

"You lose people pretty much almost every week, not necessarily always from your company, but also from like neighboring companies, just people that you know," they told Business Insider. "In the grand scheme of things, our optempo is, I guess, quite high, so you don't really have the time to mourn people anyway, so we just kind of go and do our thing."

'A lot of anger inside me'

Dr. Vladislav Matrenitsky, a Kyiv-based psychotherapist, author, and founder of the Center for Psychotherapy, Psychosomatics and Psychedelic Medicine Expio, has worked with Ukrainian veterans and observed that some patients who experience PTSD have expressed behavior like hyper-vigilance, agitation, and anxiousness.

Many soldiers are left to process the trauma from the battlefield only once they're back home with their families, but this can put their relationships at risk if PTSD sets in and symptoms surface. This issue has long plagued soldiers returning from war.

Ukrainian soldiers firing mortars from trench positions. AP Photo/Efrem Lukatsky

"The problem is that not many of them understand why this happens, but they think, 'It's okay, it's just stress, and I will be okay with some time, with rest,'" Matrenitsky explained. "One of them told me, 'I have such a lot of anger inside me that in the night I go in the city to look for somebody to fight with.'"

For others, it's not anger, but terror. Some soldiers have reported nightmares and panic attacks. One told The Washington Post previously that he had nightmares of his tank commander who was burned alive while another dreamed of stepping on another mine and losing his other leg.

In addition to the growing number losses on the battlefield, Brockdorf added that the lack of consistent aid being sent to Ukraine also impacts soldiers' mental health. "The access to supplies, medical supplies, being armed, has direct impact on the suffering, experience and confidence and sense of feeling supported," she said.

Despite the trauma of war, troops stay on the line and often don't share their burdens.

Soldiers of a Ukrainian intelligence battalion in a basement in Bakhmut. Pierre Crom/Getty Images

Some of Ukraine's soldiers have been serving on the front lines for long stretches as Ukraine grapples with manpower shortages. Brockdorf says this prolonged length of service can also aggravate soldiers' feelings of exhaustion and abandonment.

As Mark Hertling, a former US Army general noted earlier this year in a discussion with CNN, staying on the battlefield for two and a half years "just takes an incredible account of fatigue, psychological damage, and the toughness of being in the trenches in the front lines will really be a morale factor."

And, indeed, that damage can be lasting, which is why Brockdorf says it's important to be there for Ukrainian soldiers.

"I think that's very important for Ukrainian defenders to know: that they are not forgotten," Brockdorf said. "When you live long enough and you only see around you bullets, drones, and dirt in those trenches, it's hard to know that somebody out there really remembers and really fights for you."

Ryan Pickrell contributed to this reporting.

Read the original article on Business Insider
Ukrainian air defence shoots down 2 Russian missiles and several UAVs overnight

Two guided missiles and four UAVs have been shot down. Photo: Ukraine's Air Force

Ukrainian air defence units shot down two Russian guided missiles and several reconnaissance UAVs on the night of 13-14 July.

Source: Ukraine's Air Force

Details: The air defence system was reportedly responding in Ukraine's east, shooting down two Kh-59/Kh-69 guided missiles and four reconnaissance UAVs: three Orlan-10s and one ZALA.

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Ukrainian President's Office hopes to get US permission to strike deep into Russia

The Office of the President of Ukraine hopes to obtain permission from the US government to use American weapons for hitting targets deep in Russia, and not only in border areas, in the near future.

Source: Ihor Zhovkva, Deputy Head of the Office of the President, in an interview with Voice of America, as reported by European Pravda

Details: Zhovkva stated that work on this subject began well before the NATO meeting, and that considerable progress has been made since then

Quote: "We are working with the United States at many levels, including the Department of Defense, the National Security Council, and the White House, and we hope that a decision will be made soon. We need it. But let's avoid speculating in the press about this crucial decision. The Ukrainian leadership is working on this, and we will get the job done.

All previous critical decisions made by the United States were done quietly, and this time will be no exception."

Zhovkva noted that the parties have clearly reached a consensus.

When asked about the Ukrainian side's claims, he stated that Ukraine emphasises the necessity to defend itself against missile attacks from certain known locations.

To a clarifying question on whether he feels a solution can be reached, Zhovkva responded that progress "will one day come to being, just as it was in the past on other issues that we discussed with the administration."

Background: David Lammy, the UK Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs, said that the UK continues to assess Ukraines request to deploy British-supplied Storm Shadow cruise missiles to strike military targets in Russia.

Read the full interview here: Storm Shadow strikes on Russia, military aid for Ukraine and Putins unacceptable ideas: An interview with the new UK Foreign Secretary

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What will the UK's new Labour government mean for the outdoors?

If you are an outdoors enthusiast, will the election of Labour to UK government make any difference to how you enjoy your favourite activities? We have been considering issues such as access rights for hikers and campers, as well as any impacts  positive or negative  of Labour policies on nature and the environment.

At the 2024 General Election earlier this month, the Labour Party won 411 seats giving prime minister Keir Starmers new government a majority of 172 seats. Time will tell as to what issues Labour will focus on first  and in the future  and what areas of the partys manifesto the government will remain true to.

Since winning the election, the new Secretary of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Steve Reed, and the new Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Miliband, have also been unveiling some of Labour's core priorities.

Labour PM Keir Starmer

Labour government and land access rights

Its worth noting that in Scotland the Land Reform Act (2003) established statutory public rights of access to land for recreational and other purposes. Guidelines of responsible behaviour are outlined in the Scottish Outdoor Access Code.

However, the same does not apply to the rest of the UK and many people, groups and organisations have long been campaigning for a similarly favourable right to roam. Indeed, data compiled by nature activist Guy Shrubsole and the Right to Roam campaign concluded that 92 constituencies in England allow no freedom to roam.

The good news is that Labour has historically had a strong record of improving the publics access to nature. For example, the party was instrumental in creating the post-war National Parks and Access to the Countryside Act (1949), which ensures the UKs protected landscapes, as well as National Trails and the requirement for local authorities to produce maps of paths.

Labour was in government when the Countryside and Rights of Way Act (2000) was ratified. This introduced a freedom to roam on certain upland and uncultivated areas of England and Wales. (Note, though, this is nowhere as wide sweeping as Scotland's Land Reform Act.)

It was also Labour in government when the Marine and Coastal Access Act (2009), which created the England Coast Path, was passed.

But what of the current Labour government? The partys manifesto  called Change  prior to election included a proposal to create nine new National River Walks and three new National Forests (outside of Scotland). Both of these plans, although not highly detailed, appear to show that Labour is keen to improve access to nature. But there is no information in the manifesto that specifies definitive plans to improve on current land access rights.

private land keep out sign

This is a point that the walking charity, The Ramblers, has highlighted as part of their campaign for a new Access to Nature Bill. Labour has previously said they would introduce an Access to Nature White Paper to consult on expanding access rights and opportunities and, in May 2023, Labour vowed to introduce Scottish-style right to roam law in England if they won the election.

However, the right to roam pledge was not included in Labour's manifesto and it is still too soon after the election to know whether the party will prioritise land access reform.

The aforementioned Guy Shrubsole has revealed that he has been both buoyed and deflated by Labour's manifesto. In an article for campaign organisation Wild Justice. he writes: Labours policies [prior to election] on access are disappointingly weak. Having previously hinted last year that they might introduce a Scottish-style right of responsible access, the party has seemingly u-turned, and the policies that have made it into the manifesto are small and piecemeal.

In addition, Shrubsole is disappointed that while Labour has pledged three new national forests, this will do very little to address the fact that theres no right to roam in 85% of Englands woods.

And on the plan to create a series of national river walks, he says that this, does nothing to address the fact that 97% of our rivers have no clear access rights for swimmers and paddlers. (Again this is not the case in Scotland.)

Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs Steve Reed

Environment, nature and conservation

The protection of nature is another important focus of outdoors fans. Issues include polluted rivers, lakes and oceans; a poor record of biodiversity; widely damaged peatlands (which could act as a huge carbon store in our fight against climate change); moorland burning; and the need for rewilding in many hill and mountain areas.

The good news is that Labour did include nature and environmental pledges in its manifesto, such as expanding nature-rich habitats and introducing a land-use framework.

Shrubsole also sees some of Labour's further pledges as positive, too, such as:

Meeting the 3030 initiative  to protect 30% of England (and the UK) for nature by 2030.

Expanding nature-rich habitats including on public land.

windfarm

Yet Shrubsole has said: Despite some encouraging [pre-election] policies, Id have liked a lot more of them  and more detail. "

The RSPB has also voiced concern about Labours commitment to The Environment Act, which became law in 2021. The Act guides the UK's framework of environmental protection after the UK left the EU and includes rules on nature protection, water quality, clean air and other environmental protections that originally came from Brussels.

In a report by the RSPB prior to the election, the charity stated: "While its very positive to see Labours commitment to meeting the targets in the 2021 Environment Act... there are also some key omissions, and in general, much more detail is needed.

The report continued: There isnt sufficient detail around commitments towards nature-friendly farming, protecting the marine environment, nature-based solutions to mitigate the effects of climate change, or the transition to a nature-based economy.

two wild swimmers

Many pro-nature campaigners would also like to see the protection of green space in the spotlight. There are numerous studies that show the importance of green space for public use and the benefits of mental health.

Prior to election, as reported by The Guardian, Labour indicated it wanted to improve pubic access to nature and green spaces by giving communities the right to buy up derelict eyesores and turn them into parks.

Another article in The Guardian newspaper has made the point that Labour will also need to hold strong to resist housebuilders pleas to weaken green standards if they are keen to protect the public access to green spaces.

In recent days, Reed has further underlined Labour's core policy focus for his department, including:

Clean up rivers, lakes and seas

Ensure natures recovery

Protect communities from the dangers of flooding.

Whether any of the pledges and policies come to fruition under the new Labour government remains to be seen.

Louise Haigh MP, Secretary of State for Transport, and Ed Miliband MP, Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero,

Labour on climate change

The climate  and climate change  is often a point of discussion for people who spend time outdoors. Many hikers, climbers, kayakers, swimmers etc would like to see climate change issues being tackled more stringently by the government.

There are many negative impacts of climate change on the physical environment and for hikers this includes concern about increased drought and temperatures, wild-fires, unpredictable winters and winter mountain conditions, plus rising water levels.

Looking back to 2008, Labour  under then-prime minister Gordon Brown  created the world's first Climate Change Act.

Prior to the election of the current Labour government, the party pledged a so-called Local Power Plan as it outlined how to make Britain a clean energy superpower . It stated that: "Great British Energy will partner with energy companies, local authorities and co-operatives to install thousands of clean power projects, through a combination of onshore wind, solar and hydropower projects."

Post-election this week Miliband delivered his message to civil servants about the partys key pledges, including reaching zero-carbon power by 2030. This is seen by some commentators as Labours relaunch of the UKs ambition to be a climate leader on the global stage and to rewrite the nations net-zero strategy.

But many people are concerned that the targets will not be met without major new polices and big changes to the actions of the last government. The Carbon Brief went so far as to create a to-do list for Labour on climate change.

In other news recently, the new Labour government also acted on another manifesto pledge and announced the lifting of the "de facto ban" on building new onshore wind turbines in England. Rules brought in by the Conservatives in 2015 meant that a single planning objection would be enough to block onshore wind construction.

The change comes into effect immediately and is seen as part of Labours ambition to make the UK a clean-energy superpower.

The problem is, however, that in aiming to reduce the impact of carbon, there are some measures that do not sit well with all outdoors enthusiasts.

For example, while wind construction is welcomed on the one hand people as a way to increase the country's creation of "cleaner" energy, there are many people who spend time outdoors who are against wind farms because they are claimed to be an eyesore.

Mountaineering Scotland, the organisation that represents hill walkers, climbers, mountaineering and snowsports tourers in Scotland, reported in 2016 that more than 67% of its members said they would prefer not to see wind turbines.

Meanwhile, Scotlands countryside charity, Action to Protect Rural Scotland, points out that while we need to generate more renewable electricity, it needs to be done in a carefully planned way, so we do not unnecessarily sacrifice beautiful scenery or valuable habitats for the sake of more and more generating capacity.

Again, it remains to be seen how the new Labour party will tackle climate and environmental targets and what effects this may have on the landscape and people's sensibilities.

winding river

Labour on new national parks

National Parks are seen as a positive to the UK in a variety of ways. Scotland's longest established environmental charity Action to Protect Rural Scotland believes our parks "lead the way in promoting an integrated approach to tackling the climate emergency and the nature crisis, supporting mental and physical health and well-being, boosting employment in rural communities and celebrating our world-class landscapes".

In the past, Labour showed its commitment to these rural areas with a Landmark Act of Parliament establishing a National Parks principle. This pressure culminated in the 1945 White Paper on National Parks, produced as part of the Labour Party's planned post-war reconstruction.

The Peak District National park

Yet, this General Election saw the Labour party strangely quiet on the national park debate. While the Conservatives had pledged to designate an 11th national park in England if elected and the Lib Dems had promised three new parks, there was nothing on this note in Labour's manifesto.

Last year, an article in the Guardian in 2023 raised the pertinent question: Labour gave us national parks  how can Keir Starmer be so silent on natures survival now? Reporter Craig Bennett added: "The party talks of a green and fair future, but that will be impossible without protecting Britains natural habitats."

Perhaps Labour will listen to campaigning pressure in due course and re-address the national parks issue. The party might even take heed of the Scottish governments apparent recent commitment to designate at least one new National Park.

Again, like many other outdoors issues in the UK, the public will need to wait and remain hopeful of Labour's good intentions on the parks issues.
Reactions poured in from local politicians after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at his rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Donald Trumps campaign said in a statement that the former president was fine. The Secret Service said in a statement that the former President is safe.

At least one attendee was dead and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

Political violence is wrong and I condemn it. I hope everyone who attended the rally is ok and I am glad the former president is safe, Senator Elizabeth Warren wrote on social media.

Political violence is wrong and I condemn it. I hope everyone who attended the rally is ok and I am glad the former president is safe.  Elizabeth Warren (@SenWarren) July 13, 2024

Governor Maura Healey said political violence has no place in America.

Political violence has no place in this country, and all Americans must condemn it.



Im grateful for the swift response from law enforcement. Im relieved the former President appears to be safe and my thoughts are with all who were at todays rally.  Maura Healey (@MassGovernor) July 13, 2024

1st District of Massachusetts Representative Richard Neal called the act of violence unacceptable.

This type of violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in America or our political system. My thoughts are with former President Trump, and I hope that everyone in Butler, PA is safe.  Rep. Richard Neal (@RepRichardNeal) July 13, 2024

There is no place for violence in our country or in our politics, against any political leader or political party. It is always unacceptable and wrong. Praying that everyone is okay, Representative Jim McGovern.

There is no place for violence in our country or in our politics, against any political leader or political party. It is always unacceptable and wrong. Praying that everyone is okay. https://t.co/YXIkbJxohJ  Rep. Jim McGovern (@RepMcGovern) July 13, 2024

Political violence in all forms is condemnable, added Senator Ed Markey.

Political violence in all forms is condemnable.  Ed Markey (@SenMarkey) July 13, 2024

Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley also condemned the violent deadly shooting.

No one should fear for their life anywhere, including at a political rally.



Condemning this brazen act of violence in the strongest terms and praying for everyone impacted.  Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley (@RepPressley) July 14, 2024

I am horrified by the violence we witnessed yesterday, said WHIP Katherine Clark. My thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump, his family, and the attendees who were harmed.Political violence is never acceptable and threatens our countrys most fundamental values. As deeply as Americans may disagree with one another, we are one people. We cannot allow our differences to erode peace and stability in America.

The Massachusetts Republican Party also sounded off on the shooting.

The Massachusetts Republican Party extends its deepest and sincerest prayers to President Trump, his family, and the United States of America. Like every American, we are outraged, horrified, and deeply concerned. We are learning the details of the shooting in real time. For now, we emphasize that as Americans, we must not become so entrenched in division that we forget we are all brothers and sisters under the American flag. Whether Democrat or Republican, despite our differences, we all desire peace and prosperity for our nation. Political violence is intolerable, and we must unify as a nation to condemn this horrible incident. We expect justice for this heinous act and pray for President Trumps swift recovery, read a statement from the organization.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger said in a phone interview that the suspected gunman was dead and at least one rally attendee was killed.

Those out on the streets of Boston Saturday night expressed shock to Boston 25 reporter Daniel Coates.

Pretty crazy. Youd think with the amount of security these days that kind of stuff would be really reduced if not eliminated especially with big political figures on either side, one man told Boston 25 News.

Im scared. Im totally scared, one woman remarked.

Kinda shows a divide in the country a little bit, another man added. Crazy situation. Its just one of those things you hear and second guess like Did that really happen?

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when bangs started ringing through the crowd.

Someone can be heard saying near the microphone at Trumps lectern, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents tackled the former president.

Trump could later be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face.

He quickly ducked behind the riser as agents from his protective detail rushed the stage and screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

His motorcade has since left the venue.

Police began vacating the fairgrounds shortly after Trump left the stage in what local officers described as a crime scene.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter  who it said attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania  and that Trump was safe.

This is a developing story. Check back for updates as more information becomes available.

Download the FREE Boston 25 News app for breaking news alerts.

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AUSTIN (Nexstar)  When Kayla Muzquiz got out of the Texas foster care system, she didnt know where to start, and didnt have the money to hire a lawyer for help to navigate the transition.

Muzquizs mom died in a 2005 car accident. She found herself in foster care at 11 years old. Getting out of the system proved to be another hurdle for Muzquiz, and she didnt have the financial tools or legal literacy to navigate the transition from foster care to adulthood.

Its why advocates want to see more funding for legal aid, to help low-income Americans get in touch with free services to help with their civil cases. For Muzquiz, this journey started when she was trying to regain possession of critical documents from the state, like her Social Security card and birth certificate.

While all citizens have the constitutional right to legal representation when being charged with a crime that could result in imprisonment, there is no automatic right to legal representation in non-criminal cases in most states. However, there are numerous free and affordable options available for representation in such situations.

Its almost like youre starting out homeless, as soon as you leave foster care, Muzquiz said. Because I had four Social Security cards ordered while I was in foster care. That wasnt me losing my Social Security information. That was the state losing [that] paperwork.

Muzquiz said she likely would not have been able to go to college and find her independence, if it werent for the free legal aid she received from the Texas RioGrande Legal Aids foster youth assistance program.

A lot of people experience feeling alone. But sometimes foster youth, they kind of just feel forgotten, Muzquiz said. So its really nice to work with people who are lawyers and dont forget about you.

Advocacy for more federal funding of legal aid

Texas Supreme Court Chief Justice Nathan Hecht is leading the charge in expanding civil legal representation access for low-income Texans. He testified on Capitol Hill Tuesday to advocate for reducing the so-called justice gap.

The justice gap is what weve come to call the difference between the need for basic civil legal services, and the accessibility by people who have limited financial means, Hecht told Nexstar. So on the one hand, theres a huge need for these services. On the other hand, they cant get them because they dont have any money.

Legal aid organizations in Texas support more than 120,000 families in need annually with their civil cases.

Thats the whole promise that its got to be equal, that youre not going to be denied justice because you cant afford it, Hecht said. In the criminal system, everybody, all defendants are provided a lawyer. Thats just not true on the civil side.

Most legal aid organizations require recipients to have a household income level below 125% of the federal poverty Guidelines, according to TexasLawHelp.org. Pre-tax household income level and the number of people residing in a singular household are determining factors for this percentage.

Texas ranks 47th on the Justice Index, which assesses access to legal representation, self-representation, language assistance, disability support, and issues related to fines, fees, and consumer debt lawsuits. Hecht said having a lawyer to navigate civil issues can make all the difference for low-income families.

A lot of the problems are simple for lawyers, Hecht said. But theyre like climbing a mountain for the person involved.

Hecht told Nexstar that more than 100,000 family court cases proceed without legal representation annually, highlighting a significant gap in access to legal support which he has been working to address for decades since getting appointed to the Texas Supreme Court in 1988. He emphasized the importance of this as a bipartisan effort.

So this is not about politics, this is about just trying to get the job done, Hecht said. Is it getting worse? You know, its just such a hill to climb. Its hard to say were not making progress. Again, we have more people paying attention to it. More ways of addressing the issues than weve had in the past, but it just continues to be something weve got to focus on.

The Legal Services Corporation, a nonprofit organization providing civil legal aid, receives nearly $500 million annually in funding from the state of Texas. Hecht suggested that addressing the justice gap could involve increased funding and innovative approaches, such as utilizing AI for client assessments.

During his testimony in a Congressional Senate Committee hearing Tuesday, Hecht also suggested changes to legal education as a way to influence lawyers to provide legal aid.

Legal aid lawyers can be recruited by offering special training in the law schools and licensing requirements, Hecht said. So as to target legal aid practice, rather than just the general practice of law.

Last session, the Texas Legislature funded a request by the Supreme Court of Texas for $3.7 million, which would provide eligible children and young people in child welfare systems with basic civil legal services.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KXAN Austin.
What to know: Latest on victims, assassination attempt at Trump rally & whats ahead at RNC

Here is a roundup of coverage from Sunday, July 14, of what the FBI is describing as an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump during a Saturday, July 13, campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The days events included Trump traveling to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention and President Joe Biden addressing the nation from the Oval Office on Sunday evening, saying We must unite as one nation. We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are.

Family: Rally spectator died shielding his wife, daughters

The man killed when shots broke out at former President Donald Trumps rally Saturday was shielding his wife and daughters, a family member posted on Facebook.

His sister identified the victim as 50-year-old Corey Comperatore.

In a Facebook post mourning his loss, Comperatores sister, Dawn Comperatore Schafer, described her brother as a hero.

Two others were shot at the rally Saturday: David Dutch, 57, of New Kensington, Pennsylvania, was listed in stable condition Sunday, according to Pennsylvania State Police. James Copenhaver, 74, of Moon Township, Pennsylvania, was also listed in stable condition.

Read the full story here.

 Katie Bernard and Max Marin, The Philadelphia Inquirer

Who Is Corey Comperatore? Trump Rally Victim Killed Identified

Republican National Convention begins Monday

As Republicans begin arriving in Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, the attempt on Trumps life has created new pressures on the Republican Party entering the event.

Now we have a situation where we dont know what these conventions are going to look like. Weve known that for the Democrats for a few weeks now, given doubts over Bidens age. But now we have a Republican convention where we dont know which Donald Trump will show up, said Peter Kastor, chair of the History Department at Washington University in St. Louis.

The four-day convention is scheduled to begin Monday in Milwaukee. He is expected to receive the official nomination and to announce his running mate at the event.

Read full coverage of todays latest news here.

 Michael Wilner, McClatchys Chief Washington Correspondent

Trump assassination attempt casts a cloud over what could be Rubios brightest moment

GOP delegates from Pa. prepare to give Trump a heros welcome in Milwaukee

Donald Trump rally. Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by a bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

This aerial photo shows Fiserv Forum decorated for the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, Wisconsin on July 1, 2024. The city of Milwaukee will host the 2024 Republican Convention at Fiserv Forum which will run from July 15 through July 18. (Tannen Maury/AFP/Getty Images/TNS)

Donald Trump still plans to attend RNC

Former President Donald Trump confirmed hell attend the Republican National Convention, despite being injured in a shooting at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

The four-day convention is scheduled to begin Monday in Milwaukee. He is expected to receive the official nomination and to announce his running mate at the event.

Read the full story here.

 Miranda Davis, Bloomberg News

Update, 7:50 p.m. ET July 14: Former President Donald Trump has arrived in Milwaukee. Read more here.

An annotated photo showing what appears to be a projectile passing by Donald J. Trump during a rally in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Michael Harrigan, a retired F.B.I. special agent, said during an interview that this image captured by Doug Mills, a New York Times photographer, seemed to show a bullet streaking past the former president during a campaign rally in Butler on Saturday. (Doug Mills/The New York Times)

Photo appears to capture path of bullet used in assassination attempt

In documenting the Pennsylvania campaign rally Saturday afternoon that turned into an attempt on a former presidents life, Doug Mills, a veteran New York Times photographer, appeared to capture the image of a bullet streaking past former President Donald Trumps head.

That is the assessment of Michael Harrigan, a retired FBI special agent who spent 22 years in the bureau.

Read the full story here.

 John Ismay, The New York Times

Witnesses describe chaos after shooter opens fire

The long, hot day hadnt discouraged the former presidents supporters, who broke into spontaneous Trump chants or held up signs through the afternoon, even as many fanned themselves with pieces of paper or poured water over their heads as the heat persisted.

When the former president finally came on stage, he launched into familiar themes, including the false claim that the 2020 election was stolen. He endorsed former hedge fund CEO David McCormick for Pennsylvanias U.S. Senate seat.

He was talking about immigration when the apparent gunshots began, shocking those in the crowd and sending the Secret Service scrambling to protect the former president.

Lolou Rose, 55, of Weirton, West Virginia, said her first thoughts were that the pops were fireworks. Once she realized that its gunshots  you just feel the wave happening all over and we all come down.

Read the full story here.

 Megan Tomasic and Abby Lipold, Pittsburgh Post-Gazette/The Tribune Content Agency

I was at the Trump rally where he was shot. Here is what I saw

What was security like for attendees of rally?

Attendees at former President Donald Trumps Butler County rally on Saturday said security mirrored what theyd experienced at other Trump rallies.

But minutes into Trumps speech, someone opened fire.

Early Sunday, the FBI identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The Secret Service said the suspected shooter was on an elevated position outside the rally.

To get into the rally, attendee Dylan Paulson, 19, there was a long line to go into tents where bags were checked, before about 10 metal detectors in addition to security using handheld detectors. He also noted a large police presence.

Read the full story here.

 Fallon Roth, The Philadelphia Inquirer/Tribune Content Agency

Trump campaign tells staff to prepare for more security

The former presidents campaign strategists issued a memo after the shooting advising staffers to avoid offices, refrain from making public comments, and prepare for heightened armed security.

Read the full story here.

 Newsweek

Russia: Atmosphere created by Biden administration to blame

The current U.S. government prefers to resolve all issues from a position of strength, including and primarily in world affairs, a Kremlin spokesman said, an apparent reference to the administrations backing of Ukraine in its war with Russia.

Read the full story here.

 Ellie Cook, Newsweek

Conspiracy theories spread wildly online after Trump shooting - including by members of Congress

Melania Trump urges Americans to show courage, respect

When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change, the former first lady said in a statement.

Read the full story here.

 Susanne Barton, Bloomberg News/Tribune Content Agency

From the Opinion team

With blood streaking across Trumps face, America learned the price of toxic politics. From the Miami Herald Editorial Board

After Trump shooting, stop: Heres how we can all pull back from even more violence. From Kansas City Stars Melinda Henneberger

Trump is safe after a deadly shooting at a campaign rally, but the nation is not. From The States Matthew T. Hall

The stage at the Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, the site of the Republican National Convention, on July 11, 2024. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

Set-up and preparation occur for the Republican National Convention inside the Fiserv Forum, in Milwaukee, on July 11, 2024. Officials said plans for the Republican National Convention, set to start on Monday in Milwaukee, would be unchanged. (Kenny Holston/The New York Times)

A supporter of former President Donald Trump helps to unfurl an oversized United States flag outside Trump Tower in midtown Manhattan on Sunday morning, July 14, 2024, one day after Trump was shot while speaking at a campaign rally in Butler, Pa. Trump was declared OfineO by his campaign, and the gunman was killed by Secret Service snipers. The explosion of political violence further inflamed the campaign for the White House. (Adam Gray/The New York Times)

Officer responds during a campaign event for Former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. A nationwide poll last month found that 10 percent of those surveyed said the use of force is justified to prevent Donald Trump from becoming president. (Eric Lee/The New York Times)

Una pantalla muestra a las Fuerzas Especiales de Estados Unidos acordonando el area donde el expresidente estadounidense Donald Trump recibio un disparo en la oreja durante un mitin en Butler.
The US is now in a period of political violence and faces an important choice

The motivations of the gunman who opened fire at former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania on Saturday are not known, but the incident comes at a time of political anger and anxiety in a country split down the middle and bursting at the seams.

Violence has targeted Republicans, Democrats, conservatives and liberals, and seems to be happening with agonizing frequency.

 A plot to assassinate conservative Supreme Court justices was foiled in 2022 by the FBI.

 The husband of then-House Speaker Nancy Pelosi was attacked by a hammer-wielding intruder at their San Francisco home in 2022.

 A violent mob stormed the US Capitol in January of 2021 to interrupt the certification of Joe Bidens election win.

 Would-be kidnappers hatched a plot to snatch Michigans Democratic Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in 2020 and were sentenced on terrorism charges.

 A GOP congressional baseball team practice was attacked by a gunman in Alexandria, Virginia, in 2017. The then-House GOP Whip, Steve Scalise, was nearly killed.

Those incidents range from organized plots to the irrational actions of lone attackers, but they all feed off a desperate and intractable polarization in which apocalyptic language is used to demonize both sides of the political aisle.

A major question will be how Trump reacts

The Republican National Convention is set to get underway Monday in Milwaukee. Will Trump use the shooting to further feed the idea among his supporters that the country needs to be taken back, or will the former president, who doesnt believe he lost the last election, call for calm?

Americans need to treat this assassination attempt like 9/11 and unify, according to Ian Bremmer, the president of the political risk firm the Eurasia Group. But there is another direction that is more frightening. I fear its going to be a lot more like January 6, where there will be a large number of people that will weaponize what just happened. And that we will continue to tribalize as a country and people wont accept that the people on the other side of the aisle are American, Bremmer told CNNs Fareed Zakaria.

In the shocking chaos of the immediate aftermath of the shooting, Trump was encouraging supporters to fight.

Trump yelled to supporters, pumping his fist, as blood dripped from his head when the Secret Service rushed him from the rally stage.

Later, on his social media platform, the presumptive GOP nominee called for national unity.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, he said.

As the gravity of the situation sank in Saturday night, over-the-top rhetoric was on hold, replaced by bipartisan condemnation of political violence and calls to cool things down.

In a statement, Biden condemned political violence and called the attack on Trump sick, while his advisers halted television advertising and put active campaigning on hold.

President Joe Biden speaks after at the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, after Donald Trump was shot in Pennsylvania on July 13, 2024. - Samuel Corum/AFP/Getty Images

Blaming anti-Trump rhetoric

Scalise, now the House majority leader, issued a statement blaming anti-Trump rhetoric, which he said is fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America.

Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop, he added.

One of Trumps potential running mates, Sen. JD Vance of Ohio, issued a statement Saturday night, before the identity of the suspected shooter had been released or his motivation was known, blaming political opposition to Trump, and the Biden campaigns rhetoric specifically, for the shooting.

The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs, Vance said on X. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

On NBCs Meet the Press, Sen. Lindsey Graham, a South Carolina Republican, said Trumps election would not break the country.

You know, if he wins, democracy is not going to end. Hes not a fascist. He represents a point of view that millions share, Graham said.

Calls to calm down

Sen. Ron Johnson, the Wisconsin Republican, told CNNs Jake Tapper Sunday that the greatest threat to America is that were horribly divided.

He said Americans need to spend less time on social media, where divisions grow, and more time out in their communities focused on the things that unite them.

Sen. John Fetterman, the Pennsylvania Democrat, noted on State of the Union that the Tree of Life Synagogue was attacked in 2018 in nearby Pittsburgh.

I cant believe were in that place. Its the same kind of shock, Fetterman said.

Cycles of political violence bred in the bone

The presidential historian Tim Naftali said on CNN that there have been other cycles of violence against presidential candidates in US politics  frequently at times of social change, including 1968, when Robert F. Kennedy and Marin Luther King, Jr., were shot. He said political violence is bred in the bone of the country.

Its something we ought to remember  we are capable of this as a nation, Naftali said. The people who do it, of course, are outliers, but they are a product of the extremism and the anger and the hatred that sometime pulses through our elections.

The gunman, identified by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, had apparently been a registered Republican, and would only this year have been old enough to vote in a presidential election. His name is also associated with a $15 donation to a progressive political action committee.

The FBI has been warning about the terror threat posed by domestic violent extremists in recent years. Last December, FBI Director Christopher Wray warned of the threat of lone actors as a top domestic threat to the homeland.

Not all attacks on politicians are politically motivated

John Hinckley was mentally unstable, seeking fame and to impress a Hollywood actress, when he tried to kill President Ronald Reagan in 1981.

But the recent string of violent incidents falls into a definite period of division and anger.

The Republican pollster Kristen Soltis Anderson said on CNN that Americans across the board are angry and frustrated.

I look at data all the time that says Americans are getting angrier and angrier about whats going on in this country, that they are getting more and more frustrated that they think traditional ways of solving problems are no longer working, she said.

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Primary elections in Utah have wound down and now its on to the general election.

In the general election for attorney general, Derek Brown emerged as the Republican candidate after a three-way race. Rudy Bautista (Democratic), Andrew McCullough (Libertarian) and Michelle Quist (United Utah) all made their way onto the ballot via convention. Austin Hepworth is running as an unaffiliated candidate.

These candidates are vying to become the states lawyer and whoever is elected will likely weigh in when there are newsworthy legal issues. So, the Deseret News asked each of the candidates what they thought about two of the most talked about Supreme Court rulings: Chevron deference and the immunity of former President Donald Trump.

In addition to these rulings, candidates were asked about Trumps guilty verdict handed down by a Manhattan jury as that issue was discussed during the Republican primary.

Here are their responses.

Utah AG candidates on Chevron ruling

Chevron deference was a legal doctrine that gave agencies discretion to interpret the law in cases where Congress was ambiguous or silent. It was overturned by the Supreme Court, which gives the power of interpretation back to the courts.

Derek Brown: When asked what he thinks about the ruling, Brown said, I think its about 40 years overdue. Thats what I think. I think Chevron as a doctrine was unworkable from the moment it was passed.

Brown was effusive about Chief Justice John Roberts majority opinion and said, I love how he ended the case. He says that the true lesson is not that we are bound to respect Chevrons startling development, but bound to inter it. In other words, Brown said, Chevron was buried by the court because it was unworkable.

Number one, its unworkable because its a continually shifting standard and its a standard based on who is in the White House, said Brown as he paraphrased from the opinion. He pointed toward a matter dealing with broadband internet service where a rule was upheld under George W. Bush, but replaced under Barack Obama and then again replaced by Donald Trump and President Biden.

What theyve done is they have effectively stopped the whiplash and they said to Congress, Its time for you to do your job, said Brown, adding that conservatives were frustrated with Chevron from the start because it gave agencies powers they never believed they should have.

If elected, Brown said he would put together a Chevron working group to address federal overreach. He said hes been working with members of the Utah Legislature to identify areas where the state can push back for the benefit of Utahs naming the power plant rule as a specific example.

Brown mentioned land issues, mineral extraction, use of roads and grazing as other areas where the state could push back. He spoke about the work of Louisiana Attorney General Liz Murrill where she won a case after pushing back on a rule that impacted dishwashers. Brown said there are a number of small areas like that in the state that he would look at addressing.

In addition to working with state lawmakers, Brown said he would collaborate with other attorneys general. But as a state, I want us to lead out on issues involving lands and energy because those are really the key issues that we face here in the West.

Michelle Quist: Quist said its not surprising the court overturned Chevron. What is surprising is the grandstanding taking place that the Loper Bright case has solved all of our federal regulation problems. In fact, the Court has simply transferred power from the executive branch to the judicial branch.

Saying it was ironic that conservatives praised Chevron in 1984 as a good response to an overly active judiciary, Quist added, As soon as a few courts confirm new regulations they dont like well start hearing about activist judges again.

Chevron deference was used when a statute interpreting federal regulation is ambiguous  a court would defer to the reasonable interpretation provided by the agency, said Quist. Now, instead, the courts will decide whether the proposed regulation was intended by Congress or not using traditional methods of statutory interpretation  arguably what should have been happening all along.

Quist said its clear Congress hasnt done its job.

Going forward, if Congress doesnt make it clear in each particular statute that an agency does or does not have regulatory authority, then our judges will be the ones making law, said Quist.

When asked about areas where the federal agencies may have overstepped, Quist quipped light bulbs and shower water pressure.

In all seriousness, Americans feel overregulated by the little things and most federal agencies fail to make the connection between the importance of the regulation to the publics general safety and well-being, said Quist.

Quist also said Congress cant be trusted to legislate better and Chevron will be harmful if our health, environmental, food safety, and other agencies arent able to persuade courts to keep or adopt reasonable regulations that protect the food we eat, the air we breathe, the toys we play with, the cars we drive, the roads we travel on, and our land from the waste that corporations create.

The bright side, Quist said, is theres now an incentive to settle the safety of Americans daily lives.

Andrew McCullough: McCullough said he fights with administrative agencies all the time and doesnt think it ought to be the case that if the bureaucrats say one thing and you say the other, the bureaucrats are right.

I think that putting this on equal footing and making the government prove that their argument is correct and reasonable is a great thing, said McCullough adding that he also thinks its good the Legislature will be compelled to write more specific laws.

McCullough said hes not looking for opportunities to sue the federal government right now, but if hes elected, he would look at where areas where the federal government has overstepped their bounds.

Im just as anxious to cut down on state regulation as federal, said McCullough. If this is purely a power struggle between bureaucrats and the feds and bureaucrats in the state as to which one of them gets to oppress us, Im not interested.

Rudy Bautista: Im very torn on it, because from one aspect of it, I do agree that the Legislature, when they enact laws, they need to be clear on what they want, said Bautista. But he said hes also concerned because now judges without the same expertise as administrative agencies will be given more discretion.

Its very troubling and I think, unfortunately, all its going to do is increase litigation and waste a lot of money and potentially put peoples safety at risk and environment at risk, said Bautista.

Bautista said he was concerned that the current environmental regulations would be pushed aside and litigated. He said regulations to keep the air clean and prevent illness would be put in jeopardy  and expressed concern about offshore oil drilling.

While Bautista said hes torn on this issue because he believes its important to use natural resources, he worries what will happen if corporations are allowed to run amok. He said he would hate to see oil companies have unchecked access to Utah public lands for drilling.

Bautista said there are no areas where he thinks federal agencies have overstepped and would consider litigation.

Utah is a state in the United States of America, said Bautista. Were not an independent sovereign. Were not our own foreign country. We are the United States of America and we need to start acting that way.

Austin Hepworth: I think that the recent ruling overturning Chevron is correct, said Hepworth The courts should review statutory grants independently. It is an important part of the system of checks and balances.

A recent example of a federal agency taking an expansive interpretation of existing law is with the FTC passing a rule that bans noncompete agreements, continued Hepworth. The rule overturns years of contract law and the rights of the state to self-regulate, and was not a part of the FTCs oversight prior to its rule. Another example includes when the federal government mandated that employers with more than 100 employees vaccinate all employees.

Trump immunity

Derek Brown: Brown said the Constitution doesnt say anything specific about presidential immunity and that he thinks the arguments that came from either side of the oral argument were untenable.

Both are extremes and neither is workable, said Brown. Because I think the president needs to have a level of immunity for actions with a nexus to his Article 2 powers.

Brown said the president needs to have immunity for actions taken within their official scope of responsibility and he thinks that its good the court did that and kicked the specific interpretation of that down to the lower courts.

Something else Brown said he liked about the decision was how the Supreme Court justices took the personalities out of the decision and thought about the decision from a long-term perspective. Ultimately, the court did what they often do, which is that they didnt resolve the issue, but they created a standard that courts from here on out have to follow when theyre faced with these kinds of questions.

And thats what American courts do, continued Brown. Thats what our judicial system is best at doing and I think theyve done a good job of balancing the competing interests here and creating a policy that the lower court will follow.

Michelle Quist: Our presidents are now untouchable and can plan accordingly, said Quist. Like Justice Sonia Sotomayor, I fear for our democracy.

Our system isnt set up to elect bad men who would even contemplate criminal activity in office. Im constantly flabbergasted that so many Americans are OK electing leaders who are lying, cheating, con men who harm women, said Quist. Our elected leaders should be held to a higher standard, which is exactly why I am running for attorney general. No more scandal and gross partisanship. When you have scandal, all it does is undermine the public trust, and make government less effective.

Andrew McCullough: McCullough said he thinks a lot of people are worried about the decision, but he doesnt think the decision says that the president can do whatever he wants.

When reading the opinion, McCullough said he saw the instances where Sotomayor was pointing out where the president would be immune, but also saw Roberts challenging that. McCullough said Trumps argument was much wider than what the Supreme Court gave him.

Rudy Bautista: Im a little bit torn because historically the presidents of the United States have had to do things that are in our national interest and defense of our country and sometimes they cant tell us these things because they could threaten our safety, said Bautista.

But Bautista said the idea that the president would have absolute immunity in every case of an official act is nonsense.

Austin Hepworth: The Supreme Courts ruling on Trumps immunity went too far. Nearly every government position will have some level of immunity with it, but no position should have extensive immunity, said Hepworth. The president signs most laws and should be subject to the laws signed, just as the rest of us are subject to them. Government officials should be accountable to constitutional laws and to the people.

Trump verdict

Derek Brown: I believe that we have a long and very divisive year ahead of us, and unfortunately, the recent verdict in New York only threatens to exacerbate that. Both President Biden and President Trump are likely to be our parties respective nominees, and thus only a handful of Americans in a few swing states are likely to be the decision maker in who will be the next president of the United States, said Brown. I have spent my entire campaign outlining my priorities if I am Utahs next attorney general. These include protecting the most vulnerable among us, protecting our children, securing the border, and pushing back against federal government overreach.

Brown added that he will be committed to those ideals regardless of who the president will be.

Michelle Quist: We cant start picking and choosing which verdicts well support and which ones well question or the system itself will crumble, said Quist. As officers of the court, we have ethical obligations to uphold our systems of justice. And our system is strong, with built-in safeguards that are still in play, including for former President Trump. Quist said the rule of law is the most important thing and not even the political elite are above it.

Andrew McCullough: As a criminal defense lawyer, McCullough said his immediate feeling is always dont let the prosecution run over us, but also when he sees someone do something really wrong, he thinks there ought to be a punishment.

In general, McCullough said hed like to see fewer criminal cases and fewer convictions. This specific case is complicated.

McCullough said on the one hand, Trump tends to not follow the rules, and on the other hand, hes not convinced beyond a reasonable doubt. He said hes not bothered by Trump getting his hand slapped.

Rudy Bautista: The fact of the matter is he broke the law, the jury found (that), the prosecution met the burden of proofs and the jury convicted him, said Bautista said adding he thought it was offensive to come to the defense of a person whos broken the law.

Austin Hepworth: From the evidence I have seen (which is not all), it appears that Trump did violate campaign finance laws, but it also appears possible that the law is not being equally enforced. I believe strongly that laws should be equally enforced against all who break them, said Hepworth.
Utah leaders respond after apparent assassination attempt at PA rally for former Pres. Trump

SALT LAKE CITY (ABC4)  Utah leaders from both sides of the aisle took to social media to share their thoughts after an apparent assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, July 13.

A statement from the Trump campaigns communications director, Steven Cheung, reported that the former president was fine and was being checked out at a local medical facility.

LEARN MORE: Trump is fine after shooting at rally, campaign says. Prosecutor says gunman and 1 attendee are dead

The United States Secret Service said the former President was safe and that the situation was an active investigation. Pennsylvania officials told the Associated Press that at least one attendee was killed and the suspected shooter was dead.

President Joe Biden released a statement after the incident and said he was praying for Trump and his family, and he also expressed his gratitude to the Secret Service for getting the former president to safety.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America, President Biden said in his statement. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Former President Donald Trump posted a statement of his own on Truth Social on Saturday evening. His statement is as follows:

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA! Former President Trump via Truth Social

After the incident, several of Utahs political leaders took to social media to share their thoughts on the situation as well. Some of their comments are included below.

Utah Republicans respond to the incident at the Trump rally

The Utah GOP posted a statement from Chairman Rob Axson on social media:

The Utah Republican Party invites Utahns everywhere to pray for the health, safety, and well being of Donald Trump. We condemn the evil displayed today. Utah GOP Chairman Rob Axson via Twitter/X

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox posted the following statement on Twitter/X:

The attack on President Trump is sickening and horrifying. Abby and I join all Americans in praying for him and hope justice is swift for anyone involved. Gov. Spencer Cox via Twitter/X

Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson posted her thoughts as well:

This is terrible. I hope President Trump is okay and the shooter is brought to justice. Its a sad day in America. Lt. Gov. Deidre Henderson via Twitter/X

Sen. Mitt Romney released the following statement on Facebook:

Relieved the former President is safe and doing well. Outrageous and tragic that anyone would make such a heinous and evil act. Grateful for the quick response from Secret Service agents. This is a deeply sad day for America. Sen. Mitt Romney via Facebook

Sen. Mike Lee also posted on Twitter/X, and said the following:

Someone just tried to kill President Trump. Pray for him. And for swift justice. Sen. Mike Lee via Twitter/X

Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes issued a statement on Twitter/X on Saturday:

My family is praying for President Trump and any other innocent people who were hurt. May God continue to watch over the President, his family and America. Political violence of any kind against anyone and for any reason has no place in this country. Utah Attorney General Sean Reyes

Utah Democrats respond to the incident at the Trump rally

Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis released a statement about the incident in a press release:

I am disturbed by todays news out of Pennsylvania. Political violence is wrong, period. My thoughts are with those affected. Utah Democratic Party Chair Diane Lewis

Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson also responded to the situation via social media on Saturday:

There is no place for violence in our Democracy. My thoughts are with former President Trump, his team and his family. This is a tragic and horrific moment in our nations history. Salt Lake County Mayor Jenny Wilson via Twitter/X

Utah House Democratic Leader Angela Romero released a statement in a press release:

I strongly condemn political violence against candidates, elected officials, and appointees. Political violence in any form has no place in our society and undermines the democratic principles we stand for. My thoughts are with the victims of todays events. Utah House Democratic Leader Angela Romero

This story will be updated as more information becomes available.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to ABC4 Utah.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage by U.S. Secret Service agents after being grazed by an apparent bullet during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

As a shaken nation reacted to a shooting that injured former President Donald Trump as he was onstage for a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Utah officials urged prayer as they expressed outrage over the violence.

One audience member at the rally was killed and the suspected gunman, who fired from an elevated position outside the event, was neutralized, according to Anthony Guglielmi, chief of communications for the Secret Service, in a statement. Two more audience members were critically injured.

Utah Gov. Spencer Cox on his official X account called the attack sickening and horrifying.

Abby and I join all Americans in praying for him and hope justice is swift for anyone involved, Cox said.

On his personal X account, Cox  in the news this week as he again shared his Disagree Better campaign, urging civil political discourse and cautioning against hyperpartisanship  reposted a number of messages about calming the rhetoric in response to the attack.

Cox also offered thanks for the efforts of the Secret Service members who rushed in without hesitation.

Utah Senate President Stuart Adams, R-Layton, said in a statement the attack is deeply troubling and shared his relief that Trump is safe.

It is imperative we uphold non-violence as a fundamental principle, regardless of our political differences. My prayers are with him for a swift and complete recovery, Adams said. My condolences to all those affected by this despicable act. Praying for our country to unite and stand up against violence.

Utah House Speaker Mike Schultz, R-Hooper, said: This is a sad day for America. Any type of political violence is unacceptable and is an attack on everything our country stands for. I pray for President Trump and for our country.

Senate Minority Leader Luz Escamilla, D-Salt Lake City, issued a statement saying Utahs Senate Democrats condemn political violence.

In a democracy, it is crucial that all voices can be heard without fear of harm or intimidation, regardless of their political affiliation or ideology, Escamilla said. I urge all Utahns to stand together in rejecting violence and embracing the democratic principles of peaceful dialogue and mutual respect.

House Minority Leader Angela Romero, D-Salt Lake City, also denounced the violence and said, Political violence in any form has no place in our society and undermines the democratic principles we stand for.

Reactions from Utahns in Congress

In a joint message on X, Utah Republican Sen. Mike Lee joined Robert OBrien, a Trump administration national security adviser, in calling for President Joe Biden to order all federal charges against Trump dropped, and to ask leaders in Georgia and New York to do the same with state charges there.

Such a gesture would help heal wounds and allow all Americans to take a deep breath and reflect on how we got here. Our prayers are with the victims of the shooting, President Trump and our country, Lee and OBrien said.

Lee also posted on his personal account, calling for government control rather than gun control and questioning the amount of power that the federal government and the president have.

Utah Sen. Mitt Romney posted: Relieved the former President is safe and doing well. Outrageous and tragic that anyone would make such a heinous and evil act. Grateful for the quick response from Secret Service agents. This is a deeply sad day for America.

Utah Rep. Blake Moore on social media called the shooting a likely assassination attempt, saying it and violence toward the former presidents supporters are sickening. He offered a prayer for Trump, his team, and Pennsylvanians.

Utah Rep. Celeste Maloy said on X: Praying for President Trump, everyone at the rally, and our nation. I urge people everywhere to lower the temperature of our political discourse.

Utah Republican Rep. John Curtis shared his gratitude for Trumps safety and the actions of Secret Service and law enforcement.

Rep. Burgess Owens shared a post asking for prayers for Trump and another criticizing the media.

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Victim of sex abuse by LI teacher wins $30M case but hasnt seen a penny  so now hes going after pervs NYC co-op

Michael Malvin posing for camera in front of water, wearing aviator sunglasses in buttondown shirt, left; at right, co-op on UWS that belonged to abuser teacher that Malvin is trying to get rights to

A Long Island native who endured years of sexual abuse at the hands of his fifth-grade teacher  and won a more than $30 million judgment against the educator in court  is now going after the perverts Upper West Side co-op, court records show.

Michael Malvin won the hefty judgment in 2022 after suing David Savage, now 73, under the Child Victims Act, the state law which opened a legal window for abuse survivors to bring outdated legal claims to court.

Savage hasnt paid a penny, Malvin, 55, said in Manhattan Supreme Court papers filed Friday in which he sought to take over the one-bedroom Lincoln Towers pad at 140 West End Ave., which went on the market last year for $675,000 before the listing was withdrawn.

Michael Malvin won a bid for the Upper West Side co-op in June but is now seeking a court order that would compel David Savage to turn over the share certificate. Google

Malvin, who now lives in southern California, won a bid for the unoccupied apartment in June but says Savage, who lives in Florida, has ignored requests to turn it over.

Getting the property is, to me, just a small part of the story, Malvin told The Post, and it might actually cost him money.

The latest action is more about the F-you factor of being the person to get this place, he said.

In our justice system, just because you win a civil case and somebody owes you money, theres no legal compulsion on the person who loses to pay, said Malvins attorney, Bernard DOrazio. The burden is on the person who wins to go out and find assets or income to collect from.

Savage was Malvins fifth-grade teacher at Hewitt Elementary School in Rockville Centre in 1979 and began grooming him for a years-long sexual relationship when Malvin was just 10 years old.

In a 2017 Facebook post, Malvin detailed the years of abuse he suffered after meeting David Savage at Hewitt Elementary School in Rockville Centre. Google

He was my first male teacher and I was excited about that, he wrote in a 2017 Facebook post describing the horrific abuse by the then-28-year-old teacher. My father and I were struggling at home and I could use a positive male role model.

Within a few months and by the end of fifth grade there was a lot of touching, he wrote.

The mental and physical abuse continued until 9th grade when Malvins parents stepped in and ended the relationship.

After the 2022 judgement, people would ask Malvin if he got closure.

It never has felt that way, he said. Youre just picking these old wounds, and the trial was very difficult and challenging and emotional.

Justice, a little bit for me, is using the legal system to do as much as you can, like Savage did lose this place, his name is mud  Im just gonna do anything and everything I can do.

Getting the property is, to me, just a small part of the story, Michael Malvin said of the efforts to obtain Savages lease and share certificate. facebook/michaelmalvin

Until then, his goal is helping those who have been abused and their families.

To all the people who still are within a statute of limitations  its tough out there, Malvin said. You may not get any money, this is what it looks like in real life.

Savage and his lawyers did not immediately respond to messages from The Post.
Local party leaders are reacting to the attempted assassination of former President and presumed GOP nominee Donald Trump.

The Saturday evening shooting has local GOP and Democratic leaders calling for peace.

Violence is never the solution. This should be the last bloodshed for politics in America, State Representative and Duval GOP Party Chair Dean Black (R-Yulee) said.

Political violence is never acceptable under any circumstances. When I first heard the news, I was frankly horrified, Duval DEMS Chair Daniel Henry said.

Read: Northeast Florida, Southeast Georgia leaders react to assassination attempt at Trump rally

Henry and Black both spoke with Action News Jax on Saturday evening.

Henry called for unity amidst the moment of historic division.

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In moments like this, I think it brings us together to become even more of a stronger nation. And as we learn more to figure out what happened today, I think what we have to make clear if youre a Democrat, Republican, NPA, whatever your political stripes is that political violence is never the answer, Henry said.

For Black, he echoed those sentiments but said he believes the attempted assassination should serve as a rallying cry for Republicans as they head into the November election.

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President Donald J. Trump is unstoppable. And everyone will resolve to double down and do everything in their power to makes sure that we win, Black said. And everyone should take a deep look in their soul, in their heart, and as Americans all commit that when the election is over when its over, and that we resolve that we have to live together again as one people.

Action News Jax asked Chairman Black, who is headed to Milwaukee as a delegate for the GOP convention Sunday morning, whether he believed additional security should be put in place.

He said he has full faith in the security preparations put in place by the party.

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Demonisation demands destruction. Throughout history, spiralling rhetoric has led to dehumanisation and violence. And in America, from Lincoln to Kennedy, it has also produced assassinations.

Little is known so far about the background, influences and motivation of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old registered Republican who tried to kill Donald Trump in Pennsylvania last night. But with America literally inches from its fifth Presidential murder, it may be time to ask whether the wildness of political discourse is not leading us into the darkness.

In a video call with donors on Monday, Joe Biden said its time to put Trump in the bulls-eye; just days ago, a new Democratic advertisement branded Trump a lapdog for a dictator who blames America first. Further back, Biden famously remarked that, if we were in high school, Id take him behind the gym and beat the hell out of him.

By themselves, these statements may simply be examples of the cut-and-thrust of campaigning. Politics are politics. Hindsight is hindsight. Such is the frenzy of the debate, however, that this is the mildest vanguard of a trend for attacking Trump in the most graphic terms and getting away with it. For all the Lefts exhortations to be kind, they seem happy to make an exception when it comes to the 45th president.

Take the musicians. The rapper Snoop Dogg  who has 20.7 million followers on X/Twitter alone  has aimed a gun at a clown dressed as Trump. Moby, the DJ, has depicted a robot Trump transforming into a dollar sign merged with a swastika before malfunctioning and blowing up. Madonna, who also has millions of followers on social media, has ranted about blowing up the White House. The iconic grunge band Pearl Jam has produced a poster depicting Trumps rotting corpse on the lawn of a burning White House, being eaten by an eagle.

It is hard to imagine these people reacting with sanguinity if a Democrat was abused in the same way. When Sarah Palin produced a map of target congressional districts marked with cross-hair symbols, she was blamed for inciting the subsequent shooting of Representative Gabby Giffords in Arizona. And when a rodeo clown in Missouri put on an Obama mask while spectators were asked if they wanted to see Obama run down by a bull, he was banned for life.

The hypocrisy is hard to ignore. Take the actors. As far back as 2016, Robert De Niro declared, hes a punk, hes a dog, hes a pig  Id like to punch him in the face. In 2019, Mickey Rourke vowed, were gonna bump into each other A left hook from hell. Pirates of the Caribbean star Johnny Depp went one step further, telling a crowd at Glastonbury: There are a lot of wonderful dark, dark places he could go When was the last time an actor assassinated a president?

Nazi comparisons, which would be greeted with furious offence if they came the other way, have become commonplace. The cover of last months The New Republic blended the faces of Trump and Hitler above the words American fascism, printed in Gothic script. On TikTok last week, Joy Reid, the MSNBC presenter, said: Let me know who I got to vote for to keep Hitler out of the White House.

Are we supposed to think this is OK? Trump may be divisive and unpleasant, but would he order a Holocaust? Again: demonisation demands destruction. Children sometimes ask each other if they would go back and kill the German dictator, were a time machine invented. But you dont need a time machine to kill Trump.

The Republican nominee is hardly innocent of using aggressive rhetoric himself, of course. After losing the election in 2020, his rabble-rousing speeches were blamed  rightly or wrongly  for the insurrection on Capitol Hill. In 2020, ABC News claimed to have found 54 cases in which he had inspired violence and threats, including a plot to bomb a block of flats in Kansas that had many Muslim residents.

There is a particular tolerance, however, for venom from prominent figures on the Left. Now might be a good time for a reckoning.

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Virginias Congressional delegation, and candidates for federal office in the commonwealth, took to social media to offer their thoughts and prayers to former President Donald Trump after gunshots rang out at his campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday.

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee in the 2024 presidential election, was tackled by secret service on stage at the campaign rally after a barrage of loud pops were heard during his remarks. Secret Service whisked the former president away, blood dripping from his head. Later, the campaign issued a statement to say Trump would be fine: he experienced injury to the top of his ear.

Secret Service issued a statement that said one spectator at the rally was killed, two others were critically injured, and that secret service personnel "neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased." The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden, the Democratic presumptive nominee and incumbent in the 2024 presidential election, issued a statement on X say he is grateful to hear Trump is safe and doing well.

"I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania," Biden wrote in his post. "Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

Biden later delivered brief remarks about the shooting that occurred the Trump rally, calling it sick and saying he hopes to speak to Trump later Saturday night.

There is no place for this kind of violence in America. Its sick. Its sick, Biden told reporters at an emergency briefing room in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, where he is spending the weekend.

Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.

Biden said he has tried to get a hold of Trump by phone but has been unsuccessful.

Lawmakers: Political violence is never acceptable.

Virginias senior Democratic Sen. Mark Warner wrote, There is no place for political violence in a democracy. Im monitoring this terrible situation and praying for all those at the Pennsylvania rally, on his X account, shortly after the event.

The commonwealths junior Democratic Sen. Tim Kaine, wrote that he is deeply concerned by this situation and am praying for President Trump and everyone at todays event.

Hung Cao, Kaines Republican opponent and an ardent Trump supporter, wrote that he is Praying for President Trump, everyone in Butler, and our Republic.

Rep. Bob Good, chair of the House Freedom Caucus who lost the Republican primary to state Sen. John McGuire in June, wrote Pray for President Trump. McGuire wrote Praying for President Trump and our country.

Eugene Vindman, a Democrat seeking to represent Virginias Seventh Congressional district wrote, Political violence is absolutely unacceptable. I am praying for the health and safety of President Trump and everyone at the event in the wake of this heinous act. His Republican opponent, Derrick Anderson, who spoke at a Trump rally in Chesapeake in late June wrote, Praying for President Trump and everyone at the rally in PA. This type of violence has no place in America. We must unite as a country, stand together, and move forward as one.

Rep. Abigail Spanberger, who is not seeking reelection to the Seventh District and is instead running for governor of Virginia in 2025, wrote, Im praying for everyone who was at the former presidents rally this evening, and Im relieved that he is reportedly doing well. Political violence is never acceptable.

Republican Rep. Jen Kiggans, who is up for reelection in Virginias Second Congressional District, wrote, Please join me in praying for President Trump and everyone attending his rally in Pennsylvania today.

Mike Clancy, the Republican candidate seeking the Tenth Congressional District seat, wrote, Praying for President Trump. His opponent, state Sen. Suhas Subramanyam reposted Kaines message, but did not appear to release one of his own on the social media platform.

Republican Rep. Rob Wittman wrote, Praying that President Trump and all in attendance at todays rally are safe  political violence in all forms must be universally condemned. I am grateful to the law enforcement officers, first responders, and medical personnel for their swift response to this horrific act.

Democratic Rep. Bobby Scott, who represents Virginias Third Congressional District, wrote, I unequivocally condemn any form of political violence. As we wait for more information, my thoughts and prayers are with former President Trump and everyone else at the rally today.

Republican Rep. Ben Cline, who represents Virginias Sixth Congressional District, wrote, Elizabeths and my thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and his family. Thank you to the brave Secret Service agents who risked their lives to protect our president.

Democratic Rep. Don Beyer, who represents Virginias Eighth Congressional District, wrote, My prayers are with former President Trump and his family, and with the people who were with him in Pennsylvania. As we wait for more information, Im grateful to law enforcement for their swift response to protect the public. Political violence is totally unacceptable.

Republican Rep. Morgan Griffith, who represents Virginias Ninth Congressional District, wrote, President Trump injured at rally in Pennsylvania. Please pray for him to be fine.

Democratic Rep. Gerry Connolly, who represents Virginias Tenth Congressional District, wrote, Praying for the safety of everyone in attendance at Donald Trumps rally. While we await more information, we know that political violence is never acceptable.

This article originally appeared on Staunton News Leader: Trump injured in rally shooting, Virginia lawmakers respond
Though a would-be assassins bullet clipped Donald Trumps ear and left him bloodied during a campaign speech Saturday in Butler, Pennsylvania, the former president was not daunted.

Fight, he yelled to the crowd, raising his fist as he was ushered off the stage by Secret Service agents.

Soon after, his Virginia allies expressed concern as well as a renewed commitment to championing his bid to reclaim the White House.

President Trumps bravery in the face of danger solidifies that he is the type of leader our country needs, read a statement from U.S. Rep. Jen Kiggans of Virginia Beach. I remain strongly supportive of him and look forward to helping him win in November.

Kiggans was one of several speakers at a Trump rally late last month at Historic Greenbrier Farms in Chesapeake, where she was joined by many notable Virginia Republicans  including Gov. Glenn Youngkin.

Early in the election cycle, the Norfolk Academy graduates name had been bandied about as a potential GOP challenger to Trump. In Chesapeake and after Saturdays incident, Youngkin conveyed support for the former president.

Last night, Donald J. Trump showed us strength and courage, and showed us compassion and gratitude, Youngkin said in a Sunday statement. I thank God for protecting him.

Yesterdays attempted assassination of President Trump was an action of pure evil  an affront against our morality, an affront against our liberty, an affront against the very foundations of our great nation. If we ever deem it acceptable, then we will lose our Republic.

Virginia Attorney General Jason Miyares, a former Virginia Beach delegate, was part of a red wave in 2021 that swept him, Youngkin and Lt. Gov. Winsome Sears into office. A Cuban American, he expressed outrage Saturday.

This is not Cuba, he wrote on X. An attack on a U.S. presidential candidate is an attack on American democracy itself.

Democratic President Joe Biden, who defeated Trump in 2020 and faces him in a November rematch, called for all Americans to condemn the assault, during which the shooter and a rally attendee were killed.

He was joined by state Democrats.

Im so distraught over the tragedy at President Trumps rally yesterday, U.S. Sen. Tim Kaine wrote on X. Im relieved he is safe and will pray at Mass today for his recovery and for the families who lost loved ones.

Portsmouths Louise Lucas, a longtime state senator and vocal critic of Trump, also reached across the aisle.

I am disgusted by the events that occurred at former President Trumps rally today, she wrote Saturday on X. Political violence has absolutely no place in our democratic systems.
HAMPTON, Va. (WAVY)  A body was found in Hampton on Saturday, Virginia Marine Resources Commission, or VMRC, confirmed to 10 On Your Side.

Related coverage: Officials identify man missing in water off Grandview Beach in Hampton

BREAKING NEWS:



THE VMRC CONFIRMS TO 10 ON YOUR SIDE A BODY HAS BEEN RECOVERED.



Its unsure if the body is that of 58 year old Keith Thomas Henley of Providence Forge who fell overboard while fishing Thursday.



The body recovered near Factory Point in Hampton. @WAVY_News  Andy Fox (@AndyFoxWAVYTV) July 13, 2024

In light of Thursdays incident, where a man was lost overboard a boat in Hampton, search and rescue teams have been searching for the body of 58-year-old Keith Thomas Henley. The VMRC confirmed finding a body in Hampton on Saturday, near Factory Point.

At this time, it is unclear whether the body found is Henley.

Continue to check WAVY.com for updates.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Note: This is the fourth in a series of six Guest Opinions commemorating the Craters of the Moon National Monument Centennial.

While southern Idahos vast Snake River Plain is lauded and renowned among geology aficionados for its fantastic volcanic landscapes, Craters of the Moon National Monument stands apart as its single exemplary feature. Boasting the largest young basaltic lava field in the contiguous United States, the monument is a volcanic wonderland of cones, vents, fissures, and flows.

Though eruptions that forged this impressive landscape occurred thousands of years ago, southern Idahos dry climate and slow weathering rates left this surreal landscape looking nearly as fresh as the day the lava burst from the Earth.

Craters of the Moon Monument & Preserve encompasses a huge region of about 1,200 square miles and includes two separate geologically young lava fields: the main Craters of the Moon lava field in the north and the Wapi/Kings Bowl lava fields near the monuments southern boundary.

Most of the volcanic landforms within the monument formed during eight eruptive periods over the past 15,000 years, with the most recent eruption occurring a mere 2,000 years ago. Each eruptive period was separated by periods of inactivity that lasted a few hundred to as many as 3,000 years.

The frequency of eruptions over the past 15,000 years and the age of the youngest eruption indicate that future outpourings of lava in this area are expected and anticipated.

Many of the cones and fissures in the monument are aligned in a northwest-southeast direction, forming a nearly 60-mile-long chain of vents across the Snake River Plain known as the Great Rift. The trend of these volcanic vents closely matches the orientation of faults north and south of the plain. These faults are caused by roughly east-west stretching of the Earths crust and have also produced recent historic earthquakes, such as the 1983 Borah Peak quake and the 2020 quake near Stanley.

The entire monument is composed of a singular rock, basalt, the dark gray to black volcanic rock ubiquitous across the Snake River Plain. However, this one rock type produced an array of fascinating textures, landforms and features for which the monument is known.

Eruptions in the Craters of the Moon lava field generally consisted of two main varieties: locally small, explosive eruptions where gas-rich clots of lava (called cinders) were ejected from the vent, piling up to form symmetrical or rounded hills called cinder cones, and nonexplosive eruptions of hot, runny lava from elongated fractures called fissures.

Some of the lava flows in the Craters of the Moon lava field flowed as much as 30 miles from their vent. Lava channels that crusted over became lava tubes, effectively transporting lava significant distances downhill until the lava supply waned, whereupon the tubes were mostly emptied, forming enticing caves to explore such as Indian Tunnel Cave and Dewdrop Cave.

Some of the cinder cones at Craters of the Moon are downright odd. While a textbook cinder cone is steep, cone-shaped and has a summit crater where the erupted cinders piled up around the vent, some cones in the monument, such as Inferno Cone and Broken Top, are noticeably less steep, broader and lack a summit crater.

The reason? Southern Idahos strong and persistent winds. During these eruptions, the volcanic vent blasted out cinders which were carried downwind and accumulated nearby, forming a broad mound of cinders without the hallmark summit crater adjacent to the exposed vent.

Another remarkable feature of several of the cinder cones at Craters of the Moon is that they are incomplete. Cones like North Crater and Half Cone are missing portions of their flanks due to lava oozing from the cones base and tearing house-sized chunks of the cone away. As you approach the main visitation area of the monument from Carey, these large blocks are obvious on the lava landscape.

Ive led hundreds of field trips throughout Idaho, the western U.S. and abroad. On nearly every trip, I begin by explaining that any given location possesses two distinct geologic stories: the story of how the rocks formed and the story of the landscape.

For example, the Grand Canyons rocks are as old as 1.8 billion years, and mainly involve the deposition of thousands of feet of sediment, while the landscape of the canyon is far younger, resulting from downcutting and erosion over the past six million years. Conversely, Craters of the Moon is one of the few places where the story of the rocks and the story of the landscape are one and the same: a dynamic volcanic landscape largely unchanged since it formed.

In a vast and spectacular state known for its exceptional scenery and varied geology, Craters of the Moon National Monument proudly stands out as one of its signature features. We are truly lucky to have it. Happy 100th, Craters!

Shawn Willsey is a geology professor at the College of Southern Idaho.
1. Yes. They look better and require less maintenance. Most high-end housing areas have them.

2. Yes. Wood fences can weather and look unsightly, plus masonry walls help to block sound.

3. No. Residents should have a choice of what kind of barriers are put up near their homes.

4. No. Allowing a variety of materials will be better for aesthetics, and costs may be lower.

5. Unsure. Its hard to say. Masonry walls may be sturdier, but mandating them is problematic.

Vote

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Florida Congressman Cory Mills tweeted this message on X Saturday night following an apparent assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania Saturday.

Reaction to the shooting of former President Donald Trump Saturday was swift and political.

Before the release of the shooter's identification or motive, a Republican congressman from Volusia County suggested it was the same left-leaning forces he blamed for Trump's four indictments and one conviction on 33 felony counts.

"First they tried to silence him. Then they tried to imprison him. Now they try to kill him," U.S. Rep. Cory Mills, who claims a residence in New Smyrna Beach and represents Florida's 7th District.

Mills added that he is praying for Trump, as "America and the world need" him back in the Oval Office.

The other congressman who has a piece of Volusia County, Mike Waltz, predicted on X: "President Trump will be stronger than ever. God bless this man. It'll take more than this to stop him."

In a second post, Waltz shared the now-iconic photo of Trump, with blood on his right ear and streaked onto his cheek, writing: "And walked off like a Boss. #CommanderInChief."

Waltz later tweeted that he has "reliable sources" who have told him that repeated requests for stronger Secret Service protection for Trump have been denied by Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas, who both Waltz and Mills voted to impeach earlier this year.

Waltz and Mills have been major Trump backers, endorsing him back when it appeared there could be a close contest with Gov. Ron DeSantis in the Republican presidential primary. Both also attended and spoke critically about Trump's Manhattan trial in May, when he was found guilty by a jury of 34 criminal felony counts of falsification of business records.

U.S. Rep. Jared Moskowitz, one of Florida's Democrats in Congress, tweeted he was praying for Trump and that violence is not the way to settle differences, adding: "This is why crazy people shouldnt have guns."

'Democracy will not be deterred!'

State officials also responded with social media messages.

Florida House Speaker Paul Renner, R-Palm Coast, said his family will be praying for him.

"President Trumps determination was on full display after the attack. Make no mistake: Democracy will not be deterred!" Renner wrote.

State Rep. Anna Eskamani, an Orlando Democrat, posted: "Political violence is wrong and never the answer. We should all be committed to community safety regardless of politics."

Sheriff Chitwood's fear for America

Volusia County Sheriff Mike Chitwood, an independent who has both voted for and been critical of Trump, wrote on Facebook that political violence cannot be tolerated.

"The temperature of our politics is high, and it takes courage to step into the arena and run for public office. Threats have almost become commonplace," Chitwood said. "I fear for our countrys future if we allow violence and intimidation to take hold."

He said he was praying for Trump as well as a rally attendee who was fatally shot and "ALL those running to serve the American people."

Vic Baker, the Volusia County Republican state committeeman, texted The News-Journal a meme similar to Mills' post "They impeached him. They indicted him ... Now they tried to kill him."

"He's lost billions serving us. He took a bullet and bled for us," the meme continued. "What are we going to do for him? First we pray. Then we deliver the biggest landslide in American history."

Flagler County Trump supporters: 'One of the bravest' ever

Palm Coast City Council member Ed Danko predicted the shooting and Trump's reaction will help his chances of winning back the White House.

He has got to be one of the bravest people I've ever, ever, ever seen in my life," Danko said.

"He emerged from that mass of Secret Service agents to raise his fist in the air and say, 'Fight, fight, fight,' and you could see a little blood in his ear and you could see the determination in his face and this is why he is my president, Danko said. "And this is why we will take the White House back.

Joe Mullins, a former Flagler County commissioner who lives in the Hammock, learned of the shooting while on a plane landing in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, to attend the Republican National Convention, where he will be a delegate voting for Trump.

He blamed political extremism for the shooting.

"You got one side saying Trump's divisive. Now you can see this. Its both sides doing it. And it needs to stop," he said. "We need to come together. This is serious when it gets to this point.

"This is a wakeup call for all of us to stop, slow down and start operating like a country again, like we're family, like we're a community and like we're one nation," Mullins said. "This isn't one nation right now.

Volusia county councilmen shocked saddened

District 3 Councilman Danny Robins said, "no matter what side of the fence you're on, this is terrible," and that this political violence has got to stop.

"It has no place in our society," he continued. "Not in the past, not now, and not in the future."

District 4 Volusia County Councilman Troy Kent said a friend called him and told him that Trump had been shot.

"I immediately turned on the news, and I can just tell you that my heart sank to my stomach. The feelings that ran through me were I was saddened and disgusted and shocked all at the same time," Kent said.

District 1 Volusia County Councilman Don Dempsey said he is praying for the families of those injured or killed.

"It's disgraceful ... that this is happening. It reminds me of President Reagan and Hinckley ... over 40 years ago," Dempsey said.

Councilman David Santiago said he was relieved that the attack was not successful though tragic that innocent lives were affected.

"It's crucial that we focus on the battlefield of ideas and engage in debate rather than resorting to violence," he said in a tweet to the News-Journal. "Constructive dialogue and peaceful actions are the only paths to meaningful and lasting change.

District 2 Councilman Matt Reinhart said he and his wife have been praying in response to the shooting.

"That's what this country needs more of," Reinhart said.

He called the violence "absurd."

"Everyone has the opportunity to respectfully disagree, and political violence, it's never a good thing," he said.

Council Chairman Jeff Brower, who is running for re-election, said he was onstage at a campaign event when his son walked out of the audience and handed him his phone, informing him of the incident.

Brower said at that point he didn't know if Trump was alive or how bad the shooting was. He said he asked everyone at the event to stop for prayer.

"This is not the way a Democracy is supposed to function, that a Republic is kept alive," Brower said he told the crowd. "It should be up to the people and their votes, not a madman with a gun."

Brower said he was glad to hear that Trump wasn't killed but said it was "horrible" to learn that others were killed or injured.

"You just remember how quickly life can change because of one crazy person," Brower said.

This article originally appeared on The Daytona Beach News-Journal: Florida congressman: Shot, bleeding Trump 'walked off like a boss'
The man who could end up being Donald Trumps running mate was quick to directly blame President Joe Biden for the apparent assassination attempt at the former presidents rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania.

JD Vance, who is just days away from potentially being announced as the nominee for vice president at the Republican National Convention, pointed the finger at Democrats and the president after Trump was shot at during his campaign event in Butler, Pennsylvania.

He was led away clutching the side of his bloody head.

One spectator was killed and two others were left in critical condition in the surreal shooting that sent shockwaves through the crowd.

The suspected gunman was shot dead by a Secret Service agent at the scene.

Follow our live blog for updates on the aftermath of the assassination attempt on Donald Trump

On Sunday morning, the FBI identified the suspect as Thomas Matthew Crooks  a 20-year-old Pennsylvania resident who was a registered Republican voter, according to online records.

Vance, a freshman Republican senator from Ohio, quickly used the incident to attack Biden

In a post on Saturday evening, he wrote: Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.

He was not the only Republican to take their response to the tragedy as far.

Without offering a shred of evidence, Rep Mike Collins, a right-wing conservative from Georgia, made the wild assertion that the local district attorney in the district of Pennsylvania where the rally took place should bring the incumbent president up on charges for inciting the assassination of his political rival, an allegation Trump himself has not made in his own social media posting following the shooting.

Joe Biden sent the orders, tweeted the congressman.

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination, added Collins.

The Independent has reached out to the Biden campaign for comment on Vance and Collins remarks.

Vances statement is notable given that hes one of just a few lawmakers still in the running to serve as Trumps vice presidential nominee on the Republican 2024 ticket. He and the two other top contenders, Sen Marco Rubio and Gov Doug Burgum, all met with the former president within the last day; the Republican National Convention is only days away, with the first official events beginning on Monday.

Republicans from across the country are meeting in Milwaukee for their partys nominating convention, where Trump is set to be nominated to run for the White House a third time. He won this years presidential primary by a commanding margin, only losing one state.

The Ohio senator is coming up on the second anniversary of his election to the Senate; just a year and seven months into his first term in the upper chamber. His contention for the role of vice president follows his come-from-behind victory in the Ohio Republican Senate primary in 2022, thanks to Trumps endorsement, and his subsequent defeat of then-Congressman Tim Ryan for the seat in the general election.

Meanwhile, Rubios X feed was full of retweets about the shooting. He also attacked early media coverage of the apparent assassination attempt, when it still remained unclear what had transpired.

Praying for President Trump and all those attending the rally in Pennsylvania today, he wrote.

Burgums statements were more limited, and expressed support for the former president, whom the governor claimed was stronger than his political foes.

Trump himself shared a graphic statement about the shooting, saying a bullet had pierced his right ear.

Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear, he said. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

In a new statement on Sunday morning, the former president called on the US to stand united as he thanked God for preventing the unthinkable from happening.
The Washington State Department of Health, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have advised people to stop eating all Diamond Shruumz brand, mushroom-containing products, including chocolates, gummies, and cones.

As of July 8, at least 58 people in at least 27 states have developed severe illness after consuming Diamond Shruumz products, according to a DOH news release issued late Friday. Thirty people have been hospitalized after developing symptoms such as seizures or loss of consciousness, the release says.

One case of serious illness has been identified in Grant County in central Washington.

DOH officials issued these recommendation:

Do not purchase Diamond Shruumz brand products. All products were recalled by the company on June 27, but there may still be products on the shelves in some stores.

Retailers should not sell or distribute any Diamond Shruumz-brand chocolate bars, cones, or gummies, and should hold the product in a secure location and contact the recalling company to return and refund them.

If you have purchased any Diamond Shruumz brand products either in a store or online, do not eat them. All products are potentially unsafe. Instead, destroy and discard the products, and contact the company for a refund.

Seek medical attention if you become ill after consuming any Diamond Shruumz products, or any other brand of mushroom-containing microdose or hallucinogenic product. Be especially alert and seek immediate medical care for serious symptoms such as seizures, changes in mental status/loss of consciousness, or trouble breathing.

Remember to store edibles and other products that contain mushrooms, THC, or CBD away from children.

Report all cases of symptoms after eating Diamond Shruumz products to the Washington Poison Center by calling 800-222-1222 and to FDA MedWatch.

People who have reported illnesses after consuming Diamond Shruumz-brand products, and possibly similar types of mushroom products, have reported some or all of the following symptoms:

Nausea, vomiting, abdominal pain

Fast or slow heart rate

High or low blood pressure

Coughing

Choking

Excessive sweating or secretions

Flushed skin

Trouble breathing

Hallucinations

Uncontrolled movements

Seizures

Loss of consciousness

Coma
If either President Joe Biden or former President Donald Trump make campaign stops in Sacramento ahead of the November election, security will likely be increased compared to Saturdays assassination attempt on Trump, two former Sacramento County sheriffs agreed.

The assassination attempt occurred during a Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, just north of Pittsburgh, and killed one man and injured two other men besides Trump. The 20-year-old gunman, who was killed by Secret Service sharpshooters after shots rang out just after 6 p.m. Eastern, was able to gain access to a rooftop just 450 feet from the president.

One of the most basic elements of securing a site is to eliminate sight lines to where a protected person will be speaking, even if they are outside the traditional perimeter of the event, former FBI Deputy Director Andrew McCabe said on NBCs Meet the Press Sunday. Law enforcement typically place people around those buildings or on top of them, or place barriers that would block any shots fired, he said.

Saturdays attack marked the first publicly known assassination attempt of a president or former president since 1981 when Ronald Reagan seriously hurt in a shooting as he exited a Washington hotel. The gunman was a lone shooter, John Hinckley Jr., who was trying to impress a celebrity. Following Saturdays attack, the FBI has said its initial findings were that Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, also acted alone though authorities were working to uncover his motives in the attack.

Officer responds during a campaign event for Former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. A nationwide poll last month found that 10 percent of those surveyed said the use of force is justified to prevent Donald Trump from becoming president.

During events where presidents or former presidents have spoken in Sacramento, local law enforcement officials have taken their direction from the U.S. Secret Service, said former sheriffs Scott Jones and John McGinness.

Well know where their snipers are, said Jones, who was sheriff from 2009 to December 2022. Well know where theyre assigned, theyll know where were assigned. You want to put your mind in the place of someone wishing to do the person harm and looking at vulnerability. They changed protocols after Reagan was shot and Im certain theyll do so here as well.

McGinness, Jones predecessor, agreed.

I think, across the spectrum, this will be a case study for incoming Secret Service agents and law enforcement agencies across the country and beyond, McGinness said. I guarantee this will be part of the curriculum going forward.

Security at campaign rallies and White House events surpasses the most stringent security measures most of the public sees in everyday life. Journalists, dignitaries, guests and those near the president or key candidates at events undergo thorough background checks and submit to inspections and searches of bags and equipment. Many of the buildings and surrounding areas are screened, surveilled and secured well in advance as officials assess an array of threats.

But attendees at Saturdays rally say not all structures around the venue were covered by the Secret Service, according to an eyewitness who spoke to the BBC.

Greg Smith told the British broadcaster that he spotted the shooter crawling on a nearby rooftop before shots rang out. Smith and others pointed at the gunman for three to four minutes, he said, as they tried to alert police or the Secret Service to his presence.

Law enforcement snipers set up before the arrival of former president Trump on a rooftop overlooking a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday. During the campaign rally Trump was rushed off stage by Secret Service after a shooting. A man attending the rally was fatally shot.

And the Associated Press reported Sunday that a local law enforcement officer at the rally had climbed to the roof and encountered Crooks. The gunman pointed what has been described as an AR-15-style rifle at the officer, who retreated as Crooks quickly took a shot at Trump. The encounter that killed Crooks lasted seconds, two law enforcement officials told the AP.

Smith said he suspected that other officers and agents could not see the man because of the slope of the roof where he was positioned. Other eyewitness photos shared on social media from the rally show the suspect lying on his stomach with a rifle. A video shared on X shows a chaotic scene of people shouting, Hes got a gun!

Smith said, Im thinking to myself, Why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage? 

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi on Sunday addressed criticism over a lapse in security in a statement posted to X. Guglielmi said it was not true that Trumps camp had requested additional security resources & that those were rebuffed.

In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo, Guglielmi said.

Butler County District Attorney Richard A. Goldinger told CNN on Saturday that the gunman was outside the grounds where Trump was speaking.

A person is removed by state police from the stands after guns were fired at Republican candidate Donald Trump at a campaign event at Butler Farm Show Inc. in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13, 2024. The suspected shooter who wounded Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump at a rally is dead, US media reported Saturday, along with one bystander.

Quite frankly, I dont know how he would have gotten to the location where he was, Goldinger said. And I think thats something that were gonna have to figure out how he got there.

Trumps last visit to the capital region was in September 2020, when he visited McClellan Park, where he met with Gov. Gavin Newsom for a televised discussion on Californias ongoing wildfires. There was no public rally, but a few hundred Trump supporters gathered near the tarmac while the president answered questions from the media.

President Donald Trump speaks to the media before he meets with California Gov. Gavin Newson and other government officials to discuss wildfires at Sacramento McClellan Airport on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020.

McClellan Park, a decommissioned Air Force base, has buildings that are a few hundred yards from the tarmac where Trump and Air Force One were located, similar to how close the Pennsylvania shooter was, said Jones. He said he did not recall whether the security security had officers stationed at or on top of those buildings.

Neither Trump nor Biden have announced campaign stops to Sacramento or Northern California ahead of the November election, though both men have held fundraisers in the Bay Area as recently as May.

Biden canceled a planned appearance Monday in Austin, Texas, after the shooting while Trump campaign officials said the schedule would go on for Mondays start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. On Sunday from the White House, Biden said he directed the Secret Service to review security measures for the four-day event. He also ordered an independent review of Saturdays rally to assess exactly what happened.

The window of a Chinook helicopter frames President Donald Trump as he awards on Monday, Sept. 14, 2020, at McClellan Park, the Distinguished Flying Cross to California Army National Guard members Sergeant George Esquivel, Sergeant Cameron Powell, Chief Warrant Officer Five Joseph Rosamond, Chief Warrant Officer Five Kipp Goding, Chief Warrant Officer Two Irvin Hernandez, Chief Warrant Officer Two Brady Hlebain, and Chief Warrant Officer One Ge Xiong for rescuing trapped campers from the Creek Fire.

Increased security measures for Newsom and local Sacramento elected officials were not planned as a result of the assassination attempt. Law enforcement agencies from across the region did not indicate threats to any dignitaries and declined to comment on any actions they would take because of Saturdays assassination attempt.

Newsoms office declined comment on matters regarding his security, referring questions to California Highway Patrols Dignitary Protection Section, said Izzy Gardon, a Newsom spokesman. Jaime Coffee, a CHP spokeswoman, did not immediately respond to an email seeking comment.

Sacramento City Council meetings, where tensions have been running high, already have robust security. Before entering the chamber, all attendees must walk through a metal detector while police officers thoroughly inspect all bags. The same process happens at the Sacramento County Board of Supervisors meetings.

The Los Angeles Times contributed to this story.
We want to hear how you're feeling after the attempted assassination of Trump | Opinion

"Terrible." "Sadness." "Scared for this country." "Disbelief this is happening again." Those are just a few of the words readers used to describe the news of the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump during a political rally Saturday.

Thank you to everyone who took time over the weekend to comment. We will stop accepting comments at 6 p.m. and update the story for the last time later this evening. Look for other chances to comment throughout the RNC this week.

Sue from Brown Deer said Americans need to find a way to have intelligent discourse again instead heated rhetoric and personal attacks. She also called for a ban on assault rifles and said securing the RNC will be difficult under the current guidelines.

"There are no guarantees of safety anywhere in an angry country with 300 million guns (some of which will be allowed in the perimeter) so I honestly dont know," she said.

Shelley from Milwaukee said politicians and public servants must denounce violence unequivocally, something that has not happened.

"One of my first thoughts was this terrible shooting not shocking. We watched as another young person had lethal means and plan to implement a shooting. The attempt on the former president's life is horrifying and traumatic, and tragically the thousands of attendees at the rally become the latest group in America to suffer unnecessary pain," she said.

"A second thought I had is that all Americans must be willing to accept what is true about politics and violence. If any politician or public servant overtly expresses or foments violence in any way, or believes it is a means to an end, or uses it to manipulate groups of people, they should be disqualified from holding office."

The call to renounce violence was echoed by many other readers.

"We need our political leaders on both sides of the aisle to stop the character assassinations of their rivals," said Leslie from Milwaukee. "The hate and vitriol they espouse in their lust to hang onto power only serves to create more hate, contempt, and polarization. Perhaps it would help if there were term limits."

More: Trump 'looks forward' to RNC after assassination attempt

Leslie thinks the Republican National Convention, which is scheduled to start Monday in Milwaukee, should go on as planned, but with beefed up security.

"Expand the perimeter, beef up the security, going so far as to have national guard troops joining the police department to shore up ranks," she said. "And absolutely quash any violence aimed at those attending the convention. No more treating those who illegally obstruct the rights of others through violence with kid gloves."

Beverly from Hales Corners felt a sense of disbelief.

"Could this be happening again? When people express their hatred with violence like assassination attempts, there is no hope for change," she said. "Respect for one another, whether an ally or an opponent is the key to preventing further violence"

Encouraging or using violence is wrong. Take gun violence seriously.

"Violence in politics is completely unacceptable," said Marty from the Fox Cities. "That being said the onslaught of martyrdom were about to experience is unbecoming our political discourse too. The people that are about to scream about this have never lifted a finger to save school children."

Many readers hoped the incident would prompt action on strengthening gun laws.

"I think anyone using or encouraging violence is wrong. Full stop," said Mark from Kenosha. "No one should be shot at - ever. Maybe now we will take gun violence serious. Every life matters as much as a political candidate's."

Danny from Brookfield said people need to reflect on political violence and regulate firearms in a way that balances safety with practicality.

"The Second Amendment was meant to empower citizens against tyranny. But in today's world, it no longer meets our needs. Let's reconsider its purpose," he said. "We need a modern revision that recognizes the role, risk, and responsibility of firearms ownership, not just thoughts and prayers. Let's strive for a more peaceful era."

Steven from Milwaukee called for bans on assault style guns and background checks for purchasing weapons, even at gun shows.

Toning down rhetoric an important step moving forward

Said Jason from Milwaukee, "Im certainly no massive Trump supporter, personally, but I was enraged and disgusted by what I saw happen at that rally. Its, honestly, rather depressing to see the effects this political climate is having on people."

In addition to even tighter security, he said we need to take a long, hard look at ourselves.

"The rhetoric were seeing from both sides of the aisle is simply fanning the flames of political polarization. Sadly, I think with the, frankly, hyper-partisan stuff were hearing everyday coming from both camps, this type of thing was made inevitable," he said. "Radical action simply is not the answer. We need to learn to appreciate nuance and critical thinking."

"J" from Waukesha said toning down hateful rhetoric is the most important step to reduce violence.

Every single democrat who ever opined that President Trump "is evil" or "is an existential threat to our democracy" should be removed from office in the coming elections and there have been many," "J" said. "That would also include broadcasters such as those on ABC's The View and almost the entire cast of people on TV programs on CNN and MSNBC who for the entirety of the last ten years have fomented hatred and division in the USA with a continual stream of lies."

B.V. from Rice Lake said the media must turn down its bashing and demeaning of Trump.

"The media and Democrats are hand in hand tied together in inciting this sad act. Calling him a dictator and Hitler has not been good. Framing him throughout his political career with Russia gate, failed impeachments, etc. shows the extent the left has tried to keep him out," B.V. said. "This act has just cemented Trump's winning this fall .. it won't even be close and it shouldn't be."

Dean from Waukesha said both sides need to stop the hatred, but that won't happen if Trump and his followers don't stop as well.

"This is not how our elections should be. It's a result of the division and hatred that Trump and his Maga followers have given for the past 5 years," he said. "There is certainly blame on both sides, but undoubtedly, Trump and his followers started us on this dark path."

Ben from Appleton said shock is what he felt most, but also noted he doesn't think Trump has taken gun violence in this country seriously whatsoever.

"Call it out when people make politically violent statements and take domestic terror organizations like the Proud Boys seriously when they threaten said violence," he said.

Tony from Milwaukee said he took his dog out after hearing the news and felt unsafe.

"I felt vulnerable standing outside in my own yard. There was an eerie feeling in the air," he said. "We are on the brink of a civil war in our country. My condolences to the families of the deceased and injured."

He'd like to do away with political parties to help tone down the rhetoric.

"The economy is so poor and our country is so off track, more so than its ever been. We need to do away with political parties all together and the titles of Republican and Democrat," Tony said. "Its dividing our country and forcing people to pick a side."

Jerrianne from South Milwaukee said almost as disgusting as the act itself was the immediate blame-game, conspiracy theories, calls for retribution and the kind of divisive hate-filled rhetoric that perpetuates the violence-filled environment we have today.

"For GOP leaders, including Trump, and convention speakers and attendees to tone down the divisive, blame-game, hate and violence-filled language," she said. "They need to focus on the positive, and what their candidate and party will do for the country and the people."

Ahead of RNC, a call for stepped up security in Milwaukee

There were many calls from readers to rally around the law enforcement providing security at the convention:

"Trust the professionals in charge. They are there for their expertise."

"Clear safe zones. No open air events. A call for calm and not retribution."

"Strong security, dont allow people to carry into the building seems obvious."

"Be vigilant. Trust the security in place. Be watchful."

"Proceed as planned with extra cautions."

"The safest way Milwaukee can proceed with the convention is a security nightmare after what just happened. Trump cant have any rallies outside, theres too many variables and clearly things can happen even from outside a secure perimeter," said Tony from Milwaukee. "Everyone will need to be screened, there should be procedures like passing thru TSA security at airports. In my opinion thats the only way I would feel safe."

Said Larry from Greenfield. "Expand the soft and hard zones by a few blocks respectively. It appears the process has been well thought out so far, but yesterday's actions could be a game-changer."

"Call out the National Guard. Tighten up the security zone," said Jim from Waukesha. "And why the hell did the City of Milwaukee allow the whiny protesters to get part of what they wanted in being more visible or audible to those attending the GOP convention? Thats just asking for trouble."

Send us your thoughts on Saturday's events, what they mean for RNC

Former President Donald Trump is safe following what is being investigated as an assassination attempt at a Pennsylvania rally just two days before the Republican National Convention is preparing to kick off in Milwaukee.

The suspected shooter is dead, USA TODAY reports. A spokesman said Trump was fine, but was being examined at a nearby medical facility. There's been an outpouring of well-wishes and support for Trump, around the country and in Wisconsin. The news is a lot to digest.

We'd like to get your reaction. Please fill out the form (which will be open until 6 p.m. Sunday) and we'll post your comments:

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: We want to know your thoughts on attempted Trump assassination
Elected officials and others in Washington state reacted Saturday to news of gunfire at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania. The shooting wounded Trump and left two others dead, including the alleged shooter, according to multiple news accounts.

Here is a sampling of statements compiled from social media:

U.S. Sen. Patty Murray, D-Washington:

Violence is never acceptable, I dont care what your political beliefs are. We use our voices and our votes in a democracyviolence has no place in America. https://t.co/IrvcowXysT  Senator Patty Murray (@PattyMurray) July 13, 2024

Washington Gov. Jay Inslee:

Violence has no place in politics, ever. I hope whoever perpetrated todays attack is held to account. Our thoughts are with all who attended the former presidents event, and I join the many others who are expressing gratitude for the Secret Service and first responders.  Governor Jay Inslee (@GovInslee) July 13, 2024

Former Washington House minority leader JT Wilcox:

And we we pray for the safety and health of those who were injured, including President Trump. https://t.co/qkzUJE8RGz  Rep. JT Wilcox (@jtwilcox111) July 13, 2024

U.S. Sen. Maria Cantwell, D-Washington:

There is no place for political violence in America. None.Im glad former President Trump is safe. My prayers are with everyone at the rally, and their families, who have been impacted by this violence. (1/2)  Sen. Maria Cantwell (@SenatorCantwell) July 14, 2024

Washington Public Lands Commissioner and congressional candidate Hilary Franz:

Violence has no place in our politics, and today is a sad day for our country.  Hilary Franz (@hilaryfranz) July 13, 2024

U.S. Rep. Cathy McMorris Rogers, Republican of Washingtons 5th District:

Political violence has absolutely no place in the United States of America. My prayers are with President Trump, his family, and everyone at todays event.  CathyMcMorrisRodgers (@cathymcmorris) July 13, 2024

Washington State GOP:

Please Pray for President Trump. https://t.co/fnTIIk70Ga  Washington State GOP (@WAGOP) July 13, 2024

Washington State Auditors Office:

Political violence has no place in our democracy. I earnestly hope and pray former President Trump is safe, and that our society recommits to civility, open discourse and fair elections. -- State Auditor Pat McCarthy  WA State Auditor (@WaStateAuditor) July 14, 2024

U.S. Rep. Derek Kilmer, D-WA6:

Political violence is never acceptable.  Rep. Derek Kilmer (@RepDerekKilmer) July 13, 2024

Lt. Gov. Denny Heck:

This is a sad day for our nation. Political violence in all forms is unacceptable and must be condemned. Im glad to hear reports that former President Trump is ok. My thought and prayers are with him and the reported victims.  Denny Heck (@LtGovDennyHeck) July 14, 2024

U.S. Rep. Kim Schrier, D-WA8:

I am horrified by the news coming out of Pennsylvania today. There is no place in this country or anywhere else for political violence. I am praying for the victims and their families, and I am deeply grateful for the swift action of the Secret Service and local law enforcement.  Rep. Kim Schrier, M.D. (@RepKimSchrier) July 14, 2024
WASHINGTON (WAVY)  On Sunday, President Biden held a press conference after speaking with former President Donald Trump. Bidens remarks come just one day after an apparent assassination attempt on Trump.

On Saturday, gunfire set off panic at a Pennsylvania Trump rally and left the former president bloodied after he was shot in the ear. Secret Service surrounded Trump and hurried to his SUV as he defiantly pumped his fist.

Im sincerely grateful that he is doing well and recovering. We had a short but good conversation. Jill and I are keeping him and his family in our prayers, said Biden.

One attendee was killed, and two spectators were critically wounded, authorities said. All were identified as men.

We also extend our deepest condolences to the family of the victim who was killed. He was a father. He was protecting his family from the bullets that were being fired, and he lost his life. God love him, said Biden.

Senators Mark Warner and Tim Kaine joined the chorus of lawmakers from both sides of the aisle to condemn the apparent attempt to kill the former president.

Im deeply concerned by this situation and am praying for President Trump and everyone at todays event, said Sen. Kaine

Sen. Warner echoed the sentiment adding, There is no place for political violence in a democracy. Im monitoring this terrible situation and praying for all those at the Pennsylvania rally.

Last night, Donald J. Trump showed us strength and courage, and he showed us compassion and gratitude. I thank God for protecting him. My heart breaks for the innocent victims and their families, and I ask every Virginian, and every American, to lift-up in prayer today all of those impacted. I also ask you to pray for our nation, stated Governor Glenn Youngkin in a news release.

During the press conference, Biden said the FBI is leading the investigation and pointed that it is still in its early stages.

We dont yet have any information about the motive of the shooter, we know who he is. I urge everyone please dont make assumptions about his affiliations, Biden said.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WAVY.com.
Before reading beyond this sentence or watching the Republican National Convention, where Donald Trump is expected to officially become the GOP standard bearer for the third consecutive time, pull up video from Jan. 6, 2021. Marinate in it for a little while.

Or the documentary The Sixth.

Issac Bailey

Or watch the short New Yorker video during which an insurrectionist told a Capitol police officer: We are listening to Trump, your boss. And another said this about the media: Start making a list. Put all those names down, and we start hunting them down one by one. Hang em!

And another yelled this in the Senate chambers: Jesus Christ, we invoke your name, which was followed by a prayer among a small group of men. They thought they were doing the Lords work on Jan. 6.

The Lord wasnt leading them, though its possible Trump has become their Lord. A growing number of Republicans change their view of morality based on whatever Trump does, excusing crimes he commits that they wouldnt accept from their city council members.

It was Trump, a man who was reportedly proud that an estimated 10,000 followers stormed the U.S. Capitol to stop the certification of the 2020 presidential election results. He seemed not to care that they had constructed a makeshift guillotine and talked about hanging then-Vice President Mike Pence.

More than 140 police officers were injured and seven people killed during or after the insurrection attempt. Trump had urged his crowd to march to the Capitol to convince Pence to do something he had no constitutional authority to do.

If Mike Pence does the right thing, we win the election, Trump lied to the crowd.

Then, he did what bully-cowards often do: He let others do his dirty work. He found a safe space and watched the events unfold  in front of a television set.

Just think about whats about to happen and what that says about our democracy. This is the man the Republican Party is nominating to lead the country only four years after he inspired a violent insurrection attempt. This is the man the GOP is nominating after they preached patriotism and the importance of putting country above party.

During next weeks convention in Milwaukee, Republican officials from across the country will hug the flag rhetorically and figuratively, and maybe literally, acting as though they hold that principle dear. They will want you to forget they made this the likely outcome of the recent Republican primaries the moment they refused to vote in favor of removing Trump from office during his second impeachment hearing. They want you to forget that the violence of Jan. 6 was part of a larger-coordinated plan to upend our democracy from its roots.

Since the first debate between Trump and President Joe Biden, the media and political watchers have been focused on Bidens health, which is a legitimate concern. (Biden should step aside or take a full cognition test and release the results, as should Trump.) Thats where Republicans want the conversation to remain.

Democrats hope to eventually turn the table back to policies, such as abortion, health care access, climate change and other vitally important issues. But none is more important than democracy itself.

Imagine the message the GOP will be sending at the RNC by renominating Trump  and the message the U.S. will be sending to the rest of the world if Trump is reelected in November and sworn in next January. It would say that democracy is a joke, not worth saving  that if the United States of America re-empowers insurrectionists instead of jailing them, why shouldnt they do the same.

On Jan. 6, 2021, our country faced a full-frontal attack on its legitimacy. The RNC is just the next phase.

Issac Bailey is a McClatchy Opinion writer in North and South Carolina.
BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD)  On This Week in Louisiana Politics, Louisiana lawmakers are trying to drill down the main reasons why auto insurance rates are so much higher than in other states. The state Speaker of the House wants to find an agreement to put together a package of bills.

A new law is going into effect to crack down on ankle monitoring companies that lose track of the people theyre supposed to be watching.

Also, a state treasurer discusses the states fiscal cliff.

Later, a Republican is getting into the District 6 congressional race that is soon to be vacated by Garret Graves.

Organizations ask the courts to block the law that mandates the Ten Commandments be displayed in classrooms until after a decision is made in the lawsuit.

Louisiana lawmakers work to address silent danger of thousands of dead and beetle-infested trees

U.S. Senator Bill Cassidy urges lawmakers to make flood insurance more affordable.

Latest News

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to BRProud.com.
WT Police Department earns third consecutive statewide accreditation

CANYON  The West Texas A&M University Police Department has earned a third consecutive recognition for being committed to following best practices in law enforcement operations.

The University Police Department undertook a critical self-review of its policies, procedures, facilities and operations as part of the process of being named a Recognized Law Enforcement Agency from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Foundation Law Enforcement Recognition Program.

"Lt. Barbara Ferrara, our accreditation manager, did an outstanding job of compiling our documentation and preparing our department for this on-site review. Her hard work made the on-site visit go very smoothly, UPD Chief Shawn Burns said. We are proud to join the ranks of those agencies who have successfully achieved multiple accreditations.

The West Texas A&M University Police Department undertook a critical self-review as part of the process of being named a Recognized Law Enforcement Agency from the Texas Police Chiefs Association Foundation Law Enforcement Recognition Program.

The accreditation program, which began in 2006, evaluates a police departments compliance with nearly 170 best business practices for Texas law enforcement, which were developed by law enforcement professionals around the state to assist agencies in the efficient and effective delivery of service and the protection of individuals rights. They cover all aspects of law enforcement operations including use of force, protection of citizen rights, vehicle pursuits, property and evidence management, and patrol and investigative operations.

The UPD currently employs 21 officers and 19 support staff members, which includes those UPD team members in the Gold Card office, University Lock Shop, Fire and Life Safety office, Parking Services, Dispatch, and Clery Compliance.

Texicare launches health care plans in Amarillo, Lubbock, Midland and Odessa

AUSTIN  Texicare, the health affiliate of Texas Mutual, announced Tuesday its health care plans are now available to small business owners in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland and Odessa. The company said in a news release that the plan, built for Texans by Texans, includes four $0 visits annually to primary care physicians, urgent care facilities, specialists, mental health practitioners, retail clinics, and physical therapy. The Essential Care plan also includes free, unlimited virtual care, $5 common prescriptions and unlimited $0 common maintenance labs.

The companys Savings Care plan, which allows employees to make tax-free contributions into a health savings account, also ensures withdrawals for care are tax-free and allows employees to earn interest on pre-tax dollars. The triple-tax advantage available under the Savings Care plan lowers overall costs for members. Employers in Lubbock, Amarillo, Midland, Odessa and their surrounding areas can contact their health care agent to learn more about Texicare plans for their employees.

The company will roll out in additional markets in the coming months.

In 2021, the Texas Legislature asked Texas Mutual to investigate options to provide health care plans to small businesses in Texas. In 2022, Texas Mutuals board of directors approved Texicares creation. For more information about Texicare, visit www.texicare.com.

City of Amarillo Building Official Johnny Scholl has been reappointed to the Texas Industrialized Building Code Council by Gov. Greg Abbott.

City of Amarillo building official reappointed to Texas Industrialized Building Code Council

City of Amarillo Building Official Johnny Scholl has been reappointed to the Texas Industrialized Building Code Council (TIBCC) by Gov. Greg Abbott. The TIBCC oversees the state program regulating industrialized housing and buildings.

Scholl was appointed to the TIBCC in August of 2020. His new term expires on Feb. 1, 2026. I have enjoyed serving the state of Texas in this important position for a number of years, said Scholl. It is a privilege to be considered and appointed by the governor.

Scholl was named Building Official for the City of Amarillo in July 2021 and has been with the city for 14 years. Scholl was one of six appointees to the TIBCC by the governor. To see the related news release from the office of Gov. Abbott, go to: bit.ly/3Y7M5gf

For more information, contact City of Amarillo Communications Manager Dave Henry at (806) 378-5219 or by email at David.Henry@amarillo.gov.

Texas entrepreneurs invited to pitch their products for a spot on Walmart or Sam's Club shelves

DALLAS  This week, Walmart began accepting applications for its 11th annual Open Call event, inviting small business owners and entrepreneurs across the U.S. to apply for the opportunity to pitch their products to be sold on Walmart or Sam's Club shelves or on Walmart.com and SamsClub.com. Applications are open until July 15, 2024.

Open Call is central to Walmart's $350 billion commitment to bolster U.S. manufacturing by sourcing shelf-ready products that are made, grown or assembled in the U.S. Open Call 2024 will be held on September 24 and 25, leading up to Manufacturing Month in October.

Since its launch in 2014, Open Call has provided thousands of small and medium-sized businesses with the chance to become Walmart suppliers and reach millions of new customers with their U.S.-made products. At last year's Open Call Walmart and Sam's Club merchants heard over 1,000 pitches from more than 700 businesses hailing from all 50 states.

Walmart already has deep roots in Texas with 590 retail outlets. The company employs 176,432 associates in Texas. Walmart also supports local businesses supporting 261,781 supplier jobs, and spending $100.8 billion with Texas suppliers in FY24 alone.

Open Call offers an extraordinary growth opportunity for even more Texas small and medium businesses. Entrepreneurs who secure a "golden ticket"  a deal for Walmart to sell their products in stores or online  can gain access to a vast customer base, enabling significant growth. After earning golden tickets, Open Call winners often go on to grow their manufacturing footprints and create jobs within their local communities.

All Open Call entrepreneurs will participate in mentoring sessions with Walmart leaders and hear from special guests, gaining invaluable business insights and resources. Additionally, each entrepreneur will have a one-on-one pitch meeting with Walmart and/or Sam's Club merchants. Every entrepreneur at Open Call stands to gain valuable business advice and guidance.

Dutch Bros employees collect donations benefitting United Way of Amarillo and Canyon at the Dutch Bros Coulter Interstate location in this 2023 file photo.

Dutch Bros offers new cool drinks for hot summer days

Beat the heat this summer with Dutch Bros new drinks: The Cookie Dough Freeze, Sherbet Rebel and Tropical Frosted Lemonade are now available at all 900+ Dutch Bros locations. In addition to these refreshing treats, Dutch Bros is welcoming back a festive favorite, the Firecracker Rebel featuring poppin candy. And they are also launching Sweet Tea at all Texas locations.

"The Cookie Dough Freeze creates a friendship between a fan fave ice cream flavor and creamy coffee. This sweet treat is blended chocolate chip cookie dough coffee with Soft Top and cookie dough pieces," a company news release says. "The Sherbet Rebel puts a playful twist on an iconic summer flavor with sweet cream infused into an orange and passion fruit blended energy drink topped with a strawberry float."

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Amarillo area business news and developments for July 14, 2024
Donald Trump speaks shortly before being shot at during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July 2024.

Donald Trump speaks shortly before being shot at during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July 2024. Photograph: David Maxwell/EPA

The political iconography was instant and indelible. His face bloodied, his fist raised, Donald Trump stood defiant as Secret Service agents scrambled around him against the backdrop of the Stars and Stripes and a brilliant blue sky.

The apparent attempt to assassinate the former president at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday shook the American political kaleidoscope once again. It cast a shadow over the Republican national convention, due to start in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, on Monday  but potentially handed Trump and his allies a political opportunity.

Trumps allies will probably praise Trump as a strongman who is quite literally bulletproof  and blame his opponents for the explosion of violence.

Today is not just some isolated incident, tweeted JD Vance, an Ohio senator widely tipped to be name as Trumps running mate at the convention. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

Host city Milwaukee, in the battleground state of Wisconsin, has sudden historical resonance. It was here in 1912 that Theodore Roosevelt, a former president seeking to regain the White House, was the victim of a would-be assassination. The bullet was slowed by a steel case for his glasses and a manuscript of his 50-page speech, ultimately lodging in his chest. Roosevelt went on to deliver the speech while bleeding through his shirt.

Steve Schmidt, a former Republican strategist, wrote on X: The political consequences of this assassination attempt will be immense, and they will benefit Donald Trump, who just responded to being shot in the exact same way that Teddy Roosevelt did.

Related: Republicans ramp up attacks on Kamala Harris amid swirl over Biden future

Even before Saturdays shooting, the convention was set to be a coronation of Trump as Republicans presidential nominee, throwing in sharp relief the Democratic discord over Joe Bidens viability as a candidate.

Republicans have nominated Trump for the presidency twice before. But in 2016 and even 2020 he faced critics inside his own party and was the underdog in the race for the White House. This time, however, Trump has the edge in opinion polls following Bidens calamitous debate performance. And his takeover of the Republican party is complete.

Dissenters have been purged, losing their congressional seats to Trump allies or quietly fading into retirement. The Republican National Committee co-chair is Trumps daughter-in-law Lara. This week Nikki Haley, who was Trumps closest challenger in the Republican primary election, released the delegates she won so that they are free to support him at the convention.

Haley herself will not be there. Nor will Mike Pence, the former vice-president who was a key figure at the past two conventions. Nor will Mitt Romney and Paul Ryan, the Republican ticket that took on Democrat Barack Obama in the 2012 election.

But delegates will hear from Tucker Carlson, a broadcaster who promotes white nationalism; Franklin Graham, a Christian evangelical who has called Islam wicked and evil; Tom Homan, an immigration hardliner who has vowed to run the biggest deportation force in American history; Charlie Kirk, a far-right activist and election denier; and Vivek Ramaswamy, a biotech entrepreneur who wants to increase fossil fuel production. All are sure to play their part in the Trump show.

Larry Sabato, director of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia, said: Trumps coronation will for once put British ceremony to shame. You will see speaker after speaker, delegation after delegation, trying to top one another in their superlatives about the greatest president, not just in American history but in world history.

Delegates will hear from Trump, 78, and ratify the Republican policy platform that he personally approved. They will be introduced to Trumps vice-presidential running mate. They will hear speakers mock Biden as a weak, 81-year-old failure who is facing calls from fellow Democrats to exit the race.

Michael Steele, a former chairman of the Republican National Committee, said: The Democrats have spent the last 10 days giving them soundbites to talk about. The Republicans are going to take four days and everything coming out of their mouths will be a reminder that Joe Biden is old, Democrats dont want him, why should you?

Republicans have been given a gift, Steele added. Democrats are too stupid to realise what the gift is, and they keep giving it. Just shut the hell up, get behind the man like the Republicans have gotten behind their criminal and run the race. Because the American people are going to line up with Joe Biden if you give them a reason to do that.

Convention delegates, numbering almost 2,400, are sure to approve a policy platform that ranks among the most extreme in American history. Echoing Trump talking points, it backs the mass deportation of undocumented immigrants, calls for an end to the weaponisation of government and demands election integrity  code for Trumps false assertion that the 2020 election was stolen.

The 16-page platform is heavily influenced by Christian nationalism and shares significant ideological DNA with Project 2025, a 922-page plan from a conservative thinktank that outlines a dramatic expansion of presidential power and a plan to fire as many as 50,000 government workers to replace them with Trump loyalists.

Bidens re-election campaign has worked to turn Project 2025 into an electoral liability for Trump, which may explain why last week he sought to distance himself from it. I know nothing about Project 2025, Trump posted on his social media website, adding that some of the things theyre saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal.

But both Russ Vought, the Republican National Conventions platform committees policy director, and his deputy, Ed Martin, have strong connections to Project 2025. Both men have also previously taken a hard line against abortion rights.

Martin has advocated for a national ban without exceptions for rape or incest and entertained the idea of imprisoning women and their doctors. He once said: If you ban abortion in Louisiana, is a doctor who has an abortion breaking the law? Yes. Should he be punished? Yes  I think that seems obvious. What is the punishment? Not sure yet. Could be criminal, could be a jail sentence, I suppose.

The platform committee is packed with other anti-abortion extremists including David Barton, a Christian nationalist who has called the separation of church and state a myth, Kimberly Guilfoyle, fiancee of Donald Trump Jr; Tony Perkins, president of the Family Research Council; and Chad Connelly, a former chairman of the South Carolina Republican party who has described abortion as murder of an innocent child.

Weighing the political risks, Trump intervened to ensure that, for the first time in 40 years, the party platform omits the explicit basis for a national abortion ban, leaving the policy to state governments instead. But the compromise remains fragile: if dissenting voices are raised at the convention, it will fuel Democrats argument that Republicans true intentions are as extreme as ever.

Emilia Rowland, national press secretary of the Democratic National Committee, said: The reality is that Trump literally put architects of Project 2025 in charge of the Republican platform, and the result is not only the most extreme platform in GOP history but one containing lie after lie after lie.

The American people know that Trump wants a nationwide abortion ban and they know the only thing standing in the way of Trumps terrifying second-term agenda is re-electing President Biden and Vice-President Harris in November.

Delegates will also formally designate the presidential ticket: Trump and his yet-to-be-named running mate. The leading contender is Vance, followed by the North Dakota governor, Doug Burgum, and Florida senator Marco Rubio. All three are expected to address delegates along with the Florida governor, Ron DeSantis, who challenged Trump for the nomination and later endorsed him.

To critics, the vice-presidential pick is irrelevant. Steele, a broadcaster and former lieutenant governor of Maryland, said: To be honest, I couldnt care less who his running mate is. It is a mindless zombified politician who has given up his soul to Donald Trump for the chance that Donald Trump will smile at him and pat him on the head.

It doesnt matter to me. It will be an unprincipled individual. Thats all I know. They could take a stick figure and stand it next to Donald Trump. Folks in that hall would applaud it, lap it up, nominate it and call it vice-president.

Trump family members will also address the convention, organisers announced on Saturday. The former presidents sons, Donald Trump Jr and Eric Trump, will both have speaking slots, along with their partners Kimberly Guilfoyle and Lara Trump. The former first lady Melania Trump is expected in Milwaukee but she is not listed among the speakers. She has been notably absent from the 2024 campaign  a stark contrast to the first lady Jill Bidens prominent role at her husbands side.

Trumps campaign has outlined daily messaging with themes that riff on his signature Make America great again slogan. Mondays theme is economics: Make America wealthy once again. Trump has outlined an agenda of sweeping tariffs and accelerated production of oil and gas, even though it already hit a record under Biden.

On Tuesday the theme is immigration and crime: Make America safe once again. Trump and Republicans believe the border debate is among their strongest issues. They have arranged speeches for the family members of people killed, allegedly by undocumented immigrants, as part of Trumps broader attempts to blame crime on border policies.

Wednesday will be national security day: Make America strong once again. Delegates and the viewing audience can expect to hear arguments that Biden is a weak and failed commander-in-chief and head of state. This is the day, typically, that the vice-presidential nominee addresses the convention.

Thursday will culminate with Trump himself: Make America great once again.

His speech accepting the party nomination will be watched closely for the tension between red meat for the base and outreach to swing state votes. His 2016 address included the memorable line I alone can fix it and drew comparisons with the trappings of fascist rallies.

Frank Luntz, a political consultant and pollster, said: The question is whether he goes 80% Maga, 90% Maga or 100% Maga. They would be best off with low-fat milk rather than the 2%, because 2% just goes overboard. He has four days of unchallenged, uninterrupted messaging, and theres usually a bounce.

Hes going into his convention so strong and with curiosity over who his VP candidate is going to be. If they have discipline and they can exercise it then their their lead will grow. But theres only so many votes available among the undecideds.

Protesters are expected but will not be permitted inside the security zone established around the convention arena by the Secret Service. Principles First, which describes itself as a nationwide grassroots movement of pro-democracy, anti-Trump conservatives, is holding a rally on Wednesday with Steele among the speakers.

The Democratic National Committee is also holding events in Milwaukee, promising daily press conferences, counter-programming and voter engagement in the Democratic stronghold. But the Republican mood inside the arena is likely to be triumphant, lavishing praise on Trump as a great survivor while hammering Democrats over their uncertainty about Biden.

Monika McDermott, a political science professor, at Fordham University in New York, said: Thats a winning point for the Republicans after the debate and theyre going to continue to run with it. The Democratic party has been showing such cracks in their support behind President Biden at this point that it would be smart to stick a crowbar in there to make those cracks larger.
What follows is extracted from testimony provided to the 1836 Project Advisory Committee at the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum on July 1, 2024.

The 1836 Advisory Committee was established by HB No. 2497 in May 2021 and signed into law by Governor Greg Abbott. It is catalytic, much like our initiative at West Texas A&M University, The Hill Institute. Both promote positive and eyes wide open appreciation for state and national shared values.

The Panhandle is a unique place in Texas, and on the Great Plains of the United States of America, a vital linchpin of regions, cultures and ideas for state and nation. Geography, history and the coupled contribution to the production of food, fuel and fiber have created a unique mix of values and mores. They are responsive to our nations founding truths and principles.

When Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick visited the campus on the occasion of announcing a Fairly Family $20 million gift to establish The Hill Institute, there was deliberation and discussion regarding Texas values. Patrick correctly suggested that Panhandle values were Texas values and, in fact, American values. Many contemporary forces influence the expression of such values. If nurtured correctly, the best of these values can be carried forward for future generations. Many folks in West Texas live by them every day.

Dr. Walter Wendler, President of West Texas A&M University

Educators, especially when supported by the state, have a responsibility to ensure founding values are examined and reflected upon for those who follow under the rubric of patriotic education included in HB No. 2497. Not to blindly sanctify the past but to recognize the bedrock on which future economic prosperity is, in part, based. An appreciation for the freedoms and their necessary contribution to a constitutional republic in our nation and in an entrepreneurial state like Texas help create a positive future. The act proposes to increase awareness of the Texas values that continue to stimulate boundless prosperity across the state.

Increasing awareness of Texas values should be the work of the Core Curriculum at every public university in our state. General education requirements survey the whole of the human condition, individually and collectively, and are the nucleus of being an educated human being.

Every state university in Texas requires six hours of study in U.S. History. Typically, one course covers the founding of our nation through post-Civil War Reconstruction, while the second is the Industrial Revolution to the present day. At WT, in the fall of 2019, 733 students enrolled in core history requirements. Of those, 87.435% were enrolled in traditional core classes, American History I and American History II, and 12.55% were enrolled in specialized history options. At the University of Texas in the fall of 2019, 3,911 students enrolled in various courses to meet their core requirements. Of those, 62.23% selected traditional core courses. The balance 38.54% opted for 21 different courses that provide a narrow, specialized perspective of American History. While such classes as electives may have great value, they might not provide an overview of our state and national evolution and distinctiveness. My concerns regarding American history exist in other foundational courses such as Texas History, State and Local Government and guiding aspects of the American Experiment. In addition, our state and national fit, place and purpose in Western Civilization.

American higher education is leaning away from founding values. The public is losing confidence, according to Pew. Muting of freedoms values diminishes individual worth, the power of a public university in a free society and ultimately, the foundation of a constitutional republic. Academic institutions should be the place where ideas can be openly shared, differences in thinking thoughtfully considered and a deep knowledge of those who came before us prized, warts and all.

The galvanizing idea of the 1836 Project and The Hill Institute is to give voice to the open discussion of arguably important, timeless and transcendent values. American exceptionalism, coupled with Texas exceptionalism, records a clear understanding of who we are, where we come from and where we are going. Too many know too little about the foundations of our republican form of government. Soundbites and captions rarely ring true and echo loudly for their hollowness.

The Hill Institute and initiatives such as the Texas 1836 Project should and will reinforce basic tenets essential to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness in a free society, without apology. Excellent universities are kettles of opportunity simmering over fires of intention, work and reward. The prosperity of every stripe flourishes.

Our history is the shared thread that creates a fabric of connections and positive relationships for all. The study and nurture of the developing values earnestly lived by those who came before will impact the education of future reflective citizens. The application of value-based thinking will impact the practice and execution of knowledge and insight in the professions and vocations of life. Educators, engineers, agriculturalists, business entrepreneurs, artists, doctors or nurses will practice their vocations differently when they appreciate the history and shared values of the extended community. A strong sense of community and personal grit in harmony is the history of Texas. It makes Texans, Texans, and is forgotten at our peril.

Our state should be a beacon of entrepreneurism, exercise personal responsibility and the power of families and industries working to create a bright future. Our past is a roadmap to our future. Thats my hope for West Texas A&M University and the students we serve.

Walter V. Wendler is President of West Texas A&M University. His weekly columns are available at https://walterwendler.com/.

This article originally appeared on Amarillo Globe-News: Wendler commentary: The pervasive power and primacy of history
What went wrong? How did Secret Service allow shooter to get so close to Trump?

Investigations into the sniper shooting that injured Donald Trump and killed a local firefighter must focus on whether several key Secret Service protocols were violated, current and former law enforcement officials said Sunday.

Chief among them: Why wasn't a building well within 1,000 yards of the former president locked down enough to prevent the shooter from nearly assassinating the presumptive GOP presidential nominee?

In an exclusive interview, former Secret Service Director Julia Pierson told USA TODAY that maintaining such a sniper security perimeter is part of the agency's responsibility for safeguarding "protectees" like Trump from harm. Yet the man identified as the sniper, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired off numerous rounds from a building top about 150 yards from Trump's lectern at Saturday's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

I think 1,000 yards is the sniper capability that we have a concern about for the President. So anything that's within that range, that is a professional, makable shot... and you want to know about it, Pierson said.

When you think about it, it's a football field and a half  and that is a makeable shot by an individual. And obviously an inch would have made a difference in this case and Trump wouldn't be with us, said Pierson, who spent three decades with the Secret Service, much of that on presidential protective operations, before becoming director in 2013.

Crooks managed to fire off numerous rounds, injuring two other people in the crowd, before being killed by a Secret Service counter-sniper sharpshooter from another nearby roof. On Sunday evening, the FBI clarified that Crooks had used an "AR-style 556 rifle."

Rep. Ruben Gallego, a former Marine and Arizona Democrat, said that those "responsible for the planning, approving and executing of this clearly insufficient security plan need to testify before Congress and be held accountable."

"There should never have been a clear line of sight on the former president. My Marine Corps training taught me that, said Gallego, an Iraq veteran who is running for Senate in Arizona.

President Joe Biden also weighed in, directing Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday in Milwaukee. He said he had ordered an independent review of the security measures taken at the Trump rally to "assess exactly what happened."

First assassination attempt against a former or current President in 43 years

The shooting marks the first assassination attempt against a former or current U.S. president since President Ronald Reagan was injured in a March 1981 shooting at a Washington, D.C. hotel. Before that, in 1975 a member of the Manson Family cult tried to shoot President Gerald Ford at close range in Sacramento, California but failed to chamber a round into the gun.

The Secret Service has confirmed that it is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure Trump in what appears to be an epic failure of one the agency's primary duties of protecting VIPs. The FBI, state police and the U.S. Congress also will be seeking to answer the many swirling questions.

A 2020 High School yearbook shows the photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks, named by the FBI as the "subject involved" in the attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump, in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, U.S. July 14, 2024.

Some of those questions: How did Donald Trumps would-be assassin gain a high-ground vantage point to fire off a potentially fatal head shot against the former president? Why didnt Secret Service counter-sniper teams neutralize Crooks before he got off so many rounds from his high-powered rifle, killing one Trump rally-goer and injuring two others?

Also, if Crooks had been flagged by local authorities for acting suspiciously as some media have reported, why was he then able to climb atop a nearby building with a rifle, firing a shot that grazed Trump's ear? And why did Secret Service agents allow Trump to stand back up defiantly and do three fist-pumps when it wasn't clear that the threat had been fully neutralized?

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Could this have been stopped before it started?

John Miller, a former senior FBI and New York Police Department official, said on CNN that Crooks had been observed acting suspiciously near the magnetometers, or metal detectors stationed outside the event by local law enforcement agencies.

Those officials then shared those concerns with the Secret Service and other authorities and people had his description and were looking around for him, said Miller, whos currently a CNN analyst.

At some point, Miller said, Crooks left the magnetometer area. And then at some point, people start to point out there's a guy who's climbing on that roof, and he has a rifle and police are putting that over the radio.

The Butler Farm Show Grounds where former President Donald Trump was shot Sunday, July 13, 2024. This view looks east from the main spectator parking lot on July 14, 2024, in Butler, PA.

According to some video and media reports, the Secret Service counter-sniper on a nearby rooftop was aiming at the shooter, perhaps before he took some or all of his shots.

The counter sniper appears to be looking through his scope as if he's scanning for something.  And then, when the shots are fired, takes out the shooter from his position almost immediately, said Miller, the NYPDs deputy commissioner of Intelligence & Counterterrorism until 2022. So we have to fill in those gaps. What happened during those seconds? What were the communications? What did he see through the scope, and did he act at his first opportunity? And we'll learn that later.

Miller said the counter-sniper succeeded in eliminating the threat quickly. That part worked, he said. But, he added, What about the front end? Could this have been stopped with faster or more clear communications or a more intense search?

Investigations have already begun

Its possible and even likely that the Secret Service security plan for the rally, in conjunction with local and state authorities, took into consideration the building from which Crooks allegedly sprayed bullets. It could have been locked down from the inside, prompting Crooks to have to climb to the roof from the outside as part of the security plan put in place by authorities before the rally.

But the entire sequence of events will be investigated to find out what went so wrong that Crooks was able to gain access to the roof of the building, including whether he might have surveilled the site ahead of time to find the best way up, according to current and former law enforcement officials.

William Pickle, a former special agent in charge of the Secret Service's Vice Presidential Protective Division who oversaw Vice President Al Gores detail, said there are provisions in any Secret Service security survey that nearby buildings are accounted for. The Secret Service regularly secures public areas such as parade routes peppered with large buildings, and advance teams interview building owners and business managers to determine who has access to the building and at what times to determine if agents need to stand watch.

We know whos there, why theyre there, we have control over those buildings, Pickle said. It seems like somewhere in this security survey, someone dropped the ball on those particular buildings.

Though Pickle said the counter-sniper that took out the shooter did an outstanding job, he questioned if the Secret Service had posted additional counter-sniper teams to sufficiently cover the entire event perimeter. A gunshot knows no boundaries except by the velocity and distance a bullet can travel, Pickle said. This was a relatively easy shot, and Donald Trump may have been the luckiest man in the world yesterday. He survived by about half an inch."

Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi told USA TODAY on Sunday that he was traveling to Milwaukee, the site of the upcoming Republican National Convention, and would not be in a position to talk until later in the day. At 2 p.m., he said he was still "unable to respond" to claims that the Secret Service made mistakes in allowing the shooter to gain such a close vantage point.

Three hours later, another senior Secret Service official also declined to comment on whether the agency failed in its mission to protect Trump at the Saturday rally.

Any questions regarding yesterdays event can be directed to our public affairs office out of DC, said Audrey Gibson-Cicchino, the agencys coordinator for the upcoming Republican National Convention in Milwaukee. Speaking at a news conference there, she said she could only discuss convention security measures.

In a news conference early Sunday morning, the FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh field office, Kevin Rojek, had confirmed that the FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting and that it is our assessment at this time that law enforcement did not know the shooter was on the roof until he began firing.

It is surprising, Rojek said when asked about the gunmans close vicinity to the rally. He said that proximity is among the details that will be a focus of the investigation. Rojek added: The Secret Service really needs to answer that question. They conduct the initial site survey.

At the midnight news conference, State Police Lt. Col. George Bivens had deferred questions about whether there was anything about the venue that made it particularly difficult to secure by the Secret Service, which did not have representatives at the televised briefing.

Bivens also said he would not speculate on how close a call it was for Trump.

But Bivens confirmed that law enforcement is following up on a number of suspicious occurrences including accounts from witnesses who said they tried to flag police about the activity of a person outside the rally moments before the shooting.

Calls for answers from both sides of the aisle

Sen. James Comer, a Kentucky Republican who chairs the House Oversight committee, was one of several lawmakers who called for an immediate investigation into potential lapses by the Secret Service.

Comer said in a statement that he has already contacted the Service Service for a briefing and he called on Cheatle  the director  to testify about what went wrong. His committee will send a formal invitation soon, Comer said.

"Political violence in all forms is unamerican and unacceptable," Comer said in his statement. "There are many questions and Americans demand answers."

Pennsylvania Sen. John Fetterman, a Democrat, also called morning for an urgent investigation to explain what happened. Several hours later, however, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, also a Democrat, sidestepped a question at his own news conference about potential Secret Service failures in preventing the shooter from climbing atop the building.

"I'm not getting into ... any questions regarding the ongoing investigation," Shapiro said. "I trust that the FBI and the Pennsylvania State Police will keep you posted throughout the day and in the days ahead as to their investigations."

Contributing: Melissa Brown, a state political reporter at The Tennessean in Nashville, Tennessee.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Was Trump shooting an epic Secret Service fail? Some experts say maybe
'Where we go from here, its all by choice': Response to assassination attempt shows divide

The day after the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally, President Joe Biden said the act against his political rival was unacceptable and called for national unity. Whether the rhetorical temperature will temper is anybody's guess.

Statements and posts on social media by public officials and political figures showed some calls for unity. Others seemed to call for an escalation of the divide in the country.

Biden, who was expected to address the country from the Oval Office on Sunday night, made a call for unity Sunday afternoon from the White House. "There is no place in America for this kind of violence," he said, calling the assassination attempt "contrary to everything we stand for as a nation."

Biden called for the country's residents to be unified, though he acknowledged that was an "elusive" goal.

"We'll debate and we'll disagree. That's not going to change," Biden said. "But we're not going to lose sight of who we are as Americans."

Trump, in a post on the Truth Social website Sunday, called for resilience and defiance in "the face of Wickedness," and called for unity.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win," he wrote.

As he was rushed off the stage on Saturday by the U.S. Secret Service, Trump stopped to hold a fist aloft and repeatedly mouthed the word fight.

Calls for unity came through social media posts and press releases, though that is an incomplete survey of the national temperature. On Saturday and Sunday, people gathered with family and friends and discussed the shooting in ways that were not posted publicly.

'Praying for our nation': Religious leaders in Phoenix call for unity after Trump shooting

Rusty Bowers, the former speaker of the Arizona House, said what he has heard in conversations in the hours since the shooting was a mixture of shock, gratitude that Trump survived and sorrow for the bystanders killed, injured or traumatized.

Bowers led the Arizona House in 2020 and faced pressure from Trump and his acolytes to reverse the states election result that showed Biden the winner. His refusal to accede led to death threats. Protestors paraded outside his home, including, Bowers said, one man with a gun.

Bowers said that the fate of the country in the coming days rests on decisions made by each individual.

Where we go from here, its all by choice, he said. We all either chose to say 'I can be a little more civil and I can be a little less  incendiary.'

Some statements and social media posts repeated the theme of joining together.

Former Arizona U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, a Democrat, and Kari Lake, the former television anchor seeking the Republican nomination for a U.S. Senate seat in Arizona, expressed hopes of healing for both Trump and the nation.

Political violence is terrifying. I know, read the statement from Giffords, who survived an assassination attempt at a meeting with constituents outside a Tucson-area grocery store in 2011. Political violence is un-American and is never acceptable  never."

Lake said on social media she would pray for this great Republic & that we can come together as Americans.

Stephen Richer, the Maricopa County recorder, said in a statement that the incident was unacceptable. We settle our differences at the ballot box, Richer said.

Richer, whose elected responsibilities include handling early balloting in Arizonas largest county, had faced death threats after the 2020 election. The official tallies showed Arizona narrowly going for Biden over Trump.

Elections officials across Arizona and nationwide have reported threats. Some have resulted in criminal cases, including one threat made against Richer.

In March, a county Republican party official told a group at a campaign event that she would lynch Richer if he were to walk into the room. After video footage was publicized, that official said she was making a joke.

Richer, in a post Saturday on X, said that incendiary/hyperbolic/violent rhetoric hinting at or playfully suggesting this was also unacceptable.

Some seek to stoke divisions after assassination attempt

Others did not call for unity, instead expressing an "us versus them" message.

Arizona state Rep. Austin Smith, a Republican, posted Sunday on X that the assassination attempt was the culmination of a years-long and increasingly violent rhetoric and actions by liberals.

They hate you. They hate me. They hate your spouse. They hate your children. They hate your grandchildren. They hate your ancestors, he wrote. They drove this sick young person to kill a President."

State Rep. Joseph Chaplik, a Republican representing a district that includes Scottsdale and Fountain Hills, posted on X that same disgusting people responsible for this assassination attempt are trying to take down this country. 

It was not clear from authorities whether the attempt was from a lone gunman or a group, as Chaplik suggested in his post in the hours after the shooting.

Charlie Kirk, whose Turning Point USA organization gained influence with the political ascendency of Trump, said in June he thought Trump would face an assassination attempt.

On Saturday, as his prediction came true, he posted that the left stoked an environment of hate and hysteria with their shrieking about the end of democracy.' And today, we saw the end result of that.

Live updates: Biden to address the nation Sunday night after Trump assassination attempt

On the other side of the political divide, Chris Love, a senior adviser for Planned Parenthood Arizona said on social media, Yall dont have to lie about abhorring political violence today when you support it every other day of the week.

At a Saturday evening news conference, a Polish journalist told authorities he was getting questions from people in his country asking how this could happen in the United States.

The Pennsylvania State Police Deputy Commissioner of Operations, Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens, said the incident was a tragedy that would be fully investigated. But, as to the grander question, he said, I dont have a good answer for you.

Historians, political science professors and others said violence in the United States was not unusual in the large scope of the nations history. And some gave dire predictions for the days ahead.

Barbara Perry, professor of presidential studies at the University of Virginia's Miller Center, told USA TODAY that she felt her heart stop watching Trump get shot. She said she recalled past assassinations of President John F. Kennedy, his brother Robert Kennedy, who was seeking the Democratic nomination, and the attempted assassination of President Ronald Reagan.

As the vitriol and violence in our politics continue to increase, along with access to guns, it is, sadly, not surprising that we would experience another attempt to use bullets rather than ballots to determine election outcomes, she said.

Laura Ellyn Smith, a presidential historian at the University of Oxford, said the attempt on Trumps life would only sharpen the partisan divide, especially on the issue of gun control.

The attempted assassination of Reagan, which gravely wounded his press secretary James Brady, resulted in gun control legislation. But Ellyn Smith said she thought gun policy likely now would take "center stage" as an even more divisive issue at the Republican National Convention this week.

Trump biographer David Cay Johnston, a journalism and law professor at Rochester Institute of Technology, told USA TODAY that while political violence is rightly universally condemned, it is surprisingly routine in the United States.

He noted that one in 11 presidents had been assassinated.

Cay Johnston said that presidents stopped riding in convertibles after Kennedys assassination. He wondered whether candidates would stop speaking at open-air rallies as a result of this attempt.

The risk is in further distancing our elected leaders from the people in the long run, he said, which would be corrosive to democracy.

Jennifer Mercieca, a Texas A&M University professor of communications and journalism and author of a book on Trump's rhetoric, told USA TODAY that while the motivation of the shooter is not yet clear, "we do know that this is not a normal election year and this incident will only escalate the tension in America. The fear is that this act of violence will trigger more suspicion between Americans and more acts of violence."

Arizona no stranger to political volatility

Arizona, a state up for grabs politically, has seen its share of incidents.

In June 2022, progressive activists protesting the U.S. Supreme Courts overturning of Roe v. Wade gathered at the Arizona Capitol. The state Senate was in session, passing budget bills unrelated to abortion. But protestors banged on windows and doors and authorities said they literally shook the building.

Trump supporters tried to storm the elections headquarters of Maricopa County after the 2020 election, alternatively demanding elections officials stop counting ballots or continue doing so.

In Pennsylvania on Saturday, Trump told the crowd there were dangerous people in the country that entered the country illegally. We have criminals, he said. We have drug dealers. We have people who should not be here.

Trump called for a chart to be shown on screens on the sides of the stage. He turned to look at them. Then, shots rang out.

USA TODAY editor Darren Samuelsohn contributed to this report.

This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Trump assassination attempt leaves some calling for unity, escalation
 Flash

Malawian Ministry of Health and the National Health Commission of China have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) on cooperation between hospitals of the two countries.

Malawian Minister of Health Khumbize Kandodo Chiponda and the Chinese Ambassador to Malawi Long Zhou represented the two sides in the signing of the MoU in Lilongwe, the capital of Malawi, on Friday.

Chiponda described the signed agreement as "timely" and that it "ushers in a new era of strong cooperation between China and Malawi in the critical field of health care".

According to the minister, the agreement focuses on strengthening key areas such as obstetrics and gynecology of Malawi's Kamuzu Central Hospital and the first affiliated hospital of Xi'an Jiaotong University in northwestern China's Shaanxi Province.

The collaboration between the two institutions will enhance local capacity for treating critically ill pregnant women, and improve diagnosis and treatment of gynecological conditions, according to Chaponda.

The minister said the agreement will also focus on radiology and clinical laboratory, whereby Malawian Mzuzu Central Hospital will partner with Xi'an Jiaotong University "to cultivate a skilled workforce" in the said fields.

She further disclosed that the implementation of the agreements will be guided by a joint project proposal and annual plans development by both parties, with a three-year timeframe.

"I want to express our sincere gratitude for the longstanding support the People's Republic of China has extended to Malawi: China's commitment to our health sector is deeply appreciated," said the minister.

She noted: "With this agreement in place, we embark on a new chapter of collaboration that will undoubtedly benefit the health and well-being of the Malawian people."

On the other hand, the Chinese Ambassador to Malawi pledged his government's continued support to Malawi to improve the health sector and the welfare of the citizens.

Ambassador Long said both Malawi and China will benefit from the MoU since doctors from China also learn a lot of the new things that are particular to Malawi.
Two in three Americans say President Joe Biden should withdraw from the 2024 race, while half say the same for former Preisdent Donald Trump, according to a new poll.

Trumps cognitive status

As the son of a parent with cognitive decline, I know President Biden must step down | Opinion, (fresnobee.com, July 3)

Im noticing something very dangerous in the mainstream media that could have disastrous consequences for our nation: Day after day, the media focuses on President Joe Bidens cognitive state, giving the impression that he is incapable of being president. When information comes up that refutes this notion, it is not reported.

I think pretty much everyone agrees that during his debate with Donald Trump, Biden was awful. He was sick and should not have debated that day. Meanwhile, Trump lied dozens of times during the debate. Why is this not significant? Why is he not constantly questioned about lying, and the implications for our nation if he should be elected?

Trump has also shown definite cognitive decline. But, yet again, I dont typically see that reported  and never on the front page. Here are some recent examples:

On July 4, Trump claimed the army retook airports during the revolutionary war. Has Biden ever said anything so outrageous? And for the third time in the last few months, Trump was talking about Biden but called him Obama. Why is Trump not questioned about this?

Stephen Sacks

Fresno

Opinion

Valadaos actions

David Valadao, Rudy Salas rematch in CA22 House election, (fresnobee.com, March 13)

Congressman David Valadao cant have it both ways on the gas tax

In recent weeks, Valadao has restarted his annual tradition of sending a letter to the governor to complain about the gas tax. Nobody likes high gas prices. But I dont know anyone  outside of politicians like Valadao  who think gas prices will come down just by sending a letter.

My dad always taught me that actions speak louder than words. In Congress, laws are changed by voting. When Valadao had an opportunity to vote to lower the gas tax, he voted against it (specifically, he voted against House Resolution 22, a measure to lower the federal gas tax by $0.15 per gallon). His vote is costing Valley families every time they fill up their tank.

Remember Valadaos actions, not his letter words.

Flor Olvera

Wasco

Readers ought to know

Donald Trump Reveals His Views on Project 2025, (modbee.com, July 5)

The Modesto Bee often runs articles in its Opinion Section from writers affiliated with the Heritage Foundation. Readers ought to know some information about this organization.

The Foundation has produced a document, Project 2025, meant to serve as a blueprint for a second Donald Trump administration should he win the election. According to an article in the New York Times, entitled Heritage Foundation Makes Plans to Staff Next G.O.P. Administration, a new president typically replaces around 4,000 political appointees who are above the federal workforce. Below these individuals is a group of government workers who for the most part are apolitical bureaucrats.

Trump has said he wants to demolish career civil service  or, what he calls pejoratively, the deep state. One of the major tenets of Project 2025 is to fire far more than the 4,000 government employees typically let go (some estimates are up to 50,000 career government officials) and replace them with Trump loyalists.

This is the vision of an autocrat, and the Heritage Foundation is doing his bidding.

Kent Mitchell

Riverbank

Your vote matters

With Supreme Courts historic Trump immunity decision, how did California Democrats react? (sacbee.com, July 1)

Why vote? No matter who we elect, nothing changes. Government has little impact on my life. Meanwhile, Republicans have packed the courts, handcuffed government regulatory agencies and given corporations special benefits.

The Supreme Court is packed with unelected political activists. Theyve reversed Roe and they will ban contraception and undo gay rights. Theyve gutted voting rights, allowed extreme gerrymandering, rejected gun safety laws and enabled big money to buy elections. Now, theyve created presidential immunity, reversing the foundation of our country.

Theyve enabled Dictator Donald Trump. MAGA Republicans want a return to the 50s. They want women, Black people, Latinos and the LGBTQ+ community to be considered second-class citizens.

Take back our government, before its too late. Vote!

Marvin Keshner

Sonora

Protecting unhoused neighbors

After Supreme Courts contentious homelessness ruling, whats next for California cities? (sacbee.com, July 3)

Where does the Supreme Court ruling leave people struggling without a home? We must ask our representatives at all levels of government to step in and end this tragic situation in the worlds richest country.

Nationally, Congress could renew the expanded child tax credit that cut child poverty in half, enact a renter tax credit so those in poverty are able to stay housed by not paying over 30% of their income for rent and expand the SNAP program so people dont have to choose between rent and food.

At the state and local levels, our leaders can make sure there are enough shelters and needed programs to help those in need. This will only happen if we ask for it. After all, we elect them, so lets speak up for all Americans struggling to be housed!

Willie Dickerson

Snohomish, Wash.

Newsoms choice

Sacramento County stops delivering water to homeless as heat wave starts. Heres why, (sacbee.com, July 4)

I would like to graciously extend an invitation to Gov. Gavin Newsom to spend the next week sleeping in his backyard (or in his car in his driveway). I have been in this position, staying in my car for more than five years. Some people say its a choice, but, in my case, its been all I could afford.

California is in the midst of an extreme and deadly heatwave. Newsom has left the option of emergency heat shelters up to the counties of this great state. And that is a mistake. I would prefer to live in a state where a governor takes personal responsibility for this weather crisis by declaring a state of emergency. This would ideally include shelters or hotel vouchers for homeless individuals.

Newsom holds many lives in his hands. He can choose to act, or do nothing.

Lyndi Duckworth

Roseville
In the aftermath of his being shot at his political rally -- an attack that left one spectator dead and two others critically wounded -- former President Donald Trump on Sunday called for unity  even as some of his vice presidential hopefuls and allies right after the assassination attempt blamed President Joe Biden and his rhetoric.

Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed, Trump posted on his social media platform on Sunday, the morning after the incident.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump continued, thanking his followers and those around him.

Not only is there a disconnect with his VP contenders -- its a shift in tone for the former president  who has frequently attacked Biden and called for retribution against critics throughout the election cycle.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is rushed offstage during a rally, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images)

MORE: Trump shooting live updates: Apparent explosives in suspect's car, sources say

After the shooting at Saturdays rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, both the former president himself and his campaign have emphasized his desire to carry on with the upcoming Republican National Convention as scheduled and fundraising for victims and their families. Former first lady Melania Trump, too, in a rare statement, stressed, Lets reunite. Now.

However, some of Trumps strongest allies and VP hopefuls are taking a different approach from the former president. Instead, they are blaming Biden and Democrats, claiming their campaign rhetoric for contributing to the assassination attempt.

That's in stark contract with how one of Trumps top contenders to be his running mate, Ohio Sen. J.D. Vance, said on X in the first minutes following the shooting.

"Today is not just some isolated incident," Vance wrote on X. "The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination."

PHOTO: Sen. JD Vance (R-OH) gestures while speaking during a news conference on Capitol Hill on May 22, 2024 in Washington, DC. (Kent Nishimura/Getty Images)

MORE: Suspect in Trump assassination attempt had registered as Republican but motive unknown

South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, also said to be on Trumps VP shortlist, said right afterward that Democrats' rhetoric surrounding Republicans have put peoples lives at risk.

For years, Democrats and their allies in the media have recklessly stoked fears, calling President Trump and other conservatives threats to democracy, Scott wrote on X. Their inflammatory rhetoric puts lives at risk.

Former presidential candidate Vivek Ramaswamy, an ally of Trump who some had speculated to be among possible VP hopefuls, also blamed Biden right afterward.

President Biden's ritual condemnations of political violence are insufficient. No amount of verbiage today changes the toxic national climate that led to this tragedy, Ramaswamy said in a statement.

Chris LaCivita, a senior campaign adviser to the former president, also blamed Biden and Democrats for Saturday's shooting.

For years, and even today, leftist activists, Democrat donors and now even [Biden] have made disgusting remarks descriptions of shooting Donald Trump, LaCivita said on X. Its high time they be held accountable for it [and] the best way is through the ballot box.

Others on Trumps VP shortlist did not go as far.

Sen. Marco Rubio of Florida, posted on social media God protected President Trump, while North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum wrote, We all know President Trump is stronger than his enemies. Today he showed it.

ABC News' Lalee Ibssa and Kelsey Walsh contributed to this report

While Trump stresses unity, VP hopefuls and allies blame Biden for shooting originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
In her new book, The Originalism Trap: How Extremists Stole the Constitution and How We the People Can Take It Back, Madiba K. Dennie critiques the legal doctrine known as "originalism," calling it a movement born out of opposition to the school desegregation mandated by the Supreme Court's Brown v. Board of Education decision. Her argument is broadly compatible with those made by Eric Segall in "Originalism as Faith" (Salon story here) and Erwin Chemerinsky in "Worse Than Nothing: The Dangerous Fallacy of Originalism" (interview here). But in characterizing originalism as a trap and situating it historically, Dennie's analysis cuts deeper into the harm caused by originalist doctrine, without sacrificing nuance, rigor or scope.

Beyond that, to call originalism a trap is to imply something about freedom, and about what the U.S. Constitution actually promises. Dennie, deputy editor at the legal commentary outlet Balls and Strikes and a former counsel at the Brennan Center, advances an alternative, "inclusive" interpretation of the Constitution, rooted in the Reconstruction amendments and the Brown decision's forward-looking approach, also found in such famous cases as Loving v. Virginia, Roe v. Wade and Obergefell v. Hodges  all of which have been opposed by so-called originalists.

But the history of those cases is not just the articulation of a more inclusive vision regarding whose rights should be protected. Its also a product of the American people organizing to advance the vision of constitutional protection from below  another more inclusive sense of meaning-making. Its not just the Supreme Court that interprets and gives meaning to the Constitution, Dennie argues. We all do, particularly in the form of social movements, including the civil rights movement, feminism, the LGBTQ pride movement and others. Her last chapter spells out several ways in which lawyers and non-lawyers alike can more deliberately and effectively do this. To explore her ideas, I recently spoke with Dennie by Zoom. This transcript has been edited for clarity and length.

Your book was blurbed by eminent legal scholars like Erwin Chemerinsky and Eric Segall, but you go further than they do, calling originalism not just a fallacy or a misguided faith but a trap. Why is that a more useful way to see it?

I think that calling it a trap gets at the idea that originalism is basically a setup. It was something purposefully designed by the conservative legal movement to achieve the goals of the Republican Party. I think the trap concept gets at this idea that you are not actually going to be able to use it to achieve the kind of egalitarian, democratic purposes you may be interested in, that it's actually more of a ruse to cover up conservative policy goals.

You write that "Most stories about originalisms rise begin with Robert Bork," but you start much earlier than that, with Brown v. Board of Education. What do we learn by starting there?

Starting with Brown is more revealing. It gives you that necessary backdrop against which originalism was formalized as an official theory of law. In Brown v. Board, the Supreme Court actually asked the parties if they could provide supplemental briefing on how the Reconstruction Congress would have understood the 14th Amendment to apply to segregated schools. And the parties came up with conflicting answers, which already undercuts the idea that originalism can provide you one objective answer. Kansas argued that it was never the intention of the writers of the 14th Amendment to prevent states from exercising their authority to have segregated schools.

When the court stepped away from that in Brown, and said that we actually can't turn back the clock to whatever the Reconstruction Congress may have thought, or even what we thought when Plessy v. Ferguson was decided, and we instead need to consider these core democratic principles and the role of education now , this was an outrage to many on the right. You had 100 members of Congress come together and put forth their Declaration of Constitutional Principles, now known more commonly as the Southern Manifesto. They argued that Brown v. Board was wrongly decided, in significant part because it deviated from the original understanding of the Constitution. They said that the court must follow what this original understanding was, and if you do that, you have to maintain segregation.

I think this is the first real declaration of originalism. They didnt use the word yet, but [the idea was] that original understanding is the singular acceptable method of constitutional interpretation, rather than just a factor of many you can consider  and also that doing so requires you to maintain racial segregation and to uphold white supremacy. That was always the actual goal. So everything we see after that is sort of providing legal flourishes. It's dressing up the idea in legalese, giving white supremacy a law degree and saying, "This isn't actually me being bigoted, this is what the Constitution requires."

Your book goes beyond a critique of originalism to advance an alternative you call "inclusive constitutionalism," rooted most powerfully in the Reconstruction amendments. Explain what you mean by that and how it contrasts with originalism.

I think the defining point of originalism is that the meaning of the Constitution is fixed, it's frozen at the moment of enactment. They say you have to look at a particular point in time if you want to know what the Constitution means today. I reject that idea. I instead encourage us to look at the principles  a point of principle rather than a point in time  that were the basis of the Reconstruction amendments. I say that the whole purpose of the Reconstruction amendments was to facilitate for the first time an actual functioning multiracial democracy. The Reconstruction amendments were seeking to address the status of newly freed formerly enslaved Black people and actually incorporate them into the polity and create an egalitarian society. That was the whole grand idea.

This is a substantial shift from the Constitution that existed before before the Civil War. I think we need to take that shift into consideration and say that the Reconstruction amendments transformed the whole Constitution in order to transform the country. So when we are considering what any part of the Constitution means, we should be doing it with those goals in mind, saying that we need to look through the lens of the purposes of the Reconstruction amendments and trying to bring about an inclusive multiracial democracy. So by inclusive constitutionalism I mean that the Constitution includes everyone, and the point of it is to make an inclusive democracy real. So that's what we need to do when we interpret any of its provisions.

The concept of "substantive due process" plays a key role in your thinking. You note that originalists "want it gone," but they're not the only ones. That concept gets criticized because of its alleged origin in the Lochner decision, which struck down limits on working hours. You argue that's not the right way to understand it. So what does that term mean, and how should we really understand it?

The 14th Amendment protects a range of rights, and among them is the right to due process of law. Some conservatives, like Clarence Thomas, argue that process itself is all that is required, that it has no substantive meaning. They say that the due process clause tells you that the government has to check certain boxes before it infringes a given liberty, but it doesn't prevent them from infringing that liberty, it just says they have to get over the requisite hurdles first. I think that doesn't actually make sense. You can't understand what process protects your rights and liberties unless you also think about what rights and liberties should be protected. They necessarily go together. So this idea of substantive due process moves beyond the steps that the government has to do, to the question of what things the government can't do, where it's just a realm for yourself, free from government violation or infringement or curtailment of your liberties.

This has been controversial at times and some folks link it to Lochner, where the court struck down a law that was trying to protect bakers who were working long hours in really awful conditions. The New York state legislature had stepped in and created wage and hour restrictions and the court said, no, this is infringing on the liberty of workers and employers to form a contract. They entered into this agreement and the government is unreasonably injecting itself into their agreement.

I think thats a far cry from the kind of substantive due process decisions that we have seen more recently in cases like Roe v. Wade or Obergefell v. Hodges. In Lochner, the court was using this idea of substantive liberty rights to protect inequality, basically to protect the ability of employers to run roughshod over their employees, to maintain dominant power relations. But the way that substantive due process has been used in the following decades has been to protect vulnerable people, to disrupt those hierarchical systems rather than entrench them. I think thats completely different from the from the world we see in Lochner, so it doesn't really make sense to conflate these two things. They are serving very different purposes. One is trying to maintain oppression and the other is trying to upend it. One is saying that we need to allow whoever has more power to exercise that power, whereas the other is trying to protect people who have less power and to to get rid of systems of subordination. I think these are just categorically different things.

You note that in deciding the Griswold case  which effectively legalized contraception for married couples  "parts of the opinion read like a Mad Libs where the phrasal template is 'any amendment that isnt the 14th.'" So they still seem to be allergic to Lochner. But then, in Loving v. Virginia, which struck down laws against interracial marriage, the ruling was clearly grounded in the 14th Amendment. What was going on with those two decisions?

I think in Griswold the court was still very nervous of the potential Lochner association. They didn't want to be seen as just freewheeling, and they had not yet articulated the actual "substantive due process" idea that I just laid out on how it's grounded in protecting marginalized people. They hadnt gotten there yet. So they were concerned that it would look like they were just doing whatever, and were really trying to avoid any invocation of the 14th Amendment, much to Justice [John Marshall] Harlans chagrin. In his concurring opinion, he's like, "You guys, we can just use the 14th Amendment. Its right there."

But by the time you get to Loving, the court feels more comfortable recognizing the expansiveness of the 14th Amendment. I think part of that shift comes from advocacy that racial justice organizations were doing. I think it really is a testament to the idea that constitutional interpretation does shift over time, In addition to being normatively undesirable, originalism is also just empirically untrue. We know that the Constitution's meaning changes, because weve seen it change all these times through history, and I would say that is often a good thing. Overturning Plessy v. Ferguson [which held that racially segregated schools were constitutional] is a good thing. These are positive steps.

So how were the developments around reproductive rights that led to Roe v. Wade echoed in the evolution of rulings on LGBTQ rights and marriage equality?

Those cases really underscore the idea that the Constitution protects bodily autonomy, that it protects privacy and intimate relationships, that you have the right to make your own decisions about these really core personal matters. Reproductive rights is one example of that, but the principle extends into multiple areas, so they realized that it also applies to gay couples who have an interest in having their actual relationships not be marginalized by law, and they too can have equal marriage rights as everybody else.

All these substantive due process decisions build on each other in a way that precedents often do. It forms what I call the human-rights Jenga, just putting these blocks one on top of another, building up this tower of rights, which has now led us to a really dangerous position. Because the court pulled out the Roe v. Wade block, so now the tower is destabilized and all sorts of rights are called into question.

You go through the decisions on LGBTQ rights and one important theme is the way originalists use the existence of past laws criminalizing homosexual conduct, and the absence of any protections, as a justification. Then, when they get to the Dobbs decision [which overturned Roe] they rely on this bizarre, cherry-picked history. What's your analysis of the way that decision uses "history and tradition"?

Originalisms use of history and tradition is remarkably hypocritical, and remarkably flexible. It bends and shifts depending on what outcome they want to reach. They present originalism as a neutral tool, saying, "If you just look at history, you know, thats objective." But there are so many questions that obscures, such as" Whose history? History from what point in time? How are you defining the historical right that you're looking for? There are so many considerations. Suggesting you're looking to history and tradition doesn't actually tell you anything. It just allows a neutral-seeming cover for justices to do whatever cherry-picking they desire.

I think that was made extremely clear when Dobbs was decided and then Bruen was decided, on consecutive days. In Bruen, the court says that gun regulation is presumptively unconstitutional if there is no historical analogue from the founding era. If past legislatures didn't regulate guns in a particular way, that's evidence that they knew they couldn't, that it was unconstitutional for them to do so. But then, literally the next day, when presented with historical evidence of legislatures not criminalizing abortion, of a pregnant person having the right to end a pregnancy at least until they felt a fetus move, now the court says, "Well, just because they didn't do it doesn't mean they thought they couldn't." So on back-to-back days they use the absence of legislation to make directly conflicting inferences about what Congress has the power to do. So it is just blatantly hypocritical, blatantly outcome-oriented. There's nothing like a neutral application of principle, because they're doing opposite things, just based on the decision they wanted to come to. It really illustrates the farcical nature of originalism and how it applies in very convenient ways for the conservative legal movement.

In your chapter "Stealing Our Elections," you tell the story of how Barack Obama's election gave rise to a wave of voter-suppression laws. You analogize that to how, after Brown v. Board of Education, there was a massive flight from public education. So theres a gut-level conservative base reaction that is then backed up by the courts in a series of decisions. A really crucial one was Shelby County v. Holder, where Chief Justice Roberts advanced the idea of equal state sovereignty, which you tie back to the Dred Scott decision. How do you make sense of what happened there, and how does it fit with your larger theme?

This is a little bit of a challenging question because there are so many disastrous things going on in Shelby County. I think the single most important thing to know about Shelby County is that the Supreme Court is literally just making things up in order to further white supremacy. This idea of equal sovereignty that John Roberts presented as a justification to strike down the Voting Rights Act  he just pulled that, mostly, out of thin air.

He cited two cases completely unrelated to the Voting Rights Act that were used in Dred Scott, of all cases. So hes smuggling in this horrific antebellum reasoning and he's relying on this idea that was actually called the "equal footing doctrine"  he couldnt even bother to get the name right  which said that states have to be admitted to the Union on the same terms as other states. That wasn't actually always true in practice, but that was the broad idea. And he looked at another case about navigable water rights in the states and pieces these together, with no basis, to say, well, it's really important for the federal government to treat states the same, and the states have sovereign rights. So the Voting Rights Act is infringing on states rights, and we can now hollow out the primary vehicle for enforcement of the Constitution's protections against racial discrimination in voting.

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This is just nonsense. This is just garbage. There is no actual intellectual support for any of that. But he dressed it up in nice legalese to obscure what he was doing, and use this nonsense to justify removing protections for Black voters, and the consequences were swift and severe. Immediately, you started seeing strict anti-voter legislation get enacted. Immediately, you saw a rise in voter suppression. States that had had their laws blocked before by the Department of Justice were now like, "Ah, excellent! We can now implement the exact same law that was found discriminatory before."

One of the laws enacted immediately in the wake of Shelby was eventually struck down in the circuit court which described the law at issue  this is a direct quote  as targeting Black voters with almost surgical precision. So this is the level of intentional discrimination that John Roberts unleashed with this decision. Thats horrible, first of all, and second of all, its leading us to the dangerous place were in today, where we have all these restrictive voter laws, all these efforts to dilute people of color's voting power, whether through redistricting or through overturning elections and just ignoring the ballots of millions of people. I think there is a relationship between that attack on democracy then and the attacks on democracy now. It wasn't at the Capitol, it was in a courtroom  but it was still a coup, in a way.

You have another chapter called "Stealing the Census," which I don't think people recognize as being at the same level as voting rights or reproductive rights and privacy rights. What's going on there and why is it important?

I think that the census is notoriously slept on. Folks don't know a lot about the census, its not something that engages people. But the census is actually the cornerstone of American democracy. In order to serve the people, we have to know who the people are. We have to know where they are and how many of them there are, so we can try to serve the people's needs accordingly, to know how best to allocate our resources. The census is a constitutionally required decennial count of the population. Then representation in the House of Representatives is based on that number. So there's a direct link between population and representation in the House, at least. In the Senate, not so much.

That was a really important American innovation. One of the things that I find interesting and troubling about originalism, as it applies to the census, is that originalists basically argue that the Constitution requires a flawed census. Our understanding of science and math has evolved a lot in the past 200-plus years. We have better statistical models at our disposal now, better things we can use to get a more accurate enumeration of the population. Yet there have been originalist arguments that we can't use those because the Constitution understood an actual enumeration to mean not actually counting the number of people and getting an accurate number, but going one by one, not using statistical models. I like to think of this as the "Little Bunny Foo Foo" method, because it's like youre scooping up all the people and bopping them on the head.

It doesn't make sense to say that the Constitution requires you to have an inaccurate census, and its especially outrageous when we know that these inaccuracies are not evenly distributed. We have differential undercounts among some groups, whether theyre racial groups or low-income groups or age groups  children under age 5 are especially undercounted  or unhoused people. So it means that resources are sent to the wrong areas. Typically, poor and browner communities get less than they should be getting, while richer and whiter communities get more than they should be getting. According to originalists, that's what the Constitution requires. I just find that absurd.

In the final chapter, you write about ways to build the movement for a more inclusive form of constitutionalism. What are some ways that ordinary people can help?

There are a range of tactics and strategies available. I think the connective thread through all of them  whether you had the good sense not to go to law school or whether you're an attorney  is rejecting the idea that the Supreme Court is the sole arbiter of what's constitutional and what's not. I think people need to reclaim the idea that they too can have a say in constitutional interpretation and assert their idea of what the Constitution means.

This is not actually novel. This is something people have historically done in all the big social movements we care about. These were the results of people saying what they think the Constitution means, and I think people can and should seize any opportunity that presents itself to act out their constitutional vision. Examples of this include the Montgomery bus boycott: They believed that segregation was unconstitutional, so they refused to ride these buses. They put their constitutional vision into practice. If you look at the gay rights movement, they believed there was a constitutional right to marriage equality, so they started at the state level, passing all these equal marriage laws and putting that into practice. More recently, even when the Supreme Court has said there is no constitutional right to abortion, we see ballot initiatives where people explicitly update their state constitutions to say, yes, there is.

These are examples of important measures that regular people can take. Theyre fighting for new laws but also acting out what they think the law requires, whether that's through a boycott or protest or any other kind of direct action. One of my favorite examples is jury duty. I think too many of us avoid jury duty. Its not many people's idea of a good time. But it does present people with an opportunity to choose to affirm or reject the government's understanding of the Constitution. We've seen this happen before.

I give an example in the book of a case where a bunch of protesters were arrested and asserted to the community that they didn't think what they did should be considered a crime. They understood the law differently and believed their cause was a righteous one. So even though there was no real question as to whether they did the things they were accused of doing  they admitted that they did  they thought it shouldn't be a crime, and people chose to acquit them. I think that will be really important in this era of rampant criminalization of protest, of reproductive health. Whenever there are civil rights fights going on that the government does not like, the police get involved. So I think it is useful for people to know that they always have the power to say no if they're on a jury.

Finally, what's the most important question I didn't ask? And whats the answer?

I guess the question would be: Why should people still have any hope today? Why should they care about any of this, given the awful state of the of the law right now? And I think that the dramatic and terrible swings in the law that we've seen should actually remind us that change is possible, that what exists now will not necessarily exist tomorrow, and that people have the power to effectuate those changes. The law is not a static instrument, its not something immutable that is handed down from on high. It's something that people ultimately shape and have always shaped, and we can continue to do so.
GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD)  Michigan political leaders from both parties on Saturday condemned violence after gunshots rang out at a campaign rally for former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, killing at least one rally attendee.

The gunman was shot and killed by U.S. Secret Service agents, the Associated Press reports. After the shots were fired, Trump first dropped to the ground and was then whisked away by Secret Service with what appeared to be blood on his face. His campaign soon said he was fine. The AP reports the shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Trump OK, gunman and attendee dead after rally shooting

President Joe Biden, Trumps opponent in November, said he was grateful Trump seemed to be OK and that he was working to speak with him.

Theres no place in America for this type of violence, Biden told reporters in a shot news conference Saturday evening. Its sick. Its sick.

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer also said there was no place for political violence in this country, period.

This is not how we resolve our differences, she wrote in a social media post. I am horrified to learn of this news, and we will be following the situation closely. I am grateful for those in law enforcement who stepped in immediately.

Whitmer, a Democrat, was previously the target of a kidnapping plot that never came to fruition and was busted by law enforcement in 2020.

She posted more on social media Sunday, saying, in part:

We should heed the words of President Lincoln who reminded us that, We are not enemies, but friends. Though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.

He was right. We can argue but we must center our common humanity. We must. We cannot forget the values that make us strong. We are a shining beacon of democracy and freedom in the world because we settle our stark differences at the ballot box. Thats what we do.

Biden after Trump rally shooting: No place for this kind of violence

WEST MICHIGAN LAWMAKER BLAMES RHETORIC

U.S. Rep. Bill Huizenga, R-Zeeland, said he was sad and angry, frankly, that people think that this is the right path to move forward.

This is the United States: We settle these disputes at the ballot box, not through violence, he told News 8 in an interview via Zoom Saturday evening.

He blamed ramped up, harsher and harder and edgier rhetoric  perhaps to draw an audience or donations  for heightening some peoples emotions and contributing to a divisive political climate:

I think the rhetoric that has been used has spurred this along  this whole notion that somehow democracy hangs in the balance of whether this person is going to be elected or not, is just beyond the pale, Huizenga said.

He agreed when News 8 political reporter Rick Albin pointing out that both sides have used outrageous rhetoric.

However, there is sort of this misnomer that violence is only quote-unquote coming from the right,' Huizenga said, before checking himself on listing some other acts of political violence. I believe we need to be measured as a nation, we need to be measured for those of us in politics and in the news media and a number of other places.

(The rhetoric) is making what should be a peaceful transition of power, what should be the envy of the world, into a laughingstock if this is going to continue, he added.

He said he did not know whether the shooting would lead to a change in how people speak about politics.

What I suspect is this is going to change the campaign no matter what. Everything from venues to processes, to whos invited, whos allowed to be there, certainly screening and all the things that are going on, Huizenga said.

Huizenga anticipated a intensive investigation into what happened to understand the shooters motives, so that this doesnt happen again to anyone on either side of the aisle.

Timeline of Trump rally shooting

He also said he was told that work is underway to double down on security measures at the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, which starts Monday.

POLITICIANS OFFER PRAYERS, PRAISE OFFICERS

U.S. Sen. Debbie Stabenow, D-Lansing, said in an online statement that political violence is never acceptable. She praised the first responders at the rally.

Michigan Attorney General Dana Nessel, a Democrat, said the violence was unacceptable and said she hoped those responsible for the horrific act were brought to justice.

Michigan Secretary of State Jocelyn Benson, also a Democrat, said political violence is unacceptable, anytime, anywhere, against anyone.

I pray for the swift recovery of the former president and am grateful for all in law enforcement who stepped in to protect everyone at the rally from further violence, she posted on social media. May this disturbing incident provide a turning point  away from hateful rhetoric and threats and towards civility for all.

Michigan Republican Party Chair Pete Hoekstra, a former U.S. ambassador, called on people to pray for Trump.

U.S. Rep. Hillary Scholten, D-Grand Rapids, called the situation horrifying and said in a social media post that she was praying for Trump. She also praised law enforcement for their swift reaction.

Obama condemns apparent shooting at Trump rally, wishes former president quick recovery

Former U.S. Rep. Mike Rogers, a Republican now running to represent Michigan in the U.S. Senate, called it a somber moment for our nation.

We are praying for President Trump and all Americans today, he posted on social media.

Praying for President Trump, his family, and all Americans, former U.S. Rep. Justin Amash, R-Grand Rapids, also a Senate candidate, posted.

Grand Rapids residents stunned by rally shooting

Michigan state Rep. Angela Rigas, R-Caledonia, said in a statement that she was disgusted and outraged by the heinous and cowardly assassination attempt on Trump.

This despicable act is an attack not only on President Trump but also on the foundations of our republic and the values we hold dear as Americans, her statement continued.

I stand firmly with President Trump and his family during this difficult time. My thoughts and prayers are with them, and I call on all Americans to unite in condemning this act of violence and in supporting Donald J. Trump, Rigas added.

U.S. Rep. Elissa Slotkin, D-Holly, says Every citizen should mourn this loss (the death of one rally attendee), hope for the swift recovery of those injured, and condemn this hateful act.

Patriotic Americans solve their differences at the ballot box, not with violence and gunfire. And the way to defend American democracy is with hard work and vigorous advocacy, her statement said in part. We should all be thankful for the quick action of law enforcement, who ensured the former president was safe and the attacker was quickly dealt with. But the death and injuries in an act of political violence are a new stain on our nation.

She continued to say that Americas political climate is toxic and is not how the Founding Fathers designed the system to work.

If you care to protect our democracy, we all must commit to the peaceful resolution of our differences and to calling out words and actions that threaten violence, her statement said.

News 8 political reporter Rick Albin contributed to this report.

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For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WOODTV.com.
Why do astronomers look for signs of life on other planets based on what life is like on Earth?

Curious Kids is a series for children of all ages. If you have a question youd like an expert to answer, send it to curiouskidsus@theconversation.com.

Why do astronomers look for signs of life on other planets based on how life is on Earth? Couldnt there be totally different kinds of life on other planets?  Henry, age 13, Somerville, Massachusetts

Have you ever played hide-and-seek in a new place? Its much harder than playing at home. You only know the obvious hiding spots: under the bed, in the closet, behind the couch. The trick is trying to think of hiding spots you cant even imagine. How do you search in places you never thought could be hiding spots?

That is kind of what scientists like me do when we look for alien life; were trying to think of new ways to look for life. In the meantime, were looking for life by looking for life like us because thats what we can imagine.

Looking nearby

The closest place to look for extraterrestrial life is on planets within our solar system.

NASAs Viking 1 mission began orbiting Earths neighbor Mars back in 1976. Looking for life on Mars was one of the most important scientific questions for the mission. The spacecraft included a lander that could go to the planets surface to see if there were any life-forms in the dirt there.

A view of the soil on the surface of Mars, as taken by Viking 1 lander on Aug. 1, 1976. NASA/JPL, CC BY

Scientists knew that life on Mars could be really different from life on Earth, so they didnt look for specific life-forms or molecules. Instead, they tried to design experiments to look for what life does, rather than what it makes.

For example, plants and some other life-forms on Earth do photosynthesis, a process that uses sunlight and carbon dioxide in the air to gather energy and grow. The Viking 1 scientists designed the lander to look for signs of photosynthesis happening on Mars.

To do that, the lander scooped up some dirt, shined a light on it and made measurements to see if any of the carbon dioxide in the air was transferred into the dirt. This experiment did not show any signs of photosynthesis in Mars dirt.

The lander had two other experiments that looked for evidence of organisms growing in the dirt on Mars. One used carbon dioxide gas and another one used sugar and amino acid molecules that life-forms on Earth like to eat.

The combination of these three experiments and other measurements led most scientists to agree that there probably is not life on the surface of Mars, at least life that does something like photosynthesis or eats sugar. But we still dont know if there are signs of ancient life-forms on Mars, or even current life deep below the surface.

The Viking lander experiments were the most direct tests for life on other planets. In terms of a game of hide-and-seek, though, these experiments were basically like looking in the closet: Its a pretty obvious hiding spot, but you should check there just in case. Even so, it took scientists a long time to interpret the results.

At four light-years away, Proxima Centauri is the star closest to our Sun  could one of its planets host life? ESA/Hubble & NASA, CC BY

Looking far away

Looking for life outside the solar system is even harder and requires different techniques.

The closest exoplanet  a planet orbiting a star that is not our Sun  is Proxima Centauri b, and its about 25 million, million miles (thats 25 followed by 12 zeros) away from Earth. These distant worlds are so far away that scientists are not going to send landers to do experiments on them for a long time.

Looking for life on exoplanets is kind of like trying to play hide-and-seek in your neighbors house, but you only get to look through the windows and cant go inside. You might get lucky and get just the right angle to spot someone hiding, but you cant know all the spots youre not able to see.

Tools like the new James Webb Space Telescope can reveal the size of exoplanets, how close they are to their stars, and maybe the gases in their atmospheres. But thats it. How would you look for life with that?

Because elements emit light at particular wavelengths, scientists can determine what a distant planets atmosphere is made up of based on its spectra. JPL, CC BY

Astronomers have thought about looking for life on exoplanets by looking for oxygen. They started with this strategy because on Earth, life-forms made most of the oxygen in our atmosphere. Maybe oxygen on another planet was made by alien life.

Weve learned, though, that there are other ways to make oxygen that dont involve life. So now, astronomers dont look for just oxygen  instead theyre on the hunt for a planet that has oxygen along with water and other gases, like methane and carbon dioxide. Together, these combinations might indicate life because we dont think planets without life would have them. But were still uncertain about that, too!

Looking for life by looking for these gases is kind of like looking behind the couch in our hide-and-seek game. Do we know anyone is going to be there? No. But we only get to look through the windows, and we can imagine people hiding behind couches. We might as well try  where else would we even look?

What game are we playing?

There are two big differences between playing hide-and-seek and looking for aliens.

First, when youre playing hide-and-seek, you usually know that youre playing with someone else. We have no idea if there are aliens out there to find! Its possible theres no other life out there, and its possible there are aliens right next door. Until we find examples of life besides our own, we wont know how common life is in the universe.

No sign so far of an alien civilization nearby. janiecbros/E+ via Getty Images

The second difference is that most scientists dont think alien life is hiding from us; its just that we havent spotted it yet. There are some ideas that more advanced civilizations might avoid being detected, but researchers dont think thats happening in our solar system.

Most astronomers and astrobiologists know that if we only look for life thats like Earth life, we might miss the signs of aliens that are really different. But honestly, weve never detected aliens before, so its hard to know where to start. When you dont know what to do, starting somewhere is usually better than nowhere.

Looking for life using experiments like the Viking lander or searching for oxygen might not help. But we might get lucky. And even if were not, well get to cross a couple of obvious possibilities off the list. Then we can focus on the harder question of imagining something weve never thought of before.

Hello, curious kids! Do you have a question youd like an expert to answer? Ask an adult to send your question to CuriousKidsUS@theconversation.com. Please tell us your name, age and the city where you live.

And since curiosity has no age limit  adults, let us know what youre wondering, too. We wont be able to answer every question, but we will do our best.

This article has been updated to correct a typo in the distance to Proxima Centauri b.

This article is republished from The Conversation, a nonprofit, independent news organization bringing you facts and trustworthy analysis to help you make sense of our complex world. It was written by: Cole Mathis, Arizona State University

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Cole Mathis has previously received funding from the NASA Postdoctoral Program.
Why a fair election in Venezuela could change the fate of millions of migrants  and Joe Biden

A small corner of Venezuela is spreading slowly along 77th Street in Bogota, the capital of Colombia.

Municipal maps formally refer to that neighborhood as Unir II (unite), but to many of its inhabitants it is known as Barrio Hugo Chavez, after the late Venezuelan president.

Many of the more than seven million Venezuelans who fled their country over the past decade or more now call Bogota home. The city is brimming with informal communities where migrants come together to help each other integrate and combat the ever-present melancholy and homesickness.

Maria Alvarez is one such migrant. A 27-year-old single mother from Valencia, Alvarez left Venezuela in 2017 when her son Gabriel was only one. They havent returned since. Gabriel knows his grandparents only from the photos on his mothers phone and the occasional video call.

Everyone left Ive got family in Brazil, the US, here in Colombia, in Ecuador, in Chile too. We are all abroad: uncles, aunts, cousins only my mom and my dad, and one of my brothers remain in Venezuela, Alvarez told CNN.

Most of those seven million migrants left Venezuela after 2014, according to the United Nations, amid an economic and political crisis brought about by a crash in the price of oil  a key export for Venezuela  combined with chronic corruption and mismanagement at the hands of government officials.

Almost two million of them have been granted work permits to work in Colombia, where life is working out well for Alvarez and many others like her. After the Covid pandemic, she helped create a foundation in Unir II to provide Venezuelans and Colombians with professional classes and psychological counseling. She now makes a living as a manicurist and has met a new partner.

Even so, she still feels the draw of Venezuela. I just dream of going home and building a life there. Colombia has been good, I feel welcome here, but well, I long to go back, she told CNN, tearfully.

Migrants from Venezuela sit by a makeshift fire as they wait to enter and seek asylum in El Paso, Texas, from Ciudad Juarez, Chihuahua, Mexico, on April 2, 2024. - Christian Monterrosa/AFP/Getty Images

An election and a credible opposition

But with the authoritarian government of Nicolas Maduro firmly ensconced in power, for many years those dreams of returning have remained just that. Until now.

This month, for the first time in a decade, Venezuela will hold an election in which Maduros government is being challenged by an opposition candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez, who has a credible chance of winning.

In October last year, Maduro formally pledged to grant free and fair elections in 2024 at the end of a long and secretive negotiation process with the US State Department.

That pledge was at least partially compromised amid a new spat between Washington and Caracas: the leading opposition candidate, Maria Corina Machado, was barred from running earlier this year, as was her immediate replacement Corina Yoris. The Venezuelan government has accused the White House of not lifting all economic sanctions against government officials, and in recent weeks opposition supporters and members of Machados team have been detained.

Even so, many experts believe that come the July 28 election the opposition has a real chance of pushing Maduro out of power.

Recent polls put Gonzalez more than twenty percentage points ahead of Maduro and, for the first time in years, electoral observers from the Carter Center and the UN have been invited to monitor the election.

Such a lead would make Gonzalez the heavy favorite if this were almost any other democratic country. Yet in Venezuela, the government has a habit of clinging to power. Critics have long accused it of rigging votes and silencing the opposition.

Opposition protests were repeatedly repressed in 2014, 2017 and 2019, and hundreds of opposition leaders have been arrested, or exiled.

Still, to many, this year feels different.

I personally find it difficult to believe Maduro will just give up power, said Laura Dib, a Venezuela expert at the Washington Office for Latin America.

However, you know, if theres massive participation with international observation and, of course, with pressure from inside the government itself and international pressure that could create some avenues, she told CNN.

Alvarez and many other migrants in Bogota, think similarly: Maduro can only win the election if he steals it. But if theres a new government, Id go back the same day. Not just me, hundreds, thousands there wont be enough planes for everyone to return home, said Endel Gonzalez, a 54-year-old from Maracaibo who has worked as a food courier in Bogota for the past five years.

Venezuelan opposition presidential candidate Edmundo Gonzalez and opposition leader Maria Corina Machado hold hands at a presidential election campaign rally in Valencia, Carabobo State, Venezuela, on July 13, 2024. - Gaby Oraa/Reuters

What it means for America

Its the fate of migrants like Alvarez and millions of others like her that are making this such a closely watched election.

Before the pandemic, it was common for Venezuelan migrants to seek opportunities in neighboring countries, but in the past three years more than half a million have headed to the United States southern border, moving directly via land from Colombia to Panama and Central America, all the way to Northern Mexico.

Venezuelans were the second largest group of migrants apprehended by US Customs and Border Patrol in 2023, totaling over 260,000 encounters, a fivefold increase from 2020 when there were less than 50,000, putting pressure on the White House to stem the flow.

With the Democratic administration facing an uncertain election in November and migration policies squarely on the ballot, this months contest in Caracas could hold profound consequences for US President Joe Biden.

Most experts who spoke to CNN believe that if Gonzalez wins, many migrants will decide to return to Venezuela  but if Maduro clings to power, even more will be tempted to head to the US border, both for political reasons and practical ones.

In the early years of Venezuelas migration boom, many Latin American countries offered emergency permits and ad hoc policies for migrants from the country, but now many are erecting barriers to deter the free movement of people.

Colombia for example has stopped issuing documents for recently arrived migrants, while the newly elected president of Panama, Jose Raul Mulino, has proposed fencing off the jungles that connect his country to Colombia.

Dib estimates that up to two million more migrants could be on the move by next year.

Migrants from Peru and Venezuela walk along a trail on the US side of the Rio Grande river on March 26, 2024, in El Paso, Texas. - Brandon Bell/Getty Images

What next?

The Biden administration has been instrumental in reaching this moment. Maduros agreement to a free and fair election came only after the US partially lifted oil sanctions, and only after repatriation flights for undocumented migrants back to Caracas resumed in October.

Direct negotiations between Maduro and the State Department seem to have halted, although Maduro announced last week that his chief negotiator, Jorge Rodriguez, held a meeting with US officials to resume talks.

Washington is openly supporting Gonzalez, apparently reasoning that a transition to democracy in Venezuela would not only help negotiations around energy policy and migration, but also help turn Caracas from its ideological alliances with the likes of China, Russia and Iran.

But with both countries going to the polls this year, it may be what voters decide in November, rather than July, that really makes the difference.

If the Biden administration remains in power, I believe (bilateral) negotiations will continue, Dib said.

Now, if theres a Trump administration, most likely its just conducting business without much regard on what happens in terms of democracy and human rights.

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Prime Minister Keir Starmer's overtures to leaders on the Continent have some worried about the implication for UK defence contractors - Simon Dawson / No 10 Downing Street

Sir Keir Starmer will press forward with his European charm offensive this week as he hosts continental leaders for talks at the birthplace of Winston Churchill.

The meeting of the European Political Community is taking place on Thursday at Blenheim Palace, the Oxfordshire estate still occupied by Churchills relatives, the Marlboroughs.

It will be the second time in recent years that the palace has provided a resplendent background for careful diplomatic footwork, after Theresa May hosted a grand dinner there for Donald Trump in 2018.

That occasion was marred by an interview in which former US president Trump claimed May had ignored his Brexit negotiating advice and wrecked her chances.

Starmer will be hoping for better luck as he welcomes French president Emmanuel Macron, German chancellor Olaf Scholz, Polish prime minister Donald Tusk and other key allies.

Fresh from the Nato summit in Washington DC, the Prime Minister wants to build momentum behind his proposed defence and security pact with the European Union  a move intended to signal an end to Brexit feuding.

David Lammy, Starmers newly appointed Foreign Secretary, has said this could span defence, energy, climate initiatives, critical minerals, pandemic response and efforts to tackle illegal migration.

Yet there are also fears that Labours embrace of Europe will have unintended consequences for Britain and its defence industry.

British Foreign Secretary David Lammy has signalled that the Government is considering wide ranging cooperation with Europe - DREW ANGERER/AFP via Getty Images

The EU is in the process of setting up defence structures and institutions  long obstructed by Britain when it was a member  that critics argue will undermine Nato, while making it harder for UK companies to compete.

The risk here is that were tied into a broader EU defence project, where the UK is once again subject to Brussels regulations but, this time, does not have a seat at the table in making them, warns Dr Radomir Tylecote, managing director of the Legatum Institute in London.

Those regulations will ultimately be designed to benefit other countries and their companies, so any drift in that direction should set alarm bells ringing.

This will ultimately come down to negotiation, so the Government must stand up for British interests.

The EUs defence ambitions became a flashpoint during the 2016 Brexit referendum when Leave campaigners accused Brussels of drawing up plans for an EU army in secret.

Since Britains exit, however, the blocs push towards the harmonisation of European military power has been overt, with a series of new structures set up to pool research and development spending, improve interoperability and better coordinate member state capabilities.

Two key pillars of this have included setting up a European Defence Fund (EDF) for research spending and the Permanent Structured Cooperation (Pesco) mechanism, which aims to better integrate European forces.

These will ostensibly help European countries work together as they re-arm for an age of geopolitical instability.

And while Britain had long opposed these kinds of initiatives, the previous Conservative government more recently relented, amid concerns about Russias attack on Ukraine and fears that UK companies risk being shut out of procurement.

Some British executives see the benefit in getting access to schemes such as the EDF, even though it only commands a modest budget of 8bn (6.7bn) currently.

Yet they also worry that the EUs defence structures are a thinly-disguised bout of protectionism, intended to block US companies from winning military contracts on the Continent.

While member states such as Germany and Poland have been perfectly happy to order the US-made Patriot system and Israels Arrow 3 for their new Sky Shield missile defence scheme, for example, France has repeatedly banged the drum for European alternatives such as the SAMP-T system made by continental champions MBDA and Thales.

Warsaw accepted US-supplied Patriot missile defence systems in spite of French efforts to develop European alternatives - REUTERS/Stringer

Its all about keeping the Americans out, one British defence executive says. And the risk is that the UK gets caught in the crossfire.

At the moment, as a third country, we are viewed by the EU as virtually no different to China, which is clearly ridiculous.

There is a hope that the election of this Labour government has created an opening.

For now, Britains overtures have been limited to joining one Pesco project  which is still being finalised  aimed at making the transportation of Nato troops across European borders easier.

But John Healey, the new Labour Defence Secretary, suggested in Washington that the British Government wants to become even more deeply involved in Pesco.

There is speculation that Labour may also seek to join the EDF, although Healey has insisted the Government will seek bespoke alternatives.

The Legatum Institutes Tylecote, who recently published a paper on this issue, says the danger is that Britain will get sucked into various European initiatives by stealth if it signs up to Pesco or other schemes.

The UK should acknowledge that a growing capacity in EU politico-military bodies implies a gradual erosion of national military freedom, his report argues, with the European Commission in Brussels playing an increasingly muscular role in setting standards and policy.

There is also a concern that even if Britain joins schemes such as the EDF, it could find its companies are denied equal rights and will be blocked from freely using the intellectual property they develop under European initiatives  preventing them from sharing it with some Nato allies such as the US.

This is where the EUs efforts risk undermining Nato and wrecking useful cooperation between British and European companies, argues Tylecote. He points to existing collaborations between the UKs BAE Systems and Frances Dassault, and MBDA (a Franco-British-Italian company) and another French outfit, Thales, as examples.

He is also wary of linking defence to other subjects such as immigration, arguing that it makes no sense to make trade-offs in one area in exchange for another.

Labour sources, though light on detail about the deal they are seeking, insist that Starmer, Lammy and Healey will not sign up to anything that disadvantages Britain or its companies.

They also point to the fact that the Government is not just focused on the EU. On the sidelines of the Washington Nato summit, Starmer agreed to enhance defence cooperation with Germanys Scholz on a bilateral basis, with discussions set to continue in Blenheim.

There, to progress a deal that works for both sides, the PM will need to extend the hand of friendship  while showing some of Churchills mettle.

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Listen to this full episode of The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and Stitcher.

The Heritage Foundations president Kevin Roberts, one of the architects of the controversial Project 2025 plan for a second Trump presidency, said the quite part out loud this week when he warned liberals that there would be violence if they stand in the way of the second American revolution.

The reason that so many anchors on MSNBC, for example, are losing their minds daily, is because our side is winning. And so I come full circle in this response and just want to encourage you with some substance that we are in the process of the second American revolution, which will remain bloodless if the left allows it to be, Roberts said Tuesday on Real Americas Voice.

Project 2025 is a set of proposals designed to dramatically reshape the federal government and consolidate executive power if Trump is elected in November.

The New Abnormals co-host Danielle Moodie said people need to pay attention to what the far right has in store if Donald Trump returns to the White House.

I cannot tell you how many of these Republican fascists have talked about bloodshed from Donald Trumps inauguration on. From folks talking about there are more guns on our side. They want war. They want bloodshed. They want America to be this Christian fundamentalist Gilead shell of itself where women stay home, Black people move off sidewalks to let massa walk through, and LGBTQ+ people dont exist and if they do, theyre criminalized and thrown in jail. This is what these people want and I dont know why shit like this isnt trending and being discussed for two fucking weeks. Instead we talk about Bidens age when what is more dangerous is what these people are saying out loud because theyre no longer afraid of repercussions.

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Really his tone thereits so striking how confident he is that this is OK to say out loud. I would not blame one of my apolitical friends for thinking that I was playing them a clip from The Purge if I showed that to them because thats what it sounds like, said The New Abnormals producer Jesse Cannon.

When you listen to these people and how they are justifying the policies that they want created through the lens of their God, theres no length that theyre not willing to go to in order to make that happen and seem justified in the process because of their religious convictions. That to me is what is scary, said Moodie.

Weve been saying for a while theres no quiet part anymore. That really just sums it up, said The New Abnormals co-host Andy Levy.

Plus! Danielle Moodie speaks with Vox journalist Zach Beauchamp on his book The Reactionary Spirit: How America's Most Insidious Political Tradition Swept the World.

Listen to this full episode of The New Abnormal on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon, and Stitcher.

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Wilmington leaders took to social media to condemn the violent actions of an assassination attempt on former President and Presidential candidate Donald Trump Saturday night at a rally in Pennsylvania.

After Saturday's assassination attempt that left former president and Republican nominee Donald Trump injured at a campaign rally, leaders in the Cape Fear Region took to social media to condemn the actions that killed a rally attendee.

The shooting, at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania happened around 6:15 p.m., according to local authorities. Trump's Secret Service rushed him off the stage after several shots rang out. Two other attendees were listed as seriously injured. The shooter, who has been identified by the FBI as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was killed by Secret Service at the scene, according to authorities.

Republican state senator reacts

N.C. State Senator Michael Lee took to social media to condemn the acts on Saturday.

"I am deeply disturbed by the attempt on former President Trump's life. Violence has no place in our society, and we must condemn this act in the strongest terms," Lee wrote in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "My thoughts and prayers are with the former President and all those affected by this heinous act."

Local leaders' social media responses

New Hanover County Commissioner Dane Scalise responded on X: "I rarely am at a loss for words, but I have to confess that I have been simply stunned since I first learned about the assassination attempt on President Trump last night."

Scalise wrote that the news came as his family was celebrating his son's birthday: "I immediately felt a painful sadness for my son  and all other Americans  that this is the state of our nation. This is not the American way. This is not acceptable. Or, at least, it shouldn't be.

"But there are powerful forces that work daily to sow division and create chaos. We must not allow them to succeed anymore. How do we do that? Well, the best revenge is massive success, so let's win, and bigly."

Wilmington City Councilman Luke Waddell also took to X to express his support for Trump, while also condemning the actions.

"In the wake of this cowardly assassination attempt, my family is praying for President @realDonaldTrump and for our Nation," Waddell wrote.

New Hanover GOP social media reactions

The New Hanover County Republican Party released a statement and has been reposting statements from party leaders from the local level all the way up to the national level as well as thanking Lee, Scalise and Waddell for their support.

Party chair Nevin Carr III wrote in the statement: "Yesterday we witnessed an act of evil. We were less than an inch away from our nominee for President, Donald J. Trump, being assassinated. One innocent person was murdered, and two more are in the hospital. Our prayers go out to our fellow patriots who were victims of this heinous act.

Carr wrote that no matter what one thinks of Trump, "that man is willing to put his life on the line to represent us. He stands on the shoulders of millions and millions of Americans who have put their lives on the line for the sake of our freedom."

"FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT!" Trump's words as he left the state after taking a bullet should resonate with us all," Carr wrote.

The statement urged voters to get involved if they have not been thus far and addressed the responses by some Democrats, calling the responses "sickening."

The statement wrapped up with a reminder from Carr that this should be a wake-up call to voters and that victory can only be achieved at the ballot box.

"Evil exists. We have the power to stop it. We have a duty to stop it," Carr wrote. "Pray for our country, and then take action."

New Hanover County Democratic Party releases a statement

The New Hanover County Democratic Party released a statement and has been reposting social media statements from state and national Democratic leaders who have condemned the acts of violence at the rally Saturday.

The statement, released by party chair Jill Hopman, condemns any and all forms of political violence, against any political leader, regardless of party affiliation. "While many facts have not yet been reported, yesterday's attempted assassination of former President Trump was an appalling and undemocratic act of cowardice," the statement says.

The party wished Trump, rally attendees and all victims of gun violence a healthy and speedy recovery.

"For centuries, the United States has been a beacon of hope around the world due to our free, fair and safe elections. They are a privilege that many countries still dream of achieving, one that we often (sadly) seem to take for granted," the statement says. "Despite our many political differences, we must stand together in protecting every American's right to free expression, free assembly, and more importantly, in safeguarding our right to vote, without fear or violence. Because the only way to win in politics is at the ballot box - and we urge all voters to remember that, always."

The party reposted a Facebook post from Attorney General and gubernatorial candidate Josh Stein, which said:"I am outraged by what happened tonight at President Trump's rally. Political violence is abhorrent and has no place in America."

Stein continued: "I pray for his health and am grateful he was able to walk off the state tonight. I appreciate the Secret Service and law enforcement for their immediate response. I am also praying for our deeply divided country," Stein's statement says. "People should be able to have differing opinions without fear of violence or threats."

Republican National Convention is Monday

The Republican National Convention is still scheduled to begin Monday in Milwaukee.

President Joe Biden condemned the acts of violence against Trump in a press conference Saturday night, saying that he reached out to Trump after the shooting.

"Look, there's no place in America for this kind of violence," Biden said in the press conference. "It's sick."

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: Cape Fear Region leaders respond to assassination attempt on Trump
Former President Donald Trump was rushed from the stage of a Pennsylvania rally Saturday after an apparent assassination attempt.

A Trump spokesman later said that Trump "thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility."

Wisconsin's Congressional delegation, Wisconsin's governor and others began weighing in on Twitter.

Milwaukee city and police officials did not immediately respond or did not have information early Saturday evening about what the incident means for the RNC, which begins Monday in downtown.

Pray for President Trump.



Pray for America. https://t.co/XA4O9PW9hD  Senator Ron Johnson (@SenRonJohnson) July 13, 2024

Violence of this kind is never acceptable and I condemn it in the strongest of terms. My thoughts are with President Trump and his family.  Sen. Tammy Baldwin (@SenatorBaldwin) July 13, 2024

The Leader of the Free World will not be deterred. https://t.co/50YRJVuJLK  Derrick Van Orden (@derrickvanorden) July 13, 2024

Im praying for President Trump, his security detail, and all of the Trump supporters in Butler, PA.  Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (@RepFitzgerald) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump, his family, and our country.   Rep. Glenn Grothman (@RepGrothman) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump and our country.  pic.twitter.com/3UoIhV84vS  Rep. Tom Tiffany (@RepTiffany) July 13, 2024

Gun violence is not an acceptable form of political discourse. I pray for a full recovery for the former president, and anyone else who has been injured.



I will continue to monitor the ongoing response from law enforcement.  Rep. Gwen Moore (@RepGwenMoore) July 13, 2024

My staff and I are in contact with those coordinating security planning for the RNC and will continue to be in close communication as we learn more about this situation.



We cannot be a country that accepts political violence of any kindthat is not who we are as Americans.  Governor Tony Evers (@GovEvers) July 13, 2024

Please pray for President Trump, all attendees of today's rally in Pennsylvania, and our brave Secret Service agents. This is a sad and troubling day for our Republic.  Mike Gallagher (@RepGallagher) July 13, 2024

Awful. Violence is never acceptable. Period.



My thoughts are with all impacted by this terrible event.



If everyone takes our political rhetoric down a notch or two, we would all be better.  Mark Pocan (@MarkPocan) July 14, 2024

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Theres no space, absolutely none, for this sort of violence in America.

No one should be shot  not like this. Not kids, not churchgoers, and not a candidate for President of the United States.

We must demand peace, whether it is in the political sphere or in homes and neighborhoods everywhere.

This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Wisconsin lawmakers, RNC officials react to Trump rally shooting
Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, during a the media walkthrough of the 2024 Republican National Convention | Wisconsin Examiner photo

Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, during a the media walkthrough of the 2024 Republican National Convention. (Wisconsin Examiner photo)

As Wisconsin prepares to host the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week, the news that former President Donald Trump was apparently shot Saturday at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, prompted swift reactions from elected officials.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos posted on X:

Glad President Trump is safe and our brave law enforcement officers acted quickly to avoid further bloodshed.

Calling the shooting an assassination attempt, Vos said its a dark moment for our country. Im praying for President Trump and call on our nation to come together and denounce this cowardly attack on democracy.

Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer said in a statement: I condemn this act of political violence in the strongest terms. Our democracy is fragile, and violence is never the answer. I wish Donald Trump a full recovery. My thoughts are with all of those impacted by this violence.

Gov. Tony Evers wrote on his official X account:

My thoughts are with President Trump and all of the folks attending todays rally in Pennsylvania.

Thank you to the first responders who acted quickly, putting themselves and their safety at risk in order to respond to a horrific act of violence and keep people safe.

The Trump campaign has stated that Trump will still attend the RNC.

Reince Priebus, Chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, released the following statement: President Trump is in my prayers after surviving this assassination attempt. We are also heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, Priebus added, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week.

Before the apparent, shooting, joint threat assessment created by the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee Southeastern Wisconsin Threat Analysis Center had already placed law enforcement officials on high alert for the RNC.

The RNC is classified as a National Special Security Event (NSSE), which means the Secret Service manages planning, coordinating, and implementing security operations for the event, working together with local law enforcement agencies. In June, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle met with leaders of the FBI, Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee Fire Department and other experts to discuss the security plan for the convention, which the law enforcement agencies have been jointly planning over the last year.

In the hard security zone immediately surrounding the convention site, the Secret Service is in charge, credentials are required and firearms are banned.

Earlier this year, Milwaukee Common Council members tried to ban guns inside the RNCs soft security zone but were unable to enact the rules because of state law.

Wisconsin is an open carry state, and proposed legislation to tighten gun control has been met with stiff opposition from Republican lawmakers. State law prevents all city and local governments from prohibiting the possession or act of carrying legal firearms.

We are at the mercy of state law for this, Nick DeSiato, chief of staff for Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, said in May.

Firearms prohibited under state law wont be allowed in the security footprint of the RNC. Those include weapons like machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, short-barreled rifles, and suppressors which are more commonly known as silencers.

On Thursday, just a few days before the start of the convention, council members proposed banning bump stocks, an attachment that allows guns to fire faster, at the convention, but were advised by the city attorney that the ordinance would not be enforceable because of state law.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson said in a statement, Theres no space, absolutely none, for this sort of violence in America. No one should be shot not like this. Not kids, not churchgoers, and not a candidate for President of the United States. We must demand peace, whether it is in the political sphere or in homes and neighborhoods everywhere.

In May Evers declared a state of emergency for the RNC, which allows the National Guard to assist in providing security for the convention.

The declaration also facilitates cooperation between local and out-of-state law enforcement agencies. As many as 4,500 law enforcement officers could come to assist the convention. So far, local and state law enforcement agencies from Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, and North Carolina have finalized agreements to assist with convention security.

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Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, during a the media walkthrough of the 2024 Republican National Convention. (Wisconsin Examiner photo)

Fiserv Forum in Milwaukee, during a the media walkthrough of the 2024 Republican National Convention. (Wisconsin Examiner photo)

As Wisconsin prepares to host the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee this week, the news that former President Donald Trump was apparently shot Saturday at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, prompted swift reactions from elected officials.

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos posted on X:

Glad President Trump is safe and our brave law enforcement officers acted quickly to avoid further bloodshed.

Calling the shooting an assassination attempt, Vos said its a dark moment for our country. Im praying for President Trump and call on our nation to come together and denounce this cowardly attack on democracy.

Assembly Minority Leader Greta Neubauer said in a statement: I condemn this act of political violence in the strongest terms. Our democracy is fragile, and violence is never the answer. I wish Donald Trump a full recovery. My thoughts are with all of those impacted by this violence.

Gov. Tony Evers wrote on his official X account:

My thoughts are with President Trump and all of the folks attending todays rally in Pennsylvania.

Thank you to the first responders who acted quickly, putting themselves and their safety at risk in order to respond to a horrific act of violence and keep people safe.

The Trump campaign has stated that Trump will still attend the RNC.

Reince Priebus, Chairman of the MKE 2024 Host Committee, released the following statement: President Trump is in my prayers after surviving this assassination attempt. We are also heartbroken that reports indicate that at least one innocent person has been killed and perhaps others have been injured. This horrific violence has no place in America.

Guests have already begun to arrive in Wisconsin, Priebus added, and we look forward to working with the Republican National Committee to welcome everyone to Milwaukee this week.

Before the apparent, shooting, joint threat assessment created by the U.S. Secret Service, the FBI, Milwaukee Police Department and the Milwaukee Southeastern Wisconsin Threat Analysis Center had already placed law enforcement officials on high alert for the RNC.

The RNC is classified as a National Special Security Event (NSSE), which means the Secret Service manages planning, coordinating, and implementing security operations for the event, working together with local law enforcement agencies. In June, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle met with leaders of the FBI, Milwaukee Police Department, Milwaukee Fire Department and other experts to discuss the security plan for the convention, which the law enforcement agencies have been jointly planning over the last year.

In the hard security zone immediately surrounding the convention site, the Secret Service is in charge, credentials are required and firearms are banned.

Earlier this year, Milwaukee Common Council members tried to ban guns inside the RNCs soft security zone but were unable to enact the rules because of state law.

Wisconsin is an open carry state, and proposed legislation to tighten gun control has been met with stiff opposition from Republican lawmakers. State law prevents all city and local governments from prohibiting the possession or act of carrying legal firearms.

We are at the mercy of state law for this, Nick DeSiato, chief of staff for Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson, said in May.

Firearms prohibited under state law wont be allowed in the security footprint of the RNC. Those include weapons like machine guns, short-barreled shotguns, short-barreled rifles, and suppressors which are more commonly known as silencers.

On Thursday, just a few days before the start of the convention, council members proposed banning bump stocks, an attachment that allows guns to fire faster, at the convention, but were advised by the city attorney that the ordinance would not be enforceable because of state law.

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson said in a statement, Theres no space, absolutely none, for this sort of violence in America. No one should be shot not like this. Not kids, not churchgoers, and not a candidate for President of the United States. We must demand peace, whether it is in the political sphere or in homes and neighborhoods everywhere.

In May Evers declared a state of emergency for the RNC, which allows the National Guard to assist in providing security for the convention.

The declaration also facilitates cooperation between local and out-of-state law enforcement agencies. As many as 4,500 law enforcement officers could come to assist the convention. So far, local and state law enforcement agencies from Florida, Minnesota, Missouri, Nevada, New Jersey, and North Carolina have finalized agreements to assist with convention security.

(Wisconsin Examiner is part of States Newsroom, a nonprofit news network supported by grants and a coalition of donors as a 501c(3) public charity. Wisconsin Examiner maintains editorial independence. Contact Editor Ruth Conniff for questions: info@wisconsinexaminer.com. Follow Wisconsin Examiner on Facebook and X.)
Trump 2024 flag is raised outside of Trump Tower, Sunday, July 14, 2024, in New York. (AP Photo/Yuki Iwamura)

WASHINGTON (AP)  Within minutes of the gunfire, the attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump spawned a vast sea of claims  some outlandish, others contradictory  reflecting the frightening uncertainties of the moment as well as America's fevered, polarized political climate.

The cloudburst of speculation and conjecture as Americans turned to the internet for news about the shooting is the latest sign of how social media has emerged as a dominant source of information  and misinformation  for many, and a contributor to the distrust and turbulence now driving American politics.

Mentions of Trump on social media soared up to 17 times the average daily amount in the hours after the shooting, according to PeakMetrics, a cyber firm that tracks online narratives. Many of those mentions were expressions of sympathy for Trump or calls for unity. But many others made unfounded, fantastical claims.

We saw things like The Chinese were behind it, or  Antifa was behind it, or the Biden administration did it.' We also saw a claim that the RNC was behind it, said Paul Bartel, senior intelligence analyst at PeakMetrics. Everyone is just speculating. No one really knows what's going on. They go online to try to figure it out.

Here's a look at the claims that surfaced online following the shooting:

Claims of an inside job or false flag are unsubstantiated

Many of the more specious claims that surfaced immediately after the shooting sought to blame Trump or his Democratic opponent, President Joe Biden, for the attack.

Some voices on the left quickly proclaimed the shooting to be a false flag concocted by Trump, while some Trump supporters suggested the Secret Service intentionally failed to protect Trump on the White Houses orders.

The Secret Service on Sunday pushed back on claims circulating on social media that Trump's campaign had asked for greater security before Saturday's rally and was told no.

This is absolutely false, agency spokesman Anthony Guglielmi wrote Sunday on X. In fact, we added protective resources & technology & capabilities as part of the increased campaign travel tempo.

Videos of the shooting were quickly dissected in partisan echo chambers and Trump supporters and detractors looked for evidence to support their beliefs. Videos showing Secret Service agents moving audience members away from Trump before the shooting were offered as evidence that it was an inside job. Images of Trump's defiantly raised fist were used to make the opposite claim  that the whole event was staged by Trump.

How did the USSS allow him to stop and pose for a photo opp if there was real danger?? wrote one user, using the abbreviation for the U.S. Secret Service.

Social media bots helped amplify the false claims on platforms including Facebook, Instagram, X and TikTok, according to an analysis by the Israeli tech firm Cyabra, which found that a full 45% of the accounts using hashtags like #fakeassassination and #stagedshooting were inauthentic.

An image created using artificial intelligence  depicting a smiling Trump moments after the shooting  was also making the rounds, Cyabra found.

Moments like this are cannon fodder for extremists

Conspiracy theories quickly emerged online that misidentified the suspected shooter, blamed other people without evidence and espoused hate speech, including virulent antisemitism.

Moments like this are cannon fodder for extremists online, because typically they will react with great confidence to whatever has happened without any real evidence said Jacob Ware, a research fellow at the Council on Foreign Relations. People will fall into spirals and will advance their own ideologies and their own conclusions.

Before authorities identified the suspect, photos of two different people circulated widely online falsely identifying them as the shooter.

In all the speculation and conjecture, others were trying to exploit the event financially. On X on Sunday morning, an account named Proud Patriots urged Trump supporters to purchase their assassination-attempt themed merchandise.

First they jail him, now they try to end him, reads the ad for the commemorative Trump Assassination Attempt Trading Card. Stand Strong & Show Your Support!

Republicans cast blame on Biden

After the shooting, some Republicans blamed Biden for the shooting, arguing sustained criticisms of Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment. They pointed in particular to a comment Biden made to donors on July 8, saying its time to put Trump in the bullseye.

Ware said that comment from Biden was violent rhetoric that is raising the stakes, especially when combined with Bidens existential words about the election. But he said it was important not to make conclusions about the shooters motive until we know more information. Biden's remarks were part of a broader approach to turn scrutiny on Trump, with no explicit call to violence.

Trump's own incendiary words have been criticized in the past for encouraging violence. His lies about the 2020 election and his call for supporters to fight like hell preceded the Jan. 6, 2021, attack on the Capitol, which led to his second impeachment on charges of incitement of insurrection. Trump also mocked the hammer attack that left 80-year-old Paul Pelosi, the husband of the former House speaker, with a fractured skull.

Surveys find that Americans overwhelmingly reject violence as a way to settle political differences, but overheated rhetoric from candidates and social media can motivate a small minority of people to act, said Sean Westwood, a political scientist who directs the Polarization Research Lab at Dartmouth College.

Westwood said he worries that Saturday's shooting could spur others to consider violence as a tactic.

There is a real risk that this spirals, he said. Even if someone doesnt personally support violence, if they think the other side does, and they witness an attempted political assassination, there is a real risk that this could lead to escalation.

___

The Associated Press receives support from several private foundations to enhance its explanatory coverage of elections and democracy. See more about APs democracy initiative here. The AP is solely responsible for all content.
TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA)  Several witnesses reacted to the shooting at a Pennsylvania Trump rally that left the gunman and an attendee dead, and several injured, including the former president.

On Saturday, Donald Trump was struck with a bullet in his upper right ear, leaving a trail of blood on his face as he was escorted out.

Shooting at Trump rally event being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

One Trump supporter, Diana Mellish, who was at the event, recounted the scene, saying she had an anxious feeling.

It just didnt feel right, Mellish said.

She told the reporter she had left roughly 30 minutes prior to the shooting. She stood and waited outside the hospital Trump was in, just hoping that hes ok, just praying for everybody.

Another supporter, Scott Smith, said he didnt understand how someone could do this.

I cant believe people would do something like this, Smith said. That people have so much hate that they would do something like this.

A counter-protestor, who planned to attend the rally to protest Donald Trump, stood outside Butler Memorial Hospital.

What we know about the suspected Trump rally shooter

The woman, Ash Nix, told a reporter that her husband asked her to not attend because he feared violence.

She held a sign outside the facility that read: Wishing Trump a long terrible recovery! Tots and pears!

According to the Associated Press, Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing through the crowd. As the first pop rang out, Trump said, Oh, and grabbed his ear as two more pops could be heard.

On Saturday evening, Trump confirmed being shot in the ear. The incident is now being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to WFLA.
WASHINGTON (DC News Now)  The Metropolitan Police Department (MPD) said a woman was shot in Northeast D.C. on Sunday morning.

MPD said that at about 5 a.m., officers were dispatched to a shooting in the 4400 block of Minnesota Ave.

Police identify two people killed in motorcycle crash in Prince Georges County

When officers arrived at the scene, they found a woman shot. She was conscious and breathing.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to DC News Now | Washington, DC.
(Reuters) -Following are reactions from world leaders to the shooting attack on Donald Trump at an election rally on Saturday in which the former U.S. president was wounded in the ear:

BRITISH PRIME MINISTER KEIR STARMER

"I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack."

CANADIAN PRIME MINISTER JUSTIN TRUDEAU

"I'm sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER FUMIO KISHIDA

"We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy. I pray for former President Trump's speedy recovery.

FRENCH PRESIDENT EMMANUEL MACRON

"My thoughts are with President Donald Trump, the victim of an assassination attempt. I send him my wishes for a speedy recovery. A spectator has died, several are injured. It is a tragedy for our democracies. France shares the shock and indignation of the American people."

GERMAN CHANCELLOR OLAF SCHOLZ

"The attack ... is despicable. I wish him a speedy recovery. My thoughts are also with the people who were affected by the attack. Such acts of violence threaten democracy."

ITALIAN PRIME MINISTER GIORGIA MELONI

"In political debate ...there are limits that should never be crossed. It is a warning to everyone, regardless of political affiliation, to restore dignity and honour to politics, against all forms of hatred and violence, and for the good of our democracies. Solidarity with Donald #Trump, his supporters and the injured, and my heartfelt condolences for the victim and his family."

ISRAELI PRIME MINISTER BENJAMIN NETANYAHU

"This wasn't just an attack on Donald Trump. This was an attack on a candidate for the presidency of the United States. This was an attack on America. It was an attack on democracy, it was an attack on all the democracies. On behalf of myself, my family, the Government and people of Israel, we wish President Trump a speedy recovery, continued good health and continued strength".

RUSSIA

The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov said that while Russia did not believe the current U.S. administration was responsible for the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, it had created an atmosphere that provoked the attack.

INDIAN PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI

"Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people."

PAKISTAN PRESIDENT ASIF ALI ZARDARI

He strongly condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump, expressed shock and said such "violence had no place in politics."

TURKISH PRESIDENT TAYYIP ERDOGAN

He condemned the attack and said: "I believe that the investigation into the attack will be carried out in the most effective manner and the perpetrators and their instigators will be brought to justice as soon as possible in order not to overshadow the US elections and global stability."

NATO SECRETARY GENERAL JENS STOLTENBERG

"I wish him a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with those affected. I condemn this attack. Political violence has no place in our democracies. NATO Allies stand together to defend our freedom & values."

UKRAINIAN PRESIDENT VOLODYMYR ZELENSKIY

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail."

"I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery."

SLOVAK PRIME MINISTER ROBERT FICO

"Political opponents of D. Trump are trying to shut him down and when they don't succeed, they annoy the public so much that some poor guy picks up a gun."

EGYPTIAN PRESIDENT ABDEL FATTAH AL-SISI

He condemned the attack and expressed his wish for "the U.S. election campaign to continue in a peaceful and healthy environment, devoid of any appearances of terrorism, violence or hatred."

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

The UAE condemned the attack and expressed solidarity with Trump, his family, government and Americans. It affirmed its "permanent rejection of all forms of violence."

AUSTRALIAN PRIME MINISTER ANTHONY ALBANESE

The incident "is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process. I am relieved to hear reports that former President Trump is now safe.

SOUTH KOREAN PRESIDENT YOON SUK YEOL

"I am appalled by the hideous act of political violence. I wish former President Trump a speedy recovery. The people of Korea stand in solidarity with the people of America."

MEXICAN PRESIDENT ANDRES MANUEL LOPEZ OBRADOR

"We condemn what happened to former President Donald Trump. Violence is irrational and inhumane."

BRAZILIAN PRESIDENT LUIZ INACIO LULA DA SILVA

"The attack against former President Donald Trump must be vehemently repudiated by all defenders of democracy and dialogue in politics. What we saw today is unacceptable."

FORMER BRAZILIAN PRESIDENT JAIR BOLSONARO

Bolsonaro, who survived a stabbing attack in 2018 during his first presidential campaign, wished Trump a speed recovery on X. "See you at the inauguration," he wrote.

ARGENTINA PRESIDENT JAVIER MILEI ON X

"The desperation of the international left is not surprising, as today it sees its harmful ideology expire, and is willing to destabilize democracies and promote violence to screw itself into power. In fear of losing at the polls, they resort to terrorism to impose their retrograde and authoritarian agenda."

CHILE PRESIDENT GABRIEL BORIC

"Violence is a threat to democracies and weakens our shared life. We must all reject it. From Chile, I express our unqualified condemnation" of the attack.

VENEZUELA PRESIDENT NICOLAS MADURO

"We have been adversaries, but I wish President Trump healthy and long life."

CUBAN PRESIDENT MIGUEL DIAZ-CANEL

Cuba condemned all forms of violence, he said, adding "The arms business and the escalation of political violence in the USA led to incidents" like Saturday's attack.

ECUADOR PRESIDENT DANIEL NOBOA

"What has happened today in the United States is unacceptable. My solidarity is with Donald Trump and his family at this time."

BOLIVIAN PRESIDENT LUIS ARCE

"Despite our profound ideological and political differences, violence, wherever it comes from, must always be rejected by everyone."

PANAMA PRESIDENT JOSE RAUL MULINO

"This act of violence threatens security and democratic stability."

POLISH PRESIDENT ANDRZEJ DUDA

The attack was shocking not just for America but for the entire free and democratic world," he said, adding he wished Trump a speedy recovery.

EUROPEAN COMMISSION PRESIDENT URSULA VON DER LEYEN

She said she was "deeply shocked" by the attack, wished him a quick recovery and said "political violence has no place in a democracy."

OLIVER VARHELYI, EU COMMISSIONER FOR ENLARGEMENT, HUNGARY'S MEMBER OF THE EU COMMISSION

"Deeply shocked by the fact that the life of a former US President and presidential candidate could come under direct attack. Yet we should all be amazed by his courage and stamina to stay with his crowd even in his most difficult moment," Varhelyi said in a post on X.

KUWAITI EMIR SHEIKH MESHAL AL-AHMAD AL-SABAH

He expressed relief that Trump was safe after the attack, state news agency KUNA reported and denounced the "criminal act that contradicts all humanitarian principles and values."

TAIWAN PRESIDENT LAI CHING-TE

He wished Trump a swift recovery and said: "Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies."

QATAR FOREIGN MINISTRY

Qatar condemned the attack and rejected violent and criminal acts "including political assassinations, regardless of the motives and reasons."

BAHRAIN'S KING HAMAD BIN ISA AL KHALIFA IN A LETTER TO TRUMP

He strongly condemned the assassination attempt and condemned any political violence that violates democratic customs and values, state new agency BNA reported.

PALESTINIAN PRESIDENT MAHMOUD ABBAS

"We condemn this terrorist act" and affirmed the Palestinian state's position "which always rejects violence, terrorism and extremism, whatever its source."

PHILIPPINE PRESIDENT FERDINAND MARCOS JR

He expressed relief that Trump was safe after the attack and condemned "all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme."

(Reporting by Reuters bureausEditing by Frances Kerry, Bernadette Baum and Hugh Lawson)
Leaders from across the world condemned the shooting at former President Trumps rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, which injured Trump and killed one attendee.

Shots were fired Saturday night at Trumps rally in Butler, Penn. during which the former president said a bullet pierced his ear. The shooter, identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks by the FBI, and one spectator at the rally were killed. Two other attendees were critically injured, the U.S. Secret Service said.

Ukrainian President Vlodomyr Zelensky said he was appalled to learn of the shooting, writing on X, Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail.

I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attacks victim, a rally attendee, he wrote.

Calling Trump a friend, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said he strongly condemned the incident, which is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery, Modi wrote on X. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people.

French President Emmanuel Macron said the shooting was a tragedy for our democracies.

France shares the shock and indignation of the American people, Macron wrote on X.

UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer similarly condemned political violence and sent his best wishes to Trump and his family. Canadian Prime Minister Justice Trudeau also said that political violence is never acceptable.

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said he was praying for Trumps speedy recovery and called for a firm stance against any form of violence that challenges democracy.

In the hours that followed the shooting, Trump thanked the Secret Service and other law enforcement authorities for their rapid response on the shooting. He also expressed his condolences to the families of the individuals who were killed or injured in the incident.

Kevin Rojek, special agent in charge of the FBI field office in Pittsburgh, said authorities have not yet identified a motive in the incident.

We do not currently have an identified motive, although our investigators are working tirelessly to attempt to identify what that motive was, Rojek said in a press conference late Saturday night.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to The Hill.
Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

World leaders reacted with shock on Sunday after the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump was speaking at a rally north of Pittsburgh when several shots were fired. The Republican Party candidate, who is running in November's presidential election against incumbent President Joe Biden, was hit in the ear and escorted off stage by Secret Service agents.

A rally attendee was killed and two were critically injured in the incident, the US Secret Service said, while the suspected shooter was also killed.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz wished Donald Trump a speedy recovery, writing on the social media platform X that "such acts of violence threaten democracy."

He added: "The attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable. I wish him a speedy recovery. My thoughts are also with all of those who were affected by the attack."

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack on Trump as a "tragedy for our democracies."

"France shares the shock and outrage of the American people," Macron wrote on X, wishing Trump a speedy recovery.

Chinese President Xi Jinping "has expressed his condolences to Donald Trump," according to a brief statement from the Foreign Ministry in Beijing. China is "concerned about the shooting," it added.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also "unequivocally condemned" the incident as an act of political violence, according to spokesman Stephane Dujarric in New York. Guterres sent Trump his best wishes for a speedy recovery, Dujarric said.

The reaction from Moscow has been more muted.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the attempted assassination was a consequence of Washington's "policy of fomenting hatred."

The US should take stock of its policies on political opponents, countries and nations, said Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. She added that the US should focus on its internal problems instead of supplying weapons to Ukraine.

Earlier, Josep Borrell, the European Union's top diplomat, said he was shocked and strongly condemned the attack.

"Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," he wrote on X.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply shocked" by the shooting.

"Political violence has no place in a democracy," she wrote on X.

"I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump "in these dark hours," he wrote on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his wife Sara were shocked by the attack.

"We pray for his safety and speedy recovery," he posted on X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X he was "appalled" to learn of the shooting.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail," he wrote.

"I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attacks victim, a rally attendee," Zelensky said.

"I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X that he was "sickened" by the shooting.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

In Taipei, President Lai Ching-te wished Trump a swift recovery.

"Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims affected by the attack," he wrote on X.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a statement it was with "great relief" that Trump was fine and well.

"Together with all democracy loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme."
Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa

World leaders reacted with shock on Sunday after the attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

Trump was speaking at a rally north of Pittsburgh when several shots were fired. The Republican Party candidate, who is running in November's presidential election against incumbent President Joe Biden, was hit in the ear and escorted off stage by Secret Service agents.

A rally attendee was killed and two were critically injured in the incident, the US Secret Service said, while the suspected shooter was also killed.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz wished Donald Trump a speedy recovery, writing on the social media platform X that "such acts of violence threaten democracy."

He added: "The attack on US presidential candidate Donald Trump is despicable. I wish him a speedy recovery. My thoughts are also with all of those who were affected by the attack."

French President Emmanuel Macron condemned the attack on Trump as a "tragedy for our democracies."

"France shares the shock and outrage of the American people," Macron wrote on X, wishing Trump a speedy recovery.

Chinese President Xi Jinping "has expressed his condolences to Donald Trump," according to a brief statement from the Foreign Ministry in Beijing. China is "concerned about the shooting," it added.

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres also "unequivocally condemned" the incident as an act of political violence, according to spokesman Stephane Dujarric in New York. Guterres sent Trump his best wishes for a speedy recovery, Dujarric said.

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed shock. "I wish him a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with those affected. I condemn this attack. Political violence has no place in our democracies," he said.

The reaction from Moscow has been more muted.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova said the attempted assassination was a consequence of Washington's "policy of fomenting hatred."

The US should take stock of its policies on political opponents, countries and nations, said Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova. She added that the US should focus on its internal problems instead of supplying weapons to Ukraine.

Earlier, Josep Borrell, the European Union's top diplomat, said he was shocked and strongly condemned the attack.

"Once again, we are witnessing unacceptable acts of violence against political representatives," he wrote on X.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she was "deeply shocked" by the shooting.

"Political violence has no place in a democracy," she wrote on X.

"I wish Donald Trump a speedy recovery and offer my condolences to the family of the innocent victim."

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump "in these dark hours," he wrote on X.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his wife Sara were shocked by the attack.

"We pray for his safety and speedy recovery," he posted on X.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky wrote on X he was "appalled" to learn of the shooting.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail," he wrote.

"I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attacks victim, a rally attendee," Zelensky said.

"I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this."

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau wrote on X that he was "sickened" by the shooting.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

In Taipei, President Lai Ching-te wished Trump a swift recovery.

"Political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies. I offer my sincere condolences to the victims affected by the attack," he wrote on X.

Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos Jr said in a statement it was with "great relief" that Trump was fine and well.

"Together with all democracy loving peoples around the world, we condemn all forms of political violence. The voice of the people must always remain supreme."

Latin American leaders joined in condemning the attack.

Mexican president-designate Claudia Sheinbaum said all political violence had to be rejected. "Peace and democracy always have to be an option," she posted on X.

Dozens of Mexican politicians died in violence ahead of recent presidential, parliamentary and regional elections.

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called for the attack to be "rejected decisively "by all proponents of democracy and of dialogue in politics."

His predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, who is close to Trump, said that "only conservative people are the victims of attacks."

Argentine President Javier Milei termed the attack "cowardly" and accused the international left of "promoting violence." They were resorting to terrorism for fear of losing elections, he said. Milei called for "a fair, peaceful and democratic election in the US."

The Colombian Foreign Ministry condemned the attack. "As a country that has suffered violence, we affirm that violence has no place in the political or electoral debate," it said.

The leaders of Chile, Venezuela, Ecuador and Bolivia also condemned the attack.

Former US President Donald Trump is rushed off stage by secret service after being struck by gunfire during his Presidential Election campaign rally in Butler Pennsylvania. Artem Priakhin/SOPA Images via ZUMA Press Wire/dpa
Political leaders from around the globe responded to the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump with prayers and condemnations of political violence.

The presumptive Republican nominee's campaign released a statement saying Trump was "fine" shortly after he was shot at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday. Trump confirmed he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear in a post on Truth Social.

One person attending the rally is dead, and two others are in serious condition. The suspected shooter, who officials confirmed is also dead, fired multiple shots toward the stage at approximately 6:15 p.m.

World leaders, like many Americans across the country, reacted to the news with shock.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by the Secret Service after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024.

'Never acceptable'

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu was one of the first to respond. He said he and his wife were praying for former President Donald Trump.

"Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump," he said in a post on X, formerly Twitter. "We pray for his safety and speedy recovery."

Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stands with U.S. President Donald Trump after signing the Abraham Accords, normalizing relations between Israel and some of its Middle East neighbors, in a strategic realignment of Middle Eastern countries against Iran, on the South Lawn of the White House in Washington, U.S., September 15, 2020.

Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery.  Benjamin Netanyahu -   (@netanyahu) July 13, 2024

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban was also quick to offer his support to the former president, who he met with only a few days prior at Trump's Mar-a-Lago residence in Florida.

"My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours," Orban wrote in a post.

U.S. President Donald Trump talks with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a North Atlantic Treaty Organization Plenary Session at the NATO summit in Watford, Britain, December 4, 2019.

My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours.   Orban Viktor (@PM_ViktorOrban) July 13, 2024

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer condemned all forms of political violence following the shooting.

Starmer, in a post on X, said he was "appalled" by the assassination attempt and that he sends the former president and his family his "best wishes."

"Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack," Starmer said.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.



Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 14, 2024

U.S. President Donald Trump talks with Canada's Prime Minister Justin Trudeau during a North Atlantic Treaty Organization Plenary Session at the NATO summit in Watford, Britain, December 4, 2019.

Trudeau said he was "sickened" by the shooting.

"It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable," Trudeau said in a social media post. "My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans."

Im sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans.  Justin Trudeau (@JustinTrudeau) July 14, 2024

Chilean President Gabriel Boric said violence is a threat to democracy in his response on X.

"From Chile, I express our unqualified condemnation of what happened today in the United States," Boric wrote in Spanish. "We hope for the speedy recovery of former President Donald Trump, the facts are clarified and justice is served."

Rachel Barber is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on politics and education. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @rachelbarber_

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: World leaders react to Trump assassination attempt.
Wounded Russian soldiers  some on crutches  used in meat wave attacks

Russia is sending injured soldiers back to the front lines and is using Ukraine PoWs as human shields

Injured Russian soldiers are being sent back into the line of fire in meat wave assaults.

The Ukrainian army has reported capturing Russians already suffering from their wounds sustained in previous attacks.

They had been given minimal medical attention before being sent back to fight.

The tactics show an apparent disregard for foot soldiers as commanders throw thousands of men into the front lines in a slow and grinding summer offensive.

Some Russians have been captured re-entering the battlefield on crutches.

Other injured troops have recorded videos pleading with their superiors for proper treatment as they receive orders to return to battle.

One soldier captured by Ukraine was said to be driving an armoured vehicle with bloodied rags over an injured eye.

The meat assault units are often made up of foot soldiers, released prisoners and the maimed.

Many are simply protecting the next wave of soldiers behind as part of a tactic to distract and overwhelm Ukraine, and make incremental territorial gains.

British military intelligence believes that Russian ranks have been depleted by as many as 70,000 personnel over the last two months  an alarming rate that shows no signs of slowing.

Ukrainian soldiers told The Telegraph that it is normal practice to see injured men staggering as they fight, and that Ukrainian prisoners of war are being used by Russia as human shields.

We dont have the strength

Meanwhile, Russian soldiers have been recorded pleading with their superiors, the military prosecutors office, and even Vladimir Putin, for their lives.

Why would they send wounded and exhausted people into battle? Its the same as sending people to their deaths, said two soldiers of the 1009th regiment in a video shared on social media.

The commander says that tomorrow we must go and storm this building again.

But how can we do this if we are in pain, wounded, and simply dont have the strength?

The pair, who lent against a tree with visible wounds to their faces, said the only medical treatment they received for shrapnel wounds was from their own first aid kit as they hid in the forest.

Another video clip showed a group of the injured, a number of whom were walking on crutches, pleading desperately with their superiors, stressing that this was their final opportunity to make their case.

They told the camera: Hear us, please, hear us, hear us. This is our last chance. We have no more options.

The latest death toll figures of Russian soldiers is equivalent to an average of above 1,000 a day amid the escalating intensity of battle on the newly opened front in Kharkiv, and fighting elsewhere in east and north-east Ukraine, the British Ministry of Defence said on Friday.

Although this new approach has increased the pressure on the front line, an effective Ukrainian defence and a lack of Russian training reduces Russias ability to exploit any tactical successes, despite attempting to stretch the front line further, the MoD added.

Hunter (his call sign), a Ukrainian junior soldier, said that there are frequent cases of Russian soldiers simply left in positions to die.

This is a common situation when wounded Russian soldiers are captured. According to them, they were left to their fate without food and water to die by their own comrades, he said.

Hunter reported seeing Ukrainian PoWs being pushed to walk ahead of advancing Russian soldiers, forced into the cruel role of human shields.

Yuriy, a machine gunner, confirmed Hunters reports, telling The Telegraph: Of course, I have seen PoWs, this is outrageous and tearing us apart from the inside, such an attitude towards prisoners of war is unacceptable and prohibited by conventions.

In the Donetsk region, a Russian soldier was captured by Ukraine with his leg rotting from a shrapnel wound.

He was not evacuated for some reason. Later in Dnipro, our medics had to amputate this leg for him so he can survive, Vlad, a member of the Kraken Regiment volunteer unit, told The Telegraph.

Vlad reported that the Russians they captured revealed their commander, known by the call sign Ryba, had ordered that no one would be evacuated until they had secured the territory around the Kupyansk silicate plant in the Kharkiv region.

Kupyansk, a strategic rail hub, was seized by Russia in early 2022, retaken by Ukraine seven months later and missile and artillery strikes continue to hit the area.

The river through Kupyansk could offer a natural defence against future Russian advances.

A soldier who chose to remain anonymous said: We carried a wounded Russian to our side for many kilometres to save his life as he was left alone to die.

Hunter confirmed that many units  including the poorly-trained, lightly-equipped Storm-Z assault troopers  are prohibited from leaving their positions.

Storm fighters, theyre just meat

Storm-Z is a series of penal military units for convicts  including murderers  established by Russia by April 6, 2023, renamed Storm-V later that year.

Illia Yevlash, the spokesman for the Khortytsia operational-strategic group, claimed in February that Russian commanders were using human wave tactics involving Storm-Z and Storm-V.

Storm fighters, theyre just meat, said one regular soldier from army unit number 40318.

If such units retreat, they can be destroyed by their barrier units, said Hunter.

The Russian armed forces mobilise people with serious illnesses such as tuberculosis or HIV, and such soldiers are treated differently.

Use of suicidal human wave attacks does not appear to have reduced despite high-profile changes at the top of the Russian defence ministry.

Many Ukrainian soldiers who spoke to The Telegraph revealed they hesitate to save Russians because of their unwavering resolve to continue fighting even after being captured.

Yuriy explained that some injured soldiers wanted to surrender quickly, but that he had seen others shoot to the last, even attempting to detonate grenades when they were given medical aid.

The high Russian attrition rate comes as Ukraine also struggles to find enough soldiers to make any significant breakthroughs.

The much-anticipated Russian summer offensive appears to have largely fizzled out, with both sides once again locked in fighting along rigid front lines dividing Ukraine roughly from north to south.

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PORTLAND, Ore. (KOIN)  Sen. Ron Wyden delivered a forceful denunciation of political violence during a live interview on KOIN 6 News at 5 on Sunday.

Wyden was in the studio one day after GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump was wounded during an assassination attempt at a Butler, Pennsylvania campaign rally.

Oregonians, Wyden said, have discussed these issues before. First Amendment, always. Political violence, never! he said.

Wyden, who sits on the Senate Select Intelligence Committee, said hes sure there will be a briefing about the shooting in Pennsylvania that left one attendee dead and two others wounded, plus the shooter dead.

Pacific Northwest lawmakers react to shooting at Trump rally

There are a whole host of unanswered questions, for example, gun policy, he said, adding they have to be answered quickly as to how the suspect had all that weaponry at the event.

It sure looks to me like a big gap in the security perimeter, but Im not going to jump to any conclusions.

On a more political note, Wyden said he is supporting President Biden to stay in the race despite recent calls from many for him to withdraw.

I just heard his remarks (from the Oval Office about the shooting) and I thought he was presidential, Wyden said. That is a big part of what you need to do in a moment like this. You need to bring people together.

St. Helens Town Hall

Early Sunday afternoon, Wyden held a townhall with dozens of people at the St. Helens Middle School  and security from the St. Helens police.

Wyden began the townhall reiterating a message hes said many times, including after the attempted assassination of Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Sen. Ron Wyden at a town hall in St. Helens, July 14, 2024 (KOIN)

Political violence and anybody who normalizes it has no place in our political system, Wyden said.

Those at the townhall, like Carroll Sweet of Scappoose and Jim Bjork of Beaverton, agreed theres no reoom for violence in politics.

It was too bad that it happened and fortunate that he wasnt killed, Bjork told KOIN 6 News.

About two dozen people attended a town hall at St. Helens Middle School with Sen. Ron Wyden, July 14, 2024 (KOIN)

Im very concerned about whats happening in this world. And I feel like we have to be supporting our elected officials, Sweet said.

They werent worried about their own safety on this day but are concerned about the upcoming election.

Im not sure that we can 100% guarantee a democratic election, that a Democrat will be elected, said Bjork, who said he doesnt like Trump at all.

Jim Bjork of Beaverton attended a town hall in St. Helens with Sen. Ron Wyden, July 14, 2024 (KOIN)

Sweet said she, too, is a Democrat. We didnt have much success in the last primaries, and I hate to see it. I mean, I feel like we work on things that are so important and county commissioners just shoot it down. Its sad. Ill keep going.

She also wants to see some changes to gun legislation.

If we did something meaningful about gun legislation, that would make me feel safer because I see who has them and who probably shouldnt, she said. Im not against guns.

Wyden holds town hall meetings regularly throughout the state. He will be in Medford on Wednesday for his next event.

Copyright 2024 Nexstar Media, Inc. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

For the latest news, weather, sports, and streaming video, head to KOIN.com.
The Scoop

Saturdays attack on Donald Trump confirmed longstanding fears inside his circle that the former president would, at some point, be an assassination target.

A close Trump confidant first mentioned to me in the summer of 2022 their fear that the former president would face an attempt on his life. The person suggested the attack was inevitable: it was not a matter of if, but when.

Since then, Ive heard the concern spoken more times than I can count in conversations covering the Trump campaign. The idea among many close to Trump is this: That the opposing sides hatred of him is so strong that it would spur on an attempt against his life. Some even speculated darkly, and without evidence, that his political opponents would make the attempt.

Former Fox News host Tucker Carlson crystallized this internal point of view last year: We are speeding towards assassination, obviously. No one will say that, but I dont know how you cant reach this conclusion, he said.

Know More

Trump said Saturday that he was hit in his right ear by a bullet. The shooter was killed, but his motives remain unclear. One spectator was killed, and two are critically injured, according to the Secret Service. Fox News reported that the FBI is conducting an assassination investigation.

The shooters motives, which will shape how we understand Saturdays attack, remain unclear.

Shelbys view

Ive spoken to my editors periodically over the last two years over how to responsibly report on the fears in Trumps circle. At the time it was a quiet sense of danger, without any clear changes to the security posture around the former president.

We also felt that raising the prospect could, in some sense, increase the risk. In fact one Trump ally told me that the campaign was irritated when they speculated in public about the possibility.

The specter of political violence has long haunted American democracy. Tonight was a reminder that those fears are legitimate and must be taken seriously.

Notable

Global reaction to the Trump rally shooting included shock, and questions about US democracy.

American politicians of both parties immediately condemned the attack.
Zelensky says more US aid coming on return from NATO summit

Further military assistance to Ukraine is on the way, President Volodymyr Zelensky said on Sunday following his return to the country from last week's NATO summit in Washington.

Concrete agreements had been struck aimed at boosting Ukraine's defence capacities, including weapons for troops and support for the country's armaments industry, he posted on X. Zelensky mentioned Patriot and other air defence systems, but did not provide details.

Russian forces had launched more than 700 glide bombs, 170 aerial drones of various types and almost 80 missiles at Ukrainian targets over the past week alone, he said.

He expressed his gratitude to all those helping to deliver defence systems to Ukraine, while calling for yet more air defence systems. Zelensky published a video of the destruction and deaths caused to back up his call.

He also announced further security agreements with the Czech Republic, Slovenia and Ireland, where he stopped off on his return trip. Zelensky has recently signed agreements of this kind with Poland, Luxembourg and Romania. The agreements are aimed at bridging the period until Ukraine can join NATO.

Following meetings with US President Joe Biden and other US politicians, Zelensky plans to meet regional leaders in Ukraine to boost cooperation. "Healthcare, shelters, defence industries, etc. The United States is ready to help at all these levels," he said.

And he repeated his condemnation of the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump at an election campaign rally.

"A heinous crime. One that can only be condemned. And which shows how serious the global challenges to democracy are right now," Zelensky said, while adding that he was confident the US would overcome them.
Zelenskyy convening Ukrainian oblast heads after meeting with US state governors

President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has announced that he will meet with the heads of Ukrainian oblasts following his meetings with US state governors.

Source: Zelenskyy in a video address; Ukrainian Presidents Office

Quote from Zelenskyy: "Dozens of meetings in a week  with country leaders, heads of government, with congressmen and American public leaders, with President [Joe] Biden and Speaker [Mike] Johnson.

After meetings with US governors, I will meet with our [oblast] leaders, as we need cooperation between [oblasts] as well, between communities and community leaders directly."

Details: Zelenskyy noted that the US is ready to help Ukraine with healthcare, shelters, the defence industry, etc.

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Zelenskyy wishes Trump quick recovery after attempt on his life

Photo: Office of the President of Ukraine

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has responded to the shooting incident that occurred during US presidential candidate Donald Trumps rally, wishing Trump a quick recovery.

Source: President Zelenskyy on X (Twitter)

Quote from Zelenskyy: "I am appalled to learn about the shooting of former US President Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania.

Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail.

I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attacks victim, a rally attendee.

I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this."

Background:

Gunshots were heard during US presidential hopeful Donald Trumps speech at a rally in Pennsylvania. Trump was evacuated from the stage.

CNN reported that the gunman had been "neutralised" and that one rally attendant had been killed.

US President Joe Biden condemned the shooting, saying: "Theres no place for this kind of violence in America."

Trump said he suffered an injury to his ear

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China's telco companies are gradually shifting to Chinese CPUs  telecom giants switch hundreds of thousands of their servers to homegrown CPU platforms

Chinese telecom companies are gradually switching to domestic CPU platforms by raising their procurement of servers based on CPUs from Huawei, Hygon, or Loongson, reports state-controlled Global Times. Purchases by telco giants like China Telecom, China Mobile, and China Unicom significantly support developers of Chinese-made processors and the country's strive for self-sufficiency. But there is a big catch.

Everyone wants a 'G-series' server with a Chinese CPU inside

China Telecom plans to acquire 156,000 servers, 67.5% of which are 'G-series' and equipped with Chinese-made CPUs. This is a substantial shift from four years ago when only 19.9% of the company's servers used domestic CPUs, and Intel Xeon processors dominated with a 79.4% share, according to Global Times.

The 'G-series' is a designation for a server based on a CPU (or maybe even two) formally developed in China.

China Mobile is also ramping up its support for local processors. Of their 13 server procurement tenders, ten are designated for 'G-series' projects, highlighting the company's commitment to domestic CPUs. The report says the proportion of Chinese CPUs in China Mobile's PC server acquisitions has increased from about 21% in 2020 to 43.5% recently.

China Unicon has seen a similar trend, with a notable rise in demand for domestic processors since 2020. The company has increasingly used Chinese-made CPUs, particularly models like Huawei's Kunpeng 920 and Sugon's Hygon 7165 and Hygon 7185.

Because the U.S. government has set rather strict export rules for selling high-performance processors to Chinese entities (which for now have little to do with telco giants, except, of course, blocked Huawei, but even in this case, there have been exceptions made), Chinese telecom companies are switching to domestic processors to ensure that they are not left without compute performance they need if the U.S. imposes stricter sanctions against China.

In addition, the telco giants are also seemingly trying to make their infrastructure indifferent to the instruction set architecture (ISA) of the CPUs that power it. Global Times notes that China Telecom's latest round of procurements included the selection of various processors, including x86 CPUs and 'domestic CPU architectures such as Arm, C86, LoongArch, Yongfeng, and SW.'

But there's a catch

This is where the big catch comes in for China's advancements in client and datacenter-grade CPUs:

Huawei's Kunpeng CPUs are based on a customized Arm ISA (similar to Apple's industry-leading CPU cores). Although Arm China is the source of the Arm ISA, it was developed in the U.S. and the U.K.

Sugon's C86 is AMD's x86 Zen with encryption-related enhancements made for China chiplets for Hygon processors in the U.S. by GlobalFoundries (even despite being added to the Entity List).

Although Loongson has developed a not-invented-here (NIH) attitude and claims its LoongArch is an all-new ISA, it is primarily based on the MIPS ISA.

Zhaoxin's Yongfeng is an x86 microarchitecture (perhaps even developed in the U.S. by a Via Technologies subsidiary).

Sunway's SW (Shenwei) ISA can probably be primarily considered a Chinese IP by now, but it derives from DEC's Alpha, which was demised in the 1990s.

Performance improvements, but foreign processors still dominate. But while it is impossible to say that CPUs supplied by Chinese companies all rely on technologies designed domestically, we cannot neglect that their performance has been increasing steadily over the years due to engineering breakthroughs and manufacturing capabilities.

"Chinese-made CPU chips have seen big improvements in the performance and cost-effectiveness, which meet the need of telecom operators," Chen Jing, a vice president of the Technology and Strategy Research Institute, told the Global Times on Thursday.

SMIC's 2nd Generation 7nm process technology, for example, played a huge role in Huawei's ability to regain the performance crown in China's smartphone space.

Despite the apparent shift towards local CPUs, foreign companies such as AMD, Intel, and Nvidia can continue to compete for procurement contracts, provided their processors meet the U.S. export regulations. They do as Nvidia is poised to earn $12 billion selling its cut-down H100 processors under the HGX H20 moniker.

A broader economic context: give us money and technology

At a press conference covering a broader economic context, Chinese Vice Premier He Lifeng emphasized the importance of attracting and using foreign investment while allowing foreign technologies to enter the Chinese market. He also called for relaxing market access to high-tech restrictions to facilitate the entry of foreign capital into the Chinese market.



When it comes to the U.S. government, which is the entity that makes restrictions for China, it reasons its decisions on national security concerns as China could weaponize technologies by building weapons of mass destruction. Even without advanced technologies, China supports Russia's war against Ukraine, a country where it once wanted to get aerospace technologies.
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The Samsung QN900C Neo QLED 8K TV in a living room.

Update 10/9/24: The standout deal of today is the 75-inch Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C  yesterday it was 13% off, today its 44% off. Thats good news for people who were too busy to get their Prime Day shopping done yesterday.

Today marks the last official day of the Prime Big Deal Days sales period, making it your last chance to pick up Prime Day deals on things like QLED TVs. QLEDs not only offer better picture quality and contrast, but they also are a lot brighter than your standard TV, which makes a difference if they are in a well-lit room. As such, weve collected some of the best Prime Day TV deals with QLED panels, although if youre looking to take your TV set up even further, these OLED TV Prime Day deals are also worth checking out.

TCL Q65 43-Inch QLED 4K TV  $248 $350 29% Off

TCL

Its pretty rare to find a solid QLED TV at a budget price, but this 29% discount on the 43-inch TCL Q65 brings it down to just $248 and gives you quite a few good features. That includes HDR10+ and HLG HDR, the latter of which is great for sports, better overall brightness, and surprisingly solid image fidelity.

Buy Now

VIZIO 43-inch Quantum 4K TV  $280 $350 20% Off

Vizio

Another great budget option comes from Vizio, and this 43-inch TV actually has a nice little positive that it can hit a 120Hz refresh rate if you bump it down to 1080p. That makes it a great option for gaming on a connected laptop or mid-range PC, all for just $321.

Buy Now

Amazon Fire TV 50-inch Omni QLED Series 4K TV  $388 $530 27% Off

Amazon

If you want a larger 50-inch QLED TV at a reasonable price, then this deal from Amazon is probably the best youll find for just $388. It has both HDR10+ and HLG, as well as adaptive brightness so youre not messing around with the remote, as well as better contrast. Not to mention that you can control the TV pretty much hands-free through the use of Alexa, so its great if youre in the Amazon ecosystem.

Buy Now

TCL QM7 55QM751G 55-Inch QLED 4K TV  $498 $800 38% Off

TCL

The substantial $302 discount on this 55-inch TCL QM7 makes it a great option for sports lovers who want a bigger QLED screen without passing $500. Youll be happy to know that besides supporting HDR 10+ and HLG HDR, it also supports a base refresh of 120Hz, which is perfect for sports, as well as action-packed movies, shows, and gaming on a high-end gaming PC.

Buy Now

Hisense U7 Series 65U7N 65-Inch Mini-LED 4K TV  $748 $1,100 32% Off

Hisense

Hisense has been quite impressive in the last few years, and with this large 65-inch QLED TV with a whopping 32% discount, it hasnt missed the mark. For just under $750, you also get a 144Hz refresh rate with a great game mode, Dolby Vision Atmos, and a Mini-LED panel that gives you much darker and more detailed colors.

Buy Now

SAMSUNG QN90D Series Neo QLED 4K TV $1,198 $1,398 14% Off

Samsung

The SAMSUNG QN90D is one of the newest entries by Samsung, and while it is smaller than some of the other entries here at just 50 inches, it is packed with features. Along with a Mini-Led panel, you get Neo QLED HDR, which gives you some of the best contrast and color that youll find on the market, 144Hz refresh rate for gaming, sports, and film, as well as 4k AI Upscalling. And you even get 14% off to boot.

Buy Now

Samsung 75-inch Q80D Series QLED 4K TV  $1,800 $2,200 18% Off

Samsung

This massive 75-inch QLED TV from Samsung is perfect if you want a larger screen to enjoy sports without breaking the eye-watering $2,000 price tag. Luckily, you get an impressive $400 off as well as features like Quantum HDR+, an impressive 120Hz refresh rate for a screen this size and price, and full array local dimming, one of the best bits of tech out there for contrast and brightness.

Buy Now

SAMSUNG 85-Inch Neo QLED 4K QN85D Series 4K TV  $2,298 $3,198 29% Off

Samsung

Sitting somewhere between the QN 90D and QN80D The Samsung QN85D gives you a perfect balance between price and features, especially with the substantial 29% discount. This is quite possibly one of the cheaper yet largest QLED screens youre going to find, and its packed with all the features youd expect, such as a 120Hz refresh rate, AI upscaling, Mini LEDs, and a lot more.

Buy Now

Samsung 75-inch Class Neo QLED 4K QN90C Series TV  $1,688 $2,998 13% off

Zeke Jones / Digital Trends

This TV is, in the words of Caleb Denison in our 2023 Samsung QN90C review, what premium TV looks like. Why then, did it get only 4 stars? In part because our reviewer doesnt like the Tizen OS, which this TV uses, and in another part because the TV is so expensive by default. While the first is at least somewhat subjective, theres no doubt that the second one is mitigated by this $400 discount.

BUY NOW

How to Choose a QLED TV on Prime Day

The decisions that go into buying QLED TVs are similar to the thought processes youd take when trying to consider what is the best overall TV to buy. That means that it primarily comes down to cost and whether you want to pay the extra premium for better contrast and brightness. So, if youre the sort of person who doesnt really watch HDR content or already has a pretty high-end TV, then making the change to QLED TVs may not exactly be worth it for you. On the other hand, if youre upgrading your TV to something newer or buying something bigger, then it absolutely makes sense to go to QLED, and some of the best QLED TVs out there are pretty amazing.

Besides that aspect, youll also want to consider things like what size TV you should buy for the space that you have so you arent spending money on a bigger TV that you dont need. Also, if you tend to game on a console or PC, then getting something with a base refresh rate of 120 Hz is a great idea. That also applies to action-packed movies and shows, as well as sports, and for the latter, youll also want to look for a TV that supports HLG HDR. Quite a lot do, so you shouldnt be locked out of many TVs.

How We Chose These QLED TV Prime Day Deals

Given that QLED technology is relatively new, its a bit more straightforward to recommend QLED TVs, especially during Prime Day, one of the best sales periods for TVs. That means that pretty much all the best TV brands, and a few other brands, have some form of QLED TV on sale. As such, we do our best to pick and choose the deals that will give you a really good return on your investment, especially when looking at things like historical pricing and whether the discount is actually a discount or if the retailer or brand just temporarily raised the prices outside of these big sales event to make the discount look bigger.

We also look at things like other sort of QLED TVs within the same price bracket and what they offer to the consumer. After all, theres no point in spending, say, $500 on one TV when you can spend $450 on a similar TV with all the same features. Of course, TV preferences tend to be quite personal and specific to the space they are needed for, so we try not to make any assumptions and provide you with a wide selection of deals.
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The much-awaited flight of Moradabad and nearby cities for air connectivity is set to take off on July 17. The newly constructed Moradabad Airport will see its inaugural flight to Dehradun, marking a significant milestone for the region.

Inaugural Flight Details

Amarjeet Singh, the airport's director, confirmed that Moradabad Airport is prepared to operate regional flights. The first flight to Dehradun is scheduled for July 17. "We have received the schedule for a single Dehradun flight from Moradabad airport, and preparations are being finalized," said Singh.

Airline Operations

Divisional Commissioner of Moradabad, Aunjaneya Kumar Singh, announced that Flybig, a regional airline, has been entrusted with operating the flights. He explained that the commencement of operations was delayed due to the unavailability of an aircraft. "Flybig was unable to spare a plane from their fleet earlier, but they have now allocated one, allowing the single flight between Moradabad and Dehradun to commence from July 17," Singh stated.

Regulatory Approvals

The airport has received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Director General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) to operate flights. However, one NOC regarding the fuel storage facility is still pending. The district magistrate is actively working with DGCA officials to complete the process. In the meantime, mobile fuel tankers will be utilized to fuel the flights. "We can easily source these mobile fuel tankers from neighboring Bareilly, Ghaziabad, and Jewar airports," Singh added, noting that the permanent fuel storage facility would be completed soon.

The introduction of flights from Moradabad Airport will also provide convenient air travel access for residents of neighbouring districts such as Rampur, Amroha, Sambhal, and Bijnor, significantly reducing their travel time. The new air service is expected to bring substantial economic and logistical benefits to the region.
New Delhi: Foreign investors infused Rs 15,352 crore into Indian equities during the first half of this month, driven by the government's commitment to ongoing reforms, low US Federal rates, and strong domestic demand.

The upcoming Union Budget will be one of the most watched events by foreign investors to understand the government's plans for economic growth, Himanshu Srivastava, Associate Director - Manager Research at Morningstar Investment Research India, said.

According to the data with the depositories, foreign portfolio investors (FPIs) have made a net inflow of Rs 15,352 crore in equities this month (till July 12). This came following an inflow of Rs 26,565 crore in equities in June on the back of political stability and a sharp rebound in markets.

Before that, FPIs withdrew Rs 25,586 crore in May on poll jitters and over Rs 8,700 crore in April on concerns over a tweak in India's tax treaty with Mauritius and a sustained rise in US bond yields.

The latest FPIs' flow can be attributed to the positive sentiments, stable government's assurance on continuity of reforms, tepid US Fed rates and a strong domestic demand, Manoj Purohit, Partner and leader - FS Tax, Tax and Regulatory Services, BDO India, said.

Additionally, the anticipation of a reform-oriented budget has also lifted investor sentiment. Better than expected earnings season so far has also worked towards building investor confidence, Srivastava said.

Apart from equities, FPIs invested Rs 8,484 crore in the debt market during the period under review. This has pushed the debt tally to Rs 77,109 crore this year so far.

The key characteristic of institutional equity flows into the Indian market is the unpredictable nature of FPI flows compared to the consistent growth of domestic institutional investors (DIIs) including mutual funds' flow.

DIIs have been consistent buyers every month in 2024, while FPIs have fluctuated between buying and selling. FPIs sold a cumulative amount of Rs 60,000 crore in January, April, and May but bought Rs 63,200 crore in February, March, and June together.

"The reason for this divergence is that FPI activity is influenced by external factors like US bond yields and valuations in other markets while DII activity is largely driven by domestic flows into the market," VK Vijayakumar, Chief Investment Strategist, Geojit Financial Services, said.

Abhishek Banerjee, smallcase Manager and founder at Lotusdew, said FPIs have a great chance in India as they can earn high returns in foreign currency, benefit from rising stock prices, and gain from falling bond yields.

However, Chinese markets are much cheaper. So, the challenge for investors is choosing between chasing momentum or going for value, he added. In terms of sectors, Vijayakumar said that better-than-expected results from IT majors so far indicate the potential for FPIs buying into these stocks where valuations are not excessive.
Just hours after former US president Donald J. Trump dodged a bullet shot at in an apparent assassination bid during an election rally in Pennsylvanias Butler, the Bharatiya Janata Party leader accused the Leader of Opposition Rahul Gandhi for inciting violence against Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

BJP IT Cell Head Amit Malviya compared the rhetoric employed by US President Joe Biden and Indian Congress leader Rahul Gandhi when referring to their political opponents. He shared a video on his social media platform X and captioned it as These are insincere words. He further added that Third Time Fail Rahul Gandhi has often encouraged and justified violence against Prime Minister Modi, who he has lost election to, several times now.

This came after Rahul Gandhi expressed his deep concerns over the attempted shooting on Donald Trump, the Republican candidate for the White House, stating that such actions should be denounced in the strongest terms.

These are insincere words. Third Time Fail Rahul Gandhi has often encouraged and justified violence against Prime Minister Modi, who he has lost election to, several times now.

How can India ever forget how Punjab Police, then under the Congress, deliberately compromised PMs https://t.co/5mLsLXEcRd pic.twitter.com/XkHEUg1Nns  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 14, 2024

Malviya questioned how India could ever forget that the Punjab Police, under Congress at the time, had deliberately compromised the Prime Minister's security when his convoy was left stranded on a flyover.

Rahul Gandhi And Joe Bidens Rhetoric

In another post, Malviya compared the language used by US President Joe Biden and Congress leader Rahul Gandhi for their rivals, noting that "Democracy is in Danger" is the theme of the US presidential election, similar to how "Samvidhaan ko Bachana hai" was the opposition's slogan in India.

Malviya shared past comments from the Congress leader, highlighting that Gandhi has used similar language against Modi, referring to him as a dictator, much like how Trumps critics, including Democrat leader and US President Joe Biden, have done.

He added that caste in India, akin to race in America, was weaponized to create divisions in society. The act of demonizing opponents by calling them dictators is not coincidental.

Malviya wrote, This language is eerily similar to Third Time Fail Rahul Gandhis speeches in India. Whose script is he reading?

If Trump wins an election that our country will end, our democracy,

our constitution will end, its the last election we'll ever have...



This kind of vile rhetoric against Trump led to an assassination bid. The man responsible, owes allegiance to George Soros funded ANTIFA, pic.twitter.com/YKYprr1e3s  Amit Malviya (@amitmalviya) July 14, 2024

The firing on Donald Trump renewed focus on worries about political violence in a highly divided United States, coming less than four months before the presidential election.
Former US President Donald Trumps campaign confirmed he is fine after the assassination attempt during a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania. Authorities identified the shooter as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Pennsylvania.

Trump was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of his right ear while he tilted his head during his speech, narrowly dodging what seemed to be an attempt on his face. The former president was quickly escorted off the stage by Secret Service agents, his ear covered in blood.

"In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined," Trump stated in a Truth Social post. This marked his second post since surviving the attempt on his life.

Trump asserted, We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and Defiant in the face of wickedness.

The attack resulted in fatalities and injuries. A prosecutor told AP that the alleged gunman and at least one other attendee were killed, while the Secret Service noted that two spectators sustained critical injuries.

Donald Trumps wife, Melania Trump, the former first lady, also criticised the assassination bid and labelled the gunman a 'monster.'

"A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donald's passionhis laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration," she said in a statement shared on X.

"When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life and Barrons life were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave Secret Service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband," Melania's satement read.

According to AP, US President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris are set to receive another briefing on the apparent assassination attempt against Trump on Sunday in the White House Situation Room.

Earlier, US President Joe Biden condemned the incident by saying, Theres no place in America for this type of violence. Its sick. Its sick.

This incident marks the first shooting attack on a U.S. president or major party candidate since the 1981 assassination attempt on President Ronald Reagan. The shooting occurred less than four months before the November 5 election, where Trump faces a rematch against President Joe Biden.
K P Sharma Oli was appointed Nepals Prime Minister for the third term on Sunday after Pushpa Kamal Dahal Prachanda lost the vote of confidence in the House of Representatives on Friday.

The 72-year-old assumed the role of Nepal's Prime Minister for the third time, tasked with leading the new coalition government and addressing the pressing need for political stability in the country.

President Ram Chandra Paudel appointed K P Sharma Oli as the new Prime Minister of the coalition between the Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) and the Nepali Congress (NC).

Oli and his new Cabinet are scheduled to take the oath of office on Monday.

Following the defeat of Prachanda, Oli claimed the majority in the House with the support of NC president Sher Bahadur Deuba and submitted the signatures of 165 House of Representatives (HoR) members -- 77 from his party and 88 from the NC.

K P Sharma Oli held the position of Nepal's Prime Minister from October 11, 2015, to August 3, 2016, and again from February 5, 2018, to July 13, 2021.\

(Based on inputs from PTI)
New Delhi: Ahead of the 2024 US presidential elections, the shooting incident at former President Donald Trump during the campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania has sparked widespread condemnation from several prominent leaders across the globe. Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Sunday strongly condemned the shooting incident and said the violence has no place in politics and democracies.

PM Modi shared a post on the social media handle X and wished a speedy recovery to former President Donald Trump.

"Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery. Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American people," the post read.

Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him speedy recovery.



Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured and the American July 14, 2024

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese also expressed his concern over the shooting incident at Donald Trump during the 2024 presidential elections campaign rally in Pennsylvania. Albanese shared a post on X and said that there is no place for violence in the democratic process.

"The incident at former President Trumps campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process. I am relieved to hear reports that former President Trump is now safe," the post read.

The incident at former President Trumps campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process.



I am relieved to hear reports that former President Trump is now safe.  Anthony Albanese (@AlboMP) July 14, 2024

The shooting took place during Trump's rally on Saturday. After the incident, the video went viral which shows the former President bleeding from his ear. After the incident, Trump was immediately rushed off stage by US Secret Service agents.

One attendee died from a gunshot wound sustained during the shooting at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, CNN reported, citing Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger.
Srinagar: Security agencies in Jammu and Kashmir are grappling with what they call the 'hidden threat' of 'conservation and consolidation' tactics employed by infiltrating terrorists, which was evident in the recent ambushes and encounters in North Kashmir and Kathua district.

Analysing the ambushes and encounters with terrorists, officials in the know of the matter said while security agencies are on high alert, the lack of ground-level intelligence -- human intelligence (HUMINT) -- hampers operations.

Reliance on technical intelligence (TECHINT) has not been fruitful as terrorists use online activity to mislead authorities. Officials feel that there is an urgent need for heightened surveillance to counter foreign terrorists, especially in the Jammu region.

The region, previously known for its peaceful atmosphere, has recently seen a surge in terror incidents, particularly in border districts such as Poonch, Rajouri, Doda and Reasi. Attacks on an IAF convoy, a pilgrim bus and the recent killing of soldiers in Kathua highlight the evolving threat.

Under the "conservation and consolidation" tactics, terrorists infiltrate into Jammu and Kashmir but remain quiet initially, blend in with the local population and wait for instructions from handlers in Pakistan before carrying out attacks, the officials said.

Though security agencies are on high alert in Jammu and Kashmir after uncovering the "conservation and consolidation" tactic of the infiltrating terrorists, the absence of on-ground intelligence is playing a spoilsport for operations.

One official explained that technical intelligence has not been that fruitful as the terrorists leave signatures on the Internet only to confuse the security agencies.

Describing this as a significant shift in terrorist activities, officials emphasise the urgent need for heightened surveillance to prevent foreign mercenaries from carrying out their malicious intentions.

The April 26 encounter in Sopore, in which the foreign terrorists involved had been hiding for 18 months, serves as a stark reminder of the "conservation and consolidation" tactic. Evidence showed their connections with terror groups across Kashmir and their use of sophisticated weaponry.

Similar operations in June further dismantled hidden networks, exposed terrorists' plans and capabilities, and also threw light on a previously unseen high level of infiltration from across the border.

While two terrorists belonging to Rawalakot in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir were killed on April 26, dreaded Pakistani terrorist Usman Langda is said to have been killed in the June 19 encounter at Hadipora of Sopore.

The decline in HUMINT, coupled with the use of encrypted communication tools like "Ultra Set" phones by terrorists, makes tracking them difficult. Security agencies are urging heightened surveillance and public vigilance to counter this hidden threat.

While the terrorists' capabilities may have diminished, their intent remains a constant threat, a senior police official said.

Officials have highlighted the challenge posed by the use of encrypted messaging apps for radicalising and recruiting youths, and planning attacks. They have emphasised public vigilance in monitoring suspicious communication, especially among the youths, to safeguard the community.
New Delhi: Former US President Donald Trump was attacked by a gunman during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Sunday. Trump was hit in the ear in an apparent assassination attempt and was hurried offstage, covered in blood after a string of gunshots erupted at the rally.

However, the former US President was evacuated from the stage by security agents and is reported to be fine. The assassination attempt on Trump at the campaign rally in Pennsylvania on Sunday has swiftly been condemned by leaders of major technology companies.

The incident, which left Trump with a minor injury and resulted in multiple casualties, prompted immediate responses from the CEOs of Google, Apple, Microsoft Meta and X (formerly Twitter). Sundar Pichai, Tim Cook, Satya Nadella, Mark Zuckerberg, Elon Musk and others took to social media platforms to denounce the act of political violence and express their support for Donald Trump's recovery.

Here's How Tech Leaders Reacted

Google CEO Sundar Pichai expressed his shock and condemned the violence in a tweet saying "Im wishing President Trump a speedy recovery. Im shocked by todays shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable and we must all come together to strongly oppose it.

Im wishing President Trump a speedy recovery. Im shocked by todays shooting and loss of life. Political violence is intolerable and we must all come together to strongly oppose it. July 14, 2024

Apple CEO Tim Cook has expressed his shock on X and said "I pray for President Trumps rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence".

I pray for President Trumps rapid recovery. My thoughts are with him, the other victims and the Trump family. I strongly condemn this violence.  Tim Cook (@tim_cook) July 14, 2024

Microsoft Chairman and CEO Satya Nadella also condemned the act on X and said "There is simply no place for any type of violence in our society. Sending my best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery and to all those impacted by todays horrific event."

There is simply no place for any type of violence in our society. Sending my best wishes to President Trump for a speedy recovery and to all those impacted by todays horrific event.  Satya Nadella (@satyanadella) July 14, 2024

Adding further, Mark Zuckerberg, Meta Founder and CEO, echoed this sentiment on the Threads social media platform: "This is such a sad day for our country. Political violence undermines democracy and must always be condemned."

Elon Musk, Tesla's CEO, took to X to share his reactions. In his tweets, he expressed support for Trump and criticized the Secret Service for allowing the incident to occur. He said, I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery."

The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign https://t.co/ihlEC5NP1w  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

In another tweet, he compared Trump with former US President Theodore, Last time America had a candidate this tough was Theodore Roosevelt."

The Reid Hoffmans of the world got their dearest wish  but then the martyr lived pic.twitter.com/laaRBc5yol  Elon Musk (@elonmusk) July 14, 2024

Elon Musk also quickly criticized Donald Trump's security detail, saying, Extreme incompetence or it was deliberate. Either way, the SS leadership must resign." He futher demanded actions against the head of the Secret Service. detail saying, The head of the Secret Service and the leader of this security detail should resign."
Global leaders expressed concern Sunday over an assassination attempt targeting former U.S. President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania that left one attendee dead and critically injured two others.

Trumps campaign said the presumptive Republican nominee was doing fine after being whisked off the stage though the shooting pierced the upper part of his right ear.

The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue.

U.S. authorities are still investigating the shooting.

Argentina

Argentinas President Javier Milei said Trump was the victim of a cowardly assassination attempt that put his life and that of hundreds of people at risk.

In a post on X, Milei also said the apparent assassination attempt highlighted the desperation of the international left and its "willingness to destabilize democracies and promote violence to screw itself into power."

Australia

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese condemned the inexcusable attack on the United States and Australias shared democratic values.

In Australia, as in the United States, the essence and the purpose of our democracies is that we can express our views, debate our disagreements and resolve our differences peacefully, Albanese told reporters in the Australian Parliament House.

Brazil

Brazils president, Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva, called the incident unacceptable on X and said the attack must be strongly repudiated by all democracy defenders.

His predecessor, Jair Bolsonaro, who is a close Trump ally, relayed his solidarity with the worlds greatest leader of the moment." Bolsonaro was stabbed in the abdomen at a campaign event ahead of the 2018 presidential election, which he went on to win.

Trump, he told reporters, was saved by a matter of a few centimeters. "This  to understand  is something that comes from above, he added.

Canada

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said he was sickened by the shooting and his thoughts were with Trump, those at the event and all Americans.

It cannot be overstated  political violence is never acceptable, he wrote on X.

China

The Chinese Foreign Ministry said in a statement that China is concerned about the attack and President Xi Jinping has already extended his sympathies to Trump.

Egypt

Egyptian President Abdelfattah El Sissi stressed his country's condemnation of the attack in a statement and wished for the U.S. election campaigns to resume peacefully.

France

French President Emmanuel Macron sent his wishes to Trump for a prompt recovery. It is a drama for our democracies. France shares the indignation of the American people, he posted on X.

Germany

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz posted on X saying the attack was despicable and such violent acts threaten democracy. My compassionate thoughts are also with the other people who were hurt in the attack, he said.

Hungary

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban said his thoughts and prayers were with Trump in these dark hours" on X.

India

Indias prime minister, Narendra Modi, said he was deeply concerned by "the attack on my friend.

Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies, he wrote on X.

Iraq

Masrour Barzani, the prime minister of the Kurdistan region of Iraq, condemned the attack in the strongest terms," saying on X his thoughts are with the victims of this senseless act of terrorism.

Israel

At the start of the weekly Cabinet meeting in Jerusalem, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said he watched in horror," adding that the attack was also an assassination attempt on American democracy.

He said everyone in Israel was sending Trump wishes for "a quick recovery and return to full strength.

Italy

Italian President Sergio Mattarella said in a statement the attack was a cause for serious alarm and a disconcerting symptom of the deterioration of the civil fabric and of the dangerous refusal of confrontation, dialogue and respect for democratic life.

Meanwhile, Premier Giorgia Meloni wished Trump a quick recovery.

Japan

We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy, Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said on X.

Mexico

Mexicos president, Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, denounced the attack on X and said violence is irrational and inhumane.

Pakistan

Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif called the shooting a shocking development. He said he condemned all violence in politics and wished the former president a swift recovery and good health.

And imprisoned Pakistani opposition leader and former prime minister Imran Khan, who was shot and injured at a rally in November 2022, wished Trump a full recovery. Political violence is a tool of cowards and has no place in a democracy, he said on X.

Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin has no plans at present to call Trump, according to Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov.

We do not at all think or believe that the attempt to eliminate presidential candidate Trump was organized by the current government, but the atmosphere that this administration created during the political struggle, the atmosphere around candidate Trump provoked what America is faced with today, he added.

Maria Zakharova, spokeswoman for the Russian foreign ministry, said earlier Sunday on her Telegram channel that American lawmakers should employ the money they use to supply weapons to Ukraine to finance the American police and other services which should ensure law and order within the United States.

South Africa

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa wrote on X that the attempted assassination of Trump is a stark reminder of the dangers of political extremism and intolerance.

Ramaphosa also voiced his hope that the citizens and leaders of America will have the fortitude and sagacity to reject violence and seek peaceful solutions.

Slovakia

Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, who survived an assassination attempt in May, condemned the shooting in a Facebook post. He drew direct parallels between the two incidents, suggesting the attack on Trump was the result of a campaign by his political opponents.

Taiwan

Taiwan's president, Lai Ching-te, said on X his thoughts and prayers are with Trump, adding that political violence of any form is never acceptable in our democracies."

Turkey

Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan condemned the shooting on X, offering his good wishes to Trump, his family and supporters.

He said he believed the investigation into the attack will be conducted effectively so as not to undermine the U.S. elections.

The European Commission

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said on X she was deeply shocked by the shooting, adding that political violence has no place in democracy.

Ukraine

Also on X, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was appalled to learn about the shooting, saying such violence has no justification. He added he was relieved to learn that Trump is safe.

Zelenskyy extended his wishes for strength to everyone who was horrified by the event.

United Arab Emirates

The UAE's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attack on Trump, describing it as a criminal and extremist act.

United Kingdom

U.K. Prime Minister Keir Starmer said on X that he was appalled by the shocking scenes," and sent his best wishes to Trump and his family.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, he said.

British lawmaker Nigel Farage, a friend of Trumps, sought to pin much of the blame on the mainstream media that he claimed opposed the former president. He told the BBC that it was a horrendous incident but somehow he was not shocked by it.

Vatican

In a statement, the Vatican expressed its concern over last nights episode of violence, which hurts people and democracy, causing suffering and death. Pope Francis didnt mention the apparent assassination attempt in his weekly prayers earlier.

Venezuela

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro condemned the attack during a campaign event in the town of Guacara. "We have been adversaries, but I wish President Trump health and long life, and I repudiate the attack, Maduro added.

Associated Press journalists around the world contributed to this report.

Photos: Trump injured, 2 killed in shooting at rally
Most medical students at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland will no longer pay for classes thanks to a $1 billion gift from Bloomberg Philanthropies.

Starting in the autumn, the gift will cover costs for classes, or tuition, for medical students who come from families earning less than $300,000. Living expenses and other costs will be covered for students from families who earn up to $175,000.

Bloomberg Philanthropies said that almost two-thirds of all students currently seeking a doctor of medicine degree from Johns Hopkins meet the requirements for financial aid.

And 45 percent of the current class will also receive living expenses.

The school estimates that graduates average total loans will decrease from $104,000 currently to $60,279 by 2029.

The gift will also increase financial aid for students at the universitys schools of nursing, public health, and other graduate schools.

Michael Bloomberg is the founder of Bloomberg Philanthropies and Bloomberg LP. He said in a statement recently, By reducing the financial barriers to these essential fields, we can free more students to pursue careers theyre passionate about  and enable them to serve more of the families and communities who need them the most.

Bloomberg, the former New York City mayor, received a degree in electrical engineering from Johns Hopkins University in 1964.

Ron Daniels, the president of Johns Hopkins University, said the gift will go to the universitys endowment and all of the money will go directly to students.

Daniels said that Michael Bloomberg had been moved by the difficulties that healthcare professionals faced during the pandemic and the heroic efforts they made to help American citizens.

Daniels added about Bloomberg, I think he simply wanted to recognize the importance of these fields and provide this support to ensure that the best and brightest could attend medical school and the school of nursing and public health.

Bloomberg Philanthropies previously gave $1.8 billion to Johns Hopkins in 2018. The goal was to make sure that undergraduate students could go to the school regardless of their familys finances.

Series of big gifts

Johns Hopkins will be the latest medical school to offer free tuition to most or all of their medical students.

In February, Ruth Gottesman, a former professor at the Albert Einstein College of Medicine and the widow of a Wall Street investor, announced that she was giving $1 billion to the New York City school. The gift meant that four-year students immediately received free tuition and all other students will be offered free tuition in the autumn.

In 2018, Kenneth and Elaine Langone gave $100 million to the NYU Grossman School of Medicine to make tuition free for all current and future medical students. The couple gave a second gift of $200 million in 2023 to the NYU Grossman Long Island School of Medicine to guarantee free tuition for all medical students.

Kenneth Langone is a co-founder of Home Depot, a large home improvement company.

Other medical schools, like UCLAs David Geffen School of Medicine, offer special awards known as merit-based scholarships. These awards were a result of some $146 million in gifts from David Geffen, a major figure in the recording industry. The Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine has also offered tuition-free education for medical students since 2008.

Candice Chen of the Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University has researched the social missions of medical schools. Chen believes medical schools are not producing enough primary care, mental health specialists as well as the doctors who will work in and serve in rural and underserved communities.

Chen said she would have loved to see gifts, like those to John Hopkins, NYU and Albert Einstein, go to Meharry Medical College in Tennessee, for example. The school is a historically Black school that has produced many primary care doctors who work in communities that have shortages of care.

Im John Russell.

Michelle Chapman and Thalia Beaty reported on this story for the Associated Press. John Russell adapted it for VOA Learning English.

_________________________________________________

Words in This Story

graduate  adj. describes a person who has completed a program of study; relating to or engaged in studies beyond the bachelor's degree

essential -- adj. of the utmost importance

passionate  adj. expressing intense feeling

enable  v. to make possible

endowment  n. the part of an institution's income that comes from donations or gifts

undergraduate  n. a student at a college or university who has not received a bachelor's degree

widow  n. a woman who has lost her spouse or partner by death

merit -- n. character, conduct, or performance deserving reward
John Lennon rightly believed the first step toward peace was imagining it. If we lose that ability, the costs could be catastrophic.

As a Vietnam War veteran, I experienced that wars folly. But as an editor of a veterans journal, Ive read the heartbreaking stories of those who fought in our wars on terror. As with Vietnam, leaders focused on their political and legal chessboards, downplaying the devastating effects of their actions.

But our leaders werent solely to blame. No matter how disastrous, our wars were accompanied by cheering crowds and pundits. Lennons song "Imagine" was even reportedly on a list of songs that a chain of radio stations cautioned against playing in the wake of 9/11.

Now its deja vu, with demonstrations on college campuses and hoorah for our side political commentary. The long-term debilitating trauma to those who are fighting and the piercing sorrow and anger of those caught in the crossfire are still seen as secondary to the logistics of war.

Wars sometimes need to be fought, but they also need to end before they metastasize. I applaud leaders who can still imagine peace. But as citizens we must also use our imaginations to find creative ways to make peace the centerpiece of our discussions and debates. Perhaps leaders will follow.

Bruce Meredith, Madison
China forges ahead at forefront of global battle against desertification

Xinhua) 09:32, July 14, 2024

China's remarkable strides in combating desertification have been highlighted on International Day of Combating Sand and Dust Storms, on Friday.

Over the past two decades, the country has witnessed a significant decline in the frequency and intensity of spring sandstorms, a testament to its robust ecological initiatives.

The National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Friday revealed a substantial reduction in the number of spring sandstorms, from an average of 17 times a year between 1981 and 2010 to 9.2 times in the last decade, nosediving about 46 percent.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China in 2012, the country has intensified support for key ecological projects such as the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program (TSFP).

Such efforts have led to the successful management of 331 million mu (about 22 million hectares) of desertified land, with 53 percent of the treatable desertified areas now under effective control.

China, one of the nations most affected by desertification, has been grappling with the transformation of fertile lands into deserts, a phenomenon that disrupts rainfall patterns and exacerbates extreme weather events, further driving climate change.

The World Atlas of Desertification warns that 75 percent of the world's soils are already degraded, affecting 3.2 billion people globally. Projections by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) are dire, with 90 percent of the planet's land surface at risk of degradation by 2050, posing significant threats to biodiversity and human life.

In stark contrast to this global outlook, China has achieved zero growth in land degradation and has successfully reduced the area of desertified and sandy lands.

A 2020 report from the Chinese Academy of Sciences indicated that China had achieved land degradation neutrality, with the net land restoration area accounting for over 18 percent of the world's total, placing it at the forefront of global efforts in this regard.

The TSFP, the world's largest afforestation project, serves as a good example. Launched in 1978 and scheduled to be completed in 2050, it has already helped safeguard the land inhabited by people in the northwest, north and northeast of China.

By 2020, the program saw the preservation of 480 million mu of forested land, the management of 1.28 billion mu of degraded grasslands, and the forest coverage rate increased from around 5 percent in 1978 to about 14 percent.

In June 2023, China proposed that the TSFP be turned into a fully functional, unbreakable "green Great Wall" and ecological security barrier in northern China.

As the International Day for the Prevention of Desertification and Land Degradation aims to galvanize a global sense of duty and urgency, China has emerged as a dynamic force in fulfilling its commitments to the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification.

On Wednesday, the United Nations General Assembly designated 2025-2034 as the "United Nations Decade on Combating Sand and Dust Storms."

Introducing the text of a draft resolution on behalf of the Group of 77 developing countries and China, the representative of Uganda said sand and dust storms are an issue of international concern.

The storms increasingly threaten achievement of 11 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals, he stressed, adding that the resolution aims to enhance international and regional cooperation to prevent, halt and mitigate their effects.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Former Senator Gringo Honasan on Sunday vouched to include the acquisition of military hospital ships in the Armed Forces of the Philippines Modernization Program (AFPMP).

A former Army colonel before entering politics, Honasan noted that these military ships beyond being deployed for war, can also be used to support the governments disaster relief and humanitarian operations.

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Considering that we are an archipelagic nation extremely vulnerable to natural disasters, military hospital ships would be a wise and practical investment, said Honasan.

Also the former chair of the Senate Defense committee, he emphasized that the hospital military ships can be part of the countrys overall disaster readiness  capable of swift mobilization and coastal operations, and can receive patients by air and water.

Honasan also suggested that the Army can initially procure three military hospital ships  to be positioned in Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao respectively  ready to provide life-saving mobile emergency medical services.

Overseas, he mentioned that other countries presently are designing military hospital ships with 60 beds and 18 intensive care units (ICU), provisions for operating suites, and a blood bank.

He said the hospital ships will be operated and maintained by the military.

The revised AFPMP, enacted by Congress in 2012, aims to build up the capabilities of the Navy, Air Force, and the Army.

In the last five years alone, Congress has earmarked a total of P121 billion to support the militarys modernization projects, including the procurement of new warships, fighter aircraft, helicopter gunships, early warning air surveillance radars, and batteries of shore-based, anti-ship supersonic cruise missiles.

The World Risk Index (WRI) has ranked the Philippines as the most disaster-prone country, followed by Indonesia and India.

The WRI ranks 193 countries in terms of potential exposure to natural disasters or severe weather events such as super typhoons, earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, and drought.

The Philippines has the highest disaster risk rating because it straddles the western Pacific Oceans typhoon belt  an area where almost one-third of the worlds most intense tropical cyclones form.

The country is also situated in the Pacific Ring of Fire where many earthquakes and volcanic eruptions happen.
Philippine Army Spokesperson Colonel Louie Dema-ala said that the countrys signing of the Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) with Japan will enhance the Philippine Armys capabilities definitely through bilateral exercises.

However, Dema-ala said to Manila Standard that as of now, possible roles of the Army in joint exercises with Tokyo is still undetermined since the agreement needs to be ratified from both countrys respective legislation bodies.

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We cannot say pa kung ano ang participation ng Army sa joint exercises since hindi pa na-raratify ng both Japan and Philippine congress ang RAA, he said.

Dema-ala also explained that the RAAs implementing rules and regulations (IRR) also needs to be agreed upon by both the Armed Forces of Manila and Tokyo before its enforcement.

When asked about the potential deployment of equipment for the joint exercises of both countries, Dema-ala said that it will still depend on the final agreement. We cannot say pa as of now kung ano ang mapagkasunduan.

Through the said agreement, Dema-ala said that the RAA may enhance not only the Philippine Armys capabilities but also Tokyos force in terms of interoperability in warfighting, humanitarian assistance and disaster response, among others.

Depende pa kasi kung ano ang mga mapagkakasunduan at ma-approve na areas na maging focus ng agreement. But basically yung interoperability of both armies in warfighting, HADR, cyber, etc, he said.

The RAA was signed last week by both countries in Manila, which would allow Filipino and Japanese troops to operate and train in either country following the 2nd Japan-Philippines Foreign and Defense Ministerial Meeting.

Philippine Army troops composed of more or less than 120,000 personnel according to Dema-ala.
Senate Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros said the recent Japan-Philippines Reciprocal Access Agreement (RAA) is a welcome development in our consolidation of multilateral support from the international community.

Hontiveros hopes that the Philippine government can negotiate more security agreements with other like-minded countries to de-escalate tensions in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).

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According to Senator Nancy Binay, former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and then Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Koshikawa Kazuhiko consistently pushed for the crafting of RAA between the Philippines and Japan.

Binay noted that the signing of the RAA is the fruit of the Senates effort to initiate peaceful resolutions to ongoing maritime conflicts in the Asia-Pacific Region, assert our territorial rights, and reiterate the Philippines commitment to defend its national sovereignty.

The RAAs value to National Security underscores how increased maritime security cooperation safeguards Philippine economic interests.

I fully support the ratification of the Agreement once it reaches the Senateas this would represent our commitment to peace and security in the region, Binay said.

Zubiri, a long-time advocate of the RAA, said the agreement is a partnership of like-minded nations that will truly bolster the countrys naval training and use of ships and equipment purchased from Japan, further strengthening the Philippines defense and security in the Asia-Pacific region.
Kathmandu, NepalNepali search teams retrieved more bodies on Sunday of the roughly 50 people missing after a landslide triggered by torrential rains swept two buses into a fast-flowing river.

Over 300 officers, including divers, were scouring the river for passengers and the two buses themselves, said Kumar Neupane, spokesperson for Nepals armed police unit.

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Other teams on boats were using sensor equipment to search the murky water.

Grieving relatives waited on the banks in shock.

Its been three days I have been here, but my grandparents bodies have not been found, said Khurseed Alam, aged 23.

The force of Fridays landslide in central Chitwan district pushed the vehicles over concrete crash barriers and down a steep embankment, at least 30 metres (100 feet) from the road.

One body has been found about 25 kilometers (15 miles) from the accident site, police spokesman Dan Bahadur Karki told AFP.

In total, five bodies have been retrieved, Karki said. One was an Indian citizen.

District official Khimananda Bhusal told Agence France Presse (AFP) that roughly 50 people were swept away on the buses, revising down the number from the 63 initially reported by authorities.

Fierce currents, made worse by this weeks torrential downpours, have hampered search efforts.

Chitwan district government chief Indra Dev Yadav said water was flowing fast, making it difficult for the teams.

The river is deep and narrow, he added.

Road travel becomes deadlier during the annual monsoon season as rains trigger landslides and floods across the mountainous country.

Monsoon rains across South Asia from June to September offer respite from the summer heat and are crucial to replenishing water supplies, but also bring widespread death and destruction.

The rainfall is hard to forecast and varies considerably, but scientists say climate change is making the monsoon stronger and more erratic.

Deadly crashes, meanwhile, are common in Nepal because of poorly constructed roads, badly maintained vehicles and reckless driving.

Nearly 2,400 people lost their lives on the Himalayan republics roads in the 12 months to April, according to government figures.
The presence of illegitimate online gaming operations has apparently turned the Philippines into a money laundering hub, Senator Sherwin Gatchalian lamented Sunday, after billions of pesos in suspicious transactions entered the countrys financial system.

Gatchalian issued the statement following the Anti-Money Laundering Councils (AMLC) revelation that billions of pesos from several entities based in China allegedly flowed into the 36 bank accounts under the name of suspended Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo or Guo Hua Ping.

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The bulk of the funds were deposited from 2019 to 2022, the period when the Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGO) hubwhich authorities raided last Marchwas being constructed. Gatchalian said the AMLC should have reported these transactions sooner.

As for me, this is one of biggest angles of this criminalitymoney laundering, he said.

While the Philippines has a system in place to immediately detect suspicious financial transactions entering several banks, Gatchalian lamented its lack of enforcement and compliance. He said the Senate intends to look into this matter as well in their ongoing investigation.

I saw the compliance (of these Philippine banks) in their head offices. I saw this as a problem. We should also look into the process, the senator said. This is also an eye opener.

Gatchalian is actively investigating the POGO issue and its alleged ties to Guo, alongside Deputy Minority Leader Risa Hontiveros, who chairs the Senate Committee on Women, Children, Family Relations and Gender Equality.

He said he will file a separate resolution to conduct a Senate hearing to determine whether there was collusion between banks and the POGO players to engage in money laundering activities. I will personally look at this angle, Gatchalian said.

Meanwhile Gatchalian called on Mayor Guo to yield to authorities.

She just should voluntarily surrender, said Gatchalian.

Teams from the Office of the Senate Sergeant-at-Arms (OSAA) and Philippine National Police which included SWAT operatives failed to locate the mayor in her given address at QJJ farm in Bamban last Saturday.

The contingent forces from the OSAA and the police were armed with an arrest order signed by Senate President Francis Escudero.

The arrest order was issued upon the request of Sen. Risa Hontiveros, chairperson of the Senate committee on women, children, family relations and gender equality, which has been conducting an investigation into the illicit operations in the country of Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs).

Guo was ordered arrested for unduly refusing to appear, despite due notices, at the Senate hearing on reports human trafficking, torture, serious illegal detention and other serious crimes committed at POGO hubs.

The arresting officers composed of Teams Marilao and Valenzuela did not succeed in getting Guos siblings- Shiela, Wesley and Siemen and their parents Jian Zhong Guo and Wen Yi Lin (both reportedlt in China)

They were ordered arrested for their refusal to attend the hearings on their alleged links to POGO crimes.

Arresting officers however got Nancy Gamo, the accountant of the suspended mayor.

As this developed. Presidential Anti Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) Executive Director Gilbert Cruz expressed confidence that cases against Mayor Guo will prosper, citing the strong set of evidence they have obtained.

He told ABNS-CBN that the Commission is eyeing to file forfeiture cases against illegal POGOs which would allow the government to use properties of the illegal companies.

PAOCC is also investigating alleged protectors of illegal POGOs, including those from the government, as well as those leaking information that allowed POGO masterminds and employees to escape government raids.

The Court of Appeals on Friday issued a freeze order on Guos assets, which included her 36 bank accounts, a helicopter, 12 motor vehicles and 12 real properties.

The bank accounts of her business partners Zhiyang Huang, Roderick Paul Pujante, Baoying Lin, Hongjiang Yang, Zhengcan Yu, Zhang Ruijin and Rachelle Joan Carreon were covered in the order. All of them will be charged with violation of the Anti-Money Laundering Law.

A total of 18 bank accounts under QJJ Farm, Inc., 12 bank accounts of 3LIN Q Farm, Inc. and four other corporations either owned or tied to the Guo family were also ordered frozen. The freeze order came after a petition made by the AMLC over links to illegal online gaming operations in the country.

Editors Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline: Gatchalian: Philippines turning into a money laundering hub because of POGOs
MOSCOW  The Kremlin has warned the deployment of US missiles in Germany could make European capitals targets for Russian missiles in a repeat of Cold War-style confrontation.

Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov spoke of a paradox in which Europe is a target for our missiles, our country is a target for US missiles in Europe.

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We have enough capacity to contain these missiles but the potential victims are the capitals of these countries, he said, speaking to Russian state television channel Russia 1.

Peskov also hinted that such a confrontation could undermine Europe as a whole  in the same way that the Cold War ended with the Soviet Unions collapse.

Europe is coming apart. Europe is not living its best moment. In a different configuration, a repeat of history is inevitable, he said.

The White House announced on Wednesday during a NATO summit that it would periodically station long-range weapons including Tomahawk cruise missiles in Germany from 2026 as a deterrent.

Exercising these advanced capabilities will demonstrate the United States commitment to NATO and its contributions to European integrated deterrence, the White House said.

The Kremlin has already criticised the move, accusing Washington of taking a step towards a new Cold War and of directly participating in the conflict in Ukraine.

Russias defense ministry on Friday said that Defense Minister Andrei Belousov held a telephone call with his US counterpart Lloyd Austin where they discussed lowering the risk of possible escalation.

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz has hailed the US decision despite criticism from members of his Social Democrats.

The decision marks a return of US cruise missiles to Germany after a 20-year absence.

Defending the decision, Scholz told reporters at the NATO summit that it was something of deterrence and its securing peace, and it is a necessary and important decision at the right time.

German Defence Minister Boris Pistorius told broadcaster Deutschlandfunk that the deployment decision addressed a very serious gap in the countrys capabilities.

Responding to the Kremlins warning that the US missile deployment could put European capitals at risk, a US State Department spokesperson said the United States and NATO do not seek a military conflict with Russia but any military action directed against a NATO Ally would trigger an overwhelming response.

Russia is the most significant and direct threat to Allies security and to peace and stability in the Euro-Atlantic area, the spokesperson said, adding it was Russia that started this war and Russia could end it today.

The German army does not have long-range missiles that launch from the ground, only cruise missiles that can be fired by aircraft.

The 1980s deployment of US Pershing ballistic missiles in West Germany at the height of the Cold War prompted widespread demonstrations, with hundreds of thousands coming out in pacifist protest.

US missiles continued to be stationed through the reunification of Germany and into the 1990s.

But following the end of the Cold War, the United States significantly reduced the numbers of missiles stationed in Europe as the threat from Moscow receded.

Now NATO countries  spearheaded by the United States  have been bolstering their defenses in Europe following the start of Russias military campaign in Ukraine in 2022.
Kathmandu, NepalNepals president appointed Khadga Prasad Sharma Oli as prime minister for a fourth time on Sunday, after his communist party forged a coalition government with the center-left Nepali Congress.

First elected as prime minister in 2015, he was reelected in 2018 and then reappointed briefly in 2021 in Nepals often turbulent parliament.

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In the Himalayan republic of about 30 million people, overshadowed by giant neighbors India and China, Oli previously trod a fine balance between the rivals, cordial to both but reaching out to Beijing to decrease Nepals dependency on New Delhi.

President Poudel has appointed KP Sharma Oli as the new prime minister of Nepal, Kiran Pokharel, press adviser to President Ram Chandra Poudel, told Agence France Presse (AFP).

Oli, 72, who heads the Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML), will be sworn into office on Monday, Pokharel added.

His predecessor and former coalition government ally, Pushpa Kamal Dahal, lost a vote of confidence on Friday, barely 18 months after taking office.

Dahal, a former Maoist guerrilla commander better known by his nom de guerre Prachanda (The Fierce One), was forced to step down after Olis party withdrew its support.

Oli instead forged a deal with Sher Bahadur Deuba of the Nepali Congress.

He has promised to yield the post to the former five-time prime minister Deuba, 78, later in the parliamentary term.

Nepals next general elections are due in 2027.

Revolving door of PMs

The country became a federal republic in 2008 after a decade-long civil war and a peace deal that saw the Maoists brought into government and the abolishment of the monarchy.

Since then, a revolving door of ageing prime ministers and a culture of horse-trading have fuelled public perceptions that the government is out of touch with Nepals pressing problems.

Its economy has struggled since the coronavirus pandemic, which devastated the vital tourism industry and dried up remittances from the huge number of Nepalis working abroad.

Olis political career stretches nearly six decades.

The veteran politician was born in 1952 in Nepals Terathum district, close to the eastern border with India.

Drawn into underground communist politics as a teenager, he was arrested in 1973 aged 21 for campaigning to overthrow the monarchy.

He was jailed for 14 years, four of which he said were in solitary confinement, a period when he studied and wrote poetry, penning his verses on cigarette boxes when he could not access paper.

After his release in 1987, he joined the CPN-UML and rose through the party ranks, winning elections to parliament.
We must persistently assert our countrys rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rules-based international order

On the 8th anniversary of the historic arbitral award, the Philippines firmly asserts its sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights in the West Philippine Sea.

This assertiveness is not a solo endeavor; it stands bolstered by the unwavering support of like-minded states who equally value and are committed to uphold international law and the rules-based order.

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At least 26 countries, through their ambassadors and representatives, gathered on Friday at the largest West Philippine Sea conference of 2024, organized by the Stratbase Institute.

This monumental event saw global and regional powers, including the United States, Japan, Australia, Canada, and France, reaffirming their support for the 2016 arbitral award.

Also present were ambassadors from Austria, Bangladesh, the European Union, Germany, Greece, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Romania, and Vietnam, alongside representatives from Brunei, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Indonesia, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Singapore, Spain, Switzerland, and the United Kingdom.

The collective emphasis was on adhering to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) and highlighting the destabilizing actions of China in the region.

US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson emphasized the significance of the arbitral ruling for the broader Indo-Pacific region.

She highlighted the strong and growing alliance between the Philippines and the United States and condemned Chinas aggressive actions.

She declared The arbitral award is a linchpin in the Philippines national security vision, and the United States steadfastly supports it. Our alliance grows stronger by the day through 500 joint exercises and other engagements every single year.

Australias Ambassador Hae Kyong HK Yu PSM underscored the collective obligation to adhere to international law, particularly UNCLOS, and emphasized that maritime security requires joint efforts from all nations.

The situation we are facing eight years since the tribunals clear and unanimous decisions shows us that there is still such a strong need for all of us to continue to underline the importance of adhering to our obligations under international law, HK Yu said.

Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya commended the Philippines efforts that paved the way for this historic arbitral award and reiterated it is final and legally binding.

Our presence here today is a powerful reminder of our unwavering commitment to cooperation and the strength of our unified alliance. We need to envision a future where the seas serve as a bridge that unites rather than divides us, Kazuya said.

Canadian Ambassador David Hartman likewise condemned Chinas aggressive actions and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation and upholding the rule of law.

Amidst the unprecedented rise in security threats in the Indo-Pacific region, Hartman committed that, Canada will continue to work with the Philippines and our allies to provide meaningful support to regional peace and security and uphold the rule of law in the maritime domain.

French Ambassador Marie Fontanel recognized the arbitral award as a significant reinforcement of the rules-based international order.

She reaffirmed The 2016 Arbitral Award sends a powerful message to the world. Our partnership with the Philippines, based on democracy, rule of law, and multilateralism, is stronger than ever.

Stratbase Institute President Prof. Victor Andres Dindo Manhit proposed to reinforce cooperation and elevate partnerships by conducting joint patrols and military exercises and called for more support for the modernization of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.

Manhit believes these measures will send a strong message that the Philippines is not alone.

Those who attempt to circumvent their obligations and behave aggressively will not be tolerated by the international community. We will not waver in our determination and commitment, Manhit said.

Continuing to assert our stance in the West Philippine Sea is crucial for safeguarding our sovereignty, territorial integrity, and economic rights.

The arbitral award of 2016 provides a legal foundation for these rights, invalidates Beijings ten-dash expansionary ambitions, and reinforces the importance of adhering to international law, specifically the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea.

We must persistently assert our countrys rights, not only to protect our national security but also as a responsible country committed to sustaining regional stability and the rules-based international order.

This stance deters illegal activities and aggressive actions in our waters, ensuring that our maritime resources are preserved, and that freedom of navigation is upheld for the stability of the global economy.

The unwavering support of like-minded states is astounding.

Their diplomatic, strategic, and moral support underscores the collective commitment to a peaceful and secure Indo-Pacific region.

This international support not only bolsters the Filipino peoples confidence but also amplifies our countrys voice in the global geopolitical arena as a defender for peace and prosperity under the rule of law in the West Philippine Sea.
The magnitude of these transactions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a deliberate effort to conceal illegal proceeds through various business operations and bank accounts

The Court of Appeals has issued a freeze order on all bank accounts and assets of Bamban, Tarlac Mayor Alice Guo, due to her alleged involvement with illegal Philippine offshore gaming operators (POGO).

This ruling stems from a petition filed by the Anti-Money Laundering Council, citing probable cause the assets and accounts were linked to unlawful activities.

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Alice Guos involvement with POGOs and the subsequent legal actions against her have unveiled a complex web of alleged criminal activities, ranging from human trafficking to large-scale money laundering.

The freeze order affects 90 bank accounts, 12 properties, and 13 vehicles, including a P60 million Robinsons helicopter.

The scope of the investigation highlights the massive financial operations purportedly connected to Guo and her associates through multiple companies, including Baofu Land Development Inc., Zun Yuan Technology Inc., and Hongsheng Gaming Technology Inc.

The controversy gained traction following the raid of Hongsheng Gaming Technology in 2023, which led to the discovery of human trafficking and serious illegal detention linked to the operations. Despite the closure of Hongsheng, Zun Yuan quickly replaced it, only to be shut down in 2024 under similar accusations.

The involvement of Guo in these operations has brought to light not just her alleged criminal activities but also the broader implications of POGO operations in the Philippines.

This case echoes several sensational international money laundering and human trafficking cases.

For instance, the 1MDB scandal in Malaysia involved billions of dollars laundered through a complex network of shell companies and bank accounts, much like the alleged operations of Guo and her cohorts.

Similarly, the human trafficking operations linked to Jeffrey Epstein in the United States showcased how powerful individuals could exploit systemic vulnerabilities for illicit gains.

The legal case vs. Guo and company

Under Philippine law, particularly the Anti-Money Laundering Act of 2001, there are several provisions and precedents supporting the case against Guo:

AMLA Section 10: Allows the CA to issue a freeze order on assets upon a verified ex parte petition from the AMLC, provided there is probable cause that the assets are related to unlawful activities.

Philippine Supreme Court Precedents:

Republic vs. Sandiganbayan (1993): The court upheld the authority of the AMLC to freeze assets suspected of being tied to unlawful activities.

Almonte vs. People (2017): This case reinforced the use of circumstantial evidence in establishing probable cause for asset freezing under AMLA.

The AMLCs investigation detailed a significant surge in Guos financial transactions starting in 2014, coinciding with the rise of POGO activities.

The magnitude of these transactions, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, suggests a deliberate effort to conceal illegal proceeds through various business operations and bank accounts.

The resolution of cases against Guo and her associates will follow these procedural steps:

Preliminary Investigation: Conducted by the Department of Justice to determine whether there is sufficient evidence to charge Guo and her associates with violations of AMLA and other related laws.

Filing of Charges: If probable cause is established, formal charges will be filed in court.

Trial: The Regional Trial Court will hear the case, where both the prosecution and defense will present their evidence and arguments.

Judgment: Based on the evidence presented, the court will render a verdict. If convicted, Guo and her associates may face significant penalties, including imprisonment and forfeiture of assets.

Potential Repercussions

Under the AMLA and other related laws, the potential penalties for Guo and her associates could include:

Imprisonment: A term of up to seven years for each count of money laundering.

Fines: Fines ranging from P500,000 to P10 million for each count.

Forfeiture: The confiscation of all assets determined to be linked to unlawful activities.

Additional Charges: If found guilty of human trafficking, Guo and her associates could face life imprisonment and fines of up to P5 million under the Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003.
And by the way, Inday Saras decision not to attend SONA 2024 is no different from then VP Doy Laurels not attending the third SONA of then President Cory

When Inday Saras quip about appointing herself as the designated survivor came out, I laughed and thought pilya talaga ito.

The sutil daughter of the former president was being playful with what could probably be likened to a slice of wry British humor, using a popular Netflix series as point of reference.

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Yet she did not go to Oxford or Cambridge, and finished law only at Baste, that monicker for San Sebastian College in Quiapo run by the Recoletos.

The forever serious Ping Lacson saw through, and described the VPs one-liner as rhetorical, a good soundbite. SP Chiz would not give any special or deeper meaning to the quip either.

Ah, but not the pork-addicted members of the HoR, who lined up trying to dig some profound meaning into a playful quip. No sense of humor, gentlemen?

Is it because the kind of jokes they are used to is confined to Vice Ganda and, in younger days, to Dolphy and Panchitos slapstick? Have they ever laughed at Alex Callejas attempts at elevating Filipino humor?

Or is it perhaps a lingering fear that if something should happen, God forbid, to our president, and Inday Sara, by Constitutional fiat and not by Neflix creation, would rule over them from the palace beside the not-so-stinking river?

Worried much?

And by the way, Inday Saras decision not to attend SONA 2024 is no different from then VP Doy Laurels not attending the third SONA of then President Cory.

Laurel gave no public reason, other than a private remark he did not want to be a hypocrite, as their relationship had publicly soured by then, not dissimilar to the state of relations between todays president and vice president.

Then again, the current HoR secretariat rules out protest attires the thinning progressives among its members displayed in previous SONAs, stressing an exclusivist sense of decorum, while it allocates P20 million of the peoples money for the grand SONA to cover meals, renovation and other accoutrements, which the Kabataan party-list member labelled insensitive as it could pay for 400,000 kilograms of rice.

Ikaw naman, Raoul. 400,000 kilos times 20 pesos is only P8 million, following that fixation over 20 as a magic number, be it for rice or for renovating the Batasan.

Why multiply 400,000 by P50, which is the real price in the market? Are you trying to inject sarcasm, satire even, just like the vice president you dislike?

Meanwhile, the secretary-general of the HoR warns Raoul Manuel and his cohorts not to use the SONA as a forum for their incessant protests, flatly declaring This is not the place or time to express anything. Anything, really?

He follows this ex-cathedra declaration with a threat: If you dont follow, youll be arrested and detained in our detention center.

So guys and gals of the HoR, wear your designer outfits costing hundreds of thousands per, as you sashay into the hallowed halls of the Batasan to listen to our President deliver his State of the Nation Address next Monday, and follow the tradition of tasteless and insensitive extravaganzas of the high and mighty.

But lets get back to a bit of history, recalling this was the same venue where the Senior was proclaimed by then Speaker Nicanor Yniguez as the duly elected president after the snap elections of 1986. Weeks after, EDSA happened.

Not that it will happen this time.

What we proudly called our People Power bloodless revolt was actually preceded by the April 25, 1974 event in the other hemisphere, in Portugal to be exact.

It was a military coup against the dictator who ruled over the Estado Novo (sounds similar to New Society and Bagong Pilipinas?) for close to 50 years, and where the leaders, first Salazar and then Caetano were eventually ousted, with the populace cheered by the public who then placed carnations (flowers, not the milk brand) on the muzzles of the soldiers rifles.

The revolt was bloodless and, after a few years of transition, democracy was unveiled, this time a true revolution where the forms of democracy such as elections and balance of power ushered in a democracy of substance where equal opportunity and progress transpired into what is now modern Portugal.

History calls it the Carnation Revolution, perhaps the accidental template, almost 12 years after, of our EDSA Uno.

But in Portugal, bloodless uprising turned into a true revolution while our people power in 1986 has not given power to our people, but reverted us over 38 years back into a feudal society where dynasts and oligarchs rule over teeming millions of the poor and the hungry.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

US President Joe Biden pumps his fist after speaking at a campaign event at Renaissance High School in Detroit, Michigan, on July 12, 2024.

As Joe Biden's verbal gaffes, shaky voice and other troubling signs have brought an intense focus on the US president's mental acuity, health experts are calling on him and rival Donald Trump to pass additional cognitive tests, even while warning against leaping to conclusions.

Such tests, experts said, could either help repudiate speculation that the 81-year-old president's mental state is in worrying declineor else confirm itand could enlighten voters on the mental abilities of Trump, who has had his own share of verbal lapses.

But reliable diagnoses, they caution, cannot be made from afar.

Since Biden's disastrous performance in his debate with Trump two weeks ago, the Democrat's campaign has faced fierce opposition. A growing number of officials in his own party are questioning his ability to lead the country for four more years.

And it didn't help when at a summit in Washington earlier this week Biden mistakenly introduced Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky as his foe Vladimir Putin, before quickly correcting himself.

Dennis Selkoe, a neurologist at Harvard Medical School, said the fundamental issue is whether Biden is suffering from "a normal age-related process" or "something that represents a neurologic disease."

"Making a mistake with a name is not automatically a sign of dementia or of Alzheimer's," he told AFP.

But Selkoe, who sees many patients with neurodegenerative problems, said Biden does seem to have the "appearance of an early Parkinson patient"including his slow, stiff gait and his low, sometimes barely audible voice, which could be a condition known as hypophonia.

Detailed tests

In February, Biden underwent a complete physical exam. A published summary of its results indicated that an "extremely detailed neurologic exam" had ruled out Parkinson's.

But no detail was provided on the exact nature of the tests or their results.

Could a neurological illness have taken root over just the past five months? If the exams in February had been comprehensive, Selkoe said, there should have been early signs of a nascent condition.

In an editorial in March, the scientific journal Lancet called for standardized procedures to examine the health of sitting and prospective presidents so as to insulate American voters from a "pestilence of speculation, misinformation and slander."

Absent such reliable testing, "the US public remains beholden to voluntarily released reports from politicians' personal physicians," the journal said.

Jay Olshansky, an expert in aging at the University of Illinois at Chicago, sounded a similar note, saying, "We think the time has arrived for complete transparency."

He urged both major presidential candidates to pass a cognitive test, something former president Trump has frequently challenged Biden to do.

Several such exams, including those known as the MMSE and the MoCA, are available either for an initial screening or as part of a more comprehensive battery of tests.

Biden has said that he effectively passes a cognitive test every day, simply by carrying out his presidential duties.

But "I don't think it's the same," Selkoe said. Being able to conduct familiar tasks one has done for years is one thing, he said, while being able to repeat a list of words heard five minutes earlier, as some tests require, is another.

At a news conference Thursday, the president said he would be willing to take a new neurological exam if his doctors recommended it, but that "no one is suggesting that to me now."

Stereotypes on aging

Aging changes one's brain, said Allison Sekuler, president of the Baycrest Academy, a hospital specializing in elderly care.

"Garbage is basically building up in the brain," she told AFP, adding that parts of the brain atrophy, or shrink, including parts important to memory.

An early phase known as "mild cognitive impairment" can sometimes develop into Alzheimer's or some other form of dementia, she said.

During their recent debate, both Biden and Trumpwho is 78"exhibited some sort of issues in terms of being able to stay on track with a question," Sekuler said, recommending that both men undergo testing.

But, she added, "we're really only talking about one of them right now because that aligns with our stereotype of what aging is."

Olshansky also denounced what he called "raging" ageism, citing a recent magazine cover that used a walker as a symbol of the Biden-Trump race.

He noted that while there is a lower age limit for would-be US presidentsthey must be at least 35there is no upper limit.

What he called "crystallized intelligence," or the ability to use past experience to improve one's reasoning skills, "gets stronger and stronger" with age.

Olshansky co-authored a 2020 study that gave Biden a 95 percent chance of surviving a first term, based on average life expectancy for someone of his age, plus personal risk factors.

But a similar calculation four years later, on a man now four years older, gave Biden a much lower probability of survival: just 75 percent.

 2024 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Five cases of neonatal enterovirus infection have been reported in San Diego, highlighting the risks and need for timely identification and treatment, according to data published in the July 11 issue of the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report.

Ryan Sanchez, M.D., from the University of California, San Diego, and colleagues describe five cases of neonatal enterovirus infection identified at Rady Children's Hospital in San Diego.

The researchers note that based on characteristic clinical presentations during enterovirus seasons, all five cases were initially suspected to be caused by enterovirus, which was supported by positive rhinovirus-enterovirus results from respiratory virus panel testing of nasopharyngeal specimens. For four of the five patients, plasma tested positive for enterovirus by reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR). Two patients had positive RT-PCR testing of cerebrospinal fluid for enterovirus. Four and three infants had thrombocytopenia and hepatitis with coagulopathy, respectively. In three neonates, serum ferritin levels were elevated. Seizures were the initial sign in one neonate, who subsequently developed pancytopenia with suspected, but unconfirmed, viral-induced hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis. The most severely affected patient, aged 5 days, developed multiorgan failure; his mother experienced a febrile illness during delivery, which was diagnosed as chorioamnionitis. The infant received multiple immune globulin intravenous (IGIV) doses, the investigational drug pocapavir, and maternal convalescent plasma, but did not survive. Four of the infants received IGIV therapy. Mothers of three infants were diagnosed with chorioamnionitis before delivery and the mother of the remaining two infants received a diagnosis of endometritis.

"Timely identification facilitates optimal clinical management for the infant, which might include receipt of IGIV and possibly antiviral medication," the authors write.

Copyright  2024 HealthDay. All rights reserved.
Before Saturday's apparent attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting U.S. presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

A look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred since the nation's founding in 1776:

Abraham Lincoln, 16th president

Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy "Our American Cousin" at Ford's Theatre in Washington.

Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theater for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning. His support for Black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing.

Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

Lincoln was succeeded by Vice President Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot and killed on April 26, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

James Garfield, 20th president

Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a train station in Washington on July 2, 1881, to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

Alexander Graham Bell, the telephone inventor, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Garfield's chest using a device he designed specifically for the president. The mortally wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Garfield was succeeded by Vice President Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

William McKinley, 25th president

McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on Sept. 6, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range. Doctors had expected McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds.

McKinley died on Sept. 14, 1901, six months after opening his second term.

He was succeeded by Vice President Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F. Czolgosz, an unemployed, 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted to the shooting. Czolgosz was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on Oct. 29, 1901.

Franklin D. Roosevelt, 32nd president

Roosevelt, at the time the president-elect, had just given a speech in Miami from the back of an open car when gunshots rang out.

Roosevelt was not injured in the February 1933 shooting that killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak.

Guiseppe Zangara was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to death.

Harry S. Truman, 33rd president

Truman was staying at Blair House, across the street from the White House, in November 1950 when two gunmen broke in.

Truman was not injured, but a White House policeman and one of the assailants were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House policemen were wounded.

Oscar Callazo was arrested and sentenced to death. In 1952, Truman commuted the sentence to life in prison. He was released from prison in 1979 by President Jimmy Carter.

John F. Kennedy, 35th president

Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy. Shots rang out as the president's motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in downtown Dallas.

Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon after.

He was succeeded by Vice President Lyndon B. Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room aboard Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an airplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a sniper's perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

Gerald Ford, 38th president

Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 and was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Ford was on his way to a meeting with California's governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette "Squeaky" Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at Ford. The gun wasn't fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

It was 17 days later when another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. Moore fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

Ronald Reagan, 40th president

Reagan was leaving a speech in Washington, D.C., and walking to his motorcade when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr., who was in the crowd.

Reagan recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including his press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralyzed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Reagan. In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was "no longer a danger to himself or others."

George W. Bush, 43rd president

Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian President Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted and sentenced to life in prison.

Theodore Roosevelt, presidential candidate

The former president was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

Roosevelt had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in Roosevelts pocket apparently blunted the bullets impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the remainder of his life in mental hospitals.

Robert F. Kennedy, presidential candidate

Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Kennedy was a U.S. senator from New York and the brother of President John F. Kennedy, who was assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were wounded in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where Sirhan remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

George C. Wallace, presidential candidate

Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralyzed from the waist down.

Wallace, the governor of Alabama, was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted in the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.

Photos: Trump injured, 2 killed in shooting at rally
Iowa politicians are reacting to a shooting at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania, offering prayers and support for the former president.

Trump was taken off the stage by his protective detail and appeared to have blood on his face. The Secret Service has said he is safe. His campaign said he was being checked out at a medical facility in the area.

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt. U.S. Secret Service agents "neutralized" the shooter, who is now dead, the agency said. One person was killed and two were severely injured, according to the Secret Service.

In a statement, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said she was praying for Trump, those who were injured and the family of the person killed at the rally.

This assassination attempt on a former president, current nominee for president, and leader of the Republican Party marks a dark day in American history," Reynolds said.

As President Trump showed when he walked off the stage, we will not cower to such terror," Reynolds continued. "I will be in Milwaukee this week and will proudly stand with him and our party. America will get through this, together, and President Trump will lead us into the next four years.

Iowa's senators and congressional representatives also made calls for prayers for Trump.

Iowa's U.S. Senators, Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, both posted on X, formerly Twitter. Ernst said "Pray for President Trump" and Grassley said "Praying for President Trump."

Praying for Pres Trump  Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) July 13, 2024

Pray for President Trump.  Joni Ernst (@joniernst) July 13, 2024

Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, who represents the Iowa Quad-Cities, asked for prayers for both Trump and "the future of American Democracy."

I ask all Americans to pray for the recovery of President Trump and for the future of American Democracy.  Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (@RepMMM) July 13, 2024

U.S. Reps. Ashley Hinson, Randy Feenstra, and Zach Nunn made similar posts on Saturday.

Pray for President Trump.  Ashley Hinson (@hinsonashley) July 13, 2024

Our hearts are with President Trump, his family, and everyone endangered. pic.twitter.com/NfPJenzDiu  Zach Nunn (@NunnForCongress) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump and those at his rally.  Randy Feenstra (@RandyFeenstra) July 13, 2024

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, who is speaking at next week's Republican National Convention, said she is "praying for President Trump" on X.

In a later, emailed statement, Bird called it an "attack on our country, and our democracy" and said she was mourning the attendee who died.

"And while it failed at killing President Trump, it murdered one of our fellow Americans. This attack was nothing short of evil. Bob and I mourn with the family who lost their loved one," Bird said in the statement.

Christina Bohannan and Ryan Melton, both Democratic candidates for congressional seats in Iowa, offered prayers for Trump and decried political violence.

"Praying for the safety of former President Trump and everyone who was at the rally," Bohannan said. "Violence has no place in our political system."

Praying for the safety of former President Trump and everyone who was at the rally. Violence has no place in our political system.  Christina Bohannan (@BohannanIowa) July 13, 2024

Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart said in a statement on social media her thoughts were with the attendees.

"The news about Former President Donald Trump is extremely troubling. Gun violence is never acceptable and violence of any sort should never be perpetuated against people who are trying to participate in our democratic process," her statement said in part.

A statement from IDP Chair Rita Hart: "The news about Former President Donald Trump is extremely troubling. Gun violence is never acceptable and violence of any sort should never be perpetuated against people who are trying to participate in our democratic process. (1/2)  Iowa Democrats (@iowademocrats) July 13, 2024

Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand, a Democrat, also offered prayers for Trump, decried political violence and praised the swift response by the Secret Service and law enforcement.

My statement on the political violence that erupted at a Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania: pic.twitter.com/sp2YDbOIuD  Rob Sand (@RobSandIA) July 14, 2024

This story may be updated.
08:35

"Pray for Trump," said Indian-American Vivek Ramaswamy, and a close confidant of Trump. -- PTI





IMAGE: Republican presidential candidate and former US President Donald Trump reacts after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, on July 13, 2024, in this screen grab taken from a video. Photograph: Reuters TV/Reuters



A shooter who allegedly attacked former United States president and Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump during his election rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday was shot dead by the Secret Service, law enforcement officials said.The US Secret Service said at about 6.15 pm, a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, in Butler, Pennsylvania.The federal agency personnel immediately escorted the former president out and took him to a safer location.Trump, 78, is reported to be safe after the assassination attempt."He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility," Steven Cheung, Trump spokesperson said in a statement.The attack was condemned by leaders cutting across party lines.President Joe Biden, Vice President Kamala Harris and former presidents, Barack Obama, George W Bush and Bill Clinton have condemned the attack."US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now deceased. The federal agency quickly responded with protective measures and Former President Trump is safe," Anthony Guglielmi, Secret Service spokesperson said in a statement."This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," he said.Blood was seen on Trump's face and ear as he reached with his right hand toward his neck. Multiple media reports said that several gunshots were heard while Trump was addressing the rally.Trump was seen pumping his fist in the air, with the crowd cheering, as he was escorted out by the Secret Service.Guglielmi said, "One spectator was killed, and two others were critically injured. The Secret Service has notified the FBI."An eyewitness told the BBC he saw a "man on top of a roof" near President Trump's Pennsylvania rally."We noticed the guy crawling up the roof of the building beside us, 50 feet away from us," the witness, Greg, said."He had a rifle, we could clearly see him with a rifle. Next thing you know, I'm thinking to myself why is Trump still speaking? Why have they not pulled him off the stage? I'm standing there pointing at him... the next thing you know, five shots ring out," he said.President Joe Biden and Vice President Kamala Harris have been briefed about the incident, which is receiving widespread condemnation from a shocked nation.Biden condemned the life-threatening attack on his Republican rival and predecessor Donald Trump and said 'there is no place for this kind of violence in America'."Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," he said.Incumbent Biden faces Trump in the November presidential elections.Vice President Kamala Harris said she has been briefed on the shooting at former president Trump's event in Pennsylvania."Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting. We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action," she said."Violence such as this has no place in our nation. We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," Harris said."I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country," Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said."This should horrify every freedom-loving American. Violence against presidential candidates must never be normalised. We are lifting up Donald Trump, the entire Trump family, and all in attendance in prayer," former Republican presidential candidate Nikki Haley said.Tesla CEO and the owner of social media platform X, Elon Musk said that he endorses Trump."Fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Musk said.
As Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman gears up for the Union Budget 2024-25 on July 23, the electric vehicle (EV) sector is optimistic about potential announcements that could spur industry growth. The EV sector is at a critical juncture, with every player striving to capture market share. The industry anticipates that the government will introduce FAME-3, allocate funds for charging infrastructure, provide incentives for the localization of EV components, integrate EVs with renewable energy sources, implement a priority lending scheme, and reduce GST on EV services, among other measures. "To achieve the ambitious target of 30 percent EV penetration by 2030, continued government support is essential. As EV manufacturers invest heavily in research and development to reduce costs, government assistance is needed to make EVs more affordable and narrow the price gap with internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicles," said Aryaman Tandon, Managing Partner at Praxis Global Alliance for the Mobility sector. "The industry also hopes the FAME scheme will expand to include private buses and commercial vehicles (CVs), which have so far been limited to State Transport Undertakings (STUs). Reducing customs duties on imported EV components and supporting local R&D in battery technology, as seen in the last budget, will further accelerate local manufacturing and create jobs," he added. Supporting the continuation of FAME, Nimish Trivedi, Founder & CEO of Evera, said, "Government subsidies on electric vehicles under schemes like FAME-II led to a 48 percent increase in EV adoption in 2023. It's imperative that FAME continues to stimulate this growth further." The Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Hybrid and Electric Vehicles in India (FAME India) Scheme, introduced in 2015, promotes electric and hybrid vehicles in India and has completed two terms: FAME-1 and FAME-2. Industry players are also calling for tax rationalisation. Mukesh Taneja, CEO and Co-Founder at GT FORCE, said, "We expect the government to consider reducing GST rates on EV components and batteries from the current 18 percent to 5 percent. This tax rationalisation would help offset potential price increases resulting from the conclusion of subsidy programmes and keep EVs affordable for the masses." Discussing the need to promote EV adoption, Bharath Rao, founder and CEO of Emobi, said, "Accelerating EV adoption will be a key focus in the upcoming FAME III and Budget 2024 discussions. Significant progress has been made in the electric two-wheeler (E2W) segment, with sales exceeding a million units under FAME II. Given that E2Ws constitute the largest share of vehicle sales in India, we urge the government to continue prioritising this segment." Akash Gupta, Co-Founder and CEO of Zypp Electric, added, "Inclusion in the priority lending scheme and reducing GST for EV services from 18 percent to 5 percent will accelerate EV-led delivery adoption." He further emphasised that significant investment in infrastructure, such as charging stations and advanced battery technology, is crucial for realising the full potential of these efforts. Hyder Khan, CEO and Director of Godawari Electric Motors, commented, "We urge the government to consider increased subsidies for electric two-wheelers and three-wheelers, as well as incentives for domestic manufacturing and R&D initiatives. Additionally, investments in charging infrastructure and battery technology are crucial to overcoming existing barriers to widespread EV adoption." As the growth of electric vehicle sales slows worldwide, industry leaders stress that government support is imperative. Capital costs and a shortage of rapid-charging stations are the major reasons for sluggish EV demand worldwide, according to Goldman Sachs. "The EV industry anticipates several key measures to boost growth and adoption. Increased subsidies will make electric vehicles more affordable for a wider range of consumers. Expanding the network of charging stations, particularly those powered by renewable energy sources, is critical for supporting EV infrastructure," said Amit Raj Singh, founder and MD of Gemopai. Ayush Lohia, CEO of Lohia, demanded a comprehensive policy for the EV industry, stating, "The government needs to formulate a comprehensive policy on electric vehicle (EV) parts, ensuring transparency and establishing a level playing field within the industry. Additionally, including commercial vehicles in EV incentives is pivotal for fostering widespread growth and aligning with our shared vision of a sustainable future." (ANI)
Ahead of the upcoming Union Budget scheduled to be presented on July 23, the Non-Banking Financial Company (NBFC) sector is expecting enhanced financial inclusion and reinforcing digitalization efforts to sustain the sector's growth.Finance Industry Development Council (FIDC), which represents the industry, has suggested establishing a special refinancing body, just as the government has created National Housing Bank (NHB) for housing finance companies. On the other hand, the sector this year has seen stringent regulatory action from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI). In addition, speaking at an event in May this year, RBI Deputy Governor Swaminathan J cautioned the NBFCs not to be overly reliant on algo-based credit models.However, the apex bank, in its 29th Financial Stability Report (FSR) said that the NBFCs are well capitalised, giving an edge to the financial sector in the country. As of the end of March 2024, NBFCs had a CRAR of 26.6 per cent, a GNPA ratio of 4.0 per cent, and a return on assets (RoA) of 3.3 percent. "The growth of the Indian NBFC industry is significantly influenced by robust financial inclusion, consumer demand, and improving trade balances. The upcoming Union Budget should emphasize enhancing financial inclusion across the country, implementing policy reforms, and reinforcing digitalization efforts to sustain the sector's growth. Financial and digital inclusion will enhance credit access by increasing convenience and reducing turnaround times," said Rakesh Kaul, CEO, Clix Capital. "The government must consider incentivizing and promoting such measures so that NBFCs can carefully take advantage of global integration, ensuring sustainable growth and financial inclusion across India's diverse economic landscape," said Jitendra Tanwar, Managing Director & CEO of Namdev Finvest Pvt Ltd. He further added that the government must consider incentivizing and promoting such measures so that NBFCs can carefully take advantage of global integration, ensuring sustainable growth and financial inclusion across India's diverse economic landscape. Expressing his confidence in the budget this year, Krishan Gopal, CFO, Aye Finance, said,I believe this budget will lay the groundwork for India's vision of development by 2047. We expect the Government to recognize the efforts of NBFC lenders that are transforming micro-enterprise lending in India by providing customized credit lines, announcing schemes and subsidies and even considering classifying them as Priority Sector Lenders." "Despite strong competition from banks, non-banking financial companies (NBFCs) have shown remarkable resilience in retaining a significant market share. To drive further growth, we seek policies that promote responsible credit utilisation, enhance access to credit for underserved communities, and foster financial literacy among customers," said Mathew Muthoottu, MD Muthoottu Mini Financiers Ltd. "NBFCs are expecting the budget to carry provisions that spur consumption, such as via tax relief etc.; implement initiatives that enable growth of NBFCs serving priority sector clients; and undertake widespread campaigns aimed at inculcating good credit behaviour amongst the country's growing borrower base," opined Neha Juneja, Co-founder and CEO, IndiaP2P, on her budget expectations. Anticipating the allocation of additional funds for the sector, Pavitra Walvekar, the CEO of Kudos Finance, which is based out of Pune, said, "Key initiatives should include the allocation of additional funds to improve liquidity for NBFCs and the introduction of regulatory reforms to streamline operations and enhance transparency. These steps will bolster credit availability, particularly for underserved segments like MSMEs, and promote financial stability in the long run." (ANI)
Veteran actor Anupam Kher shared glimpses from the Shubh Ashirwad ceremony of the Ambani family and Radhika Merchant, which took place on Saturday evening in Mumbai's BKC. Taking to his X account, Anupam shared four videos, calling the event "spectacular, dignified, and sacred." In the videos, Vedic Pandits can be seen chanting important Vedic mantras, creating a spiritual atmosphere for the ceremony. Many respected religious leaders attended the event, including Shankaracharya of Dwarka Peeth Swami Sadananda Saraswati and Shankaracharya of Jyotirmath Swami Avimukteshwaranand, who were warmly welcomed with standing ovations. One video also shows Prime Minister Narendra Modi greeting the newlywed couple and blessing them with gifts. Along with the video, the 'Saaransh' actor added a caption saying that the ceremony showcased the Vedic and Sanatani traditions of India to guests from around the world. "What a spectacular, dignified and sacred #AashirwaadCeremony it was for the #AnantRadhikaWedding!!! The ceremony also displayed the Vedic and Sanatani traditions of #Bharat to the guests from all over the world. Mr. #MukeshAmbani spoke so well about the family and traditional values. Jai Ho! #WeddingOfTheCentury #NitaAmbani #MukeshAmbani #Anant #Radhika #Wedding," read his post on X. https://x.com/AnupamPKher/status/1812180921342402818 Anant, the youngest son of Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani, and Radhika, the daughter of industrialist Viren Merchant, exchanged vows in a spectacular wedding ceremony on Friday, July 12, attended by international celebrities and high-profile guests from various fields. The star-studded guest list included Bollywood icons Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and international star Kim Kardashian. Radhika Merchant captivated the festivities with her style and grace. For her vidai ceremony, she wore a traditional ivory and red lehenga by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, followed by a stunning sindoori red ensemble crafted by Manish Malhotra. The ensemble featured a Banarasi silk dupatta and a veil cascading into a dramatic train, creating a picture of timeless elegance. Her regal appearance was enhanced by heirloom jewellery pieces embellished with gold, diamonds, and emeralds. Each accessory, from the choker to the mang tika, contributed to Radhika's majestic presence on her special day. The celebrations will continue with 'Mangal Utsav,' the wedding reception, on July 14. (ANI)
In a picture-perfect moment captured at the event, PM Modi is seen standing with a beaming smile amidst Mukesh Ambani, Nita Ambani, and the newlyweds Anant Ambani and Radhika Merchant.

The ceremony, marked by the presence of spiritual delegates, several political dignitaries and celebrities, showcased a blend of tradition and modernity.

PM Modi's arrival at the venue marked his first visit to Mumbai since taking oath for his third consecutive term as Prime Minister on June 9, following the victory of the National Democratic Alliance (NDA) in the Lok Sabha elections.

Earlier in the day, PM Modi laid the foundation stone for multiple infrastructure projects worth over Rs 29,400 crore, focusing on roads, railways, and ports.

He also inaugurated the INS Towers at the Indian Newspaper Society (INS) Secretariat during his Mumbai visit.

The 'Shubh Aashirwad' ceremony, which followed the grand wedding festivities on Friday, July 12, witnessed PM Modi participating in a religious puja conducted by a priest.

Videos from the event surfaced online, capturing moments where Anant and Radhika respectfully sought PM Modi's blessings by touching his feet.

Political figures present at the ceremony included Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N. Chandrababu Naidu, Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde, former Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav, and West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, among others. Bollywood luminaries such as Shah Rukh Khan, Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, and Ranveer Singh also graced the occasion.

Radhika Merchant, known for her elegant style, dazzled throughout the festivities.

Her attire for the vidai ceremony included a traditional ivory and red lehenga by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, followed by a stunning sindoori red ensemble by Manish Malhotra.

Adorned with heirloom jewellery featuring gold, diamonds, and emeralds, Radhika epitomized grace and tradition on her special day.

The festivities are set to continue with the upcoming 'Mangal Utsav,' the wedding reception, scheduled for July 14. (ANI)
The sisters reached Mumbai's Kalina airport in two white luxury cars. Their security team used several umbrellas to shield them from photographers and videographers waiting to catch a glimpse of the duo.

Kim and Khloe, who arrived in India early Friday morning, concluded their first visit to the country as prominent international guests at the extravagant Ambani wedding.

A couple of hours back, the international star dropped a selfie with the Indian beauty queen Aishwarya Rai Bachchan. The picture captured Kim and Aishwarya posing happily for the camera.

The youngest son of Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani and the daughter of industrialist Viren Merchant exchanged vows in a spectacular wedding ceremony attended by a host of international celebrities and high-profile guests from various fields on July 12.

The wedding ceremony, attended by a star-studded guest list from Bollywood, business, and politics, featured luminaries like Shah Rukh Khan, Gauri Khan, Salman Khan, Alia Bhatt, Ranbir Kapoor, Deepika Padukone, Ranveer Singh, and international star Kim Kardashian alongside others.

The wedding celebration of Radhika and Anant Ambani took place at the Jio World Convention Centre in Mumbai.

Radhika Merchant continued to captivate throughout the festivities with her impeccable style and grace.

For her vidaai ceremony, following her marriage in a traditional ivory and red lehenga by Abu Jani Sandeep Khosla, Radhika opted for a stunning sindoori red ensemble crafted by Manish Malhotra.

Meticulously styled by Rhea Kapoor, reflected a blend of cultural heritage and contemporary flair. Her sindoori red Manish Malhotra lehenga featured intricate Karchobi work on a backless blouse, complemented by a brocade silk lehenga skirt adorned with Banarasi prints in vibrant sunset hues.

The ensemble was completed with a Banarasi silk dupatta and a veil cascading into a dramatic train, creating a picture of timeless elegance.

Adding to her regal appearance were heirloom jewellery pieces passed down through generations, embellished with gold, diamonds, and emeralds.

Each accessory, from the choker to the mang tika, contributed to Radhika's majestic presence on her special day.

The celebrations continue with 'Mangal Utsav,' the wedding reception on July 14. (ANI)
The Communist Party of India (Marxist-Leninist) Liberation, Tripura, has announced its support for the 12-hour strike called by the Left Front on Sunday in response to the murder of CPI(M) Zilla Parishad candidate Comrade Badal Shil. On July 11, Comrade Badal Shil submitted his nomination paper as CPI(M) candidate for the South Tripura District Council polls. The next day, July 12, he was attacked by unidentified miscreants. Following the attack, he was rushed to GB Hospital in Agartala and underwent surgery. Badal Shil succumbed to his injuries later that day. The CPI(ML) Tripura State Committee has expressed deep sorrow and extended condolences to Shil's family. The Committee strongly condemned the murder. "Comrade Badal Shil, a CPI (M) Zilla Parishad candidate in Belonia, Tripura, was murdered by BJP goons. He was attacked with sharp weapons and grievously injured by BJP goons while he was on his way to file nomination papers for Seat 4 of the South Tripura ZIlla Parishad on Friday. He succumbed to his injuries on Saturday. The police have yet to arrest any of the attackers. The Left Front has called for a 12-hour bandh in Tripura tomorrow. Red Salute to Comrade Badal Shil!" the CPI(M) had posted on X on Saturday. Meanwhile, the Tripura BJP has accused the CPI(M) of politicising the incident, asserting that the CPI(M) has a history of using violence as a political strategy. BJP spokesperson Nabendu Bhattacharjee assured that the police, under the Chief Minister's directive, are actively investigating the incident and strongly opposed the bandh. "Such an incident is very unfortunate. I pray for the departed soul. I don't know exactly how the incident has happened or who is involved in it. The police will conduct their investigation. We had spoken to the local BJP supporters and accordingly, we also had some information and shared it with the police. We want those who were there as eyewitnesses, whether they are from any political party or local people, to give their evidence to the police. Whoever may be the culprit, the police will take action against them," Bhattacharjee said while addressing a press conference at the Agartala Krishnanagar Pradesh office. "But the main thing is the culture that prevailed in West Bengal, Tripura and Kerala; wherever there was a political clash, CPI(M) was found in the ruling government in the past. Political violence has been introduced by CPI(M) only. They were the only reason and using violence, only they stood in power," he alleged. "Till now, the people of CPI(M) want to create such an environment. They are playing the victim card. In all the states, they are doing the same," he added. In view of the 12-hour strike on Sunday called by Left parties against the killing of a CPI(M) Zilla Parishad candidate, the Tripura government has issued a directive to maintain essential services. It has come to the government's knowledge that the state-wide bandh has been called by the Left Front Party on Sunday, July 14, 2024, in the state of Tripura. In view of this, it is imperative that all essential services under the Government shall function normally on the day of the bandh. All public transport shall ply normally throughout the state, and normal law and order shall be maintained, PK Chakravarty, Secretary, Government of Tripura, said in a memorandum issued on Saturday. He said that any violation of the above instructions by government employees and employees of all such undertakings/organizations related to essential services will be viewed seriously. All concerned principal secretaries/secretaries/special secretaries and heads of departments related to providing/maintenance of essential services are requested to bring the above instruction to the notice of all concerned employees under their administrative control, he added. (ANI)
Tripura Chief Minister Manik Saha, on Saturday, addressed the Extended State Executive Meeting of the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) with a strong appeal for unity and discipline ahead of the upcoming panchayat elections in Tripura. Emphasising the importance of ensuring victory for all BJP candidates, the CM urged the party workers to effectively communicate the development work undertaken by both the state and central governments for the welfare of the people. In his speech, Saha highlighted the necessity of spreading awareness about the initiatives implemented at the grassroots level. He directed party members and workers to focus on connecting with the public, ensuring that the BJP's philosophy resonates with the people. "Highlight all the development works carried out for the welfare of the people and the country. It is crucial to bring these matters to the grassroots level," Saha said. Saha also issued a stern warning against any form of violence, unrest, or unruly behaviour during the election period. He emphasised the importance of discipline and maintaining law and order to ensure consistent victory. "Our workers must refrain from any kind of violence, unrest, or unruly behaviour. Consistency of victory is essential, and our actions must reflect the philosophy of the BJP," he stated. The meeting was attended by many prominent BJP leaders from both the state and centre, including Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan, BJP Coordinator from North-East Sambit Patra, BJP's Lok Sabha MPs from Tripura Biplab Kumar Deb and Kriti Singh Debbarma, BJP state president Rajib Bhattacharya, and Former Deputy CM Jishnu Dev Varma, along with other MLAs, Ministers, BJP secretaries, district presidents, and leaders from various morchas. The state will witness panchayat elections on August 8, with votes to be counted on August 12. (ANI)
A 76-year-old farmer, Hans Raj Sharma, of Ballian Village in Jammu and Kashmir's Udhampur, expressed gratitude to the government and the Agriculture Department for the initiative.

This revolutionary approach to agriculture is taking root in the village of Ballian, empowering farmers like Hans Raj with access to cutting-edge technology.

The massive 500-square-meter polyhouse acts as a protective haven for crops, shielding them from insects and unpredictable weather.

An advanced climate control system allows farmers like Hans Raj to cultivate unseasonal crops, extending their growing season and maximising production.

The Rs 20 lakh polyhouse installation was made possible by a staggering 95 per cent subsidy provided by the government of India's HADP.

This initiative empowers small-scale farmers like Hans Raj by making advanced agricultural technology accessible.

The first crop grown in the innovative polyhouse was a resounding success.

Hans Raj witnessed a "cucumber boom" with an estimated 2-3 kg yield per plant, totalling a staggering harvest from the 1,410 plants cultivated within the poly house.

This translates to a significant increase in both the quality and quantity of his crops compared to traditional open-field farming.

Hans Raj is an example of the program's success and a vocal advocate for the sector's potential.

"My production has increased tremendously compared to open land farming," he said.

He enthusiastically encourages young people to consider agriculture as a career path, highlighting the new modern technologies and government schemes available.

Hans Raj also emphasised the stark difference between open farming and polyhouse farming.

He said that while traditional methods limit yields and profits, polyhouses allow farmers to produce more crops on less land, leading to significantly higher profits.

Earlier last month, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha said that Holistic Agriculture Development Program (HADP) is a game-changer for Jammu and Kashmir's agriculture and allied sector that could address challenges faced by farmers.

Lieutenant General Sinha made the remarks after inaugurating the Litchi Festival and an agriculture exhibition organised by the horticulture department.

Polyhouse farming is a form of agriculture where crops are grown in controlled, indoor environments. These environments are typically made up of plastic or metal frames with transparent walls and roofs.

The use of polyhouses allows farmers to control the climate and protect their crops from pests and diseases. (ANI)
Another fresh batch of pilgrims left for their journey to the Amarnath shrine under heightened security measures on Sunday morning. The enthusiastic pilgrims set out for the holy shrine amid tight security from Panthachowk Srinagar base camp towards Baltal and Pahalgam yatra base camps. To allow pilgrims to seek blessings and connect with their faith, the Shri Amarnathji Shrine Board organises the Amarnath Yatra, which is divided into two routes. The routes include the one that goes through Pahalgam and the other that goes through Baltal. Baltal serves as the camping ground for pilgrims in the Ganderbal district of Jammu and Kashmir. With the Amarnath Yatra underway, the Jammu and Kashmir Police have beefed up the security for this year's pilgrimage following the recent terror attacks. Unprecedented security measures, including electronic surveillance along the entire Yatra route and access control, have been put in place. This comes against the backdrop of the recent terror attacks in the Jammu region, including the terror attack at the army convoy in Kathua and encounters in Doda and Udhampur, which are in the Jammu region. The security for the ongoing Amarnath Yatra, especially around the Jammu base camp of the Amarnath Yatra and the National Highway, has increased. Special nakas and checks are there. Security forces are also using CCTV cameras to keep a vigil on the movement. Meanwhile, Amarnath Yatra pilgrims are arriving in huge numbers at the Jammu base camp and they say they are happy with the security arrangements. This year, the Amarnath Yatra is taking place amid a significant increase in the number of terror attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. On July 8, five soldiers lost their lives and many were injured in an ambush by terrorists in Kathua district. Further, to ensure a safe and efficient movement of the pilgrims and commuters during the holy Amarnath Yatra, the Jammu and Kashmir Traffic Police issued an advisory on July 6 on the National Highway 44, with cut-off timings and clear instructions for the various convoys and non-convoy movements. On Wednesday, the Inspector General of Police of Kashmir, VK Birdi, convened a crucial coordination and security meeting at Nunwan Base Camp to work in close coordination to ensure a safe and secure Amarnath Yatra. This year, the yatra started on June 29 and will end on August 19, lasting 52 days. The devotees of Lord Shiva undertake the arduous annual pilgrimage to the holy cave, which is located in the Kashmir Himalayas. (ANI)
The Odisha government today is set to unlock the 'Ratna Bhandar' (Treasure Trobe) of the Lord Jagannath Temple in Puri after more than four decades to carry out the inventorization of valuables, including pieces of jewellery stored there. Speaking on the re-opening of the Ratna Bhandar, Odisha Law Minister Prithviraj Harichandan said that the Ratna Bhandar would be opened on July 14 and the final approval for opening the Ratna Bhandar was given by Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. "On July 14, Ratna Bhandar of Mahaprabhu Shri Jagannath is going to be opened. The final approval for this has been given by the Chief Minister...All standard operating procedures have been laid down and the government has given the Chief Administrator of the temple the full responsibility to ensure that the entire work is done smoothly under his supervision," he said. He further stated that the inventory work will take place in the presence of a representative from the Reserve Bank of India and a digital catalogue will be made after the counting is done. "We had requested the involvement of the Reserve Bank of India in this and a representative of the Reserve Bank of India will be included in it... After counting the ornaments, we will create a digital catalogue, which will include photographs, their weight and other things like their quality. A digital catalogue will be created with all the things; the digital catalogue will be a reference document," he said. Harichandan also mentioned that there will be repair work carried out in the Ratna Bhandar after the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) gives the go-ahead. He further stated that they will also make a permanent support system that can withstand bad weather conditions for the Ratna Bhandar. The ASI also looks after the maintenance of the 12th century shrine. The Treasury was last opened in 1978. Puri Jagannath Temple in Odisha is known as the land of Lord Jagannath, meaning the Lord of the Universe. Shree Jagannath Temple of Puri is one of the most important temples dedicated to Lord Jagannath, a form of Lord Vishnu, in Puri in the state of Odisha. It is known by many names, viz., the Puri temple, the Srimandira, the Bada Deu1a or simply the Jagannatha temple. (ANI)
TASHKENT, July 14 (Xinhua) -- Uzbekistan's Uranium production has increased by 12 percent in the first six months of this year, according to the press service of the state-owned enterprise "Navoiyuran" of Uzbekistan, the country's sole enterprise for uranium mining.

According to its website, the enterprise's uranium production increased by 112 percent compared to the same period last year. In monetary terms, this indicator for the reporting period amounted to 4.9 trillion soums (about 388 million U.S. dollars), which is 12.3 percent more than last year.

In addition, the net profit of the enterprise increased by 55 percent to 19 thousand soums. During the reporting period, the company attracted investments worth 48.5 million U.S. dollars.

In late May, Uzbekistan and Russia signed an agreement on the construction of a small nuclear power plant in Uzbekistan.

The plant's total capacity will be 330 MW, consisting of six reactors with a capacity of 55 MW each. Rosatom, a Russian state corporation, will act as the general contractor for the construction. Local companies will also be involved. 
The possibility of extremely heavy rainfall has also been predicted in isolated places. Occasional winds at a speed of 45 to 55 km per hour are also very likely.

Further, the BMC also predicted a warning of 3.17 metres high tides at 5:22 a.m. and 3.52 metres high tides at 5: 14 p.m.

Low Tides are predicted at 2.35 metres at 10: 47 a.m. and 1.60 metres at 11:57 p.m.

Additionally, the average rainfall recorded between yesterday morning and today morning is 115.81 mm.

Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department forecast moderate to intense spells of rain very likely to occur at isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Sindhudurg and Ghat areas of Pune today.

https://x.com/Indiametdept/status/1812210876050784628

Previously, the Mumbai civic authority had requested the residents of the city to avoid going out and travelling unless very necessary, as the IMD had issued an orange alert for the city, predicting heavy to very heavy rainfall.

"The IMD has issued an orange alert (heavy to very heavy rain) for Mumbai today. People are requested to avoid going out unless necessary," the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) said in a statement.

An orange alert was also issued for the regions of Thane, Palghar, Raigad, Ratnagiri, and Sindhudurg districts in Maharashtra's Konkan area.

Rain lashed in Mumbai yesterday, causing severe waterlogging and traffic snarls in several areas of the city. Mumbai has been experiencing heavy rains for the last couple of days. As per IMD, the city received 61.69 mm of rain between Friday and Saturday.

The authorities also issued a high tide warning of 3.69 metres in Mumbai at 4:39 p.m. yesterday.

According to IMD, the maximum and minimum temperatures were 29 and 24 degrees Celsius, respectively, yesterday. (ANI)
According to the Haryana STF, "Rakesh alias Kala Khairampuria has been evading law enforcement agencies since he was released on parole in 2020."

Using a fraudulently acquired passport, Rakesh fled the country in early 2023 and operated his criminal gang from abroad, forging alliances with local gangs and carrying out violent incidents.

He had links with notorious criminal groups like the Himanshu Bhau Gang and the Neeraj Faridpuria Gang, said the Haryana STF.

Earlier on Friday, the Delhi Police Crime Branch, in a joint operation with the Haryana Special Task Force (STF), gunned down three shooters associated with the Himanshu Bhau gang.

The encounter happened in the Kharkhoda area of Sonipat, Haryana, by the Crime Branch of Delhi Police and Haryana STF on Friday.

A Delhi Police also got injured during the encounter, but is safe, the police said.

The three shooters have been identified as Ashish alias Lalu, Sunny Kharar, and Vicky Ridhana.

Out of the three killed; Ashish and Vicky were involved in Delhi's Burger King shootout incident. (ANI)
Manorama Khedkar, mother of IAS probationer Puja Khedkar, was issued a show cause notice by Pune Police on June 13 over the misuse of a licenced gun. Pune Commissioner of Police Amitesh Kumar issued a show cause notice to Puja Khedkar's mother after Manorama Khedkar, the Sarpanch of Bhalgaon village in Ahmednagar, was seen waving a pistol during a heated argument in a viral video. A show cause notice issued by Kumar to Pooja Khedkar's mother, Manorama Khedkar, has been pasted, as no one turned up to receive the notice. The notice states that Manorama Khedkar has to respond as to why her gun licence should not be cancelled. She has been asked to respond within 10 days. A case has been registered against her under the Arms Act in the Pune rural police jurisdiction on the complaint of a local farmer who alleged that Manorama Khedkar and others had threatened him. Following a string of controversies, Puja was recently transferred from Pune to Washim district. The Central Government has set up a committee to investigate these allegations. Earlier on Saturday, Puja Khedkar refused to comment on the centre setting up a panel to probe her candidature. Puja Khedkar, who was transferred to Washim from Pune following the allegations, said she was not authorised to speak on this matter. "I am not authorised to say anything on this matter. I am not permitted to speak on this matter as per government rule," she said. The controversy surrounding trainee IAS officer Puja Khedkar from the 2023 batch in Maharashtra, has intensified with fresh allegations against her and her family. Puja is under scrutiny for allegedly abusing her authority and submitting fraudulent disability and caste certificates to qualify for the civil services exam. She was accused of various corruption cases, including unauthorised use of a vehicle equipped with a beacon light and demanding privileges such as a separate office, official vehicle, and staff, which are not typically granted to trainee officers. On Thursday, the central government constituted a single-member committee to verify the candidature claims and other details of Khedkar following a controversy over her alleged misuse of power as a civil servant. The Ministry of Personnel announced in a statement, emphasising that the committee is chaired by a senior officer of the rank of Additional Secretary under the Central Government and that it will submit its report in two weeks. The IAS trainee was also accused of removing the nameplate of a senior official at the Pune collector's office when he allowed her to use his antechamber as her office. Khedkar allegedly submitted fake disability and Other Backward Class (OBC) certificates to clear the civil services exam. Reports claimed that she had also submitted a mental illness certificate. In April 2022, she was asked to report at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Delhi, for verification of her disability certificate, but she did not do so, citing the COVID infection. (ANI)
Amid the row over the National Eligibility-cum-Entrance Test (NEET)-UG exam 2024, senior Congress leader and Rajya Sabha MP P Chidambaram stressed on Sunday that the central government needs to give up all-India examinations, adding that the right to conduct examinations for medical college admissions must be reverted back to states. The NEET-UG exam, held on May 5, 2024, has been mired in controversy, with allegations of cheating and impersonation. In an exclusive interview with ANI, P Chidambaram said, "NEET is a scandal and we have been saying this for the last 3-4 years. Tamil Nadu has passed a resolution in the assembly demanding the exemption of the state from NEET. Each state must have the right to conduct its own entrance examination to select students for the colleges run by the state government. When you have an all-India-level examination, these scandals are bound to happen." Emphasising that this is too large a country with too many candidates writing the examination, he said that the government needs to give up this all-India examination and keep it limited to only central government institutions. "This is too large a country, with too many candidates writing the examination, too many people are interested in exploiting the system... The government needs to give up this all-India examination and keep it limited to only central government institutions and not include states..." he said. Chidambaram also sought Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan's resignation and stated that the latter should take moral responsibility. "Dharmendra Pradhan should resign and take moral responsibility for the system and the leaks in the system," added the Congress MP. The National Testing Agency (NTA), which conducted the exam, has faced severe criticism, leading to several protests and legal actions. The central government, meanwhile, entrusted the Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) with the matter. The central agency's investigation has so far resulted in the arrest of over a dozen suspects, each allegedly playing a role in the leak and distribution of the NEET exam papers. Meanwhile, Congress MP P Chidambaram also spoke about the new criminal laws that came into force on July 1. He claimed that 90-95 per cent of the Indian Penal Code (IPC) and the Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) have been cut and pasted, and 95-99 per cent of the Indian Evidence Act has been cut and pasted. "I have posed somewhere around 40 questions, and none of them are being answered. 90-95 per cent of the IPC and the CrPC have been cut and pasted, and 95-99 per cent of the Indian Evidence Act has been cut and pasted. If the bulk of the law has been cut and pasted, the few additions and deletions that have been made could be done through amendments. Why has every act been rewritten and every section renumbered? This is a mischievous idea that has created utter confusion," he said. The Congress MP further stated that the Congress' Legal and Human Rights Department is trying to hold a conclave by the end of this month on these issues. "All over India, lawyers are protesting and going on a strike in lower courts in Delhi tomorrow. A DMK lawyers' protest meeting has been scheduled for July 20. Congress' Legal and Human Rights Department is trying to hold a conclave by the end of this month on these issues," he said. The new criminal laws, Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, Bharatiya Nagarik Suraksha Sanhita, and Bharatiya Sakshya Sanhita came into effect on July 1 at midnight. The bills were passed in Parliament during the Winter Session last year. Notably, over 140 MPs were suspended from the Parliament, a point the Opposition has continuously targeted the Bharatiya Janata Party for. These new laws aim to replace the Indian Penal Code of 1860, the Code of Criminal Procedure of 1973, and the Indian Evidence Act of 1872. Congress MP P Chidambaram also reacted to the BJP's allegation against Rahul Gandhi that he 'insulted' the Hindu community during his recent address in the Parliament. "Complete rubbish. The bulk of the people in this country, roughly 80 per cent, are Hindus. But we do not wear the 'Hindu badge' on our collars and cream against minorities. We are Hindus, but we can live with other communities, be they Muslims, Christians, or Sikhs. The BJP's guilt is that it thinks that because it is a Hindu nation, only the Hindu religion should prevail and only the Hindu code should apply. The bulk of the people in the country do not accept this. You saw it after the Lok Sabha polls," Chidambaram said. He claimed that the BJP campaigns on an explicit 'anti-Muslim' platform. "They campaign on an explicit anti-Muslim platform. How many speeches of the Prime Minister rail against the Muslims? He called them infiltrators; he said they produced more children; he said that Congress would distribute wealth to the Muslims. It was an explicit anti-Muslim platform, which they campaigned on. Despite this, 70 per cent of the voters did not vote for the BJP. What does it show? Be a good Hindu, be a practicing religious Hindu, but do not use Hinduism weapons to target others," he said. The Congress MP further emphasised that the Congress is not against Hindus or Hinduism and that it wants a secular country. "The guilt is there in the BJP. There are many MPs who do not agree with Mr Modi's position. The Congress says that it is not against Hindus or Hinduism. But we want this country to be a secular one," he said. In his speech in Lok Sabha during the debate on the motion of thanks to President Droupadi Murmu's address, Rahul Gandhi accused the BJP and RSS of preaching and spreading violence and hatred, to which the latter reacted sharply. (ANI)
The Director General of the Kerala Fire and Rescue Department (KFRD), K. Padmakumar, discussed the ongoing rescue operation of a 42-year-old employee on Sunday. The man had gone missing in the Amayizhanjan canal near Thiruvananthapuram railway station yesterday morning. Padmakumar stated that while rescue operations are ongoing, it will take time to retrieve the body due to the excessive garbage in the canal, which makes diving difficult. He said, "This entire area is under the railway line. There is a large network of old canals inside. Our scuba divers have dived 60 metres deep, but it is difficult to go further because it risks their lives." He further explained, "There are still 80 metres left. It's difficult to ask them to proceed because the area has solidified over the years. We entered from one end for 60 metres, and now we will try to enter from the other end. Each inch forward is challenging because the area is covered with mud and sludge. We assume the body is buried deep and are trying our best to recover it." Vimal Govind, CEO of Genrobotic and Innovation, part of the team searching for the employee's body, said their team has been making constant efforts but drainage issues have made it difficult. He noted, "We have deployed a rover to search for the body. The fire and rescue teams are also conducting operations. Right now, there is a lot of waste in the drainage, making it difficult to clear." He added that they expect the body to be nearby and hope to find it once the garbage is cleared. "We expect the body to be somewhere close. The main challenge is clearing the garbage. We will have to retrieve the body manually. The NDRF and fire and rescue officials are conducting the search for the missing man." The scuba divers have exited the tunnel but have not been able to find the body. Earlier, a casual cleaning staff member went missing in the Amayizhanjan canal in Thiruvananthapuram. Identified as Joy, he was working for the city's municipal corporation and cleaning the canal when he went missing due to a sudden flow of water caused by heavy rains. The garbage-filled canal has made the rescue operation difficult. Scuba divers, fire rescue officials, and robots were deployed inside the tunnel to search for the body yesterday (ANI).
The Congress party has named party MP Gaurav Gogoi as the deputy leader and K Suresh as the Chief Whip in the Lok Sabha. Congress MPs Manickam Tagore and Md Jawaid will serve as whips of the party. In this regard, a formal letter has been sent to Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla by Congress leader Sonia Gandhi. Party MP KC Venugopal took to 'X' and provided information about the fresh appointments. https://x.com/kcvenugopalmp/status/1812375870096482721?t=TkPJJngEDt7pTI4Wu34M-w&s=08 "Hon'ble CPP Chairperson Smt. Sonia Gandhi ji has written to the Hon'ble Lok Sabha Speaker informing him about the appointment of the Deputy Leader, Chief Whip, and two Whips for the Congress Party in the Lok Sabha. Deputy Leader: Shri @GauravGogoiAsm, Chief Whip: Shri @kodikunnilMP, Whips: 1. Shri @manickamtagore and 2. @DrMdJawaid1. Congratulations to the new appointees," he wrote in a post on 'X. The Congress MP also expressed confidence that the party, along with its allies in the INDIA bloc, would champion the people's causes in the Lok Sabha. "Guided by LOP Shri @RahulGandhi ji, the Congress and INDIA parties will energetically champion the people's causes in the Lok Sabha," he added. Gaurav Gogoi represents Assam's Jorhat constituency in the 18th Lok Sabha. He was pitted against the Bharatiya Janata Party's (BJP) Topon Kumar Gogoi. K Suresh is currently the longest-serving Lok Sabha MP, as he has remained MP for 29 years. Suresh was first elected to the Lok Sabha in 1989, and thereafter, he won consecutively in the 1991, 1996, and 1999 general elections to the Lok Sabha from the Adoor constituency for four straight terms. Suresh, who won his eighth Lok Sabha election from Mavelikkara (Kerala) in the 2024 general elections, has represented the seat four times in the past. He is the working president of the Kerala Pradesh Congress Committee (KPCC) and was the chief whip of the Congress Parliamentary Party in the 17th Lok Sabha. The Mavelikkara MP was also nominated for the post of Deputy Speaker in the Lok Sabha. Later, the INDIA bloc decided to field him for the post of Speaker after the BJP-led National Democratic Alliance (NDA) refused to accept the opposition INDIA bloc's demand that the Deputy Speaker's position be left for the Opposition in exchange for its support for the NDA nominee. However, the NDA, which commands 293 MPs in the 543-member Lok Sabha, was able to demonstrate its clear majority to ensure that Om Birla returns to the chair he held in the 17th Lok Sabha. Earlier, the INDIA bloc appointed Congress MP Rahul Gandhi as the Leader of Opposition (LoP), ending the 10-year spell of no LoP in the Lower House since 2014. Lok Sabha did not have a Leader of Opposition in the last 10 years because no political party, other than the ruling party, was able to secure the minimum number of Lok Sabha seats required to nominate a Leader of the Opposition. In the 2019 Lok Sabha Elections, the Congress emerged as the second-largest party with 52 seats. This was three short of the requisite numbers. In the 2014 Lok Sabha polls, the Congress, again the second largest party, won 44 Lok Sabha seats -- way below the mark. After the 2024 Lok Sabha Polls, the Congress emerged as the second-largest party in the election and improved its tally to 100, from 52 in the 2019 Lok Sabha poll. The total tally of the INDIA bloc stood at 234. (ANI)
After the Supreme Court ruled on June 10 that a Muslim woman is entitled to claim maintenance after divorce, National Commission for Women (NCW) Chairperson Rekha Sharma welcomed the decision and stated that all personal laws related to women should be equal across all religions. Speaking to ANI, Rekha Sharma said, "I always say that women's rights should be universal and not determined based on religion. All personal laws related to women should be equal across all religions. Under the Hindu Marriage Act, you get alimony after divorce, so why should a Muslim woman not get it? I welcome what the Supreme Court has said." The Supreme Court on June 10 ruled that a divorced Muslim woman is entitled to seek maintenance from her husband under Section 125 of the Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC), asserting that any discrimination against Muslim women in matters of alimony under the secular laws of the country would be regressive and against gender justice and equality. Earlier, the NCW chief wholeheartedly welcomed the Supreme Court's landmark ruling, stating that the decision is a significant step towards ensuring gender equality and justice for all women, regardless of their religion. The NCW Chairperson emphasised that the decision reinforces the principle that no woman should be left without support and protection under the law. The NCW remains committed to advocating for women's rights and ensuring that justice prevails for every woman in India, she emphasised. Rekha Sharma also addressed the "lewd" comment incident that occurred earlier regarding a picture of the widow of Kirti Chakra recipient Captain Anshuman Singh. NCW chief Rekha Sharma said, "It was a very derogatory comment that we saw on social media, and we immediately took suo motu cognizance of it. The police have filed an FIR against this person. However, the individual is most likely from Pakistan." "Many such comments are being made, and we are taking those comments very seriously and urging the police to file FIRs in those cases as well," she added. Delhi Police acknowledged the National Commission for Women's (NCW) letter to the Delhi Commissioner of Police, demanding the arrest of the man and submission of a detailed report to the panel within three days. The police said a complaint was received from the National Commission for Women, alleging that a social media user had made an extremely lewd and derogatory comment on a picture of the widow of a late soldier. Taking cognizance of the complaint and after a preliminary examination of its contents, a case FIR under Sections 79, BNS-2023, and Section 67 of the IT Act 2000 has been registered at the Police Station Special Cell, and an investigation is underway. Captain Anshuman Singh, a doctor, was posted with the 26 Punjab as a medical officer in the Siachen Glacier area. On the night of July 19, 2023, there was a fire incident at an Indian Army ammunition dump at the camp where he was posted. Captain Singh saw a fibreglass hut engulfed in fire and immediately acted to rescue four to five individuals trapped inside. He went inside the medical investigation room, which was also on fire, to retrieve the critical medical aid box but could not make it out due to heavy fire amid strong winds. He was awarded the Kirti Chakra posthumously. Captain Singh's wife, Smriti, and his mother received the award from President Droupadi Murmu. (ANI)
Amid heavy rain and thunderstorms in many parts of Maharashtra, the Kamwari River in the Bhiwandi area of Thane is overflowing, causing water to enter houses of people living near the banks. Knee-deep water has filled the houses of people living in the Sultania Gali slum area near the Kamwari River in Bhiwandi, with many people being displaced from their homes due to the rise in river water level. According to the residents of the area, till now, no official from the Bhiwandi Municipal Corporation has reached out to inquire about the flood situation, which is causing problems for people living here. "No one from the municipality comes here. There is garbage everywhere. Every year, our house gets flooded because the Bhiwandi Municipal Corporation does not clean the drains," said one resident. "We bear a lot of losses. For two years, they haven't cleaned the drains; let it be the river. No one from the municipality comes here, and no work is done in the alleyway," said another. Another resident from the area said that the river hasn't been clean for 20 years, even though funds were allotted for it. "No one from the municipality has ever visited. For the last 20 years, the river hasn't been clean. There were a lot of funds allotted for cleaning the river but nothing has been done. No one bats an eye on this issue; if they focus on the issue, then there won't be this much water. Every year, it's the same thing," he said. The people of the area also demand that the Maharashtra Government as well as the Bhiwandi Municipal Corporation fully compensate them for the losses they bore due to the rise in water. Today, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has also forecast moderate to intense spells of rainfall in isolated places in the districts of Mumbai, Sindhudurg and Ghat in Pune. (ANI)
The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) strongly condemned the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) recent attempts to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees allegedly held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. NSUI President Varun Choudhary has spoken out against the malicious allegations by the ABVP, highlighting their "history of violence and misdirection". Varun Choudhary stated, "This is a clear attempt by the ABVP to shift focus from real issues like the NEET, NET, and NTA scams. ABVP has consistently indulged in violence across Indian campuses. At the University of Delhi, they have repeatedly resorted to violence, including thrashing and threatening professors. These actions are not only condemnable but also reveal their true intent to mislead students and cover up their own malpractices." In his detailed statement, titled "Our Response to ABVP's Diversion Tactics", Choudhary elaborated, "The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) condemns the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) attempts to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. ABVP's fabricated violence, attacks on idols, and production of counterfeit degrees are efforts to mislead students and shift focus from their malpractices. ABVP is known for spreading violence and threatening teachers and students on campuses across India. At the University of Delhi, the ABVP has thrashed and threatened professors in multiple incidents. They never address issues like the NEET, NET, or NTA scams; instead, they act as a safety valve for the BJP government. NSUI is committed to truth, justice, and transparency, focusing on the real issues affecting students. We believe in addressing genuine student concerns and will continue to do so, stated an official release by the NSUI. "We urge authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into the fake degree scandal at DUSU, ensuring those responsible are held accountable. Our students deserve representatives with integrity, not those with fake degrees and marksheets," it read. (ANI)
Participating in the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' programme, Union Minister Amit Shah on Sunday said that Indore, which is known for its cleanliness, food and good governance will also be known as green city after planting 11 lakh saplings in a day under the campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' started by PM Modi. Last month, on the occasion of World Environment Day, Prime Minister Narendra Modi started a campaign 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' and called upon everyone, in India and across the world, to plant a tree in the coming days as a tribute to their mother. Addressing the gathering here on Sunday, Amit Shah said, "The whole country will witness when 11 lakh saplings will be planted here in Indore. Today every person across the country will plant a tree in the name of his mother and pay respect to his mother and Mother Earth." "I have come to Indore, a city that is known across the country for cleanliness, food, good governance and cooperation. From today onwards, Indore will also be known after the plantation of saplings in the name of the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam program," he added. The Home Minister praised the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign and said people are greeting their mothers and Mother Earth simultaneously. "When PM Modi began 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign, nobody knew that it would become a revolution. Now everyone is planting a sapling and greeting both their mothers and Mother Earth simultaneously," Shah further stated. He said Indore which has already become a smart city, metro city, clean city and modern education hub, will also be known as a green city. "Indore has already become a smart city, it has also become a metro city, a clean city, a modern education hub and now Indore will be known as a green city," Shah further said. Actor Randeep Hooda was also present at the event in Indore. The Home Minister praised his work in the recent movie 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar.' The film based on the life of Vinayak Damodar Savarkar, presents a detailed biographical sketch of Savarkar from his childhood, including the key events from his life, often in a near-worshipful tone towards its central character. Taking to social media platform X, the Home Minister said that a world record will be created in Indore after planting 11 lakh saplings in a day under the campaign. "Today is a special day when Indore residents are going to create a world record by planting 11 lakh saplings. Under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Nam campaign started by Prime Minister Narendra Modi ji, I will also plant trees in the BSF campus of Revati Range in Indore," he posted. "Environmental protection has been one of the biggest priorities of the Modi government and the government has made tree plantation a matter of public awareness. Also, this afternoon I will inaugurate 55 Prime Minister Colleges of Excellence in all the districts of Madhya Pradesh," Shah further stated. Earlier in the day, Amit Shah offered prayers at the Pitreshwar Hanuman Mandir in Indore, Madhya Pradesh. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav was also present with him. Later in the day, Amit Shah will inaugurate 55 Excellence Colleges in 55 districts of the state. After that, the Union Minister will reach Atal Bihari Art and Commerce College, where he will inaugurate the 55 Excellence Colleges for 55 districts in the state. Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had called for planting 140 crore trees across the country in the name of 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' on World Environment Day. Under this, Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav has pledged to plant 5.5 crore trees in Madhya Pradesh. On June 5, PM Modi launched the 'Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam' campaign to commemorate 'World Environment Day.' He planted a Peepal tree sapling at Buddha Jayanti Park in Delhi. He was accompanied by Union Environment Minister Bhupender Yadav and Delhi's Lieutenant Governor Vinai Kumar Saxena. (ANI)
MOGADISHU, July 14 (Xinhua) -- At least four people were killed and 42,000 others displaced by recent armed clashes between local clans in the town of Luuq in southern Somalia, the United Nations relief agency said on Sunday.

The UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA) said the three-day fighting that started on July 5 in the Gedo region was caused by a dispute over land ownership.

"The displaced people were not only caught up in the crossfire but also were targeted in some cases due to their clan affiliation. Some of them faced secondary displacement due to fear of being directly affected," the OCHA said in its latest update released in the Somali capital of Mogadishu.

The OCHA said some calmness has been observed since July 8 as the armed clashes ceased, though tensions remain high.

It said access to the displaced populations in some areas is restricted due to possible attacks from non-state armed actors, including militiamen from the conflicting parties.

The UN agency said the conflict paralyzed the ongoing delivery of humanitarian services, including health, nutrition, and water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH) interventions.

Conflicts over land and revenge killings have been fueling inter-clan violence in Somalia for years, instilling widespread fear among the populace, with minimal efforts visible to mitigate the violence, leading to numerous fatalities, according to residents.

The OCHA said the burnt-down market will have a significant economic impact, as many people have lost their livelihoods and may face food insecurity.

"Initial assessment by humanitarian partners on the ground indicate that the displaced communities, especially women, children, elderly, and persons with disabilities, are facing critical conditions and urgent needs of humanitarian assistance, including temporary shelters, health services, clean water, and provision of food," the OCHA said. 
The All India Muslim Personal Law Board on Sunday said that they will challenge the Supreme Court latest verdict, allowing divorced women to claim maintenance after the period of "Iddat". The board will also challenge the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) law passed in Uttarakhand. The All India Muslim Personal Law Board held a working committee meeting today in which various issues were discussed. Syed Qasim Rasool Ilyas, spokesperson for the board, stated that in the meeting, they have approved eight resolutions. "The first resolution was about the recent Supreme Court judgement. This decision conflicts with Sharia law. The resolution states that marriage in Islam is considered a sacred bond. Islam makes every effort to prevent divorce. The Supreme Court's decision claims to be in the "interest of women", but from the perspective of marriage, this decision will become problematic for women. If a man has to provide maintenance even after divorce, why would he divorce? And if bitterness has developed in the relationship, who will suffer from it? We will consult with the legal committee to work on how this decision can be rolled back," Ilyas said. The Supreme Court on July 10 ruled that Section 125 Code of Criminal Procedure (CrPC) applied to all married women including Muslim married women and they can claim maintenance from their husbands under these provisions. The top court also echoed that time has come for Indian men to recognise the role and sacrifice of 'homemakers' who are strength and backbone of an Indian family and they must provide financial support to her by having having joint accounts and ATMs A bench of justices BV Nagarathna and Augustine George Masih ruled that Section 125 CrPC, which deals with wife's legal right to maintenance, is applicable to all women and divorced muslim female can claim maintenance from her husband under it. Speaking on the UCC, Syed Qasim Ilyas said that their legal committee is working on the process to challenge the UCC law in Uttarakhand. "Diversity is the identity of our country, which our Constitution has preserved. The UCC attempts to end this diversity. The UCC is not only against the Constitution but also against our religious freedom. The UCC passed in Uttarakhand is causing a lot of trouble for everyone. We have decided to challenge the UCC in Uttarakhand, and our legal committee is preparing for it," he added. The spokesperson of the board also highlighted the dispute based on religion in the country, citing the Worship Places Act of 1991. "In our country, before the Babri Masjid incident, there was a law called the Worship Places Act 1991. All the people think that the Babri Masjid would be the last religious dispute in India. It is unfortunate that new disputes are still emerging. We are presenting in court that these disputes should not be entertained under the Worship Places Act. We request the Supreme Court to include the religious act in the latest disputes," Qasim Ilyas said. He also emphasized on the alleged recent increase in mob lynching cases in the country. "The recent Lok Sabha election results clearly show that voters have voted against the sentiments of hatred and enmity. Despite this, cases of mob lynching have not decreased. After the election results, there have been 11-12 cases of mob lynching. This barbaric act undermines the rule of law. If someone has committed a crime, it is the law's right to punish them," he said. At last, speaking on the Palestine-Israel war, Ilyas urged the Indian government to end all strategic relations with Israel and put pressure on it to end war. "The issue of Palestine is also important. Our country's stance has always been clear that we support the two-nation theory. We all know that Israel has illegally occupied the area. Currently, there is a war going on there, and thousands of people have been killed. It is surprising that even now, big countries are supporting Israel. The board has condemned this and expressed that the response of Muslim countries is also not good," he said. "The board urges the government to end strategic relations with Israel and to apply pressure for a ceasefire. Our country should intervene in this matter, just as we did in the Russia-Ukraine war," he added. (ANI)
Rashtriya Swayamsevak Sangh, Akhil Bharatiya Prachar Pramukh, Sunil Ambekar criticised the Emergency imposed by the then Indira Gandhi-led Congress government in 1975 and said that Sangh workers also underwent a lot of struggle and torture during that period. He said such things never happen in a democracy, and the Sangh had also opposed Emergency from time to time. Addressing a press conference in Ranchi on Sunday, Sunil Ambekar said, "The Emergency that was imposed in 1975 was definitely wrong. In a democracy we talk about freedom and independence. Such things should not happen. The Sangh has opposed the Emergency from time to time and the Sangh has also struggled, its workers went to jail. Many workers had to face torture, there was a lot of struggle and I think democracy has been established in our country once again." The RSS leader further elaborated on programmes carried out by the organisation for people of different age groups, across the country. He said that over 24,000 people took part in these events. "Last year, over 1 lakh new candidates had taken training at Sangh...this year, so far, almost double the number of new youth are taking training in the Sangh. So overall it is clearly visible how youth are getting attracted to the ideology of the Sangh, the work of the Sangh and the method of working dedicatedly for the nation," Ambekar said. "The second thing is that we have given the option of joining RSS on the Sangh website...in areas where there is no Shakha, people from those regions join RSS through the website. This option was started in 2012, every year about 1.25 lakh people join it. This year till June end, 66,529 people have joined RSS," he further added. Last week, the Centre announced that 25 will be observed as "Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas"(Constitution Murder Day) to pay tributes to all those who suffered and fought against the gross abuse of power during the period of Emergency 1975. The government said that every year on June 25, the country will remember the great contribution of those who endured the "inhuman pain" of the Emergency of 1975. A notification has also been issued by the Government of India to celebrate June 25 as 'Samvidhaan Hatya Diwas'. (ANI)
Tushar Dedha, a member of ABVP and the President of the Delhi University Students' Union (DUSU), has made serious allegations against members of the National Students' Union of India (NSUI), accusing them of engaging in vandalism and misconduct within the university premises. "NSUI has kept goons in Delhi University. Vice President of NSUI, sat in his office last night and consumed liquor. After that 30-40 people first broke the glass of the room of the Joint Secretary of DUSU, then broke the glass of the room of the Secretary of DUSU and after that, they entered my office and broke the Ram temple in my office," DUSU President Tushar Dedha claimed. He further said that the complaint will also be raised to the Delhi Police to ensure stringent action in the case. "This attack on DUSU is not just an attack on DUSU, it is an attack on every student of Delhi University. NSUI goons drink alcohol in the office at night, after that they tease girls inside the campus and create hooliganism. I demand from the Vice Chancellor of Delhi University that goons like Abhi Dahiya should be expelled as soon as possible. We will also take our complaint to Delhi Police and get the strictest action possible against them," Dedha said. Meanwhile, the National Students Union of India (NSUI) strongly criticised the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's and alleged that the members of ABVP were trying to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees allegedly held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. NSUI President Varun Choudhary said, "This is a clear attempt by the ABVP to shift focus from real issues like the NEET, NET, and NTA scams. ABVP has consistently indulged in violence across Indian campuses. At the University of Delhi, they have repeatedly resorted to violence, including thrashing and threatening professors. These actions are not only condemnable but also reveal their true intent to mislead students and cover up their own malpractices." In his detailed statement, titled "Our Response to ABVP's Diversion Tactics", Choudhary elaborated, "The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) condemns the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) attempts to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. ABVP's fabricated violence, attacks on idols, and production of counterfeit degrees are efforts to mislead students and shift focus from their malpractices. (ANI)
A total of 2150 students of Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati received their degrees in various disciplines on Sunday during the 26th Convocation Ceremony. As per data, out of the 2,150 students, there are 1,682 male and 468 female students. The graduating students include 932 students from the Bachelors of Technology and Bachelors of Design courses, while 277 students were from PhD & Dual (Masters + PhD). The rest, 182 students, were from the Master of Science (MSc), 54 from the Master of Arts (MA), 34 from the MS (Research) and 16 from the Masters of Business Administration (MBA) discipline. Vedant Gaurang Shah, B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering, achieved the top score in the entire B.Tech./B.Des batch and was awarded the President of India Gold Medal, while Rethyam Gupta, B.Tech. in Engineering Physics, received the Dr Shankar Dayal Sharma Gold Medal. Additionally, Arpita Ray, M.Tech. in Geotechnical Engineering, was awarded the Governor of Assam PG Gold Medal, while Pranshu Kandoi, B.Tech. in Computer Science and Engineering, was awarded the Governor of Assam UG Gold Medal. Padma Shri awardee Dr Sridhar Vembu, Founder and CEO of Zoho Corporation, graced the occasion as the Chief Guest, alongside Prof Gautam Barua, Former Director of IIT Guwahati, who attended as the Guest of Honor. Dr. Rajiv I Modi, Chairman, Board of Governors, presided over the event virtually, while Dr Prahlada Rama Rao, Acting Chairperson, Board of Governors, IIT Guwahati, delivered the welcome address. Presenting the Convocation Report, Prof Devendra Jalihal, Director of IIT Guwahati, said, "We are proud to celebrate IIT Guwahati's 26th Convocation. This milestone reflects the hard work and dedication of our graduating students, who have excelled in their academic and research pursuits. Our institute's achievements in tech transfer, patent filings, and high-quality research publications highlight the innovative spirit of our graduates." Prof Jalihal added, "Our comprehensive efforts, recognized in the NIRF 2023, Times Higher Education Impact Rankings, Nature 2024, and QS World University Rankings 2025, underscore our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. With 11 departments, 9 academic centers, 5 academic schools, and the AAHII Hospital, IIT Guwahati not only strives for academic excellence but also actively fosters a culture of research-driven discovery and societal impact. Our initiatives exemplify our dedication to advancing knowledge, empowering global collaborations, and pioneering solutions that positively transform communities worldwide." Prof Jalihal concluded by expressing his heartfelt congratulations to all the graduates and expressing his confidence in each student to excel in life. Delivering the Convocation address, Chief Guest Dr Sridhar Vembu, Founder and CEO of Zoho Corporation, congratulated the graduating class on their remarkable achievement. He encouraged them, saying, "As you embark on conquering the world with your knowledge and skills, allow me to share insights from my own journey. Indigenizing technology starts with proactively addressing immediate challenges, seeing them as fertile ground for innovation. It requires a steadfast commitment to investing in research and development, fostering a culture of creativity and resilience. Embrace challenges as they arise--they not only test and refine your strengths but also spark breakthroughs that drive significant progress and lasting impact. Remember, the lessons learned from experience are invaluable, guiding your path forward. Together, let us focus on developing our country and building our nation by enhancing our capabilities and expanding opportunities for all." During his address, Professor Gautam Barua, former Director of IIT Guwahati and IIT Guwahati 26th Convocation Guest of Honor, said, "Congratulations to the graduating students on achieving this significant milestone! As you progress, I encourage you to explore diverse areas of interest and deepen your expertise. My best wishes to each of you for achieving continued success and fulfilment in all your future endeavours." Prof Barua added, "Sustaining the momentum of growth and excellence is fundamental to the success of IITs. Our institute is defined by its rich culture and supportive environment, which must be preserved and passed down to future generations of faculty and students." IIT Guwahati draws talented students from all over the country for its undergraduate, postgraduate, and doctoral programmes, with an increasing number of international students. Over its 30-year history, IIT Guwahati has seen over 22,600 graduates. IIT Guwahati is on its path to being recognised as one of the world's top institutes/universities. By implementing NEP 2020 policies, IIT Guwahati is advancing in interdisciplinary, multi-disciplinary, and transdisciplinary research and technology development. This includes offering courses in futuristic areas, fostering a start-up culture, promoting entrepreneurship at all levels, and creating jobs in the Northeast. During the reporting year, IIT Guwahati is spearheading a significant multi-institutional transformational project known as the "Digital Nerve Centre," in partnership with the National Health Mission Assam, TATA Medical & Diagnostics, and the Gates Foundation. With the aim of strengthening and expanding the educational landscape of the entire Northeast region, IIT Guwahati has partnered with the state government to facilitate a range of training and mentoring programmes for both teachers and students at the school level, encouraging them to pursue academic excellence. (ANI)
Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan launched a scathing attack on the Congress-JMM alliance in Jharkhand on Sunday and said that both parties have become machines of lying, adding that BJP will expose the Hemant Soren government. Notably, Jharkhand is among the states where elections will be held later this year. Shivraj said, "Congress and JMM have become machines of lying, they lie every day that they have achieved success even with fewer seats. The same has happened in Jharkhand. If we convert the Lok Sabha results into Assembly results, we have won 52 seats out of 81." Chouhan also questioned the achievements of the alliance during their five-year term, asking what they have accomplished. He mentioned that JMM's manifesto contains 144 promises and Congress's manifesto has 133 promises. He challenged Hemant Soren to explain how many promises have been fullfilled and accused them of deceiving various sections of society. Chauhan said he would expose Hemant Soren government by telling the public regarding the unfulfilled promises of the JMM- Congress. "The promises included promises for the youth, stating that within two years of forming the government, jobs would be provided to thousands of Jharkhand youths in various vacant government positions. Until jobs are provided, graduates would receive Rs 5000 and postgraduates Rs 7000 per month. Hemant Soren did not give employment to even a single youth," he said. He also accused the government of deceiving women, adding that the women were promised that they will be given Rs 2000 per month. "Additionally, promises were made to farmers, including the establishment of a farmers' bank. Under the previous BJP government led by Raghubar Das, Rs 5000 was given under the Mukhyemantri Krishi Samriddhi Yojana, which was discontinued by the Hemant Soren government," he added. The Union Minister emphasized that BJP would present Hemant Soren's promises to the public and hold the government accountable for their actions. (ANI)
BJP leader and Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Sunday said that the recent Assembly bypoll results, in which the BJP suffered a setback, need to be reviewed. The opposition INDIA bloc won 10 out of 13 seats in the by-polls in seven states and the BJP won only two seats. Sai said that there are different political situations prevalent in the country and in a democracy, the decision lies with the people. "There are different situations. In a democracy, the decision lies with the people. The results need to be reviewed," he said. Meanwhile, reacting to the bypoll results, Congress leader Sandeep Dikshit said that if the Lok Sabha election schedule had been advanced 6-8 months, the BJP would not have won more than 120 seats. "Right after the look Sabha elections, we have won 12-13 seats in 4-5 states, which clearly indicates that the BJP's graph has been falling. Had the Lok Sabha elections been organised after 6-8 months, BJP would not have won more than 120 seats," he said. "For the first time, NDA parties are performing better than the BJP in their respective states and the BJP is absolutely relying on them... The BJP has multiple organ failures and is failing in multiple states. It is soon headed to an ICU," he further stated. The results of the assembly by-polls came as a setback for the BJP, where the party won only two of the 13 seats, with the INDIA bloc winning 10 seats and an independent candidate winning a seat in Bihar. Polling took place on July 10 for the assembly seats in seven states, including Bihar, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Madhya Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Punjab, and Himachal Pradesh. The by-elections were held in one seat of Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Punjab, and Madhya Pradesh, two seats of Uttarakhand, three seats of Himachal Pradesh, and four seats of West Bengal. Uttarakhand witnessed the BJP losing both the two seats and saw the victory of Congress. In Badrinath, Lakhapat Singh Butola defeated Rajendra Singh Bhandari by a margin of 5224 votes, whereas in Manglaur, Qazi Mohammad Nizamuddin secured victory against the BJP's Kartar Singh Bhadana by a margin of 422 votes. In Himachal Pradesh, Congress secured a win on two out of three seats, where Kamlesh Thakur from Dehra and Hardeep Singh Bawa from Nalagarh secured victory. Ashish Sharma from the BJP secured victory in Hamirpur. In Punjab, the INDIA alliance's partner, the Aam Aadmi Party (AAP), secured victory in Jalandhar West. In Tamil Nadu also, INDIA alliance partner DMK secured a win from Vikravandi.In all four seats of West Bengal, the All India Trinamool Congress, which is the partner in the INDIA alliance, secured victory and defeated the BJP. In Bihar, neither the JDU of the BJP-led NDA nor the RJD of the INDIA alliance managed to secure a victory. (ANI)
CPI (M) politburo member BV Raghavulu said on Sunday that thousands of crores were wasted on the Polavaram project and demanded a probe against politicians, bureaucrats, and contractors responsible for it. "Thousands of crores were wasted on the Polavaram project during the tenure of Jagan Mohan Reddy government. The waste of money without purpose is shameful. The government should launch a probe against political parties, bureaucrats, and contractors. A committee should be formed to conduct an inquiry into the matter," Raghavulu said at a press conference. He said that thousands of people were deprived of their land, and their rehabilitation was not carried out. Many have not received compensation, which should be paid immediately. "The state government has become part of the union government. Polavaram is a national project, and Chandrababu Naidu should ensure that the project budget is provided by the union government without fail. The entire responsibility for the project's completion should rest with the Union government," he said. On June 28, Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu released a white paper on the Polavaram project in the state Assembly. "The YSRCP called for reverse tendering for the Polavaram project on the day he assumed charge...The cofferdam and diaphragm walls were damaged...Until the diaphragm wall is completed, we cannot construct the ECRF. Gap 1 was washed away for 150 metres due to the Godavari floods... No compensations were paid to the victims...International experts from the USA will check the project in the first week of July," Naidu had said. He had said that 72 per cent of the Polavaram project was completed during the TDP regime, with all pending work finished. "In contrast, less than 4 per cent of the work was completed during the YSRCP regime. A total of Rs 4,167 crore was spent on the construction of Polavaram. A person unfit for politics stepped into power and obstructed the construction of the Polavaram project. Without reviewing any prior reports, he stopped the Polavaram work," he added. (ANI)
The Chief Minister also expressed condolences to the bereaved family and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured.

Taking to social media platform X, Biren Singh said, "I strongly condemn the killing of a CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today."

"His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased soldier, while praying for the speedy recovery of the ones injured during the attack," he added.

This comes after a convoy of security officials in Manipur's Jiribam district was ambushed by insurgents. One CRPF personnel was killed and several others were injured.

Notably, the state of Manipur has been witnessing ethnic strife since May 2023.

The violence erupted in the northeastern state on May 3 last year following clashes during a rally organised by the All Tribals Students Union (ATSU) to protest against the demand for the inclusion of the Meitei community in the Scheduled Tribe category.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi, during his address in the Rajya Sabha last week, reaffirmed that the central government is making efforts to normalise the situation in Manipur.

Earlier in June, Union Home Minister Amit Shah did a holistic review of the security situation in Manipur in a high-level meeting here in the national capital and directed to ensure that "no further incident of violence takes place" in the northeastern state (ANI)
Jharkhand Chief Minister Hemant Soren along with his wife Kalpana Soren, offered prayers at the Maa Vindhyavasini Temple in Mirzapur on Sunday. "Visited Maa Vindhyavasini Dham and prayed for a healthy and happy life for the people of the state by having darshan of Adi Mahashakti Maa Bhagwati Vindhyavasini," Soren wrote in a post on X. The Jharkhand Chief Minister was welcomed by District Magistrate Shiv Pratap Shukla upon his arrival. The Jharkhand High Court recently granted bail to former Jharkhand Chief Minister and Jharkhand Mukti Morcha Chief, Hemant Soren, in the alleged land scam case. Soren was arrested by the Directorate of Enforcement (ED) in January on charges related to an alleged land scam and money laundering. The investigation concerns the purported generation of substantial proceeds through the forgery of official records, involving fake sellers and buyers to acquire large parcels of land worth crores. Soren had resigned as Chief Minister following his arrest in the money laundering case under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Days after he was sworn in as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand for the third time, Hemant Soren won the floor test during a special session of the state assembly on July 8. Hemant Soren won the vote of trust with the votes of 45 MLAs in his favour. He was sworn in as the 13th Chief Minister of Jharkhand in Raj Bhavan, Ranchi on July 4.Hemant Soren was released from the Birsa Munda Jail on June 28 after nearly five months following bail from Jharkhand High Court in a money laundering case linked to an alleged land scam.Champai Soren who had taken over as the CM following the arrest, resigned from the post just five months after taking the oath, setting the ball rolling for Hemant Soren to again take over the role. (ANI)
Haryana Chief Minister Nayab Singh Saini on Sunday met the family of the late Lance Naik Pradeep Nain, who lost his life in the Kulgam encounter on July 6. CM Saini also announced a compensation of Rs 1 crore to the family of the late Lance Naik Pradeep Nain. After meeting with the family, the Haryana CM said, "Pradeep was a brave and strong young man. He lost his life for the country while fighting terrorists in an operation. We and the family are grieving. May God give him peace. Pradeep Nain sacrificed himself for the country. The government stands with the family. Rs 1 crore would be given to the family." In the Kulgam attack, six terrorists were killed and 2 soldiers were killed during the encounter, where the Late Lance Naik Pradeep Nain lost his life while battling with the terrorists. Earlier on July 7, the Indian Army paid tributes to the two soldiers who lost their lives in two separate encounters in Jammu and Kashmir's Kulgam district. "Chinar Corps Commander, Chief Secretary of J-K, DGP J-K, and other dignitaries and all ranks paid homage to Lance Naik Pardeep Kumar and Sepoy Pravin Janjal Prabhakar, who made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty in Kulgam on 06 Jul 2024," Indian Army Chinar Corps posted on X on Sunday. "Chinar Warriors salute the valour and sacrifice of both brave hearts. We stand in solidarity with the bereaved families and are committed to their well-being," it stated. According to officials, two separate encounters broke out in Kulgam district on Saturday. The first encounter broke out between terrorists and security forces in Modergam village. Hours later, another encounter broke out in the Frisal Chinnigam area of the district. Jammu and Kashmir has witnessed a "spike" in the number of terrorist attacks in the past few months. In June, three terrorists were neutralized in an encounter with security forces in the Gandoh, Bhaderwah sector of district Doda in Jammu and Kashmir, ADGP Anand Jain had said. (ANI)
BEIJING, July 14 (Xinhua) -- A program aimed at promoting communication between Chinese and African children was launched in Beijing on Sunday.

A welcome ceremony held at the China National Children's Center saw dozens of children from Namibia, South Africa, Somalia, Uganda and the Central African Republic gather together with children from China.

A variety of activities were organized for the children, including games, dance and martial arts performances, and a group painting session.

In the center's intangible cultural heritage area, they experienced the charm of traditional Chinese culture as they made scented pouches and shadow puppets.

Huang Xiaowei, vice president of the All-China Women's Federation, said that children carry the future and hopes of China and Africa, and that exchanges between children will inject new vitality into the continued development of the China-Africa friendship.

The program is being hosted by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the All-China Women's Federation. Over the next six days, children from China and the five African countries will also visit sites such as the Palace Museum in Beijing, as well as cultural sites in central China's Henan Province. 
During the official tour, the Minister visited forward locations in the Niru- Gurez sector, interacted with field commanders and troops, reviewed the security arrangements and the additional requirements of infrastructure, operational equipment in the forward field formations.

While appreciating the high level of commitment and dedication of BSF troops towards National Security, Nityanand Rai, during interaction with troops in Sainik Sammelan, briefed them about various initiatives being taken by the Government towards capacity building and welfare of troops of all the CAPFs. He also interacted with the Civil Population of the Niru village.

On July 14, a strategic security review meeting was held at Frontier HQ BSF, Kashmir with Senior BSF Officers to assess current challenges and future strategies, with a focus on enhancing intelligence capabilities, inter-agency coordination, and community engagement to ensure holistic security.

The Minister highlighted the significance of community cooperation in maintaining peace and fostering development, urging local leaders and citizens to support security efforts.

"The dedication and bravery exhibited by BSF troops in Kashmir are truly commendable. Their relentless efforts are pivotal in ensuring the safety and security of our nation. The government is committed in providing all necessary support to enhance their capabilities and welfare." Rai said. (ANI)
West Bengal Leader of Opposition Suvendu Adhikari on Sunday alleged that more than 50 lakh "Hindus" were not allowed to vote in Lok Sabha polls and over two lakh were refrained from voting in the by-polls respectively. Adhikari told ANI that he will start a legal battle against this. "Democracy is dead in Bengal. We have started a mass movement today. Nearly 50 Lakh Hindus were not allowed to vote in the Lok Sabha elections. More than 2 lakh Hindus were not allowed to vote in the 4 by-polls held in the state. I am launching a portal. Whoever was not allowed to vote, can register themselves and full secrecy will be ensured. I will start a legal battle also," he said. The BJP leader also held a protest outside the Raj Bhawan against post-poll clashes. Meanwhile, Trinamool Congress continued on its winning spree in the West Bengal Assembly bypolls, clinching all four seats, three of which were earlier held by its rival Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP). The TMC had won 29 out of 42 seats in West Bengal in the recently concluded Lok Sabha polls. Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee said that out of four seats, her party has won back three seats that were formerly held by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and has retained one seat previously held by the TMC. "Among the four seats, three were held by the BJP, both in the Lok Sabha and in the Vidhan Sabha. We have won all three and held on to our seat as well. That means four out of four. I express my gratitude to our people for this victory," Banerjee said speaking to reporters in Kolkata on Saturday after her visit to Mumbai. Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) MP Sukanta Majumdar on Saturday alleged that TMC committed "fraud" in bypolls stating that in some booths the party received "three and four votes". "The way the results have come, BJP has got three votes in some booths, and four votes in some booths, this is fraud in the name of votes...We have complained to the Election Commission earlier also but there was no hearing," Majumdar said. (ANI)
In the BJP Working Committee meeting held in Lucknow, National President JP Nadda said that the Congress has become a "parasitic party" that needs the support of other regional parties to stand in public. He termed the Congress party a "parasite" and said they stand on the support of regional parties and later destroy them. Addressing the meeting, JP Nadda said, "Bharatiya Janata Party is not only the party of the present, but also of the future. The responsibility that is on our shoulders is not seasonal, that responsibility is on our shoulders forever. The 2024 election reflects the fact that if the people of India have supported us for the third consecutive time in 2024 under the leadership of Modi Ji, then it is for a developed India. This future is in our hands. It is our responsibility to handle it carefully." JP Nadda said that the results of these elections have shown that the Bharatiya Janata Party is the only Pan India party, which is present everywhere in the East, West, North, and South. We are the representatives of 140 crore countrymen. On the other hand, other parties, which are capable in the North East, are zero in Central India. If someone is capable in North India, he is not seen in South India. If someone is capable in West India, then no one takes his name in the East. If someone is capable in the Middle, then no one takes his name anywhere in the North, East, or West. "These people used to make fun of us in 1984 for being a party of two members. Today, the same party ruled the country once under the leadership of Atal Ji, and under the leadership of Modi Ji, we are getting the blessings of the people for the third consecutive time," said Nadda. BJP's National President also attacked Congress and said, "I want to ask Congress that the number of MPs who won in all three elections did not even cross our number of 240. After three elections, they could not cross the figure of 100. Congress party has been zero in 13 states. In Gujarat, Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh, where there was a direct fight with Congress on 64 seats, only 2 seats went to Congress and 62 seats went to BJP. Where Congress fought alone, its strike rate was 26 percent and where it fought with other parties, its strike rate was 50 percent. That means Congress has become a parasitic party today. It is not standing on its own feet; it is standing on the votes of others. Today this party is standing on crutches." While discussing the achievements of Uttar Pradesh, JP Nadda said, "Today, UP has become the second largest economy of the country. There was a time when it would take morning till evening to reach Bulandshahr from Delhi. Today, there are floods of motorways in UP; elevated roads, underpasses, bypasses, medical colleges, and AIIMS were built in 10 years. Today, I can say with pride that world-class health systems have been created in Varanasi, Gorakhpur, and eastern Uttar Pradesh. Have you ever thought of these things before 2017? Earlier in the day, the Uttar Pradesh Bharatiya Janata Party started its State Working Committee meeting at the Ambedkar Auditorium of Dr Ram Manohar Lohia Law University in Lucknow on Sunday, the first meeting of the party's poor performance in the 2024 Lok Sabha, winning fewer seats than expected in the general elections. The meeting is a big one-day meet where the BJP's National President, JP Nadda, is expected to be present and participate. Chief Minister of UP Yogi Adityanath, Deputy CMs Brajesh Pathak and KP Maurya and other ministers and workers have already arrived at the venue and started the meeting. The main agenda of the meeting is the passing of political proposals, which will be placed by the working committee, along with tributes to be paid to the party workers and officials who have passed away working for the party. The political proposal will include discussions on the upcoming by-elections for ten seats, a review of the Lok Sabha elections, and the future roadmap following the election defeat. (ANI)
In a shocking incident, a patient was shot dead in a Delhi hospital on Sunday evening, said police. The incident took place at Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital at 4:20 pm. "A PCR call was received from ward No 24 of GTB Hospital at around 4:20 pm, in which information was given that someone shot dead a patient and went away. On receiving the information, our team came here and found that the person who died was named Riyazuddin and he was a resident of Khajuri Khas," Vishnu Sharma, Additional DCP Shahdara, told ANI. "Five empty bullet cases were found. Whether there was any rivalry or not, is being investigated. The probe to identify the acussed by searching CCTVs is underway," he added. Meanwhile, the wife of the deceased told ANI that her husband was shot dead as a result of a mistaken identity. "I met my husband yesterday. After I reached here, I got to know that he was shot dead. They had come here to kill someone else, but mistakenly shot my husband." "There was a person admitted to another ward, his wife used to tell me that her husband was in danger and some people could come to kill him. The shooters had come to kill him but they shot my husband," she added. More information is awaited. (ANI)
Former Chief Minister and MP Basavaraj Bommai said that Karnataka would not have been unified without the efforts of the late former Chief Minister S. Nijalingappa. The significant contributions of the Banajiga community in politics cannot be forgotten. He was speaking at the felicitation ceremony organised by the Taluk Banajiga Community Welfare Association at the Lalateshwar Kalyan Mantap in Savanur town on Sunday and addressed the second gathering of the Taluk Banajiga community. The event honoured the newly elected MPs and awarded meritorious SSLC and PUC students. Bommai said they have taught the community the values of unity and accountability. He was indebted to the community. They have educated the people on how to conduct business, whereas a farmer's job ends with harvesting the crop, and they take on the responsibility of selling it. Often, they do our tasks without realising their importance. The MP emphasized the Banajiga community's significant political contributions, noting that if not for S. Nijalingappa, Karnataka's unification wouldn't have happened. "Nijalingappa united Old Karnataka, Mumbai Karnataka, and Kalyana Karnataka. Nijalingappa was elected unopposed from the Shiggaon constituency and became the Chief Minister from here, showing the deep connection between him and this constituency. The BJP leader praised Nijalingappa's leadership in social life, economic life, and education. He pointed out that the leadership of the 1960s was absent now and stressed the importance of organization to regain such leadership. "Economic, social, and educational leadership in the Veerashaiva communities can eventually translate into political leadership," he said. The former CM acknowledged the significant role of the Banajiga community in establishing the KLE society and urged for its continuous progress across different regions. He assured that he would facilitate government support for building a community hall. "You have given me the strength to serve, whether or not I hold a position. There is no connection between power and service. I will use the strength you have given me for your benefit," he promised". Bommai underscored the importance of remembering benefactors and said their relationship must be continuous, and remembering benefactors is key. In the future, if the community needs any help from me, he would will go beyond his capacity to assist. Even if one of their brothers goes to Delhi, he will continue to serve you in Shiggaon Savanur." The event was attended by former Chief Minister and MP from Belagavi Lok Sabha constituency Jagadish Shettar, Union Minister Pralhad Joshi, Hubballi Central MLA Mahesh Tenginkai, and several prominent leaders from the community. (ANI)
This operation, spearheaded by the Engineering Department with the support of the Enforcement Team of the Estate Office, targeted unauthorised occupations on government property, according to a press release issued by the Chandigarh Administration.

During the drive, multiple unauthorised temporary structures were identified and subsequently removed from the site. This rigorous action has led to the reclamation of approximately 7 acres of land, which had been encroached upon illegally.

"The Chandigarh Administration's commitment to preserving government land and ensuring the city's planned development was clearly demonstrated through this action.

"This anti-encroachment drive serves as a strong message that the administration is dedicated to maintaining the integrity of its lands and preventing unauthorized occupations," said the press release. (ANI)
DUSU president Tushar Dedha filed a complaint at Maurice Nagar Police Station in Delhi against the act of vandalism by NSUI members at his office on Sunday morning. According to the complaint, Abhi Dahiya, NSUI member and DUSU Vice President had been pressurising Tushar to let him embezzle Rs 18 lakh of DUSU Funds, and when Tushar stood up against him, he decided to defame and attack him. With an intention to seriously hurt Tushar Dedha, Abhi Dahiya called more than 40 of his supporters and goons, and consumed alcohol in his office with them while waiting for the DUSU President to arrive. According to the complaint filed by him, at around around 3 AM on July 14, completely drunk, Abhi Dahiya and his supporters attacked and destroyed the office of Tushar Dedha, also breaking a Lord Ram idol and Swami Vivekanand portrait kept in the office. They also looted his watch kept in the drawer and also attacked the offices of Aprajita, DUSU Secretary and Sachin Baisla, DUSU Joint Secretary. Tushar Dedha has filed a complaint against Abhi Dahiya and his accomplices. ABVP member Tushar Dedha told ANI, "The Delhi Police has assured that they will take strict action. In the complaint, we have mentioned damage to government property. Some cash and a watch are also missing". Meanwhile, the National Students Union of India (NSUI) strongly criticised the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's and alleged that the members of ABVP were trying to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees allegedly held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. NSUI President Varun Choudhary said, "This is a clear attempt by the ABVP to shift focus from real issues like the NEET, NET, and NTA scams. ABVP has consistently indulged in violence across Indian campuses. At the University of Delhi, they have repeatedly resorted to violence, including thrashing and threatening professors. These actions are not only condemnable but also reveal their true intent to mislead students and cover up their own malpractices." In his detailed statement, titled "Our Response to ABVP's Diversion Tactics", Choudhary said, "The National Students' Union of India (NSUI) condemns the Akhil Bharatiya Vidyarthi Parishad's (ABVP) attempts to divert attention from the critical issue of fake degrees held by their office bearers at the University of Delhi. ABVP's fabricated violence, attacks on idols, and production of counterfeit degrees are efforts to mislead students and shift focus from their malpractices. (ANI)
After continuous rainfall in the region, a landslide hit the Selfie Dhara viewpoint in Kalimpong.

The highway (NH10) connects the states of West Bengal and Sikkim.

Traffic Police officer Jagdish said that vehicular movement is stopped as the condition of the highway is bad.

He said restoration work is underway and the railway JCB is also being used.

"The NH10 has been in a bad condition for a few days now. The vehicular movement is stopped...The restoration work is underway. The railway JCB is also being used...Seems like the road would be open in 2-3 days," the official told ANI.

The vehicular movement on NH10 was impacted last month also due to adverse weather events.

Restriction or diversion of movement of vehicles was ordered by the Kalimpong District Magistrate along NH 10 due to heavy rains in the upper reaches of Sikkim, rise in water level of Teesta and inundation in few places like Rabi Jhora and Teesta Bazar.

Following this, the Bengal government opened a help desk in Rangpo to assist tourists stranded in North Sikkim.

Due to recent heavy rain and landslides in Sikkim, many tourists from West Bengal were left stranded in Sikkim. (ANI)
Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on Sunday visited the state's pineapple festival held in Delhi and said that the programme was organised as the supply is less than demand in metro cities, thus causing loss to state farmers. CM Sangma added that Pineapple's production of Meghalaya is aroung 40000-45000 metric tonnes. "We started this pineapple festival last year. More than 50,000 farmers cultivate pineapple in Meghalaya. Our production is around 40000-45000 metric tonnes. Yet our farmers are not able to sell their products, and because of that most of the production is wasted. However, in Delhi and other metro cities, the supply of pineapple is less as compared to the demand. So, we thought of aligning our supply with their demand through a festival. It will be a good way to connect our farmers and entrepreneurs with the people. We commenced the Pineapple Festival with this intention," the Meghayala CM said. Earlier, Union Minister for the Development of the North East Region Jyotiraditya Scindia launched the North East Region Agri Commodity E-Connect (NERACE) designed to benefit the farmers of the region and help position it as a hub of high-value horticultural products in the international market. The NERACE app is intended to support agricultural and horticultural products such as spices, fruits, vegetables, pulses, cereals, and minor forest products. In a post on X, Scindia wrote, "Digital India for North-East farmers! Delighted to launch NE-RACE App - an online global platform for North East Farmers, which will play a pivotal role in positioning the Northeast as a hub of high-value horticultural products. It will make the farmers of the region not just the producers but also as a reliable partner in the international agri value chain." Scindia also met the Meghalaya Chief Minister Conrad Sangma and discussed future plans for making Meghalaya more prosperous towards growth. The discussion was focused towards creating Viksit Purvottar (developed Northeast), a vision under PM Modi's Vikshit Bharat resolution. (ANI)
Karnataka Government on Sunday decided to release only 8,000 cusecs of water from the Cauvery River to Tamil Nadu instead of one thousand million cubic meters of water. This decision was taken after an 'all-party meeting' was held on Sunday to discuss issues related to the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee's (CWRC) at Vidhana Soudha in Bengaluru, Karnataka. The meeting was attended by Chief Minister Siddaramaiah, Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, BJP leader CT Ravi, and other prominent leaders of the state. After an all-party meeting at Vidhana Soudha, Karnataka CM Siddaramaiah said "Today an all-party meeting took place in which Deputy CM DK Shivakumar, BJP leaders and Mysuru basin leaders were present. They opined that we should not release water and appeal before CWMA. Mohan Katarki, a member of the legal team suggested that considering the present situation, we can release 8,000 cusecs of water and if rain comes we will increase the number. This decision has been taken in the meeting" Meanwhile, CM Siddaramaiah in a press conference said, "The collective opinion is that we can't leave 1 TMC water to Tamil Nadu every day. Second is that we have to appeal before the court as we can't leave 1 TMC water and we have decided to leave 8,000 cusecs every day to Tamil Nadu." On the issue, Karnataka Deputy CM DK Shivakumar said, "At a very early stage, the regulatory authority had conducted a meeting. They have decided that one thousand million cubic (TMC) of water has to be given. We have decided to release 8,0000 cusecs. We have a 30% shortage of water. We will appeal before the monitoring committee. We have to respect the decision and protect the interests of our farmers also." Earlier in March 2024, Bengaluru was gripped by a severe water crisis, as many as 7,082 villages across Karnataka and 1,193 wards, including in Bengaluru Urban district, were vulnerable to drinking water crisis in the coming months as per an assessment made by the government as of February 10. A report by the revenue department has identified the majority of villages in Tumakuru district (746) and most wards in Uttara Kannada as staring at a grave water crisis in the days ahead. In the Bengaluru Urban district, 174 villages and 120 wards have been shown to be vulnerable. (ANI)
The U.S. Commission on International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) again has recommended that the State Department designate Pakistan as a Country of Particular Concern (CPC), citing the countrys blasphemy laws as a prime source religious freedom violations.

The U.S. State Department does not accept all USCIRF recommendations in its annual designation of countries that practice or tolerate egregious religious freedom violations, but it has designated Pakistan as a CPC every year since 2018.

Pakistan continues to witness widespread abuses of religious freedom, including blasphemy laws, forced conversions of minority girls, and targeted violence against religious minorities, according to the 2024 USCIRF report.

The blasphemy laws, particularly Sections 295-A, B, and C of the Pakistan Penal Code, have been criticized for broad and vague provisions often misused to settle personal scores or target people of minority religions in the 96-percent Muslim country. The USCIRF report documents numerous cases of individuals, including Christians, Hindus and Ahmadis, being falsely accused and imprisoned under these laws.

The mere accusation of blasphemy can lead to mob violence, extrajudicial killings, and mass protests, creating a climate of fear and intimidation, the USCIRF noted. The recent high-profile case of Zohaib Masih, a young Christian who was wrongfully detained and tortured on false blasphemy charges, exemplifies the ongoing misuse of these laws, it stated.

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The report also highlighted forced conversions, particularly affecting young Christian and Hindu girls who are abducted, forcibly converted to Islam, and married off to their abductors. These incidents often go unpunished due to societal and institutional biases.

In addition, the USCIRF report pointed to numerous instances of targeted violence against religious minorities. Attacks on places of worship, including churches, temples, and Ahmadi mosques, continue to be a serious concern. The lack of adequate government response and protection for these communities exacerbates the situation, it noted.

The USCIRF urged the U.S. State Department to designate Pakistan as a CPC, which would subject the country to potential sanctions and other diplomatic measures aimed at improving religious freedom conditions. The commission also recommended increased U.S. support for civil society organizations working to promote religious tolerance and human rights in Pakistan.

In the most recent CPC designations, Pakistan joined Burma, the Peoples Republic of China, Cuba, Eritrea, Iran, the Democratic Peoples Republic of Korea, Nicaragua, Russia, Saudi Arabia, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan on the list of the countries that most practice or tolerate violations of religious freedom.

The Pakistani government has often dismissed such reports as biased and politically motivated. USCIRF insisted, however, that its findings are based on thorough investigations and credible sources, urging Pakistan to undertake significant legal and policy reforms to address the violations.

The USCIRF recommendation drew reactions from international and domestic observers as church leaders and rights organizations welcomed the report, calling for immediate action to protect religious minorities in Pakistan. Church of Pakistan President Azad Marshall said that the report adequately reflects the grim situation of religious minorities in Pakistan.

The international community should not only push Pakistan to address these issues but also support it in any way possible, Marshall told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News. We want a secure, free and fair environment for religious minorities in Pakistan, and it is the responsibility of the state to fulfill this constitutional duty.

Pakistani officials, however, criticized the USCIRF recommendation, arguing that it overlooks the efforts made by the government to promote interfaith harmony and protect minority rights.

We are committed to ensuring the safety and rights of all our citizens, said a spokesperson for Pakistans Ministry of Religious Affairs. We reject any biased assessments that ignore our progress.

Samson Salamat, chairman of advocacy group Rawadari Tehreek (Movement for Equality), rejected the governments stance, saying that repeated acts of mob violence in the name of Islam and continued persecution of minorities contradicted the government narrative.

The USCIRFs recommendation to designate Pakistan as a Country of Particular Concern underscores the urgent need for addressing severe religious freedom violations in the country, Salamat told Christian Daily International-Morning Star News.

He said that there has been alarming increase in blasphemy allegations in recent years. This has also resulted in violent attacks on Christian settlements and individuals, he added.

Spike in Blasphemy Cases

Hundreds of people in Pakistan were incarcerated on blasphemy charges in 2023, many on the basis of a mere accusation without evidence, with 552 detained in jails in Punjab Province alone, according to a recent report by Lahore-based Center for Social Justice (CSJ).

Moreover, at least 103 people have been charged with blasphemy between January and June of this year, it noted.

Government data submitted to the U.N. Human Rights Committee presented an exponential increase in blasphemy cases over four years  a 30 percent jump from 2019 to 2020, and a further spike of 62 percent from 2021 to 2023, according to the report. The government report acknowledged that 53 percent of all complaints were false allegations (398).

The government data about complaints from 2018 to 2023 acknowledged that the conviction rate under blasphemy laws was around 1 percent, with seven acquittals against every single conviction. Nevertheless, all convictions so far have been overturned by the high courts and supreme courts of Pakistan, indicating that even 1 percent of convictions lacked merit.

Muslims accounted for 98.40 percent of those accused of blasphemy, the report stated.

About 100 persons have been killed in connection with blasphemy allegations since 1987, including 63 Muslims, 26 Christians, seven Ahmadis, one Hindu, one Buddhist, and the religion of two persons was not known.

The CSJ report also noted the upsurge in religiously-motivated killings and lynching in the past two years.

In 2023, at least six persons or individuals were killed by private persons after the alleged blasphemy accusations, the report added. Along with two extrajudicial killings, another three persons alleged of blasphemy died in jail between June 2023 and 2024. Hence, a total of 11 persons alleged of blasphemy have lost their lives in the past 18 months, including the latest incident in Madyan, Swat.

The CSJ report also criticized giving the Federal Investigation Agency powers to investigate cybercrimes related to blasphemy laws, as well as empowering anti-terrorism courts to prosecute cases under Section 295-A of the Pakistan Penal Code.

This has resulted in abuse of authority and miscarriage of justice, the report stated. Therefore, an exponential increase in the number of alleged blasphemy cases with FIA. On the other hand, the perpetrators of mob violence in particular get away with through the Anti-Terrorism Act of 1997.

Pakistan ranked seventh on Open Doors 2024 World Watch List of the most difficult places to be a Christian, as it was the previous year.
Congress leader Priyanka Gandhi Vadra has condemned the attack on a convoy of security officials in Manipur's Jiribam on Sunday, in which one CRPF personnel was killed. She questioned when the central government and Prime Minister Narendra Modi would take action to resolve the ethnic conflict in the state. "The violence that began on May 3 last year continues to this day. A state has completely disintegrated. When will the central government and the Prime Minister wake up from their sleep?" Priyanka Gandhi Vadra said in a post on X. She also expressed her prayers for the speedy recovery of the three injured soldiers, saying, "The news of the killing of a soldier in the attack on the CRPF convoy in Manipur is extremely sad. May God grant peace to the departed soul. My deepest condolences to the bereaved family. I pray for the speedy recovery of the three injured soldiers." Congress leader and former Deputy Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Sachin Pilot, also paid tribute to the fallen soldier. "I pay my heartfelt tribute to the fallen soldier in the cowardly attack on the CRPF convoy in Manipur. May God give place to the departed soul at his holy feet and provide a speedy recovery to the injured soldiers," Pilot said in a post on X. Earlier, Manipur Chief Minister N Biren Singh "strongly condemned" the attack in Jiribam, which resulted in the death of one CRPF personnel on Sunday. The Chief Minister also extended his condolences to the bereaved family and wished for the speedy recovery of the injured. "I strongly condemn the killing of one CRPF personnel in an attack carried out by an armed group, suspected to be Kuki militants, in Jiribam district today," Biren Singh said in a post on X. "His supreme sacrifice in the line of duty shall not go in vain. I further extend my sincere condolences to the bereaved family of the deceased soldier, while praying for the speedy recovery of those injured during the attack," he added. A convoy of security officials was ambushed by insurgents in Manipur's Jiribam district on Sunday. One CRPF personnel was killed and several others were injured. Notably, the state of Manipur has been witnessing ethnic strife since May 2023. (ANI)
During the visit, the Kazakh delegation not only witnessed the training activities there, but also the infrastructure as well.

Sharing the pictures of the delegation's visit in Bakloh on X on Saturday, the Indian Army wrote, "Kazakhstan Army Delegation Visits Special Forces Training School. A six-member Army Delegation from #Kazakhstan Special Forces visited Special Forces Training School, #SFTS, #Bakloh."

"The delegation witnessed training activities, infrastructure & skill demonstrations to foster #jointness and interoperability," it added.

https://x.com/adgpi/status/1812157409911021728

It is pertinent to note that India and Kazakhstan share warm and friendly ties.

In a telephonic conversation recently with Kazakhstan President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also conveyed his full support for the success of the upcoming Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Astana.

During the conversation, the two leaders reiterated their commitment to continue to work together to advance bilateral strategic partnerships.

The Prime Minister conveyed India's full support for the success of the upcoming SCO Summit in Astana, and expressed confidence that Kazakhstan's leadership would greatly contribute to the furtherance of regional cooperation.

"Had a good conversation with President of Kazakhstan H.E. Kassym-Jomart Tokayev. Thanked him for warm wishes on the success in the elections," PM Modi wrote in a post on X.

"Reiterated the commitment to advance our Strategic Partnership with Kazakhstan. Conveyed India's full support for the success of the upcoming SCO Summit," he added.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden condemned the violent attack on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday (local time), saying that "there is no place in America for this kind of violence." Speaking from Delaware, Biden described the attack as "sick" and emphasised the need for unity to prevent such incidents. "It's sick; it's one of the reasons we have to unite this country," he continued, adding, "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this; we cannot condone this." Biden also noted that he attempted to contact Trump, saying that the former president is with his doctors and appears to be doing well. "I've been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now. I have tried to get hold of Donald; he's with his doctors and doing well. I plan on talking to them shortly; I hope when I get back to the telephone," Biden said. When asked whether it was an assassination attempt, the US President said, "I don't know enough. I have an opinion, but I don't have any facts, so I want to make sure we have all the facts before I make any more comments." The shooting at former President Donald Trump's rally in Butler is being investigated as a possible assassination attempt, CNN reported, citing law enforcement officials. Biden was attending Mass at St. Edmund's Catholic Church in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, when the shooting occurred. The White House informed reporters in Delaware that Biden was briefed on the shooting by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, and Homeland Security adviser Liz Sherwood-Randall. One of the attendees succumbed after receiving a bullet injury during the shooting at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, CNN reported, citing Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger. The shooter was also killed by the Secret Service, CNN reported, citing a Secret Service source. The district attorney also stated that Trump, who appeared to have sustained an injury to his ear in the shooting, will be fine and was promptly escorted by the US Secret Service. Quoting the official, CNN reported that another spectator at the rally is in serious condition. The gunfire incident, which comes months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupted Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, as reported by CBS News. Trump was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents and taken away in a motorcade. In the videos that went viral on social media, Trump could be seen bleeding from his ear. However, there was no official confirmation in this regard. US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that protective measures have been implemented and the incident is now under active investigation. Guglielmi confirmed that Trump is safe and more information will be released as it becomes available. "An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe," Guglielmi wrote in a post on X. "This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," he added. (ANI)
The shooting incident at former President Donald Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday has drawn strong condemnation from several prominent leaders, including Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Barack Obama. Harris described the incident as "abhorrent" and said that such violence has no place in the US. Shortly after the shooting, the US Vice President shared a post on X, saying, "I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trump's event in Pennsylvania. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured." "We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting," she said. Harris also expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service for their swift response. "We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action," she said, adding that "violence such as this has no place in our nation." "We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," the US Vice President said. The gunfire incident, which comes months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupted Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, as reported by CBS News. Trump was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents and taken away in a motorcade.In the videos that went viral on social media, Trump could be seen bleeding from his ear. Former US President Barack Obama also condemned the incident, saying that there is "absolutely no place for political violence" in the US. "There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy. Although we don't yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasn't seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics," Obama shared in a post on X. "Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery," he added. President Joe Biden responded to Saturday's shooting at the Trump rally, which killed at least one spectator and left the shooter dead as well. "I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. I'm grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety," Biden wrote on X. "There's no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it," he further said. Former US House Speaker Nancy Pelosi, too, condemned the shooting at former President Donald Trump's rally on Saturday. "As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society," Pelosi said in a post on X. "I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former President's rally today are unharmed," the former House Speaker added. Former US President George W. Bush said he is "grateful" that Donald Trump is safe. "Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response," Bush said in his statement, according to CNN. The New York City Police Department is strengthening its presence at Trump Tower and other critical places as a precautionary measure following former President Donald Trump's injury at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, as reported by CNN. According to a representative for New York City Mayor Eric Adams, the mayor has been informed about the event. The NYPD will also strengthen security at 40 Wall Street, Foley Square, and City Hall. Even though Trump rarely visits his former residence, the NYPD is already keeping an eye on Trump Tower in Manhattan. Trump Tower has long been a gathering point for former President Trump's fans and opponents. US Secret Service spokesman Anthony Guglielmi said that protective measures have been implemented and the incident is now under active investigation. Guglielmi confirmed that Trump is safe and more information will be released as it becomes available. "An incident occurred the evening of July 13 at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania. The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe," Guglielmi wrote in a post on X. "This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available," he added. One of the attendees succumbed after receiving a bullet injury during the shooting at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday, CNN reported, citing Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger. The shooter was also killed by the Secret Service, CNN reported, citing a Secret Service source.The district attorney also stated that Trump, who appeared to have sustained an injury to his ear in the shooting, would be fine and was promptly escorted by the US Secret Service. Another spectator at the rally is in serious condition. (ANI)
The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is leading the investigation into the shooting incident at former US President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania's Butler on Saturday (local time). In a statement, the FBI said that the special agents of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office responded immediately and will include crisis response team members and evidence response technicians. The FBI stated that they will continue to support this probe with all the resources of the investigation agency. It also asked people to inform them if they had any information regarding the incident. In a statement shared on X, the FBI stated, "The FBI has assumed the role of the lead federal law enforcement agency in the investigation of the incident involving former President Donald Trump that occurred earlier today in Butler, Pennsylvania." "Special agents of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office responded immediately, to include crisis response team members and evidence response technicians. We will continue to support this investigation with the full resources of the FBI, alongside our partners at the US Secret Service and state and local law enforcement. Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to call our tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI," it added. Donald Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage, The Hill reported. The Secret Service agents surrounded the Republican candidate and escorted him off the stage, with blood visible across his face. He raised his fist towards the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement personnel. According to the US Secret Service's statement, one spectator was killed and another was critically injured and the incident is being investigated. The US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now dead. Hours after the shooting, Donald Trump said that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear. Hours after the shooting, Donald Trump's campaign senior advisers, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, said that the former US President is "doing well" and is looking forward to being in Milwaukee to attend the Republican convention. The convention is set to begin on Monday and Trump is scheduled to formally accept his party's nomination and deliver remarks on Thursday night, The Hill reported. In a statement, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles said, "As was communicated earlier this evening, President Trump is doing well and grateful to law enforcement and first responders for their fast action." "President Trump looks forward to joining you all in Milwaukee as we proceed with our convention to nominate him to serve as the 47th President of the United States. As our party's nominee, President Trump will continue to share his vision to Make America Great Again," they added. Earlier, Donald Trump, in his first account of being shot at during a rally in Pennsylvania, said that the bullet fired at him "pierced" the upper part of his right ear. He also expressed gratitude to the the US Secret Service and law enforcement for their rapid response to the shooting that just took place in Pennsylvania's Butler. He also offered condolences to the family of a person who was killed at the rally and the person who was injured. In a post on Truth Social, Trump stated, "I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured." "It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA," he added. Speaking to CBS News, law enforcement sources said that the suspect was shooting with an AR-style rifle from a distance of 200-300 feet. According to law enforcement sources, the gunman was on top of a shed outside the security perimeter set up by the Secret Service. Speaking to CBS News, US Representative Mike Kelley of Pennsylvania said, "I believe a lady who was next to me was hit, other people were hit." Kelley was standing backstage as he watched Trump speak at the rally in Pennsylvania. US President Joe Biden condemned the violent attack on Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday (local time), saying that "there is no place in America for this kind of violence." Speaking from Delaware, Biden described the attack as "sick" and emphasised the need for unity to prevent such incidents."It's sick; it's one of the reasons we have to unite this country," he continued, adding, "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this; we cannot condone this." (ANI)
KP Sharma Oli is set to become Nepal's new Prime Minister, on Sunday evening, setting him up for his fourth prime ministerial term. Meanwhile, the Oli's Communist Party of Nepal-Unified Marxist Leninist (CPN-UML) and Nepali Congress (NC) coalition are finalising ministerial list ministers. Oli, the CPN-UML chairman held consultations with his alliance partner, the Nepali Congress, in preparing the list of ministers to be inducted into the new coalition government. Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel is expected to appoint Oli, 72, as the new Prime Minister. Paudel on Friday evening had called the political parties in the Nepali parliament to stake a claim for the Prime Minister as Pushpa Kamal Dahal lost a confidence motion on Friday. The President had called for the claim of stake as per theArticle 76 (2) of the constitution. "With the expiration of the deadline set by the President that ends at 5 PM (NST) today, President will appoint CPN-UML Chairman, KP Sharma Oli as the next Prime Minister. No other parties have staked the claim as of now and majority is claimed by UML ChairOli so he will be appointed as Prime Minister. Also, the procedure for the oath as Prime Minister also would be initiated following it," Kiran Pokhrel, press advisor to President confirmed ANI over phone. Oli and Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba jointly signed an application for the President to appoint the UML chief the new prime minister on Friday evening right after the results of vote of confidence. Oli, with the backing of the Nepali Congress and smaller parties on Friday, had submitted signatures of 165 lawmakers claiming majority support in the parliament for the Prime Ministership. As Oli owns the majority, no other parties are obvious to challenge Oli for the post. The Constitution of Nepal mandates a Prime Minister to cross a majority of 138 in the 275 strong House of Representatives to take over as the Prime Minister. Oli became the Prime Minister for the first time in October 2015 soon after the promulgation of the constitution that year and remained in power until August 2016. Right after the general election in 2017, Oli, who was able to usher nationalist sentiment amongst the people siding with China formed a government and remained in power from February 2018 to May 2021. Oli again was appointed as Prime Minister under the constitutional provision of 76 (3) from May 2021 to July 2021 after staking claim as the parliamentary leader of the largest party in parliament. While in power for about three years, Oli had dissolved the parliament twice, which was reinstated by the Supreme Court issuing a mandamus. As Oli prepares to take office for the fourth time, the largest coalition member in the new alliance, the Nepali Congress has finalised the criteria to pick the ministerial candidates. A central work execution committee meeting held on Saturday finalised the criteria tochoose the ministers from the party, informed party spokesperson Prakash SharanMahat. As per the sources, Prakash Man Singh will lead the party on board the government from the Nepali Congress while Bishnu Poudel from UML will take oath as Deputy Prime Ministers after Oli's swearing-in ceremony. As per the party sources from the Oli-led UML, Poudel will be taking over the Finance Ministry. Congress sources confirmed that Singh will be taking over as Minister of Defence. The Nepali Congress and CPN-UML (Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist) has signed an agreement on July 2 to divide 9 and 8 ministries respectively on board the council of ministry. "Both the parties are in close coordination and working on to finalize the first round of ministries. Discussions are being held to finalize as many as 15 new ministers to induct into to be formed new council of ministers on Monday itself," sources from both theparties confirmed. Nepal's former First Lady and the only billionaire in the country is also in the list of possible ministers. As per the Congress party sources, Arzu Rana Deuba, the former first lady and spouse of Former Prime Minister and President of Nepali Congress is pinning for Foreign Ministry. "Party is about to agree to let the former first lady to take the Foreign Ministry provided her interest and diplomatic connections she has with South. Binod Chaudhary, the sole billionaire of Nepal is also in the list of the possible ministers," a senior party leader fromthe Congress confirmed ANI. Along with former first lady Deuba, Chaudhary and Singh, Congress is holding discussion about sending Ramesh Lekhak, Jeevan Pariyar, Ajay Chaurasiya, Chandra Bhandari, Pradeep Poudel, Dipak Giri, Dipak Khadka, Ain Bahadur Shahi, Hridayaram Thani, Arjun Narsingh KC, Ramnath Adhikari, Kishor Singh Rathour, and Tejulal Chaudhary are among the likely ministerial candidates from the Congress. The CPN-UML on the other hand has given authority to party chair Oli to choose the ministers. UML leaders themselves are not sure about who will be the ministers from the party except Bishnu Poudel who is taking over as the Finance Minister. As per the July 2 deal between Congress chief Deuba and UML chairman, Oli, the two parties will lead the government on a rotational basis until the next general elections in 2027. But, the deal has not been made public till date. (ANI)
Congress MP and Leader of the Opposition (LoP) in the Lok Sabha, Rahul Gandhi, condemned the shooting incident during a rally of former US President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, which claimed one life and left Trump injured. Gandhi expressed that he was "deeply concerned" by the assassination attempt on the former US President and emphasised that such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms. Taking to 'X' on Sunday, the Congress MP wrote, "I am deeply concerned by the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. Such acts must be condemned in the strongest possible terms." Rahul Gandhi also wished Trump a quick recovery, adding, "Wishing him a swift and complete recovery." The gunfire incident, occurring months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupted Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, CBS News reported. Trump was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents and taken away in a motorcade. In videos that went viral on social media, Trump could be seen bleeding from his ear. One spectator succumbed to the bullet injuries, CNN reported. Trump, taken away in a motorcade, held up a fist as he sat in the SUV. His motorcade departed Butler Memorial Hospital a little before 9:30 pm (local time), CBS News cited two sources. It was unclear where Trump was headed. Initially, he was scheduled to travel to his estate in Bedminster, New Jersey, before heading to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, which is set to begin on Monday. In a statement, the US Secret Service said a suspected shooter fired multiple shots towards the stage from an elevated position outside the rally venue during Trump's campaign rally in Butler on July 13 at 6:15 pm (local time). The US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now dead. According to the statement, one spectator was killed, another critically injured, and the incident is being investigated. Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the incident, stating he was "deeply concerned" for his friend, Donald Trump. Taking to 'X', PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery." The Prime Minister also condoled the loss of life during the Pennsylvania rally, adding, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured, and the American people." (ANI)
Congress National President Mallikarjun Kharge condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump during the latter's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday and said that he was 'deeply appalled' by the incident. The Congress President also emphasised that such violence has no place in any democracy and civilised society. The shooting incident, which occurred on Saturday during a rally being held by Donald Trump in Pennsylvania's Butler, claimed one life and left the former US President injured. Taking to 'X', Mallikarjun Kharge wrote, "Deeply appalled by the attack on former US President Donald Trump. I strongly condemn this heinous act." He also offered his condolences to the family of the deceased. "Such violence has no place in any democracy and civilised society. As India stands with the American people, we offer our deepest condolences to the family of the deceased," he added. The gunfire incident, occurring months before the 2024 US presidential elections, disrupted Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, CBS News reported. Trump was immediately escorted off stage by US Secret Service agents and taken away in a motorcade. In videos that went viral on social media, Trump could be seen bleeding from his ear. One spectator succumbed to the bullet injuries, CNN reported. Trump, taken away in a motorcade, held up a fist as he sat in the SUV. His motorcade departed Butler Memorial Hospital a little before 9:30 pm (local time), CBS News cited two sources. It was unclear where Trump was headed. Initially, he was scheduled to travel to his estate in Bedminster, New Jersey, before heading to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, which is set to begin on Monday. In a statement, the US Secret Service said a suspected shooter fired multiple shots towards the stage from an elevated position outside the rally venue during Trump's campaign rally in Butler on July 13 at 6:15 pm (local time). The US Secret Service personnel neutralised the shooter, who is now dead. According to the statement, one spectator was killed, another critically injured, and the incident is being investigated.Earlier today, Prime Minister Narendra Modi also condemned the incident, stating he was "deeply concerned" for his friend, Donald Trump. Taking to 'X', PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery." The Prime Minister also condoled the loss of life during the Pennsylvania rally, adding, "Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of the deceased, those injured, and the American people." (ANI)
The shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Cooks, New York Post reported, citing sources. Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, fired shots, one of which grazed Trump in the ear at an outdoor rally in Butler. Thomas Matthew Cooks was planted on the roof of a manufacturing plant located over 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, the New York Post reported, citing sources. The US Secret Service snipers shot him and an AR-style rifle was later recovered. Bethel Park is a village 40 miles south of where Trump's rally was held in Butler. Crooks' motive behind firing on the presumptive Republican presidential nominee is unclear. Donald Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage, The Hill reported. The Secret Service agents surrounded the Republican candidate and escorted him off the stage, with blood visible across his face. He raised his fist towards the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement personnel. According to the US Secret Service's statement, one spectator was killed and another was critically injured and the incident is being investigated. Hours after the shooting, Donald Trump said that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said former President Donald Trump has left the Butler area following the shooting in a rally on Saturday (local time). In a statement posted on X, Shapiro stated, "Under the protection of US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, former President Trump has now left the Butler area. Lori and I are thankful that his team reports that he is fine and we continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery. We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are being treated at this time." He expressed gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded to the incident, protected Trump and worked to bring the situation under control. He stated that the enforcement officials will continue to lead the investigation into the shooting of Trump. In the post on X, he further said, "I am grateful for all law enforcement who responded, protected the former president, and worked to bring the situation under control. Federal law enforcement officials will continue to lead on the investigation into the shooting of former President Trump. Pennsylvania State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting of the other victims." "I have been in regular communication with law enforcement on the ground in Pennsylvania and have spoken with President Biden who offered his full support. As we wait to learn more from the investigations, I am mindful of just how painful and shocking this event is to so many of our fellow Pennsylvanians. I respectfully ask that we treat our fellow Americans with respect and join together to universally condemn the unacceptable violence we witnessed earlier today in Butler," he added. While sharing the US Secret Service's statement on X, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, Anthony Guglielmi, stated, "Here is the latest information from our investigation. We are grateful to the Secret Service team and our law enforcement partners for their swift action. Our thoughts go out to the families affected by this tragedy." In a statement, US Secret Service stated, "During former President Trump's campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13th at approximately 6:15 p.m., at the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased." "US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured. The incident is currently under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of investigation," it added. US President Joe Biden condemned the violent attack on former President Donald Trump at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday (local time), saying that "there is no place in America for this kind of violence." Speaking from Delaware, Biden described the attack as "sick" and emphasised the need for unity to prevent such incidents."It's sick; it's one of the reasons we have to unite this country," he continued, adding, "We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this; we cannot condone this." Shortly after the shooting, the US Vice President shared a post on X, saying, "I have been briefed on the shooting at former President Trump's event in Pennsylvania. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured." "We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting," she said. Harris also expressed gratitude to the US Secret Service for their swift response. "We are grateful to the United States Secret Service, first responders, and local authorities for their immediate action," she said, adding that "violence such as this has no place in our nation." "We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence," the US Vice President said. (ANI)
Several world leaders have condemned the shooting at Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania, in which the former US President was shot in the upper part of the ear. One rally attendee was killed and another was injured. Leaders from various nations wished Trump a speedy recovery and asserted that political violence in any form has no place in society. Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese called the shooting incident at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania "concerning and confronting." In a post on X, Albanese stated, "The incident at former President Trump's campaign event in Pennsylvania today is concerning and confronting. There is no place for violence in the democratic process. I am relieved to hear reports that former President Trump is now safe." Donald Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage, The Hill reported. The Secret Service agents surrounded the Republican candidate and escorted him off the stage, with blood visible across his face. He raised his fist towards the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement personnel. According to the US Secret Service's statement, one spectator was killed, another was critically injured, and the incident is being investigated. Hours after the shooting, Donald Trump said that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that he and his wife were shocked by the apparent attack on Trump and prayed for his speedy recovery. Taking to X, Netanyahu stated, "Sara and I were shocked by the apparent attack on President Trump. We pray for his safety and speedy recovery." UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer said that he is "appalled" by the shocking scenes at Trump's rally and asserted that political violence in any form has no place in society. In a statement shared on X, Starmer stated, "I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally, and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies, and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack." Honduran President Xiomara Castro de Zelaya has offered support to Trump after the shooting incident. Taking to X, she stated, "Violence generates more violence. I am sorry for what is happening in the United States electoral process. My solidarity with Donald Trump." Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said that he is "sickened" by the shooting at Donald Trump's rally and emphasised that political violence is never acceptable. Taking to X, Trudeau stated, "I'm sickened by the shooting at former President Trump. It cannot be overstated -- political violence is never acceptable. My thoughts are with former President Trump, those at the event, and all Americans." Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said that he is "appalled" to learn about the shooting incident at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania. He said that he is relieved to know that Trump is safe and wished him a speedy recovery. "I am appalled to learn about the shooting of former US President Donald Trump at his rally in Pennsylvania. Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail. I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery. My condolences go out to the close ones of this attack's victim, a rally attendee. I extend my wishes for strength to everyone who is horrified by this event. I wish America emerges stronger from this," Zelenskyy posted on X. Offering support to Trump after the shooting incident, Hungarian PM Viktor Orban stated, "My thoughts and prayers are with President @realDonaldTrump in these dark hours." Earlier, Prime Minister Narendra Modi 'strongly condemned' the incident and said that there is 'no place for violence in politics.' PM Modi said that he was "deeply concerned' by the attack on Trump. Taking to X, PM Modi wrote, "Deeply concerned by the attack on my friend, former President Donald Trump. Strongly condemn the incident. Violence has no place in politics and democracies. Wish him a speedy recovery." The shooter who attempted to assassinate former US President Donald Trump has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Cooks, New York Post reported, citing sources. Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, fired shots, one of which grazed Trump in the ear at an outdoor rally in Butler. Thomas Matthew Cooks was planted on the roof of a manufacturing plant located over 130 yards away from the stage at Butler Farm Show grounds, the New York Post reported, citing sources. The US Secret Service snipers shot him, and an AR-style rifle was later recovered. Bethel Park is a village 40 miles south of where Trump's rally was held in Butler. Crooks' motive behind firing on the presumptive Republican presidential nominee is unclear. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) is leading the investigation into the shooting incident at former US President Donald Trump's rally. In a statement, the FBI said that the special agents of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office responded immediately and will include crisis response team members and evidence response technicians. The FBI stated that they will continue to support this probe with all the resources of the investigation agency. It also asked people to inform them if they had any information regarding the incident. In a statement shared on X, the FBI stated, "The FBI has assumed the role of the lead federal law enforcement agency in the investigation of the incident involving former President Donald Trump that occurred earlier today in Butler, Pennsylvania." "Special agents of the FBI Pittsburgh Field Office responded immediately, to include crisis response team members and evidence response technicians. We will continue to support this investigation with the full resources of the FBI, alongside our partners at the US Secret Service and state and local law enforcement. Anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is asked to call our tip line at 1-800-CALL-FBI," it added. Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said former President Donald Trump has left the Butler area following the shooting at a rally on Saturday (local time). In a statement posted on X, Shapiro stated, "Under the protection of US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, former President Trump has now left the Butler area. Lori and I are thankful that his team reports that he is fine and we continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery. We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are being treated at this time." He expressed gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded to the incident, protected Trump, and worked to bring the situation under control. He stated that the enforcement officials will continue to lead the investigation into the shooting of Trump. In the post on X, he further said, "I am grateful for all law enforcement who responded, protected the former president, and worked to bring the situation under control. Federal law enforcement officials will continue to lead on the investigation into the shooting of former President Trump. Pennsylvania State Police will lead the investigation into the shooting of the other victims." "I have been in regular communication with law enforcement on the ground in Pennsylvania and have spoken with President Biden who offered his full support. As we wait to learn more from the investigations, I am mindful of just how painful and shocking this event is to so many of our fellow Pennsylvanians. I respectfully ask that we treat our fellow Americans with respect and join together to universally condemn the unacceptable violence we witnessed earlier today in Butler," he added. A shooting at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday (local time) that injured Trump has heightened concerns about political violence and increased awareness regarding past attacks and assassination attempts against presidents and candidates, CBS News reported. According to a 2008 report compiled by the Congressional Research Service, direct assaults against presidents, presidents-elect, and candidates have occurred on 15 separate occasions, with five resulting in death, according to CBS News. Of the 45 individuals serving as president, 13 have been subject to actual or attempted assassinations. The number does not include the shooting incident that involves Trump. (ANI)
Dr. Alveda King: Praying for Trump, America, Humanity

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Alveda King Ministries

July 13, 2024

ATLANTA, July 13, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- The following statement is released by Dr. Alveda King:

"I grieve today for the hatred that was displayed tonight as an assassination attempt was made on the life of President Trump. I am forever grateful for the brave men and women of the Secret Service. "My prayers are with President Trump, his family and all of America tonight! Deep prayers for everyone bereaved, injured or traumatized at this moment. Pray for America and humanity. Its time for our nation to commit itself to prayer, forgiveness, nonviolence and unity."

Alveda King Ministries is funded by generous individuals like yourself. We have many ongoing projects that help us to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ in a world much in need of His message. Please consider making a tax deductible contribution to Alveda King Ministries.

About Alveda C. King:

Evangelist Alveda C. King, PhD is Chair of the AFPI Center for the American Dream. She is a guardian of The King Family Legacy and is a graduate of Aidan University. She is the founder of Alveda King Ministries (www.alvedaking.com/) and co-founder of She Leads Georgia and Speak for Life.

Alveda is also an acclaimed author, television host, blog contributor and co-producer of The Vision TV Show. Alveda was twice elected to the Georgia State House, a presidential appointee, the recipient of the Presidential Lifetime Achievement Award, Senior Advisor at Priests for Life, senior Advisor Coral Ridge Ministries, Founder of King Legacy Farms, a lifetime member of Cooking Club of America and Optimist International and is a film and music veteran.

SOURCE Alveda King Ministries

CONTACT: Allison Schuster, 630-808-0371, aschuster@americafirstpolicy.com


The North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO) Secretary General has condemned the attack on former US President Donald Trump at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania and emphasised that political violence has no place in democracies. Taking to X, Jens Stoltenberg stated, "I am shocked by the attempted assassination on former President Trump. I wish him a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with those affected. I condemn this attack. Political violence has no place in our democracies. #NATO Allies stand together to defend our freedom & values." US Secretary of Defence Lloyd Austin and US Secretary of State Antony Blinken have also condemned the shooting incident at former US President Donald Trump's rally. Lloyd Austin said that he is relieved to know that the former US President is safe and prayed for him, his family, and everyone affected by the "appalling incident." In a post on X, Austin stated, "The entire Department of Defense condemns this violence, which has absolutely no place in our democracy. This is not the way that we resolve our differences in America--and it must never be. I'm relieved that reports indicate former President Trump is safe, and I am praying for him and his family and everyone affected by this appalling incident." Antony Blinken said that he is "shocked and saddened" by the shooting incident at Trump's rally. He reiterated Biden's statement that "there is no place for political violence" in the US. "I'm shocked and saddened by the shooting at former President Trump's rally and grateful that he is safe. As @POTUS said, there is no place for political violence in America, and we must all condemn it," Blinken posted on X. Donald Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage, The Hill reported. The Secret Service agents surrounded the Republican candidate and escorted him off the stage, with blood visible across his face. He raised his fist towards the crowd as he was escorted away by law enforcement personnel. One of the rally attendees was killed, while two more were critically injured, CNN reported. The gunman was also killed by US Secret Service agents. Donald Trump said that the bullet pierced the upper part of his ear. The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) has identified the gunman involved in the assassination attempt against Donald Trump as Thomas Matthew Crooks. It further said that an investigation is underway into the shooting incident, CNN reported. In a statement, the FBI said, "The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20 of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania." "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI," it added. While addressing a news conference, FBI special agent in charge of the Pittsburgh office, Kevin Rojek, said that it was "surprising" that the gunman was able to fire multiple shots during the rally in Butler. On being asked whether law enforcement only knew (the gunman was on the roof) when shots were fired, is that what you're hearing, Rojek responded, "That is the assessment at this time," CNN reported. He further said, "We're still working through the security apparatus that the Secret Service had in place, what potentially happened." He said that there would be a long investigation conducted on what exactly happened, how the individual was able to get access to the location, and what type of weapon he had. The FBI has termed the shooting at Trump an attempted assassination. Kevin Rojek said, "This evening, we had what we're calling an assassination attempt against our former President Donald Trump. It's still an active crime scene." He said that the FBI has deployed investigative agents, evidence response teams, and other personnel from across the country, according to CNN report. Lt Col George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police stated that the investigation would allow authorities to "take a look at where any failures occurred and what can be done better in the future," CNN reported. While addressing a news conference in Butler, Pennsylvania, authorities said the victims of the shooting have been identified. However, details regarding the incident have not been publicly shared. Lt Col Bivens said that all three were adult men. He said, "We have notified a number of family members, but they have not had an opportunity to notify extended family." He further said that gunshots had been "scattered," and weren't hitting just one location in the crowd, according to CNN report. Meanwhile, Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro said former President Donald Trump has left the Butler area following the shooting in a rally on Saturday (local time). In a statement posted on X, Shapiro stated, "Under the protection of the US Secret Service and with the assistance of the Pennsylvania State Police, former President Trump has now left the Butler area. Lori and I are thankful that his team reports that he is fine and we continue to wish him a full and speedy recovery. We mourn the loss of life and pray for the two victims who are being treated at this time." He expressed gratitude to the law enforcement officers who responded to the incident, protected Trump, and worked to bring the situation under control. He stated that the enforcement officials will continue to lead the investigation into the shooting incident at Trump's rally. (ANI)
In addition, targets used by the air defense system of the Syrian army were attacked.

The IDF said the attack was carried out in response to the launch of two UAVs/drones that were launched in Syria and made their way from Syrian territory towards the area north of Eilat on Saturday. The drones were successfully intercepted.

"The Syrian regime is responsible for any terrorist activity on its territory and will bear the consequences for it," said the IDF in a statement. (ANI/TPS)
Subhash Prasad Gupta, presently serving as India's Deputy Chief of Mission in Hanoi, has been appointed as India's next ambassador to Suriname, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) said in a statement. Subhash Pradesh Gupta is the Foreign Service Officer of the 2006 batch. He is expected to take up the assignment shortly, according to MEA. In a statement, MEA said, "Shri Subhash Prasad Gupta (IFS:2006), presently Deputy Chief of Mission in the Embassy of India, Hanoi, has been appointed as the next Ambassador of India to the Republic of Suriname." "He is expected to take up the assignment shortly," it added. Notably, India and Suriname share close, warm, and friendly relations, reinforced by cultural and people-to-people contacts bridged by the Indian Diaspora's arrival dating back to one and a half centuries, according to MEA. The diplomatic ties between the two nations were established in 1976 with the IndianEmbassy opened in Paramaribo in 1977 and the Surinamese Embassy opened in New Delhi in 2000. Several high-level visits have been exchanged since the establishment of diplomatic ties between India and Suriname. President Droupadi Murmu made her maiden foreign visit to Suriname in 2023, upon the invitation of President Santokhi, according to MEA. The visit marked a significant milestone in the bilateral relations between the two countries. Earlier in February, a delegation from Suriname made a visit to Ayodhya, the sacred city known for its cultural and religious heritage. The delegation, led by the Chairman of the National Assembly of Suriname, Marinus Bee, arrived in Ayodhya and engaged in spiritual and cultural activities. The delegation offered prayers to the Ram Lalla idol at the Ram Temple. The delegation also took a boat ride on the Sarayu River to explore Ayodhya's temples. (ANI)
The Pakistani administration lodged an FIR against top Baloch rights activists, including Maharang Baloch, on Saturday, who were demanding the release of forcibly abducted people. This move comes when several protestors have been organising a huge rally, demanding the safe return of forcibly abducted Zaheer Ahmed Baloch, who had been abducted by Pakistani forces last month. The activists have been allegedly booked on the allegations of creating chaos and damaging public property. In an initial post on 'X', Maharang Baloch stated, "The government of Balochistan has filed two FIRs against peaceful protesters including me. These are old tactics to silence those who are peacefully fighting for their rights. The law should protect the masses, but instead, the state has been using the law against people who believe in democracy and peaceful human rights struggles." https://x.com/MahrangBaloch_/status/1812074581282439380?t=sO4brm5EK3ncSZzT01eOzA&s=08 In another statement, Maharang Baloch highlighted that discussions were held with the administration in the ongoing sit-in today for the release of Zaheer Baloch. "Discussions were held with the government delegation and administration in the ongoing sit-in today for the recovery of Zaheer Baloch, in which an FIR was filed against Zaheer Baloch's enforced disappearance, among the protesters detained on July 11," she stated, adding, "Of the 21 protesters who were still in police custody, 15 were released at this time, while 6 will be released after the courts open on Monday and all cases against the peaceful protesters will be dismissed on July 11." https://x.com/MahrangBaloch_/status/1812335955681931403 The Baloch Yakjehti Committee (BYC) in a post on 'X' condemned the action of the Pakistani administration for filing such an FIR, calling it propaganda being spread against the activist Mahrang Baloch. According to the BYC statement released on 'X', "Propaganda is being spread on social media against Baloch Yakjehti Committee Organiser, Mahrang Baloch for inciting violence. This is only a tool to justify police violence against peaceful protestors. It should be remembered that Quetta Police injured more than 27 of peaceful protestors yesterday, including women and children, and has lodged several bogus FIRs against Mahrang Baloch and others. The same police has refused to register an FIR against CTD which forcibly abducted Zaheer Baloch on 27 June." https://x.com/BalochYakjehtiC/status/1812220272021500205 The statement added, "Further, violent groups are vandalising public property, they have no link to either Zaheer Baloch's protest or BYC. Such elements are backed by the government and branded as part of the peaceful protest." They stressed that this is an age-old tactics to malign political workers and justify police violence against them. The committee stated that today, a rally was organised towards the Red Zone; however, blocked by the police, the protestors are sitting at GPO Chowk. "The government's negotiations are meaningless as it does not intend to take any action. Therefore, the sit-in for the safe release of Zaheer will continue at Secretariat Chowk indefinitely until the government fulfills the family's demands," it added. Mahrang Baloch also called on the Baloch community to support Zaheer's family and protest against Quetta police violence, the BYC said. (ANI)
With the expiration of the deadline to stake the claim for the Prime Minister, Nepal President Ram Chandra Paudel has appointed KP Sharma Oli (72) as the next Prime Minister. Oli is the single leader who staked his claim for the post in support of the Nepali Congress. Nepal President Paudel called the political parties in the Nepali parliament on Friday evening to stake a claim for the Prime Minister after Pushpa Kamal Dahal lost a confidence motion. The President had called for a claim of stake as per Article 76 (2) of the Constitution. "Honourable President Shree Ram Chandra Paudel as per Article 76 (2) of the Constitution of Nepal has appointed member of the House of Representatives Shree KP Sharma Oli as the Prime Minister of Nepal," the President's Office said in a statement. According to the statement, the oath ceremony for Oli has been scheduled for 11 am (NST) on Monday. Along with Oli, a group of ministers will also be inducted into the cabinet for which the parties are holding rounds of discussions. Oli and Congress President Sher Bahadur Deuba jointly signed an application for the President to appoint the UML chief as the new prime minister on Friday evening, right after the results of the vote of confidence. Oli, with the backing of the Nepali Congress and smaller parties, had submitted the signatures of 165 lawmakers, claiming majority support in the parliament for the Prime Ministership. The Constitution of Nepal mandates a Prime Minister to cross a majority of 138 in the 275-strong House of Representatives to take over as Prime Minister. Oli became the Prime Minister for the first time in October 2015, soon after the promulgation of the constitution that year, and remained in power until August 2016. Moreover, the Prime Minister is also mandated to take a vote of confidence within 30 days of appointment to prove his support. Following the general elections in 2017, Oli, who was able to usher in nationalist sentiment amongst the people siding with China, formed a government and remained in power from February 2018 to May 2021. Oli again was appointed as Prime Minister under the constitutional provision of 76 (3) from May 2021 to July 2021 after staking claim as the parliamentary leader of the largest party in parliament. While in power for about three years, Oli dissolved the parliament twice, which was reinstated by the Supreme Court issuing a mandamus. The Nepali Congress and CPN-UML (Communist Party of Nepal- Unified Marxist Leninist) signed an agreement on July 2 to divide 9 and 8 ministries, respectively, on the council of ministry. According to the July 2 deal between Congress chief Deuba and UML chairman, Oli, the two parties will lead the government on a rotational basis until the next general elections in 2027. But, the deal has not been made public to date. (ANI)
Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla met with the Indian Diaspora in Moscow on Sunday and said that the Indians living abroad are equal partners in India's development and modernization. Om Birla was leading the Indian Parliamentary delegation to the 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in St. Petersburg, Russia. Appreciating the contributions of the Indian Diaspora to nation-building in India, he said, "Indians living abroad are equal partners in India's development and modernization," adding that the Indians living in Russia are the country's brand ambassadors and their actions, contributions, and achievements shape the image of India in Russia. Birla praised the Indian community in Russia and said that the Indians here, who have a reputation as disciplined, hardworking, and law-abiding people, have made every Indian proud of their contributions to the development of both countries. Despite being small in number, their active and vibrant participation in cultural events and festivals in India is noteworthy, Birla said. He further urged the Indian Diaspora to promote their motherland in Russia and continue to strengthen the relationship between the two countries. Birla noted the participation of Russians in Indian festivals and said that such people-to-people connections are the strength of bilateral relations between the two countries. Birla further encouraged them to spread awareness about India's rich Sanatan culture, Yoga, ancient knowledge, and diversities among the Russians and to encourage them to visit India. The Lok Sabha Speaker recalled the recent visit of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and his interaction with the Indian community in Russia, He elaborated on how the present government has started a new era of change, development, and prosperity in the country. Birla observed that even after becoming the Prime Minister for the third time, his energy, his enthusiasm for serving the country, and his resolve for a developed India give eternal inspiration to others to serve the country selflessly. "Changes that are taking place in India have enhanced respect for Indians at the global level and have enhanced the value of Indian passportss," Birla added. Highlighting on India-Rusia relationship, Birla said that the bond between the two countries is based on the foundation of mutual trust and mutual respect. "Whenever India or Russia has faced any challenge, both the countries have supported each other. There has been a unique relationship between India and Russia, a relationship of friendship, and of family. Russia has been India's partner in happiness and sorrow, India's trusted friend," he said. Birla continued that the relationship covers almost every sphere, including cooperation in security, defense, trade, economy, science and technology, satellite navigation and remote sensing, education, and culture. He urged the Indian Diaspora to further cement the ties and promote shared interests. (ANI)
External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Sunday congratulated Hamdan Mohammed on being appointed as Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). EAM Jaishankar expressed gratitude and said that he always values Mohammed's support for a stronger India-UAE friendship. "Congratulate @HamdanMohammed on his appointment as Deputy PM and Minister of Defence of the UAE. Always value your support for stronger India-UAE friendship," Jaishankar said in a post on X. https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1812463804631912872 The ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, announced the formation of a new ministerial position in the country. "After consulting with my brother Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, President of the State, may God protect him, and after his blessing and approval... and in continuation of the continuous development in the structure of the government of the UAE... we announce today the formation of a new ministerial position in the country...," the Ruler of Dubai said on X. "Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum joined the UAE government as Deputy Prime Minister and was appointed Minister of Defence of the UAE," he added. "Hamdan Adheed...and a support...and a leader who loves the people...and the people love him... and we have great confidence that he will be a great addition to the UAE government... and a major contributor to shaping the future of the UAE, God willing," he added. India and the UAE enjoy strong cooperation at the United Nations. Both countries arealso currently part of several plurilateral platforms such as BRICS, I2U2 (India-Israel-UAEUSA), UFI (UAE-France-India), Trilateral, and many more. Both countries have shared trade links through the centuries. The trade, which wasdominated by traditional items such as dates, pearls and fish, underwent a sharp change after the discovery of oil in the UAE. (ANI)
Thousands of people gathered to see the funeral procession of slain Pashtun activist Gilaman Wazir as his casket passed through towns and cities from Islamabad to his native village in Waziristan bordering Afghanistan, Voice of America reported. However, the procession was not covered by the mainstream media in Pakistan. During the procession, a top leader of the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM) seconded the demand for a protest for the rights of the Pashtun community, the VOA report claimed. Wazir was attacked in Islamabad on July 7 and four days later, he died of severe injuries. Activism-related views by the leader while working in Bahrain had turned the Pakistani administration's anger towards Wazir. He was then arrested in Bahrain at Pakistan's request in 2020 and later deported to Pakistan, VOA reported. "He was doing labour work in Bahrain. He was deported through Interpol and put in jail. He was then kept in an internment center. He was bitten by dogs and was given electric shocks," PTM leader Manzoor Pashteen said in his address at a public gathering. However, the Pakistani administration has still not answered these claims, according to VOA. PTM said that he was on the Exit Control List till his death. Anyone on the list is subject to restrictions on their movements outside the country, VOA reported. The former head of the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan said that a ban has been imposed on covering the activities of PTM in Pakistan, and the ban was imposed in 2019. Manzoor Pashteen, at the funeral of Gilaman Wazir, said, "I say to the authorities in Pakistan, it is clear that things are no longer possible between us and you. The situation you have created shows that the Pashtuns are no longer with you. Do not lose your courage. We may lose a hundred thousand lives, but we will not give up this land," TOLO News reported. The leader of the PTM held the Pakistani government responsible for all the atrocities on the Pashtun community and the attack on Gilaman Wazir. Mohammad Aslam Danishmal, a political analyst, said, "Distrust has arisen between the Pakistani government and the tribes, and this distrust has directly impacted the political and social situation. These people have endured much oppression and coercion, and their patience has run out." Another political analyst, Khair Mohammad Sultani called the death of Ghillaman Wazir a "significant loss for both sides", adding, "The enemy should know that a nation that stands up with his death and raises its voice will not be silenced," reported TOLO News. (ANI)
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti termed India-US relations deep and broad and said that the two largest democracies India and the US value principles as the guiding light for peace in the world. India sees its future with the United States and the US sees its future with India, US Ambassador to India, said at US-India Defence News Conclave in the national capital, while further stressing the role of commerce, technology, people and security, central to this vital partnership The US envoy was speaking at the two-day 'US-India Defence News Conclave: Stories of US-India Defence and Security Partnership' conclave in the national capital, a press release by US-India Strategic Partnership Forum (USISPF) said on Saturday. He delivered the keynote address at the final conclave of the series of the US-India Defence News project, titled 'Dialogues on Deliverables to Deliveries' that concluded with insightful discussions and a forward-looking agenda for the US-India defence partnership. The US Mission to India, in partnership with CUTS International, and in collaboration with the United Service Institution of India (USI) and the USISPF organized this conclave in Delhi. https://x.com/USAmbIndia/status/1811450110842405196 Noting that India-US ties are deep and broad, Garcetti affirmed that Americans' enthusiasm for India has not died down a bit. Addressing the event, Garcetti said, "Our relationship is not a bet, it is a commitment and friendship that is true, tried, and is tested. It is not a win or lose or a zero-sum game, it's all about trusting each other without the hope for return." Ambassador Garcetti emphasised that both countries value principles as the guiding light for peace in the world. He added that New Delhi and Washington have pledged to go further in terms of technology, defence, start-ups, tech and space. "When we stand together with our friends, we can ensure that right can make the might. When the two largest democracies come together, it reflects how much we value principles as the guiding light for peace in the world," Garcetti underscored. "We (United States) are with you (India) for the long haul and our leaders have pledged to go further in terms of technology, defence, start-ups, tech and space. We want India to be a place we come to, to fix our ships, to find great jobs, and to know each other's systems and training," he further stated. This event was a culmination of a series of sessions that were designed to foster meaningful discussions on the US-India defence partnership that aimed to bring industry experts from both countries and generate awareness about the growing partnership in the Indo-Pacific and beyond, among the traditional and online media professionals across India. The event kicked off with a welcome session and an inaugural session, followed by the first session, 'Celebrating India-US Defence Ties: The Most Consequential 21st Century Partnership' which explored the historical evolution of the strategic relationship, current initiatives, and future growth areas. Subsequent sessions included 'Above & Beyond: Bilateral Partnership in Space and the Indo- Pacific' focusing on maritime security, space cooperation, and ocean diplomacy, and 'CEOs of Bilateral Partnership: Co-design, Co-develop & Co-produce' which addressed building a modern defence industrial ecosystem and enhancing joint R&D and manufacturing capabilities. The second day of the conclave began with remarks by the Defence Attache of the US Embassy to India, Rear Admiral Michael Baker. "The best method to deter war is having the capability and capacity, interoperability, will, and political resolve to win - which India and the United States have," he said. Vishesh Negi, Joint Secretary of International Cooperation at the Ministry of Defence said that India and the US are natural partners in the 21st century and beyond, and the two nations have a robust military-to-military cooperation exercising together. "India and the US are natural partners in the 21st century and beyond. This partnership has a robust defense and security focus along with promoting regional stability and ensuring common prosperity for India and the United States. What we have now is a very robust military-to-military cooperation exercising together and, the major reasons are the use of similar technology and the interest in the Indo-Pacific region," Negi said. The 'Fourth Pillar of Democracy: Informed View of U.S.-India Defense Relations' panel with renowned journalists covering the defence sector from key national media outlets emphasized the role of media in shaping public perceptions, countering misinformation, and sharing success stories of bilateral defence collaborations. The final session, 'The Road Ahead: Indo-US for the Global Good' outlined the next steps for the partnership, including overcoming challenges, promoting joint production and technology collaboration, and working within multilateral frameworks like the Quad. In her closing remarks, Gloria Berbena, the Minister Counselor for Public Diplomacy at the US Embassy in India highlighted the need for more such conclaves. She said what they are trying to achieve is "clear and understandable" for the average Indian and American citizen, adding that the need for an informed citizenry is very critical in the challenging geopolitical realities of this century. "We launched this series of conclaves to try to help demystify aspect of our military and security relationship...recognizing that unless what we are doing and trying to achieve in this area is clear and understandable for the average Indian and American citizen, in addition to those who think and work in this sector every day, we are not doing our jobs well. And ultimately, we are not serving our publics and our democracies well. Our security partnership must be as transparent as possible, and be open to scrutiny and discussion," Berbena said. She added, "A big part of that is fostering a strong and professional journalistic understanding and to facilitate ready access to reliable and objectively verifiable information. These are pillars of every democratic nation, and they undergird public trust and accountability. As our nations navigate rapidly shifting and the often times challenging geopolitical realties of this Century the need for an informed citizenry has never been more critical, and an informed citizenry depends on you all." Each session was moderated by defence experts and featured distinguished panelists ensuring comprehensive and insightful discussions on strengthening the US-India defence and security partnership. The event on day one started with a welcome address by Major General BK Sharma (Retd.), Director General of the United Service Institution of India, followed by an address from Pradeep S Mehta, Secretary General of CUTS International. Both speakers emphasised the crucial nature of the US-India partnership in the current geopolitical context. Mehta said, "In the mid-to-long term, sustaining a strong, innovative, and resilient defence industrial base will be paramount to the security and prosperity of the current world order." "As we navigate these complex and dynamic times, it is imperative for India to develop its defence and civil industrial base. In this effort, the US should recognise India as a strategic partner by extending all such privileges as it does to its treaty allies," Mehta added. (ANI)
Christians to Gather Outside of the White House on Sunday to Pray for Our Nation After the Horrific Shooting of President Trump

NEWS PROVIDED BY

Christian Defense Coalition

July 13, 2024

WASHINGTON, July 13, 2024 /Christian Newswire/ -- Christians plan to gather outside of the White House on Sunday to pray for our nation after the horrific shooting of President Trump. The prayer gathering will be on Sunday, July 14, at 3:15 PM in front of the White House at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave. NW.

The prayer event is being organized by the Christian Defense Coalition which is based in Washington, D.C.

Rev. Patrick Mahoney, Director of the Christian Defense Coalition, states;

"After the horrific shooting of President Trump on Saturday, it is clear our nation is broken and in desperate need of spiritual awakening and God's healing. "As we gather in front of the White House, we will be crying out to God for a nationwide revival that will bring restoration and hope to America. We will be praying against violence, division and hate-filled rhetoric from both sides of the political divide. Political violence must never be tolerated. We will also be asking for Gods protection over both President Biden and President Trump. "Through prayer we can see God shift, shape and transform history as the only way forward for our nation is God's people coming to Him in repentance and brokenness and seeking His mercy and grace. There are no political solutions that can heal America."

Psalm 22:27-28-- All the ends of the earth will remember and turn to the Lord, and all the families of the nations will bow down before him, for dominion belongs to the Lord and he rules over the nations.

1 Timothy 2:1-2--"I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people, for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives

Matthew 5:9--"Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God."

For more information or interviews please call Rev. Patrick Mahoney at 540.538.4741

SOURCE Christian Defense Coalition

CONTACT: Rev. Patrick Mahoney, 540-538-4741
EAM Jaishankar thanked Vinay Kwatra for helping strategize and execute many key policies in the last decade.

Jaishankar wished the outgoing Foreign Secretary the best for his future endeavours.

"Thank outgoing Foreign Secretary Vinay Kwatra for his dedication and many contributions in the field of foreign policy and national security. Particularly in the last decade, he has helped strategize and execute so many of our key policies. Wish him well in his future endeavours," EAM Jaishankar said in a post on X.

https://x.com/DrSJaishankar/status/1812485243246670077

Vikram Misri, who is currently serving as the Deputy National Security Adviser, has been appointed as India's new Foreign Secretary.

The Appointments Committee of Cabinet (ACC) approved the proposal made by the Ministry of External Affairs for appointing Vikram Misri as the next Foreign Secretary, succeeding Vinay Mohan Kwatra as Foreign Secretary.

Misri's tenure as Foreign Secretary will begin on July 15 as the extension granted to Kwatra ended on July 14.

Kwatra had been given a six-month extension in March this year.

Misri, 59, has the unique honour of having served as private secretary to three Prime Ministers - Inder Kumar Gujral in 1997, Manmohan Singh in 2012, and Narendra Modi in 2014.

Born in Srinagar, Misri was India's ambassador to China and played a significant part in discussions between India and China following the 2020 Galwan Valley clashes that resulted from the actions of the Chinese military in Eastern Ladakh. (ANI)
Thailand Foreign Affairs Minister Sangiampongsa concluded his visit to New Delhi on Saturday.

The Thailand minister visited the national capital from July 11 to 13 for the 2nd Bay of Bengal Initiative for Multi-Sectoral Technical and Economic Cooperation (BIMSTEC) Foreign Ministers' Retreat hosted by EAM Jaishankar and for his first official visit to India.

EAM Jaishankar held a bilateral meeting with the Thai Minister on Friday and hosted a lunch in his honour.

During the meeting, the two ministers reviewed progress across various areas of partnership, covering political exchanges, defence and security ties, trade and investment opportunities, connectivity, science & technology collaboration, health cooperation, culture, and people-to-people interaction.

"The two ministers also exchanged views on issues of mutual interest and reiterated their commitment to closer cooperation in sub-regional, regional, and multilateral fora," the Ministry of External Affairs said in a statement.

In accordance with the vision of the two prime ministers, the foreign affairs ministers reaffirmed the mutual desire for a stronger India-Thailand partnership.

Thailand is a key partner of India in ASEAN. The 'Act East' Policy of India, which marks its 10th year in 2024, finds convergence with the 'Act West' Policy of Thailand.

The interactions between the External Affairs Minister and the Thai Minister of Foreign Affairs have contributed to the further strengthening of bilateral ties.

The BIMSTEC Retreat presented an opportunity for the Foreign Ministers of BIMSTEC nations to discuss avenues to broaden and deepen cooperation in various sectors, including security, connectivity, trade and investment, people-to-people contacts, etc in the Bay of Bengal region and littoral, according to Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

The first edition of the BIMSTEC Foreign Ministers' Retreat was held in Thailand's Bangkok on July 17, 2023.

BIMSTEC is a regional organisation that connects countries around the Bay of Bengal to promote economic growth, trade, and cooperation in areas like transportation, energy, and counter-terrorism. (ANI)
The Chinese authorities on Friday forcibly closed an age-old Tibetan school, namely Jigme Gyaltsen Nationalities Vocational High School in Tibet's Golok, while hiding the true reason behind the order, the Central Tibetan Administration reported. The Chinese government had launched investigations into monks or nuns under the age of 18 and had threatened the school authorities with severe punishments if any such people were found. The closure of this Tibetan school is yet another addition to several previous Tibetan schools, intended to stop the preservation of the Tibetan language, culture, religion, and identity. Additionally, several lawsuits and pressures from the Golok area's Communist Party Secretary and other officials were noticed conspiring to close this school for many years, the same report by the CTA claimed. Golok is a cultural area in Eastern Tibet sandwiched between the Tibetan regions of Amdo and Kham, but for much of its six-hundred-plus years of recorded history, it prided itself on being distinct from both its Tibetan and Chinese neighbors. Today, Golok corresponds to the Chinese administrative unit Golok Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture and is situated in the southern region of Qinghai Province, bordering Sichuan Province to the south, according to a report published by Sarah Jacoby, an expert on Tibetan Buddhism. A small group of students belonging to Sherab Norbu Ling School was also sued by the Chinese authorities for using jewel and lion emblems present on the Tibetan flag, which has been banned by the Chinese administration, as the group's logo. According to the report, this group played an active role in the preservation of Tibetan culture. Jigme Gyaltsen, the school's founder, has been wrongly accused of accepting bribes under the guise of being the chairman of the Snow Land Pastoral Association and the Qinghai-Tibet Trade Association, the report claimed. The accusations against Gyaltsen were investigated but, the school's leader was found not guilty, as the CTA report claimed,, referring to an article dated June 28 last month, but was suspended from his duties as a teacher and a member of the Tibetan Nationalities Council. The CTA report further stated that the school was established in 1994 by Ragya Jigme Gyaltsen with the full approval and support of the Machen County People's Government and the Golok People's Government. In 2021, the school had over 1000 students belonging to Tibet and currently, the total strength of students was reported around 1400 students by the CTA. Additionally, the school had a record of its students publishing over 300 books and written literature and folklore related to cultural education. (ANI)
China and NATO are trying to deepen cooperation with 'like-minded' countries in the Indo-Pacific and Europe, which several analysts see as part of growing competition between the United States and China, Voice of America (VOA) reported. This comes following the NATO Summit in Washington, which announced deeper cooperation with allies in the Indo-Pacific. "[The latest development] is a standard major power competition," Ian Chong, a political scientist at the National University of Singapore said. These efforts are aimed at "finding out where are their friends and who can support their efforts," he said. "[But] it's pretty clear that the competition between major powers is intensifying," he said. During its annual summit in Washington, NATO announced it would launch four new joint projects with Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand. The projects will focus on deepening cooperation with the four Indo-Pacific countries on Ukraine, artificial intelligence, disinformation, and cybersecurity. US National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan said the goal is to "harness the unique strengths" of democracies to address shared global challenges. Beijing hit back at NATO, accusing the bloc of "inciting bloc confrontation and hyping up regional tensions" by engaging with countries in the Indo-Pacific region. Instead of expanding its footprint to the Indo-Pacific region through these joint projects, some experts say NATO is trying to involve more like-minded countries in the process of building up competencies in critical areas of competition. "These are core areas that will shape military and other forms of competition moving forward so NATO wants to establish more cooperation with like-minded democracies," said Stephen Nagy, a regional security expert at the International Christian University in Japan. Since NATO has labelled China as "the decisive enabler" of Russia's war against Ukraine, Nagy said the alliance is trying to show Beijing that it won't back out of the global competition in key areas. "NATO is signalling to China that they can be part of the solution, or they would be part of the problem," he said. On the other hand, Japan's Foreign Press Secretary Maki Kobayashi said that while Tokyo has been working closely with NATO member states, these efforts shouldn't be viewed as an attempt to establish a NATO in Asia. Meanwhile, as the US and its NATO allies aimed to strengthen cooperation with Indo-Pacific countries through the summit in Washington, China is also beefing up military cooperation with Belarus and Russia. On Monday, China initiated an 11-day joint military exercise near the border of Poland with Belarus, the newest Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) member. Although Beijing has insisted that the exercise wasn't targeting any country, some analysts are of the opinion that the move is Beijing's response to NATO's growing interest in Asia, as reported by VOA. In addition to the military exercise with Belarus in Europe, China also announced Friday a joint naval exercise with Russia in waters near the southern city of Zhanjiang. Stephen Nagy in Japan said Beijing is trying to show its displeasure toward NATO's efforts to strengthen ties with Indo-Pacific countries. "China is signalling to NATO member states that they can cause headaches for them in their region or regions that matter to them," he said. Apart from closely aligning the dates of the two military exercises with the NATO Summit, China also used last week's SCO Summit in Kazakhstan to uphold its "no limits partnership" with Russia and promote the alternative world order that it has been championing in recent years, VOA reported. Some experts believe that even though SCO isn't an alliance with a common goal, China will still try to use it as a platform to "build its own blocs" to counter NATO and dilute Western influence. "China is strengthening these arrangements through bilateral agreements and strategic partnership, which often include security," Sari Arho Havren, an associate fellow at the Royal United Services Institute said. (ANI)
Abu Dhabi [UAE], July 14 (ANI/WAM): The UAE urgently provided three tonnes of medical supplies and a variety of medicines to support the healthcare sector and hospitals still operating in Gaza Strip, following the recent events and developments in Khan Younis. This response came after calls from the health sector regarding a shortage of medicines, including Nasser Hospital in Khan Younis, to ensure the continued provision of medical services to the injured, patients, and healthcare for all displaced people. The medical aid includes a number of necessary medical supplies for hospitals facing shortages, medicines for various types of injuries, a quantity of insulin dosages for diabetic patients, and various solutions to support the healthcare sector in this critical situation. The UAE, in coordination with various hospitals and international medical organisations, aims to enhance the healthcare situation in Gaza Strip after its deterioration due to the war, which resulted in dozens of hospitals going out of service due to destruction and a lack of sufficient medicines and medical supplies to continue providing medical services to patients and the injured in various areas of Gaza Strip. The UAE has provided a series of medical aids to hospitals in the Gaza Strip, including 10 ambulances equipped with all modern capabilities. The total amount of assistance sent by the country has reached 337 tonnes, including medical devices, medicines, and essential supplies for the Ministry of Health to increase the capacity within medical care institutions and hospitals. (ANI/WAM)
As the investigation progressed into the attempted assassination of former US President Donald Trump, explosive material has been recovered from inside the car and residence of the shooter, CNN reported, citing multiple law enforcement sources. The FBI has publicly identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage. According to the authorities, the shooter fired multiple shots from a building rooftop just outside the rally venue before he was killed by the Secret Service agents. Authorities used the gun to help determine the shooter's identity, as he did not have identification on him, according to law enforcement sources, as reported by CNN. Moreover, the shooter at former President Donald Trump's rally was also spotted outside the event by local law enforcement, who thought he might've been acting suspiciously near the walk-through metal detectors, the senior law enforcement official stated. Authorities further announced over law enforcement radio to keep an eye on him, and that information was passed to the Secret Service as well, according to the source. Later, people alerted law enforcement in a field outside if they saw a gunman up on the rooftop, reported CNN. Moreover, the US House Intelligence Committee Chairman Mike Turner joined the ongoing calls for congressional oversight into the security failings that led to what the FBI cited as an assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally on Saturday. US Vice President Kamala Harris postponed her trip to Florida in response to former President Trump's assassination attempt in Pennsylvania, according to a Biden-Harris campaign official. Harris originally planned on traveling to Palm Beach, Florida, on Tuesday for a moderated conversation alongside Republican women to discuss Trump's stance on women's reproductive rights. (ANI)
Abu Dhabi [UAE], July 14 (ANI/WAM): Grand Imam of Al-Azhar Al-Sharif and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders, Professor Ahmed Al-Tayeb, visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and was received by Dr Yousif Al-Obaidli, Director-General of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center. He proceeded to the tomb of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, where he recited the Fatiha and prayed for mercy and forgiveness for him, remembering his legacy and wise approach that fostered a culture of tolerance, coexistence, and peace among different peoples of the world. The Grand Imam affirmed that Sheikh Zayed was a unique example of a wise leader whose vision made the UAE a model of development, progress, preservation of religion, and values. He also left a rich legacy in supporting charitable and humanitarian work, significantly contributing to establishing a culture of tolerance and coexistence through his honourable deeds and positions. The Grand Imam of Al-Azhar and Chairman of the Muslim Council of Elders praised the civilizational message of the mosque, advocating coexistence and tolerance and openness to others; emanating from the virtues and values of the founding father, and the significant role played by the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Center in promoting the tolerant Islamic culture and advancing civilizational communication among different cultures and peoples worldwide. Accompanying the Grand Imam during the visit were Dr Omar Habtoor Al Darei, Chairman of the General Authority of Islamic Affairs, Endowments and Zakat, Dr Khalifa Al Dhaheri, Chancellor of Mohamed bin Zayed University for Humanities, and Judge Mohamed Abdelsalam, Secretary-General of the Muslim Council of Elders. (ANI)
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa police confirmed the killing of a journalist and identified him as Hasan Zaib. He worked for a local newspaper.

Unidentified bike-borne assailants opened fire at him in a crowded market area of Akbarpura village, Nowshera.

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa's Chief Minister, Ali Amin Gandapur, has demanded a comprehensive report from senior police officials in connection with the incident. CM Gandapur said that those involved in the murder would not evade justice and assured that the culprits would be apprehended soon, as reported by ARY News.

Such incidents involving the killing of journalists is not very uncommon in Pakistan.

In a similar incident that took place back in May this year, a local journalist named Nasrullah Gadani was seriously injured in a gun attack and later succumbed to his wounds at a hospital in Karachi.

Gadani suffered serious gunshot wounds in an attack by unidentified assailants near Mirpur Mathelo, Ghotki district, as per ARY News.

Nasrullah Gadani was shot while travelling from his residence to the Mirpur Mathelo Press Club.

Armed men in a car opened fire on the journalist on Jarwar Road near Deen Shah, and then fled the scene.

According to local journalists, Gadani, who worked for a Sindhi daily and shared his news reports on social media, was renowned as a daring journalist for reporting on local feudal lords, political figures, waderas, and government officials. (ANI)
US President Joe Biden has ordered an independent review of the security measures at the Pennsylvania rally where an attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump occurred. In his remarks from the White House on Sunday, Biden said, "I've directed an independent review of national security at yesterday's rally to assess exactly what happened." "And we'll share the results of that independent review with the American people as well," he added. Biden's comments were his second public statement since the attack at Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. He also directed the head of the US Secret Service to review security measures ahead of this week's Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, according to CNN. Biden also noted that he has sought to provide Trump with every Secret Service resource that the former US president and his team had asked for. "I've been consistent in my direction with the Secret Service to provide him with every resource, capability, and protective measure necessary to ensure its continued safety," Biden said. At the time of the shooting incident, Biden was at Rehoboth Beach, Delaware. He returned to the White House late Saturday and received an update from Homeland Security and law enforcement authorities in the Situation Room on Sunday morning. In his remarks, Biden condemned the attempted assassination, saying, "There is no place in America for this kind of violence, or any violence for that matter. An assassination attempt is contrary to everything we stand for as a nation. Everything. It's not who we are as a nation. It's not America. And we cannot allow this to happen," according to CNN. He emphasised that "unity is the most elusive goal of all, but nothing is as important as that right now: Unity." Biden confirmed that he and Trump spoke on the phone but did not reveal the details of their conversation. He also added that he and First Lady Jill Biden were praying for the family of the person killed at the rally and that he was sincerely grateful that Trump is doing well and recovering. The FBI has identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. Trump was on stage at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania's Butler before gunshots rang out and Secret Service agents stormed the stage. In a call for unity following the attack on Donald Trump, Biden also emphasised that there is no place for such violence in the country and urged Americans to refrain from making assumptions about the shooter's motives. He stressed the importance of allowing the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) to carry out their investigation without interference. "There's no place in America for this kind of violence," the president reiterated. "I urge everyone... please don't make assumptions about his motives or affiliations," Biden said, adding, "Let the FBI do their job, and their partner agencies do their job." (ANI)
Charity arts and craft event accused of propaganda to sow hatred of Jews

Young children attended an arts and craft open day which included a workshop for adults where badges celebrating the Intifada and praising Palestinian martyrs were made.

The badge making session, promoted as one of several fun activities, was part of a charity fundraising open day.

But the Open Day, which was marketed in promotional material and social media as open to all, all ages welcome, has been criticised by campaigners as propaganda designed to sow hatred of Jews.

They say it was inappropriate for young children to be present at an open day where Palestinian slogans celebrating death and the armed struggle against Israel were recreated.

The Open Day, staged by the charity Metroland Cultures, was held in Kilburn on 29 June to raise money for Palestine and Sudan.

Badges made as part of the workshop featured slogans such as Long Live the Intifada written inside a heart, Free Palestine, If I must die, let it bring hope, let it be a tale and If I must die, you must live to tell my story, on the background of Keffiyeh scarf material.

Critics say the Intifada badge could be interpreted as a promotion of anti-Israeli terrorism and the death badges as promoting martyrdom.

The last two slogans were taken from a poem by Refaat Alareer, who had, in a BBC interview, described Hamass massacre of Israelis on 7 October as legitimate and moral. Hewas subsequently killed in an airstrike by the IDF.

Metroland Cultures has denied that any children took part in the badge making workshop.

The Metroland Cultures open day was advertised with flyers featuring watermelons  which have now become the symbol frequently used instead of the Palestinian flag, since the colours of the fruit match those of the flag.

Critics accuse the arts and crafts event of 'propaganda' - Metroland Cultures taken from X/X

Critics say the event could have the effect of sowing hatred of Jews in the minds of children in the borough, which has a large Jewish community.

The group UK Lawyers for Israel (UKLFI) claims that Metroland Cultures, whose mission is to build, share and support art and culture in the London Borough of Brent, had breached its charitable objectives by staging a partisan event and engaging in political activities outside of its charitable remit.

Caroline Turner, director of UKLFI said: Metroland hosted a badge making class with Heiba Lamara, which was advertised on the Metroland Facebook page.

Instead of promoting arts, culture and heritage for the people of the London Borough of Brent, the centre has promoted divisive activities, designed to sow hatred of Jews and Israelis amongst its participants.

Instead of developing skills and capacities to enable young people to participate in society as mature and responsible individuals, as set out in their charitable objects, Metroland is using propaganda to encourage young people to adopt an anti-Israel political narrative.

UKLFI, which has submitted a complaint about Metroland Cultures, claims that the group has breached section 29 of the Equality Act 2010 by providing a service which discriminates against Jews, Israelis and Zionists.

In its letter to the charity UKLFI stated: No Jew, Israeli or Zionist would feel comfortable participating in the workshops created by Metroland Cultures.

UKLFI believes that Metroland Cultures, as a service provider, has discriminated against Jews and Israelis by providing services which they would feel unable to participate in and have also harassed these groups, in breach of the Equalities Act, by creating an intimidating, hostile and offensive atmosphere for them.

The chair of trustees of Metroland Cultures is Rachel Dedman, a writer, curator and art historian who has specialised in Palestinian art and culture, particularly its tradition of embroidery.

In a letter to UKLFI, Lois Stonock, the groups Founder and Director, did not deny any of the claims made about the open day, including the badge making workshop, and indicated it may be prepared to launch an internal investigation into the event.

She wrote: I confirm that the Trustees have received your letter and are taking the matters raised seriously.

Metroland Cultures did not respond when approached by The Telegraph for comment.

A spokesperson for Metroland Cultures later said: While some children were in attendance with their families during the open studios, there were no children at the badge-making workshop.



CORRECTION:

An earlier version of this article stated that children made badges with pro-Palestinian slogans at a workshop at an open day organised by the charity Metroland Cultures . We understand no children were at the badge-making workshop which was designed for adults. We are happy to correct the record.



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DEM officers say 15% of those who fish RI waters do so without proper license

Fishing can be a wonderful way to enjoy spending time with family and friends or just appreciating our beautiful Ocean State. But there are rules everyone must follow, and some people are tasked with enforcing those rules.

We have about 85 present compliance. That means 15 percent of saltwater anglers we check are fishing without a license. Many of these are first-time offenders and often are not aware of our license law, said Lt. Jeffrey Mercer of the Division of Law Enforcement for the Rhode Island Department of Environmental Management (DEM).

More: Fishing for striped bass? Here's how to catch them this time of year in RI waters

More: Want to catch more fluke? Here are some tips on fishing for summer flounder this spring

Lt. Jeffrey Mercer; John Lake, DEM Supervising Marine Biologist in charge of licensing program; DEM Officer Kory Bannon on the dock at Wickford headquarters.

Often times officers will suggest that first-time offenders apply for a saltwater fishing license on the spot with their smartphone and will issue them a warning," Mercer explained. "The penalty for no license is a $10 ticket for first-time offenders ($50 for the second offence) compared to the $7 cost of a license. However, if the offense seems intentional, offenders may be issued a ticket anyway.

Most people are respectful," Officer Kory Bannon, of the Division of Law Enforcement, said, "but we have a few that do not like the idea of us boarding their vessel to check their catch. But, by and large, anglers we stop are polite and compliant.

Most violations relating to catch limits (harvesting too many fish), season regulations, or harvesting fish that are below the minimum size or above a maximum size, are treated as misdemeanors in District Court. These anglers can be fined up to $500 and/or up to three months jail. Most of the violators plead guilty or nolo contendere and pay a cash fine, according to Mercer.

Commercial fishing violations are moved to Administrative Court where they can lose their fishing license for 30, 60 or 90 days, depending on whether they are repeat offenders. Most going to Administrative Court prefer to pay a fine in lieu of losing their license.

Another penalty option for repeat violators for both recreational and commercial fishers is the seizing of fishing gear and boats.

This week we had a repeat striped bass offender who had no commercial license in Rhode Island, was fishing here and bringing his catch back to Massachusetts to sell the next day. This time we seized all his gear  rods, reels and tackle, said Mercer. This was in addition to the fines that apply for striped bass violations, which are $100 per fish for first-time offenders, and $200 per fishing for second-time offenders.

Fishing crimes are serious and can take a toll on a fishery. In the case of striped bass, those large fish taken are older females that have great egg-bearing potential and go a long way to bolster spawning stock bio mass. Striped bass, which are in a rebuilding plan, contribute millions of dollars to our economy coast wide as most recreational fishing trips target striped bass.

According to NOAA, recreational fishing in Rhode Island contributes more than $412 million in economic impact annually.

Lt. Jeffrey Mercer; left, and John Lake, DEM Supervising Marine Biologist in charge of licensing program on the dock at Wickford headquarters.

License fees bolster recreational fishing

As required by Rhode Island law, each year DEM produces a RI Saltwater Recreational Fishing License Program annual report. The report provides an overview of the license program, including the number of licenses purchased and funds raised, how funds are spent, and the plans and initiatives planned for the following year.

A total of 49,787 licenses were issued in 2023. Licenses peaked in 2020, due to COVID, at 57,732 licenses.

Rhode Islanders continue to use saltwater fishing as a wholesome outdoor activity, and we find the total number of licenses issued for the past several years hovering around 50,000, said John Lake, supervising marine biologist for DEM responsible for managing the license program.

The purpose of the license program is to provide a source of state funding for programs and activities that benefit marine recreational fishing interests in Rhode Island. If Rhode Island did not have such a program, anglers (like all coastal state anglers) would have to register with the National Marine Fisheries Service. A Rhode Island state resident license is $7, the federal registration fee is $29.

Gross revenue from licenses for Fiscal Year (FY) 2023 was $330,391. It is important to note that state funds qualify for a 3-to-1 federal government match through US Fish and Wildlife Service Sport Fish Restoration Program funds. For example, if DEM has budgeted $200,000 in spending, this 25% state of RI share would garner $600,000 in federal funds for a total RI budget of $800,000.

Program funds have been used on such initiatives as enhanced recreational fishing data collection to improve overall precision of catch estimates. License funds allow DEM survey staff to double during peak fishing months. Additionally, funds have been used to build new boat ramps at Goddard Park, Galilee and Westerly. Funds are dedicated to outreach activities such as the youth fishing camp we do with our partner, the RI Saltwater Anglers Association, said Lake.

Lt. Jeffrey Mercer says about 85% of the anglers in Rhode Island follow the law, but about 15 percent don't  and many of those are unaware of the rules.

Public education, information and outreach programs were supported once again this year, including the publication of the RI Saltwater Fishing Magazine and its minimum size and catch limit regulation insert.

Visit www.dem.ri.gov for license information and call DEMs dispatch hot line to report violations at (401) 222-3070.

Wheres the bite?

Striped bass and bluefish. Jeff Sullivan, expert angler and associate at Lucky Bait & Tackle in Warren, said: We are still catching large striped bass off Newport with large top water lures working well. The big fish are still going for these lures, usually it is the smaller bass. There is still a bass bite in the East Passage from Newport to Mt. Hope Bay, however, the bluefish bite has not been good.

Fluke (summer flounder), black sea bass and scup. The fluke bite is excellent off Newport with the best bite coming over transition areas where rough terrain meets sand. Our best luck has come in about 50 feet of water, but the fluke bite in the bay has not been good, said Sullivan. Declan ODonnell, of Breachway Bait & Tackle in Charlestown, said: Fluke reports have been mixed with the south shore beaches having a slight edge on Block Island for numbers of keepers but Block usually producing the largest fish. The best bite is in front of East Beach and Misquamicut.

Bluefin and yellow fin tuna. Giant bluefin tuna were being caught close to Block Island at the East Fishing Grounds to the Dump last week with the giants pushing up sand eels to the surface with school bluefin tuna in the 40 to 60 pound rand mixed in, Sullivan said.

Dave Monti holds a master captains license and charter fishing license. He serves on a variety of boards and commissions and has a consulting business focusing on clean oceans, habitat preservation, conservation, renewable energy, and fisheries related issues and clients. Forward fishing news and photos to dmontifish@verison.net or visit www.noflukefishing.com.

This article originally appeared on The Providence Journal: DEM officers say 15% of anglers in Rhode Island don't have license
"We can forget mistakes": Zelenskyy says about Biden mix-up at stopover in Ireland

"We can forget mistakes": Zelenskyy says about Biden mix-up at stopover in Ireland

Ukrainian President Zelenskyy made a short stop in Shannon, Ireland on his way home from the NATO summit held in Washington DC.

Zelenskyy met Irish Taoiseach (Prime Minister) Simon Harris and when asked by journalists about President Biden introducing him as "President Putin" he said it was a "mistake" and that because the US had "done a lot" for Ukraine, "we can forget some mistakes".

On Thursday, at the final press conference of the NATO Summit, Biden confused Zelenskyy with Russian leader Vladimir Putin and also referred to Vice President Kamala Harris as "Trump".

Zelenskyy then went on to thank Ireland for their help housing refugees.

"Thank you so much for your support, thanks to the people of Ireland for hosting a lot of Ukrainian refugees. You are with us from the very beginning of [the] Russian invasion. Thank you so much," said Zelenskyy.

The Taoiseach said he will visit Ukraine's capital Kyiv "in the coming weeks".

Harris also confirmed that the two leaders had discussed a potential bilateral agreement on demining, energy, humanitarian assistance and food security.

He stated: "Of course, Ireland is militarily neutral, but we're not in any way neutral in terms of understanding the difference between right and wrong, evil and good, freedom and oppression. And we've provided very practical assistance to Ukraine in terms of advancing their cause for EU membership."

Harris also promised to work towards bringing Ukrainian children abducted by Russian forces home.

The Irish government has provided 250m in non-lethal military assistance to Ukraine under the European Peace Facility and the country has welcomed over 108,000 Ukrainians under the EU Temporary Protection Directive.
Gadsden police are crediting the recent installation of Flock Security cameras throughout the city with the arrest of a couple from Romania in connection with two jewelry thefts.

Ionut Stelica and Larisa Vasile Sima were arrested on Tuesday, according to a post on the Gadsden Police Departments Facebook page. They are each charged with first- and second-degree theft of property, second-degree criminal mischief and third-degree criminal trespass.

Stelica and Sima are accused of jewelry thefts in Gadsden on June 19 and July 7, according to the post, which said they are involved in a larger criminal enterprise that includes $100,000 worth of organized retail theft centering on gold and jewelry across the U.S.

More: 'A good day for Gadsden': Near-disaster becomes a triumph as fireworks show draws praise

Police said in the post that other agencies in the eastern part of the country are seeking warrants against the suspects for other alleged crimes.

The City Council in April approved an agreement with Alabama Power Co. to place 15 Flock license plate recognition cameras and three video cameras throughout Gadsden.

Alabama Power owns, manages and maintains the cameras and pays for the necessary internet service. The city pays a fee of a little more than $4,000 a month.

According to the Facebook post, data from the cameras helped both Detective Brock Sanders in Gadsden and law enforcement agencies elsewhere to track and monitor the suspects location and movements.

Officials in April said the goal is to eventually deploy hundreds of the cameras throughout Gadsden, which is the only municipality in Etowah County that didnt have them.

The GPD in the Facebook post thanked the Attalla, Jacksonville and Oxford police departments and participating agencies in the East Metro Area Crime Center for their assistance.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Gadsden police charge Romanian suspects in jewelry theft
In the wake of a shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania, Georgias elected officials took to X, formerly known as Twitter, to express their shock and concern for Trumps wellbeing, and condemn the violence that unfolded.

The shooting, which is being investigated as an assassination attempt, left one person, two others critically injured, and the gunman dead on Saturday. The gunman has been identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, outside Pittsburgh.

We are all praying for former President Trump, his family, and everyone at the Pennsylvania rally, wrote Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp.

We are all praying for former President Trump, his family, and everyone at the Pennsylvania rally.  Brian Kemp (@BrianKempGA) July 13, 2024

Georgia Attorney General Chris Carr also weighed in, criticizing the violence.

What happened today is unconscionable, he wrote. Violence has no place in the American political system. None. This attack and any like it cannot be tolerated. My prayers go to former President Trump and the others who may have been harmed.

More: Trump rushed from rally, person dead after apparent gunshots; officials investigate as assassination attempt

Democratic figures, including Sens. Raphael Warnock and Jon Ossoff, also expressed their concern over the violence.

In America, we settle our political differences democratically  not violently, Warnock said. I am deeply saddened by todays events in Pennsylvania. I condemn any violence aimed at former President Trump in the strongest terms, and pray for him, his family & our nation. We are better than this.

In America, we settle our political differences democraticallynot violently. I am deeply saddened by todays events in Pennsylvania. I condemn any violence aimed at former President Trump in the strongest terms, and pray for him, his family & our nation. We are better than this.  Senator Reverend Raphael Warnock (@SenatorWarnock) July 13, 2024

I join all Georgians and Americans in condemning this despicable act of violence and pray former President Trump makes a full recovery, Ossoff said in a statement. I thank the U.S. Secret Service and law enforcement for their swift response. Political violence is never acceptable and can never be tolerated.

Congressman Buddy Carter, who represents Georgia's 1st Congressional district, offered prayers for the former president's wellbeing.

"Please join me in praying for the health and safety of President Trump and all those affected at his rally today," he wrote.

Please join me in praying for the health and safety of President Trump and all those affected at his rally today.  Buddy Carter (@RepBuddyCarter) July 13, 2024

Former President Donald Trump was rushed off stage after apparent gunshots rang out as he spoke to supporters at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, near Pittsburgh. He appeared to have blood on his face, but was quickly confirmed to be "fine."

Reports noted that another person at the rally, who officials have not identified, was killed in the shooting. Another individual was in critical condition.

Trump reached for his ear when the noises happened, noted a report from USA Today. He had blood on his ear and cheek as he left the stage.

The former president was removed from the site by Secret Service. Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung confirmed that the former president is "fine" but was seeing doctors at an area medical facility.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," Cheung said in a statement issued Saturday.

Maya Homan is a 2024 election fellow at USA TODAY, focusing on Georgia politics. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, as @MayaHoman.

This article originally appeared on Savannah Morning News: Georgia leaders respond to shooting at Trump rally in Pennsylvania
Leading Republicans in New Hampshire and Maine are reacting to the shooting at former President Donald Trump's rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Many are condemning political violence. Some are indicating they believe the shooting is part of a broad attempt to stop Trump from winning the 2024 presidential election. Here's a look at what they're saying in prepared statements, posts on X and other social media:

Kelly Ayotte, Republican candidate for New Hampshire governor and former U.S. senator: "Joe and I are thankful to hear that President Trump is safe and this heinous attempt on his life failed. There is no place for political violence in our society and our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families tonight."

Chuck Morse, Republican candidate for New Hampshire governor and former state Senate president, reposted a comment by Texas Gov. Greg Abbott and stated: "Governor Abbott is right. They will do everything in their power to try and stop President Trump from getting back into the Oval Office, but it wont work. The American people will not be silenced, and our Republican Party will not stop working until we get President Trump across the finish line this fall.

Governor Abbott is right.



They will do everything in their power to try and stop President Trump from getting back into the Oval Office, but it wont work.



The American people will not be silenced, and our Republican Party will not stop working until we get President Trump https://t.co/yLpwdjUfmN  Chuck Morse (@ChuckMorseForNH) July 13, 2024

Chris Ager, chairman of the New Hampshire GOP: "God Bless President Trump and the United States of America. I ask all of you to pray for President Trump, the attendees that have been killed or injured, and our country. This shooting is nothing less than evil. Lets pull together and fight for our views - without violence. But make no mistake, we will protect ourselves."

New Hampshire Gov. Chris Sununu: "Violence of any form has no place in America. Glad to hear that President Trump is doing well and wish him the best in a speedy recovery."

Russell Prescott, Republican candidate for U.S. House in New Hampshire District 1: "Susan and I are praying for President Trump. This incident is unacceptable."

Hollie Noveletsky, Republican candidate for U.S. House in New Hampshire District 1: "It is hard to believe what has just happened today. President Trump is in my prayers and I wish him a speedy recovery. I am also praying for those in law enforcement and all who were attending the rally. This violence is unacceptable."

Sen. Susan Collins, R-Maine: "I am very relieved that President Trump appears to be OK; however, this violence is absolutely appalling. Thank God for the Secret Service and first responders who hurried President Trump out of harms way."

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is rushed offstage during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Maine state Rep. Austin Theriault, Republican candidate for U.S. House: "My family and I are praying for President Trump, everyone at the rally, our law enforcement, and for our country. This is a dark day in U.S. history and I am hopeful it will serve as a wake-up call. Our country needs to unite and come together."

NH state Sen. Bill Gannon, Republican in NH state Senate: "My prayers are with President Trump, his family, and the attendees of tonights rally. Glad to hear he is doing well and wishing him a quick recovery. Grateful for the swift action of the Secret Service, political violence has no place in America."

NH state Rep. Emily Phillips, Republican candidate for state Senate: "Be strong President Trump. We are with you."

Democrats in NH and Maine reacting, too

Sen. Jeanne Shaheen, D-New Hampshire: "Political violence of any kind is never acceptable. Im appreciative of the quick efforts of law enforcement and hope the former President and anyone else injured today recovers fully."

Sen. Maggie Hassan, D-New Hampshire: "Political violence is never acceptable. I am praying for former President Trump, his family, those who were in attendance, and our country."

Rep. Chris Pappas, D-New Hampshire: "Political violence has no place in our civic life, and we must condemn it in the strongest possible terms. My thoughts are with former President Trump, his family, and all those in Butler, PA, and I am grateful for the Secret Service and local law enforcement on the scene."

Rep. Ann McLane Kuster, D-New Hampshire: Political violence must never be tolerated. Democrats and Republicans must come together swiftly to condemn this kind of abhorrent and dangerous behavior.

Joyce Craig, Democrat, candidate for New Hampshire governor: "Political violence is unacceptable. Im hoping President Trump and everyone at his rally is safe."

Cinde Warmington, Democrat, candidate for New Hampshire governor: "Today is a sad day for our country. There is no room for political violence in America. I am grateful for the swift response of the secret service. My thoughts are with former President Trump, his family, and all attendees of the rally in Butler."

Maine Gov. Janet Mills, Democrat: "Please join me in praying for the health and safety of former President Trump, those who attended his rally today, and our country. There is absolutely no place for violence in our politics - none."

Sen. Angus King, independent of Maine, who caucuses with Democrats: "Thanks to the quick action of the Secret Service, I am glad to hear former President Trump is safe and wish him a speedy recovery. We can disagree on politics, but political violence of any kind is wrong and antithetical to the core American values we believe in."

Rep. Chellie Pingree, D-Maine: "Political violence of any kind is never acceptable. Ever. My thoughts are with the former President, his family, and those who were in attendance."

Rep. Jared Golden, D-Maine: "I am praying for former President Trump and others at the rally today in PA, as well as for law enforcement on the scene. I pray whoever is responsible is quickly apprehended and held accountable. There must be no room for violence of any kind in our politics."

Troy Jackson, Maine Democrat, state Senate president: I am glad to hear that President Trump is safe and am terribly sorry for the loss of a person - an innocent bystander - that was tragically killed during todays incident. There is no place in our world for political violence - everyone should have the right to believe in whatever they want as long as it does not cause harm and hurt to other people.

'It's sick': Joe Biden condemns shooting at Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania

This story may be updated.

This article originally appeared on Portsmouth Herald: NH, Maine Republicans rush to support Trump after shooting
Delaware's congressional delegation and political leaders have denounced the violence at former President Donald Trump's rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on Saturday. Trump was rushed off the stage after apparent gunshots rang out, and appeared to have blood on his ear and cheek.

A Trump spokesperson said the former president is "fine" but seeing doctors at a nearby medical facility. The shooter and one other person are reported dead.

President Joe Biden, who is in Rehoboth Beach, in a statement, said, I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania. Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it, Biden said.

The president's campaign said it is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down all of its television ads as quickly as possible following the shooting.

Delaware congressional delegation responds to Trump rally shooting

"Political violence is absolutely unacceptable and has no place in our democratic process," U.S. Sen. Tom Carper posted on X. "While we await more information about what unfolded this evening in Butler, Pennsylvania, Im praying for the safety of all those in attendance today."

TRUMP RALLY: Where is Butler, Pa.? Former president taken off stage after reports of shots at rally

U.S. Sen. Chris Coons echoed Carper's statement, posting on X that "political violence has no place in our country."

"I'm relieved to hear the former president is safe, and I'm thankful for the swift reaction of the Secret Service and law enforcement," Coons wrote.

U.S. Rep. Lisa Blunt Rochester posted on X that she was "grateful" to hear that Trump is safe, and thanked law enforcement for their quick action. Secret Service members could be seen tackling Trump to the ground and evacuating the rally.

"There is no place for political violence in our country," she wrote.

Top local officials condemn violence at Trump rally

Delaware's top local officials also condemned the violence at the rally.

Gov. John Carney asked followers on X to pray for Trump and the rally attendees, writing that political violence "is completely unacceptable and an affront to our countrys values."

New Castle County Executive Matt Meyer posted on X that "violence under any circumstance is unacceptable. Praying that everyone is safe."

"There is no place for political violence in this country," Lt. Gov. Bethany Hall-Long wrote. "I am praying for former President Trump, and all the attendees at his rally. I am grateful for the law enforcement officers who quickly responded to this tragedy."

MORE: Donald Trump rushed from stage at rally after apparent gunshots; 1 person and shooter dead

Send story tips or ideas to Hannah Edelman at hedelman@delawareonline.com. For more reporting, follow them on X at @h_edelman.

This article originally appeared on Delaware News Journal: Trump rally violence condemned by top Delaware elected officials
Almost a thousand people gathered in Utica, all demanding justice for 13-year-old Nyah Mway before marching so everyone could hear their voice.

"Do you feel ashamed? When you hear my name? Nyah Mway, Nyah Mway, Nyah Mway!""No justice, no peace! No racist police!""No hate, no fear! Refugees are welcome here!"

These are just a handful of the slogans, chants, and screams from the sea of people walking through Utica on Saturday, many carrying signs or framed pictures of the 13-year-old.

Among those attending the march was Hawa Juma, a Utica resident and a Kenyan refugee whose family immigrated to the United States in 2004.

More: Hundreds attend candlelight vigil for 13-year-old Nyah Mway, shot and killed by police

When asked why she was marching, Juma said that being a refugee from a war-torn country meant she and her family were looking for a better life.

"We wanted a better future," she said. "Our parents faced trauma [in their home country] and now their kids are going through a similar trauma. And it's making parents feel like their kids are in danger  from the same thing [they escaped.]"

The Past

The distrust of police and the military is one that can be found in many a refugee all over the world. According to a report by Human Rights Watch in 2010, police in Kenya would regularly abuse Somali refugees and take advantage of them.

Quote: "Making no distinction between women, children, and men, police often use violence, unlawful detention in appalling overcrowded conditions, and threats of deportation to extort money from them. Some police officers rape women near the border. During the first ten weeks of 2010, hundreds, if not thousands, of Somali asylum seekers unable to pay were unlawfully sent back to Somalia."

More: Utica police releases bodycam footage in fatal shooting of Nyah Mway

And the Karen people have been in conflict with the military and police in Myanmar/Burma since the 40s. In a 2006 report, Human Rights Watch urged the U.N. Security Council to act and stop the attacks by the Burmese army. Detailing the events, they wrote:

"Burmese troops have looted and burned homes and planted anti-personnel landmines in civilian areas to terrorize the local population. In some cases, villagers have reportedly been ordered by battalion commanders to leave their homes or face summary execution. Fleeing villagers have reported witnessing soldiers commit extrajudicial killings and torture. They have also reported that men, women and children have been forcibly conscripted to work either as army porters or as unpaid laborers."

The Future

Kay Klo, director at the Midtown Utica Community Center, spoke before the crowd on Saturday before the march.

"I know I wear many hats in the community," Klo said. "But today, I come to you today as Kay, the community leader who loves her people and the little girl, the teenager, and now the young adult in our community. When the kids and youth say they are not being heard, listen to them. We are the community who grew up with Tamir Rice, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd, and Trayvon Martin. We've witnessed the deadly reality of police brutality broadcast on our screens and social media."

More: Fake guns that look real: 'My God, what are the police supposed to do?'

Klo said their parents and grandparents have been the victims of unimaginable violence, state-sanctioned persecution, abject poverty, and ethnic cleansing.

"We know what abuse looks like," she said. "We know it's like to be targeted and shot by state authorities because of your ethnicity. So don't gaslight us and try to convince us that Nyah Mway's slaughter was justified... Our community is underfunded and over-policed. Our kids are too scared to go outside."

Klo listed a series of demands before the march.

Utica Mayor Michael Galime and Utica Police Department offers an official apology and admission of wrongdoing for the shooting death of Nyah Mwah.

The city cover funeral costs, as well as mental health services for the family

The Utica Police Department's investigation remain transparent, with weekly updates in English, Burmese, and Karen

Irrespective of the findings of the investigation, the officers involved be fired from the Utica Police Department due to the loss of public trust for these officers

The city invest in public institutions that help public safety by providing resources to young children

The city establish an independent civilian review board by community stakeholders who have investigatory and disciplinary power

The Utica Police Department work to change the demographic of the police department to better reflect the racial demographic of the city

Legislation that would require to transparent record all stops with information pertaining to where they were stopped, why they were stopped, and what the demographic was for being staffed.

The march took them all the way from Roscoe Conkling Park to Mohawk Valley Community College.

This article originally appeared on Observer-Dispatch: People gather for 13-year-old Nyah Mway demanding justice
U.S. act regarding Xizang exposes double-faced nature

Xinhua) 09:33, July 14, 2024

The national flag of China is seen on the square in front of the Potala Palace on the Serfs' Emancipation Day in Lhasa, capital of southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 28, 2024. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The United States once again egregiously interfered in China's internal affairs by signing a Xizang-related act into law. This move distorts Xizang's history and reality while also exposing the U.S. side's double-faced practice.

U.S. President Joe Biden said in a statement that the act "does not change longstanding bipartisan United States policy to recognize the Tibet Autonomous Region and other Tibetan areas of China as part of the People's Republic of China." Based on this stance, its so-called "Promoting a Resolution to the Tibet-China Dispute Act" -- a purely U.S. domestic law -- constitutes a gross interference in China's domestic affairs. Even the act's name implies ill intentions.

The 14th Dalai Lama is widely known as a political exile who engages in anti-China separatist activities under the guise of religion. He and his followers have long sought "Tibet independence," betraying the country. When it comes to contact and talks, the Chinese government has been constant and clear in stating that the 14th Dalai Lama must fully reflect on and thoroughly correct his political propositions.

In another example of wordplay, the act claims "the United States Government has never taken the position that Tibet was a part of China since ancient times." This obviously endorses and emboldens the secessionist clique. Since ancient times, the region has forged unbreakable geographical, consanguineal, political, economic and cultural bonds with the rest of China.

The act is riddled with other deliberate distortions and misrepresentations. It hypes up "self-determination" for Tibetans. Yet, the right to self-determination was intended specifically for inhabitants of colonies or non-self-governing territories to fight colonialism and imperialism. It certainly cannot apply to an ethnic group living in an integral part of a sovereign country. The United Nations condemns any effort to disrupt the national unity, territorial integrity or political independence of a state.

The act once again proves the United States is playing the "Xizang card" to contain China. It has for a long time engaged in political manipulation over Xizang-related matters under the guise of defending human rights. Such manipulations include enacting legislation to smear and destabilize Xizang, and providing substantial funding to separatist forces advocating for "Tibet independence."

Today, Xizang is dynamic and flourishing. Since the epoch-making democratic reform in 1959 that abolished the serfdom system, of which the Dalai Lama used to be the chief representative as well as a diehard defender, the region has made exceptional progress in human rights. It has eradicated absolute poverty, along with the rest of the country. People of diverse ethnic groups have benefited from the region's all-round achievements, which include political stability, social harmony, economic growth, ecological advancements and ethnic unity.

Farmers participate in a ceremony marking the start of spring farming in Gyaimain Village in Qonggyai County of Shannan, southwest China's Xizang Autonomous Region, March 16, 2024. (Xinhua/Tenzing Nima Qadhup)

The U.S. politicians might be dreaming that it will be able to impact the plateau region's stability, harmony or prosperity. But no sensible country will give any credence to the act's claims, rendering the naive bets made by the United States and separatist forces ineffective. The act -- another example of U.S. hegemony -- will have no effect other than to erode Washington's already fragile international credibility.

Nations that lack credibility will fade. The negative global engagements of the United States, such as instigating or fueling wars, its practice of unilateralism and double standards, and interference in other countries' domestic affairs, are increasingly pushing its credibility to the brink of bankruptcy.

Xizang-related affairs concern China's core interests. The United States must learn from history, deliver on its commitments to China, and refrain from undermining China's sovereignty and territorial integrity in the name of human rights or anything else.

Should the United States persist in its politically motivated missteps, the decline of its international standing is highly likely to accelerate and potentially lead to irreversible consequences.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Rhiannon Adam, a photographer from London and one of eight people chosen by Japanese entrepreneur Yasaku Maezawa to go on the first civilian Starship mission to the moon, talks about the trip during preparations for a test flight in March. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer SpaceX founder and Chief Executive Elon Musk, left, in 2018 announces Japanese billionaire Yusaku Maezawa, right, as the first private passenger on a trip around the moon. Chris Carlson/Associated Press file photo In this photo taken from video footage released by the Roscosmos Space Agency, Roscosmos cosmonaut Alexander Misurkin, bottom, and spaceflight participant Yusaku Maezawa, of Japan, above, are seen inside the spaceship as the Soyuz-2.1a rocket booster with Soyuz MS-20 space ship carrying Russian cosmonaut Alexander Misurkin, spaceflight participants Yusaku Maezawa and Yozo Hirano of Japan to the International Space Station in December 2021. Roscosmos Space Agency via Associated Press Space flight participant Yusaku Maezawa attends a news conference ahead of the expedition to the International Space Station at the Gagarin Cosmonauts' Training Center in Star City outside Moscow in October 2021. Shamil Zhumatov/Associated Press Yusaku Maezawa, founder and president of Start Today Co., speaks during an event at the SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, California, in late 2018. He had just been identified as the sponsor of a trip around the moon on Starship. It wasnt to be. Patrick T. Fallon/Bloomberg file photo Rhiannon Adam, a photographer from London, England, and one of eight people chosen by Japanese entrepreneur Yasaku Maezawa to go on the first civilian mission to the Moon on a Starship, talks about the trip during preparations for SpaceX Starship flight 3 at Starbase on Boca Chica Beach, Brownsville, TX on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer Rhiannon Adam, a photographer from London and one of eight people chosen by Japanese entrepreneur Yasaku Maezawa to go on the first civilian Starship mission to the moon, talks about the trip during preparations for a test flight in March. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer Rhiannon Adam, a photographer from London, England, and one of eight people chosen by Japanese entrepreneur Yasaku Maezawa to go on the first civilian mission to the Moon on a Starship, talks about the trip during preparations for SpaceX Starship flight 3 at Starbase on Boca Chica Beach, Brownsville, TX on Wednesday, March 13, 2024. Marvin Pfeiffer/Staff Photographer

As the sun set on Starbase before Starships third flight in March, Rhiannon Adam stood on the tidal flat staring at the giant rocket, imagining her upcoming mission to create art on a journey around the moon.

The Irish photographer living in England was one of eight creatives set to join Japanese billionaire and art collector Yusaku Maezawa on his dearMoon project  which was planned as the first private mission to the moon.

Its gonna take such a long time for it to sink in that its actually happening, Adam said over the sound of the ocean breeze and machinery humming in the background. Even when Im looking at it now, it doesnt really feel real.

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It just feels like Im looking at some scaffolding, you know, and it feels very alien right now.

But Adam, who would have been the first Irish person to go to space, and her fellow astro-artists  American DJ Steve Aoki, Korean pop star Choi Seung Hyun, American space YouTuber Tim Dodd aka Everyday Astronaut, Czech artist Yemi A.D., British photographer Karim Iliya, American filmmaker Brendan Hall and Indian actor Dev Joshi  wont fulfill their dreams of traveling to space on dearMoon because the mission is now dearly departed.

Maezawa last month canceled the mission, which originally had been scheduled to launch from South Texas last year.

The demise of SpaceXs first private Starship booking came as the commercial space company was preparing to launch the craft June 6 on its fourth flight from Starbase. And it came about a month after SpaceX began accepting reservations from individuals willing to pay for a trip aboard one of the companys spacecraft.

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Too slow

While the pace of Starships development is quickening, it didnt meet dearMoons ambitious schedule. The craft remains far from ready to carry people, though NASA has put its faith in SpaceX to return it to the moon by late 2026. Even thats uncertain, though, given the amount of development still necessary.

The unclear timeline became too much for Maezawa, who announced the project in 2018. The amount he paid for the mission was undisclosed, but some have estimated it to be in the low hundreds of millions.

Unfortunately, however, launch within 2023 became unfeasible, and without clear schedule certainty in the near-term, it is with a heavy heart that Maezawa made the unavoidable decision to cancel the project, dearMoon said June 1 in a statement posted on the missions website.

The project was among the first infusions of money into the Starship system. Since then, billions of dollars in contracts from NASA and the Defense Department appear to have shifted the companys priorities.

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From the beginning, critics called the dearMoon project a publicity stunt that would never happen, but the idea of a space mission with a focus on art instead of science captured imaginations and offered an early glimpse of what the future space economy could look like.

Long before NASAs nearly $4 billion investment in the program  and before it was known as Starship  SpaceX CEO Elon Musk referred to it as the BFR, an acronym for Big (expletive) Rocket.

And Maezawa envisioned using his billionaire buddys spacecraft for the first civilian circumnavigation of the moon.

When he announced the idea at SpaceXs California headquarters in 2018, he said, I choose to go to the moon, with artists.

He said he wanted to inspire new artwork and create connections to promote world peace.

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At the announcement, Musk predicted the mission would take people further than any human has ever gone from planet Earth and said it was restoring his faith in humanity.

This will be historic, and I think very fun and interesting and inspiring and exciting, he said.

A million applicants

In March 2021, Maezawa began taking applications from those who wanted to join him on the all-expense paid weeklong jaunt around the moon, a roughly 480,000-mile trip. He claimed to receive more than a million applications from hopeful astro-artists representing 249 countries.

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Maezawa also ran a short-lived and controversial girlfriend contest to select a woman who would travel as his girlfriend. It was to be the subject of a reality television show as well, but the billionaire soon canceled that idea, citing personal reasons amid significant criticism.

Some thought he got distracted from dearMoon when he bought a seat to the International Space Station aboard a Russian Soyuz capsule. In December 2021, he became the first private Japanese citizen to visit the space station.

The dearMoon crew was named in December 2022  and then the project went largely silent.

Adam described the selection process as arduous.

Its kind of like applying for a grant. You know, you go through all of the hoops  proposals and interviews and meeting everyone together and medicals, she said. Looking back on your own planet from afar is also not for the faint of heart, so they do take a bit of time in making sure youre as prepared as you can be.

In November, a statement from dearMoon announced it that wouldnt launch in 2023 but said it hoped Starships second flight would inform development and the dearMoon mission timeline.

Like the big crafts first flight, it ended in explosions after launch. DearMoons next public announcement was the cancellation.

Its a developmental project so it is what it is, but it is still uncertain as to when Starship can launch, Maezawa posted on X. I cant plan my future in this situation, and I feel terrible making the crew members wait longer, hence the difficult decision to cancel at this point in time. I apologize to those who were excited for this project to happen.

Death of a dream

The sudden cancellation left the dearMoon crew stunned and frustrated.

The one thing I have a hard time reconciling is the timeline. Had I known this could have ended within a year and a half of it being publicly announced, I wouldve never agreed to it, Tim Dodd, a YouTuber with nearly 1.6 million viewers, said on X. We had no prior knowledge of this possibility. I voiced my opinions, even before the announcement, that it was improbable for dearMoon to happen in the next few years.

Adam, too, publicly expressed her disappointment.

I have been left with a life-changing experience, that much is true. But not the one I hoped for, she wrote on X. Now, the change I have experienced is that I dont trust as freely and easily, and I certainly dont believe that moon trips happen to people like me. Not today anyway.

She said she sees it as a missed opportunity but still believes in the need for artists in space and plans to continue work to support that endeavor.

But truly, a project like this deserved a visionary to lead it  and for that we are still waiting, she said. I hope someone picks up the idea of artists in space and runs with it. Dont let this dream die with dearMoon.

She said she doesnt blame SpaceX.

Ill still be watching each launch closely (go IFT4!) and cheering on from the sidelines, she wrote ahead of the June launch.

Though she wont be aboard, Starship, Starbase and the people it attracts still capture her imagination.

My favorite part of it is just seeing how many different kinds of people walk up to see this, she said this spring at Boca Chica Beach. I think its sort of amazing that you can walk up so close to this as well, just from a public area and look  where else can you do that?

The accessibility helps people feel invested and involved even if they dont have a direct connection, Adam said.
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky broke his silence after U.S. President Joe Biden mistakenly called him President Putin at the NATO Summit on Thursday.

Zelensky encountered reporters on Saturday, July 13, soon after he touched down at Shannon Airport in County Clare, Ireland, where he was greeted by Irish Taoiseach [Prime Minister] Simon Harris.

When a journalist asked about Bidens error, Zelensky said: Its a mistake. I think the United States gave a lot of support to Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so.

Currently, the U.S. is providing military support to Ukraine in its war with Russia and President Vladimir Putin, who invaded Ukraine in February 2022.

Since the invasion, the U.S. has committed more than $52 billion in security assistance to support Ukraines efforts to defend itself against Russias aggression, secure its borders, and improve interoperability with NATO, according to the Department of Defense.

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Joe Biden President Putin gaffe:



Its a mistake. I think United States gave a lot of support for Ukrainians. We can forget some mistakes, I think so.



Hes speaking at Shannon Airport where he is briefly meeting the Taoiseach. pic.twitter.com/lIxEBGqCHB  Gabija Gataveckaite (@gataveckaite) July 13, 2024

Bidens gaffe involving Zelenskys name came at a pivotal moment in his campaign leading up to Novembers presidential election, as some Democrats are calling for him to drop out. There is mounting concern about Bidens ability to perform against Donald Trump. This has been exacerbated by the Presidents much-criticized performance at the first debate, and subsequent stumbles.

Read More: Inside Andriy Yermaks Quest for Peace in Ukraine

"Now I want to hand it over to the President of Ukraine who has as much courage as he has determination. Ladies and gentlemen, President Putin," Biden said at the NATO summit, celebrating the alliances 75 year anniversary. Audible gasps were heard throughout the room, and some people called out, Zelensky! to correct Biden.

Biden then amended his mistake. Returning to the microphone, he clarified: "Were gonna beat President Putin. President Zelensky. I was so focused on beating Putin."

Zelensky and Harris meeting comes four days after a major Kyiv childrens hospital was struck by a Russian missile.

Contact us at letters@time.com.
KANAGAWA, Jul 14 (News On Japan) - Enoshima Bridge in Kanagawa Prefecture, which connects to the island of Enoshima, is now subject to nighttime traffic restrictions due to complaints about noise from modified vehicles.

The Enoshima Bridge gate was closed at 10 PM Saturday night.

Previously, vehicles could not cross Enoshima Bridge at night without a permit. However, numerous complaints from residents about the loud engine noises of modified cars and motorcycles entering the island at night have been received.

As a result, the police decided to close the bridge gate, and from now on, vehicles and motorcycles will be prohibited from passing between 10 PM and 5 AM daily for the foreseeable future.

This nighttime closure of Enoshima Bridge is the first in approximately 28 years.

Source: TBS
OSAKA, Jul 15 (News On Japan) - Osaka Prefectural Police have issued a new directive urging all officers to wear sunglasses to protect themselves from the heat and sunlight.

On July 12, Osaka Prefectural Police announced that all officers should use sunglasses and cooling towels to cope with the heat. This directive follows a notification from the National Police Agency in April. Officers are responsible for providing their own sunglasses and are instructed to avoid wearing those with flashy colors or unusual designs.

Source: YOMIURI
The coherence of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization also depends on the south, wherefrom the need to strengthen and enhance the political dialogue between NATO and its Southern partners, said Moroccos ambassador to Washington Youssef Amrani.

The Moroccan diplomat made the remarks during his participation in a NATO Public Forum held on the sidelines of the Washington Summit celebrating the 75th anniversary of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, in a panel entitled NATO Looks South: Strategic Perspective and Partnership relations.

A strong and coherent political dialogue is crucial to promote mutual understanding and establish practical cooperation based on trust, Amrani insisted, pointing out that this requirement is all the more clear in view of the emergence of new security challenges that call more than ever for an integrated and global approach.

Amrani advocated more constructive, open and regular discussions with the South in order to establish more assertive dynamics in interaction with partners on the Mediterranean side, an approach he deems necessary to perfect to fully meet the ambitions and priorities of the Mediterranean dialogue partner countries while seizing the multiple existing opportunities.

The Atlantic constitutes a strong vector for boosting international cooperation with all partners, he underlined, in particular thanks to the vision of the Kingdom which reconfigures the African Atlantic space in a transversal way, bringing major changes in the geopolitical realities of the region, he argued.

In this connection, the diplomat shed light on the Atlantic Vision of King Mohammed VI, presenting the eminently humanist, pragmatic and united essence of this approach which governs Moroccan commitments in the region to build a corridor of shared development and prosperity.

Peace and security are prerequisites for development and progress, underlined the ambassador, adding that it is not a question of dissociating human objectives from their security basis. It is necessary to maintain a holistic approach which enriches all the national, regional and international commitments which abound in the Atlantic area.

This approach of complementarity and coordination of international efforts is at the heart of Moroccos which connects the aspirations of African citizens with strategies focused on integration, sharing and solidarity, Youssef Amrani pointed out, adding that this widely shared appreciation echoes the call launched to further promote partnership with the South, particularly within the framework of the Mediterranean dialogue.

In his address, the Moroccan diplomat also highlighted the history of the partnership between Morocco and NATO, stressing that since the launch of the Mediterranean Dialogue, the Kingdom has always strived, as a pioneer, to build a collaboration mutually beneficial with the Alliance, to jointly respond to cross-cutting issues and shared threats.

This relationship is in line with the principles of collective and indivisible security, which are fundamental to responding to current security challenges, he underlined.

The panel was attended by NATO Deputy Assistant Secretary General for Political Affairs and Security Policy, Javier Colomina, and former Secretary of State for Defense of Portugal and President of the group of NATOs reflection on its southern neighborhood, Ana Santos Pinto.
The Arab Parliament commended the leading role and sustained efforts of King Mohammed VI, Chairman of the Al Quds Committee, in defending the Palestinian cause.

This came in a resolution on the situation in the occupied Palestinian territories issued by the Arab Parliament during its 5th session held in Cairo Saturday.

The Arab Parliament also emphasized the actions of Bayt Mal Al Quds Asharif Agency, an offshoot of Al Quds Committee, and its efforts to preserve the identity of the Holy City and its legal status, and back the resistance of its inhabitants.

The Arab institution, furthermore, called for greater coordination between Arab and regional parliaments to support the admission of the State of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations, urging countries that have not yet recognized the State of Palestine to do so in all international forums.

The institution also praised Arab and international efforts calling for an immediate and urgent cessation of aggression in Gaza and for a ceasefire, the resolution of the conflict in the region in accordance with existing international conventions, and the admission of the State of Palestine as a full member of the United Nations.

The Arab Parliament reiterated its support for the Palestinian people and their just national cause until they obtain their legitimate rights of return, freedom, self-determination, and the creation of an independent Palestinian state with Al Quds as its capital. The Arab MPs called on all international and UN parties to assume their responsibility to establish peace, security, and stability in the Middle Eastan objective that cannot be achieved without resolving the Palestinian issue and guaranteeing justice and freedom for the Palestinian people.

This session was also marked by the adoption of a resolution on the situation of Palestinian women in the occupied Palestinian territories.

During the session, participants highlighted the role of the Arab Parliament as a key player in fostering cooperation efforts, serving the strategic interests of Arab nations, and complementing official diplomatic endeavors.

They emphasized the importance of synergy between official and parliamentary diplomacy in advancing the interests of the Arab peoples, renewing the institutions commitment to supporting the initiatives undertaken by Arab leaders in defending and promoting Arab causes.

The agenda of this session included the examination of reports from the four standing committees, namely the Foreign Affairs, Political Affairs, and National Security Committee; the Legislative, Legal, and Human Rights Affairs Committee; the Social, Educational, Cultural, Womens and Youth Affairs Committee; as well as the report of the Palestine Committee, which deals with significant developments in Palestine and efforts to end Israeli aggression against the Gaza Strip.

The meetings program also included the examination of draft resolutions and laws submitted by the parliamentary committees following their preparatory meetings for the session, aiming to follow up on all political events and developments in Arab countries throughout the year.

Morocco was represented at this meeting by Mohamed Bakouri, president of the National Rally of Independents (RNI) group in the Upper House and head of the Economic Committee in the Arab Parliament and other MPs member of the Arab parliaments various committees.
King Mohammed VI expressed solidarity and empathy with former US president Donald Trump who survived an assassination attempt while on a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania.

In a message to Trump, the King wishes Trump prompt recovery so that he can continue to serve your great nation. On the same occasion, the King strongly condemned political violence.

My thoughts and prayers are with you, Mr. President, your family, and the innocent victims of this deplorable act, the message concludes.

Under the Trump administration, the US recognized Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara territory and promised to open a consulate there.

Trump was shot in the ear as he stood in front of crowds at a fairground in Butler where one bystander was killed in the shooting and two others were critically injured.

The shooter, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, was immediately killed by the Secret Service.
Law enforcement block a street in Bethel Park, Pa., that they say is near a residence of Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected shooter of former President Donald Trump, Sunday, July 14, 2024. Joshua A. Bickel/AP This 2021 photo provided by Bethel Park School District shows student Thomas Matthew Crooks who graduated from Bethel Park High School with the Class of 2022, in Bethel Park, Pa. Crooks was identified by the FBI as the shooter involved in an assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally on Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (Bethel Park School District via AP) AP The Bunker Branding Co. website shows a shirt with the same design that the suspected Trump shooter wore. Bunker Branding is a Boerne apparel company specializing on merchandising for social media influencers. Bunker Branding Co. This June 3, 2022 still image taken from video provided by the Bethel Park School District shows student Thomas Matthew Crooks in the 2022 Bethel Park High School Commencement in Bethel Park, Pa. (The Bethel Park School District via AP) AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surround by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. (AP Photo/Evan Vucci) Evan Vucci/Associated Press Bunker Branding Co., the Boerne company that made the shirt the suspected Trump shooter wore during his assassination attempt is now printing shirts commemorating the event. Bunker Brandin Co

The suspected shooter at former President Donald Trump's rally was wearing a T-shirt advertising Demolition Ranch, a popular gun-themed YouTube channel with San Antonio-area ties, as he fired his weapon Saturday.

Images posted to social media by rally attendees after the shooting show 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks wearing the YouTube channels short-sleeved gray Demolitia shirt. The term is a combination of the words demolition and militia.

The Secret Service said its agents killed Crooks after he allegedly fired several shots at Trump during a campaign rally in Pennsylvania. The images show armed agents standing over the body. The logo on the sleeve of the shirt and some letters of the YouTubers Demolitia logo are visible.

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RELATED: Trump calls for unity and resilience in wake of apparent assination attempt

Demolition Ranch is a YouTube channel hosted by Dr. Matt Carriker, a Boerne-area veterinarian and firearm enthusiast who launched the brand in 2011. Its since grown to have more than 11.6 million subscribers who watch Carriker and his friends shoot weapons, detonate explosives, review weapons and offer firearms safety and education.

On Saturday evening, Carriker, who calls himself King of the Demolitia, posted an image of the shooters body with the words What the hell on Instagram.

Last night was crazy  Ive got news stations calling me asking if I ever spoke with the shooter, he said in a Sunday morning post on X. What  the  hell.

Carriker, who also owns Desperado Shooting Range in Boerne, couldnt be reached by telephone and didnt respond to a request for comment via Instagram.

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Demolition Ranch sells a variety of gear via another of Carrikers ventures, Bunker Branding Co., a Boerne apparel company that specializes in social media influencer merchandise.

Despite Carrikers professed shock at his brands being associated with the assassination attempt, Bunker Branding began selling T-shirts on Monday with the now-famous photograph of the former president raising his fist after the shooting and the words You Missed.

Carriker and his wife, Mere, launched Bunker Branding in 2017 in their garage to sell extra T-shirts, according to one of his videos. Business documents list him as president of Ranchmerch.com LLC, the entity doing business as Bunker Branding.

Among the companys clients is recent U.S. House District 23 candidate Brandon Herrera, another area firearm YouTuber who lost the Republican primary runoff to Rep. Tony Gonzales.

The Bunker Branding website shows a Demolitia shirt like the one Crooks was wearing can be purchased for $29.95.

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Carrikers posts since Saturday have collected thousands of comments from supporters and fans who say they are troubled the brand is now linked to a presidential assassination attempt.

Sucks seeing articles about this and they are naming 3 people  the shooter, trump  and somehow me, Carriker said Sunday evening on X. Still just in disbelief honestly.

Monday afternoon, Carriker posted a video expressing condolences to rally attendees killed and injured and said he keeps politics out of his channels content.

I dont feel the need to impose my political views and beliefs on other people, he said. However we were obviously kind of thrust into the conversation after last weekend.

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State of Pennsylvania voter records indicate Crooks was a registered Republican who would have been eligible to cast his first presidential vote in the November election. Federal Election Commission filings indicate he appears to have made a $15 donation when he was 17 to ActBlue, a political action committee supporting Democrats.

In his video Monday, Carriker also condemned violence and said his channel was not meant to incite it.

I dont want any violence or hate anywhere around me, he said. I have a wife and little kids. I want them to be safe and secure forever.

This isnt the first time San Antonio-area brands have shown up amid acts of political violence.

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Five Moroccan ministers attended the French National Day function at the residence of ambassador Christophe Lecourtier in Rabat. The attendance was interpreted as a positive sign in the development of French-Moroccan ties following Frances snap elections.

Generally, only one or a few members of the Moroccan government attend national days held by different embassies in Rabat. But during the French National Day, Moroccan ministers of foreign affairs, education, industry, finance and solidarity all attended, standing on the stage.

French ambassador delivered a speech highlighting the longstanding ties between the two countries.

As the Kingdom prepares to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the reign of His Majesty King Mohammed VI, I have no doubt that France will be able to demonstrate, with the highest degree of clarity, the key importance of its relationship with Morocco and express its willingness to renew our historic commitment to it, he said.

Morocco was expecting to host the French Moroccan high commission this month following a series of visits to Rabat by French ministers, however the event was put off by French snap election.

In public comments earlier this year, French ambassador said mending ties required Paris making its position clear on the Sahara.

After a diplomatic frost at a context of Macrons Algeria tropism and activism by his party members against Moroccos interests in the European parliament, relations started to improve with many observers predicting a French announcement of a clear position in support of Moroccos sovereignty over the Sahara.

A bracket was opened following visits by current foreign minister Stephane Sejourne and other French ministers, during which France recognized Moroccos economic sovereignty over the Sahara territory by expressing support for a power link between Casablanca and the Saharan city of Dakhla.
Senator Josh Hawley gives a fiery speech on Christian nationalism at the National Conservatism Conference in Washington. Photo: Zach D Roberts/Associated Press

The fourth National Conservatism Conference began on a triumphant note. Welcome to  ready or not  the mainstream, announced Chris DeMuth of the Heritage Foundation during an opening plenary. When the movement first appeared, he went on, many thought it outre and a bit scary. Why? We favored sovereign nations with borders, he said. We want government to be actively concerned with maintaining a healthy culture and a strong society. Five years after the movement hosted its first conference, DeMuth said that natcons are no longer intellectual lone wolves baying at the moon. We are now traveling, on the move. Traveling with packs, some of them friendly, some of them hostile, into uncharted territory.

Conservative operative Rachel Bovard would claim on the same morning that national conservatism today is the undisputed majority political persuasion across the West: We are not part of the conservative movement. We are the conservative movement. DeMuth and Bovard overstate matters by more than a bit. Natcons have not conquered the conservative movement or become entirely mainstream. Labour recently won a historic victory in the U.K., and in France, voters shellacked the far right. In the U.S., Donald Trump has a real shot at returning to the White House  but the election isnt over yet, and a victory dance would be premature. National conservatism remains minoritarian, for now. They puff themselves out to seem bigger than they are, much like an angry cat.

But the cat still has claws. Natcons havent won over the right, but theyve grown their influence and could help shape a second Trump administration. The success of Project 2025 depends partly on staffing the government, for example, and the conference was full of young people eager to stretch their muscles. Several senators appeared at the conference, including Josh Hawley of Missouri and J.D. Vance of Ohio, who is a leading candidate to become Trumps running mate. Should Trump win the election, natcons may become more relevant than theyve ever been, and that bodes ill for the future of our multiracial democracy.

An unapologetic obsession with race and fertility marked all three days of the conference and sets natcons somewhat apart from a mainstream they despise. On the second day of the conference, I attended a panel on Surviving Late Liberalism, which promised a presentation from former Trump official Jeremy Carl. In 2020, HuffPost reported that Carl, a senior fellow at the Claremont Institute, had called the Black Lives Matter movement racist. Media Matters found that in 2015, he favorably cited Jared Taylor of the white-nationalist organization American Renaissance. Carl told Media Matters at the time that he would not have intentionally cited American Renaissance in any article I wrote and that he simply missed the sourcing. Thats hard to believe after hearing him speak.

At NatCon, Carl spent much of his time promoting his new book, The Unprotected Class: How Anti-White Racism Is Tearing America Apart, and he decried an anti-white regime that manifests in dozens of areas. Diversity, he said, is almost inevitably a synonym for less white, and though adding whites would often make a system more diverse, nobodys interested in doing that because really all theyre interested in is having less white people involved. Carl went on to say that he originally wanted to call his book Its Okay to Be White  an unmistakable white-nationalist dog whistle. The phrase originated on 4chan as part of a trolling campaign; white nationalists would eventually adopt it. As the Washington Post reported in 2023, they frequently added neo-Nazi language, websites or images to fliers with the phrase. Carls publisher didnt go for it, he complained a little wistfully.

He later speculated that a post-white America would denigrate much of the cultural, political, and social legacy that built the country and spoke of a need to reform civil-rights laws. There are some questions on our side of the aisle as to whether we should use civil-rights law or fundamentally reform it. And I think the answer is both, he said, adding that lawfare had become necessary. But I also think we need to fundamentally transform a set of laws that were designed for a world 60 years ago that no longer really exists, he went on before invoking a mythical white genocide. The phrase has been the favorite term of perhaps the farthest reaches of the right, he said, but I dont know that its an inaccurate description of the situation.

A day later, Hillsdale College professor David Azerrad warned that liberal idols are centered on the aggrieved groups who have the greatest of all contemporary privileges, the privilege of having their purported oppression be recognized by the state. Black people, first and foremost, followed closely by women, especially if theyre childless, followed closely by members of the so-called LGBTQ community with Hispanics, Muslims, and Native Americans as people with disabilities trail far behind. Azerrad later described the white-nationalist website VDARE as being merely anti-immigrant and portrayed it as a victim of political persecution at the hands of New York attorney general Letitia James. At its core, the regime today is anti-white, anti-male and anti-Christian, he added, before repeating familiar  and false  great replacement theories. He complained of an intentional demographic transformation of America into a majority minority country through large-scale immigration, and said, What diversity ultimately really means is fewer whites. In the end, it may well mean no whites. Whites are bad, non-whites are good.

Azerrad and Carl are extremists and proud of it. Theres no way to shame them. Carl said that in his book, he talks about something perhaps more extreme, American whites being victims of a cultural genocide, adding, Im suggesting this partially again to troll any leftist media who might be in the room. But the line between a troll and a true believer can be thin, if it exists at all. He was received well by the crowd and spoke to a packed breakout room, telling us that his book had provoked great interest on Capitol Hill. Just yesterday, I was asked by a number of senior Hill staffers to come give a presentation on the book, he claimed, and said that a staffer who worked for a very, very mainstream member had invited him to speak with the boss. If Carl is telling the truth, his radicalism is finding a comfortable home within the right, and that has implications for our political future.

Todays natcons share with Trump a deep hostility to multiracial democracy and the very notion of pluralism. They do not want to share America with immigrants, with non-Christians, with LGBT people. If they attain the power they seek, theyll try to roll back what racial progress weve achieved, push LGBT people back into the closet, and make America an even more difficult place for women and non-Christians to live. I want to talk to you tonight about the future, Hawley said on the first evening before calling for Christian nationalism. (Though several prominent speakers were Jewish, the movements overarching vision of Christian supremacy threatens them, whether theyre inclined to believe this or not.) Natcons sometimes speak of restoration, as if they will return America to some long-forgotten version of itself. In truth, though, the dispute between liberalism and national conservatism is not about progress versus the past, but a conflict between dueling visions of the future.

The natcon future looks a lot like J.D. Vance, who appeared at a VIP dinner a few hours after Azerrads speech. Vance first spoke at NatCon before he was a senator, and he was comfortable here, talking to friends. At the dinner, he shied away from sweeping pronouncements  conscious, perhaps, of outshining his potential boss. But he knew the crowd well and spoke of a country invaded by immigrants, controlled by elites who were crushing the American Dream. Look, the thing on immigration that no one can avoid is that it has made our societies poor, less safe, less prosperous, and less advanced, he said. The city of Springfield, Ohio, had been inundated with Haitian immigrants, he complained, before saying that America is not an idea but a nation. He will be buried in his familys ancestral plot in eastern Kentucky, he said, and he hoped his children would follow him. That is a homeland, he declared.

Whose homeland will it be? Vance seems to think it belongs to him, or to his wifes immigrant family, who did not abuse asylum laws as he claims Springfields new residents have done. His future is bleak; his America is paltry. An alternative is necessary, but as NatCon drew to a close, liberalism seemed more shambolic than ever. NatCon speakers relished President Bidens apparent decline and saw an opportunity to press the attack. They thought little of Vice-President Kamala Harris, whom Vance sarcastically called the prize at the end of the rainbow. The prospect of a Black and South Asian woman at the top of her ticket forces NatCons racism into sharper focus  and illustrates the stakes.

SIGN UP TO GET THIS COLUMN IN YOUR INBOX Sarah Jones covers politics and labor. Email This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. Vox Media, LLC Terms and Privacy Notice By submitting your email, you agree to our Terms and Privacy Notice and to receive email correspondence from us.
Ronald Reagan outside the Washington Hilton Hotel. Secret Service agent Tim McCarthy is on the far right. Photo: Corbis via Getty Images

Before Saturdays shooting at a Trump rally in Pennsylvania, the last time there was an assassination attempt on a president or former president was in 1981. On March 30, Ronald Reagan was headed to his limousine after addressing the AFL-CIO at the Washington, D.C., Hilton Hotel when John Hinckley opened fire. Tim McCarthy, the Secret Service agent who took a bullet in the chest protecting Reagan that day, had been dreading yesterdays news.

Well, Im sorry to say, but it was probably going to happen, he said on Sunday morning. I was hoping against hope it wouldnt happen, but here we are back here again.

Reagan was gravely injured. James Brady, the White House press secretary, was shot in the head, leaving him partially paralyzed and with slurred speech. (After spending the rest of his life crusading for gun control, Brady died in 2014, his death ruled a homicide resulting from his injury.) Police Officer Thomas Delahanty was shot in the neck and survived.

Secret Service agents surround Donald Trump moments after he was wounded in an assassination attempt in Butler, Pennsylvania. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

The motive of Trumps would-be assassin, Thomas Matthew Crooks, is unknown, but McCarthy couldnt help wondering about his state of mind. If you go back and take a look at John Hinckley, he was mentally ill. We go back to Squeaky Fromme, Sara Jane Moore  cant say much about Lee Harvey Oswald  but most of these other people had mental issues that were at least part of or had something to do with the motive. McCarthy compared them to mass shooters as well, noting that almost all of them have significant mental issues.

After leaving the Secret Service in 1993, McCarthy spent 27 years as the police chief of Orland Park, Illinois, before retiring. He talked about yesterdays assassination attempt from the detached perspective of the security consultant that he is today rather than reliving the emotions of the 31-year-old agent who was wounded in the line of duty. At the time, McCarthy thrust himself into the line of fire as Hinckley emptied a revolver at Reagan and another agent, Jerry Parr, shoved the president into his limousine. As he did, one of Hinckleys bullets ricocheted off the limousines armor and hit Reagan in the back, going into his lung.

Watching yesterdays video, McCarthy praised the Secret Service agents who ran onstage immediately to cover Trump. Now Im sure they would have liked President Trump to have been a little bit more cooperative, he said with a chuckle, referring to Trumps defiant fist shake as he exited the stage. He reached out to reassure his followers, the country, and the world that he was okay, so that worked out.

Here's the aftermath of the incident as it unfolded on MSNBC. pic.twitter.com/VAcVevOeSt  Kyle Griffin (@kylegriffin1) July 13, 2024

Unlike Hinckley, who fired from ground level about 20 feet from the president, Crooks was positioned on a rooftop 400 feet away. The obvious question is going to be  it doesnt take a security expert  to ask why that building wasnt covered better than it was, McCarthy said.
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Biden speaks about the shooting at a Trump rally on July 13, 2024. Photo: AFP via Getty Images

More than 60 years later, the assassination of President John F. Kennedy is still fueling countless conspiracy theories. And with the rise of social media, baseless rumors can spread like wildfire. So its no surprise that within minutes of the apparent assassination attempt against Donald Trump, wild claims began circulating about what really happened at the July 13 rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and who was to blame for the attack.

What was disappointing, if not surprising, was that it wasnt just random X users posting unfounded accusations, though the shooters identity and motives are still unknown. Several Republican elected officials were quick to blame the left, and President Joe Biden specifically, for the shooting that wounded Trump in the ear, killed at least one audience member, and injured another. (The gunman was identified hours later as a registered Republican who made a $15 donation to a liberal group when Biden was inaugurated,. Authorities say they are investigating the gunmans motive.)

Representative Mike Collins of Georgia actually accused Biden of ordering the attack. He cited a report that Biden used the phrase Its time to put Trump in the bullseye, during a call to donors on July 8, and called for charges against Biden.

Joe Biden sent the orders. https://t.co/pOc0XLxCwg  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

The Republican District Attorney in Butler County, PA, should immediately file charges against Joseph R. Biden for inciting an assassination.  Mike Collins (@MikeCollinsGA) July 13, 2024

In retrospect, this is an unfortunate choice of words by Biden, but its clear he was speaking metaphorically, not urging donors to literally shoot his opponent.

Other Republicans  including several people on Trumps VP shortlist  blamed Biden, the Democratic Party, and the mainstream media for the shooting, arguing they all have encouraged violence against Trump by vilifying him throughout his political career:

Trump-deranged Left wing LUNATICS that parade around MSNBC and other FAKE NEWS outlets demonizing Trump and calling him Hitler are DIRECTLY RESPONSIBLE for this violent attack on President Trumps life!! They have BLOOD on their hands. ENOUGH of the VIOLENT RHETORIC! AMERICA IS  Ronny Jackson (@RonnyJacksonTX) July 13, 2024

Today is not just some isolated incident.



The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs.



That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination.  J.D. Vance (@JDVance1) July 14, 2024

Lets be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse.  Tim Scott (@votetimscott) July 14, 2024

Someone just tried to ASSASSINATE President Trump.



The Democrats and the media are to blame for every drop of blood spilled today.



For years and years, theyve demonized him and his supporters.



Today, someone finally tried to take out the leader of our America First and the pic.twitter.com/38cFXjQdwx  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 13, 2024

Later on Saturday evening, Chris LaCivita, Trumps co-campaign manager, echoed this view:

for years, and even today,leftist activists, democrat donors and now even @JoeBiden have made disgusting remarksand descriptions of shooting Donald Trump its high time they be held accountable for it the best way is through the ballot box  Chris LaCivita (@LaCivitaC) July 14, 2024

Of course, Trump is known for repeatedly using violent rhetoric, and even shrugging off the January 6 mobs Hang Mike Pence chant as common sense.

And Bidens remarks on the attack against his rival didnt exactly bolster the narrative Republicans are pushing. The president initially released a statement strongly condemning political violence:

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Biden reiterated these points at a press conference later on Saturday night.

Theres no place in America for this type of violence, he said. Its sick. Its sick. Its one of the reasons we have to unite this country. We cannot allow for this to be happening. We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this.
That a bullet came within millimeters of killing Donald Trump is a scandal and a horror. That it failed is a blessing for all Americans.

In the wake of a near-tragic assassination attempt of a widely reviled figure, some people who loathe him may be wrestling with or suppressing emotions that feel contradictory. But the notions that Trump is dangerous, and that attempting to murder him is also dangerous, are not in tension with each other. The ethics and the practicality of liberal democracy both affirm a strong norm against political violence.

In comparison with most societies throughout history and the contemporary world, the United States is blessed with domestic peace, the rule of law, and democracy, even if we fall well short of the ideal on all three measures. That is the foundation that enables continued social progress, albeit slow and sporadic. Other countries have endemic political violence, corruption, coups, and authoritarianism that create a settled expectation that social differences can be settled only through brute force.

Progressing from a violent equilibrium to a peaceful one is extremely difficult. And so maintaining the expectations of social peace and the rule of law is one of the most important tasks in American politics. It is simply one that we have long taken for granted until recently.

Even though American history has seen a long litany of murders and attempted murders  Gerald Ford survived two attempts on his life within a few weeks of each other  this one feels scarier. That is because our social peace has grown more precarious. An assassination attempt on Donald Trump is a far more dangerous thing than an attempt to kill Mitt Romney would have been a dozen years ago or Al Gore a dozen years before that.

And while the responsibility for maintaining social peace and the norm of nonviolence is shared equally across the political spectrum, the blame for its decay is not.

Trump stokes and feeds upon a lust for violence. He possesses a demagogues skill for manipulating his supporters most elemental emotions. As a private citizen, he exploited a white womans rape in Central Park to demand the execution of innocent young men of color. He continues to call for various critics to be executed for their disloyalty. When a maniac attempted to kill Nancy Pelosi and smashed the skull of her husband, he cheered it on. He continues to glorify and promise to free the criminals who assaulted police in the attack on the Capitol in an attempt to seize an unelected second term.

It is not Trumps fault that someone tried to kill him. It is absolutely his fault that it has immediately set off a widespread fear of reprisals and chaos.

His authoritarianism was the quality that sprang into the minds of both his opponents and his supporters immediately after the shooting. For the latter, the assassination attempt provided an opportunity to discredit those who have sought to uphold democratic norms. Lets be clear: This was an assassination attempt aided and abetted by the radical Left and corporate media incessantly calling Trump a threat to democracy, fascists, or worse, wrote Tim Scott, a Republican senator and vice-presidential aspirant.

Trump, obviously, labels his opponents fascists and communists as a matter of course. Scotts position is not an attempt to uphold some kind of democratic norm but to undermine it. The rule he is following is that Trump can both attack democracy and delegitimize his critics and his critics are not permitted to point out what he is doing.

Fellow vice-presidential contender J.D. Vance went even further. Today is not just some isolated incident, he wrote. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trumps attempted assassination.

This is not true at all. Biden has not said Trump must be stopped at all costs. He has said Trump must be stopped through a free and fair election.

The distinction Vance elided is not trivial. In it lies the whole difference between continuing the American experiment and ending it.

Trump and his allies have preemptively stated that restoring him to power is the only legitimate outcome of the election. He has repeatedly declined to accept the possibility that he could legitimately lose in 2024. Large elements of his party have joined his belief. Hours before the attack, Mike Howell, a project director at the Heritage Foundation, was quoted saying, As things stand right now, theres zero chance of a free and fair election. Im formally accusing the Biden administration of creating the conditions that most reasonable policymakers and officials cannot in good conscience certify an election.

Political violence is a tool favored by radical causes. Assassination attempts of authoritarian figures, successful or unsuccessful, generally do not prevent authoritarianism. They enable it.

Even by the coldest calculation, murdering Trump would not protect American democracy because the threat of right-wing authoritarianism would not die with him. Had he been killed, his martyrdom would have only fueled his movements will to power.

The country is lucky Trump survived. And now we must protect the system from him.
Mexico and China are quickly establishing one of the largest trade routes in the world. Trade between the two counties shot up by 60 percent compared to last year, making it probably the strongest growing trade in the world right now, in the words of European data analytics firm Xeneta.

The huge uptick in Chinese-Mexican trade comes as a result of a slew of U.S. tariffs on imports of Chinese goods. Mexico is an increasingly attractive trade partner for both Beijing and Washington in the face of waning economic cooperation between the U.S. and China and shifting global supply chains.

Suddenly, Mexico has found itself to be a key manufacturing and production linchpin for both of the biggest economies in the world. It surpassed China to become the top exporter to U.S. markets in 2023. Mexico, a middle-income country, pays wages comparative to those in China, and is already part of the worlds largest trading bloc, the United States-Mexico-Canada free trade agreement (USMCA).

Not only has the U.S.-China chill been a boon for Mexico, so too have global near-shoring and friend-shoring policies that have gained ground in the wake of the supply chain snarls brought on by Covid. Short supply chains are having a moment, and exporting from right over the border, as opposed to the other side of the world, is increasingly attractive for U.S. markets.

Former Mexican ambassador to China Jose Luis Bernal says that the countrys strengthened trade relationship with China will provide a key catalyst to the green energy transition and emerging clean technology and manufacturing sectors. "The diversified business potential will fuel bilateral trade growth and contribute to the global green transition," Bernal told the Global Times during the eighth Global Think Tank Summit last week.

Chinese electric vehicle companies are already looking to expand their production lines to Mexico, already one of the biggest automotive producers in the world and a highly strategic geographical hub for expanding markets. Chinese EV firm BYD plans to open up a new manufacturing plant in Mexico expected to create as many as 10,000 new jobs.

"Given Mexico's large domestic market and strong auto production capabilities, many Chinese car manufacturers are now selling vehicles in Mexico and showing rising interest in manufacturing vehicles locally," Bernal said. "Chinese investments also have positive impacts on local development such as job creation, income generation, technology absorption, and increased Mexico's exports to other markets," he continued.

Chinese companies are also keenly interested in Mexicos potential as a green energy production powerhouse, and are already establishing themselves as key players in Mexican markets, where solar and wind energy have enormous expansion potential. Despite near-ideal conditions for large-scale solar and wind farms, the Mexican renewables market is relatively untapped after years of lagging climate action and petro-protectionism under outgoing President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador.

Mexico could also be a key supplier of key primary materials, rare Earth elements, and other minerals critical to the green transition, such as lithium. China already controlled nearly ten percent of global lithium reserves and a whopping 72% of lithium refining capacity as of 2022, and theyre constantly looking to expand those holdings and shore up new supply chains, especially as the West is beginning to look for a competitive edge in those same markets.

While Mexico is so far emerging victorious from the U.S.-China trade row, however, the nations approach to these relationships could change over the next few years as Mexicos freshly elected president takes office. Balancing Mexicos strengthening trade relations with China as well as its diplomatic and economic relationship with the United States will be one of the most critical tight-rope acts for President Elect Claudia Sheinbaum.

Sheinbaum is under pressure from her own constituents to push back against an unbalanced bilateral trade primarily benefiting China, as well as from the United States, who has criticized the Mexican government for triangulating Chinese goods into American markets.

By Haley Zaremba for OIlprice.com

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The growth of Artificial Intelligence has come on so strong and so fast that it threatens to destabilize the energy industry, the economy, and the climate.

Last week, Google stated that its carbon emissions have skyrocketed by a whopping 48 percent over the last five years. AI-powered services involve considerably more computer power - and so electricity - than standard online activity, prompting a series of warnings about the technology's environmental impact, the BBC reported Thursday. Indeed, a recent study from scientists at Cornell University finds that generative AI systems like ChatGPT use up to 33 times more energy than computers running task-specific software. Furthermore, each AI-powered internet query consumes about ten times more energy than traditional internet searches.

This runaway increase in power consumption as AI picks up speed poses a direct threat to the tech sectors ability to make good on its decarbonization promises. While Google hasnt budged from its net-zero by 2030 goals, the company has admitted that "as we further integrate AI into our products, reducing emissions may be challenging."

Altogether, the global AI sector is expected to be responsible for 3.5 percent of the worlds electricity consumption by 2030. In the United States, data centers alone could consume a whopping 9 percent of electricity generation by 2030. That represents a two-fold increase of current levels. That punishing growth rate will have major implications for national energy security, not to mention the economy.

When you look at the numbers, it is staggering, Jason Shaw, chairman of the Georgia Public Service Commission, an electricity regulator, told the Washington Post back in March. It makes you scratch your head and wonder how we ended up in this situation. How were the projections that far off? This has created a challenge like we have never seen before.

Together, AI and electric vehicles are expected to add 290 terawatt hours of electricity demand to the United States energy grid by the end of the decade according to projections by Rystad Energy. By 2030, these two sectors alone will consume an equivalent amount of energy to the entire nation of Turkey  the worlds 18th largest economy.

All this means that the country has to add a whole lot of energy production capacity at a breakneck pace, or the United States risks running out of energy altogether. This growth is a race against time to expand power generation without overwhelming electricity systems to the point of stress, said Rystad analyst Surya Hendry.

And the American public can expect to bear a whole lot of that burden in the form of ballooning energy bills. Furthermore, theres nothing that the average consumer can do to stop it, as its not a consumer behavior issue so much as a tech sector issue. Electricity prices are already on the rise, and growth rates arent going to slow down any time soon according to projections from the Bank of America Institute, a think tank that crunches proprietary data to provide economic insights. In the bigger picture, industry insiders have warned that if the nation cant produce enough energy to keep up with these ballooning demands, they risk hindering economic growth.

No one is more aware of this power crunch than Big Tech. CNBC reports that heavy hitters like Amazon, Alphabet, Microsoft, and Meta, are all begging for increased energy as they continue to add data centers to the grid, often at a gigawatt of electricity a pop. In order to fill this massive and increasing supply gap, many tech bigwigs are calling for an increase in nuclear energy deployment and nuclear fusion research, as it is a proven zero-carbon technology capable of producing large volumes of baseload power, avoiding many of the technological and bureaucratic pitfalls associated with renewables.

The reality, however, is that no single power source can save the United States from the crushing weight of its own technological ambitions. Feeding the insatiable hunger of AI, EVs, and related sectors will likely require additional extraction and exploration of fossil fuels in a business-as-usual scenario. And this is a huge problem.

However, AI could be the solution as well as the problem. It could be employed in smart grids to ensure efficiency and reduce emissions. However, this would require restraint that the tech sector isnt exactly famous for. The Department of Energy has warned that this approach could cause more harm than good if applied naively.

By Haley Zaremba for Oilprice.com

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Maritime Strategies International (MSI) has scaled back its Middle East Gulf region jackup drilling demand growth after Saudi Aramco suspended contracts for over 20 jackups. Saudi Aramco's surprise move came in the wake of the countrys decision to pause further expansion of its oil production capacity. MSI now expects growth in the region to clock in at 1%, down from its previous estimate of 4%, thanks to healthy levels of activity in Qatar and the UAE as they look to meet their respective oil and gas production targets. The analyst has also revised down its charter rate growth projection for standard jackups by around 4%, adding that some rigs will still be stacked in Saudi Arabia to limit running costs and in anticipation of continued work once the suspensions are lifted. For instance, strong global demand allowed ADES to lock up three of its five jack-ups temporarily suspended by Saudi Aramco. The company inked a charter for a jack-up worth a potential US$93.3M with TotalEnergies (NYSE:TTE) for drilling work in Qatar.

Thankfully, general offshore activity in the Middle Eastern Gulf remains strong. Iran's Oil Ministry has awarded offshore contracts worth $20 billion to build 28 new platforms and install 56 compressors at the South Pars gas field in the Persian Gulf. The contracts have been awarded to Iranian companies including Petropars, OIEC, Khatam Al Anbiya Construction and Mapna Group.

Related: The Value of Norways Oil Fund Soars to New High of $1.7 Trillion

Italys Saipem won two contracts in Saudi Arabia to replace lateral lines at the Berri & Manifa oilfields.

Meanwhile, ADNOC has awarded NMDC Energies an EPCI contract for water injection pipelines and topside modifications on four wellhead platforms. Overall, MSI has revealed that Gulf region continues to contribute strongly to contract volumes with US$50Bn in awards during H1 2024, with capex spend in the current year on course to outstrip levels seen in 2022 and 2023

Source: Offshore-Mag.com

Global Offshore & Deepwater Boom

Over the past few years, energy investors have been betting heavily on one corner of the market: offshore oil and gas. Full year 2023 Offshore Oil & Gas Report by Clarksons Research paints a picture of a sector in the pink of health, with robust growth across the board. Global offshore oil and gas markets posted impressive growth in 2023, with the proprietary Clarksons Offshore Index that tracks rig count as well as offshore support vessels (OSV) and subsea day rates climbing 27% to a multi-year high of 106 points.

Even better for the bulls, the Clarksons Offshore Index is projected to reach an all-time high in 2024. Rig, OSV and Subsea markets are particularly robust, with oil and gas vessel rates now higher than 2014 levels in the majority of sectors/regions. Activity remains particularly strong in the Middle East, Brazil and West Africa.

Clarksons has predicted that global offshore oil and gas CAPEX will hit $125 billion in the current year. Last year, $116 billion in offshore oil and gas CAPEX reached FID (Final Investment Decision), 49% higher than the 10-year average.

Given this backdrop, it comes as little surprise that stocks of offshore oil and gas drillers and producers have been able to reverse their seven-year downturn and outperformed other oil and gas sub-sectors.

Deepwater drilling specialist Diamond Offshore Drilling Inc. (NYSE:DO) has gained 22.0% in the year-to-date; TechnipFMC Plc. (NYSE:FTI) +34.1%, Seadrill Ltd. (NYSE:SDRL) +12.3%, Valaris Ltd (NYSE:VAL) +12.5% and Oceaneering International Inc. (NYSE:OII) +19.0% have all outperformed the oil and gas benchmark Energy Select Sector SPDR Fund (NYSEARCA:XLE) which has returned 7.9% over the timeframe.

Notable offshore energy stocks that have underperformed are Transocean Ltd (NYSE:RIG) -16.2% and Noble Corp.(NYSE:NE) -5.1%. Last month, Diamond Offshore agreed to be acquired by Noble Corp. in a cash and stock deal valued at ~$1.6B, the latest move in the wave of consolidation sweeping the energy industry.

One notable trend in the ongoing offshore boom is a large increase in deepwater and ultra-deepwater drilling. Recently, the China National Petroleum Corporation (CNPC), the government-owned parent company of PetroChina, and Cnooc (OTCPK: CEOHF), kicked off ultra-deepwater exploratory drilling for oil and gas as the country looks to wean itself of foreign oil. According to the Chinese news agency Xinhua Global Service, CNPC will drill a test borehole of up to 11,000 meters (36,089 feet), the countrys deepest-ever, which will help it better understand the Earths internal structure better, as well as to test underground drilling techniques.

Last year, Norway's Aker BP (NYSE:BP) (OTCQX:AKRBF) became the latest oil major to make an ultra-deepwater discovery. At a total depth of 8,168 m, Aker BP says the well is the longest exploration well drilled in offshore Norway. The much bigger-than-expected oil discovery was made in the Yggdrasil area of the North Sea.

Preliminary estimates indicate a gross recoverable volume of 40 million-90 million barrels of oil equivalent (boe), much higher than the companys earlier projection of between 18 million and 45 million boe.

Deepwater oil and gas production is set to increase by 60% by 2030, to contribute 8% of overall upstream production, according to a new report from Wood Mackenzie, as cited by Rig Zone.

Ultra-deepwater production is set to continue growing at breakneck speed to account for half of all deepwater production by 2030.

By Alex Kimani for Oilprice.com

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Photos by Shoji Kudaka ()

You dont necessarily need a harness, a helmet, or a headlight to feel like Lara Croft or Indiana Jones.

At Cave Okinawa or Nuchishinuji-Gama, a 655-foot cave in Uruma city, you can dive deep and try spelunking without all the usual equipment. Plus, its only a 40-minute drive from Camp Foster.

Unlike touristy Okinawa World or Valley of Gangala, Cave Okinawa is located in the middle of a neighborhood. To get there, visitors need to traverse country roads near Bios on the Hill in the Ishikawa area, then take a short walk through an open field. The mouth of the cave looks more like a grotto in a natural environment than a tourist spot.

One step inside, and youll enter a different world, almost as if youve wandered into some movie set.

The interior of the cave, which is actually a natural tunnel is lit up here and there, drawing innumerable contrasts between light and darkness. As shapes and textures of rock surfaces are brought to light, they induce a sense of wonder.

Like other limestone caves on the island, some parts of the cave are open spaces while some are a narrow aisle. Navigate the uneven terrain via boardwalks and stairs, allowing you to enjoy the tour without any difficulties.

At several spots, stalactites in unique forms and colors are spotlighted under names such as Kohaku (red and white) Rock, Kira-Kira (glittering) Rock and Gold Rock.

It took me about 30-minutes to get from the opening to the exit of the cave. Once outside, you can follow a path that leads you back to the parking area in less than 5 minutes. With an ambient temperature between 68 and 73.4 F, it is a soothing experience to walk through the cave while seeing water drops coming down from ceilings, and the sound of water flowing reverberating throughout.

According to Yuuya Ikehara, Cave Okinawas manager, many caves on the island are thought as historic sites, which means entry to such places are often restricted. Cave Okinawa was once a restricted historical site as it was formerly known as Nuchishinuji-Gama, meaning life-saving cave in Okinawan dialect. Cave Okinawa was believed to have been where a Nakijin Castle lord hid from the enemy in the time of the Three Kingdoms (1322  1429). During the Battle of Okinawa, 300 locals also lived in the cave for three months and survived the war.

Prior to renovations to make the cave fit for visitors last year, the cave was primarily open for educational school trips. However, when Ikehara took over after his father, he decided to open it to the public. And, despite little-to-no advertising, people began to visit Cave Okinawa and its illuminated interior.

I think this is cool. This is really a little treasure, said Robert Delis, a retiree, who visited the cave with his friend.

A little treasure that a lot of people dont know about, Delis continued. Its worthwhile to see. Its lit up inside. I thought you had to bring a flashlight.

Delis said that he had been stationed in Okinawa when he was active duty but didnt know about this place back then.

My friend Arata-san told me about it. And he discovered it too the same way, he said. Theres a little sign and we had to go check it out.

Though Okinawa may seem small, Cave Okinawa is an example of the little gems waiting all around the island for you to explore.

Cave Okinawa GPS coordinates: N 26.420416, E 127.809319 Admission fee: 500 yen (ages 15 and above), 300 yen (ages between 3 and 14), *Credit card payment not accepted. Hours: 9 a.m.  5:30 p.m.(last admission at 5 p.m.), *opens everyday Website

Treat yourself at Forest Cafe Junon

Its not just an adventure Cave Okinawas surrounding neighborhood has to offer. After you spend time exploring the cave, let your appetite take you for a short walk over to Junon, a cafe inside a cottage on a hill.

Enjoy lunch in lush green surroundings enjoying views of the areas nature at this quaint cafe.

Junon offers hearty comfort foods perfect after spending time underground. Choose from hamburger steak, taco rice, a fish dish and more. There are also both Japanese and English menus available.

After my adventure at Cave Okinawa, I was hungry and decided to try the cafes meat plate (1,200 yen or about $8.81). This meal consisted of chicken saute, with potato salad on the side, tomato and lettuce salad, tofu, fried papaya, and white rice. The presentation was neat, and the taste of the food was delightful. The chicken was tender and the tofu and papaya added a nice touch of local flavor.

Even better, Junons lunch menu includes soup, dessert and free refills on drinks. I took advantage of the generous offer and capped my meal with several cups of coffee.

Although I ended my meal on a caffeinated note, the atmosphere was relaxing in the cafe and made me feel at ease. That Junons food was delicious made the experience that much better.

Mori cafe Junon (Forest Cafe Junon)

GPS coordinates: N 26.420067, E 127.807762 Hours: 11:30 a.m.  6 p.m., Lunch 11:30 a.m.  2:30 p.m., *Closed on Mondays and Tuesdays
Rhyma Castillo is a trending reporter for the Express-News and a member of its Digital Go Team. She can be reached at rhyma.castillo@express-news.net.

A native of San Antonio and a Texas A&M University graduate, she is a journalist with nearly a decade of experience. She has reported on politics, immigration, climate change, gun violence, and workers rights. Additionally, she excels in lifestyle and entertainment writing, covering music, television, video games, technology, and relationships.

In her free time, she enjoys painting, drawing, cooking, hiking, climbing, gardening, playing video games, cuddling with her cats, and making music with her band.
An Omaha entrepreneurs candy innovation lab was born in a church kitchen and a spare bedroom.

Tessa Porter was working for Ferrara Candy Company in Chicago, leading research, innovation and creation of brands such as Lemonheads and Nerds Gummy Clusters, when she quit her job and moved home to Albion, Nebraska, during the pandemic.

For several years, she had been nursing an idea for a new business that would provide development and testing facilities for candymakers, bridging a gap between innovation labs and manufacturing.

Many companies either are too small to have a place to create and refine candy, or are so big that they spend an excessive sum making test batches in big factories, only to see the concepts fail.

Porter, who has bachelors and masters degrees in food science, believed she had the answer to both problems.

She found a couple of clients and set up shop at St. Michaels Catholic Church in her hometown, creating, testing and refining gummies and other candies.

I wanted to be somewhere else for a while, she said of fleeing Chicago for Albion. I ended up staying all summer.

Her candy development work was steady when she moved to a two-bedroom condo in Papillion.

I packed up my lab into a few Rubbermaid totes, she said, and set it up in a spare room at her new home. I would be on calls with clients and I would do demos for people on camera and they couldnt tell that it was a bedroom.

Still, she yearned for more professional surroundings. And now she has them.

After a brief time at a commercial location that was meant to be temporary, Porter recently opened the first fully renovated and fully supplied candy development and testing facility for Sprinkk, her two-year-old research and development company. Its at 6686 S. 118th St. No. 101.

The move increased her space to 3,700 square feet and doubled her staff from two to four. She has a list of clients and potential clients (primarily makers of gummy and hard candies) and is branching out into creating her own gummy confections using a recipe from her 90-year-old grandma.

She also opened a 2,500-square-foot factory in Albion thats equipped to make small batches of candy, something makers havent had at their disposal. If a large candy company wants to make a small amount of a candy thats in development, it costs them about $20,000 in their own facilities, meaning that if it doesnt test well, theyre out a fairly large sum of money, she said. Her factory offers a cheaper option.

All this came at the right time, Porter said, because the market for gummy candy has exploded.

Jelly Belly is now doing gummies, she said.

Her new candy lab is professional and pristine, with items everyone could name, such as a large commercial mixer, and testing equipment thats foreign to most people.

When clients bring her ideas, she writes formulas for candy, runs experiments and, contracting with a process engineer, devises new work processes if necessary. She then makes the products in the Albion factory to see if theyre viable.

Its a place where customers can come in for same-day formulations, Porter said. It speeds up the innovation process.

Porter and her lab are equipped to handle any type of candy, including chocolates, but her advanced degree  from the University of Wisconsin  is in sugar crystallization, so her expertise is in gummy and hard candy technology.

She earned her undergraduate degree at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, where she worked in the food processing center lab on the iconic fruitcakes from Beatrice (Nebraska) Bakery Co., a holiday favorite for people across the country. She also had a two-year internship at Hershey where she worked on the Reeses brand.

Her career as a candy scientist and innovator, she said, was nearly inevitable.

For one thing, she loves candy  gummies, Tootsie Rolls and chocolate-covered almonds, especially.

And for another, she said, shes always been fascinated with food.

(As a kid) I tried to make edible cheese tape to hold my burrito shut. I had a notebook I wrote all my notes in, she said.

She gave it her best shot, but eventually she moved on to bigger things.

I have officially given up on it. I will not be the creator of edible tape, she said.

Her mother, Jeni Porter of Albion, said other early projects were more successful.

When she was in junior high, she made chocolate purses, Mom said. They even opened so you could put stuff inside.

Her daughter is putting that background  including those early experiments  to good use in her fledgling side business with grandmother Norma Porter.

The senior Porter is known for her homemade elderberry ginger syrup, and she wondered if her granddaughter could make it into some kind of candy. Tessa complied, and theyre now making gummies at the factory with the syrup and selling them.

They also plan to branch out into new flavors, including strawberry rhubarb. Tessa recently planted a rhubarb crop in Albion, which is about two hours and 15 minutes northwest of Omaha.

She also has a couple of other projects in connection with Sprinkk. She said the factory can do limited edition runs on products companies can use for marketing. A recent example was beer-flavored mints made for a national brewery that were distributed for Dry January, a campaign that encourages people to abstain from alcohol for an entire month.

It was a very gimmicky thing, Porter said.

She also has started doing demos and talks for students after her niece asked her to speak to her elementary school class, which was reading a book about a jelly bean engineer.

That inspired her to think about making Sprinkk-branded candy kits that parents or teachers can make with kids.

Jeni Porter said thats consistent with her daughters drive and enthusiasm. Her family is thrilled to have her back in Nebraska, even if they havent always grasped the meaning of her chosen career.

I dont think we understood the magnitude of what she was doing. She didnt tell us all her intentions so she didnt worry us, freak us out right off the bat, Jeni said. We didnt know that being a candy scientist was a thing.

She also said people, including someone in the candy industry, have told her that theyre surprised Tessa has gotten this far with her business. They said others have tried and failed.

But shes confident in her daughters abilities.

Shes always been an inventor, a creative type kid, and shes always been a determined type kid, Jeni said. Like I will do this, so get out of my way.
Nebraska and Iowa officials on Saturday evening posted prayers and concerns for former President Donald Trump after what the Associated Press and other news outlets called a shooting incident at a Butler, Pennsylvania, rally.

As Trump was speaking, loud popping sounds rang out and he grabbed his ear before taking cover. Moments later, he was seen standing and raised a fist to the crowd with blood on his face.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen released a statement calling the terrible incident a shocking moment for our democracy. Pillen said he and his wife, Suzanne, were gratified Trump is reported to be okay.

But we are deeply saddened to hear that one attendee was killed and at least one other has been injured, Pillen said. All politically motivated violence is to be condemned, no matter what form or what situation. I commend President Trump for his immediate display of strength following the attempted assassination and I hope he will soon be back in front of the American people. I call on all Nebraskans to offer their prayers for those impacted by todays events and for our collective peace as a Nation.

Omaha Mayor Jean Stothert said in a press release, In Pennsylvania today, we saw the consequence of the anger, intolerance and division in our country. Thankfully, former President Trump is apparently safe and well, but an innocent person has died and so many others who personally witnessed this attack have been traumatized. My prayers are with him, and all the families impacted.

Every American should be outraged over this violent attack on individuals and our nations political process, and pledge to have greater acceptance of others with different beliefs and opinions. Everyone, including all candidates for public office must be able to freely, and safely express their views, she said.

Nebraska U.S. Sens. Deb Fischer and Pete Ricketts each said on X, Praying for President Trump and the people at the rally today.

Ricketts later added, My wife Susanne and I send our condolences to the families of the innocent victims. Im grateful President Trump is safe and that more people in attendance were unharmed. Political violence is anti-American. We need a full investigation into todays assassination attempt and the information must be shared with the American people as soon as possible.

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst wrote on X that she was thankful for the swift response of Secret Service and local law enforcement.

God Bless Donald J Trump, she continued. Keep praying for him and our great country.

Nebraska U.S. Rep. Don Bacon said, Our thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and his family right now. Prayers that everyone at the rally is safe.

Nebraska Rep. Adrian Smith said, Reports of violence and an injury to Pres. Trump at his rally today are deeply troubling. My prayers are with Pres. Trump and everyone at the event in Pennsylvania. I appreciate the fast action of members of the Secret Service and am monitoring reports for more information.

Nebraska Rep. Mike Flood said, Praying for President Trump, his family and everyone at the rally.

State Sen. Carol Blood who is running against Flood in the 1st District congressional race offered condolences to those whose family members lost their lives today.

(I) am thankful that our secret service is the best of the best and did their jobs so eloquently today to protect the former President, Blood said. Violence is never the answer and I hope this incident brings us closer as a country and not further apart.

Nebraska State Sen. Tony Vargas said, There is no place for violence in our politics and I strongly condemn all acts of violence against anyone, regardless of their political party. I am glad to hear that President Trump is ok and thank our law enforcement for their quick action.

Nebraska Senate candidate Dan Osborn said, I am disturbed by the news of political violence coming out of Pennsylvania and am hoping for the health and safety of President Trump and everyone there. Political violence is unacceptable.
Having being rejected by the AC National Workig Committee and the presidency, Kogi Gov Yahaya Bello has turned to the state executives for small mercies.

None is coming his way, though.

Some members of the executives denied endorsing him for the November 6 election after a meeting on the weekend, contrary to what was in the news.

The members, led by the partys secretary in the state, Mr Salam Adejo, spoke at a press conference in Abuja on Sunday.

According to him, it was true that party executives and those that worked for Bello in 2015 had discussion with him on Saturday in Abuja, the issue of endorsement was not part of the meetings agenda.

Our discussion ended on the need for peace so that the party could move forward. He said he needed sincere peace and we agreed on terms. There was nothing like endorsement, said Adejo.

The governor, at the meeting, requested that the case in court against him be withdrawn.

We told him there were some processes to be followed. The issue of withdrawing the case is subject to another negotiation.

Adejo said it was not in their position to endorse any aspirants because the partys governorship ticket was open to every qualifed party member.

We did not endorse anyone and we are not planning to. The partys ticket is open to everyone in the party, he added.

Bello had boasted earlier on he owned the APC in the state, and nobody could stampede him.

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Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State on Monday expressed concern over the issue of security in the country.

The governor expressed the concern when he played host to the Chief of Army Staff, Lt- Gen. Tukur Buratai, at the Lagos House, Alausa.

He described the issue as a major challenge and urged the Nigerian Army to continue to put in more efforts in addressing it.
How Time Flies is a daily feature looking back at Pantagraph archives to revisit what was happening in our community and region.

100 years ago

July 14, 1924: One hundred members are expected to attend the joint meeting of the St. Louis District National Flower Growers' Association, of which Frank L. Washburn of Bloomington is president, and the Illinois Unit No. 2 Florists' Telegraph Delivery Association, which convenes in Bloomington today and tomorrow. Headquarters of the convention will be the Illinois Hotel, and the meetings will be held at the Maplewood Country Club.

75 years ago

July 14, 1949: The Rev. Arthur Nutt, pastor of the First Church of the Nazarene, broke ground for a new $60,000 building to replace the church that was destroyed by fire Feb. 10. Actual excavation for the new church, which will be built on the site of the old one at Washington and Mason streets, will start at the end of this week or the first of next week, Nutt said. It will be 50 feet by 85 feet, somewhat larger than the old one, and constructed of Bedford limestone. Architect S.W. Wilkins of Kankakee designed the structure.

50 years ago

July 14, 1974: Fire-hydrant painting, according to its originator, Mrs. Ruth von Karowsky of South Bend, Indiana, "... knits the community together." The town of Normal has its first painted plug now, courtesy of the Calvary Baptist Academy. The fireplug was bought and installed by the Calvary Baptist Church and painted by a church secretary, Miss Angie Ayers of Carlock, to look like a "little man with a polka dot bow tie on," said Paul Ringenberg, a summer employee of the church.

25 years ago

July 14, 1999: School districts are working to ensure there is a computer in every classroom  and a teacher who knows how to work it. With that in mind, about 30 teachers from Bloomington District 87 are spending 6 1/2 hours a day in computer training this week to learn word processing, spreadsheets, Microsoft Office, Excel and web design. The sessions are taught by District 87 technology coordinator Jim Peterson, along with teachers Rich Gordon, Diane Goerlitz and Tom Cowdery.

From stilettos to sneakers, Pantagraph shoe ads through the years  Moore & Lain's - Sept. 8, 1891 Boston Shoe Store - July 3, 1896 McLean Moore - April 2, 1909 W.H. Roland - April 5, 1909 Gerhart Shoe Co. - April 13, 1909 William Fahey - Aug. 31, 1923 Gerhart's - Oct. 6, 1926 Carl's - March 4, 1938 Hanger Boot Shop - April 26, 1938 Bunnell Bros. - May 6, 1938 Penney's - May 31, 1946 Town & Country Shoes - Dec. 17, 1948 War Surplus Store - March 29, 1949 Schiff's Shoe Store - April 4, 1949 Schiff's Shoes - April 26, 1949 Kinney's - June 2, 1949 Schiff's Shoe Store - June 2, 1949 Schiff's Shoe Store - June 3, 1949 The Bootery - June 5, 1949 Livingston's - June 5, 1949 Carl's - June 5, 1949 Gerhart's - June 5, 1949 Gerhart's - Sept. 19, 1954 Schiff's Shoe Store - Sept. 19, 1954 Livingston's - Jan. 2, 1956 Roland's - Feb. 22, 1957 Schiff's Shoe Store - Sept. 5, 1958 Branom's Junior Boot Shop - Sept. 7, 1958 The Bootery - Sept. 7, 1958 Livingston's - Aug. 7, 1959 Carl's - Sept. 3, 1959 Barkers - Dec. 1, 1960 Roland's - June 6, 1963 Livingston's - June 6, 1963 Marben's - May 5, 1967 Murray's - Sept. 3, 1973 Roland's - Sept. 3, 1973 Mary Jane Shoes - Sept. 6, 1973 Bergner's - March 30, 1980 Read's of Normal - Aug. 21, 1981 Brown's Sporting Goods - June 3, 1982 Hush Puppies - Feb. 2, 1984 Brown's Sporting Goods - Aug. 9, 1984 Bergener's - Nov. 10, 1985 JC Penney - April 10, 1992 Bergner's - May 26, 1999 Murray's Shoes - June 2, 1999 Bergner's - June 3, 1999
Five Austin-Travis County residents have contracted dengue fever after traveling internationally this year, according to reports. Rajat Mohanty / 500px/Getty Images/500px

Five Austin-Travis County residents have contracted dengue fever after traveling internationally this year, according to Fox 7 Austin.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says dengue is a virus that spreads to people through the bite of an infected Aedes mosquito. Up to 400 million people are infected each year by the virus, according to the agencys website.

Health officials said the best way to protect yourself from the virus  and other diseases carried by mosquitoes  is to practice the following:

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Avoid being outside during dusk and dawn.

Wear long sleeves and pants when you are outside.

Use an Environmental Protection Agency-approved insect repellent.

Use screens on windows and doors.

Drain any standing water in and around your home.

The CDC said if you travel internationally to locations known for dengue, plan accordingly by reviewing the countrys travel recommendations, health notices and warnings. Also, pack an EPA-approved repellent and first aid kit.

ALSO READ: Texas city employee shot with a pistol while on the job at public park

While traveling, the CDC also recommends staying indoors in places with air conditioning and screens on the windows and doors. If such facilities arent available or if youre sleeping outdoors, use a bed net.

Travelers returning home from an area with the dengue virus should take steps to prevent mosquito bites for three weeks in order to help prevent it spreading the virus to other mosquitos.

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Symptoms of dengue begin within two weeks of being bitten by an infected mosquito, according to the CDCs website. The most common symptom is fever with any of the following:

Aches and pains

Nausea and vomiting

Rash.

Symptoms typically last two to seven days, with most people recovering in about a week. But the CDC warns that 1 in 20 people who get sick from the virus get a severe case of dengue, with life-threatening symptoms possible in only a matter of hours.

A person must seek immediate medical attention if they have these symptoms:

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Belly pain or tenderness

Vomiting (at least three times in 24 hours)

Bleeding from the nose or gums

Vomiting blood or blood in the stool

Extreme tiredness or restlessness.
The 2024 Ghana International Petroleum Conference (GHIPCon) is set to take place from July 17-18, 2024, at the Accra Marriott Hotel. Organized by the National Petroleum Authority (NPA) in collaboration with the Chamber of Bulk Oil Distributors (CBOD) and the Association of Oil Marketing Companies (AOMC), under the auspices of the Ministry of Energy, GHIPCon 2024 is poised to deliver a comprehensive and impactful program.



Held under the theme, The Petroleum Downstream: Building a Future for Growth, Efficiency, and Sustainability, GHIPCon 2024 aims to address critical issues and explore opportunities within the petroleum downstream sector. The event will feature a robust lineup of speakers, including the Vice President of Ghana, who will deliver the keynote address, the Minister of Energy, and the CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA).



"The Ghana International Petroleum Conference is a pivotal event for our industry," said Dr. Mustapha Abdul-Hamid, CEO of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA). "It provides an unparalleled platform for stakeholders to collaborate, innovate, and drive sustainable growth within the petroleum downstream sector.



We are committed to fostering an environment that encourages dialogue and the sharing of best practices, ensuring that Ghana remains at the forefront of industry advancements." He added.



An integral part of GHIPCon 2024 is the extensive exhibition, showcasing the latest innovations, products, and services in the petroleum industry. Exhibitors will present cutting-edge technologies and solutions designed to enhance efficiency and sustainability within the sector. Attendees will have the opportunity to network with industry leaders, explore potential collaborations, and gain insights into the future of the petroleum downstream industry.



Ghana Downstream Dinner & Awards



The conference will culminate in a grand finale on July 19, 2024, with the Ghana Downstream Dinner & Awards. The gala night will celebrate excellence within the industry, recognizing companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to the growth and development of the petroleum downstream sector in Ghana. The most anticipated award of the night will honor the company that has demonstrated outstanding performance and innovation over the past year.



With just days to go, anticipation is building for what promises to be an enlightening and impactful event. GHIPCon 2024 is expected to attract a diverse range of participants, including government officials, industry executives, investors, and academia, all converging to discuss and strategize on the future of Ghanas petroleum industry.



The organizers of GHIPCon 2024 have ensured that all necessary preparations are in place to deliver a seamless and engaging conference experience. From thought-provoking panel discussions to interactive workshops and networking sessions, attendees can look forward to a comprehensive and enriching program.



As Ghana continues to position itself as a key player in the global petroleum industry, GHIPCon2024 provides an invaluable platform for knowledge exchange, collaboration, and innovation. The outcomes of this conference will undoubtedly influence policy decisions and drive sustainable growth within the sector.





Source: Peacefmonline.com









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Ghana has recorded nine cases of Dengue Fever in the Eastern Region.



This is after an unusual cases of clinical malaria were detected, which did not respond to antimalarial treatment, prompting further investigation.



Director General of the Ghana Health Service (GHS), Dr. Patrick Kuma-Aboagye, in an alert issued to Regional Health Directors, said the cases were confirmed at the Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR) after samples were sent from patients exhibiting acute febrile illnesses.



Following this, a team comprising entomologists and epidemiologists has joined the regional team to conduct a detailed outbreak investigation.



The Director General in the alert also urged Chief Executives of Teaching Hospitals to disseminate the alert to all health workers within their regions and facilities, including mission and private establishments.



He said that step aimed to enhance surveillance and ensure all suspected malaria cases underwent laboratory confirmation.



The Director General advised health workers to be vigilant and adhere to the surveillance case definitions for Dengue Fever.



A suspected case is defined as any person with an acute febrile illness of 2-7 days duration accompanied by two or more of the following symptoms  headache, retro-orbital pain, myalgia, arthralgia, rash, hemorrhagic manifestations or leukopenia.



Dengue virus according to the World Health Organization is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Cases are most commonly asymptomatic or result in mild febrile illness.



Some cases will develop severe dengue, which may involve shock, severe bleeding or severe organ impairment.



The WHO says effective vector control interventions are key to the prevention and control of dengue and vector control activities should target all areas where there is a risk of human-vector contact, such as residences, workplaces, schools and hospitals.



Globally, over 7.6 million dengue cases have been reported to WHO as of 30 that April 2024, this comprised about 3.4 million confirmed cases, over 16 000 severe cases, and over 3000 deaths.



In Afeica, from 1 January to 28 April, 13 countries were known to have ongoing active transmission of the dengue virus .



In Benin, Burkina Faso, Cape Verde, Cote dIvoire, Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Mauritania, Mauritius, Niger, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, and the Seychelles, a total of 32 925 dengue cases were recorded, 14,095 confirmed, 1051 severe cases and 57 deaths reported.



The WHO says a circulation of three of the four dengue serotypes of the dengue virus DENV-1, DENV-2, DENV-3 has been identified in the WHO African region.



The current priority countries based on dengue burden are Burkina Faso, Mauritius and Mali.

Source: GNA









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NIGERIA: The Lagos State Police Command has arrested a man who allegedly stole an Uber car after luring the driver with a plate of pepper soup.



The spokesperson of the command, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed this to the News Agency of Nigeria on Saturday, July 13, 2024.



The PPRO said that the Akinpelu Police Division received a report on July 5, at about 8.00 p.m. from an Uber driver, whose name was not mentioned.



He said that the driver reported that he picked a passenger, who simply identified himself as Isaiah, from the NNPC Filling Station, Maryland, in his Toyota Corolla car to a certain hotel at Oshodi area.



The spokesperson pointed out that while at the hotel, the suspect bought food for the driver, a plate of pepper soup and one energy drink.



In the process, when the suspect was looking for a cotton bud to clean his ear, the driver gave him his car key to use.



The driver further said that the suspect went downstairs after collecting the car key and went away with his car from where it was parked.



However, a team of police officers on a stop and search operation at Boladale Street, intercepted him.



When he could not give a satisfactory account of the ownership of the car, he was arrested, he said.



Hundeyin further said that while the police officers were about taking the suspect to the station, the driver came to the scene and saw the car.



He said the suspect had been detained for further investigation.

Source: LIB









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Dr. Mahamudu Bawumia, the flagbearer of the New Patriotic Party, has called for the support of the people of Nanung in the upcoming December elections.



He emphasised that he has the potential to serve for eight years, compared to former President John Mahama, who can only serve for four years.



Dr. Bawumia urged the people to give him a chance to be president, assuring them that if he fails to deliver, they can reject him for a second term.



The Vice President made the remarks during his campaign tour in Bimbilla, located in the Northern region.



I am the Vice President; Ive not been president yet and I want to plead with you, I am going to the contest with my senior John Mahama, he has been president before, and when he comes, he has only four years.



When I come, I have eight years, so, if you look at the presidency, do we want four years or eight? After four years, he wont come but I will come for renewal, so please give me the chance, so that I can be accountable.



Nyelinbolgu Naa Dassana Andani Yakubu, the regent of Bimbilla, pledged full support for Dr. Bawumia, acknowledging the positive contributions of the NPP government in the constituency.



The regent expressed hope that if Dr. Bawumia wins, he will establish a health institution, upgrade the Bimbilla municipal hospital, provide a university, and improve the water supply for Nanung.





Source: citinewsroom.com









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The Minority in Parliament has called on President Akufo-Addo to instruct the Social Security and National Insurance Trust (SSNIT) to halt the sale of a 60% stake in four of its hotels.



The NDC MPs emphasized that, despite the withdrawal of the private hotel owned by Ghana's Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, from the deal, they still demand an immediate cessation of the sale.



They are urging the government to issue a public statement informing organized labour and the general Ghanaian public that it has terminated its questionable arrangement to offload shares in the SSNIT hotels to government officials under suspicious circumstances.



In a press statement released on Friday, July 12, and signed by their leader, Dr Cassiel Ato Forson, the Minority in Parliament asserted that the people of Ghana have clearly expressed their opposition to the dubious arrangement by the Akufo-Addo/Bawumia government to sell the SSNIT hotels.



The Minority warned that until the government publicly announces the deal's cancellation, they will not cooperate with the government in Parliament.



Furthermore, they stated that they would escalate their non-cooperation into demonstrations if this announcement is not made by July 16.



"The Minority Caucus announces for the information of the general public that until the government makes it clear that it has stopped the sale of the SSNIT hotels, the NDC Caucus will no longer cooperate with the government in the handling of government business in Parliament."



"Again, if by close of Tuesday, 16th July 2024 the government fails or neglects or refuses to declare that the sale of the SSNIT hotels has been abolished, we shall escalate our noncooperation to include measures such as demonstrations across the country," an excerpt of the statement said.



The statement underscored that Ghanaians are firmly against the sale and demand transparency and accountability in the management of national assets.



The Minority urged the government to prioritise the interests of the people and refrain from such contentious transactions.



SSNIT has announced the suspension of its planned sale of a 60% stake in four of its hotels.



In a statement issued just before midnight on Friday, July 12, SSNIT's decision came shortly after Rock City Hotel, owned by the Minister of Food and Agriculture, Bryan Acheampong, withdrew from the transaction due to significant opposition from stakeholders.



The statement, signed by SSNIT Board Chair Elizabeth Ohene, who had previously defended the deal, confirmed that the sale process has been terminated.



SSNIT assured pensioners, contributors, and the public of its commitment to managing the Trust's affairs prudently to ensure the sustainability of the pension scheme.

Source: Peacefmonline.com









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The founder and president of IMANI Africa, Franklin Cudjoe, has likened the comparison of Akufo-Addo to Dr Kwame Nkrumah to comparing light to darkness.



According to Cudjoe, both Akufo-Addo and Nkrumah have plunged the economy into bankruptcy, but Akufo-Addo, with more access to funds, has plunged Ghana deeper into the abyss.



Cudjoes remarks come on the heels of the recent statement made by Dr Matthew Opoku Prempeh, the running mate of Dr Mahamudu Bawumia, who drew comparisons between the performance of the current president and that of Ghanas first President, Kwame Nkrumah. Dr Opoku Prempehs statement, which praised Akufo-Addo for doing incredibly well, triggered a considerable backlash.



During an interview on Channel One TV, Mr Franklin Cudjoe said, Theres a need for comparison, and upon hindsight, I think many could have probably been saying something similar. I think I have seen on our news items, dating back to Rawlings time, somebody saying Rawlings was far ahead of Nkrumah. And I kept saying that every era has some levels of political idiocy, which is allowed; we allow these things.



Probably, the only near truth to comparing Nana Addo [President] to Nkrumah is that they both bankrupted the economy by the time they were forced out of power. They had both bankrupted the economy, but Nana Addo [the president] had much more because he had much more free money. And he should have been a bit wiser because he had so much to learn from previous leaders and pitfalls. This administration had the most money.



That is the only comparison I can make, in terms of actual fact, pound for pound, not at all. Its like daylight and darkness. But NAPO is permitted. I dont even know why he actually apologised because, frankly speaking, that is what he believes in, right? He believes in that. Just trying to rewrite history doesnt wash.



Mr Cudjoe stressed that President Akufo-Addo exhibits dictatorial tendencies," even going as far as drawing comparisons to Kwame Nkrumahs leadership.



He referenced the controversial case of former Auditor General Daniel Domelevo, who, according to Cudjoe, was forced to vacate his position against his will, a situation that highlights what he sees as the presidents authoritarian inclination.



Not listening, not paying attention to any sound advice Nkrumah was quite stubborn; remember that? He became dictatorial, and all that. Im not saying he is a dictator, but he has those tendencies. Look at Domelevos treatment [By Akufo-Addo].

Source: Isaac Kafui Nyanyovor/myjoyonline.com









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This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

A 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth skin was excavated intact from permafrost in Siberia, as seen in this handout photo taken on September 5, 2018, courtesy of Stockholm University.

About 52,000 years ago, the skinned hide of a Siberian woolly mammoth was exposed to conditions so frigid that it spontaneously freeze-dried, locking its DNA fragments into place.

In a study published Thursday in the journal Cell, scientists reported using this remarkable sample to reconstruct the animal's genome in three dimensionsa breakthrough that could yield important new insights about extinct species and even boost efforts to bring them back to life.

Until now, ancient DNA specimens have only been found in short, scrambled fragments, severely limiting the amount of information researchers could extract.

"Now we show that, at least under some circumstances, it's not just those snippets of that DNA that survive, but they survive in such a way that preserves the original arrangement," co-author Olga Dudchenko, a geneticist at Baylor College of Medicine, told AFP.

Understanding the 3D architecture of an organism's genome - the complete set of its DNAis crucial for identifying which genes are active in specific tissues, revealing why brain cells think, heart cells beat, and immune cells fight disease.

It was long assumed that due to the rapid degradation of very small particles, such information would inevitably be lost to history.

But around a decade ago, an international team of scientists set out to find an ancient sample where the 3D organization of the DNA remained intact such that it could be fully reconstructed with a new analytical technique.

Their quest led them to an exceptionally well-preserved woolly mammoth sample, excavated in northeastern Siberia in 2018.

Whether the hirsute pachyderm - a female with a distinctive mullet-style hairdodied naturally or was killed by humans is unknown. However, it does appear that early humans skinned her, leaving tissue around the head, neck, and left ear intact, according to Dudchenko.

Woolly mammoth jerky

The team hypothesizes that the skin cooled and dehydrated, transitioning into a glasslike state that trapped its molecules in place and preserved the shape of its chromosomes, or the threadlike structures that hold DNA strands.

Essentially, they had discovered a piece of freeze-dried woolly mammoth jerky.

To test the resilience of jerky, they subjected lab-made and store-bought beef jerky pieces to a series of tests simulating the kind of damage ancient samples might encounter over millennia.

"We fired a shotgun at it. We ran over it with a car. We had a former starting pitcher for the Houston Astros throw a fastball at it," said Cynthia Perez Estrada, co-author of the study and a researcher at Baylor College of Medicine and Rice University.

The jerky would break into tiny bits, shattering as dramatically as window glass at times. "But at the nano-scale, the chromosomes were intact, unchanged," said Perez Estrada in a statement.

One significant discovery from their research established that mammoths had 28 pairs of chromosomes. The finding aligns with the 28 chromosomal pairs found in elephants, the closest living relatives of mammoths, "but before this study, it was anybody's guess," said Dudchenko.

'Fossil chromosomes'

The team's analysis also identified several "candidate" genes which might be responsible for what made woolly mammoths woollyincluding a gene responsible for long, thick eyelashes, and another associated with sparse sweat glands.

Erez Lieberman Aiden of Baylor College of Medicine, who co-led the team, told AFP that while the researchers' goal was not to bring mammoths back, the information they gleaned could be used for such efforts.

A Japanese team is looking at cloning woolly mammoths, while a group in the United States is aiming to create genetically "mammothized" elephants.

Within the skin, "96 percent of genes are basically in the same activity state as an elephant," said Aiden, meaning that scientists working on de-extinction could now focus on the remaining four percent.

The team now hopes that the benefit of their study will extend far beyond their special sample and open a new chapter in paleogenetics if other such "fossil chromosomes" can be found.

The Arctic permafrost remains a promising place to look, and it is also possible that mummification from ancient civilizations in warmer climates could preserve genomic structures too, according to Dudchenko.

More information: Three-dimensional genome architecture persists in a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth skin sample, Cell (2024). DOI: 10.1016/j.cell.2024.06.002. www.cell.com/cell/fulltext/S0092-8674(24)00642-1 Journal information: Cell

 2024 AFP
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain

The need for relevant and responsive health-care that improves people's health outcomes means that medical schools need to be accountable for what and how they teach. Medical schools are responsible for training health practitioners who can help improve the health of individuals and societies.

The need for accountability also goes beyond that. Universities, including medical schools, receive large amounts of funding from governments to direct their education, research and service towards meeting the needs of the public.

Almost 30 years ago, the World Health Organization issued a mandate stating medical schools need to be socially accountable, meaning they are obligated to respond to the emerging needs of society and to address their priority health concerns.

In Canada, undergraduate medical programs must currently demonstrate social accountability to receive accreditation. Our recent research has examined how medical schools can design channels through which students and faculty can relay the priorities and needs of communities back to medical schools.

A social accountability mandate

Medical schools need to listen to communities and respond to their needs. Having a social accountability mandate suggests medical schools are responsible for building a workforce of practitioners who are willing and capable of advocating on behalf of patients, families and communities to address the factors that affect their quality of life.

But that is not all. A social accountability mandate confers a moral obligation upon medical schools to consider the inequities within and among populations servedand subsequently target interventions to reduce inequities in society.

Therefore, social justice is a cardinal value of socially accountable medical education. This may be realized through practicing cultural humility and authentic community engagement.

What community engagement looks like

Students, staff and faculty at medical schools benefit from community engagement in several ways.

Students participate in structured and unstructured learning activities ranging from community placements to volunteering. These activities positively influence students' attitudes towards community members, knowledge of community priorities and also their future career trajectories.

Researchers have also shown that early exposure to community-based learning can cultivate students' public health skills, enhance their understanding of cultural safety and foster strong connections with local communities.

Additionally, faculty, staff and students at medical schools are often engaged in community-based research that requires them to build meaningful relationships through spending extended periods of time working with members of the community.

Patient-oriented planning

Supports and resources help researchers reflect upon and embark on partnerships with communities, such as the Patient Oriented Research Project Planning Tool.

In addition to education and research, service activities such as volunteering create opportunities for community engagement. For example, the Student Wellness Initiative Toward Community Health in Saskatoon, Sask., is a student-led clinic that offers essential services to the community's core neighborhoods and enriches educational experiences for students.

Authentic community engagement equips students and faculty to advocate on behalf of communities within their schools. This creates an opportunity for medical schools to learn about the inequities and social justice issues that face different communities, and proactively address them.

Feedback channels to medical schools

What will intentional channels of feedback to medical schools look like?

1. Soliciting feedback from students in ways that provokes critical reflection: Students should be prompted to reflect on specific barriers and inequities facing the communities where students completed their placements; prompted to reflect on short- and long-term actions needed to address these barriers; identify potential stakeholders who could collaborate to address the concerns.

2. Encouraging and supporting student advocacy to value the agency, and resourcefulness of students: Creating formal channels for student-led initiatives to address a community's health priorities.

3. Building capacities of faculty: Schools must revisit current tenure-track criteria to reflect the value of meaningful community-based research. This can encourage more faculty to take up longer projects embedded in communities that can result in positive outcomes.

Addressing deep-rooted inequities

To address the deep-rooted inequities in society, the interaction between society and medical schools should be continuous, dynamic and sustainable. It is essential for medical schools to map out existing partnerships, and create a consolidated and central database that tracks partnerships and their benefits to communities and medical researchers and practitioners.

While ethics approvals for research projects typically require the research team to identify and name benefits (or risks) to communities, it is not necessarily the case that all medical schools have a central database detailing all ongoing community partnerships.

Having a central database can foster deeper and more meaningful connections over extended periods of time as opposed to multiple superficial, short-term engagements.

Benefits of working with a database

Benefits of working with a central database of all ongoing and past community partnerships in a medical school include:

Meaningful community engagement where community placements are more than just opportunities to train students. Ideally, students will report back from their placements highlighting the needs of the community and actions needed to address these needs. Medical schools can then use student placements as an opportunity to learn about the needs of the community. Schools would provide opportunities for students to contribute to institutional planning, curriculum design and the identification of research priorities.

Infrastructure to leverage students' agency for culture change: Medical schools encourage student perspectives and advocacy. Administration and leadership at medical schools partner with students to contribute to the school's response to addressing the health inequities in the population at large.

Enhanced sensitivity to the community's capacity for engagement. If everyone in a medical school refers to and makes use of the same database, this reduces different research groups asking community members the same questions.

Novel opportunities for creative collaborations within and between medical schools. Data can be regularly reviewed to generate ideas for collaboration.

With greater attention to these practices, socially accountable medical schools align their operations with the needs of society. When schools become responsive to the needs of the communities they serve, they address the barriers to health encountered by different equity-deserving populations with unique health needs and bolster public trust.

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.
This article has been reviewed according to Science X's editorial process and policies . Editors have highlighted the following attributes while ensuring the content's credibility:

An artist's illustration of an planet -- though not LHS 1140 b -- outside the Solar System.

A planet relatively close to Earth could be the first ever detected with a potentially life-sustaining liquid ocean outside our Solar System, according to scientists using the James Webb space telescope.

More than 5,000 planets have been discovered outside of the Solar System so far, but only a handful are in what is called the "Goldilocks zone" -- neither too hot or too cold -- that could host liquid water, a key ingredient for life.

The exoplanet LHS 1140 b is one of the few in this habitable zone, and has been thoroughly scrutinized since it was first discovered in 2017.

It sits 48 light years from Earth, which equates to more than 450 trillion kilometers (280 trillion miles) -- relatively close in the vast distances of space.

The exoplanet had been thought to be a small gas giant called a "mini-Neptune" with an atmosphere too thick with hydrogen and helium to support alien life.

However, new observations from the Webb telescope have confirmed that the exoplanet is in fact a rocky "super-Earth".

It is 1.7 times bigger than Earth, but has 5.6 times its mass, according to a study published late Wednesday in The Astrophysical Journal Letters.

'Best bet' for ocean world

The Webb telescope was able to analyze the planet's atmosphere as it passed in front of its star.

There were no signs of hydrogen or helium, which ruled out that the planet was a mini-Neptune.

The density of the planet indicates that it "actually has large quantities of water," study co-author Martin Turbet of France's CNRS scientific research center told AFP.

It could be a truly immense amount of water.

All the water in Earth's oceans represents only 0.02 percent of its mass. But 10 to 20 percent of the exoplanet's mass was estimated to be water.

Whether or not this water is in liquid or ice form depends on the planet's atmosphere.

"We do not have direct evidence that it has an atmosphere, but several elements point in that direction," Turbet said.

Lead study author Charles Cadieux, a PhD student at the University of Montreal, said that "of all currently known temperate exoplanets, LHS 1140 b could well be our best bet to one day indirectly confirm liquid water on the surface of an alien world".

One positive is that the planet is gently warmed by its red dwarf star, which is one-fifth the size of the Sun.

The exoplanet's surface temperature should be fairly similar to that on Earth and Mars, Turbet said.

The presence of gasses such as carbon dioxide will play a key role in determining whether the planet is covered in ice or water.

Bull's-eye ocean

One possibility is that the surface is mostly ice, but there is a vast liquid ocean where the planet is most exposed to its star's heat.

This ocean could measure about 4,000 kilometers in diameter, around half the surface area of the Atlantic Ocean, modeling suggested.

Or the liquid water could be hidden under a thick shell of ice, like on the moons Ganymede, Enceladus or Europa orbiting around Jupiter and Saturn.

Webb's instrument spotted signs that suggest "the presence of nitrogen," Cadieux said, adding that more research was needed to confirm the finding.

Nitrogen is found everywhere on Earth, and is thought to be another potential ingredient for life.

The researchers are hoping to get a few more hours of the Webb's telescope's precious time to find out more about LHS 1140 b.

It will take at least a year to confirm whether the exoplanet has an atmosphere, and two or three more to detect the presence of carbon dioxide, the researchers estimated.

More information: Charles Cadieux et al, Transmission Spectroscopy of the Habitable Zone Exoplanet LHS 1140 b with JWST/NIRISS, arXiv (2024). DOI: 10.48550/arxiv.2406.15136 Journal information: Astrophysical Journal Letters , arXiv

 2024 AFP
Braulio Reyes, a 27-year-old from Agujita, Coahuila, Mexico, has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute meth. James C Hooper/Getty Images

A 27-year-old Mexican man has been sentenced to nearly 20 years in prison for attempting to smuggle drugs across the Texas-Mexico border.

On Nov. 12, 2020, Braulio Reyes of Agujita, Coahuila, Mexico, was traveling through the Eagle Pass port of entry using the pedestrian lane. But Customs and Border Protection officers stopped him and found several packages of methamphetamine hydrochloride strapped to his waist, according to a news release from the U.S. Attorneys Office for the Western District of Texas.

The packages contained 3.45 kilograms of 100% pure meth, the release states.

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CRIME & COURTS: San Antonio man gets 70 years for sexually assaulting girl who visited his home

Reyes pleaded guilty Feb. 21, 2021, to conspiracy to possess with intent to distribute methamphetamine, according to the attorneys office. He had been facing a federal prison term of 10 years up to life and a maximum fine of $10,000.
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Condemnation of violence and best wishes for a safe outcome began to pour in from Illinois political leaders after a shooting at a rally for former President Donald Trump in Pennsylvania.

Trump's campaign said in a statement that the former president was "fine" after the shooting. A local prosecutor said the suspected gunman and at least one attendee are dead.

"Violence is never the answer in our democracy," Gov. J.B. Pritzker posted on social media. "I am closely monitoring the situation and praying for former President Trump's recovery. Thankful to the Secret Service for their quick response."

Trump, the presumptive Republican nominee who is set to face incumbent President Joe Biden in November, was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers during his last rally before the Republican National Convention opens Monday when bangs started ringing through the crowd. Trump could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face. There appeared to be blood on his face.

He quickly ducked behind the riser as agents from his protective detail rushed the stage and screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. The bangs continued as agents tended to him on stage.

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

Below is a developing list of comments from other Illinois political leaders. This story will be updated.

"There is absolutely no excuseand no place whatsoeverfor violence in American politics, and those responsible for this must be held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. I am keeping Donald Trump in my thoughts and hoping he has a swift and full recovery."

"Political violence is never acceptable. Im keeping the former president, the bystander who was tragically killed, and all who were injured or whose safety was threatened in my thoughts. Sending my deepest thanks to law enforcement for helping keep those in attendance safe."

"Tracy and I are praying for President Donald Trump after shots were fired at his campaign rally in Pennsylvania. We are closely monitoring this situation. God Bless President Trump and the Secret Service officers involved."

"We can never allow our disagreements to devolve into political violence. I strongly condemn the attack on former President Trump and his supporters. Im grateful to law enforcement officials who responded quickly on the scene. My team and I are closely following developments."

"I am keeping President Trump, his family, and our country in my prayers following the horrific shooting at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania. I am grateful for the Secret Service and law enforcement who acted quickly to keep people safe."

"Chris and I are horrified and praying for President Trump. Please pray for President Trump and everyone at the rally."

"I am deeply concerned with the incident today involving former President Trump in Pennsylvania. In the United States of America, we must always settle political differences with amicable dialogue. I denounce all political violence and wish the former President and all those affected peaceful healing."

"Praying for President Trump, his family, his Secret Service, law enforcement at the scene, and those who were in attendance at the rally."

"Sending prayers for President Trump and everyone affected by this horrific act of violence. As we wait for more details, I'm thankful to see reports that President Trump is doing well and grateful for law enforcement's quick and robust response."

"Today is a terrible day for our nation. The deepening political divide is dangerous and any political violence is unacceptable. Gunshots cannot silence our collective need for change. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and others injured in today's heinous act. We must come together to condemn violence and seek unity as a country."

The Republicans of Illinois are united and stand with President Trump. We express our full support for President Trump and his family. We appreciate the prompt response by law enforcement and the Secret Service.

Former GOP Congressman Rodney Davis, formerly of Taylorville:

"So glad President Trump is doing well after shots were fired at him in PA today. Violence should never be justified because perpetrators or victims wear red or blue shirts. A terrible day in American history."

The Associated Press and Pantagraph reporter Drew Zimmerman contributed to this story.
Jasmin Dean, founder and CEO of Celebrate Dyslexia and founder and interim superintendent for Celebrate Dyslexia Schools, talks about starting her nonprofit and opening the charter school next month. Celebrate Dyslexia is a nonprofit that serves as a resource for those affected by the learning disorder. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News Jasmin Dean, right, founder and CEO of Celebrate Dyslexia and founder and interim superintendent of Celebrate Dyslexia Schools, poses for a portrait with her sons, Jordan Dean, 15, center, and Joshua Dean, 11, left, last month at their home in Helotes. Deans three sons have dyslexia. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News Jonah Dean, 16, left, and Jordan Dean, 15, are shown at home in Helotes. Both Jonah and Jordan have dyslexia. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News Jasmin Dean, founder and CEO of Celebrate Dyslexia and founder and interim superintendent of Celebrate Dyslexia Schools, poses for a portrait with her sons, from left, Jonah, 16; Jordan, 15; and Joshua, 11, at the dining room table where she helps her sons with their studies. All her sons have been diagnosed with the learning disorder dyslexia. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News Jasmin Dean, founder and CEO of Celebrate Dyslexia and founder and interim superintendent of Celebrate Dyslexia Schools, poses for a portrait at her home in Helotes. Celebrate Dyslexia is a nonprofit that celebrates, educates and empowers the 1 in 5 people with dyslexia. Celebrate Dyslexia Schools is a charter school serving students with dyslexia, which will open this August starting with grades kindergarten through second, with a new grade to be added on each year. Salgu Wissmath/San Antonio Express-News

The first time Jasmin Dean heard the word dyslexia was in 2017, at a birthday party across from her North Side home.

She later looked up the word on Google and discovered her oldest son, Jonah, had more than 90 of the 100 symptoms listed on a website about the learning disorder.

Dean had seen her son struggle over his studies. Shed sit with Jonah at the familys long, wooden dining room table, helping him with his homework. They read together, sitting shoulder to shoulder. They worked the same math problem over and over. Though exhausting for her son, Dean said Jonah was always up for one more try.

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Learning was hard for the third-grader. From kindergarten through second grade, teachers said Jonah was intelligent, and he just needed to work harder.

School officials determined Jonah had dyslexia in 2017, three months after Deans written request to his school that her son be evaluated following difficulties with his first STAAR test. The school assigned Jonah a reading interventionist.

Dean soon found it was hard to find a support network to help her son.

From their familys experience, Dean and her husband, Jeffery, learned there was a need to address the learning disorder not only in schools, but also in the community. Dean leaned on her nonprofit background to develop a community for others with the disorder.

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In 2019, Dean founded Celebrate Dyslexia, a nonprofit to celebrate, educate and empower the 1 in 5 people who have dyslexia, which is characterized by difficulties with specific language skills, particularly reading.

The goal of Celebrate Dyslexia is to provide a resource for parents and educators looking for information about the learning disability while also creating a community for dyslexic students.

Its a solvable problem, Dean said. Hopefully, with bringing systemic solutions to the community, when my kids raise their kids, along with the rest of the community, this struggle with dyslexia will be as foreign as the iron lung is to us today.

Deans experience with Jonah helped her recognize similar learning struggles in her younger sons, Jordan and Joshua, who also were diagnosed with dyslexia. Dean sat at the same dining room table where shed helped Jonah to guide her younger sons with their studies.

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Recently, Jonah sat at the table where he first studied years ago, as his mother talked about their experience. The 16-year-old said he was proud of his mother advocating for him.

Jonah said having dyslexia is like having engines on a fighter jet burn fuel at supersonic speed.

Our brains are on afterburner all day, every single minute, he said. It hasnt been an easy road. Its still an ongoing battle.

For Dean, offering help to the community through Celebrate Dyslexia gives her a sense of being rooted here. Its a feeling shes sought since she was a child.

Dean was in the eighth grade when she moved from Detroit with her parents to San Antonio. She desperately wanted roots like her peers in school.

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As time passed, Dean felt more grounded in the Alamo City. Its where she met her husband, who served in the military. And, its where the couple married in 2002. When the couple needed a place to call home, all roads led back to San Antonio.

It was a dream come true to raise our family here, Dean said. I wanted our kids to feel rooted.

Deans work in the community and making roots here continues.

In 2020, Celebrate Dyslexia opened an exhibit at the DoSeum called Beautiful Minds: Dyslexia and the Creative Advantage that included working with local children with the disorder. And, when Dean heard on Texas Public Radio that a Flat Stanley play was coming to the Magik Theatre, she knew she had to take Jonah  the childrens book was on their reading list.

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Words that once didnt have meaning, Jonah was now able to understand, Dean said. Jonah was able to engage with literacy and literature in a different way, instead of spending hours struggling to read.

Dean partnered with the Magik Theatre in 2022, collaborating on an original play called Eddie and Vinnie, which showed how dyslexia affected a boys life. The play won a National Endowment for the Arts award.

Last year, Dean created another nonprofit called Celebrate Dyslexia Schools. In June 2023, the Texas Education Agency and State Board of Education granted the nonprofit a charter to open a tuition-free school. The charter school serving kindergarten through second grade will open at the DoSeum on Aug. 12.

School administrators said the DoSeum will offer hands-on, multisensory learning to students so they can thrive in an environment where their strengths are celebrated.

The schools academic dean, Stacy Guerrero, said the mission is to support all students whether they have a learning disorder or not. Guerrero called literacy a gift that teachers need to make accessible to students.

Twenty years ago, Guerrero began her education career as a first-grade teacher, and she knew right away she wasnt prepared to teach children how to read. She was missing the knowledge that Celebrate Dyslexia Schools offers kids.

This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to begin this mission with Ms. Dean, Guerrero said. Not just for our campus, but to be the model for students and school districts. We hope we can make that voice heard across our country that this is what needs to be done for all teachers, students and families who have struggled not to have access to these reading opportunities.

Lindsey Larson, the schools associate principal, was the fourth-grade teacher who taught Jonah and Jordan. Dean said Larson gave her sons an opportunity to thrive.

They were very smart, Larson said. They just needed that extra explicit instruction.

Though not formally trained, Larson read the book Overcoming Dyslexia and immersed herself with information on the disorder.

Thats when I realized there was a disservice by not training teachers to handle these kinds of learning disabilities effectively, Larson said. Thats where Celebrate Dyslexia will fill the gap and make sure all teachers who come through our doors have the ability to work with students of special needs.

Larson said the certified academic language therapists will teach all classes and get students the intervention they need to be successful.

Dean also has partnered with the University of Texas at San Antonio to include dyslexia training in its teacher preparation program. Shes working with state medical foundations to help families affected by dyslexia get support through medical providers and school systems.

Im always relieved when I talk to parents who have kindergarten through second grade students and beyond, Dean said. Now, I can offer them a solution.

That solution started years ago at a dining room table, where Dean and her family still gather.

When Dean looks at the polished wood, she sees more than a shiny surface. Its a workspace where a concerned mother saw how hard her sons were trying to learn.
We want to acknowledge efforts of Akwaaba QC to help make Lake Potter safer for those who speak languages other than English.

Lake Potter is a 50-acre lake with outlet to the Mississippi River located in Sunset Park in Rock Island.

On June 17, 10-year-old John Adam Moo drowned in the lake. He was swimming with three friends. According to a Rock Island Police report, a man driving near the marinas 18th Avenue entrance saw two kids struggling in the water. He was able to save a girl, but Moo submerged. The man dove down, but could not find him. Moo's body was discovered within an hour of authorities being called.

It was a tragic day in Rock Island.

Moo lived with his mother and stepfather, both who immigrated from Thailand, in Rock Islands Century Woods public housing complex.

Moo left his apartment with friends that day. His stepfather said he didnt know they were going swimming.

Its not clear whether no swimming signs would have stopped or even slowed the kids from getting into the water that day. But we appreciate that Akwaaba QC was already working on no swimming signs before John Moos life was lost.

The nonprofit organization advocates for the immigrant population in the Quad-Cities and received a grant in January to help educate immigrants of different nationalities about the dangers of the Mississippi River. The group identified the lack of signage around Lake Potter and had put together a draft of signs for the lake before the drowning.

We encourage Rock Island and other Quad-Cities municipalities to take inventory of signage  in English and other languages  around bodies of water where swimming is not safe. Beyond that, we wonder what other opportunities exist to help those non-native speaking residents navigate their lives in the Quad-Cities.

Encouraged by Rock Island buy-in of Group Violence Intervention

The threat of gun violence is a detriment to Quad-Cities residents trying to live their lives as productive members of our communities.

In April, Rock Island joined Davenport in adopting a program to prevent group violence within the city by reaching those most likely to commit it.

Davenport invested in the program in 2022 and has already seen positive results. The programs strategy is that a small group of people commit a disproportional amount of violence, and reaching out to those individuals  whether its an at-risk teen or someone who is re-entering the society from prison  through custom notifications.

The program originated in Boston in the 1990s as a way to mitigate gun violence being perpetrated by juveniles and gangs and has been implemented successfully in other cities.

Rock Island has invested $60,000 into the program that uses school and community officials, volunteers, social workers and police to carry out its mission.

Family Resources of the Quad-Cities provides the social services role for Davenport and now Rock Island. Director of Community Violence Intervention Tee LeShoure schedules the custom notifications. She believes in the program and hopes to see other cities in the region adopt the program to create one comprehensive program in the Quad-Cities to address group violence.

We agree with her assessment. Preventing violent crime benefits the victim, the perpetrator, the families involved, the neighborhood and the community.

Rock Island Police Chief Tim McCloud was skeptical of the program at first, but was convinced once he saw footage from an officer's body camera showing the exchange during a custom notification. While he doesnt have numbers to report yet, McCloud has seen progress with the approach.

We're convinced this program has made Davenport safer and will do the same for Rock Island. We urge other cities to join the program to take a Quad-Cities-wide approach to gun violence.

People need to feel safe to be happy and prosper, and reducing violence will make more people feel safe. Consequently, embracing the Group Violence Intervention program will improve the Quad-Cities.




By Tajul Islam





The 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum convened in St. Petersburg, Russia, on July 11 and 12, 2024, under the theme "The Role of Parliaments in Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security." This year's plenary session focused on "The BRICS Parliamentary Dimension: Prospects for Strengthening Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation." The forum brought together parliamentarians, government officials, and dignitaries from BRICS nations and beyond to discuss critical issues facing the global community and explore ways to enhance international cooperation through parliamentary diplomacy.





Russian President Vladimir Putin attended the forum and highlighted the importance of multilateralism in addressing global challenges. His participation, announced by Valentina Matviyenko, the speaker of Russia's Federation Council, underscored Russia's commitment to fostering cooperation among BRICS nations and other participating countries. Putin's speech emphasized the need for fair and safe development, aligning with Russia's priorities during its presidency of the BRICS group.





The forum saw the participation of around 400 delegates from 16 countries, including BRICS members Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa, as well as other invited nations like Egypt, Iran, and the United Arab Emirates.





Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla attended the forum, expressing his eagerness and sharing a post on his X (former Twitter) account. "Looking forward to strengthening inter-parliamentary cooperation with BRICS and the invited countries. Eager to meet and connect with the vibrant Indian Diaspora during this visit," Om Birla posted. His presence underscored India's active role in BRICS and its commitment to enhancing multilateral relations.





The central theme of this year's forum, "The Role of Parliaments in Strengthening Multilateralism for Equitable Global Development and Security," reflects the current geopolitical landscape and the need for collaborative efforts to address global issues. The discussions aimed to enhance the efficiency of international relations and promote their democratization, highlighting the role of parliaments in shaping a multipolar world order.





Natalya Kochanova, Chair of the Council of the Republic of the National Assembly of Belarus, proposed the idea of holding a parliamentary security summit in the BRICS+ format. She emphasized the importance of peaceful coexistence and good-neighborly relations, urging all progressive forces to join efforts in ensuring common and indivisible security. Kochanova's remarks resonated with the forum's broader objective of fostering international peace and stability through dialogue and cooperation.





The forum provided a unique platform for parliamentarians to discuss pressing global issues, such as food security, sustainable development, and conflict resolution. Alexander Dvoinykh, chair of the Federation Council's agrarian and food policy committee highlighted the significance of parliamentary diplomacy in addressing food security challenges. He pointed out that illegal sanctions, restrictions, and bans exacerbate food crises in various regions, and emphasized the need for concrete proposals to ensure uninterrupted food supplies to developing countries.





During the forum, participants discussed ways to strengthen inter-parliamentary cooperation within the BRICS framework and beyond. A key outcome of the discussions was the proposal to hold a BRICS+ Parliamentary Summit on international peace, security, and sustainable development. This summit aims to provide a platform for dialogue and collaboration in resolving conflicts through fair, equal, and mutually respectful dialogue.





The forum also served as a platform to showcase regional and global strategic peacekeeping initiatives. Natalya Kochanova highlighted Belarus's commitment to peace and stability, citing the country's recent high-level international conference on peace and security. She proposed the BRICS+ Parliamentary Summit as a follow-up move to discuss conflict resolution and peacekeeping initiatives. This proposal aligns with the forum's broader goal of enhancing multilateralism and promoting equitable global development and security.





The forum provided an opportunity for bilateral and multilateral meetings on the sidelines. Putin's press secretary, Dmitry Peskov, confirmed that the Russian President would hold several separate meetings with forum participants. These meetings aimed to strengthen bilateral relations and explore avenues for further cooperation among BRICS nations and other participating countries.





Additionally, the forum featured a session of the Council of the CIS Interparliamentary Assembly, bringing together lawmakers from Azerbaijan, Armenia, Belarus, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan. These discussions focused on enhancing regional cooperation and addressing common challenges through parliamentary diplomacy.





A significant outcome of the forum was the planned signing of a protocol to the memorandum of understanding and the adoption of a joint declaration. These documents aim to formalize the commitments of participating countries to strengthen multilateralism and enhance inter-parliamentary cooperation. The joint declaration is expected to outline specific actions and initiatives to address global challenges and promote equitable development and security.





The 10th BRICS Parliamentary Forum in St. Petersburg highlighted the critical role of parliaments in strengthening multilateralism and addressing global challenges. The forum provided a platform for high-level discussions on issues such as food security, sustainable development, and conflict resolution. The participation of key leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Indian Lok Sabha Speaker Om Birla, underscored the importance of inter-parliamentary cooperation in shaping a multipolar world order.





Proposals such as the BRICS+ Parliamentary Summit on international peace, security, and sustainable development reflect the forum's commitment to fostering dialogue and collaboration in addressing global issues. The signing of protocols and declarations further formalizes the commitments of participating countries to work together in promoting equitable global development and security.





As the BRICS nations and other participating countries continue to navigate the complexities of the 21st century, forums like the BRICS Parliamentary Forum play a crucial role in enhancing international cooperation and promoting a fair and secure world for all.












BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  At 6:02 pm Saturday, to the strains of God Bless the U.S.A., former President Donald Trump took the stage at fairgrounds in Butler, Pennsylvania, waving at the cheering crowd and settling into his regular rally speech under a scorching midsummer sun.





A few short minutes later, Trump pointed to a projection of a chart that showed a spike in illegal border crossings under the man hes running against, President Joe Biden. That charts a couple of months old, Trump told the crowd. And if you want to see something really sad 





Thats when the shots rang out, at least five. Trump clutched his ear as dark-suited Secret Service agents dashed toward him. He dropped to the ground as the agents yelled, Get down! The thousands of rallygoers packed into the field in front of him moved as one, dropping down as silence spread across the grass, punctuated only by an occasional scream.





Moments later, Trump stood as the Secret Service agents crowded around him, covering his body with their own. They tried to usher the former president offstage to his left as blood trickled from his ear. Wait, wait, wait, Trump said. He pumped his fist as the crowd cheered, and seemed to mouth the word fight before agents hustled him down the stairs and to a waiting black SUV. Trump pumped his fist one more time before getting inside.





The local district attorney said the shooter and one rallygoer were dead. In a statement issued shortly after the attack, which officials say was an apparent assassination attempt, Trumps campaign said he was fine.





There were no hints of the horror to come as rallygoers assembled outside the secure Secret Service perimeter earlier that afternoon. Butler is a city of 13,000 located 33 miles north of Pittsburgh in western Pennsylvania, firmly in Trump country. Its the sort of rural Rust Belt area that helped make Trump president in 2016 and almost kept him in office in 2020  Trump won Butler County by 32 percentage points.





The green grass of the field was slowly covered by a sea of red Make America Great Again hats as the temperature climbed to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Local politicians occasionally spoke as rallygoers patiently waited hours, occasionally breaking into chants of Trump! Trump! Trump! At one point, a giant American flag hanging above the stage became tangled, prompting chants of fix the flag! until it was correctly unfurled.





Outside the perimeter, there were stands selling food, beverages and Trump paraphernalia, as is common at the rallies. Behind the stage, separated from the field by waist-high metal barriers, another field stretched out, dotted with distant buildings. The crowd perked up when Trumps favorite playlist began, kicking off with The Village Peoples YMCA. Then Trump walked out toward the stage, wearing his familiar red hat, a black suit, white shirt unbuttoned at the neck and no tie.





He smiled and pointed at the crowd as they cheered him, waiting for the Lee Greenwood song to conclude before starting his remarks. This is a big crowd, Trump said. This is a big, big beautiful crowd.





After name-checking David McCormick, the Republican running against Pennsylvanias Democratic Sen. Bob Casey, and promising to bring him on stage later in the rally, Trump turned to one of his favorite themes. We have millions and millions of people in our country who should not be here, he said. Dangerous people.





Then he directed the audience to the projected chart of border crossings.





After the shots rang out and Trump was hustled offstage, agents in black uniforms carrying rifles, the agencys Counter-Assault team, flooded the stage. The crowd stayed down with the exception of one clutch of people standing near the left edge of the perimeter, near the sounds of gunfire.





Rico Elmore, vice chairman of the Beaver County Republican Party, was sitting in a section for special guests, facing Trump, when he heard what sounded like firecrackers. So, everyone hesitated  and it was like, no, these are actual shots, he said in an interview. So I yelled, Get down!





Elmore heard someone from his left calling for a medic. While Elmore isnt a medic, he knows first aid and CPR from his time in the military. He jumped a barricade, but when he reached the person, Elmore saw he had been shot in the head. Elmore said he held the victims head, but it was too late.





I mean, it was a horror, Elmore said.





The victim has not been identified.





Even as Trump was driven off, rallygoers stayed low. Some had heard the bullets ricocheting off the grandstand, severing a hydraulic line connecting to the speakers, which began to topple. Others quickly called family or looked on their phones to find out what had happened to the former president.





Is he all right? people began to ask. Is he OK?





Eventually, people began to trickle out. A small group of about a half-dozen stopped at the fenced area holding the media. Its all your fault! they yelled.





Police and then the Secret Service ushered everyone out. An hour after the shooting the vast field was declared a crime scene, littered with empty plastic water bottles and soggy cardboard containers that once held cheese fries.




BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally, days before he was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time. A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV as he pumped his fist in a show of defiance.





Trumps campaign said the presumptive GOP nominee was doing fine after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.





I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, he wrote on his social media site.





At least one attendee was dead and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. The Secret Service said it killed the suspected shooter  who it said attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania  and that Trump was safe.





The attack was the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It drew new attention to concerns about political violence in a deeply polarized U.S. less than four months before the presidential election. And it could alter the tenor and security posture at the Republican National Convention, which will begin on Monday in Milwaukee.





President Joe Biden, who is running against Trump, was briefed on the incident and spoke to Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House said.





Theres no place in America for this type of violence, the president said in public remarks. Its sick. Its sick.





Biden planned to return to Washington early, cutting short a weekend at his beach home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.





Many Republicans quickly blamed the violence on Biden and his allies, arguing that sustained attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment. They pointed in particular to a comment Biden made to donors on July 8, saying its time to put Trump in the bullseye.








Kathmandu: The handover ceremony of the Project for the Improvement of Medical Equipment in Advanced Public Hospitals was held at Ministry of Health and Population, and H.E. Mr. KIKUTA Yutaka, Ambassador of Japan to Nepal attended the ceremony.





This project, funded by the grant assistance from the Government of Japan, provided medical equipment to eight advanced public hospitals in Kathmandu Valley (Human Organ Transplant Centre, Patan Hospital, Paropakar Maternity & Women's Hospital, National Trauma Centre, Bir Hospital, Shahid Gangalal National Heart Centre, Kanti Children's Hospital, and Manmohan Cardiothoracic, Vascular and Transplant Centre) to improve the quality of healthcare services, mainly by strengthening the diagnostic and treatment systems for patients with non-communicable diseases, thereby contributing to poverty reduction and improving the quality of life in the country.





The number of patients with non-communicable diseases in Nepal is increasing every year, and the top three causes of the human death in the country are cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer. Therefore, it is essential to strengthen the diagnostic and medical systems to tackle these non-communicable diseases.





On this occasion, Ambassador Kikuta congratulated and expressed his appreciation for the efforts of all those involved in the project on behalf of the Government and People of Japan. He also mentioned that the project is helping to improve the situation in which medical services cannot be provided due to the lack of and/or aging of equipment, and that the support to these public hospitals will contribute significantly to the economic and social development of Nepal.








Kathmandu, Nepal, July 14, 2024: CPN UML Chairman KP Sharma Oli is being appointed as the new Prime Minister today.





President Ram Chandra Paudel is going to appoint Oli as the Prime Minjister in accordance with Article 76 (2) of the Constitution of Nepal.




Melissa Manno is a reporter covering education for the San Antonio Express-News. She can be reached at melissa.manno@express-news.net.

She graduated from Penn State University in 2022 with a bachelors degree in journalism and minors in geography and digital media trends and analytics. She is also the 2021 Hearst National Journalism Writing Champion.
A gunmans attack Saturday on former President Donald Trump is likely to energize his supporters, including some who might not have been convinced they would vote, according to Virginia political analysts.

In the short term, President Joe Bidens response to the assassination attempt  condemning political violence, urging a review of security at the Trump rally  also might short-circuit Democrats calls for Biden to drop out of the contest following his disastrous performance in the June 27 debate, the analysts said.

But they cautioned that a spate of bad polls could restart the drumbeat for Biden to withdraw.

Pennsylvania officials said Corey Comperatore, a firefighter, was killed in Saturdays shooting and two other men were critically wounded.

Both Trump and Biden have taken the right tone in urging national unity since the attempted assassination of Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania, said Larry Sabato, head of the Center for Politics at the University of Virginia. A key question less than four months from Election Day is whether they will maintain that posture.

As Republicans embark Monday on their national convention in Milwaukee, Sabato said most presidential nominees get a bump of a few percentage points from their national convention, a bump that could be larger if the convention focuses on unity and is less vituperative. But convention bounces ordinarily fade as voters usually return to their partys banner, he said.

Most of the Democratic leadership is trying to suggest this ends the talk of Biden stepping down, Sabato added. But if a series of polls shows the floor is falling out and Biden is slipping badly, the calls from elected Democrats could resume.

Bob Holsworth, a longtime Virginia political analyst and former dean at Virginia Commonwealth University, said that in the early days after the shooting, were going to have to see whether this is a single act of violence or whether more violence emerges.

Trumps reaction to the shooting, holding aloft a fist to his supporters before the Secret Service whisked him from the stage, is likely to increase the attractiveness and appeal of Trump to his base, including for any potential supporters who might have been concerned about Trump fatigue, Holsworth said.

Biden might achieve a short-term gain because he is acting presidential and trying to shape the narrative, which might short-circuit calls for his withdrawal for a few days, at least, Holsworth said.

Ultimately, I dont think necessarily it enhances his chances against Donald Trump, Holsworth said. If there is a lasting impact from the tragedy, it is likely that it would encourage more Trump supporters to vote, he said.

John McGlennon, a political scientist at the College of William & Mary, said many voters are likely to return to form.

As far as the impact on voters, it will take a while to understand the full implications of this act, he said, but I do not think it will fundamentally alter the voters views in this election.

Trump is scheduled to speak at the convention on Thursday.

Also expected to appear during the nominating convention are Donald Jr. and Eric Trump, former Fox News host Tucker Carlson, Teamsters President Sean OBrien, Ultimate Fighting Championship CEO Dana White, former Republican presidential candidates Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis, Vivek Ramaswamy, Nikki Haley, and Perry Johnson, and former Trump administration officials ex-Secretary of State Mike Pompeo and former Small Business Administration chief Linda McMahon.

The Democratic National Convention is scheduled for Aug. 19-22 in Chicago.
The old location of the Luling Buc-ees caught fire Monday, according to fire officials. Courtesy Caldwell County Office of Emergency Management

In a week that began with a hurricane hitting Texas and ending with former President Donald Trump being wounded when shots were fired at a campaign rally, you may have fallen behind on the local stories catching readers interest. Heres a roundup for you to check out.

Spectrum, which provides internet, telephone and cable TV in San Antonio and across Texas, experienced a seven-hour, widespread outage of its services Tuesday. PATRICK T. FALLON/AFP via Getty Images

Spectrum, which provides internet, telephone and cable TV in San Antonio and across Texas, experienced a seven-hour, widespread outage of its services Tuesday. The company reported that Hurricane Beryl had damaged third-party infrastructure, leading to the outage.

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Blue Bell released a new flavor for National Ice Cream Month, Cookies N Cream Cheesecake. Courtesy Blue Bell Creameries

Blue Bell celebrated National Ice Cream Month by releasing a new flavor. Click on the headline to find out more.

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Graduates toss their caps into the air after graduation from West Campus High School on May 29. Find out where San Antonio ranked on WalletHubs list. Jessica Phelps

Personal finance website WalletHub analyzed the 150 largest metropolitan areas across the country to determine which cities are the most  and least  educated. Like last year, the Lone Star State has only one city ranked among the best educated, while four are in the bottom 10. Click to find out where Texas cities landed.

The Luling Fire Department has determined the cause of the dramatic blaze at the original Buc-ee's. Caldwell County authorities went online to assure fans that the fire had not affected the chain's biggest site, which had recently opened next door to the original one.

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Maj. Gen. Phillip Stewart was acquitted of rape after a trial at Fort Sam Houston, but he was convicted of lesser offenses, including conduct unbecoming an officer. The outcome essentially ends his Air Force career. William Luther/San Antonio Express-News
Air taxi bound for Cozumel crashes into the sea

Cozumel, Q. R.  A small air taxi that left Playa del Carmen bound for Cozumel crashed. The plane was nearing the island when it took a nosedive into the sea early Saturday.

Nearby witnesses watched as the plane took a nosedive into the sea and slowly sank. A rescue boat was sent to the site.

The accident happened around 11:30 Saturday morning approximately 400 meters from the island. The company plane went down off Playa Casitas near where a group of military divers were conducting exercises.

The moment the plane went down, divers rushed out to save those on board. According to Cozumel Civil Protection Director Rafael Tenorio Pizano, only the pilot was on board at the time of the accident. He was rescued alive.

A boat met the dive team and transferred the pilot and divers to a nearby dock. The pilot was treated for minor abrasions.

The plane went down near a where group of military divers were conducting exercises. Five divers rushed out to save those on board. Photo: July 13, 2024.

Tenorio Pizano says rescue efforts are currently underway by the company that owns the plane to lift it to the surface and remove it from the sea. He says engine failure is believed to be the cause of the crash.
EDUCATION

Virginia Tech researchers Richard Hanowski, Andy Scerri, and Julie Shortridge have received Fulbright Scholar Awards for the 2024-25 academic year, according to the Fulbright U.S. Scholar Program. Their research projects will seek to improve global transportation safety, environmental policy, and climate change.

Hanowski is division director of freight, transit, and heavy vehicle safety, Virginia Tech Transportation Institute. He has more than 32 years of transportation safety research experience and will be collaborating with the Malaysian Institute of Road Safety Research in Kajang, Malaysia, to research, design, develop, and test a low-cost motorcycle collision avoidance technology to help mitigate motorcycle crashes. The research will commence in January for a three-month period.

Scerri is associate professor and director of graduate studies, department of political science, College of Liberal Arts and Human Sciences. His research focus is environmental political theory and policy studies and he will travel to the Netherlands to continue work on his current book, tentatively titled Democracy Without Illusions.

Scerri also will co-teach a class on democratic theory at Maastricht University and receive training in a problem-based learning approach to teaching and syllabus design.

Shortridge is assistant professor and Virginia Cooperative Extension specialist, department of biological systems engineering, College of Agriculture and Life Sciences. She will study how interactions between warming temperatures and energy transitions in Northern Finland could lead to tipping points that rapidly change social and environmental systems.

Shortridge will also work with colleagues in the Department of Water, Energy, and Environmental Engineering and the Frontiers of Global Resilience Research Program to develop stakeholder-informed conceptual and computational models of these changes. These models will be used to test resilience-building strategies to preserve environmental and social resources in the face of rapid changes.

Since the Fulbright programs inception in 1946, nearly 170 Tech faculty members have participated.

LAW

Plaintiff attorney Nicholas A. Beck has joined Gentry Lockes Roanoke office as an associate.

He will focus his practice on medical malpractice, personal injury, and wrongful death matters.

Prior to joining the firm as an attorney, Beck worked as a summer associate. He also served as a judicial intern for the 23rd Judicial Circuit Court of Virginia and as an intern in the Virginia office of the attorney general.

Beck earned his Juris Doctor degree cum laude from the University of Richmond School of Law where he served as the president and oral arguments chair of the University of Richmonds Moot Court Board and as the vice president for The Federalist Societys Student Chapter at Richmond Law.

The Roanoke Bar Association recognized Eugene M. Elliott Jr. and Brittany M. Haddox at its 99th annual meeting.

Elliott received the 2024 Frank W. Bo Rogers Jr. Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a lawyer who embodies the highest tradition of personal and professional excellence in Southwest Virginia and enhances the image and esteem of attorneys in the region.

In addition, Elliott was the co-recipient of the 2024 Edward L. Chambers Jr. Lifetime Bar Service Award presented by the Virginia State Bar at its annual meeting in June.

The award recognizes an exemplary Virginia lawyer or judge who has enhanced the legal profession by extensive and longstanding commitment of time, knowledge and leadership on various VSB boards and committees.

Haddox received the 2024 Young Lawyer of the Year Award, which was established to recognize a lawyer who has demonstrated dedicated service to the Roanoke Bar Association, the community and the profession.

Haddox works for Virginia Employment Law.
Care and Feeding is Slates parenting advice column. Have a question for Care and Feeding? Submit it here.

Dear Care and Feeding,

Im a teen whos just graduated from high school, living in a small town where everyone knows everyone. Early in high school, I had been friends with a group of girls Id known since elementary school. We did basically everything together, and I was closest to two of them in particular. I also made another friend, Sasha, through cross country, and we became best friends, which initially caused me to drift apart from the other girls, but eventually, she sort of joined the group as well. Then, at the beginning of sophomore year, I really prioritized school and extracurriculars, because I wanted to get into a specific dream college across the country. Junior year, I was really stressed and didnt hang out with anyone other than Sasha, and was curt and dismissive with my other friends (which I really regret).

I only realized after college applications were done and I had gotten into my dream school that I was all alone except for Sasha and a very tenuous connection with my old friend groupwhich Sasha had by then been absorbed into. I worked hard to make amends with my two closest friends in the group, and weve spent time together this summer (I even went to prom with everyone), but theyre all going on a big camping trip in August for a week (Sasha included) that was planned last summer while I was away at an academic program, and I just feel sick thinking about it. Im fearful that this is going to make them impenetrably close, that Ill never be able to be friends with all of them again, that Ill cease being Sashas best friend, that I wont be invited for get-togethers during winter breaks or any other time were all at home. The trip was planned and paid for last fall, so theres no way I can join them, and just thinking about how Ill have to see all of them on social media having fun without me makes me anxious. I dont regret getting into my dream college, but I feel awful about being such a bad friend while I was laser-focused on that goal. How can I cope with this? Should I talk to Sasha about it? Is it true that there really isnt a way to rejoin the group after this trip? I cant stop thinking about what Ive lost.

Bad Friend in the Bay Area

Dear Friend,

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First, some news: This friend group, no matter how tight-knitor how much more tightly knit it may become in Augustis not going to remain so closely woven once you all go your own ways to college. Even if everyone else in the group goes to the same college (and as far as I know, thats not the case here), its not likely to remain unchanged by whats ahead. (I teach a seminar for first-year students at Ohio State, where I taught full time for many years, and a common refrain among these new-to-the-campus folks is that their high school friends are becoming confusingly less important to themeven if they chose to room with themwhile they make new friends with whom they feel they have more in common.)

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I can promise you that you will soon have new friends, and that you will become as close to them as you once were to your high school group of friends, even the ones you felt particularly close to. Im not saying that youll lose interest in your old friends; Im just letting you know that the sense you have right now that you are all alone, and these people are your only people, will not last forever. So try to keep this in perspective: Your life is about to change in a big way (in many big ways!).

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In the meantime, please make plans of your own for the week of your friends camping tripeven if plans just means a list of things youll do. Also: Stay off social media during that week (and if you cant do that, at least mute all of them; it will be hard, I know, but it will be worth it). And be a good friend to them now, while youve got the chance. There are weeks between today and that camping trip. Keep doing things togethernot frantically, but because you want to, if you want to. This will remind you that these people are still your friends. I wouldnt burden Sasha with your jealousy, fear, and anxietythats not going to help the situation in any wayand I would have a celebration that includes everybody before the Big Separation comes.

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Heres a little advice for the future, too. When youre home for breaks from college, dont wait for invitations. Call your old friends yourself. You may not even have the same breaksand by sophomore year some of you may not be coming home for breaks. But those of you who will be home at matching times will want someone to hang out with.

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The bottom line: Try to rein in the drama, even though this is a dramatic time in your life. Leaning into it will make you feel worse. And please, please, dont waste your energy on regrets (or jealousy!). Remember that the camping trip is only a week long. Dont let that one week ruin your whole summer.

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Submit your questions to Care and Feeding here. Its anonymous! (Questions may be edited for publication.)

Dear Care and Feeding,

How do you manage balancing your kids medical privacy with being open and unashamed about stigma? I have a 5-year-old who has had several surgeries as a result of medical conditions with which she was born. She has been in and out of the hospital most of her life. For some of this time, she received homeschooling from an outside agency, and the teachers as well as her doctors have recommended early intervention services for speech and physical therapy, which she has been receiving intermittently, working around her medical problems. I should mention that most of her medical problems are resolved, and while she will need more monitoring than most kids, her prognoses are positive and her medical team is optimistic that her next surgery wont be needed until she is a teen, if ever. Thankfully they should not have an impact on her day-to-day life or her life expectancy. We are very grateful, but needless to say her early years have been marked by a lot of stress and difficulty.

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Next year, she will be in first grade in public school, and the school will be providing her with a behavioral aide to help the transition. When we are in groups with other kids (she attended preschool briefly during one of her healthier times), she isnt physically aggressive, but she has issues with boundaries. She will grab things from kids, touch their hair, etc. The whole team is hopeful that with more experience in group settings, this will quickly get better. I am relieved to have the aide in place to help teach her appropriateness and to intervene when necessary.

My question is this: As a parent of a kid who currently is (and possibly always will be) classified as having a disability, how much do I disclose to the parents of the other children in her class? Do I explain why she has an aide? How much do I tell them? I would hope that they would be understanding and compassionate if the transition doesnt go as smoothly as weve hoped, and I think that an information vacuum would not be congruent with that aim. On the other hand, Im conscious that my daughters past medical history as well as any diagnoses (currently its a speech and language delay) are private; they should be up to her to disclose as she chooses. I dont want my daughter or other parents to get the impression that I am ashamed of her (I am not! I am so proud of her resilience and happy spirit). But if we keep silent in order to respect her privacy, Im worried that will be the impression we give. How do we navigate this? Ive been baptized by fire as a medical parent but dont have much experience having a kid with an individualized education program (IEP)!

Trepidatious in Berkeley

Dear Trepidatious,

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My instinct, as I read your letter, was to urge you to share information with the other parents not only as an insurance policy for their compassion and patience but also so they could talk to their children about the presence of your daughters aide and be available to field questions their kids might have. But I didnt altogether trust myself, as I have no experience in this area. So I contacted someone who is something of an expert: Heather Lanier, the author of the wise and brilliant, moving Raising a Rare Girl (a book I recommend to any parent, whether they are raising a child with a disability or not).

Lanier told me she very much respected your desire to honor your daughters privacy. But, she went on to say, We, as parents, serve as the bridge between our children and the world. This is especially true for kids with disabilities. With a child as young as yours, its up to you to do all the explaining and advocating. Its also up to you to set the tone for how the world should respond to our kids. The trick is to explain our kids disabilities and needs with zero shame, with a total acceptance of our children as they are, and with the overarching attitude that disability is normal, natural, and just fine, she added.

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Lanier pointed out that she is not suggesting you owe anyone your childs whole story. Her advice is that you speak matter-of-factly and briefly, saying outright what the disability is, what she needs, and how those she interacts with can be supportive. And she mentioned that this approach comes with a bonus: Helping others around us adopt the same attitude we have: one of total acceptance and OK-ness. I think this bonus can be a far-reaching one, too: Parents who have this attitude around disability will model it for their childrenwho will model it for other children. So dont stay silent. Take the first step toward creating a supportive, loving village for your child. And let that village spread.

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Catch Up on Care and Feeding

 Missed earlier columns this week? Read them here.

 Discuss this column in the Slate Parenting Facebook group!

Dear Care and Feeding,

I am the youngest of five. For my whole life, the older kids have picked our family vacation spots, restaurants, what to order, what game to play, etc. My parents would say, Thats just how it is, being the youngest. What I wanted was never taken into consideration. Even when I was in my 20s, they said my wishes didnt count because I was the only one without a spouse or kids. Now were all in our 40s and 50s and Ive got a husband and kids, so I need to change this dynamic. But every year, the same thing happens: The older kids pick the vacation spot and date. I throw in my preference. The date and spot selected is one of the older kids choices. When I say I have a conflict on that date, I get told to roll with it, and I find out later that no one remembered what I said, so I end up being the only one not going. No one even notices, and everyone has memories of me being there, so it was no great loss for them.

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However, the years of this have worn me down: family pictures without me, the insistence that I was present, etc. If I say something, Im told I need to stop being so sensitive and dramatic, to stop acting like a baby. I feel like Adam Sandlers character in Punch Drunk Love, wanting to smash the patio door window. What do I do? Im not close to any of them. They never truly showed up for me (unless you count my wedding dayand even then they bitched about the date being inconvenient). They think were closer than we are. They can never remember my birthday or my married name. They continually screw up my husbands name (think Mark when his name is Mike), and weve been married for over 15 years. My husband is getting tired of being treated like crap because he married the youngest of the bunch. (I guess my problem isnt about vacations, is it?) I think Im ready for estrangement from my family. Im pretty sure no one would notice anyway.

Id Estrange You, But You Wouldnt Notice

Dear You Wouldnt Notice,

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For starters: Why go on vacations with your family if youre not close with any of them? Why have you been going on these vacationsor, I guess, hoping to and then not going because your family makes plans without accounting for your availabilityall these years? Why didnt you quit once you were grown and didnt have to anymore?

It seems to me the only possible answers to these questions are:

You hoped vacationing with them would make you closer (but surely you learned long ago that this wasnt true) Youd feel left out if you didnt (but you feel left out anyway) Youve felt obliged to (but why?) See #3, and you are so conflict-averse you havent been able to bring yourself to say count me out (for fear theyd gang up on you, resort to childish name-calling, or otherwise rattle, upset, or hurt you?)

None of these are good reasons not to bow out now, while the bowings good.

Ill confess to being mystified, myself, by the very concept of a big, all-the-members-of-family vacation. I have friends who do it and dont hate it (I dont know anyone who loves it; at best, they tolerate it for the sake of their mothers, usually). It makes sense in situations in which the whole family is very close (emotionally) and at a great distance from each other (geographically), and a week together in the summertime is the only chance they have to be together all at onceand is something everyone looks forward to all year. Is this true of everybody in your family but you? Wouldnt that alone be reason to step away from the vacations?

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In any case, you dont have to estrange yourself from them (I mean, you canwhos stopping you?if you feel its essential for your mental health overall). You just have to, well, grow up. Youve been playing the role of youngest child for far too long. Because youre right, of course: Your question isnt really about vacations. Its about a family dynamic that, as you describe it, borders on abusive. And because I fear that simply cutting them off will change nothing about the way you feelyoull still be sad, aggrieved, and hurtand telling them off seems to be out of your wheelhouse, I think your best bet is to focus on what you can do to interrupt the cycle of their emotional abuse. Do you need to stop speaking to all of them? How will that make you feel? If the answer is relieved, then yeah, maybe its timewhether they seem to notice or not.

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If you want to try instead to assert yourself, without participating in their bullying version of a conversation with you, go ahead and use the vacation as a synecdoche for the relationship: Next time they ask what a good time is/where youd like to go on the upcoming family vacation, just say calmly that you wont be joining them, but you hope they have fun. If this is met with insults, or thinly veiled derisive questions (trust me, theyll know why you are declining this invitation thats more like a subpoena), politely excuse yourself: The doorbells ringing! The oven timer has gone off! You need to wash your hair! while you silently remind yourself that you will not be participating in this charade anymore.

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In other words: You change the terms of your relationship. And if that doesnt make you feel any better after you have done this multiple times, you may find you have to withdraw from them. Or perhaps one of them will come to you for an honest, mature conversationone can always hope. If you did decide to cut the cord, youd be doing so intentionallynot petulantly.

Dear Care and Feeding,

I became unexpectedly pregnant very early in my marriagea contraception failure with a method we thought was completely effective (turns out theres no such thing as completely and that in factheres a PSAthe shot has an effectiveness rate of 94 percent). We were willing to start our family earlier than wed hoped to, but we also knew wed need more help than we would have if wed been able to wait, primarily because we didnt have much money. After a thorough conversation with his parents and siblings, we decided to move closer to them, and the family network and childcare they provided offset the higher cost of living. Fifteen-plus years later, were very happy we made that decision. We love it here and so our kids. My husband and I help care for our kids cousins, and being part of a big crowd made it easy to settle in and make friends too.

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My parents are decent people but have very different values and personalities than mine. They are extremely self-reliant and independent. Neither maintained family ties after marriage, and the only time they ever talk to my sister or me is when we call them. They both have intense solo projects and can be wrapped up in them for months at a time, a habit dating before my birth. They were clear that they were excited to be grandparents but werent interested in taking on any of the work that might be associated with that. Thats fine! Its not for everyone, I know. But it seems they have never fully forgiven me for moving so far away. Our visits have been full of little underhanded comments and complaints about how we took the kids away from them. Our kids (11, 12, 15) pick up on this, and collectively asked to skip our planned December trip after we came home from our June one. My parents arent mean or abusive, theyre just hurt and a little cold. How do I handle this? My husband says, Your parents, your rules, so hell back me whatever I choose to do.

Conflicted Daughter

Dear Daughter,

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You seem to have a pretty good handle on the situation overall, but I think if your parents are talking (however subtle they may think theyre being) about their bitterness in a way that makes your kids uncomfortable, its time for you to say something. As you may know, I like letters for this sort of thing. A letter would give your parents a chance to take in (and then reread, as many times as necessary) what youre telling them, without the opportunity to jump in reactively and derail you; it would also give you a chance to put all your thoughts in order, and to revise and clarify until youre sure youve said everything you want and need to say. I would tell them everything youve told me (except for the PSA about birth control and the part about them being cold).

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It seems odd to me that they cant forgive you for moving away, when they made it clear they werent going to give you the kind of support you needed, but perhaps theyve never really understood the connection between the two? At all events, its time for them to cut the underhanded comments. If they have something to say to you, tell them to say it outright. Do they regret not stepping up when you needed them? Do they begrudge you the life you and your children have where you live? A letter telling them that you understand that they feel hurt and that youd like to get that out into the open where you can deal with it, and that lays out everything thats happened from your point of viewand invites them to talk this through with you (Im willing to bet that their version of the story of your relationship with them will be different from yours)could go a long way to repairing things between you.

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Meanwhile, talk frankly to your kids, too. Tell them why its important to you to see your parents, and why you want them to have a relationship with their grandparents. Tell them youre working on making things better with them, and suggest that you all go in December and see if any of this helps make the next visit nicer than the previous one. I think its OK to insist that they go even if they dont want toat least one more time. If that visit is miserable, you can revisit the question. And tell your parents that you are, and why.

Michelle

More Advice From Slate

I have a 2-year-old son who recently developed a problem going to sleep in his own bed. One night, after our bedtime routine of reading stories, his dad and I were saying good night and his dad added the dont let the bedbugs bite! saying. Immediately, a look of horror crossed my sons face and he sat up and pointed at the bed asking Bite? Bite? over and over.
The Republican National Convention was set to be pretty straightforward this year.

Donald Trump had become his partys undisputed leader, without the in-party doubters of previous runs. Even those Republicans who pointedly went for years without speaking to Trump were set to use this convention to project unity behind their nominee. This year, it was the Democrats who had been melting down over their presumed nomineeso much so that Trump, with an unnatural reservedness, had receded to the background to give them the space they needed to destroy themselves.

Then, late Saturday afternoon, a bullet fired from a rooftop outside Trumps rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazed the ex-president and came about an inch away from taking his life.

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The assassination attempt against Trump, which left one rally attendee dead and another seriously injured, is a shocking moment in history that, even a day later, is still hard to fully wrap ones head around. The image of Trump reaching for his right ear, hitting the deck, and emerging, bloody and disoriented, from a protective layer of Secret Service to raise his fist and repeatedly scream FIGHT! is one of the most stunning visuals Ive ever seen. It will reverberate through American politics, in ways that are hard to predict, for days, months, years.

For the moment, the presidential campaign is in a holding pattern as the principals of U.S. politics cease hostilities. President Joe Biden gave brief remarks Saturday night condemning the act and cut short his weekend in Delaware; he also was able to speak on the phone with Donald, as he called him, Saturday night. His campaign has pulled its ads. Former Presidents Obama, Bush, and Clinton, along with congressional leaders of both parties, issued statements offering their sympathies to Trump and his family. Trumps first posts since the incident have eschewed any calls for vengeance or retribution, instead offering thanks to law enforcement and to those who have reached out.

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In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win, Trump posted Sunday morning. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin. He would be arriving in Wisconsin Sunday afternoon as planned.

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Now Trump will be entering the RNC not just the races polling leader or its certain favoriteeven, arguably, the clearest Republican favorite to win a presidential election, at this point in the cycle, of any Republican in the 21st century. His stance, heading into the week, is one of a survivor of deadly political violence. The most recent presidential assassination attempt in the U.S. was made on Ronald Reagan in 1981. In other words, Democratic infighting will not be the biggest story of the week.

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How the RNC will change, both from a security standpoint and in regard to its programming, is still an open questionand has likely been the subject of a great many conference calls involving the Republican National Committee and the Trump campaign. Trumps campaign co-managers, Chris LaCivita and Susie Wiles, did release a memo to staff noting that they were enhancing security for the campaign and calling on staffers to recognize the political polarization in his heated election.

Please do not comment publicly on the occurrence of today, they wrote. We condemn all forms of violence, and will not tolerate dangerous rhetoric on social media. (LaCivita himself had stumbled on this front in the shootings aftermath with an incendiary tweet. He deleted it.)

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The RNC Convention will continue as planned in Milwaukee, Wiles and LaCivita wrote in their memo, where we will nominate our President to be the brave and fearless nominee of our Party.

Related From Slate What We Know About the Trump Rally Shooting Read More

The convention as planned featured themes for each day. Monday would be Make America Wealthy Once Again; Tuesday is Make America Safe Once Again; Wednesday is Make America Strong Once Again; and Thursdayyou get one guessis Make America Great Once Again. Adherence to themes, though, is only as strong as the planned speakers willingness to adhere to them, so expect similar themes around crime, the border, deregulation, tax cuts, and China to be hammered home each day. The only difference now is how Trumps near-death experience is worked into previously drafted speeches, themes, scheduling, production, lightingeverything. And to what extent its used as a cudgel. Partisan politics wont be on hiatus for long.

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Well also soon learn the answer to one of the biggest remaining questions of the campaign: Who will be Trumps running mate?

Each of the leading contendersOhio Sen. J.D. Vance, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio, North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, South Carolina Sen. Tim Scott, Virginia Gov. Glenn Youngkinhas been given a speaking slot at the convention. (And if youd like to keep a dark horse in mind, its worth observing that the runner-up to Trump in the primary, Nikki Haley, will reportedly be speaking at the convention after all.) According to reports, Trump had been mulling a reality showstyle reveal of his pick at the convention on Monday night, should the campaign be able to keep the name under wraps until then. Whether the shock of the assassination attempt mitigates Trumps otherwise insatiable appetite for elaborate television reveals remains to be seen. Perhaps the campaign will just send out an email.

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A convention is more than just speeches, running-mate announcements, a roll call of delegates, and the ratification of a platform that, for all the work and negotiating that is put into it, goes on to collect dust. A convention is a takeover of a major American city by people who seek salvation in politics. Its prayer breakfasts, protests, traffic, fundraisers, live music, watch parties, overeating, undereating, adrenaline, and alcohol. This RNC in particular was lined up to be a pure celebration for Republicans at having unequivocally obtained the upper hand ahead of Novembers election. Beyond the selection of a VP, there werent any pressing questions to be answered, a contrast in itself to the many that Democrats would have to answer by the end of their convention in August.

Well, theres a question for the RNC now: How does a party, all gathered together, digest the near killing of its leader?
He is showing no desire to calm the public mood.

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Welcome to your weekly commentary and overview of news from Slovakia. Fico is back and seems set on deepening the political divide. Weather-related injuries at Pohoda are another reminder of how climate change also affects life in central Europe. A Slovak delegation led by President Pellegrini assents to the conclusions of the Washington NATO summit.

If you have a suggestion on how to make this overview better, let me know at michaela.terenzani@spectator.sk.

Talk of reconciliation, and yet

Politicians across the Slovak political spectrum condemned Saturdays gun attack in Pennsylvania against former American President Donald Trump immediately after news of it reached Slovakia. This replicated their horrified reactions to a similar incident two months ago, rather closer to home, when Prime Minister Robert Fico was severely injured in a failed assassination attempt by a pensioner in the central-Slovak town of Handlova.

But if one were to listen only to what Robert Fico has been saying over the past ten days, as he has gradually returned to his prime-ministerial duties, one might easily get the impression that the rejection of violence as a political tool is not as all-encompassing as it actually is.

One need only scroll back to Ficos Facebook post earlier today, in which he wastes no time on the words condemn the violence, and went straight to stating that he regarded the attack on Trump to be a mirror-image  or, in his words, a copy-paste scenario  of the attack that he himself had suffered.

He then goes on to state that if the gunman who attacked Trump spoke Slovak, all he would have needed in order to set things straight with the disobedient former US president would have been to read Dennik N, Sme or Aktuality. This rather tortured analysis refers to the leading independent news sources in Slovakia, whose critical reporting on Ficos government the premier chooses to interpret as personal attacks on himself, and by extension the country. The Slovak Spectator is part of the same publishing house as Sme.
https://sputnikglobe.com/20240714/european-leaders-react-to-trump-assassination-attempt-1119372838.html

European Leaders React to Trump Assassination Attempt

European Leaders React to Trump Assassination Attempt

Sputnik International

Leaders and senior officials of European countries responded on Sunday to the failed assassination of former US president and presidential candidate Donald Trump, slamming the attack and wishing him speedy recovery.

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On Saturday evening, shots were fired during Trump's campaign event in Pennsylvania. The ex-president sustained a gun wound to his ear and was hospitalized. The shooter killed an audience member and critically injured two others in the crowd before the US Secret Service neutralized him. The FBI is investigating the incident as an assassination attempt. Slovak President Peter Pellegrini also said in a post on social media that he was "deeply concerned about the sprouting of violence in politics around the world." Swedish Prime Minister Ulf Kristersson said on social media that "Sweden stands behind the United States and wishes Donald Trump a speedy recovery." Finnish President Alexander Stubb wrote on X that he strongly condemned "this and any act of political violence." Estonian President Alar Karis said on social media that he was "deeply disturbed by the attack." Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic said that the attack was an expression of "the madness of hatred that is spreading everywhere in the world," adding that he hoped it would stop and wished Trump a recovery. Dutch Prime Minister Dick Schoof said on social media that it was a relief that Trump's injuries appeared to be minor after an attack, wishing him a quick recovery. Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen was quoted as saying by her office on X that she was "horrified to hear the news," adding that "such political violence is completely unacceptable and has no place in our societies."

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240714/musk-endorses-trump-slams-lack-of-secret-service-protection-at-rally-1119367894.html

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240714/hamas-denies-unilaterally-withdrawing-from-gaza-ceasefire-talks---political-bureau-member-1119373055.html

Hamas Denies Unilaterally Withdrawing From Gaza Ceasefire Talks - Political Bureau Member

Hamas Denies Unilaterally Withdrawing From Gaza Ceasefire Talks - Political Bureau Member

Sputnik International

Palestinian movement Hamas rejects the reports alleging that it had decided to stop ceasefire talks following Israel's deadly attack in the Gaza Strip's Khan Yunis, member of Hamas's political bureau Izzat al-Risheq said on Sunday.

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On Friday, US President Joe Biden said that Israel and Hamas agreed to a framework on a Gaza ceasefire. On Saturday, Israel carried out airstrikes on Khan Yunis's Al Mawasi district, which, according to the Gaza health ministry, killed 70 and injured almost 290 people. Several media outlets reported that ceasefire talks at Hamas's initiative. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. Nearly 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted during the attack. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. The death toll in the Gaza Strip has reached 38,584 since last October, while over 88,800 have been injured, according to the Palestinian enclave's health ministry's estimates.

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https://sputnikglobe.com/20240714/idf-confirms-elimination-of-hamass-khan-yunis-brigade-commander-in-gaza-1119373318.html

IDF Confirms Elimination of Hamas's Khan Yunis Brigade Commander in Gaza

IDF Confirms Elimination of Hamas's Khan Yunis Brigade Commander in Gaza

Sputnik International

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) confirmed on Sunday that it had eliminated Rafaa Salameh, the Commander of Hamas's Khan Younis Brigade in the Gaza Strip in the airstrike the day prior.

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On Saturday, Israel carried out airstrikes on Khan Younis's Al Mawasi district, which, according to the Gaza health ministry, killed 70 and injured almost 290 people. Israel's Army Radio said the strikes targeted Salameh and chief of Hamas's military wing Mohammed Deif. Al Arabiya news channel reported, citing a source, that Salameh was killed in the strike. "Yesterday (Saturday), following ISA [the Israel Security Agency] and IDF intelligence, the IAF [Israeli Air Force] struck and eliminated the Commander of Hamas' Khan Younis Brigade, Rafaa Salameh, in the area of Khan Younis," the IDF said in a statement on Telegram. The military added that Salameh was one of the people behind the October 7th attack. On October 7, 2023, Palestinian movement Hamas launched a large-scale rocket attack against Israel and breached the border, attacking both civilian neighborhoods and military bases. Nearly 1,200 people in Israel were killed and some 240 others abducted during the attack. Israel launched retaliatory strikes, ordered a complete blockade of Gaza, and started a ground incursion into the Palestinian enclave with the declared goal of eliminating Hamas fighters and rescuing the hostages. The death toll in the Gaza Strip has reached 38,584 since last October, while over 88,800 have been injured, according to the Palestinian enclave's health ministry's estimates.

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the israel defense forces (idf) confirmed on sunday that it had eliminated rafaa salameh, the commander of hamas's khan younis brigade in the gaza strip in the airstrike the day prior.
Yesterday one of the leaders of the Kiev regime, Budanov, admitted that Ukraines intelligence was plotting the assassination of the Russian president.

This assassination attempt was being prepared, again, with US money, without which there would be no malicious activities of the Ukrainian intelligence, the Ukrainian armed forces and, general, Bankova Street [government in Kiev], Zakharova said on Telegram.
Perched in second-over position by driver Dexter Dunn, Abuckabett Hanover lunged off his cover in a stretch sprint to overhaul pacesetter Voukefalas and win the $586,301 William Haughton Memorial, for older pacers, at The Meadowlands on Saturday, July 13.

Leaving from post five, Abuckabett Hanover floated away to race sixth as Voukefalas (Jordan Stratton) powered through an early shuffle to plant onto the lead after a :26.1 first quarter. Allywag Hanover (Todd McCarthy) yielded for the pocket spot moving up the backside while Voukefalas cruised on the point to a :53.3 half.

Abuckabett Hanover meanwhile waited for cover to follow and fished some from Charlie May (Jason Bartlett), pulling out of fifth, moving for the far turn. Charlie May carried Abuckabett Hanover forward as Voukefalas maintained a sturdy tempo to three-quarters in 1:21.4. But once Charlie May hit his limit from first-over, Dunn launched Abuckabett Hanover into flight into the stretch. Voukefalas kicked away in the lane and tried to withstand the swift surge from Abuckabett Hanover, though his efforts proved futile in the final yards. Abuckabett Hanover kept charging and slid past Voukefalas to a three-quarter-length win in 1:47.4. Allywag Hanover gave chase in third, and Its My Show (Scott Zeron) came from third-over for fourth.

This certainly is the type of race I wanted to be here for, said co-owner William Pollock, who  along with Bruce Areman  fronted $534,000 to buy Abuckabett Hanover at the end of 2022. But it takes a whole team. With Dex [Dunn], with Andrew [Harris], my partner Bruce ... they put it together, they figure out who we have to go out and get, and its paying dividends today. He was the type of horse that Andrew and Bruce loved. When he came onto an auction, they said Bill, if youre going to jump in, this is the horse to jump in on. Hes a real heartfelt horse, loves to close, thats what we loved best about him. Hes the first horse Ive ever had, so hes the O.G. of the stable.

Winning his 18th race from 64 starts and adding to his bankroll now worth $1,708,544, Abuckabett Hanover races for owners William Pollock, Bruce Areman and trainer Andrew Harris. The six-year-old stallion by Betting Line, out of the Western Ideal mare All Tucked Up, paid $3.80 to win.

(Meadowlands)
R Melina surged first-over while French Champagne fought on the lead to win their respective $171,233 divisions of the Del Miller Memorial at The Meadowlands on Saturday, July 13.

R Melina won the faster of the two Del Miller divisions with a 1:51.1 effort, holding off Buy A Round.

Senorita Palema (Tim Tetrick) sprinted from the pylon post to protect position into the first turn with Allegiant (Scott Zeron) tucking into the pocket and R Melina (Todd McCarthy) getting away third. By the first quarter in :27.2, Senorita Palema maintained her speed up the backside to a :55.3 half and continued to roll through the final turn. McCarthy moved R Melina out of third and marched forward with Buy A Round (Andy McCarthy) on his back moving to three-quarters in 1:24. R Melina put a head in front of Senorita Palema spinning for home and kept finding when pressed by Buy A Round through the lane to notch a half-length win with Date Night Hanover (Dunn) closing for third and Allegiant settling for fourth.

I was holding my breath, and if I had a cardiologist back in the paddock when they were going to the gate, they probably wouldve just wheeled me out in an ambulance, said trainer John Butenschoen with a smile. Shes only made a few mistakes in her life, and she had the rail each time. When the gate gets going, she gets a little anxious. We messed around with her rigging, we schooled her at home [and] put her on the gate a bunch this last week. We got a nice, easy week, and in two weeks well be back here and hope we can have some luck.

A three-year-old daughter of Chapter Seven out of the Explosive Matter mare Goodtogo Hanover, R Melina has now won 11 races from 19 starts and earned $658,630 for owners M&L Of Delaware LLC and Alabama Harness Associates LLC. She paid $14.60 to win.

French Champagne (pictured above) powered forward and lasted the distance to post a 1:51.4 win in the first division.

Driver Dexter Dunn pushed French Champagne forward out of post six and through a :28.1 first quarter to grab the lead into the backstretch from early leader Draw The Line (Yannick Gingras). French Champagne then coasted up the backside to a :56.3 half and through the far turn as Soiree Hanover (Tetrick) made a steady first-over advance out of fifth. Soiree Hanover reached French Champagnes wheel at three-quarters in 1:25, but Dunn called upon his charge into the stretch and she easily rebuffed the challenge. French Champagne strode in a 2-3/4-length winner over Soiree Hanover while Chaparmbro (Zeron) rallied off a ground-saving trip for third and Draw The Line held fourth.

I was pretty happy when I got the drive behind her when the proofs came out, Dexter Dunn said after the race. Driving for Ake [Svanstedt] and Sarah makes your job pretty easy.

"I thought about dropping into the three hole for a little bit, but the pace slackened enough that we kept pressing on. She felt strong once we got to the front; was relaxed, a little lazy, but when I asked her at the top of the straight she really got down great.

Ake Svanstedt trains French Champagne, a three-year-old daughter of Muscle Hill out of the royally-bred French Cafe, for owner-breeders Marvin Katz and Al Libfeld. She has now won eight races from 14 starts, banked $451,064 and paid $3.20 to win.

(Meadowlands)
Five divisions of Ohio Sires Stakes for two-year-olds were held at Eldorado Scioto Downs on Saturday, July 13. Three divisions of colts went for $68,493 while two divisions of fillies went for $89,041 each. Trainer Ron Burke teamed up with driver Chris Page to win four of the five events.

Two of the winners won The Next Generation last weekend and stayed a perfect two-for-two in lifetime starts.

The Word Is Out won her split in 1:55.3. Queen Of Fear (Ronnie Wrenn Jr.) took the early lead towards the :28.4 opening quarter. Not content to sit in the pocket, Page pulled The Word Is Out and they tripped the beam in :58.4 and 1:28.3 before pulling off the victory by three-quarters of a length. Queen Of Fear was a close second with Prolific Fire (Brett Miller) getting up for third. The Word Is Out was a $24,000 Ohio Selected Yearling Sale purchase and in her two lifetime starts has $147,261 in earnings. The Well Said filly is owned by Burke Racing, Knox Services, Beasty and R A S Racing.

Swingtown (pictured above), the other Next Generation winner, took his Sires Stakes event in 1:52.1. Copper Penny (Wrenn Jr.) took the field to the :27.3 quarter and :57.2 half. Page pulled Swingtown going down the backside but by the 1:24.4 third quarter was still four lengths off. The Downbytheseaside colt powered home in :26.3 to win under a hand drive by three-quarters of a length over Copper Penny. Whatcagonnado (Aaron Merriman) went three-wide around the last turn to get up for third. Swingtown is owned by Burke Racing, Hatfield Stables, Knox Services and R A S Racing.

Burke and Page teamed up to sweep the colt divisions by winning with Sippinonsearoc and Rick Wink.

In the first division of colts, Spiritshappyending (Tyler Smith) took the early lead from post four, but yielded to Fabio Hanover (Wrenn Jr.) by the :28 quarter. Page pulled Sippinonsearoc before going under the line for the first time and comfortably made the front before the :56 half. They hit the three-quarters in 1:24.2 and won by 2-3/4 lengths in 1:52.3. Spiritshappyending came back to finish second but was placed to fourth for going inside the passing lane too early. Fabio Hanover was third placed second, with Bars And Notes (Austin Hanners) fourth placed third. Sippinonsearoc, by Downbytheseaside, was a $77,000 Lexington Selected Yearling Sale purchase and is owned by Burke Racing, Weaver Bruscemi, R A S Racing and Knox Services.

Pants On Fire (Wrenn Jr.) left sharply from post eight in his division to catch the early top spot. Page had Rick Wink out and moving from the four-hole just as the field hit the :27.2 opening quarter. The duo took the lead going under the wire for the first time and hit the half in "56 and three-quarters in 1:24.3. Pants On Fire came out of the two-hole and was charging hard, but came up a nose short in the 1:52.1 mile. Cruisinoverfire (Smith) finished third. Rick Wink, by Bit Of A Legend N, was a $27,000 Ohio Selected Yearling Sale purchase and is owned by Burke Racing, R A S Racing, Knox Services, J&T Silver-Purnel & Libby.

The lone non-Burke trainee to win a Sires Stakes event on Saturday was Odds On Hialeah, who took the first filly division in 1:52.2. Goodnight Dance (Wrenn Jr.) left off the gate from post four to take the early lead. Sea Her Rule (Merriman) went wide around the first turn and just made the top at the :27 quarter. Just at the :56 half, Downthejerseyshore (Luke Hanners) went first-up with Odds On Hialeah (Brett Miller) moving second-over. By the 1:24.3 third quarter, Downthejerseyshore had a nose in front, but around the last turn, Odds On Hialeah went three-wide and took off to win by an impressive 7-1/4-length margin. Witching Blue Chip (Trevor Smith) got up for second with Rose Run Ashlee (Page) finishing third. Odds On Hialeah is owned by Odds On Racing and trained by Virgil Morgan Jr. The Lather Up filly prepped with two qualifiers and a maiden-breaking 1:54.4 win on July 5.

Morgan Jr. also picked up a Saturday score as Carbine took the $35,616 Open Pace in a sizzling 1:48.4 mile.

Austin Hanners took Carbine straight to the front from post six to a torrid opening quarter of :25.2. They tripped the beam in :53.3 and 1:21 before coming home in :27.4 to win by three-quarters of a length. Going into the second turn, Let It Ride N (Kayne Kauffman) had pulled first-up and by the three-quarter pole was lapped on to the leader. Stars Align A (Trevor Smith) was second-over and pulled three-wide, which made Artatac A (Dan Noble) go four-wide around the last turn. With the momentum in his favour, Artatac A closed in :27.1 to finish second. Gold Digger King (Tyler Smith) rode the rail and was sitting last at the top of the stretch, but came up the passing lane to finish third.

Carbine is now 11-for-20 on the year and 31-for-82 lifetime, with $655,292 in earnings. In his last nine starts, he has finished off the board only one time, which was a fourth-place finish in the Battle of Lake Erie. Morgan Jr. trains the six-year-old son of Somebeachsomewhere for Odds On Racing.

Sciotos Friday card featured the $36,986 Open for trotters and matching distaff pace. Both Adamsville Road and High Flyin Filly captured their 20th lifetime victory with their respective wins.

Adamsville Road (Luke Hanners) won the top trot in 1:52 after getting the pocket trip behind the mare Refined (Noble). Refined set fractions of :27, :55.4 and 1:23.3 before getting nipped at the wire. Adamsville Road pulled out of the pocket coming around the last turn to win by three-quarters of a length. After a first-over grind, Flemsteen (Tyler Smith) finished third.

Adamsville Road is trained by John Ryan Melsheimer and owned by Mel Rose Stable and Joe Nesselroad. The five-year-old Swan For All gelding hit the $500,000 career earnings mark.

High Flyin Filly took the Filly & Mare Open Pace in 1:50.4 after getting away fourth and pulling first up mid-way down the backstretch. Trick Of The Light (Noble) set the early fractions of :26.1 and :55.1 and was head-to-head with High Flyin Filly by the 1:23.1 third quarter mark. Following second-over, Racing For Three (Trevor Smith) finished second with Trick Of The Light holding on for third.

High Flyin Filly is owned by Burke Racing and Weaver Bruscemi. The four-year-old mare by Domethatagain is trained by Burke and now has $237,145 in lifetime earnings.

(With files from Scioto Downs)
Nebraska and Iowa officials on Saturday evening posted prayers and concerns for former President Donald Trump after what the Associated Press and other news outlets called a shooting incident at a Butler, Pennsylvania rally.

As Trump was speaking, loud popping sounds rang out and he grabbed his ear before taking cover. Moments later, he was seen standing and raised a fist to the crowd with blood on his face.

Nebraska Gov. Jim Pillen released a statement calling the terrible incident a shocking moment for our democracy. Pillen said he and his wife, Suzanne were gratified Trump is reported to be okay.

But we are deeply saddened to hear that one attendee was killed and at least one other has been injured, Pillen said. All politically motivated violence is to be condemned, no matter what form or what situation. I commend President Trump for his immediate display of strength following the attempted assassination and I hope he will soon be back in front of the American people. I call on all Nebraskans to offer their prayers for those impacted by todays events and for our collective peace as a Nation.

Iowa Sen. Joni Ernst wrote on X that she was thankful for the swift response of Secret Service and local law enforcement.

God Bless Donald J Trump, she continued. Keep praying for him and our great country.

Nebraska Sen. Deb Fischer and Sen. Pete Ricketts both said on X, Praying for President Trump and the people at the rally today.

Nebraska Rep. Don Bacon said, Our thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and his family right now. Prayers that everyone at the rally is safe.

Nebraska Rep. Adrian Smith said, Reports of violence and an injury to Pres. Trump at his rally today are deeply troubling. My prayers are with Pres. Trump and everyone at the event in Pennsylvania. I appreciate the fast action of members of the Secret Service and am monitoring reports for more information.

Nebraska Rep. Mike Flood said, Praying for President Trump, his family and everyone at the rally.

State Sen. Carol Blood  running against Flood in the 1st District congressional race offered condolences to those whose family members lost their lives today.

(I) am thankful that our secret service is the best of the best and did their jobs so eloquently today to protect the former President, Blood said. Violence is never the answer and I hope this incident brings us closer as a country and not further apart.

Nebraska State Sen. Tony Vargas said, There is no place for violence in our politics and I strongly condemn all acts of violence against anyone, regardless of their political party. I am glad to hear that President Trump is ok and thank our law enforcement for their quick action.

Nebraska Senate Candidate Dan Osborn said, I am disturbed by the news of political violence coming out of Pennsylvania and am hoping for the health and safety of President Trump and everyone there. Political violence is unacceptable.
BUTLER, Pa.  Former President Donald Trump was the target of an apparent assassination attempt Saturday at a Pennsylvania rally, days before he was to accept the Republican nomination for a third time. A barrage of gunfire set off panic, and a bloodied Trump, who said he was shot in the ear, was surrounded by Secret Service and hurried to his SUV as he pumped his fist in a show of defiance.

Trump's campaign said the presumptive GOP nominee was doing "fine" after the shooting, which he said pierced the upper part of his right ear.

"I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place," he wrote on his social media site.

The FBI early Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. The agency said the investigation remains active and ongoing.

Secret Service agents fatally shot Crooks, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue at a farm show in Butler, Pennsylvania, the agency said.

One attendee was killed and two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.

The attack was the most serious attempt to assassinate a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It drew new attention to concerns about political violence in a deeply polarized U.S. less than four months before the presidential election. And it could alter the tenor and security posture at the Republican National Convention, which will begin Monday in Milwaukee.

Organizers said the convention would proceed as planned.

Trump flew to New Jersey after visiting a local Pennsylvania hospital, landing shortly after midnight at Newark Liberty International Airport. Video posted by an aide showed the former president deplaning his private jet flanked by U.S. Secret Service agents and heavily armed members of the agency's counter assault team, an unusually visible show of force by his protective detail.

President Joe Biden, who is running against Trump, was briefed on the incident and spoke to Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House said.

"There's no place in America for this type of violence," the president said in public remarks. "It's sick. It's sick."

Biden planned to return to Washington early, cutting short a weekend at his beach home in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

Many Republicans quickly blamed the violence on Biden and his allies, arguing that sustained attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment. They pointed in particular to a comment Biden made to donors on July 8, saying "it's time to put Trump in the bullseye."

Officials said members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team killed the shooter. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene, according to a third person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation.

An AP analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos from the scene of the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a person wearing gray camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a building at AGR International Inc., a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trump's rally was held.

The roof where the person lay was less than 150 meters (164 yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M-16 rifle. The AR-15, like the shooter at the Trump rally had, is the semi-automatic civilian version of the military M-16.

Asked at the press conference whether law enforcement did not know the shooter was on the roof until he began firing, Kevin Rojek, Special Agent in Charge of the FBI's Pittsburgh Field Office, responded that "that is our assessment at this time."

"It is surprising" that the gunman was able to open fire on the stage before the Secret Service killed him, he added.

Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas, whose department oversees the Secret Service, said officials were engaged with the Biden and Trump campaigns and "taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security."

Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the gunfire began after 6:10 p.m.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said, "Oh," and the raised his hand to his right ear and looked at it, before quickly crouching to the ground behind his lectern. The people in the stands behind him also crouched down as screams rang through the crowd.

Someone could be heard near the microphone saying, "Get down, get down, get down, get down!" as agents rushed to the stage. They piled atop the former president to shield him with their bodies, as is their training protocol, as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Screams were heard in the crowd of several thousand people. A woman screamed louder than the rest. Afterward, voices were heard saying "shooter's down" several times, before someone asked "are we good to move?" and "are we clear?" Then, someone ordered, "Let's move."

Trump could be heard on the video saying at least twice, "Let me get my shoes, let me get my shoes," with another voice heard saying, "I've got you sir."

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face, which was smeared with blood on his face. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word "Fight" twice to his crowd of supporters, prompting loud cheers and then chants of "USA. USA. USA."

The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist.

His motorcade left the venue moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.

"Everybody went to their knees or their prone position, because we all knew, everyone becoming aware of the fact this was gunfire," said Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, who was sitting to Trump's right on stage.

As he saw Trump raise his fist, McCormick said, he looked over his shoulder and noticed someone had been hit while sitting in the bleachers behind the stage.

Eventually, first responders were able to carry the injured person out of a large crowd so he could get medical care, McCormick said.

Reporters covering the rally heard five or six shots ring out and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables. After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled, but not panicked. An AP reporter at the scene reported the noise sounded like firecrackers at first or perhaps a car backfiring.

When it was clear the situation had been contained and Trump would not return to speak, attendees started filing out of the venue. One man in an electric wheelchair got stuck on the field when his chair's battery died. Others tried to help him move.

Police soon told the people remaining to leave the venue and Secret Service agents told reporters to get "out now. This is a live crime scene."

Two firefighters from nearby Steubenville, Ohio, who were at the rally told the AP that they helped people who appeared injured and heard bullets hitting broadcast speakers.

"The bullets rattled around the grandstand, one hit the speaker tower and then chaos broke. We hit the ground and then the police converged into the grandstands," Chris Takach said.

"The first thing I heard is a couple of cracks," Dave Sullivan said.

Sullivan said he saw one of the speakers get hit and bullets rattling and, "we hit the deck."

He said once Secret Service and other authorities converged on Trump, he and Takach assisted two people who may have been shot in the grandstand and cleared a path to get them out of the way.

"Just a sad day for America," said Sullivan, who recalled that fluid sprayed from a mechanical line on the stage before a speaker tower started to fall.

"Then we heard another shot that, you could hear, you knew something was, it was bullets. It wasn't firecrackers," he said.

The perils of campaigning took on a new urgency after the assassination of Robert F. Kennedy in California in 1968, and again in 1972 when Arthur Bremer shot and seriously hurt George Wallace, who was running as an independent on a campaign platform that has sometimes been compared to Trump's. That led to increased protection of candidates, even as the threats persisted, notably against Jesse Jackson in 1988 and Barack Obama in 2008.

Presidents, particularly after the assassination of John F. Kennedy in 1963, have even greater layers of security. Trump is a rarity as both a former president and a current candidate.

North Dakota Gov. Doug Burgum, Florida Sen. Marco Rubio and Ohio Sen. JD Vance, the three men on Trump's shortlist for vice president, all quickly sent out statements expressing concern for the former president, with Rubio sharing an image taken as Trump was escorted off stage with his fist in the air and a streak of blood on his face along with the words "God protected President Trump."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said in a statement on X that he had been briefed on the situation and Pennsylvania state police were on hand at the rally site.

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States," he said.

Read more here:

Photos: Trump injured, 2 killed in shooting at rally
How NATO's Washington summit fans confrontation and sabotages peace

Xinhua) 09:38, July 14, 2024

Leaders participating in the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) summit pose for a group photo in Washington, D.C., the United States, July 9, 2024. (NATO/Handout via Xinhua)

"Questions about NATO's purpose began as soon as the Soviet Union broke up," Walt said. "Predictions that open-ended expansion eastward would lead to a Europe that was 'whole, free, and at peace' look rather hollow today."

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The recently concluded Washington summit of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) has aroused a wave of harsh criticism from politicians and scholars from the bloc's member states and other countries, who said the alliance has become more confrontational and less of a guardian of global peace.

Stephen Walt, the Robert and Renee Belfer professor of international relations at Harvard University, wrote an opinion piece in Foreign Policy titled, "This time, NATO is in trouble for real."

While NATO celebrates its 75th anniversary, Walt noted the dark clouds casting shadows over the fest, including the rise of far-right forces in Europe, the division between Europe and the United States over the Ukraine crisis, the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the regulation of digital technologies, among others.

"Questions about NATO's purpose began as soon as the Soviet Union broke up," Walt said. "Predictions that open-ended expansion eastward would lead to a Europe that was 'whole, free, and at peace' look rather hollow today."

The columnist challenged trans-Atlantic solidarity: "Europe and the United States are gradually drifting apart, and the only important question is how fast it will happen and how far it will go."

Meanwhile, many politicians and observers from NATO's European members voiced their discontent and disagreement over the alliance's antagonism towards certain countries and a shift from the original function it was built to serve.

Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban posted on social media that NATO must focus on winning peace rather than engaging in wars. He was posting from Washington, where he attended the summit earlier this week.

"NATO was established 75 years ago to protect the security of its members. However, it now seems to be moving away from its original goal, increasingly behaving like a war organization," Orban said in a video posted on his official Facebook page.

He said that this shift is demonstrated in NATO's increasingly active role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict. "We believe this is dangerous -- even irresponsible, because no one can see where this will lead or where we will end up."

Uros Lipuscek, a Slovenian political scientist, said that NATO is trying to advance in the Pacific region.

Attacks on sovereign countries outside the member area, unwavering support for illegal and illegitimate interventions by the United States, the expansion of NATO contrary to the agreements in such a way that it threatens Russia -- all this has nothing to do with the basic goals of the NATO alliance, but became the dominant direction of development of this increasingly aggressive union, he said.

Slovenian politician and former member of the European Parliament Aurelio Juri wrote on X that NATO's sole purpose should be to maintain peace, not endless war.

"Perhaps we will finally understand that our entry into NATO in 2004 was not the wisest choice," Juri said, adding that membership in NATO "threatens our security rather than protects it."

Mladen Plese, a Croatian political analyst, said that NATO should focus on preserving peace and preventing conflicts rather than starting or getting involved in wars and military conflicts around the world, as it has done in recent years under the guidance of the United States.

"The United States has used NATO to implement its policies and has a decisive influence on NATO; this is not good for the European partners. NATO must not be an extended arm of Washington, and more and more European countries are warning about this," Plese said.

"NATO is being used in the name of American interests to tighten the situation in the Asia-Pacific region, which does not correspond to the interests of Europe at all," Plese added.

Officials and experts further criticized the U.S. dominance over the bloc, saying the country has been turning the alliance into an extended arm to maintain global hegemony.

NATO is one of the "institutional frameworks" in the U.S. military-security apparatus that underpin the U.S. grand strategy, Jeffrey Sachs, a professor and director of the Center for Sustainable Development at Columbia University, told Xinhua.

"The United States continues to have a foreign policy that is profoundly misguided and dangerous, based on the goal of hegemony, and with the consequence of confrontation with China, Russia, and most of the developing countries. NATO is part of this misguided and dangerous foreign policy," Sachs said.

Russian Ambassador to the United States Anatoly Antonov noted the Washington summit "showed that NATO has irrevocably embarked on the path of confrontation and material preparation for war."

"The United States and its satellites are mobilizing maximum resources to preserve their collapsing hegemony," Antonov said in the Telegram channel of the Russian Embassy in the United States. "Enemies are being declared as anyone who refuses to submit to the dictates and will of the West."

Antonov added that Europe alone is not enough for NATO, with the alliance's interests extending beyond the Euro-Atlantic region, primarily to Asia.

"It is important to emphasize that the outcome of the 'humanitarian' interventions by this allegedly defensive bloc is well-known -- the destruction of states, war crimes, the rise of extremism, and the mass death of civilians."

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press

Texas lawmakers were quick to express support and hope for a quick recovery for former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired at a Pennsylvania rally Saturday.

Trump is fine, his campaign manager said, but the gunman and at least one rally attendee are dead.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, who was at the rally, told the San Antonio Express-News he was within 30 feet of the former president when the gunshot sounds rang out about 10 minutes after he started speaking. He said that he heard at least several shots.

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LATEST: Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Trumps speaking, and shots go off, probably a 22, not very loud. Thought maybe a firecracker or balloon, he said. People started ducking.

Sen. Ted Cruz called the shooting horrific and evil in a post to X, formerly known as Twitter, on Saturday evening.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured, Cruz stated. Heidi & I are lifting President Trump up in prayer right now.

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Other elected officials also said they were praying or were asking others to pray for the former president, including Sen. John Cornyn and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

Whoever is responsible must face swift justice. May we all pray for our country tonight, Cornyn posted on X.

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg, a staunch supporter of President Joe Biden, condemned the attack on Trump as a devastating day for America and wished the former president a swift recovery.

Democratic lawmakers in Texas also deplored the violence. U.S. Reps. Joaquin Castro of San Antonio, Sylvia Garcia of Houston and Colin Allred of Dallas and State Rep. Diego Bernal of San Antonio all wished Trump a speedy recovery.

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Political violence is unacceptable in any form, Castro said. As we wait for more information, I commend the Secret Service agents who acted quickly to protect the former president and prevent further harm to the crowd.

Bernal called the attempt on Trumps life saddening and cowardly, adding in a post on X: The whole point of democracy is to find a way forward *without* violence. I believe we still can.

Gov. Greg Abbott repeatedly tweeted his staunch support for Trump after the shooting, sharing a photo of the former presidents grazed ear and declaring him a legend.

They try to jail him, the governor wrote, referencing Trumps recent conviction in a hush money trial. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable.

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U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw suggested the shooting could bolster Trumps chances of winning the November election.

Trumps chances of losing just went to zero, he said in a social media post.

The White House released a statement that said President Biden had been briefed on the situation and condemned the violence.

I am grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally as we await further information.

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Former President George W. Bush called the attack cowardly, adding that he is grateful that Trump is safe. He also commended the Secret Service agents who took Trump away.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow, campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.

Trump was discussing a chart about border crossing numbers when the gunshot sounds started. The former president reached for his face, and blood covered his ear. He ducked behind the riser while members of the Secret Service moved onto the stage, the Associated Press reported.

Butler County District Attorney Richard Goldinger told the Associated Press that the suspected gunman was dead, and at least one rally attendee was killed.
U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

WASHINGTON  U.S. Rep. Ronny Jackson, R-Amarillo, said Saturday night that his nephew is doing well after his nephew's neck was grazed by a bullet during a shooting at former President Donald Trumps campaign event in Pennsylvania.

The congressman, who was not himself at the event, appeared on Fox News and Newsmax after the rally, describing how the events unfolded. Jackson, a former Trump White House physician, said his nephew was seated in a friends and family section behind Trump when shots were fired. He was later treated at a triage tent.

My family was sitting in the front, near where the President was speaking, Jackson said in a statement. They heard shots ringing out  my nephew then realized he had blood on his neck and something had grazed and cut his neck.

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The Associated Press reported that one attendee as well as the suspected shooter were killed, and two other people were critically injured. Jackson said his sister-in-law was also at the event.

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt, the AP reported.

This article was first published by The Texas Tribune, a nonprofit, nonpartisan media organization that informs Texans  and engages with them  about public policy, politics, government and statewide issues.
The Climate Prediction Centers outlook for July 19-23 shows a high chance of above-average rainfall for all of Texas. Climate Prediction Center

For much of this week, a ridge of high pressure in the upper atmosphere will inch its way to the east, closer to South Texas. It will be the dominant feature of the weather pattern through at least Wednesday, leading to hot temperatures and little to no rainfall.

By the second half of the week, long-range weather models are showing a potential shift in the weather pattern. The high-pressure ridge will move back west, and a summertime cold front is likely to start moving through Texas. No, its not going to make things chilly, but it very well could bring a period of slightly below-average temps and heavy rain to South Texas. Heres what we know.

Todays forecast

Nice weather is expected as we start Sunday morning with mostly cloudy skies and low temperatures in the mid-70s. Thankfully, clouds will stick around for much of the morning, keeping temperatures in check. San Antonio likely will still be in the mid-80s by noon.

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Shown are expected high temperatures today in South Texas. Pivotal Weather

By the afternoon, clouds are expected to start breaking up a bit, leading to partly sunny skies. That will allow temperatures to reach the low to mid-90s by the late afternoon. High temperatures between 92 and 94 degrees are expected in the San Antonio metro area.

Even with a good deal of cloud cover, rain chances are going to be quite low across South Texas. A few showers and storms will be possible mainly along the Texas-Mexico border, but rain chances in San Antonio will be less than 20%.

Heating up

Moving forward this week, temperatures are expected to slowly, but steadily, increase. On Monday, San Antonio can expect high temperatures to rise back to 95 degrees, which is right at the historical average for mid-July.

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Temps will continue to rise by a degree or two each day, reaching high temps of 97-98 degrees by Wednesday and Thursday. However, while temperatures are expected to stay below 100 degrees, heat index values will not be so kind. Humid conditions will make temps feel like 105 degrees by Wednesday and Thursday afternoons.

Shown are potential high temperatures by Wednesday and Thursday, in the upper 90s in San Antonio. Pivotal Weather

Skies are expected to be partly cloudy each day, but rain chances will stay slim, only with a 10% chance of an isolated shower or storm in San Antonio.

Rain chances coming

The shift in the weather pattern starts Thursday as a weak cold front starts to push through the northern half of Texas. Since this is still several days away, the timing is a bit uncertain. Theres a chance that the front could push into San Antonio by late Thursday, but the better odds are that it will take until Friday for it to arrive.

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Shown is the future radar Saturday morning, according to the ECMWF weather model. Pivotal Weather

Cold fronts this time of the year hardly ever bring significantly cooler temperatures on their own, and temps likely will fall by only a few degrees. The bigger change will be the increasing rain chances along the front.

Here in South Texas, the best chances of rain will occur from Thursday night through Saturday. Uncertainty is still high, but as the cold front stalls out, it could bring multiple rounds of showers and thunderstorms to the region.

These increasing rain chances also can be seen by looking at the Climate Prediction Centers outlook for July 18-22, which shows nearly a 90% chance of near to above average precipitation during that time frame.
Donald Trump's campaign said the former president was "fine" after being rushed off the stage with blood on his face at a rally in Butler, after gunshots.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act," spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement reviewed by the Associated Press. "He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow."

Secret Service spokesperson Anthony Guglielmi issued a statement saying, "The Secret Service has implemented protective measures and the former President is safe. This is now an active Secret Service investigation and further information will be released when available."

The Butler County District Attorney says the a person attending the rally was killed and the shooter is dead.

The Secret Service later confirmed that two people were critically injured in the attack.
The FBI has identified the gunman in the deadly shooting Saturday at a Pennsylvania campaign rally that injured Donald Trump in an assassination attempt as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, but hasn't yet revealed a motive.

"This remains an active and ongoing investigation," the FBI said in a statement early Sunday.

The House Oversight Committee has already called the director of the Secret Service to testify about the attempted assassination in the wake of the security breach, and House Speaker Mike Johnson has promised a full investigation.

THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY.



The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP.  Speaker Mike Johnson (@SpeakerJohnson) July 14, 2024

Crooks, a resident of the Pittsburg suburb of Bethel Park about an hour's drive from the Pennsylvania rally, was a registered Republican, according to records. He would have been old enough to vote for president for the first time in the upcoming election.

But a Thomas Matthew Crooks is also listed as donating $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project through the Democratic ActBlue organization, according to campaign finance records.

Crooks has no apparent criminal record.

Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review, and received a $500 "star award" from the National Math and Science Initiative. He worked as a dietician at a local nursing home.

A student who didn't share classes with Crooks told AP that he was viciously bullied in high school.

"He was bullied almost every day," said David Kohler. "He was just an outcast, and you know how kids are nowadays." Students mocked him for what he wore, including hunting outfits, according to Kohler.

FBI officials said Sunday they haven't yet found any social media posts or other threatening writing indicating a troubling underlying ideology explaining his actions.

Crooks' father, 53-year-old Matthew Crooks, told CNN that he would not comment on his son until he spoke to law enforcement. He said he was trying to figure out "what the hell is going on."

Thomas Crooks fired on the former president from a rooftop outside the arena minutes after Trump began his address to the crowd in Butler Park in Butler, Pa., in an attack that killed a spectator and critically injured two others.

Trump, whose face was spattered with blood after the shooting, said later he was shot in the right ear, and that he could feel the bullet "ripping through the flesh."

He and his campaign reported afterward from a nearby hospital that he was "fine." Trump thanked law enforcement officials for their "rapid response."

The Secret Service confirmed that Crooks fired "from an elevated position outside of the rally venue."

Crooks was fatally shot on the scene by Secret Service agents, and an AR-style firearm was recovered at the scene. The FBI believes the gun had been legally purchased by Crooks' father, an official said at a second press conference Sunday.

The family is cooperating with investigators, the Associated Press reported.

It's unclear how the gunman managed to scale the roof without the notice of Secret Service guarding Trump.

Crooks was apparently captured on video lying prone on the rooftop on video. At least one spectator claimed to have seen him "bear crawling" on the roof.

FULL INTERVIEW with a witness, talking to @BBCNews, who says he saw a man with a gun on a building roof firing shots.



Donald Trump was rushed off stage during a rally in Pennsylvania after gun shots were heard.



He talked to @BBCBlindGazza - more information @BBCNews pic.twitter.com/aWqSXbzor2  BBC Newsnight (@BBCNewsnight) July 14, 2024

The Federal Aviation Administration said on Sunday that the airspace over Bethel Park was closed "effective immediately" for security reasons.
With the help of artificial intelligence systems, researchers have discovered that sperm whale communication features extremely sophisticated structures similar to human language, scientists have revealed.

The modern technology is helping scientists analyze huge datasets, uncovering new levels of diversity and complexity in animal communication.

Researchers have used AI to decode what they characterize as a "sperm whale phonetic alphabet," the BBC reports.

The whales communicate with one another through rhythmic sequences of clicks, called codas. Previously thought to have just 21 coda types, the "language" has at least 156 distinct codes now discovered with the help of AI analysis of almost 9,000 recordings, notes the BBC/

The analysis also found basic sound units in these codas, similar to phonemes in human language that form words.

Pratyusha Sharma, a doctoral student at MIT, said in an interview that it was AI that helped detect the subtle changes in sperm whale clicks.

Each coda, made up of 3 to 40 clicks, varies in speed and sometimes includes an extra click at the end, like musical ornamentation.

The findings indicate that sperm whale vocalizations could carry much more information than previously thought.

"Some of these features are contextual," Sharma told the BBC.

"In human language, for example, I can say 'what' or 'whaaaat!?' It's the same word, but to understand the meaning, you have to listen to the whole sound," Sharma explained.

Researchers found that sperm whale "phonemes" can also be combined to create a wide range of vocalizations.

This shows a linguistic phenomenon called "duality of patterning," in which basic elements combine to form meaningful words, something once thought unique to human language.

Sperm whales are challenging for humans to study because they spend much of their lives foraging in deep, dark waters.

Kirsten Young, a marine scientist at the University of Exeter, explained that at the end of a day of foraging, the sperm whales come together at the surface and rub against each other, "chatting" in whale sounds while they socialize.

"As researchers, we don't see a lot of their behavior because they don't spend that much time at the surface," she said.

"There are masses we don't know about them because we are just seeing a tiny little snapshot of their lives during that 15 minutes at the surface," Young added.

Not everyone is convinced by the findings of the whale language studies.

Some experts warn against focusing too much on human-like language, which risks forcing researchers to see things from only one perspective.

But Young defines the research as a key "incremental step" toward understanding these giants of the deep.

"We're starting to put the pieces of the puzzle together," she told the BBC, adding: "We really have no idea. But the better we can understand these amazing animals, the more we'll know about how we can protect them."
The initial public offerings (IPO) in the GCC markets has raised total proceeds of $3.6 billion through 23 offerings during the first six months, marking a year-on-year decline in value by 32% compared to H1 last year, where it raised $5.3 billion through 21 offerings, according to Kuwait Financial Centre (Markaz).

Markaz in its report titled 'Initial Public Offerings (IPO) in the GCC markets,' stated that Saudi Arabia led the region in terms of IPO proceeds during the first half, raising a total of $2.1 billion from 19 offerings constituting 59% of total GCC IPO proceeds.

This represented an increase of 141% in the value of Saudi IPOs compared to H1-2023. In the UAE, IPO proceeds totaled $1.3 billion during the period with 3 offerings constituting 37% of total GCC IPO proceeds.

However, this marked a decline of 67% in UAE proceeds compared to the same period of last year. In Kuwait, IPO proceeds totaled $147 million during the period with 1 offering constituting 4% of total GCC IPO proceeds.

Sector Allocation:

The Healthcare sector accounted for nearly 22% of the total proceeds during the period through three offerings amounting to a total of $788 million in proceeds led by Dr. Soliman Fakeeh Hospital IPO that raised $764 million.

The Technology sector raised more than $515 million through the IPO of Alef Education, constituting 14% of total GCC IPO proceeds raised during the period.

This was followed by IPOs from the Industrials, Consumer Staples, Food and Beverages, Commercial & Professional Services and Insurance sectors that constituted 12%, 11%, 9%, 8% and 6% respectively. Other sectors primarily include companies from the Financial Services, Utilities, Capital Goods, Pharma Biotech & Life Science, Materials, Software & Services, and Consumer Services, said the Markaz report.

The top 5 GCC IPOs by Proceeds during Q1-2024 are:

*Dr. Soliman Abdulkader Fakeeh Hospital Company - It raised a total of $764 million in proceeds, marking the largest IPO in H1 2024. The company offered 49.8 million shares, or 21% stake, which was covered 119 times. The IPO proceeds constituted 21% of total GCC IPO proceeds during the period. The company was listed on Tadawuls Main Market on the 5th of June 2024.

*Alef Education IPO - It raised a total of 515 million $in proceeds making it the second largest IPO in 2024. The company offered 1.4 billion shares, or 20% stake which was covered 39 times. The IPO proceeds constituted 14% of total GCC IPO proceeds during the period. The company was listed on June 11th on ADX.

*Parkin Company IPO - It raised a total of $429 million in proceeds. The company offered 750 million shares or 25% stake. The IPO proceeds constituted 12% of total GCC IPO proceeds during the period and was covered 165 times. The company was listed on DFM on March 21st.

*Spinneys Company IPO - It raised a total of $375 million in proceeds. Spinneys Company offered 900 million shares or 25% stake and was covered 64 times. The proceeds constituted 11% of total GCC IPO proceeds in H1 2024. The company was listed on DFM on the 9th of May.

*Modern Mills Company - It raised a total of $314 million in proceeds through the sale of 24.5 million shares, or 30% stake, and was covered 127 times. Modern Mills Company IPO constituted 9% of total GCC IPO proceeds of H1 2024. The company was listed on Tawaduls Main Market on the 27th of March.

Accordiong to Markaz, Saudi Arabia market (Tadawul) recorded 59% of the total IPO proceeds with the total value of $1.95 billion listed in its Main Market and $143 million in Nomu-Parallel Market.

Dubai Financial Market (DFM) hosted a total of $805 million constituting 23% of the total GCC IPO proceeds, while Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) saw a total of $515 million accounting for 14% of the total proceeds during the period.

Kuwait accounted for 4% of the total GCC IPO proceeds with $147 million listed on Boursa Kuwait, it added.-TradeArabia News Service
Aamal Company, one of the regions leading diversified companies, has announced that its joint venture unit - Elsewedy Cables Qatar - has secured an engineering, procurement, construction (EPC) services contract worth more than QR1 billion ($267 million) from Qatar General Electricity & Water Corporation (Kahramaa) for its key power projects.

Elsewedy Cables Qatar is a subsidiary of Senyar Industries Qatar Holding, one of the country's leading industrial groups, in which Aamal is a 50% shareholder.

Under this three-year contract, Elsewedy Cables Qatar will be providing EPC services, including the supply and installation of 132kV power cables for strategic projects, said the company in a statement.

Sheikh Mohamed bin Faisal Al Thani, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, said: "We are delighted to be awarded such a significant contract by Kahramaa, which demonstrates our strong capabilities to deliver high-quality products that support the growth and development of Qatar."

Aamals operations are widely diversified and comprise 32 active business units (subsidiaries and joint ventures) with market leading positions in the key industrial, retail, property and managed services, thereby offering investors a high quality and balanced exposure to Qatars wider economic growth and development.

"At Aamal, we are committed to bringing the latest know-how and expertise to remain at the forefront of Qatar's growth and development, and to being the partner of choice for leading projects and institutions," he noted.

Aamal CEO Rashid bin Ali Al Mansouri said this contract award reflects Qatars attractive investment landscape, encouraging the private sector to seek joint ventures and partnerships that add value and contribute to the countrys economic growth and development.

This contract win also emphasises Elsewedy Cables position as a leading supplier, capable of meeting the demands of large-scale local projects.

"We take pride in our joint venture, Elsewedy Cables Qatar, for sustaining market leadership over the past 15 years through continuous investment and expansion of its product portfolio. Aamal remains well-positioned to seize various opportunities across numerous economic sectors, delivering value to all its stakeholders," noted Al Mansouri.

Ahmed Fathy Elsewedy, Executive Vice President of Senyar Industries Qatar Holding, said: "Since our establishment in Qatar, we have built a strong relationship with Kahramaa based on trust and respect, successfully delivering projects on time and providing unparalleled products."

"We remain committed to being the partner of choice, supporting Qatars growth and its National Vision 2030. Our premium product range, combined with our expertise and dedicated team, will continue to drive our success and support Qatars ambitious goals," he added.-TradeArabia News Service
Egypt has strongly denied rumours on the sale of the Suez Canal for $1 trillion, asserting the falsehood of such claims after an audio clip on the 'canal sale' started doing the rounds.

Rubbishing these stories, the Egyptian Cabinet's media centre confirmed that the circulated audio clip claiming the sale of the canal is fake and has no basis in reality.
In a major cabinet reshuffle, Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed has been appointed Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence of UAE. As per the decree, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan too has been named Deputy Prime Minister.

Following consultations with President His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed, who also endorsed these changes, additional appointments were made to further solidify the leadership and operational efficiency across various sectors, stated Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, while announcing sweeping changes to the federal government.

As part of the cabinet reshuffle, Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed Al Nahyan retains his role as the Minister of Foreign Affairs and has also been appointed Deputy Prime Minister.

Included in the changes was the restructuring of the Council for Education, Human Resources and Community Development in the UAE. Sheikh Abdullah will head the council, along with his Vice President Sheikha Maryam bin Zayed, who was appointed as President of the National Centre for Quality Education. The Council of Education, headed by Sheikh Abdullah and with Sheikha Maryam as Vice-President, represents a guarantee of the stability and continuity of education plans and strategies, said Sheikh Mohammed.

Other new appointments include Alia Abdulla AlMazrouei as minister of state for entrepreneurship, Sarah Al Amiri as minister of education, Abdulrahman Al Awar as acting minister of higher education and scientific research, Sheikh Mohammed said in his post.
India is offering global investment opportunities worth $ 100 billion in the energy sector to be met by 2030, the Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas, Hardeep Singh Puri, has said.

Puri said the government aims to increase the acreage under oil and gas exploration to one million sq. km. by 2030.

"Only 10% of Indias sedimentary basin area is under exploration today. After the award of blocks under the forthcoming Open Acreage Licensing Policy (OALP) rounds, this will increase to 16% by the end of this year," stated the minister.

Puri was speaking yesterday (July 13) after the conclusion of 'Urja Varta 2024,' a two-day conclave organised by the Directorate General of Hydrocarbons (DGH).

The conclave brought together 400 industry experts, service providers, consultants, and academia members from both traditional and non-traditional energy sectors all over the world.

Puri announced the formation of a Joint Working Group comprising representatives from private sector exploration and production enterprises, the national oil companies, the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas, and the DGH to address industry concerns and improve the ease of doing business in the sector.

"We have already simplified and reduced 37 approval processes into 18. Nine of these processes are now eligible for self-certification. However, we recognize the need to push these reforms further," he added.
The gunman who tried to kill former President Donald Trump stashed explosive devices in his car, according to a report Sunday.

Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, parked the car near the Pennsylvania campaign rally where he opened fire Saturday, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing unidentified sources briefed on the investigation.

Bomb squad technicians were dispatched to the scene following numerous reports of suspicious packages near where Crooks carried out the attack, the Journal said.

Bomb-making materials were also found in Crooks' home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to the Associated Press, which cited two unidentified law enforcement officials.

Crooks reportedly lived with his parents in the Pittsburgh suburb about 35 miles from the rally site in Butler.

His father, Matthew Crooks, late Saturday told CNN that he was trying to figure out "what the hell is going on," and said he wouldn't comment further until after he spoke to law enforcement officials.

Thomas Crooks was a registered Republican, but also contributed $15 to a progressive Democratic organization, according to records. He apparently has no criminal record.

Officials have not yet revealed a motive for the attack.

The gunman shot Trump's upper right ear shortly after the former president began speaking to a crowd of supporters on Saturday.

A spectator, identified Sunday as Corey Comperatore, 50, was fatally shot and two others were critically wounded before the Secret Service killed Crooks, who had fired from a rooftop less than 165 yards from where Trump was speaking.

Stanley Priselac, who lives near the Crooks family home, told Reuters that "everybody kind of minds their own business" on the street, and didn't offer any observations about the shooter or his family.

"Everybody is kind of shocked, surprised, some dismay," said Priselac, 72.

Priselac's wife, Mary Priselac, 67, also said she was unaware of any "gun issue" involving Thomas Crooks.

"There's never been the police being called," she said. "You kind of have to wonder what didn't he get in life? What led to this extreme?"
Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, the low-cost national airline of the UAE, is inviting its loyal customers to take advantage of its smart travel innovation ahead of the summer season, especially passengers who commute frequently from the UAE to any chosen destination.

With the airline introducing a line-up of summer destinations across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East, its flexible MultiPass, ensures access to the best fares year-round.

Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, which currently flies to more than 30 destinations from Abu Dhabi, has advised early booking to travel to destinations including Athens, Larnaca, Maldives, Baku, Aqaba, Salalah, Yerevan, and Rome.

Johan Eidhagen, Managing Director of Wizz Air Abu Dhabi, said: As the flagbearer for ultra-low-cost travel in the region, we are proud to unveil our exciting mix of captivating summer destinations across Europe, Africa, Central Asia, and the Middle East.

This summer, we are empowering travellers to embark on extraordinary and exhilarating adventures with the MultiPass, a smart innovation that provides more flexibility for our most loyal and savvy customers, ensuring they can access our best fares year-round.

We are proud to enable our customers to tailor their own experience through our products and we look forward to welcoming you on board our aircraft soon.

The national airline recently announced the expansion of Wizz MultiPass, a pioneering and innovative flight subscription service that allows frequent travellers to travel from the UAE every month and explore multiple destinations while earning loyalty rewards.

With the Wizz MultiPass, passengers lock in a fixed price for tickets and baggage for the entire year. Passengers can save up to 40% on tickets to popular summer destinations using the ticket-only fare.

The MultiPass fare remains consistent year-round, regardless of seasonal fluctuations or last-minute booking, to ensure great memories. The subscription covers all taxes and fees, making travel stress-free and budget-friendly, with customisable plans including additional services like WIZZ Priority or a 20 kg checked-in bag.

Top Destinations

Athens, steeped in historical landmarks from ancient Greece, stands as the birthplace of democracy, exuding old-world charm. The Acropolis, the Temple of Olympian Zeus, and the Parthenon are must visits.

Larnaca, famous for its palm-lined seafront, has over 10,000 years of history and has a lived-in, local feel with its central location making it the ideal destination to visit Cyprus must-see idyllic travel hotspots.

Salalah, at its most attractive during the wet and green kharif season (June to September), boasts unique natural beauty and rich wildlife. It provides easy access to both mountains and the desert, offering abundant exploration opportunities for adventurous travellers.

Located in the Indian Ocean, the Maldives has long been a traveller favourite due to its picture-perfect setting. It consists of around 1,200 small coral islands and sandbanks, offering an island life escape away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Rome is home to artistic heritage, and the centre of Rome is on the UNESCO World Heritage List, boasting over 900 churches.

From museums and mosques to ancient ruins with millennia of history, Aqaba is a treasure trove steeped in history.

Diving in the Red Sea is a star attraction, with beautiful marine life and abundant coral reefs ready to explore, with, the lost city of Petra, one of the new Seven Wonders of the World, easily accessible on a day trip.

Known as the city of winds, Baku is a captivating blend of modernity and history, with unmissable architecture. Its medieval UNESCO old city, locally known as Icherisheher, is a must-see.  TradeArabia News Service
ECONOMIST Marla Dukharan has called for an independent and objective assessment of all countries worldwide to determine which ones are truly tax havens.

Dukharan stated that this approach would help combat the stigma often associated with the Caribbean region.
Camden Property Trust's planned move to Williams Tower adds to financial challenges facing Greenway Plaza.



Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer National apartment firm Camden Property plans to move from Greenway Plaza. The move could add to Greenway's challenges after the Houston campus defaulted on a $465 million loan. Mabry Campbell, Courtesy Lincoln Property Company

In another blow to Greenway Plaza, a prominent yet financially struggling mixed-use campus in Houston, a key longtime tenant is poised to relocate its headquarters to a landmark Galleria-area skyscraper next year.

Camden Property Trust, one of the nation's biggest apartment owners, recently signed a lease for more than 104,000 square feet in Williams Tower, a 64-story trophy skyscraper developed by Houston-based Hines and owned by Invesco Real Estate.

Camden plans to move into about four and half floors in Williams Tower by September 2025, after about 30 years at Greenway Plaza, Alex Jessett, the Houston-based apartment company's president and chief financial officer, said in an interview.

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The 4.5 million-square-foot Greenway campus near River Oaks and Upper Kirby has faced financial peril for more than a year after its owners, including Canadian Pension Plan Investment Board, Nuveen Real Estate and Silverpeak Real Estate Partners, defaulted on a $465 million loan tied to the property.

A court receiver appointed to manage the property had been trying to shore up leasing at Greenway while also preparing it for a potential sale, according to earlier Bloomberg delinquency notes.

Potential buyers have been touring the property in recent months, according to Harris County court documents filed in May, but its unclear whether it has been formally put on the market for sale.

Representatives for the receiver, Trigild Texas, and the company managing the property, Lincoln Property, did not immediately responded to requests for comment.

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More office tenants have been taking into consideration the financial wellbeing of their landlords as the office market continues to be roiled by the fallout from shifting tenant needs post pandemic.

A chronic oversupply of outdated office space in Houston has kept the region's overall office vacancy rate at about 26% in the second quarter, according to Avison Young. Houstons office leasing activity in the second quarter was 36% below levels typically seen pre-pandemic.

Landlords are motivated to strike deals, but some are finding it difficult to provide tenant incentives such as improvement packages and rent abatements due to underlying building loans or financial limitations, said Wade Bowlin, principal and managing director of Avison Youngs Houston office.

Meanwhile, about $430 million worth of commercial-mortgage backed securities tied to office properties in Houston were delinquent as of January, according to real estate data firm CoStar. Almost $1.1 billion worth of office loans in Houston were expected to mature this year.

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Camden's Jessett praised Greenway Plazas operations, but acknowledged there is some uncertainty around the office campus in recent months.

I think there is probably some question about how much capital they will put into it, he said. But I will tell you that Greenway is fantastic real estate it will end up fine just because of the location.

Camden has about 225 corporate employees operating in about 86,000 square feet at 11 Greenway Plaza. Including on-site property management teams spread across its multifamily communities, the firm has about 400 employees in the Houston area. Camden ranks among the nation's 15 biggest apartment owners with about 58,000 units in its portfolio, according to the National Multifamily Housing Coalition.

With the firms lease about to expire, Camden reevaluated its options, and Jessett said Williams Tower had the space. In in my opinion, its is an iconic building. Although its about 40 years old, its incredibly well maintained.

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Jessett said the move wasnt about reducing the companys real estate costs, but about enhancing employees access to walkable amenities. Williams Towers reasonably priced gym and a covered, air-conditioned walkway connecting the tower to the Galleria malls vast dining and retail options were a major draw, he said.

Avison Young represented Camden Property in lease negotiations and CBRE represented the landlord, Invesco.
I hear the cry of "Losing Democracy." Do most Americans truly understand what this means? It is frighteningly more than voting rights and freedom of speech. I am reading a book by Paul Theroux about his travels by train through Asia in the 1980s. In Turkmenistan he learns that the dictator had claimed his position for life, banned the dictionary, changed the days of the week and months of the year to names of his relatives, tore down thousands of homes (displacing citizens) and built golden palaces that are now empty. In Myanmar, he was told by citizens that the military was larger than the civilian population, is richer, better dressed and more educated. Those people want a democracy. If voters think this can't happen here, I would say think again. Trump and the 2025 plan is clear evidence of this possibility. Trump recently said he wanted to clean up, rebuild, and renovate Washington DC. Does that mean tear it down? That is only the beginning. Vote Biden for President.
Separation of church and state

Re: the July 2 letter Finally.

In his letter defending Louisianas law requiring the Ten Commandments be posted in every classroom, the letter writer notes that the words separation of church and state do not appear anywhere in the Constitution.

Christian Nationalists have long claimed that, because those are not the actual words of the 1st Amendment, the existence of what has become known as the Establishment Clause is a fiction created by Thomas Jefferson.

Jefferson, in a letter to the Danbury CT Baptists, used a similar phrase to explain the meaning of the actual language (Congress shall pass no law respecting an establishment of religion).

Jeffersons words have been quoted in numerous court decisions over the years, giving them the force of settled law.

Roger Voelker

Southeast side

VPs

Is this the best our great country can do?

Biden or Trump. A plethora of letters have been written for and against Trump, for or against Biden. What is depressing, even frightening, is that this is what is offered us at this late stage in this election year, 2024 will decide two statuses for our country.

One, whether we will have an autocrat in office that will eventually be removed from the presidency by the House and Senate. Or do we have an aging man that will prove to be incompetent and have to be removed by the 25th Amendment? So, we need vice presidents that can carry on and right the ship. What will decide this election is what VP do the voters feel more confident about.

Jon Langione

Marana

What kind of leader?

There are some basic qualities that are attractive in leaders: honor, honesty, reliability, generosity, sacrifice, and love. It doesnt matter if its the chair of a committee, nonprofit or community organization; a small or large business; or local, city, county, state or federal government. People with these qualities are never rejected because of them.

No one person knows everything about everything. So, good leaders have people to advise and support them. Therefore, we need to look at the kinds of people who are close to our leaders. Do they have these same desirable qualities as a leader? Are they giving wise advice? Does the leader take advice from experts? But, ultimately, it is the leader who takes responsibility for the outcome.

As we vote in the coming elections ask, What kind of leader is this person? Who we vote for matters, not just now, but for generations to come.

Paulette Claver

Northwest side

Presidential election

Imagine: The votes have been counted, and Abraham Lincoln (Republican) is a clear winner. It takes about three months for him to be certified by the Electoral College and results forwarded to the Capitol for certification by Vice President, John C. Breckenridge, under the Democrat administration of President James Buchanan. Its February 1861.

Does this sound familiar  General Winfield Scott, in charge of US forces, and in charge of Capitol security, hears of potential rioters that may disrupt the certification of votes. He brings in soldiers to secure the Capitol and stashes weapons inside the Capitol should rioters force the Capitol doors. The Capitol rioters came, were turned back by the soldiers, the votes were counted, and Lincoln, the Republican, became President.

That was then, this is now! In 2020, Vice President Pence, against the request of his President, performed his duties and the vote was certified, after rioters were turned back finally by an unprepared security force.

Dave Locey

Foothills

Never forget

Re: the July 6 article Veterans urge Arizona to discuss January 6.

Many thanks to veterans Dan Barkhuff and Naveed Shah for their article.

The Jan. 6 insurrection must never be forgotten, ignored, or minimized. Ever since that day, Republicans have tried to whitewash, minimize, deny, forget, and incredibly even glorify that treasonous, deadly day. The day when a sore loser president mounted an insurrection to attempt to overthrow a free and fair election. We must remember Jan. 6 and what it represents when we vote in November.

If you value and love this country, you will vote for the one candidate who cares about and is committed to saving and protecting our democracy. The other  a serial lying convicted felon  has made his plan clear: Revenge, retribution, a dismantling and remaking of our government to achieve autocratic rule, and pardoning of the Jan. 6 Hostage Patriots. If you love and value our democracy, make the only choice that will sustain and protect it.

Deb Klumpp

Oro Valley

Mob boss freed from Constitution

Boss Trump and his lieutenants on the Supreme Court have become masters of doublespeak.

Despite privately acknowledging his loss in 2020, the mob boss attempted to steal that election by claiming it was stolen from him. Similarly, the conservative justices have railed against anything other than a strictly constructionist interpretation of the constitution while destroying a fundamental principle implied in it  that no one is above the law in America.

I have to admit that the Boss and those that have given him the power of a king if he is reelected have roused patriotic anger in me, not derangement. Its sadly ironic that the Founders in their fear of mob rule instituted the Electoral College which gave the wannabe king and his lying, subsequently appointed justices a victory in 2016.

We need to restore the constitution by getting enough Democrats elected to Congress to impeach and remove those on the Supreme Court who threaten our foundational principles and the rule of law.

Eric Gormally

Oro Valley

Politics/Democratic strategy

News flash: Trump and Biden are old men! Second flash: They are their parties nominees. My question is, why are the Democrats self-destructing while the Republicans are lined up behind Trump?

Our own congressman (Raul Grijalva) has called for President Biden to step down. Even if he is correct, and I dont think he is, he shouldnt have gone public.

This election is too important for our country to have it decided by stupid tactics. If Trump wins, it wont be because Biden cant do the job. It will be because once again the Democrats eat their own.

Morton Cederbaum

Green Valley

Left vs Right since 1960

We were right about:

Civil rights

Vietnam

Nixon

Trickle-down economics

Marijuana

Womens Lib

Reproductive choice

Iraq

Afghanistan

Same-sex marriage

Trump

Global warming

We were wrong about:

Pronouns

George Timson

Midtown

Vote for Biden

I understand why Katie Hobbs didnt debate Kari Lake now. Poor Joe was hit with such a barrage of lies the poor guy was stunned. He was so busy defending himself there was no real debate. I thought there was supposed to be some fact-checking.

Joe Biden has been a great president. He deserves to retire with honors gracefully. I believe he is running not for his benefit but to save us from Trump. If he says he is up to it believe him. If something happens to him I feel confident VP Harris is up to the job. If you dont want this country to be another Russia, go out and vote Democratic.

Robert McNeil

Midtown

Accomplishments and dictators

A vast majority of your letters contain two themes. One, the Biden Administration has had a multitude of positive accomplishments and second, that Trump will be an assured dictator.

Please list the accomplishments of the Administration in the last four years that have made the country and its citizens more prosperous, safe, secure, and assured of a reliable future. Also, list any policies that may have degraded the above during the same period. As far as the dictator, please list any hard evidence that this is an actual assured fact, not just a convoluted option brought on by TDS. Hint. You do have four years of past history to review.

Also, consider in the last eight years, which Administration has abused the Constitution with their regulations, restricting individual rights, ignoring Congressional laws, and flaunted the Supreme Courts opinions. If the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are the absolute foundation of why the United States has been and is the finest system ever implemented, who would you choose?

Loyal M Johnson Jr

Oro Valley

White House occupancy

Id like to see Republican presidential candidate Steven Colbert face off against Democratic presidential candidate Jon Stewart on the 2024 ballot. It worked for Ukraine to run a comedian for highest office. Id like to see First Ladies Jill Biden and Melania Trump have sit-downs with their husbands to discuss how best to spend the dwindling rest of their lives together.

Is the White House the healthiest, happiest, most comfortable residence for their families?

I think not. And why are we commoners conceding policy decisions to big-money interests on important issues like climate change, big pharma, labor, and education? Minnows get eaten by whales, I guess.

Mary DeCamp

Downtown

Presidential candidates status

I have been reading all these reports questioning Joe Bidens competence. He did perform poorly in the debate. But I have also been looking for reports on Trumps status. He is clearly mentally ill, and not much is written about it. I am 76 and notice some deficits that have occurred with aging. But I am retired, I look forward to the next generation to create a better possible future for the United States of America.

Chris Pinhey

Foothills

Soon to be former Democrat

On Nov. 6 I will switch my party registration from Democrat. Thanks to the turncoat Democrats it will no longer be safe to live in a Trump dictatorship. Knowing him they will be the first who are purged and they will have deserved it. If they really wanted to have a viable candidate for President, they would have been silent and work behind the scenes to effect what they wanted. But they have been extremely vocal for the last three weeks, thus poisoning the well for any Democrat and giving Trump the landslide he has always wanted. Damn them.

Nathaniel Felton

East side

Scott delivers for Pima County

I met Rex Scott several years ago in my role as a Catalina Foothills School District governing board member, when Mr. Scott, a resident of my district and former educator, took an interest in issues facing CFSD.

Since then, Ive had several opportunities to engage with Mr. Scott on a variety of issues. The through line in all of them is his focus on people over politics. Mr. Scott eschews the divisiveness that can hamper progress. He will speak to  and more importantly listen to  people with a wide range of views, and then make fiscally responsible decisions to improve the lives of Pima County residents.

The success of this formula is in Mr. Scotts long list of accomplishments, among them the creation of programs that enable more young learners to attend preschool, address intergenerational poverty, improve facilities for adult and youth sports, and increase affordable housing.

Rex Scott has served Pima County well and should be given the opportunity to continue his valuable work on our behalf.

Amy Krauss

Foothills

Losing democracy

I hear the cry of Losing democracy. Do most Americans truly understand what this means? It is frighteningly more than voting rights and freedom of speech.

I am reading a book by Paul Theroux about his travels by train through Asia in the 1980s. In Turkmenistan he learns that the dictator had claimed his position for life, banned the dictionary, changed the days of the week and months of the year to names of his relatives, tore down thousands of homes (displacing citizens) and built golden palaces that are now empty.

In Myanmar, he was told by citizens that the military was larger than the civilian population, is richer, better dressed and more educated. Those people want a democracy. If voters think this cant happen here, I would say think again. Trump and the 2025 plan is clear evidence of this possibility. Trump recently said he wanted to clean up, rebuild, and renovate Washington D.C. Does that mean tear it down? That is only the beginning.

Vote Biden for President.

Sharon Winderl

Midtown

Before the pandemic

I had to smile when I read another Trump advocate rave about his economy but then add in parentheses (before the pandemic).

This is the pandemic that Trump denied, cost hundreds of thousands lives, cost our students two years of school and many people their homes and their jobs. We became within an inch of a great depression and were only rescued through Joe Bidens heroics. I think it deserves more than a parenthesis and speaks to the dangers of a self-obsessed tyrant running our country.

While the numerous convictions and accusations against him may be a wolf hunt, sometimes there are wolves who need to be hunted.

Craig Wunderlich
History of Xizang being integral part of China since ancient times undeniable: Tibetologist

Xinhua) 09:44, July 14, 2024

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The historical fact that Xizang has been an integral part of China since ancient times is undeniable, according to an article written by Zhang Yun, a researcher with the institute of history studies at the China Tibetology Research Center, which was published on Saturday.

The Dalai clique separatist forces and certain anti-China politicians in the United States have been colluding with each other for a while, attempting to stir up trouble by attacking the historical fact that "Xizang has always been a part of China." However, it is difficult for them to succeed in the face of solid facts, the article reads.

The Tibetan ethnic group is a member of the Chinese nation. The history of the development, construction, and continuous progress of Xizang since ancient times is a part of Chinese history. Xizang has been a part of China since ancient times, which is an inevitable outcome of the historical practice where all ethnic groups in China have jointly developed a vast territory, jointly written a long history, jointly created a splendid culture, and jointly cultivated a great national spirit, the article says.

Since the Qin (221 BC-207 BC) and Han (202 BC-AD 220) dynasties, China has been a unified multi-ethnic country. The Chinese people firmly oppose a separatist historical view that features the denial and division of Chinese history, as well as any attempt to sever the intrinsic connection among the various ethnic groups in China.

In 1247, Xizang was officially incorporated into the centralized administration of the Yuan Dynasty (1271-1368). For over 700 years since then, the central government has consistently exercised effective administration over the Xizang region.

Since the Yuan Dynasty, the policies adopted by the central government in the successive dynasties have been aimed at maintaining the national unity and the local social stability of Xizang. These policies not only greatly developed the local religion in Xizang but also led to a continuous increase in its population and a relatively stable inheritance of the local language and culture in the region, the article says.

In contrast, the situation of Native Americans under the rule of the United States and Canada is completely different: before Christopher Columbus arrived in America, about 100 million Native Americans lived on the continent. Today, however, there are only about 1 million Native Americans in Canada and the United States combined, it says.

The article adds that the so-called "Tibetan issues" are a product of the colonial invasion and aggression of China's Xizang by imperialists, especially the British imperialist forces in modern times.

In order to implement the Cold War strategy, some U.S. politicians have betrayed their beliefs and abandoned their long-held view and position that Xizang is part of China, which reflects their capricious and profit-driven nature, it says.

Since the peaceful liberation of Xizang in 1951, the U.S. administration has been for a long time supporting the Dalai clique in its activities to split China and committed numerous crimes against the Chinese people on Xizang-related issues, Zhang says in the article.

To contain China's development, some anti-China politicians in the United States have constantly challenged China's bottom line on the sovereignty of Xizang in recent years. It is impossible for them to achieve their goal and distorting history can only bring disgrace to themselves, the article says.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
Valerii Plotnikov and Dan Fisher examine the skin of a woolly mammoth after it was excavated from permafrost in Siberia. Courtesy Love Dalen, Stockholm University Baylor College of Medicine scientists Dr. Olga Dudchenko, left, and Dr. Erez Aiden pose for a portrait, showing a 3D model of ancient mammoth chromosomes, on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Houston. The BCM scientists were part of a team of researchers from around the world who discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the skin of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth found in Siberia. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Jiyun Jeong, right, and Renata Roy, research assistants at Baylor College of Medicine, check on animal samples in liquid nitrogen storage on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Houston. The modern elephant samples are being used to compare to ancient woolly mammoth samples, revealing altered activation patterns in genes associated with hair follicle development. A team of BCM scientists was part of a team of researchers from around the world who discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the skin of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth found in Siberia. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Baylor College of Medicine scientists Dr. Erez Aiden, left, and Dr. Olga Dudchenko pose for a portrait on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Houston. The BCM scientists were part of a team of researchers from around the world who discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the skin of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth found in Siberia. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer Baylor College of Medicine scientists gather in a conference room discussing woolly mammoth chromosomes on Wednesday, July 3, 2024, in Houston. The BCM scientists were part of a team of researchers from around the world who discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the skin of a 52,000-year-old woolly mammoth found in Siberia. Brett Coomer/Staff photographer

An international team led by scientists from Baylor College of Medicine and research centers in Spain and Denmark discovered fossils of ancient chromosomes in the remains of a woolly mammoth that died 52,000 years ago.

The discovery, featured in the journal Cell, has already helped the scientists learn more about mammoths. But the breakthrough could also have broad implications for the study of ancient life and provide insight into modern challenges, such as conservation and climate change, said Dr. Erez Lieberman Aiden, the director of the Center for Genomic Architecture at Baylor and a co-corresponding author of the study.

We are  making important decisions about the future of our species and the future of life on this planet in the setting of things like a changing climate, in the setting of extinction, he said. The woolly mammoth actually experienced many of those things as well, and we can learn from it.

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WOOLLY MAMMOTHS: A Texas entrepreneur is creating a woolly mammoth-like Arctic elephant to fight climate change

Aiden said the study is international but also has a decidedly Houston feel. The scientists compared the fossil chromosomes to samples taken from Asian elephants at the Houston Zoo. The team also conducted experiments to test the durability of fossil chromosomes, using beef jerky as a substitute. Former Astros pitcher Ron Mathis threw a fastball at a sample, but its genomic architecture remained intact.

I feel like theres Houston in the air in this paper in a lot of different places, Aiden said.

Scientists have long known that fragments of ancient DNA could survive for long periods of time, but those fragments are tiny compared to an organism's full DNA sequence. Aiden said the fossil chromosomes from the mammoths are much larger and contain far more genetic information for scientists to study than previously found fragments.

READ MORE: Scientists create meatball from DNA of extinct woolly mammoth

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Fossil chromosomes are a game-changer because they preserve the three-dimensional structure of the chromosome, the threadlike structures inside the nucleus of animal and plant cells, said Dr. Olga Dudchenko, an assistant professor of molecular and human genetics at the Center for Genomic Architecture at Baylor and a co-first and co-corresponding author of the study. Knowing the shape of the chromosomes makes it possible to assemble the entire DNA sequence of an organism  even one that is extinct.

Fossil chromosomes have the potential to be a powerful tool that could help scientists learn more about ancient life, said Marcela Sandoval-Velasco, a researcher at the Center for Evolutionary Hologenomics at the University of Copenhagen and a co-first author of the study.

The key is to push science forward and then share it with the community in order to get a bigger understanding of the natural world, she said.

Finding fossil chromosomes

The work that led to the discovery began in 2015. By then, advances in science and technology had made it possible to study the 3D architecture of a genome, and Baylor scientists questioned whether that 3D architecture could survive in an ancient sample.

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The answers came from a pair of mammoth remains discovered in 2018 in Siberia. Both were found in permafrost, a permanently frozen layer under the Earths surface. Mammoth researchers reached the remains by using a power washer to create an artificial cavern, Aiden said.

The team determined that one mammoth died in unknown circumstances 52,000 years ago. Marks on the other mammoths skin revealed it was killed by a saber-tooth tiger 39,000 years ago. The skin samples taken from the mammoths were intact, with hair still present, suggesting the remains had never thawed, Aiden said.

Typically, an organisms DNA begins to decay after death. Scientists believe the fossil chromosomes from the mammoths survived because they freeze-dried and stopped degrading. Its the same principle behind beef jerky, Aiden said.

Basically, what we think happened is that this sample freeze-dried, forming a kind of beef jerky 52,000 years ago or 39,000 years ago, he said.

AIDEN LAB: Houston team develops DNA breakthrough that could help solve medical mysteries

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The team tested the theory by trying to destroy samples of beef jerky. They ran over it with a car, fired a shotgun at it, and even asked Mathis to throw a fastball at it. Those experiments appeared to obliterate the beef jerky but did not destroy the genomic architecture.

The experiments suggest that fossil chromosomes are extremely durable, increasing the odds that there are more of them to find.

If we search long enough, Im sure that we will find (more), Dudchenko said.

Implications for science

Scientists have already learned more about mammoths from the fossil chromosomes. They found that mammoths had 28 pairs of chromosomes  the same number as modern elephants and more than the 23 found in humans.

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They also observed which genes were active and inactive. One key difference from modern elephants was found in genes that are associated with hair follicle development.

Which makes sense because, of course, woolly mammoths were woolly, Aiden said.

READ MORE: Big idea: The 3-D genome

Scientists also observed genes in humans that are associated with adapting to the cold, probably because mammoths lived in the tundra.

The discovery could also have other implications.

For years, scientists have theorized that reviving mammoths and reintroducing them to the tundra could help stop the release of greenhouse gases to combat climate change. Marc. A. Marti-Renom, a researcher at the Centre Nacional dAnalisi Genomica and the Centre for Genomic Regulation in Spain, cautioned there is still quite a bit of work to be done to make the dream of de-extinction a reality, but the discovery of fossil chromosomes suggests it might be possible in the future.

What our data suggests is the idea of de-extinction is not crazy, said Marti-Renom, also a co-corresponding author of the study.

Additionally, scientists are already using ancient DNA fragments to help them make decisions about the conservation of species like black rhinos, lions and bearded vultures. Fossil chromosomes contain more genetic information than ancient DNA fragments, so they could be even more helpful in those efforts, scientists said.

In general, knowing more about genetic variance and genetic variation is good for conservation research, Dudchenko said. Thats just a fact.

Aiden said scientists hope to find more fossil chromosomes to continue studying mammoths and other organisms. He believes they could be key to learning more about ancient life.
Correction: This story has been corrected to reflect that American Airlines has about 130,000 employees worldwide.

American Airlines and Tulsa Technology Center have signed a partnership agreement that will allow students direct access to American maintenance equipment and could lead to jobs with starting salaries of $60,000 or more.

This is really a big deal, said Tulsa Tech CEO and President Steve Tiger. The aerospace industry has grown by leaps and bounds.

Tiger made the remarks along with other officials last week during an announcement of the new partnership at Tulsa Techs Riverside Campus at Tulsa Riverside Airport, located just east of the Arkansas River and north of 91st Street on the border of the cities of Tulsa and Jenks in the area.

He and Greg Emerson, American Airlines vice president of base maintenance, signed an agreement at the event, which will allow expansion of Tulsa Techs aviation program.

About 200 students per year are enrolled to earn their aviation maintenance technician certification through the program; the agreement will lead to growth in that figure, Tiger said.

The partnership will include job-shadowing opportunities and additional aircraft equipment with which students can learn by working hands-on, officials said.

Its an exciting day for the students at Tulsa Tech and for us at American, Emerson said.

He said many in the aircraft maintenance industry, like himself, joined it in the 1980s and early 1990s, often replacing retiring technicians from the World War II and Vietnam War eras.

A similar transition is happening today, he said, with an estimated global need of 628,000 aircraft maintenance technicians by 2040, including 126,000 who will be needed in the U.S.

At American, our charge of delivering aircraft to the airline safely, reliably and consistently starts with our team members, Emerson said.

Our tech-ops team members are the behind-the-scenes heroes. Whether our customers are aware of it or not, they are counting on the expertise and the diligence of our maintenance technicians to keep them flying the sky safely.

American has a fleet of more than 950 aircraft, and much of the maintenance is done at its Tulsa Tech-Ops facility at Tulsa International Airport, the largest aircraft maintenance facility in the world.

The airline has about 130,000 employees worldwide, and its Tulsa maintenance facility, which employs about 5,000, is one of Tulsas largest employers.

We know that attracting the best of the best now will build for a better airline for our customers and team members in the future, Emerson said.

I may be partial, but I dont think theres any place better for your career than at American Airlines, he said.

Equipment that American is donating for students to use will include an auxiliary power unit, flow control valves and a flight guidance computer, he said.

These parts will provide relevant, real-world experience to help you better understand how these systems work, he said.

Among those attending last weeks event were several Tulsa Tech aviation students.

Taylor Papke, a Tulsa Tech student from Broken Arrow, has about a year left in the aviation program and plans to work in avionics, perhaps for American.

My uncle works at American Airlines, and he got his AMT (aviation maintenance technician) license. He said, This is a great career. You should look into it, so that kind of sparked something in me.

Emerson said those with AMT certification can start at American with salaries of $60,000. That figure could grow to triple digits within a few years, depending on seniority and experience, he said.

Tulsa Techs Riverside Campus includes an indoor aircraft hanger with an American Airlines McDonnell Douglas MD-80 jet, donated by the company to the campus in 2011, where last weeks announcement was held.

My charge to the students who walk through the halls of this great campus: Never stop learning, because this industry wont allow you to, Emerson said.

Every time you think you know enough, theres a new fleet type, theres a new system, theres a new maintenance manual change that you have to learn, and then, most importantly, this is an extremely challenging environment, and we want everyone to make sure they maintain safety.



The Tulsa World is where your story lives
MIAMI, Okla.  Route 66 advocates arent giving up yet, but hopes have definitely faded that a hundred-year-old stretch of county road that once was part of the historic highway can be preserved.

Ottawa County officials indicated recently that they are moving forward with a plan to replace three miles of a unique one-lane roadway known as the Ribbon Road, a onetime piece of Route 66 just south of Miami.

The project, using federal funds, has been in the works for four years and has gone through various iterations. The Tulsa-based Oklahoma Route 66 Association, which has been involved in a consulting role, said that from the start its recommendation has been to patch the road and preserve as much of the original asphalt as possible. However, that option has been rejected, an association official said.

We totally understand that you need a road thats safe for people to travel on, but there has to be a solution out there that also preserves this piece of road, said Rhys Martin, association president. Theres nothing else like it on all of Route 66. Ive never even seen other strips like this anywhere in the country.

Dating to the early 1920s, the targeted stretch was paved at only half the normal width, likely due to budget constraints at the time.

The result  a unique 9-foot-wide one-lane roadway  would be added to Route 66 when the latter was officially established in 1926. It remained part of the route until 1937, when it was bypassed.

The Ribbon Road was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1994.

Today, as the 100th anniversary of Route 66 fast approaches, the Ribbon Road remains a popular stop-off and photo op for Route 66 fans.

Rough shape

One thing everyone seems to agree on: The one-lane road is in rough shape and needs to be improved for those who still use it.

However, the plan to tear it all up and replace it is not the best solution, advocates say.

Weve encouraged them to only replace in areas where its just completely degraded and is essentially just gravel now, Martin said.

Ottawa County officials did not respond to a request for comment for this story. But their objections to the preservation recommendation, according to Martin, are that it would be more expensive and too labor-intensive, as patching would have to be done manually.

Additionally, by replacing the road now, the county could avoid having to come back and do additional maintenance over the next few years.

The county plan also calls for paving and striping the roads shoulders. That doesnt sit well with advocates, either.

Visually, youre going to have a regular county road with like an asphalt bike path in the middle, Martin said. Thats what its going to look like, as opposed to today, where its a unique stretch of road that looks different than anything else.

Advocates are glad to have the support of Miami Mayor Bless Parker, at least.

Parker, who has repeatedly called for preservation, said in a July Facebook video: We own this piece of history right here in Ottawa County. Theyre wanting to destroy it. And Im not sure what the driving factor is behind that.

In Miami, he added, were lucky that we get tourism traffic that comes through here on a daily basis  people from all over the world, wanting to embrace the history of Route 66 and the Ribbon Road. Miami benefits from that.

But while the mayor is on board, attempts to rally support for preservation have not gone as well as hoped, Martin said.

I think the only thing we have left is for folks local to Ottawa County to persuade county leaders to change the plan, he said.

A worldwide deal

Whatever its future, few would disagree that the Ribbon Road has an interesting story.

While its exact history is not clear, it now seems likely that it was originally part of the Jefferson Highway and that such famous figures as Will Rogers and Bonnie and Clyde once traveled it, Martin said.

The pavement itself is also interesting. A thin layer of asphalt contained within concrete curbs and a base, its different from any other roadbed along Route 66, Martin said.

At the time it was done, paving was a brand new concept, he said. Which is why its so unusual  because they were trying to figure out how they wanted to do it going forward across the state.

An online petition to support preserving the road was previously set up at change.org.

We did that just to show some numbers  that its more than just a few guys in a room that are concerned about this, Martin said. Route 66 is a worldwide deal.
The demand for fresh food and eggs in Singapore is huge, so the city-state sought to import the products from Vietnam, Abdul Jalil Kader, deputy director of the Singapore Food Agency, said during his visit to a factory of Ba Huan JSC, Vietnam's leading producer of pasteurized eggs and poultry meat, in Long An Province, southern Vietnam on Friday.

After working with many production and livestock units, we realized the great potential and feasibility in importing meat and eggs from Vietnam to Singapore," Kader said.

However, the support from state agencies, especially in managing and assessing the quality [of products], is needed to accelerate the importation."

Cao Xuan Thang, commercial counselor and director of the Vietnam Trade Office in Singapore, said the Singapore Food Agencys delegation surveyed and worked with many Vietnamese enterprises to promote pork, chicken, and egg imports to the island country.

Succeeding in exporting products to Singapore will help Vietnam access other markets, Thang said.

Singapore is a bridge to connect to other markets in the region and the world. If Vietnam can tap this market, it will find it easier to ship its meat and eggs to other countries.

However, Thang noted that Singapore is a selective market, so Vietnam must put in effort to capitalize on opportunities there.

A representative of Ba Huan JSC said the company had been exporting eggs to various markets, such as Hong Kong and Cambodia.

The exportation of products to Singapore, if successful, will be a turning-point to improve Vietnam's production capacity and prestige.

Vietnam was the largest exporter of rice and the fifth-largest supplier of seafood to Singapore in the first quarter of this year.

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Vietnams rice exporter Tan Long Group has affirmed it has nothing to do with Indonesias National Logistics Agency (Bulog), one of the two Indonesian agencies accused of buying rice from Vietnam at inflated prices and thus causing over US$180 million in losses.

Truong Sy Ba, chairman of Hanoi-based Tan Long Group, an agribusiness player in Vietnam, released the affirmation in talking with Tuoi Tre (Youth) newspaper on Wednesday, following a corruption allegation made by the Peoples Democracy Study (SDR), an Indonesian civil organization, against Bulog and Indonesias National Food Agency.

According to the Vietnam Trade Office in Indonesia, the SDR has recently complained to Indonesias Corruption Eradication Commission (KPK) against the two above entities for buying rice from Vietnam at inflated prices.

The corruption allegation was brought forward after Tan Long Group allegedly sold 100,000 metric tons of rice to Indonesia in May at US$538 per metric ton, $82 higher than market rates, according to the SDR.

Based on such a price difference, the SDR claimed that the states losses could likely reach about $180.4 million since Indonesia imported 2.2 million metric tons of rice  from various sources  in January-May.

Meanwhile, Ba told Tuoi Tre that Tan Long has since last year won only one bidding package for exporting 30,000 metric tons of rice for $620 per metric ton to Indonesia through South Koreas Posco.

He asserted that the group has not directly won any bidding package from Bulog to export rice to Indonesia.

I don't know what Bulog is. I've seen information going crazy about the alleged corruption over the past few days, but I have nothing to do with Bulog, Ba emphasized.

Refuting this allegation, Bulog has claimed to have been the victim of 'marking up' allegations on rice imports from Vietnam, which was reported to the KPK, Indonesian magazine Tempo reported early this week.

Mokhamad Suyamto, director of supply chains and public services at Bulog, confirmed that Tan Long has had no contract with the agency to export rice to Indonesia this year.

The Vietnam Trade Office in Indonesia commented that the corruption allegation is likely to seriously affect Indonesia's rice purchasing from Vietnam until the end of 2024, or at least until the case has been investigated and clarified.

According to statistics from Vietnams General Department of Customs, Indonesia is the second-largest importer of Vietnamese rice in the first five months of this year, accounting for nearly 17 percent of both the total volume and turnover of the whole country.

Over the first six months of the year, Vietnam exported 4.68 million metric tons of rice, earning $2.98 billion, an increase of 10.4 percent in volume and 32 percent in value compared to the same period last year, setting a new record for Vietnamese rice exports, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

The average export price of rice in the period is estimated at $636 per metric ton, up 19.5 percent year on year, the ministry reported.

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Italian police said on Saturday they had freed 33 Indian farm labourers from slave-like working conditions in the northern Verona province and seized almost half a million euros ($545,300) from their two alleged abusers.

Labour exploitation is in the spotlight in Italy following an accident in June in which an Indian fruit picker died after his arm was severed by machinery.

In the latest case, police said the alleged gang-masters, also from India, brought fellow nationals to Italy on seasonal work permits, asking them to pay 17,000 euros each and promising them a better future.

The migrants were given farm jobs, working seven days a week and 10-12 hours a day for just 4 euros per hour, which was entirely docked from them until they settled all their debts, police said, describing the migrants' treatment as "slavery".

Some were asked to continue working for free to pay an additional 13,000 euros for a permanent work permit "which, in reality, would have never been given to them," the police statement said.

The alleged abusers were charged with crimes connected to slavery and labour exploitation, while the victims will be offered protection, work opportunities and legal residency papers, the police said.

Like other European nations, Italy has growing labour shortages often filled via immigration, particularly in lower paid jobs, and has a migrant work visa system that has faced cases of fraud.

The country also has a problem with labour law violations. According to 2021 data from national statistics office Istat, about 11% of Italian workers were employed illegally, rising to more than 23% in agriculture.
Donald Trump was shot in the ear during a Saturday campaign rally, streaking the Republican presidential candidate's blood across his face and prompting his security agents to swarm him, before he emerged and pumped his fist in the air, appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

The shooter was dead, one rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were injured, the Secret Service said in a statement. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt, a source told Reuters.

Trump, 78, had just started his speech when the shots rang out. He grabbed his right ear with his right hand, then brought his hand down to look at it before dropping to his knees behind the podium before Secret Service agents swarmed and covered him. He emerged about a minute later, his red "Make America Great Again" hat knocked off, and could be heard saying "wait, wait," before agents ushered him into a vehicle.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump gestures with a bloodied face as multiple shots rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Photo: Reuters

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear," Trump said on his Truth Social platform following the shooting in Butler, Pennsylvania, about 30 miles (50 km) north of Pittsburgh. "Much bleeding took place."

The shooter's identity and motive were not immediately clear. Leading Republicans and Democrats quickly condemned the violence.

The Trump campaign said he was "doing well."

The shooting occurred less than four months before the Nov. 5 election, when Trump faces an election rematch with Democratic President Joe Biden. Most opinion polls including those by Reuters/Ipsos show the two locked in a close contest.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by security personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Biden said in a statement: "Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it."

Ron Moose, a Trump supporter who was at the rally, described the chaos: "I heard about four shots and I saw the crowd go down and then Trump ducked also real quick. Then the Secret Service all jumped and protected him as soon as they could. We are talking within a second they were all protecting him."

Moose said he then saw a man running and being chased by officers in military uniforms. He said he heard additional shots, but was unsure who fired them. He noted that by then snipers had set up on the roof of a warehouse behind the stage.

The BBC interviewed a man who described himself as an eyewitness, saying he saw a man armed with a rifle crawling up a roof near the event. The person, who the BBC did not identify, said he and the people he was with started pointing at the man, trying to alert security.

The shots appeared to come from outside the area secured by the Secret Service, the agency said. The FBI said it had taken the lead in investigating the attack.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by security personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Republicans, democrats decry violence

Trump is due to receive his party's formal nomination at the Republican National Convention, which kicks off in Milwaukee on Monday.

"This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned," Republican House Speaker Mike Johnson said on social media.

Democratic Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer said he was horrified by what happened and was relieved Trump was safe. "Political violence has no place in our country," he said.

Biden's campaign was pausing its television ads and halting all other outbound communication, a campaign official said on Saturday.

Republican presidential candidate and former U.S. President Donald Trump is assisted by security personnel after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Americans fear rising political violence, recent Reuters/Ipsos polling shows, with two out of three respondents to a May survey saying they feared violence could follow the election.

Some of Trump's Republican allies said they believed the attack was politically motivated.

"For weeks Democrat leaders have been fueling ludicrous hysteria that Donald Trump winning re-election would be the end of democracy in America," said U.S. Representative Steve Scalise, the No. 2 House Republican, who survived a politically motivated shooting in 2017. "Clearly weve seen far left lunatics act on violent rhetoric in the past. This incendiary rhetoric must stop."

Hardline Republican Representative Marjorie Taylor Greene said, "Democrats wanted this to happen. Theyve wanted Trump gone for years and theyre prepared to do anything to make that happen."

Security personnel inspect the site after gunfire rang out during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, U.S., July 13, 2024. Photo: Reuters

Trump, who served as president from 2017-2021, easily bested his rivals for the Republican nomination early in the campaign and has largely unified around him the party that had briefly wavered in support after his supporters attacked the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2021, attempting to overturn his 2020 election defeat.

The businessman and former reality television star entered the year facing a raft of legal worries, including four separate criminal prosecutions. He was found guilty in late May of trying to cover up hush money payments to a porn star, but the other three prosecutions he faces -- including two for his attempts to overturn his defeat -- have been ground to a halt by various factors including a Supreme Court decision early this month that found him to be partly immune to prosecution.

The Secret Service assists Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13. Photo: Reuters

Trump contends without evidence that all four prosecutions have been orchestrated by Biden to try to prevent him from returning to power.

Republican U.S. Senate candidate David McCormick, who was seated in the front row at the rally, said he had started to go up on stage when Trump said he would have him come up later.

"Within a minute or two, I heard the shots ... It was clear it was gunfire," he told Reuters in an interview. "It felt like it was an assassination attempt ... It was terrifying."

Secret Service assists Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13. Photo: Reuters

Secret Service assists Donald Trump during a campaign rally at the Butler Farm Show in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 13. Photo: Reuters
Vietnamese State President To Lam and Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet have pledged to promote the connectivity between the two countries economies and beef up security and defense ties, among other cooperative areas.

President Lam and PM Manet made the pledge during their talks in Phnom Penh on Saturday as part of the formers two-day Cambodia visit, which concluded the same day, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

The host and guest expressed satisfaction with the strong development of bilateral relations in all fields and had in-depth discussions on directions and solutions to further promote these relations.

They agreed to connect the two countries' economies by implementing signed agreements, such as the memorandum of understanding on developing and connecting Vietnam-Cambodia border trade infrastructure and the agreement on bilateral trade promotion for the 2025-26 period.

Appreciating Vietnams policy of encouraging Vietnamese businesses to increase investment in Cambodia, PM Manet pledged to continue facilitating, supporting, and protecting Vietnamese investors in Cambodia, considering this an important target of the Cambodian government to strengthen connections between the private sectors of the two countries.

In discussing the bilateral security and defense cooperation, President Lam and PM Manet vowed to strengthen collaboration in this field and adhere to the principle of not allowing any hostile force to use one countrys territory to sabotage the other.

Vietnam and Cambodia will cooperate more closely in high-tech and cross-border crime prevention and control, continue to build a borderline of peace, stability, cooperation, and sustainable development, and support each other in improving law enforcement capacity and training personnel, the two leaders agreed.

They emphasized the need for effective coordination in implementing bilateral treaties, agreements, and pacts related to the border.

An overview of the meeting between the Vietnamese delegation led by State President To Lam (R) and its Cambodian counterpart headed by Prime Minister Hun Manet in Phnom Penh, July 13, 2024. Photo: Vietnam News Agency

They also agreed to continue negotiating and finding fair and reasonable solutions to complete border demarcation in certain areas.

Both the host and guest were committed to further cooperation in preventing cross-border human trafficking and drug smuggling to ensure security and safety for residents in border areas.

The two leaders also shared the need to speed up transport connection via border gate pairs, launch the new direct air route Hanoi - Phnom Penh - Hanoi of Vietnams national flag carrier Vietnam Airlines, and coordinate with Laos to deploy A Journey, Three Destinations travel packages through Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam.

Underscoring the significance of human resource development, the two leaders consented to foster cooperation in this field, including Vietnam continuing to grant scholarships to Cambodian students.

The two sides concurred that each country will increase the reception of students from the other to train in specific fields aligned with new development trends, such as digital transformation and science and technology applications.

In the spirit of mutual respect, understanding, and benefit, President Lam and his host also agreed to enhance cooperation in the management and sustainable use of Mekong River water resources.

This collaboration aims to benefit communities in the basin, secure the future for the next generations, and strengthen solidarity among the riverine countries.

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Director of Secure Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare, Professor Xiaoqian Jiang, PhD, reviews a computer slide in his office Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at UTHealth Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Houston Methodist Hospital Chief Medical Information Officer Dr. Jordan Dale, MD oversees the technology that drives the virtual intensive care unit (VICU) operations center where virtual clinicians utilize electronic technology paired with artificial intelligence to virtually monitor patients throughout the Houston Methodist system Monday, June 10, 2024 in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Director of Secure Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare, Professor Xiaoqian Jiang, PhD, reviews a computer slide in his office Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at UTHealth Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Director of Secure Artificial Intelligence for Healthcare, Professor Xiaoqian Jiang, PhD, poses for a portrait Wednesday, June 5, 2024 at UTHealth Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Houston Methodist Hospital Chief Medical Information Officer Dr. Jordan Dale, MD oversees the technology that drives the virtual intensive care unit (VICU) operations center where where virtual clinicians utilize electronic technology paired with artificial intelligence to virtually monitor patients throughout the Houston Methodist system Monday, June 10, 2024 in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Houston Methodist Hospital Chief Medical Information Officer Dr. Jordan Dale, MD stands in the virtual intensive care unit (VICU) operations center where where virtual nurse Ken Shultz, RN utilizes electronic technology paired with artificial intelligence to virtually monitor patients throughout the Houston Methodist system Monday, June 10, 2024 in Houston. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer

In the past year or so, artificial intelligence, the use of machines to process huge volumes of data to produce results that once required human intelligence, has been embraced across a wide variety of fields, including, notably, the health care industry.

Yet, the rapidly expanding technology holds extraordinary potential for both promise and peril, as President Joe Biden said in an executive order calling for the responsible development of AI.

This is especially true in the health care field. As researchers and clinicians at the Texas Medical Center embrace the use of AI tools in their work, they are also wrestling with the challenge of avoiding the perils of this emerging technology.

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Some of these potential threats include breaching patients confidentiality and interfering with the trust between doctors and patients.

Privacy concerns

Houston Methodist is developing disclosure protocols to determine when to tell patients about the role that bots play in their communications with the medical staff.

I think we are very sensitive about things that were automating and augmenting, and of not having them removed from the ideal of meaningful human interaction, said Jordan Dale, the chief medical information officer for Houston Methodist. Those are the sort of things that we track and are very sensitive about because we want to build trust into this technology.

Another big concern over the use of AI, particularly in the medical field, is protecting the confidentiality of individual patients medical information while collecting the large volumes of data needed to operate AI diagnosis models.

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The issue of patient privacy has been a major focus of the research conducted, said Xiaoqian Jiang, chair of the Department of Health Data Science and Artificial Intelligence at UT Health Houston. In our field, biomedicine, the biggest hurdle is people tend not to share data, partially due to the privacy reason, said Jiang, who also serves as the associate vice president for Medical AI at UTHealth.

Jiang has developed AI models that collect data from large populations of patients without revealing the personal information of any particular individual. In this way, we have perfectly mitigated the privacy risk of the patient and allow the large-scale machine-learning model to be obtained, he said. So, in that sense, there is no need to sacrifice privacy for utility.

Dr. Caroline Chung, a clinician-scientist at M.D. Anderson Cancer Center, said researchers who use AI tools at the center take great care to protect patient information and to guard against data leaks launched by malicious hackers. They are keeping AI data "within our safe environment," she said. "We do not use the open-cloud versions."

She added that the same high standards for patient data confidentiality are maintained by the collaborators who participate in M.D. Andersons many research projects across the Texas Medical Center and around the world.

AI history

Artificial intelligence is a sort of catch-all term that describes any simulation of human intelligence processes generated by machines. The technology is not new; its been around as a concept starting with the adoption of the earliest computers in the 1950s.

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The widespread adoption of the internet has led to the availability of large-scale data sets, which, along with advances in computer power, have made deep-learning AI models possible.

In the medical field, researchers use AI tools to analyze vast volumes of patient data to develop new vaccines and treatments, scan thousands radiological images to aid in early disease detection and study the interactions of different combinations of drugs across large groupings of patients in order to positively impact individual patient outcomes.

Processing data

At M.D. Anderson, researchers and clinicians are using AI in the development of treatment plans for individual patients.

AI is very good at finding patterns in large amounts of data. And so we're bringing together different kinds of data, including genomic information, imaging information, radiology information and clinical information, and the AI helps us find patterns that we may not have appreciated before, Chung said.

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These patterns are predictive for someone who is going to respond or not respond to particular treatments, and that helps us personalize that treatment, she said.

Chung, who serves as vice president and chief data officer and director of data science development and implementation at M.D. Andersons Institute for Data Science in Oncology, pointed to the hospitals ongoing Tumor Measurement Initiative as an example of AI-driven research thats yielding practical benefits for patients. The initiative provides standardized, automated and quantitative imaging measurements for every tumor in the body of every patient who receives care at MD Anderson.

The AI algorithm, which assists the radiologists and the researchers in the detection of a tumor, delineates the lesion and measures the volume of that tumor over time.

We believe that this will give us higher precision measurements of response to treatment and more timely measurements of response to treatment, so that we can actually personalize, Chung said.

The hospital uses natural language processing to help pull out the relevant information from the massive number of documents that are generated to track the progress of patients who come into the hospital from all over the world.

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We are using deep learning in a lot of our image analysis. And, as generative AI technology is still emerging, we are cautiously optimistic but evaluating and exploring the appropriate uses and safe uses of that technology, Chung said.

I think it's an exciting time, but we need to make sure that we're doing this thoughtfully, she said. And so, we're really focusing on that data quality, making sure that we can capture quantitative information over time.

Drug therapies

Another team of scientists at the medical center, led by UTHealth Houstons Jiang, has been putting AI tools to work on large data sets to identify drug therapies that could potentially prevent disease scourges such as Alzheimer's and cancer. His current work involves researching drug combinations, looking for ways to find two or more drugs that work in synergy with one another to offer better treatment options than current single-drug regimens.

Oftentimes, you will find that when we talk about drug interaction, we talk about negative things. We say drug A plus drug B may give us a side effect, said Jiang, a researcher with extensive expertise in machine learning and biomedical informatics. But, that's only a type-one error, there's a type-two error, which can be a beneficial thing. So, drug A plus drug B may give you additional benefit, because it creates a synergy.

This avenue of research has been very effective in developing new treatments for cancer, in which one drug opens a channel, which allows a second drug to deal with the tumor, Jiang said.

To conduct his research, Jiang and his team members employ AI tools to analyze hug sets of patient data to discover previously unrecognized patterns, something that would be impossible for human researchers to accomplish in the same amount of time.

One thing I was very proud of is we identified an influenza vaccine that has significant effects of reducing Alzheimer's disease, which is kind of a surprise. We first studied this from very large cohort, and we identified that if people take regularly annual influenza vaccine, then the chance of getting Alzheimer's disease is significantly reduced, he said.

Patient experience

Some medical facilities are employing the technology to improve the overall patient experience. Dale leads this effort for Houston Methodist.

With a background in engineering before attending medical school, where he trained to become an inpatient physician, he spends the majority of his time as a physician-executive, working in the technology space.

We have innovation as a core part of our mission, so I think we're always focused on ways we can disrupt ourselves or improve or transform ourselves, he said.

The adoption of AI applications in a clinical hospital setting has brought a lot of profound changes to peoples jobs, in a way that they could not have envisioned 15 or even 10 years ago, Dale said. So, you can imagine people could put up a lot of barriers against that, Dale said. But I think Houston Methodist does a really good job of bringing people into this change and these technologies, making sure they have an understanding that's part of the process.

One area in which AI technology has been used at Houston Methodist for the past two years is in collecting large volumes of so-called non-discrete data  taken from doctors notes and patient admissions interviews  and generating summaries of the patients story, which the hospitals clinical and case management teams can use to coordinate the patients care.

That used to be something that needed to be verbalized, by maybe the physician or the bedside nurse or the care volunteers, Dale said. And now it's something that can be generated using that AI technology, ensuring that everybody's referring to the same patient story.
A tropical depression is moving in the East Vietnam Sea toward the coast of Quang Binh and Quang Ngai Provinces in central Vietnam and will bring torrential rains to most of the country starting Sunday afternoon, the National Center for Hydrometeorological Forecasting reported.

At 7:00 am on Sunday, the tropical depression was centered in the waters south of Hoang Sa (Paracel) archipelago in the East Vietnam Sea, packing sustained winds of 39-49 kph and gusts of 74 kph.

The depression is currently moving northwest at a speed of 10-15 kph and will reach the waters off the coast between Quang Binh and Quang Ngai Provinces in central Vietnam at 7:00 am on Monday, with stronger winds of 88 kph.

In the following 24 hours, the depression will move west-northwest at a slower velocity of 5-10 kph and possibly land in the area from north-central Quang Tri Province to central Da Nang City.

Influenced by the tropical depression, the middle area of the East Vietnam Sea, including the waters of Vietnams Hoang Sa, will have rough seas with waves of two to four meters in height, along with strong showers, thunderstorms, and winds of up to 88 kph from Sunday morning.

From July 14 to 17, heavy rains with precipitation ranging from 60mm to 250mm will affect the northern delta, coastal areas, the Central Highlands region, and the southern part.

The center has warned that thunderstorms, whirlwinds, lightning, hail, and strong gusts are likely to occur during these rainstorms.

In addition, flash floods and landslides may occur in mountainous areas, while flooding may hit low-lying and urban areas.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development on Saturday sent a dispatch to relevant agencies and local authorities of the coastal provinces and cities from the northern to southern regions, asking them to take measures to cope with the tropical depression.

Accordingly, local governments must provide all vessels at sea with updated information about the depression and request them to avoid or get out of potentially dangerous areas.

Authorities of low-lying and mountainous locations are required to put plans in place to effectively deal with possible flooding, flash floods and landslides, and to evacuate people to safe places if needed, the ministry said.

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The Nha Trang International Light Bay Festival, Vietnams first international drone light show contest, opened in the namesake city in Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam on Saturday evening, featuring the competition titled 'Glamor Nha Trang' between teams from South Korea and China.

The festival opened at the Hai Thang Tu Square with the theme 'Brilliant Galaxy.'

The South Korean team chose the topic of 'Nha Trang - Worlds Beautiful Bay' to prove its strengths in firebending drones.

The Chinese teams performance, themed 'Khanh Hoa - Future City,' was also a feast for the eyes.

Drones formed the shapes of high-rise buildings on the shore of Nha Trang Bay, dolphins, and Cam Ranh International Airport, among others.

The South Korean teams drones feature the phrase Wonderful Nha Trang.' Photo: Tran Hoai / Tuoi Tre

Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Ho Anh Phong voiced his wish that the festival would contribute to boosting the tourism, economic, and cultural development in Khanh Hoa Province.

The Nha Trang International Light Bay Festival is a practical and meaningful activity," Phong said.

With the participation of artists, lighting designers, and art delegations from many countries, I do believe this years festival will bring fantastic experiences as well as impressive and memorable moments to everyone."

Le Thao Trang, a tourist from Ho Chi Minh City, said her family arrived at the square at 5:00 pm, while the program began at 8:00 pm.

She hoped Nha Trang would maintain the festival to make it a signature of the coastal city.

The images formed by drones in the sky were impressive, said Christian Nuse, a traveler from Poland, adding that the drones forming fireworks and the phrase 'Wonderful Nha Trang' impressed him the most.

Fireworks were set off at the opening ceremony of the Nha Trang International Light Bay Festival. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

Speaking at the opening ceremony of the festival, vice-chairman of the administration in Khanh Hoa Province Dinh Van Thieu said the fest was held for the first time in Nha Trang, attracting four teams from South Korea, France, China, and the United Arab Emirates.

Each team displays at least 1,000 drones.

Khanh Hoa hopes to build its festival brand, contributing to fostering its socio-economic development and cooperation, the official added.

The drone light festival is slated to take place on July 13 and 20, with the competition between France and the United Arab Emirates, themed 'Night of the Wonders,' scheduled for July 20.

Technicians arrange drones. Photo: Tran Hoai / Tuoi Tre

Drones form the shapes of sea leisure activities in Nha Trang City, Khanh Hoa Province, south-central Vietnam. Photo: Tran Hoai / Tuoi Tre

Drones form the shapes of two fish. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

The South Korean teams firebending drones. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

Local residents film drone light displays. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

Drones form the shape of the Tram Huong Tower in Khanh Hoa Province at the opening of the Nha Trang International Light Bay Festival, the first international drone light show contest in Vietnam, July 13, 2024. Photo: Tran Hoai / Tuoi Tre

Residents and tourists crowd a beach to admire drone light shows. Photo: Minh Chien / Tuoi Tre

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When Mark Willacy attended a Trump rally in New Jersey in May, he witnessed cult-like fervor from Republicans.

There was merchandise that was alarming, negative reception to media and wild claims from the candidate himself.

Until this week there was no major violence, but that all changed at an event in Pittsburgh, which producers will now hurriedly incorporate into the storytelling for tonights Four Corners episode.

When you go to a Trump rally, the one thing that blew my mind was just the antipathy, the hatred and the bile towards Joe Biden. This isnt a sensible debate about the economy here. Its basically a cult-like atmosphere where, if youre not for Donald Trump, then you are the mortal enemy. Some of the merchandise there about Joe Biden and his vice president, Kamala Harris, which will feature in Episode Two, blew my mind actually. Ive seen a lot of footage of Trump rallies, but to get into the heart of one, was quite the experience, he tells TV Tonight.

Willacy managed to quell any hostility directed at him as media with a little charm from down under.

Theyd say, Are you CNN? And very purposely go, No, mate, were from Australia. As soon as I did that, people generally did a 180 and they were welcoming, friendly, because we were the Australian media. They seem to have some sort of affinity with Australia. But having said that, there were some pretty dark moments there for the US press that day.

We had another guy come up filming me, saying What do you think of Joe Biden? I said, I dont know, mate. Dont know the guy. And he just immediately laughed, because he knew I was Australian, and it broke the ice.

We were there for eight hours, Willacy recalled.

Trump arrives around 5 maybe 6pm and he gets up on stage. One of the first things is the media. Theyre fake news, immigrants that are poisoning the blood of the country. You know, all of these messages tha he promotes every time. And of course, the media is central to that dichotomy he wants to present that theyre part of this deep state, trying to sort of take away your livelihoods and your rights. Its quite an unnerving atmosphere.

Four Corners screens two episodes of Retribution ahead of the US election.

He sits down with White House insiders who witnessed the chaos of Trumps first term  some who continue to support his vision, and others Trump now considers traitors.

We went over April and we spent just under six weeks crisscrossing the country, doing interviews and heading down to the Mexican border, over California, Georgia, we spent a fair bit of time in Washington, up to New York, over to a Trump rally in New Jersey. We didnt stay still for long. We tried to see as much as we could and to see as many people as we could, he continues.

For Episode One we look at the implications for the United States, the world, US institutions and democracy over the return of Trump. Episode two is looking at both sides: what are the issues? Where both men stand on issues like immigration, abortion, the economy. Its also going to battleground states such as Arizona in Georgia, talking to the black community about Biden and Trump. Then the same in Arizona, with the Latino community.

ABC spoke to a range of insiders, both former and current, on what a second Trump term could look like for America, democracy and global affairs.

We spoke to his Homeland Security secretary, Chad Wolf, who was a integral member of his team, and hes still a very close ally of Trump, says Willacy.

On the flip side we had John Bolton, the former National Security Advisor, who Trump ended up accusing, basically, of treason. So he was sort of put in the naughty corner. We had some interesting staffers around Trump, people like Miles Taylor, who told us an amazing story when he was in the Department of Homeland Security about how Trump wanted to build a moat all along the Mexican border and put alligators and snakes in it. Crazy stuff.

On the other side, we had really thoughtful, people like Leon Panetta, who was, of course Bill Clintons Chief of Staff. He was the director of the CIA, and then he was Barack Obamas defense secretary. So we had some really interesting people from Trumps side, but also people who were warning about what a second Trump presidency means.

Willacy goes inside Project 2025, the conservative blueprint for a second Trump term and speaks with Paul Dans, Director, 2025 Presidential Transition Project in his first Australian television interview.

Trump has tried in the last week to distance himself from Project 2025 because the Democrats are making inroads on it, saying its sort of this authoritarian plan, he explains.

Dans basically has told us that hes got integration with the Trump campaign. So Trump may be telling a few fibs on that front about Project 2025. I think that that might make a bit of news in the US that there is a link between Trump and this project, and weve got that on tape.

But I think its more about the personal assessments of Trump. Weve got people like Anthony Scaramucci, who was, of course, his White House Communications Director, very briefly, telling some very interesting anecdotes about what Trump was like to work with, and just how he spins the message. Its more just, I think, the amazing insights into Trump, the politician, the media construct and the man.

Since filming there have also been gaffes in the Biden campaign with many openly calling for the Democrat nominee to step down over his cognitive ability.

We did very much go into the issue of Bidens gaffes, his mental acuity -as well as Trumps for that matter- with a range of people, he adds.

We do have some amazing insights from people including Democrats, I have to say, whove worked with Biden, one person in particular for a couple of decades, who gives us a great insight and admits Biden is a gaffe machine. So we do explore that. We do have people in our interviews discussing it.

We will address the great Presidential Debate fade out because its something thats shaped the campaign.

Four Corners: Retribution Part I screens 8:30pm Monday on ABC.
Devanshi Batra, TwoCircles.net

New Delhi: On a tranquil Sunday morning, Zakir Ali Tyagi, an independent journalist, was roused from slumber by the persistent ringing of his phone  a fellow journalist extending congratulations for a newly lodged FIR against him. This was not an unfamiliar scenario for Ali; in fact, such incidents had become so commonplace that his colleagues now greeted them with congratulations rather than expressions of concern.

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The previous day, Uttar Pradesh Police had filed charges against two independent journalists, Zakir Ali Tyagi and Wasim Akram Tyagi, along with three othersAsif Rana, Saif Allahbadi, and Ahmad Raza Khan. They were accused of sharing and allegedly misrepresenting on social media the lynching of a Muslim man in Shamli district.

A day later, on Sunday, another First Information Report (FIR) was lodged at the Thana Bhawan police station in Shamli against a Bihar-based YouTube channel. This channel, managed by Sadaf Kamran, a journalist from Bihar with over 300,000 subscribers, had covered the same lynching incident.

On July 5, Zakir Ali Tyagi and Wasim Akram Tyagi had posted on X (formerly Twitter) about the tragic death of Firoz Qureshi in a mob lynching incident in Shamli district. Firoz Qureshi had visited the Ganga Aryanagar locality of Jalalabad town, where he was viciously attacked by individuals identified as Pinky, Pankaj Rajendra, and others. Despite attempts to rescue him, he tragically succumbed to his injuries.

Zakir also shared a photo of the familys complaint, which indicated that the case was filed under Section 105 of the Indian Penal Code, pertaining to culpable homicide not amounting to murder.

Sadaf Kamran, a journalist based in Bihar who operates the YouTube channel Hindustani Media, explained, Firoz Qureshis brother penned a letter to the police, and I included it in my video, presenting the familys account. I also referenced tweets from journalists and others. There was no fabrication or falsehood on our part. Our predicament arose simply because we used the term mob lynching. Additionally, I discussed the unchecked rise in mob lynching incidents targeting Muslims, an issue the government tends to overlook. While some may perceive this as anti-Hindu, I view it as anti-hate.

Firoz is the latest victim in a series of Muslims killed by mobs since the new government took office on June 4.

Lynching cases targeting Muslims are on the rise for a disturbing reason. Lynchers believe they will be celebrated, face no consequences, and even receive protection. There have been instances where statues were erected and political party tickets awarded to these individuals, incentivizing further violence, stated Zakir Ali Tyagi.

Wasim Akram Tyagi, a DIP-accredited journalist with approximately 15 years of experience, remarked, Efforts to normalize hate crimes like mob lynching through retaliatory cases undermine human rights. If people fear being lynched anywhere, can we truly consider this freedom?

The investigation into Zakir Ali Tyagi, Wasim Akram Tyagi, and three others began on July 6 following a complaint filed by Sub-Inspector Manendra Kumar at Thana Bhawan police station, detailed in an FIR reviewed by twocircles.net.

Zakir Ali Tyagi questioned, How can we expect fairness when the complainant is from the police itself?

In the initial stages, Shamli police stated that Firoz was beaten to death. ASP Santosh Kumars statement in Amar Ujala newspaper confirmed this. However, their stance later changed, appearing to protect the accused, added Wasim Akram Tyagi.

According to the police, the deceased entered the accuseds residence inebriated.

Wasim highlighted a recurring pattern in lynching cases, stating, Following a lynching or hate crime, there is often an attempt to malign the character of the deceased. The incident is distorted to portray the victim as a criminal, labelling them as thieves or drunkards, etc. This narrative serves to justify the lynching, creating public sentiment that the victim deserved it.

The police also stated that Firozs killing did not constitute a case of mob lynching and that his injuries were not the cause of death. However, the family has yet to see the post-mortem report, and the exact cause of death remains undisclosed.

Police accuse us of spreading misinformation despite clarifying the cause of death. Shamli Police tweeted on July 6 that postmortem results indicated the death was not due to a beating. However, I uploaded the video on July 5, prior to this information. How could I have known beforehand? said Sadaf Kamran.

The police are withholding the cause of death. If its not due to a beating, then what caused it? Why havent they disclosed this information? Even the family hasnt received the post-mortem report, he added.

The six individuals booked are accused of inciting religious enmity through malicious posts on social media platform X (previously Twitter), describing Firozs death as a case of mob lynching. While the two journalists wrote and posted tweets, the other three individuals merely shared Zakir Tyagis post. The other three individuals have since deactivated their accounts.

All six face charges under Section 196 of the Indian Penal Code, which pertains to promoting enmity between groups and carries a penalty of up to three years in prison, a fine, or both, and Section 353, which deals with statements causing public mischief, punishable by up to three years in prison, with or without a fine.

Under the new law, lynching is defined as when a group of five or more persons acting in concert commits murder. This technical definition has raised concerns among journalists who fear that police may manipulate it. Wasim expressed disappointment, questioning whether incidents involving 2 or 3 people attacking someone would not be considered lynching or murder.

The BNS has many loopholes that will allow lynchers to evade punishment. What about instances where 2 or 3 people lynch someone? Would that not be considered lynching or murder? asked Wasim with indignation.

The BNS is not the first law to be misused. Previous laws like UAPA, NSA, Sedition, and PSA have all been misused against those who speak out. Now, BNS has joined that list, remarked Zakir.

The new criminal law poses challenges for journalists due to numerous loopholes, indicating selective enforcement. In Uttar Pradesh, the number of FIRs against journalists is increasing. Indias press freedom index speaks volumes, added Sadaf.

Media organizations, opposition leaders, journalists, and legal experts have criticized the police actions against the journalists, condemning it as an assault on Freedom of Expression. India ranks 159th out of 180 countries in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index, released by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

In a statement, DIGIPUB, a coalition of more than 90 digital media outlets and independent journalists, described the filing of FIRs against these journalists as a serious overreach and misuse of criminal laws and an attack on press freedom. The Press Club of India later endorsed DIGIPUBs statement.

Do you know why this happened? Its to ensure that journalists like us remain silent and turn a blind eye, allowing atrocities against Muslims to persist under the guise of religion. This is an assault on both press freedom and human rights, said Wasim.

Zakir pointed out, Local media channels in Shamli reported on this incident too, but they werent booked because they belong to a particular religion. We were targeted because, firstly, we are Muslims, and secondly, we are journalists. Being a Muslim journalist is considered a crime.

The government aims to suppress the documentation of such cases. Victims of lynching are turned into accused, and journalists who speak out are targeted with legal action. They cannot tolerate journalists who criticize the government and expose its failures, he added.

Wasim, Zakir, and Kamran affirmed their commitment to continue reporting on issues that require attention. Currently, all the accused are preparing to apply for anticipatory bail. Zakir also indicated his intention to challenge the FIR in both the High Court and Supreme Court.
MOSCOW (Reuters) - The Kremlin on Sunday said it did not believe the current U.S. administration was responsible for Saturday's assassination attempt on U.S. presidential candidate Donald Trump, but that it had created an atmosphere that provoked the attack.

Trump was shot in the ear during a Saturday rally in Pennsylvania, in an attack now being investigated as an assassination attempt that left the Republican presidential candidate's face streaked with blood.

"We do not believe that the attempt to eliminate and assassinate Trump was organised by the current authorities," Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

"But the atmosphere around candidate Trump...provoked what America is confronting today.

"After numerous attempts to remove candidate Trump from the political arena - using first legal tools, the courts, prosecutors, attempts to politically discredit and compromise the candidate - it was obvious to all outside observers that his life was in danger."

U.S. President Joe Biden condemned the attack, saying there was no place for that kind of violence in America.

Peskov said there were no plans for Putin to call Trump in light of the incident.

(Reporting by Reuters; Writing by Alexander Marrow; Editing by Jan Harvey and Philippa Fletcher)
SC verdict will create more problems for divorced women: Muslim Panel

Emphasizing that the Supreme Court verdict vis-a-vis maintenance to divorced women is against the Islamic Law or Shairiah, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) Sunday said it will created more problems for the woman who has already suffered.

Sunday July 14, 2024 8:25 PM , ummid.com News Network

New Delhi: Emphasizing that the Supreme Court verdict vis-a-vis maintenance to divorced women is against the Islamic Law or Shairiah, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board (AIMPLB) Sunday said it will created more problems for the woman who has already suffered.

The SC ruling on Muslim divorcee (woman) is against the Islamic Law (Shariah). It will create further problems to these women who have come out of their painful relationship, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board resolved at its Working Committee meeting held in New Delhi. It doesnt augur well with human reasoning that a man is held responsible to provide maintenance to his ex-wife when the marriage in itself ceases to exist, the board said.

In a ruling on July 10, the Supreme Court of India said a former husband is obliged to give monthly amount to his divorced wife as maintenance under Section 125 of the Code of Criminal Procedure.

As per the Muslim Personal Law, a divorced woman is entitled to maintenance only for 90 days, which is the duration of Iddat. This is also as per the Muslim Women (Protection of Rights on Divorce) Act, 1986.

The Supreme Court in its verdict however said a divorced woman is entitled to monthly maintenance beyond 90 days.

The Muslim panel said divorce is permissible in Islam, but it has never been encouraged and is advised to be used as a last option.

As per Islam, divorce is allowed when the married life becomes difficult to maintain. Yet, among all the permissible acts in Islam, divorce is the most abhorred deed, the All India Muslim Personal Law Board said.

The working committee authorized the President of the All India Muslim Personal Law Board to initiate all possible measures  legal, constitutional and democratic, to ensure that the SC verdict is rolled back.

The Muslim personal law further said that India is a multi-religion and diverse country and any attempt to impose uniform law is impractical and counterproductive.

In a multi religious country like India Hindu Law is available to Hindu citizens and similarly the Muslims have the Shariah Application Act 1937. As per Article 25 of the Constitution, all religious entities have the right to practice their religion which is fundamental right enshrined in the constitution, the board said.

The board in its working committee meeting also discussed the attempt to implement the Uniform Civil Code (UCC) and protection of the Waqf properties.

The board members also expressed their concerns over violence against Muslims and cases of mob lynching that surged after the 2024 Lok Sabha elections.





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Fort Bend County has moved from "emergency mode" to "recovery mode" county leaders said at a news conference Friday afternoon.

Fort Bend County is among the 67 counties approved for federal disaster assistance following Hurricane Beryl's impact on the state, as part of a Major Disaster Declaration authorized by President Biden.

Residents are encouraged to take the iSTAT damage survey, to help EMS officials understand the extent of the damage suffered by the county.



"It helps us (estimate) the mass damage that we had throughout the county, the county has to meet a threshold of $4.8 million of damage for us to be able to get federal dollars to come in here to support the incident," said Greg Babst, the countys emergency management coordinator.

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Power update

We have made a lot of progress, everyone is concerned about their power supply, said Fort Bend County Judge KP George.

CenterPoint updated its numbers and 52,842 families in Fort Bend County remain without power, George said.

George said the north side of Fort Bend County, including Missouri City, Sienna and Riverstone, was heavily impacted, with many trees and power lines uprooted and transformers blown out.

(CenterPoint) asked me what I need, said George. I said I need more crews and resources. It will take a little bit of time to fix it. Many people in those areas got their power back.

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George asked for patience from the public, explaining that crews were hesitant to provide specific times and dates because people become upset when those expectations arent met.

The last I heard, by the end of this end of the weekend, like Sunday, an additional 400,000 People in greater Houston area is going to have power, George said.

Fort Bend Countys Emergency Operations Centers have been activated to Level 2, indicating a higher operational level in response to a pressing challenge.

We are in the demobilization process, moving from emergency support functions over to recovery support functions, said Babst.

Be careful of carbon monoxide

Fort Bend County Fire Marshal Justin Jurek advised people to be mindful of carbon monoxide poisoning while charging devices in cars and to always keep garage doors open for ventilation.

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Since last Sunday, Fort Bend County EMS has handled more than 25 carbon monoxide poisoning calls, with a total of 41 patients affected, including a family of seven, George said.

Additionally, generators can cause carbon monoxide poisoning if they are not used properly.

Our EMS chief said that since a lot of families are sharing generators, make sure that they are following safety tips, George said.

Generators produce carbon monoxide, a colorless and odorless gas, which can accumulate in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces.

Transportation

Commuter services are fully operational, while demand response services are only for medical appointments, George said.

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Disaster relief services are available for individuals moving between shelters, or going from their home to a shelter or going back home, available according to a schedule.

Debris Management

Debris management has been contracted out and expected to begin this weekend, Judge KP George said.

George said that crews are working through a large amount of debris, and assured residents that crews will get to each street in time.

Cooling centers, shelters, and recovery centers

The county has established cooling centers and shelters, and as conditions improve, recovery centers will also be set up.

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There are approximately 25 cooling centers operating in Fort Bend County, including community centers, libraries, and primarily the Smart Financial Center, Babst said. Residents affected by power and AC outages are welcome to visit these centers to cool off, charge electronic devices, and, in some cases, receive food and water.

Cooling centers are usually open between 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.

We set cooling centers up whenever there's a heat index of 108--which it has almost been this entire week, close 106 or 105, or when there's a major power outage throughout the county, so people have somewhere to go, said Babst. That's very crucial during this time, because people couldnt go to a Walmart or the mall or anything to cool off.

Shelters are for people who need temporary accommodation because their homes have been devastated by the storm.

A shelter is I was displaced from my home, or I cannot live in my house because it's too hot, or I need electrical devices that keep me alive breathing machines and whatnot, said Babst. So then you can go to a shelter, it's 24 hours.



Two shelters have been set up in Fort Bend County, the county-funded shelter at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds and at the federally-funded Attack Poverty Center set up in partnership with the Red Cross.



The fairgrounds shelter will close tonight, and its occupants will be moved to the Attack Poverty Center, Babst said.

 At a shelter you can go sleep, get three meals a day, bring your family, pets and you can you can get away from your disaster, Babst said.

Recovery centers will be established afterwards, serving as offices where individuals can access information about recovery efforts.

A recovery center is FEMA, and SBA, all these groups coming in, and they will have will basically set up the center, said Babst. It'll be a one stop shop. You can go there and say, I have a question about this or I need a loan for that. I have this problem. Can you help me out?, There'll be technical teams there to help with those questions moving forward.

Be wary of scammers

Sheriff Erik Fagan warned residents to be wary of scammers taking advantage of the situation by offering low-cost repairs to deceive vulnerable individuals.

Fagan reminded drivers to treat non-operational traffic lights as four-way stop signs and to exercise caution and patience around workers. Expect single lanes as cleanup efforts take place and the county works to recover, Fagan said.

Despite the reported increase in crime in the Houston area, Fagan noted that Fort Bend County had not experienced an uptick in crime.
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Thomas Matthew Crooks: Know all about shooter behind Trump murder attempt

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a statement released today said it has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as the shooter behind the failed assassination attempt on former U.S. President and Republic nominee for the 2024 Presidential Elections Donald Trump.

Sunday July 14, 2024 1:46 PM , Agencies

Washington: The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) in a statement released today said it has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks as the shooter behind the failed assassination attempt on former U.S. President and Republic nominee for the 2024 Presidential Elections Donald Trump.

The FBI had earlier said it had identified the shooter but declined to share his details in public.

Who is Thomas Matthew Crooks?

The investigation agency now said the shooter was 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks.

Crooks was from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania which was about 40 miles south of the Butler rally.

Thomas Matthew Crooks had graduated Bethel, PA High School in 2022. Crooks received the National Math and Science Initiative Star Award for academic achievement.

BlackRock have taken down the ad in which Trump's shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, appears.



We saw it already pic.twitter.com/IOMjDqbP3Z  Winnie Schola (@WinnieSchola) July 15, 2024

Records show Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania. Federal campaign finance reports however also show the Trump shooter gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jananuary 20, 2021, the day President Joe Biden was sworn in to office.

Motive behind the attack unclear

Following the attack, Crooks was shot dead by Secret Service agents and the security officials recovered an AR-style rifle. Crooks was apparently shot in the head after he tried taking out the former president.

According to sources, Crooks was planted on the roof of a manufacturing plant that was more than 130 yards away from the stage where Donald Trump was addressing the public at Butler Farm Show grounds.

Thomas Matthew Crooks fired multiple shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

The FBI official further said they are not yet sure of the motive behind the assassination attempt.

"We do not currently have an identified motive, although our investigators are working tirelessly to attempt to identify what that motive was," he said.

Assassination attempt on Donald Trump

Donald Trump, has been hit in the ear in a shooting incident investigated as an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday July 13, 2024.

Two men - the shooter now identified as Crooks and a spectator, have been killed whereas two others critically injured, officials said.

The visuals shared online showed Trump behind the dais and addressing the rally. He was showing a chart of border crossing numbers saying, Take a look at what happened, when pops could be heard and his hand went right to his right ear and he ducked down as U.S. Secret Service agents dove on top of him.

Trump was rushed to the hospital. After the necessary treatment, he has been discharged. He has returned to his home in New Jersey.





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Watch: Assassination attempt on Donald Trump, ex-U.S. President seen in blood

Former US President, Donald Trump, has been hit in the ear in a shooting incident investigated as an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday July 13, 2024

Sunday July 14, 2024 12:57 PM , Agencies

[The image has been shared on social media platform X by Elon Musk.]

Butler (Pennsylvania): Former US President, Donald Trump, has been hit in the ear in a shooting incident investigated as an assassination attempt at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania Saturday July 13, 2024.

Two men - the unidentified gunman and a spectator, have been killed whereas two others are critically injured, officials said.

The visuals shared online showed Trump behind the dais and addressing the rally. He was showing a chart of border crossing numbers saying, Take a look at what happened, when pops could be heard and his hand went right to his right ear and he ducked down as U.S. Secret Service agents dove on top of him.

Donald Trump is the Republican nominee for the 2024 U.S. Presidential elections scheduled in November.

Surrounded by the Secret Service agents, Trump rose, looking defiant with his fist aloft, even as his injured ear and blood on face were clearly seen.

I just landed and missed an assignation attempt. Holy shit. What a bad ass reaction from Trump. The election is over. He's the next president. The Dems should give up. They can't beat him now. pic.twitter.com/omtbue191d  Dave Portnoy (@stoolpresidente) July 13, 2024

Trump was rushed to the hospital. After the necessary treatment, he has been discharged. Reports said he has returned to his home in New Jersey after medical assitance.

Trumps private jet landed shortly after midnight Sunday at Newark Liberty International Airport, according to AP.



In his first reaction after the shooting incident at his rally, Trump said in a statement he "was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear".

U.S. President Joe Biden has spoken to Donald Trump, a White House official said, after the Republican nominee was injured in the shooting incident, BBC reported.

"This evening, President Biden spoke to former President Trump," the official was quoted as saying by AFP.

Biden cut short a weekend trip to Rehoboth Beach, Delaware and returned to White House.

He added that the US incumbent would receive an updated briefing from law enforcement officials on the incident.





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Israel duong nhu a cho thay hai bien phap ran e quan trong nhat cua Iran - ten lua an ao va luc luong vu trang Hezbollah o Lebanon - khong manh nhu nguoi ta van nghi. Hien gio su chu y o don vao viec lieu Iran co thuc ay chuong trinh hat nhan e ran e ke thu lon nhat trong khu vuc hay khong.
HONG KONG  Vietnamese Consul General in Hong Kong and Macau Le uc Hanh and Chief Executive of Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (China) John Lee have recognised the vast potential for cooperation between the two sides, particularly in green finance, innovation, science-technology, human resource training, healthcare, and high-quality labour exchange.

At a reception for the Vietnamese diplomat who paid a courtesy call on the Chief Executive on July 12, Lee praised the bilateral cooperation in recent times, particularly Hong Kongs easing of work visas for Viet Nam as well as increasing student exchanges and trade-investment promotion with the Southeast Asian nation.

For her part, Hanh said the relationship between two the sides is special, based on historical ties, cultural similarities, and geographical proximity. Viet Nam and Hong Kong are also significant economic partners of each other.

The diplomat held that encouraging legal labour sources and imposing sanctions on employers who hire illegal workers could address the issue of illegal immigration. She also proposed Hong Kong continue to relax visa requirements for Vietnamese citizens for the benefit of both sides.

Lee acknowledged that, despite some challenges, particularly regarding illegal immigration, the two sides have made continuous efforts to find solutions and promote cooperation, achieving many positive outcomes. He expressed his confidence that the relationship will continue to develop healthily and stably in the future.

The Vietnamese Consul General affirmed that during her tenure, she will build on the achievements and further promote the comprehensive development of the Viet Nam - Hong Kong relationship.  VNS
HCM CITY  Van Thinh Phat Chairwoman Truong My Lan, who is on death row, is facing additional charges, including misappropriation of assets through fraudulent bond issuances, as part of what is considered Viet Nams biggest financial scam ever.

The Supreme Peoples Procuracy has issued an indictment to prosecute 34 individuals, including the chairwoman, for misappropriation of assets, money laundering, and illegal transportation of currency across borders.

The 68-year-old chairwoman is the mastermind behind the bond fraud at Saigon Commercial Joint Stock Bank (SCB), according to the Supreme Peoples Procuracy.

Lans multiple fake companies under the Van Thinh Phat Group carried out fraudulent bond issuances worth over VN30 trillion (US$1.24 billion) and sold them to over 35,000 victims, mostly SCB depositors, according to the police.

Since her arrest in October 2022, the victims have not received any interest or principal payments.

The central bank has guaranteed bank savings accounts but not the bonds purchased through the lender.

Authorities have confirmed that any money and assets recovered from the scandal will be returned to the rightful owners, including bondholders.

Police have seized multiple assets, frozen accounts worth millions of US dollars, and placed freezes on assets associated with the chairwoman.

Authorities continue to urge victims in possession of bonds to come forward with information and documents.

In addition, Lan and her accomplices, including her Chinese husband, have also been accused of illegally transporting over $4.5 billion and laundering over VN445 trillion across borders over a 10-year period.

At her trial in April, Lan received the death penalty for financial fraud at SCB and was also ordered to pay compensation of VN673.8 trillion ($27 billion) to the bank.

Her Chinese husband, Eric Chu Nap-kee, chairman of the board of Times Square Vietnam Joint Stock Company, received a nine-year prison sentence for violating banking regulations at Lan's direction.

Lans niece, Truong Hue Van, CEO of Windsor Property Management, was sentenced to 17 years in prison for aiding Lan in committing the crimes.

Other bank executives and State officials involved in the scandal received various sentences ranging from three years to life for embezzlement and violating banking regulations.

Lan, who did not hold a position at the bank but indirectly owned a significant stake in it, was found guilty of using it for loans to fund her own companys operations.

Her arrest was part of a national anti-corruption campaign which has intensified since 2021.

Lan was known as a wealthy Chinese-Vietnamese businesswoman.

In 1992, Lan and her family founded Van Thinh Phat, one of the countrys most prominent real estate companies. It owns major projects and buildings in prime locations in HCM City, Ha Noi and a Nang.

While Lans arrest has exposed the massive scale of the fraud, experts have warned the scandal is just the tip of the iceberg in the financial sector.  VNS
By Le Huong

The West Lake in Ha Noi is famous for its beautiful lotus flowers. Particularly the rare variety of 'hundred-petal' lotus which gives off a distinctive aroma.

But culturally these flowers have another role to play: they are used to make a lotus-infused tea that is synonymous with the capital city.

"There is something in the nature of tea that leads us into a world of quiet contemplation of life," a philosopher once said. And it might just be that Ha Noi's lotus tea is greater for this purpose than any other.

Tea specialist Nguyen Viet Bac told Viet Nam News: I think what makes lotus-scented tea so special is that it contains the essence of Ha Noi,

The lotus also has a religious significance. In the past, tea connoisseurs would take to the water in a lotus pond, and squeeze some dry tea inside lotus flowers late in the afternoon. Early the next morning, they would take back the tea that then already absorbed the aroma of the flowers. The method is so simple, yet the floral aroma in the tea is very fresh and clean.

People often make lotus-scented tea during blooming season in summer between May and July.

This has been the main craft of Ngo Thi Thans family for decades.

This is our traditional craft, Than said. Of course, we make everything by hand with simple tools.

Large half-bloomed lotuses are chosen as they are packed with stamen.

The flowers are sorted carefully before the dry tea is crammed in. Almost no part of the lotus flower goes to waste in this process.

But the traditional way to infuse lotus aroma into tea is to mix lotus anthers with dry green tea.

About 1,000 lotus flowers yield one kilogram of anthers, the most aromatic part of the flower.

At first, the anthers are scattered on layer after layer of dry tea, then they are left in a container for one day. The next day the anthers are sorted out from the tea, which is heated again. The infusing process repeats five times so that the tea can fully absorb the scent of the lotus.

During the process, up to 1kg of anthers is used to make around 1kg of lotus tea.

According to Than, they choose the most fragrant lotus and good quality tea. In recent years, they have freeze-dried the whole flower with the tea inside.

Lotus flowers have always been part of my life, she said. I think the scent is wonderful. The lotus brings me better stable income, and offers me chances to enjoy life. The craft requires people with peace inside their souls to make the tea. People who are active and like busy activities cannot manage it as the working process repeats so many times that it requires great patience.

Than also makes tea with grapefruit flowers and jasmine for the rest of the year.

The lotus is wonderful but it cannot stand together with strong scent of fruit like that of jackfruit or durian, she said. We dont use these fruits during the whole lotus season.

From my grandmothers time, even during wars, our family still makes lotus tea this way.

Hundreds of people in Quang Ba Village on the north-eastern bank of the West Lake still keep the traditional craft going strong.

Nguyen Thi Thuy, a middle-aged lotus-scented tea maker, admitted the work was not difficult at all.

But only diligent and patient people can do it well, she said. We have to take the anthers out from the lotus with great care, as they are the most valuable parts of the flower.

Thuy said she was very proud to be a part of a family with this traditional craft.

I come here to support my aunt every lotus season, she said. Ill do it until the time I cannot do it anymore.

A lotus festival is slated in Quang An Ward between July 12 and 16, when the local villagers are expected to receive official recognition for their West Lake lotus-scented tea as a national intangible heritage.

Tay Ho District authorities are setting up a model of lotus planting together with ecological tourism. More than 7.5ha of lake in Quang An and Nhat Tan wards will be used for planting high-quality lotus.

With the first lotus festival organised properly on a large scale, more visitors at home and from abroad will know about lotus flowers in the West Lake, said Nguyen inh Khuyen, chairman of Tay Ho Districts Peoples Committee [district administration].

Enhancing the role of Ha Nois lotus in todays life is what the local artisans expect.

For Nguyen Thanh Hang, an overseas Vietnamese in Paris, lotus-scented tea is a cultural delicacy of not only Ha Noi, but also Viet Nam as a whole.

"When we open the package and make a pot of tea, I feel as if I am returning to familiar things through the aroma, the taste of the tea, the colour of the drink and gentle steam rising up," she said.

Hang often invites her close friends for tea when they meet, especially for special occasions in Paris and when she wants to introduce Vietnamese delicacies to her French friends. She also sometimes drinks the tea while reading a book.

"When I make some lotus tea for myself, it helps create a special space and beautiful images and feelings about my homeland, connecting me with lotus lakes, nature and everything belonging to Vietnamese culture." VNS
A museum displaying jewellery of all 54 Vietnamese nationalities has been opened in downtown Ho Chi Minh City, and is poised to captivate domestic and international visitors as a premier cultural destination.

Being a private museum established by o Hung, an antiquities collector, the Museum of Ethnic Jewellery is part of the o Hung Museum system.

The exhibits range from artefacts dating back over 2,500 years to the 20th century, crafted from materials including gold, silver, jade, ivory, amber, tortoiseshell, hornbill beak, agate, glass, pearls, tin and bamboo.

Each ethnic group contributes unique cultural elements such as beliefs, rituals, daily life, housing, festivals, cuisine and distinctive arts. These artefacts vividly illustrate the rich cultural tapestry and vibrant diversity of Viet Nam's ethnic communities for international friends.

The museum arranges exhibits according to the geographic regions where these ethnic groups traditionally reside.

This thematic approach allows visitors to appreciate similarities and distinctions among ethnic minority groups such as the H'Re, Cho Ro, Bru-Van Kieu, Co Tu, Gia Rai, Ba Na, Brau, Gie Trieng, and Chau Ma.

Accompanying the jewellery are traditional costumes of the respective ethnic groups.

This comprehensive display not only preserves cultural heritage but also safeguards the diversity of Viet Nam's cultural identity in the face of global integration.

o Hung's acquisition of the jewellery has been a laborious process, involving extensive collection efforts from other collectors and international auctions to bring the artefacts back to Viet Nam.

Experts agree that the ornaments vividly depict the social strata of past millennia, showcasing intricate designs on necklaces, earrings, bracelets, rings (some with crowns and hairpins) and traditional costumes adorned with vibrant patterns.

These artefacts not only embody individuality and artistic expression but also serve as reflections of historical epochs, transcending language to communicate the aesthetic beliefs, religious practices and cultural customs of Viet Nam's diverse ethnic groups.

The Museum of Ethnic Jewellery represents a significant cultural milestone, offering a profound journey through Viet Nam's rich and varied heritage.

The museum is open daily from 9am to 10pm at 68 Nguyen Hue Street, District 1, HCM City. VNS
A kid high-fives Gov. Greg Abbott after a press conference on Hurricane Beryl as Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale smiles Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott holds a press conference on response and recovery efforts after Hurricane Beryl Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. Abbott was joined by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, from left, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott holds a press conference on the response and recovery efforts after Hurricane Beryl Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. Abbott was joined by Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd, from left, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick and Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick speaks about the lack of preparation of CenterPoint Energy for Hurricane Beryl during a press conference Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott shakes hands with Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale after a joint press conference on Hurricane Beryl Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. Abbott and McIngvale attacked on CenterPoint Energys preparation and response for the hurricane. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott, right, receives a briefing for Hurricane Beryl from local elected officials and Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. In the front row was Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott receives a briefing for Hurricane Beryl from local elected officials and Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. On the right corner was Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer Gov. Greg Abbott receives a briefing for Hurricane Beryl from local elected officials and Sunday, July 14, 2024 at Gallery Furniture in Houston. On the right corner was Gallery Furniture Owner Jim Mattress Mack McIngvale. Yi-Chin Lee/Staff photographer

In his first public address since returning from Asia, Gov. Greg Abbott blamed CenterPoint Energy for endangering hundreds of thousands of lives with prolonged power outages in Houston after Hurricane Beryl.

At a news conference Sunday, the governor demanded the company make changes this month to avoid state intervention, including suggesting that CenterPoint's vast Houston regional service territory could be reassessed.

"Because of extreme heat, because of the lack of power, there are lives at risk every single day," Abbott said from a stage in Gallery Furniture on North Freeway shortly after 1 p.m. Sunday. The failure of power companies to provide power to their customers is completely unacceptable.

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More than 400,000 CenterPoint customers remained without electricity as the governor spoke, down from a record 2.26 million at the height of the storm-related outages. Abbott said his top priority for the state recovery effort was to restore power to the rest of the Houston area.

The governor was joined onstage by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, who led the state through the storm while Abbott was on an international economic development trip with a CenterPoint executive and other state business leaders.

LIVE UPDATES: Local leaders plan to address reported threats against linemen

Abbott did not pull any punches with CenterPoint, saying a Category 1 hurricane should never compromise a power system in the state.

CenterPoint appeared to be caught off guard by the arrival of Hurricane Beryl in Houston, he said, and he questioned whether decision-makers were more concerned with finances than safety. We must know: Was CenterPoint protecting Texans, or was it protecting its own pocketbook?

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In an exclusive interview last week, CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells denied mismanagement of the hurricane, and on Sunday he said in a statement that 2,100 electricity poles were damaged when Beryl pummeled the area and that more than 18,600 trees had to be removed from company lines.

Crews are converging on areas with significant structural damage as well as localized outages, deploying resources, equipment and mobile generation to restore customers as safely and quickly as possible, Wells said in the statement.

CenterPoint is not the only area company facing prolonged outages after Beryl, though its customers who remain without power far outnumber those serviced by Entergy or Texas-New Mexico Power.

Abbott ordered CenterPoint to develop a strategy by July 31 to minimize outages for hospitals and seniors, to show it will remove all vegetation that threatens power lines by August and to specify what actions it will take to pre-stage workers for the rest of the hurricane season. If the electricity company does not respond by the deadline, Abbott said, he will issue executive orders forcing change.

It's time to reevaluate whether or not CenterPoint should have such a large territory, Abbott said.

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Patrick reiterated the ultimatum Abbott issued CenterPoint, warning that a freight train is coming should CenterPoint not comply.

If they dont deliver when theyre expected to deliver, people have, and will die, Patrick said. The state of Texas has to pray for the best and prepare for the worst. CenterPoint didnt prepare for even the least.

The overall emergency response to Beryl remains focused on life safety, said Nim Kidd, chief of the Texas Division of Emergency Management. The state has set up a 250-bed field hospital that has treated 120 patients so far. The state has also put additional law enforcement officials in the streets and is supporting local partners with food and water distribution.

Abbott drew some local criticism for his absence during the storm. While the governor completed an economic development mission to Taiwan, South Korea and Japan, Patrick stood in as acting governor and provided updates on emergency relief, the death toll and power restoration.

The governor denied any delays to aid because of his absence and rejected President Joe Biden's claims Tuesday that he was difficult to reach during his trip, though Houston Chronicle reporting found that Texas leaders were slower to request federal aid for Beryl than in past hurricanes.

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The governor was engaged on social media during his absence, and he first called for an investigation into CenterPoint's power restoration efforts Wednesday.
By Luong Huong

Just over three years ago, the 300km journey from Laos capital city of Vientiane to the UNESCO World Heritage town of Luang Prabang took up to 9 hours on a night bus.

However, this arduous journey, after many bumps and curves on the way, has been significantly reduced to less than 3 hours with the opening of a high-speed railway.

The rail system is the result of a landmark partnership between Laos and China. It is a project that connects Chinas Belt and Road initiative with Laoss strategy to transform from a landlocked to a land-linked country.

The first high-speed line connecting Vientiane to Luang Prabang was completed in 2021 after five years of construction. This railway journey passes through some of Laos' most breathtaking scenery, with the trains reaching top speeds of 160km/h.

In Laos, the high-speed trains, or the Electric Multiple Unit trains, run on a route of over 400km, passing through six main stations: Vientiane, Vang Vieng, Luang Prabang, Muang Xay, Luang Namtha, and Boten.

Despite their high speed, the trains provide a remarkably smooth and quiet ride, even as they pass through numerous tunnels carved through the mountainous, forested terrain.

The fares for the train vary depending on the route and seating class. The 150km first-class trip from Vientiane to Vang Vieng, which takes less than an hour, is priced at 273,000 kip (US$12.30), while the 300km trip from Vientiane to Luang Prabang costs 522,000 kip.

Tickets can be pre-booked between four days and up to 15 days in advance for domestic travel. Passengers can download the LCR Ticket application to check the train schedule and map, although registration requires a Laos mobile phone number.

The stations are clean and modern, with spacious waiting areas that can accommodate up to 2,400 passengers. There are also first-class lounges and souvenir shops selling Lao specialities like coffee and dried beef at each station.

The architecture of each station is particularly impressive, blending the distinctive cultural heritage of Laos with modern elements. They are decorated with the colours of the Dok Champa, the national flower of Laos, featuring curved roofs reminiscent of local temples and pagodas.

To board the train, passengers must undergo a security check that takes less than five minutes and present their ID or passports.

Each Laos-China high-speed train consists of nine carriages: a locomotive, a dining car, a business class car, a first-class car, and five economy class cars, totalling 720 air-conditioned seats. The business and first-class carriages are located at the front of the train.

Each seat is equipped with an electrical power outlet and a tray table similar to those on aeroplanes, allowing passengers to work on their laptops or enjoy meals while admiring the beautiful landscape outside.

One drawback of the railway journey is the lack of stable internet connection, as Wi-Fi is not available aboard and the trains frequently pass through long tunnels, disrupting mobile internet access.

However, the stunning beauty of the natural surroundings  vast forests and mountains covered in clouds  often distracts passengers from the digital world, instilling a sense of calmness.

The trains arrive and depart punctually, precisely according to the schedule and ticket timings. Departing from Vientiane at 9:45am, my train halted at Vang Vieng for five minutes before continuing its journey, reaching Luang Prabang at 11:49.

For travellers seeking immersive nature experiences, stopping at Vang Vieng station is ideal. There, they can continue to explore various destinations and engage in activities such as mountain hiking, canoeing, visiting limestone caves, swimming in the Mekong River, or relaxing in the emerald blue waters of the Blue Lagoon.

Upon arrival at Luang Prabang, a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1995, tourists can explore attractions like the Kuang Si Waterfalls, the Royal Palace, Wat Xieng Thong Temple, climb Mount Phousi, and participate in Tak Bat, also known as the Alms-Giving Ceremony, a daily Buddhist ritual observed in Laos.

Since their debut service, the high-speed trains have offered tourists an exciting way to explore the Land of a Million Elephants due to their exceptional convenience and reliability.

Returning to Laos after ten years, I have noticed many changes in this peaceful country, especially in its infrastructure, said oan Phuoc Truong, a travel blogger from HCM City.

Thanks to the high-speed trains, tourists like me have been able to shorten our travel time from the south to the north of Laos. I've noticed that Laos's tourism industry is developing in a well-planned, systematic manner, without excessive commercialization of tourism services. Instead, they have managed to preserve and maintain their traditional cultures.

The entrance fees to historical sites are the same for Lao citizens and international visitors. There is also no issue with haggling, bargaining, or overcharging. The streets are free of traffic congestion and honking horns, with a slow-paced and peaceful rhythm of life."

For the Lao people, the railway project has significantly enhanced their connectivity across the country.

I think it's a big change for Laos's transportation. It used to be very difficult for the Lao people to travel, especially in the north because of the mountainous roads. We used to spend so much time travelling by car. It was risky during the rainy season because of bad road conditions, said Phothong Chanthavilay, who works as a translator in Vientiane.

Now we can reach Luang Prabang in less than 3 hours instead of 8 or 9 hours like before. We can take the morning train to the destination and return in the afternoon. So, I think it is a very meaningful change for the country that we have another option that is safer and saves us more time. VNS
DES MOINES  A new state law grants added legal protections to Iowa school districts that wish to allow teachers and other staff to carry firearms on school grounds.

However, most school districts reached by The Gazette say they still will not allow teachers and staff to carry guns, and those districts that are considering it or have in the past say they still are waiting to hear whether the districts insurer will allow it.

Statehouse Republicans this year approved House File 2586, which provides qualified immunity from criminal or civil liability for all damages incurred pursuant to the application of reasonable force.

Lawmakers previously passed a law that made it legal for Iowa teachers and staff to be armed on school grounds  supporters said it was designed to help provide a layer of safety in schools against threats, while critics said allowing guns in schools will only make them more dangerous places. But insurance companies told districts that were considering allowing teachers and staff to carry guns that they would not insure them.

Lawmakers passed House File 2586 this year with hopes the immunity clause would make insurance companies comfortable enough to insure districts that want to allow teachers and staff to be armed.

The Gazette contacted the 11 largest school districts in Iowa; none of them previously had considered allowing teachers and staff to carry guns, and the new state law has not changed that  none are considering it this year, either.

This board has taken no action to arm our staff. Furthermore, I can share with you that no board member nor any administrator has expressed any interest to me in taking action to arm our staff, Cedar Rapids school board President Cindy Garlock said at a May 13 board meeting. Were committed to advocating for policies and legislation that prioritize safety and security of our students and our staff.

Under the state law, approved staff would be allowed to carry concealed weapons during school hours, and the district would decide what firearms staff could carry and whether the district would provide those or allow the use of personal firearms.

Identities of school staff issued a weapons permit are confidential and not subject to disclosure under Iowas open records law.

The legislation was passed in the wake of Januarys fatal shooting at Perry High School. Eleven-year-old Ahmir Jolliff and Principal Dan Marburger were killed and six others were injured. The 17-year-old shooter died of a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

Some districts may consider, but insurer still analyzing

The Gazette contacted Iowa school districts that previously had considered allowing teachers and staff to be armed, but were rebuffed by their districts insurer. They include the Cherokee, Spirit Lake and Interstate 35 school districts, all of which are insured by EMC, a prominent insurer of Iowa school districts.

The districts that responded said they still are awaiting word from their insurer about the legal immunity in the new state law, and whether that changes the insurers decision whether to cover a district that allows teachers or staff to carry guns.

We have reached out to ask about how to get coverage if the district decides to go in this direction. There are still discussions on how the district would proceed, I-35 district business manager April Hughes said.

A spokeswoman for EMC declined to say how many Iowa districts the company insures. The spokeswoman said the company still is analyzing the potential impacts of the new state law.

We believe the new school security law may provide more options for schools to find coverage that fits their needs if they choose to arm school employees. We are analyzing the new law and its implications as we continue to evaluate options in this evolving marketplace, Sarah Buckley, EMCs vice president of corporate communications and community impact, said in a statement to The Gazette.

We share a deep commitment to the health and safety of students and school personnel and respect every schools right to choose the policies they believe to be in their best interests. We continue to insure schools that provide on-site armed security utilizing trained law enforcement or school resource officers, Buckley said.

That policy is consistent in the multiple states where EMC has clients, Buckley said.

Cherokee Superintendent Tom Ryherd in April told The Cherokee Chronicle Times the school board has not considered reinstating its weapons policy since it was rescinded last June after it was told EMC would not insure the district if it enacted the policy.

Nobody from the school board has approached me about it. We havent discussed it as a board, Ryherd told The Chronicle Times. Are we gonna talk about it as a board? Im not gonna speculate on that one.

School resource officers required in large districts

The new state law also requires the states largest school districts  those with 8,000 or more students enrolled  to have School Resource Officers, or SROs, on the grounds, unless the districts school board votes to opt out of the SRO requirement.

The practical impact of that provision is, effectively, nothing. It will be status quo for the 11 districts that fall under that new provision: nine districts already employed SROs and plan to continue, while the two districts that do not  the Des Moines and Iowa City districts  already have seen action from their school board to opt out of the SRO requirement.

The Iowa City School Board unanimously voted to opt out of the SRO requirement at its May 14 meeting. The Des Moines district ended its SRO program in February 2021, and there are no active discussions or plans to resume the program, a district spokesman said. The Des Moines district has public safety staff who work closely with the Des Moines Police Department, the district spokesman said.

(The Des Moines Public School District) has invested significant funds over the years in a range of security measures, from changes to our buildings to the use of technology to a full-time public safety staff, and will continue to support responsible measures for the safety and well-being of our students and staff, district Communications and Public Affairs Director Phil Roeder said.

The Cedar Rapids, Ankeny, Council Bluffs, Davenport, Dubuque, Sioux City, Waterloo, Waukee and West Des Moines districts all already have SROs on campus and plan to continue, the districts told The Gazette.

The Cedar Rapids City Council and school board both voted in June to maintain the practice of having five SROs stationed in the school district. The plan calls for one officer each stationed at Kennedy, Washington, Jefferson and Metro high schools and Polk Alternative school.

The district has a long-standing partnership in place with the Dubuque Police Department to provide highly trained school resource officers who serve our schools to provide safety, build relationships, offer diversionary programming and support students, Dubuque Community School District Chief Communication Officer Michael Cyze said.

He noted the district also partners with the Dubuque County Sheriffs Department to provide SROs at a district elementary school.

Moving into the future, we believe that the district is best served by focusing on sustaining and enhancing our school resource officer program. Given this, we have no plans to allow staff to be armed, Cyze said. We are working collaboratively with our law enforcement partners as we look ahead to next school year to ensure that school resource officer assignments align with the updated requirements in Iowa Code. We are thankful for the ongoing support of all of our law enforcement and emergency management partners for their continued partnership in providing a safe, vibrant learning environment for our students and staff.

The Gazettes Tom Barton contributed.
Iowa politicians are reacting to a shooting at a Donald Trump rally in Pennsylvania, offering prayers and support for the former president.

Trump was taken off the stage by his protective detail and appeared to have blood on his face. The Secret Service has said he is safe. His campaign said he was being checked out at a medical facility in the area.

The shooting is being investigated as an assassination attempt. U.S. Secret Service agents "neutralized" the shooter, who is now dead, the agency said. One person was killed and two were severely injured, according to the Secret Service.

In a statement, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds said she was praying for Trump, those who were injured and the family of the person killed at the rally.

This assassination attempt on a former president, current nominee for president, and leader of the Republican Party marks a dark day in American history," Reynolds said.

As President Trump showed when he walked off the stage, we will not cower to such terror," Reynolds continued. "I will be in Milwaukee this week and will proudly stand with him and our party. America will get through this, together, and President Trump will lead us into the next four years.

Iowa's senators and congressional representatives also made calls for prayers for Trump.

Iowa's U.S. Senators, Chuck Grassley and Joni Ernst, both posted on X, formerly Twitter. Ernst said "Pray for President Trump" and Grassley said "Praying for President Trump."

Praying for Pres Trump  Chuck Grassley (@ChuckGrassley) July 13, 2024

Pray for President Trump.  Joni Ernst (@joniernst) July 13, 2024

Congresswoman Mariannette Miller-Meeks, who represents the Iowa Quad-Cities, asked for prayers for both Trump and "the future of American Democracy."

I ask all Americans to pray for the recovery of President Trump and for the future of American Democracy.  Rep. Mariannette Miller-Meeks, M.D. (@RepMMM) July 13, 2024

U.S. Reps. Ashley Hinson, Randy Feenstra, and Zach Nunn made similar posts on Saturday.

Pray for President Trump.  Ashley Hinson (@hinsonashley) July 13, 2024

Our hearts are with President Trump, his family, and everyone endangered. pic.twitter.com/NfPJenzDiu  Zach Nunn (@NunnForCongress) July 13, 2024

Praying for President Trump and those at his rally.  Randy Feenstra (@RandyFeenstra) July 13, 2024

Iowa Attorney General Brenna Bird, who is speaking at next week's Republican National Convention, said she is "praying for President Trump" on X.

Praying for President Trump and those at his rally.  Randy Feenstra (@RandyFeenstra) July 13, 2024

In a later, emailed statement, Bird called it an "attack on our country, and our democracy" and said she was mourning the attendee who died.

"And while it failed at killing President Trump, it murdered one of our fellow Americans. This attack was nothing short of evil. Bob and I mourn with the family who lost their loved one," Bird said in the statement.

Christina Bohannan and Ryan Melton, both Democratic candidates for congressional seats in Iowa, offered prayers for Trump and decried political violence.

"Praying for the safety of former President Trump and everyone who was at the rally," Bohannan said. "Violence has no place in our political system."

Praying for the safety of former President Trump and everyone who was at the rally. Violence has no place in our political system.  Christina Bohannan (@BohannanIowa) July 13, 2024

My thoughts and prayers are with Former President Trump, and I wish him the best in his recovery. I commend the Secret Service for their quick response, and wish the best for all rally attendees. Theres no place for any kind of violence in our political process.  Ryan Melton (@melton4iowa) July 13, 2024

Iowa Democratic Party Chair Rita Hart said in a statement on social media her thoughts were with the attendees.

"The news about Former President Donald Trump is extremely troubling. Gun violence is never acceptable and violence of any sort should never be perpetuated against people who are trying to participate in our democratic process," her statement said in part.

A statement from IDP Chair Rita Hart: "The news about Former President Donald Trump is extremely troubling. Gun violence is never acceptable and violence of any sort should never be perpetuated against people who are trying to participate in our democratic process. (1/2)  Iowa Democrats (@iowademocrats) July 13, 2024

Iowa State Auditor Rob Sand, a Democrat, also offered prayers for Trump, decried political violence and praised the swift response by the Secret Service and law enforcement.

My statement on the political violence that erupted at a Trump campaign rally in Pennsylvania: pic.twitter.com/sp2YDbOIuD  Rob Sand (@RobSandIA) July 14, 2024

This story may be updated.
So NATO needs 5 years to prepare to fight Russia. So what would happen if the western ignorant dreams would come true, sooner than later?

Russia might attack them now, for you see, Russia is ready now and may not sit around waiting

A true, Stupid is as Stupid does, situation

WtR

Extra: Bundeswehr Inspector General Carsten Breuer has estimated that Germany has until 2029 to get ready for a potential military conflict with Moscow, as Russia could be in a position to attack NATO by then. ?

Interesting and stupid
Update, July 19:

The final donation drop-off event for the eighth annual 'Fill The Bus' school supply drive takes place on July 26.

This series of donation drives will benefit more than 10,000 Washoe County School District students and their families who rely on this kind of community support to prepare for the upcoming 2024-2025 school year.

Event coordinators say they are in desperate need of donations of school supplies, hygiene products, and clothing or uniforms for school-aged students grades K through 12th.

Final donations for this drive can be made at the Sam's Club parking lot located at 4835 Kietzke Lane in South Reno on Friday, July 26 from 9 .a.m. to 2 p.m.

Original Story, July 13:

The eighth annual 'Fill the Bus' back-to-school drive is taking place from July 8 to July 26.

Communities in Schools Western Nevada (CIS) is collecting school supplies and other items for students in need.

All collected items will go to students in Washoe County for the 2024-2025 school year.

Some of the supplies most needed include backpacks for elementary and high school students (clear backpacks encouraged), mechanical pencils and eraser caps, color pencils and markers, pencil pouches and boxes, spiral notebooks, laundry detergent, deodorant, body lotion, body wash, toothpaste and toothbrushes, shampoo and conditioner, school planners and art supplies.

Drop off locations include:

Anthem

Ernest Packaging Solutions

Great Basin Federal Credit Union

Grand Sierra Resort

Nevada State Bank

Patagonia Outlet

Reno Fire Department

Reno Orthapedic Center

RED

Soul Tree Yoga Studio

YogaPod

There will be a final drop off event at Sam's Club at 4835 Kietzke Lane from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Friday, July 26.

For more information, visit this link.
A lineman tends to fallen power lines in the East End neighborhood of Houston on Thursday. CenterPoint Energy said some of its repair crews had been threatened with violence. Raquel Natalicchio/Staff photographer

One man threw a rock and brandished a gun and another battered an electrical crews truck on a busy Houston highway in separate incidents that CenterPoint Energy said were examples of mounting threats and violence toward exhausted linemen in the wake of Hurricane Beryl.

In an email Friday to local officials warning of increasing criminal activity interfering with our restoration efforts, the utility company also highlighted an instance where a man ordered workers off his property at gunpoint.

Our crews are working tirelessly to get the lights and air conditioning back on, and these threats unfortunately hinder those efforts and unfairly target our workers, June Deadrick, a CenterPoint vice president for community relations, wrote in an email reviewed by the Chronicle.

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The reported threats come as at least 418,000 CenterPoint increasingly frazzled customers entered their sixth day without power since Beryls landfall last Monday. The hurricane veered north and knocked out power for more than 2 million homes and businesses in the Houston area amid sweltering temperatures.

Ed Allen, business manager for the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers Local 66 chapter, bemoaned that some on-the-job linemen have faced hostile interactions with a small minority of folks and have struggled to take breaks.

In Sugar Land, workers spotted a man brandishing an assault-style weapon menacingly across the street from them, said Sunday at a news conference with city and county officials. Another crew said they had been yelled at by a passerby while sitting down to eat hamburgers, he said.

Please, God, stop harassing these people  I mean, they can't even eat lunch, Allen said.

Deadrick asked city and county leaders to raise awareness about the issues, and Mayor John Whitmire and County Judge Lina Hidalgo have. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick shared his own request for calm.

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"There is no excuse, no matter how much youve been sweltering in the heat," Patrick said of the threats of violence against work crews.

In another email to local county and city leaders Sunday, CenterPoint representatives addressed the growing discontent among customers toward their handling of the outages and their intent to assess what went wrong.

But with 14,000 personnel still in the field, the safety of our crews is our top priority, wrote Jake Bunch, director of CenterPoints regulatory services. Our mutual assistance crews, which are employed by other utilities and companies across the country, are here at our invitation. They are not obligated to stay if their management believes their employees are unsafe.

Utility companies elsewhere have encountered few, if any, threats as described in Houston.

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Sara Yingling, a spokesperson for Texas-New Mexico Power, said some of their workers have reported alarming texts and calls to police and encountered interactions with upset customers at our offices and out on the roads.

As far as physical threats similar to what weve seen happening in CenterPoints service territory, I dont believe Ive heard anything mentioned at this point, Yingling said.

Officials at Beaumont-based Entergy Texas have encountered nothing of the sort.

Acting Houston Police Chief Larry Satterwhite was scant on statistics as he addressed the reports of CenterPoint threats during a news conference, but pointed to the alleged threat of a drive-by shooting and a man who was arrested.

CenterPoint officials said two unspecified charges had been accepted, but the Harris County District Attorneys Office could not be reached for comment on the nature of the charges.

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One man was charged with aggravated assault with a deadly weapon in connection with an incident involving a CenterPoint crew around 8:40 a.m. Saturday in the 1900 block of Wilcrest, police said. CenterPoint officials said the workers initially reported being shot at and having rocks thrown at them. A police investigation determined no shots were fired but that a 38-year-old man threw rocks and pointed a gun at them, authorities said. The man ran away but was later arrested and is due in court Tuesday.

Chief Deputy Mike Lee, of the Harris County Sheriffs Office, said his deputies had responded to a break-in of a CenterPoint vehicle and three instances of residents barring linemen from entering their properties.

At least one other account trickled in Sunday involving a man who struck a work crews window with what appeared to be a large stick or bent pipe. Footage of the man was recorded Sunday morning by what CenterPoint spokesperson Logan Anderson described as mutual assistance crews. The video, as circulated on social media, shows a man hitting the vehicle on the Southwest Freeway with the Lakewood Church visible across the way.

Police were investigating the video but no arrests have been made, an HPD spokesperson said.

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For years, she was the tabloid queen of bad girls, on screen and off. But then in 2015, actress Shannen Doherty, best known as proto-teen Brenda Walsh on Beverly Hills, 90210, was diagnosed with breast cancer, and her illness overshadowed all the rest. She died of the disease Saturday July 13 after announcing in June 2023 that cancer had spread to her brain. She was 53 years old.



"The devoted daughter, sister, aunt and friend was surrounded by her loved ones as well as her dog, Bowie. The family asks for their privacy at this time so they can grieve in peace," Doherty's long time publicist Leslie Sloan said in a statement to People.

Members only

At its height in popularity in the 1990s, Beverly Hills, 90210 was a global pop culture phenomenon and top ratings grabber. Dohertys rebellious Brenda was a fan favorite, and her tumultuous relationship with bad boy Dylan McKay (played by Luke Perry, who died of a stroke at 52 in 2019) made the show must-see viewing for the adolescent set, going head-to head against the 10th season of Cheers, which at the time was the longest-running hit comedy on TV. The trailblazing show has been credited with launching the teen soap genre, still popular today.

Born in Memphis, Tennessee, on April 12, 1971, Doherty was already acting professionally by age 10, doing Pepsi commercials and then guest spots on such TV series as Voyagers and Father Murphy, which Michael Landon created and produced. In 1982, Landon cast the 11 year old in the role of Jenny Wilder on Little House in the Prairie.

Costar Melissa Gilbert later said that the adorable Doherty copied everything she did, wanting to be her. Then she wrote in her 2009 memoir, Prairie Tale, that Doherty had a one-night stand with Gilberts first husband. If she saw her on the street, Gilbert told interviewer Andy Cohen in 2014, I wouldnt say anything, Id just punch her in the nose.

On publication of her own book, 2010s Badass: A Hard-Earned Guide to Living Life with Style and (the Right) Attitude, Doherty owned up to her misadventures to Parade magazines Jeanne Wolf but said she had learned her lesson with such escapades as writing bad checks and trashing homes.

You can either be a bad girl in life, or you can become a badass. It means owning who you are and being compassionate and knowing when youve made a mistake and not repeating it. And also not being afraid to kick some ass and take names.
Harris County Sheriffs and Houston Police close off the neighborhood around Italian Cypress Trail, where a Harris County Sheriff Deputy was shot a killed on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

A second person has been arrested and charged with capital murder in connection with the shooting death of Harris County deputy Fernando Esqueda, Sheriff Ed Gonzalez said.

Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez talks to the media to update a fatal police shooting that followed an physical altercation at Little Ceasers Pizza on Wallisville Road on Thursday, July 11, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

Dremone Francis, 26, was arrested and charged with capital murder, Gonzalez said in an 11 a.m. post on X.

It's unclear when Francis was taken into custody. Charging documents weren't immediately available Sunday morning.

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MORE ON HOUSTONCHRONICLE.COM: Funeral for Harris County deputy scheduled at Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart

Esqueda, 28, was shot and killed late Wednesday while responding to a report of an aggravated assault at a Little Caesars restaurant in northeast Harris County.

Harris County Deputy Fernando Esqueda, 28, was shot and killed shot overnight in northeast Harris County, officials said. Deputy Esqueda was a five-year Harris County Sheriffs Office veteran Harris County Sheriff's Office

The sheriff's office previously had said officers were looking for only one shooter in connection with the fatal encounter. Ronald Palmer. 44, was arrested Thursday and charged on suspicion of capital murder and with two counts of assault in connection with Esqueda's death and the complaint at the pizza shop.

Palmer is accused of shooting Esqueda, who was in uniform, in an ambush-style attack, according to police.

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During a probable cause hearing Friday, officials said there were other people at the shop with Palmer at the time of the assault and that at least one witness cooperated with police. Palmer is scheduled to appear in court Monday.
Alabama activist Kenneth Sharpton-Glasgow spent 30 years fighting for the voting rights of people with felony records.

But that was before he spent 11 months in federal prison on charges of tax evasion and drug distribution, locked up alongside men who rioted at the U.S. Capital on Jan. 6, 2021.

Now we have Trump, a presidential candidate, running for office and hes got 34 felonies, Sharpton-Glasgow told AL.com in a phone interview from the car after he left prison. So, to me, Im like, is that God smiling on me?

When he got out of prison this week, Sharpton-Glasgow told AL.com he sees a new opportunity this election year  the chance to turn felon disenfranchisement into a bipartisan issue, as former President Trump, a Republican, and Hunter Biden, son of Democratic President Joe Biden, are now among Americans with felony convictions.

Sharpton-Glasgow is 59 years old and spent most of his life just using the last name Glasgow. He is the half-brother of prominent activist Rev. Al Sharpton but has lived in Dothan for most of his life after he was brought there as a child by his mother, Tina Glasgow.

Rev. Al Sharpton was born in 1964 to parents Al Sharpton, Sr. and Ada Sharpton. Adas teenage daughter, Tina Glasgow, from a prior marriage came to live with the family and became pregnant with Al Sharpton, Sr.s son, Kenneth Glasgow.

That history left Sharpton-Glasgow with a complicated relationship to his name. Although he had been named Kenneth Sharpton on his birth certificate, he went by Glasgow. After his brother was stabbed at a protest in New York City, he used his mothers name to protect himself from retaliation, he said.

Sharpton-Glasgow spent 14 years behind bars in Florida for drug charges, where he studied religion, converted to Christianity and came up with the idea behind TOPS  The Ordinary People Society, according to ProPublica. After his release in 2001, he returned to Dothan as a preacher and community activist, focused on helping those who have been incarcerated and people caught up in the drug trade.

Sharpton-Glasgow worked on several campaigns to restore voting rights to felons in Alabama, an effort that culminated with a bill in 2017 that gave the right to vote back to many people convicted of drug crimes. He also worked on efforts in Florida to get former offenders registered to vote.

However, his life took a turn in 2018. Glasgow was helping a man find his stolen car when the vehicle reappeared and struck the car Glasgow was driving. The passenger jumped out and shot the woman driving his stolen car.

Although Glasgow didnt fire the shots, he was arrested and charged with capital murder. Glasgow said he had no idea his passenger intended to shoot someone. Almost three years later, the charges were dropped.

In 2023, Sharpton-Glasgow pleaded guilty to tax evasion and drug charges. Federal prosecutors said he used more than $1 million that had been donated to his nonprofit organization for personal expenses, failed to file a tax return and sought disability benefits even though he was healthy enough to work.

He reported to federal prison in August 2023. The experience, he said, was far different from his time in state prison in Florida. There was less violence and more resources. He and other inmates worked on a plan to register inmates eligible to vote.

In federal prison if they have a crime not involving moral turpitude, they can vote, Sharpton-Glasgow said.

Although Sharpton-Glasgow is still working on the same issues that he focused on before prison, he also wants a fresh start after his release. The name change is part of that.

His 97-year-old father, Al Sharpton, Sr., wrote to him in prison and asked him to change his name back to Sharpton as his final wish.

One thing that has always grieved me all these years is that no one could recognize your great accomplishments as belonging to the Sharpton family, Al Sharpton, Sr. wrote in a letter shared with AL.com.

After the turbulence of the last seven years, the letter seemed like a sign, Sharpton-Glasgow said. And yet, he also wanted to keep his mothers name, since she endured so much adversity to keep and raise him.

If we look at Biblical history, everybody that God touched or redeemed or resurrected out of the mess of whatever they went through, he renamed them, Sharpton-Glasgow said. Or gave them another name. Or added to their name. And thats exactly whats happening to me.

Sharpton-Glasgow will stay at the halfway house until the court says he can return to Dothan. He plans to focus on preaching and leave the operation of The Ordinary People Society. His work will continue to focus on people on the margins.

Paul in the Bible, he was in prison, and he wrote two-thirds of the New Testament, Sharpton-Glasgow said. Jesus went through prison and the crucifixion. Peter wrote a letter from prison. People in prison are people.
President Joe Biden on Sunday appealed for the country to unite as one nation after Saturdays attempted assassination of former President Donald Trump.

Biden plans to deliver extended remarks to the nation Sunday evening in a prime-time address from the Oval Office. News networks are expected to carry the statements live. The Whitehouse also is livestreaming on YouTube.

Biden said he was ordering an independent security review of the lead-up to the attack. He said he wants the probe to be thorough and swift, and asked the country not to make assumptions about the perpetrators motives or affiliations. He has also directed the U.S. Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention which begins Monday in Milwaukee.

The shooter, who fired multiple shots and also possessed bomb-making equipment, was killed by law enforcement. One rally-goer, a former fire chief, also was killed.

Trump himself called for unity and national resilience in statements after the event, and aides said he was in great spirts and doing well after being injured. He is pushing ahead with plans to attend the Republican National Convention.

In the moments after the shooting, Bidens reelection campaign said it was putting a hold on all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible. It was not clear how long the suspension would last.

Vice President Harris postponed a planned campaign trip to Florida on Tuesday, where she was to meet with Republican women voters in light of Saturdays shooting, according to a campaign official.

Some Biden critics are calling out the president for telling donors on a private call July 8 that its time to put Trump in the bullseye.

A person familiar with those remarks said Sunday that the president was trying to make the point that Trump had gotten away with a light public schedule after last months debate while the president himself faced intense scrutiny from many even within his own party for his dismal performance in the faceoff.
A Fort Payne teen was killed early Saturday morning in a single-vehicle accident while being pursued by police in DeKalb County.

The Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) identified the victim as 19-year-old Cody W. Ashley.

The crash happened at approximately 2:49 a.m. on DeKalb County 248, approximately two miles south of Fort Payne, according to ALEAs release.

Ashley was fatally injured when the 2020 Nissan Maxima he was driving left the roadway, struck a utility pole, a tree and then overturned. Ashley was pronounced deceased at the scene. A 16-year-old passenger in the Nissan was injured and transported to an area hospital for treatment.

Ashley was being pursued by a police officer with the Fort Payne Police Department at the time of the crash, according to law enforcement officials. Authorities did not release information on the reason for the police pursuit.

The investigation is ongoing by troopers with ALEAs Highway Patrol Division.
Former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee, in an interview with Sean Hannity on Fox News after former President Donald Trump survived an assassination attempt by a matter of inches on Saturday, quickly turned his analysis to a theological interpretation.

God spared Donald Trump, Huckabee said.

Today, Trump agreed with that assessment in a social media post on Truth Social.

Thank you to everyone for your thoughts and prayers yesterday, as it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening, Trump wrote. We will FEAR NOT, but instead remain resilient in our Faith and Defiant in the face of Wickedness. Our love goes out to the other victims and their families. We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed. In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win. I truly love our Country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin.

Im thankful that God spared his life, said Alex Reynolds, part of the Alabama delegation to the Republican National Convention as chairman of the Houston County Republican Party.

I dont think anybody can look at that situation and come up with any other conclusion than that the Lord had his hand of protection over President Trump, Reynolds said. Hes not lucky; I dont believe in that word. He is blessed to be alive and Im thankful to God that President Trumps life was not ended yesterday.

Alabama Sen. Katie Britt offered a prayer for Trump, for people at the rally, and for unity for the nation Saturday night.

On Fox, Hannity said, could have been a very different story tonight and its chilling, in his set up to Huckabee, an ordained minister who is a former pastor and a former president of the Arkansas Baptist Convention.

I think we have to be very aware of the fact that Gods hand was on Donald Trump tonight, Huckabee said. Ive been saying Gods hand has been on Donald Trump ever since he came down the escalator. Every possible way to destroy him has been used, every possible way. Theyve gone after him in criminal court, theyve gone after him in civil court, theyve gone after him with fake impeachments, with the most ridiculous charges thrown at him time and time again. Hes the most resilient man Ive ever seen. I have to believe that God spared Donald Trump today because he knows we need Donald Trump to lead this nation back to a place where people could live their lives in freedom and respect and responsibility and we havent had that and its time we get back to it. Ill get mocked for saying this, but the battle were in, Sean, is not political, its spiritual.

Social media supporters posted similar sentiments after the shooting, noting the near miss and attributing it to divine intervention.

God saved President Trump tonight so that he could save this Country, wrote Bernie Moreno, a Trump-endorsed candidate for senate in Ohio, on the social media site X.

God saved President Trump tonight so that he could save this Country. pic.twitter.com/c9sc7sIEyJ  Bernie Moreno (@berniemoreno) July 14, 2024

President Joe Biden was briefed on the shooting and released a statement Saturday evening condemning what occurred.
Jeff Sessions, Alabamas Republican former U.S. Senator who served as Attorney General under former President Donald Trump until the two had a public falling out, said Saturday his prayers are with Trump.

President Trump is a powerful leader. He never waivers, Sessions said.

He is always out front. He is physically courageous, and he will not be intimidated from taking his case to the American people. You can be sure this wont stop President Trump, Sessions said.

Americans of every party must condemn political violence. There must be no equivocation.

See also:

In 2015, Trump, then a hopeful for the GOP nomination, and Sessions, then still a Senator, took the stage together in Mobile during a during a rally at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. Sessions then became the first Senator to back the presidents 2016 campaign.

Sessions was one of the Trump campaigns strategists on immigration in 2016 and his name was mentioned as a possible running mate for Trump before being named AG.

The relationship between the two soured, however, when Sessions recused himself from the investigation into Russian interference in the 2016 presidential election, a move that enraged Trump.

In 2018, Sessions resigned as AG.

Trump said in a 2019 sit-down with NBCs Meet the Press that appointing Sessions was his biggest mistake.

I would say if I had one do-over, it would be, I would not have appointed Jeff Sessions to be attorney general, Trump said.

When Sessions ran for U.S. Senator again in 2020, Trump instead endorsed Tommy Tuberville in the GOP primary runoff.

Trump even went so far as mocking Sessions second-place finish, tweeting: This is what happens to someone who loyally gets appointed Attorney General of the United States & then doesnt have the wisdom or courage to stare down & end the phony Russia Witch Hunt. Recuses himself on FIRST DAY in office, and the Mueller Scam begins!
President Joe Biden released a statement Saturday after a gunman and rally attendee are dead, and Donald Trump was whisked away by Secret Service.

Here is Bidens statement:

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.

Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.

Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety. Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Biden said he has reached out to Trump but has not talked yet, but hopes to later Saturday night.

This kind of violence is sick, Biden said.

He added Trump supporters should have the right to rally in peace.

RELATED: Alabama leaders ask for prayers for Trump

The Associated Press is reporting the shooting is being investigated as an attempted assassination of the former president and presumptive Republican nominee, per law enforcement officials. It was not immediately clear whether Trump was shot, but the former presidents campaign quickly said that he was fine.

Two officials spoke to The Associated Press on the condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation. They said the shooter was not an attendee at the rally and was killed by U.S. Secret Service agents.

The officials said the shooter was engaged by members of the U.S. Secret Service counterassault team and killed. The heavily armed tactical team travels everywhere with the president and major party nominees and is meant to confront any active threats while other agents focus on safeguarding and evacuating the person at the center of protection.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Tony Flores, a computer science freshman at University of Houston, shows his design during a quick task at the Code [Coogs] club, at the University of Houston on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer University of Houston computer science major Sebastian Gutierrez, shows off his teams projects during the Code [Coogs] club, a computer science club at University of Houston, end-of-semester gathering on campus on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer Code [Coogs] club member UH computer science major, Reginald Green, introduces his teams project during an end-of-semester gathering on campus on Monday, Dec. 11, 2023 in Houston. Code [Coogs] is a computer science club at University of Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

Business, engineering, biology, health professions and computer science dominated as the most popular areas of study at Texas public universities last year, according to state enrollment data.

University-reported figures from fall 2023 show the heaviest concentration of students majoring in business and STEM fields, where the job market has grown and the pay is perceived to be highest. Psychology was an exception as Texas most frequently studied individual major, while other liberal arts and humanities degree programs, including English, foreign languages, and math and statistics, saw declines.

HIGHER ED: Search our database for the most expensive public universities in Texas

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The data  gathered by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and analyzed by the Chronicle  speak to concerns about student loan debt and whether certain degrees are worth the cost, university officials said. Case in point is a decrease in students pursuing degrees without a specialty, or listing their major as undeclared.

When I was going to school, the conversation was, Dabble here, take courses there, said Carmen Carter, assistant provost at Prairie View A&M University. Across the country, theres not as much room to find your way.

The decline in undeclared majors doesnt mean that students are not transferring or even being encouraged to transfer to different degree plans, but several students said their choice to study certain fields was tied to increased specialization and the need to market their skills to get jobs.

The data obscures that jobs are changing quickly  meaning that majors need to change with them  and that employers want graduates with the knowledge to match. But educators say that businesses also want workers with the critical-thinking skills typically associated with liberal arts programs, and they value employees with skills that cross disciplines. (One example might be an English major competent in data analysis or artificial intelligence.)

We need specialists, said Sheldon Rothblatt, a professor emeritus of history at the University of California at Berkeley, who formerly studied the history of campus planning and declines in liberal arts education. But we also need mental training that allows one to make some sort of sense of a world that, you will agree with me, is extraordinarily confusing.

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Business and STEM leads at four-year publics

The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board divides enrollment data into broader degree groupings and the majors that fall within those categories. More than 85,000 students last fall studied business, management, marketing and related support services, which contains 42 individual majors. Engineering followed as the next largest grouping with more than 52,000 students across 25 majors.

Following those were health professions, biological and biomedical sciences, and computer and information sciences and support services.

The findings came as no surprise to professionals who study the pathways from higher education into the workforce: Majors within those fields tend to have more direct routes to highly sought-after jobs in tech, business or health care.

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Business management, marketing and related support services, that group of majors provides a lot of agility for where they can go, said David Troutman, deputy commissioner for academic affairs and innovation at the state higher education agency. Health professions, we cannot produce enough health majors to keep up with the sheer growth in Texas.

Pay is also a concern for students like University of Houston junior Daniel Sanchez, who switched from a degree in chemistry to chemical engineering after looking at chemistry job opportunities in the Houston area and finding them lacking.

It was not worth it to continue the degree plan and pay a lot of money for that, Sanchez said. I have to pay (loans) back somehow.

Psychology is the top individual major

The almost 29,000 students who majored in psychology made it an anomaly, as the top individual major at Texas public universities. The next four spots went to business and STEM: biology, business administration and management, registered nursing and kinesiology.

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Those trends were consistent at many schools, including the University of Houston, Sam Houston State University and Prairie View A&M University. UHs largest undergraduate majors last year were business, psychology, computer science, exploratory studies, biology, health exercise science, mechanical engineering, computer information systems, and teaching and learning, according to college officials. Prairie Views largest majors included pre-nursing, kinesiology and biology.

FINANCIAL AID: What to know about the changing student loan landscape

Quenby Mott, dean of the Kinkaid Schools upper school, said it is common for her students to gravitate toward pre-med, business and engineering majors when applying for college. Some of that is natural, with more land grant colleges west of the Mississippi and more liberal arts schools in the northeast.

If your mom works in business and your dads an engineer, thats sort of the world that you know, Mott said. What we try to do is crack it open to expose them to more opportunities.

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Experts could only speculate about why psychology is so sought-after by students, aside from growing interest in mental health and students ability to see the broader applications more easily than they might with other liberal arts majors. Five years after graduation, almost half of Texas students who majored in psychology went on to jobs in educational services or health care and social assistance, with the remainder split across various fields, according to US Census Bureau data.

If you think about where companies are going and trying to understand their consumers and trying to create user-centered design, it has elements of psychology built in, said Peter Beard, senior vice president for regional workforce development at the Greater Houston Partnership. There are folks that are really trying to understand people in order to build products, in order to sell to them as well.

Growth areas align with the economy

The state higher education data also shows where the largest growth has occurred at four-year public universities: education, computer and information sciences, transportation and materials moving, legal professions and studies, and construction trades. Some of those have small base populations, meaning they arent necessarily popular overall, but education and computer and information sciences are larger disciplines.

Astronomical growth in education majors cant be owed to more teachers entering the field, but to a law change in 2019 that allowed Texas schools to offer an undergraduate degree in education, university officials said. The previous law, in place since 1979, saw future teachers graduating with degrees in interdisciplinary studies at many Texas colleges, including Texas A&M University and Texas State University. More than 1,400 students majored in education in 2014, far fewer than the almost 14,000 who majored in the field in 2023, according to the higher education agencys data.

Beard, of the Greater Houston Partnership, qualified that the law change makes it difficult to tell whether more students are pursuing teaching, although education is a natural place to find growth alongside increases in local or state population. The same is true for health professions. Other growth areas  business and engineering, for example  occur because of expanding local economies, he said.

The job market generally aligns with how students are choosing to major, university officials and professionals said. Some of the areas, such as education and health professions, cant fill positions fast enough, and computer science majors have ample opportunities despite the impression that layoffs in the tech sector are making those jobs hard to come by.

The majority of tech jobs are with businesses outside of the tech sector, including banks and insurance companies, said Munir Mandviwalla, a management information systems professor at Temple University. Since 2013, Mandviwalla has studied the entry-level IT workforce in partnership with the Association for Information Systems and has found even in the most recent years, graduates pursuing jobs in IT have better job placement rates than the average graduate.

Those opportunities are still fantastic, he said. Perhaps the tech firms will hire fewer of them, but then the insurance companies, the banks, hospitality industry, every other industry will be more than happy to grab them.

That reality hasnt been communicated well enough to the public, Mandviwalla said. University of Houston junior Nehaa Balaji said she plans to use her computer science degree to find a job in IT and doesnt view the job market as safe  but shes hopeful her technical skills will be attractive to employers.

Declines reported in some liberal arts, undeclared majors

In fall 2023, the fastest-shrinking groupings were undeclared; interdisciplinary studies; English literature and letters; foreign languages, literatures and linguistics; and mathematics and statistics.

The decrease in undeclared majors is part of a larger push in higher education, UH Provost Diane Z. Chase said. She and Carter, at Prairie View, said that students are still encouraged to transfer majors but tell them that it is at least beneficial to start on a path to a specific degree.

We want to make sure that students graduate in a timely fashion and with a few extra credits if possible, ideally none, Chase said.

The change within interdisciplinary studies is partly owed to the exodus of students from those majors into education. To meet employers desires to see more students with cross-specialty appeal, colleges like UH and Prairie View have since launched versions of multidisciplinary degree plans where students can combine majors and form their own concentration, the provosts said.

Liberal arts and humanities majors are also declining, possibly because students dont see those as fields with clear career paths, college educators said. Mott, at Kinkaid, said she has to work to explain to her high schoolers how marketable those majors can be.

We try to spend a lot of time really sort of unpacking that, talking about the fact that (many) students in medical school these days did not major in the natural sciences, Mott said. Sometimes majoring in something outside of that area actually will expand your understanding of a human being, through studying literature, in a way that studying biology would not.

Carol Rodriguez, a transfer student at the University of Houston, said she plans to take one of the more traditional routes with her English major, into teaching. She often has to combat the view that the major isnt worth it.

Its difficult, especially since everybody tells you youre not going to find a job, Rodriguez said. Its not uncommon for people to assume Im going into teaching.

English majors have more diverse career options than people might think: About 42% of Texas students entered education five years out of college. The rest splintered off into careers spanning health care, public administration and finance, among other fields.

We need to do a better job in higher education in general, of explaining all of the transferable skills that a student can learn in an English major or foreign language major, said Anne Gaillard, Sam Houston State Universitys vice provost for academic affairs.

Specialization is key

Academic departments constantly evaluate market needs and are encouraged to rethink their curriculum or approach in response, said Chase, the UH provost. Sometimes the programs need more exposure to high schoolers, or more specialized skills need to be taught.

For STEM fields like engineering, some of the base skills learned in those majors will always be necessary for jobs, Mott said. But since the fields change quickly, businesses are increasingly working to credential employees  upskilling them  as new techniques come to light. Those business partnerships are common with community colleges and might start moving into the four-year university space, said Beard, with the Greater Houston Partnership.

For fields that carry the impression of being less specialized, including some in liberal arts, many students are encouraged to receive certificates that tell employers they have technical skillsets.

What were seeing happening at the four-years is, theyre embedding microcredentials into popular majors like psychology and sociology, Troutman said. They can follow their passion in psychology, but theyre leaving with a certificate in project management or data analytics.

STRESS TO SUCCESS: Read our occasional series on college admissions

Chase cautioned that decreases in liberal arts and humanities majors arent representative of the fact that students take those courses in schools core curriculums, or that people might choose to minor in liberal arts or take them as electives.

Advocates for liberal arts education worry that the declines bode poorly for those programs, especially in states moving toward funding incentives for degree plans with higher employability. When that happens, the wealthier private colleges will be the places most likely to find more expansive liberal arts and social sciences programs, meaning the field might grow more limited to people from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, said Lynn Pasquerella, president of the American Association of Colleges and Universities.

The critical-thinking skills gained from liberal education are crucial to upholding the tenets of democracy, Pasquerella said, although the liberal arts have been attacked because some critics feel they are not teaching 21st-century skills or that they are pushing politically liberal agendas.

The truth is that employers are looking for humanities graduates, Pasquerella said.

We know that students now are looking for more than work when they graduate from college, she said. They want careers that are going to align with their meaning, purpose and passion.

At the state higher education agency, Troutman said the decreases in liberal arts are not large enough to be too concerned. Those fields remain important, and colleges are pivoting to ensure students can pursue their interests with good employment outcomes, he said.

The arts  we know that, economically, its not valued, but socially it is, Troutman said. How do we lean into that to support students who want to be an artist or a dancer or to inspire others? Ultimately, creating 'credentials of value' and not creating 'credentials of harm' is my ongoing statement.
Alabama Governor Kay Ivey posted a message of support for former president of the United States Donald Trump on Saturday, just minutes after apparent gunfire and secret service whisked him way from a podium in Butler, Pennsylvania.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Donald Trump and his family, Ivey posted on X, the social media platform formerly known as Twitter. I ask Alabamians to join me in praying for his swift recovery.

Alabama Republican Party Chairman John Wahl said the media is partially responsible for the shooting because of its relentless demonization and vilification of Donald Trump.

Their political bias towards a presidential candidate only serves to sow division and discord within our nation, Wahl said.

The American people deserve better. It is time for everyone to step back from political rhetoric, and look at every person as an individual made in the image of God. I call on the Democratic Party and mainstream media to stop their inflammatory attacks, which incites individuals against Donald Trump and his supporters, Wahl added.

Trump campaign said in a statement that he was fine, while the Secret Service in a statement that the former President is safe.

A shooter is dead and a rally attendee was killed, the Butler County District attorney told The Associated Press.

The White House said President Joe Biden has received an initial briefing on the incident.

Other Alabama politicians took to social media, too.

Wesley and I are praying for President Trump, and everyone at the rally, Senator Katie Boyd Britt (R-AL) posted.

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed posted that he is Im thankful Trump is safe following the attempt on his life.

Though political rhetoric has become more divisive then ever before, political violence from either side is indefensible and a betrayal of what our democracy stands for, Reed said.

I condemn this attack in the strongest possible terms. Political violence of any kind has NO place in the United States of America. My thoughts are with former President Trump and anyone else who may have been injured, U.S. Rep. Terri Sewell posted.

Wesley and I are praying for President Trump and everyone at the rally.  Senator Katie Boyd Britt (@SenKatieBritt) July 13, 2024

God bless President Trump, Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) posted. " Our prayers are with him.

God bless President Trump. Our prayers are with him.  Coach Tommy Tuberville (@SenTuberville) July 13, 2024

The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Alabama Sen. Katie Britt said her first reaction to the assassination attempt against former President Donald Trump was immense sadness. That was followed by a moment of prayer, for Trump, for those at the rally and  most of all, she said  for the country to be united.

This is a moment for unity for the nation and a moment for prayer, Britt said. Its one of the darkest days in modern American history.

READ MORE: Donald Trump said he heard whizzing sound, immediately felt bullet ripping through skin

Trump was shot Saturday during a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania in what is believed to have been an assassination attempt. Trump was shot in the ear; one attendee is dead and two spectators are reportedly critically injured. The shooter, identified later as Thomas Matthew Crooks, was reportedly killed at the scene.

Speaking from Washington, D.C. before traveling to Milwaukee for the Republican National Convention, Britt said every American should come together to condemn todays violence.

Political violence of any kind is completely unAmerican. Its deplorable and unequivocally unacceptable. We have to remember we are one nation, under God. And we have to remember in moments like these, we must pray for the healing of this nation, Britt said.

READ MORE: Biden reacts to possible attempted assassination of Trump: This kind of violence is sick

Our elections must be decided by ballots and not by bullets, she added.

Britt said the incident must also serve as a wake-up call of the importance of treating people with respect  even if you disagree with them.

We have to remember the R or the D behind our name is not what defines us as Americans, Britt said. The men and women I sit across the aisle from (in Congress), we all serve the same nation.

The shooting also highlights the bravery of the Secret Service who put themselves in the line of fire to move Trump out of the line of fire, Britt said.

The Secret Service are the very best among us. When the unthinkable occurs and everyone runs away, they run to it and put service over self. As people digest this with their families, do not let this moment pass without reminding your children how grateful you should be for the men and women in uniform.
George Wallace Jr., whose father was left paralyzed by an assassination attempt while campaigning for president in 1972, issued a statement Saturday after former President Trump was injured at a rally in Pennsylvania in what is being investigated as an assassination attempt.

As the son of a father whose life was profoundly affected by an assassination attempt during a presidential campaign, I join millions of Americans in sending prayers of thanks to God that President Trump was not seriously injured, Wallace said.

Big personalities with bold policies and ideas, like my father and President Trump, generate strong feelings and opposition from the other side, but that opposition should always be expressed in the form of ballots, not bullets.

George Wallace was campaigning for the Democratic nomination for president in a parking lot in Laurel, Md., on May 15, 1972, when he was shot by Arthur Bremer. Wallace was paralyzed from the waist down by the assassination attempt. Wallace died in 1998.

Authorities are investigating Saturdays incident in Pennsylvania as an assassination attempt on former President Trump.

Trumps political opponents have often compared him to the longtime Alabama political powerhouse.

I ask every elected official in America: Do you want to be on the side of Dr. King or George Wallace? Biden said in 2022 while speaking in favor of changing Senate rules in order to pass voting rights protections.
Alabama State Sen. April Weaver, a delegate to the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee that starts tomorrow, was injured after being struck by a car Friday night, according to a statement from her office.

Weaver, a Republican from Brierfield, was taken by ambulance to Shelby Baptist Medical Center after being struck by a car while in a pedestrian crosswalk, her office said. The incident happened at an Alabaster grocery store.

My guardian angel was obviously on my shoulder and protecting me from what could have been even more terrible injuries, Weaver said. I am grateful to the first responders of Alabaster Fire and Rescue, Alabaster Police Department, RPS ambulance service and Shelby ER for taking great care of me so quickly today.

Injuries were minor, the statement said.

X-ray scans and physicians assessments indicated no major injuries, but significant bruising and contusions did result, the statement said.

Weaver, a delegate pledged to Trump, has not determined if the incident will prevent her from attending the Republican National Convention.

Jeannie Negron Burniston, communications director for the Alabama Republican Party, said delegates from Alabama began arriving in Milwaukee Saturday and were continuing to arrive today.

She also said it was uncertain if Weaver could attend. To be determined, she said. We hope so.
This is an opinion column

Be afraid. Hide your children. A conservative think tank from the swamp of Washington, D.C., has joined with like-minded groups around the country to develop a comprehensive list of federal policies that could change America forever. The Heritage Foundations much maligned Project 2025 is so terrifying that it might just work.

Before we ever discuss the Heritage Foundation project, we should realize that he fuss around Project 2025 is politically manufactured.

The media raised the specter of a shadowy cabal looking to shape America right about the time President Joe Biden absolutely tanked his debate against former President Donald Trump. It wasnt a coincidence. The day of the debate, Biden launched a website tying Trump to Project 2025 and arguing it, among other horrors, terminates the Constitution.

Project 2025 is a presidential transition plan. The core policy document upon which it is based is the 2025 Mandate for Leadership. The Heritage Foundation has put together such plans for decades.

This iteration of the 922-page policy compendium is such a pressing concern that Democrats have ignored it since it was published in April 2023. Suddenly, Americans must focus on stopping Project 2025 instead of paying attention to Biden falling apart in front of us.

Project 2025 will destroy America, Biden boldly declared on social media.

Trump, realizing no benefit in endorsing a policy product from the Heritage Foundation, kicked it to the curb. I know nothing about Project 2025, the former president wrote. I have no idea who is behind it. I disagree with some of the things theyre saying and some of the things theyre saying are absolutely ridiculous and abysmal. Anything they do, I wish them luck, but I have nothing to do with them.

Unfortunately, Trump knows the Heritage Foundation and the names of many of the individuals and organizations who put Project 2025 together. As a result, media outlets understandably grilled Trump for his dishonesty.

As an alumnus of conservative and libertarian think tanks and political offices, Im familiar with many of the folks who put Project 2025 together. The Alabama Policy Institute, where I previously worked, is on the advisory board for the project. Ive served in the Senate with other contributors. These are primarily policy wonks who care about how the government functions, spends money, and governs American people and businesses.

If you want to understand the difference between policy and politics, compare Project 2025 to the 2024 Republican Party Platform. The former is something that politicians and regulators could enact, the latter looks like my boys sat around the kitchen table and drew something up with crayons.

Even as a conservative, Im not in the tank for the Heritage Foundation. I lost a lot of love when the think tank whored itself out on isolationist trade policies to match Trumps preferences which resulted in a competitive advantage for China. Watching the titan of conservative thought attempt to uncritically institutionalize Trumpism was political pandering at its worst. While I respect Heritage Foundation President Kevin Roberts, Im concerned that hes lost the joy of Reagans happy warriors.

That said, Project 2025 represents tremendous work and consensus among serious conservative and libertarian thinkers.

If you support abortion, the federal bureaucracy, porn for kids, and unchecked technology oligarchs, youre really going to hate what the Heritage Foundation has done. If youre supportive of a legal system of immigration, policies to restrict abortion, forcing Congress to be accountable for the laws that impact America, and shrinking the size of the federal government, youll like it.

In either event, conservatives putting forth conservative policy ideas isnt a threat to America. It is a clear and vital challenge to progressive liberalism and the federal bureaucracy. Thats why Democrats and aligned media presently engage in extreme hyperbole about Project 2025.

Its not just radical policy changes. Its not just regime change that we might never recover from, Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Md. noted. It also is a kind of civilizational death wish.

I have yet to meet a conservative who wanted to end civilization.

My friend Rick Dearborn, Trumps Deputy Chief of Staff, opens the first chapter in the 2025 Mandate for Leadership with a detailed presentation of White House functions. The chapter is decidedly thorough and about as exciting as youd imagine a description of the core responsibilities of an ideal White House would be.

Russ Vought, former Director of the Office of Management and Budget, addresses the existential need for aggressive use of the vast powers of the executive branch to return power including power currently held by the executive branchto the American people. Terrifying stuff. Imagine what would happen if we pushed governing power out of Washington to Americas families, faith communities, local governments, and states.

Chapter after chapter, the policy guide walks through the federal government and suggests conservative improvements.

Think of the Mandate for Leadership as a buffet of conservative ideas. A much younger Heritage Foundation created the original version for President Ronald Reagans administration in 1980. Presidents, both Democrat and Republican, are free to select what they want and ignore the rest.

For example, Ive long argued the government has a critical role in curtailing minor access to pornography. I disagree with Project 2025s suggestion that pornographers should be imprisoned. While such a sentiment might be popular with conservatives, it probably isnt constitutional.

Project 2025 also breaks company with Trump in important ways as well. It calls for America to [r]ejoin the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP), whose 11 members are developing institutional trade norms in an important geopolitical region without U.S. input or involvement.

It also pushes back on tariffs which Trump supports. We are five years into the biggest experiment with tariffs since the Great Depression, and the results are in, the document reads. The new tariffs raise consumer prices for ordinary Americans by about $1,200 per household every year and benefit only a small number of special interests.

We shouldnt uncritically subscribe to any policy plan, but we shouldnt dismiss them offhand either. America has had enough political talking points, platitudes, and gaslighting to last a lifetime. The Heritage Foundation has done the work, combed through the research, and put forth serious policy ideas. Democrats can howl and criticize all they want, but theyd be better served by liberal organizations putting forth a competing set of ideas of similar quality.

The Heritage Foundation clearly isnt interested in maintaining the status quo in Washington, DC. Neither are the American people.

Smith is a recovering political attorney with four boys, two dogs, a bearded dragon, and an extremely patient wife. Hes a partner in a media company, a business strategy wonk, and a regular on talk radio. Please direct outrage or agreement to csmith@al.com or @DCameronSmith on X or @davidcameronsmith on Threads.
At this point, weve all seen it, heard it, and lived it: the public mental demise of the puppet president of the United States.

Joe Biden, the lifelong politician, professional liar, and poster boy for term limits, has served his purpose  quite well, I might add  as the far lefts useful idiot. In only four years, he has wrecked the economy, allowed millions of people to casually walk across our borders, and entered all but a full-on war with Russia.

But wait a minute: something odd is taking place in our media and from the left. They are calling for Biden to step aside. What in the world of pragmatic demagoguery is going on here?

On June 27, President Biden took the stage with his opponent, Donald J. Trump, for the first, and earliest ever, presidential debate. The entire world got to see the real Joe Biden. It was so bad that even the mainstream propaganda media for the left was unable to ignore this ugly reality. Never mind that the Biden gaffe machine was on display many times previous but quickly dismissed by the left as cheap fakes and right-wing conspiracies. This time, its different. Maybe its the shrinking poll numbers or the proximity of the pending election, but I suspect there is more at play behind the scenes, and that is why we should be on guard.

Last month, Biden attended a fundraiser in the land of make-believe, surrounded by celebrities, most notably George Clooney, who would go on to write an opinion piece for the New York Times calling for Biden to step aside, but it leaves one to wonder why it took a month and a public debate to conclude the president is no longer capable of serving.

Given these calls from his own party to step aside, Biden and his closest handlers have mustered some form of resistance. A defiant stance has emerged that sees him place blame on the elites of the left-wing establishment while claiming that his base still supports him. Laughably, his efforts to reverse the damage provided more fodder, as he referred to the leader of Ukraine  to his face, I might add  as President Putin while later referring to his own running mate as Vice President Trump. Folks, you cant make this stuff up. Its a political parody that writes itself.

While the Trump team and his supporters collectively laugh at the spectacle that is the current Democrat ticket, attention needs to shift toward those who are running this country from behind the curtain. If you think they are caught off guard, think again. This is a time to be wary, to prepare for the other shoe to drop. Otherwise, come November, through stealth and design, Trump could find himself denied a second term.

This consortium of allies and provocateurs got Biden elected four years ago, and lets be honest: he is nothing more than a figurehead, a marionette, controlled from above by the Deep State shadow government that has thrived for decades. Bidens cognitive decline is not a surprise; its part of the plan, and they know just how to use it to achieve their next initiative. Have you noticed that as the Democrats seem to be falling apart, not just recently, but over the past six months, the Obamas, the Clintons, George Soros, Bill Gates...none of them seems concerned in the slightest? Why is that?

Obama and the Clintons have been traveling inside Bidens circles for much of the last four years. They have all appeared together multiple times at fundraisers and other gladhanding events. To think they dont know exactly what is going on inside the White House is naive.

So how did we get to where we are today, with literally everyone on the left wringing his hands and gnashing his teeth at the very thought of Biden continuing for even one more day as their standard bearer? To find the answer, we should focus on those who dont seem to be troubled at all. This Obama conglomerate has remained mostly silent and content, saying the right things, offering support, almost smug with understated confidence. But why? These are the ones with the most to lose. If anyone should be leading the charge for change, it would be they...right?

Biden and Trump engaged in a presidential debate earlier than any previous election cycle. This alone raises a lot of questions  not for Trump and his side, but for Biden. Why debate at all, let alone this early?

Biden, even this remnant of his former self, is a stubborn man with a massive ego. This dynamic might help explain how things have come to this point in time. Imagine this scenario as we approached the 2020 elections. Obama and his cohorts present a scenario to Joe  the useful idiot who would do anything to sit in the big chair  whereby he would become the face of the franchise in exchange for his willingness to allow other voices to lead the country from behind the scenes. Speak when told, stick to the script, eat some ice cream, and leave the heavy lifting to us.

Thats where this stubborn curmudgeon, with his massive ego intact, coupled with the other inflated ego in the room, Dr. Jill, has let this get interesting. Theyve decided theyre not ready to go home.

But remember: Obama holds the leverage. He knows firsthand all the shenanigans of the Biden crime family. There is no love lost between these two, and any resistance to keeping their end of the deal, to step aside when told, is easily dealt with even if it gets a little messy. They are not surprised; they know how to handle Joe, and they have a plan.

Trump has all the momentum now. The Deep State power brokers will allow Trump and his side a time of celebration just long enough to allow complacency to creep in, as though this election is only all but won. Biden, meanwhile, will go quietly, maybe even be allowed to play the hero of sorts, doing the right thing for his country and all that...or he will let his ego finish him off in a disgraceful implosion of his lifelong career as a political racketeer.

Either way, if you buy into the thought that the left is doomed, you are playing right into leftists hands. Though we laugh and mock this apparent collapse on the left, the leftists are many steps ahead, and the laughter may soon come to an end.

My advice to those hoping to save this once great nation: Get on your knees. Pray for our country in earnest. We need God now more than any time in our history.

Image: Gage Skidmore via Flickr, CC BY-SA 2.0.
According to eyewitness testimony, the gunman climbed up atop a building with a rifle and crawled across the roof before opening fire:

This was a failure by the secret service. A guy army-crawled up a roof with a visible rifle to a firing position, and they missed it.



Very poor performance @SecretService



You need to apologize to the nation, conduct a review, and initiate reforms.

pic.twitter.com/XLB8zLMbly  texanconstitutionalist (@texanconstitut1) July 14, 2024

The witness states that both the Secret Service and local police were warned that the gunman was preparing to fire but was ignored.

We emphasize that these are first reports, and might well be amended at a later date. But Jason Chaffetz of Fox News had also excoriated the Secret Service for its failure. Rest assured that inquiries will be made.

Image: CTH
Large power line transformers are visible, left center, while personnel work on a broken power pole along Broadway near the causeway Thursday, July 11, 2024, as crews repair power lines downed as Hurricane Beryl made landfall Monday. Kirk Sides/Staff photographer Audrey Williams, left, is comforted by Houston Councilman Joaquin Martinez after he arrived with water and food for resident at an independent living facility, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Houston. Williams became emotional when talking about her 93-year-old mother and other residents who have been without AC or working elevators in the multi-flood facility for several days. Weve got you, Martinez said. Were leaning on [Centerpoint] hard. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer David Wanat, right, loses control of a branch he carried over his head in front of his brother, Nicholas as their family and other volunteers help clean up debris around Hermann Park after damage from Hurricane Beryl on 713 Day, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Mackenzie Cooper rakes branches and other debris as she and other volunteers help clean up debris around Hermann Park after damage from Hurricane Beryl on 713 Day, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Ollie Stephen, left, checkes on his dad, James Walker, at an independent living facility, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Houston. Walker and other residents have been without AC or working elevators in the multi-floor facility for several days. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Jack Stultz drags a large tree branch toward a debris pile as his family and other volunteers help clean up debris around Hermann Park after damage from Hurricane Beryl on 713 Day, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Houston. Jason Fochtman/Staff photographer Victor Ibarra, from left, Antonio Franco and Ariel Perez pass out donated ice with Galena Park Resources and Training Center on Friday, July 12, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer A utility worker replaces a light on Airline Road that came off during Hurricane Beryl on Friday, July 12, 2024 in Houston. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

Find live updates for Monday here: CenterPoint nears 2M customers' power restored a week out from Hurricane Beryl.

The number of CenterPoint customers in the Houston area without power dipped below 270,000 Sunday night, six days after Hurricane Beryl tore through the Houston area.

The company said it expected to bring 350,000 customers online Sunday. The day prior it restored power to around 219,000 homes and businesses amid mounting pressure from government officials and customers alike to return power and provide transparent communication in the wake of Beryl.

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The company said it had returned power to 1.8 million customers total, about 80% of its service area, but said some restorations could take until July 19. Some areas in Houston do not yet have an estimated restoration time.

Follow along below for live updates on the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl from Houston Chronicle reporters and meteorologists. Here's a recap of coverage from Friday and Saturday. The Chronicle's coverage of Beryl is paywall free. To support our journalism, please consider subscribing to the Chronicle for unlimited digital access.

As of 8 p.m. Sunday night, Texas-New Mexico Power has restored power to 93% of customers impacted by Beryl, according to a statement. TNMP serves eastern parts of Galveston County and parts of Brazoria County.

Around 11,000 customers were out at the beginning of the day, and the company's crews 3,000 restored through Sunday, accrding to the TNMP statement.

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"TNMP is dealing with small clusters and individual service-level outages that are taking significant time and resources to restore," according to an update on its outage tracker.

The utility asked customers to report outages via the Report Outage button on the outage map site, by emailing hurricane@tnmp.com or by calling 888-866-7456.

- Claire Hao

CenterPoint issued a statement Sunday night in response to Gov. Greg Abbott's press conference in Houston earlier in the day, in which Abbott demanded the utility make changes this month to avoid state intervention.

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CenterPoint claimed it was "restoring power at the fastest rate in the company's history" in the aftermath of Beryl.

"We have heard and understand our customers frustrations, and we are committed to working together with the State, local government, regulators, and community leaders both to help the Greater Houston area recover from Hurricane Beryl and to improve for the future. We are committed to doing a thorough review of our response to support our customers and our communities, especially when they need us most," CenterPoint said in its statement.

The Houston power distributor also countered what it called "significant misinformation in news and social media" regarding the payment of mutual assistance crews.

"Consistent with industry standards that enable the rapid sharing of resources, CenterPoints mutual assistance contracts are pre-negotiated, including payment terms. Crews have not and are not being held back due to negotiations on pay. The company reimburses for all costs incurred to provide the assistance, including wages," according to CenterPoint's statement.

- Claire Hao

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There are 268,300 CenterPoint customers without power as of 8:30 p.m. Sunday, according to the company's outage tracker.

Houston's power distributor reported around 461,185 outages 6:20 a.m. Sunday, which means the company's crews have restored more than 192,000 customers since then.

CenterPoint has restored 1.99 million customers since Beryl, which is around 88% of its impacted customers, according to the outage tracker. The company remains on track to reach 90% of customers restored by the end of Monday, according to an 8:30 p.m. Sunday statement.

The utility has 14,000 crew members working on restoration, according to the statement.

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- Claire Hao

Houston ISD will resume summer school classes Monday after Hurricane Beryl caused power outages that forced the district to cancel classes last week.

HISD spokesperson Joseph Sam said Sunday that all HISD summer school students will be returning to class, and each campus will be contacting families with information about where their children will attend class. He said students who normally attend a campus that still does have power will attend a different site.



Drop-off and pick up locations will remain the same, Sam said in a statement. HISD will transport students between summer school sites when necessary. Campuses will be notifying students if there is a change to their school.

- Megan Menchaca

Downed trees and branches continue to be the primary challenge in Entergys power restoration efforts across the northern Houston region Sunday, the company said in a Sunday evening update.

More than 20,000 of its affected customers remain without power, according to the company's outage tracker.

We continue relocating restoration workers to the most significantly impacted areas, like the Cleveland, New Caney and Conroe networks, the statement said. Additionally, special equipment is being used to reach hard-to-access areas and make repairs as quickly as possible.

Entergy added that it expects its customers around The Woodlands to have power restored by 10 p.m. Sunday. Its Conroe, New Caney and Cleveland networks are expected to be restored by 5 p.m. Monday.

- Jhair Romero

More than 100,000 CenterPoint Energy customers have had their power restored since Sunday morning as widespread outages persist around Houston.

The number of impacted customers began around 465,000 Sunday morning but has fallen to around 350,000 as of 4:30 p.m. The company said earlier it expects to exceed its goal of restoring 85% of affected customers by the end of the day.

Entergy, an energy provider that serves Montgomery, San Jacinto and Galveston counties, also has made progress. Its outage tracker shows 21,000 customers still without power, down from over 30,000 this morning.

Texas-New Mexico Power reported a little more than 1,100 outages across Galveston, Brazoria and Matagorda counties Sunday afternoon, with most expected to be resolved by the end of the day.

- Jhair Romero

Free ice, water and meals ready-to-eat packages are available at 11211 Spottswood Drive in northeast Houston, according to a post on X from Harris County Sheriff Ed Gonzalez.

Fred Woods, president of the Northwood Manor Civic Club, said the site has plenty of available resources as of 4:45 p.m Sunday. The distribution site will shut down after dark, he said.

The site is a collaboration between the sheriff's office, the City of Houston, the Harris County Judge's office, Northwood Manor Civic Club and other groups.

- Claire Hao

With hundreds of thousands of people still without power, Harris County has opened cooling centers for residents to cool off, charge devices and enjoy free Wi-Fi.

There are cooling centers available at certain public library locations, community centers and fitness centers throughout the county until Sunday evening. You can find the locations of each center and their hours here.

- Megan Menchaca

Six days after Beryl hit the Houston area, the number of CenterPoint Energy customers without power fell below 400,000.

Crews have restored electricity to at least 75,000 Houston-area customers since Sunday morning, bringing the tally of still-affected CenterPoint customers to just over 382,000 as of 3:30 p.m. The company previously said it expected to restore power to 90% of its impacted customers by the end of the day Monday.

Other power distributors have also made progress in restoring electricity to the Houston area.

Entergy, which services areas north of Houston and in Galveston County, expected most of its impacted customers to have power back by the end of Sunday. Texas-New Mexico Power said most of its customers would also have their power restored Sunday, but repairs in some areas will extend later into the week.

- Jhair Romero

Houston residents seeking to beat the heat can access free ice and water at five distribution centers until 7 p.m. Sunday.

Heres a list of the open distribution sites:

Acres Homes Multi-Service Center at 6719 W. Montgomery Road

Denver Harbor Multi-Service Center at 6402 Market St.

Kingwood Community Center at 4102 Rustic Woods Drive

Northeast Multi-Service Center at 9720 Spaulding St.

Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center at 4410 Reed Road

- Megan Menchaca

One man threw a rock and brandished a gun, while another battered an electrical crews truck on a busy Houston highway in separate incidents that CenterPoint Energy said were examples of mounting threats and violence toward exhausted linemen in the wake of Hurricane Beryl.

In an email Friday to local officials warning of increasing criminal activity interfering with our restoration efforts, the utility company also highlighted an instance where a man ordered workers off his property at gunpoint.

Our mutual assistance crews, which are employed by other utilities and companies across the country, are here at our invitation. They are not obligated to stay if their management believes their employees are unsafe, wrote Jake Bunch, director of CenterPoints regulatory services, to local county and city leaders in an email Sunday.

- Nicole Hensley

Gov. Greg Abbott blamed CenterPoint Energy for putting millions of people at risk by failing to swiftly restore power to large swaths of the Houston area after Hurricane Beryl pummeled the Gulf Coast. In a Sunday public address, his first since returning from Asia, Abbott also ordered the power company to make swift changes to safeguard customers.

"Because of the extreme heat, because of the lack of power, there are lives at risk every single day," Abbott said at a news conference shortly after 1 p.m. Sunday. The failure of power companies to provide power to their customers is completely unacceptable.

Abbott ordered CenterPoint by July 31 to remove vegetation that threatens power lines and to specify what actions it will take to pre-stage workers for the rest of the hurricane season. If the electricity company doesnt respond by the deadline, Abbott said he will issue executive orders forcing change.

Abbott drew some local criticism for attending a pre-planned economic development mission to Taiwan, South Korea and Japan during Beryl. Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick stood in as Acting Governor and provided updates on emergency relief, the death toll and power outage restoration.

- Rebekah Ward

CenterPoint Energy now expects to restore power to 90% of its customers affected by Beryl by the end of Monday, according to a 12:30 p.m. Sunday update. The company said it is tracking ahead of its goal to restore electricity to 85% of its impacted customers by the end of Sunday.

The Houston areas largest power distributor reported around 418,000 customers still without power as of 1:15 p.m. Sunday, a drop of more than 40,000 from earlier in the day.

In a statement Sunday, CenterPoint CEO Jason Wells said more than 2,100 power poles were damaged during Beryl last week and more than 18,600 weakened trees had to be removed from the company's lines.

Crews are converging on areas with significant structural damage as well as localized outages, deploying resources, equipment and mobile generation to restore customers as safely and quickly as possible, he said.

- Jhair Romero

The Houston City Council plans to meet Monday to consider an ordinance allowing Mayor John Whitmire to extend a proclamation of a local state of disaster for the City of Houston beyond seven days.

Whitmire issued the proclamation on Monday in response to the imminent threat to the people and communities of Houston resulting from Hurricane Beryl, according to the ordinance. The extension would allow the city to continue to support emergency measures related to hurricane recovery.

Council plans to hold a special meeting at 2 p.m. in the council chambers at City Hall.

- Megan Menchaca

A group of community leaders, including Houston Mayor John Whitmire and Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo, plan to announce the creation of the Hurricane Beryl Disaster Recovery Fund on Monday.

The fund will be administered by the Greater Houston Disaster Alliance and will raise money for low-to-moderate income families to fund emergency financial assistance, home repairs and assistance accessing resources in the City of Houston and Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery and Waller counties.

The announcement is expected to come Monday afternoon at the United Way of Greater Houston. The United Way last week estimated that home repair costs from Beryl surpassed $20 million.

Over the last 20 years, the disaster alliance has raised more than $350 million on recovery efforts in the Houston area, including $3 million raised around Mays derecho.

 John Wayne Ferguson

The majority of Houston-area school districts and colleges are planning to reopen Monday after being closed all last week due to power outages and damage caused by Hurricane Beryl.

Cypress Fairbanks, Katy, Conroe and several other ISDs announced they would largely resume normal operations Monday, though some campuses in a few districts may still be without power.

Fort Bend ISD announced that all campus activities and summer camps would be canceled this week and would resume July 22. Other districts, including Houston ISD, have not announced whether theyll be re-open Monday.

- Megan Menchaca

Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner Adrian Garcia plans to host a press conference later today to talk about reported threats against linemen working to restore power to the Houston area.

Garcia, a former Harris County Sheriff, will be joined by acting Houston Police Department Chief Larry Satterwhite and Sheriff Ed Gonzalez as well as representatives from the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers.

The press conference will be at 3 p.m. at the Leonel Castillo Community Center.

There have been multiple reports of lineworkers being threatened since the storm made landfall on Monday, though police have released little specific information about the people charged.

- John Wayne Ferguson

Power has been restored for another 9,300 Entergy customers as of Sunday morning. The New Orleans-based energy provider, which serves Montgomery, San Jacinto and Galveston counties in Texas, reported about 30,366 outages around 6 a.m. That number dwindled to 21,060 by 10 a.m., the company said in a statement.

The restoration accounts for 90% of its impacted customers, according to their news release. The company blamed downed trees and other vegetation as the cause for the remaining outages.

Entergy-serviced homes and businesses without power in the Woodlands network are expected to be fixed Sunday and Monday for those in the Conroe, New Caney and Cleveland area.

- Nicole Hensley

More than 11,000 Texas-New Mexico Power customers in Galveston and Brazoria counties were without power Sunday morning, and it could be until Wednesday until they are restored.

The company posted that it was now dealing with small clusters and individual service-level outages, that could take longer to fix.

TNMP blamed uprooted trees, tree limbs and broken poles for the extended outage time.

- John Wayne Ferguson

An array of free meals, food and other supplies are being offered throughout the Houston area as power outages continue to drag on for some.

The Salvation Army is distributing hot meals from 12 p.m. until 1:30 p.m., or until supplies run out, at the El Camino Center at 2727 El Camino Street in Houston.

Kroger is handing out water and non-perishable snacks from 10 a.m. until noon at one of their stores at 18518 Kuykendahl Road in Spring.

Similar distribution sites have been set up at Harris County Precinct 1's Central Service Center at 7901 El Rio Street and the Lincoln Park Community Center at 979 Grenshaw Street, both in Houston.

In Fort Bend County, food, water and cleaning supplies are being offered at the Fort Bend Epicenter at 28505 Southwest Freeway in Rosenberg.

In Montgomery County, supplies, such as water, ice or emergency ration meals, will be offered at Bull Sallas Park in New Caney. The site will be open from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., or until supplies last.

- Nicole Hensley

A volunteer carries a case of water to a car outside of Sunnyside Health and Multi-Service Center during a distribution of water and ice on Wednesday, July 10, 2024, after Hurricane Beryl hit the Houston area on Monday. Karen Warren/Staff photographer

More than 8,000 homes and businesses in Galveston County had their power restored on Saturday, including many of the homes and businesses in the mainly residential mid-island neighborhoods of Galveston, city officials said.

Galveston Mayor Craig Brown said restoration teams were making good progress and were continuing to rebuild infrastructure on the islands West End.

We cannot control the power, but we are focusing on those areas within our control, Brown said in a Saturday evening update.

The city has opened disposal centers for people to drop off spoiled food, and is operating a 24-hour cooling center and public showers at the McGuire Dent Recreation Center, on Seawall Boulevard, Brown said.

On Saturday, CenterPoint estimated that Galvestons West End communities would not be restored until July 19. However, as of Sunday morning, the companys map indicated the West End had been energized. Most of the islands remaining outages were reported around 51st Street, according to CenterPoints map.

Another large group of outages was still reported in Santa Fe-Hitchcock area of Galveston County.

- John Wayne Ferguson

One of Houstons grocery store chains will be hosting an emergency community relief drive-through event Sunday morning to provide supplies to residents in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.

Supplies will be distributed at the Kroger grocery store located at 18518 Kuykendahl Road, one of the 8 locations in the Spring area that has been widely impacted by outages and fallen debris.

The event will begin at 10 a.m. and will end at noon, or until supplies last.

There will be free water and snack bags provided for up to 500 people who make it to the drive-through, on a first-come-first-served basis, according to the grocers release.

- Elizabeth Sander

Five people were stopped by police Sunday morning as police were investigating the theft of a generator being used to power a railroad safety crossing.

The Houston Police Department posted about the theft just before 2 a.m. Sunday.

The suspects were detained in the 9500 block of Hirsch road, in northeast Houston near the streets intersection with Tidwell Road.

Police were assisted by Allen Police Department officers, one of the agencies that came to Houston to provide extra help during the storm recovery, as well as the Union Pacific Railroad Police Department.

More details about the theft werent immediately available. It was unclear if any charges had been filed as of Sunday morning.

 John Wayne Ferguson

Dalana Turner, a Cincinnati-Dayton based Kroger employee, restocks the freezer section at the grocery store on Shepherd Street on Friday, July 12, 2024 in Houston. The company sent employees from other locations to assist the Houston in getting fully stocked after Hurricane Beryl. Elizabeth Conley/Staff Photographer

Bad news for people who are still trying to live without power: Houstons climate will feel more oppressive than normal on Sunday.

Dew points are forecasted to be in the upper 70s through much of the day, adding to air temperatures that will rise to near-90 degrees. The heat index will be between 101 and 104 degrees.

There is a chance of thunderstorms along the coast in the early afternoon, but most of the Houston region is expected to stay dry Sunday.

 John Wayne Ferguson

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott will visit Houston today, according to his office. It will be his first time in the city since the hurricane made landfall July 8.

Abbott is expected to speak from the Gallery Furniture store on the North Freeway around noon. He will be joined by Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick, Texas Division of Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd and furniture store owner Jim "Mattress Mack" McIngvale, according to his office.

Abbott was on an economic development tour in southeast Asia when the hurricane struck. The day after the storm, President Joe Biden said the White House could not distribute emergency relief supplies, including power generators, because federal officials were trying to track down state leaders and get a formal request for a major disaster declaration.

With Abbott out of the country, Patrick served as the states acting governor.

- John Wayne Ferguson

Residents in Kingwood have reported sewage backing up into their yards, and even into their homes, in the aftermath of Hurricane Beryl.

Picket Warton, a Kingwood resident, told KHOU that sewage was overflowing in his backyard and sometimes made it into his home. Wartons neighbors, who also spoke with the outlet, said the smell was so pungent that many in the area had left.

Wartons neighbor, Derek Veatch, told KHOU that these sewage leaks are frequent occurrences whenever the power goes out.

Warton said theyve contacted the city and their councilmembers numerous times asking for a generator for the sewage plant to stop the leaks, but have had no help.

Houston Public Works allegedly told the outlet that it would send wastewater cleanup trucks to the area and that they have mobile generators going out to various lift stations because they dont have enough for the city.

- Elizabeth Sander

The combined number of power outages for the Greater Houston Area as of 6:20 a.m. Sunday was 514,000 homes and businesses, according to a review of local energy providers.

CenterPoint reported more than 461,185 outages, a slight backslide from the 460,604 it reported on Saturday night.

Texas-New Mexico Power, which serves eastern parts of Galveston County and parts of Brazoria County, reported 23,394 outages to homes and businesses.

Entergy, an energy provider that serves Montgomery, San Jacinto and Galveston County, reported 30,366 outages. Power has been restored to all of Bolivar Peninsula in Galveston County, according to the company's map.
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Have you ever noticed that virtually every photo of Chuck Schumer looks like a medieval rendering of a demon? That evil, smug grin is at once repellent and chilling, a promise of infinite evil to come. And so it is again:

Graphic: Chuck Schumer official photo. Wikimedia Commons.org. Public Domain.

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer (D-N.Y.) announced Monday that he and other Senate Democrats will work to advance legislation to strip former President Trump of the immunity he was granted under a recent Supreme Court ruling protecting a presidents official acts from criminal prosecution. Schumer, invoking Congresss powers to regulate the courts, said Democrats are working on legislation to classify Trumps efforts to subvert the results of the 2020 election as unofficial acts so they do not merit immunity from criminal prosecution under the high courts recent 6-3 decision.

That a Senator who does all he can to ignore and/or tear down the Constitution would so much as suggest something like this is unsurprising, provoking gallic shrugs and so what else is new? from Normal Americans. Its also a clear indication Donald Trump lives rent-free in Schumers head, gleefully pulling the terminal Trump Derangement Syndrome lever.

Graphic: X screenshot

Schumer said the courts conservative justices had effectively placed a crown on Donald Trumps head, putting him above the law and making him in many ways untouchable. I will work with my colleagues on legislation classifying Trumps election subversion acts as unofficial acts not subject to immunity, he announced.

Obviously, Schumer has not read the Supreme Courts reasoned and middle-of-the-road immunity decision, which was nothing more than common sense and a logical extension of Supreme Court precedence. Or, as with the Constitution, Schumer prefers to ignore the actual text and meaning of the decision, which says no such thing. Ironically, the Courts decision was compelled by Bidens handlers weaponization of the DOJ and their lawfare against Donald Trump. Schumer is in bad company in this, as Associate Justice Sotomayorthe self-labeled wise Latinaeither didnt read, or is ignoring, the majority decision too.

Lets examine a few reasons why what Schumer is proposing is, as is his standard operating procedure, unconstitutional and un-American.

*The Supreme Court is a coequal branch of government, specifically tasked with interpreting the law, a power Congress lacks. The separation of powers exists, at least for the moment. In ruling the Constitution grants every presidentnot just Donald Trumpimmunity, the Court leaves the only pathway for change a constitutional amendment. Congress doesnt get to overturn Supreme Court decisions with legislation, which the Court can, in turn, overturn if constitutionally defective.

*If the Congress can overturn presidential immunity, it doesnt exist. If any president has committed high crimes or misdemeanors, impeachment is the remedy, a remedy which Schumer has tried twiceonce when Trump was out of office?!--and failed.

*In pursuing a hateful, transitory political goal, Schumer would deprive future Democrat presidents of immunity. Of course, hes planning to have a one-party state, so he thinks he doesnt have to worry about that sort of thing.

*Article I, Section 9, Clause 3 of the Constitution provides:

No bill of attainder or ex post facto law shall be passed.

A bill of attainder is a legislative act that targets an individual or group, criminalizing them as a means of bypassing the courts and denying them due process and every other constitutional protection. In this case, Schumer would target Donald Trump, depriving him of immunity as a means of keeping failing lawfare alive.

An ex post facto after the fact--law is a law that would prosecute people for acts that werent crimes when they were committed. That violates the common law and constitutional principle that people must have reasonable warning of what is illegal before being charged with a violation of law. That, as well as overstepping their lawful authority, is why ATFs arbitrary and capricious banning of stabilizing braces is unlawful. Government doesnt get to declare entirely lawful property unlawful and then prosecute people for possessing it.

Perhaps Schumer and the Democrats/socialists/communists (D/s/cs) that will support his bill are merely trying to feed their base raw, red meat prior to the election. Its unlikely such a bill could pass the Congress. Its possible one or two D/s/csparticularly those facing tough elections--might consider the future and the Constitution and vote against it. Its also probable this is just another attempt to continually harass Trump, should it pass, requiring higher court review that could drag on for years.

In any case, its more evidence that D/s/c efforts to preserve our democracy, have nothing to do with preserving the Constitution and the representative republic it establishes.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
At a little after 6 PM Eastern Time, while President Trump was speaking at a huge outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, popping sounds rang out. At the same time, Trump grabbed at the right side of his head before vanishing from view as Secret Service agents hurled themselves atop him.

BREAKING: Donald Trump grabs his neck and falls to the ground after the sound of shots ring out at his rally. pic.twitter.com/5DqbdrH0go  Collin Rugg (@CollinRugg) July 13, 2024

Immediately after, the Secret Service hustled Trump, who was upright, walking, and talking, off the podium. Blood was pouring from Trumps right ear and down his cheek. Notice as you watch the video how Trump is desperate to remain on the stage, fighting the Secret Service agents efforts to rush him to safety:

Trump is bleeding from the ear but it looks like he just survived an assassination attempt.



Please pray for our country. pic.twitter.com/f41MTodZ18  James O'Keefe (@JamesOKeefeIII) July 13, 2024

It says a great deal about Trump that he had the presence of mind, the courage, and the empathy to pump his fist in the air, assuring the worried crowdand watching videos who were equally horrified by what they had just witnessedthat he was (seemingly) all right in what will surely be one of modern Americas most iconic political images:

Trump did this knowing the gunman was still firing shots.



Trump puts his country before himself. https://t.co/ACP7SlIeAg   Mike Davis  (@mrddmia) July 13, 2024

As of this writing, all that I know about President Trumps status is that he is safe.

BREAKING: The Secret Service in the USA  has made an official announcement: former President Donald Trump is safe.



Donald Trump has been evacuated to the hospital. pic.twitter.com/97TycYZGht  Vivid. (@VividProwess) July 13, 2024

Given Trumps feistiness immediately after what happened, Im hoping that hes not only safe but is also wellthat he has a mere scratch that will repair in days and cause no lasting damage.

Meanwhile, Marjorie Taylor Greene is saying that others were shot at the rally and that one person may be dead:

People at the rally are shot.



Possibly one fatality.



Pray for everyone involved!!!



Pray for President Trump!!!



May God have mercy on our enemies because we will NOT. pic.twitter.com/7W0luBwD1X  Rep. Marjorie Taylor Greene (@RepMTG) July 13, 2024

Based on the available facts, I believe that we witnessed an assassination attempt, although I am ready to be corrected if new facts present an alternative narrative. (However, Im at a loss even to imagine what that alternative narrative might be.)

So, where does that leave us as a nation? I think Scott Adams summed it up with his usual pithy style:

Everything just changed.  Scott Adams (@ScottAdamsSays) July 13, 2024

Thats exactly right. Beginning in 2016, the Democrats attacked Donald Trumps character and actions with a fury unlike anything seen since the Civil War. They invented hoaxes to paint him as a racist and a traitor, impeached him twice, and kept up a steady drumbeat of lies about the horrors that would flow from his presidencylies that were never affected by the reality of his presidency, which did not involve throwing gays off buildings, setting up concentration camps, segregating blacks, and forcibly impregnating women and confining them, barefoot, to prison kitchens.

I also happen to believe that Democrats cheated mightily to place in the White House a man famous for his corruption, viciousness, and incipient (and readily apparent) dementia.

Even after Trump left office, the Democrats never let up. Theyve tried to sue him into penury and imprison him for life. And then theres the rhetoric.

Just last week, the once reputable New Republic explicitly promised that Trumps next administration would be the second coming of Hitler, a claim theyve been making with increased volume and frequency since 2016 (again, without regard for his completely normal presidential policies and actions):

We chose the cover image, based on a well-known 1932 Hitler campaign poster, for a precise reason: that anyone transported back to 1932 Germany could very, very easily have explained away Herr Hitlers excesses and been persuaded that his critics were going overboard. After all, pic.twitter.com/x79Rkh86O1  The New Republic (@newrepublic) July 7, 2024

The assassination fantasies also go back to 2016. Remember the untalented Kathy Griffith holding up a model of Trumps bloody head? Or the production of Julius Caesar with Trump in Caesars role? Just a couple of weeks ago, tech billionaire Reid Hoffman announced that he hoped to make Trump a real martyr.

In other words, the Democrat high command has, for years now, been telling its foot soldiers that Trump is a man who is a combination of Hitler and Satan and that he should be wiped off the earth. Indeed, just look at Bidens rhetoric about Trump. Its utterly unhinged.

It looks as if today, in Butler, Pennsylvania, one of those foot soldiers decided to act on this mandate. Once assassination attempts enter a campaign, were in unchartered political territory. The Democrats must ramp down their rhetoric or this may get even worse.

Ive been wondering how leftists will play what happened. Currently, theres radio silence other than very careful, straightforward reporting. I cant help but remember, though, what it was like to be on the UC Berkeley campus on March 30, 1981, back in my student days. When word spread that President Reagan had been shot, many students celebrated. What I can say is that the word staged is trending madly on Twitter.

*****

UPDATE: This was not staged. At least one person has died. We don't know if it was the shooter. There are conflicting reports that the shooter was killed or arrested:

ER doctor was in the crowd. He said the victim he saw was covered in bld with a head wound, brain matter coming out.



The local DA said one person had passed from injuries.pic.twitter.com/KoYDWeKdVY  Marina Medvin  (@MarinaMedvin) July 13, 2024

*****

Meanwhile, Trump supporters, conservatives who dont support Trump, and normal, decent people are absolutely horrified at the thought that a presidential candidate was almost certainly the victim of an intended assassination attempt. And if youre like me, and you believe it was an assassination attempt, you may be thinking that Divine Providence stepped in to save not just Trump but America, too.

Image: X screen grab.

*****

UPDATES (Check back often):

There are reports that the Secret Service arrested an Antifa member who made a video threatening "justice" for Trump. (UPDATE: While Violets was probably arrested, he was not the shooter.)

 BREAKING: The Butler Police Department has announced the arrest of Mark Violets, the individual responsible for the #TrumpShooting. Violets, identified as an Antifa extremist, posted a video on YouTube before the incident, stating that "justice was coming." pic.twitter.com/pc9yTxdwJI  Spence Rogers (@SpenceRogers) July 13, 2024

AP says the shooter is dead, as is an attendee:

A shooter is dead and a rally attendee was killed at a Donald Trump event in Pennsylvania, the Butler County district attorney tells AP. https://t.co/I61yG4mFhb  The Associated Press (@AP) July 13, 2024

People can't help noticing Biden's rhetoric:

Biden said this a few days ago. pic.twitter.com/gZPTpFJWun  Dinesh D'Souza (@DineshDSouza) July 13, 2024

Trump's campaign says he is fine. Honestly, God is watching over that man:

Robert F. Kennedy Jr. has the right message to Americans:

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family.  Robert F. Kennedy Jr (@RobertKennedyJr) July 13, 2024

The shooter fired from a rooftop:

Pennsylvania New video footage of an individual lying down on a rooftop.



Butler County DA said two people were shot and killed: the shooter and a person attending Trump's rally.pic.twitter.com/fXFgPaA2vQ  The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) July 13, 2024

NO WORD FROM BIDEN as of 7:52 PM Eastern Time. They're probably having a hard time waking him up. Or if he's awake, maybe the medicines need time to kick in.

Biden just put out his official, generic message:

I have been briefed on the shooting at Donald Trumps rally in Pennsylvania.



Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information.



Jill and I are grateful to the Secret  President Biden (@POTUS) July 13, 2024

Apparently, Trump repeatedly asked for increased Secret Service protection and was repeatedly denied --although we have no idea when these requests or denials occurred:

BREAKING: A source familiar with Trumps security detail tells @FDRLST that the former and future presidents detail has been asking for beefed up protection and resources for weeks, but has been rebuffed time and again by Bidens DHS.



DHS, which oversees Secret Service  Sean Davis (@seanmdav) July 14, 2024

The man in this video is telling the truth because I'll follow the video with a report I received from a friend, who got it directly from two other eyewitnesses:

BREAKING: Eyewitness tells BBC that he informed police, Secret Service about a suspicious man on a roof with a rifle.



He was ignored. pic.twitter.com/Cvfb7znZtZ  End Wokeness (@EndWokeness) July 13, 2024

Can u believe my 2 nephews were at the trump rally & were close enough to the gunman to see his facial feature of the man that shot at Trump. He crawled military style on top of the roof of a building next to my nephews and shot from there..at least that's the info I'm getting right now from my sister as the boys call her repeatedly from the scene. They watched the shooter be killed too. They r ok. I cannot believe they were this close to gun violence again. So sad Here is more.... They said it was so crowded something about being behind a fence and a building next to them. They saw the shooter crawl on his belly. They could describe his face They were that close. And saw the shooter killed

Biden made a live statement, including the fact that he's running to be a unifier, and that shooting people isn't appropriate:

President Biden's statement on the apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump. pic.twitter.com/p10RUCPbn4  Ed Krassenstein (@EdKrassen) July 14, 2024

Based on my experiences at Berkeley 43 years ago, I predicted that leftists would mourn the fact that the assassination attempt failed. I was right:

Trump was nearly assassinated today. Then one Seattle reporter posted this.  pic.twitter.com/ab8qH0rrvp  Jonathan Choe (@choeshow) July 14, 2024

Rep. Bennie Thompson proposed removing Trump's Secret Service detail if he were sent to prison. https://t.co/GEnIMUx6FY  Andrea Widburg (@Bookwormroom) July 14, 2024

I'm sure there'll be lots of other examples, but I'll stop with those two. They've made my point.

Trump just put out a Truth Social message:
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Reports have detailed the horrific abuse, torture, and murder of 12 year-old Jocelyn Nungarary by two illegal immigrants.

The sadistic, sexually perverted pair stole across the U.S./Mexico border during an ongoing invasion enabled by Joe Biden and the Democrat party.

Poor Jocelyn assumes rank among other victims of Democrat-encouraged illegal immigrant predation, including Laken Riley and Rachel Morin.

Recently, a Fox News Channel story spotlighted the nationwide nature of this barbaric phenomenon, citing teenage-girl victims in New York, Houston, Maryland, Indiana, and elsewhere. That terrible truth substantiates the adage that 'every state is a border state.'

(As this essay was being prepared, sadly, news broke that an illegal Honduran immigrant had been charged with sexual abuse of a 12 year-old Iowa girl.)

Accounts reveal Jocelyn was tortured and otherwise abused for some two hours before being murdered. Her lifeless 12-year-old body was dumped into a bayou.

This prompts estimations about illegal immigration from a 10,000-foot remove.

Americans must ask: What's in it for our country? How would our national fortunes be advanced?

We know that unlimited immigration would benefit immigrants themselves, as well as foreign nations that send them. But those considerations should not determine American policies.

Statistically minor negatives, such as this kind of crime, which most illegal immigrants do not commit, do not nullify preponderant upsides.

Fact is, on illegal immigration, there is no 'upside' for America.

Allowing the mass invasion of unvetted hordes, whose number includes criminals and mental defectives, does not enrich American culture.

We have, through decades of conversation and positive action, arrived at a sophisticated station where women's rights and liberties enjoy proper guarantee. Importing millions from less-developed cultures and granting them political voice would not only be counterintuitive but demonstrably dangerous for female citizens.

The American clock would be set back if foreign practices like routine domestic abuse, "honor killings," female genital mutilation, forced attire restrictions, social and religious coercion, polygamy, and electoral and economic disenfranchisement, became the norm here.

Unspeakable crimes on American girls and women by illegal immigrants would not be perpetrated if those foreigners were not here to begin with.

Exactly that can be compellingly argued with regard to other crimes illegals perpetrate across the U.S., including violent gang assaults, attacks on police, hit and runs, drug trafficking, and organized thefts.

That our Southern border remains wide open, and that daily floods of mystery illegals invade our nation, is a terrible reality made possible by business interests lusting after cheap labor -- to the detriment of American workers -- and unprincipled politicians reaping lavish bankrolling for disserving constituents.

If for no other reason, and many cogent ones present themselves, let compassion for all the Jocelyn Nungarays determine your future ballot exercise.

Iowa writer DC Larson is the author of Ideas Afoot (Bromley Street Press). His political blog is American Scene Magazine.

Image: Twitter video screen shot
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Democrats are very excited now that we know who the shooter was (although I wont use his name to deny him the fame he obviously sought). This excitement is because he was...wait for it...a registered Republican! However, if youve paid any attention at all to the way in which Democrats have tried to game the 2024 Republican primaries, youll understand that the mans political registration was meaningless. Whats meaningful is his words and how he spent his money.

Harry Sisson, a very strange young man with a weird Biden fetish, was out in front with the news that a Republican was the one who tried to kill Trump:

The Trump shooter, Thomas Matthew Crooks, was a registered Republican and voted in the 2022 midterms. Anyone who claimed this was a crazy liberal may want to delete their posts. Always wait for confirmation.  Harry Sisson (@harryjsisson) July 14, 2024

He wasnt the only one:

So!

It wasnt a democrat.

It wasnt an illegal immigrant.

It wasnt an LGBTQ person.

It wasnt an African American.

It wasnt anyone he said is poisoning the blood of Americans.

He was white young and a registered republican.  Emmyjo (@Road_trippn) July 14, 2024

So 20 year Thomas Matthew Crooks, registered Republican, has been identified as the shooter.



Lets roll some tweets back before they get deleted pic.twitter.com/9fm43clVti  colorfullstory (@colorfullstory) July 14, 2024

*****

UPDATE: This is a hoax:

Theres just one problem with this narrative about an intra-party assassination attempt, and thats the shooters own words:

The Left is saying that the #shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks is a Registered Republican.



This video of his says otherwise. pic.twitter.com/f4bUH6ub2e  Donald J. Trump (Parody) (@realDonParody) July 14, 2024

My name is Thomas Matthew Crooks. I hate Republicans, I hate Trump, and guess whatyou got the wrong guy.

Yes, its a deeply weird video, and that last cryptic phrase means that it would be helpful to know when he recorded it (i.e., two months ago or yesterday). However, the shooters leftist values seem pretty clear.

*****

On the day of Bidens inauguration, the shooter donated $15 to ActBlue, the biggest Democrat/leftist PAC:

The FBI has identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Pennsylvania as the person who shot former President Donald Trump during an assassination attempt.



FEC records show that a Thomas Crooks donated to a far-left effort through Act Blue on the day that President Joe pic.twitter.com/d6tHkeRV7G  Ryan Saavedra (@RealSaavedra) July 14, 2024

Again, thats not the act of an actual Republican.

In the absence of more information, the best guess as to why the shooter registered as a Republican is that he intended to vote in the Republican primary. After all, Democrats didnt have to vote in their own primary because the party made sure that Joe Biden was the chosen one. With that out of the way, the party faithful were told to go forth and mess with Republicans ability to pick their preferred presidential candidate:

New York Times: Democrats Are Meddling in Republican Primaries

AP: Some Democrats voting in GOP primaries to block Trump picks

Indiana Capital Chronicle: New billboards urge Indiana Democrats to take Republican ballots in May primary

In states with open primaries, Democrats could simply elect to vote in the Republican primary. Indeed, in her home state of South Carolina, Nikki Haley targeted Democrats to block true Republicans from choosing their candidate.

However, Pennsylvania, where the shooter lived and registered to vote, is a closed primary state. If you want to vote in a party primary, you must register with that party. And thats almost certainly what the shooter did.

So theres a 99.99% certainty that the shooter was not a Republican. He was, instead, a Democrat who tried to game the system during the primaries and, when that failed, opted for assassination.

There is one question I have about the shooter, though, and I wonder if well ever get an answer: Was he on psychotropic drugs? Countless articles have been written over the years pointing out that, when it comes to high-profile killers, they almost invariably have troubled histories that involved treatments with SSRIs.

UPDATE: Word is emerging that Crooks was the weird, bullied kid at school. I always told my kids that the best way to avoid gun violence was to be kind to the odd kids:

According to NBC Washington, Thomas Matthew Crooks was frequently bullied for things like wearing a mask when in high school.



This is former classmate Jason Kohler. Everything about his demeanor and speech patterns are bizarre and off to me, what do you think? pic.twitter.com/mpIZ9UvD98  L (@SomeBitchIIKnow) July 14, 2024

Image: Public domain
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Concerned that rapid development threatened critical agricultural resources, Indianas Legislature in 2023 commissioned a study to determine the status of the states farmland. Noting that most agricultural land loss neighbored cities and suburban areas, the study concluded that Indiana lost 345,682 acres of farmland between 2010 and 2022.

As Bill Gates and China notoriously gobble up price-inflating fertile lands, another pressure is devouring prime farmland. Vast solar panel arrays are disappearing farmland across the nation despite howls of protest. Perhaps that is why the Indiana study included solar panel acreage as farmland in its bizarre farmland accounting.

Solar panels are not a nitrogen-fixing cover crop, nor do they till into the soil annually like plants. Cows and sheep can dine on the grass beneath them but cant eat solar panels any better than humans can. The quite understandable question arises: why did Indiana count solar farms land use as agricultural?

The omission is an admission: solar panels repurpose soil from food to energy production, even as grocery bills skyrocket. Americans are told cows are evil and must be replaced with synthetic lab meat, yet cows eat blades of grass that are Gods solar panels: they are naturally renewable, sans Chinese coal and factories. A trillion dollars in Biden renewables subsidies has contributed to a diversion of farmland to build factories that churn out forever chemicals and water pollution.

How much U.S. land has already been polluted with solar panels, which emit toxic chemicals in their manufacture and pose serious environmental problems upon disposal, is unclear. The lack of studies of just how much land is being lost to this folly may be purposeful, as the Indiana study appears to be:

Agriculture officials relied on data from the state Department of Local Government Finance [ DLGF ] and the U.S. Department of Agriculture to create its findings. The report stated that the DLGF includes uses like renewable energy in its counting for farmland.

How much productive farmland will be vacated of cows, to be populated with solar panels? It is not just rural landscapes that are sacrificed, but peoples reliance on the soil microbiome for food, which must be transported ever farther distances as local farmland diminishes. This threatens food security and is hardly beneficial for the environment.

The climate barons' techno-mystical proclamations reveal their plans for Americas future. An earlier estimate of the land needed to supply the nation with solar energy was 22,000 square miles, or more than 14 million acres. However, advances in efficiency have reduced that to merely 10,000 square miles, or 6.4 million acres.

Plans to save the world by mass manufacturing gadgets instead of food are even more ambitious. To provide enough solar energy for the global human population would require an unfathomable amount of manufacturing production and an equally vast acreage:

This would require an estimated 92.7 billion solar panels, enough to completely cover Americas 11 smallest states (South Carolina, West Virginia, Maryland, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Vermont, Delaware, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Hawaii and Rhode Island) plus another 4,000 square miles!

The United States has lost more than 66 million acres of farmland due to commercial development and suburban sprawl. Population growth (even without the artificial boost of illegal immigration) will continue to squeeze agricultural lands into irreversible development without the assistance of federal subsidies for inedible solar panels.

It is simple to see why renewable energy profiteers would conceal the scale of agricultural land loss attributable to their policies, just as they hide the true environmental damages inflicted by the coal-fired plants and mining operations necessary to produce them and the non-renewable landfill destiny of their planned obsolescence. (They may pollute even more than E.V. cars!)

America may have room for 10 million acres of solar panels, but characterizing them as agricultural land is deceptive folly. Planning for converting more farmland to landfill space must begin soon so there will be sufficient dumps to house inefficient solar panels upon retirement.

Perhaps the landfills will be counted as farmland...

Attorney-farmer John Klar hosts the Small Farm Republic Substack and podcast from his Vermont farm. His recent book is Small Farm Republic: Why Conservatives Must Embrace Local Agriculture, Reject Climate Alarmism, and Lead an Environmental Revival.

Image via Pxhere.
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It has been only about four months since Joe Bidens pier to nowhere debacle began. As I noted in The pier to nowhere on May 26, Hamas mortared it at the end of April while it was under construction. On May 23, three US troops sustained non-combat injuries.

Two U.S. sources said commanders are ordering troops to work 12 to 48-hour shifts with very little sleep so that they can move more pallets, which has led to many accidents, including one service member being crushed by a forklift. The first U.S. source said it was lack of sleep that led to the service member being run and crushed over by an unlicensed forklift driver during night operations.

That service member is reportedly brain dead in a coma at Brook Army Medical Center in San Antonio.

Various photos have revealed that the pier-building, which was supposed to occur without a single US military boot on the ground has seen plenty of boots on the ground. How do you attach a pier to the beach without setting foot on the beach?

By the end of May, most of a pitifully small number of trucks delivering relief supplies were hijacked, probably by Hamas. And by May 28, the pier had broken up in heavy seas, that were actually moderate seas. It took only eight days for the pier to go operational until its demise. It was hastily drug and floated away, sort of repaired, and sort of reassembled.

The Mummified Meat Puppet Administration (MMPA) called it a great success. Central Command parroted that fallacious assessment:

Graphic: X screenshot

How successful? This successful:

Graphic: X screenshot

On Tuesday, the Guardian revealed that Biden's Pier to Nowhere is to be "permanently dismantled" after just 20 days of on-and-off functionality in the three months since it arrived in the Eastern Med. "Aid workers familiar with the project had been predicting for weeks that the pier would not survive beyond July," even though "U.S. officials told Reuters in June it would last until August or September." But here's the kicker: "Over its two months in operation, about 8,800 metric tons of aid has been unloaded off the pier, about 500 truckloads, equivalent to a single day of deliveries before the war began."

Another way to look at this particular Biden debacle is even more indicative of the utter cluelessness and incompetence of our Commander in Chief. If we assume the $320 million for the endeavor is accurate (bwahahahaha!) we paid $640,000 per truckload. Some 1000 troops have been involved in the pier fiasco, and they have been under daily attack:

One U.S. source involved in the mission said the pier has been targeted daily. [There] absolutely has been gunfire and mortars. Its all day and night nonstop, the source said. Indeed, due to the risk of sniper-fire, troops are ordered to wear tactical vests as far as five nautical miles out from the coast, and aid has to be rushed off the boats onto the temporary pier due to the constant attempts to attack the pier, according to the source.

One would have to be incredibly stupid, and incredibly uninformed, to think Islamist maniacs who hate America perhaps a tiny bit less than they hate Israel wouldnt take every opportunity to kill American troops and destroy American military assets.

There has been a media blackout on these attacks and the daily injuries our troops are suffering while being forced to remain on the job. To maintain the illusion of a successful and non-dangerous mission, the troops have been denied hazardous duty pay. As one might expect of the MMPA, our troops have been forced to rig photo ops, rolling up covers on trucks so aid could be photographed and washing and sweeping aid trucks, apparently so theyd look good when Hamas hijacked them.

When whats left of the pier is finally removed and probably, scrapped, we can be certain, just as with the withdrawal debacle in Afghanistan, the MMPA will declare it a brilliant success and an example of the military acumen and inspired leadership of Joe Biden. Interestingly, at his recent NATO conference, Biden sort of allowed the pier wasn't as successful as it could have been. And like that disaster, well never know the true financial and human cost.

The horror of it is Israel has ports that could have been used far more safely to offload supplies, but then the MMPA couldnt brag about their stunningly successful relief efforts. As always, our troops suffer to enable feckless political stunts, but at least Joe got his photo ops.

Mike McDaniel is a USAF veteran, classically trained musician, Japanese and European fencer, life-long athlete, firearm instructor, retired police officer and high school and college English teacher. He is a published author and blogger. His home blog is Stately McDaniel Manor.
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As of this writing the Secret Service has confirmed that a possible assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump has resulted in an injury to him, a killing of an attendee to the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, and the injuring of two others.

What has happened to our country and the world? After three and one-half years of abysmal leadership in Washington, D.C., why should we expect anything else?

The protective detail of the Secret Service acted admirably, but it was not a flawless operation as the outer perimeter of the event was not adequately patrolled and secured.

This is a failure and must be examined. Clearly, sharpshooter agents did neutralize the shooter, but it is now reported that bystanders noticed the person on an elevated location (likely a rooftop of a business) with a gun and told police before the attack began, warnings that were apparently ignored.

In time, we will find out whether this is true, but for now the investigation must begin. One cannot help but question the quality of the Secret Service leadership and detail leadership. But then this is one more mediocrity of the Biden administration.

Donald Trumps instincts were to thank the Secret Service and express concern for those killed and injured at his rally. As the protective detail was ushering Trump off the stage, he let the crowd know he was O.K., and encouraged them.

The man demonstrated determination and strength that our nation needs in a leader. Trump had the presence of mind to get down once he felt the bullet hit his ear. The bullet moves faster than the sound so time is essential as the next bullets would come quickly.

For those unaware of the amazingly close call in this shooting, a few inches to the left and a temporal shot would have killed Donald Trump.

Now it is clear that Robert Kennedy, Jr. deserves and needs Secret Service protection.

He hasn't gotten any, not even as the customary 120-day-window ahead of the election came and went. This is another disgrace of President Biden who denied this protection, to Kennedy. Reports are that a white male was the shooter. As of this time it is reported that he had no identification on his person. We do not know how he got the gun or whether he had help.

But we know that leftist rhetoric has been a problem. The unacceptable and reckless statements of anti-Trump people that he is an existential threat to democracy, a Nazi, and Hitler must be stopped. It reminds one of the attacks upon other Republicans including Ronald Reagan, Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and Gerald Ford. In those cases, the shooter was not a right-wing crazy, but otherwise. The rhetoric of Joe Biden, his minions, and the press has stoked this fire.

I attended a rally in 2020 in Scranton, PA where thousands joined. Security then was tight and I could see sharpshooters on all the roofs at the airport. It is unimaginable that a building about 400 feet from the stage was not cleared. The advance detail did not sweep the area adequately. Donald Trump has weathered attacks by the intelligence community, the press, phony prosecutions, and now bullets. He should be victorious in the 2024 elections as vindication. Trump told the crowd to keep fighting and so we must.

Throughout the reporting, many different agencies and news personnel have expressed concern and regret for this attack.

We can only hope that the hosts of The View will be so gracious.

But at the same time, reporting about the Israeli attack this morning concerning the targeting of Hamas leaders Mohammed Deif and a second Hamas commander, Rafa Salama, has been nuanced against the IDF, by claiming that many civilians (over 70) were killed. Our press and administration have taken sides which corresponds to the wishes of Hamas.

Israel has been under pressure to stop the war against Hamas, but they must finish the job. At the same time the war between Ukraine and Russia continues because our administration does not let the Ukrainian military use their weapons to eliminate the Russian bases. Are there persons benefiting from the continued war in Europe?

Finally, why has there been no significant presser to explain the situation in Butler? The New York Post reported that Trump officials requested more Secret Service protective resources, but were denied those resources.

This is a real worry that our government is run by such mediocrities. Can anyone doubt this after the Afghanistan withdrawal, the misstatements about Ukraine prior to the war, the failing economy, the encouragement of illegal aliens to cross our borders, and the misuse of our judicial system.

Those undecided voters must recognize these deficiencies and cast their votes accordingly.

Image: Screen shot from CSPAN video, via YouTube
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The shots heard round the world were fired from a spot in Butler, Pennsylvaniaa small town in the formerly United States of America.

Needless to say, it is not a good look for the increasingly banana-esque republic, but those who churn with hatred of Donald Trump care only about stopping the man  one way or another. It was only a matter of time before this. Or worse.

Trumps Reagan-esque reaction to being shot, blood on his face, fist in the air, jaw set, make for a remarkable and stirring picture.

This may well make it even harder for his political opponents/enemies to defeat him in the upcoming election, even with massive fraud and cheating.

But, in their minds, they must. No matter what. They believe they have no choice. Some in the government, the vast Deep State, and the intelligence agencies will simply not allow him to win. They have shown that time and time again. And they will be abetted  or at least not impeded  by a few RINOs, assorted other never-Trumpers, the ghastily named Lincoln Project organization, etc. And, of course, the Fourth Estate. All cheered on by Late Night talk show hosts, teachers union heads, Hollywood faux people, and anti-social media giants, among others.

Never has more malignant animus been aligned and directed towards one man. This was symbolic of both that animus and Trumps astounding resiliency.

In 2017, Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer stated of Trump daring to challenge the spurious allegations of Russian interference in the 2016 election: Let me tell you, you take on the intelligence community, they have six ways from Sunday at getting back at you.

Though this shooter may well have been acting without direction or help, this is potentially one of those ways.

It makes me sick even to say this, but I believe this act makes it even more likely that there will be another assassination attempt, simply because, as previously mentioned, Trump may now be even harder to defeat at the polls. After all, the preposterous attempts to set him up, smear him -- and even imprison him -- have not worked out thus far.

And, as I and others have repeatedly noted on this forum, all todays Democrats/socialists/leftists care about is power. Period. And they will do anything to attain, keep, and enhance it. Anything.

Again, I am not implying that this attempt to assassinate Trump had anything to do with any government entity, but remember that Democrats proposed a bill aimed at removing Trumps Secret Service protection if he were to become a convicted felon. Remember, too, the Biden administration repeatedly denied RFK, Jr.s request for a Secret Service protection detail, despite his uncle and his father being famously assassinated.

Democrats and their media have incessantly blamed even mildly aggressive rhetoric from MAGA types for any number of violent crimes. In fact, they blamed Trump himself for Jan. 6, even though he asked those listening to him to proceed peacefully and patriotically to the Capitol to protest. Might their unending attacks on Trump, including frequently likening him to Hitler, possibly spur on the unhinged to take actions such as this?

Predictably, those in the Mainstream Media continued to mislead the American people they, too, are supposed to serve.

There was this online headline from the Enemy of the Peoples CNN: Trump speech interrupted by Secret Service. What, were they talking over Trump? Those rude agents! Stupefying!

A usatoday.com headline read: Trump is rushed off stage by Secret Service after popping sounds ring out at his rally. Popping sounds? Maybe bubble wrap? Jiffy Pop?

Newsweek proclaimed: MAGA Responds With Outrage After Donald Trump Injured at Pennsylvania Rally. Did Trump stub his toe? Trip over a sandbag a la Biden? In any case, those darn MAGA types are quickly prone to violence, right?

Trump, bloody but unbowed, fist in the air trying to rally the rally-goers, is an image for the ages. And a metaphor for todays America.

Lets hope and pray that both Trump and America prevail.

Image: Screen shot from Twitter video
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Late Saturday, the FBI identified the shooter  the attempted assassin  of President Donald Trump as Thomas Matthew Crooks. Crooks was also allegedly the one who shot and killed a man who attended Trumps rally in Pennsylvania and critically injured two others.

According to Newsweek:

CBS News reported that Crooks had a rifle and had fired on the former President from a position a couple of hundred feet away from the venue in Butler, [PA] citing anonymous law enforcement sources. The shooter was identified through his DNA, as he was not carrying any identification at the time, the FBI said.

Crooks, 20 years old, according to the government was a resident of Bethel Park, PA, a suburb of Pittsburgh about 40 miles south of the Trump rallys location in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Reuters reported that Crooks was a registered Republican according to state voter records, and that he had donated $15 to a left wing Democrat progressive group, The Progressive Turnout Project, in 2021, through the ActBlue Democrat donation platform. Interestingly, Crooks contribution to the leftist group was dated Jan. 20, 2021, the date of Bidens inauguration, while he registered to vote as a Republican eight months later in September 2021.

Other information about Crooks online, of a more incendiary political and social nature, could not be confirmed at press time.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. A two-hour-long official video on YouTube of the high schools 2022 commencement shows Crooks accepting his diploma at this point in the video.

According to the Bethel Park Journal on June 22, 2022, Crooks was one of two dozen graduates of Bethel Park High School who received $500 for a National Math & Science Initiative Star Awards.

Photos have emerged of Crooks after he was shot dead by Secret Service snipers on the roof of the shooters perch where he got off multiple rounds from an AR-15. James OKeefe posted on his X/Twitter account a photo he confirmed is Crooks after he was neutralized.

Interviewed on FOX News this morning at 3:30 AM ET, retired FBI agent Bobby Chacon commented about Crooks:

If we look at this as a suicide mission  he knew that he was going to be a martyr. . . So what makes him so radicalized that he wants to become this martyr and kill Donald Trump? In my mind, the constant drum beat of comparing Trump to somebody like Adolf Hitler, when Hitler was responsible for the deaths of tens of millions of people, would be something that would radicalize a young person. If any of us had the opportunity to go back to the 1930s and assassinate Adolf Hitler, we might do it.

Peter Barry Chowka is a veteran journalist who has covered national politics and other topics for over five decades. His most recent interview on BBC Radio in the U.K. can be listened to here. His web page with links to his work and a bio is http://peter.media. Peters extensive American Thinker archive: http://tinyurl.com/pcathinker. His Twitter account is @pchowka.

Image: O'Keefe Media Group Twitter screen shot
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The trigger in the gun was pulled by many hands!

The media tried to assassinate Trump. From the time he came powerfully down that escalator in New York, looking every bit the prize fighter he exhibited yesterday, the press was and is merciless. They have mocked him and attacked, slandered and defamed him, but they have not taken him out.

The Democrats have tried to assassinate Trump. They called him illegitimate, they called him a tyrant; President Biden who went all wobbly tonight, is still calling him a threat to democracy; many have wished him dead. Thank G-d that wish did not come true today.

Women of a certain ilk have tried to assassinate him. Oh, the sordid sex tales. Rape in a dressing room in Bergdorf Goodmans! Have you ever shopped there? It is literally impossible. Staff watch those rooms like hawks. The police would have been immediately called and the falsely accused Trump might have been hauled out in handcuffs. But the event would surely not have gone unnoticed at the time.

Comedians have tried to assassinate Trump through mean diatribes. Orange man bad is their popular meme -- whos laughing tonight?

Oh sure, the hard left crazies are jubilating, but not men and women of good faith. They know something evil occurred today -- an event that will take much time to overcome. The adrenaline of shock has yet to wear off.

Our corrupted judicial system has tried to assassinate Trump by illegally changing the New York statute of limitations and magically converting established pre-existing misdemeanor crimes to felonies. But they didnt ruffle Trumps feathers. He washed off the verdicts as a duck sheds water. Ultimately, he will be legally exonerated when the case gets to higher courts on appeal. The judges will not be partisan as the Democrat legal lynching party has displayed, but will be heard, analyzed and judged by serious non-partisan senior judges who respect the law and will not bow to political expediency.

Hollywood actors, who are legends in their own minds, have tried to assassinate Trump. Do any of them ever have an independent original thought?

Actor George Clooney comes to mind as an arrogant pompous corrupt a----. He is worried about his malevolent Arab wife being prosecuted for illegally claiming some Israelis are war criminals. Oddly, she doesnt address the rapes, murders, and hostages her beloved Palestinians have committed. Where is a bit of her empathy for the Bibas children who are being held hostage to this day by Hamas terrorists? Nowhere. Clooney has proved to be a pretty face.

Then there are the Jewish voters of which I am one. The choice is obvious.

Trump.

Trump moved the Embassy of the United States in Israel from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. He also reversed Obamas odious proclamation that no Jew born in Jerusalem was Jewish! Now all Jews born there are!

The choice is obvious. Our leader showed incredible courage under grave pressure. Trump is the consummate fighter. And he has pledged to fight this attack.

Image: Twitter video screen shot
Dog shows have become more and more popular as more people become pet owners, but have you ever seen a cat show? These competitions, while much less popular for TV broadcasts, are just as prestigious as dog shows--but they're run a bit differently!

Many cat clubs and associations hold their own cat shows, but the tech-savvy folks at @newvisioncatclub share highlights of many shows on TikTok, too. And that's how we met Ell Tee's Tiger Lilly! This Persian kitten may be new to the cat show world (she's not even a year old yet!), but she stole the hearts of everyone in the room at a recent Cat Fancier's Association cat show. Her flat face and red-and-white coloring are simply stunning, but it's her ultra-fluffy tail that had everyone, including the judge, talking.

Aww! This precious gal had me under her spell immediately, and I wasn't the only one. Not only did cat show judge Gary Veach fall head-over-heels for this Persian kitten, but so did over 20 million other viewers! Tiger Lilly may not have won Best in Show (she did win Best Red and White), but she won the hearts of tons of new fans. In fact, I think all cat shows have new fans after this video went viral.

Related: Huge Maine Coon Cat's Meeting with Little Persian Kitten Is Winning Hearts

"I love how dog shows expect dogs to be on their best behavior, and cat shows are thrilled that they just act normal," noticed commenter @ashleyvickery17. LOL--you're right! This kitten was enjoying herself on the judge's table, especially with a scratching post on either side of it. Even though cat show contestants are supposed to be on their best behavior, it helps to have these feline distractions just in case.

While dogs are kept on leash during shows, felines wait in their cat carriers until it's time for their examination. Once they're out of their crates, though, anything can happen!



Cat Show Breed Standards: What's with the Tail?

As Judge Veach mentioned, the breed standard for Persian cats is for the tail to sit below the back, no matter how fluffy that tail may be. Technically, a judge can and should take points off of a contestant's score for any trait that doesn't meet breed standards, but it seems like this cat-loving judge is willing to get it slide.

Why is that? Because an upright tail is a sign of a happy and confident kitty! This fluffy cat is having a great time exploring the table and being the center of attention, which is a large reason why everyone finds her so cute and charming. After all, the cutest cats are the happiest cats!

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos.

Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
David Lammy will call for an immediate ceasefire as he meets with Israeli and Palestinian leaders in the Middle East on Sunday.

The Foreign Secretary will raise the urgent need for a ceasefire agreed by both sides, which includes the release of all hostages and a rapid increase of aid into Gaza.

In meetings with Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Mahmoud Abbas, president of the Palestinian Authority, Mr Lammy will also make the case for working towards a two-state solution to the conflict.

The Foreign Secretary is set to announce that the UK will provide another 5.5 million this year to UK-Med to fund its work in Gaza.

The medical aid charity sends experienced humanitarian medics, including those working in the NHS, to crisis-hit regions.

This funding will be used to support the ongoing work of its field hospitals and the emergency department at Nasser Hospital.

Mr Lammy said: The death and destruction in Gaza is intolerable.

This war must end now, with an immediate ceasefire, complied with by both sides.

The fighting has got to stop, the hostages still cruelly detained by Hamas terrorists need to be released immediately and aid must be allowed in to reach the people of Gaza without restrictions.

I am meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to stress the UKs ambition and commitment to play its full diplomatic role in securing a ceasefire deal and creating the space for a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.

The world needs a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.

He added: Central to this is to see an end to expanding illegal Israeli settlements and rising settler violence in the West Bank.

Here, in what should be a crucial part of a Palestinian state, alongside Gaza and East Jerusalem, we need to see a reformed and empowered Palestinian Authority.

Israeli prime minister Benjamin Netanyahu leaves 10 Downing Street, London, following a meeting with Prime Minister Rishi Sunak (Stefan Rousseau/PA)

In Israel, Mr Lammy will hold high level talks with Mr Netanyahu and President Isaac Herzog to reiterate the need to end the fighting in Gaza.

In the Occupied Palestinian Territories, the Foreign Secretary will welcome the Palestinian Authoritys commitment to delivering reform and reiterate the UKs support for its government.

Mr Lammys visit comes after Israels latest strike on Gaza, which killed at least 90 people in the south of the territory.

The Israelis say the attack was targeted Hamas military commander Mohammed Deif, but it was not known whether he was among the dead.
Donald Trump will travel to the Republican National Convention on Sunday as he originally planned despite an assassination attempt, as he insisted people must remain defiant in the face of wickedness.

Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, the former US president wrote on his Truth Social platform.

He added: But have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else.

Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3.30pm today.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he was appalled by the attack on the former US president and spoke to him on Sunday afternoon, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was very upset but not shocked.

Donald Trump is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

The PA news agency understands Sir Keir condemned the violence, expressed his condolences for the victims and their families, and wished Mr Trump and those injured a quick recovery.

Writing on Truth Social on Sunday, Mr Trump thanked well-wishers and said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.

He added: Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin. DJT

His wife, former US first lady Melania Trump, said: When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life, and Barrons (the couples son) life, were on the brink of devastating change.

Mrs Trump said she was grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives.

She added: A monster who recognised my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration.

The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine.

(PA Graphics)

Mr Farage said he would almost certainly would have been at Saturdays rally in Pennsylvania if he had not won his Clacton seat at the General Election and now planned to travel to the US for the 2024 Republican National Convention as a show of friendly solidarity with Mr Trump, who he considers a friend.

US President Joe Biden, addressing his country on Sunday evening, said he has directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, scheduled to begin on Monday.

Photographs have shown the bloodied former US president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler.

Mr Trump, who was safe according to a spokesman, said on his Truth Social media platform that a bullet had pierced his ear before he was dragged to the ground by Secret Service agents.

One person at the rally was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

All were identified as men.

The dead man was later named as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro said: Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

Nigel Farage said he was very upset (Tejas Sandhu/PA)

Asked how he felt after the shooting, Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: I was very upset and Im still upset.

Im obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but hes got away with it.

But one person is dead.

Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so its an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow Im not shocked by it.

The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes. Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 14, 2024

Mr Farage told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips that he had sent a text message to the former president.

The Prime Minister said: I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania. In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in. Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 14, 2024

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said: Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.

In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in.

Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the Government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump  along with every victim and their families.

It is a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination. As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason. Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 14, 2024

Former Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson said it was a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: We must all condemn this appalling attempt on Donald Trumps life.

Labour Mayor of London, Sadiq Khan, who frequently clashed with Mr Trump over their political differences, told PA he was shocked at the news of the shooting.

He added: There is no place for violence in politics or in mainstream society.

Donald Trump is standing to be the president, you may disagree with his policies but nobody should be turning that into violence  just thank God hes survived.

Mr Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time.

The former president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of his head before blood appeared on his face.

Donald Trump was left bloodied after the shooting (Gene J Puskar/AP)

He ducked and was surrounded by Secret Service agents, before rising to his feet and pumping his fist in the air, to cheers from the crowd.

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting sick, adding: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

It was the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
The Irish Government is open to increasing funding for Casement Park, the Taoiseach has said.

There has been mounting speculation that the stadium is set to be axed as a venue for Euro 2028.

The derelict west Belfast ground has been earmarked to host five matches in the showpiece tournament being played in the UK and Ireland.

But the funding required to rebuild the stadium in time for the tournament is not in place, prompting concerns that the delays will see Belfast missing out.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said he really wanted to see Casement stadium redeveloped (Brian Lawless/PA)

Northern Ireland Secretary Hilary Benn has said he is urgently looking at the issues around cost and remaining time for constructing the stadium, while characterising it as a very important project.

For its part, the Irish Government has so far allocated 50 million euro (42 million) towards the project.

Asked if the Irish Government was open to increasing that spend, Taoiseach Simon Harris said: In principle, we are  but I think we have to take a little step back here.

The Irish Government has already committed funding to Casement. I really want to see this developed.

Mr Harris said there had been encouraging words from Mr Benn that the stadium would be built, but added: The question now is a matter of timing.

Speaking on BBCs Sunday Politics Northern Ireland, he said: I think it would be a huge missed opportunity if we had a situation where Euro 2028 was being hosted across these two islands and we couldnt see games played in Northern Ireland.

He added: Id like to work constructively with Prime Minister (Sir Keir) Starmer and with my colleagues across government and with the Northern Ireland Executive, the GAA and others to see how best to move forward.

Mr Harris said the matter would be on the agenda when he met the Prime Minister next week, adding: We need to have conversations to understand where the British Governments head is at on this matter too.
The King and Queen are set to visit Australia and Samoa this autumn, but the couple are not going to New Zealand due to Charles ongoing treatment for cancer.

Charles and Camilla will undertake a tour of both countries in October 2024, Buckingham Palace said, however doctors have advised against a further extension to the visit.

The Australian leg of the trip, at the invitation of the countrys government, will see them carry out engagements in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales.

In Samoa, they will celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the Pacific Island nation and the UK, and the couple are expected to attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (Chogm) 2024.

Charles doctors have advised against extending the trip further (Victoria Jones/PA)

The Chogm brings together delegations from 56 countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Americas, Europe, Asia, and the Pacific.

Buckingham Palace says the couples programme will be subject to doctors advice, with any necessary modifications to be made on health grounds.

A previously hoped-for trip to New Zealand is not taking place because the Kings doctors advised that an extended programme should be avoided to prioritise his continued recovery, a Palace spokesperson said.

Buckingham Palace said: In close consultation with the Australian and New Zealand prime ministers, and with due regard for the pressures of time and logistics, it has therefore been agreed to limit the visit to Samoa and Australia only.

Their Majesties send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding.

Further details of the visit to both countries are to be announced soon.

Charles, 75, returned to public-facing duties earlier this year while still receiving treatment for an undisclosed form of cancer.
Manchester United have announced the signing of Joshua Zirkzee from Bologna.

Zirkzee, 23, has signed a five-year deal with the option of a further 12 months after United agreed to pay 42.5million euros (around 36.5m), slightly above the Dutch forwards 40m euros (34.4m) release clause.

The PA news agency understands the premium is due to United paying the fee over three years rather than in one instalment for a player who helped Bologna qualify for this seasons Champions League.

And Zirkzee, part of the Netherlands squad who reached the Euro 2024 semi-finals, hopes he can have a similarly transformative effect at Old Trafford when he works under compatriot Erik ten Hag.

Ready to make his mark  Joshua Zirkzee: welcome to Manchester United #MUFC  Manchester United (@ManUtd) July 14, 2024

I am a player who has always dedicated everything to winning; Im ready for this next challenge, to go to another level in my career and win more trophies, the 23-year-old said.

Having had discussions with the manager and the leaders of the club I know how exciting the future is going to be here and I cannot wait to play my part in achieving success for Manchester United.

It is a privilege to join such an iconic club. I have to take a short break now after being with the national team, but Ill be coming back ready to make an impact straight away.

Zirkzee is Uniteds maiden summer signing and their first since British billionaire Sir Jim Ratcliffe completed his purchase of a 27.7 per cent stake of the club in February.

He started his professional career at Bayern Munich and had loan spells at Parma and Anderlecht before a permanent switch two years ago to Italy, where he enjoyed breakout success.

Securing a forward to enhance our already strong group of attacking players was a key aim for this summer, United sporting director Dan Ashworth said.

We are delighted that weve managed to sign a player of Joshuas calibre this early in the transfer window. Joshua is an outstanding talent who is ready to make an impact for Manchester United.

His ability and desire to grow into a world-class player means that he will be a great addition to the squad that we are building for the exciting season ahead and beyond.

Having already achieved a significant amount in his career, we will provide Joshua with the perfect platform to reach the next level under the guidance and support of Erik ten Hag and the coaching staff.

We look forward to seeing Joshua thrive at Old Trafford over the coming years.
The immediate reaction to the shooting at a Donald Trump rally today was the condemnation of violence from political figures, and an early swell of conspiracy theories on social media.

Trump appeared to have been struck in the incident, while one audience member and the shooter were killed. The incident was being investigated as an assassination attempt.

Joe Biden said on X: Im grateful to hear that hes safe and doing well. Im praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally, as we await further information. Jill and I are grateful to the Secret Service for getting him to safety.

Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

In remarks on Saturday, Biden said: I have tried to get hold of Donald. He is with his doctors. Apparently hes been doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly, I hope when I get back to the telephone.

When asked by reporters, Biden said he did not know if it was an assassination attempt.

Biden said: Its not appropriate. Everybody must condemn it.

Vice-President Kamala Harris said she had been briefed on the shooting. Doug and I are relieved that he is not seriously injured, she said. We are praying for him, his family, and all those who have been injured and impacted by this senseless shooting  We must all condemn this abhorrent act and do our part to ensure that it does not lead to more violence.

Marla Maples, Trumps ex-wife and the mother of Trumps fourth child Tiffany, said on X: We ask for prayers for my daughters father prayers for her heart and all the family and all who know how he is leading on behalf of all of us. We stay together in our faith knowing that the path of God is the path.

Those who want to stop him are in fear of the power of God. May Christ create an opening in the hearts of those who want to stop the Light and the souls of humanity.

Lawmakers on the left and right were united in condemning political violence.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable, said the Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro on X. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States.I have been briefed on the situation. Police are on the scene in Butler County and working with our federal and local partners.

Former congresswoman Liz Cheney described reports of the shooting as horrifying.

Violence of any kind has no place in American politics, she said. We are grateful for the reaction of Secret Service and other law enforcement and pray for the former president and all those injured.

Laura and I are grateful that President Trump is safe following the cowardly attack on his life, George W Bush said in a statement. And we commend the men and women of the Secret Service for their speedy response.

Advocacy groups, including those focused on gun control. also shared statements condemning the shooting.

This is an unacceptable and tragic reminder of our nations gun violence crisis. Violence of any kind has no place in our political process, said John Feinblatt, president of Everytown for Gun Safety. This horrific act is another reminder that no one is immune from experiencing gun violence. When guns are everywhere, for anyone, with no questions asked  no one is safe.

Political violence does not represent the values of America. We are devastated by the tragedy that unfolded today in Pennsylvania, said Angela Ferrell-Zabala, executive director of Moms Demand Action.

Time and time again our communities are shaken by acts of gun violence that have invaded what should be our safe places, and that includes the violence that we saw today. But they are a consequence of our countrys weak gun laws and guns everywhere culture  laws that allow hate to be armed with a gun to easily take someone elses life.

The condemnations of violence and the thoughts and prayers of politicians and activists followed the reflexive rituals of American politics following a shooting that rises to public notice.

The other reaction on social media has been sharply different. The word staged and the phrases they missed and how do you miss began trending on X in the hour following the shooting, as did the photograph of a bloodied Trump raising his fist in defiance as he was being hustled off the dais by Secret Service agents.

Impeached. Arrested. Convicted. Shot. Still standing, the conservative commentator Matt Walsh wrote.

The Republican district attorney in Butler county, Pennsylvania, should immediately file charges against Joseph R Biden for inciting an assassination, Mike Collins, a Republican congressman in George, wrote about an hour after the shooting. Joe Biden sent the orders.

Former congressman Joe Walsh denounced the violent rhetoric.

We are beyond dangerously divided. We are at each others throats, he said on X. We consider the people we disagree with to be our mortal enemies. We cant continue down this road. Our democracy cant stand if we continue down this road.

What EVERY American should say: political violence is ALWAYS wrong. No matter where it comes from. This isnt how we solve our differences in America. But not every American will say this. Most Americans on the right and the left will try to score political points with this.
Nigel Farage receives a milkshake to the face on the campaign trail

Within minutes of the attempted assassination of Donald Trump, the political analysis was already under way. What did this mean for the presidential election? What was the political motivation of the shooter? Is the problem Americas permissive gun rights, or its toxic political culture? And who is to blame for that culture?

In Britain, we watch the US with a mixture of familiarity and detachment. The dominance of American culture, our shared language, and the saturation coverage of US politics mean we are well versed in the cut and thrust of the presidential campaign. But Americas differences  in particular its polarisation, its obsession over policy issues with little resonance here, and its history of political violence  mean we see it as a strange environment compared with our own.

In many senses we are right to do so. While American power matters to the collective security of the West and the viability of international trade, some need reminding that Britain is not the United States. We have different problems and challenges, different histories, and different political divides. The import of US-manufactured critical race theory and radical gender ideology has been utterly toxic for British public life.

And yet political hatred is a growing problem in Britain too. It may derive from different sources and focus on different issues  gun laws and abortion rights, for example, are matters of consensus here  but political hatred, and the violence that sometimes follows, is undeniably present. Jo Cox was murdered by a far-Right extremist in 2016. Sir David Amess was murdered by an Islamist in 2021. Other MPs have been stabbed in surgery meetings. In private, most politicians have stories about stalkers, intimidation and abuse, and threats of violence made against them.

Beneath the headlines of the general election, there were many alarming examples of this kind of behaviour. In Cornwall, a Reform candidate was punched and kicked as he was assaulted. In London, Rushanara Ali, the Labour MP for Bethnal Green and Stepney, needed police protection during the campaign after she received death threats over her failure to vote for a ceasefire in Gaza.

In Birmingham, Labour MPs Shabana Mahmood, Jess Phillips and Khalid Mahmood  who lost his seat  have described how they were intimidated and threatened by activists campaigning for anti-Israel candidates. In Leicester, Jonathan Ashworth lost his seat to the anti-Israel independent MP, Shockat Adam. During the campaign, Ashworth was filmed as he was harassed on the streets by activists including Majid Freeman, a notorious Islamist now charged by the police for encouraging terrorism and supporting a proscribed terrorist organisation.

Adam is a former local chairman of the activist organisation MEND, or Muslim Engagement and Development, one of the organisations behind the campaign for an official definition of Islamophobia. Concerns have been aired that this campaign  once supported by Labour  is an attempt to help Islamists to define normative Islam in line with their own ideology, and shut down any criticism of Islam or Islamism as hate speech.

MEND has long been a source of worry for the policy and security services. Mak Chishty, a former Met commander, says we must confront it, or risk having our safety and security threatened. According to Sir Mark Rowley, now Met Commissioner, MEND seeks to undermine the states considerable efforts to tackle all hate crime. Privately, even Yvette Cooper insists Labour has a policy of non-engagement with the organisation.

And yet what is our response to these threats? When Nigel Farage had a milkshake thrown over him by a protester, high-minded Left-wing writers for The Guardian chose to laugh. When Islamists threatened MPs earlier this year ahead of a debate about Gaza, Parliament tore up the rule book to allow a Labour amendment. The rule change got Keir Starmer off the political hook  but at least part of the reason was concern about the safety of MPs deemed by the mob to have voted the wrong way.

In other words, it was an act of surrender, and it is hardly the only example. Several schools in different British cities have been subjected to threats and intimidation  often leading to police officers being called to attend or even station themselves on-site  by activists angry about curriculum content deemed un-Islamic or prohibitions on political symbols and public prayer. In each case, local politicians have been conspicuous by their silence. The fate of the Batley teacher  in hiding after showing students a depiction of the Prophet Muhammad during a lesson about blasphemy  seems to have been forgotten.

It is understandable that many politicians are afraid.

MPs now need panic alarms, designated police officers responsible for their safety, and expert advice on securing their own homes, offices, and venues for surgery meetings. Many will think twice  especially with this new wave of political intimidation and sectarian special-interest voting  before taking on the so-called community leaders and activist groups that claim to speak for thousands of constituents. But if we are to avoid a descent into further political violence in Britain, it must be done.

Too often, we have retreated into the safety of other topics to debate, or taken solace in the platitudes of generalities, rather than confront the reality of the danger. When David Amess was murdered, Parliament preferred to discuss the civility of debates online rather than the Islamist ideology that spurred on his killer.

Following the shooting at the Trump rally this weekend, the Prime Minister rightly declared that political violence in any form has no places in our societies. Yet even as he spoke, his own MPs and candidates were describing their experience of political violence and intimidation from our own general election. What does Starmer have to say about this threat, and what does he plan to do about the motives and actions of those behaving in this way?

Too often, the response has been to avoid facing reality, to appease those we should confront, and sometimes even to co-opt and play up to those who want to bully others until they get their way. We need to be more honest about the society and democracy we have become.
Mr Carson admitted engaging in an inappropriate relationship with the pupil - Nick Irving

The chaplain of a private school who had an inappropriate relationship with a very vulnerable pupil for his own sexual gratification has been banned from the profession for life.

The Rev Tom Carson quit Exeter School, which has fees of up to 17,000 a year, after what it called a serious breach involving an 18-year-old pupil.

The father of two admitted engaging in an inappropriate relationship with the pupil, referred to as Pupil A, in 2021 away from school premises which led to hugging, holding hands, kissing and touching each other.

A Teaching Regulation Agency misconduct panel said his conduct was sexually motivated.

He told Pupil A to delete text messages and e-mails between them and told the pupil to give an edited version of their relationship when he resigned and an investigation would follow.

Mr Carson quit the 17,000 a year Exeter school

He eventually reported it to the school and Pupil As mother, and admitted his actions brought the teaching profession into disrepute.

In September 2021 a letter was sent to the parents of the 900 pupils at the independent co-educational school when Carson quit.

The panel said: Mr Carson was responsible for a series of failings in relation to his conduct with Pupil A.

These included serious misconduct with a very vulnerable pupil, in which he exploited Pupil A for his own sexual gratification.

Mr Carsons actions had a significant harmful impact on Pupil As life and has continued for a number of years.

Mr Carsons dishonest actions in attempting to conceal the true nature of the relationship went hand in hand with his other exploitative actions with Pupil A.

The panel said his actions happened over an extended period of time and was not a momentary lapse of judgment but a sustained course of conduct.
Portraits of the King and Queen have been released to mark royal visits to Australia and Samoa - Millie Pilkington 2024/Australian Government/PA Wire

The King is to tour Australia and Samoa with a limited programme as he continues his treatment for cancer.

Buckingham Palace has confirmed the King and Queen will undertake an autumn tour in October 2024, which will include visits to Australia and Samoa, where the couple will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting 2024.

Yet as with the Kings recent engagements, the trips programme will be subject to doctors advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds.

The tour had originally been planned to include New Zealand, but the palace has now confirmed the country wont be included.

Trip scaled back

The length of the trip has also been significantly scaled back from the original plans made before the Kings cancer diagnosis, when the couple were expected to be away for around three weeks.

Now, the King and Queen will be away for roughly 10 days in total, including travel time, The Telegraph understands.

The King will visit Australia and Samoa during his October tour - Millie Pilkington 2024

A palace spokesman said: The King and the Queen will visit Australia at the invitation of the Australian Government, where their programme will feature engagements in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales.

Their Majesties state visit to Samoa will celebrate the strong bilateral relationship between the Pacific Island nation and the UK.

The Queen will attend the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting with the King - Millie Pilkington 2024/Australian Government/PA Wire

When it was reported earlier this month that New Zealand had been cut from the trip, the prime minister said he had an open invitation to visit.

Buckingham Palace officials, including Clive Alderton, the Kings private secretary, were understood to be in Australia this month making final arrangements for the visit.

The King is said to be disappointed not to be visiting New Zealand but both sides are said to be aware of the need to pace himself amid his ongoing cancer treatment.

A palace spokesman said: In close consultation with the Australian and New Zealand prime ministers, and with due regard for the pressures of time and logistics, it has therefore been agreed to limit the visit to Samoa and Australia only.

Their Majesties send their warmest thanks and good wishes to all parties for their continued support and understanding.

Charles and Camilla in Waitangi, New Zealand in 2019 - Chris Jackson/Getty

Cancer recovery

Addressing why the King and Queen are undertaking a limited programme in Australia, a palace spokesman said: Their Majesties will visit the Australian Capital Territory, New South Wales and Samoa.

The Kings doctors have advised that a further extension to Their Majesties trip should be avoided at this time, to prioritise His Majestys continued recovery.

As with all His Majestys recent engagements, his programme in both countries will be subject to doctors advice, and any necessary modifications on health grounds.

Camilla and Prince Charles wave farewell before boarding a Royal Australian Airforce aircraft at Perth Airport on November 15, 2015 - Paul Kane/Getty

The King was diagnosed with cancer in February and has been having weekly treatments. He was cleared by his medical team to return to public duties in late April after responding well to treatment.

His Majesty has made 15 visits to Australia, the most recent being in 2018 to open the Commonwealth Games on the Gold Coast. His last visit to New Zealand was in 2019.

His late mother, Elizabeth II, visited Australia 16 times during her reign  becoming the first reigning monarch to set foot on Australian soil on her maiden trip to the country in 1954.

Prince Charles visits Kilkenny Primary School on November 7, 2012 in Adelaide - Chris Jackson/Getty

Anthony Albanese, the countrys Left-wing prime minister, had previously proposed to hold a republican referendum if he won a second term in 2025.

However, earlier this year the avowed republicans government confirmed that the referendum was not a priority at the moment and that the focus instead was on the cost of living crisis.
Donald Trump clutched his ear following the sound of gunshots - Getty/Trump Campaign Office

Donald Trump was left bloodied after multiple shots were fired in the former presidents direction at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

He was immediately bundled offstage to his motorcade by Secret Service agents, with blood visible around his right ear and streaking across his face.

Trump was taken to a nearby hospital, and declared safe by the Secret Service.

One spectator was killed and two others critically injured in the shooting, later described by the Federal Bureau of Investigation as an assassination attempt that could be considered an act of domestic terrorism.

The Secret Service said its personnel had killed the man identified as the shooter, with authorities still investigating his motives.

Here is everything we know so far.

What happened?

Trump was speaking at an outdoor rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, around 34 miles north of Pittsburgh.

The former president had been showing his supporters a chart about border crossings just minutes into his speech on the grounds of the Butler Farm Show when the gunshots rang out, at around 6.15pm local time on Saturday evening.

He quickly ducked after the volley of bullets interrupted the campaign speech, and before Secret Service agents could rush onto the stage to form a protective mass around the former president.

Seconds later, Trump was hauled up by his security detail, raising his right fist in a defiant salute to the crowd, shouting: Fight!

Trump bleeding from the ear

Blood was visible at the top of his right ear, with two streaks headed towards his mouth, as he was hurried to his motorcade and taken to a hospital.

Analysis of footage and testimonies from witnesses suggested at least seven or eight shots were fired in two bursts.

As the hail of gunfire was unleashed in the direction of the former president, the audience watching on screamed, get down, get down and shots fired.

The Secret Service quickly hurried to evacuate the area, with mobile phones and even an electric wheelchair being left behind in the confusion.

Some supporters held hands in prayer, while others chanted: USA!

Is Donald Trump hurt?

On Saturday night, an aide to Trump shared footage on social media that showed him walking unaided down stairs from his private jet, closely flanked by two security guards.

He waved in the direction of the camera but his injured right ear was not on display throughout the short video clip.

The Trump presidential campaign and the Republican National Committee said he would attend the Republican convention in Milwaukee, which is scheduled to begin on Monday, when Trump is formally expected to accept his partys nomination for president.

The campaign said that he still looks forward to joining [supporters] at the convention.

Trump campaign advisers said he was in great spirits and doing well, in a memo to staff on Sunday obtained by AP.

Who were the other casualties?

A former fireman was killed while shielding his family from bullets as a gunman opened fire at a Donald Trump rally on Saturday.

Corey Comperatore, 50, dived in front of his wife and daughter to shield them.

Allyson Comperatore said that her real-life superhero father had saved her life, calling him the best dad a girl could ask for.

He threw my mom and I to the ground he shielded my body from the bullet that came at us. He loved his family, she wrote on social media.

He truly loved us enough to take a real bullet for us. And I want nothing more than to cry on him and tell him thank you.

I want nothing more than to wake up and for this to not be reality for me and my family.

The two other victims who were shot and critically injured have been named as 57-year-old David Dutch and 74-year-old James Copenhaver.

They were flown by helicopter to Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh, Dan Laurent, the hospital spokesman, said.

Who is the gunman?

The FBI identified him as Thomas Matthew Crooks, a 20-year-old man from Pennsylvania.

Former classmates have described him as a loner and an outcast who during his school years was teased about his appearance.

The Secret Service said the gunman had fired from an elevated position outside of the rally venue using an AR-15-type semi automatic rifle which was recovered at the scene.

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks

The federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives said it was attempting to track the weapon against its national firearms database. The firearm was legally purchased by the gunmans father, investigators said.

Crooks was a registered Republican, the Associated Press reported. The New York Times, however, reported that federal campaign finance records show he donated $15 to the Progressive Turnout Project, a liberal voter group, through the Democratic donation platform AceBlue in January 2021.

Crooks acted alone and was attempting to assassinate the former president, the FBI said.

Police searched his home, in the small post-industrial town of Bethel Park where locals said they were shocked and did not want one bad person to taint the image of their community.

Bomb-making equipment was found on the property and officers also discovered explosives inside Crooks car which was found parked near the rally site.

The Secret Service said its personnel had killed the gunman, but did not go into detail about how he was neutralised.

Video captured at the scene showed a mans lifeless body on a shed rooftop.

Witnesses said they had reported his presence to both the police and Secret Service before the shooting started.

We noticed a guy army-crawling, bear-crawling, up the roof, an eyewitness told the BBC. You can clearly see him with a rifle.

Open source intelligence reports suggested the gunman was less than 150 yards away, with a direct line of sight to the stage.

What has Trump said?

Trump confirmed in a post on Truth Social that he had been shot and thanked law enforcement for protecting him.

I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response [to] the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania, he said.

Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country. Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. God bless America!

What has the US President said?

Joe Biden, who spoke to Trump late on Saturday, described the incident as sick and a reason why we have to unite this country.

Theres no place in America for this kind of violence, Mr Biden added.

He later said that the shooting calls on all of us to take a step back and to lower the temperature of political debate.

We cant allow this violence to be normalised, Mr Biden said on Sunday night.

The political rhetoric in this country has gotten very heated. Its time to cool it down. We all have a responsibility to do this.

He said that in the US we resolve our differences at the ballot box rather than with bullets, adding that the power to change in America should always rest in the hands of the people, not in the hands of a would-be assassin.

Security around the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee would be reviewed, he confirmed.

Kamala Harris, the vice-president, said she was relieved that Trump was not seriously hurt and said she was praying for him.

How has the world reacted?

The shooting drew condemnation from leaders across the world and the US political spectrum, including those largely critical of Trump.

Barack Obama, the former president, said he and his wife, Michelle, wished Trump a speedy recovery.

There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy, he said.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former president Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics.

George W Bush, former president, called it a cowardly attack.

International leaders also moved to denounce the assassination attempt, with Sir Keir Starmer, the Prime Minister, saying he was appalled by the shocking scenes at president Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack, Sir Keir added.

Ursula von der Leyen, the president of the European Commission, said she was deeply shocked.

Emmanuel Macron, the French president, said the shooting was a tragedy for our democracies.

Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world. Never should violence prevail, Volodymyr Zelensky, the Ukrainian president, said.

I am relieved to learn that Donald Trump is now safe and wish him a speedy recovery.

Jens Stoltenberg, Natos secretary-general, wrote: I am shocked by the attempted assassination on former president Trump. I wish him a speedy recovery and my thoughts are with those affected. I condemn this attack. Political violence has no place in our democracies. Nato allies stand together to defend our freedom and values.

This story is being kept up to date with the latest information
David Lammy, the Foreign Secretary, during the recent Nato summit in Washington - DREW ANGERER/AFP

The Foreign Secretary will call for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza in meetings with the leaders of Israel and Palestine on Sunday.

David Lammy will make the case for a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution to Benjamin Netanyahu and Mahmoud Abbas.

Mr Lammy has travelled to the Middle East for his first visit since Labour entered Government, with meetings scheduled with leaders in Israel as well as hostage families.

The Foreign Office said he will then visit the Occupied Palestinian Territories, where he will state his commitment to recognising a Palestinian state as an undeniable right of the Palestinian people.

It comes after Labours stance on Gaza cost Sir Keir Starmer some seats at the general election, with four MPs losing to pro-Palestine independents.

Benjamin Netanyahu, the Israeli Prime Minister, at a press conference in Tel Aviv - NIR ELIAS/AFP VIA GETTY

The Foreign Secretary said: The death and destruction in Gaza is intolerable. This war must end now, with an immediate ceasefire, complied with by both sides.

The fighting has got to stop, the hostages still cruelly detained by Hamas terrorists need to be released immediately and aid must be allowed in to reach the people of Gaza without restrictions.

I am meeting with Israeli and Palestinian leaders to stress the UKs ambition and commitment to play its full diplomatic role in securing a ceasefire deal and creating the space for a credible and irreversible pathway towards a two-state solution.

He added: The world needs a safe and secure Israel alongside a viable and sovereign Palestinian state.

Central to this is to see an end to expanding illegal Israeli settlements and rising settler violence in the West Bank. Here, in what should be a crucial part of a Palestinian state, alongside Gaza and East Jerusalem, we need to see a reformed and empowered Palestinian Authority.

Jonathan Ashworth, who was a central figure in the Labour campaign, lost his seat in Leicester South to Shockat Adam, a pro-Palestine independent.

Protesters demonstrate against Hamas during a rally in Jerusalem - ABIR SULTAN/SHUTTERSTOCK

The party was also unsuccessful in Blackburn, Dewsbury and Batley, and Birmingham Perry Barr, as a result of independent candidates running on pro-Palestine tickets.

Jeremy Corbyn, a long-time supporter of the Palestinian cause, won against Labour in Islington North.

The Foreign Secretary will also announce a further 5.5 million in aid this year to UK-Med, a front-line charity which sends medics to crisis-hit regions such as Gaza.

Labour called for an immediate humanitarian ceasefire in Gaza for the first time in February, with Mr Lammy, then the shadow foreign secretary, saying that the situation in Gaza had evolved.

He added that his party was mirroring the language used by the United Nations, as well as the UKs fellow Five Eyes alliance members: the United States, Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

The Prime Minister initially resisted calls to support a ceasefire, instead saying he supported humanitarian pauses to allow the entry of aid into Gaza and for people to leave the territory.

More than 50 MPs, including 10 frontbenchers, resigned last November to vote in favour of a ceasefire.
Ministers must 'get a grip' on the civil service and slash the size of Whitehall - John Lamb/The Image Bank

Ministers must get a grip on the civil service by slashing the size of Whitehall and doubling the number of special advisers, a report backed by Michael Gove has said.

Policy Exchange said that the Government needed to put into reverse a process whereby power had leached away from ministers to arms length bodies, unaccountable advisory groups and experts, the civil service and the courts.

Michael Gove backs the Policy Exchange plan to shake up Whitehall - Belinda Jiao

In its report  Getting A Grip On The System: Restoring Ministerial Authority Over The Machine  the think-tank identifies an imbalance of power between ministers and an ever-expanding civil service, with the senior civil service increasing by 67 per cent since 2012.

At the same time, increased ministerial churn has resulted in ministers having less experience than in the past.

According to Policy Exchanges analysis, Cabinet ministers have half as much experience at junior ministerial level than in the 1990s, and significantly less experience at Cabinet level.

The average length of Cabinet experience has declined from 60 months at the end of Jim Callaghans government in 1979, to 38 months at the end of Rishi Sunaks government.

The report argues that ministers have seen their power further reduced by the rise of judicial review and an increasingly independent civil service.

To wrest back control, it recommends a series of measures including cutting the number of senior civil servants by 40 per cent to take it back to 2013 levels, with the reduction accompanied by a pay increase of up to 30 per cent.

It also calls for the number of politically-appointed special advisers (known as spads) to be increased from the 117-odd employed by the last government to between 200 and 300.

The report says that the Government should reject any notion of the Civil Service being given statutory independence or the Ministerial Code being put on a statutory footing, but it calls for the Civil Service Code to be amended to clarify officials duty to comply with UK law, which does not include international law unless specifically enacted.

The recommendation follows the attempt by the FDA Civil Service Union to take the Government to court over the Conservatives Rwanda scheme  which the Labour Government has now dropped  on the basis that Home Office staff might be asked to break international law.

Endorsing the report, Mr Gove said that it pushes back hard on the pretensions of those who believe whole areas of public life and decision making impacting the population should be fenced off and left in the hands of technocrats beyond any political accountability.

The reports lead author, Stephen Webb, who previously worked as a civil servant in the Home Office and Cabinet Office, said: The dilution of power and accountability has hamstrung the ability of ministers to get things done, and eroded public faith in politics.

There is no democratic mandate or accountability for rule by experts, which can only return us to the orderly management of decline.

Writing in The Telegraph, the former prime minister Liz Truss said that during the Tories 14 years in power they had failed to dismantle the Leftist technocratic state we were bequeathed in 2010.

Ms Truss said that Labour had no agenda to dismantle the bloated Whitehall bureaucracy and claimed that Sir Keir Starmers government had enhanced it by bringing supposedly impartial former civil servants like Sue Gray and Sir Patrick Vallance into the heart of the Labour administration.

In a separate development, a number of MPs have been elected to Parliament with a background in the Civil Service.

For example, Miatta Fahnbulleh  a former senior civil servant in the Cabinet Office  was elected in Peckham and immediately appointed as a junior minister in the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero.

Other MPs with civil service experience include Labour MPs Torsten Bell, Rachel Blake, Dan Tomlinson, Kanishka Narayan, Katie White, Hamish Falconer, Anna Dixon, Jeevun Sandher and Jennifer Craft, as well as the Liberal Democrats Calum Miller.

Katie White MP for Leeds North West - x.com/KatieJWhite

Alex Thomas, the programme director at the Institute for Government think-tank, told The Telegraph it was an unusually high number of civil servants coming in.

Mr Thomas said it was good having people in Parliament who understand how government works but that they would need to pretty rapidly build up their political experience.

The skills to operate successfully in Parliament and in the political context are quite different to the civil service, he said.

Iain Mansfield, a former civil servant and special adviser who is now the director of research at Policy Exchange, and co-authored their report, said: We should welcome the fact that some MPs have been civil servants: it is always helpful if politicians have an understanding of how the sausage is made.

Furthermore for civil servants who want to be political, its absolutely right that they should leave in order to pursue those aims openly, so that the impartiality of the civil service is maintained.
Medical practitioner conducts a smear test - PETER DAZELEY/THE IMAGE BANK RF

An at-home urine test could reduce the need for women to have smear checks for cervical cancer.

Scientists have developed a simple test that can detect high-risk proteins linked to cancer-causing forms of the human papillomavirus (HPV).

About 3,200 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year in the UK, which results in about 850 deaths.

The NHS has pledged to eliminate cervical cancer by 2040 through vaccination against HPV and screening.

But smear test uptake has slumped to a 10-year low with just 68.7 per cent of eligible women getting checked for cancer last year.

Women aged 25 to 49 are offered screening every three years, while those aged 50 to 64 are invited for checks every five years.

The reluctance to get checked by some women has been blamed on busy lifestyles, embarrassment and the uncomfortable nature of the check, also known as a pap smear, which involves doctors taking a small sample of cells from the cervix.

Simple urine test could replace the smear check - KARL TAPALES/MOMENT RF

However the new non-invasive test developed by scientists in Japan could help to boost uptake if made widely available.

The urine tests developed by researchers at Waseda University look for oncoproteins, which are a group of proteins that can lead to the development of cancer if a large number are present.

Research suggests that this could be a more accurate predictor of developing cervical cancer compared with the presence of HPV DNA.

The test detects E7 proteins which are generated by the high-risk strain HPV 16, one of two strains linked to 70 per cent of cervical cancer cases.

Trials found the urine test successfully detected the proteins in 80 and 71 per cent of women with low-grade or moderate abnormal changes respectively.

However this dropped to 38 per cent among women with high-grade cervical changes.

Screening is a big hurdle

This could be because this specific protein plays a more significant role in early cell changes, according to the findings published in the journal Microorganisms.

Etsuro Ito, a professor from the universitys department of biology, said: Cancer can be prevented by vaccination before it develops and by regular screening. But screening is a big hurdle for young women.

Our new urine test can detect HPV16 E7 proteins, which are critical markers of cervical cancer risk, at extremely low levels. This means that women may be able to screen for cervical cancer without the discomfort and inconvenience of a traditional Pap test.

A separate study by researchers at the University of Manchester found that urine testing may be as accurate at detecting HPV as standard cervical smear testing.

While research suggests women would prefer at-home urine tests to traditional smear checks, larger trials and evidence will be needed before they can be widely used.
King Charles and Queen Camilla pose for a new photo released in a set of official portraits as their royal tour to Australia is announced. Photograph: Millie Pilkington for Buckingham Palace

King Charles and Queen Camilla have locked in plans to visit Australia and Samoa in October but have called off a proposed trip to New Zealand on health advice as the king recovers from a cancer diagnosis.

The Australian government said on Monday that the king and queen would travel to the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales during the visit, with further details to be confirmed later.

The announcement coincided with the release of official Australian portraits of the king and queen.

Related: A year after King Charles ascension, keen Australians are still waiting for their official portrait

All Australians are eligible to request a printed portrait of the monarch courtesy of their federal MP or senator, as part of the little-known nationhood material program, but the federal government had been waiting for Buckingham Palace to send an official portrait.

In the official portraits, The King wears The Sovereigns Badge of the Order of Australia, while The Queen wears the Wattle Brooch which was gifted to Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during her visit to Australia in 1954, the Australian government said in a statement.

Buckingham Palace said Charles and Camilla would attend the commonwealth heads of government meeting (Chogm) in Samoa, which is scheduled for 21-25 October.

They will visit Australia but not New Zealand as Charles, 75, continues his recovery from cancer after he was diagnosed earlier this year. The king returned to public duties in late April.

The kings doctors have advised that such an extended programme should be avoided at this time, to prioritise his majestys continued recovery, a spokesperson for Buckingham Palace said.

The Australian prime minister said he would be honoured to welcome the king and queen on their first royal visit to Australia later this year.

They are always welcome visitors, Anthony Albanese said on Monday.

The king has a deep regard for our great nation, and has always spoken warmly of the time he has spent here and the astounding beauty of our extraordinary continent.

Australias governor general, Sam Mostyn, said she looked forward to showcasing the very best of our modern and diverse nation during the royal visit.

I was fortunate to spend time with his majesty in May, she said.

His majesty the king has a well-known deep affection for and connection to the people of Australia and he was very much looking forward to his first visit to Australia since becoming king.

It will be the first visit to Australia by a reigning monarch since 2011, when Queen Elizabeth II and her husband, Prince Philip, made a 10-day tour of the country.

The Australian Republic Movement said the visit was a great opportunity for all Australians to ask themselves whether the British royals really represent a modern Aussie democracy.

The ARMs national director and chief executive, Isaac Jeffrey, said the organisation welcomed the visit but questioned the cost to Australian taxpayers.

While we respect the role the royals have played in the nation to date, its time for Australia to elect a local to serve as our head of state: someone who can work for Australia full time and advocate for Australian industry, charities, economy, trade, jobs and people  like Charles does for the UK, he said.

Jeffrey said his organisation had asked for a meeting with the king during the visit. He said this was not to ask his permission to become a republic, because only the Australian people can make that decision.

Weve asked to meet so we can let him know Australia and the UK will continue our strong alliance, friendship and sporting rivalries when we become a republic. Were keen to tell him well stay in the commonwealth and a republic is about us, not about him or his family.

There is no sign the government is preparing to put the question of a republic to the people in a referendum. The idea was last defeated in a 1999 referendum.

The assistant minister for the republic, Matt Thistlethwaite, told Guardian Australia last year that the defeat of the Indigenous voice referendum made a republic a lot harder although Labor remains committed to the idea.

Additional reporting by Reuters
People inspecting the damage in al-Sinaa neighbourhood in the west of Gaza City on Friday. Photograph: APAImages/Rex/Shutterstock

At least 31 Palestinians have been killed and more than 50 wounded in fresh Israeli bombings across the Gaza Strip, rescuers and health officials have said, as conflicting reports emerged over whether Hamas was withdrawing from ceasefire talks after the targeting of the groups top military commander.

Four attacks in various parts of Gaza City in the early hours of Sunday morning occurred less than 24 hours after Israeli forces said Mohammed Deif, who is believed to be the mastermind behind the 7 October attack on southern Israel, was the target of a strike in the city of Khan Younis in southern Gaza that, according to the territorys emergency services, killed more than 90 people and injured 300 others.

Another 14 people were killed in a strike on Sunday morning near a UN-run school being used as a shelter for displaced people in Nuseirat, central Gaza, journalists at the scene said. Israel said Hamas militants were present in the area.

Sundays bombings add to what was already one of the deadliest weeks of Israeli aerial attacks on Gaza since the war broke out nine months ago.

Related: Hamas mastermind of 7 October attack target of deadly Gaza strike, claims Israel

Deif, 58, who has been on Israels most-wanted list since 1995 and escaped multiple Israeli assassination attempts, is believed to be the chief architect of the attack in which 1,200 people were killed and 250 kidnapped, sparking the Israel-Gaza war. More than 38,400 Palestinians have been killed in Israels retaliatory operation in Gaza, according to the health ministry in the Hamas-administered territory, and the population of 2.3 million people is in the grips of a devastating humanitarian crisis.

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) said Rafa Salama, the head of Hamass Khan Younis brigade, was also targeted and successfully neutralised in the same strike. The Saudi-owned newspaper Asharq al-Aswat reported on Sunday that Hamas sources had confirmed Salamas death.

Speaking on Saturday night, the Israeli prime minister, Benjamin Netanyahu, said: There is still no conclusive certainty that the two [Deif and Salama] have been foiled, but I want to assure you that one way or another we will reach the top of Hamas.

Hamass deputy leader, Khalil al-Hayya, told Al Jazeera TV that the groups top military commander had not been killed and, addressing Netanyahu, said: Deif is listening to you right now and mocking your lies.

Another Hamas official told Agence France-Presse Deif was fine and working despite the Israeli attack, without providing evidence.

Deif, which means the guest in Arabic, is the nickname for the 58-year-old commander, whose real name is Mohammed al-Masri. He has spent years frequently changing locations to elude Israeli detection. Engaged with Hamas from a young age, the former science student orchestrated a series of suicide bombings targeting Israeli civilians in the 1990s and then again a decade later.

On 7 October, Hamas issued a rare voice recording of Deif announcing operation Al-Aqsa Flood.

Killing Deif would provide a much-needed morale boost for Israel, which in almost 10 months of fighting has so far failed to take out any of Hamass top leadership despite remarks from Netanyahu that the men were marked for death.

Gazas health ministry said the strike targeting Deif and Salama hit a camp for displaced people in the Khan Younis area, killing at least 92 Palestinians and injuring more than 300 others. Residents said they witnessed at least five big warplanes bombing in the middle of al-Mawasi, west of Khan Younis.

Mawasi, on the Mediterranean shoreline, is an Israeli-designated evacuation zone that Israel has described as safe for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians. Israels military has not confirmed the exact location of the strike. The area has been hit before.

Hamas said Israels claim it had targeted leaders of the Palestinian militant group were false and aimed at justifying the attack. A senior Hamas official told AFP on Sunday that the Palestinian militant group had withdrawn from talks on a ceasefire and hostage release deal in the Gaza war because of what it called Israeli massacres and its attitude in negotiations.

Two Egyptian security sources told Reuters on Saturday that the latest round of Gaza ceasefire talks had been halted after three days of intense negotiations failed to produce a viable outcome, blaming Israel for lacking a genuine intent to reach agreement.

However, other statements from Hamas officials on Sunday denied the group had withdrawn from the talks. A spokesperson, Jihad Taha, said: There is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations. But he added: Efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.

A few hours before, Hamass Qatar-based political leader, Ismail Haniyeh, accused Netanyahu of seeking to block a deal to end the war with heinous massacres. He said in a statement that Hamas had shown a positive and responsible response to new proposals for a ceasefire and prisoner and hostage exchange, but the Israeli position taken by Netanyahu was to place obstacles that prevent reaching an agreement.

Thousands of Israelis have taken to the streets over the weekend in what have become weekly protests across the country, accusing Netanyahu of sabotaging the negotiations for political gain. Among the demonstrators were the families of hostages, who made a symbolic march from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem. Relatives of those still held captive in Gaza by Hamas fear the recent escalation of bombings in the Palestinian territory may hinder the safe return home of their loved ones. At least 40 hostages are believed to have died since they were seized last October, Israel says.

In light of recent events in the Gaza Strip, the families of the hostages remind prime minister Netanyahu that there can be no victory until all 120 hostages are returned home, read a statement from the Hostage and Missing Families Forum. The proposed deal is in its final stages. We have been waiting for them for 282 days. Time is of the essence; theres not a moment more to lose.
Beijing launches "rocket street" project to advance commercial space development

Xinhua) 10:12, July 14, 2024

BEIJING, July 13 (Xinhua) -- Beijing has launched a "rocket street" project, aiming to establish a national-level scientific research and production hub to support China's commercial space development.

"Beijing Rocket Street" project will be located in Beijing E-town, an economic and technological development area in the southeast of the capital city, with a total floor space of 140,000 square meters. A common technological platform, a high-end manufacturing center and an innovation research and development center are some of the major facilities. It also plans to build an interactive exhibition hall for science and technology that will offer visitors immersive virtual reality experiences.

The local government anticipates that the project will assist rocket enterprises in exploring new technologies and expanding their application scenario. Meanwhile, it has spearheaded a commercial space alliance, bringing together businesses, universities, institutions and cooperatives.

Beijing E-town hosts a cluster of over 70 aerospace companies including 75 percent of China's private rocket makers.

In 2023, the country's private commercial rocket enterprises, all headquartered in Beijing, carried a total of 13 space launches.

Since China's government work report earlier this year highlighted the inclusion of the commercial space industry as a significant driver for new growth, many regions such as Shanghai, Hunan and Sichuan have also released development plans to boost the industry.

Data shows that China's commercial space market has experienced rapid growth since 2015, with an average annual increase of over 20 percent from 2017 to the first half of this year. This year, the country's commercial space market is expected to be worth 2.34 trillion yuan (about 328 billion U.S. dollars).

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
The suspect was pursued by an onlooker filming on a bike

The suspect in the suitcase murder investigation ran from the scene shouting my boss is really bad before human remains were found.

The man was pursued by an onlooker on a bike from Bristols Clifton Suspension Bridge and made the comment in Spanish before apparently trying to stop the person filming.

In the early hours of Thursday morning police found the remains of two men in suitcases nearby. Further remains were found at a flat in West London on Friday while a manhunt was underway.

On Saturday, armed police detained a 34-year-old man at Bristols Temple Meads railway station who is understood to be undergoing questioning in London.

Metropolitan Police officers had earlier said that they wanted to speak to 34-year-old Colombian national Yostin Andres Mosquera.

The Sun published a video of the suspect running away from the Clifton Suspension Bridge, where it is understood he had been challenged by witnesses who thought they saw blood leaking from the luggage he was carrying.

The video shows him being pursued by a person on a bike before he appears to say mi jefe es muy malo, Spanish for my boss is really bad.

Human remains connected

Detectives have confirmed that human remains found at a flat in Shepherds Bush belong to the same two men whose remains were found in Bristol.

It has been reported that the victims lived together and one had recently travelled to Colombia. They have not yet been identified.

A neighbour told the Mail on Sunday that one of them had been on holiday in Colombia... they were quite well travelled and had a villa on the border of Spain and France too. Theyd lived here for a couple of years.

It is believed that one of the men may have worked as a concierge for Harrods Estate, the property company, before retiring in 2019.

On Saturday, investigators in blue forensic suits, wearing masks and gloves, could be seen working behind a cordon outside the property in Scotts Road.

Officers from the Metropolitan Police are leading the investigation and are working with their counterparts in Avon and Somerset Police.

Dept Assistant Commissioner Andy Valentine, of Scotland Yard, said of the arrest: This is a significant development in our investigation, and I would like to thank the public for their support.

We understand the concerns of local communities in both Bristol and London, and officers will remain in the Clifton and Shepherds Bush areas over the coming days to reassure those affected by this tragic incident. Anyone with any concerns is encouraged to speak with them.

The suspect is believed to have travelled to Bristol from London in a vehicle in which he was not the driver. He was picked up in a taxi outside a pub in Clifton, an affluent area in the west of the city.

It is thought he then made a short journey from outside the pub to the other side of the bridge, which connects Bristol with Leigh Woods in North Somerset.

The manhunt began at 11.57pm on Wednesday, when police received reports of a man seen acting suspiciously near the Bristol bridge.

Officers arrived within 10 minutes but the man had left the scene, leaving a suitcase behind. A second suitcase was found nearby a short time later and both contained body parts.

A 36-year-old man who was arrested in Greenwich on Friday in connection with the investigation has since been released without charge.
Elinor O'Donovan: A guaranteed income covers my living expenses, my rent and day-to-day stuff. Photograph: Denis Vahey/The Observer

When Elinor ODonovan found out she had been randomly selected to participate in a basic income pilot scheme, she couldnt believe her luck. In return for a guaranteed salary of just over 1,400 (1,200) a month from the Irish government, all the 27-year-old artist had to do was fill out a bi-annual questionnaire about her wellbeing and how she spends her time. It was like winning the lottery. I was in such disbelief, she says.

The income, which she will receive until September 2025, has enabled her to give up temping and focus instead on her art. It covers my living expenses, my rent, food and day-to-day stuff.

The concept of a guaranteed basic income might seem novel or neoteric, but it dates back to 1795, when the American founding father Thomas Paine suggested a national fund should pay every adult rich or poor a ground rent of 10 a year until the age of 50. Earth is the common property of the human race, he argued, so everyone has been collectively dispossessed by the introduction of the system of landed property and was entitled to compensation.

Today, as artificial intelligence (AI) learns from the collective intellectual and creative output of humans and uses this to dispossess workers of their livelihoods, the idea of universal basic income (UBI) as a possible solution is gaining traction. We are seeing the most disruptive force in history, Tesla founder and X (formerly Twitter) owner Elon Musk said last year, before speculating: There will come a point where no job is needed  you can have a job if you want one for personal satisfaction  but AI will do everything.

The counter argument is that although AI could replace a range of jobs, it will also create new roles (including oversight of AI decision making  known as human in the loop). Yet for many workers, the advance of AI continues to be alarming. In March, after analysing 22,000 tasks in the UK economy, covering every type of job, a model created by the Institute for Public Policy Research predicted that 59% of tasks currently done by humans  particularly women and young people  could be affected by AI in the next three to five years. In the worst-case scenario, this would trigger a jobs apocalypse where eight million people lose their jobs in the UK alone.

UBI would provide a vital safety net. Under capitalism, you need money to survive. Its that simple, says Dr Neil Howard, an international development social protection researcher at the University of Bath. He and his team have helped to develop basic income pilots around the world and, like Thomas Paine, he believes that a redistribution of the privatised resources of all human beings is inherently just. Howard likens the large language models of AI that rely on the aggregated collection of human knowledge to the enclosure of the commons, which began in the 1600s and privatised most of Englands common land. The common wealth of the world and of humanity, should, by rights, belong to all of us, says Howard. It has been appropriated by the few  and that leads the many to either have to struggle to survive or simply not effectively do so. So theres justice underpinning the claim of UBI.

Contrary to expectations, he says, It wouldnt necessarily lead to people doing less work  it would enable them to do better work or to invest their time in more socially useful activities.

This argument is backed up by a 2020 study conducted by researchers at Utrecht University in the Netherlands. It found that unemployed individuals who were previously in receipt of benefits increased their participation in the labour market after they were given a basic income for three years. Rather than opting for insecure work  taking any job they could get  to fulfil the conditions imposed upon them by the benefits system, they were more likely to find and accept a long-term, well-paid job. They also took on more work.

Humans need to do work that feels valuable, psychologically, says Cleo Goodman, a UBI expert at the thinktank Autonomy. Its baked into us. It is complete nonsense to suggest that theres a faction of society that just wants to sit around on the sofa all day, drinking beer and watching TV. We want to spend a fair amount of our time doing something that makes us proud. She believes that everyone has the potential to find their niche  work theyre good at, that gives their lives meaning and purpose.

For example, she believes that if UBI was available, people would do more creative and charitable work. The kind of work that its now very difficult to make an income from is the kind of work that I think people would move to in droves. And I think that would be positive for society.

Humans need to do work that feels valuable, psychologically. Its baked into us Cleo Goodman, Autonomy

This is particularly true of care work and parenting, says Goodman. People shouldnt be punished for making those choices. Socially and economically, that work is valuable. But at the moment, economically, its not valued.

Salaries for work that is essential, but unattractive, would need to rise if a UBI scheme was introduced. Wed have to recognise the people that are doing the work in the sewers and cleaning the streets, theyre doing incredibly important jobs that we should be grateful for, says Goodman. So they should be compensated in a fair way. I think more people would be happy to get their hands dirty if they were being paid fairly.

While no basic income scheme is now available in England, Autonomy is looking to change that. Goodman is fundraising to run a micropilot that would give 15 people in two areas  central Jarrow in South Tyneside and East Finchley in north London  1,600 a month for two years, to observe the impact on their lives.

The only basic income pilot currently running in the UK is a Welsh government scheme for 600 young care leavers. Each is receiving 1,600 a month (1,280 after tax), for 18 months, so that researchers can evaluate the schemes benefits. An interim report suggests recipients feel a greater sense of choice and control over the future.

In the US, where there are currently more than 100 UBI pilots being explored or delivered, researchers have seen similar results. One two-year pilot, In Her Hands, involving Black women in the state of Georgia, resulted in more women of colour returning to education.

Cheeoni Hampton, 47, a disabled grandmother who left school young to have children, was one of them. When I found the flyer under my door, I was sceptical, she says from her home in Atlanta where, at one point in her life, she experienced homelessness. Then I researched it a bit, and thought: Maybe I can get a real career, instead of hopping from job to job.

The income she is receiving  $850 [673] a month until September  has enabled the former warehouse worker to take an online course and become a security guard, while simultaneously paying off debts. A weight was lifted off my shoulders, she says.

Hampton moved out of her subsidised apartment and bought a low-cost home with a mortgage. She is now earning enough to meet all her bills without getting into debt. With a little extra money, she says, you can really do a lot. It motivated me to go out and do better for myself. It changed my outlook on life.

In Cambridge, Massachusetts, former mayor Sumbul Siddiqui began a programme providing 2,000 low-income families with a guaranteed tax-free income of $500 [395] a month, for 18 months. She is a member of Mayors for a Guaranteed Income, a coalition of 150 mayors in the US who are advocating for a nationwide guaranteed income scheme. Her scheme is costing the city $22m [17m] but, she says, it was a very easy decision to make: I think we have to do everything we can to provide financial stability and dignity to those who are the most vulnerable in our community. She adds, I think its important to say: We recognise you could use help and assistance, and we trust you to figure out how best to use this money.

An earlier pilot Siddiqui ran in the city resulted in significant improvements in financial health for 130 families, along with higher rates of employment, more time and space for parenting and improved educational outcomes for children.

In Cork, Elinor ODonovan  who began receiving Irelands basic income for creative workers in 2022  can now spend time doing a job that makes her feel fulfilled. I made my first film last year, which was really huge for me, and I was able to pay other artists to work with me.

Across the Irish sea, the Scottish government and the mayors of Manchester, Liverpool and London have all publicly expressed enthusiasm for running basic income pilots in their areas. But so far, none have managed to do so.

One of the biggest obstacles they face is that HMRC refuses to exempt participants from income tax, significantly increasing the gross amount that scheme providers must pay to provide each individual with a small but adequate net income. Participants also need to be financially compensated if other benefits are affected as a result of the pilot. That makes pilots in the UK more expensive than in other countries.

Its an impasse, says economist Prof Mike Danson, who has carried out research advocating for a basic income scheme in Scotland. We know that, privately, some senior civil servants are in favour. But politicians are afraid of making that big step and trusting the population to do the right thing.

Research on the impact on participants of pilots in places with similar economies to the UK is so overwhelmingly positive that, he suggests, the resistance in government must be ideological. So, until theres quite a radical change in thinking in Westminster, nothing can change, really, anywhere in the UK.

But AI may be the impetus for this radical change in thinking, especially if massive job losses do occur. One view is that basic income has to happen because, to continue, businesses need people to have money. People need an income they can spend on goods and services. So if youre taking a lot of income out of the economy, with people losing their jobs, then thats a problem, says Danson.

Its not just economists who think a UBI scheme will be necessary in the future. Prof Geoffrey Hinton  a computer scientist generally regarded as the godfather of AI  is among those advocating for it. I was consulted by people in Downing Street and I advised them that UBI was a good idea, he told the BBC in May. He fears AI will destroy jobs and increase productivity: Its going to increase the gap between rich and poor, he said.

Darrell West, author of The Future of Work: AI, Robots and Automation, says that just as policy innovations were needed in Thomas Paines time to help people transition from an agrarian to an industrial economy, they are needed today, as we transition to an AI economy. Theres a risk that AI is going to take a lot of jobs, he says. A basic income could help navigate that situation.

AIs impact will be far-reaching, he predicts, affecting blue- and white-collar jobs. Its not just going to be entry-level people who are affected. And so we need to think about what this means for the economy, what it means for society as a whole. What are people going to do if robots and AI take a lot of the jobs?

Nell Watson, a futurist who focuses on AI ethics, has a more pessimistic view. She believes we are witnessing the dawn of an age of AI companies: corporate environments where very few  if any  humans are employed at all. Instead, at these companies, lots of different AI sub-personalities will work independently on different tasks, occasionally hiring humans for bits and pieces of work.

These AI companies have the potential to be enormously more efficient than human businesses, driving almost everyone else out of business, apart from a small selection of traditional old businesses that somehow stick in there because their traditional methods are appreciated.

Watson speculates that only jobs that require human interaction (like hospital chaplains and care workers) or involve complex physical tasks (like plasterers, plumbers and hairdressers) will need to be done by humans in the future. As a result, she thinks it could be AI companies, not governments, that end up paying people a basic income.

AI companies, meanwhile, will have no salaries to pay. Because there are no human beings in the loop, the profits and dividends of this company could be given to the needy. This could be a way of generating support income in a way that doesnt need the state welfare. Its fully compatible with capitalism. Its just that the AI is doing it.

Howard is also optimistic that we will one day see a basic income scheme introduced in the UK: We have lots of evidence  and people make it very clear  that the universality, the unconditionality, the automaticity of payments give people a sense of dignity. It manifests that they matter and that their experiences as human beings matter enough to be given this solid cash floor, he says.

I think we need to be calling for basic income on the basis of a sense of shared morality, because economic insecurity is grim. Its empirically damaging and its based on historical injustices that are translated into present inequalities. So theres a very strong case for redistributive basic income right now, irrespective of whether or not the machines are coming.
General election postal ballot for the newly reorganised Lothian East constituency - SALLY ANDERSON/ALAMY

Reform UK can overtake the Scottish Tories at the next Holyrood elections because the party will not be thwarted by Westminsters absurd voting system, Richard Tice has declared.

The partys deputy leader revealed that his party had already set its sights on the devolved elections in 2026, after it won seven per cent of the vote at the general election in Scotland despite barely campaigning north of the border.

The result, if repeated nationwide under the Scottish Parliaments proportional voting system, would likely see the party gain at least eight of Holyroods 129 seats.

However, Mr Tice, now the MP for Boston and Skegness, said Reform could return many more MSPs with the party already plotting a major offensive for the Scottish elections.

At the general election, the Scottish Tories won just 12.7 per cent of the vote, less than six points ahead of Reform, a result which has alarmed senior figures in Scotlands established Centre-Right party.

Reform UK deputy leader Richard Tice - LEE THOMAS

The plans are very simple, Mr Tice told The Telegraph. Were going to stand everywhere. Every seat, every regional list will have a full slate of candidates. I think our seven per cent will go up and well get some decent representation in Holyrood.

Everyone was caught a bit short [by Rishi Sunaks July election announcement] but we got seven per cent with a very limited Scottish campaign.

At least half of our candidates want to stand again, so thats a cracking start. The same is true in Wales and were going to surprise people there as well. I think some unexpected things are going to happen.

Reform UK won five Commons seats  less than one per cent of the total  despite winning 14.3 per cent of the UK vote.

However, Mr Tice said Reform UK would benefit from Holyroods system for electing MSPs, which is designed to ensure seat allocation more closely aligns with vote share.

He said: A lot of people are coming up to me and saying they didnt realise how unfair and biased the UK electoral system is.

Election count at the Emirates Arena in Glasgow - EUAN CHERRY FOR THE TELEGRAPH

Weve proved it in the most extreme way, I suspect, ever. How can Labour get 33 per cent of the vote and more than 60 per cent of the seats? Its absurd.

He added: I think its completely realistic to think that well get more votes cast than they [the Scottish Tories] do. I mean the party is riven asunder.

They have no idea what they stand for. Some of them are to the Left of Strarmer, some of them are Lib Dems.

The whole Conservative Party brand is toxic, thats the point. Whereas our brand is actually gaining momentum and I think were going to surprise everybody.

The Scottish Tories are embarking on a leadership campaign with the party facing challenges from both the Left and Right.

Labour, currently the third largest party in Holyrood, comprehensively won the election in Scotland, wounding Tory claims that it is the strongest unionist party.

Meanwhile, Reform outpolled the Scottish Tories in several seats in the central belt, despite Nigel Farages party having few local campaigners and party insiders openly admitting they put up several paper candidates.

Douglas Ross, the outgoing Scottish Tory leader - JASPERIMAGE/ALAMY

Douglas Ross, the outgoing Scottish Tory leader, blamed Reform for his loss to the SNP in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East. Mr Ross lost by 942 votes, while the Reform candidate, who came third, won 5,562 votes.

Mr Tice also rejected speculation that his party could stand on a platform of abolishing Holyrood, a proposition that opinion polls suggest about one in five Scots support.

He said: Im actually a fan of pushing power as close to the people as possible, and Brexit is part of that process. So I dont have a problem with the concept of devolution at all.

The issue is having competent people. Stop wasting money on ridiculous diversity, equality and inclusion nonsense. Stop creating division and just focus on performance, get stuff done.

The crisis with Scotland is that whether its in healthcare, whether its in education, whether its in law and order and drugs, Scotlands position has plummeted down the tables, thats what concerns people.

The Scottish Tories were approached for comment.
Richard Simmons pictured in 1984. Photograph: Walt Disney Television Photo Archives/ABC

The fitness instructor Richard Simmons, who rocketed to fame in the 1980s with up-tempo neon-colored exercise videos such as Sweatin to the Oldies, has died.

Simmons had just thanked fans on social media for birthday wishes after he turned 76 on Friday. I never got so many messages about my birthday in my life! Simmons wrote on X, formerly known as Twitter. I am sitting here writing emails. Have a most beautiful rest of your Friday.

ABC News said Simmons death was confirmed by his representative on Saturday, following a 911 call made by his housekeeper. It added that Simmons appeared to have died of natural causes, citing police sources.

Born in New Orleans as Milton Teagle Simmons, Simmons rose to fame in the 1970s and captured the zeitgeist in the 1980s through a series of exercise videos, conducted in often lurid outfits. He also opened a number of gyms, promoted a range of products and became an established media presence on TV and radio over the decades.

Having long been the most recognizable face of fitness and healthy living in the US, promoting various weight-loss programs in his often flamboyant style, Simmons also became involved in aspects of political activism, such as his support for non-competitive physical education in public schools.

In the past decade, Simmons had largely retreated from public life. In March, he revealed that he had been diagnosed with skin cancer, underneath his eye. In the same month, he posted on social media that I am  dying. The truth is we all are dying. Every day we live we are getting closer to our death.

He later clarified that he was not actually about to die and that he intended to pass on a message for people to embrace life.
(L-r) The Mother, 1958-9; Savacou, 1964, brilliantly onomatopoeic: shaped like the very sound of a squawk; and Johanaan, 1936 by Ronald Moody. Photographs: The Ronald Moody Trust Photograph: The Ronald Moody Trust

Wakefield is at the centre of sculpture in Britain. Take a trip to the birthplace of Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth and you pass into the realms of three-dimensional art: 10 gracious galleries of these artists carvings and castings alongside many European masterpieces at the Hepworth Wakefield; sculptures like standing stones all through the green pastures of nearby Yorkshire Sculpture Park; plentiful buses to the Henry Moore Institute in Leeds.

An ever-changing programme of new shows, in addition, takes sculpture so much to heart that anyone who wants to steep themselves in this art, specifically of the past 100 years, will find it at its most condensed in these few square miles of Yorkshire.

One of this years most anticipated sculpture shows, for instance, gathers together the widely strewn works of the Jamaican-born artist Ronald Moody (1900-84) for the first time in full force at the Hepworth Wakefield. Small portrait heads in wood and bronze of gigantic figures such as Paul Robeson and Harold Moody, the artists brother, founder of the League of Coloured Peoples, are all concentrated personality. Hieratic figures in stone and oak unite the ancient past with Moodys present in a startling visual poetry.

His art spans the 20th century, from the Caribbean island of his birth to London, with a spell in the 30s in modernist Paris, always with an insistent and vital figuration. The show opens with a philosophical vision: a double-sided human head, poised in the encircling embrace of a serpentine form that rests on an animals paw and curls up to an avian beak. Atavistic, yet lucidly modern in its fibreglass resin, the work is titled Man His Universe.

Moody worked in wood from the 1920s onwards to captivating effect, using the grain to introduce rippling movement into the female form. Several figures, all titled Annie, seem to exist in dappled light, or even underwater currents. The heads are often slightly tilted, with the most delicate inflection of eye and lid to suggest an attitude of joyous thought.

Curvaceous and muscular, short and sturdy, these figures are all compressed strength, even when small enough to be picked up by the neck. A glorious head of Moodys little niece is not much bigger than an infant fist, her lively personality nutshelled. Not much bigger is a man with an inner smile, arms firmly by his hardwood sides, in nothing more than a sarong: Moodys incarnation of a priest.

There are Caribbean deities: witty and quixotic critters in bronze. Here is Savacou, a mythological bird in charge of wind and thunder, who will later turn into a star, its head brilliantly onomatopoeic: shaped like the very sound of a squawk. Moodys massive 7ft version, cast in aluminium, still stands outside the University of the West Indies at Mona, its name shared with the Caribbean Artists Movements journal of the 1970s, edited by Edward Kamau Brathwaite.

Related: Dentist, modernist, activist: the many lives of sculptor Ronald Moody

Perhaps the most pan-global, indeed ecumenical, of all the sculptures here is Moodys towering Johaanan of 1936 (bought almost 60 years later by the Tate). Apparently named after John the Baptist, this elm torso is curiously androgynous, swelling and undulating and shot through with the glimmering contour lines of the wood. The face has an inscrutable pharaonic expression, the body something of a beatific Buddha. Moody visited the British Museum in 1928, five years after arriving in England (originally to train as a dentist), and became transfixed, as he recalled, by the tremendous inner force the irrepressible movement in stillness he found there. It is precisely what the finest of his own works possess.

If this show makes it quite difficult at times to discern Moody among his many influences and peers  objects from the British Museum, assorted artworks by other CAM members  it is well worth the slow and careful scrutiny. Moodys art is powerfully benign, and the Hepworth Wakefield brings his humanity, in all its forms, strongly back into the light.

A parallel show by the South African artist Igshaan Adams, in the neighbouring galleries, has as much soul and even more beauty. Adams (born 1982) takes tapestry and transforms it into clouds, landscapes, rhythmic interweavings, even human figures. He is the most magical and inventive of textile artists at work today.

A downpour of open warps, in silvery twine, glints with a weather of shining beads, pearls, shells and stone chips to bring you straight into a deluge. A cascade of nylon rope, tiny dark elements caught up within it, suggests both crisis and waterfall. An extraordinarily complex structure of lace, cotton thread, fine chains and tiny jewels, suspended and bodying forth from the wall, folds and curves and appears to open its two arms wide. Ouma  grandmother  it is called.

You look at, and into, every spectacular thicket and web. And drifting above you, across the gallery, hang dust clouds and whorls that appear featherweight yet as momentous as a meteor shower. Danger and memory are caught within their staggering invention, out of fuse wire and lamp filaments, showerheads and silk threads, sharp clips and plastic ties. They hold colour and form as nebulously as actual clouds yet are spun out of Adamss imagination and ingenuity, his art of living dreams.

At Yorkshire Sculpture Park, a few miles away, the British-Indian artist Bharti Kher (born 1969) has installed colossal china figurines across the landscape  or so it seems. In fact these curious goddesses are bronze casts of broken clay objects, reconfigured in new ways. A girl fits into a woman, 23 childrens heads sprout from a mother goddess and a female musician turns into her own tambourine. Late-flowering surrealism meets Asian tradition.

In the underground galleries, a solemn chamber of ultramarine bricks encloses the viewer. The Deaf Room is made of 10 tonnes of glass bangles, commemorating the notorious Gujarat riots of 2002, where more than 1,000 people died, and women were raped and burnt. White bindis blossom across broken mirrors like ice flowers in Milk Teeth and a monolith of old radiators, titled The Hot Winds That Blow From the West, resembles a heap of bleached bones: look twice, think again, be careful.

Khers art of hybrids runs to antlered women, cow-headed goddesses, and baboon-faced self-portraits. We are mythical beings, always part animal to her. Everything has its backstory  the crashed ambulance she came across near her London studio, and crushed; the saris her mother sold in Streatham, now painted with resin and draped like molten glass, in one case entirely concealing the figure beneath, a reference to Pakistans assassinated leader Benazir Bhutto.

Sometimes the intimation is clear, and lyrical; at other times, as with Cloud Walker, which refers to the Dakini dancers of Tibetan mythology, entirely opaque. But when form and content come perfectly together, no texts are needed. The thin red line that runs the full length of the YSP galleries, just above your head, glows in the days sunlight. It is an artery of glass bangles: a beautiful female bloodline.

Star ratings (out of five)

Ronald Moody: Sculpting Life 

Igshaan Adams: Weerhoud 

Bharti Kher: Alchemies 

Ronald Moody: Sculpting Life and Igshaan Adams: Weerhoud are at the Hepworth Wakefield until 3 November
Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service personnel after the shooting on Saturday. Photograph: Brendan McDermid/Reuters

Donald Trump joins a long line of US presidents and candidates for the White House who have faced attempts on their lives over more than 150 years.

Abraham Lincoln was the first US president to be killed while in office, when he was shot in the head from behind while attending a theatre in Washington, in 1865. Lincoln died the next day.

His murderer was John Wilkes Booth, a former actor and fervent supporter of the pro-slavery Confederate side in the US civil war, which was ongoing at the time.

Sixteen years later, in July 1881, James Garfield, who had been a civil war general, was assassinated after serving just six months in office. He was shot while walking through a station in Washington and died of complications a few weeks later.

Garfields killer, Charles Guiteau, who had been turned down for a diplomatic posting, had been stalking the president for weeks. He was later hanged for the crime.

President William McKinley, who had also fought in the civil war, was shot in the chest at point blank range in Buffalo, New York, in September 1901 and died a few days later of gangrene caused by the wounds.

His killer was Leon Czolgosz, an anarchist. It was after McKinleys assassination that Congress passed legislation giving the Secret Service the formal role of protecting presidents.

The assassination of John F Kennedy, captured on broadcast footage as he travelled through Dallas in a motorcade in November 1963, has been the subject of countless books, documentaries and conspiracy theories.

The gunman, Lee Harvey Oswald, was himself shot dead two days later while in the custody of police, as he was being taken to the county jail. Kennedy was succeeded by his vice-president, Lyndon B Johnson, who was re-elected by a landslide a year later.

John F Kennedys brother, Robert F Kennedy, known as Bobby, a key figure in JFKs White House, was shot while running in the Democratic primaries as a potential presidential candidate in 1968.

He had been addressing supporters at a hotel in Los Angeles, and died the following day. His son and namesake, Robert F Kennedy Jr, is running as an independent in the current presidential race, with his policies including opposing vaccines.

As well as these five successful assassination attempts, several other presidents and former presidents have been targeted over the years, most recently Ronald Reagan.

In March 1981, Reagan was leaving the Hilton Hotel in Washington, where he had been addressing trade unionists, when several shots were fired, one of which hit the president under his arm. He spent 12 days in hospital and later said that getting shot hurts.

Other presidents who were targeted include Theodore Roosevelt, who was shot and wounded in 1912, after leaving office, while campaigning to return to the White House.

A bullet passed through Roosevelts glasses case and a copy of his 50-page speech to lodge in his chest. Judging that he had not been seriously wounded, Roosevelt delivered the speech before submitting to medical examination.

Roosevelt had become president in 1901 after McKinley was assassinated. The man who attempted to murder him, John Schrank, believed he had been instructed to do so by McKinleys ghost.

Gerald Ford survived two murder attempts in a single year in 1975, both by women. The first failed because there was no bullet in the firing chamber, and the second because a bystander grabbed the arm of the would-be assassin Sara Jane Moore as she was about to fire.
Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents as he leaves the stage at a campaign rally, in Butler, Pennsylvania, on 13 July. Photograph: Evan Vucci/AP

A shooting at a Donald Trump rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday comes at a time of heightened support for political violence in the US, including against Trump.

It is still unclear who fired the gunshots at Trumps rally or what political beliefs they hold. Trump is safe, according to the Secret Service, but at least one rally attendee and the suspected shooter were killed, according to reports.

Related: Biden denounces Trump rally shooting: We must unite to condemn it

But the moment is sure to intensify an already fraught election year, in which elected officials have faced an increasing number of threats and fear of violence.

A survey conducted in late June from the University of Chicago found that there is now more support for violence against Trump (10% of American adults, or 26 million people) compared with violence in favor of Trump (6.9%, or 18 million people). Until January, the survey showed there was more support for violence in favor of Trump.

And of the 26 million American adults who support violence to prevent Trump from regaining the presidency, more than 30% own guns and almost 80% have access to internet organizational tools.

There are more violent anti-Trump sentiments than pro-Trump sentiments, Bob Pape, a professor at the University of Chicago who directs the Chicago Project on Security and Threats, had said in an interview before the incident on Saturday night.

So we have to be prepared for violence coming from the left in opposition to Trumps rule.

The rise in support for political violence in the US comes at a time of extreme partisanship, rampant misinformation on social media, and violent rhetoric from Trump and his allies. Those factors came together on 6 January 2021 when thousands of people stormed the US Capitol.

According to the survey, which was first shared with the Guardian as part of a series on political violence and attitudes towards democracy, the underlying causes of support for violence on both sides of the aisle both stem from distrust of the establishment and beliefs in conspiracy theories.

On both sides, those that support violence are predominantly urban Americans.

The survey also found that 58.6% of American adults agree that in todays America, elections will not solve the countrys most fundamental political and social problems.

The shooting of Trump is a consequence of such significant support for political violence in our country, Pape said. We also need to worry about [the] threat in retribution to President Biden.

It is crucial that political leaders from both parties and at all levels of government  the president, Senate, House, governors and mayors immediately condemn political violence from whichever side of politics it arises, he added.

The immediate reaction from politicians has been largely consistent. In a statement shortly after the shooting, Joe Biden said: Theres no place for this kind of violence in America. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Barack Obama also issued a statement, saying: There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy.

Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics, Obama said.

But political violence in the US in recent years has taken many forms, including the 6 January insurrection, violent threats and harassment of election officials, and swatting attempts targeted at elected officials.

In October 2020, a month before the last presidential election, the Michigan governor, Gretchen Whitmer, was the target of a kidnapping plot. And a week after the election, an executive at Dominion Voting Systems was forced into hiding because those that believed the election was stolen shared his home address and a million-dollar bounty.

Its also easier than ever for those that hold extreme political beliefs to organize on the internet. Most political violence in the US is committed by people who do not belong to any formal organization, according to the National Consortium for the Study of Terrorism and Responses to Terrorism.

The shooting at Trumps rally occurred two days before the start of the Republican national convention, when Trump is scheduled to become the partys formal nominee. The convention has law enforcement on heightened awareness after an assessment by the FBI, Secret Service, the Milwaukee police department and the Southeastern Wisconsin Threat Analysis Center.

According to CBS News, the assessment found that there is concern the convention could be a target for foreign terrorist organizations, homegrown violent extremists, domestic violent extremist groups, so-called lone-wolf bad actors and active shooters, a law enforcement source said.

We shouldnt be at a level of political discourse in this country where this is going on, Joseph, a rally attendee who was an eyewitness to the incident said on CNN Saturday.

We have a lot of political violence in this country, he said. It just needs to stop.
Demands for answers were mounting on Sunday as to how an armed man was able to get into position on a roof overlooking a rally and fire shots at Donald Trump  the 2024 presumptive Republican nominee  despite federal and local law enforcement presence and witnesses reportedly alerting police.

National lawmakers expressed shock at the apparent security lapses. Mike Johnson, the speaker of the Republican-controlled House of Representatives, said the chamber would conduct a full investigation.

Johnson posted on X, formerly Twitter, that the American people deserve to know the truth and said that the US Secret Service director, Kimberly Cheatle, and other appropriate officials from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI would be required to appear for congressional hearings as soon as possible.

Congressman Mike Turner, the Republican chair of the House intelligence committee, said on Sunday that along with Donald Trump, our democracy dodged a bullet during the shooting in Butler country, western Pennsylvania.

The incident is being investigated as an attempted assassination and is the first time a president or leading party candidate for the White House has been shot since Ronald Reagan in 1981. It has triggered fears of political violence and more attacks as America endures one of the most contentious periods of its modern history, amid fears in some quarters of civil unrest.

Bomb-making materials were found in the vehicle and home of the suspect, officials said.

Trump was bleeding from his right ear and later described a bullet whizzing by while he was speaking at the rally. An attendee was killed and Secret Service agents then shot the suspect dead, with eyewitness reports that someone outside the rally had told police theyd seen the armed suspect heading to the roof but it appeared that officers did not respond.

How was it that someone could get [in position] on a roof  with a weapon and try to assassinate [Trump]? Turner told CNNs State of the Union show on Sunday morning, adding: The fact that people knew there was a man with a rifle and were trying to get the polices attention is a cause for concern.

Related: Trump rally shooting: what we know about the suspected gunman

The Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks from nearby Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the attempted assassination of former president Donald Trump, it said in a statement on Sunday.

Aides to Trumps election campaign said on Sunday morning that he was fine, in great spirits and doing well. And on Sunday evening, Trump arrived in Wisconsin, ahead of the start of the Republican national convention.

The former president on Sunday called for national unity and resilience, in a country deeply divided amid the tumultuous 2024 election, where Joe Bidens re-election campaign as the presumptive Democratic nominee has been thrown into crisis by his shaky performance while Trump is expected to be anointed as the Republican nominee at the partys convention this week with a hard-right agenda.

Trump posted on his social media platform that it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win, also adding that it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

Biden quickly condemned the violence saying its sick. The US president said: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

In a primetime address on Sunday evening, Biden said the shooting calls on all of us to take a step back.

We stand for an America of decency and grace ... politics must never be a killing field, the president said.

Other US leaders were incredulous, amid the rise in political violence, that anyone had been able to take a shot at a former president.

US attorney general Merrick Garland said in a statement: The FBI, ATF, US Attorneys Office for the Western District of Pennsylvania, and the Departments National Security Division are currently working with the Secret Service as well as state and local law enforcement partners on the ground in Butler, Pennsylvania  The Justice Department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

Hours after the attack, the oversight committee in the Republican-led House of Representatives summoned Secret Service director Kimberly Cheatle to testify at a hearing scheduled for 22 July.

Trumps wife, former first lady Melania Trump, issued a statement saying: America, the fabric of our gentle nation is tattered, but our courage and common sense must ascend and bring us back together as one. When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and (son) Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change.

Related: Donald Trumps would-be assassin was a monster, Melania Trump says

A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to [w]ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times. She concluded: This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence.

The political leanings of Crooks were not immediately clear. Records show he was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show in 2021 he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee. Officials have not publicly disclosed a possible motive. They said a review of Crooks social media accounts did not reveal any threatening language.

Former classmates described Crooks as quiet and smart. One former classmate told Reuters he couldnt recall Crooks discussing politics, but rather theyd talk about computers and games.

The US Secret Service has said its agents shot the suspected attacked after he fired toward Trump  who was speaking on stage at the time  from an elevated position outside of the rally venue in Butler county.

Trump later posted on Truth Social that he wanted to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed and also to the family of [those] badly injured.

Video from NBC News captured more than a dozen shots ringing out at the rally, with later ones apparently coming from federal agents.

A voice could be heard saying: Get down, get down, get down! Agents threw themselves on top of Trump as the gunfire continued and onlookers screamed.

Audio from the network captured agents voices saying: Shooters down. Shooters down. Are we good to move? Were clear, were clear.

As agents tried to move Trump away, he said: Let me get my shoes. Let me get my shoes. Agents can be heard telling the former president: I got you. Hold on. Your head is bloody. Weve got to move.

Trump replied: Wait, wait. He then pumped his fist, mouthed the words: Fight, fight, fight.

And the crowd at the rally responded with cries of: USA! USA! USA!

Agents then whisked Trump away from sight. Video showed blood on Trumps ear.

Local district attorney Richard Goldlinger told CNN investigators were going to have to figure out how the shooter managed to get close enough to aim a gun at Trump and fire repeatedly.

A Trump supporter told the BBC he was outside the rally site but within hearing distance of the former presidents campaign speech when he saw a man carrying a rifle climb on to the roof of a nearby building.

Related: Witnesses recall how Trump rally shooting unfolded: We were praying for his safety

The man, whom the British broadcaster did not identify, said he and the people he was with started pointing at the man, trying to alert security and police to the guy on the roof with a rifle.

The Associated Press said it was told by two law enforcement officials that a local police officer tried to confront Crooks on the roof before the shooting. But the officer retreated after Crooks pointed a rifle at him, and within moments he fired toward Trump.

The shots appeared to come from outside the area secured by the Secret Service, the agency said.

The Washington Post reported that the Secret Service relied heavily on borrowed local police for units whose purpose was to help spot and take out an attacker.

The FBI said it had taken the lead in investigating the attack.

FBI officials briefed reporters that it was surprising the suspect was able to fire multiple shots.

The House oversight committee issued a statement on social media that said: Americans demand answers about the assassination attempt of President Trump.

Biden arrived at the White House early Sunday after cutting short a Delaware beach trip. He had posted on X that he was praying for Trump, his family and rally-goers.

His previous post, the morning prior to the incident, repeated his call for assault weapons to be banned for the general public and added that: Trump promised the NRA [National Rifle Association] that hed do nothing about guns. And he means it.

The president and vice-president Kamala Harris were to receive a fresh briefing at the White House on Sunday, before Harris travels to Pennsylvania to address a campaign event in Philadelphia.

Dave McCormick, a Republican Pennsylvania nominee for the Senate, who attended the rally, described a scary moment and told ABCs This Week on Sunday: An inch difference and the president would have been dead.

Reuters and the Associated Press contributed reporting
Families are helped ashore on Dungeness beach after rescued in the English Channel. Photograph: Dan Kitwood/Getty Images

Half of the British public would support the creation of visas allowing asylum seekers to travel safely to the UK, rather than in small boats, new polling suggests.

The new government has not yet put forward any proposals for new safe and legal routes for refugees, and is focusing on creating the UK Border Security Command to target people-smugglers. But polling by Focaldata for the British Future thinktank found that 50% of people, and almost two-thirds of Labour voters, back a scheme in which humanitarian visas could be granted to up to 40,000 people a year with strong asylum claims or links to the UK.

Only 16% of people disapproved of the proposed scheme in the survey, which also showed support for the new governments move to scrap the Rwanda policy and process the asylum claims of thousands of small-boat migrants who are stuck in limbo. On Friday, four people died when their dinghy sank in the English Channel, the latest tragedy in a record year for crossings that has so far seen more than 14,000 people reach British shores.

Sunder Katwala, the director of British Future, warned that there were limits to what better policing of the Channel can achieve on its own. He said: A humanitarian visa would help open up space for a new deal with France while also providing a safe route for people to claim asylum in the UK, undermining the business model of people-smugglers.

This evidence shows that Sir Keir Starmer can unlock public permission and support for a fairer and more effective approach.

The polling, of 2,500 adults, found that half approved of the Labour governments decision to scrap the Rwanda scheme and spend the money on its new Border Security Command, while only 20% disapproved.

Related: Human rights groups give Starmer blueprint for asylum overhaul

There was support for all key migration policies in Labours general election manifesto, with two-thirds of people backing plans to process all asylum applications lodged by people who have reached the UK, and 65% supporting a proposed new returns unit. More than half of respondents also approved of Labours plans to end the use of hotels as asylum accommodation and its vow to act upstream to address humanitarian crises which lead people to flee their homes.

Campaign groups have long argued that new safe and legal routes for asylum seekers are necessary to reduce demand for small boats. Under UK law, asylum can only be claimed in person on British soil. There is no visa to enter the country for that purpose. Eligibility for refugee resettlement schemes and family reunion is limited. The new government is understood to be evaluating how existing routes are functioning before drawing up any new policies.

Enver Solomon, chief executive of the Refugee Council, said that Fridays tragedy showed that preventing more deaths was a critical and urgent task. He added: We need to bring an end to men, women and children who have fled war and oppression in countries such as Afghanistan, Syria and Iran being driven into the arms of the smuggling gangs, by opening safe routes so refugees wanting to be with their families are not forced to take deadly risks.

We also need to put in place cooperation agreements with our European allies to provide safe passage from France and trial the use of refugee visas.

The British Red Cross also called for change, with UK director for refugee support Alex Fraser saying: Nobody risks their life travelling across the Channel in a small boat unless they feel they have no other choice. More safe routes are urgently needed to prevent people from taking dangerous journeys to reach the UK.

The polling also showed that the new prime minister is more trusted on migration than his political rivals, with a 35% trust rating, compared to 30% for Reform leader Nigel Farage, 25% for Rishi Sunak and 23% for Liberal Democrat leader Ed Davey.
A pod of 77 whales washed up on Tresness Beach in the biggest mass stranding in Britain for a century - British Divers Marine Life Rescue/Reuters

It is a scene of appalling devastation: a stretch of pristine white sand, littered with the lifeless bodies of dozens of whales. In total, 77 carcasses are strewn across the beach  an entire family group. Among them youngsters, barely a year old, adult females, and a fully-grown male seven metres long. Even in death, they are magnificent creatures.

The ghastly line of bodies is the result of the biggest mass stranding in Britain for a century  described even by seasoned whale conservationists as heartbreaking.

Few could be unmoved by the magnitude of the tragedy, which is compounded by a further cruel twist. When the animals, a pod of pilot whales, were discovered by a walker on Wednesday [July 10]  on Tresness Beach on Sanday island in Orkney  12 were still alive, thrashing their tails in distress and struggling to breathe. Alerted to the discovery, experts and conservationists raced to the remote spot but attempts at rescue were in vain.

With the whales stranded beyond the reach of the tide there was no possibility of putting them back out to sea. And with the survivors slumped on their sides, they struggled to breathe. Efforts to move them upright were hampered by the soft sand: no matter how hard the rescuers tried to right the massive creatures, they simply collapsed back again.

A hard decision had to be made: a marksman was summoned to euthanise them.

Experts and conservationists raced to help the whales, but rescue attempts were in vain - BBC/UNPIXS

Nick Davison, strandings coordinator for Scottish Marine Animal Stranding Scheme (SMASS), described his shock at seeing the stranding  and the harsh reality of putting down the survivors.

Ive seen a few mass strandings but this is by far the biggest, he says. It all struck home when I walked over the sand dunes to see 77 whales  in a range from big adult males to little calves maybe a year or so old  strewn right across the beach and all dead. Its heartbreaking, particularly when this is probably an entire family group thats been wiped out completely.

The guys did a sterling effort and tried to refloat the ones that were found still alive, but they didnt have the kit, he explains. Its a shallow beach and these animals, particularly the big males, can weigh up to two tons. The tide didnt come in far enough to refloat them. So unfortunately the decision had to be made for welfare reasons. It was tough; everybody has a soft spot for cetaceans and its hard to go up to a young pilot whale and pull the trigger. But it was the only thing to do  to put them out of their misery.

However, after the grim discovery midweek and frantic rescue mission, by Friday afternoon the focus had shifted to a different but equally determined effort: to solve the mystery of why the whales came to be stranded. Initial inspections suggest they were well-fed and in good physical shape. So did a viral infection cause them to become confused? Were they spooked by killer whales? Did their group loyalty cause them to follow a sick leader onto the sand?

Or, as some people fear, is this actually a man-made disaster? Were the whales  who rely on their sensitive hearing and echo-location for communicating, navigating, hunting and feeding  deafened or disorientated by the sonar, the drilling, or the explosions in our increasingly noisy oceans?

To answer these questions, a team of experts  biologists, conservationists, pathologists and vets  have been scrambled from across the UK to this remote corner of Scotland. Working against the clock, they are rushing to measure and inspect the carcasses, and to collect and preserve samples of brain tissue, blood, skin and blubber. The task must be completed before the tissues are degraded by the natural process of decomposition. But a greater sense of urgency also drives their work.

Almost exactly a year ago, an entire pod of 55 pilot whales died on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides. And soon-to-be-published research data given to The Telegraph suggests that mass strandings are becoming more common  and also happening on an ever larger scale.

Last year a pod of 55 pilot whales died on the Isle of Lewis in the Outer Hebrides - Mairi Robertson-Carrey/Cristina McAvoy/BDMLR

So the race is not just to find out what happened to the whales in Orkney  but also to establish what is driving the trend and to determine whether anything can be done to prevent yet more deaths.

Coordinating the investigations is Dr Andrew Brownlow, director of SMASS. If youve ever been onto a beach and seen a mass stranding like this, it is horrific, visceral, brutal, he says. We want to do whatever we can to try and understand this  and try to stop it from happening again.

But following preliminary inspection, Davison can provide no answers as to why the whales beached: We managed detailed examinations of four adult females who all looked in pretty good condition with nice, rounded bodies. We found remains of squid in the younger of the animals  so they had certainly been successfully foraging until very recently.

Pilot whales are highly social animals that can live in small groups, but also in giant pods of over 1,000. Black or dark grey, they have a prominent, curved, dorsal fin. They can be found across the north Atlantic, the North Sea and the western Mediterranean and they hunt squid as well as mackerel and cod.

Throughout history whales have died in mass strandings  with the largest recorded in the UK in 1927 when 126 whales died in the Dornoch Firth in the Scottish Highlands. But data  due to be published by Dr Brownlows research team  suggests the problem is getting worse.

Since 1992, he explains, a total of 13 pilot whale strandings in Scottish waters have involved three or more individual animals. But the vast majority  10  have all occurred since 2010. We have been monitoring very closely for the last 32 years, says Dr Brownlow, and we have seen two patterns that are potentially concerning in terms of mass strandings  increases in both frequency and magnitude.

The challenge now, he explains, is to harness all available information  from post-mortems, lab tests and even records of underwater activity  to unpick the roots of the tragedy. The main part is to understand the health of the animals both individually and as a pod based on what we can learn from post-mortem inspection: from the body condition to the presence of infectious diseases, viruses, bacteria, parasites and any physiological problems.

The reason why the whales came to be stranded remains unclear - BDMLR/PA

The whales hearing may well be key to understanding what went wrong. This is a species that uses sound to communicate, to find food, to navigate, for all of the basic life processes, explains Dr Brownlow, so if theres something up with the hearing or their ability to echo-locate then that could be majorly important. If theres been an excessive noise or protracted amounts of noise then cells in the auditory apparatus can become damaged: they dont repair  and you can detect that damage at post-mortem.

But the problem is, there are a huge range of behavioural responses to noise or disturbance, both human and natural  be it earthquakes or killer whales or the usual suspects like sonar, military activity, pile-driving, or detonation of explosives  and not all the ways a socially complex animal responds to those can be detected at post-mortem. You cant detect if its scared, if its lost, if its made a bad decision.

Dr Brownlows team is now pulling in information from as wide a number of sources as possible  from the military, from buoys, from records of underwater logs  to get a handle on whether there has been a notable increase in noise. But while those investigations are under way, the stranding also presents a huge logistical problem: how to dispose of around 50 tons of whale carcasses?

These animals are a really important part of the marine ecosystem and actually the best thing that we can do, where possible, is to bury them close to the sea, explains Dr Brownlow. I think the only option is to use a digger so they can be buried in the fields beside the coast, where theyll be piled up and covered in sand. Theyll very quickly decompose so the nutrients go back into the marine environment.

Once the practicalities have been attended to, the task ahead for Dr Brownlow and his team will be one of critical importance, if the UK is to avoid more mass beachings in the coming years.

The biggest mass stranding event we had seen in Scotland was last year in Lewis and that was 55 animals, he says. Now, a year later, were here again with another case; this time 77 animals have died because of being stranded or being euthanised for welfare reasons.

The human relationship with cetaceans is very curious and very powerful, he adds. They are social, highly complex beings that have an advanced social structure and communication. They are clearly intelligent. I think people feel a connection with them in the way they do with other highly intelligent animals, such as elephants and primates.

Weve got to do right by these animals. Weve got to do something to try to stop this.
Bloodied and flanked by Secret Service agents Saturday, Republican presidential candidate Donald Trump pumps his fist. Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

A bizarre and rancorous political season got even more bizarre, and likely more rancorous, on a sunny Saturday afternoon in the small town of Butler, Pa. Donald Trump had just started speaking at a campaign rally when shots rang out. Hustled off the stage by a phalanx of Secret Service agents, the former president seemed to be bleeding from the ear as he pumped his fist and shouted. Some moments later, authorities confirmed that both the shooter and a spectator were dead; two spectators were critically injured.

So, here we are. The Second Coming, written by Irish poet William Butler Yeats in 1919, in the uneasy aftermath of the First World War, became almost a cliche during the bewildering, chaotic and foreboding 1960s. The poem seems terribly apt once again: Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold/Mere anarchy is loosed upon the world ...

In the late '60s, a nation that prided itself on its political stability in the decades following World War II found itself stunned and bewildered as laws and institutions, society itself, seemed to be coming undone. Confidence in government peeled away. With frustration on the rise, Americans by the thousands took to the streets.

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Self-proclaimed '60s revolutionaries declared the onset of days of rage, but as the tumultuous decade came to an end, days of rage became days of death  on a Memphis, Tenn., motel balcony, in a Los Angeles hotel kitchen, on the streets of major cities, on an Ohio college campus. Fortunately, Trump is OK, but the scene on that campaign platform brought back those nightmarish memories (as well as the more recent attempt to assassinate President Ronald Reagan).

There is no place for this kind of violence in America, President Joe Biden said. We must unite as one nation to condemn it.

Surely, most Americans agree with the president, as does this editorial board. And yet apparently, as Yeats wrote, the darkness drops again. More than a century after the poem was written, it forces Americans to ask ourselves, Is this who we are?

We imagine ourselves as a beacon of freedom and prosperity, but we seem to be under a kind of siege. Everything we hold dear, from the lives of our schoolchildren to the First Amendment rights of a presidential candidate on the campaign trail, seems to be contingent on the whim of some sick and angry man with a gun. Is this who we choose to be? Are we this angry, this enraged with each other? This resigned?

Obviously, we wont be changing gun laws anytime soon, but we can lower the temperature. We can think twice before unleashing the vitriol. We can lower angry voices.

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We can choose not to share social media posts that seek to enflame with conspiracy theories. That includes those on the left suggesting, without evidence, that the shooting was staged for a photo op, and those on the right suggesting, without evidence, that Bidens administration somehow left Trump unprotected.

Even Gov. Greg Abbott is engaging in such reckless rhetoric, tweeting an image of a bloodied Trump with the words, They try to jail him. They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable.

Who, we ask, is they? A jury of American citizens in New York? Bidens Justice Department? The governor doesnt say. He only plants seeds in willing minds, words that breed suspicion, hate and, God help us, motivation for a retaliatory attack.

Our challenge to other Republicans gathering in Milwaukee this week is to reject that kind of cynical pandering and grotesque opportunism.

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How it was reported in The Washington Post and Le Monde

On Saturday evening Donald Trump was shot in the right ear in an assassination attempt while addressing supporters at a rally in Pennsylvania.

Heres how the historic moment was covered by the worlds media.

Most outlets led with a picture of the former president defiantly raising his fist towards the crowd, surrounded by members of the Secret Service huddling to protect him.

The Sunday Telegraphs second edition was headlined: Trump shot at rally.

Former president drops to ground after apparent gunshots fired after he started addressing supporters. The newspaper reported, alongside the already-iconic photo of Trump and the black-suited Secret Service under an American flag.

The front pages of The Sunday Telegraph and The Mail on Sunday

The Mail On Sunday went with Donald Trump is shot at rally with a close-up photograph of him punching the air as the Secret Service try to get him to safety.

The Right-leaning New York Post led with Bloodied but unbowed, ex-president survives assassination bid above a two-word headline: Trump Shot accompanied by an image of an American flag waving behind the injured presidential candidate.

The New York Post went with the two-word headline 'Trump Shot'

The headline Trump injured in rally shooting could be found on The Washington Post, reporting that the former Apprentice host was fine after being rushed off-stage. One spectator is killed, two others critically wounded, wrote the liberal American daily paper, which is owned by Jeff Bezos, the Amazon boss.

The New York Times reported that Trump was hurt, but safe, after a shooting with the suspected shooter and a member of the audience dead over an article about the GOP laying the grounds to legally contest the election.

Spains El Pais as well as Politico, the BBCs homepage and the Sydney Morning Herald all included a dramatic quote from Trump after he got off-stage. I felt the bullet ripping through the skin, with The Guardian reporting Joe Bidens call that everybody must condemn political violence.

Spanish paper El Pais used Trump's quote 'I felt the bullet ripping through the skin'

Frances Le Monde anticipated the political fallout ahead of the US upcoming presidential election in the autumn and globally: After the assassination attempt against Donald Trump, what will be the political consequences for the United States and the world?

Trump hurt in gun attack was the headline of The Sunday Mail captioned with Shooting terror at rally on the front page with an article about the shooting. Former president rushed bleeding from rally as shots fired

Other papers looked at reactions from business. The South China Morning Post reported: Trump rally shooting: Chinese online retailers quick off the mark with souvenir T-shirts with a picture of a black T-shirt featuring a picture of the event and the legend in capital letters Shooting makes me stronger, apparently on sale in the city of Taoboa just three hours after the assassination attempt.

The South China Morning Post

The Hong Kong-based paper also looked at security lapses and reported a probable review that would lead to Trump being given the same security as a sitting president, as well as mentioning Chinese leader Xi Jinpings offer of sympathy to Trump.

Trump shot at rally headlined The Sun on Sunday, placing the Presidents face below that of England captain Harry Kane. Blood on face of ex-president the red-top reports.
Some 14 people were arrested at Trnsmt on Saturday, for offences including sexual assault and drugs.

The youngest person to be detained was 15-years-old, and the oldest was 42.

Of these, 10 people were arrested inside the festival  which is the largest in Scotland and saw 50,000 people attending on Friday.

Another four were arrested outside the perimeter fence.

The festival on Glasgow Green is the largest in Scotland (Michael Boyd/PA)

Police Scotland said that seven of those arrested were adult men, while two girls and five boys aged under 18 were also detained on Saturday.

The total number of people arrested at Trnsmt now stands at 25, including 11 people on Friday.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: They (the arrests) relate to drug offences, sexual offences and assaults.

The age range of those arrested is 15-42.

 Update for customers travelling from TRNSMT  Services terminate before the festival finishes. Please consider alternative arrangements when travelling home from TRNSMT today. pic.twitter.com/YbeWftdXLK  ScotRail (@ScotRail) July 14, 2024

The festival on Glasgow Green continues on Sunday, with Scottish DJ Calvin Harris headlining.

Rail company ScotRail warned fans that trains would finish before the festival, which is attended by people from across Scotland and the north of England.

ScotRail posted on X, formerly Twitter: Services terminate before the festival finishes.

Please consider alternative arrangements when travelling home from Trnsmt today.
Tadej Pogacar delivered another big blow to defending champion Jonas Vingegaard as he stormed to a Bastille Day victory on stage 15 of the Tour de France to extend his commanding advantage in yellow.

Pogacar left his main rival behind five kilometres from the summit of the climb up to the Plateau de Beille and rode clear to win by 68 seconds, taking his overall advantage to three minutes and nine seconds going into Mondays rest day.

After coming off second best in Saturdays skirmish in Saint-Lary-Soulan, Vingegaard had said the finale of this brute of a Pyrenean stage out of Loudenvielle, including more than 4,800 metres of climbing, suited him more than it did Pogacar but when it came to it, it was Pogacar who profited.

Six stages now stand between the 25-year-old and a third Tour crown, one that would make him the first rider to complete a Giro-Tour double since Marco Pantani in 1998.

I would never have imagined this kind of outcome after the second week at the beginning, Pogacar said. Im super happy with my shape Ive had a lot of stage victories in the Pyrenees. Somehow I like them and they like me back so Im pretty satisfied.

Simon Yates was part of a 16-strong breakaway that got away on the second climb of the day, the Col de Mente, building a lead of around three minutes before Red Bull-Bora-Hansgrohe engineered a split on the valley road midway through the stage in a bid to set up Jai Hindley for victory.

But Vingegaard had his Visma-Lease a Bike team-mates on the front of the ever-reducing peloton from the start with an eye on challenging Pogacar on the double-digit gradients of the climb up to the Plateau de Beille, and never afforded the break the sort of advantage they would need.

Vingegaard went on the attack with 11km of the climb still to go, with Pogacar immediately latching on to his wheel but nobody else  Remco Evenepoel included  able to stay with them.

They swept past the remnants of the breakaway with nine kilometres remaining as it once again came down to a head-to-head between the outstanding riders of the last four Tours  the 10th stage in which they have been the riders to finish as the top two.

When Vingegaard took a look behind at his rival all in yellow, Pogacar read it as a moment of weakness and stuck in the knife, racing clear of a man who is riding his first race since suffering horrible injuries in a crash in April.

(Visma) decided to control today and make it a hard pace on the climbs but I was never worried, I just kept in mind keeping cool, hydrating and eating, Pogacar said.

When we came to the bottom of the last climb I was a little bit on the limit but when Jonas tried to drop me I could see he was also suffering. Now its looking really good. We have a comfortable lead and we just need to keep focused in the last six days.

Evenepoel came in two minutes 51 seconds after Pogacar, remaining third overall with a deficit of five minutes and 19 seconds to yellow.

For the sprinters, the pressure had been on from the very start of a stage which began on the Col de Peyresourde, and Mark Cavendish had found himself in a small group of riders hovering just in front of the broom wagon for most of the day.

Facing a tense fight to make the time cut, the exhausted Manxman crossed the line with three of his team-mates 51-and-a-half minutes after Pogacar celebrated his win, having a little under two minutes to spare.
Donald Trump said people must remain defiant in the face of wickedness after he survived an assassination attempt during a campaign rally.

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he was appalled by the attack on the former US president and spoke to him on Sunday afternoon, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was very upset but not shocked.

The PA news agency understands Sir Keir condemned the violence, expressed his condolences for the victims and their families, and wished Mr Trump and those injured a quick recovery.

Writing on his Truth Social platform on Sunday, Mr Trump thanked well-wishers and said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.

He added: Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

Donald Trump is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin. DJT

His wife, former US first lady Melania Trump, said:When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life, and Barrons (the couples son) life, were on the brink of devastating change.

Mrs Trump said she was grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives.

(PA Graphics)

She added: A monster who recognised my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration.

The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine.

Mr Farage said he would almost certainly would have been at Saturdays rally in Pennsylvania if he had not won his Clacton seat at the General Election and now planned to travel to the US for the 2024 Republican National Convention as a show of friendly solidarity with Mr Trump, who he considers a friend.

US president Joe Biden, addressing his country on Sunday evening, said he has directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, scheduled to begin on Monday.

Photographs have shown the bloodied former US president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler.

Mr Trump, who was safe according to a spokesman, said on his Truth Social media platform that a bullet had pierced his ear before he was dragged to the ground by Secret Service agents.

One person at the rally was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

All were identified as men.

The dead man was later named as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro said: Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

Asked how he felt after the shooting, Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: I was very upset and Im still upset.

Im obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but hes got away with it.

Nigel Farage said he was very upset (Tejas Sandhu/PA)

But one person is dead.

Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so its an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow Im not shocked by it.

The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.

Mr Farage told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips that he had sent a text message to the former president.

The Prime Minister said: I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania. In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in. Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail. My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 14, 2024

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said: Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.

In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in.

Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the Government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump  along with every victim and their families.

It is a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination. As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason. Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 14, 2024

Former Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson said it was a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

Writing on social media, he added: As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason.

Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: Political violence is wrong.

I am shocked to wake up to these awful scenes from Pennsylvania and my thoughts are with the victims and their families.

We must all condemn this appalling attempt on Donald Trumps life.

Mr Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time.

The ex-president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of head, before blood appeared on his face.

Donald Trump was left bloodied after the shooting (Gene J Puskar/AP)

He ducked and was surrounded by Secret Service agents, before rising to his feet and pumping his fist in the air, to cheers from the crowd.

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting sick, adding: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

It was the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
Marriage has a lasting effect on your finances, for better or for worse. Most people are prepared to pay daily expenses and plan for a future together. But few give much thought to how their marriage affects their Social Security benefits.

There are three important changes that take place within the first year of getting married. We'll cover each of them in detail below so you know what to expect.

Smiling couple posing for wedding photos.

Image source: Getty Images.

1. You become eligible for a spousal benefit on your new spouse's work record

You probably know that marriage makes you eligible for a spousal benefit on your new partner's work record, assuming your partner has worked long enough to earn a Social Security retirement benefit. But many believe they become eligible for a spousal benefit as soon as they get married. That's not always true, though.

Typically, you must be married to your partner for at least one year before you become eligible for spousal benefits on their work record. However, there are a few exceptions. If you're the parent of your spouse's child, the one-year rule doesn't apply. It also doesn't apply to those who were entitled to Social Security benefits in the month before the month they got married.

This doesn't matter much to young couples who aren't even old enough to claim Social Security, but it's something to bear in mind if you're nearing retirement age when you marry. You may have to wait slightly longer than you planned to claim your spousal benefit if your marriage hasn't hit the one-year mark yet. However, even if you can't yet claim a spousal benefit, you can still claim a retirement benefit of your own beginning as soon as you turn 62.

2. You become ineligible for a spousal benefit on your ex-spouse's work record

It's possible to claim a spousal benefit on your ex's record if you were married for at least 10 years before splitting. However, that eligibility depends upon you staying single. If you choose to remarry, you will no longer be able to claim an ex-spousal benefit.

Again, this probably won't matter to you if you're not even eligible for Social Security yet. But if you were already receiving Social Security on your ex's work record, be prepared for the Social Security Administration to switch you over to your new partner's Social Security benefit, assuming they've signed up.

Ex-spousal benefits permit you to claim even if your ex hasn't applied yet as long as you've been divorced for at least two years. This isn't true for current spousal benefits. You cannot claim these until your spouse applies for their own retirement benefit. So if you were claiming ex-spousal benefits and then marry someone else who hasn't yet applied for Social Security, your checks may stop altogether unless you're eligible for a retirement benefit of your own.

3. You become eligible for a survivors benefit if your spouse passes away

Marriage also entitles you to a spousal benefit if your partner unexpectedly passes away, but as with spousal benefits, this eligibility doesn't kick in right away. Typically, you must be married for at least nine months before you become eligible for a survivors benefit on your partner's record. However, the Social Security Administration will waive this requirement if you meet one of the following criteria:

You're caring for the deceased worker's minor child.

You were eligible for Social Security benefits on a qualifying worker's record in the month before the month you married the deceased worker.

The deceased worker's death was accidental.

The deceased worker's death occurred in the line of duty while serving in the military.

You and the deceased worker had been previously married and that marriage lasted at least nine months.

The deceased worker was previously married to an institutionalized person and was unable to divorce them due to state law, but married you within 60 days of their institutionalized spouse's death.

If you qualify for spousal benefits and your spouse passes away, you can claim benefits as early as age 60 (50 if you're disabled) or at any age if caring for the deceased worker's minor child. Children could also be eligible for their own survivors benefit.

You probably don't have to worry too much about the finer points of Social Security benefits of spouses, but it's important to keep the basics in mind, especially if you plan to apply for Social Security soon. If you're not able to apply right away due to eligibility rules, you may have to find other ways to cover your expenses in the meantime.

The $ 22,924 Social Security bonus most retirees completely overlook

If you're like most Americans, you're a few years (or more) behind on your retirement savings. But a handful of little-known "Social Security secrets" could help ensure a boost in your retirement income. For example: one easy trick could pay you as much as $22,924 more... each year! Once you learn how to maximize your Social Security benefits, we think you could retire confidently with the peace of mind we're all after. Simply click here to discover how to learn more about these strategies.

View the "Social Security secrets" 

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President Joe Biden spoke with former President Donald Trump on Saturday night, just hours after a possible assassination attempt on him at his rally in Pennsylvania.

"Ive been thoroughly briefed by all the agencies in the federal government as to the situation based on what we know now," Biden told reporters and the nation earlier in hastily assembled remarks carried on live TV. "I have tried to get a hold of Donald, hes with his doctors. Apparently, he's doing well. I plan on talking to him shortly."

"Look, there's no place in America for this kind of violence. Its sick. Its sick," Biden said. "Its one of the reasons why we have to unite this country."

MORE: Trump rally shooting live updates: Apparent assassination attempt at rally

"We cannot allow for this to be happening," Biden continued. "We cannot be like this. We cannot condone this."

Biden went on to thank the Secret Service and all the law enforcement agencies involved in responding to the shooting.

PHOTO: President Joe Biden speaks after his Republican opponent Donald Trump was injured following a shooting at an election rally in Pennsylvania, at the Rehoboth Beach Police Department, in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware, July 13, 2024. (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

President Biden was in Delaware attending church when the shooting occurred. He was briefed by Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle, Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas and Homeland Security Advisor Liz Sherwood-Randall.

In his remarks, Biden said he would keep the public informed as he receives more details about what transpired. A schedule update said plans had changed and Biden would return to the White House Saturday night.

"But the bottom line is, the -- the Trump rally was a rally that he shouldve been able to be conducted peacefully without any problem," Biden said. "But the idea, the idea that there's political violence or violence in America like this, is just unheard of, its just not appropriate."

"We -- everybody, everybody must condemn it," Biden said. "Everybody."

Shortly after Trump started his campaign event in Pennsylvania in the 6 p.m. ET hour, Secret Service agents rushed onto the stage after loud pops were heard. Trump, who had ducked behind the lectern when the noises began, was seen with what appeared to be blood on the side of his head and face and was escorted away.

MORE: Trump Rally Shooting: Slideshow

A Trump spokesperson said the former president is "fine" and was "being checked out at a local medical facility." The Secret Service said Trump is "safe" and that it was actively investigating the incident.

Reaction from lawmakers began pouring in on social media who said they were sending prayers to Trump and condemning any violence.

"Kelly and I are praying for President Trump and all the attendees of the campaign rally today in Pennsylvania, and we send our gratitude to the law enforcement who responded at the scene," House Speaker Mike Johnson. R-La., said in a statement. "I have been briefed by law enforcement and am continuing to monitor the developments. This horrific act of political violence at a peaceful campaign rally has no place in this country and should be unanimously and forcefully condemned."

Later, Johnson put out a statement demanding to "know the truth" about what happened.

"THE HOUSE WILL CONDUCT A FULL INVESTIGATION OF THE TRAGIC EVENTS TODAY," he posted on X, using capital letters. "The American people deserve to know the truth. We will have Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle and other appropriate officials from DHS and the FBI appear for a hearing before our committees ASAP."

"Praying for President Donald Trump. There is never any place for political violence," said House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, a California Republican.

PHOTO: Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., July 13, 2024. (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Senate Majority Leader Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., wrote on X: "I am horrified by what happened at the Trump rally in Pennsylvania and relieved that former President Trump is safe. Political violence has no place in our country."

Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, a Democrat, said he was briefed on the situation and the Pennsylvania State Police are on the scene working with federal and local partners.

"Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable," Shapiro said. "It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States."

MORE: Trump rushed off stage after possible assassination attempt at Pennsylvania rally; former president 'fine,' spokesperson says

Former House Speaker Nancy Pelosi posted a statement posted X: "As one whose family has been the victim of political violence, I know firsthand that political violence of any kind has no place in our society. I thank God that former President Trump is safe. As we learn more details about this horrifying incident, let us pray that all those in attendance at the former President's rally today are unharmed."

Nancy Pelosis husband Paul Pelosi was a victim of political violence when he was attacked at their home in San Francisco.

"There is absolutely no place for political violence in our democracy," former President Barack Obama posted on X. "Although we dont yet know exactly what happened, we should all be relieved that former President Trump wasnt seriously hurt, and use this moment to recommit ourselves to civility and respect in our politics. Michelle and I are wishing him a quick recovery."

A Biden campaign official said, "The Biden campaign is pausing all outbound communications and working to pull down our television ads as quickly as possible."

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy said he was "appalled" by the assassination attempt.

"Such violence has no justification and no place anywhere in the world," he said as part of longer statement posted on social platform X. "Never should violence prevail."

A Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson's said Sunday that the country's leaders were following the aftermath of the shooting.

"President Xi Jinping has expressed sympathies to former President Trump," the spokesperson said.

This is a developing story. Please check back for updates.

ABC News' Lauren Peller, Gabriella Abdul-Hakim, Fritz Farrow, Allison Pecorin, Chris Boccia and Karson Yiu contributed to this report.

Biden and Trump speak after he says 'no place in America for this kind of violence' originally appeared on abcnews.go.com
(Reuters) -Billionaire hedge fund manager Bill Ackman endorsed U.S. former President Donald Trump on Saturday in the Republican's rematch race against President Joe Biden, shortly after Trump was shot in the ear at a campaign rally.

"I am going to formally endorse @realDonaldTrump," Ackman posted on social media platform X. "I assure you that I have made this decision carefully, rationally, and by relying on as much empirical data as possible".

Ackman followed Tesla CEO Elon Musk, who endorsed Trump and expressed "hope for his rapid recovery" from the shooting, in which Trump was hit in the upper right ear but said by his campaign to be doing fine.

Ackman's endorsement marks a change from 2021. After the attack by Trump supporters on the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, Ackman posted that Trump should "resign and apologize to all Americans."

The chief executive and portfolio manager of Pershing Square Capital Management said he had recently spent a few hours with Trump but did not explain the reasoning behind his endorsement.

He said it would take another long-form post to lay out his thinking. "I just haven't had the time nor felt the urgency to write the post as we are still a few months from the election," he said.

Ackman's endorsement did not mention Saturday's shooting. He alluded to it in a later post: "We are in the midst of a perilous moment for our democracy."

"I came to this decision some time ago as many X followers have already understood from my supportive posts of Trump and my criticisms of Biden," Ackman said. He has 1.3 million followers on X.

Ackman had considered endorsing Trump as recently as May, and had planned to announce his support on X, Reuters and other media outlets reported.

(Reporting by Nilutpal Timsina in Bengaluru and Carolina Mandl in New York; Editing by William Mallard, Lananh Nguyen and Jamie Freed)
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Credit: Getty Images

As many cat parents know all too well, cats love boxes. If youve ever had cats, youll probably be able to recall a time when you bought your feline an exciting new toy, only for them to ignore it in favor of the box it came in.

Yup, while we might not think of boxes as being among the best cat toys , our kitties love them. And some love them more than most.

In fact, one cat loves boxes so much that she ended up in California!

Remarkably, a pet cat was accidentally shipped to the Golden State, hundreds of miles from her home in Utah, in an Amazon return package.

Galeana went missing in April, leaving her parents confused, but a week later an Amazon employee found her in a box of work boots and took her to a vet.

Her cat mom, Carrie Clark, was identified and contacted through the cats microchip, and told KSL TV that it was the most amazing, insane news in the entire world.

She added, "I didn't believe [the vet] at first and thought it was a prank.

Clark flew to California with her husband to be reunited with Galeana, and said, We brought Galenas pink carrier, food, favorite treats, and towels that smelled like home. We couldnt wait to see her again!

She continued, It was an amazing reunion! Galena instantly stopped shaking and relaxed in my arms when I got to hold her again. Galeana loves boxes, its just part of her personality.

Despite Galeana not having any food or water for days, she was able to survive. The box she was in had a loose seam, so she was able to breathe, and the weather conditions werent extreme, with no danger of the cat overheating or freezing.

Clark has urged all pet parents to microchip their pets and check their Amazon boxes before sending them back.

Indeed, microchip scanners can help reunite pets with their parents. Its a sad truth that many of our beloved pets get lost or stolen, but microchips can help us get them back  just as a microchip allowed vets to locate and contact Galeanas parents.

And its a good idea to check boxes before sending them off, too. The confined, enclosed nature of cardboard boxes really appeals to cats, as theyre the sort of places where they can feel safe and warm, but also hide and ambush prey. Sitting in boxes might be one of those 32 weird cat behaviors that youre worried about , but its totally normal!

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Pet parents aren't the only folks who look forward to vacations, but they do have to plan quite a bit more than those who don't have animals at home. You'll need to secure a pet sitter or kennel for the time you're away, or you'll have to adjust your plans to include your pet. If you're a dedicated dog owner like this Beagle mom, though, you just may plan to bring your furry friends with you on vacation instead.

Kiki and Koko are two polite British Beagles who enjoy cooking and traveling with their parents. The foursome recently traveled to Switzerland for some sightseeing, but the highlight of their trip happened on July 6 when the girls took their very first gondola ride through the mountains. Their mom was worried they'd freak out on the ride--but they couldn't get enough!

Woah! That is a stunning view, and I can see why this little family wanted to visit the Swiss Alps. There must have been so many places for the Beagle dogs to sniff and explore, but the view from the gondola is one of a kind. I'm so relieved the girls enjoyed it as much as their parents did!

Related: Video of Dog Posing by a Mountain Lake in Switzerland Looks Straight Out of a Fairy Tale

"As a fellow Beagle owner, I can say they have such a wanderlust soul," commented @kristafuller. "Mine always wants to see whats happening in this big, big world." How sweet! This dog breed was created to assist with hunting, so being outdoors is only natural for them. While most modern Beagles love to be indoors with their people, they'll happily accompany you on nature walks...and gondola rides!

Traveling With Your Dog: Is It Worth It?

Taking a vacation can be one of life's greatest gifts, but it gets even better when your dog can tag along. Not only do you get to share once-in-a-lifetime experiences with your four-legged friend, but you also get to skip worrying about your baby while you're away. When they're there with you, neither you nor your dog will have separation anxiety!

Don't get me wrong--traveling with dogs can be difficult, too. The costs, supplies, and effort needed to transport your pet may not be worth it for long-distance travel, but if your dog enjoys car rides, a shorter-distance trip can be a lot of fun. Flying on a plane with your dog is a lot more complicated, though, but it can be done.

Your vacation activities can also determine whether or not your dog will have fun. Kiki and Kiko's owners made sure to create a dog-friendly vacation itinerary, which isn't hard to do in Switzerland, but I think it's safe to say that everyone is surprised that the gondola ride was a hit. Happy travels!

Looking for more PetHelpful updates? Follow us on YouTube for more entertaining videos.

Or, share your own adorable pet by submitting a video, and sign up for our newsletter for the latest pet updates and tips.
MILWAUKEE - In the terminal of the Wisconsin's major international airport on Sunday morning, Jennifer Friend stood near the information booth in her white and gold Make America Great Again hat.

Signs throughout the Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport terminal welcomed visitors to the city for the Republican National Convention and Friend, an alternate delegate from Florida, said she was excited and "a little bit nervous," for her visit to Milwaukee.

Less than 24 hours earlier, Friend turned on her television in her Alachua County, Florida home and saw the news Saturday night that an assassination attempt had been made against former President Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania. Friend, who has been to Trump rallies before, said she couldnt believe what she saw.

I just got tears in my eyes, she said.

But like Friend, other Republican National Convention attendees that spoke with the USA Today Network at the airport on Sunday morning said they were excited to arrive in the Wisconsin city for the convention and were not worried about safety in Milwaukee after the shooting at the Pennsylvania rally. Most delegates said they were grateful that Trump was not further injured and looked forward to hearing from the former president later in the week.

Im not apprehensive at all, said Clif Vicars, an alternate delegate from Johnson City, Tennessee.

Friend said she was excited to learn of Trumps pick for vice president. Her only safety concern was potential protesters in Milwaukee, she said.

Im feeling good, Friend said. I dont really get scared. I keep to myself.

Jennifer Friend, an alternate delegate from Florida, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Daren Struiksma traveled to Milwaukee Sunday morning from Sioux Falls, South Dakota, for his first Republican National Convention. He said he was excited to be in Milwaukee, but had nearly collapsed when he heard the news of the assassination attempt against Trump Saturday evening.

I didnt think this would ever [happen], he said, but its the world we live in now.

Clif Vicars, an alternate delegate from Tennessee, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

More: This election was already shattering norms. Then the Trump rally shooting happened.

Rachel Gunther, a long-time Trump supporter, was packing for her flight to Milwaukee when she learned the news.

Fear, shock," and "sadness, was going through her head, she told USA TODAY.

Gunther sported a shirt bedazzled in rhinestones spelling out the introduction to the U.S. Constitution along with a red, white and blue straw hat.

The delegate from Long Beach, California said her excitement for the RNC isnt muted by Saturdays events. This will be her third convention and Gunther said it will be history-making.

This is going to be the last time President Trump will be accepting the nomination, she said.

More: Trump survives assassination attempt, when was the last one on a presidential candidate?

A U.S. president hasnt been the victim of an assassination attempt in over 50 years, let alone held a party convention just says after surviving one. Gunther said she wanted to hear from Trump directly how he felt after the rally in Pennsylvania.

The 67-year-old said that shes glad she heard about the news before watching the widely circulated video depicting the attack, fearing that her reaction wouldve been more emotional.

The graphic imagery shows blood coming from the right side of the former presidents head and him pumping his fist in the air before being taken down the stairs by Secret Service.

Jose Julio Diaz, a delegate from Puerto Rico, arrives at Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport for the 2024 Republican National Convention on Sunday, July 14, 2024 in Milwaukee, Wis.

Jose Diaz, who traveled to Milwaukee from Puerto Rico, said he also became emotional when he heard the news from the rally in Pennsylvania.

It was a matter of inches, he said with tears in his eyes Sunday morning. The possibility, its horrible. Thank God nothing happened.

On her flight from Washington state into Milwaukee Sunday morning, Brenda Milewski thought of the song Let there be peace on Earth, a tune she remembers singing in fourth grade.

The song popped in her head as she was thinking about her upcoming week at the RNC and the assassination attempt on Trump yesterday in Pennsylvania.

Like other delegates that arrived at the airport Sunday morning, Milewski, 64, said she was not worried about security in Milwaukee for the convention. Even after the shooting at the Pennsylvania rally, Milewski said she was confident and excited going into the RNC knowing Trump is the partys nominee.

Were excited that somebodys willing to fight the good fight, Milewski said. Were excited that somebody who got shot in the ear somewhere, we dont know where exactly, but he is still determined to stand up and fight.

 Brittany Carloni covers state government and politics for IndyStar. Sam Woodward is an election reporting fellow for USA TODAY.

This article originally appeared on St. Cloud Times: RNC delegates arrive in Milwaukee, grateful for Trump's safety
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Gene J. Puskar/AP U.S. Secret Service agents respond as Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded on stage by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Evan Vucci/AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump waves from the stage as he is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Evan Vucci/AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar) Gene J. Puskar/Associated Press El expresidente y virtual candidato republicano a la presidencia Donald Trump es custodiado por agentes del Servicio Secreto de Estados Unidos en un acto de campana, el sabado 13 de julio de 2024, en Butler, Pensilvania. (AP Foto/Evan Vucci) Evan Vucci/AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Evan Vucci/AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is surrounded by U.S. Secret Service agents at a campaign rally, Saturday, July 13, 2024, in Butler, Pa. Evan Vucci/AP Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. Gene J. Puskar/AP

Texas lawmakers were quick to express support and hope for a quick recovery for former President Donald Trump after gunshots were fired at a Pennsylvania rally Saturday.

Trump is fine, his campaign manager said, but the gunman and at least one rally attendee are dead.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller, who was at the rally, told the Houston Chronicle he was within 30 feet of the former president when the gunshot sounds rang out about 10 minutes after Trump started speaking. He said that he heard at least several shots.

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LATEST: Shooting at Trump rally is being investigated as assassination attempt, AP sources say

Trumps speaking, and shots go off, probably a .22, not very loud. Thought maybe a firecracker or balloon," he said. "People started ducking."

Sen. Ted Cruz called the shooting "horrific" and "evil" in a post to X, formerly known as Twitter, Saturday evening.

Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is shown covered by U.S. Secret Service agents after an incident during a rally on July 13, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images) Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

"Thank God he appears not to be seriously injured," Cruz stated. "Heidi & I are lifting President Trump up in prayer right now."

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Other elected officials also said they were praying or were asking others to pray for the former president, including Sen. John Cornyn and Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick.

"Whoever is responsible must face swift justice. May we all pray for our country tonight," Cornyn posted on X.

Democratic lawmakers in Texas also swooped in to condemn the shooting, with U.S. Reps. Sylvia Garcia, of Houston, and Colin Allred, of Dallas, wishing Trump a recovery from any injuries he sustained.

"Violence of any kind has no place in our democracy," Allred said in a statement.

Gov. Greg Abbott repeatedly tweeted his staunch support for Trump after the shooting, sharing a photo of the former president's grazed ear and declaring him a "legend."

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"They try to jail him," the governor wrote, referencing Trump's recent conviction in a hush money trial. "They try to kill him. It will not work. He is indomitable."

U.S. Rep. Dan Crenshaw suggested the shooting could bolster Trump's chances of winning the November election.

"Trumps chances of losing just went to zero," he said in a social media post.

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Patrick posted on X that he was "shaken by the assassination attempt on President Trump." He said he had texted the former president, "Praise God your life was spared 'For such a time as this.'"

Mayor John Whitmire asked Houstonians to come together to condemn the violence in a post on X.

Harris County Judge Lina Hidalgo also posted: "Im relieved to hear former President Trump is safe and recovering from this senseless act of violence," she wrote on X.

The White House released a statement that said President Biden had been briefed on the situation and condemned the violence.

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"I am grateful to hear that he's safe and doing well. I'm praying for him and his family and for all those who were at the rally as we await further information."

Former President George W. Bush called the attack "cowardly," adding that he is grateful that Trump is safe. He also commended the Secret Service agents who took Trump away.

"President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow, campaign spokesman Steven Cheung said in a statement.

Trump was discussing a chart about border crossing numbers when the gunshot sounds started. The former president reached for his face, and blood covered his ear. He ducked behind the riser while members of the Secret Service moved onto the stage, the Associated Press reported.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger told the Associated Press that the suspected gunman was dead, and one rally attendee was killed. Two others are in critical condition.

The rally came days before the start of the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Trump is expected to become the party's nominee in the upcoming election and announce his running mate.
An emergency room doctor attending former President Donald Trump's campaign rally in Pennsylvania told CBS News that he tried to help render aid to an audience member who was gravely wounded when a gunman opened fire on Saturday.

The gunman, identified as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, fired several rounds while Trump was speaking at the rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, grazing the former president's ear. One rallygoer  identified Sunday as Corey Comperatore  was killed and two others were critically wounded, the FBI said.

Dr. Jim Sweetland, who spoke to CBS News campaign reporter Jake Rosen right after the shooting, said when he heard the loud bangs, he first thought they were firecrackers before realizing they were gunshots.

"Somebody over there was screaming 'he's been shot, he's been shot,'" Sweetland told Rosen. "So I made my way over, I said 'I'm an emergency department physician, let me help you.'"

Sweetland said the victim had a gunshot wound to the head and had fallen between the bleachers. He told CBS News on Sunday that spectators helped him get the wounded man on a bench so that he could help render aid.

The victim had no pulse and was not breathing, Sweetland said, so he said he performed CPR and did chest compressions on the wounded man.

"There was lots of blood," he said, adding, "The people over there were really helpful."

He said he had rendered aid to the man for about two minutes before two Pennsylvania State Police officers arrived to take over.

"They picked him up, unfortunately like a ragdoll, and took him from the stands," Sweetland said, growing emotional. "I looked up to see his family who witnessed my efforts at resuscitation and the look on their faces said it all."

It was not immediately clear whether the badly wounded rallygoer the doctor was helping was Comperatore, the man who authorities said was killed at the event.

CBS News' Rosen spoke to other witnesses who were traumatized by the shooting.

"I spoke to a couple other people who were in the front row who were worried about the children who they say witnessed the shooting, children who were right next to the person who died," Rosen said. "And I spoke to a couple other older women who were right next to the person who died."

The FBI is leading the investigation into the shooting, and a motive has not yet been identified.

Two law enforcement sources told CBS News that the suspect was spotted outside the security perimeter as people were filing into the rally, and he was reported by a bystander to the Butler County Sheriff's Office. He was identified as a suspicious person by police, the sources said.

The suspect fired 6-8 rounds using a semi-automatic AR-style, approximately 400 feet from the podium.

Secret Service counter-sniper teams "had him" within seconds  the threat was neutralized almost immediately after shots were fired, the law enforcement sources said.

Trump issued a new statement early, saying that he looks "forward to speaking to our Great Nation this week from Wisconsin." The Republican National Convention is set to kick off Monday in Milwaukee.

The White House said late Saturday that President Biden had spoken to Trump by phone.

Jake Rosen, Nicole Sganga, Pat Milton and Caroline Linton contributed to this report.

Trump released from hospital after apparent assassination attempt at rally

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Spoiler alert! The following contains plot details about Fly Me to the Moon (now in theaters).

How do you tell a fictional story about a fake moon landing with some real facts sprinkled in?

That was the challenge facing Rose Gilroy as she wrote Fly Me to the Moon, a romantic comedy set against the backdrop of the 1969 Apollo 11 space mission. With the blessing of NASA, the first-time screenwriter pored over transcripts of launch engineers and devoured countless books, including Sunburst and Luminary by Don Eyles, who assisted programming and troubleshooting the lunar module.

Its about how young all these engineers were during the Apollo time, and what a Wild West culture it was, Gilroy says. I think I read almost every book that exists on the moon landing.

Join our Watch Party! Sign up to receive USA TODAY's movie and TV recommendations right in your inbox

With Gilroy's help, we unpack whats fact and fiction in the new movie:

Is 'Fly Me to the Moon' based on a true story?

Lance (Jim Rash, left) and Kelly (Scarlett Johansson) on the set of the fake moon landing.

In the film, Scarlett Johansson plays a savvy marketing executive named Kelly Jones, who is hired by the government to help swing public opinion back in favor of space exploration. In the late 1960s, a lot of the American public was opposed to funding the moon mission, Gilroy explains. There was widespread social unrest, with the Vietnam War and civil rights movement, and people felt, Why are we spending money on this when we could be spending money on all these people who need it here?

Gilroy looked to Marketing the Moon, a nonfiction book by David Meerman Scott and Richard Jurek, which details how NASA made the moon enticing to the masses through product placement, magazine articles and TV specials.

Its about the original ads that were used, and how sci-fi was woven into the minds of the American people using genre books and movies, Gilroy says. That was instrumental. It was endlessly interesting to learn all the ways they sold the Apollo 11 mission.

Is Scarlett Johanssons character based on a real person?

Kelly (Scarlett Johansson, left) and Cole (Channing Tatum) are bitter rivals-turned-lovers in "Fly Me to the Moon."

Johanssons character is loosely inspired by Julian Scheer, a journalist-turned-public relations expert, who worked for NASA in the 1960s and coordinated news coverage of Apollo 11. He wasnt from the advertising world like Kelly, but he was brought in to help market the moon, Gilroy says.

When she arrives at NASA, Kelly clashes with launch director Cole Davis (Channing Tatum), who feels that her efforts undercut the integrity of the mission. In reality, Scheer actually did butt heads with flight director Deke Slayton.

There really was a massive argument of, You want to put a camera on (the module)? What, are you crazy? Were just trying to get up there,  Gilroy says. Of course we fictionalized it, made (Scheer) a woman and totally changed her backstory. But the heart of that existed, and those conversations did happen down at NASA.

Who does Channing Tatum play? And what was the Apollo 1 tragedy?

Cole (Channing Tatum) mourns the loss of his friends and coworkers.

Despite its lighthearted spin on history, the comedy deals with serious themes. An emotional through line is the Apollo 1 incident in 1967, when three astronauts were killed in a cabin fire during a launch test. In the world of the film, they were close friends of Coles, and he worries about more tragedy should anything go wrong with Apollo 11.

Cole is really an amalgamation of so many of the flight directors and people who had to deal with the grief of Apollo 1, and then continue on to try and do the impossible, Gilroy says. Cole the character is not real, but his grief is. Thousands of people who had jobs like that had to go into work every day, knowing theyre carrying the legacy of people they lost.

So was there a fake moon landing? Don't look for conspiracy theories here.

Despite what the movie's trailers suggest, very little of Fly Me to the Moon has to deal with staging a moon landing. Midway through the film, government agent Moe Berkus (Woody Harrelson) approaches Kelly about taping a fake moon walk, which can air on TV in case anything goes awry with Apollo 11. We then see a few scenes of eccentric director Lance Vespertine (Jim Rash) casting astronaut actors and choreographing the first steps on the moon (a dirt-covered soundstage).

There are some jokes about Stanley Kubrick, who many conspiracy theorists believe shot the moon landing. But for the most part, Gilroy didnt want to dwell on what she considers paper-thin conspiracies. I would never in any way want to do anything to imply that it wasnt real, she says.

But she did have fun with superstitions at NASA: According to transcripts, numerous engineers were very superstitious about things like ladders and black cats. Its why a temperamental kitty disrupts the fake moon landing at the end of the movie.

Its fun to play with good and bad luck, especially when youre doing a mission like Apollo 11, Gilroy says. The cat is one of my favorite parts of the story.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 'Fly Me to the Moon': What's fact vs. fiction in new movie
By Aaron Josefczyk, Jasper Ward and Kanishka Singh

BETHEL PARK, Pennsylvania (Reuters) - The FBI identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania as the suspect in Saturday's attempted assassination of former U.S. President Donald Trump at a campaign rally.

The suspect was shot and killed by the Secret Service seconds after he allegedly fired shots toward a stage where Trump and was speaking in Butler, Pennsylvania.

The FBI said it was working to determine a motive for the attack, in which one rally attendee died and two other spectators were critically injured. Trump was shot in the ear.

State voter records show that Crooks was a registered Republican. The upcoming Nov. 5 election would have been the first time Crooks had been old enough to vote in a presidential race.

Crooks lived about an hour away from where the shooting took place in Butler. The Federal Aviation Administration said on Sunday that it closed the airspace over Bethel Park for "special security reasons."

When Crooks was 17 he made a $15 donation to ActBlue, a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians, according to a 2021 Federal Election Commission filing. The donation was earmarked for the Progressive Turnout Project, a national group that rallies Democrats to vote. The groups did not immediately respond to a Reuters request for comment.

Crooks' father, Matthew Crooks, 53, told CNN that he was trying to figure out what happened and would wait until he spoke to law enforcement before speaking about his son.

Thomas Crooks graduated in 2022 from Bethel Park High School, according to the Pittsburgh Tribune-Review. He received a $500 "star award" from the National Math and Science Initiative, according to the newspaper.

A 2022 graduation ceremony video cited by the New York Times shows Crooks receiving his high school diploma to some applause. Video from that ceremony posted online shows Crooks with glasses in a black graduation gown and posing with a school official. Reuters could not immediately verify the authenticity of the video.

Law enforcement officials said on Saturday that Crooks carried no identification to the site of the shooting and had to be identified using other methods.

"We're looking at photographs right now and we're trying to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation," Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, said during a press briefing.

USA Today reported that dozens of law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside a residence listed at the address on Crooks' voter registration record. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence, USA Today reported.

The perimeter of the residence of the suspect was guarded on Sunday by yellow police caution tape. An Allegheny County Police vehicle was parked outside.

Its insanity that anyone would do this, Dan Maloney, a 30-year-old resident from the area was quoted as saying by USA Today.

Reuters could not immediately identify social media accounts or other online postings by Crooks. Meta, the parent company of Facebook and Instagram, did not immediately respond to questions on whether the platforms had removed any accounts related to the suspect.

(This story has been refiled to correct the spelling of Allegheny in paragraph 13)

(Additional reporting by Brendan O'Brien; Editing by Caitlin Webber and Frances Kerry)
Joan Monforts world has turned upside down.

The Barcelona-based photographer has been a regular at sporting events around Spain for over 30 years, but a photoshoot he did back in 2007 has recently resurfaced, turning him into a global superstar.

Monfort was the photographer who captured a then-20-year-old Lionel Messi holding a baby as part of a photoshoot for UNICEF and Barcelona, with the Argentine soccer star also posing with the inflant in the bath alongside his mother.

As it turns out, greatness was holding soon to be greatness. The baby in question is Barcelona and Spains teenager sensation Lamine Yamal, who turned 17 on July 13.

Yamal has been the breakout performer at Euro 2024, with his stunning recordbreaking goal in the semifinal against France cementing his place as world footballs most exciting talent.

Im just living in a dream, Monfort tells CNNs Don Riddell as the photographer reflected on the rollercoaster of emotions hes experienced over the last few days.

Lionel Messi holds a baby Lamine Yamal for the photoshoot in 2007. - Joan Monfort/AP

The beginning of two legends

The photos of Messi holding Yamal grabbed the worlds attention when his dad posted a picture on his Instagram account of the babys mum and the Argentine smiling at the infant in a soapy bath with the caption: The beginning of two legends.

Then early in July, Monfort received a phone call out of the blue.

One colleague at the newspaper, SPORT, called me at 12 oclock in the night and said to me: Is this your picture? says Monfort. And I answered: Yes, this is my picture. I [took] this picture years ago. And I asked: Who is the baby? And he [told] me the baby is Lionel Messi, of course. And the other baby is Lamine Yamal.

Messi (left) helps to bathe Yamal with his mother, Sheila Ebana. - Joan Monfort/AP

Before the call, Monfort admits that he had forgotten about the photo and that he didnt know who the baby was who had photographed with Messi, explaining that the photoshoot came as part of a fundraising and awareness project between Barca and UNICEF.

The club and UNICEF ran the project each year, producing a calendar of the teams stars with locals from different backgrounds.

A few years prior, the photoshoot had involved Barcelona and Brazil superstar Ronaldinho posing for pictures with Monforts daughter, Jana.

Yamal was raised in the neighborhood of Rocafonda in Mataro, a city close to Barcelona. Nowadays, his celebration after scoring involves using his fingers to make the numbers three, zero and four in front of his chest  its a reference to the last three numbers which constitute the 08304 postcode of hte Rocafonda neighborhood.

Monfort says that Yamals family won a raffle to be participants in the photoshoot, while Jana says that they were appropriate applications because of the families economic problems.

During the photoshoot, Monfort remembers Messi being very shy but very professional while he took the snaps with Yamal.

Jana, who says she was five at the time of the shoot, recalls the rubber duck which appears in some of the photos. This duck just so happened to be a regular part in her bath routines at home for years but unfortunately, has since been lost.

Messi bathes a baby Yamal. - Joan Monfort/AP

After the photoshoot, memory of the photo fell into the deep recesses of his mind as he focused on other work  he was a regular at many of Barcelonas successes with Messi on the pitch, while he also covered the the Olympics, Formula One and MotoGP.

Even when he captured a then 15-year-old Yamal becoming the youngest player in over a century to make his Barcelona debut last year or when he was watching the teenager dazzle in his early performances at Euro 2024, Monfort had no idea hed already snapped photos of the Spain international when he was a baby.

It was only in the hours after the then-16-year-old Yamal had provided an assist and played a vital role in Spains quarterfinal victory over tournament host Germany that Monfort was told of his prior meeting with Yamal.

Its kind of crazy. Ive never thought that my dad would do something like this, Jana told CNN. I mean, I love his work but I just wasnt, I wasnt prepared for this. I dont know. Its been crazy.

Hes very discrete. Hes actually not enjoying it. Well, maybe for a few days. But afterwards hes just like, not that kind of person.

Monfort says he is proud of the photo, as he reflected one in a billion moment.

Both Messi and Yamal came through Barcelonas famed La Masia academy and made their debuts at young ages, though the Argentina was 18 when he made his international debut.

Messi is Barcas record goalscorer with 672 goals. Hes also played the most games, won the most trophies, and secured the most Balon dOr awards in the clubs history.

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BETHEL PARK, Pennsylvania - The man who shot former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania political rally has been identified as Thomas Matthew Crooks.

"The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania," the Bureau said in a statement. "This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."

Crooks was killed by law enforcement officials moments after he opened fire.

More: Trump wounded in assassination attempt. Biden calls it 'sick': Here's what we know

In a chaotic scene "law enforcement, I believe, acted heroically, quickly identifying and neutralizing the threat as well as responding to assist the various victims," Lt. Col. George Bivens of the Pennsylvania State Police said at a news conference near midnight on Saturday.

Crooks carried no identification and had to be identified using other techniques, Kevin Rojek, FBI special agent in charge, said at the late-night press conference in Butler, Pa.

"We're looking at photographs right now and we're trying to run his DNA and get biometric confirmation," Rojek said.

Fire and law enforcement officers block off roads near the home of Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, early in the morning of July 14, 2024. Crooks allegedly attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a political rally on July 13 in Butler, Pennsylvania. One person was killed, and two were critically injured in the attack.

Around 1:30 a.m. Sunday, several law enforcement vehicles were stationed outside Crooks' residence listed on his voter registration record. The home sits along a winding suburban road in Bethel Park, about 42 miles south of Butler. Agents from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives were on the scene and a bomb squad was at the residence and planned to enter the home.

A member of the Allegheny County bomb squad told reporters he and several officers would be going into the house imminently around midnight. He did not say what they were looking for.

Neighbors standing outside said they were in disbelief.

Dan Maloney, 30, said he saw the shooters name on social media and looked it up to see that he lives down the road.

Its insanity that anyone would do this, he said, adding that he at one point had planned on attending the rally.

John Wolf, who lives just down the road from Crooks, said hes been in contact with several worried neighbors.

People are scared, Wolf, a local construction superintendent, said.

The 50-year-old was in shock when his sister told him the shooter lived in his neighborhood. He was going to go to the rally but decided against it because of the heat.

USA Today reached out to several of Crooks' family members but none responded immediately to requests for comment.

Crooks was registered as a Republican and was in active voting status, according to the database service LexisNexis. He appears to have attended Bethel Park High School, graduating in 2022.

Former president Trump ducked down and was quickly covered by security personnel after apparent shots rang out and the presumptive Republican presidential nominee put his hand to the side of his head. Soon after, Trump appeared to have blood on his ear and the side of his face as he was ushered off stage.

Several hours after the shooting, Trump expressed gratitude to the Secret Service agents who protected him as shots rang out.

I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania," he wrote on Truth Social. "Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured."

"I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening."

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Thomas Matthew Crooks identified as Trump shooter at Pennsylvania rally
Federal authorities are investigating after former President Donald Trump was shot in the ear in an assassination attempt at an election rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

Blood splattered on Trump's face as Secret Service agents surrounded him and led him off the stage to a waiting vehicle to whisk him away. Trump is "fine," a spokesperson said.

The alleged shooter was killed by snipers. One spectator was killed and two were hurt, officials said.





Latest Developments





Jul 16, 10:20 AM

Feds warn of possible 'follow-on or retaliatory' attacks

The Department of Homeland Security and the FBI have issued a bulletin to law enforcement across the country warning them that, in the wake of Saturday's shooting, violent extremists could try to conduct "follow-on or retaliatory" attacks at events over the next few months related to the 2024 presidential election.



The bulletin urged local, state and federal law enforcement -- and their partners -- to remain vigilant and report any suspicious behavior.



The bulletin also said that "lone actors" or small groups of extremists "likely will continue to view" political rallies and campaign events as "attractive targets."



Click here to read more.





Jul 16, 8:57 AM

Gunman planned to attend local 4-year university this fall

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the 20-year-old suspected gunman, planned to attend Robert Morris University this fall, according to a school spokesperson.



Robert Morris University is a private, four-year university located outside of Pittsburgh.



"We have been in touch with law enforcement and stand ready to assist in their investigation," school spokesperson Brian Edwards said.



Crooks had earned his associate degree in science from a local community college and graduated in May with high honors.



He was accepted into both RMU and the University of Pittsburgh, a public-research university also a close drive from his home in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.



A spokesperson for the University of Pittsburgh said Crooks was told in February that he could attend this fall semester as a transfer student. In March, Crooks informed Pitt that he would not attend.



-ABC News Anne Flaherty





Jul 16, 6:27 AM

Visual Timeline: How the assassination attempt unfolded





Jul 15, 9:56 PM

Suspected gunman purchased 50 rounds of ammunition day of shooting: Officials

The suspected gunman who attempted to assassinate former President Donald Trump at his campaign rally Saturday purchased 50 rounds of ammunition ahead of the event, according to a bulletin from the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI Monday.



Thomas Matthew Crooks purchased the rounds from a gun and ammunition shop in Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, according to officials.

PHOTO: A drone view during the police investigation into gunfire at a campaign rally of Republican presidential candidate and former President Donald Trump in Butler, Pennsylvania, July 14, 2024. (Carlos Osorio/Reuters)

The bulletin notes that two improvised explosive devices were found in the shooter's car and one at his home.



"Over the last several months, Crooks received several packages, including some marked as possibly containing hazardous material, according to a review of his shipping history," officials wrote.



Officials also warn of future "follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence in response to this assassination attempt."



"We cannot rule out the possibility that some DVEs (Domestic violent extremists) or other actors may attempt follow-on or retaliatory acts of violence in response to this assassination attempt."



-ABC News' Mike Levine





Jul 15, 8:58 PM

Suspected Trump shooter graduated from community college with 'high honors'

Thomas Matthew Crooks, the suspected gunman in the deadly campaign rally shooting Saturday, did not have any disciplinary problems while attending community college and graduated with "high honors," the school said in a statement Monday.

PHOTO: Undated photo of Thomas Matthew Crooks. (Obtained by ABC News)

Crooks, 20, graduated from Community College of Allegheny County (CCAC) in May of this year and majored in Engineering Science, according to the college.



"This individual graduated from CCAC with high honors on May 16, 2024, and was conferred an Associate in Science degree," spokesperson Dena Rose Buzila said in a statement. "In addition, based upon our preliminary review, CCAC has no records relating to any disciplinary, student conduct or security-related incidents involving the identified individual."





Jul 15, 8:35 PM

Trump family member will attend shooting victim Corey Comperatore's funeral

Eric Trump said there is "no question" that a Trump family member will attend the funeral of Corey Comperatore, who was shot and killed at the campaign rally on Saturday.

PHOTO: Corey Comperatore is seen in this undated image shared by his family. (Facebook)

During an interview with Fox News on Monday night at the Republican National Convention, Eric called Comperatore's death "unthinkable," adding, "This is a person who loved Donald Trump, his family. He jumped on his children. It's unthinkable what happened there."



Comperatore, 50, was a firefighter and a father of two daughters, Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro said Sunday. He was from Sarver, Pennsylvania.



Comperatore "died a hero" when he "dove on his family" to protect them from the gunfire during the rally, his wife said, according to Shapiro.



Eric Trump said that the GoFundMe page created for Comperatore's family was close to reaching $5 million.





Jul 15, 8:30 PM

Eric Trump indicates Secret Service director should step down after shooting

In his first interview since Donald Trump was shot at a rally Saturday, Eric Trump was asked if U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle should stay in her position.



"The head [of the Secret Service]? No, they should have had more resources," Trump said.



"Listen, at the end of the day, we can't get past the fact that somebody should not have gotten on a roof 130 yards away from the president of the United States -- you know, ex-president of the United States, and soon to be president of the United States, with a high power rifle; that's inexcusable," Trump said.



Speaking with ABC News Chief Justice Correspondent Pierre Thomas, Cheatle called the shooting "unacceptable," saying, "it's something that shouldn't happen again."

PHOTO: U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle sat down with ABC News in her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. (ABC News)

In the days since the attack, Cheatle and the Secret Service have faced heightening scrutiny for failing to prevent the incident from happening, and even calls from some to resign.



Cheatle said she would not resign from her role.





Jul 15, 7:29 PM

Biden addresses trajectory of 2024 election after assassination attempt on Trump

President Joe Biden weighed in on if the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump will impact the trajectory of the 2024 election.



In an interview with NBC's Lester Holt, Biden was asked if he believes that this shooting has "changed the trajectory of this race," to which Biden said, "I don't know. And you don't know either."

PHOTO: President Joe Biden delivers an address to the nation from the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, July 14, 2024. (Erin Schaff/Pool via Reuters)

"I've thought less about the trajectory of the race than two things. One, what his [Trump] health is. That was secure. Number one. And number two, what happens from here on in terms of the kind of coverage that the president and vice president and former president and new vice president get," Biden said.



The president was also asked about his phone call with Trump after this past weekend's shooting, which he described as a "very cordial" conversation.



"I told him how concerned I was and wanted to make sure I knew how he was actually doing. He sounded good. He said he was fine. And he thanked me for calling him. I told him he was literally in the prayers of Jill and me and I hoped his whole family was weathering this," Biden said.



-ABC News Justin Gomez





Jul 15, 7:12 PM

Secret Service director says police were inside building shooter was positioned on

In her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump, U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle offered insight into the logistics surrounding the deadly shooting Saturday.



"It was unacceptable," she said in an interview Monday with ABC News Chief Justice Correspondent Pierre Thomas. "And it's something that shouldn't happen again."

PHOTO: U.S. Secret Service Director Kimberly Cheatle sat down with ABC News in her first network interview since the assassination attempt on former President Donald Trump. (ABC News)

Cheatle said that local authorities were tasked with securing the building where the alleged shooter fired the shots before being taken out by a Secret Service sniper, and confirmed that local police were present inside the building while the shooter was on the roof.



"In this particular instance, we did share support for that particular site and that the Secret Service was responsible for the inner perimeter," Cheatle said. "And then we sought assistance from our local counterparts for the outer perimeter. There was local police in that building -- there was local police in the area that were responsible for the outer perimeter of the building."



She is expected to testify before the GOP-led House Oversight Committee next Monday, July 22.



-ABC News' Julia Reinstein





Jul 15, 5:49 PM

Trump tells ABC News assassination attempt had 'impact'

Former President Donald Trump shared an update with ABC News' Jonathan Karl on how his right ear is recovering and said the assassination attempt at his campaign rally Saturday had "impact."



When asked if the close call to the bullet striking his head "changed him," Trump said, "I dont like to think about that, but, yes, I think has an impact."



Trump said his ear is doing fine and that he hopes the bandage will be off by the time he speaks on Thursday at the Republican National Convention.

Click here to read the rest of the blog.
BUTLER, Pa. (AP)  Former President Donald Trump called for unity and resilience Sunday after an attempt on his life added fresh uncertainty to an already tumultuous presidential campaign and raised sharp questions about how a gunman was able to open fire from a rooftop near a Pennsylvania campaign rally.

A full day after the shooting, the gunman's motive was still a mystery, and investigators said they believe he acted alone before being fatally shot by Secret Service agents. President Joe Biden ordered an independent security review of the attack, which killed a bystander and critically wounded two others. The FBI was investigating the shooting as a potential act of domestic terrorism.

The attack shook the firmament of the American political system, causing a reassessment and a detente  at least temporarily  of the heated 2024 presidential campaign that has grown increasingly vicious.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, said the upper part of his right ear was pierced by a bullet. His aides said he was in great spirits and doing well, and he arrived in Milwaukee Sunday evening for the Republican National Convention, which begins Monday.

I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin, he wrote on his social media site. Much bleeding took place.

In a subsequent social post Sunday, Trump said: In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand United, and show our True Character as Americans, remaining Strong and Determined, and not allowing Evil to Win."

The rallygoer who was killed was identified as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief from the area, according to Pennsylvania Gov. Josh Shapiro, who added that Comperatore died a hero.

His wife shared with me that he dove on his family to protect them, Shapiro said. The two wounded bystanders were listed in stable condition.

Biden spoke briefly with Trump and was to address the nation Sunday evening. The president said the country would continue to debate and disagree, but stressed: "We must unite as one nation to demonstrate who we are.

FBI investigates shooting as possible domestic terrorism

The FBI identified the gunman as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, about 50 miles (80 kilometers) from the scene of the shooting.

The gunman had his father's AR-style rifle and was perched atop a nearby roof when some rallygoers pointed him out to local law enforcement, said two law enforcement officials who spoke to The Associated Press on condition of anonymity to discuss an ongoing criminal probe.

A local law enforcement officer climbed to the roof and found Crooks, who pointed the rifle at the officer. The officer retreated down the ladder, and the gunman quickly fired toward Trump, the officials said. That's when U.S. Secret Service gunmen shot him, the officials said.

Questions abounded about how the gunman got so close in the first place. Kevin Rojek, the agent in charge of the FBIs Pittsburgh field office, said "it is surprising the gunman was able to open fire on the stage before the Secret Service killed him.

Bomb-making materials were found inside both Crooks' vehicle and at his home, officials said. The FBI described the devices as rudimentary."

His motive remained unclear. Crooks wasn't on the FBI's radar, and he was believed to have acted alone. Investigators combed through his social media feeds and his home but found no immediate threatening writing or posts. His family was cooperating. Crooks relatives didn't return messages seeking comment from the AP.

Crooks political leanings were not clear. Records show Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day Biden was sworn in as president.

The absence of a clear ideological motive added to deepening questions about the shooting, denying the public any swift or tidy conclusions.

Biden urged Americans to stay patient. Please, dont make assumptions about his motives or his affiliations," he said.

Most serious assassination attempt since 1981

The attack was the most serious attempt to kill a president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. It drew new attention to concerns about political violence in a deeply polarized U.S. less than four months before the presidential election.

FBI Deputy Director Paul Abbate said agents have seen increasingly violent rhetoric online since the rally, along with people posing online as the dead shooter. He said the FBI was focused on the upcoming political conventions in Milwaukee and Chicago.

Biden on Sunday ordered a security review of operations for the Republican National Convention, which is proceeding as planned. The Secret Service said it was confident in the security plan, and no additional changes were planned.

Biden, who is running against Trump, said the two men had a short but good conversation Saturday night. Biden returned to Washington from his Delaware beach home where he met with leaders in the Situation Room about the attack. He said during an address Sunday afternoon that there is no place in America for this kind of violence.

Yet many Republicans quickly blamed the violence on Biden and his allies, arguing that sustained attacks on Trump as a threat to democracy have created a toxic environment.

It's unclear whether Biden will be forced to recalibrate a campaign largely focused on Trump as a threat to democracy. It is a situation the U.S. has not seen since Teddy Roosevelt was shot a month before the election in 1912 while campaigning to regain the White House as a third-party candidate.

A rally disrupted by gunfire

Trump was showing off a chart of border crossing numbers when the gunfire began after 6:10 p.m. Saturday.

As the first pop rang out, Trump said oh, raised his hand to his right ear and looked at it, then quickly crouched to the ground. People in the stands behind him also crouched as screams rang out.

Someone could be heard near the microphone saying, Get down, get down, get down, get down! as agents rushed to the stage. They piled atop Trump to shield him with their bodies as other agents took up positions on stage to search for the threat.

Afterward, voices were heard saying, Shooters down several times, before someone asked, Are we good to move? and Are we clear? Then someone ordered, Lets move.

Trump got to his feet moments later and could be seen reaching with his right hand toward his face, streaked with blood. He then pumped his fist in the air and appeared to mouth the word fight twice, prompting cheers and chants of USA. USA. USA.

His motorcade left moments later. Video showed Trump turning back to the crowd and raising a fist right before he was put into a vehicle.

Witnesses heard gunshots and ducked for cover

When the firing began, everybody went to their knees or their prone position, said Dave McCormick, the Republican candidate for U.S. Senate in Pennsylvania, who was sitting to Trumps right on stage.

As he saw Trump raise his fist, McCormick said, he looked over his shoulder and noticed someone had been hit in the bleachers behind the stage.

Eventually, first responders were able to carry the wounded person out for medical care, McCormick said.

Reporters heard five or six shots, and many ducked for cover, hiding under tables. After the first two or three bangs, people in the crowd looked startled but not panicked. An AP reporter described the noise as sounding like firecrackers at first, or perhaps a car backfiring.

When it was clear the situation was contained and Trump wouldn't return to speak, attendees started filing out. Police soon told everyone to leave, and Secret Service agents described the site as "a live crime scene.

Republican Rep. Mike Kelly, who represents the area where the shooting occurred, attended with his wife and grandchildren and was just behind Trump when he was wounded. Kelly said he was in a state of bewilderment of how and what has happened to the United States of America.

I just wish people  tone it down, he said. Quit trying to find, to blame somebody. The blame lies somewhere in the psyche of America.

___

Colvin, Balsamo and Price reported from New York. Long reported from Washington. Tucker reported from Westport, Connecticut. Associated Press writers Will Weissert, Michael Biesecker, Alanna Durkin Richer, Lisa Mascaro and Tara Copp in Washington, and Marc Levy in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, contributed to this report.
by Shafique Khokhar

The country's Churches have been pushing for this measure to counter the problem of early marriages, often linked to abductions. We hope the government will take further steps to criminalise forced religious conversions," the Bishops' Conference said.

Islamabad (AsiaNews)  Pakistan finally passed a law that raises the minimum marriage age for Christian boys and girls to 18. The new legislation amends the Christian Marriage Act of 1872.

Lawmaker Naveed Amir Jeeva introduced the bill in the National Assembly of Pakistan, where it was unanimously approved, a step the Pakistani Senate took a few months ago.

Under the old law, girls could get married as early as 13 while boys could marry at 16, a legacy of the past that made it harder to protect minors, in particular girls, from sexual abuse and child marriage.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of Pakistan (CBCP), through its human rights body, the National Commission for Justice and Peace (NCJP), has warmly welcomed the passage of the Christian Marriage (Amendment) Bill, 2024.

Bishop Samson Shukardin, who chairs the CBCP, together with NCJP national director Fr Bernard Emmanuel, and NCJP executive director Naeem Yousaf expressed their gratitude in a joint statement.

All three stressed that this amendment fulfils a request they had made for some time.

"We extend our sincere appreciation to the entire parliament for passing this bill unanimously, their statement reads.

This legislation will play a crucial role in protecting our young and minor girls from forced conversions and child marriages. We hope the government will take further steps to criminalise forced religious conversions," it goes on to say.

The beauty of the act is that it was presented after the consensus of all main Churches of Pakistan, Naeem Yousaf Gill told AsiaNews.

We are hopeful, he added, that this legislation will protect our girls and secure their fundamental rights, particularly their right to education, health, and other ancillary rights.

What is more, This Act demands that marriage to be solemnised and registered only when the age of both contracting parties are 18-year-old.

The legislation further states that in case of a dispute regarding the age of any contracting party, the court will determine the age based on a CNIC,[*] birth certificate, educational certificates, or any other pertinent documents. In the absence of such documents, the age may be determined based on a medical examination report.

Photo: WikiCommons/Gull1122

[*] Computerised National Identity Card.
The second in July marks Sea Sunday dedicated to maritime pastoral care. Francis asks for prayers for those who "take care" of workers in the sector. He recalls the people oppressed by war: "May the Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel give comfort". The Vatican Press Office on the attack on Trump: "Wound to democracy, let us pray that violence will not prevail".

Vatican City (AsiaNews) - "On World Sea Sunday we pray for those who work in the maritime sector, and for those who care for them". So said Pope Francis in his speech following the Angelus recited today, the second Sunday in July, recalling the day that all Catholic communities around the world commemorate, turning their attention to the work of seafarers, such as the Stella Maris volunteers.

The anniversary, born in England in 1975 on the initiative of the Catholic Church's Apostleship of the Sea, is celebrated this year in Italy in the city of Ravenna, a few kilometres from the Adriatic Sea. In a message from Card. Michael Czerny SJ, released for the occasion, says: "it is wonderful when volunteers, chaplains [...] who engage in maritime pastoral care, defend the dignity and rights of seafarers".

The pontiff then went on to recall the populations oppressed "by the horror of war". "Please let us not forget the tormented Ukraine, Palestine, Israel, Myanmar," was the request. "May the Mother of God, whom we will celebrate the day after tomorrow as the Blessed Virgin of Mount Carmel, give comfort and obtain peace," was the request.

Remembering one of the most significant biblical sites in the Holy Land, which was not least bent by the violence that began last October. Before this appeal, the Holy Father addressed several special greetings to those present in St. Peter's for the occasion - numerous were the flags of nations such as Brazil, Poland, Ukraine and Argentina present in a sunny and packed square.

"I greet the sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, who are celebrating their general chapter," he said. But also 'the Mediterranean youth council, who recall the message of the Venerable Giorgio La Pira'. As well as the "Polish faithful gathered at the shrine of the Black Madonna of Czestochowa".

The pope made no direct reference to tonight's attack on Donald Trump, during which the former US president running for re-election was injured while one of the people attending the rally was killed. The Vatican reaction was entrusted to the Holy See Press Office, which in a note reported that this episode of violence 'wounds people and democracy, causing suffering and death'. And together with the US bishops, the short note concludes, the Holy See prays "for America, for the victims and for peace in the country, so that the reasons of the violent may never prevail".

In the commentary on the Gospel of the day (Mk 6:7-13) that preceded the recitation of the Marian prayer, Pope Francis, starting from the passage that tells of Jesus' invitation to the disciples to go "two by two", taking "nothing but a stick" for the journey, dwelt on the concept of sobriety.

"The Gospel is not proclaimed alone, no, it is proclaimed together, as a community, which is why it is important to know how to be sober," he said. So it becomes indispensable to share resources, "to be free. The superfluous makes you a slave,' he continued. A lifestyle that helps to "live in dignity and contribute actively to the mission".

But it is not a sobriety only of material things. "Be sober in thoughts and feelings, abandoning preconceptions and rigidities," he added. If in a community you manage to share what you have, in a way that everyone gives up something, "this is already a missionary proclamation, before and even more than words, because it embodies the beauty of Jesus' message in the concreteness of life".

In this way it creates an environment "rich in love, in which it is easier to be open to faith and the newness of the Gospel, and from which one leaves better, more serene". If the opposite of these actions takes place, "if individualism, envy prevail", the quality of life and relationships suffer. "Dear brothers and sisters, communion and sobriety are important values for our Christian life - communion, harmony among ourselves and sobriety - and for our apostolate," the Pontiff added.
14 July 2024 08:30 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Azerbaijan places significant emphasis on fostering relations with Central Asian countries, particularly its engagements with the Turkic states in the region. In recent years, there has been a steady exchange of visits between President Ilham Aliyev and leaders from Central Asian nations.

President Ilham Aliyev's participation in the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Summit in Astana, Kazakhstan, on July 3-4 underscores Azerbaijan's growing international influence. This marked his fourth visit to Kazakhstan in the last two years and highlights Azerbaijan's deepening ties with SCO member states, including Kazakhstan.

Azerbaijan's participation in its second SCO Summit underscores the elevated level of relations between Azerbaijan and member states, including Kazakhstan.

Cooperation in the East-West and North-South transport corridors represents a pivotal area of collaboration between Azerbaijan and SCO member states. Positioned strategically, Azerbaijan's substantial investments in transportation infrastructure hold the potential to position the country as a pivotal transportation and logistics hub in Eurasia.

Anna Alshanskaya, Head of the Economic Policy Analysis Department at the Institute of Strategic Studies under the President of the Republic of Kazakhstan, emphasized in a press release the significant attention being given to the development of the Trans-Caspian international transport route (Middle Corridor).

Alshanskaya noted that bolstering transport corridors enhances both countries' roles as pivotal transport hubs, fostering connectivity between Europe and Asia and yielding economic benefits. She highlighted the strengthening commercial and economic relations between the nations, underpinned by regular high-level meetings of heads of state.

"The imperative of streamlining export and import processes remains crucial today, with the Shanghai Cooperation Organization offering valuable opportunities to enhance bilateral relations," emphasized Alshanskaya.

In light of evolving regional dynamics and post-war realities, the Zangazur corridor opens new prospects for Central Asia, including Kazakhstan, aligning interests between the two countries.

Commendable efforts are underway in constructing the Trans-Caspian fiber-optic cable mainline, integral to the "Digital Silk Way" project, facilitating international transport-communication corridors between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan.

It is worth noting that on September 28, 2022, a memorandum was signed between 'AzTelecom' and 'Kazakhtelecom', marking a strategic partnership aimed at laying a fiber-optic communication line across the Caspian Sea. This initiative underscores Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan's commitment to enhancing regional connectivity through advanced telecommunications infrastructure.

The Joint Governmental Commission on Economic Cooperation, established in 1999, continues to serve as a cornerstone for bilateral relations. Its 20th meeting, held recently in Astana, highlights ongoing efforts to deepen economic ties and foster mutual development strategies.

Parliamentary relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are robust, supported by active friendship groups within legislative bodies of both nations. These groups play a crucial role in promoting bilateral dialogue and legislative cooperation.

The enduring historical ties between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are reinforced by a substantial Azerbaijani community of up to two hundred thousand residing in Kazakhstan. Their contributions across diverse sectors such as science, art, agriculture, and business underscore the depth of socio-cultural integration between the two countries.

In addition to bilateral engagements, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are actively expanding cooperation within the Organization of Turkic States (OTS). The recent non-official Summit in Shusha on July 6 focused on strengthening intra-Turkic relations, culminating in the signing of the Garabagh Declaration. This initiative aims to foster stability and collaboration across political, economic, transportation, defense, humanitarian, educational, and cultural domains among member states.

The OTS member countries collectively possess extensive resources, encompassing over 4.5 million square kilometers in territory, a combined GDP exceeding 1.5 trillion dollars, and a population surpassing 160 million. Trade within the organization amounts to 42.3 billion dollars annually, contributing significantly to global trade flows.

Economic ties between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are particularly dynamic, with 182 Kazakh-invested commercial entities registered in Azerbaijan across key sectors such as industry, agriculture, construction, transportation, trade, and services. In 2023, bilateral trade reached 598.47 million dollars, reflecting sustained economic collaboration and mutual benefit.

Furthermore, bilateral cooperation in the energy sector continues to thrive, with Azerbaijan facilitating the transit and processing of Kazakh crude oil through strategic pipelines like the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan route. This partnership underscores Azerbaijan's role as a regional energy hub and enhances Kazakhstan's global oil market access.

"SOCAR Midstream Operations" LLC began transporting 125,000 tons of oil per month from Kazakhstan's Tengiz field via the Baku-Tbilisi-Ceyhan pipeline in March 2023. The first loading of Kazakh oil from Aktau port to the "President Heydar Aliyev" tanker took place on March 21 last year, and the second loading to the "Shusha" tanker on March 28.



Relations between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan are successfully developing not only in all areas but also in the energy sector. The roadmap signed between SOCAR and "KazMunayGaz" in 2023 has created broad opportunities for expanding bilateral relations. Mutual beneficial cooperation, oil processing, transit, and economic-commercial relations are accelerating Azerbaijan's rapid development, transforming it into a regional energy hub.

It is worth noting that on December 2023, a trilateral meeting was held in Baku between Azerbaijan, Kazakhstan, and Uzbekistan, where the prospects for exporting electricity from Europe through Azerbaijan's territory were discussed, resulting in the signing of a joint communique. The document highlighted cooperation in energy exchange focusing on renewable energy sources, green hydrogen and ammonia development, export, and the creation of corresponding infrastructure. The communique also outlined joint projects such as the Caspian-Black Sea-Europe export corridor and the prospects for the Nakhchivan-Turkiye-Europe energy corridor. Therefore, as President Ilham Aliyev stated during his speech at the OTS Summit in Shusha, 'Our strategic partnership in the energy sector, including our cooperation in renewable energy and energy efficiency, is of great importance.'

According to the Ministry of Energy of Kazakhstan, there are currently 133 facilities producing alternative energy in the country, including 48 wind, 43 solar, 39 hydroelectric, and 3 biogas power stations. These facilities have a total production capacity of 2.5 gigawatts. In the second half of 2023 alone, these stations generated a total of 3.35 billion kilowatt-hours of energy.

According to the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) report, Kazakhstan, located in a region with significant wind flows in the northern hemisphere of our planet, has the potential to produce a large volume of wind energy. Experts from the organization noted that this potential amounts to 1820 billion kilowatt-hours. The Kazakh government plans to install power stations producing a total of 1 million kilowatt-hours of wind energy in 46 districts by 2030 and work is already underway in this direction. With 3000 hours of sunlight per year, Kazakhstan provides favorable conditions for substantial solar energy production, with a potential of 1 billion gigawatt-hours of solar energy production in the country.

As evident, Kazakhstan's significant potential for large-scale alternative energy production underscores the necessity of its export. The fiber-optic telecommunication route through Azerbaijan's territory, connecting Europe and Asia via the Caspian Sea, will not only benefit OTS member countries but also contribute significantly to the economies of all regional states. The implementation of such global-scale projects is a result of Azerbaijan's pragmatic policy. The mutually beneficial cooperation among Turkic states will pave the way for the creation of a major alliance in the near future and enable them to exert influence in global geopolitical processes. Azerbaijan will play a leading role not only in the transit of goods from Asia to Europe but also in the transit of energy.

In conclusion, the comprehensive and dynamic partnership between Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan exemplifies a strategic alignment deeply rooted in historical ties, mutual economic interests, and shared regional aspirations. From high-level political engagements and infrastructure projects to robust trade relations and cultural exchanges, both nations continue to strengthen their cooperation across multiple fronts. As pivotal players in regional and international forums such as the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and the Organization of Turkic States, Azerbaijan and Kazakhstan's collaborative efforts not only foster economic growth but also contribute to stability and connectivity across Eurasia. Looking ahead, their enduring friendship and proactive diplomacy are poised to further elevate bilateral relations, offering promising prospects for continued mutual benefit and regional integration.

---

Follow us on Twitter @AzerNewsAz
14 July 2024 16:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The recent incident involving violence against a political figure in the United States has reignited discussions about political terrorism and its historical prevalence.

It should be noted that Former US President Donald Trump was struck in his right ear during a deadly shooting at his rally in Pennsylvania on Saturday. Throughout American history, acts of political violence have tragically targeted prominent figures, leaving an indelible mark on the nation's political landscape. Perhaps the most well-known examples include:

John F. Kennedy: The 35th President of the United States was assassinated on November 22, 1963, in Dallas, Texas. His assassination shocked the nation and triggered intense investigations and conspiracy theories that continue to resonate to this day.

Martin Luther King Jr: A pivotal figure in the Civil Rights Movement, Martin Luther King Jr. was assassinated on April 4, 1968, in Memphis, Tennessee. His assassination sparked riots across the United States and marked a significant loss in the struggle for racial equality.

Robert F. Kennedy:The younger brother of John F. Kennedy and a U.S. Senator, Robert F. Kennedy was assassinated on June 5, 1968, in Los Angeles, California, while campaigning for the Democratic presidential nomination. His assassination occurred shortly after delivering a victory speech for the California primary, further deepening the sense of national tragedy.

These high-profile assassinations underscore a disturbing trend in American history where political figures who challenge the status quo or advocate for significant social change are often met with violence. These events have not only shaped the course of American politics but have also raised profound questions about security, political discourse, and the vulnerability of public figures in a democratic society.

Political terrorism often emerges when traditional avenues like the judiciary and administrative processes fail to achieve desired outcomes against political opponents. This underscores a dangerous recourse where extreme measures are employed to eliminate opposition voices.

Critics argue that such crimes should not be obscured or dismissed. It is crucial to uncover and identify the instigators behind these acts of political terror. Unfortunately, within the American system, the perpetrators and motivations behind such acts often remain obscured, complicating efforts to hold them accountable.

The implications of political violence extend beyond domestic concerns, impacting perceptions of political safety within the United States, especially as elections approach. Heightened tensions during electoral periods could potentially escalate such incidents, prompting caution among international visitors, including Azerbaijani citizens, when considering travel to the United States.

The incident has sparked widespread condemnation and calls for increased security measures at political events across the United States. Concerns over political safety and the potential for further violence as the country heads into election season remain at the forefront of public and governmental discourse.

In light of these historical precedents, several strategies may considered to address the issue of political violence more effectively: Enhanced security measures, public awareness campaigns, international cooperation, legislative reforms and so on.

Implementing stricter security protocols at political events and rallies is crucial to prevent potential threats and ensure the safety of political figures and attendees. Educating the public about the dangers of political violence and promoting non-violent means of political expression is essential to foster a more peaceful political discourse.

Furthermore, strengthening cooperation with international allies to combat terrorism, share intelligence on potential threats, and coordinate efforts to prevent cross-border incidents of political violence is necessary. Considering legislative reforms to enhance protections for political figures, including increased penalties for acts of political terrorism, and ensuring swift justice for perpetrators to deter future incidents are important steps. These measures aim to safeguard democracy, protect public safety, and uphold the principles of peaceful political engagement amid ongoing challenges and threats.

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14 July 2024 18:00 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

July 14, 1969, holds a special place in the history of Azerbaijan as it marks the beginning of a renaissance period with the election of Heydar Aliyev as the First Secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Azerbaijan, Azernews reports.

Under the leadership of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev, large-scale measures rooted in the spiritual and moral values of the Azerbaijani people were implemented, igniting a national awakening. Aliyev's unwavering commitment to Garabagh and his resolute defense of Azerbaijan's national interests thwarted Armenian territorial claims, creating a significant barrier against their aggressive intentions. His determination and principles deeply unsettled Armenian nationalists within the USSR leadership.

Heydar Aliyev is not only credited with authoring Azerbaijan's renaissance period but also left a rich legacy of statehood that remains an invaluable asset to the nation, guiding future paths and instilling pride. As a member of the Politburo and later the First Deputy Chairman of the USSR Council of Ministers, Aliyev's influence extended across the union, directing numerous significant projects to Baku. His organizational skills and tireless efforts earned him widespread recognition, though they also sparked envy and jealousy among some leaders of the empire.

When Mikhail Gorbachev rose to power, a campaign against Heydar Aliyev became overt, leading to his resignation due to conflicts with the country's leadership. This marked the beginning of dark days for Azerbaijan, as Aliyev's presence might have prevented the tragic events of January 20 and the occupation of Azerbaijani lands.

In the early years of Azerbaijan's restored independence, the country faced unprecedented chaos and anarchy. The government's incompetence and internal power struggles pushed the nation to the brink. In mid-1993, amid a severe political and economic crisis, the people turned to Heydar Aliyev as their only hope. On June 9, 1993, his return to Baku was met with great anticipation and love. By June 15, Aliyev was elected Chairman of the Supreme Soviet, a day now celebrated as the Day of Revival, marking his assumption of responsibility for the nation's fate.

Heydar Aliyev's leadership thwarted coup attempts, restored stability, and laid the groundwork for a new economic strategy. The signing of the "Contract of the Century" on September 20, 1994, set the stage for Azerbaijan's future development, leading to the creation of vital oil and gas pipelines. His son, President Ilham Aliyev, continued these initiatives, realizing new transnational projects that reshaped the energy landscape of Europe.

Aliyev also prioritized the establishment of a regular army, ensuring that the military was prepared to liberate occupied lands. Even during the Soviet era, he emphasized training professional national military personnel, founding the Jamshid Nakhchivanski specialized military school and securing opportunities for Azerbaijani youth in advanced military institutions. These efforts were instrumental in forming the modern Azerbaijani army.

The liberation of Garabagh in November 2020 under the leadership of Supreme Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev fulfilled Heydar Aliyev's greatest wish. The Azerbaijani Army ended a 30-year occupation in just 44 days, ensuring the country's sovereignty. The restoration of liberated territories continues with significant infrastructure developments, residential complexes, and schools being built, reflecting the promise of the Great Return. Hundreds of families have returned to their homeland, with plans to resettle 140,000 people in the coming years.

Heydar Aliyev's vision and development strategy underpin the grand restoration and construction efforts in the liberated lands, and his legacy continues to lead Azerbaijan from victory to victory, peak to peak.

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14 July 2024 10:01 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The Working Group on Economic Issues, operating under the Interdepartmental Center of the Coordination Headquarters established to address matters in Azerbaijan's liberated territories, held its regular meeting in the city of Khankendi, Azernews reports.

First Deputy Minister of Economy and head of the working group, Elnur Aliyev, addressed the meeting. He emphasized that, following President Ilham Aliyevs directives, comprehensive programs and large-scale restoration and reconstruction measures, including infrastructure projects, are being implemented for the development of these territories.

Elchin Yusubov, the President's special representative in the city of Khankendi and the districts of Aghdara and Khojaly, highlighted efforts in restoring and reconstructing infrastructure, facilitating the return of the population to their homes, and promoting employment.

The meeting also included discussions on enhancing the region's investment attractiveness and ensuring steady employment. Relevant tasks were assigned to implement the necessary measures.

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14 July 2024 13:50 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

Azerbaijan and Pakistan share a deep-rooted friendship built on centuries of mutual respect and historical connections between our peoples.

Kamaladdin Gafarov, a deputy of the 6th convocation of the Milli Majlis (Parliament) of Azerbaijan, highlighted these sentiments in his recent statement to the press, emphasizing the multifaceted cooperation flourishing between the two nations, Azernews reports.

"Our bilateral relations span various sectors including defense, energy, infrastructure development, information technologies, healthcare, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and more," Gafarov stated. He underscored the significance of the 2002 agreement on defense and military cooperation, signed during the leadership of Great Leader Heydar Aliyev, which has significantly bolstered military ties between Azerbaijan and Pakistan.

Gafarov noted the recent state visit of President Ilham Aliyev to Pakistan on July 11 as a pivotal moment in advancing bilateral relations. "During this visit, both leaders discussed crucial projects in energy, infrastructure, transportation, and defense industries, solidifying a robust partnership not only at the political level but also in terms of economic cooperation, trade, and investments," he remarked.

Highlighting Pakistan's steadfast support for Azerbaijan, particularly during Armenia's occupation and the Patriotic War, MP Gafarov emphasized President Aliyev's recognition of Pakistan's unwavering solidarity. "Pakistan's decision to refrain from establishing diplomatic relations with Armenia and its consistent support at critical junctures, including condemning military provocations in Garabagh, exemplifies their sincere friendship," he affirmed.

President Aliyev's reaffirmation of Azerbaijan's support for Pakistan regarding the issue of Jammu and Kashmir further underscores the deep bond between the two nations. "Azerbaijan stands firm in supporting Pakistan's stance on Jammu and Kashmir based on principles of international law and justice," Gafarov stated. He highlighted Azerbaijan's commitment to advocating for the rights of Kashmiris, echoing the sentiments expressed during President Aliyev's visit.

Concluding his statement, Gafarov expressed optimism about the future of Azerbaijani-Pakistani relations, noting that President Aliyev's recent visit has paved the way for further diversification and deepening of ties between these friendly nations.

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14 July 2024 14:26 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The "Heart Burning Like a Torch" event commemorated the 55th anniversary of National Leader Heydar Aliyev's ascension to political leadership at the Heydar Aliyev Museum-Lecture within the Baku Military College under the National Defense University, Azernews reports citing the Ministry of Defense.

The ceremony brought together Ministry of Defense officials, National Defense University professors, teachers, and cadets. The event began with a solemn minute of silence honoring National Leader Heydar Aliyev and Azerbaijan's heroic martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the country's independence, followed by the National Anthem of the Republic of Azerbaijan.

Guests explored the museum's exhibition showcasing the rich legacy of the Great Leader Heydar Aliyev. Speakers highlighted Heydar Aliyev's pivotal role in transforming Azerbaijan's social and political landscape after assuming leadership as the first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Azerbaijan, propelling the nation to become one of the most advanced within the Soviet Union.

They also emphasized Heydar Aliyev's visionary initiative in establishing the Jamshid Nakhchivanski Military High School in 1971, a crucial step in forming the officer corps of the Azerbaijan Army.

The event underscored Heydar Aliyev's elevation to power in June 1993, reflecting on his exceptional contributions to the creation, development, and modernization of the Azerbaijan Army into a formidable force. It also celebrated the Azerbaijan Army's achievements during the Patriotic War under the leadership of Heydar Aliyev's worthy successor, Commander-in-Chief Ilham Aliyev, culminating in a glorious victory.

The event concluded with a poignant video depicting the life and political legacy of National Leader Heydar Aliyev, followed by performances from soloists of the Army Ideological and Cultural Center named after Hazi Aslanov.

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14 July 2024 15:22 (UTC+04:00)

On July 14, the graves of Azerbaijan's national heroes, Major General Polad Hashimov and Colonel Ilgar Mirzayev, were visited in the Second Honor Alley to mark the fourth anniversary of their martyrdom, Azernews reports.

During the visit, it was highlighted that the Tovuz battles are remembered in Azerbaijan's military history as a decisive victory. The Azerbaijani Army demonstrated its capability to effectively counter any provocations and unexpected attacks from the enemy.

It was noted that during the Tovuz battles, the soldiers and high-ranking officers of the Azerbaijani Army displayed exemplary heroism and bravery, successfully thwarting the provocations instigated by Armenian forces. Although brave sons like Major General Polad Hashimov and Colonel Ilgar Mirzayev were martyred during these battles, their sacrifices were avenged. Inspired by these heroes, the younger generation went on to achieve remarkable feats during the 44-day Patriotic War, restoring Azerbaijan's territorial integrity. Following last years restoration of the constitutional order, this honorable mission was completed successfully. Today, the people of Azerbaijan proudly remember their national heroes and express deep gratitude for their sacrifices.

Ofelia Salmanova, the wife of Major General Polad Hashimov, stated that the National Hero's 25-year service in the Azerbaijan Army made him a symbol of heroism and victory. She said, "Polad Hashimov created a legacy of heroism that his students upheld with their bravery during the 44-day Patriotic War, liberating our occupied lands. His memory will forever be cherished by the Azerbaijani people. We honor all martyrs who sacrificed their lives for Azerbaijan's territorial integrity and sovereignty, and wish good health to our veterans."

Reserve Lieutenant Colonel Ilkin Movsumlu shared his memories of Polad Hashimov and Ilgar Mirzayev, saying, "I knew Polad Hashimov since 1992. We studied together at the former Baku Higher Joint Command School and served in the same platoon. Polad was always distinguished by his discipline, knowledge, and character. Ilgar Mirzayev was our classmate, but he specialized in artillery. Both were dedicated officers who served on the front lines. Their legacy will never be forgotten. Martyrs truly die only when they are forgotten, but sons like Polad and Ilgar have left an indelible mark."

Movsumlu also recounted how the martyrdom of Hashimov and Mirzayev impacted him, leading him to voluntarily join the counter-offensive operation on September 29, 2020, in the Sugovushan direction, saying, "I am proud to say that the sacrifices of all our martyrs, including Polad Hashimov and Ilgar Mirzayev, have been avenged."

The visit included performances of patriotic poems and songs by the pupils of the Vasif Movsumov Gulovsha village secondary school in the Yevlakh region.

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14 July 2024 18:36 (UTC+04:00)

Nazrin Abdul Read more

The worlds population is projected to grow by more than 2 billion people in the coming decades, reaching a peak around the 2080s at approximately 10.3 billion, marking a significant departure from previous projections, Azernews reports citing a new report from the United Nations cited by AP.

John Wilmoth, head of the U.N. Population Division, highlighted that there is an 80% probability that the global population will peak within this century, a notable increase from earlier estimates. This shift reflects declining fertility rates in major countries, particularly in China, where the population is expected to decline sharply from 1.4 billion in 2024 to 633 million by 2100.

The report, released on World Population Day, underscores that global fertility rates have decreased, with women on average having one fewer child than in 1990. Over half of all countries now have fertility rates below the replacement level of 2.1 children per woman, signaling a potential decline in population absent significant migration.

Navid Hanif, U.N. Assistant Secretary-General for Economic Development, emphasized that the anticipated lower global population in 2100 compared to previous projections has profound policy implications for sustainability.

Already, population has peaked in 63 countries including China, Germany, Japan, and Russia, with a projected 14% decline over the next 30 years. Another 48 countries, including Brazil, Iran, Turkey, and Vietnam, are expected to reach peak population between 2025 and 2054.

Looking ahead, the report predicts diverse demographic trajectories among countries, with some experiencing rapid population growth while others face decline. Wilmoth highlighted that these differences are rooted in varying stages of demographic transition towards longer life expectancy and smaller family sizes.

Key findings from the report also note that global life expectancy is rebounding post-COVID-19, with older populations projected to outnumber children by 2080. Migration is anticipated to be a primary driver of population growth in certain countries, while gender equality and womens empowerment are seen as critical in managing population dynamics.

The worlds population has surged from 2.6 billion in 1950 to 8 billion in 2022, with future growth patterns poised to reshape global demographics profoundly. As countries prepare for these shifts, the report calls for innovative policies to address economic, social, and environmental challenges associated with rapid population changes.

Kathleen Mogelgaard, president of the Population Institute, highlighted the growing demographic disparities worldwide, emphasizing the need for concerted global efforts to address poverty, hunger, and ensure sustainable development.

Looking forward to 2100, projections indicate that India will remain the worlds most populous country, followed by China, Pakistan, Nigeria, and Congo, reflecting ongoing demographic shifts reshaping the global landscape.

Wilmoth concluded by emphasizing that while population dynamics are crucial, future outcomes will be shaped significantly by societal choices and behaviors, underscoring the importance of informed policymaking and international cooperation in navigating demographic transitions.

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Former President Donald Trump is believed to have been shot at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday evening during a campaign rally.

Numerous gunshots could be heard, the crowd screaming, and Trump could be seen grabbing the back of the right side of his head as U.S. Secret Service agents rushed to get him off the stage. Calls were later heard that the shooter was down. There is no word at this time on the identification of the suspect at this time.

As Trump stood back up surrounded by agents, blood could be seen above his right ear, with blood going toward his mouth. Reports say he is expected to survive the incident.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow, said Steven Cheung a Trump spokesperson in a press statement moments ago.

The Trump campaign has said he will be okay and is being checked out at a nearby medical facility.

As he was being escorted off the stage Trump repeatedly pumped his fist to the crowd.

This all comes as the Republican National Convention is scheduled to start Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The Secret Service posted on X that it is an active Secret Service investigation.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident while coming out of church in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

This is a developing story. Carolina Journal will update the story as information becomes available.



The post Apparent shots fired at Donald Trump during Pennsylvania rally first appeared on Carolina Journal.
Here's the best capsule summary of the Trump shooting: Click here

The New York post is reporting more details: NY Post reporting:

Former President Donald Trump is believed to have been shot at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, Saturday evening during a campaign rally.

Numerous gunshots could be heard, the crowd screaming, and Trump could be seen grabbing the back of the right side of his head as U.S. Secret Service agents rushed to get him off the stage. Calls were later heard that the shooter was down. There is no word at this time on the identification of the suspect at this time.

As Trump stood back up surrounded by agents, blood could be seen above his right ear, with blood going toward his mouth. Reports say he is expected to survive the incident.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility. More details will follow, said Steven Cheung a Trump spokesperson in a press statement moments ago.

The Trump campaign has said he will be okay and is being checked out at a nearby medical facility.

As he was being escorted off the stage Trump repeatedly pumped his fist to the crowd.

This all comes as the Republican National Convention is scheduled to start Monday in Milwaukee, Wisconsin.

The Secret Service posted on X that it is an active Secret Service investigation.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident while coming out of church in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware.

This is a developing story. Carolina Journal will update the story as information becomes available. The post Apparent shots fired at Donald Trump during Pennsylvania rally first appeared on Carolina Journal.
The personal demonization of Trump by Biden Democrats and their MSM media allies created the climate that led to the assassination attempt on President Trump. The blood of the victims is on their hands.

Foreign leaders are pointing this out. The first to do so was British member of parliament and leader of the Reform Party Nigel Farage who blasted the American media for creating the climate of hate against Trump that led to the assassination attempt. He was followed by Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico, heimself the victim of an assassination attempt a few months ago, who also put the blame on the American media and leftwing politicians. The leader of the powerful Party for Freedom and power behind the Dutch government Geert Wilders echoed the other two and warned of a similar problem in Europe that could lead to similar attempts there.

https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2024/07/13/farage-blasts-disgusting-media-for-spreading-narrative-of-hatred-against-trump-after-assassination-attempt/

https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2024/07/14/slovak-pm-who-survived-shooting-trump-enemies-incited-assassination/

https://www.breitbart.com/europe/2024/07/14/dutch-populist-leader-wilders-what-happened-to-trump-can-happen-here-dont-underestimate-hatred-against-right-wing-politicians/

Even CNN has admitted that these characterizations of Trump by the media helped cause this assassination attempt.

https://www.breitbart.com/clips/2024/07/13/cnns-jennings-saying-if-trump-wins-an-election-our-country-will-end-our-democracy-will-end-has-consequences/

The Biden Democrats were still pushing this climate of hate against Trump just before the assassination attempt when the Biden campaign put up a post on social media just minutes before the shots rang out that called Trump a "dictator". Biden also personally made a statement recently that "it is time to put Trump in the bullseye."

https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/07/13/report-biden-told-donors-it-was-time-to-put-trump-in-the-bullseye/
Elon Musk has called for the resignation of the leadership of the Secret Service after their poor performance at the Pennsylvania rally where President Trump was almost assassinated. Musk tweeted: "Extreme incompetence, or was it deliberate. Either way the SS leadership must resign."

https://x.com/elonmusk/status/1812296672510111853

Here is the BBC report of the event and the Secret Service's failure to do anything when a rallygoer pointed out the man with the rifle.

https://www.realclearpolitics.com/video/2024/07/13/witness_tells_bbc_he_saw_shooter_on_roof_warned_police.html

There is also video of a Secret Service countersniper team with their guns trained on the shiper BEFORE he fired. There is a real question of why they let him get off eight shots before they took him out.

https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/07/14/catastrophic-failure-secret-service-under-scrutiny-after-trump-assassination-attempt/

Erik Prince, former navy SEAL and founder of the Blackwater security firm has detailed the multitude of security failures by the Secret Service and numerous areas where they failed to follow usual Secret Service policy in protecting someone at an event. He calls the security failure at the Buler, PA event either "malice or massive incompetence". He says that the only thing that saved Trump was that the amateur shooter failed to adjust for the 5MPH wind in taking aim.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/massive-secret-service-failure-led-nearly-successful-assassination-donald-trump

The Biden regime brought the current Secret Service director over from Pepsi where she had worked in corporate security. Since heading the Secret Service, she has been obsessed with DEI, and 48% of Secret Service agents have resigned. There was also an incident in the detail guarding Kamala Harris related to an agent hired to fill a quota getting into a major physical fight with other Secret Service agenst over a misinterpreted comment.

https://www.breitbart.com/politics/2024/07/13/secret-service-director-previously-worked-pepsi-faces-calls-resign-attempted-assassination-trump/

While the Secret Service has had very professional women agents for years, DEI apparently meant bending the standards to meet the arbitrary DEI quotas. The result was many of the female agents at the Trump rally behaved eratically and unprofessionally, and in one or two cases did not seem to even know how to holster a gun.

https://www.thegatewaypundit.com/2024/07/ponytail-brigade-utter-humiliation-gaggle-female-secret-service/

The other consideration is that the Secret Service comes under the Department of Homeland Security, whose head, Secretary Mayorkas, has been impeached by the House of Representatives and who has played politics with Sercret Service coverage of candidates previiously such as denying any coverage at all to Robert F. Kennedy, even though Kennedy's father and uncle were both killed in political assassinations.

https://www.zerohedge.com/political/massive-secret-service-failure-led-nearly-successful-assassination-donald-trump

There is a lot in this debacle that needs further investigation, like why the shooter also had explosive devises in his car, but can we expect an honest investigation by the highly polititicized FBI?

https://www.wsj.com/livecoverage/trump-rally-incident/card/suspected-shooter-had-explosive-devices-in-his-car-sources-say-nqpDI2AqQQNtSvYtEpS9

https://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-13633445/secret-service-steps-fail-prevent-donald-trump-rally-shooting.html
Kneecap has scooped three top awards at the renowned Galway Film Fleadh this evening.

The film won Best Irish Film, Best Irish Language Film and also the Audience Award.

The honours at Galway are the latest in a slew of gongs from some of the worlds top film festivals, including the NEXT Audience Award at Sundance Film Festival in January.

Kneecap has been receiving rave reviews from critics and audiences alike and scored a major international deal with Sony Pictures Classics with the film now set for release across the globe from August.

Kneecap (Photo by Kevin Scott)

Writer and Director Rich Peppiatt said: For a film as dyed in the tricolour as Kneecap, the Irish premiere was always going to be special and the audiences in Galway have blown us away.

"To be honoured in the way we have at this beautiful festival is something well never forget. Go raibh mile maith agat the Fleadh.

Producer Trevor Birney said: This is a huge endorsement, not only of Rich and Kneecap but also of our cast and crew as well as the financiers who supported us all the way.

"Its been an amazing week in Galway, and we thank Miriam and the team for backing the film. Roll on the release so everyone can finally see this special film!
A superbike racer from Northern Ireland has asked social media users to chill out after it was suggested he should be sacked for showing respect to Donald Trump.

Following the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump, Carrickfergus racer Glenn Irwin reposted a comment on X which contained a photo of a bloodied Trump and stated: He'll never stop fighting to Save America.

In his repost, Irwin wrote Trump with a heart emoji next to it.

The post attracted comments with some people agreeing with his support for Trump and others questioning it.

Irwin shared one specific comment suggesting his team should consider whether they want to be associated with an individual who agrees with someone convicted of fraud and trying to overturn a democratic election.

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Those comments were in reference to Trump becoming the first former US president to be convicted of felony crimes.

A New York jury found him guilty of falsifying business records in order to commit election fraud.

In terms of overturning a democratic election, five people, including a police officer, died in 2021 when a mob of Trump supporters invaded the Capitol in a bid to keep him in power.

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Responding to the call for him to be sacked, Irwin posted a video on X.

In it he said: Lets just clear something up, I am not pro-Trump or pro-Biden, or pro any politics, its not something Im a fan of, but we all have them.

What I thought was impressive by Trump last night after the incident at his rally, he still wanted to stand up and clench his fist. The guy wants it, you cannot not respect the determination he has, its the little tweet.

As for the tweets that I should lose my job, and all the other ones, come on guys, get a grip. Its a Sunday morning, lets all chill out, watch some more superbikes.

Aw Twitter, you always amuse me.

Donald Trump rushed off stage after gunshots at Pennsylvania rally

In May, Irwin set a new Superbike record after an 11th consecutive victory in the premier class at the North West 200, writing his name into the history books after pulling ahead of Joey Dunlop and Michael Rutters benchmark of nine victories.
PACEMAKER PRESS BELFAST 14-07-24 Springfield Road Security Alert The Springfield Road in Belfast this morning following the discovery of a suspicious object. Photo - Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press

PACEMAKER PRESS BELFAST 14-07-24 Springfield Road Security Alert The Springfield Road in Belfast this morning following the discovery of a suspicious object. Photo - Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press

The Springfield Road in Belfast this morning following the discovery of a suspicious object. Photo - Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press

A security alert in west Belfast has ended after a controlled explosion was carried out on an object which has been declared a hoax.

It was sparked following the discovery of a suspicious object on the Springfield Road.

A number of surrounding roads were closed and members of the public were urged to avoid the area.

The cordons have since been lifted and residents are returning to their homes.

Inspector Adams said: Police received a report shortly before 8am that a suspicious object had been discovered outside a property in the Springfield Road area of the city.

A public safety operation was implemented, which involved roads being closed in the surrounding area and a number of homes being evacuated.

Ammunition Technical Officers were tasked to the scene and a controlled explosion was carried out on the object, which has now been declared a hoax.

The Springfield Road in Belfast this morning following the discovery of a suspicious object. Photo - Andrew McCarroll/ Pacemaker Press

It has since been taken away for further forensic examination.

All cordons have since been lifted and residents are returning to their homes.

We understand the disruption this incident caused, to road users and the public, and I want to thank everyone impacted for their patience and co-operation while the scene was made safe.

An investigation is underway and I would appeal to anyone with any information in relation to this incident to contact police on 101, quoting reference number 360 of 14/07/24."

Sinn Fein MP Paul Maskey earlier condemned the alert which he said forced people out of their homes and businesses to shut.

Its the last thing anyone wants to see in the middle of the summer, and I would urge those responsible to get off the backs of the community, he said.
All instances of political violence must be condemned, the Irish premier has said following an assassination attempt on Donald Trump.

Simon Harris said that the shooting of the former US president was shocking and concerning.

Speaking at Government Buildings in Dublin on Sunday, he added: Im relieved that President Trump is secure and well, but we must always call out political violence.

Sadly, we have seen an escalation in political violence across the world in recent times.

Indeed, its only a number of weeks since my Slovakian counterpart had an attempt on his own life too so there clearly is an escalation in political violence.

And whilst not knowing the details of what happened in Pennsylvania last night, I do think its important that we reflect on political violence.

And we condemn it in all instances and we consider how rhetoric can be dialed down, how we can get back to people debating each other and discussing issues without being disagreeable with each other and without being vitriolic  and perhaps even dehumanising opponents.

But my thoughts today are, of course, with the person who lost their life. The innocent spectator, who went to a political event and found themselves caught up in this and indeed those who are critically injured.

Im pleased that President Trump is well, we send him our best.

He added: I think the only glimmer of hope we saw last night was the fact that two fierce political rivals in President Biden and former President Trump did speak last night.

And I thought that was a very important thing to happen because you can debate and you can oppose and you can do is in a way that never seeks to dehumanise or be vitriolic about your opponent.
The former US president was helped off stage after he was targeted at a rally in Pennsylvania (Gene J Puskar/AP)

Concerns have been raised about the safety of MPs and the risk of political violence in the UK after the assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump.

Shots were fired towards Mr Trump as he spoke at a rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.

The presumptive Republican nominee has since been described as safe by a spokesperson and could be seen defiantly pumping his fist in the air after the shooting, in which one person was killed and two others critically injured.

UK politicians have said the incident highlights the risk of violence facing MPs, some of whom have faced intimidation and carry panic alarms.

Kim Leadbeater, the sister of murdered MP Jo Cox, said the attack on Mr Trump raised questions about what a civilised democracy looks like.

The Labour MP for Spen Valley, whose sister Ms Cox was killed by a far-right extremist in 2016, told BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg that we are back again having that conversation about what democracy looks like, what our politics looks like.

She added: We have got to have that conversation about what a civilised democracy looks like.

Labour MP Jo Cox was killed by a far-right extremist in 2016 (Jo Cox Foundation/PA)

I have been having it since Jo was killed.

I sadly feel that we are not making a huge amount of progress in this country and in other countries and we have got to keep having that conversation.

Ms Coxs husband, Brendan Cox, called for a consensus against political violence in all forms.

Taking to X, formerly Twitter, he questioned Mr Trumps own behaviour towards political opponents, adding: But that doesnt justify using violence against him. It undermines democracy & makes more violence more likely.

We need a consensus against political violence in all forms.

Ms Cox was one of two serving MPs to have been murdered in the past nine years  alongside Conservative Sir David Amess, who was fatally stabbed during a constituency surgery in October 2021.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage, who had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign, said politicians from all parties are increasingly at risk.

Also appearing on Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg, Mr Farage said he had lived with a narrative built up around him which he said had led people to hate him.

Reform UK leader Nigel Farage had milkshake and wet cement thrown at him during the election campaign (James Manning/PA)

I have lived with this for a very long time, he added.

I think all MPs from all sides now are increasingly at risk  but I do think, I am sorry, but I do think mainstream media has a lot to do with this.

The Clacton MP said MPs now had to balance security with meeting voters and risks of violence might mean we finish up with our political leaders never meeting a voter, never meeting the public.

(PA Graphics)

House of Commons Leader Lucy Powell also spoke of the increased threat facing UK politicians.

She told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips: Clearly we have seen a rise in intimidation and attacks on serving politicians or people who want to be politicians in this country too.

Leader of the House of Commons Lucy Powell, left, spoke of the increased threat facing UK politicians (Jeff Overs/BBC/PA)

Ms Powell added there had been a growing sense of insecurity and hate and attacks which was something that we need to take action on.

She said some of her colleagues had experienced intimidation in the streets when campaigning and highlighted the risk of misinformation, including deepfakes, that fuels hatred and has a dehumanising effect on individuals.

A 31 million package to boost security measures for politicians  including providing MPs with a dedicated police safety liaison  was introduced by the then-government in February.

It came amid heightened tensions caused by protests around the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza.
One state secondary teacher said they had not been able to find any experienced language teachers for several years (PA)

Three in five secondary schools have faced challenges when hiring qualified language teachers, a report suggests.

The recruitment of modern foreign language (MFL) teachers is a major issue for a third of state secondary schools in England, according to the British Councils annual Language Trends report.

Addressing the shortage is crucial for equipping students with the language skills they need to thrive in society, the British Council has said.

The survey of teachers at 1,324 state and independent schools in England suggests that hiring qualified language teachers has been difficult for 60% of all responding schools.

The figure is higher in state secondary schools (63%) than in private schools (46%), the report suggests.

One state secondary teacher said they had not been able to find any experienced language teachers for several years and this year recruited the only candidate to be interviewed.

The survey also found that pupils at independent schools received far greater access to international engagement opportunities and language assistants than their state school peers.

Fewer than a quarter (24%) of state schools said they host language assistants, compared to more than two in three (68%) private schools, according to the report.

The survey also found only 27% of state schools said they had one or more partner school abroad, compared to nearly half (47%) of private schools.

Report author Dr Ian Collen, senior lecturer in modern languages education at Queens University Belfast, said: International connections go hand in hand with successful language learning.

It needs to be easier for schools to take pupils abroad on educational trips and for partner schools to visit us here in the UK.

Language assistants can have a transformative impact on a schools international outlook  we need to bolster this long-running and successful programme.

Vicky Gough, schools adviser at the British Council, said: Its concerning that despite concerted efforts to recruit language teachers, schools are still struggling to find qualified staff.

A shortage of language teachers threatens our ability to provide comprehensive language programmes in schools.

Addressing this challenge is crucial for equipping all students with the language skills they need to thrive in a global society.

The report also found that a quarter of schools said allocated language lessons have been affected by pupils spending extra time on literacy and numeracy.

One teacher said: The timetable across all subjects is incredibly tight but languages often falls off due to staffing issues in a small school setting with only four teachers, which includes the individual who delivers languages.

Pepe DiIasio, general secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders (ASCL), said: These findings reflect what we are regularly hearing from school and college leaders, that recruitment is becoming increasingly challenging.

This is the case in most subjects, but modern foreign languages is particularly worrying and over the last two academic years only one third of the required trainee MFL teachers have been recruited.

This shortage of teachers risks schools being forced to rely on non-specialist teachers or narrow their curriculum offer. This is clearly not conducive to language learning and the benefits this offers young people.

James Bowen, assistant general secretary at school leaders union NAHT, said: There are real benefits to learning a foreign language and there is some superb language teaching in both primary and secondary schools.

However, the shortage of foreign language teachers is a significant issue which will need to be addressed if more pupils are to learn a language.

A Department for Education spokesperson said: Learning a language shouldnt just be for those who can afford to pay for lessons outside of school.

We are determined to drive high and rising school standards and the best life chances for every child, ensuring they have access to high-quality language provision.

High-quality teaching makes the biggest difference to a childs education and to their life chances which is why we are offering attractive bursaries for languages trainee teachers starting courses this autumn as well as resuming and expanding our flagship teacher recruitment campaign.
Former President Donald Trump was shot at (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

Sir Keir Starmer has said he was appalled by the assassination attempt on Donald Trump, while Nigel Farage told of being very upset but not shocked.

Photographs have shown the bloodied former US president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.

Mr Trump, who was safe according to a spokesman, said on his Truth Social media platform that a bullet had pierced his ear before he was dragged to the ground by Secret Service agents.

One person at the rally was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

(PA Graphics)

All were identified as men.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

Asked how he felt after the shooting, Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: I was very upset and Im still upset.

Im obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but hes got away with it.

But one person is dead.

Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so its an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow Im not shocked by it.

The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.

Mr Farage told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips that he had sent a text message to the former president.

The Prime Minister said: I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Nigel Farage said he was very upset (Tejas Sandhu/PA)

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said: Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.

In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in.

Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.

Foreign Secretary David Lammy said the Government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump  along with every victim and their families.

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Former Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson said it was a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

Writing on social media, he added: As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason.

Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: Political violence is wrong.

I am shocked to wake up to these awful scenes from Pennsylvania and my thoughts are with the victims and their families.

We must all condemn this appalling attempt on Donald Trumps life.

Mr Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time.

The ex-president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of head, before blood appeared on his face.

He ducked and was surrounded by Secret Service agents, before rising to his feet and pumping his fist in the air, to cheers from the crowd.

Donald Trump was left bloodied after the shooting (Gene J Puskar/AP)

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting sick, adding: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

It was the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
Palestinians inspect the damage at a site hit by an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Gaza ceasefire talks continue, Hamas said on Sunday, adding that the groups military commander is in good health, a day after the Israeli military targeted Mohammed Deif with a massive airstrike that local health officials said killed at least 90 people, including children.

Deifs condition remained uncertain after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday there still isnt absolute certainty he was killed.

Hamas representatives gave no evidence to back up their claim about the health of a chief architect of the October 7 attack that sparked the war.

The Israeli military on Sunday announced that Rafa Salama, a Hamas commander it described as one of Deifs closest associates, had been killed in Saturdays strike.

Palestinians search for bodies and survivors after an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

Salama commanded Hamas Khan Younis brigade. The statement gave no update on Deif, who has long topped Israels most-wanted list and has been in hiding for years.

Hamas rejected the idea that mediated ceasefire discussions had been suspended after the strike.

Spokesman Jihad Taha said there is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations but added that efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.

The killing of Deif would mark the highest profile assassination of any Hamas leader by Israel since the war began.

It would be both a huge victory for Israel and a deep psychological blow for the militant group.

Mr Netanyahu said all of Hamas leaders are marked for death and that killing them would move Hamas closer to accepting a ceasefire deal.

Israeli police officers work at the scene of a ramming attack near Ramla, Israel (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

Hamas political officials said communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza, after the strike in the territorys south.

Witnesses said it happened in an area that Israel had designated as safe for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians. Israels military would not confirm that.

On Sunday, some survivors were angry that the attack targeting Deif happened without warning in an area they had been told was safe.

Where are we supposed to go? asked Mahmoud Abu Yaseen, who said he heard two strikes and clutched his children, then woke up in the hospital to find his son had died. The family had already been displaced five times since the war began, he said.

A United Nations official described utter chaos at Nasser hospital, where victims of Saturdays strike were taken, many of them treated on bloodstained floors with few supplies available.

I witnessed some of the most horrific scenes I have seen in my nine months in Gaza, Scott Anderson said in a statement.

A car slammed into pedestrians waiting at a bus stop (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

I saw toddlers who are double amputees, children paralysed and unable to receive treatment and others separated from their parents. I also saw mothers and fathers who were unsure if their children were alive.

He said restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza hamper efforts to provide needed medical and other care.

At least 300 people were wounded in the strike, one of the deadliest in the nine-month war sparked by Hamas October 7 assault on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took more than 200 hostage.

More than 38,400 people in Gaza have been killed in Israeli ground offensives and bombardments since then, according to the territorys health ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.

On Sunday, an Israeli strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza killed at least 13 people at the gate of a school, according to Associated Press journalists at Al-Awda hospital.

Israels military in a statement said it struck terrorists operating in the area of a school run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

Also on Sunday, police said a Palestinian resident of east Jerusalem carried out a car-ramming attack in central Israel that injured four Israelis, two of them seriously.

Israeli border police at the scene shot dead the attacker after he hit people waiting at two bus stops along a busy road.

Israel commissioner Kobi Shabtai said such attacks were often triggered by events like Saturdays airstrike in Gaza.
Donald Trump is surrounded by US Secret Service agents on stage (Evan Vucci/AP)

The US Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania, a monumental failure of one of the agencys core duties.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired several shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the gunman was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a man wearing grey camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm showgrounds, where Mr Trumps rally was held.

Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Donald Trump was speaking at a rally (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

The roof was less than 150 metres from where Mr Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target.

For reference, 150 metres is a distance at which US army recruits must hit a human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training.

The AR-style rifle, like the gunman at the rally had, is the semiautomatic civilian version of the military M16.

The FBI on Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

The Secret Service did not have a speaker at a late-night news conference where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation.

FBI special agent in charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.

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Members of the Secret Services counter-sniper team and counterassault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials.

The heavily armed counter assault team, whose Secret Service code name is Hawkeye, are responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting.

The counter-sniper team, known by the code name Hercules, use long-range binoculars and are equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

US secretary of homeland security Alejandro Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting.

Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the departments most vital priorities, he said.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, Mr Mayorkas said.

We are engaged with President (Joe) Biden, former president Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney general Merrick Garland said the justice department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former president, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Mr Garland said in a statement.

We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy.
Law enforcement officials were working Sunday to learn more about the 20-year-old Pennsylvania man who they say tried to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a campaign rally and to determine what drove him to open fire, killing one spectator.

Authorities identified Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the shooter who fired from a rooftop outside the rally venue in nearby Butler before he was killed by the Secret Service.

An FBI official said late Saturday that a motive had not yet been determined. Public court records in Pennsylvania show no past criminal cases against Crooks, who graduated from high school two years ago.

Trump, the presumptive Republican presidential nominee, said on social media the upper part of his right ear was pierced in the shooting. Two spectators were critically injured, authorities said. The man killed was Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief from the area who Pennsylvania's governor says died a hero by diving onto his family to protect them.

Relatives of Crooks didnt immediately respond to messages from The Associated Press. His father, Matthew Crooks, told CNN late Saturday that he was trying to figure out what the hell is going on but wouldnt speak about his son until after he talked to law enforcement.

Crooks graduated from Bethel Park High School in 2022. In a video of the schools graduation ceremony posted online, Crooks can be seen crossing the stage to receive his diploma, appearing slight of build and wearing glasses. The school district said it will cooperate fully with investigators. His senior year, Crooks was among several students given an award for math and science, according to a Tribune-Review story at the time.

Jason Kohler, who said he attended the same high school but did not share any classes with Crooks, said Crooks was bullied at school and sat alone at lunch time. Other students mocked him for the way he dressed, such as hunting outfits, Kohler said.

He was bullied almost every day, Kohler told reporters. He was just a outcast, and you know how kids are nowadays.

Crooks political leanings were not immediately clear. Records show Crooks was registered as a Republican voter in Pennsylvania, but federal campaign finance reports also show he gave $15 to a progressive political action committee on Jan. 20, 2021, the day President Joe Biden was sworn into office.

Butler County district attorney Richard Goldinger told AP on Sunday that Crooks had been previously unknown to investigators in his county and had not been on their radar. He said the investigation had so far not turned up any evidence that he had coordinated with anyone else in the region.

A blockade had been set up Sunday preventing traffic near Crooks house, which is in an enclave of modest brick houses in the hills outside blue-collar Pittsburgh and about an hour's drive from the site of the Trump rally. Police cars were stationed at an intersection near the house and officers were seen walking through the neighborhood.

Bomb-making materials were found inside Crooks' vehicle near the Trump rally and at his home, according to two officials who were not authorized to speak publicly and spoke on condition of anonymity. A white Allegheny County Police truck identified as bomb squad pulled up to the home late Sunday morning.

Law enforcement recovered an AR-style rifle at the scene of the shooting, according to a person familiar with the matter who spoke on condition of anonymity to discuss the ongoing investigation.

Investigators believe the weapon was bought by the father at least six months ago, two law enforcement officials told AP.

The officials said federal agents were still working to understand when and how Thomas Crooks obtained the gun. The officials were not authorized to publicly discuss details of the investigation and spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity.

An AP analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos from the scene of the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the shooter was able to get close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by AP shows Crooks wearing a gray t-shirt with a black American flag on the right arm lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm Show grounds where Trumps rally was held.

The roof where Crooks lay was less than 150 meters (164 yards) from where Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target. For reference, 150 meters is a distance at which U.S. Army recruits must hit a scaled human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M-16 rifle.

Images of Crooks body reviewed by AP shows that at the time of the shooting he appears to have been wearing a T-shirt from Demolition Ranch, a popular YouTube channel with more than 11.6 million subscribers that regularly posts videos that show creator Matt Carriker firing off handguns and assault rifles at targets that include human mannequins and vehicles.

Carriker, who lives in Texas, did not respond to a phone message or email on Sunday, but posted a photo of Crooks' bloody corpse wearing his brand's T-shirts on social media with the comment What the hell.
Republican presidential candidate former President Donald Trump is helped off the stage at a campaign event in Butler, Pa., on Saturday, July 13, 2024. (AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar)

The blood on Donald Trumps face was a shocking and vivid reminder of the fine red line that lies between democracy and violent chaos in even the worlds most powerful country.

The gunmans bullet struck the former presidents right ear before Secret Service agents rushed to the stage and hauled him down.

And now, the image which emerged of him injured, fist raised in defiance, the Stars and Stripes flying above, may help propel him back into the White House.

With just an inchs difference, the shot could have led to Trumps death and sparked a very real chance of America  bitterly divided with a heavily armed population  sliding into widespread violence, insurrection, and possibly even a second civil war.

Donald Trump rushed off stage after gunshots at Pennsylvania rally

The moment of danger for the republic came on a blisteringly hot late afternoon in Pennsylvania with a crowd of tens of thousands, waiting for hours at Butler Farm Show Grounds for Trump to arrive. With little shade available, medics moved among the crowd, with many elderly rallygoers suffering under the blazing sun and MAGA caps taken off for heads to be sponged.

Any torpor turned into messianic fervour when Trump got on the stage, settling quickly into the vaudeville pattern of his rallies. The faithful cheered at his boasts, booed at mentions of Biden, exclaimed in ire when he spoke of a stolen election and attempts to silence him with fake criminal charges.

Then came the shots, muted cracks one after the other, at least eight times. Those of us who have covered violence in conflict zones and volatile gatherings hit by gunfire are familiar with what unfolded  the initial incomprehension, a brief stillness, and then an eruption of confused fear, shouts and screams.

The first thing I thought myself was, Americas under attack. I grabbed the hands of a couple of people I didnt even know and we said the Lords prayer, said Corey Check, a local activist and Republican Committee member.

Ed White, who had gone to the rally with his wife and son, feared the worst: I thought they had come to kill us all. I was scared, really scared, for my family. Then I saw a man who was injured, he looked in a bad way. Whats happened is terrible, terrible.

World leaders condemn assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump

The gunman, identified hours later by the FBI as 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, had opened fire with his semi-automatic AR-15 assault rifle from a corrugated roof around 150 yards from the podium, astonishingly close to Trump.

To put in context, around 150 yards is the distance at which Army recruits are expected to hit human silhouettes in basic training  thats how exposed the former president was to his attacker.

How did he get so near? Was he acting alone? The FBI Special Agent in Charge, Kevin Rojek, said later that it was  surprising that the gunman had been able to target the stage and that procedures were being reviewed.

Some people at the rally said they had actually spotted the gunman and tried to alert the Secret Service prior to him opening fire.

Were pointing at the guy army crawling, bear crawling, up the roof. We could clearly see him with a rifle, a man named Greg told the BBC. Im standing there pointing at him for two and three minutes. Secret Service is looking at us from the top of the barn. Im pointing at the roof, and the next thing you know, five shots ring out.

Several shots could be heard after Trump, hand clasped over his injured ear, was down on the ground. The shooter killed one man and critically injured two others, one said to have been standing behind the former president.

Secret Service counter assault teams, codenamed Hawkeye, and counter sniper teams, codenamed Hercules, were deployed at the event. It is their job, in such missions, to detect and eliminate, allowing agents to shield and take away those under their protection.

There is video footage of a Secret Service sniper appearing to notice the gunman. This is followed by a slight body movement upwards as he takes the shot. That is how the threat is said to have been taken out. One of the sniper team is heard to declare: Shooters down, were good to move. A young man, longish haired, lay dead on the tin sheeting of the roof of a nearby building, his head, face and grey t-shirt covered in blood.

The close protection team had a fraction of time to pull down the former president. It was fortunate that the shooting was from just one direction. We had seen, in Iraq and Afghanistan, triangulated shooting from multiple locations into a crowd, with no seemingly safe path out. A former Royal Marines SBS sergeant, who had worked on close protection for British Prime Ministers in combat zones, pointed out that was a bonus, even when one hears the suspect has been neutralised, youve got to worry there would be contact from other points.

A heavily armed soldier stands guard as Donald Trump is surrounded by Secret Service agents on stage after the shooting. Photo: AP

Having helped save Trumps life, the Secret Service Agents had to get him out. Lets go, lets move, one said as they pulled Trump up, his MAGA cap knocked off his dishevelled head.

Hold up, your head is bloody, said another agent, his voice carrying through the microphone which the former president had been using to talk about the election victories to come.

Let me get my shoes, my shoes, muttered Trump as they pulled him along. At the edge of the stage, he forced them to stop.

Wait, wait, he said.

Struggling up he pumped his fist with: Fight, fight, fight. The crowd shouted back USA, USA, USA, but many were distracted, seeking to get away from the carnage.

Trump was satisfied, moving with his security detail into a waiting bulletproof limousine. Having seen him off, the agents adjusted their dark suits, dark glasses and ties and turned to face the crowd with a touch of sangfroid.

The crowd were told by the police to leave and they started to do so, shuffling along. There were some expressions of anger.

Therell be payback, said a supporter wearing a Trump t-shirt jabbing his hand in the air.

Social media was alive within minutes with tales of plots.

The notorious far-right conspiracy theorist, Alex Jones, livestreamed posts viewed millions of times on social media claiming the Deep State was involved. Other posts included wild QAnon conspiracy theories, baselessly naming prominent Democrats and Republicans allegedly colluding with the CIA to carry out the assassination attempt.

It has since emerged that Crooks, the young man named as the killer, was registered as a Republican in Pennsylvania, according to the states voter records. Social media websites have begun to show photos of him wearing Demolitia (Demolition Ranch) t-shirts  popular with gun enthusiasts, some from the hard-right and survivalists.

Donald Trump in the aftermath of the shooting

What drove Crooks to try to assassinate Trump is likely to become clearer over the coming days.

But for many MAGA supporters, his Republican registration and Demolitia attire has simply fuelled the Deep State conspiracy theories.

This, they say, is a reprise of the Grassy Knoll, the way Lee Harvey Oswald was framed as patsy in the assassination of John F Kennedy. Dont even pretend its one man, were coming for those responsible, said one hard-right blogger.

What happened in Pennsylvania was a very close call. America faces fragile days ahead on the turbulent path to this election.

Now, a peaceful endgame looks increasingly unlikely with accusations and recriminations only likely to get more vitriolic after the day that Donald Trump faced assassination.

London Independent
Dissidents struggle for numbers at embarrassing protest over Twelfth parades

Just over 20 people turn out for pitiful rally in Londonderry

Dissident republicans with a banner during the protest

Sunday Life Reporter Sun 14 Jul 2024 at 08:39

Alleged Derry New IRA boss Fergal Melaugh and fellow dissident republicans struggled for numbers as they staged a white line picket in the city during the Twelfth celebrations.
Ethnic Rohingya refugees climb onto a National Search and Rescue Agency boat after their boat capsized off West Aceh, Indonesia, March 21, 2024.

Two senior U.S. lawmakers are pushing legislation that would create a special envoy in the State Department dedicated to the displaced Rohingya population in Myanmar and Bangladesh and provide an annual budget of $10 million for atrocity crime investigations.

U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken in March 2021 said Myanmars military committed genocide against the Muslim minority in Myanmars Rakhine state in 2017, forcing hundreds of thousands to flee across the border into refugee camps in Bangladesh.

Some 1.2 million Rohingya now live in the Coxs Bazar refugee camps, according to the U.S. Agency for International Development, which says their current $10 daily food ration is insufficient.

The Rohingya Genocide Accountability and Protection Act  stylized as the Rohingya GAP Act  would establish a Special Coordinator for Rohingya Atrocities Prevention and Response within the State Department and provide an annual budget of $10 million for five years.

The envoy would be tasked with supporting atrocity crime investigations, documentation, and casework, transitional justice and accountability mechanisms, witness protection measures, and technical support related to Rohingya, a press release says.

A Conflict Observatory for Burma would also be created and tasked with monitoring and reporting on political violence in Myanmar, according to the bill, while higher-education scholarships for Rohingya refugees living in the United States would also be authorized.

Rohingya refugees walk at the Balukhali refugee camp in Cox's Bazar, Bangladesh, Feb. 2, 2021. (Shafiqur Rahman/AP)

The legislation is co-sponsored by both Rep. Michael McCaul, a Republican from Texas and the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, and Rep. Gregory Meeks, a Democrat from New York and his partys ranking member on the Foreign Affairs Committee.

It was approved by the committee with bipartisan support on Thursday and now heads to the full House of Representatives for a vote. If successful, it will then need to be approved by the U.S. Senate.

Speaking during the committee mark-up session, McCaul said that swift passage of the legislation was a moral imperative.

This resolution continues our bipartisan support in addressing the crisis in Burma and the Rohingya genocide, he said. I urge my colleagues to support this important measure and show the world the United States Congress will not let genocide go unanswered.

Ethnic Rohingya disembark from their boat upon landing in Ulee Madon, North Aceh, Indonesia, Nov. 16, 2023. (Rahmat Mirza/AP)

After the bills approval in the committee, Meeks said in a statement he believed it would ultimately be passed quickly by the House.

The State Departments determination two years ago that the Burmese military committed genocide and crimes against humanity against the Rohingya was not only a critical recognition of the atrocities they have suffered, but also a call to action, Meeks said.

The Rohingya GAP Act is a key step towards protecting and supporting Rohingya and ensuring history does not repeat itself. I look forward to this legislations swift passage on the House Floor.
Lt. Gov. Kim Driscoll shoots hoops as she helps launch the 10th annual Summer Nights program at the Ryan Playground in Mattapan on Monday.
PITTSFIELD  For Rebecca Litourneau, a volunteer with the Salvation Army, helping people comes naturally.

Im just doing the work that I was meant to do, Litourneau said Friday in front of the Berkshire Athenaeum, where she was handing out to-go meals for anyone who wanted them with her 16-year-old daughter, Addie. I believe that God has been on my side for a lot of stuff. My husband and I have struggled at times. Salvation Army helped us. So this is my way of giving back to people that helped us."

Every other Friday, a crew from the Pittsfield Salvation Army provides a meal and drinks to anyone who might be hungry. No questions asked.

Lunch at the Library is one of Salvation Army's programs to combat hunger as part of its mission to meet human needs. Other programs include a Monday to Thursday brunch program at its headquarters at 298 West St. from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. and a Sunday dinner at 4:30 p.m. Those meals take place weekly.

On Friday, Rebecca and Addie Litourneau spent a couple hours assembling 50 ham and cheese sandwiches on rolls and packing them in locked plastic bags. Each box lunch also contained mustard, mayonnaise, a package of Oreos and a single serving bag of potato chips. The food is paid for by donors, including Stop & Shop.

The mother and daughter hauled out a folding table and a cooler that required both of them to lift, filled with drinks on ice.

Setting up a table on the sidewalk in front of the Salvation Armys emergency disaster services mobile kitchen  think of it as a galley kitchen on wheels (complete with six-burner stovetop, microwave and refrigerator and a seating area for two)  the nonprofit dispenses sandwiches and drinks in warm weather and hot meals in cold weather.

Starting at noon for an hour, each passerby was offered a boxed lunch and two drinks.

Lunch at the Library has been going on for years  with a hiatus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Litourneau said she has the capacity to serve many more people than currently take advantage of Lunch at the Library, and she hopes more people will take advantage of the free meal every other week.

The Salvation Army also needs more volunteers to help staff the event.

Will Jimmo, 58, was glad to accept the lunch on Friday.

It helps out a lot, he said.

A dishwasher by trade and diagnosed with diabetes, Jimmo's legs gave out, rendering it impossible for him to work a few years ago. He went through a period of homelessness for three years, where he spent time both in a Pittsfield shelter and in the woods in a tent to avoid witnessing overdoses.

He now lives in an apartment and has applied for Social Security Disability Income, but the payments havent yet started, and hes living without electricity for the moment.

Having just come from a meeting at the state Department of Transitional Assistance, he was hoping to receive a check of $401 possibly as early as Saturday.

Thatll turn my lights back on, put a little on my electric bill, he said.

Across Massachusetts more than 1.9 million adults reported experiencing food insecurity in a 2023 survey by the Greater Boston Food Bank. One in three people said they ran out of food or didn't have enough money to buy food in a month.

Since 2019, the level of households in Massachusetts reporting food insecurity has risen from 19 percent to 34 percent in 2023. The survey said that 69 percent of the households in Massachusetts had to choose between paying for food or paying for utilities.

The lunch offering came as a surprise to Latoya Tinsley, who happened to be passing by with her 3-year-old son, Damion Joseph.

Were on our way to the doctors office, Tinsley said. He was cranky so I didnt have time to run home.

Tinsley, 46, of Pittsfield is a single mother. She just gave up her job as a certified nursing assistant just a month ago to care for Damion. He has been diagnosed with autism and is not yet talking. His care requires a lot of time and attention, and Tinsley simply doesnt have time to work while caring for him.

Im not used to it, she said. I go to the pantries, and my older kids help me.

Tinsley said she is feeling well supported by Pittsfield Public Schools, Pittsfield and Boston doctors, as well as professionals including a music therapist.

It helps, she said. They help here.

What else does she need?

Financial help, for one, she said. I dont know how people do it without jobs. I cant pay my light bill, so I came here to print out some papers, so hopefully I can get some help.

She said she was on a payment plan but because shes not working she cant afford it. And if her electricity is cut off, it wont just mean living in the dark, it will mean she cant treat her son for asthma, which requires the use of a nebulizer.

So its a lot, she said.

These are just a few of the people Rebecca Litourneau meets through her service, who are each helped out by the meal in their own way. No matter their background, they have a place at her table.

"I serve anybody and everybody," Rebecca Litourneau said.
Its the summer of 1965, on Bainbridge Island, near Seattle. Joan and Joel Pritchards 13-year-old son, Frank, is getting bored. As Frank recalls: I was bitching to my dad that there was nothing to do on Bainbridge. He said that when they were kids, theyd make games up. Franks reply to his dad: Oh, really? Then why dont you go make up a game?
Gov. Maura Healey, pictured in Pittsfield in January, condemned a recent attempt to assassinate former President Donald Trump at a Pennsylvania rally. "Im grateful for the swift response from law enforcement," she said Saturday. "Im relieved the former President appears to be safe and my thoughts are with all who were at todays rally."
Donald Trump has said a bullet pierced part of his ear when he was shot at a campaign rally in the US.

Images showed the bloodied former president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after the assassination attempt.

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Here is what we know so far:

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 What happened?

Mr Trump was addressing a campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday.

He was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6:10pm local time.

The ex-president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of head, before blood appeared on his face.

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He quickly ducked as Secret Service agents rushed the stage to surround him.

Former president Donald Trump pumps his fist as he is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents after the assassination attempt (Gene J Puskar/AP)

There were screams from audience members as the bangs continued.

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The crowd cheered as he got back up and pumped his fist before he was taken to his motorcade.

Police evacuated the site shortly after Mr Trump left the stage.

One rally attendee was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said. All were identified as men.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

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The FBI has taken over the investigation.

 Is Mr Trump OK?

Pictures showed blood on the former presidents right ear and part of his face.

Writing on his Truth Social platform, Mr Trump said he was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear.

Spokesman Steven Cheung said Mr Trump is fine, while the former presidents eldest son, Donald Trump Jr, said his father is in great spirits.

Pictures showed blood on Donald Trumps right ear and part of his face after shots were fired during the rally (Gene J Puskar/AP)

 What has Mr Trump said?

Mr Trump wrote: I want to thank the United States Secret Service, and all of law enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania.

Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured.

It is incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

He added: I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

Much bleeding took place, so I realised then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Donald Trump said much bleeding took place after a bullet pierced his right ear (Gene J Puskar/AP)

 Where did Mr Trump go afterwards?

He was checked out at a local medical facility before flying to New Jersey.

 Who is the suspected gunman?

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

 What was his motivation?

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

 What has US President Joe Biden said?

President Joe Biden returned to Washington after the attempted assassination of Donald Trump (Manuel Balce Ceneta/AP)

President Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting sick, adding: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.
Before Saturdays apparent attempted assassination of former US president Donald Trump, there have been multiple instances of political violence targeting US presidents, former presidents and major party presidential candidates.

Here is a look at some of the assassinations and attempted assassinations that have occurred since the United States of America was founded in 1776:

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 Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president

A photograph of Abraham Lincoln, taken four days before he was assassinated (AP)

Abraham Lincoln was the first president to be assassinated, shot by John Wilkes Booth on April 14th, 1865, as he and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, attended a special performance of the comedy Our American Cousin at Fords Theatre in Washington.

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Mr Lincoln was taken to a house across the street from the theatre for medical treatment after he was shot in the back of the head. He died the next morning.

His support for black rights has been cited as a motive behind his killing. Two years before the assassination, during the Civil War, which was fought over slavery, Mr Lincoln issued the Emancipation Proclamation granting freedom to slaves within the Confederacy.

He was succeeded by vice president Andrew Johnson.

Booth was shot dead on April 26th, 1865, after he was found hiding in a barn near Bowling Green, Virginia.

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 James Garfield, the 20th president

A drawing by an unknown artist of President James Garfield being shot in the back by Charles Guiteau (New York Public Library/AP)

James Garfield was the second president to be assassinated, six months after taking office. He was walking through a railway station in Washington on July 2nd, 1881 to catch a train to New England when he was shot by Charles Guiteau.

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Alexander Graham Bell, inventor of the telephone, tried unsuccessfully to find the bullet lodged in Mr Garfields chest using a device he had designed specifically for the president.

The mortally-wounded president lay at the White House for several weeks but died in September after he was taken to the New Jersey shore. He had held office for six months.

Mr Garfield was succeeded by vice president Chester Arthur.

Guiteau was found guilty and executed in June 1882.

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 William McKinley, the 25th president

William McKinley was assassinated by Leon F Czolgosz six months after starting his second term as president (AP)

William McKinley was shot after giving a speech in Buffalo, New York, on September 6th, 1901. He was shaking hands with people passing through a receiving line when a man fired two shots into his chest at point-blank range.

Doctors had expected Mr McKinley to recover but gangrene then set in around the bullet wounds, and he died on September 14th, 1901, six months after beginning his second term.

He was succeeded by vice president Theodore Roosevelt.

Leon F Czolgosz, an unemployed 28-year-old Detroit resident, admitted shooting Mr McKinley. He was found guilty at trial and put to death in the electric chair on October 29th, 1901.

 Franklin D Roosevelt, the 32nd president

Franklin D Roosevelt, at the time the president-elect, had just given a speech in Miami from the back of an open car in February 1933 when gunshots rang out.

Mr Roosevelt was not injured in the shooting, which killed Chicago Mayor Anton Cermak.

Giuseppe Zangara was convicted over the shooting and sentenced to death.

Hotel busboy Juan Romero, right, comes to the aid of Senator Robert F Kennedy as he lies on the floor of the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles moments after being shot (Richard Drew/Pasadena Star News/AP)

 Harry S Truman, the 33rd president

Harry S Truman was staying at Blair House, across the street from the White House, in November 1950 when two gunmen broke in.

Mr Truman was not injured, but a White House policeman and one of the attackers were killed in an exchange of gunfire. Two other White House police officers were wounded.

Oscar Callazo was arrested and sentenced to death. In 1952, Mr Truman commuted the sentence to life in prison, and Callazo was released in 1979 by president Jimmy Carter.

 John F Kennedy, the 35th president

John F Kennedy was fatally shot by a hidden assassin armed with a high-powered rifle as he visited Dallas in November 1963 with first lady Jacqueline Kennedy.

Shots rang out as the presidents motorcade rolled through Dealey Plaza in central Dallas.

Mr Kennedy was rushed to Parkland Memorial Hospital, where he died soon afterwards.

He was succeeded by vice president Lyndon B Johnson, who was sworn into office in a conference room on board Air Force One. He is the only president to take the oath of office on an aeroplane.

Hours after the assassination, police arrested Lee Harvey Oswald after finding a snipers perch in a nearby building, the Texas School Book Depository.

Two days later, Oswald was being taken from police headquarters to the county jail when Dallas nightclub owner Jack Ruby rushed forward and fatally shot Oswald.

President Gerald Ford ducks behind his limousine and is hustled into the vehicle after a shot was fired as he left the St Francis Hotel in San Francisco in September 1975 (AP)

 Gerald Ford, the 38th president

Gerald Ford faced two assassination attempts within weeks in 1975 but was not hurt in either incident.

In the first attempt, Mr Ford was on his way to a meeting with Californias governor in Sacramento when Charles Manson disciple Lynette Squeaky Fromme pushed through a crowd on the street, drew a semi-automatic pistol and pointed it at the president. The gun was not fired.

Fromme was sentenced to prison and released in 2009.

Seventeen days later, another woman, Sara Jane Moore, confronted Mr Ford outside a hotel in San Francisco. She fired one shot and missed. A bystander grabbed her arm as a second shot was attempted.

Moore was sent to prison and released in 2007.

 Ronald Reagan, the 40th president

President Ronald Reagan is pushed into his limousine by Secret Service agents after being shot outside a Washington hotel in March 1981 (Ron Edmonds/AP)

Ronald Reagan was walking to his motorcade in Washington DC after making a speech in March 1981 when he was shot by John Hinckley Jr, who was in the crowd.

The president recovered from the March 1981 shooting. Three other people were shot, including Mr Reagans press secretary, James Brady, who was partially paralysed as a result.

Hinckley was arrested and confined to a mental hospital after a jury found him not guilty by reason of insanity in shooting Mr Reagan.

In 2022, Hinckley was freed from court oversight after a judge determined he was no longer a danger to himself or others.

 George W Bush, the 43rd president

George W Bush was attending a rally in Tbilisi in 2005 with Georgian president Mikhail Saakashvili when a hand grenade was thrown toward him.

Both men were behind a bulletproof barrier when the grenade, wrapped in cloth, landed about 100 feet away. The grenade did not explode, and no-one was hurt.

Vladimir Arutyunian was convicted over the attack and sentenced to life in prison.

 Theodore Roosevelt, presidential candidate

Former president Theodore Roosevelt was shot in Milwaukee in 1912 while campaigning to return to the White House.

He had previously served two terms as president and was running again as a third-party candidate.

Folded papers and a metal glasses case in his pocket apparently blunted the bullets impact and he was not seriously hurt.

John Schrank was arrested and spent the rest of his life in mental hospitals.

Senator Robert F Kennedy speaks to campaign workers at the Ambassador Hotel in Los Angeles in June 1968, watched by his wife Ethel, left, and California campaign manager Jesse Unruh, just before being was shot in an adjacent room (AP)

 Robert F Kennedy, presidential candidate

Robert F Kennedy was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was killed at a Los Angeles hotel  moments after giving his victory speech for winning the 1968 California primary.

Mr Kennedy was a US senator from New York and the brother of President John F Kennedy, who had been assassinated five years earlier.

Five other people were injured in the shooting.

Sirhan Sirhan was convicted of first-degree murder and sentenced to death. That was commuted to life in prison, where he remains after his latest petition for release was denied last year.

 George C Wallace, presidential candidate

People mill around a shopping centre car park in Laurel, Maryland, after an assassination attempt on Alabama Governor George Wallace, who was campaigning for president (J Bowman/AP)

George C Wallace was seeking the Democratic presidential nomination when he was shot during a campaign stop in Maryland in 1972, an incident that left him paralysed from the waist down.

The governor of Alabama was known for his segregationist views, which he later renounced.

Arthur Bremer was convicted over the shooting and sentenced to prison. He was released in 2007.
A family has been left homeless after a suspected petrol bomb attack in Dublin in the early hours of Saturday morning.

Gardai are investigating "an incident of criminal damage by fire" at a house on Dromard Road in Drimnagh at about 3am.

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One man suffered serious injuries, and is understood to be in a stable condition in hospital.

Local Sinn Fein councillor Daithi Doolan said it was one of a number of violent incidents in the area in recent months.

Mr Doolan told Newstalk: "It shouldn't have happened and those who organised it and carried it out should face the full rigours of the law."

Gardai in Sundrive Road are appealing to any person who may have information in relation to this incident to contact them.

They are particularly interested in anyone with camera footage who was near Dromard Road between 3am and 3.45am.
On Thursday, July 18th, Taoiseach Simon Harris will have completed 100 days in office.

Mr Harris was labelled the 'TikTok Taoiseach' by critics after he succeeded Leo Varadkar, but he has matched his prolific social media presence with a huge work rate.

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'New energy'

When Mr Harris took over, he promised he would bring a "new energy" to the office.

While this may seem like a typical politician's promise, he has lived up to that billing.

He starts work most days by 7am and regularly works late into the evening, while hopping all over the country to meet colleagues, constituents and attend official events.

Taking ownership of migration issue

While Mr Varadkar was at the forefront of most issues in his first term, some had accused him of distancing himself from difficult areas like migration towards the end of his tenure.

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Mr Harris moved immediately to take hold of the migration issue as Taoiseach.

The clearing of the tent encampment outside the International Protection Office on Dublin's Mount Street was only a quick fix as tents sprang back up along the Grand Canal.

The steel barriers in place along the Canal show the issue is far from handled.

However, with opinion polls which show a slump in support for Sinn Fein, with many citing inconsistencies in their policy on migration, it appears people are more satisfied with the Government's attempts to handle the issue now.

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Simon Harris has lived up to his promise to bring a 'new energy' to the Taoiseach's Office. Photo: Brian Lawless/PA Images

Recognition of Palestine

The Taoiseach was at the centre of Ireland's recognition of Palestinian statehood, which made international news.

While a lot of the work in the process had already been done by his predecessor Varadkar and Coalition partner, Tanaiste Micheal Martin, Mr Harris still deserves a lot of credit.

Defence Forces comments

Mr Harris "threw the Defence Forces under the bus" with his comments after a serving soldier was sentenced for the assault of a woman in Limerick, according to an employment lawyer and former army officer.

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Cathal Crotty pleaded guilty to assaulting Natasha OBrien in 2022, and was handed a fully suspended sentence, prompting public outcry.

Following the case, the Taoiseach said: There are people in the Defence Forces who clearly knew this was happening, why did they do nothing? These are very serious questions and as Taoiseach I am not satisfied in relation to this, I am not satisfied at all.

Barry Crushell is an employment law solicitor and former army officer, who served with the United Nations on multiple deployments.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, Mr Crushell pointed out that regulations prevent the Defence Forces from taking action against an individual before the criminal/civil courts before a case has concluded.

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With this in mind, he argued that the criticism from Mr Harris and other politicians was unfair.

"The outcry, in particular from Harris, has not gone down well within the Defence Forces or among its former members. It feels as if Harris deliberately threw the Defence Forces under the bus.

"He will be well aware the Defence Forces has no power to suspend Crotty. The Defence Forces could not intervene at an earlier stage because to do so might have prejudiced the criminal case."

Anglo-Irish relations

Mr Harris stood firm when former UK prime minister Rishi Sunak claimed an influx of migrants crossing into the Republic from Northern Ireland was a sign of the infamous Rwanda deportation scheme working.

After Labour's landslide victory in the UK general election the scheme has been scrapped.

Mr Harris is due to travel to Downing Street to meet the new prime minister Keir Starmer soon, and he has expressed hopes of improved Anglo-Irish relations.

Taoiseach Simon Harris and Tanaiste Micheal Martin have formed a good working relationship. Photo: Niall Carson/PA Images

Coalition tensions

Some sources have indicated Fianna Fail TDs are unhappy at what they perceive to be Mr Harris taking credit for all of Government's achievements, but this is inevitable in a three-party coalition government.

However, Mr Harris' relationship with Mr Martin is understood to be solid.

General election timing?

While Mr Harris and Mr Martin continue to insist the Government will serve its full term to March 2025, this is unlikely.

This would mean fighting five by-elections, which would give Sinn Fein a chance to regain momentum.

Behind the scenes, the Government holding its own in the local and European elections, and Sinn Fein underperforming, is understood to have shifted thinking on an autumn general election.

In an interview with BreakingNews.ie, former minister for agriculture Ivan Yates suggested November 15th as the most likely general election date.

Mr Harris' decision, which will be made with Mr Martin and new Green Party leader Roderic O'Gorman, could be the defining moment in his leadership.

Past taoisigh have not recovered after choosing the wrong time, while Mr Harris could end up in power again if he plays his cards wisely.
DPRK condemns U.S.-S.Korea nuclear guidelines

Xinhua) 10:15, July 14, 2024

SEOUL, July 13 (Xinhua) -- The Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) has condemned the "Guidelines for Nuclear Deterrence and Nuclear Operations on the Korean Peninsula" that the United States and South Korea signed earlier this week, the DPRK's state media said Saturday.

In a press statement published by the official Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), the DPRK said the country's military forces "will guarantee the national security in every way with its powerful nuclear war deterrent readiness."

The DPRK lashed out at the nuclear guidelines intended for "stepping up preparations for a nuclear war against the DPRK" by an integration of the nuclear forces of the United States and the conventional forces of South Korea, saying it will "push the regional military tensions to extremes."

The nuclear threat posed by the enemy forces and the ensuing dangerous regional security environment "urgently requires the DPRK to further improve its nuclear deterrent readiness and add important elements to the composition of the deterrent," the KCNA said.

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol and U.S. President Joe Biden warned in a joint statement on Thursday that any DPRK nuclear attack against South Korea will be met with a "swift, overwhelming and decisive" response, after Seoul's Defense Ministry and the Pentagon inked the nuclear guidelines document in Washington on the same day, according to Yonhap reports.

(Web editor: Xue Yanyan, Hongyu)
The Government is open to increasing funding for Casement Park, the Taoiseach has said.

There has been mounting speculation that the stadium is set to be axed as a venue for Euro 2028.

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The derelict west Belfast ground has been earmarked to host five matches in the showpiece tournament being played in Ireland and the UK.

But the funding required to rebuild the stadium in time for the tournament is not in place, prompting concerns that the delays will see Belfast missing out.

Taoiseach Simon Harris said he really wanted to see Casement stadium redeveloped (Brian Lawless/PA)

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The UK's Northern Ireland secretary Hilary Benn has said he is urgently looking at the issues around cost and remaining time for constructing the stadium, while characterising it as a very important project.

For its part, the Government has so far allocated 50 million towards the project.

Asked if the Irish Government was open to increasing that spend, Taoiseach Simon Harris said: In principle, we are  but I think we have to take a little step back here.

The Irish Government has already committed funding to Casement. I really want to see this developed.

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Mr Harris said there had been encouraging words from Mr Benn that the stadium would be built, but added: The question now is a matter of timing.

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Speaking on BBCs Sunday Politics Northern Ireland, he said: I think it would be a huge missed opportunity if we had a situation where Euro 2028 was being hosted across these two islands and we couldnt see games played in Northern Ireland.

He added: Id like to work constructively with Prime Minister (Sir Keir) Starmer and with my colleagues across government and with the Northern Ireland Executive, the GAA and others to see how best to move forward.

Mr Harris said the matter would be on the agenda when he met the UK prime minister next week, adding: We need to have conversations to understand where the British governments head is at on this matter too.
Alec Baldwin has thanked the people who supported him after the involuntary manslaughter case against the US actor was dismissed by a New Mexico judge.

Judge Mary Marlowe Sommer ruled on Friday that the involuntary manslaughter charges against Baldwin in relation to the fatal shooting of cinematographer Halyna Hutchins on the set of the film Rust should be dropped.

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She dismissed the case with prejudice based on the misconduct of police and prosecutors over the withholding of ammunition evidence from the defence.

Following the ruling, Baldwin broke down in tears and hugged his tearful wife, Hilaria.

The 66-year-old actor, best known for sitcom 30 Rock and starring on US sketch show, Saturday Night Live, could have got 18 months in prison if convicted.

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On Saturday, Baldwin said in a statement posted to Instagram: There are too many people who have supported me to thank just now.

To all of you, you will never know how much I appreciate your kindness toward my family.

Actor Alec Baldwin and his wife Hilaria embrace after a judge threw out the involuntary manslaughter cases (Ramsay de Give/Pool Photo via AP)

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The actor shared a photo of him watching the proceedings in court alongside the statement.

Marvel actor Jeremy Renner was among those to offer a message of support to Baldwin, writing: Bless you sir.

Stage and screen star Sir Anthony Hopkins also commented a heart emoji, while Titanic actress Frances Fisher said: Whatever comes next, we are by your side, Alec.

The films armourer, Hannah Gutierrez-Reed, was sentenced to 18 months in prison on an involuntary manslaughter conviction earlier this year for the death of Hutchins, which she is now appealing against.
In a country already on edge, the assassination attempt on former US president Donald Trump has enraged his supporters, paused the Democratic campaign and raised fears of further political violence in the run-up to November's election.

Mr Trump's Republican allies painted him as a hero on Saturday, seizing on the image of him with his ear bloodied and fist raised, appearing to mouth the words "Fight! Fight! Fight!"

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Whereas Mr Trump has regularly used violent language with his followers, advisers and allies of the former president flipped the script on his Democratic opponent president Joe Biden, saying it was the demonisation of the Republican presidential candidate that led to the assassination attempt.

"Today is not just some isolated incident. The central premise of the Biden campaign is that President Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to President Trump's attempted assassination," US senator JD Vance of Ohio, a top candidate to be Mr Trump's running mate, said on X.

Mr Biden moved quickly to try to defuse the situation, denouncing the attack as unacceptable political violence and pulling election ads attacking Trump.

"There's no place in America for this kind of violence. It's sick," Mr Biden told reporters.

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The motivation of the shooter is not yet known. The suspect, 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, was a registered Republican, according to state voter records. He previously made a $15 donation to a political action committee that raises money for left-leaning and Democratic politicians.

Secret Service tend to Donald Trump onstage after he was grazed by a bullet at a rally on July 13th, 2024 in Butler, Pennsylvania. Photo: Anna Moneymaker/Getty Images

In the short term, the attack will likely boost Mr Trump's appearances in Milwaukee this week at the Republican National Convention as he accepts his party's presidential nomination, fortifying the sense of grievance and estrangement his supporters already feel toward the nation's political class.

Within hours of the shooting, Mr Trump's campaign sent out a text asking voters to contribute to the campaign. "They're not after me, they're after you," the message read.

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Billionaires Elon Musk and Bill Ackman also swiftly endorsed Mr Trump. "I fully endorse President Trump and hope for his rapid recovery," Mr Musk said on X, the social media site he owns.

Chris LaCivita, the co-manager of Mr Trump's campaign, said on X that "for years and even today, leftist activists, Democrat donors and now even Joe Biden have made disgusting remarks and descriptions of shooting Donald Trump ... it's high time they be held accountable for it ... the best way is through the ballot box."

Mr LaCivita was apparently referring to recent remarks by Mr Biden made in the context of asking his supporters to focus on beating Mr Trump rather than his own performance. "So, we're done talking about the debate, it's time to put Trump in a bullseye," said Mr Biden, who has always condemned any political violence.

Political attacks

The US is grappling with the biggest and most sustained increase in political violence since the 1970s. Of 14 fatal political attacks since supporters of Mr Trump stormed the US Capitol on January 6th, 2021, in which the perpetrator or suspect had a clear partisan leaning, 13 were right-wing assailants. One was on the left.

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Despite being a former president, Mr Trump has campaigned as an outsider insurgent, complaining that he has long been targeted by the federal "deep state" and Mr Biden's administration to prevent him from reclaiming power.

He has typically employed violent, degrading and even apocalyptic rhetoric while doing so, warning of a "bloodbath" if he is not elected and saying immigrants in the United States illegally are "poisoning the blood of our country".

Some Republicans were already agitated by his continued stoking of the fire.

"If the country wasn't a powder keg before, it is now," said Chip Felkel, a Republican operative in South Carolina who has opposed Mr Trump.

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Brad Bannon, a Democratic strategist, said the shooting could benefit Mr Trump politically because it feeds into his campaign narrative that the country is off-track.

"The attempted assassination creates sympathy for Trump," Mr Bannon said. "It also confirms the idea to voters that something is fundamentally wrong in this nation, which is an idea that drives support for him."

Mr Trump in May was found guilty of engaging in a scheme to cover up an affair with a porn star, a conviction that did little to alter the race and suggested supporters of both sides remain entrenched in their positions.

Mr Biden has dealt with a debate within his own party over whether he should step down as the Democratic candidate because of concerns that he is no longer fit for the job. He says his doctors have told him he is in good shape. Mr Trump has benefited in some polls from Mr Biden's disastrous debate performance last month, but others show the race to be even.

Many voters have already been alienated by both Mr Biden and Mr Trump. The chaos that surrounds the candidates may contribute to voters feeling that the nation's problems are unfixable and the gulf between the parties cannot be bridged.

US representative Steve Scalise, a Republican who was shot by a gunman in 2017, told Fox News that violent election rhetoric needed to stop.

"All it takes is one person who is just unhinged to hear that and go out and act on it and think that's their signal to go take somebody out," he said.
Donald Trump will travel to the Republican National Convention on Sunday as he originally planned despite an assassination attempt, as he insisted people must remain defiant in the face of wickedness.

Based on yesterdays terrible events, I was going to delay my trip to Wisconsin, and The Republican National Convention, by two days, the former US president wrote on his Truth Social platform.

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He added: But have just decided that I cannot allow a shooter, or potential assassin, to force change to scheduling, or anything else.

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Therefore, I will be leaving for Milwaukee, as scheduled, at 3.30pm today.

UK prime minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he was appalled by the attack on the former US president and spoke to him on Sunday afternoon, while Reform UK leader Nigel Farage said he was very upset but not shocked.

Donald Trump is helped off the stage by US Secret Service agents (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

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The PA news agency understands Mr Starmer condemned the violence, expressed his condolences for the victims and their families, and wished Mr Trump and those injured a quick recovery.

Writing on Truth Social on Sunday, Mr Trump thanked well-wishers and said it was God alone who prevented the unthinkable from happening.

We will fear not, but instead remain resilient in our faith and defiant in the face of wickedness.

He added: Our love goes out to the other victims and their families.

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We pray for the recovery of those who were wounded, and hold in our hearts the memory of the citizen who was so horribly killed.

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In this moment, it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.

I truly love our country, and love you all, and look forward to speaking to our great nation this week from Wisconsin. DJT

His wife, former US first lady Melania Trump, said: When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life, and Barrons (the couples son) life, were on the brink of devastating change.

Mrs Trump said she was grateful to the brave secret service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives.

She added: A monster who recognised my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration.

The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine.

(PA Graphics)

Mr Farage said he would almost certainly would have been at Saturdays rally in Pennsylvania if he had not won his Clacton seat at the UK general election and now planned to travel to the US for the 2024 Republican National Convention as a show of friendly solidarity with Mr Trump, who he considers a friend.

US president Joe Biden, addressing his country on Sunday evening, said he has directed the head of the Secret Service to review all security measures for the Republican National Convention, scheduled to begin on Monday.

Photographs have shown the bloodied former US president defiantly pumping his fist in the air after shots were fired at a campaign rally in Butler.

Mr Trump, who was safe according to a spokesman, said on his Truth Social media platform that a bullet had pierced his ear before he was dragged to the ground by Secret Service agents.

One person at the rally was killed and two other spectators were critically injured, authorities said.

All were identified as men.

The dead man was later named as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief.

Pennsylvania governor Josh Shapiro said: Corey died a hero. Corey dove on his family to protect them last night.

The suspected gunman, who attacked from an elevated position outside the rally venue, was fatally shot.

Nigel Farage said he was very upset (Tejas Sandhu/PA)

Asked how he felt after the shooting, Reform UK leader Mr Farage told the BBCs Sunday With Laura Kuenssberg: I was very upset and Im still upset.

Im obviously pleased that my friend Donald has got away with it, only just, but hes got away with it.

But one person is dead.

Two more are fighting for their lives in hospital so its an absolutely horrendous incident and yet somehow Im not shocked by it.

The narrative that is put out there about Trump by the liberals that oppose him is so nasty, so unpleased, that I think it almost encourages this type of behaviour.

I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trump's rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.



Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.  Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 14, 2024

Mr Farage told Sky News Sunday Morning With Trevor Phillips that he had sent a text message to the former president.

The prime minister said: I am appalled by the shocking scenes at President Trumps rally and we send him and his family our best wishes.

Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack.

Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.



In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in. Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.



My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.  Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) July 14, 2024

Conservative leader Rishi Sunak said: Horrified by the attack in Pennsylvania.

In a democracy, you must be able to speak freely and stand for what you believe in.

Violence and intimidation must never be allowed to prevail.

My thoughts and prayers are with President Trump and the victims of this appalling attack.

UK foreign secretary David Lammy said the UK government condemns all forms of political violence in the strongest terms.

Posting on X, formerly known as Twitter, he said: As we monitor the shocking developments in Pennsylvania, our thoughts and best wishes are with President Trump  along with every victim and their families.

It is a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination. As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason. Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.  Boris Johnson (@BorisJohnson) July 14, 2024

Former Conservative prime minister Boris Johnson said it was a miracle that Donald Trump escaped an attempted assassination.

Writing on social media, he added: As we give thanks for his safety we are reminded once again of the tragic fragility of democracy in the face of violence and unreason.

Our thoughts are with the president and the Trump family.

Liberal Democrat leader Sir Ed Davey tweeted: Political violence is wrong.

I am shocked to wake up to these awful scenes from Pennsylvania and my thoughts are with the victims and their families.

We must all condemn this appalling attempt on Donald Trumps life.

Mr Trump was showing a chart of border crossing numbers when bangs started ringing out after 6.10pm local time.

The former president could be seen grimacing and reaching with his right hand towards the side of his head before blood appeared on his face.

Donald Trump was left bloodied after the shooting (Gene J Puskar/AP)

He ducked and was surrounded by Secret Service agents, before rising to his feet and pumping his fist in the air, to cheers from the crowd.

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.

World After Trump shooting, the presidential race will c... Read More

US president Joe Biden was briefed on the incident and spoke to Mr Trump several hours after the shooting, the White House confirmed.

He called the shooting sick, adding: Theres no place in America for this type of violence.

It was the most serious attempt to assassinate a US president or presidential candidate since Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981.
The powerful sister of North Korean leader Kim Jong Un vowed on Sunday to respond to what she called a fresh South Korean civilian leafleting campaign, signalling that Pyongyan will soon resume flying rubbish-carrying balloons across the border.

Since late May, North Korea has floated numerous balloons carrying waste paper, scraps of cloth, cigarette butts and even manure towards South Korea on a series of late-night launch events, saying they were a tit-for-tat action against South Korean activists scattering political leaflets via their own balloons.

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No hazardous materials have been found.





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South Korea responded by suspending a 2018 tension-reduction deal with North Korea and resumed live-fire drills at border areas.

In a statement carried by state media, Kim Yo Jong said dirty leaflets and things of (the South Korean) scum had been found in border and other areas of North Korea on Sunday morning.

Despite the repeated warnings of (North Korea), the (South Korean) scum are not stopping this crude and dirty play, she said.

We have fully introduced our countermeasure in such situation. The (South Korean) clans will be tired from suffering a bitter embarrassment and must be ready for paying a very high price for their dirty play.

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North Korea last sent rubbish-carrying balloons towards South Korea in late July.

It was not immediately known if, and from which activists group in South Korea, balloons were sent to North Korea recently. For years, groups led by North Korean defectors have floated huge balloons carrying anti-Pyongyang leaflets, USB sticks containing K-pop songs and South Korean drama, and US dollar bills towards North Korea.



North Korean leader Kim Jong Uns sister, Kim Yo Jong, has signalled Pyongyang will soon resume flying rubbish-carrying balloons across the border (Jorge Silva/Pool/AP)

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Experts say North Korea views such balloon campaigns as a grave provocation that threaten its leadership because it bans official access to foreign news for most of its 26 million people.

On June 9, South Korea redeployed gigantic loudspeakers along the border for the first time in six years, and resumed anti-North Korean propaganda broadcasts.

South Korean officials say they do not restrict activists from flying leaflets to North Korea, in line with a 2023 constitutional court ruling that struck down a contentious law criminalising such leafleting, calling it a violation of free speech.

Kim Yo Jongs statement came a day after North Koreas Defence Ministry threatened to bolster its nuclear capability and make the US and South Korea pay an unimaginably harsh price as it condemned its rivals new defence guidelines that it says reveal an intention to invade the North.
Donald Trumps wife Melania has branded the gunman who carried out the assassination attempt on the former US president a monster.

The former first lady said her and their son Barrons lives were on the brink of devastating change when she saw that violent bullet strike my husband.

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Mrs Trump wrote that she was thinking of her fellow Americans, saying the fabric of the nation was tattered.

In a social media post, she said: When I watched that violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realised my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change.

I am grateful to the brave Secret Service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband.

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To the families of the innocent victims who are now suffering from this heinous act, I humbly offer my sincerest sympathy. Your need to summon your inner strength for such a terrible reason saddens me.

A monster who recognised my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration.

Former US president Donald Trump was helped off the stage after the shooting (Gene J Puskar/AP)

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The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and the worst of times.

She added: This morning, ascend above the hate, the vitriol, and the simple-minded ideas that ignite violence.

World What we know about Thomas Matthew Crooks, the susp... Read More

We all want a world where respect is paramount, family is first, and love transcends. We can realise this world again.

The FBI named 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the gunman.

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A motive has not yet been identified, but authorities are treating the shooting as an assassination attempt.
Gaza ceasefire talks continue, Hamas said on Sunday, adding that the groups military commander is in good health, a day after the Israeli military targeted Mohammed Deif with a massive airstrike that local health officials said killed at least 90 people, including children.

Deifs condition remained uncertain after Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said on Saturday there still isnt absolute certainty he was killed.

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Hamas representatives gave no evidence to back up their claim about the health of a chief architect of the October 7 attack that sparked the war.

The Israeli military on Sunday announced that Rafa Salama, a Hamas commander it described as one of Deifs closest associates, had been killed in Saturdays strike.



Palestinians search for bodies and survivors after an Israeli bombardment on Khan Younis (Jehad Alshrafi/AP)

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Salama commanded Hamas Khan Younis brigade. The statement gave no update on Deif, who has long topped Israels most-wanted list and has been in hiding for years.

Hamas rejected the idea that mediated ceasefire discussions had been suspended after the strike.

Spokesman Jihad Taha said there is no doubt that the horrific massacres will impact any efforts in the negotiations but added that efforts and endeavours of the mediators remain ongoing.

The killing of Deif would mark the highest profile assassination of any Hamas leader by Israel since the war began.

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It would be both a huge victory for Israel and a deep psychological blow for the militant group.

Mr Netanyahu said all of Hamas leaders are marked for death and that killing them would move Hamas closer to accepting a ceasefire deal.



Israeli police officers work at the scene of a ramming attack near Ramla, Israel (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

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Hamas political officials said communication channels remained functional between the leadership inside and outside Gaza, after the strike in the territorys south.

Witnesses said it happened in an area that Israel had designated as safe for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians. Israels military would not confirm that.

On Sunday, some survivors were angry that the attack targeting Deif happened without warning in an area they had been told was safe.

Where are we supposed to go? asked Mahmoud Abu Yaseen, who said he heard two strikes and clutched his children, then woke up in the hospital to find his son had died. The family had already been displaced five times since the war began, he said.

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A United Nations official described utter chaos at Nasser hospital, where victims of Saturdays strike were taken, many of them treated on bloodstained floors with few supplies available.

I witnessed some of the most horrific scenes I have seen in my nine months in Gaza, Scott Anderson said in a statement.



A car slammed into pedestrians waiting at a bus stop (Ohad Zwigenberg/AP)

I saw toddlers who are double amputees, children paralysed and unable to receive treatment and others separated from their parents. I also saw mothers and fathers who were unsure if their children were alive.

He said restrictions on humanitarian aid to Gaza hamper efforts to provide needed medical and other care.

At least 300 people were wounded in the strike, one of the deadliest in the nine-month war sparked by Hamas October 7 assault on southern Israel that killed about 1,200 people, mostly civilians, and took more than 200 hostage.

More than 38,400 people in Gaza have been killed in Israeli ground offensives and bombardments since then, according to the territorys health ministry. The ministry does not distinguish between combatants and civilians in its count.

On Sunday, an Israeli strike in Nuseirat in central Gaza killed at least 13 people at the gate of a school, according to Associated Press journalists at Al-Awda hospital.

Israels military in a statement said it struck terrorists operating in the area of a school run by the UN agency for Palestinian refugees.

Also on Sunday, police said a Palestinian resident of east Jerusalem carried out a car-ramming attack in central Israel that injured four Israelis, two of them seriously.

Israeli border police at the scene shot dead the attacker after he hit people waiting at two bus stops along a busy road.

Israel commissioner Kobi Shabtai said such attacks were often triggered by events like Saturdays airstrike in Gaza.
Police made 11 arrests on the first day of Trnsmt.

Scotlands largest music festival is held on Glasgow Green for three days.

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Headliners included Liam Gallagher on Friday, Gerry Cinnamon on Saturday, and Calvin Harris on Sunday, which will clash with the Euro 2024 final.

Police Scotland revealed that six arrests were made inside the festival on Friday.

Revellers enjoyed sunshine at Trnsmt on Friday, when 11 arrests were made (Michael Boyd/PA)

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Another five arrests were made outside the festival on Friday.

No figures for arrests on Saturday will be released until Sunday.

Festival-goers experienced glorious sunshine on Friday during a day which included a secret set from Travis, and major acts including Sugababes and Garbage.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: There were six internal arrests (within the walls of the event) and there were five external arrests (outside the entrance of the event) and they relate to breach of the peace and minor assault offences.
The US Secret Service is investigating how a gunman armed with an AR-style rifle was able to get close enough to shoot and injure former president Donald Trump at a rally on Saturday in Pennsylvania, a monumental failure of one of the agencys core duties.

The gunman, who was killed by Secret Service personnel, fired several shots at the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue, the agency said.

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An Associated Press analysis of more than a dozen videos and photos taken at the Trump rally, as well as satellite imagery of the site, shows the gunman was able to get astonishingly close to the stage where the former president was speaking.

A video posted to social media and geolocated by the AP shows the body of a man wearing grey camouflage lying motionless on the roof of a manufacturing plant just north of the Butler Farm showgrounds, where Mr Trumps rally was held.



Police snipers return fire after shots were fired while Donald Trump was speaking at a rally (Gene J. Puskar/AP)

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The roof was less than 150 metres from where Mr Trump was speaking, a distance from which a decent marksman could reasonably hit a human-sized target.

For reference, 150 metres is a distance at which US army recruits must hit a human-sized silhouette to qualify with the M16 assault rifle in basic training.

The AR-style rifle, like the gunman at the rally had, is the semiautomatic civilian version of the military M16.

The FBI on Sunday identified the shooter as Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania.

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The Secret Service did not have a speaker at a late-night news conference where FBI and Pennsylvania State Police officials briefed reporters on the shooting investigation.

FBI special agent in charge Kevin Rojek said it was surprising that the gunman was able to fire at the stage before he was killed.





Updated FBI statement on the ongoing incident that took place yesterday in Butler, Pennsylvania. https://t.co/yqwxGmKOjw pic.twitter.com/pk2Rw55Lga Advertisement  FBI (@FBI) July 14, 2024

Members of the Secret Services counter-sniper team and counterassault team were at the rally, according to two law enforcement officials.

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The heavily armed counter assault team, whose Secret Service code name is Hawkeye, are responsible for eliminating threats so that other agents can shield and take away the person they are protecting.

The counter-sniper team, known by the code name Hercules, use long-range binoculars and are equipped with sniper rifles to deal with long-range threats.

US secretary of homeland security Alejandro Mayorkas said his department and the Secret Service are working with law enforcement to investigate the shooting.

Maintaining the security of presidential candidates and their campaign events is one of the departments most vital priorities, he said.

We condemn this violence in the strongest possible terms and commend the Secret Service for their swift action today, Mr Mayorkas said.

We are engaged with President (Joe) Biden, former president Trump and their campaigns, and are taking every possible measure to ensure their safety and security.

Calls for an investigation came from all sides.

The FBI said it will lead the investigation into the shooting, working with the Secret Service and local and state law enforcement.

Attorney general Merrick Garland said the justice department will bring every available resource to bear to this investigation.

My heart is with the former president, those injured, and the family of the spectator killed in this horrific attack, Mr Garland said in a statement.

We will not tolerate violence of any kind, and violence like this is an attack on our democracy.
World leaders have rapidly condemned Saturday's attack on Donald Trump at a rally in Pennsylvania in which the former president was shot in the ear, expressing shock, denouncing political violence and wishing him a quick recovery.

The Trump campaign said later that Trump, who is running again for the White House in November's U.S. election, was "doing well." The FBI identified 20-year-old Thomas Matthew Crooks of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the "subject involved" in what it termed an attempted assassination.

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Taoiseach, Simon Harris said: "What we saw last night from Pennsylvania was frightening and wrong.

"It is a relief that former President Trump is safe and survived the assassination attempt. Our hearts are with the innocent spectators killed and critically injured. There can be no place for political violence."

Speaking on @BBCnireland this morning and asked about the assassination attempt on former US President Donald Trump. I condemn this heinous crime. Political violence must always be called out and never tolerated. See my comments below pic.twitter.com/IRkp9cUMgO  Simon Harris TD (@SimonHarrisTD) July 14, 2024 Advertisement

A spokesperson for United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres condemned the shooting and called it an "act of political violence."

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said: "We must stand firm against any form of violence that challenges democracy."

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he was "appalled by the shocking scenes" at the rally. "Political violence in any form has no place in our societies and my thoughts are with all the victims of this attack."

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Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said there was "no justification" for such violence and he was "relieved" that Trump, who has frequently criticized U.S. military aid to Ukraine amid Russia's invasion, was safe and wished him "a speedy recovery."

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the shooting was "concerning and confronting," while Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said it left him "sickened." Trudeau added: "Political violence is never acceptable."

Similar comments were also made by the leaders of the European Union, Egypt, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, New Zealand, Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands and the Philippines.

"It is a tragedy for our democracies," French President Emmanuel Macron said of the shooting. "France shares the shock and indignation of the American people."

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Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu also said the shooting left him shocked. Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orban, who met Trump this week while visiting the U.S. for a NATO summit, said his prayers were with the former president "in these dark hours."

Brazilian President Luiz Inacio Lula da Silva called the shooting unacceptable while also urging others to condemn it.

"The attack against former President Donald Trump must be vehemently repudiated by all defenders of democracy and dialogue in politics. What we saw today is unacceptable," the Brazilian leader said.
The first Brisbane train to run in an underground tunnel will be tested before Christmas on the new Cross River Rail line 27 metres below Roma Street.

Cross River Rail Delivery Authority chief executive Graeme Newton revealed Queenslands new NGR trains would get practice runs on the underground tracks after detailed engineering and safety examinations.

It will be in the second half of 2024; before Christmas, Id expect, Newton said during an exclusive tour of the new underground stations as the final fit-outs take shape.

Inside the Cross River Rail tunnel beneath Roma Street. Credit: Cross River Rail Authority

But it comes back to the safety issue. We wont do anything until we are satisfied we have all the tick-offs from all the safety people.
Save Log in , register or subscribe to save articles for later. Save articles for later Add articles to your saved list and come back to them any time. Got it Normal text size Larger text size Very large text size The apparent attempt to assassinate Donald Trump at a campaign rally is a human and political shock, yet an unsurprising recrudescence of an American tradition. And the long history of such attempts tell us that, while Trump sustained only a minor injury to his ear, his political stocks are likely to receive a major gain. The picture of Trump defiantly pumping his fist in the air as blood trickled down his face will bestow him a certain heroism that his history as a draft- dodger had not. A bloodied Donald Trump helped off the stage at the campaign event in Butler. Credit: nna\advidler US President Joe Bidens comment that it was a sick attack is doubtless correct, but his memory failed him when he said that political violence in America like this is just unheard of. And Trump might have been in shock when he said it was incredible that such an act can take place in our country.

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More realistic was veteran journalist Brit Hume, who remarked on Fox News immediately after the shooting that its remarkable that something like this hadnt already happened in this political cycle. Because, in the long sweep of American politics, since 1865, there have been attempts on the lives of one of every four presidents and the successful assassination of one of every five, as the US National Archives records. Both the current and former president are old enough to know better from personal experience; Trump was 17 years old and Biden 21 when John F. Kennedy was assassinated in 1963. Loading More recently, Trump was a businessperson and Biden a senator when Ronald Reagan was shot in 1981. Theyd recall that then-president Reagans pluck, insisting that he walk unassisted into the operating theatre before he collapsed, near dead from an assassins bullets, propelled his popularity and powered his political agenda. Its reasonable to expect that Trump will enjoy a similar benefit. And within that long sweep, the United States has seen a recent upsurge in political hate speech and actual violence since the storming of the Capitol by a Trump mob on January 6, 2021.

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Americans murdered at least 39 of their fellow Americans over political beliefs in the following two years, according to a Reuters tally. Its the worst since the 1970s, according to the consensus of researchers on the topic. Loading These include the case of an Ohio MAGA man who killed his neighbour in November because he thought he was a Democrat, as the dead mans wife explained to police. Strikingly, while the MAGA crowd has the reputation as the more violent, the shooting of Trump shows that it does not have a monopoly on political violence. An October poll by the Public Religion Research Institute and the Brookings Institution found that one in four Americans agreed that true American patriots may have to resort to violence in order to save our country. People hug after Donald Trump was taken away from the event. Credit: AP Among Democrat voters, 13 per cent held this view; among Republicans 33 per cent. Some of the most explicit rhetoric has come from MAGA followers, such as the pro-Trump Republican candidate for the post of governor of North Carolina, Mark Robinson, who last month told his campaign audience that some folks need killing. The Trump crowd also is more pro-gun than any other constituency.

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So the MAGA people have the reputation. But when the shots rang out on Saturday, US time, the target was Trump. The increased readiness to maim and kill is not a Republican or Democrat syndrome but an advancing American psychosis. The inclination to violence is advancing in every constituency, and in none: The medias focus on groups such as the Proud Boys, Oath Keepers and Boogaloo Bois has obscured a deeper trend: the ungrouping of political violence as people self-radicalise via online engagement, explains Rachel Kleinfeld from the Carnegie Endowment for International Peace. Most political violence in the US is committed by people who do not belong to any formal organisation, she writes. Extremist ideas and conspiracy theories spread via gaming websites, YouTube channels, and blogs, while a slippery language of memes, slang, and jokes blurs the line between posturing and provoking violence, normalising radical ideologies and activities. Kleinfelds shocking conclusion: These shifts have created a new reality: millions of Americans willing to undertake, support, or excuse political violence. A Secret Service agent reacts to the shooting as others shield Donald Trump. Credit: AP Will the shock of the Trump shooting and the death of a bystander give America pause for introspection? Many American worthies were calling for a political cooling off on Saturday night.

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More likely, the assassination attempt will intensify the existing feverishness of polarisation. As the Secret Service agents manhandled the injured Trump into his car, the former president pumped his fist and mouthed a chant which nearby journalists reported to be: Fight, fight, fight! Some of his prominent supporters took up the cause. Trumps former attorney-general, Bill Barr, immediately blamed the Democrats: The Democrats have to stop their grossly irresponsible talk about Trump being an existential threat to democracy. He is not. A leading candidate to be Trumps vice-presidential nominee, Senator J.D. Vance, was more explicit: The central premise of the Biden campaign is that [former] president Donald Trump is an authoritarian fascist who must be stopped at all costs. That rhetoric led directly to [former] president Trumps attempted assassination. While most prominent Democrats moved into thought and prayers mode, a Congressional Democrat from Texas, Lloyd Doggett, intoned a warning of Old Testament vengeance: Violence begets violence. Loading

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Donald Trump has told a conservative US outlet he wants to take advantage of a historic moment after the assassination attempt and draw the country together in his convention speech.

Speaking to the Washington Examiner, Trump said he had rewritten his convention speech from a humdinger to agitate his followers, to one instead aiming to unite the US in a moment of division and uncertainty.

Donald Trumps motorcade leaves Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport ahead of the Republican National Convention. Credit: AP

This is a chance to bring the whole country, even the whole world, together, the former president was quoted as saying. The speech will be a lot different, a lot different than it wouldve been two days ago.

On Sunday, Trump wrote on Truth Social that it is more important than ever that we stand united, and show our true character as Americans, remaining strong and determined, and not allowing evil to win.
The Department of Commerce has engaged with different ministries, including heavy industries, steel, and chemicals, to prepare the offer list. | Representative Picture

With talks to upgrade the existing India-Korea free trade agreement (FTA) moving forward, senior officials of both countries will hold the next round of negotiations from Wednesday in Seoul, an official said.

The agreement, dubbed as comprehensive economic partnership agreement (CEPA), was operationalised in January 2010. So far, 10 rounds of review talks have been concluded.

The Indian team "will visit Seoul from July 17-19" for the next round of review meetings, the official added.

"In the 11th round, both the sides would discuss the broad contours for closing the deal," the official said, adding that Korea is keen to conclude the negotiations this year.

The two countries have sought greater market access for certain products, which are under the negative list of the agreement. No customs duty concessions are granted for the goods under this list.

The Department of Commerce has engaged with different ministries, including heavy industries, steel, and chemicals, to prepare the offer list.

India has sought greater market access for certain products like steel, rice, and shrimp from South Korea to boost exports of these goods. India has flagged issues over Korean firms not buying Indian steel.



The review exercise assumes significance as both sides have shared the hope that the CEPA upgradation negotiations would play an important role in strengthening and deepening economic cooperation between both countries.

In general, such review or upgrade exercises include implementation issues, rules of origin, verification process and release of consignments, customs procedures, further liberalisation of trade in goods, and sharing and exchange of trade data.

India has also raised concerns about the growing trade deficit between the two countries. India's exports to Korea dipped to $6.41 billion in 2023-24 from $6.65 billion in 2022-23 and $8 billion in 2021-22.

The imports stood at $21.13 billion in the last fiscal as against $21.22 billion in 2022-23 and $17.5 billion in 2021-22.

According to the economic think tank Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), India's trade deficit with South Korea increased at a much higher rate compared to its trade deficit with the world.

It said India's trade with South Korea has shown significant changes in the periods before and after the implementation of the CEPA.

Besides, a GTRI report has stated that Indian exporters are facing various non-tariff barriers in South Korea, including stringent standards, regulations, and certification requirements, and these barriers make it difficult for Indian goods to penetrate the South Korean market.

According to GTRI, India is looking for greater liberalisation in the services sector, including healthcare and information technology (IT), and easier access for Indian professionals and service providers in the South Korean market.
Social media over the past few weeks has been flooded with news and pictures of bridges collapsing, roofs at airports crashing, newly laid expressways being washed away or developing huge cracks, and rainwater gushing through the roofs of newly built airports and railway stations. Citizens are justifiably concerned about the quality of infrastructure being built, especially since the government has massively stepped up infrastructure spending. Over Rs 10 trillion was allotted in each of the last two Budgets, and the level of allocation has been planned to be maintained. The worry, though, isnt merely the quality of
The financial sector in most of the economies of the world, especially the emerging ones like India, is bank-dominated. Banks are crucial because they facilitate financial inclusion through their outreach, and play an important role in directing credit to desired sectors and help governments achieve various objectives.



The need for a differentiated regulatory architecture for banks is obvious. They operate on an extraordinarily high leverage ratio; are permitted to accept deposits from the public; and have the backing of the central bank as the lender of the last resort.

The masses have faith in the banking system. A
Kyle Adam Carrozza, creator of the Cartoon Network series Mighty Magiswords, was booked last month by the Burbank Police Department on two counts of child pornography possession.

Carrozza, 45, was arrested at an apartment complex in Burbank, California, on the morning of Thursday, June 20, at 7:30 am. The arrest was part of an Internet Crimes Against Children (ICAC) Task Force investigation. The arrest was reported in the Burbank Police Departments daily arrest log (download PDF).

Carrozzas Mighty Magiswords debuted on Cartoon Networks CN Anything app as a 15-second micro-series in 2015. The show was custom created for the way young audiences consume media today, Rob Sorcher, then-chief content officer for Cartoon Network, said in 2016. This is about how stories can be told in new ways and how a community can play together.

Nearly 400 pieces of platform-specific content were created around Carrozzas show, including shorts, vlogs, web/mobile games, and interactive narrative content. Then, in 2016, Cartoon Network turned the project into a linear tv series, which lasted for two seasons and over 90 episodes.

According to Carrozzas Linkedin page, he had most recently been a board artist on Nickelodeons The Fairly OddParents: A New Wish and The Casagrandes Movie. His other credits include storyboarding on Warner Bros. Animations Animaniacs reboot, Apple TV+s The Snoopy Show, Disney Juniors Doc McStuffins, Disneys Fish Hooks, Frederators Bravest Warriors, and Nickelodeons Fanboy & Chum Chum, as well as doing character layout on Paramounts Spongebob Squarepants: Sponge Out of Water. He also created the short MooBeard the Cow Pirate for Nickelodeons Random! Cartoons.

Carrozza has been charged under California penal code 311.11(a), which is possession of child pornography, and an enhanced 311.11(c) charge, which is for individuals knowingly in possession of at least 12 videos, or 600 images, of child pornography.

The offenses can be charged as either a misdemeanor or felony and are punishable by up to one year in county jail or up to five years in state prison. If found guilty of either charge, Carrozza will be ordered to register as a sex offender with law enforcement. The crimes he is accused of do not apply to drawings, figurines, statues, or films rated by the Motion Picture Association.
In the 1800s, the United States was a new, vastly underdeveloped nation on the fringe of the western world.

The commercial future of Chattanooga began between the nexus of 1816 and 1835, a period of almost 20 years.

Before there was a Chattanooga the Cherokees inhabited the land. About 50,000 Cherokees are believed have populated an area of some 40,000 square miles, including parts of North Carolina, Tennessee, Georgia, and Alabama, when the Europeans came in 1540.

In terms of their daily life, they were hunter-gatherers who gradually adopted subsistence farming. The hunter-gatherer model requires, according to researchers, at least seven square miles per capita to flourish.

Cherokee women did most of the farming, harvesting crops of corn, beans, squash, and sunflowers. Cherokee man did most of the hunting shooting deer, bear, wild turkeys, and small game. They also fished along the rivers.

The earliest stages of commerce were clearly trading between Native Americans, frontiersmen and European explorers and later soldiers. This involved exchanges of furs, pelts, forest nuts and crops from subsistence farming in exchange for goods that Cherokees could not produce like knifes, muskets, plows, and woolens.

One early report from 1808 tells of a boat loaded with green and dried apples, potatoes, pickled beets, vinegar, whiskey, and brandy to be sold to whites, soldiers and Indians.

The future Chattanooga began in 1816 when Rosss Landing was established as a trading post for frontiersman and Native Americans by John and Lewis Ross near what are now the southern piers of Market Street Bridge. Rosss Landing consisted of a store, warehouse, and ferry. It seems likely that less than 200 people lived there.

Chattanooga for a time was a frontier settlement lying at the edge of open or opening land. The local economy over the next several decades would continue to change as ambitious men moved into the area and land was opened up south of the River after the Treaty of New Echota in 1835.

Hamilton County was established in the state legislature in 1819. In the 1820 census there were only 829 residents in the county which at that time mostly North of the Tennessee River, south of the river was still prohibited to most non-Native Americans.

Chattanooga itself was officially incorporated by the Tennessee General Assembly on December 20, 1839.

As to the economy of the 1830s, it was mostly agrarian according to the census of 1840. Hamilton County recorded 8,175 people. Only 30 persons gave commerce as their occupation, 192 listed manufacturing and trade, and 40 came under the official category of learned professions or engineering.

The years from 1816 to 1835 are clearly the starting point of the commercial interest that materialized in the 1830s and was reported in the 1840 census.

In the northern part of the county in the 1830s a few general stores and grist mills could be found in Sale Creek, Soddy, North Chickamauga, and Mountain Creek. In 1836 a cotton gin could be found on Soddy Creek.

In 1832, improvements were undertaken to make the Tennessee River more navigable. 1837 the first Post Office was established. In 1838 the first newspaper, The Hamilton Gazette, was published. In 1839, Chattanooga elected its first Mayor, Joseph Enfield Berry.

The 1835 treaty and the forces of growth were all that was needed to attract bright entrepreneurs to the emerging community of Chattanooga. Men saw opportunity and they pursued it with administrative skill and finance.

Much happened in the 1930s, leading to the growth of the 1840s. On January 2, 1840, the state legislature authorized a referendum on the location of a courthouse for Hamilton County. The act named Henry Gotcher, George Luttrell, William Clift, Richard Price, Jonathan Wood, Alfred M. Roger, and James A. Whiteside commissioners to determine a suitable place for the seat of justice. They were empowered to purchase land, determine the number and length of streets, sell lots, reserve certain areas for a public square and a jail, and name the community. The sale of the lots was intended to cover the cost of development. Some four or five hundred lots were advertised for sale in March of 1839.

The economy of Chattanooga was created because of the Tennessee River and its rich lands. Industrious and visionary people came early and worked hard. The economy would grow and change generation after generation to this present day.

(Special thanks to the excellent work of the late James W. Livingood in his book the History of Hamilton County Tennessee.)

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After serving less than four years of a seven-year sentence, art dealer Inigo Philbrick was released from prison in February 2024. He was responsible for one of the biggest frauds in the history of the art world, scamming his clients out of an estimated $86 million.

Philbrick was born in East London. When he was in high school, he struggled with excessive drinking and doing drugs. He grew up wanting to be a lawyer but became fascinated with the art world.

He quickly rose through the ranks of the art scene in London, opening up a gallery at the age of 24. In 2018, he opened a second one in Miami. From there, he became involved in a major art fraud case spanning from 2016 to 2019.

His success came to an end after he was caught on the remote island of Vanuatu in the South Pacific. He fled to the island in 2019 with his reality TV star girlfriend, Victoria Baker-Harber, when the lawsuits and debts started piling up.

He was accused of defrauding clients by selling the same shares in famous artworks, such as Jean-Michel Basquiats Humidity and a Pablo Picasso portrait, to numerous investors. He also created fake identities, forged contracts, and used multiple off-shore accounts to move funds around.

One other person was charged in the case, and that person was Robert Newland, Philbricks partner in crime. He was sentenced to 20 months in prison.

Philbrick had hired Newland in 2012 to help manage his finances. He claimed that Newland was the mastermind of the scheme, even though his punishment wasnt as severe as his.

While in the Metropolitan Correctional Center prison, Philbrick shared a cramped cell with other inmates, a major downgrade from the luxurious lifestyle he was accustomed to.

His cellmates included a former police officer turned serial killer, Nicholas Tartaglione, who had previously bunked with Jeffrey Epstein, and Keith Raniere, a cult leader.

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Traveling across the ocean via boat has always been a dangerous activity. Disaster can strike out of nowhere, causing lives to be lost and the most durable of ships to sink.

In some cases, boats are found adrift with their crew nowhere to be seen. These vessels are referred to as ghost ships, and they have long been featured in sailors tales.

One of the most notable ghost ships is the Carroll A. Deering. The five-masted schooner was built in Bath, Maine, in 1919 by the G.G. Deering Company.

The ship was 255 feet long and 44 feet wide. It weighed 1,879 tons and was designed to carry coal at a capacity of up to 3,500 tons. The Carroll A. Deering was one of the last wooden cargo ships ever constructed.

In April 1919, the ship headed out to sea from Maine. In August 1920, it took off from Norfolk, Virginia, setting sail toward Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.

The captain onboard was William H. Merritt, a World War I hero. His son, Sewall Merritt, served as the first mate. They were accompanied by a crew of 10 men and a huge cargo of coal.

Just a few days into their journey, Captain Merritt fell ill. They had to turn the ship around and land at the port of Lewes, Delaware.

The captain and his son disembarked and were replaced by Captain Willis B. Wormell, a 66-year-old retired sea captain, and Charles B. McLellan as the first mate.

In September 1920, the Carroll A. Deering made its way to Brazil. They were able to deliver the coal without incident.

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On the fourth day of North Korea Freedom Week, July 10, a Capitol Hill Forum was held in the Rayburn congressional offices. | Christianity Daily

Sixteen North Korean defectors provided a powerful glimpse into the human rights situation inside the isolated nation during a Capitol Hill Forum at the Rayburn House Office Building held by the Defense Forum Foundation (Chairman William Middendorf II).

The event, which took place on the fourth day of the 21st North Korea Freedom Week, on July 10th at 1:30 p.m., featured testimonies from nine NGO leaders and seven defectors, many of whom shared previously unknown experiences.

Notably, many defectors had already gained a deep understanding of South Korea's economic situation and international affairs while still in North Korea, thanks to information introduced through broadcasts and leaflets.

Shin-hyuk Park, who lived near the Military Demarcation Line on Gyodong Island, revealed that from a young age, he developed a fascination with South Korea through broadcasts and leaflets introduced via various channels.

Another witness, Kwang-min Bae who is currently working as a reporter for Free North Korea Radio, shared his experience of his father being forced to move from Pyongyang to a remote area in Yanggang Province due to persecution by the North Korean authorities. He explained that during the most challenging times, he harbored thoughts of defecting, largely because he was well aware of North Korea's realities and South Korea's economic situation through various sources of external information.

Kwang-min recounted his arduous defection journey, particularly emphasizing the desperate moment when he crossed the border with a knife, ready to kill his two-year-old daughter if the defection failed to prevent her from living a subhuman life as the daughter of a traitor. He kept shedding tears while recalling the desperate situation of that time.

Se-yul Jang revealed that he is not only introducing information into North Korea but also gathering local information from within. He announced that organizations advocating for democratization and freedom have already been spontaneously formed and are active within North Korea. Healso shared that three of his brothers are imprisoned in political prison camps and that 15 of his friends, who were cooperating with him, have lost their lives.

Kim Heung-kwang, who evacuated 17 years ago, expressed that he has been enjoying hope and prosperity in South Korea, experiences he never felt during his 47 years in North Korea. However, while explaining the realities of defection, he pointed out, "Only 10 out of 100 people attempting to defect succeed, while the remaining 90 are either arrested by Chinese authorities and forcibly repatriated or shot at the border of the Tumen and Yalu rivers." He added, "These horrors do not allow me to feel only happiness. Just as a deer makes a special sound when it finds good grass, we need to develop content and effective means to inform North Korean residents about the outside world."

Sang-hak Park, who has been consistently sending leaflets into North Korea, stated, "We send dollars, rice, and the truth to North Korea, but in response, North Korea has sent back filth."

The defectors also expressed their gratitude to Susan Solti for her 21 years of dedication to leading North Korea Freedom Week. Jung-hoon Choi, the commander of the North Korea People's Liberation Front, shared his thoughts, saying, "In South Korea, when defectors speak out, it often leads to division and fighting, and no one listens. But in the U.S., people with different skin colors and languages shed tears for us and listen to us, which is truly touching." Heung-kwang Kim added, "I am grateful to Susan Solti for her sacrifices in creating North Korea Freedom Week and for helping bring the voices of defectors to the international community and the U.S. Congress."
Korean students from ten U.S. states and North Korean defectors participating in the North Korea Freedom Week events gathered at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., to raise their voices together. | Christianity Daily

On the fourth day of the 21st North Korea Freedom Week, on July 10th at 11:30 a.m., Korean students from ten U.S. states and North Korean defectors participating in the North Korea Freedom Week events gathered at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., to raise their voices together.

The rally was part of the 'Youth Mission & Internship Conference' organized by the Korean Church Coalition for North Korea Freedom (KCC). Several incumbent lawmakers attended the event, to call for improvements in North Korean human rights and oppose the inhumane practice of forced repatriation.

U.S. Representatives Young Kim | Christianity Daily

In her speech that day, Representative Young Kim encouraged the participation of Korean students and expressed her hope that the voices advocating for the freedom of North Korean residents would not cease but continue to be heard. She mentioned the 'Roundtable with North Korean Defectors' held the previous day at the Rayburn House Office Building and stated that Congress would continue to listen to the voices of truth and work alongside defectors to put their emphasis on the realities of human rights in North Korea and continue to fight together.

"Our voices will bring about change," Representative Michelle Steel expressed strong support for the purpose of the event.

She stated, "Human rights abuses against North Korean residents must be stopped, and we must continue to speak out for the freedom of North Korean residents until the end."

U.S. Representatives Michelle Steel | Christianity Daily

Representative Steel also shared the background of her parents fleeing to South Korea to escape communism, reaffirming her opposition to communism.

Representatives Jonathan Jackson and Buddy Carter, who are not of Korean descent, also raised their voices for the freedom of North Korean residents and the human rights of defectors.

Representative Jonathan Jackson warned, "Nations that do not respect the human rights of their citizens have always collapsed in the face of the desire for freedom," adding that "Human rights abuses against their own citizens will ultimately bring about a significant crisis for the North Korean regime."

Representative Buddy Carter emphasized, "The way to improve the human rights situation in North Korea is to continuously inform the international community about the realities of human rights abuses."

Susan Soltis, the chairwoman of the North Korea Freedom Coalition, which is hosting the 21st North Korea Freedom Week event, took the stage and stated that the influx of information into North Korea would significantly impact and bring about change. She appealed for continuous advocacy for a free North Korea.

The event was attended by 16 North Korean defectors who had come to the United States to testify before Congress in commemoration of North Korea Freedom Week. Although North Korea Freedom Week typically takes place in April, this year it was held in July in order to coincide with the Korean Church Coalition's (KCC) 'Youth Mission & Internship Conference.'

In addition to the rally at the U.S. Capitol, the Korean Church Coalition (KCC) organized workshops, mentoring programs, a prayer vigil and march in front of the White House, and visits to congressional offices from July 8th to 11th.
Evangelicals respond to the apparent assassination attempt at the former presidents campaign rally in Pennsylvania.

(Al Drago/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

Evangelical leaders and politicians offered prayers for former president Donald Trump and thanked God for sparing his life following an apparent assassination attempt at a campaign rally in western Pennsylvania on Saturday.

Thousands of supporters joined a prayer call hosted by America First Policy Institute, hours after a bullet fired toward Trump grazed his right ear while he spoke before a crowd in Butler, Pennsylvania.

We praise you today that President Trump is gonna be all right, said Jentezen Franklin, a Georgia pastor who serves as one of Trumps faith advisors. We thank you, Lord, that he was wounded but he was not killed. So we thank you that you were there. You preserved his life.

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Franklin has prayed for and encouraged Trump through three campaigns now, commending his leadership and love of America. Franklins voice quavered as he described getting the call that President Trump has been shot.

He knows now, like never before, that he is not immortal, that one day he will stand before you in fear and trembling, Franklin prayed. God, make him a man on a mission now. Make him a man, oh God, who you have raised up, like you did King David for Israel. Raise this man up for America, to keep us strong and powerful.

In the comments, supporters added amens and posted Bible verses. One commenter referenced Psalm 91, which is a prayer with themes of divine protection. Another viewer, Ethelene White, wrote, The angels [encamp] around President Trump and the families of those who passed away and were injured in this process, a reference to Psalm 34:7.

Americans across the political spectrum condemned the attackthought to be a possible assassination attempt and consequence of the countrys heated political climatewhich killed one attendee and left two more critically injured.

Trump was rushed off the stage by Secret Service personnel, giving his supporters a fist pump as blood flowed down the side of his face.

God protected President Trump, Sen. Marco Rubio said on X.

Trump said in an online statement he knew immediately that something was wrong when he heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin.

A campaign spokesman said soon after the shooting that the former president was fine and was with doctors. Secret Service communications chief Anthony Guglielmi said that the suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. He said Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased.

President Joe Biden offered a televised statement, saying, Theres no place in America for this kind of violence and everybody must condemn it.

The Family Research Council, Focus on the Family, and the Southern Baptist Conventions policy arm, the Ethics and Religious Liberty Commission (ERLC), all offered statements.

The reality that this has taken place tonight should bring us to our knees, ERLC president Brent Leatherwood said.

We are praying earnestly for Mr. Trump and his family, Jim Daly, president of Focus on the Family, said in a statement. It is in no way premature to call for Americans of all ideological perspectives, Republicans and Democrats alike, to commit to bringing greater civility to their advocacy in the public square.

A nearby Catholic church, All Saints Parish in Butler, had moved its Saturday programming due to road closures during the rally. There are feelings of fear, hurt, anger, and sorrow in our community right now, All Saints pastor Kevin Fazio said in a statement Saturday night. As Christians, we need to remember that during times of darkness, we are called to reflect the light of Christ.

The Catholic Diocese of Pittsburgh also responded and called for prayer for an end to this climate of violence in our world.

Pastors and politicians repeated calls for unity, peace, and healing.

No matter your politics, please pray for Donald Trump and pray for America, Rep. Dean Phillips, a Democrat from Minnesota, said.

Karen and I are praying for President Trump and urge every American to join us, Trumps former vice president, Mike Pence, said.

Trumps daughter, Ivanka Trump, thanked her fathers supporters in a statement that offered a window into how the event had impacted her personally.

Thank you for your love and prayers for my father and for the other victims of todays senseless violence in Butler, Pennsylvania, she wrote. I continue to pray for our country. I love you Dad, today and always.

The Trump campaign and the Republican National Committee confirmed in a joint statement that Trump will still be attending the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee next week to officially accept his partys nomination.
Home News Christian leaders react to Trump surviving assassination attempt: 'Thank God the former president is alive'

Former President Donald Trump was released from the hospital late Saturday night, hours after an assassination attempt was made on his life and caused the death of one campaign rally attendee and critically wounded two others.

In the early hours of Sunday morning, the FBI said the gunman who attempted to assassinate the former president was 20-year-old Thomas Crooks from Bethel Park, Pennsylvania. He was killed by the Secret Service, Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi said in a statement on Saturday.

Here's a list of 10 reactions from pastors and Evangelical leaders across the U.S. following the failed attempt to murder the former president.
Home News Trump defiant after assassination attempt; Democrat governor praying for GOP hopeful Shooter dead, rally attendee killed, another critically injured

Updated at 9:20 p.m. ET on July 13: In a statement posted on Truth Social at 8:42 p.m. Eastern time Saturday night, former President Donald Trump thanked the Secret Service and extended his condolences to the family of the rally attendee who was killed by the shooter and the relatives of the person who was seriously injured:

"I want to thank The United States Secret Service, and all of Law Enforcement, for their rapid response on the shooting that just took place in Butler, Pennsylvania. Most importantly, I want to extend my condolences to the family of the person at the Rally who was killed, and also to the family of another person that was badly injured. It is incredible that such an act can take place in our Country.

"Nothing is known at this time about the shooter, who is now dead. I was shot with a bullet that pierced the upper part of my right ear. I knew immediately that something was wrong in that I heard a whizzing sound, shots, and immediately felt the bullet ripping through the skin. Much bleeding took place, so I realized then what was happening. GOD BLESS AMERICA!"

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Original report:

Former President Donald Trump is reportedly doing well after an unidentified individual fired shots at the presumptive Republican presidential nominee at a campaign rally in Pennsylvania, striking him on the right ear.

The official Trump campaign X account posted an update shortly after an individual fired multiple shots during a rally held in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday evening.

President Trump thanks law enforcement and first responders for their quick action during this heinous act. He is fine and is being checked out at a local medical facility, stated Trump spokesperson Steven Cheung, as quoted in the tweet.

The unidentified shooter has been reported as dead, along with at least one rally attendee, according to The Associated Press.

Democrat Gov. Josh Shapiro of Pennsylvania denounced the attempted assassination, tweeting that he and his wife are praying for President Trump, the Secret Service officers who protected him, those attending the event, and all of the first responders still on the scene.

Violence targeted at any political party or political leader is absolutely unacceptable. It has no place in Pennsylvania or the United States, Shapiro tweeted.

Pennsylvania state police and federal authorities have descended on the site of the campaign rally in Butler and are investigating the shooting incident, Shapiro explained.

Minutes into his speech at the campaign rally on Saturday, popping noises were heard amid the crowd, with Trump grabbing for the right side of his face (watch video here).

One of the shots appeared to hit him on the top of his right ear with blood streaming down the right side of his cheek.

Trump then crouched down, with Secret Service agents eventually crowding him and then escorting him off the stage. The former president defiantly pumping a fist in the air as he was led to safety.

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., an independent presidential candidate whose father was assassinated on the campaign trail back in 1968, took to social media to call for prayer and unity.

Now is the time for every American who loves our country to step back from the division, renounce all violence, and unite in prayer for President Trump and his family, he tweeted.

Donald Trump Jr. also posted a comment on X assuring his father's supporters that he will "never stop fighting to Save America."

In a statement released Saturday evening, Secret Service Chief of Communications Anthony Guglielmi said:

During former President Trumps campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania on the evening of July 13, at approximately 6:15 p.m., a suspected shooter fired multiple shots toward the stage from an elevated position outside of the rally venue. US Secret Service personnel neutralized the shooter, who is now deceased. US Secret Service quickly responded with protective measures and the former president is safe and being evaluated. One spectator was killed, two spectators were critically injured. The incident is under investigation and the Secret Service has formally notified the Federal Bureau of Investigation.
Home News Turkish authorities crack down on Christianity; deny church land for worship space

The Diyarbakir Protestant Church Foundation, established in 2019 to serve Protestant Christians in one of Turkeys southeastern major cities, is facing overt discrimination from the government as they struggle to acquire land zoned for religious buildings to construct a new worship center.

More than 100 Protestant Christians attend worship services at the church in Diyarbakir, which requires a larger space to accommodate the congregation. However, despite repeated applications, the requests have been continually denied or ignored by authorities who claim they lack the requisite authority to grant such requests, said the legal advocacy group ADF International.

The land in question has been specifically designated for religious use, but the government is discriminating against the church because it is not associated with the states preferred religion, said the groups Director of Advocacy for Global Religious Freedom, Kelsey Zorzi. The systemic and bureaucratic persecution is not only in direct violation of the basic human right to religious freedom but also Turkiyes international human rights obligations. The discrimination must stop.

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The foundation currently meets in a cramped space inadequate for its growing membership, sparking a legal battle for adequate worship space.

In their fight for justice, the foundation, supported by ADF International, is challenging the courts decision, which has set a troubling precedent that impedes the establishment of any new religious facilities under the existing urban planning laws.

Orhan Kemal Cengiz, the lead attorney in Turkey for ADF International, described the situation as a critical infringement on one of the most fundamental human rights: freedom of religion. Christians face numerous legal and practical barriers when they wish to establish a legally recognized worship place in Turkiye, he said.

The situation is part of a pattern of religious discrimination in Turkey, where the government's increasing Islamization and nationalism have created significant barriers for the Christian minority.

The nation of about 83 million people is predominantly Muslim, with Christians numbering around 170,000. Legal and bureaucratic hurdles have become a common challenge for Christians, often leaving their rights and freedoms curtailed.

At least 185 foreign Protestant ministers have been deported from Turkey since 2018 under the pretext of national security. These expulsions often involve nebulous security codes like N-82, used to bar individuals deemed threats to public order. Notably, David Byle and the Wilsons, a missionary couple, represent just a few of those who have been forced out of the country under such pretenses, with minimal justification and restricted access to legal recourse.

In June, Turkeys Constitutional Court upheld the expulsion of nine foreign Christian workers, ruling that the controversial N-82 immigration code, which designates these individuals as risks to national security, was within the broad discretion of public authorities regarding immigration and border controls.

Dissent within the court, such as the opinion voiced by Constitutional Court President Judge Zuhtu Arslan, suggested a lack of concrete justification for these expulsions.

The international community, including the European bishops, has expressed concern over Turkeys policies toward Christians, particularly in light of the recent conversion of the Church of Saint Savior in Chora into a mosque. This transformation, following the earlier conversion of the Hagia Sophia Basilica, has been criticized as an effort to erase the historical Christian presence in the country, undermining the credibility of any interreligious dialogue promoted by Turkish authorities.
Home Opinion Please, please, please, we must all tone things down

As we all sit here stunned watching the footage of the attempted assassination of President Donald Trump, it really is a time for reflection. Are we contributing to this atmosphere of hatred and violence? What kind of emotions do we stir up with the words we speak and the memes we post? What are we fomenting? To what end?

With that in mind, I posted this on X at 6:48 p.m., ET on Saturday: For anyone sick enough to be happy that someone tried to kill former president Trump, SHAME ON YOU. May God help you recover your humanity.

I truly pray it is not too late.

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At this moment, as I write, it is all so fresh, the sights and sounds of the moment are beyond surreal. Yet this really happened  all of it.

Someone apparently had such animosity toward Trump that he attempted to murder him. The former president literally came within an inch of losing his life, only to stand up courageously and defiantly, fist raised, in what has already become an iconic moment in American history.

And there is the news of two dead, the shooter and an innocent victim in the crowd, along with two innocent victims who were critically injured. What madness.

As I write these words, political leaders from the Left and Right are expressing their solidarity with Trump and their absolute repudiation of political violence. But will we also hear from those who literally wished violence against Trump? Will they express regret for their poisonous words?

Im thinking of Hollywood celebrities who openly expressed their personal death wishes against him. Or news commentators who likened Trump to Hitler.

Should we be surprised that someone decided that enough was enough and it was time to take out Trump? Did we learn nothing from the attempted murder of Republican Congressman Steve Scalise in 2017?

There are also those on the right who have spoken against President Biden in the ugliest, most irresponsible ways. And there are radical rightwing militias rallying their followers to prepare for war against what they call an illegitimate administration. (In fact, there are violent militia-like groups on both the Left and Right.)

Where will all this lead?

As someone on the front lines of the culture wars for more than 20 years, I understand the gravity of the issues that divide us. In many ways, they are literally issues of life and death (need I say more than the word abortion?). I do not minimize the depth of the political divide in our country today, nor is there an easy path forward toward national unity. Not by a country mile.

But all of us are responsible for the words we speak, for the posts we share, for the memes we create, for the environments we shape. And all of us would do well to look in the mirror and ask ourselves some honest questions: Am I fostering godly conviction or breeding vile hatred? Am I helping to produce courage and fortitude or do my words lead to hostility and disdain?

Put another way, since everything reproduces after its kind, based on Gods immutable laws established in creation, what are we reproducing? If the emotions and attitudes we stir up were multiplied time and again, would the end result be good or bad  very bad?

If others follow our lead, will they be more compassionate? More civil? More gracious? More longsuffering? Will they be kinder and more caring  all while having strong, immovable, moral convictions and impeccable, uncompromising moral standards? Or will they be more vile, more hateful, more short-tempered, more insulting, even more violent?

There is a world of difference between a righteous indignation that moves good people to stand up for what is right and an unrighteous anger that leads to attempted assassinations of political leaders.

The former attitude is moved by justice and truly cares for the hurting and oppressed. It reflects the heart of God. The latter attitude is fueled by animosity and rage. It does no good and only causes pain. It reflects the nature of the devil.

Let us then be disseminators of light not darkness, agents of God rather than servants of Satan, calling for courage and conviction around righteous causes but with civility toward our political and ideological adversaries. Otherwise, all of us lose.

We can be uncompromising in our stands without acting like animals. Let us all step higher!
Home Opinion Polls spell disaster for a GOP that abandons life and marriage

With just two weeks left until the GOP platform committee meets in Milwaukee, conservatives are preparing for what many believe will be an all-out war for the partys soul. Rumors have been swirling for months that a quiet army of moderates is assembling to overthrow key Republican pillars on life and marriage. And while delegates are used to having to defend core principles, insiders say this time is different. Theyre coming for the GOPs most basic beliefs, Family Research Council President Tony Perkins said somberly. I hate to tell you this, but its true  The Republican Party Platform is under assault.

While most of the attention is on the bright lights of the convention itself, the majority of conservatives realize that the lead-up to the big television bonanza is what makes or breaks the party. If you change the platform, Perkins warned, you change the party. July 8 and 9, when the document is hashed out for the first time in eight years, are critical to keep at least one party aligned with biblical truth, he insisted.

Fortunately, a few stories are bubbling up that should cast some serious doubt on the wisdom of diluting the life and marriage planks. For one, Republican support for same-sex marriage is cratering. After creeping upward for the last decade or so, the bottom fell out of the issue for the GOP, dropping almost 10 points in the last two years. Only 46% of Republicans favor the idea now, down from 55% in 2022 according to Gallup.

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Some of that pushback was obvious in the aftermath of the House and Senate votes on the far-left Respect for Marriage Act, when 51 Republicans abandoned their base and sided with Democrats. Together, they helped bulldoze natural marriage and gutted religious freedom  a decision that resulted in a stunning amount of backlash at home. The grassroots outrage was so intense after the first vote in July that eight fewer House Republicans supported it on final passage in December.

Over in the Senate, the 12 Republicans who betrayed natural marriage faced blistering criticism in their states. Across Iowa, Wyoming, Alaska, Indiana, and North Carolina, the urgency to do something about the Republicans vote intensified in the following months, as counties moved to censure and publicly excoriate members who set fire to the partys principles. Senator Thom Tillis (N.C.) even lost the partys financial backing. A year and a half later, Gallups numbers show that the fury over these traitorous moves is still very much alive.

As for the suggestion that watering down the GOPs life position would win over more voters, the primaries in South Carolina are one in a long line of stories that should put that logic to rest. Three Republican state senators who tried to filibuster the chambers pro-life protections lost their reelection bids this month  including the longest-serving female in the Senate GOP. The women, who became known as Sister Senators, refused to back the Palmetto States lower abortion threshold, eventually costing Sandy Senn, Penry Gustafson, and Katrina Shealy their jobs.

PBS points out, Billboards saying Shealy was not pro-life were all over her district in Lexington County, which led the charge to flip the state from Democratic to Republican control over the past five decades.

FRC Action Director Matt Carpenter, who watched the states primary with interest, told The Washington Stand, Ultimately, the takeaway from the defeat of these three South Carolina senators who defected from the rest of the conference on the issue of protecting the unborn is that Republican primary voters are paying attention to who is truly pro-life, and who will side with the pro-abortion Left. Protecting the unborn is just as salient an issue for Republican primary voters today as it has ever been, they wont allow the Overton Window to move left on the protection of life, and theyre willing to throw out incumbents to make that point.

Lets hope national leaders are paying attention to these signs. As Perkins pointed out on Washington Watch Tuesday, a lot of things were pivotal to Donald Trumps 2016 support among evangelicals: releasing a list of pro-life nominees he would pick for the Supreme Court, choosing a known conservative as his running mate, and the embrace of the most conservative Republican Party Platform in history. Those three things galvanized his support.

Ralph Reed, founder of the Faith & Freedom Coalition, agreed. I think we absolutely need a repeat in 2024, he said. Were at an inflection point in this campaign, and in many ways, the foundation for the fall is going to be laid in the next three weeks. We have a debate taking place here in Atlanta  And how well the president does, meaning former President Trump and how well Biden does is going to determine a lot. Itll be a key moment.

The second, Reed explained, is the selection of his vice presidential running mate. And the third will be the gathering in Milwaukee and the adoption of the platform. And Ive said repeatedly  and I know that youve said similar things  that if the Republican Party and the Trump campaign send a message of equivocation or retreat on the historic defense of innocent human life by the Republican Party  [which] I believe [is] the most important position of this party other than its opposition to slavery  it will make it harder to turn these voters out in the fall.

Originally published at The Washington Stand.
Home News Arkansas secretary of state challenged over rejection of abortion ballot initiative

Arkansas Secretary of State John Thurston rejected a petition to include a measure on the November ballot that would amend the state's constitution and enshrine a "right" to abortion, but the group behind the efforts is pushing back on his reasoning.

The group, Arkansans for Limited Government, seeks to add an amendment to the state constitution that would prevent the state from restricting abortions up to 18 weeks after fertilization. The amendment would also prevent the state from limiting abortions in cases of rape, incest, if the pregnancy poses a threat to the mother's life or if the unborn baby has been diagnosed with a fetal anomaly.

In a Wednesday letter to the group's organizer, Thurston, a Republican, stated he denied the petition because the group failed to submit a statement identifying all paid canvassers by name and a signed statement indicating the sponsor explained to paid canvassers the requirements under state law for obtaining signatures.

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"Even if your failure to comply with AR Code  7-9-111 (2020) did not require me to reject your submission outright, it would certainly mean that signatures gathered by paid canvassers in your submission could not be counted for any reason," Thurston wrote.

The Arkansas official wrote that paid canvassers collected 14,143 of the 101,525 submitted signatures, and the remaining 87,382 signatures collected by volunteers fall short of the required 90,704 for a proposed constitutional amendment.

A spokesperson for the Arkansas secretary of state told The Christian Post that the office maintains the sponsor "failed to comply with statutory requirements in accordance with A.C.A. 7-9-111 (f)(2)."

In a letter to Thurston Thursday, Arkansans for Limited Government asserted that it complied with the necessary requirements under state law and contended that it submitted information to Thurston's office about its 266 paid canvassers on July 5 and 266 affidavits signed by each individual canvasser. However, the secretary of state's staff reportedly told them it was not required to provide this information.

The response letter accused Thurston of failing to specify how Arkansans for Limited Government "failed to comply with the plain language of the statute," which the group claims has resulted in members having to guess at the secretary of state's reasoning.

On Wednesday, the group posted a statement about the rejection on X, alleging that the Arkansas secretary of state's office supplied them with the affidavit paperwork, which they now say appears not to have been correct and complete.

"Arkansas law does not empower the Secretary of State to make an unfounded legal interpretation, which is what he did today by summarily declaring that we have not completed the steps for qualification," the group wrote. "We are owed a period to provide a hard copy of the statement, which has been emailed to their office more than a dozen times, if that is what's needed."

Republican Arkansas Gov. Sarah Huckabee Sanders reacted to the rejection of the ballot measure in a Wednesday X post, writing that the "far left pro-abortion crowd in Arkansas showed they are both immoral and incompetent."

According to KFF's ballot tracker, which the outlet last updated on Monday, Arkansas is one of 11 states where organizers have launched efforts to include a measure on the November ballot that would add abortion to the state constitution. These measures are set to appear on the ballot in Colorado, Maryland, Florida, South Dakota, Nevada, and New York, while organizers in Arizona, Missouri, Montana, and Nebraska have so far submitted signatures for approval.
Home News Inside the Robert Morris scandal: Stunning allegations, Gateway Church's response and what's next

The Robert Morris scandal has rocked the Christian Church, with new details and claims sparking questions, concerns and lament.

The Christian Post's senior reporter Leonardo Blair, who has been at the forefront of covering the story, joins host Billy Hallowell on this week's episode of "The Inside Story" podcast to discuss allegations Morris molested a 12-year-old girl in the 1980s. Blair writes:

"[Cindy] Clemishire, a 54-year-old grandmother, reported last Friday that the megachurch founder began sexually abusing her on Dec. 25, 1982, when she was just 12 years old. She says the abuse continued for four-and-a-half years before he was found out. But he was later allowed to return to ministry.

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When questioned about the allegations by The Christian Post, Morris only confessed to being involved in "inappropriate sexual behavior with a young lady" more than 35 years ago and said he repented and was restored to ministry." [...] Clemishire insisted to CP, however, that she was no young lady when Morris abused her."

Blair reveals the accuser's statements, Gateway's response and where the situation could be headed next:

You can read Blair's most recent article of the Morris scandal by clicking here.

"The Inside Story" takes you behind the headlines of the biggest faith, culture and political headlines of the week. In 15 minutes or less, Christian Post staff writers and editors will help you navigate and understand what's driving each story, the issues at play  and why it all matters.

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Home News Melania Trump releases first statement after assassination attempt against husband, former president Trump rally attendee killed by shooter identified as former fire chief

Former first lady Melania Trump released her first statement Sunday morning in response to the assassination attempt against her husband, former President Donald Trump.

I am thinking of you now, my fellow Americans, she began.

When I watched the violent bullet strike my husband, Donald, I realized my life, and Barrons life, were on the brink of devastating change. I am grateful to the brave Secret Service agents and law enforcement officials who risked their own lives to protect my husband.

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To the families of the innocent victims who are now suffering from this heinous act, I humbly offer my sincerest sympathy. Your need to summon your inner strength for such a terrible reason saddens me.

A monster who recognized my husband as an inhuman political machine attempted to ring out Donalds passion  his laughter, ingenuity, love of music, and inspiration. The core facets of my husbands life  his human side  were buried below the political machine. Donald, the generous and caring man who I have been with through the best of times and worst of times.

Let us not forget that differing opinions, policy, and political games are inferior to love. Our personal, structural, and life commitment until death  is at serious risk. Political concepts are simple when compared to us, human beings. 

And let us remember that when the time comes to look beyond the left and the right, beyond the red and the blue, we all come from families with the passion to fight for a better life together while we are here, in this earthly realm.

Read the former first lady's full statement below:

Minutes into the former president's speech at the campaign rally in Butler, Pennsylvania, on Saturday, 20-year-old shooter Thomas Matthew Crooks took several shots at Trump, piercing through the top of his right ear (watch the video here). Trump instinctively ducked for cover after realizing a gunman was shooting at him. Sadly, the gunman killed one audience member and severely wounded two others.

On Sunday morning, the FBI confirmed the shooter's identity: "The FBI has identified Thomas Matthew Crooks, 20, of Bethel Park, Pennsylvania, as the subject involved in the assassination attempt of former President Donald Trump on July 13, in Butler, Pennsylvania. This remains an active and ongoing investigation, and anyone with information that may assist with the investigation is encouraged to submit photos or videos online at FBI.gov/butler or call 1-800-CALL-FBI."

As the Secret Service attempted to escort Trump off the stage, the former president asked them to wait as he stopped to pump his fist in the air to show strength and determination in front of the crowd as he was led to safety.

The former president authorized a GoFundMe page for the victims, organized by Meredith ORourke, the national finance director for his 2024 election campaign. The campaign has already raised well over $1.7 million as of early Sunday afternoon.

The rally attendee who was killed by the shooter was identified as Corey Comperatore, a former fire chief in Butler County, who was hailed as a hero on Sunday because he dove on top of his daughters to protect them from the gunfire.

The PA Trump Rally claimed the life of my brother, Dawn Comperatore Schafer posted on Facebook, according to the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. The hatred for one man took the life of the one man we loved the most.

He was a hero that shielded his daughters. His wife and girls just lived through the unthinkable and unimaginable. My baby brother just turned 50 and had so much life left to experience. Hatred has no limits and love has no bounds. Pray for my sister-in-law, nieces, my mother, sister, me and his nieces and nephews as this feels like a terrible nightmare but we know it is our painful reality.
Home News Panicked Dems scramble to potentially replace Biden after 'dismal' debate performance: report

Some Democrats are reportedly panicking after President Joe Biden's performance during Thursday's debate against former President Donald Trump, with some suggesting that he should be replaced as the 2024 Democratic nominee.

Three strategists close to three potential Democratic presidential candidates were inundated with text messages last night encouraging them to push their candidates into replacing Biden, they told Politico.

Biden was widely panned for his halting, stammering debate performance on Thursday, during which he repeatedly appeared to lose his train of thought while staring blankly and slack-jawed into the distance.

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Pundits on mainstream media outlets typically defensive of the president admitted his poor performance. CNN anchor John King said that prominent Democrats he spoke to described Biden's performance as "dismal."

"They are having conversations about the president's performance, which they think was dismal, which they think will hurt other people down the party in the ticket, and they're having conversations about what they should do about it," King said.

"Some of those conversations include, 'Should we go to the White House and ask the president to step aside?' Other conversations are about, 'Should prominent Democrats go public with that call?' Because the debate was so terrible," he added.

CNN's John King immediate reaction, insists that Democrats are plotting a public intervention to remove Joe Biden.



Wow. pic.twitter.com/vjMSvZKITK  Charlie Kirk (@charliekirk11) June 28, 2024

"No one expected a master class in debating from Joe Biden, but no one expected this nose dive," a senior Democratic adviser told Politico. "He was bad on message, bad on substance, bad on counter punching, bad on presentation, bad on non-verbals. There was no bright spot in this debate for him. The only bright spot is that this happened in June and not October."

Jon Favreau, who served as former President Barack Obama's speechwriter, dismissed Biden's debate performance as a "disaster" on "Pod Save America" on Friday.

"I think it was like maybe the worst debate I've ever seen in my entire life. ... It was so [expletive] awful because Joe Biden, just in every single way, failed at that debate," he said.

Sen. John Fetterman, D-Penn., urged Democrats to "chill the [expletive] out" amid the reports of their widespread panic.

"I refuse to join the Democratic vultures on Biden's shoulder after the debate. No one knows more than me that a rough debate is not the sum total of the person and their record," said Fetterman, who won his Senate race against Dr. Mehmet Oz in 2022 despite taking flak for a lackluster debate performance.

House Speaker Mike Johnson, R-La., urged Vice President Kamala Harris and members of Biden's Cabinet to consider removing Biden from office by invoking the 25th Amendment, according to Politico.

"I would ask the Cabinet members to search their hearts.  And we hope that they will do their duty, as we all seek to do our duty to do best by the American people. These are fateful moments," Johnson told reporters.

"If I were in the Cabinet  I would be having that discussion with my colleagues at the Cabinet level," Johnson said regarding the 25th Amendment. "I would.  We'll see what action they take. It's a serious situation."
Home Opinion How different were the American and French revolutions?

Another July 4th is now behind us, but another July 14th (Bastille Day, the initial act of the French Revolution) lies ahead of us.

Superficially, the two revolutions  those of the Americans and the French, which occurred just over a decade apart  may seem like two sides of the same coin. But they are not.

The conflicts were very different in their foundations and very different in their effects. And God is at the heart of that. In the simplest of terms: The American Revolution was pro-God. The French Revolution was anti-God.

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Ronald Reagan articulated it so well: Here in this land, for the first time, it was decided that man is born with certain God-given rights. We the people declared that government is created by the people for their own convenience. Government has no power except those voluntarily granted to it by we the people.

Then he added, There have been revolutions before and since ours, revolutions that simply exchanged one set of rulers for another. Ours was a philosophical revolution that changed the very concept of government.

In 1775, the American Revolution began. On July 4, 1776, the United States of America declared independence from Britain, while at the same time, declaring dependence upon God. They mention God four times in the Declaration of Independence. Above all, they note that He is the source of our rights. In 1787, America wrote up its Constitution, which the framers signed in the year of our Lord. The Constitution went into effect in 1789.

On July 14, 1789, France began its revolution, with the storming of the Bastille prison in Paris.

The newly invented guillotine was rigorously put to use, as the French revolutionaries beheaded thousands of Frenchmen, who were nobles or churchmen or otherwise deemed as counter-revolutionary. They beheaded the king (an act known as regicide) and the queen. Soon the revolutionaries began consuming their own ranks. Eventually, Maximilien Robespierre, the quintessential French revolutionary, was beheaded himself.

The French Revolution declared war on Christ and the Church, which in France was mostly Roman Catholic. They desecrated many of the churches  including Notre Dame itself. They forbade the mass, but instead lifted a half-naked actress onto the altar of that famous cathedral. They renamed Notre Dame, Ground Zero in the city of Paris, as the Temple to the Goddess Reason. And they worshiped her.

In order to declare further independence from Christian influence, they eliminated the seven-day week with its Jewish Sabbath (generally on Saturdays) and the Lords Day (always on Sunday, to remember the day Jesus rose from the dead).

Instead, the French changed the week to 10 days, thus jettisoning any Judeo-Christian influence. Furthermore, they changed the counting of the years, from 1791 to Year One of the (French) Republic.

When people say that the founding fathers meant nothing by dating the Constitution in the year of our Lord, we should remember that the French not too long after explicitly rejected the year of our Lord.

About a dozen years later, Napoleon (whose rise to power ended the revolution) abolished the bulk of these anti-Christian actions.

While the United States, with its Judeo-Christian foundation, grew and flourished, what happened in France? Not only did blood flow in the streets, not only was virtually any Christian expression disallowed, but the government eroded under revolutionary fervor.

A quick Google search on how many governments France has had since their revolution yields this result: Since 1789 and the French Revolution, France has had 14 constitutions, including 5 republics. General de Gaulle put the current constitution in place in 1958.

For my series of Providence Forum films on Americas Judeo-Christian roots, I had the privilege of interviewing Dennis Prager. He said, The American Revolution and French Revolution is the [current] battle in the United States. Which revolution will prevail? Now, they loathed the idea of God in the French Revolution; the secular republic was the ideal. In America, they believed in secular government  but in a God-based society, because rights come from God in America.

But tragically, as Dr. Os Guinness, a great Christian writer and thinker, told us in the same series: The French view has virtually swept the world. Chinese communism, the fruit of 1789. Russian Marxism, the fruit of 1789. You know, much of so-called liberal democracy in Europe, the leftwing progressivism, [is] the fruit of 1789. Most of the American intellectuals, 1789. And thats why they have very deficient views of freedom. And the tragedy of America, its the one country whose political order was decisively shaped by the Bible and by the Reformation, and yet, its rejecting the distinctiveness of its roots.

Ideas have consequences. And as John Stonestreet of the Colson Center likes to add: Bad ideas have victims.
Home Opinion Surrogacy divides 'mother' into 3 optional, purchasable roles

Last month, the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA) quietly proposed a right to surrogacy in a policy document on the subject of advancing sexual and reproductive health and rights in the private sector.

In this position paper, UNFPA includes a glossary of terms, which defines comprehensive family planning as a holistic approach to family planning and formation. It encompasses family planning services, a variety of contraceptive methods, fertility treatments, adoption, fostering and surrogacy.

Family planning is a central part of UNFPAs work, which it asserts is a human right. Additionally, the UN agency declares that it is central to gender equality and women's empowerment, and it is a key factor in reducing poverty. The basis for the assertion that family planning is a human right is found in documents that presume that family planning primarily involves the limitation and spacing of births within a family. Most importantly, the International Conference on Population and Development (ICPD) framed the right to family planning as the right of all couples and individuals to decide freely and responsibly the number and spacing of their children and to have the information, education and means to do so.

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In 1994, the year the ICPD was convened, the UNs understanding of family planning was essentially synonymous with contraception, with the caveats that it also included non-contraceptive methods such as those based on fertility awareness, and critically, that abortion was not to be promoted as a method of family planning. By positioning the limitation of births within families rather than governments, the ICPD was also a crucial move away from the coercive population control policies that had arisen in prior decades.

Within the UN system, the framing of family planning as a right has historically been framed as the right of couples and individuals to limit their fertility, with the requisite knowledge and means to do so, independently of governmental coercion. Absent from this understanding is any notion of the right to have a child by whatever means necessary.

However, there are worrying indications that this understanding is slipping. Earlier this year, the Committee on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW), which monitors compliance with the UN treaty on womens rights, urged the Republic of Korea and Singapore to ensure that assisted reproductive technologies, such as in vitro fertilization, are available to single women and those in same-sex relationships, not only married heterosexual couples. The Committee told Singapore to [r]ecognize the equal right of all women, including those in same-sex relationships and non-married women, to parenthood through assisted reproductive technology.

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights, one of the founding documents of the UN, refers to the right of men and women to marry and found a family. However, the notion that one has the right to parenthood entirely unmoored from a family, and which would require biological inputs from outside donors, is not based in internationally recognized human rights, and carries dangerous implications.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child, which is the most widely-ratified human rights treaty, asserts that a child has as far as possible, the right to know and be cared for by his or her parents. This right is violated by design when reproduction is assisted by donor sperm, eggs, and gestational carriers, fertility-speak for birth mothers, who will be cut out of the child's life by contract. The exploitation of women is also a key issue, both internationally and within countries. Both egg selling and surrogate motherhood impose health risks on women, particularly poor women in developing countries whose services are sought by individuals or couples from richer nations.

As the UN and other bodies have speciously expanded the language of rights they have watered down the reality of natural rights and threatened the actual rights of vulnerable members of society. As a refresher, something is a natural right when the following criteria are met:

Natural rights exist pre-government.

No one has to provide you with a natural right.

A natural right is distributed equally  no one has more or less potential to exercise these rights.

Surrogacy does not pass a rights test. A childs right to his own mother and father, on the other hand, does. The natural family unit  mother, father, and child  exists pre-government. No one has to provide a child with parents  each one of us by virtue of our existence naturally has a mother and father. Finally, that right is distributed equally  each one of us naturally has exactly one mother and father, the two individuals from whom we came.

Far from being a natural right, surrogacy violates the natural rights of children by dividing the person of mother into three separate optional and purchasable roles: the genetic mother, the birth mother, and the social mother. Depending on the nature of the surrogacy arrangement, the child involved will always lose her birth mother, will often lose her genetic mother, and will sometimes be raised without the daily, loving presence of a social mother.

Every instance of surrogacy involves a loss for the child involved at a crucial moment in their development. Mother-child bonding begins in utero. An infant knows her mother before birth and instinctively turns to her as a source of safety and provision. For an infant, the continuation of that bond after birth teaches the child to keep developing healthy attachments. Research shows that maternal separation at this stage is a major stressor for an infant, and may even cause permanent alterations in brain structure.

Furthermore, children of commercial surrogacy face the experience of being exchanged for money. This is an affront to human dignity and exposes children to the risk of being obtained by bad actors who would never pass an adoption screening.

Calling surrogacy a right is not only dangerous to children and a grave violation of their rights, but it is also dangerous to the women whose bodies are being rented out. The European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology released findings last week that surrogate pregnancies are over twice as likely to result in severe maternal complications as natural pregnancies. Earlier research indicates that healthcare disparities heighten this risk  a particularly pressing concern as surrogacy is held up as an opportunity for low-income women. Carrying a genetically unrelated child poses health risks to the mother, and by extension, to the child.

Furthermore, a right to surrogacy alarmingly implies a right to a child and a right to the bodies of women who will carry those children, making it abundantly clear that this is no natural right. Regarding surrogacy as a right fuels a demand for women to sell their eggs and rent their wombs, even against their will. One needs to look no further than the link betweenprostitution and human trafficking to see that when the demand for human bodies exceeds the supply of willing participants, exploitation and abuse step in to fill that gap.

Even when there is no coercion or payment, no child willingly undergoes the trauma of maternal loss. In surrogacy arrangements where every adult consents, the contract is honored, and no complications ensue, the child has still been the victim of a grave injustice and has been treated as property. From the childs perspective, there is no such thing as just surrogacy. An arrangement that can never be just for the most vulnerable party must never be regarded as a right.

Unfortunately, the UNFPA has signaled that they are willing to call this wrong a right. Their use of rights language to describe surrogacy here will no doubt be repeated in the future. As surrogacy gains popularity among adults, children become victimized and women face the dangers of exploitation. Rights do not come at the expense of the vulnerable. The UN, of all bodies, should recognize this.
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